Flight of Dragons
Lord of Roses looks to GreenFlower,Thirston,and Wandan."You are welcome to the hospitality of my castle.Rooms have been prepared for you all.If you need anything to speed you on your journey,do not hesitate to ask.I invite you all to dine with me this eve,my paige will direct you."
Thirston Muglicker has his mini keg of ale and another one of milk for Wandan.."where is my backup at?"
Wandan bows "Thank you,good sire."
GreenFlower bows to the Lord "I would be honored, sire."
With that said,the Lord of Roses bows,and exits the room.The two other men wearing the armour of Knight Lords follow the Lord of Roses.
Thirston Muglicker nods to the Lord of Roses as much of a sign of respect that Thirston has given to anyone other than Wandan in several years...and says "Thank you"
A young man in brilliant clothing enters the room."I am to show you to your rooms,My Lords,and Lady."
Wandan goes with his friend Thirston to the rooms talking about their experience with the Lord of Roses
GreenFlower nods "Please."
The paige takes you each to a separate,opulent suite,complete with bed,bath,wardrobe,privy,and a balcony with a splendid view of the city.
Wandan follows the man to his room and asks him for his name, then gets to his room and goes to the balcony to take a look on the city.
"My name,Lord?I am called Jake.I shall return for you in two hours,My Lords,and direct you to the dining hall."
The paige boy takes his leave,after ensuring that all is right with your rooms.
Wandan nods "All right, we'll wait here and take lttle rest from our travel. Glad to meet you Jake.I am Wandan the trader"
Thirston Muglicker sits down and cleans his gear and sharpens his axes...Dusts off his travel cloths and takes a nap
You take the few hours to rest before dinner,as it has been a long day of riding,and hobnobbing with formalities.Jake returns in two hours to take you to dinner.
Wandan lies to rest and stands up and prepares quickly when Jake comes.Wandan looks at paige and says "I am ready to go." then follows him to the dining room
Thirston Muglicker packs his gear and sets it in the corner ready to go..
"Lords,we have a wondrous feast tonight indeed.Visitors from Phlan,yourselves,and even a couple of elves are cause for the Lord of Roses to hold a celebration."
[Wandan]: "Good, I am hungry already... sounds good for me."
Jake can barely contain his excitement as he leads you speedily to the feast hall.The hall is large,and filled with the din of people conversing.You are lead to a table to the left of the Lords Table.There are three figures seated at your table already.
Andor greets the newcomers, "Greetings friends."
Wandan takes his place by the table smiling slightly.Wandan greets Andor "Hail and well met. I am Wandan the trader."
Calthos looks at the new guests, bows and says" Hail and well met,I am Calthos".
Atheina takes no notice of the new comers as she slowly takes moursels from her plate, washing the food down with fine wine.
"I am Andor, Paladin of Tyr"
Wandan smiles and says "Nice to meet you, this is my friend Thirston the dwarf"
Thirston Muglicker gives a acknowledgeing grunt "Uhh"
[Andor]: : "Always good to meet one of your race noble dwarf, I've have slain many foes alongside your kind"
Thirston Muglicker reaches for any liquors that are on the table
The dining begins with dozens of maids bearing heaping platters of fresh fruits,vegetables,cheeses and all manner of roasted meats.A maid is designated to each table of five persons to acommodate wishes for refreshment,and more food.
Wandan smiles and takes some food to eat and starts a friendly conversation with the group who sits beside him
Thirston Muglicker purks up at the thought of a good round of battle conversation.."aye? what battles might o' yu been on lad?"
Thirston Muglicker smiles..and says"if ya can't be fighting..the next best ting is ta be talken aboot it!"
Andor "Not many as of yet, I have just finished my final vows of paladinhood, but I'm no stranger to the blade
Atheina smiles to herself at the talk of battle as she sips her wine.
Thirston Muglicker smiles..."BAaa..What ya need is a sturdy axe...now thats a true blade!"
Wandan nodds "You are right about that..."
[Andor]: :"true enought sir dwarf, but my paladin ethos requires a sword"
Calthos smiles and says "Battletalk, thats nice, not always that politics to talk about."
Thirston Muglicker says "Why I took an or right thru the back..from back to front thru and thru..when last did ya hear someone tell that kind of tale about sword?"
Wandan smiles "Well the politics is interesting topic also."
[Calthos]: "Arent axes usually used to cut the trees? Swords are better for the battle!" and nods at Andor.
Thirston Muglicker mumbles to Calthios..."Baaa Politics..thems fer them that are to old to hit the battle field!"
Thirston Muglicker replies.."Ever seen a leg of a mountain giant...Thicker en mosta dem trees you see"
Atheina states in a soft voice. "Most heroes that are known for their deeds uses a sword or magic."
