Dragon War: In The Beginning

[Logain]

This is the Dragon War RP Thread, for my patient and long-suffering PCs.

The recruiting/NPC thread is here: http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37959

PM me if you have an interest in joining our merry band.

-Logain

[Logain]

In the time before the Council of Drani-a’I, in the days before the fall of Ilythiiri and all the horrors the accompanied the Crown Wars, there was a time when few elves speak of- a time of dreaded darkness; A time of Dragon men, of terrible thunder lizards who enslaved the young races, the blessed sons and daughters of Correllion Latherian.

This was a time of unity for the elven people- a time of unity, but not of peace. This is a time of slavery and terror. The elves are allowed few luxuries- the dragon men allow them song and dance, so they have developed fighting styles that are hidden in dance and song. The greatest of these fighters, the fearsome elven blade singers, combine the magic of their heritage with the songs of the people, practicing the grace and form of movements of the sword without the sword in hand.

Far more common than the fearsome bladesingers are the Illythiiri duskblades, the heralds of the people in this dark time, a class of dark-skinned elves who refuse to bow to the horrors and the slavery inflicted on their people. They are the specialized army of the elves that carry the hope of all the people, and they know it well.

The Elven Air Corp, known as Akh'Sornion, has been covertly training for years, under the pretense of 'messengers' and couriers. Its ranks include noble fighters, rangers, and paladins, with a few sorcerers enrolled. These soldiers are known collectively as Tyar, or "Those who act." Members of the Akh'Sornion refer to themselves as Tyar, and never as Akh'Sornion, lest the enemy learn of the organization. There are whispers that dragon men have already learned of the Air Corps, and seek to know more, so that they can be destroyed.

The elven people were enslaved, their faces held close to the dust as they farmed and harvested for the greater beings of Toril. Their slavery was a brutal one, for they were watched day and night by tireless overseers, brutal lizardmen the like of which have never been known by the modern races of Faerun.

Among the slave-races, few of the elders are allowed to gather without swift retribution from the dragon-kin. Their emissaries, forced to meet and decide on the Elders’ behalf, have gathered a small group of adventurers together to strike back at their dragon-kin oppressors. They have chosen seemingly at random, guided by some force that you are unaware of, and asked you to gather in the Glade of Springs Devotion, or Valindil, a place of happiness and celebration that has not seen use in some time. The meeting is to take place in the dead of night, when the dragon men’s sight is weakest and their laziness is most apparent.

Character Creation
Point buy or online roller.
Point Buy Stats: 32 Points
Rolling Stats: 5d6, drop 2 lowest (reroll 1s).
<If you're using invisible Castle, use the formula: 5d6.takeHighest(3).minroll(2) >

Allowed Races:
Illythiiri - the dark-skinned tropical cousins of the elves, known for their music and arts. They are favored of the goddess Arushnee, patroness of music and the arts, and the consort of Correllion Latherian. ((+2 Dex, +2 Int, +2 Cha, -2 Con))((Favored Class: Ranger, Sorcerer, Duskblade))((Level Adjustment +1))

Moon Elves - The moon elves are the most common of the elven races- they consist of the bulk of the cities, and are commonly referred to by Sun Elves as 'commoners.' Despite this, the moon elves are a happy and cheerful lot, wandering often to take in new adventures. ((+2 Dex, -2Con))((Favored Class: Fighter, Ranger, Rogue, or Bard))

Sun Elves - The Sun elves, the most cerebral of the elven races, often consider themselves the designated leaders of the elven people. Almost exclusively mages, the sun elves sometimes appear haughty even to other elves. ((+2 Int, -2 Con))((Favored Class: Wizard, Sorcerer))

Sylvan - The wild cousins of 'civilized' sun and moon elves, the Wild Elves are known for their ferocity and tenacity. The Wild elves have become almost completely wiped out, what few are left hiding in the forests and plains where dragon men cannot find them. ((+2 Str, +2 Dex, -2 Con, -2 Cha))((Favored Class: Ranger, Barbarian))

Special Race: Avariel (using the winged creature rules from pages 137-38 of Savage Species) Level adjustment +2, on top of whatever race you choose for the elves (Ilthyrii avariel would have a stacked level adjustment of +3).
The fly maneuverability rules will be adjusted for this game: Perfect Maneuverability requires a Dexterity score of 21, Good a Dex of 19, Average a Dex of 17, and Poor a Dex of 15. Clumsy Maneuverability will be anything less than 15, and any avariel with a dexterity lower than 13 is unable to fly.


The Valindil, or Glade of Springs Devotion, was long ago a place of happiness and celebration that has not seen use in some time. The willow trees swing sadly in the nighttime breeze, the grass is uncut and the trees left to grow wild. The pools have been left untended, the fish growing too large or dying, leaving the waters filled with frogs and lily pads, a breeding ground for mosquitoes and flies. To the eyes of the dragon men, it would seem like any patch of forest, but this place has special meaning to the children of Correllion. This was the place, upon time lost, that the children of the songs and moon and sun and trees would gather together to celebrate their creation.

In the darkness, someone stands near the pool, sadly gazing into its depths. Hooded and cloaked, it is impossible to tell who is there, but the letter you received was marked with the seals of all four high elders- whatever summoned you here was of the utmost importance. The letter was signed “roma,” an elven word not often used- insurrection; rebellion.

All have heard of the tales of the proud Sylvan, the wild elves who refused to bow before their dragon masters, and who were wiped out, almost to a one. The few Sylvan who are left hide among the rocks and scrags of the mountain, or among the untamed depths of the deepest jungles and forests, allowing none, not even their elven brethren, to see them.

You left behind family and friends, loved ones and comrades in arms to come here, and it has not been an easy journey. The Dragon men that so fiercely guard their elven slaves are especially harsh with those who escape or seek to fight- punish is most often acted out upon those who are left behind as a way of discouraging further outbreaks. You cannot imagine what acts of horror the dragon men are inflicting on your friends and family as you now gather here- it was these friends and family who convinced you to come, knowing that they were the ones who would bear the punishment.

You have come here at the sacrifice of many lives- your loved ones and friends. But you know why you have come here- the Elders have decided that it is time to rise and fight your dragon oppressors. A time much feared and lauded- spoken of in terror or reverent whispers.

[kuja.girl]

Two large avian shapes descend and land in the trees above the clearing on near silent wings. The branches rustle and scrap against each other as they adjust to the weight of the two birds who wait patiently.

[Fixer]

A short, old elf in wartorn clothes approaches the stranger without fear or enthusiasm. The old elf is slightly hunched and walks with a slight limp. Possessing the look of a broken slave, he moves warily towards the stranger. Effrem offers greetings in elvish, draconic, and sylvan and then says,

"This place once was a place of great beauty. It pains my heart to see it reduced to this. Beauty should never be treated in this fashion. Beauty is the purpose of life.
"Speaking of life. I am hungry, stranger. Will you break bread with me here? This place is hallowed but it is not yet my time to offer praise. We can sit and speak while I await my time to pray."

Effrem takes out some stale, dry rations from his backpack, enough for two, and offers some to the stranger. He then takes two small cups from his bag and fills them both with clear water from his waterskin.

[Logain]

The hooded form turns as you approach, nodding as you speak. After you have offer him some bread, he pulls back his hood, revealing a gaunt face. You know that face- it is one of the servants of the elders. He bows and accepts your offering of bread and water.

"Thank you. I believe you are the priest?" he asks as he surveys the sky, stopping to examine the the tree where the winged shapes are resting. "If you are patient, I believe the others will be joining us shortly."

[kuja.girl]

There is a soft rustle of leaves and a muffled thump as the Slyvan (wild elf) lowers himself to the ground from the tree he had been watching from. He approaches the other two in a slow, deliberate manner. A well used short sword hangs from his belt while a long bow is harnessed across his back. He stops ten strides from the other two elves, seeming content to watch and listen.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem settles down comfortably, allowing his illusion to fade. The old elf's features gradually fade into those of a very handsome youth. His ragged clothing gains color and vibrance. He stands now around 5 ½ feet tall and has a rather muscular physique. He has a red hat with white trim, white tunic with gold buttons, white trousers, red cloak with something lumpy underneath it (probably a backpack), and red boots with white trim, all are kept in perfect cleanliness. On his left arm he wears a large wooden shield but he bears no visible arms. Around his neck is a necklace resembling a bear climbing a moon and an amulet of a pure gold heart.

