The Old Empire [IC]

[Proud Tortoise]

OOC (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=270135)

The great city of Shendel is situated in the middle of the Hymari Delta. The buildings are low, but they spread across dozens of islets in the area. The great Palace of the Silver Hawk stands tall in the center of the spread, and it is here that each of you has been summoned.

You were escorted by a pale man in the silver-and-blue livery of the royal family to this waiting room. There are couches spaced around the perimeter, and a large table of dark wood stands in the center, supporting a few bowls of fruit. A large pair of double doors stands at one end of the room, bearing the royal family's coat of arms: Azure, a hawk argent volant.

[AntiMatter101]

A rather ordinary figure enters the room. He wears well worn, if clean traveling gear, and a raised hood. He wears a simple mask that has a face with a neutral expression painted onto it. He wears a haversack underneath his cloak. The mask reveals only blue-green eyes. He carries an ordinary staff, that appears to be nothing more than a walking stick. Mask asside, he could be any random commoner off the roads, although his clothes seem cleaner than any commoner.

Delnir nods to his escort and looks around. This appeared to be a waiting room. Naturally. Nobles usually liked to make their guests wait for them. He supposed he might as well sit; who knows how long he would be kept here.

He takes a seat on the couch, but does not touch the provided fruit. Adopting the familiar position: legs crossed, staff across his legs, he meditates to pass the time.

[Strainseir]

Zathen stood out considerably in this place. He stood heads taller than most people in this place. Deep brown hair, so dark it was nearly black, was tied loosely behind his head that fell into a wild ponytail that as half the length of his body. His skin was pale, even more so than the man leading them. It was so pale that he almost looked like a corpse. His eyes are a strange striking blue that is so light is is almost white and they seem to actually be glowing. He is dressed in a simple black martial artist's robes with the sleeves removed. On his shoulders are tattoos. Each one is a single black heron. From elbow to fingertip his forearms and hands are wrapped tightly in bandaging. a heavy leather belt sits upon his waist. Around his shoulders is a simple traveling cloak of black. His feet are similarly bound with bandages. However; he also wears a pair of simple wooden sandals that have obviously seen a lot of walking. Upon his back, outside the cloak, sits a single large sword. The sheath is a simple fine grained dark wood with a heron marked on it as well. The blade is tied into the sheath. It is peacebound as all blades are when members of the Claiomh clan come to offer their services.

Zathen follows the envoy leading them silently. Despite his wooden shoes he even walks quiet silently. When they arrive he pulls the wrapped sword off his back so that Zathen can sit upon the couch with the sword on his shoulder and the ground held in one hand.

[meemaas]

Tenma

A middle-aged looking man enters next, a book kept tucked under his arm, his grip as tight as possible. He is well dressed, and carefully groomed, with a simple, yet decent looking backpack slung over his shoulder. He looked at each of the people in turn, his red eyes giving the feeling as though he is seeing into their soul when he looks at them, and then moves to take a seat nearby the door. While he waits, he opens his book and starts to page through it quietly, as though he wasn't actually reading it, but just looking through it.

[Icilia]

From some distance away you here a chattering. As it gets closer you can hear things like "Great Left Sock" and "Great Blessings" and the like. As the voice nears the entrance you see that it is a little goblin, with green-grey skin, black hair and red eyes. He is suprisingly well dressed, and is carrying a number of trinkets. As far as goblins go, he is quite attractive, if such a word could be used for a goblin. His teeth are white, straight and all the same size. His skin is fine and he speaks quite well.

As he enters the room, he finishes his discusion with attendant.

Diplomacy roll: [roll0] attempt to convert the attendant to some, or all, of the ways of the Great Left Sock. If succsessful, I pass him a large, well made sock to pray upon


After Herald enters the room, he climbs up onto a chair, pulls out an old looking sock, and begins to happily chatter away to it on his left hand

[Rokku]

The next person to arrive sweeps into the room like she owns the place, ending her conversation with her escort with melodic laughter.

Every eye in the room falls upon her, and clearly, that is her intent. She has a body designed for things we don't discuss in polite company, and has packaged it in the finest silks, furs, and jewels. Her flawlessly styled hair is a clearly unnatural shade of pink, and her luscious lips are painted to match. Emerald green eyes sparkle with all sorts of possibilities, and creamy skin seems to glow. In fact, it very well may glow. There's certainly the air of magic about her.

Lithia the Peacock pauses just precisely the right amount of time in the doorway to be sure that everyone has noticed her, then continues into the room.

"Hello gentlemen," is all she says, giving a wave that leaves a trail of sparkles in the air, before plucking an orange from one of the bowls of fruit and lounging upon the divan of her choice just so.

[Proud Tortoise]

The attendant is obviously smitten with Lithia and clutches his new holy sock.

[KhaineGB]

Despite having one of the fastest modes of travel known to mortal kind, Sharniya wound up being the last person to enter the great palace, and the waiting room. It was nice to be back in her home city of Shendel, but easily a hundred years had passed since her last visit. Things had changed, and so she'd wound up getting rather lost. Still, at least she finally reached her destination. Stepping into the room, her blue eyes scanned everyone present, using her devil sight to check for anything invisble or anyone with an altered form. Her eyes lingered on Delnir's staff for a brief moment, but that was all.

As for herself, Sharniya was a stunningly beautiful woman, though she certainly didn't dress to show it off. Long, red hair was carefully braided to fall down her back, while Elven Chain armour clung to her curves. A greatsword was slung across her back, along with a well made backpack and a seemingly empty quiver. A belt, ring, earring and pair of bracers were all visible on her person, along with a holy symbol around her neck. Clearly the woman was some form of warrior.

"Blessings to you all. I assume we all received the same message?"

[Proud Tortoise]

Before anyone can answer, the huge double doors swing open, revealing a throne room draped in shining silver and deep azure. A footman standing next to it says in a low voice, "His majesty is ready for you." He turns back toward the throne, clears his throat, and speaks in a voice that echoes about the space:

"All bow before His Royal Majesty of Shendelmyr, Light on the Marshes, King Alazel the Second!"

The throne room is essentially a long hall with a few doors along its length and a large blue throne at the end. Stepping inside, you can see that there is a tribune gallery raised a story off the floor, separated from this room by an arcade of arches. It is mostly empty, except for a few people in rich robes near the throne end, and is hung about with blue and silver bunting. Skylights open along the length, and stained glass windows above the galleries cast a blue tint on the white marble of the walls.

The king, a surprisingly short man in dashing blue robes, speaks."Ah, this would be the adventurers we selected last month?" At a nod from a man standing by the throne, the king continues. "I'm sure you are wondering why you have been summoned here. The reason is quite simple: the so-called 'blood war' that rages on the far side of the mountains. That war destroyed the ancient Hanover Empire, and cut off the Isthic Coast from any remaining civilization. Ladies and gentlemen, you have been summoned here to put an end to this war, and allow the us of the Coast to reclaim our ancient homeland."

