The World of Layonara

NWN Discussions and Suggestions => Quests Ideas and Discussion => Topic started by: Andrios on August 18, 2008, 03:02:19 pm

Title: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Andrios on August 18, 2008, 03:02:19 pm
//Hello! I thought it might be a good idea for us to discuss ideas/strategies in a forum thread, IC of Course  :)

*as the dishevelled group makes a strategic withdrawl, Aeronn looks about. Seeing Connor still deep in thought he clears his throat and speaks to the group*
Does anyone think there is any connection between the pit dwellers and the Gnolls, other than the gnolls being a handy and easily manipulated force?  
More importantly, what is our next step for approaching the Gate?
*He pauses, looking about to see if any answer him*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on August 20, 2008, 08:45:16 am
Connor remains relatively quiet, though not withdrawn, sitting (or walking) near AnnaLee.  He seems generally observant of something, though whatever that "something" is likely isn't local.  For the moment, he does not contribute to conversations near him unless addressed directly (or something relevant catches his attention). Unless prompted otherwise, he keeps his conversations quiet and limited to those immediately around him. He does not ignore anyone, but rather simply does not initiate conversations for the most part.

Now and then (and how often depends on milty), his attention seems to go elsewhere completely for a few moments.

He does look up with Aeronn's question, watches the group and waits for any sort of response or comment.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Lalaith Va'lash on August 20, 2008, 08:48:36 am
*Kali shakes her head, as she listens from the edge of a small crowd.*

The gnolls were convenient, and easily manipulated.


*She raises an eyebrow, inclining her head thoughtfully.*

As for a next step.... *She shrugs a little, her emerald eyes looking over the group, as if holding back a thought and looking for somebody in particular.*

//Kali looks to see if Abi is in this group.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Alatriel on August 20, 2008, 09:47:28 am
*Daniella leans heavily on her sword and ponders a moment*

Well... here's what I'm wondering...  are the gnolls just gnolls, or are they tainted by something, and either way, are they a distraction?  While we've been sitting here, no armor, no shields... in our weakened state, and then forced to hide from gnolls rather than what we would normally do with them... Is there something bigger going on under the surface that is remaining unseen because our attention is focused elsewhere?  I'm not saying I want us to be rash and rush into anything, but also, the longer we wait here, will there be something worse awaiting us when we do attempt to close the gate?
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: miltonyorkcastle on August 21, 2008, 09:31:11 am
Weary but momentarily victorious, you contemplate the merrits of camping inside the cavern or chance leaving it and returning. After a short time, the bodies of the fallen Pit-kind blink, flicker. And then they're gone, as if they were never there to begin with.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on August 23, 2008, 11:56:29 pm
Connor makes no reaction to the disappearance of the fallen Pit-kind, but rather moves around checking on those who are injured or recently revived from having fallen in the last battle.  He seems rather pensive about something but there's almost nothing to indicate what that might be.  His eyes fall on a few in particular as if evaluating them.

Finally, once everyone seems to have taken stock of the situation, he positions himself to address the group with his back to the deeper parts of the cave. He takes in a slow breath and speaks in a projected tone, pitched to reach the ears of the party and not much else.

"I believe we need to risk making a camp...perhaps back a bit from here.  Our casters and healers are worn, and I suspect significant challenges ahead if our journey this far was any indication.  I would prefer to avoid any further losses.  These last were perhaps avoidable, but if we press forward in our current state, we will see more."

He pauses a moment, apparently to take a breath, before continuing.

"We will take our rest in shifts. I will take the first watch together with any others who would wish.  I'd like casters and healers in each group to spread our risk." He looks to Abiorn. "You should rest now and take the second watch."

Another moment passes before his next words.

Let's find a place that's as defensible as possible, then make a cold camp, tend to the injured and get ourselves refreshed for what lies ahead."
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Carillon on August 24, 2008, 01:12:02 am
Jaelle speaks softly from where she's standing.

"I will watch with you, Connor. I am uninjured, and am not yet so tired that I cannot draw on the Al'Noth."

She pauses, glancing behind her in the direction they came.

"There was a place back there that would do, was there not? I think I recall a sort of alcove that was not quite so open. I will go back and check."

