The elven scouts who led the attack take you and several dozen prisoners who escaped from other wagons into the woods. After many minutes of hurried travel into the deepening woods, the tall elf in charge calls a halt; the rescued sit down and take a moment to rest in a clearing bright with morning dew and striped by the shadows of tall pines. Several scouts keep watch for any pursuers, arrows nocked in their great curved bows.
Hawkeye leans up agaisnt a tree, taking a few deep breaths obviously still hurting from the earlier encounter
Hawkeye: Where are we headed?
Vexin Sixtoes climbs a tree, exploring his new Leapord body
Taurus keeps quiet for the most part as they move through the forest at the behest of the taller elf. Taking a few moments to catch his breath - travel in full plate somewhat exhaustive - he looks to Hawkeye wondering the same thing.
Taurus: I'll find out.
Taurus approaches who appears to be in charge.
Taurus: Ho there fey.
Taurus quietly catches himself, clearing his throat and then bowing to the Elven quite deeply.
Taurus: Forgive me, M'Lord. I wasn't aware --
Zhage walks over to a tree and leans against it holding his stomach.
Jeren takes the oppurtunity to look over the blacksmith's wounds. She was hoping against hope that the traveling would not aggrivate his injuries.
Porthios shakes his head and raises his hand to have taurus stop
Vexin Sixtoes bounds around the elves, making a series of odd growls... in an effort to speak
Hawkeye gestures for Vexin to come over towards him
Porthios (looking past Taurus): where is my brother?
Vexin Sixtoes and Skitters each take a side of Hawkeye
Zhage pulls out his spell book and attempts to learn a few spells in the off chance of a attack.
Hawkeye reaches down and pets Vexin n the head
Taurus raises from his bow and stands there quietly, having been in the presence of royalty before.
Gilthanas spots the Elven captain and approaches, holding his wounds as he does so
Gilthanas: We was talk, my brother.
Porthios nods
Taurus looks in the direction of Gilthanas, guaging his wounds.
Porthios walks to the edge of the clearing with Gilthanas where they begin to speak in elven. It becomes quite animated
Taurus assuming he is dismissed he returns to his party, looking between them to guage who is wounded.
Taurus (Quietly): Is everyone alright?
Hawkeye: I'll survive, I suppose
Taurus (Quietly): And.. Theros.. is he...?
Jeren (whisper): The smith appears to be fine...
Taurus nods quietly, patting Hawkeye's shoulder. Giving him a grin.
Taurus: That'll teach you for taking on an army yourself, no?
Hawkeye: Well, I figured the brave knight would fight the tugher foes, not stay back and beat on goblins...
Taurus laughs
Taurus: Tis the job of a Knight not only to defeat evil but to defend the weak.
Theros Stirs as his eyes flutter open.
Hawkeye (laughing softly): Beat on the weak as well, eh?
Jeren chuckles a little, "Which weak were you defending Taurus?"
Hawkeye coughs slightly, the exertion of laughing still hurting somewhat form his injuries
Taurus lowers down beside Theros, removing the top from his waterskin and placing it to the mans lips. Letting that be answer enough to Jeren.
Theros: Thank you.
Jeren notices Theros and moves immediatley to assist him, "Stay calm friend, you're safe here..." she whispered softly
Theros takes a deep swig from the waterskin
Vexin Sixtoes scratches a picture of a dragon in the dirt while he listens to the elves speak
Taurus hands the waterskin to Jeren so she can assist Theros.
Hawkeye continues ot pet Vexin's head.
Zhage: Vexin, let them talk... they seem to need their own time.
Hawkeye: So, I wodner if Veixn will be stuck like this...?
Taurus: You had us worried there for a moment friend. Thought you'd take on the whole army yourself? Like Hawkeye over there?
Taurus shoots a look in the direction of Vexin.
Taurus: He is remarkably... quiet.
Gilthanas and the captain seem to conclude their conversation and the scout captain addresses the refugees
Hawkeye: It wouldn't be a bad thing I think
Vexin Sixtoes scratches into the dirt "I'm listening", and wipes it away with his paw as soon as Zhage reads it
Porthios: People of Solace, I am Porthios. The Dragon Highlord holds you no longer; you are free to go where you please. Where that is I cannot say, for the land is wracked by their evil. We cannot offer you sanctuary in Qualinesti, for our land is under as much danger as yours. However, we can offer you safe passage through our forest; you may find safety in lands south of Pax Tharkas. Those who so desire, go with my scouts they will guide you swiftly and safely.
Porthios (Turns to you): I would ask that you please accompany my brother Gilthanas and me back to Qualinost. He has told me something of your story; it would please our father, the Speaker of the Sun, to learn more of your tale. The full hospitality of the people of Qualinesti is yours.
Zhage (in Kenderspeak): As am I.
Vexin Sixtoes growls happily
Taurus conciders the words of Porthios, glancing between the party. Rising to a somewhat semblance of formality he bows his head to the Elf.
Taurus: We would be honored to travel with you, M'Lord.
Jeren purses her lips at the Elves words, however she keeps her eyes on Theros
Refugee: You can't just leave us here!
Hawkeye muses on the fact that they said their father was the Speaker of the Sun...