[Proud Tortoise]

The king continues. "How, you ask? Your quest is to journey to Heaven and convince the angels that live there to help us." He turns to the man beside him. "Mattae will inform you further about your quest."

Mattae says softly, "If you would follow me, sirs and madames?" He leads the way through one of the doors in the side of the room. He takes you down a hallway and to a small conference room with a long table in the center, covered with food. "I thought perhaps you would like to lunch while we discuss?" He takes a seat at the head of the table.

[AntiMatter101]

As a traveler by trade, this was at the least an interesting proposition. To travel to heaven; well, Delnir wasn't sure it could even be done. Should he wish it, the power of his mind could carry them miles away from here in but a moment. Yet this?

Delnir takes a seat, and turns his gaze upon Mattae. He reaches out to the man's mind with his thoughts, casting them to the other adventurers as well, for their benefit.

I am most interested in how you propose that we accomplish this feat.
Short of death, by what road would we travel to heaven itself?

Missive, one-way 25 word telepathy. Augmented to Six targets, 5 pp spent.
172 pp remaining.

[Strainseir]

When the words enter his mind a sickly black-purple energy seems to shroud Zathen's arms and hands for just a moment. He then turns his gaze to look at the one that broadcast his thoughts," Do not broadcast your powers onto others Psion. Do so again without permission and I will be forced to remove the peacebinding from my blade despite being in the home of one that wishes to higher one of the Clan." Zathen says in a calm monotone voice meant to be a warning an not a threat.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma's composure was unaffected by the Psion, and he took his seat gracefully. Turning towards Mattae, he spoke quietly. "How, indeed, are we to travel to Heaven? I'm sure you must know of some magic that can do so, but if you know of it, why do you need others to do so?"

[Proud Tortoise]

"Well, I believe his Majesty may be... Slightly too optimistic," Mattae says cautiously. "We know that the demons and the devils come from another world. It's a widely suspected fact that they each have a portal to their own plane within their bases." He grimaces. "Your mission is essentially to travel from Hell to Heaven however you can." You notice that he nervously taps his hand on the table with each sentence. "You have each been chosen for a reason."

Tap. "You, Sharinia, have been chosen for your martial prowess as well as your... peculiar heritage."

Tap. "Mr. Highmind has been chosen for his mental powers, as well as your skill with languages, which should aid you on your quest."

Tap. "Herald, you have been chosen as a healer, and I'm told you can be very persuasive. Also, no one objected to your being sent on this suicide mission as they did for mbmbmlbl...

Tap. "Zathen is an honorable warrior and his skill should serve you well, as should his strange magic powers."

Tap. "Tenma Yobiasu... You could charm the wings off a dragonfly, so I'm told... And his Majesty seems to trust you implicitly. I can see why."

Tap. "And, finally, the famous Lithia 'the Peacock'. Do you know peacocks are male? Ahem, you have been chosen, of course, for your expertise on other worlds."

[AntiMatter101]

Of all the crazy plans...

This seemed a fools errand. Yet he was still here. He stood to gain much from it. A personal disgust for the blood-war and it's constituents asside, he would be traveling to other worlds. The value in that was immeasurable.

Of course, it would not be so easy. They still had to walk into hell and out again in enough pieces to get the job done. To that end, he was glad that they were bringing the two warriors. The man named Zathen looked like he ate demons for breakfast. The woman named Sharniya wore armor and walked around with a greatsword. In his experiance, the only people who did that were fools, or those one does not trifle with carelessly.

He was less certain on how the others would fare when facing down numberless hordes of the evil monstrocities but for the moment he decided to trust in the judgement of this man and his noble house.

He supposed that meant he was willing to do it; he was willing to sacrifice his life in this attempt, even knowing it likely meant failure. The land could not heal while the devils and demons rampaged upon it. He must at least try.

Delnir continued to process the conversation, but did not add anything more to it. He took the warning from Zathen serriously.

[meemaas]

Tenma

"I thank you for your kind words, sir. Do we have any idea where these portals might be located? Any resources we can call upon? Supplies we might be granted by the king?" He spoke gracefully and eloquently, showing no trace of concern or worry, and a great deal of confidence in the same manner.

[Strainseir]

Zathen did not bat an eye when he was told what the plan does. One born of Claiomh does not scoff at any contract formally requested. The more dangerous the more compensation there should be. He simply looked the man in the eyes and said,"If we succeed and survive I will require the payment of land given to make a sovereign nation for my clan."

[Rokku]

"Well."

Lithia clamped down hard on the fear that had welled up since the announcement of their mission. It was insanity, of course, but she wasn't about to show that opinion. Especially since the king's command left her with little choice. She hid her true feelings behind a coquettish smile.

"A particularly sliver-tongued nobleman once told me I could charm the horns off a demon and the feathers off an angel. It should be fun to see if he was right."

[Icilia]

Herald swelled with delight. A chance to meet The Great Left Sock himself! Sure, there were many challenges before that, but only the faithful could steel themselves through hell to reach those above.

"What great rewards are to be recieved by the completion of such a dangerous quest?"

Herald thought the idea of meeting The Great Left Sock would be compensation enough, but Herald did need more money to be able to erect the bases of the Church of The Great Left Sock

[Proud Tortoise]

"Ah yes, your reward. If you should succeed in making the area habitable again, those of you that survive will split a full quarter of the recovered land between yourselves. You will be the sovereign rulers of this land, although you will of course be required to sign treaties with the state of Shedelmyr."

He pulls a scroll out of his robes and places it on the table. "The portals are said to be located in the cities of Deep Dark and Black Heart, which were built in the area the demons and devils, respectively, first entered this world. To get to either one, you will have to cross the Frostbite Mountains. It will be made easier by the agreement we have reached with King Jakkson. He will provide a guide and will keep the weather mild. Well, mild-ish. Then you must travel to the city you choose- this will likely be easier than you might think, as neither side has reason to guard there western flank. Then you must get past the monsters guarding the portal, and find a way to reach Heaven from wherever it takes you." He passes the map around the table.

"You will also be allowed to choose some equipment, where is that note, ah yes, some equipment not to exceed 8,000 gold pieces in value, each, from the palace's arsenal. We have some idea of the abilities of both demons and devils, and you may want to partially base your choice on which portal you intend on using."

[KhaineGB]

Well, the reason for everyone being called there was certainly a surprise to the Paladin. While she couldn't argue that the invading demons needed to be dealt with, she was very surprised that the King wanted them to go and do it. More specifically, she was surprised that they were apparently going to Heaven in order to enlist the aid of a few angels. Considering what she was, despite hiding it, angels likely wouldn't take kindly to her. A lot of careful diplomacy would be needed to ensure she wasn't smote on the spot.