With a subtle gesture and murmured phrase, she cloaks herself in an illusion, disappearing to the unaided eye. Her quiet footfalls echo slightly as she pads away to check for a defensible campsite.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Alatriel on August 24, 2008, 12:52:00 pm
*Once camp is made, Daniella sits in quiet prayer, asking for forgiveness for once again being raised by a priestess of Aragen*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Andrios on August 24, 2008, 08:19:11 pm
*Aeronn seems slightly agitated as helps set up the cold camp, occasionally he adjusts the weight of his mangled shield and continues about his tasks.  When everything is set he turns to Connor*

I too shall take first watch.  I do not have The Sight as some others do, but Rofirein willing, I will be able to sense their evil before they are upon us should the pit dwellers strike against us whilest we camp.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on August 24, 2008, 08:38:30 pm
Connor looks over to Aeronn at his words."Then you should take second watch, as I can sense them with my back turned and eyes closed," he offers in a matter-of-fact tone.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Andrios on August 24, 2008, 09:53:46 pm
*Aeronn just stares at Connor for a few seconds.  Finally he nods once and after walking a few feet he settles down with his back against the wall and closes his eyes*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Andrios on September 02, 2008, 03:01:51 pm
*Aeronn gazes at each member of the group for a moment, then he takes a measured breath and begins speaking*

That proved to be an interesting parlay.  We have learned something of our foe, his reasons and his methods.  The fact remains that no matter how well spoken it is, or what name it gives itself, it is a fiend and it intends to draw more pit dwellers to Layonara. No matter what hole it calls home, it will continue to infect our world with evil denizens that have no place here.  An accord made with this beast will be broken as soon as it is agreed to, for that reason I hope you are not considering it's terms, in any fashion.  
Instead we must figure out how to destroy it, and it's gate.  

I trust those more knowledgeable than I were able to discern how this might be done.  

*Aeronn finishes speaking, looking at the group with a determined look on his face*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Alatriel on September 02, 2008, 03:11:58 pm
*Daniella sits and listens for a long time before speaking*

How can we say that we are helping one enemy, the beholders, that were the whole reason we started on this mission in the first place... and then come down here to close this gate and send the pit fiends back to their hell, and then we even consider letting them stay on our plane because we will simply send them to the deep to feast on darkelves and other creatures of the underground?  How is one better than the other?  What honor is there in that?  Dark elves may be evil as a race, yes, but what about the other creatures of the deep that are not evil?  Won't they suffer too from the presence of these creatures?  Are we no less responsible for their harm if we enable this evil to stay on our plane?  And who are we do decide that it is not right for these creatures to feast on beholders, but it is just fine for them to feed on the creatures of the deep?  It is our job to destroy evil where it lives, not see that it has a comfortable existence with plenty of food and drink just as long as we don't see it happening.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on September 02, 2008, 08:13:51 pm
Connor seems to pay little attention to the speeches and instead helps tend to a weakened Jaelle. Working with Anna, he helps Jaelle find some comfort in the dark cave, supporting her weight or even helping to carry her as they move.  Not long after Jaelle is settled, however, his attention is drawn behind him.  A moment or two later, he says something quietly to Anna, stands, steps back and vanishes in mid-step.

Some time later he returns down the narrow stone walkway through the water, appearing rather suddenly, and walks to a relatively quiet place with a thoughtful expression.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Rowana on September 03, 2008, 03:34:25 pm
Anna gives a worried look but a nod with whatever Connor says to her and then promptly busies herself with making the promised tea. Amazingly she manages to have a cup for whomever asks for one (should they not have their own eating kit), and then sees to Jaelle after giving her time with the priests (whomever step up to the need).

She spends quite a bit of time mumbling portions of the conversation with John over and over to herself (for those close enough to overhear) while fretfully tending Jaelle and pacing through their area clearly looking for something.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Primalfear on September 03, 2008, 05:38:19 pm
*Up until the time where Conner disappeared, Eslar was keeping with him and Mirren, discussing events with her.*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Carillon on September 03, 2008, 09:12:58 pm
For whatever reason, Jaelle's condition seems to have rendered her temporarily mostly helpless. She allows Connor to carry her after an attempt to stand on her own nearly blacks her out.

Once settled, she remains quiet and tense. She gives Connor a questioning look when he leaves and another when he returns. She also murmurs to Anna, noting the restless pacing and searching. Anyone very close might hear her ask what Anna is looking for.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Chongo on September 04, 2008, 01:26:56 am
*Abiorn takes an almost defensive posture over Casrushier, beckoning the nearby healers to him with an uncharacteristic fervour.  He kneels there, staff in one hand, his magics still ablaze from the battle before.  His other hand rests on her left hand and forearm, his robe sleeves covering the hand he holds.  His words are half whisper, half thought, though a prayer seems to have carried with the implied fervor of Ilsare's cause.*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Carillon on September 04, 2008, 10:28:53 am
(//Assuming someone fetched Jaelle from where Elgon left her nearby)

Jaelle is still clearly weak and weary physically, but she seems alert. She watches Abiorn hold Casrushier's left hand. She looks thoughtful as the healers work on her, listening to people talk around her, piecing together what happened. A small winged creature appears from near the mouth of the cave when she is brought to join the others, and her familiar settles back onto her shoulder.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Hellblazer on September 04, 2008, 10:49:17 am
*Eslar looks at Connor and Abiorn, and mutters in dwarven not so quietly*

Oaaz', hak'k.... khur'rh awawaurhkth, ponazthkat arhazith

*he then go sits by Mirren taking out some fish he had previously cooked before leaving Wayfare*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on September 04, 2008, 11:16:25 am
Connor, looking somewhat worn but also relieved, checks on Abiorn, Casrushier and Jaelle, offering aid if needed but staying out of the way of those more skilled in healing.  He settles to the ground nearby and remains largely still to give some rest to his body, though he remains quite awake.