Porthios (tio the refugee): It is the only way. You might find safer lands south. you will be safe
Taurus: However, I would request, humbly, that you spare some of our men to escort these fair people to safety. Otherwise it is a task that we must ourselves complete.
Zhage glances up from his book, looks towards Taurus, and simply nods.
Vexin Sixtoes entertains himself by extending and retracting his claws
Refugee Turns to Taurus.
Jeren still busying herself with Theros asks the man quitely,
Jeren: Are you comfortable?
Refugee: You need not be concerned. They will be under the care of my own personal men. No harm will come to them. I give you my word.
Taurus inclines his head once more.
Theros: Yes, thank you, young lady.
Taurus: Then I accept, Lord Porthios.
Porthios Nods with satasfaction.
Porthios: then we will be off.
The tall elf called Porthios leads the way through the pine forest. As dawn creeps to daylight, a deep roaring sound thunders in the far distance. After several hours, it becomes apparent that the source of the sound is a huge waterfall, plummeting from an unimaginable height.
Vexin Sixtoes pounces into a tree, walks the length of the limb, then drops back by Hawkeye's side as he walks forward
Hawkeye: It's almost like having a new pet...
Zhage stands and places his spellbook back in his pack and follows the rest.
Taurus leaves his waterskin with Theros after a quiet goodbye to the smith of Solace. Stepping in toe he hangs back some to converse with his party.
Vexin Sixtoes growls and rises a brow ridge at Hawkeye
Jeren gives another soft chuckle as she watches the antics of Vexin.
Zhage (to Hawkeye): Wonder if he would play fetch..
Hawkeye (to Zhage): We should try it...
Taurus: Does anyone know of the Speaker of the Sun?
Vexin Sixtoes bites Zhage's hand softly
Hawkeye shakes his head
Hawkeye: Other than the fact that he's the ruler of Qualinesti, I fdon't know anything..
Hawkeye: It's rare humans are allowed in the elven lands
Zhage: Hey.. I was only kidding...
Jeren: All will be revealed in time no doubt...
The path westward is blocked by a massive gray cliff of dark granite. The pines march right to the cliff base; from there, smooth stone ascends for nearly a mile. A fringe of green at the summitsuggests that more forest lies beyond.
Porthios leads the way through a babbling stream to the base of the falls, where a deep, clear pool collects the outflow of the towering spume. Stepping nimbly from rock to rock, the elf crosses the pool and enters a darkened hollow that gapes behind the waterfall.
Taurus (Quietly): Perhaps we might keep the secret of the disks just that, until we know where he stands on the issue.
Hawkeye nods, glad that Vexin can't speak right now
Here, a steep stairway, cut from the living rock of the cliff-face, begins to ascend. A curtain of silvery water reflects light onto the secret way. The path is strangely easy, turning beneath the waterfall until it finally emerges under a clear autumn sun atop the high plateau of Qualinesti.
Vexin Sixtoes bounds through the waterfall
Jeren sighs as she coaxes Tahbor into the water. The large black steed eyeing it suspiciously
Taurus trudges right through the pools of water, not even attempting to skip as daintily from rock to rock as the elf; success near impossible.
Zhage stops short and takes in the sight of the waterfall and Jeren mounted on he horse.
Vexin Sixtoes shakes the water off himself next to Taurus
Taurus pulls his cloak around him tightly to protect his armor from the water, peering all the way up the waterful. Pausing, he just looks at Vexin..
Aspen forests shiver in the noon brightness, the trunks gleaming in ivory whiteness. The fresh, earthy scent of moss rides the air. A soft trail spread with evergreen needles seems to appear magically before Porthios as he leads the way further into the wood.
Hawkeye: This place is beautiful... truly..
After several more hours of providing a smooth path through the woods, the needle-strewn forest floor ends abruptly in front of a deep chasm. Rolling blankets of moss coat both sides of the hundred-footwide gap; billowing mist far below suggests that rapid waters cut along the chasm bottom. A narrow footbridge, suspended from sturdy aspens, spans the chasm.
Taurus: Aye, I have never seen such a sight of nature...
Gilthanas: Qualinost is protected on all sides by such barriers. Yet I fear that even these will be of little aid against the Dragonarmies.
Hawkeye: A man could easily spend his entire life in these forests and be happy
Across the bridge, a few slim towers appear through the aspens ahead. Now Porthios walks with a bouncing step, like a traveler who sees his home on the horizon. The dense aspen forest thins out in front of the spires and arches of Qualinost. The city is small by human standards; by the same token, no humans could ever build a city like this. Four slender towers lined with silver mark the four corners of the roughly square city. Between each of these towers, strings of slender arches, also silver, stretch in an elegant chain.
Zhage: Only if he had company..
Taurus: I hope you're not concidering retiring Hawkeye, not so early.
Vexin Sixtoes growls in assent with Hawkeye's statement
Hawkeye: I don't think you'll let me retire, Taurus..
Hawkeye: You have Dragons to slay still it appears
Taurus: That we do.
Jeren whispers softly to Tahbor... "Bet the water doesn't seem so bad now hmmm?"
