Word makes its way to Port Hempstead authorities that several gypsy wagons were found burned to the ground near Lake Gavasha. All valuables were taken and the families were slaughtered. Suspicion points to Rashish "The Red." Military patrols in the area have been heightened.
An out of breath messenger bursts into the Angel's Guild and promptly tells of a vicious attack on one of their supply caravans near the village of Dapplegreen, discovered by merchants passing through . Two wagon loads of platinum ore were missing. The guards and two wagon men were slain. One of the wagon men, a long time contractor and friend named Rory McLean had his arms and legs tied to separate oxen, and the beasts were then driven off. His death was very messy, and the pain he went through can only be imagined. Fingers are again pointing at Rashish The Red.
Storold Doesscha of the Raven Trade guild of Stort and Port Hempstead announces that they are willing to add another 5000 true into the reward for the capture or proof of the death of Rashish The Red in sympathy with the loss suffered by the Angel's Guild.
The attacks attributed to Rashish the Red in Southern and Central Mistone continue, and disruption to local trade has been significant. With the recent offer of large reward from the Raven Trade guild there has been a noticeable influx of mercenary companies and adventurers seeking to collect. Although no major breakthroughs have been made, a Co’rys mercenary company based in Fort Vehl claims to have destroyed one of Rashish the Red’s scouting units and recovered an undecipherable message. They have shared it with several experts who have been equally perplexed. It reads:
Vyklyz- Klhao huk thfolt, kpclya aol nhgl vm aol hbaovypaplz. Wylclua h mvjbzlk puclzapnhapvu huk wyvalja vby aybl viqljapcl.
Vincent Coste an aging mercenary makes a nuisance of himself on hearing of the size of the reward. He tells anyone who will listen he is something of a specialist and he has decoded the strange script for anyone who has the respect to look him up. He rants on declaring the situation is very serious and likely much more death and terrible destruction is likely to follow. Professionnals are needed this is no country for amateur adventurers he adds.
//If Vincent did decode the message, PM me the results. It will be worth 1,000xp.
//Outstanding job Mix/Vincent. See me in game for your XP tap.
As Vincent Coste is in the middle of one of his rants at a small inn called “The Oak Barrel” in the small village of Dapplegreen, a human man with severely decayed teeth slides up to the bar next to him and smiles. You can almost feel his dental cavities as he begins to speak. “I heard you decoded some type of message, no? I have an employer... a merchant named Boris Shiel “The Unwashed” in Fort Vehl who would be willing to part with some coin if you’re willing to do some talking? Let me buy you a drink…”
Vincent takes the opportunity to finish his current drink, spilling a little as he clumsily swallows. "Aha good news Sir, have I got things to tell your friend, such terrible things that I have seen and heard.... oh there is so much we must share...starting with some more Dapple Cider there if you please and perhaps we could consider a snack or two, we may be here for some time. But first excuse me a moment, the little boys room before we start such a tale of adventure, treasure and such dangers as one could only fear to imagine."
He gets up, surveys the scene and anyone new, before departing in the direction of the boys room apparently a little the worse for drink and actually intent on departing.
"Not my type of crowd he considers, I will seek out paymasters I know, it may be less pay but at least I might get to spend it!" he considers.
Vincent does not notice anyone new through wisps of pipe smoke and the dim light of oil candles. He makes his way to the “little boy’s room” without incident and is able to easily sneak out a window and make a hasty departure into the night.
The man with bad teeth sits at the bar for a long period of time, much longer that would have been required for the mouthy man to use the “facilities.” He eats his meal in silence, and when done begins picking morsels of cheese and other debris from between his crooked yellow incisors. A second hooded man approaches and slides into the chair next to him. Without looking up the man with bad teeth tells him, “Go tell the boss... someone has intercepted orders. I don’t know the extent of the damage yet.” The second man quickly departs without a word, and the man seated at the bar continues picking his teeth.
Taking some spell like precautions to ensure he is not followed Vincent Coste thereafter sends a message to Storold the reward man seeking to know to whom he should deliver his translation. He makes his way to Center meantime to take stock at that collection of tents, mobile homes, and straw builds sure he will find interested wannabees in need of specialist services. He takes fast carriage in over dramtic effort to remain unnoticed.
Storold sends a letter informing Vincent that he would preffer that word is sent to Storold himself, the local Roferienite outpost and the Angel's Guild. Whilelocal authorities would most certainly be interested in facilitating the capture of the criminal it would of course also be open for Vincent to form his own search party when he has made sure that all interested parties have been informed. Storold of course also offers a small reward for the work done by Vincent to be collected when ever they have a chance to meet.
A battered and singed group of Rofirein knights hastily make their way into the camp/ramshackle town of Center and immediately set up a triage tent to begin treating their wounded. Thankfully there are no dead. Word spreads in the small community like wildfire that the knights encountered a group of bandits less than 20 miles from town, and Unit Captain Dreardan is hard pressed to stem the resulting panic. Nevertheless, refugees and other residents are on edge, scared, and many are beginning to pack up their belongings in case a hasty exodus must be started. The intelligence the knights gathered is tightly controlled and they have not related any details of their encounter… or how a heavily armored unit of knights was routed so easily.
Unit Captain Dreardan motions one of his knights to him, “Blain, make haste for the nearest temple. Leave word that the assistance of any knight in the area is requested. Center will be the rendezvous point. We will hold this position for three days to ensure there is no incursion… then we head out to finish what we started.” Blain salutes and immediately heads to his horse… oblivious to his wounds.
Therhcha Doesscha arives in Center and reports to Captain Dreardan, offering his help as a knight of the Wyrm in this time of need.