Wandan smiles "True... well I think that nothing compares to the heat of the battle"
Thirston Muglicker seems a little flustered at all the talk of swords..and turns back to his drink...several drinks that is
Andor smiles "axes or swords, what matters is the bodies of the evil foes lay upon the battlefield when the battles past"
[Wandan]: "Sword works the best for me, but Thirston can makes wonders with his axes."
[Atheina]: "Sword or axe, magic or spells, matters not. As long as battles are fought with Tempus' grace."
Andor eats with the grace and ettiquette of a nobleman
[Calthos]: "I heared tales about dwarfes and their skills with axes, im sure they can be deadly. And i would for sure prefer to fight at his side, not against him".
[Andor]: :"here here"
Atheina suddenly stands up, her chair falling to the ground with a thump. She rush at the figure in black silk robes with her sword drawn.
Wandan smiles "Yes Tempus the lord of battle, I hope he will be in his favor."
Andor stands and draws his sword
Calthos whispers to the table "Get ready, there is an assasin i think" and points at the middle of the room.
Wandan stands up and looks at them ready to draw his blade
Calthos draws his sword and attacks.
Wandan runs to help Atheina drawing his sword and charging at enemy
Thirston Muglicker is confused but follows Wandan
There is a raspy growl as Atheina charges in front of the Lord's table,swinging her sword at nothing it would seem.A figure in black silk robes appears to your view as her blade sinks deeply into it's side.The figure slumps to the ground.
Wandan runs to help Atheina "Is everything all right." looks at the figure on the floor
The figure on the floor is groaning in pain,blood pouring through it's fleshy hand,as it tries to staunch the wound.
Andor wanders around the room trying to detect if there are more evil foes
Atheina says "Scam. Tempus will never show grace to assassination." as she slice off the figure's head.
Calthos smiles at Atheina and says "You pay very well attention, I thought it was only me who saw the assasin. And you fight very well!"
Wandan kneels and asks him "Who are You, who sent You here?"
[Calthos]: "I dont think he can answer you anymore" and points at the head that is cut off now.
Many Knights are on there feet,with weapons drawn,as Atheina decapitates the would be assassin.The Lord of Roses reaches the scene,and orders that the body be removed,and burned.
Wandan looks up at Atheina
Andor stands in a guard posture of the people gathered in the center of the room, sword drawn and ready for any more trouble
Thirston Muglicker watches..and scans the room looking at faces and registering there expresions at what has just happened
Atheina wipes fresh blood of her blade with a cloth and shealths her sword.
The Lord of Roses addresses Atheina,"I thank you,Battleguard,for my life.That was a Black Robe Mage,one of my uncle's minions.This is becoming an all too often occurrence of late."
Wandan stands up and moves backward looking at the gathered people with nervously
[Atheina]: "Its my honor and that of Tempus to serve one as yourself my lord."
Calthos moves back to the table and sits down again.
Andor puts away his sword, but stays weary "Is this a regular occerance?"
Wandan follows Calthos and sits down "That was quick... I havent seen anything, is that magic of some kind?"
The assembled Knights,Nobles,and others of wealth and power look upon you all gathered in front of the Lord's Table with a bit of wonderment,some raise glasses of wine,or ale,to your actions.
Atheina says to Wandan as she takes her seat. "Do not mix maigc with skill stranger."
Wandan looks at her "You reacted quickly... I admire that."
Atheina nods at Wandan's compliment with a smile.
Calthos looks at Wandan and says "Its very important to watch all the others closely. Everyone could be an assasin".
Andor returns to his eat, still uneasy
Lord of Roses looks to Andor."Yes,this is the fourth attempt on my life in two weeks.I fear the dragonarmy is moving.They have left us be for years,with no more than the odd skirmish,but nopw they raid more frequently,and send assassins to slay myself,and the other Lord Knights."
Thirston Muglicker finally sits down
Thirston Muglicker starts to drink
Lord of Roses walks to your table,and addresses you all."I would be honoured if you were all to join me in my quarters later for an informal meeting.My people may have need of such as you,if you are willing."
Atheina nods. "It be an honor my lord."
Calthos bows and says "It will be a honor for me, My Lord".
Wandan smiles "We would be honored sire."
Andor says,"The paladins of tyre are always willing to help if the matter is just"
Thirston Muglicker remains silent
"Aye,after the festivities,Jake will show you to my chambers.There we might converse more privately,and without interruption."The Lord of Roses resumes his seat,and continues his meal as if nothing happened.
Calthos takes a swig of his wine.
Atheina continues with her food and wine as a formality. Thoughts of food and wine lingers far from her thoughts.
Wandan drinks some wine than continue eating some good food
Andor continues eating, eyeing how calm the lord of roses appears after an attempt on his life
Once the meal is done,many take to the floor for some dancing,as others wander about in conversation.You all are treated respectfully,and actively sought for conversation.It seems as if you are the flavour of the day.