Hawkeye gazes in awe at the elven archtecture before him
A high tower of burnished gold dominates the city, throwing off sunlight in a whirling, sparkling pattern that gives the impression of movement. Of course, the tower is quite still, but the illusion is very realistic indeed.
Taurus lifts his eyes towards the spires, and though there is awe in his eyes his mind dwells on other matters.
Beyond the arches, the wide, quartz-lined avenues of the city lie dappled in the strange green forest light. Many of the city buildings are made of quartz as well, and aspen beams inlaid with silver and gold. The buildings are tall and slender, blending gracefully with the many aspens that fill the city.
And everywhere, in stark contrast with the serene timelessness of the structures and forest, there is frantic activity. Female elves and elf-children either rush about carrying large bundles toward the central tower or scamper in and out of houses, empty-handed. The adult males bristle with graceful weapons and prickly alertness, ready to meet any foe.
Hawkeye: How do they make such things out of the rocks themselves like this?
Taurus: Perhaps.. they simply ask?
Hawkeye: I'm being serious, Taurus..
Taurus: As am I friend, story's always tell of the Elves afinity to commune with nature...
Gilthanas Had been walking with Porthios but falls back to the rest of the party.
Hawkeye: Vexin can commune with nature, but I doubt he can shape rocks into houses
Vexin Sixtoes bites Hwkeye's hand gnetly
Taurus: With faith, anything is possible.
Hawkeye: Ow..
Taurus looks down at Vexin.
Taurus: I think he's hungry.
Jeren: They're also long lived... I'm certain time plays a large part in the creation of these structures...
Taurus quickens his step to walk beside Gilthanas, lowering his voice.
Hawkeye: What do you feed a Kender turned cat?
Vexin Sixtoes nuzzles Taurus after the statement about faith
Hawkeye nods towards Jeren
Taurus (Quietly): I apologise for my behavour earlier M'Lord, I was not aware you were of noble birth.
Taurus ruffles Vexin's fur absently with his gauntletted fingers.
Jeren (chuckles): as for what to feed Vexin... I'm not sure I've got any idea about that
Gilthanas (smiles): It is not a problem. This sort of thing suits my brother more than I.
Gilthanas pats the knight on the shoulder
Hawkeye: I guess goblin wasn't tasty..
Zhage: Perhaps a rat?
Taurus smiles, nodding.
Vexin Sixtoes growls at Zhage
Jeren: Don't like rats eh Vexin?
Gilthanas: My friends, we will soon be at the Tower of the Sun where you will be able to address my father.
Zhage: Or perhaps a bat?
Hawkeye: I wodner how long the peace and quie.. er.. how long Vexin will stay a cat..
Jeren: What about some of Tika
Jeren: *'s potatos?
Taurus glances around at the party, then to Gilthanas.
Hawkeye: I don't think cats eat potatos..
Vexin Sixtoes growls happily and walks by Jeren's side
Taurus: Might we have a moment before hand to freshen up, we have spent many days travel and in cages; we're hardly presentable.
Jeren grins at Vexin, "I don't know about that Hawkeye..." she murmurs scratching Vexin behind his ears
Gilthanas (shakes his head): I'm afraid not. But do not worry. Your actions will speak louder than what condition your clothes are in.
Vexin Sixtoes purrs
Taurus nods solemnly.
Porthios (turns to face the party): We are here.
Hawkeye (looking at Taurus): I'm afraid I don't know how to act before you noble types..
Porthios: Please, follow me.
Taurus comes to a halt, nodding to Porthios before commenting quietly to Hawkeye.
Jeren: Excuse me, Sir... but... my Mount
Jeren gestures to Tahbor who is walking stoicly behind her
Taurus (Whispered): Just try to avoid whispering amongst ourselves in their presence, most of noble blood hate that.
Porthios Snaps his fingers and elven warriors rush forward to take Jeren's steed from her.
Hawkeye (whispering back): You spoiling it all...
Zhage (whispered): And don't play magic tricks on them..
Taurus (Whispered): I know...
Taurus nods in agreeance with Zhage, though not capable of such actions himself.
Porthios: Help The smith off.
Hawkeye (whispering): Maybe I'll just shut up and let you and Jeren do the talking..
Jeren blinks at the sudden appearence of Elves. Offering her hand to Theros to dismount.
Vexin Sixtoes growls at Porthios, and nudges Skitters
Theros Takes Jeren's hand
Jeren: Tahbor can be a little difficult at times... I hope he does not give anyone any trouble
Taurus: Vexin.
Porthios looks at the weasel.
Taurus lowers to a crouch infront of Vexin, taking his cat-cheeks gently to meet him at eye level.
Vexin Sixtoes bares his teeth in a grin
Porthios: take the weasel as well.
Taurus: You need to focus on being a kender again. Just for this.
Taurus: ok?
Jeren smiles at the smith, "Lean on me if you need friend"
Vexin Sixtoes kneels on forlegs before Porthios
Porthios: And I am afraid that whatever spell vexes you must be dispelled. You will not be welcome inside the Tower of Sun in such a condition
Hawkeye goes over to help jeren with the smith
Taurus looks up to Porthios, then back to Vexin. Giving him an apologetic smile, not wanting to cut his fun down.