Captain Dreardan nods at Therhcha Doesscha with a tight and forced smile on his lips. “I’m glad you were able to answer the call my Brother. I fear in time we may need many more swords though. These bandits are not your ordinary highwaymen. They are well-versed in military tactics. A second bandit force was shadowing the main body, and before we were aware of them they were upon us. The main bandit body escaped us while we were dealing with the second force. Before they were out of sight though I glimpsed something that brings me great worry… although I have not been able to put a label on what it was yet." He frowns a little and then says, "Go ahead and join the rest of the men. If you know any healing arts, please dispense them. We need to have these men operational again as soon as possible."
"I am sorry sir I only know how to swing a blade, but by the look of it you need all the help you can get to face this dire threath to the safety of the local population. I will start patrolling the peremiters of town at once." Therhcha heads out to start his rounds walking around the edges of Center looking for any trouble heading their way.
Therhcha Doesscha patrols the perimeter of the town several times and does not see any sign of imminent attack. From experience he knows that what often “seems to be” is not actually “reality” though, and he is very cautious. Several times he gets the feeling that he is not alone... or perhaps being watched, but his investigations of likely sources all come up empty.
--------
// Dalianavera lay very still in the brush at the top of the small rise watching the lone armored knight patrol the perimeter of the town. She was a master of her craft. He was brave, she gave him that… but perhaps a tad overconfident. She also watched several other patrols as well. In one of the very few movements she had made all day she lowered the optical device she had been using to scout the area. Her green demon scale armor clung to her alluring humanoid female form and portions were visible for a fraction of a second, including a long barbed tail, but the burlap cloth and vegetation tied to anchor points all over it quickly made her appear as one of the many small bushes in her vicinity. She continued her surveillance.
Vincent Coste finds himself at center sending birds when Captain Dreardan and his men arrive. He spots the captain briefing some spirited citizen ready to do his duty. He gingerly wafts a sword about a couple of times before walking off to speak with the town crier, looking for all the part something like a public minded citizen. "Crier, still thy fearful voice lest you panic those not used to the spill of blood and the terrible anguish of pain. Fear not for now, whatever has passed beyond the walls is not yet within. I will guard you this hour while the troopers tend to their ill, brought low with terrible and decaying wound. With good fortune we may yet live through to the morning, though beyond that I would not be so foppishly foolish to predict. " He carefully puts the sword back in it's scabbard at the second attempt.
The town crier looks at Vincent for several moments considering his response carefully… after all, the man was waving around a sword and sounds a little off kilter. “ Err.. Good sir, I thank you for your offer to guard me and the rest of the town. I’m sure we are in *pauses for a heartbeat* good hands. I’m err.. off to run an errand now. Thanks again! *He waves as he makes a hasty retreat for the other side of Center*
After a few minutes of lonely patrolling Vincent is somewhat disheartened with the realities of the job of the common soldier. He sets up outside the Inn pulls up a chair a second for his feet, orders more than the soldiers might reasonably afford and pulls out a well worn tome and starts to study some arcane work, occassionally watching the guards patrolling nearby. "Good morning Sir!" offers a passing merchant. He is served with something more dire by way of reply "Is it ?,,, is it really, there will likely be blood curdling screams and the touch of near fatal death before your good morning is turned to evening!" He returns to reading.
Sebair walks up to the lonely mage reading outside the Inn, still looking like he has just walked out of the forest after not being sure under which circumstances he actually entered said forest the day(?) before. "Hello good sir! Do you know why this lovely outpost have been overrun by those boring knights? And is there by chance a captain amoung them who seems to enjoy wine? You know this town has all the protection it needs from the most handsome hero around these parts, right!"
The passing merchant scowls at Vincent’s rudeness and without further word heads towards his originally intended destination.
A young woman of great girth… and equally great bosom sits down on a nearby bench. She is very homely, and obviously not very adept at the craft of make-up artistry. She smiles at Sebair showing some crooked teeth and says “By the Gods! A hero here to save me day?! I am free for dinner if ya are inclined…
"Sure sweety! I just need to figure out what is happening around town first, I can't let this town degenerate into a dragon stronghold on my watch! I will surely return to you as soon as I have made sure that these horrible people are leaving town!" Sebair walks over to the nearest Soldier "Dearest dragonfollower, please tell me the purpose of your invasion and how I can make you clear my town as fast as possible!"
------
Meanwhile Therhcha keeps to his rutine of stalking the city outskirts looking around for anything which might pose a threath to the city, stopping only to chek on the morale of his fellow soldiers and hear if any new orders have been passed down.
She smiles again at Sebair, obviously very pleased with her social prowess. “I’ll meet you here at sundown.” She blows a kiss, winks, and gets up to leave. As she turns away he notices a strand of a very rare plant tangled in her hair called Vetchum, or known to those more knowledgeable of such as Anthoxanthum Vetchumodoratum. It is rumored that it can be used to temper the bitterness of hops to provide a fine finish to any grain brewed beverage. Fortunately you are one of those trained in this abstract plant lore. You find it odd though because it is usually only found in the Kingdom of Co’rys in the woods around the village of Dapplegreen.
------
As Sebair approaches one of the Rofirein knights, the warrior glances at his whip and scowls. When Sebair opens his mouth and speaks to him several of the knight’s comrades have to intervene and pull him away before the two come to blows. There are some derogatory mutterings about “the non-existent morals of Xeenites” and “disrespect for law and order” as they head to their camp.
------
Therhcha continues to see nothing of relevance or danger in his patrols around Center… but that nagging feeling that he is being watched never seems to leave.
While performing one of his routine check-ins he overhears snippets of a conversation between Captain Dreardan and a recently arrived Chain of Lucinda. He can make out something about “following up on a report of a dead magic anomaly and finding it missing”, “Ogre Mages with bandits”, and Rashish the Red.” They go silent as Therhcha makes his presence known and checks in.