"I am a follower of the love of Hanali Celanil. If you are asking if I was the one summoned, I suppose that I am." Effrem takes a moment to observe the wild elf stranger. "Is this other another of the summoned? How many shall we expect?"

[Enlong]

A lone figure steps from the shadows around the trees. His face is obscured from the nose up by a rather flamboyant mask. He wears a sibtle blend of dark colors from his pants to his vest to his boots, and his right arm is covered with a strange gauntlet, wrapped in leather, while his left arm has only a small glove. He strides into the group gracefully, until his foot catches on a rock hidden by the grass, and he stumbles, killing the image he was working for. His mask falls off, revealing a pale face with silvery eyes and grey hair, and a scar across his nose.
Trying to salvage his first impression, he speaks out. "Hello. I believe I was summoned here to join this group? Impressive feat, that. Finding me is not an easy task."

[Fixer]

Effrem

"If this is to be a gathering, I believe it is my place to bless this gathering with a simple feast."

Effrem takes a moment to make a short prayer to Hanali Celanil asking for her bounty in this blessed place.

[OOC: Effrem is taking 15 minutes to prepare Create Food & Water in his open 3rd level slot.]

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn doesn't answer the red and white clad elf's question. Instead he turns and watches the approach of the other one. Barely muffling a snort of amusement at the masked one's less than graceful entrance, he turns back to the "host," the old elf, and waits for further information before offering his own.

[ooc: I'm assuming that since Legarn is a wild elf that he wouldn't be familiar with the elder's servant]

[SeekerInTheNight]

A low humming tune vibrates through the forest, moment before the singers emerge from the trees. Two elves, one standing nearly a foot over the other, and both wearing the soft earthen tones of the Long Patrol over mithril.

The taller draws the eyes like a lodestone. His skin is a patchwork of scars and creative tattooes meant accent and empathsize them. His hair is a blade thin crest of platinum blond sticking up from his skull. His brown eyes are merry and warm, sparkling with the glint of mischief. At the moment, he is covered in red and blue warpaint along his arms and face. This further highlights his scars and the slightly manic tilt to his grin. Oddly enough, there are several well preserved and downright pretty flowers and leaves tacked tastefully onto his armor and threaded through his hair.

He is humming loudly, the tune sounding ritualistic with a heavy rhythm. By the way his hands flex and his feet tap, you can tell he's having trouble holding back from full out song. He doesn't speak, but looks to the shorter elf instead.

You can tell they are brothers, not so much in the build but the faces are telling.

[Tacitus]

Laikelee

The shorter of the two is quite a bit less enthusiastic with a look that might suggest he is somewhat displeased with his brother's humming despite his restraint. He too is humming if only because of the rhythmic beat but he is making sounds that fit the rhythm but sound like the call of a bird. As he enters the clearing he moves with a hunter's grace while his eyes flick between each of those present and the surrounding. While he does not have an arrow knocked and at the ready he does carry his bow, a bladed thing with metal bristling from the tips and out from the grip just below his normal line of sight as if it were an oversized punching dagger. With a raise of his hand he waves to the gathering, "Well met! I assume this is gathering to which we have been called away from the Long Patrol."

[Logain]

Roma, as you assume this elf's name is (as you have no other name for him) quietly eats, watching the group interact. If anyone speaks to him, or asks him what's going on, he gestures slowly and speaks softly "Patience, please. All are not here yet," and then he'll return to his slow, deliberate eating.

((Feel free to interact with each other- articulate your characters' stories and personalities, and we'll start once everyone has gotten themselves established))

-Logain

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem sits eats his simple fare.

"I am not sure what this gathering is for, but given I am a healer I would expect that would be my expected role. I am a follower of Hanali Celanil and I consider it my duty in life to travel with others and aid them against that which might try to cause them suffering. I hope, by Hanali's blessing, that the majority of differences between peoples may be solved without violence, in spite of my prior experiences."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

"Hph. Not everything likes to talk to their 'meal.' That kind of reduces the chance of a peaceful ending, doesn't it?" Legarn shifts his weight and with an air of resignation sits down a few feet away from the Effrem.

[Fixer]

Effrem

"True. One tends not to discuss matters with food lest you grow too fond of it to eat it. That would be why I have found it best to sustain myself purely on the blessings of Hanali Celanil. If I am of no threat to others, and appear too meager to eat nor possessing nothing they value then I find I am often left alone by all but the most mean-spirited of persons."

Effrem offers his waterskin around after taking a drink himself.

"It is those people I feel the greatest pity for. Those with such loathing for what they are that they must victimize others in order to create a perpetual cycle of retaliation against themselves.

"I once spent time among a village of goblins after they had escorted me out of my former dragon master's lair. For years I was their healer and was relatively well-treated, especially compared to other tribal members who were not as useful. At the time I had not yet found the blessings of Hanali Celanil but my skills in healing were just as welcomed after their larger skirmishes. I would guess I know more about goblin anatomy than my own.

"I am getting off topic. I apologize, I tend to ramble. In any event, these goblins were attempting to fight guerrilla style against their former dragon masters. I cannot speak for how effective they may have been but one day, while I was out in the forest collecting herbs to replenish my supplies, the dragons attacked in concert and the tribe was completely wasted. Everything not underground was destroyed and not a single living thing left alive for me to treat. The dragons were not interested in profit or materials; they only wanted slaughter and vengeance against those who had been disobedient. They had angered the dragons to the point where they had brought about their own destruction."

Effrem takes another drink from his waterskin which has finally made it back to him and sits in deep thought, reliving the memories of that time.

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn refuses the proffered water skin with a shake of his head. How was he supposed to work with someone who didn't see what was wrong? That was why they were here right? To do something instead of hiding, cowering, and obeying the scaled ones' every wish.

"I know nothing about goblins, but I doubt they could have done anything worthy of a dragon's "vengeance." More likely they had simply annoyed their master past the point of his tolerance.
"Killing to eat or to defend one's self is one thing. Killing for enjoyment or other base reasons is foolish. Dragons seem to do more of last two than the first."

[Darius]

Ariel

The leaves in the trees rustle and a raven's call is heard. As you look in that direction, a black horse with whispy hooves that make no sound enters the glade. Holding a similar smoke-like mane is a beautiful elven maiden - unarmored other than a set jaw and a steely glare. She dismounts and approaches; as she does so, the raven flies down and lands on her shoulder.

She says in a voice like a funeral dirge, "I am Ariel Evenstar. Forgive my intrusion, but I believe I am fashionably late."

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem offers a bit of his conjured food and water to each and every person who walks up, without asking why they are there. His only questions to each is, "By what are you called?" and, "Are you hungry?"

Effrem does his best to be sociable, in spite of the awkward randomness of the situation he has found himself in.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel accepts the proffered food with a smile. "As I said before, I am called Ariel Evenstar. I would properly thank you for your food if I knew what to call you."

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem seems confused a moment and then sharpens to recognition. "Oh, I never did say my own name, did I? My apologies. I am Effrem, of House Linol. In my travels it is often best to remain nameless so I seem to have forgotten to say my name just out of habit." Effrem then displays on his left hand the signet ring of House Linol.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel smiles at Effrem. Although beautiful, Ariel's smile does not hide the sadness in her eyes. Regardless, she still says, "Well met, Effrem of the House Linol. Thank you for the meal and fellowship. I wonder what is in store for us here in the Valindil? If the stories are true, it was once a place of happiness and celebration; however, I know not of a time that the Glade of Springs Devotion would have lived up to that moniker." Ariel finishes her small meal and says, "Look at me, droning on while others are here. Please, do not let me monopolize the discussion." Ariel looks to the others and awaits for them to end their silence.

[Logain]

Roma stands after sharing the brief meal, and wanders away from the group and the conversation, into the darkness. It seems as though he is looking for something, but if any of you attempt to follow, he simply gestures for you to stay here.

He wanders off into the darkness alone, leaving your small group to speak amongst yourselves.