Vexin Sixtoes growls a long, keening growl as he quickly changes back into a Kender again
Vexin Sixtoes: Awww.... but I can only do that once a day...
Taurus is now holding Kender-cheeks, blinks and lets go, stepping back.
Taurus: Tomorrow is another day. *smiles*
Vexin Sixtoes (offers a hand to Porthios): Hullo! I'm Vexin Sixtoes, Dragonslayer Extraordinaire
Porthios Nods to the kender but does not extend his hand.
Porthios: come with me please
Jeren bites her lips to keep from chuckling at the kender
Taurus: We are ready, M'Lord.
Hawkeye (to himself): This is not going to go over well...
Vexin Sixtoes walks beside Portios, asking endless questions about elves, Qualinesti, and Qualinost
A pair of gilded doors swing silently open to a chamber that looks much bigger than the outside of the tower. The huge room has white marble flooring and walls. Many windows admit the sunlight and fresh air. Many elves stand here expectantly.
The tallest elf here is dressed in a resplendent yellow robe, and his hair is tinged with silver. Solostaran, Speaker of the Sun, steps forward eagerly, opening his arms to embrace Gilthanas and Porthios.
The Speaker of the Sun/Solostaran: My sons! I thought I would never meet you in this world again.
For a moment, joy rises in his voice, and then his manner becomes serious.
Solostaran: Gilthanas, what of your raid?
Gilthanas (Solemnly): Lord Speaker, my father, I have failed. We traveled with all stealth southward as was planned; yet fate had us meet a northbound army of the Dragon Highlord. I was struck upon my head and fell into a ravine, thinking that to be the end of my days upon the face of Krynn.
Gilthanas: Some time later I awoke and found tracks leading northward to Solace. Thinking to free my warriors who may have been taken prisoner, I followed. I found that Solace has been taken and its vallenwood forest razed.
Taurus peers inwards into the tower, glancing between the elves as they speak. Bowing his head just slightly to show subserviance to the nobility; though his hearing keen.
A gasp rings through the chamber at the thought of the mighty Vallenwoods being leveled
Hawkeye eyeing Taurus more than anyone else, attempts to follow suit, bowing his head slightly as well.
Gilthanas: I found my companions in the square, tied to stakes made from the fallen trees. A large red dragon soared above them. I watched the people of Solace forced into a large circle around the captives.
Gilthanas: A great and evil leader, hidden by a beastlike mask, rode the red dragon downward beside the stakes in the square. He spoke as the serpent landed: I am Verminaard, Dragon Highlord of this realm. I have need of all mortal beings in the great work of the Dragon Highlords. Those who obey shall serve me. Those who do not shall feel my wrath!
Gilthanas: Then the dragon breathed flame upon my fellows
Gilthanas voice trails off, and he gestures toward Theros Ironfeld.
Gilthanas: A kind of madness came over me, and had not this man restrained me, I too would have been burned into nothingness. He risked his life for me, and indeed, suffered the loss of his arm for the crime of protecting a frightened elf.
Zhage mouth drops open for a second, before he promply shuts it.
Vexin Sixtoes: Wow...
Hawkeye clenchs his fist angrily upon hearing what became of the people in Solace at the hands of this Dragon Highlord...
Hawkeye: Verminaard...
Taurus allows his gaze to move between the actors of this story, keeping silent until spoken to. Hearing the fate of those at Solace however made a shiver run through his spine and just slightly his eyes narrowed, just.. slightly.
Vexin Sixtoes: We should go slay THAT dragon!
Zhage: That we shouold Vexin..
Hawkeye places a hand on Vexin's shoulder, motioning him to remain silent for now..
Vexin Sixtoes: But Hawkeye...
Hawkeye: We will, Vexin.. we will..
Gilthanas: I do not know how, but Those two there... they healed Theros... and by no means that I have ever seen used
Vexin Sixtoes: Ok
Solostaran Turns to look at Jeren and Taurus
Jeren glances at Vexin and Zhage and places a finger to her lips
Taurus bows his head just a little deeper.
Jeren averts her gaze from the king, staring instead at the floor
Solostaran His gaze lowers to Taurus' neck, and you see his face flush and his jaw clenches.
Zhage does a smiple bow towards Jeren and remains silent.
Solostaran (booming): What is that you wear around your neck!!
Vexin Sixtoes: Hey I have one too! well...
Solostaran The towering elf steps towards Taurus
Vexin Sixtoes: Kindof
Taurus almost staggers from the shear weight of the Kings voice, drawing on deep reserves to keep his voice stable. Lifting his eyes slowly, to almost meet the gaze of the King.
Hawkeye: Ssshh Vexin..
Taurus: It is a symbol of my Faith, Lord.
Vexin Sixtoes: But Hawkeye...
Hawkeye: Let him address Taurus first..
Hawkeye: you'll have your moment..
Solostaran: How dare you make a mockery and defile the memory of Quen Ilumini... Much less one who is not Elven!!
Vexin Sixtoes: Hey Mr.Speaker! He doesn't mock her!!!
Jeren glances up suddenly at the kings words. Her eyes are as hard as steel.
Solostaran Reaches out to grab the medallion from the knight's neck
Hawkeye groans and bows his head low..