Sebair is clearly disappointed with the angry knights but otherwise doesn't really seem to mind their internal arguments and simply yells at them that they are free to take a drink after they are done with their work as long as they leave a donation for the Mistress! He spends the rest of the day making himself a little more pretty preparing for the date with the strange girl he met and at sundown he heads to the location he found her in.
----
Therhcha carefully proceeds as he steps up to the Captain and the Chain "Hello good sir, are you by chance speaking about the sort of places like I have heard rumour of existed on Dalanthar until not very long ago? I know it is not my place to speak here, but I think my brothers would be most upset if I did not suggest that you informed my father about these events. While he might be too caught up in some xeenite lady, or too busy selling stuff for the Raven Trade, he might still have some worthwhile input on your situation"
Vincent smiles and waves as Sebair talks, and talks, mainly about himself of course but he does have some rather fine wines. He notices he has not actually said anything back when Sebair wanders off to distract the guards. Vincent considers the service he is doing as the guards start to gather in some sort of commotion Sebair has managed to achieve in near record time. This bodes well for me Vincent considers by the time Sebair has finished with them they will take me for a much more righteous individual, why I should probably raise my usual fees.
While Sebair is occupied with the Rofirein knights, Vincent notices a man outfitted like a tracker near the stock yard handing over some coin to a couple of laborers and shaking their hands. Apparently, someone has been hired to do something….
Captain Dreardan and the Chain of Lucinda look to each other for a few moments and then the Captain shakes his head in the affirmative and says, “Yes. Your father may be able to shed some light on this situation. Please send word to him at once.” The Chain of Lucinda says nothing throughout this interaction.
*The residents of Center are obviously becoming uncomfortable with a detachment of Rofirein knights in their outpost, and there has been a lot of grumbling and suspicious looks. This appears to have been exasperated by the confrontation between the Xeenite and two Rofirein knights the evening before. Captain Dreardan has taken due notice and attempts to placate the residents, transients, and others that have passed through or stopped over with little success. There seems to be an underlying fear that this "detachment" might become something more permanent. To this end he begins making preparations for a departure in the near future and orders his men to take pains to make this as visible and transparent as possible.*
*The next day Storold arives in Center via the Portal, he seeks out Therhcha and speaks quickly with him. The conversation seems to be polite but it is clear that there is cold air between the two for whatever reason. Guided by Therhcha Storold seeks out the Captain and the Chain in Center.*
"I hear that you are getting reports about a mage connected to the criminal you are seeking who might be related to the spread of no magic areas in the region. Are these rumours true and what do you have to report about them?"
Vincent's first instinct is to see what is on offer, coin is coin, but something makes him hesitate. He considers 'The world is a conspiracy is it not, my best two trues says they have not just been hired to chop firewood.' He opts for a more discreet approach. He magically conceals himself from common sight and opts to follow the labourers, the ones with the trues, the doers. He watches the tracker depart as he goes so he will know him again and to ensure he has really gone. It's what specialists do.
A quickly, yet expertly muttered incantation cloaks Vincent in magical invisibility and he begins his investigation. The tracker leads the two laborers out of town, through a shallow gully, and up a small hill into some brush. Vincent is very surprised to see why they were hired.
Laying on the ground, hogtied, and trussed to a long wooden pole is a well formed and apportioned female in green scale armor. A gag protrudes from her mouth. A long barbed tail is strapped to her body with course rope, and small bat-like wings can be seen peeking out of the burlap camouflage covering her back. Small horns protrude through her raven colored hair. Her angry and predatory eyes watch every move they make. This is a creature you have never seen before, but you have encountered similar beings in your travels… all of which ended up being entities from The Pits… realms outside of Layonara. The tracker directs the men to pick up the prisoner, warning them not to get too close to her, and they head back to Center.
When they enter the town proper there is a commotion as fearful residents and travelers see what was brought into their midst. There are angry calls to “take it away” and accusations that “doom and destruction will befall them.” The tracker heads straight away to the Rofirein contingent and presents himself and the prisoner to Captain Dreardan.
“Captain Dreardan, I am Siphoclianaus, an Agent of the Realm of Brelin dispatched out of Port Hempstead to assist in uncovering threats to the kingdom. I came across this creature spying on your encampment and the outpost. I think it might be prudent for you to relocate both this “thing” and your troops to another location.” Captain Dreardan nods, “Yes I agree. It appears we have worn out our welcome here… and a more secure location to interrogate this spy would be beneficial. Please convey to the authorities in Port Hempstead that we are thankful for their tolerance and we will be heading to the village of Dapplegreen in Co’rys if they have need of swords or assistance with any defense.” Siphoclianaus clasps the captain’s forearm in thanks and departs.
The camp becomes very active as guards are posted over the prisoner and supplies and equipment are packed in preparation for departure.
Captain Dreardan nods at Storold’s line of inquiry, noticing the underlying tension between him and his son. “It may be direr than that… we don’t know at this point. We may have more information after we interrogate the prisoner though in Dapplgreen.” The captain motions to the Chain who has been silent up to this point. The man hesitates for a second and then relates the following to Storold.
“I was following up on a report of a dead magic anomaly in the area of Dapplegreen several days ago. I had a guide with me, and when we approached the location we found to our dismay that the disturbance was no longer there. Departing the clearing where it was located was a small force of bandits with several Ogre Magi accompanying them. We saw several of the brutes carrying harnesses on their backs that held what appeared to be glass globes the size of catapult ammunition. They were glowing with a dull white light. Although the dead magic disturbance was not in the clearing, it was still present… but receding. I think they discovered some means of “harvesting” the anomalies.”
Then the Captain interjects, “My men and I also saw equipment consistent with siege engines in the possession of the bandits we fought. I fear these criminals have discovered a method of harvesting and weaponizing these disturbances in the Al’Noth.”
In-Game quest has been scheduled. CLICK HERE.
Please continue to role-play in the forum until then. Everyone is going to be heading to the village of Dapplegreen.