Andor talks politics with several lords and ladys, while watching the merriment on the dance floor
Atheina takes her flute out of her pouch and starts to play a tune.
Thirston Muglicker eats his fill and drinks a bit more than his fill
Wandan takes part in festivities and after while goes to his room to rest and to prepare for the conversation with the Lord
Thirston Muglicker belches a few times and then starts getting really chatty...Talking people ears off telling aobut stories of his homeland stronghold and the battles he has been in with Wandan over the last few years.
After an hour of such,the Lord of Roses takes his leave,and you can see Jake coming in your direction,trying to get you all together at once.
Andor politely excuses himself and follow Jake
Wandan follows to the Lord's chambers
Atheina puts her flute away at the sight of Jake, glad that this night of attention and audience is finally over.
Calthos stands up and follows Jake.
[Jake]: "Lords,and ladies,if you would follow me please?The lord of Roses awaits you all in his chambers."
Atheina nods at Jake and follows.
Thirston Muglicker staggers in that direction
Jake leads you to the royal chambers.You notice that the guard in this area consists of quite a few battle hardened Knights,a few Priests of Tyr,and at least two White Robed Mages that you can see.They all nod politely as you pass,though there expressions show only suspicion.
Wandan follows Jake walking with Thirston and looking around the place, and bows slightly at the entrance
Thirston Muglicker follows the group
Calthos follows Jake and nods to the guards and mages.
Jake opens the double doors to the sitting room,and bids you enter.The Lord of Roses sits alone in a chair by a roaring fireplace.An oak table is beside him,set with five comfortable looking chairs.
Andor walks with a quick step and good posture, looking forward but having hand on sword
[Lord of Roses]: "Please,come in,and take a seat,my friends.Jake will see to your needs for refreshment,and the like."
Andor nods to the noble
Thirston Muglicker nods at jake for another ale
Andor sits in one of the chairs, waiting till athenia takes her seat
Calthos takes a seat and says "Thanks, my lord".
Wandan nods and takes a seat
Jake takes your orders for ale,wine,or whatever else may tickle your fancy at the moment,and then leaves through a single door for a few moments.
Atheina stands and leans against the wall besides the entrance. "Beg your pardon, my lord, but i will prefer to stand." as she crosses her arms across her chest.
Thirston Muglicker stands next to Wandan as it does so look odd when a dwarf climbs into a chair
Andor stands as well, behind the chairs facing the lord of roses
Thirston Muglicker imitates Athenia
Calthos laughs at Thirston.
[Lord of Roses]: "As you wish,Battleguard,if that makes you more comfortable,then so be it.If I might get right to the point of my gathering you all here?"
Andor "As you wish sire."
Atheina remains silent.
Wandan says "Please do so my Lord."
Thirston Muglicker stands quietly
Lord of Roses takes a deep breath,twists his mustache for a moment,and then turns to look upon you all."I fear that we have little hope left to us.My people,my Knights,have fought the forces of my uncle for so long,it is all most of them know.Children are born into a war that has raged on two worlds,and through three generations.Many younger Knights grow weary of an old man's ways.There are some who feel that we should strike back,and lay siege to melvaunt,to end the matter.I know this will only lead to ruin.I know my men need a hope that can not be found on an open battlefield.This is where I look to you."
Thirston Muglicker stands quitely imitating Athnia but trying not to look like an elf....:)
[Andor]: :"How can we help lord?"
[Atheina]: "Why choose us, my lord. I am sure there are many young knights who will willingly take this mission."
Thirston Muglicker listens to it all thinking
Wandan looks at the Lord "I am honored that You choose us for this sire, I'll do my best and try to help Your cause."
Calthos listens quietly.
Thirston Muglicker asks "You look to us to do what,Lord of Roses?"
[Lord of Roses]: "My men are known to the Dragonarmy.My Knights are powerful forces for good,yet our measure holds us to ideals that can not be compromised,and the Dragonarmy uses this to their advantage.When we first came to this world,my father Ascoss bore a dragonlance.It is in the dragonarmy's hands now.This single lance,though a powerful item indeed,is a symbol more than anything else.We need that lance.I can not send a troop of Knights to Melvaunt to retrieve it."
[Atheina]: "So we are to retrieve this lance. What dangers do you foresee my lord.?"
Wandan smiles "We'll help You noble cause my lord" looks at Thirston for support
Thirston Muglicker shrugs,"you know me Wandan..always one for a good fight...Im in"
[Andor "It would be an honor to retrieve your fathers lance my lord"
[Calthos]: "Sounds like an interessting task".
Wandan smiles "I thought so good dwarf... another adventure for us.I hope it will be a good one."