Once the group had moved into the next room, the warrior-woman allowed her gaze to flit across the food. Despite having a ring to keep her fed, Sharniya found her stomach rumbling slightly. The food was most certainly welcome. She moved to a seat at the end of the table, slipping off her backpack, sword and quiver. These were stood against the end of the table before she finally took a seat. Sitting down with a backpack was not exactly easy, while sitting down with a greatsword was damn near impossible.

Words entered her mind and she turned towards Delnir, giving him a telepathic response. "I've found people don't like you intruding into their minds. I'd recommend not doing that in the future." Zathen's reaction to the mental speech was evidence enough of that, causing Sharniya to smirk a little. Tenma had a good question, so the Paladin simply remained silent while she listened to the response. She also listened while Mattae reeled off the various different reasons why they had been summoned. Maybe it would be a good idea to reveal exactly what she was.

"I will certainly undertake this quest. I long for revenge against the demons, and would love to see them driven from our world. Since my... unique heritage... has been mentioned. I feel it might be very wise for me to come clean about that right now."

The woman stood up and tapped her earring, causing her form to shimmer slightly and revealing a large pair of feathered wings. Some were white, some black and some grey, and it was very clear that she wasn't an angel. "I'm an Erinyes... a devil... and not by choice. I was Human, like some of you, but I was killed and converted by the devils, and then some friends helped turn me back on the path of righteousness." The earring was tapped once more to cause the woman's form to shimmer again, changing her back into the Human seeming that she'd been using.

"I understand if some of you are uncomfortable with this, but this heritage does give me some unique abilities that may benefit us. One of those is Telepathy, and I do have some ability to sneak around. Therefore, I do ask permission to use my Telepathy with you all. Being able to warn you about something I've spotted without speaking could have many tactical advantages."

[Strainseir]

Zathen chuckled softly when Sharnyia described that she was in fact a devil. Then again there are always places where people treat you differently on what you are instead of who. This Devil seems honorable enough, if a bit naive in exposing what she is to strangers like this. Regardless she is no threat. It might smooth things over with her and this group if he exposes his own odd heritage,"My power as well is a creation of devils. Several generations ago when the devils first broke into this land, my people were cursed with magic to turn them into undead soldiers. Some of my people were strong enough to resist the curse. We learned to draw power from it. Each of us, accept maybe the goblin, most likely has some sort of darkness tied to us."

[AntiMatter101]

Receiving a telepathic message from the woman piqued his interest, and he turned to face her. Underneath the cover of his mask, his eyebrows raised. It was always nice to meet another with similar abilities.

Then she revealed herself as a devil. Delnir eyed the devil-woman with a renewed interest. Albeit a bit more skeptically than before.

Zathen too, had a story to tell. Even more than before, Delnir resolved not to upset him.

Sharnyia’s existence and apparent willingness to betray those of her race raised many questions he would consider later, at his leisure. More importantly, she and Zathen set the precedent for openness and honesty now, at the beginning of the journey. He was not quite so ready to reveal his nature. Specifically, not in front of one who was not to be part of the team. Though he wondered exactly how much about him this noble house already knew. How to handle this…

He lifted a hand to his face, taking a hold of his mask and neatly breaking it just below the nose, the 'piece' disapeared into his haversack. His mouth now visible, he turned first to Sharnyia.

“You have my permission to contact me with telepathy, though for me that might have gone without saying.” His voice was raw, one that did not get much use.

“In addition, I request permission to connect all those of us who are willing to an isolated mental network, where we may all use telepathy with one another freely.”

[Icilia]

Herald looks at the others, whom are showing themselves to be some type of "Devil" kind. They were apparently on his side though, so that made it ok he guessed. Maybe some discussion with the Great Left One would be needed later.

"I shall consent to this mind talking thing you speak of. Maybe by this path you shall have a chance to speak to the Great One."

"I must admit though, all of you, devil kind and darkness within, are a strange bunch. It's a good thing you have a normal, obviously completely sane person here to help you."

Herald smiles a charming little smile, all the whilst running his hand over the sock still on his left hand

[Proud Tortoise]

Mattae clears his throat. "Er, yes, well. On the topic of the devils and the demons." He produces two sheets of paper. One is a charcoal drawing of a large devil with large horns, spiked wings and a head reminiscent of that of a dragon. It holds a spiked chain in its claws. The other depicts a six-armed woman with a snake's tail. She holds a sword in each hand. "If you head for Black Heart, you may have a more difficult time of getting to the portal. Devils are well-organized and probably have an organized guard for their city. On the other hand, it's said that devils and demons live in different... sections of Hell. Extensive research has suggested your journey upwards may be more difficult if you enter the demons' land. It's entirely your decision."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"Indeed, it would be harder for us to enter through the Devil's side. Unless we were able to convince them that we were their kind." He gestured at Sharniya, and then looked at the others. "We have among us a Devil as it is, and with the right amount of effort, i'm sure one or two of us could disguise ourselves to appear as such too. With the right forms of magic, or possibly..." He turned towards Delnir with this. "Mental..abilities, we could possibly sneak in the entire group without a single fight. Ah, but of course, that would require a small amount of research, and to find the right method to sneak the others in." He crossed his hands over his book, and listened carefully for a response.

[Rokku]

"Well of course you're an erinyes," lied Lithia, "it was patently obvious. As for our choice of portal, devils like to make bargains, so we may be able to reduce conflict on the way there with careful negotiation. On the other hand, with the demons, we'll know exactly what we're dealing with the whole way: hateful beasts that want nothing more than to drink our heart's blood and feast on our souls."

[Proud Tortoise]

"Well, if you've decided, perhaps you'd like to see the palace's arsenal?"

[Icilia]

"Perhaps we should. I'd hate for my compaions to be under prepared"

Herald stands up, smiling, and waits for the rest of the group

[Proud Tortoise]

Mattae stands up and beckons to you. He leads you down several hallways and past two armed guards in full plate armor, to whom he presents a small badge. He takes you to a guarded iron door, which is promptly opened to reveal a large room filled with unorganized boxes, hooks and stands full of weapons and magic items.

For any particular item you want to find, make a search check.

Tenma is able to find the phylactery he was looking for.

[Strainseir]

Zathen chuckled very softly when the realization hit him. That goblin very well might be the most normal of this group. Though his 'god' was odd, religious Zealots are not all that uncommon. When they were brought to the room Zathen began to search for anything that might be useful.


Did you mean perception check? If so [roll0] looking for bracers of armor +2 and a ring of protection +1 for a total of 6000 gp

[Proud Tortoise]

Zathen finds the bracers mixed in with a large box of bracelets and the ring on a small shelf above eye level.

[KhaineGB]

A single eyebrow rose at Lithia's comment. That one might end up being a problem. Sharniya had the distinct feeling she liked being the center of attention, and giving the impression she actually knew more than she really did. "Uh huh... and you knew that because everyone can obviously see through illusions and has an intimate knowledge of devils." Just a small point, but the Paladin hoped that maybe this other woman might realise just how obsurd her claim really was.