Will be out of town, sorry.
Captain Dreardan and his small contingent of Rofirein Knights ride into the town of Dapplegreen. A few adventurers have followed and were a welcome addition, bolstering their offensive capability if required. Fortunately the movement of the strange prisoner to the new location was without incident. The roads were very lightly travelled by others and no bandits were seen.
*Watching the movements from a hill, the knigth attaired in Vehl's guard colors observe with his falcon-like eyes to the procession, as the Knights and former fellow brothers move into the town, he presses the horse to move down the hill, and towards the town, he stands for the frist hour observing and watching the number of the Knights of Rofirein and the overall security of it, the old Aesthir instict, there is not enough times to check even if you trust that the activities will be done properly, after securing a inn to stay, he'll move to met with the captain of the Rofirenites. *
Greetings Captain !
You may not be familiar with me, the name is Aesthir Stargazer, Lieuteniant of Fort Vehl guard, I saw your *looking back to the big caravan * .. exceptional entourage that you bring to this town, Don't hessitate to let me know. I see that you have a prisioner as well.
"Yes, definitely a creature from the Pits, I've been there you know. I am not necessarily an expert there, but certainly a specialist." Vincent explained to the town crier who had not managed to move far enough away. "Well I can see you are busy fear not I'll accompany them they will doubtless need my specialist knowledge in Dapple whatisname I can only imagine the terrible carnage that might unfold if I am not present." He looked around for the town crier, shrugged and hustled after the procession. In due course he turned to magical scrying and concealment suspicious as to what things from, out there might be watching and with what magics. Nonetheless he makes his way with the others.
Captain Dreardan looks to Aesthir as he approaches, noting the colors of the Vehl Guard and his rank, and offers a wan smile. After Aesthir introduces himself, Captain Dreardan responds; “I wondered when you were going to come see me. I spotted you on the hill. I take it defenses are in order?” *He grins*
“Also…I actually am familiar with you Aesthir… and your *pauses* problems with Captain Andrew. I trust the Captain has not been too tough a task master?”
Captain Dreardan glances at the men milling about and nods approvingly as he sees his quartermaster issuing orders and making arrangements for putting the men and horses into the town’s guard barracks. His attention goes back to the prisoner as Aesthir mentions her. He briefly describes the events to date and states he would be more than happy to have the Lieutenant present for the interrogation.
Vincent notes that the eyes of the Pit Creature seem to follow him about, even after he has cast his magical enchantments to conceal himself. When the occasional opportunity is given to her, she smiles seductively at him when their eyes meet. He begins to see beauty in this creature, and it makes his mind race. As the hours go by, he finds himself thinking more and more about her. Is she the victim of some sort of conspiracy? Has she been wronged by a big shadow government? Is her mind being controlled by some unknown entity… making her do things she otherwise would not? Is his own mind and thoughts being compromised? Are the bodies of the dead in the upcoming battles going to tower into the skies? Will he be her hero and save her from certain death? ……. Will they ever be together?
*Aesthir nods slowly, his face showing no sign of surprise, if he was surprised from the Captain to see him or not is yet another mystery in the man, he though seems satisfied for some reason *
A well learned man is indeed a great asset any case can get, and you Captain seem to have done your homework quite efficiently, as for the tasks that i now employ on Vehl guard and the relationship with the good captain, hard or not its just a man's duty to fill one promises and responsablities, so....
*The man waves his hand dismisively to the case as he listens to the story as he watches upon the prisioner, and then nods at the Captain*
You seem to have done quite a good job so far, so don't see me as an impediment to keep on that track, I've came with Co'rrys best interest in mind of course, And gladly will support with any of the official bussiness over the paperwork and such or other requests needed in the light of the posible of course.
*With that he awaits reply, while he studies the prisioner with patience and what seems to be infinite calm*
Captain Dreardan appears very satisfied with Aesthir’s response regarding his duties and says, “After we have completed our interrogation it would be prudent to get word back to Captain Andrew of what has been transpiring, and allow him to decide how and when to take it to Urzhrah Kezed Gran'dherm… that is even if the Urzhrah would have interest if it was brought to his attention *Captain Dreardan frowns slightly as he says that* We can transcribe the proceedings so you’ll have a document to deliver. *He gives Aesthir a sideway glance* I might even have a copy for you to deliver to the Temple?… it would save me sending one of my men to deliver it.”
*Aesthir nods slowly at the offer then replies, his gaze returning to the man*
I am here representing the interest of the Co'rrys, and only that at this moment, even if your intent is appreciated, I am affraid that if i take the report to the temple would be the same as if any other good and decent citizen of Co'rrys would do it, Lets keep the paperwork for the temple be done by the right people to do so, My presence here as I said , its only to represent Co'rrys even if I have the Lord Protector in my heart.
*After a small pause he continues* I would appreciate though, if you may dispose an extra copy for my own archive, I am a man of words and letters, and studying the cases thru the land makes one more ready to make law stand for, and one never stops learning . *he smiles at that* A lesson recently remembered.
*He smiels at the captain in a mixure of satisfaction and good mood*
Captain Dreardan Chuckles at that, but with a good natured smile. "Of course. I understand fully. We'll ensure you have your own copy as well." He then heads off to his men to ensure everything is in order. Before the prisoner is taken inside Aesthir meets her gaze and sees her staring at him. He feels as if she is gauging him... or perhaps sizing him up.