At Eslar's words, he looks up slowly but does not turn his head. He speaks calmly, though in a voice that carries easily to him and the rest.

"Bold words, I'm sure. Perhaps you'd be bold enough to speak them again so that they might be understood."
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Rowana on September 04, 2008, 11:21:36 am
Anna works quietly with Elgon, kneeling next to the gnomess and taking in the full of her condition. Her focus shifts a bit from the physical (as the druid seems to have that well in hand) to focus on other damages or afflictions that might lay within her.

After several minutes, though likely closer to tens of minutes she removes the glove of her right hand and lays her hand against the cheek of the gnomish woman then closes her eyes, after a brief moment of what can only be described as trepidation. After that her focus shifts completely inward, between herself and the injured.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Andrios on September 04, 2008, 02:58:21 pm
*Seeing the flurry of activity around Abijorn and the fallen gnome, Aeronn positions himself between them and the cave opening remaining alert for any pursuit*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: miltonyorkcastle on September 04, 2008, 03:43:38 pm
You've escaped the depths. Pit-creatures have been vanquished. The Firewalker escaped. And now you catch your breath, a new member, a gnomish woman, joining your ranks. She currently sleeps, silvery locks of hair curled and matted by sweat to her face. Her skin is a soft gray, matching soft features and soft breathing. The more you look at her, the more you are drawn to her beauty. She is, perhaps, the most beautiful gnome you have ever seen. Except for one thing, one hand. Her left hand is twisted, shriveled, and enough skin is missing in places to show bone. But there is no blood.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Hellblazer on September 04, 2008, 11:41:56 pm
*Eslar looks at Connor a moment*

Sure, I said

Yeah, right.... group efforts, blasted epics

You can't deny that you two running off ahead this way without letting any of us know of your plan, without letting us help in any way, while we are supposed to work as a group, was actually honoring the words you told me before, that you would clue us in and work as a group.

We all knew that this would be risky, and we all agreed to participate. But how are we to do so, if we are continuously kept in the dark

*nods to ward Abiorn*

No offense there, I'm sure he does a lot of great things, but it's more dangerous to keep people in the dark and let them deal with the consequences of that, than telling them of what is going on, the motives, and in that, give them the tools to adjust to a situation.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Chongo on September 05, 2008, 12:24:51 am
*Abiorn considers Eslar a moment as though the bickering words have finally found their echo in his mind. Looking up from a rarely torn glance from Casrushier, he releases her hand and spins to hold the tip of his staff on Eslar's chest, walking him away from the group with uncharacteristic vigor, a seldom seen portrait of anger painted on his face.*
 
 More dangerous is it hmm? More dangerous to be left in the dark? Is it? *he pokes Eslar's chest with his staff mustering a feeble rap to his sternum with his old and weak gnomish arms* Is it hmm? This is not some tale to be a part of on the whim of one whose place in aid is questionable given not so much your lack of ability, but the ignorant fervor with which you seek inclusion.
 
 The light you wish shed... so be it.
 
 *His expression darkens, the features below his eyes curled in a strange fury while his eyes hold a strange curve towards their edges, the crow's feet turned slightly upward on his skin, as though almost smiling. He mutters some words and wind pours forth onto Eslar and outward from them in a loud gust of air. He leans toward him and speaks in a whisper, ensuring that no others can hear him over the wind surrounding.*
 
 //Whispered words PM'd to Milt and Hellblazer//
 
 *Abiorn backs away after a moment, without a speck of time wasted in allowing Eslar's response. His eyes stay trained on Eslar, his free hand half raised as though wary and in defense, until he once again rests near Casrushier, ignoring all others save for a glance towards AnnaLee. His eyes soften feebly, and he looks towards the dirt at his feet, his expression wearing shame. His left eye twitches for a moment until he blinks it away. He looks tired, his features showing confusion and regret.*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Hellblazer on September 05, 2008, 01:29:14 am
*Eslar simply nods once, satisfied of what he heard, a small caring smile on his face that only he and Abiorn could understand at the moment. But before Abiorn moves to far away he simply adds in a gentle and whispered tone*

//pm sent to both abiorn and Milt
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on September 05, 2008, 08:33:52 am
Connor listens attentively to Eslar with a rather schooled expression, remaining silent and calm, giving him a chance to speak his mind, both to him and Abiorn.  He looks thoughtful for a couple more moments as he mentally composes a response.  When Abiorn confronts Eslar, he stays any words that might have formed and simply watches with a knowing and evaluating gaze.