Taurus reaches up instinctively to grab the Elf's wrist - a big no-no on noble relations.
Jeren: You stand before a servant of the True Gods of Krynn and you dare speak of Mockery!
Solostaran As he reaches for it, a blinding flash of light reaches out from the medallion, shocking him. The Speaker of the Sun recoils in shock and the elven warriors jump forward, ready to attack
Hawkeye draws his weapons quickly, eyeing the situation...
Vexin Sixtoes: I told you...
Vexin Sixtoes: But you didn't listen, ohhhh no...
Taurus takes a step back, lifting a hand to Hawkeye to lower his weapons.
Taurus: There is no need for violence.
Taurus: Please. We have a greater foe.
Hawkeye lowers his weapons, but does not sheath them.
Solostaran raises his hand, signalling the elven warriors to lower their weapons.
Hawkeye: If they attack.. Tuarus..
Taurus nods slowly to the side, knowing Hawkeye is ready.
Taurus: The battlefield is the place for war, a noble's court is one for talk.
Taurus: Is that not true, M'Lord?
Taurus looks to the King, meeting his eyes now.
Vexin Sixtoes (mutters): ya, like grabbing other people's medallions...
Solostaran: Yes... You are correct. I... i am sorry for doubting you. (looks to the entire party as well as Taurus)
Vexin Sixtoes wags his finger at the Speaker of the Sun
Jeren nods slowly at the kings words, however her expression still remains cold
Taurus: These are troubling times M'Lord, we can all be excused of suspicion.
Solostaran: It has been so long since I have seen such a symbol. I was angry and brash...
Vexin Sixtoes: Yeeeep...
Taurus: If you will it, I can tell you how I came to be in possession of such an item.
Hawkeye (to himself): So this is the hospitality of the elves...
Jeren catching Hawkeye's muttered words, a smile flickers across Jeren's lips
Solostaran: I would be very interested in hearing your tales. If you are what I think you are... then there still may be hope for this world.
Hawkeye looks at Jeren, smiling slightly though it seems to be a bit forced
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh, he is
Vexin Sixtoes beams at Taurus
Taurus: On a night several moons ago we wielded the Blue Crystal Staff against a Dragon in the depths of Xak Tsaroth. I felt a flash of heat, I was blinded by light. And I stood before the gods.
Hawkeye: And so are you, Vexin.. and Lady jeren...
Vexin Sixtoes: The dragon that I slayed
Jeren shakes her head at the word Lady. It seems some people never listen...
Zhage: Don't call her lady Hawk.. She has made that clear before
Hawkeye flahses Jeren a much more sincere smile, knowing her reaction would be thus
Taurus: One stepped forward, a mighty man of many scars from the side of the blue lady. And around my neck he placed this meddalion.
Hawkeye: I apologize, Zhage...
Taurus: He spoke his name to me. Kiri-Joliath.
Hawkeye (whispering to Jeren): Will you ever forgive me?
Jeren raises an eyebrow, "Perhaps if you stay silent long enough for Taurus to finish his tale..."
Hawkeye laughes softly
Taurus recounts his tail with the certainty of a madman.
The chamber is filled with murmers at the metion of a true god. The Speaker of the Sun raises his hand to silence the crowd
Solostaran: That is quite the tale...
Vexin Sixtoes: And I slayed the dragon! with their help...
Taurus: ... and Vexin slayed the Dragon.
Taurus adds.
Vexin Sixtoes: See!
Gilthanas: And I have seen it in use. Look at Theros. He is living proof.
Zhage (quietly): I was slayed by the dragon..
Hawkeye: The simple fact that I still breath is proof
Solostaran Thinks on the situation for a long few minutes
Solostaran: Travellers, I shall have a place prepared for you while you are among us. Follow my daughter, and she shall see you comfortably tended. After you have had a chance to wash, eat, and sleep, I shall send for you. Time is indeed short.
An exceptionally beautiful elf maiden moves forward from the onlookers. She curtsies slightly toward the Speaker before blessing the weary travelers with a smile like a spring sunrise. Her beauty seems greater as she moves closer; yet a childlike air about her belies the wisdom in her eyes.
She glides toward the gilded doors and they part for her, almost as if a gentle gust of wind persuaded them to open. She leads the way into the sun and leaf-speckled streets of Qualinost.
Hawkeye looks at the Speaker's daughter in slight shock...
Vexin Sixtoes glances at Hawkeye and says quite loudly
Vexin Sixtoes: Hawkeye, why is your mouth hanging open?
Hawkeye quickly closes his mouth, snapping a look at Vexin
Vexin Sixtoes: What?
Hawkeye: Just tired from earlier..
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh
Taurus bows his head deeply to Solostaran, taking his leave. He turns his eyes towards the beautiful elven woman, eyes widening for just a moment; now knowing the true beauty of this fair city do not lie soley in its peaks. He almost falls over himself following
Taurus following her through the doors.
Gilthanas catches up to Taurus as he exits
Gilthanas: I have some things to attend to. I will see you later tonight. Laurana, my sister... She will take care of you and your friends.
Zhage give a small bow toward the king and then follows the remainder of the group.
Taurus (Whispered): Gilthanas, thank you for your trust. I shall not forget it.