*Aesthir smirks noticing the pit fiend attempt, *
- A reaction? .. How amusing ..... pit fiend or mortal, criminals are always the same, they look for a reaction, to notice and validate that her actions are right, by finding a "side", there are just two sides, you are either dead or not, there is no such thing as inocence, we all are guilty, just in several degrees of that, - *his mind goes into thoughts*
Interesting.... *he just says as the pit fiend is being taken away *
Vincent is not convinced at all that the group of soldiers know what they are doing. His experience in the Pits has taught him all manner of creature frequents within. Not everything is to be feared. He should do something about it he knows but there is only one sensible route. Use the system, make it work for you. He considers, firstly we need to test the legality of this imprisonment , I mean didnt that agent just go and capture the poor girl. He prepares a petition for the Captain testing the legality of the capture, imprisonment transfer of jurisdiction and intended interrogation. He subtly tries to enlists the help of any qualified rofies, drawing on their knowledge of similar issues rather than direct questioning about their current predicament. He is not entirely sure he is going to make any fee at all here, still it is only what the lady deserves, it is the very least he could do.
// For Vincent... I’m preparing a response for your previous post.
I’m also posting this OOC here for the benefit of anyone else that may be thinking of taking part in this two part quest, and for consistency. This is how I will be managing this. It is not to be used as a thread for debate. If anyone disagrees or would like to discuss any aspects of this, please send me a PM. I feel like it needs to be posted at this point because it appears we may now have competing factions developing in this quest. (Which I love by the way!)
This is to be used as “food for thought.”
-The Pit Creature was arrested in the kingdom of Brelin by an Agent of the Realm based out of Port Hempstead and handed over to the Rofirein authorities in Center. This agent has great discretion in his decision making.
-The Rofirein authorities have since relocated to Dapplegreen in the Kingdom of Co’rys with the prisoner. It is likely that any arguments of improprieties in the arrest itself are now a moot point as the prisoner is now in a new jurisdiction. (This can still be argued though)
-This is not a trial at this point. It is a “detention” and a “questioning” at a secure location. Therefore, although the Rofireins will be keeping in mind the Principles of the Divine Court, particularly if this heads in the direction of a trial, we are not quite there yet… and may not get there. ;-)
-Rofirein's Divine Court bows to the law of the land it resides in. By default this also includes the rules regulating arrests, questioning, etc.
With that being said, Aesthir Stargazer, as a Lieutenant in the Vehl Guard, is now the ranking official from the Kingdom of Co’rys. He will likely hold sway over most of these proceedings. (Hopefully he can be in game for this. If not, he will be absent on “other duties”, but Captain Dreardan will look to the interests of Co’rys in his absence.
-Right now there is a not a lot of evidence against this Pit Creature to suggest she even committed a crime… but she is regarded as any other “monstrous race”; with suspicion, dislike, fear, and even hatred… and she is now in a kingdom not known for any significant rule of law. On the slightly positive side for her though; there is more tolerance for monstrous races in Co’rys than most other locations.
If I can think of anything else I will amend this as we go. As I said before, if you have any feedback, send me a PM… Please do not post here.
Just "Bumping this" as a reminder for interested parties.
In-Game quest has been scheduled. CLICK HERE.
Please continue to role-play in the forum until then. Everyone should now be in the village of Dapplegreen.
Vincent’s petition does not meet with much success. The few Rofirein knights he did find who showed some indication of concern over the legality of the detention of the Pit Creature are not willing to sign his document, or formally voice their concern. After crossing over into Co’rys, Vincent does notice that Captain Dreardan is conferring a lot more with Aesthir Stargazer, the Vehl Lieutenant. Word also must have made its way back to the Captain concerning Vincent’s questions because Vincent is no longer allowed into the building where the Pit Creature is being held.
Whenever he sees the creature through an open doorway or window and their eyes meet, he has a sensation of dread over what her fate might become. The feeling that there is some type of conspiracy afoot to deprive this “lady” of life and liberty is nearly overpowering.
*Aesthir remains stationed in Dapplegreen, and helping with the law matters and interpretations as well as the small issues that may be come to arise, he looks around the area and notices after some atempts by Vincent, he looks with some curiosity at the man yet doesn't do anything to close by for now, he just remains watchful, he will confer with the Rofirenites and then moves around the town as if looking for something, his falconlike gaze falls into the small details and focuses on the area around as if again looking for something*
Vincent secretively unlocks his travel chest and reviews his paperwork in a quiet corner of a room he has banned the 'kidnap party' from. "Seems only fair." He muses "They ban me - I can surely ban them!"
He scatters the papers skyward realising he is not going to make progress that way. "Yet progress I need to make. Before such foul injustice, such terrible travesty is done, Right is not measured by the number who speak but clearly by those who have the knowledge, the truth...or....or the rank above Captain! " He puts his papers back into his travel box. Vehl it is and then well who knows I must rush with the tidfe gather the courage to persuade - Justice must prevail. I can only hope I am fast enough." He leaves with once last longing look towards the confinement cabin, and a glance around for that lurking Vehlite Aesthir who seemed to be clearly worth the watching!
*Storold spends the time traveling with the Roferienites talking to the Lucindite and the captain*
I am rather concerned about this harvesting the Al'Noth anormalities for warfare. Especially since I know that the power unleased when such disturbances can be quite massive. However I doubt that these people are able to create the disturbances themselves, since it seems rather unlikely that they would perform them in a place where they could freely be found by others if that were the case.
But that leaves me to wonder who is responsible for the anromalities in the first place. While this is not an immidiate concern we still have to consider that there might also be a greater evil at work here, while we attempt to stop the lesser evil that is the bandits with quite dangerous weaponary.
Vincent pulls into Fort Vehl after a long ride from Dapplegreen. Clouds of gnats and biting flies were still trailing him from the roadway as he surveyed his surroundings. The same cesspool he remembered... The same dregs of society eking out an existence.