[Fixer]

Effrem

"I may not be up on my social graces, living among goblins for so long, but is it not suspicious that our host departs at the moment that supposed champions in a cause not in the dragons' best interests arrive in a deserted location? Even elders may be fooled or intimidated into making their seal if the right force or threat is applied."

Effrem takes a club out of his haversack and quietly resumes his disguise as an elder elf, club becoming a walking stick. He begins, this time in a raspy old voice, "I tell you what, back in my day people knew how to treat guests. None of this departing without a word nonsense. I recommend we keep our senses alert. Who knows what lurks in these woods now. I, for one, have no desire to be lizard food this eve when I have avoided that fate numerous times before."

Effrem moves to next to the pool and thrusts his old, rusty lantern under the water. He looks by its magical light into the depths of the pool for anything he might find unusual.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Saying a quiet word to the raven, it takes wing and scans the area - making sweeping circles. Ariel watches the one called Effrem perform his illusionary disguise. Her demeanor doesn't change, but she does approach her mount and stands near it. The lack of conversation doesn't seem to bother Ariel, either.

[Enlong]

Seren Kera

After finding and replacing his mask back on his face, Seren leans back in his seat, staring at the sky a bit. He then sits forward and looks around at his companions. Not the one to break a long silence, he is content to watch the group until there is a conversation for him to participate in.

<Besides> he thinks, <This just helps my image a bit. Silent and mysterious. I like that>

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn decides to keep out of the other's conversation. The disappearance of their "host" is a bit alarming, but he doubts that the old elf is up to much. He stays seated and watches the movements of the other visitors out of half closed eyes.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem pulls his lantern back out of the water with a sad expression on his face. "I do hope that our people come to be able to worship here again. It would be nice to see this place alive and beautiful once more."

Effrem walks a bit away from the pool and asks, "Do any of you notice anything unusual? My gifts are not in observation but in healing and magic. If you require I will lend my lantern to one in need."

Effrem directs his next comment towards Legarn, "I can tell you are angry and weary, but it is never wise to allow one's history to determine one's future. For whatever reason we have been directed here tonight. I will approach whatever purpose this gathering serves with an open heart and clear mind and only offer my experiences for what they are, experiences. We must place our faith in the gods for our futures and not decide for ourselves what those futures will be. For us to say that a particular course of action must be performed is to presume that the gods do not have their own roles for us to play. I ask that you have faith in our creators and the wisdom of our roles in this world. War and revenge are self-defeating as, in the end, no one wins. There are only varying degrees of losing when it comes to open conflict."

"I have not seen as much as some of you may have of the atrocities our dragon masters have caused us to endure. My life has been relatively peaceful and quiet among the fey. I have spent very little time among either elves or dragons. I know the dragons have caused some destruction of beauty, and for that I can understand wishing to prevent them from further damage but I do not believe that one evil deserves other evils in kind. Evil is often best turned upon itself so that it ensures its own destruction."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Even though she does not answer, Ariel waits to see if Rook (her familiar) spots anything out of the ordinary. She listens to the verbose cleric of many faces while she absentmindedly strokes the smokey mane of her mount.

[Tacitus]

Lee

From the trees a bird silently swoops through the forest and snatches up a small morsel upon which to feast before returning to the trees to keep an eye on the surrounding forest. Keeping quiet Lee runs his thumbs along the sharpened blades that bristle out from his bow as his eyes flick around to see if he can spot anything unusual. He would usually be somewhat more talkative, especially with Lucas being so quiet, but even now he's become worried about their apparent summoner wandering off.

Owl Spot: [roll0] Includes +8 from racial to spot in shadowy illumination
Lee Spot: [roll1] Includes +4 Favored Terrain bonus
Owl Listen: [roll2]
Lee Listen: [roll3] Includes +4 Favored Terrain bonus

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

"Angry? I'm not angry." Legarn stops and considers the cleric's words. "Confused and even frustrated would be more on the mark. I just don't see the world as you do. I'd rather take direct action than wait for change to happen gradually, slowly. I thought that's why we were called here after all, I for one am sick of running and waiting."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Listening to Legarn (even though she doesn't know the names of Legarn or Lee), Ariel finds a kindred soul in the wild one. She doesn't smile, for the old habits of keeping one's emotions hidden still remain. Ariel looks in the direction her host went into and then returns her gaze to those assembled.

She says, "You sound so certain in your convictions, Effrem of House Linol. You speak as if you know nothing of hope nor freedom, for your faith puts your life in the hands of the gods. It seems this one ((points at Legarn)) whose name I know not disagrees and perhaps feels that the gods gave each of us skills and abilities to be used to better ourselves. I for one have used my gifts as best I can, so I still cling to hope...hope of freedom."

Ariel continues to stroke the smokey mane of her mount and looks upon the others.

[kuja.girl]

Legran (Druid)

The Slyvan is pleased to hear that one of the others shares, in part, his view. He gives her a silent nod of approval/agreement but doesn't offer anything else. There seems little to do at the moment but wait.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem listens to each in turn, and smirks at what he hears.

"Y'all misunderstand. I never said that we should not resist what the dragons are doing. I simply stated that doing anything obvious towards them would be akin to suicide. I have lived in one of their houses as a youth. I have seen how quickly they breed and how powerful they are at birth. Compared to our own kind, they are far worse than goblins, orcs, or even humans. In time their numbers alone would overrun any attempts at open conflict. We can fight, but we would be using a bucket to try to move an ocean."

Effrem puts his lantern away into his backpack, and looks at the others with an almost playful gleam in his eye.

"We would do better to set the dragons upon one another or deceive them into believing other races are a greater threat rather than we elves. Dragons are greedy, avaracious, and petty. Even the more noble among them can be brought to rage with the loss of their horde and status. Using magic and deception to turn one upon another and destroy their society from within would accomplish both of our objectives: damaging the dragon society to where it is no longer a threat, and protection of elvenkind.

"I have been attempting to accomplish this task with the occasional help of my fey brothers and sisters, with only a small degree of success. My own skills are limited and my faith in Hanali Celanil has kept me alive and one step ahead of those who might try to find me. It was with her guidance that I came to this place this evening. I trust that guidance with my life and soul, and thus I remain here. If it is your decision to bring open warfare to the dragons I will attempt to protect you while you do so with my wits and magic. I will also do my best to remain hidden and unnoticed while you do so and assist you in recovering afterwards. I am not a soldier, but neither am I a coward. I will protect and heal as I am able, but combat is best left to those better equipped than myself. I know my role and accept it with what grace I can.

"I only ask that you listen with open ears when I advise prudence. I have remained alive and free, alone, right under the snouts of the dragons and have walked among their houses without being unduly disturbed. By the grace of Hanali Celanil I will guide you where you are willing to follow."

[Enlong]

Seren Kera

"So... in plain terms, you're talking about a dragon war, huh? Based around getting dragons mad at each other? Heh. Sounds like fun. Perhaps I could help sometime. The Gods only know how many dragons I've ticked off; perhaps it's time to aim that frustration a bit, aye?"

[Fixer]

Effrem

"If you have truly upset the dragons I expect I would have heard of your name while among their houses. Speaking of which, by what name are you called?"

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel continues to listen to the conversations, but begins to wonder if this is a test of patience. She considers getting on her mount to return from whence she came.

ooc: is this thread dead?

[Enlong]

Seren Kera

"My name? I never stick with any name for too long. Just not safe, you know? See, I'm this righteous rogue, a sort of liberator of treasures and benefactor to those who need the wealth more, a thief, if I must put it so bluntly. I steal treasures from places controlled by the dragons, then discretely distribute it elsewhere, to anyone but the dragons; I figure, they don't really need all that gold, and there's a lot of elves who do. Perhaps you haven't heard of my exploits from the dragons, for two reasons. One: It's not enough wealth at one time that the dragons feel threatened enough to go and fight to find me, and two: they're too embarrassed to admit some 'lowly elf' managed to liberate their money and got away. O' course, that doesn't stop them putting out wanted posters for me for other crimes. I swear they've put my faces up on murder at least once. But they never admit I stole from their horde. Really funny.
Anyway, you wanted a name for me, right? Sen. You can call me Sen."