Upon entering the armoury, the devil woman started to have a bit of a look around. There was really only one item that interested her, a ring to help bolster the armour she already had. Despite the fact she was primarily a ranged fighter, having a bit more of a boost to her defences was not a bad idea. Blue eyes, accompanied by her True Seeing, scanned the room in search of the object she felt would benefit her the most.

Looking for a Ring of Protection +2 (8000gp).

[roll0] ...and I just realised I forgot to put ranks in Perception *facepalm*

[Proud Tortoise]

You can't find a ring of protection +2 anywhere in the room.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir wanders the aisles, searching for a certain, specially charged crystal.


If the roll in the ooc works, use that. Otherwise, I'll re-roll here:Perception: [roll0]

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma steps in slowly, and focuses as he starts to go through the stuff, knowing he will recognize what he's looking for when he finds it.

Following the leader, i'll roll, if my OOC post isn't valid.

[roll0]

Oh wow, i misremembered the price of the Phylactery, so i'm looking for a Least Rod of Eldritch Power containing Frightful Blast. Or Sickening Blast. Honestly, if i find it, flip a coin to decide.

[Proud Tortoise]

Tenma finds a rod of sickening blast and Delnir finds his crystal.

[AntiMatter101]

Securing the crystal in his haversack, Delnir searches the boxes near where he found the crystal, for Power Stones.

Looking for Three Power Stones of Id Insinuation, 450 gp total.
[roll0]

[Proud Tortoise]

Delnir finds the crystals in a large bag of assorted power stones and ioun stones.

[AntiMatter101]

Happily stowing the three stones, Delnir puts the bag back where he found it. Then he begins rummaging around for diamond dust, and a special kind of Ink.

Perception: [roll0] Looking for 2,500 gp worth of diamond dust and special Inks.

[Proud Tortoise]

Delnir is able to find his ink and dust without too much trouble.

[Icilia]

Herald looks around for a Ring of Sustenance

[roll0]

He also sees if he can get his hands on a few bags of cotton, wool and silk thread, as well as a pair of masterwork knitting needles

[roll1]

[Strainseir]

Zathen also decides to look for an everlasting rations, an everfulling mug, and for a magic bedroll. If they are going into Hell he needs to be ready.


total of 1650 leaving 350 gp unspent

[roll0]

[Proud Tortoise]

Zathen finds what he's looking for. Mattae offers to get Herald knitting supplies from another area of the palace, and leaves you alone with the guard.

[AntiMatter101]

When Mattae returns, Delnir will ask him to show him where he might find materials to make maps with, having a list of needed items ready at hand.


2 Map-Cases with blank Map scroll inside, 2 gp
2 Ink pens, 2 sp
18 Sticks of Charcoal, 9 gp
2 Vials of glowing Ink, 10 gp
2 Vials of invisible Ink, 4 gp
3 Vials of regular Ink, 24 gp
4 Sheets of Parchment, 8 sp

[Proud Tortoise]

I'll just assume you asked him to get them for you when he left.

[Strainseir]

Zathen looks to the group when they are finished preparing for battle. Looking to them all he says calmly,"The stealth plan does indeed provide the greatest chance of success. I would prefer to take the devil side."

[Proud Tortoise]

Mattae returns with the items you had requested. "Well then. Are you all prepared for your journey?"

[meemaas]

Tenma

Clutching the rod he found with a subdued smile, he turned to Mattae, stowing it within his back pocket. "Yes, i am finished, and ready to leave when the others are."

[Proud Tortoise]

[Assuming everyone is ready,] Mattae escorts you to the palace's gates. "You are to rendezvous with King Jakkson's agent in the mountains due northwest of here. I wish you good luck on your journey. Although you'll need more than that to succeed." He walks back into the palace, the stained glass windows casting blue light across his back.

[Strainseir]

When they leave the gates Zathen calmly lowers himself down to his knees. He takes his sheathed sword and whispers a prayer over it before removing the peacebinding and then strapping the sword back onto his back,"Shall we go then?" he would then ask the group.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir nods, "I am ready."

Delnir raises his hand to his eyes, looking into the distance at the mountains. His mind is working out the distance they must travel to arrive where the road enters the mountain.
Knowledge (Geography): check to calculate the distance in miles to where the road enters the mountain.
[roll0]

[Proud Tortoise]

It will be a journey of a half day of water travel and another two days of normal walking before you arrive at the foothills, and then another day to the mountains proper.

A black-toothed crone has approached Tenma as you left the gates. "Cross my palm with silver, young one! I can tell you the Future!"

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma shakes his head a little. Taken aback by the thought, and allowing curiosity to overtake him, he finally places a few silver pieces in her hand, and stares at her intently. "Let's hear it. You have piqued my curiosity. At least a little."

[Proud Tortoise]

"Come, come!" She leads you to a small table set up on the roadside and pulls out a deck of cards, handing them to you to shuffle. Then she begins to lay the cards out on the table. The first two cards she lays down in the center of the table, one above the other:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/7a/Cups03.jpg
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/ff/Wands03.jpg
Then she lays cards to the left and right of these:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/35/Pents04.jpg http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/34/Swords07.jpg
Then she lays two cards to the right of these, one above the other:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/ff/RWS_Tarot_21_World.jpg This card is upside-down.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a7/Swords08.jpg

The woman gazes at the cards she has laid out. "Would you like me to continue?"

[meemaas]

Tenma

"What do these mean?"

[Proud Tortoise]

The old woman sighs. "There is no universal meaning of the cards. But this I can tell you:

"The first cards I laid out are the Threes of Cups and Staves. The first signifies a friendship between three or more people, while the second is a sign of a journey to come, physical or spiritual.

"The card to the left of these is a symbol of greed, in the near past, while the card to the right is a sign that stealth will be necessary in the future. Well, it could also be that you should be careful of pickpockets on the way home.

"The final cards, in the more distant future, are... troubling. They seem to be saying that your personal world is going to change... Become more dangerous, as it happens, owing to the Eight of Swords below it, there."


As she talks, she shuffles the rest of the deck. "Would you like me to... go on..." She stares into the distance as if transfixed.

[AntiMatter101]

From a ways away, Delnir observes Tenma's conversation with the woman, though he cannot hear what is being said. Curious, he sharpens his vision in order to see magic.

Examining the lady from a distance with detect psionics/magic.

[Proud Tortoise]

Delnir has to squint to see both the woman and her deck of cards through the bright magical aura they cast.

[KhaineGB]

Since she didn't have much luck finding anything, the paladin simply nodded once Mattae asks if everyone is ready. There wasn't much else for her to do, and in honesty, she had most of the items that she actually needed. Once they had left the palace and even the city itself, Sharniya reached around to her quiver and pulled out her Composite Longbow from one of the many extradimensional spaces. If anything decided to attack them on their little trip, hopefully she'd be able to shoot it down.