[Lord of Roses]: "If we had the lance,it would bolster morale.there are other plans in motion,but this one specifically I ask of you.As for dangers,there are many.Melvaunt is a large city,and quite the trade centre.Entering should be no problem.Retrieving this lance will entail entrance into Solomon's citadel.I know not what manner of fell creatures my uncle supports these days.though you can be sure they are deadly."
Thirston Muglicker smiles "yup yup"...and with that he downs the last of his ale and puts down his mug
Wandan drinks some wine and listens with interest
Atheina says after a pause. "What aid will be of available to us then my lord?"
[Wandan]: "We are not afraid of evil sire... I hope we will be capable to retrive dragonlance to your noble knights."
[Calthos]: "We might need some help regarding our equipment."
Andor "Yes, we would be grateful for any help"
[Lord of Roses]: "There is another matter,that I wish to bring to your attention,as it is of great import to our allies in Phlan.My knights,and the forces of Phlan,have not been able to find the source of orcish bands in their region.If you come across any information on a number of orcs,their base,or who they work for if not themselves,please inform my Knights,or the Holy Justice of Tyr in Phlan."
[Wandan]: "We will good sire... We are honored to help You and Your cause."
Andor bows "of course my lord"
[Lord of Roses]: "As for aid available to you,I can offer to equip you with whatever you need from our stores."
[Calthos]: "That would help already, my lord."
[Atheina]: "Horses to aid our travel will be appreciated my lord."
[Lord of Roses]: "They will be made available to you.Speaking of which,Sir Wandan,two hundred and firty of the realms finest heavy warhorses in six months,eh?"The lord of Roses has a small smile at the momentary discussion of trade.
[Wandan]: "Yes my lord, as we agreed."
Atheina nods. "You have my aid as Tempus willing my lord."
Wandan bows slightly
[Calthos]: "I will help you, my lord."
[Lord of Roses]: "Any other items of power you happen to wrest from the hand of our nemesis,would be yours to keep of course."
Andor bows "I gladly fight for a noble cause"
[Atheina]: "So when will you prefer we set off on this journey my lord?"
Thirston Muglicker listens quietly
[Lord of Roses]: "I will caution you to not overly rush this quest.I would rather it take you a few months,and you live,then find your heads in a shipment of spice from melvaunt,because you were rash,or underestimated your opponents.Whatever transpires,steer clear of Solomon.His power is immense,and not to be trifled with,unless you have a battery of arch-mages in your employ.I would also warn against crossing swords with his son,Brona.I have lost many brave souls to that man's swordarm."
Atheina nods. "If that is all my lord, I will return to my chambers."
Andor nods "My sword never turns from a mage with an evil heart, but I hear your words of wisdom"
[Lord of Roses]: "I believe that I have empowered you with a fine entrance to Melvaunt."Lord of Roses looks to Wandan,"As a horse trader with such a large stock,you will be easier able to cozy up to the high,and mighty of Melvaunt.I would suggest your retrieving the horses from Mulmaster,and then going to Melvaunt."
Wandan nods "We'll bring the lance my lord."
[Calthos]: "Can you support us with maps?"
[Lord of Roses]: "That will be all,and I thank you for listening to the words of an old man.May Paladine keep you safe in your journeys.Aye,you shall have a map detailing the region to our knowledge."
Atheina says. "And you my lord." as she walks out of the room.
[Calthos]: "And your merchants know we can equip us there for free?"
Wandan smiles and says "I'll have to go first to my home to settle things about the horses then I'll do everything to help the quest."
Andor bows "Thank you good lord, I look forward to fulfilling your quest", after another bow, he turns to leave for his chambers
[Lord of Roses]: "Not merchant stores,from my castle stores.Within reason,yes,you will be equipped properly.Jake will see to it."
Wandan stands up "It was pleasure talking to You my lord. I hope we will see You soon."
[Calthos]: "Thank you my lord, I will return to my chamber now".
Wandan bows and walks out of the room
Lord of Roses turns back to to dancing flames of the fireplace,lost in thought.
Jake waits outside the chamber."Provide me with a list of equipment you will need for your travels,lords and Ladies,and I shall endeavour to assemble such for you."
Calthos nods at Jake.
Atheina nods and says "Thank you." as she retires for the night.
Andor greets jake, "a shield would be most welcome",and continues to his chambers
[Wandan]: "I don't need anything right now, thank You Jake." and walks to his room
Thirston Muglicker pauses watching the Lord of roses a moment as he stiars at the flames...Mutters under his breath "And so it begins Lord.....So it begins" then turns and exits the room
Thirston Muglicker needs a helm and a shield..not a large one just a regular round shield
You awake in the night to an explosion,followed by screams of pain,and the clamor of battle.The clarion call of a horn is heard in the distance,and another explosion rocks the very stone beneath your feet.A loud boom echoes outside the window,as a gargantuan black dragon wings past.Astride the dragon,you catch a glimpse of a black robed humanoid figure,holding aloft a staff with a blinding silver light atop it.