Taurus bows deeply to Gilthanas, despite his desire for informality.
Taurus: On the eve, friend.
Hawkeye simply walks out, not bowing to anyone as he follows the elven maiden
Vexin Sixtoes: You're nto such a bad guy when you're not making me shapeshift Gilthanas...
Vexin Sixtoes walks wafter Laurana wihout waiting for a response
Gilthanas smiles to the kender as he moves off down the street in a different direction
Taurus: That... went... well...
Taurus doesnt seem so certain.
Laurana Leads the party through the beautiful autumn foliage blanketing the city and eventually leads them to a secluded grove of aspens
Jeren glances about at her companions, a little bemused by their reactions. She falls in line next to Vexin
Vexin Sixtoes: You have a very nice city here
Vexin Sixtoes: Feels like i'm at home in the forest again
Taurus peers down the edge of the great walkway, never having been so far above the forest floor except in Solace. Nodding absently in responce to Vexin's comment.
Laurana (happily): why, thank you.
Laurana: You may rest yourself here. as you can see, pears and apples are in abundance. Please, help yourself. That spring there will provide fresh water for you.
Hawkeye: Is there anyone for supplies we can buy?
Hawkeye: Armorsmith, trade goods, etc?
Zhage: Yes.. or something of the more magical sort?
Taurus: Forgive me M'Lady, but we have not been formerly introduced.
Laurana: There is not much left. Most of the items have been packed up, I'm afraid.
Laurana turns to Taurus
Laurana: hello. I am Laurana.
Laurana smiles to the kinght.
Vexin Sixtoes: We ound things that are magic that we don't know what they are Lady Laurana... can someone here tell us what they are?
Taurus smiles, stepping forward to take her hand and in a quite knightly fashion brush his lips just above it.
Taurus: I am Taurus Regulas.
Taurus: It is a pleasure to make your aquaintance.
Laurana blushes as the kinght kisses her hand
Vexin Sixtoes: Taurus, stop slobbering on her hand when I ask her a question!
Laurana (giggle): indeed!
Hawkeye: Yeah, Taurus... what would Tika think?
Taurus gently settles her hand, blinks and steps back. Cutting a look to Vexin, then smiling.
Taurus blinks dumbfounded.
Taurus: Er..
Taurus: Its custom.
Vexin Sixtoes grins
Taurus nods.
Vexin Sixtoes: With all the girls Taurus?
Hawkeye grins knowingly
Laurana Turns to the kender
Hawkeye: Yeah.. Taurus..
Vexin Sixtoes: You've done that to... oh
Taurus: Only the beautiful ones.
Vexin Sixtoes: oops
Taurus jests.
Jeren laughs at Vexin, shaking her head slightly she selects an apple for herself and takes a bite from it. Refraining from making any comment herself
Hawkeye: You didn't do it to Jeren?
Taurus: ...
Laurana: It appears that you have a Wizard of High Sorcery in your midst. Perhaps he could help you, little one.
Taurus looks to Jeren, then to Hawkeye, then back to Jeren.
Taurus: We've met.
Jeren: Of course not, Taurus is like a brother to me...
Hawkeye: Ah...
Hawkeye (to himself): Only beautiful women he has an interest in...
Vexin Sixtoes taps his foot and looks at Zhage
Vexin Sixtoes: Well Zhage, you could have TOLD me you can identify these things!
Hawkeye walks over to grab a pear and start eating before he says anything else
Taurus looks at the fruit, his stomach quietly growling at him. Wondering if it would be rude to see if they could rustle up some.. steak.
servants enter carrying trays with bread and cheese
Jeren continues eating her apple, seating herself cross legged on the ground
Taurus quietly approaches a servant, whispering; "You wouldn't happen to have any... meat... would you?"
Zhage: I didn't have time to do a complete test Vexin.
Laurana: If you wish, there are sleeping areas and bathing areas joust over there.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh ok
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh! CHEESE!
Hawkeye: Mm.. a bath and a fresh bed sounds great about now..
Servant: I will look for you, sir.
Taurus looks up and in the direction where Laurana gestures, never having thought he'd be so excited about bathing until after a week of nought.
Taurus: Thank you.
Tika: I agree!
Hawkeye: The women can go first, of course..
Taurus: It feels like its been many turns of seasons since i've even smelt soap.
Jeren: What a gentleman you are Sir Hawkeye
Tika (Playful): You bet we can!
Hawkeye: Sir?
Taurus glances to Hawkeye, nods.
Jeren gives the plainsman a mischevious grin
Hawkeye: More than happy to accoamdate you, m'LADY
Hawkeye bites deep into his apple
Goldmoon Moves towards the bathing area with Tika
Jeren stands and follows the other women
Zhage watches the trio leave.
Taurus nibbles on a bit of cheese, watching the women depart; tossing Riverwind a peach.
Riverwind Catches the fruit and nods to the kinght before taking a big bite
Hawkeye finishing his pear, he slow peels his chain shirt off, preparing for when it comes his turn to bath. A few chian links seem to be slightly stuck in his skin, as he winces painfulyl upon removing it.
Vexin Sixtoes happily stuffs his mouth with cheese and apple
Taurus: You'll all deserved this respite. I cannot imagine any companions I'd rather have at my side over the last week.