After frustrating a few guards with his rants about injustice, Rofirein knights, and illegal arrests he is brought to the main barracks of the Vehl Guard. A man wearing the official insignia of a Captain of the Vehl Guard approaches, introduces himself as “Captain Andrew”, and demands to know what is going on…
"Captain Andrew! why am I even surprised, I mean your reputation precedes you, I am sure it is not just good fortune you should suddenly appear in such a terrible time. A time for action, a time when good men are needed if we are to avoid an unacceptable injustice and perhaps one last chance to do the right think." All the time he is speaking Vincent creates an atmosphere by solemnly preparing his travelling chest between them on a table, making a show of unlocking it, and emphasing it's importance. "Captain I have tried to reason here, my notes are all inside this box, the package of hope." He once again turns to the chest tapping it and shooing a fly off. "This is a tale of great injustice that sprawls not just the Kingdoms but the very fabric of the places that exist beyond this world." He goes on to outline the kidnap, and transfer of jurisdiction, producing notes and papers to support his theory as he goes. "Captain Andrew I am not entirely familiar with your ways here and I am sure this poor woman whose crime seems to be to have existed in a distant Pit, I've been to the Pits you know, some lack the sophistication of Vehl not that we can blame every inhabitant for that and that is indeed something of the point. Now if this agent of Brelin, or Captain Dreardan a Rofirenite that moves jurisdiction when the law does not suit purpose, or your own sending Aesthir Stargazer, a Lieutenant in the Vehl Guard have full authority then .."he pauses closing his travel chest. "Then I daresay I have sadly sought sanctuary for justice in the wrong place, and I have failed an opportunity to free a poor poor innocent and perhaps establish new dialogue that would provide far more accurate and freely given information ....but....what do you think?"
The Lucindite agrees with Storold, and they have some interesting conversation regarding Al'Noth abnormalities. He seems to warm up to Storld as they travel. His name is Jason Schcippie and he is stationed at the Temple of the Peractio at Blackford Castle. He has been travelling the three realms researching dead magic anomalies.
An interesting thought does occur to Storold though in the course of their discussions. Jason stated he also saw some strange equipment being carried by the bandits and ogres and did not know their purpose. It does not make sense for the enemy to create the disturbances in areas frequented by others… but what if they had the technology to locate "weak areas" and pull the abnormalities into being?? That was an equally disturbing possibility.
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As Sebair makes his way to the tavern he notices his plump little plum of a maiden smooching with another rascal near the doorway. She catches sight of Sebair and looks rather embarrassed and tries to explain how she was merely “helping to give that poor man some air after he nearly choked to death on a pork chop.” The other man grins stupidly… he’s obviously intoxicated.
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Therhcha patrols the surrounding area for approximately a week and finds nothing out of the ordinary.
Soon after noticing the subversive actions of Vincent, Aesthir notices the man is missing. Magical means of detection are not even effective. It seems fairly evident that he is no longer in the area. Nobody seems to have seen him depart, and frankly some of the Rofirein knights are glad they are not being bothered by the strange man.
Aesthir’s basic inspection of the town does find some trace anomalies in frequencies, but nothing concrete. It raises some interesting questions though.
Before Aesthir lost track of Vincent he did have an opportunity to discreetly observe him for indications of whether or not he was affected by the Pit Creature. With his basic skillset related to things such as that… Aesthir could not detect anything out of the ordinary. He did note some magical countermeasures being employed by him, indicating that Vincent has some grasp of the use of Al’Noth.
Aesthir finds the local constable in charge of Dapplegreen’s sad law enforcement detail and finds the man to be lacking in both professionalism and having much interest in what is going on with the Pit Fiend. To the contrary, he seems somewhat irritated with all of the authority figures showing up on “his turf” and seems eager to send everyone on their way. He does not defer much to Aesthir’s rank, as his position is also the equivalent of a lieutenant. When he is informed of Vincent’s actions he merely states “I’ll take it under advisement and notate my files accordingly.” He also infers in a passive aggressive manner that “Vincent may have a good point about detaining a free person illegally” and shrugs his shoulders. His name is Chester, he is human, and his unkempt hair is a fiery red.
*He listens to the man with atention pointing out his remarks and such then simply nods* Well, at least now you are informed good sir, And my duty to your town is fullfilled, I couldn't agree more with you,.. if this were a detention of course , yet I guess that came on the report that you probably read ..... or not.
*Aesthir thanks the man for the time and leaves him be, he returns to his room and start to work out in a map, pointing out the areas around the town where he find those anomalies, he probably would do several rounds to check out if they are constant or fluctuating as well as making note of its intensity*
**He takes the time to pass all the information to his notes, and secretly thanking that this investigation was handed to the Rofirenites rather than the Vehlites in this case, there are something really wrong in this town, and this pit-fiend is not but the tip of the iceberg, he thinks*
*The next day very early he saddles up his black horse and after informing the rofirenites, he departs the town, with the promise to come back *
Captain Andrew is an intelligent man. He didn’t get to his current station by being anything less. He can sometimes be a little petty too when he is wronged… and dear old Lieutenant Aesthir had indeed wronged him. Being bested in such a manner by the impetuous ex- Rofirenite still rubbed him the wrong way. He almost instinctively went to rub his eyes, but stopped himself in mid-motion.
After listening to Vincent’s rambling and understanding the overall picture of what was transpiring he says, “Vincent, it seems your case is well in order and you have some valid points. *He points to the travelling chest with an air of deference* “Your evidence is strong it seems, but unfortunately I cannot pull myself away from my duties to address this.”
He walks to his desk and pulls out an official parchment, writes out several lines, and attaches his official seal. He then hands the document to Vincent. “This is an order for Co’rys’s officials in Dapplegreen. You will be my official liaison in this matter, and your orders are to be followed as if they were my orders in relation to this Pit Creature. You have the authority to do what you feel is best in regards to this detention. I do not see any evidence of a crime, or any indication of a threat to Vehl’s interests.”
After Vincent hurriedly grabbed his travelling chest and accumulated paperwork and left the office Captain Andrew grinned to himself and muttered, “Have fun with that one Aesthir.”