Andor jumps to his feet, equips himself and runs out to find out whats happening
Wandan wakes up and jumps on his feet taking his sword and lether armor then runs to another room to wake up Thirston
Atheina puts on her armor as calmly as she can manage, picks up her sword and shield and rushes out of her room.
The scene before you is hopeless,as the ranks of Knights swarming into the streets are cut down in swaths by the breath of dragons,spells of Black Robed Mages,and swords of draconians.You see a small company of Crown Knights executing a fighting retreat through one of the many breaches in the castle walls.No banners fly,no horns sound,and you are left to assume that the Knight Lords are incapacitated,dead,or missing.
Thirston Muglicker is already awake..gear over his shoulder shield on his back,axes in hand..he follows Wandan
Andor rushes to help the retreating knights
Wandan runs out to meet with the rest of the company
Calthos stands up and takes his sword.
Atheina grabs one of the knights and asks "Where is the Lord of Roses?"
Calthos runs outside.
Wandan follows Andor and draws his sword charging at the nearest enemy
Andor stumbles,his foot catching on something,as you steal a quick glance behind to ensure you are not followed too closely.Looking down,you are horrified to see the half-charred remains of Lord of Roses,Brae Greyhawk,armour blackened,shield melted.His longsword lays a foot from his right hand,it's lack of any damage out of place amidst the surrounding area where the fireball exploded.
Atheina picks up the sword and tosses it to Calthos. "Here use this. I am sure it be of use."
You are attacked by five human Dragonarmy soldiers.
Calthos takes the sword and thanks Atheina.
Thirston Muglicker charges into battle both of his axes swinging madly....
Calthos attacks the dragonarmy soldiers with the new sword.
Thirston Muglicker swings wildy as if almost in rage and misses the enemy.Thirston Muglicker tries to calm himself afore the next round
The Dragonarmy soldeir bring his longsword down at Thirston,and misses him by a few inches.
Atheina unshealths her sword and swings at the closest soldier.
Calthos attacks the dragonarmy solder with the new longsword he took from the lord.
The Dragonarmy soldier howls as the sword bites deep into his shield arm,near severing it.The wounded soldier screams with rage,and returns the blow upon Calthos' left leg.
Wandan stops his charge and takes his bow than fires his arrows at nearest enemy.One of Wandan's arrows catches the wounded soldier in the shoulder,spinning him half around,to drop lifeless on the cobblestones.
Greenflower murmurs in a raspy laguage,moving her hands about in a ball.A gleaming missile of magical energy streaks out,and strikes a Dragonarmy soldier in the chest.
The Dragonarmy soldier takes a short stab at Atheina's midriff,missing slightly,as she sucks in her ribs quickly
Andor swings his longsword at the nearest dragon mecenary.
Atheina slashes at the soldier that tries to cut her midriff open as she screams a cry of battle.The soldier gurgles blood,as he collapses at Atheina's feet.
The soldier takes a lunge at Thirston,and scores a mere scratch upon the dwarf's right shoulder.
This dragonarmy soldier,seeing two of his fellows fall,charges Andor with his sword leading,and nearly trips over Thirston in his rage.
Greenflower reaches out with her staff,and bonks the soldier running over Thirston soundly on the head.The man slumps to the ground snoring.
The soldier takes another slash at Thirston,missing this time.He appears to be a little shaken with the recent turn of events against his comrades.
Thirston Muglicker SCREAMS "TAKE THAT YO SCALE COVERED SMELLY END OF A PIG!!!!" Two of the dragonarmy soldiers near Thirston fall to his whirling axes>
Thirston Muglicker says,"Sword,my arse!"
Calthos swings his sword at the soldier,and misses.
Andor swings at the foe before him.The remaining soldier howls as Andor's blade slices tendons in his eapon arm,dropping his sword.
Atheina walks to Calthos's side and says "Take great care of that sword my friend. The sword guide's the wielders hand causing more dmg and greater accuracy then a normal sword of it's kind."
The soldier grabs his bleeding arm,and tries to run away into the chaos of battle in the street.
Calhos looks at Atheina and says "Thanks alot, my lady. You are not only good in battle you know alot about Swords too". and smiles.
Wandan fires another burst of arrows at the remaining enemy
Andor kneels at the side of the lod of roses and says a prayer of tyr
The retreating Dragonarmy soldier is brought down with one of wandan's arrows through his back
Thirston Muglicker Screams "WANDAN...WHERE YA BE BOY!!!"
Thirston Muglicker smiles as he sees Wandan is ok......
Wandan smiles when he hears Thirston yells and says "How are You going there Thirston"
Atheina heads left to aid the Knights running into battle screaming "For Tempus!"