"Playing with devils... this will be fun..."

When the woman started talking with Tenma, the Paladin did the only two things she could think of that might help. The first was to examine the woman with True Seeing to negate any possible illusions, followed by Detect Evil. Hopefully that might reveal a little more about this very random person.

[Proud Tortoise]

True Seeing does not reveal any difference, although you can see a faint shine glinting off the woman's hair and clothing. Detect Evil does not reveal any evil aura at all.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma shakes his head. "You tell me little that i do not already know for myself, I see no further reason to stay, so i am done with you." With that, he walks past her, ignoring her presence, peeved with himself for allowing her to waste his time.

[AntiMatter101]

The very magical lady and her cards piqued his curiosity, yet unless she adressed him directly, Delnir would rather be un-noticed.

Adressing the group, "I can more or less instantly get us to the base of the mountain, though I can only take three others with me at one time. I'll make two trips. Join hands please." Delnir extends his hand, inviting the nearest to take it.

The power requires that those involved be holding hands. The first three to join up with him will be going in the first wave.

[Icilia]

Heral happily moves over and attempts to place his hand on Delnir's. He struggles a bit, but can just reach. Herald smiles happily

[Strainseir]

Zathen stands forwards desiring to be in the first group. It is unknown what kind of dangers might be where they are taken. Zathen would rather face it head on while the others are teleported in.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma places his hand on top of Delnir's next, ready to go.

[Proud Tortoise]

Glancing over at the woman, you find that, contrary to all expectations, she has not mysteriously disappeared.

[AntiMatter101]

"Do not let go."

Delnir lightly strikes the ground at his feet with the end of his walking stick/psicrystal staff, using it as a focus to bind this point in his mind. Already he is keenly aware of his exact distance and direction to that point. Manifesting Anchored Navigation, costs 7 power points.
Lasts 9 hours.
164 pp remaining.

He then immediately turns his mind's eye away, to the base of the mountain and jumps there, taking the three others with him.
Manifesting Psychoport, costs 9 power points.
On-Target percentage roll: [roll0] 'Viewed Once' Percentage thresholds:77, 89, 97.
155 pp remaining.

[Proud Tortoise]

Herald, Zathen and Tenma appear in a valley with a mountain pass leading east. Delnir appears on the bank of a wide river.

Is that correct? I mean, is that how psychoport works?

[AntiMatter101]

[roll0] damage.

Delnir appears on the riverbank, his clothes and flesh smoking. He is irate; a long string of explatives that spans multiple languages pours from his lips.

After a bit, he calms down, spending a moment to speed up the healing of the burn from that disaster.
Natural healing, Augmented thrice: cost 4 pp.
Heal 12 points of damage.
151 pp remaining.

Sadly, he has absolutely no idea where the other three have gone, yet he still can feel the mental tug of the anchor he put down before psychoporting. After a moment spent weighing his options, he jumps back to the anchor, double-checking the coordinates this time.


Manifesting Psychoport to get back to starting point, costs 9 power points.
On-Target percentage roll: [roll1] 'Very Familiar' Percentage threshold: 98.
142 pp remaining.

He arrives back at the starting point, still smelling of burnt things but otherwise healthy. He serriously doubts that such an annomaly would happen again, and wordlessly offers his hand to those who remained behind.

[Strainseir]

When the Psion did not appear with them, Zathen instantly knew something was wrong. in a single fluid movement he draws his nodaci. The Dead blade is a solid black wickedly sharp blade. Inlaid on it are several near unreadable glowing runes. Almost instantly upon being fully drawn, the blade is engulfed with a dark black and purple energy flowing from it like a spectral fire.

"Be on your guard. Something has gone wrong..."he says flatly.

[Icilia]

"Well, this definetly doesn't look right. Or feel right for that matter. Anyone hurt?"

[Strainseir]

forgot to take my Damage. [roll0]


"I will survive. How do you fair little one?"

[Icilia]

Also forgot to roll. [roll0]

"I've had worse. I can offer you all some respite from your wounds, as a blessing of The Great Left Sock"

[Strainseir]

"Save your magic for now. We do not know what else might be out here." Zathen said as he closed his eyes and focused his energy into his wounds to heal them.


Spending 8 points of Zathen's wholeness of body from monk to heal.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma's skin was somewhat burnt, but after a moment of focusing, his skin glows and he appears as though unharmed. "I must say, that stung. But it seems like we're all alright. Any idea where we are?" He looks up at the sun, trying to use it to gauge his position compared to before.

Damage [roll0]
He uses disguise self to disguise himself as if he were unharmed. (stupid i know, but hey, i can do it at will, so why not?)

And then a knowledge (nature) [roll1] and a survival [roll2] check to try and figure out our position relevant to the rest of the group.

[Proud Tortoise]

You are to the east of where you were a moment ago, and possibly some distance south.

[Strainseir]

"We seem to be at the base of the mountains we were aiming for.. but no doubt a bit of a distance away from the desired location. Unless either of you have a way to contact the psion, our only hope for reunion with the group is to continue onward. If the psion survived we will find them at the gate. If we do not find them... We still have a job to do." Zathen said as he began to walk towards the path through the mountains.

[meemaas]

Tenma

"Indeed. Let us get moving, the longer we stay the longer we risk losing the rest." Tenma moves on behind Zathen, leaving room for the goblin to get in between the two of them for safety.

[Icilia]

Herald hides his concern behind a smile.

"Shall we go then? The sooner we start, the sooner we can become unlost. Not lost. Unlostered. I have no idea. Please protect me Great Sock."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"How do you do with heights?" Tenma asked as his feet lifted off the ground a bit, he'd survey his location before offering a hand towards the goblin. "Take my hand if you'd like a ride."

[Icilia]

"I have no issues with heights. I always wondered what it would be like to see things like a bird."

Herald grabs a hold, and prepares himself for flight.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma lifted up into the air, lifting Herald with him, he'd take a path up a couple hundred feet into the air, and begin to survey his surroundings, before heading in the proper direction.

The temptation to drop Herald is overwhelming. Curse my evil tendencies. XD

That said, i'm going off the idea that we were told we were going to the northwest, and i'm gonna follow with that. I of course assume that Zathen is coming after me.

[Proud Tortoise]

To the north and south, the land rises, sloping toward the east. To the west, the valley continues to a flat, green farmland, and in the east it rises to become a mountain pass.

[Icilia]

"Try not to drop me. I'd hate to have to try cast a spell to drop my fall. Whilst falling."

I can cast fly. Good old domain spells. If Herald knew where he was going, he could teleport there as well. But I'd rather not appear in a mountain. Again

[meemaas]

Tenma

"I won't, i make it a point not to euthanize the people i am relying on to watch my back." He started towards the west, , keeping himself at least a hundred feet above solid ground at all times, and moving towards the north where it slanted upwards.