//Hi Pibe! 2.5 hours or so... it is now almost 9:30 here and we will begin about 12:00ish. I'm currently working on setting up.
//Odd I just checked my timezone and the time displays incorrectly for me, off by an hour... Does it display correctly for you? Just to know if I should submit a bug report.
Aesthir did not return from his recent errand in time. He arrives just after the Pit Creature departs and is quickly brought up to speed by Storold, Captain Dreardan, and Jason.
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Vincent is riding wildly back towards Dapplegreen, but his poor horse throws a shoe and delays his arrival. (An important post for him is forthcoming.)
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Storold Doesscha arrived a little earlier than the appointed time for the Pit Fiend’s questioning. As he walked into the empty barracks of the Dapplegreen Guard and was motioned into the back room by a Rofirein Knight, he immediately knew something was amiss and quickly cast some protective enchantments. The Pit Fiend was unbound and casually leaning against a chair while conversing with Captain Dreardan and the Lucindite. Professionals like them would not be too keen on allowing such a dangerous creature so wide a latitude. Why she did not attempt to escape while she had the chance also eluded him.
She greeted Storold and he felt a slight tickle in the back of his mind at the same time… he knew that he was being probed and he quickly cast another spell that slammed the doors of his psyche shut to her mechanizations, as well as those of Captain Dreardan and the priest. After the fog had cleared from their thoughts… everyone was on guard and wary of the Pit Fiend. Storold was a little condescending towards her efforts and she was slightly amused at his reaction.
She was cunning and evasive and played a game of “answer for an answer” with Storold. It became clear there was no legal ground to hold her thus far, so he sought more information… perhaps to build a case for further detention. He managed to get her name, and it became equally apparent she was seeking information about Layonara in general. Storold answered her truthfully as best as he could with answers that had more than one meaning or interpretation, thereby protecting individuals and institutions that could be put in danger... particularly Spellgard and the Pit Stalkers.
It seemed Dalianavera had a high level of interest in Vincent, asking about his whereabouts and displaying a small amount of emotion in regard to him several times.
Storold attempted to read her aura, which provided her some slight amusement. She consented without protest. He found that the Al’Noth bended around her in a strange way he had not seen before. He did not detect any manipulation on her part and judged it to be an innate reaction. He surmised that she came from a Pit with very high exposure to Al’Noth.
When asked where she came from she stated a place called Xandahshashis nor Amendacht en Durashdurash Sheen, which was meaningless.
Storold also learned that “Rashish the Red” and his bandits were agents hired from a smelly fat man in Fort Vehl to serve as a distraction... a delay... and pack mules. The technology to harvest dead magic anomolies was beyond them. The expeditionary force from her Pit collecting the dead magic anomalies was called the “Rugnas.” Everyone’s stomach felt a slight sinking feeling when she also confirmed their suspicions that the Pit Creatures were making weapons out of the harvested dead magic anomalies. There was some comfort when she confirmed they were not slated for use on Layonara.
As the questioning wound down, the atmosphere became tense as the last pieces of information were extracted by each party. Storold learned several things in these last few minutes. He found that she was more than willing to be bound, moved about, and questioned because all of the time invested in this process took the focus away from the work of the “Rugnas” … and that work was nearly complete. She had the ability to travel to and from Pits as a natural ability and did not require a portal, but the “Rugnas” and the soldiers of her world did need portals to cross over. Her task was to cross over, construct the portal, and when their job was complete to deactivate the portal. She also could sense when a portal she had constructed was used on either side.
The most puzzling question of course was why she was willing to answer all of these questions without pain, torture, or other methods… to which she answered in a more than adequate fashion:
In her sultry voice and with a slight smile on her lips she said “I come from a pit where we wage wars on unimaginable scales. You cannot even comprehend the scope. You wage war to conquer nations... we wage war to conquer worlds.
I am a creature ancient by your standards... I command what you call the Al'Noth as easily as a child who plays with tin soldiers. I can rip the intellect from a creature with my mind alone... and this begs the question, why did I allow you creatures to bring me here?
The answer when using simple logic is that it served our purposes... or more accurately my purposes. The use of bandits to ravage your countryside was merely to shift your gaze from our true purpose. And these proceedings over the course of several weeks obtained the same results. Delay...
You did not track down the source of your troubles because you were too enamored with questioning me. I have also found a personal reason for staying longer though... and for that I am willing to make a concession... I will tell you the location of the portal and I will walk out of here and disappear without a battle. I have business with Vincent... he has peeked my interest.
Storold Replied, “Why would we want to know where the portal is if you are telling us that it is of no consequence anymore?”
She smiled again showing a row of sharp teeth, “My kind are like predator fish... the strongest survive. If the remainder of our forces at the portal cannot defeat your pathetic warriors, then they do not deserve to continue service in the name of our Monarch. You may even learn something of portals if you can capture it.
I can tell you this though.... If I am not allowed to leave, you and I Storold will survive the initial stages of our battle if we choose to go that route. No others in the room, or half of this town will. My power is more than a match for your own. If you have ever wielded your power to your full ability, you know the consequences for the innocent around here will be dire... What is your choice Storold?”
Storold smiled.” I believe you misjudge my talents; I am not as destructive as yours... So I can't level this town without help.”
Her reply was simple. “I can...”
It was then decided that Dalianavera would be allowed to leave in the interest of preserving the safety of the innocent townspeople. Storold and the Pit Creature entered into a blood pact binding him to allow her to leave without effort to recapture, and she was bound to no longer give assistance to the “Rugnas.” Storold tried to negotiate Vincent’s safety into the pact… without success. She would deactivate the portal in two weeks per her orders, but leave the mechanism in place. She gave the location to Storold.
The Pit Creature then muttered an alien incantation and struck the ground with her fist. A shock wave in the ground emanated from her position and white lines of pure Al’Noth spider webbed out from her feet. There was a sound like a thunderclap and she was gone. Storold surmised that she had bent space and time to move to a new location… probably the same process she used to move between Pits.