Thirston Muglicker looks to the Imidiate threat....
Wandan approaches Andor "Where shall we go now?"
Calthos turns around to help the Knights fighting draconians at hole in the castle wall.
Andor stands,"we need to help the knights", he follows athenia
Thirston Muglicker charges in with Calthos
Wandan follows Andor runing and ready to fire his bow at the nearest enemy
One of the draconians turns to swing his shortsword at Atheina as she charges into the fray,and strikes a good blow on her side.
Calthos attacks the draconian next to him with an battlecry.The draconians hisses with hate as Calthos' new sword slices clean through it's right leg,as the creature turns to stone upon death.
Atheina screams with rage and tries to slice he draconian in half.
Calthos looks confused at the creature that turned to stone.
Atheina's blade shatters as she misses the draconian,and brings it full force upon the cobblestone street.Atheina watches as her blade breaks apart.
Wandan stops and fires his arrows at the nearest enemy.Wandan's arrow takes one draconian in the chest,enraging the thing further.
Greenflower,spell exhausted,swings her staff at the draconian with an arrow in it's chest,hitting it a decent wallop about the head.
The draconian returns Greenflowers violence in kind,with a nasty stab to her stomach.Greenflower falls unconscious.
Andor enraged by the presence of such foul and evil magically creatures, runs towards the nearest one, jumps off a pile of rubble and swings his word down over the draconians head with a battlecry
Thirston pauses from battle to look at Andor flying across the sky...almost sheds a tear with nastalga reminding him of fighting with his brethren..Gets really pumped and dives into battle
Andor's blade sinks deep into the draconians flesh,slaying the thing.He grunts to release his sword from the stone statue that is the draconian.
Thirston screams "AAAARRRRRGGGGGGHHHHH"
Thirston has no problem retrieving his axe from the stone figure odf the dead draconian,as he cleaved it clean from head to tail.
As the last draconian blocking your exit falls,you hear a deafening roar from above.Looking to the sky you see a gold dragon ally of the Knights engaged in aerial battle with a black dragon nearly twice it's size.The battle is short,as the black dragon speaks in the draconic tongue,and the gold dragon is blasted to nothingness with a rainbow ray shooting forth from the black dragon's mouth.
The way of escape is clear,and the small band of Knights use it quickly,bearing their wounded.Greenflower lays upon the street,still breathing,yet unconscious.
Wandan looks at the sky and prays to Tymora to save them
Atheina looks at her blade and says "I will have to replace that one."
Calthos looks at the scene at the sky and hides in an entrance from a building.
Thirston scoops Greenflower up
Calthos hands Atheina his old Longsword.
Wandan approaches Atheina "Can You heal our friend" looks at Greenflower
Thirston says.."lets be away from here afore we are all taken to the otherside."
Atheina accepts and says to Wandan "Not here. This is not the time and place." and heads inside.
The battle in the streets is quickly going in favour of the invading Dragonarmy.Small pockets of Knights resist the draconians to the last man.Valiantly,but in vain.
Thirston says "we gotsa go"
Andor yells "well said good dwarf" and follows thirston, watching his back
Calthos follows Thirston.
Thirston heads out away from the invasion
Andor whistles for his warhorse
[Thirston is running away from the BIG armies...
Wandan runs following Thirston
You follow the group of Knights out of the city,and into the wastelands.Plenty of horses are to be had for the journey,as a few Knights had the presence of mind to round up wagons,and such during the flight.The night sky bears no stars to light the way,only enhancing the glow from the now burning city of Glister.
Thirston heads for the nearest and clear ally, building, woodline, ditch...whatever will give them time to asses the situation and make a plan.
Thirston gets Greenflower onto a wagon and then tell Wandan..yo can help the las now boy...Yanks him up onto the wagon and lets him get to work
Andor looks for his horse
Wandan nods "All right."
Thirston looks at the chink in his chainmail..."dam bug faced worm dogs dented me pa's armor"
Thirston looks for the leader of what is left of the Knights.
Atheina says "let me take a look at her" saying as she waves her hand in to a symbol and mutters "By Tempus's will, should this being still yet has a purpose here, do heal her.' and touches Greenflower.
Andor says while searching for his horse, "not the best start of a quest..."
The 'leader' of the Knights is one Sir Jacob D'Abo of the crown.The man looks an awful lot like Jake the paige boy.
Wandan sayS "Yes You are righ noble paladin... and have You seen those big black dragon... scary..."
[Calthos]: "Now we know what we have to expect on our journey, draconians that turns to stone. Odd creatures...".
Thirston looks at Andor "not so sure its the right quest anymore lad, depends on how many knights are left. The lance for them was a symbol, but if they are now only a few it might not be all that inspring anmore. Although we did give our word that we would get it for them. Guess we will have to talk about it
GreenFlower awakes thanks to the ministrations of Altheina."I thank you,Atheina.Are we safely away?"