Translation. Going northwest.

[Strainseir]

Zathen Follow the group keeping his blade out as he flies. Since Tenma is taking the duty of carrying the goblin, Zathen scouts around ahead, which works out better since he flies faster.


Because it fits the character. Looking for threats [roll0] perception.

[Proud Tortoise]

Tenma and Zathen fly northwest. Your surroundings start getting bleaker as you rise up the mountainside. There is little vegetation growing here, and the rocks begin to rise up into sheer cliffs.

[Icilia]

"Are we there yet?... Are we there yet? I'm going to sing a song."

Perform Check: [roll0]. Ninety-Nine bottles of beer on the wall, Ninety-Nine bottles of beer...

[Proud Tortoise]

By now you are flying over snow-covered ground. It's very windy at these altitudes.

Suddenly, a blast of wind blows downward, threatening to drive you into an upcoming cliff. Rather than stopping after a moment, it persists in driving you toward the ground.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Rather than fighting the winds, he slowly descended them to the ground, and set down Herald as soon as they touched ground. "It appears that the easy way is blocked, let us continue on foot."

[Strainseir]

Zathen lands ans well before looking up scanning to see if the wind is magic.


I duno what I should roll. Zathen has a constant detect magic.

[Proud Tortoise]

The wind is not magic, but, as you land, a burst of snow rises from the ground to form a vaguely humanoid figure. You hear a voice in your head: Be you three friends or foes?

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir tries to port to the mountain again, doing his best to be extra careful, and not to mess things up.

Manifesting Psychoport, costs 9 power points.
On-Target percentage roll: [roll0] 'Viewed Once' Percentage thresholds:77, 89, 97.
131 pp remaining.

If Sharniya took his hand, she'll come with. Otherwise she will not.

[Proud Tortoise]

You arrive at the mountain pass where you were supposed to ascend without difficulty.

[Strainseir]

On reaction Zathen draws his blade and drops to a defensive pose. When the voice enters his head he responds but does not lower the blade,"We are simple travelers. We seek to cross the mountain on a quest."

[Proud Tortoise]

The snowman is still. "A quest? Be you... Zathen, the Dead Blade?"

[Icilia]

"We seek online to pass these lands. We quest to clear these lands of the evil beyond these mountains with the light of the Great Left Sock. And the other Gods too, I guess. We have been severed from our friends, and seek the good King Jakkson for help. Can you help us?"

Diplomacy Check:[roll0]

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir makes camp, off of the road.

Knowing he needs some sort of plan to find the missing three, Delnir spends some time and energy dredging up old memories of the area he is currently in.
Manifesting the power Call to Mind (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/psionics-unleashed/psionic-powers/c/call-to-mind)twice, fully augmenting it each time, for a grand total of +8 to each check for 18 pp.

Checks:
Knowledge(Local) to know where to find the nearest Elan who would be willing to help him manifest the Remote Viewing power a couple of times.
[roll0]

Knowledge (Geography) to figure out how to Psychoport there.
[roll1]

113 pp remaining.


He sticks his staff in the ground in front of him, and assumes a crosslegged position on the ground. Letting go of all distractions, he focuses on meditating on what he has learned.

The psicrystal in the staff can alert him if he is attacked.

He will meditate/trance for four hours, regaining power points and formulating a plan with the information he recalled.

[Strainseir]

Zathen lowers his blade. Anyone that knew his name and did not try to kill him on sight was likely to not try to now, unless it was a trick,"MY name is indeed Zathen. I am the 8th wielder of the dead blade."

[Proud Tortoise]

The creature processes this for a moment. "We were under the impression that your party would be considerably larger."

[Strainseir]

Zathen sighed softly and shook his head,"We were separated. A psion was teleporting us. The three of us ended up here, the psion is in a place unknown. IF he survived the psion most likely took the rest of the party to where we were suppose to end up."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"You were under the impression...? Would you happen to know where we were planning on going?"

[Proud Tortoise]

"We were informed of your expedition. We are to let you cross the mountains. We will take you to Winter's Frost and we will send word to others. Your friends will be brought to meet you when they arrive."

[Strainseir]

"Where do you wish us to go Elemental?" Zathen asks despite not trusting this ting at all.


[roll0] sense motive. I think it is lieing.

[Proud Tortoise]

The elemental has no facial expression and seems almost mindless. It is impossible to tell if it is telling the truth or not.

"We will take you to Winter's Frost and we will send word to others. Your friends will be brought to meet you when they arrive."

[Strainseir]

"Lead the way then,but before we go, I would have your name." Zathen says as he moves to follow the elemental, but refuses to sheath his blade.

[Proud Tortoise]

The elemental trudges onward and makes a sound like a harsh, icy wind blowing against a cliff face.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma follows behind the elemental, speaking to himself in an archaic tongue that none of the others can even understand, he has withdrawn his book and is holding it tight to him while he walks.

[KhaineGB]

While the psion had been porting the others to their destination, Sharniya kept her bow knocked and ready, acting as something of an impromptu guard for the remainder of the group. Once Delnir returned, the arrow and bow were both placed back into her quiver, and she joined hands with the rest of the group. She had no idea what'd happened to the others, and it seemed that the psion wasn't about to say anything either. The soft scent of burnt things was a little worrying.

Once they arrived at the mountain, the woman glanced around and blinked a few times. True Seeing did not reveal the remainder of the party, which bothered the devil-paladin. "Where's the rest of our travelling companions?" Simple question really. A hand reached around the quiver, promptly drawing the bow and arrow once more. The wilderness could prove to be dangerous, and Sharniya didn't intend to be caught unawares.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir supressed a sigh of relief. While he had been confident he would not make the same error twice, he had not been sure. "There was an anomaly when I went with the others. We got seperated. It was not pleasant."

He stood to one side and scanned the road in either direction as he explained. "I've only read about that happening before, never actually had it happen to me. It's rare. I'll spare you the details, but the effect is that those three could be anywhere in a very large radius from our starting point; far too large to search for by hand. But they're probobly still alive. This is the correct destination, however."

Delnir looks at her with humor and curiosity from beneath his mask. "You wouldn't happen to also secretly be a seer, would you?"

[Icilia]

"Are we there yet?"

Perform Check:[roll0]

Left Foot, Right Foot, Left Foot, Right Foot...

[Proud Tortoise]

Herald, Tenma and Zathen:

The elemental has led you to a large cave mouth. It gestures for you to enter.

Delnir and Sharniya:
So? Where do you go?

[Icilia]

Herald waits for a moment, mutters something to the sock, seems to listen to it say something in return, and then happily walks into the cave mouth.

As he enters, Herald casts Light on the Sock.