Storold, Captain Dreardan, and the Lucindite Jason then began discussing some possibilities for further action, including an assault on the portal location just as Aesthir arrived.
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//OOC
Some underlying questions or things to think about…
What would happen if the portal was left in place and was somehow activated at a future time from the other side? Possible invasion?
Is there any chance that one of the dead magic weapons could be left behind or obtained by Rashish the Red’s bandits? Could this have a devastating impact if they were to fall into the wrong government’s hands… or the wrong organization?
If the Pit Creatures are so formidable, what will it take to assault their position? Could interested parties just wait until they leave? Is waiting too much of a risk?
Does Dalianavera have other “irons in the fire?”
What can be learned from researching the mechanics of the deactivated portal? Are there dangers in allowing other parties to stumble across it and examine it first?
*Warning*
This plot line is going to continue under a new forum thread called “The Assault”.” Whether anyone takes it up to completion or not will be interesting to see. Regardless there will be some rippling effects from this. Please be aware that the next installment is going to be a “hack and slash” session if the party opts to assault the portal. The opponents are going to be CR 30+, thus there will need to be a strong party of mid-epic to high epic players. Survival with anything else will be slim. For those that try and do not survive, you will be well rewarded. For those that try and do survive, reward will be substantial. This is an opportunity for those of you with epic characters that have not seen a challenge in recent times to get out and do something.
Please wait to start posting for this until I have the new forum thread up though.
If there are any questions, please PM me.
//ooc
returning to storold's point about time, I was also an hour out and this made even a late arrival last saturday not possible. Something that we may need to confirm with any future events.
//OOC
Agreed. Pibe has submitted a post to have the forum time issue looked at. Hopefully we can get it fixed. I think next time I'll post a quick forum entry when we are about 1 hour out before start-up. This one nearly ran the entire 3 hours allotted, if you popped in I would have ported you over to the quest area... With that being said, you are owed reward for your forum work, I'll be looking for you in-game. :-)
Vincent’s horse stumbled, not too far from Dapplegreen along the Vehl Road. The beast threw a shoe, which meant he would not get back in time. He cursed the cloud filled sky, and ran his hands through his rain slicked hair in frustration muttering that someone in Vehl must have known about his terribly important mission and sabotaged him. His mind raced, eliminating suspects and adding possible culprits at a rapid pace.
There was another flash of lightning and a concussion of thunder.
He jumped because the strike was very close… and then he saw her. The reigns of his horse slipped from his fingers and the animal’s ears lay flat as it skittered away. The Pit Creature was several paces away, rain and evening light beginning to obscure her. She walked forward. He felt a familiar tickle at the back of his mind and could not move. He could barely speak. “How are you here?”
As she reached him, she brought her body close to his and said “I go where I please and when I please. It is my nature.”
He managed to mutter “Why are you here?” While trying to quell the emotion that seemed to be welling up inside of him. In his own mind he was also puzzled at why he was feeling that way.
Dalianavera smiled, the tips of her razor sharp teeth just visible between her lips. “Because you and I have a bond my little Vincent. You are the only creature in this world that has not shown me contempt or fear. You know what I am… yet you go against what seems natural. You think about me. You watch me. I have been in your mind and I know you better than you know yourself. This intrigues me.”
Vincent could not speak. He could only look into black eyes with no pupils and listen.
“My little Vincent. I am over nine centuries old by your reckoning. I have seen worlds burned in the war machine of my Monarch… and I will see countless others go down that same road. It took me many years to find my way here. You will be my key to unlock the door when I need to return.” She smiled, and he thought he sensed some pity in her eyes… then he felt the fiery pain and his face went white as he looked down and saw her hand entering his chest. He had never felt such intense pain in his entire life. White lines of Al’Noth spider-webbed up her arm in a rapid pulse, matching his heartbeat in intensity. “You are special Vincent. When your time comes to shrug this mortal shell, I will come and take your soul. I will protect it and cherish it. Until then, you will be the beacon that guides me back to this world.” She kissed his forehead and supported him as he began to collapse.
Vincent passed out from the intense pain. When he woke he found himself tucked into the hollow of a large tree and bundled in his oiled leathers. His horse was hobbled to a nearby branch, and the dying coals of a small fire were close to his feet. He muttered “Was I dreaming?” When he tore open his tunic he knew it was all very real. He could see a white scar the size of a hand on his chest. A faint echo of the pain he experienced created a dull ache.
Denying his surreal experience momentarily Vincent draws forth his order for Co’rys’s officials in Dapplegreen and reads it over. "Well I have the power of right on my side at least, and perhaps might too." He mutters to himself. He glances at his exposed chest, before quickly fixing his tunic and more methodically and carefully replacing the document in a scroll case. He looks at the glowing embers and reviews his position. Well she is intelligent enough to realise I am a specialist, she mentioned special, but I am sure she meant specialist. and, and she obviously cares for me after all here I am safely ensconsed, warm fire and horse to hand." He stands a little uncertainly ignoring the dying fire and tends to his horse. "I am a specialist beacon, a beacon of speciality....did I see pity there...pity.....I am not sure thats right." He shrugs and muses uncertainly, his thoughts short, sharp, and focussed. "I have travelled the Pits. Yet she left me here. Alone. She needs me. She said as much. She wants to be soul mates. Well she wants my soul. She is a little old for me. Teeth could be problamitic. Such dark eyes. Was she grateful for my efforts? But really...pity!" He looks up at the sky for a moment unable to reason any more. He lets the horse free and with a more magical sweep he taps into the Al'noth himself and is suddenly back at Center. "I can do that too you know. Move with the Al'noth. You never asked. Did you?" He followed the signs for Hlint, his chest a dull ache.