Thirston asks Jacob what his count is
Atheina says "Before we go on any quest, I will require that we go to a Temple of Tempus. I need my blade replaced."
[Sir Jacob D'Abo]: "Twelve able to fight,and seven more injured.Not good,friend Thirston,but much better than none."
Thirston asks Jacob if they have any blades in there wagons
Andor looks troubled,"quest or no quest, I must do what I can to stop these foul creatures"
Thirston agrees with Andor
Wandan noDS At Andor "You are right ... I am with You in this."
Calthos looks at Thirston and says "We should get the lance for them back, even if there are only a few Knights left. If it help to stop these creatures everything is fine with me".
Thirston asks Jacob.."How many TOTAL in your armies are left..or was this your entire force?"
[Sir Jacob D'Abo]: "We have a few weapons in that wagon," Jacob points to one of three wagons,"If you are in need,by all means,arm yourselves.We may need your arms again before this night is through."
[Atheina]: "It does not matter how many is left. This dragon army treat will spread to all of Faerun if we let it. If this lance will work against such an army, then retrive it we must."
Calthos asks Jacob "Do you have any ally`s who could help you?".
Andor trys to devide his attention between searching for his horse and trying to detect the presence of evil
[Thirston ]: "From what I understand the Lance was only symbolic"
Calthos goes to the wagon Jacob pointed at and takes a look at the weapons.
[Sir Jacob D'Abo]: "We travel to Giant's head waystation.I hope that Thaeron Silversword is still alive with his troop.I am not privy to how many Knights survive at this time,friend Thirston."
[Wandan]: "We'll do everything to help You sire.Please tell me something about the dragonlance... Would it be of great help if we had it now with us."
[Thirston ]: "well enuff Jacob, I (we?) travel with you then until the crossing
Calthos nods at Thirston. "Sounds like a plan".
[Sir Jacob D'Abo]: "The dragonlance is more than symbolic,it is an artifact from our fathers' world.It was forged to destroy dragons,and this particular one is said to have been borne by none other than Human Dragonbane himself."
Wandan asks "Can it kill dragons?"
[Thirston ]: "well we are bound to get it regardless...so let us make haste....prepare for our journey as it seems that time is of the essence here"
[Sir Jacob D'Abo]: "That is what it is created to do,friend Wandan.It is said that the mightier the hero,the more devastating the lance upon a dragon.Though I suppose that can be said of any weapon."
[Andor "Agreed"
Atheina sits in the wagon and nurses her wounds while the rest decides what to do.
Wandan nods "I understend sire, If we can get it back it would be of great help then."
Thirston grabs his gear, checks on the others and is now prepared to head out on this most Knoble of quests.!!
[Calthos]: "When are you and your Knights ready to start the journey?"
Andor makes an account of his weapon and armour, seeing if there is any damage and cleaning off soot from the ashes of the dead
[Thirston]As he checks on the others he fills everyone in on what is happening as best he can
Wandan thanks Jacob and goes over to help Thirston to get ready for the trip to Giants head
You travel throughout the night,on the way to Giant's Head.You reach your destination after about five hours,and though there seems to have been battle here as well,it does not look any worse for wear than it did when Thirston,Wandan,and GreenFlower left it a day ago.
Sir Thaeron Silversword greets Sir jacob,and yourselves,and offers sleeping quarters in the waystation.You can see the rooftop bristling with Knights bearing crossbows,and the inn common room is filled with Knights bearing melee arms.
Andor nods his acceptance to the knight, and heads for his room, "lets hope this rest is more soothing than the last..."
Calthos thanks Sir Jacob.
Thirston catches only a few short hours...not feeling right sleeping while others pull his share of the guard and gets up..packs food, water, a waterproof tarp, rope, torches, and clothing into his newly aquired LARGE pack
The common room of the inn hiolds more than just Knights.Mixed in are caravan guards,armed maids,and even an elf in green-tinged elven chain armour.
Atheina nods and heads to a sleeping quarter to renew her faith and gets some rest.
Thirston,once done goes down to the commons and orders a few ales....
Wandan goes to sleep and get some rest after helping Thirston
Calthos goes to his room to get rest from the battle.
Thirston also order 1 gut buster and a large glass of goats milk
Your sleep is restful,if not peaceful.Images of the dying filling even the strongest mind with nightmares.
Thirston sits at a table waiting for his friend..thinkng over all the information he has in his head over and over
Wandan drinks milk with Thirston then goes to sleep
Andor able to sleep, comes down and joins thorstin and orders a milk
Maid says to Thirston."You will have to serve yourself,sir,as it is my turn to stand watch on the road.".She then hoists her bow,and leaves the inn.