[Strainseir]

Zathen stares at the goblin as he mutters to a sock. Then he turns to look at Tenma with an almost concerned look on his face,"Our goblin talks to his sock... If he attempts to make love to it I will be camping away from the group."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"I would be lying if i said that it was the weirdest thing i've ever seen. To each their own, i guess." As he does so, he follows behind Herald, his thoughts off in another place.

[Proud Tortoise]

Within the cave is a large, circular archway, carved with decorative runes. Weak sunlight filters down through a hole in the center of the ceiling, illuminating motes of snow falling from the arch. The elemental gestures at the structure.

[Strainseir]

Zathen turns to look at the group giving a gaze as if to say let me go first just in case. Then he stepped through the structure expecting the worse, but truly hoping for the best.

[Icilia]

Herald follows after quickly. With the elemental no longer leading, who knows what kind of suprises await?

[Proud Tortoise]

Zathen emerges into a large ice cave. Similar portals line the walls; there are twelve in all. The thirteenth wall of the cave opens onto a view of a city that can only be Winter's Frost.

Spires of ice and stone gleam in a spectrum ranging from green to violet to rose rise elegantly from a long valley, sparkling in the weak sunlight. Streams of snow wind around the buildings, probably the same type of creature as the one you met. At one end of the valley stands a large temple of white stone; at the other an enormous palace, its turrets and battlements unmatched by any other building in the city.

The cave in which you stand is located near the center of the valley. Descent is made possible by a narrow flight of stone steps.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir regains his feet and retrieves his staff. He gestures to Sharniya. "I can think of no way to find our allies. There is little we can do but go forward and hope we meet them again."

He then leads the way up the mountain path.

[Proud Tortoise]

The path up the mountain is long and rugged. About an hour later, you stumble upon the mouth of a cave.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir steps inside the mouth of the cave and peers father in, then rechecks the path to see where it leads.
What can he see in the cave?
Does the path he was following lead inside or go past it?

[Proud Tortoise]

The path led straight to the mouth of the cave. Within the cave is a large, circular archway, carved with decorative runes. Weak sunlight filters down through a hole in the center of the ceiling, illuminating motes of snow falling from the arch.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir enters the cave. Intrigued by the runes on the archway, he approaches them with the intent to examine them.

Want a knowledge check?

Dismissing the runes, Delnir continues onward, deeper into the cave. With a thought, the head of his staff glows like a torch, illuminating their way.

Manifesting the Talent 'Crystal Light'; one crystal within range shines like a torch for 9 minutes. Cost: 0 pp

[Proud Tortoise]

When Delnir goes through the archway, he arrives in a large ice cave. Similar portals line the walls; there are twelve in all. The thirteenth wall of the cave opens onto a view of a city that can only be Winter's Frost.

Spires of ice and stone gleam in a spectrum ranging from green to violet to rose rise elegantly from a long valley, sparkling in the weak sunlight. Streams of snow wind around the buildings, probably the same type of creature as the one you met. At one end of the valley stands a large temple of white stone; at the other an enormous palace, its turrets and battlements unmatched by any other building in the city.

The cave in which you stand is located near the center of the valley. Descent is made possible by a narrow flight of stone steps.

Your companions have just entered the cave through another one of the portals.
Deus ex machina, I know, but let's get this thing moving.

[Strainseir]

Zathen blinks a few times looking around until he noticed that the lost companions were there. Magic was indeed quite a wonderful thing,"Why have you elementals brought us here? What do you have to ask of us?"

[Proud Tortoise]

The snow elemental, who followed you through, says, "King Jakkson has decreed that we bring you here." It flies out the cave's mouth.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir looked on as his mistake was so easily corrected by someone else. "Thank the heavens! I'm glad you're all safe."

His eyes are drawn to the elemental as it flies off. "I take it that was the contact we were supposed to meet?"

[meemaas]

Tenma

"It is nice to see that we are all safe. Well met, friend." Tenma smiled his charismatic smile, and took a look around the cavern, getting a measure of his current location.

[Icilia]

"Do you know what happened friend? One moment you were with us, the next, we were alone. It is good to see you safe."

Herald is happy to see the group back together

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir is glad to explain the mishap. "Yes... teleporting is not without risks. There is always a small chance that it will go awry. That chance is larger the less familiar I am with the destination. We were very unlucky. I have never borne witness to a teleport gone that wrong before. I ended up on the bank of some river, yet afterwards I could again teleport without incident; however, I no longer knew where you three were."

Delnir is glad that his mask hides his embarrassment.

[Strainseir]

"While the intricacies of teleportation are indeed a fascinating study, I suggest we focus now on the fact that the king the elementals in his mountain range has apparently summoned us." Zathen says as he makes sure his appearance is straightened up and clean.

[AntiMatter101]

"You are likely correct."

Delnir adjusts his own appearance, cleaning up after the day's events.

[meemaas]

Tenma

"Do you recall that there was an arrangement with their King to provide us with easier travel through the mountains? He has not as such summoned us, but has agreed to help us." Tenma smiles and looks around. "I believe he should be around soon to meet with us."

[Proud Tortoise]

As you speak, a humanoid heap of snow- possibly the same one that led you here in the first place- steps into the ice cave. "King Jakkson would like to meet with you. Follow, please."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"Lead the way then" Tenma nods quietly, and starts to follow the elemental as he leads the way.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir follows after Tenma, keeping an eye out for anything interesting in this mystical place.

[Icilia]

Herald hurries along after the others, holding his light above himself

[Proud Tortoise]

The elemental leads you along a narrow path down the side of the canyon...

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma lifts himself off the ground and follows about fifteen feet in the air above the ledge, giving more room for the others to follow in.

[Proud Tortoise]

The elemental leads you along the path on the side of the canyon to a large cave entrance. Inside is a huge room lined with ice. Pilars of blue, green and pink ice form an arcade along the sides, and at the end sits a large, white throne. It is currently unoccupied, but three figures stand beside it.

[Icilia]

Herald wanders over to the throne and the three people.

"Uhm, hi? King... Jakkson? Would one of you be the man we seek? My friends and I have come some distance to meet you."

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma waits a fair distance back. His experience with nobility telling him that Herald's approach is improper.

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir

Delnir stands behind Herald, not intervening, yet lending his words unspoken support. He would have put it differently, but Herald was correct.

[stack]

Dorn

The strongly-built man with the shaved head bows and speaks. "The king is not here at present. I am Dorn, called the Vise. May I inquire as to your errand here? Perhaps it may align with mine."

[Proud Tortoise]

"That it does," a voice says. The air over the throne begins to swirl as snowflakes fall from the ceiling. Within seconds, it reveals a man's shape sitting on the throne, given definition only by the snowflakes' passage around it.

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma steps up and kneels before the king, bowing his head. "It is a pleasure to meet you, my lord. You humble us with your presence. We were told you would help us with the quest which we had been sent on."