Hawkeye: Need to get that repaired and find a new shirt
Zhage moves towards a tree, sits down and grabs an apple to munch while pullin out the daggers and the spell book he found.
Laurana: If there is nothing more, then I will take my leave.
Hawkeye looks down at his now blood soaked, used to be white, linen shirt torn to shreads mostly.
Taurus bows his head to Laurana.
Taurus: Thank you M'Lady.
Hawkeye nods to Taurus
Vexin Sixtoes (with a mouth full of cheese): SOMEONE has to protect you from dragons, Taurus
Hawkeye: It's been rough, but I'm happy it was with you, old friend
Taurus: Too true Vexin.
Hawkeye: Who else had enough faith in the old gods to gain this momentous power?
Jeren returns after a short interval dressed simply in her blue tunic and dark pants, carrying her armor.
Taurus: It has taken me many years to solidify my faith Hawkeye, your's will come.
Jeren: I fear the other two ladies may be some time yet...
Taurus glances to Jeren.
Hawkeye nods to Jeren, waiting for the others to finish
Jeren: It seems they have a great love of washing their hair
Taurus: I almost don't recognise you Jeren, without goblin on your face.
Jeren: over and over again...
Talon swoops down to land on Hawkeye's arm, cocking his head from side to side to look around
Jeren chuckles at Tarus' words and sits down to begin cleaning her armor
Vexin Sixtoes laughs at Taurus' statement, spewing cheese
Zhage stares as Jeren returns. "Wow.." e mutters to himself..
Taurus blinks at Vexin and for some reason starts laughing himself, unable to stop for some time.
Hawkeye chuckles under his breath at his new friends reactions
Taurus relaxes some after a good hard laugh, releasing some of the tension that has been built up the last few days.
Jeren glances towards Zhage with an eyebrow raised, assuming his exclamation had something to do with the objects he was studying
Vexin Sixtoes: Taurus, are we staying here tomorrow or going somewhere?
Jeren: Have you found something interesting there Wizard?
Hawkeye: We need to go to Pax Tharkas, Taurus..
Zhage quickly adverts his gaze back down to the spell book he found.
Zhage: Erm.. um.. yes.
Soon, Tika and Goldmoon come back to join the group, clean and refreshed.
Hawkeye: Ah, but that is a discussion for later. That's my cue to head to the baths..
Jeren: Oh... well don't keep us in the dark! What have you discovered?
Hawkeye rises, leaving the others to discuss the magic items and such as he heads over to the bathing waters
Jeren smiles as she waits patiently for Zhage's explanation
Zhage: I found.. uh... It's time for a bath.
Zhage rises and quickly puts his items away and follows Hawkeye.
Hawkeye (when Zhage approaches): Giving up, Zhage?
Jeren shakes her head, bewildered slightly, "Are all wizards so strange?" she asks aloud
Zhage: What do you mean?
Riverwind nods to Jeren
Vexin Sixtoes inspects all the plants nearby, enjoying the ones he has never seen
Hawkeye: At your studies...
Taurus conciders Vexin's question and Hawkeyes suggestion, shaking his head slowly. "Currently we are at the whim of the Lord of this place. We will find out his intentions for us and then shall make a decision."
Zhage: Uh, yes... I fell I need a bath..
Hawkeye (nodding): I know that feeling..
Taurus gives Tika and Goldmoon a smile as they return.
Taurus: Are there fresh clothes/robes in there?
Tika (frowns): no.
Zhage shakes his head and proceeds to bathe.
you look at the plants, and although enjoyable, they do not seem to hold any extraordinary properties.
Taurus nods and begins to take off his armor, the process taking several minutes; each piece neatly set aside on the bench. Revealing he is no where near as bulky as his armor would portray; more wirey than muscular.
Hawkeye finishes cleaning up, ginerly flushing out his remaining wounds, and heads back towards the group, wearing no shirt as he sees no reason it putting the blood soaked rags back on after bathing.
Hawkeye: Anyone have a spare shirt?
Vexin Sixtoes settles down, clearly not going to take a shower, and clearly intending to sleep in the grove tonight with the plants under the stars
Jeren: I don't think mine will fit you Hawkeye...
Hawkeye: Aye, I doubt they would. You're a bit smaller a frame than I am...
Zhage returns from his bath, wearing the same robes as before, just a bit looser.
Jeren: I'm sure our hosts can provide you with one...
Taurus finishes up with his armor and then heads off in his blood/goblin drenched clothes. Whistling a happy tune.
Hawkeye: I hope Taurus gets a fresh bath.. the water I left behind was pure red it seemed..
Taurus spends almost as much time as Tika and Goldmoon - good hygene part of the Knights code!
Zhage grabs another apple and returns to his pack to contiune studing the blue spell book.
Jeren finishes up polishing her armor, the silver banded mail gleaming brightly. Not a drop of crimson left on its surface
Hawkeye sits down, leaning up against one of the trees as he grabs another piece of fruit and fills his waterskin
Once everyone has bathed, servants return, caring clean clothing made of fine silks of Qualinesti craft.
Vexin Sixtoes: Do you have anything... more colorful?