Nah, I don't think we're dead. Logain told me that he was just waiting for one person to finish a character sheet.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel looks off to the woods again and wonders what can be happening. She mounts her strange steed and considers riding away.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem notes Ariel's mounting of her steed. "I thought you said you had hope? Even 'Cuddles' ((makes motion to Legarn)) here hasn't gotten so impatient as to depart before our host returns. Whatever this is, I do not believe it is a trap. If anything, I believe it is merely terribly uncoordinated."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

"'Tis true I have hope, but I also have wisdom and intelligence enough to see that perhaps my skills and talents may be wasted here. Thankfully, I do have patience, but even that is wearing thin. I shall remain a bit longer only because I am curious."

[SeekerInTheNight]

Lucas

There's a rustle, and a thump as Lucas drops out of a tree. He sits crouched for a moment, cat-like, eyeing each person present in turn. He meets a stare, holds it, and then moves on. The wild elf had been silent thus far, abnormal for one of his kind. Truly, neither of the brothers had spoken much, but the tall wildly painted one hadn't said a word.

When he stands, it draws ever eye in the glade. He does not rise so much as unfold. Every long, powerful limb extends itself separately. The muscles flex and tense in turn, rippling under golden skin as he tests them each out one by one. Joints pop and crack, not in a sickening manner but naturally as you see each stretch to to the maximum tolerance and release stored tension. He rolls his shoulders and turns his neck this way and that. Last are the fingers. He stretches each individually, crack the joints and tensing the ligaments. Satisfied, he sits down next to the tree and closes his eyes. Snores emanate moments later.

The entire process was done in silence.

[Tacitus]

Lee

The other brother does not even look back to see what Lucas is doing but by the time he's finally down on the ground and begins to sleep Lee is looking to each for their reactions. It is only a momentary glance before he shakes his head, "Lucas thinks now would be the best time to get some sleep. If we are to wait then we should at least take advantage of a rare opportunity to catch some shut eye."

After a brief moment he looks back to Lucas but turns his gaze back to the others, shaking his head, "Well true, I did paraphrase. He would have included a snide remark."

[kuja.girl]

Legran (druid)

Legarn rolls his eyes at the priest's immature remark. Reacting would only encourage him, so the druid stays silent, choosing instead to examine the stars as they slowly pass over head.
"This is taking longer than it should..." He mutters to himself.

[Logain]

The servant of the Elders returns, silently and moving through the shadows as much as possible. He re-enters the clearing, looking at each of you in turn, sparing a smile for the one who rests easily.

"I was told that there would be more," he says simply, his voice cutting through the quiet of the dark glade, "We will need to wait."

Imitating the sleeping elf, the servant of the Elders piles his belongings near the base of one of the trees. Looking to the rest of the group he nods, as if to himself, and then settles down. "If you would like a fire, it would be agreeable. This glade is protected from prying eyes by ancient magic, and the dragon-men know nothing of this place."

Crossing his legs and sitting at the base of the tree, the servant rests easily against the trunk, and dryly speaks.
"We will wait two hours- if they have not joined us by then, we will have to assume that they are dead and leave this place. Rest, eat, talk amongst yourselves. Use this time as you choose."

Neither watching you or paying attention to his surroundings, the servant stares off into the night sky. His eyes turn inwards, and after several minutes his breathing slows, and he falls into a state of reverie.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem decides that if there is anywhere to safely sleep, this is the place. He makes his prayers, resumes his disguise, pulls a bedroll out of his backpack, wishes everyone a pleasant evening and tucks off to rest, looking at the stars and dreaming.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Shrugging at the strange goingings on by the one called Lucas, Ariel refrains from rolling her eyes and instead gives an apathetic sigh. When the servant arrives, she sighs again and then dismounts. Joining the others she sits quietly, eats some of the priest's meal, and then begins to trance.

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn listens to their host, relieved that the glade is still "safe." The idea that some of the others called tonight might have been killed is disturbing, but not unexpected. With a nod to the host the druid turns from the pond and walks toward Airel, who he judges to be better company than the priest.

He quietly waits for her to dismount from her steed and make herself comfortable before approaching. "Do you mind if I join you?" He asks indicating the ground nearby...

[Darius]

Legarn
He quietly waits for her to dismount from her steed and make herself comfortable before approaching. "Do you mind if I join you?" He asks indicating the ground nearby...

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel smiles at Legarn. The smile is not forced, but it is not a warm smile. Her voice is rather hollow when she says, "Please, join me."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn seats himself near, but not too close, to Ariel. He sits down with a sigh, "I didn't introduce myself did I? Sometimes I forget things like that. It's usual to meet such...unusual people. Anyway, I apologize for not offering my name earlier. You may call me Legarn, and you said your name was Airiel Evenstar, correct? Should I address you as Ms. Evenstar or something less formal?

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel smiles again at Legarn. She says, "You may have introduced yourself to the others before I arrived; this is the first I have met you, and I thank you for introducing yourself. Please, call me Ariel if you wish to." Ariel looks around at the glade and says, "It looks like this place suits you more than I. Your rugged countenance lends me to believe that your heritage is slightly different than mine. I am sure that in a different time we would not be so open to talk with one another, but I am glad that we are here together in this time...now." A strange sadness is evident in the tone of her voice and her manners - it is much like that of a new bride who waits by the shore of the sea for her husband whose ship was lost.

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn gives an ironic smile "I was once told that cities are just another kind of wilderness, just not one that I understand.
"It's true that in other circumstances we may never have crossed paths, but whether this is a good thing or a bad thing remains to be seen. I only have the vaguest of ideas of what has been planned for us. I guess now we'll just have to wait for our host to enlighten us."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

"I never thought of it quite like that, but I think you may be correct - cities have their own share of pitfalls and predators." Ariel looks down and makes busy with her hands - separating the food on her leaf and bark plate but not really eating it.

"What worries me is that something in this wilderness has happened upon those our host waits for..."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

"Agreed. Though it might be too early to count them as lost." Legarn sips water from his flask but does not eat. He'd much rather be a little hungry than be caught by surprise.

ooc: okay, conversation winding down. I think that's it for talky-talk...

[Logain]

Roma

The Elders' messenger wearily stands, watching the sky. The lights of the morning sun are beginning to turn the sky from the blue-black of night to the grey of pre-dawn.

"I fear something has happened to the others that were meant to join us- perhaps they were unable to leave their friends and family, or perhaps they were waylaid on their route here. In either case, I fear it is no longer safe for us to remain here."

Picking up his scant belongings, he shoulders them, and waits for each of you to do the same.

"I fear that it is even less safe for you to continue on this path than it was before- so if any of you wish to leave, you should do it now, before we continue any further."

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem (as an old man) returns from his reverie and responds in an old, crackly voice, "Safety is nice. Yes, safety is nice. Hard to find these days. Yes. I suppose, then, we should be getting on"

Effrem then makes a bit of show about standing up, creaking with age, and moves towards the host, stopping several feet from him. "My curiosity has always gotten the better of me, and Hanali has always protected me. Where you walk, I shall follow, until our paths part."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn listens to the words of their host carefully. Part of his thoughts are in the trees with his friend who quietly stands watch over the glade. Nothing has come yet, but staying in one place for long is never a good idea. So after a brief hesitation he nods and picks up his small pack, waiting for the old servant to guide them.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

"We are all fated to die - at least this way, we can have a hand in deciding our fate."

Ariel then mounts her strange steed and waits to follow the elder.

[Tacitus]

Lee

Slowly rising from the ground he gazes to the others but doesn't seem to have a lot to say as he packs up his things. After a few moments he looks over to Lucas and gives him a swift kick in the ribs, "Come on, wake up so we can get the hell out of here." As he finishes packing up he glances to the others, "He says he'll be right with us."

[Logain]

The old man listens to your words, and then bows his head in respect. "I see that the elders have chosen wisely."

Moving to the water's edge, he reaches down into the mud and muck at the bottom and pulls forth a short jeweled scepter. Standing, he shakes off excess water and then moves to the center of the glade.

"I will take you to your staging ground- a place that only three others have even heard of, and only one knows of. It was chosen and passed down among the oldest living priest of Correlion Latherin, from priest to priest, until the time should come that it should be used. The secret has been lost three times, and each time, the Priests have been led to it again. It is an island, far off the coast, a place where Correlion set down his children and protected them as they grew. When we grew old enough, he allowed us to venture into the world, taking the memory of the place from our minds. It will be a safe place for you to rest, train, and plan. No dragons knows of it, and should they learn of it, they would find that locating it would be quite impossible- not even dragon magic is strong enough to conquer the will of the Gods."