Diplomacy check, mostly to flatter the king and gain whatever benefits we can. Taking ten, thanks to Naberius, so 10+28=38 on my Diplomacy check

[Swami Monsoon]

Another man steps forward from beside the throne. He is very short and stocky, a few inches shy of five feet. It is unclear whether he is a very short human or an unusually tall and slender dwarf. He wears no armor and carries no obvious weapons aside from a dagger at his belt. He is dressed in simple traveler's clothes of Eastern style... loose pants and tunic, vest and cap. His most striking feature is his skin, which is so dark that it appears almost black... and is covered with small, irregular white spots that somewhat resemble the flakes of snow falling around him. His long hair and beard are black and likewise flecked with streaks of white wherever they grow from the spots on his skin.

When he speaks it is with an odd accent that sounds Dwarven but somehow different...

"I am Reza, called Nuqtavi. So I take it we have all been recruited for the same mission?"

[Proud Tortoise]

"Yes, indeed. To cleanse the land of this infernal pestilence." The snow around King Jakkson swirls violently.

[stack]

Dorn

The bald man nods. "Such is my purpose, to rid this world of their corruption. I have come far seeking aid, as you know."

[Prospector]

Quartle

Beside the throne and the to tall mammals stands a bipedal frog a little over two feet tall. He is dressed in forest green and white flowing monk's robes, with a nice but well used backpack at his back, and a extremely nice quiver at his side. He says to the new arrivals in deep, back-country drawl, "Names Quartle. Pleasure to make your all's acquaintances. I make the unholy menace very hole-y," he pats his quiver as he says that last bit.

[meemaas]

Tenma

"It is nice to have you three on board." Tenma nods, and stands up straight, turning to address the king. "We were never given the exact location of the Devils hideout, and it was implied to us that we would get that from you. Is that true, or is that just a poorly made assumption on my part?"

[Proud Tortoise]

King Jakkson swirls a bit. "Yes, one of my vassals shall show you a way to their city."

[stack]

Dorn bows. "My thanks. Shall we depart at once, or are there preparations that need be done?"

[Prospector]

"I might like to pick up a few more silver arrows. Never know when I'll get the chance again. Glad we're going to be put down some deceivers though. Them and their damned tricky lies," Quartle said and almost spat after saying that last bit.

[meemaas]

Tenma

"Killing them is not our primary plan. While being prepared for combat is a good idea, it would be ideal to get in and out without fighting. We might be strong enough to take out some, but we are entering the heart of the enemies home, and beyond. We would not be able to survive a full scale war within their territory, and I'm sure i speak for everyone when i say we want to live through this."

[Prospector]

"Well if you insist. I can do sneaky. Just don't try any make any deals with them pit dwellers. We mortals will always get the raw end of the deal, always," Quartle said. He hitched up his bags and looked ready to go into the city to do some last minute shopping.

[meemaas]

Tenma

"That's why I am here. If there is anyone who can deal with a devil and win, it would be me. But enough of that. Dealing with them wasn't going to be the primary plan in the first place. We never settled on our plan before we left, but we need one by the time we are within sight of the enemies base."

[stack]

Dorn

"Perhaps you should bring us newcomers up to speed on the precise details of the mission and current plans. Speaking of stealth, deals and combat means little to those only vaguely briefed."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"My apologies, I had thought you were informed. King Alazel has requested from the three of us, and in turn of you three, that we attempt to travel to Heaven, and seek the aid of the angels therein to repel the Demons and Devils from our world. To do that, it is believed that we will find a path within the Hell in which these Demons and Devils have come from. And so, our first task is to infiltrate their headquarters and utilize the portal they maintain back to their homeland. From there, we are left to our own means to discover a way in which to make it form one to the other." While he speaks, he draws a diagram into the dirt with his finger, giving a visual representation of what he has just said, in simplistic terms.

[stack]

"Ah, that is where my confusion stemmed from. Infiltrating hell to reach heaven was not immediately intuitive. I understand better know, my thanks."

[Prospector]

"I was clear on the ultimate objective, but wasn't sure what route we are taking," Quartle says. "Either way was fine by me, since I'd more than likely be killing evil. Though putting the deceiver down is a tad more satisfying," he says with a grim smile.

[Swami Monsoon]

Nuqtavi frowns...

"So the plan is to target the Devils? Is there anything that makes them more vulnerable? They're the ones that are all about order and discipline and attention to detail... it seems that they would be tougher to fool or evade... the ones who would be less likely to blow off sentry duty because they just found a new litter of puppies to torture..."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"The Devils were chosen because of the unpredictability of the Demons. While Devils are indeed more organized than Demons are, they are also less apt to random acts of...randomness. There is also more options in case we are discovered, Devils would be more capable of negotiation than Demons, who would likely kill us on the spot if we were discovered." Tenma stands up and smiles a little. "If worst came to worst, we could bargain with the Devils, such as offering them a head up against their foes. There are plenty of possible ideas, and one of mine is that we convince them that we seek to aid them. I'm reasonably sure i could convince them of that."

[Prospector]

"And if not..." Quartle says as he pats the quiver at his side. "I understand them unholy folk but don't expect me to talk to um. Not my strong point. I'm best at when the art of persuasion fails."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"Don't worry about it. Words are my strong point, and from what i've grasped, Herald here isn't half bad in a conversation either." He gestures towards Herald, as if to introduce the oddly quiet Cleric.

[Swami Monsoon]

"Well... some foolish people take me for some kind of devil, but I very much doubt I'll be able to fool the real thing..."

[stack]

Dorn claps his hands together. "Well then, I am ready. If you need to recover from your journey we can of course wait, but I believe we newcomers are rested and prepared."

[AntiMatter101]

Delnir nods. "I can wait until after nightfall to rest."

[Proud Tortoise]

"When you are ready, you will be shown the way." With that, the king disappears.

[stack]

Dorn blinks, then looks around. "Not one to waste words. I respect that. So, shall we find our quarters then? I wouldn't object to a bit of time to judge each other abilities. It is better to know what your companions can do so you can coordinate in battle. Some must come with time and experience, but we can lay the groundwork now."

[meemaas]

Tenma

"Personally, i believe we should press forward. We still have some daylight left, i'm sure we can make better progress like that then spending a night getting to know each other."

[Prospector]

Quartle

"I don't much care if we leave today or in the morning. I just need to pick up some more Alchemcal Silver Arrows and few more normal ones."

[meemaas]

Tenma

Tenma turned to the snow elemental that had introduced them to the King. "Are there any towns on the route to the Devils base of operations? Or are they out of the way?"

[Swami Monsoon]

"I've been waiting and resting here for days, so I can leave right away if the rest of you decide that's the best plan. I do doubt that half a day will matter much in the scheme of things... unless the enemy knows we're coming and are actively preparing..."