Thirston says "Wait!" to the maid....
[Maid]: "Aye?"
Thirston grabs her by the arm as she she heads off......"You rest and serve my friends..I will take your watch"...he looks at Wandan and says ."Come get me when we are ready to leave"
Thirston heads out the door taking the maids watch
Andor finishes his milk, and join thiston on watch
Atheina orders some wine and the cook's special and takes her seat at the table.
Thirston looks over his shoulder as he exits the door.."And stay out of my ale!!"
Wandan nods "All right" and goes upstairs
Sir Thaeron Silversword adresses those in the common room."Gather everything you can,and fill the wagons.We head for the safety of Phlan in an hour.The White Robes have sent magical messages to other outposts,rallying them to that city.We must abandon our home for a time,until we can regroup,and reclaim Thar from the Dragonarmy."
Atheina nods, finishing her food and wine, and gathers her stuff, ready to go.
Wandan stands up and prepares himself for the road then goes over to get Thirston
Calthos gets his stuff together and is ready to leave.
The next hour passes quickly,as all scramble to put anything of use,and worth,into present merchant wagons for the trip to Phlan.None look overly happy about leaving,but they are resolved to follow the orders of their commanding Knight.
Thirston travels with Wandan and sharpens his axes
Andor mounts his new horse and travels besides the merchants wagon
Soom,all are ready to leave,and what seems to be an innocent merchant caravan leaves the waystation.You hold the count of available combatants at sixty,not including yourselves.
Thirston follows the caravan..walking mostly
Calthos follows the caravan and looks watchful around if he spots any signs of enemys.
Wandan walks with Thirston talking with him
The 5th of Flamerule passes without incident,as the cravan moves quickly as it can towards Phlan.Watches are set in groups of six,with your party taking third shift.
Your watch goes by without incident,and the night is cool,and peaceful.In the morning,camp is broken,as the caravan sets off once more on it's journey to Phlan.The end of the day finds you cresting a last hill before Citadel Ankhalus,the largest outpost of Knights outside of Glister itself.
Sir Jacob D'Abo "Citadel Ankhalus,fiefdom of Lord Warrior Mantice Greyhawk.He is the younger cousin of the Lord of Roses." jacob's face clouds over at the thought of his dead lord.
Atheina looks on and says "How long more till we reaches Phlan?"
The caravan is greeted at the gates of Citadel Ankhalus by a troop of six Knights.Sir Thaeron Silversword addresses them as they approach."Hail,brothers,is the lord Warrior present?"
Jacob turns to Atheina,"Two days ride from here,Battleguard Atheina."
Atheina nods her thanks and stares silently for the rest of the journey.
One of the Knights replies,"Aye,he awaits you within his halls.He plans to move out at dawn,accommodations have been prepared for you all."
Thirston grabs a few extra days of rations
Wandan nods and thanks the man
Thirston tries to get the party togeather before they head out so that they might discuss there course for heading west..
The caravan enters the Citadel,which is merely a glorified barracks.Huge,and well built defensively,but spartan in demeanor.There are a few hundred Knights,and men-at-arms busying themselves with preparing to join your journey to Phlan.
Calthos nods at Thirston.
Atheina says "I think the lord warrior will want us to stay the night."
Sir Jacob D'Abo "I must inform the Lord Warrior of his cousin's passing.Be ready to leave at dawn,if you still choose to come with us to Phlan."
Calthos nods at Atheina and says "We move on in the dawn".
Sir Jacob,and Sir Thaeron dismount,and enter the keep to meet with the Lord Warrior.You are left to your own devices.A room has been set aside for your party's use this night.
Wandan goes to the room and lies to rest after he eats his rations
Thirston asks the group "what shall be our course of action heading east..It s my suggestion that we either head south and travel along the coast or we head back northa nd cut across open country side the reason being is that if the "Lord of roses" was being attacked so often then there was no lack of spies among his own.. and that if there were then the word of us looking for this lance will have already spread. Bounty hunters rouges and brigands of all will be after us to keep us from our goal
[Atheina]: "Going south seems a good choice. Maybe by boat. As the recently dead lord suggested, using Wandan's horse merchant status is a good idea."
[Wandan]: "Maybe You are right about that. And we have to look for orcs to inform the knights>"
[Calthos]: "What is safer, south or west? What do you think?"
[Atheina]: "West will be where we don't want to go, Calthos."
[Thirston]: "im thinking that going back north and heading east wil;l be best but the coast and the boat will def be faster"
[Atheina]: "If we can get a boat that is. Either way will be fine. Tempus guides my hands."
[Thirston]: "what say you Andor?"
Wandan nods "Yes it would be faster.. maybe we souldn't go across the open country."
[Calthos]: "I dont like boats, I would prefer the land if possible".