Waving the scepter, a ripple of nothing opens in the air, and a faint breeze of salty air wafts through. Passing the scepter to the man hiding behind the image of an old man, the elder's servant bows and gestures for you to proceed.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Trusting to his goddess, Effrem strides through the portal without hesitation.

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Strange and stranger... Nothing is going as I had expected. Legarn whistles a short piercing note and a large shape detaches its self from the tree canopy and waits, circling above the clearing.
Turning to Ariel, Legarn asks "Shall we?"

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel smiles from atop her steed. She grips a rod-like mace that hangs at her hip and pulls forth a small strip of cured leather and incants the words of a spell. Ariel straps a strange glove to her hand and calls the name, Buteo (BEW-tee-oh). A hawk flies down and perches itself upon her gauntlet. Ariel speaks some strange language that appears to be understood by the animal, for it replies in kind. Ariel nods and nods. She then turns and smiles at Legarn and says, "Thank you for waiting for me." She then rides through the portal, familiar in hand.

[SeekerInTheNight]

Lucas

Lucas ambles up to the portal, rubbing his side. He throws a vicious glare at Lee and spits a melodic insult in Sylvan. Lucas's voice, even in the language of Faerie, is rough and growly.

"That was unnecessary Brother, you know I'm going to have to repay the favor one night.

He pauses, watching those still present in the glade. He didn't particularly care if any of them understood Sylvan, he had simply switched from Elven for the illusion of privacy.

"I don't suppose you have formed an opinion of our new comrades yet? They seem passingly trustworthy to me."

Lucas would walk through the portal with his brother.

[Tacitus]

Lee

Lee nods as he responds in Sylvan, "<Aye, I know, but you left yourself open and I couldn't pass up the opportunity.>" He glances to the forest and down from the trees descends his companion, a small owl which lands upon his shoulder and quickly falls asleep. Even as he passed through he would be contemplating Lucas's question about their compatriots. He shrugged, which caused the small owl to open an eye and glare at him, "<The one who calls himself Effrem talks too much for my tastes, but without him sitting around here would have been boring for the lack of conversation, even if we did not participate. As for the others, I really couldn't say. Not yet anyway.>"

[Logain]

As each of you pass through the shimmering illusion of the portal, you find yourselves on a sandy beach, on the edge of a huge island. White marble trees, unlike anything you've ever seen, line a simple path that goes back among a beautiful jungle forest, away from the beach.

Looking out over the ocean, the deep blue of the water reaches out, with schools of fish swimming in the morning dawn sunlight. From where the sun is rising, you would guess that you've appeared on the southern beaches of the island. Further to the south, a reef rises up out of the water, waves crashing harmlessly over it, allowing a gently lapping of water against the sand.

Looking through the portal, you see the dimly lit glade, with the messenger waving goodbye. he returns to sitting beneath the tree, and takes something from his pouch, drinking it before returning the stopper and replacing the vial in his bags. He stares off into the distance as the portal closes.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel says a word in the strange language she shares with her hawk. The bird immediately takes wing and begins scanning the area (Spot +16...not sure if you wanted to roll it or me).

She looks at the others and says, "Buteo should let us know if she sees anything." Ariel looks up at her familiar and sighs - a look of sadness mingled with joy washes over her face like that of the tide. She guides her mount across the sandy beach. The whispy horse seems to have no difficulty traversing the soft sand - in fact it leaves no tracks whatsoever.

Ariel says, "It seems we are here to train in working together." Looking at the everchanging cleric, Ariel says, "Effrem - you said that you are not much of a combatant, but you will do your best to protect us and heal us, correct? Doing so will open several options for Legarn and I." I am not much of a wizardess, for I cannot bend the elements to do my bidding as others can. However, I have devoted my studies into twisting and bending the realities and tapping into the Shadow Realm." She looks at the two brothers. "I have little doubt that you two already know how to do that. It may help us if you told us what we can expect."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

A slight smile plays across the druid's face when he sees Ariel call her familiar. After the mage has cleared the portal he gives another whistle and follows her through knowing that his friend will follow close behind.

Once upon the beach Legarn feels the hair on the nape of his neck stand erect; this is an unfamilar place in many ways, nothing like the places that he's called home for the past few decades. A rush of displaced air heralds the arrival of his companion, a very large hawk with a trailing tail which utters a series of complaining clicks* as she takes to the air in this new place.
Legarn cranes his neck, watching her explore the new airways, smiling in spite of himself, "Qay will help your Buteo. And don't worry, he doesn't hunt relatives. Or friends."

*ooc:[URL="http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/resources/naturesongs/nogo1.wav/view.html"]example of the bird call

[SeekerInTheNight]

Ariel Evenstar
"It seems we are here to train in working together." [/COLOR]

Lucas

Lucas blinks and runs a hand across his mohawk. He starts, pauses, and dumbs it down to common speech.

"You are... kidding, right?"

Without waiting for an answer, Lucas spins on his heel and stomps off. He snorts loudly and growls in Lee's general direction, kicking up sand.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem gazes in near-rapture as the beauty of the scene overtakes him. His memories of dragon-held lands bereft of beauty has weighed so heavily upon his heart that the realization that a place of beauty such as this still exists gives him pause.

It takes a moment to realize that anyone had spoken to him.

"Oh, sorry. Ariel, right? I was just... nevermind. Yes, I am not much of a combatant but I am a considerable healer. My spells prepared also tend to focus on protection rather than agression. I try to leave myself some leeway given preparation time to deal with any circumstance that may come up. I am used to surviving alone so believe in adaptability.

Also, should it be required of me, I can also use any item normally only usable by wizards such as yourself as I have studied the wizardly arts as well. I am afraid I have no discipline for their method of spellcasting."

Effrem again loses himself slightly in his surroundings.

"For this I can be persuaded to do battle. Now I understand why the Goddess has brought me here."

[Darius]

Lucas

"You are... kidding, right?"

Without waiting for an answer, Lucas spins on his heel and stomps off. He snorts loudly and growls in Lee's general direction, kicking up sand.

Ariel Evenstar

A confused look crosses the magess' face at Lucas' tirade. She looks to the mohawked elf's brother for an explanation. Ariel is not able to think about this let alone react before Effrem chimes in. This assuages some of Ariel's concerns, but it is obvious that Lucas' reaction is bothering the wizardess.

She turns to Lee and says, "I am sorry, but I do not know what to call you. You mentioned that your brother's name is Lucas. Does he always act this way? If so, then we may have a problem working together, and I fear the council has chosen poorly. Perhaps Lucas did not hear when Roma, the messenger to the elders said, 'this island is a safe place for us to rest, train, and plan.' We obviously will need to be able to work together if we are going to be able to succeed."

[Tacitus]

Lee

Lee sighs, "My name is Laikelee, but I must ask that you all call me Lee. It tends to be easier to remember and easier to spell, apparently. Lucas is of the sort that would rather do something he considers useful instead of taking time to sit around and figure out how to play nice. A man of action, you could say."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

"That is understandable. However, if one is of poor or rash actions, that may be detrimental to his or his companions' health." Ariel looks over at Lucas and then back at Lee. "You know him better than any of us, so your counsel is most important. What do you think is the best way of addressing our situation?"

[Tacitus]

Lee

Lee smirks, "Well, he won't go and do any stupid... ok, well maybe he'll do something stupid, but he'd never do anything outright detrimental to a cause, such as jumping down a dragon's gullet to kill it from the inside. Not if it wouldn't help immensely anyway." He gave a casual shrug, "Best thing to do is cover our bases on our specialties, form up a quick plan, and get to it before he falls asleep again. We both shoot things with arrows, but he likes to take the top while I'll keep firing until they're right on me with aim so true I can split hairs from a half mile. Not so good at tracking down specific enemies but I excel at tracking and surviving in typical forests and deserts with nothing but my wits."