When the quiet but spirited conversation between Eslar and Abiorn concludes, a nearly imperceptible smile appears on his lips, and he addresses Eslar directly in a calm and polite tone.

If Abiorn's answer is satisfactory, then I have nothing further to add.  However, should you require further clarification, you need only ask.  

With that, he settles back against the hillside some in relaxation.  His eyes close, but the whole of his expression indicates attentiveness and awareness of his surroundings.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on September 09, 2008, 09:25:39 am
After some time of quiet but alert relaxation, Connor sits up, then stands fully.  He turns to face the bulk of the gathered and addresses the group.

I want to thank you all for your part, for giving us the time we needed to complete our task. I do not know what transpired during this time, but I am grateful for your efforts and for taking the risk.  I regret there was not more time to inform you of what Abiorn and I discussed, but John, it seems, kept to his own schedule, and not mine. *he gives a rueful smile at that*

I'm sure at least some of you are curious as to what transpired. I will answer what I can, though some of the answers are not mine to give.

With these last words, he looks around the group to gauge their reaction and wait for any questions that may come.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Andrios on September 09, 2008, 03:31:28 pm
*Keeping most of his attention focused on the cave, Aeronn glances over his shoulder at Connor and speaks*

The gate, was it physically destroyed, so that John has to do more than simply plug another creature into it?

What forces of his remain?

 Finally, do you know where he fled, that we may begin the task of finding and destroying him?

*Aeronn angles himself so that he can listen to Connor and observe the cave at the same time*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: miltonyorkcastle on September 09, 2008, 09:00:51 pm
/// News Flash. There's a good chance Chongo (abiorn) won't be able to make this Wednesday. Usually we go on without him (obviously), but at this stage in the game, so to speak, I'm kind of thinking it's crucial he be there, as the rest of the party will be wanting information from him (and Connor, though Connor has opened the floor, while Abiorn has remained a bit secretive). By now, the fact that Abiorn has some connection to Casrushier is evident, and him not being there while folks are poking and prodding her seems to me to be counter-productive. So I'm thinking we postpone a week. However, as myself and Abiorn are clearly not the only ones involved in this quest, I've posted a poll (that closes at 5pm CDT, 3pm PDT, Wednesday-tomorrow). Let me know what you're thinking.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Dorganath on September 09, 2008, 10:17:14 pm
Connor turns to Aeronn with a nod and addresses him, but does so loudly and clearly enough for everyone to hear.

The gate was nothing but a magical construct.  Once Casrushier *he gestures toward the female gnome* was removed from its proximity, the construct collapsed.  For all intents and purposes, she was the only physical part of the gate, and without her, the gate could not persist.  He may indeed form another gate, but he will have to first locate another individual with the appropriate...attributes.

Of Firewalker's forces, none remain.  Besides the two maraliths with him, there were four more Pit-dwellers deeper in the caverns guarding the gate, and they have either been destroyed or returned. *he grins a bit at Aeronn* You could probably stand down your vigilant watch.

As for Firewalker himself, I would urge some consideration and restraint before rushing to destroy him.  Abiorn here can attest that he will not be so easily destroyed, and the usual means that one would use against those of his apparent kind have no effect, as he is not of the Pits at all despite his obvious heritage.

Connor pauses and regards Aeronn for any further questions he may have.
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Andrios on September 09, 2008, 10:51:36 pm
*Aeronn nods when Connor tells him he could probably relax his vigilance.  Some of the tension leaves his body and he focuses on the surrounding fields*

I was not suggesting we charge after..Firewalker, this instant.  There are other considerations. *he gestures towards the female gnome and then Jaelle*
However, I think it would be prudent to know the particulars for gathering an appropriate Cohort to find and deal with him..

*looks about to see the response of others*
Title: Re: A New Hope..Discussion Thread
Post by: Rowana on September 09, 2008, 11:17:46 pm
After a very long while of silence on her part, Anna goes very tense and slowly opens her eyes. She turns her head and regards Connor quietly with a look upset and then turns eyes on Abiorn. For him she clearly seems to weigh something, coming to no clear decision before turning her eyes back to the Gnomess. She spares one more almost hurt look at Abiorn before turning her focus quietly back to Cashrushier for a few more moments, never really loosing the expression of 'decision making.'