[SeekerInTheNight]

Lucas

An overripe mango soars across the distance and splatters against the back of Lee's head. Lucas brushes sand off his hands innocently and stares at Lee and Ariel. With a growl directed at the female, he unlimbers his bow. He closes his eyes and begins muttering under his breath in elvish.

"The bow is the instrument. Through it blows the wind of change. I am the conductor of the orchestra that is wind and bow."

He draws an arrow smoothly from the open Haversack slung over his shoulder and fits it to the string.

"The arrow is the messenger. It brings the word of law. The messenger is blameless, for I am judge, jury, and executioner."

The mighty laminated bow creeks and groans as Lucas puts a heavy draw on the string. He holds the tension for a moment while he mutters, the veins on his arms pop out and the muscles flex.

"The hand is the light. It directs the faithful. It is my hand that guides the way in the dark of night."

He raises the bow, opening his eyes and aiming at sky. You can almost see him tracking a target in flight.

"The eye is the truth. It sees all. The mind may disbelieve, but nothing can hide forever."

He fires, arm flashes back draws an arrow pulls the string and fires again and again in a blur of motion. Each shot soars high and far, higher and further than one would normally expect. Lucas does not follow their trajectories, he is already walking back towards Ariel and Lee. As he passes the two he snorts dismissively and continues on.

[Tacitus]

Lee

He doesn't really expect to be hit but when the mango hits him quite squarely upon the back of his noggin he nearly tumbles forward. He makes a rather rude exclamation, or at least half of one, before he realizes that Lucas's mother is his mother too and he's the only one that could have thrown it. He turns just in time to see him draw back upon the bow and at seeing this he hangs his head and begins pulling out chunks of ruined mango from his hair.

He doesn't speak again until Lucas passes, whereby he glances up to Ariel though his head is still down turned, "Lucas would like to make it known he doesn't like people talking about him like he's not there when he is quite clearly there. He would also like me to make an addendum to my earlier statement in that he also shoots at things from very long distances. He would have mentioned it himself but now he's irritated and is going to occupy himself by retrieving his arrows."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Almost instinctively, Ariel calls to mind the words and gestures to end the life of the threat posed. She relaxes, but says loudly towards Lucas, "Either you are going to join our conversation constructively or end interrupting it - your choice."

She turns back to Lee, "My apologies. Had I committed a certain cantrip to memory, I would clean that for you, but I have not." Ariel closes her eyes and concentrates for a moment. Overhead, the shrill cry of Buteo is heard. The hawk soars in circles until it spirals down and lands atop the strange mount's phantasmal saddle. Ariel smiles at Lee her hollow smile and says, "I wouldn't want Buteo to be subject to friendly...or not so friendly...fire. If you will excuse me, I am going to find out what Buteo saw while she was up there."

Ariel approaches her hawk and her voice shifts to a strange tongue that only she and Buteo seem to know.

ooc: Logain - anything unusual? Buteo has a fairly decent intelligence as far as familiars/animals go, and Ariel has skills in all Knowledges, so the familiar does, too. Anything jump out to her?

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem almost chuckles at his companions antics and decides they need to handle this themselves.

"I wish to take a look around from ground-level. I feel we are as safe here as we have ever been. If no one wishes to accompany me I shall depart on my own and meet you all here at dusk."

Effrem drops his disguise and shoulders his backpack and awaits any responses.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

After getting the interesting points from Buteo, Ariel addresses Effrem, "Effrem, I think that it is wise for us to stick together whether it is safe or not. As I just mentioned earlier, we need to get used to working together as a group. I realize that many of us are more accustomed to other accomodations, but we are in this situation, now. Agreeing to be part of this group is simply put - we are a group. We cannot become a team by doing things on our own at this time." Ariel sighs and looks across the expanse of the beautiful waters. After a moment, she says rather dreamily, "I realize that this is hard - for all of us - but it is something that must be done, for the good of the People. I am not one to give orders - especially not when we have been subject to them our entire lives." Ariel turns back to the group, "So, I am asking you...all of you - can we work together?"

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem ponders a moment and then states, "I thought we already were working together? Simply because one or more of us chooses to seperate for a short times does not indicate discord. For any group to act together consistently it must have common goals and compatable methods. I believe we possess a common goal, but our methods are not so clear."

Effrem sits down on the sand.

"I am not a warrior as some of you appear to be but I can often fight well enough to discourage anyone who might try to pursue me. My methods are to appear non-combatant. If caught in deception I may be abused or beaten but as I provide no sport I am often forgotten quickly enough and escape."

Effrem plays idly with the sand with the scepter, "My role is that of an individual who uses Hanali's gifts to not die and sharing those gifts with those around me. I can tell my role will be a vital one with this group, but my uses will be predominantly after a combat or to stabilize someone during a conflict. Until one of you is injured or disabled I have no role to play in this group and will largely keep myself out of trouble."

Effrem puts the scepter in his backpack and looks squarely at Ariel, "Is that what you wanted to know or have I misunderstood you? No one else seems to be as forthcoming with their talents as myself but only in action and not deliberation our strengths and weaknesses will become apparent."

"I do not know where we are but I am certain that whoever fashioned this magic device and had us sent here would not have placed us in immediate danger. We have seen no evidence that this is a draconic trap and have some evidence to the contrary."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

The druid watches the brother take aim at the air with trepidation. Qay, his hawk friend, was up there, as was the mage's bird. He mutters a sigh of relief when the man's arrows hit nothing. Still, he's not sure what the demonstration was meant to prove except that the man was prone to childish tantrums.

"We should find a safe place to stay the night if that's what we intend to do. And we should stay together since it would take time to track everyone one down otherwise."

[SeekerInTheNight]

Ariel Evenstar
"So, I am asking you...all of you - can we work together?"

Lucas'

"Of course, all you had to do was ask slip."


Lucas emerges from the undergrowth, bouncing the tip of one of his arrows on his thigh idly. As he comes into sight he waves the arrow at his brother and then returns his attention to Ariel.

"We, I."

He looks at Lee and nods.

"We, wouldn't be here unless we were willing to work with others. What we're planning can't be done on our own. Even the Long Patrol would be unable to undertake this task. Not that they couldn't mind you, but the Patrol is our people's first line of defense. They must remain blameless, if our task fails retribution would be swift."

He spins the arrow twixt fingers and thumb.

"Don't misunderstand, I don't like be ordered around, especially in the rude. I don't like being pushed or prodded into things. I don't like being forced into situation. BUT! I'm quite sure we'll get along fine, because we both understand that this is a necessary task and that if we fail our people will probably die. The Wyrms can always find more elves. To our families and friends, to the cause, we are irreplaceable.

The arrow stops in his clenched fist. He opens his mouth to continue speaking. Stops. Shuts his mouth and shrugs at Lee, who mimes clapping. Lucas growls and throws his hands up.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

"Very well. Let's go." Ariel mounts up and Buteo takes flight.

"Legarn, would you mind taking the lead position? Your knowledge of natural terrain may be most beneficial here. Lee and Lucas - I am not an archer, so I do not know where you two would wish to go. Perhaps you could flank me behind Legarn so that you have an open field of fire. Effrem, would you mind bringing up the rear?"


ooc: This okay?

......Legarn

Lee Ariel Lucas

......Effrem

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn nods, "That's fine. Are we looking for a place to make camp then?"

[Fixer]

Effrem

Returns to disguise and hobbles to the rear of the party mumbling about, "bossy women," with a smile on his face.

"I don't reckon we will find a much better camping site that just inside the woods. I already told you younglings that this place means us no harm. I am certain that Legarn should be able to sense the natural tranquility present in this place just as I can. We are not in danger here unless we bring that danger to ourselves... like shooting a friend we cannot see by accident."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

"You are correct that we may not be in any true danger from the dragons, but we were told that we are going to train here. If this place is anything like that of what my Shilafi had done while I was an apprentice, we may find ourselves battling illusionary foes or conjured creatures. Although I may expend extra energy in doing so, I shall not let down my guard. It is my energy to waste, and doing is what has kept me alive thus far. Complacency is a deadly enemy."

[SeekerInTheNight]

Lucas

Lucas examines the marching order for a moment, listens to all sides involved, nods thoughtfully to himself and others...

Then wanders off in the direction he had retrieved his arrows from.

"There's a clearing over here. If anything is there, we'll kill it."

[Darius]

Lucas

"There's a clearing over here. If anything is there, we'll kill it."

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel contemplates pointing out the problem with such a blanket statement bt reconsiders the value of doing so. Instead, she smiles, realizing that progress has already been made and making sanctimonious comments would only result in backward progress (and mango soaked hair).

A shrill cry is heard from the hawk circling above. Instead, she says, "Excellent. We are fortunate to have such a skilled scout. Buteo is impressed, and so am I. Hopefully we will not need your talent with the bow here. Legarn, if you would, please?"

[Tacitus]

Lee

He shook his head slowly before removing his bow from his back along with an arrow from a deceptively small quiver. Knocking the arrow he'd follow after his brother simply speechless after Lucas's rousing speech.

[Logain]

Everyone

Following the path marked out by the ivory trees, your small group wanders deeper into the woods. You are faced by monuments, buildings, and roads the likes of which you have never seen. These pieces of ivory, marble, and glass have been lovingly carved to resemble leaves and trees with odd hanging fruit, each giving shelter from above while clearly delineating the path.

All around you, the forest is filled with the caw of tropical birds and the hoots and shuffling sounds of other animals. There is no lack of life here, and the entire island sounds filled with the joys of being alive.

The ivory trees and cleared ground lead you deeper into the forest than you would have expected, to the clearing that Lucas mentioned. After a few moments there, it is clear that this path was leading you directly here. Similar paths lead away from the clearing to the north and east.

The 'clearing' is the only way you can think of to describe the grounds that you stand on. This place has the feeling of great holiness, a peace and tranquility that you have never before felt in your life. It is as though you have returned to the home of a beloved relative after a long absence. This clearing is surrounded by trees bearing fruit- some low hanging apples, some brightly colored ones with a rough skin that you have never beheld before, and still others- long yellow ones shaped like bundles of curved sticks, others shaped like oddly rounded balls, with lumps where they join the stem.

Entwining some of the trees, and growing in between most of them are vines of sweet pea pods, and stalks of beans. It seems that you will be able to sustain life without leaving this glade, and possibly without hunting for game.

There are several small monuments, set out at different parts around the glade. A marble monument with a crescent moon, a tribute to Correlion, stands directly to the north of the glade, while the flowing monument to his lover Arushnee lies to the west, in the path of the setting sun, when all the sky devotes itself to her colors- orange, pink and purple. The tribute to Hanali, a monument topped with the sunburst of the rising sun, lies to the east, of course, as the day lightens in remembrance of her beauty.

Other small buildings circle the glade. One is a small shelf of a table under an overhang, with plates bearing sweetbread. You have seen no one, and the plates remain a mystery, for someone would have to have come here very recently to leave the bread there, steaming and smelling delicious.

In the center of the glade, there is a pool, much like the one in the glade you just left. On your approach to it, it becomes apparent that this pool is similar in size, but very different in both composition and purpose. This pool is much shallower than the other, and the shore is ringed with stones in three colors- white diamonds, green emeralds, and red rubies. These three colors alternate over and over, forming the bank. As you approach, admiring the silver, platinum and gold that form a sunburst at the bottom of the pool, the rays of the inlaid sun shimmer, as if burning. This effect increases with each addition to the group looking into the pool, until all of you are gathered around.

The sun begins to shine beneath the water, and the water itself begins to move, lapping against the bank as if drawn by an unseen tide.

Above the pool, three forms appear, whom you instantly recognize as the Elders of the Race. Each seems to be waiting for something, and upon seeing your gathered group, stands. They bow respectfully, and once they straighten, you see something in their eyes that you had not expected- hope.

The first looks to the two others, and then bows his head to them before speaking. His is Mylos, the Elder of the Moon and Sylvan elves, who has cared for the wild elves as his own since their elder was killed in the Great Purge.
"Greetings, esteemed heroes. I am Mylos."

The second elf bows, she being Lillian, the elder of the Sun Elves.
"Greetings heroes, I am Lillian."

The last of the three bows deepest of all, trying to honor you. His name is Aranos, and while his skin is dark like all the children of Araushnee, he is the most well known of any of the Elders. He has been calling for some time for action to be taken against the draconian overlords.
"Greetings, fair heroes, our hope. I am Aranos."

((OOC: Please note these colors- they will be used to represent these Elders when they speak, so I don't have to go digging through posts to find this information.))

Greetings aside, the Elders share a glance, and again Aranos bows his head. He turns and addresses your group. "I'm sorry, but our time here is short. We should not be taking the risk of all meeting with you at this time, but you are our hope, and we felt it only proper to greet you, our heroes, with the formality and respect you deserve for the first time we meet with you."

Pausing, he launches into what apparently has been rehearsed between the three elders. "Each time you return to this place, report here to speak to us of your adventures. At first we will be sending you out on specific missions, for specific causes, but as time passes and the war progresses, we will be needing your valuable input and suggestions on how to proceed. One of us will answer the call each time- never again will you see all three of us together, for this puts us all at great risk." He slows, and pauses as if to say more, but before he can continue, Lillian cuts in, speaking her part of the prepared speech.

"It is of the utmost importance that your actions draw no attention to the elven nation itself, as any direct link to the elves will lead to the probably destruction of all of us, and indeed for every living elf that the dragon-kin can find."

She clears her throat, looking to Aranos before continuing. Aranos nods, eyes downcast, and looks embarrassed. Lillian continues, "While your efforts will be vital to preserving the Elven people and their survival, it is important that your efforts be deniable. Therefore, among us elders, we have figured out a random schedule for watching these waters, so that at any time you return, one of us will be watching. As I said, it is of the utmost importance that none of your efforts be discovered- even a single arrowhead will allow our enemies to determine that we are to blame, and a single living eyewitness will doom our entire people. You must make every effort to remove every trace of your passing- of your weapon damage, and magical residue before returning here. While you are our hope, you carry with you our very palpable doom, should you misstep and fail in the very least." Lillian pauses, finished with her speech, and nods satisfied. It was her who opposed Aranos' every effort to move against the dragons.

Mylos gestures with one hand, a sharp stroke that both of the other apparently know of. "Your first mission will give great relief to the sylvan elves that are being hunted and exterminated in the decimated forests. Even now, the draconian troops are slaughtering those they find without the slightest bit of mercy." He pauses, looking to Lillian, before continuing. "But your mission must not be seen to directly benefit them. It is our luck that the dragons consider us less than insects- they consider us to be not worth noticing, and this makes spying on them very easy. We know that they have expanded their efforts to the north, in the great and cold mountains. They are not expecting resistance, for they hunt the small men of the mountains, but there are some that could be used to draw their attention away from us. Instigate a conflict of some with the dragon-kin there, kill them, leave evidence indicating that was another party, and report your efforts to us." After a moments pause and a glance at the other two elders, he continues, "As their efforts are drawn to the north, they will be less focused on searching out increasingly entrenched sylvan elves here. Many lives will be saved."

The three elders nod to each other, and again bow to you. Lillian remarks quietly "Someone is coming to my study. I must go." and disappears. Mylos nods, and disappears as well, leaving only Aranos facing your group. The handsome black elf smiles, nodding to your group.
"I was awarded the honor of the first opportunity to speak with you. If you have any questions, I will attempt to answer them now."

[Fixer]

Effrem

"I have only three questions. 1) What is this place we are in? 2) Who else may be brought to this place? and 3) How do we get to where you ask us to go?"

Effrem then says aside to his companions, "Thankfully, instigating fights from non-elven races against the dragons is something I do possess experience with."

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel takes in the grand and holy sanctuary. She cannot help but be filled with the hope brought about the beauty therein. It bolsters her spirit and she inwardly hopes that this land and its freedoms could be shared by others of her race.

She dismounts and approaches the pool as Buteo perches herself upon the crescent of the All-Father. When around the pool, she cannot help but marvel at the beauty of the magic. She returns the bow to the elders and quietly listens.

When the time for questioning presents itself, Ariel begins, "Thank you, elder, for putting your trust in us. We are honored. Forgive my naivity, but how are we to travel to and from this most honored place to the areas we are to assault and return again? Is there a teleporation circle of the ancient magics? If so, how do we use it?"

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Legarn walks in silence among the not-forest. It's beautiful, but also, strange to be in a place that imitates and honors nature while surrounded by it. After examining some o f the odder plants and their fruits, Legarn finds himself drawn with the others to the pool.
---
Legarn c0cks* his head and listens to the words of the three elders. He's heard their names and physical descriptions enough times to remember a bit about each, but this is the first time he's ever "met" one, much less three, of them. Their instructions seem simple enough, and Airiel asks the only question that comes to mind, how do we get there, much less back here..., before he can ask.

*okay, so the swearing filter doesn't like the other valid name for male fowl. how silly.

[Tacitus]

Lee

He listens quietly but when the time for questions come he bides his time until he may voice his own inquiry, "I would only know if there are any weapons or items of non-elven craftsmanship here that we might use in our mission. Having something handy without having to go looking first would be ideal for speed and anonymity."

[Logain]

Aranos bows gratefully, allowing each of you to fully complete your questions. He pauses, looking to your compatriots as if to allow them to voice similar questions, and then nods when none are stated.

Turning to Effrem, he nods. "First, the name of this place: the name I was told for this place is: Amin harmuva onalle e' cormamin- Treasuring memories, or gifts of the Heart. I know of no other name for it, because I did not know of it. There are few living who do- only the high priest of Correlion, and we three elders. And now your small group."

Aranos' face darkens for a moment, and he looks downward. You realize that the servant who gathered you all together was not listed there. Almost as if giving you enough time to realize that, and then he continues. "For your own safety, and ours, we must insist that you bring no one back here, not even those who need our protection," He clears his throat, looking to your group, and shakes his head No, as if to answer himself something.

He gestures to the rod that Efffrem was handed before coming through the portal. "Your esteemed companion hold the key. By holding it on one of the three beaches, you will be carried away to one of the three glades that is protected from dragon-kind. You visited the first of these glades last night, in the southern reaches of our lands. The two others are on the eastern edge of our land, near the Nevermore Jungle Reaches, and to the far north, in the mountains bordering the icy wastes. By holding the rod in one of those glades or on one of those beaches, and speaking the name of this place, the rod will open a portal here." He gestures to make a point, [b]"That is how you will travel without being discovered by the Dragon-kind."

He glances to Ariel, to ask as if this answers her question as well, before moving on to face toward Lee. "Sadly, we are unable to provide weapons, neither any of elven make, or any made by any other hands. As you know, the dragons keep us extremely isolated from the other races of Abeir Toril, and any attempt for us to contact them would only bring the Dragon's wrath down on us all. I fear that it may be necessary for you to steal these weapons, or for you to make it look as though wounds you inflict were caused by these weapons." He looks around, as if uncomfortable discussing this, and then nods, "Perhaps it would be easiest, at least at first, if you were to alter your weapons so that they appeared to be weilded by giants. I know nothing of them, but from what I have heard, they are like the barbaric-monkey-men, only larger."

Looking over your group again, he nods to no one in particular. "Are there any other questions?"

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem ponders a moment, then asks, "You believe we would be better served not to allow the dwarves to know our true identities?"

After hearing the elder's answer, Effrem says as an aside to his companions, "I have seen the weapons wielded by an ogre and by goblins in close detail and can attempt help you disguise your weapons to appear more goblinish until we can procure dwarven gear." Effrem takes from his backpack a club and a dagger not of elvish make and says, "we can use these as templates. I have kept them from the goblins I once lived with."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

Big...monkey men? How are we supposed to imitate big-barbaric-monkey-men?
Legarn glances down at his hands in contemplation. He only resorts to his weapons, a short sword and bow, when his "hands" have failed.
"If these giants do not posses refined tools, then making imitations should be easy. A large tree limb should do for a club."

[Logain]

Aranos nods to Effrem's question. "We seek to save our people, not theirs. It is sad that we must turn the dragon's wrath onto another species, but that is the only option we saw when we searched for an answer. I regret that some of these small mountain men may die, but they die that the elves may be freed. Perhaps they will defend themselves better beneath the mountain than we did in our forests, in any case, there are as likely to be traitors among the dwarves, willing to sell our secrets to the dragons, as there are traitors among our own kind. I urge you to keep your dealings secret, even from your own people."

Listening to the group move on to other topics of discussion, Aranos nods. "At your leave, I will rest now. I bargained to be able to send you off, but soon it will be Lillian's turn to receive your reports. No matter whom you speak with, be assured that we will all know of your actions..."

He pauses as if considering something, and then looks intently at your group "Be forewarned, there is disagreement in how to handle this. Not all of your missions will make sense, as we have each been given areas of responsibility, and each serves to complete the task of freeing our peoples in the way we think best."

His short warning done, Aranos raises a hand in the ancient salute and disappears.

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem watches as the face of the elder disappears from the pool.

"I have never had dealings with these mountain people. I have had some contact with giants and with goblins and can speak their languages with relative fluency but it would not be within my ability to disguise myself as an intelligible dwarf without the aid of magic. I do have an idea on how to infiltrate them and obtain gear if I can obtain the assistance of Legarn. We will, first, need to discover their whereabouts in that region."

"Does anyone else have a plan they believe would do better to distract the dragons from the Sylvan than that which the Elders have placed before us?"

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

"I am willing to hear your plan Effrem but we shouldn't plan too far ahead. We have no idea what the conditions, physical and otherwise, will be like in the mountains.
"Perhaps we should take today to rest, think, and discuss ideas before settling on a plan of action." Legarn falls quite after finishing. It's unlike him to be this verbose, but he's a little wary of just blindly agreeing to follow someone who is still a stranger; even if they have the trust of the three elders.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

Ariel listens to the elder and understands the situation. She wishes she knew more than what was being told, but she accepts the need for secrecy and deniability. When the elder salutes and the group begins discussing the possible actions to take, Ariel says, "I believe I have been chosen for my abilities and mastery of illusion. Unfortunately, since we are to leave no witnesses, those skills will be of little use. Unlike many of the other wielders of the arcane arts, I do not bend the elements to evoke flashy results. I only wish I could influence and dominate the wills of our opponents through enchantments so that our enemies would attack each other - but I vowed to myself to never enslave another living creature."

[Fixer]

Effrem

"I have already rested and prepared my magicks for the day so I will stand watch while those others of you who still require rest do so. Until the moon is high into the night my magic will remain as-is."

Effrem looks around a bit for a place to stand watch over everyone in the glade. He glances around for others while taking his club out of his bag. With a bit of concentration he takes the shape of a small ogre or large goblin (sort of a mix of the two) and heaves what now appears to be a mighty greatclub over his shoulder and casts his gaze about the clearing for potential threats.

"If I see somfin, I yell."

[Fixer]

Effrem

Effrem stands guard as the others rest, discuss matters between themselves, and recover their strength. He thinks, as he watches, Well, they seem capable enough, but can they play the part the gods have given them? Until they learn they can trust one another I expect this will be a very difficult time. If only I could use my charms on them to make them get along better.

When night settles upon the group, Effrem prays to Hanali Celanil for his daily magic, thanking her for placing him upon this path and asking for the strength to succeed.

Effrem stands, stating, "I believe the time has come to get us moving. Those Sylvan elves won't be saving themselves. I shall go open the portal."

Effrem turns and walks to the northern beach where the elders had indicated he was to use the rod. Doing a quick headcount that everyone was present, he stands before the archway and speaks the words "Amin harmuva onalle e' cormamin."

[kuja.girl]

Legarn

At first Legran distances himself from the others, taking time to examine and enjoy the strange scenery of the island. But as the day progresses he wanders back and joins the others. The two archers still puzzle him a little, and the cleric is... odd to say the least, but honest as is Ariel.
In spite of his nature, he finds himself opening up to these strangers. If the elders have decided to trust them, then so shall I, he thinks to himself, hopefully we will make a difference.

He waits patiently for the portal to open, curious to see what lands await them.

[Darius]

Ariel Evenstar

After resting and studying her spellbook, Ariel takes the time to commit the darkweave method to memory. She joins the others and nods to the cleric to indicate that she is ready. She raises her hand and calls out with a shrill cry, and Buteo flies down to land on her perch.

[Logain]

Thank you for your participation, but this thread is...

[End]