Hawkeye: Ah, just what I needed. Thank you so much
Vexin Sixtoes: Or with lots of pockets?
Servant: Please, let us take your armor and weapons. We will mend and repair any that you wish us to.
Vexin Sixtoes eyes his battered yellow-and-purple shirt with countless hiden pockets
Hawkeye grabs a plain white shirt, and quickly throws it on not being entirely comfortable not wearing a shirt with so many ladies around..
Taurus returns some minutes later in fresh linens, his other clothes washed of a majority of its stains. Setting the damp items over several branches out of view he runs his fingers back through his hair, tying it behind him with some cord.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ok, but don't forget who the powerful hoopak belongs to...
Jeren thanks the elves, handing over her armor and greatsword. Although both are clean, there are plenty of dents in the armor and the blade does look a little dull
Hawkeye eyes his armor, laying on the ground, and then hands it over a bit reluctantly, but knowing that it desperately needs repairs..
Hawkeye: I'll handle my own weapons, but my armor needs a lot of work. Thank you.
Servant: certainly.
Jeren selects some blue garments and quickly moves towards the bathing house to change into clean clothes
Taurus hands over his armor and dented shield with a Thankyou to the servants. Seated he looks around to see if they brought any game.
Zhage eyes his crossbow and hands it over.
Hawkeye pulls his whetstone and oil out and begins to sharpen his scimitar
Just as Taurus looks for meat, a steaming platter of smoked deer is brought in.
Taurus eyes light up, nostrils flare; the look of a carnivore.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh....
Taurus: Now thats what I call food!
Vexin Sixtoes: Yummy!
Hawkeye eyeing the venison with a slight glimmer in his eyes
Hawkeye: I'm glad Taurus asked for more than what they offered now..
Vexin Sixtoes: Even better than cheese!
Zhage tries to figure out what has been written in the spell book, while munching on an apple.
Taurus grins and takes the platter from the servant, slicing off huge chunks and serving them out to his comrades.
Taurus: Two pieces?
Taurus: Three...?
Taurus grins, offering.
Hawkeye: two will be plenty, I had quite a bit of fruit already..
Vexin Sixtoes takes a small piece
Jeren returns in her fresh clothing looking a little uncomfortable, she seats herself gingerly upon the ground once more and selects a small morsel of meat
Taurus grins and settles down to his meal once the others have been served, hungrily enjoying his meal though not forgetting his table ettiquette. Mostly.
Hawkeye eyes Jeren return
Hawkeye: You alright?
Zhage onces again watches Jeren come in and seat herself before quickly looking back towards the spell book
Jeren: It's this silk... I'm terrified to ruin it...
Hawkeye laughs
Taurus: Zhage.. when you get a moment, can you take a look at the shield we found in the city?
Hawkeye: That reminds me, Taurus!
Hawkeye reaches into his bag, rumaging aorund for the potions form before, digging them out
Jeren bites into the venison, taking another piece and looking over at Zhage, being bombarded with tasks
Zhage nods towards Taurus and continues looking over the book smiling some.
Hawkeye placing the potions down, he finishes off the venison and returns to sharpening his blade
Taurus looks to Hawkeye, eyeing the potions.
Taurus: Salsa?
Hawkeye: I'd rather someone else carry those, Taurus
Taurus: Oh..
Tika: Ooo... Hawkeye, what's in that?
Hawkeye: I have no idea
Jeren bursts into laughter at Taurus' comment, shaking her head slightly
Vexin Sixtoes: DRAGON BLOOD! I bet!
Tika stares absentmindedly at the potions
Taurus: I bet Zhage can find out.
Hawkeye: It doesn't look like blood..
Taurus: Zhage?
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh, and you think dragon blood looks like your blood? pfft!
Hawkeye: Well... he did see some dragon blood earlier
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh
Zhage pulls out a piece of parchment, his inkwell and an ink pen. "Write down what you want done and I'll get to it as soon as I can."
Taurus laughs.
Vexin Sixtoes clearly writes out "BeastSkin Armor"
Taurus: My apologies Zhage, I forget sometimes... enjoy your rest.
Taurus: You have earnt it.
Zhage: Sorry to be rude, I have a few things I need I need to identify.
Hawkeye checks the edge of his blade and, satisfied, resheathes it as he pulls out his hand axe
Taurus turns back to the table.
Taurus: So the Dragonarmies...
Hawkeye nods
Hawkeye: Pax Tahrkas seems to be the hot spot for that
Taurus: Who on this land can oppose them? Other than the elves.
Hawkeye: This Verminaard character...
Vexin Sixtoes , getting bored, decides to go to sleep so tomorrow comes sooner... He stretches out under a tree
Hawkeye: What about the Knights of Solamnia?
Zhage: Hey Vexin.
Hawkeye: Could you rally their strength?
Vexin Sixtoes: Wha..
Zhage: Can you do me a favor?
Vexin Sixtoes: Ok
Taurus: It is a long way from home... it would take some time, logistics and all.
Taurus: And I fear my word alone may not be enough.
Taurus frowns some.
Zhage: Can you find me a log or a large stick? I need to test these daggers on something not living..
Hawkeye: What if they elves asked for their aid?
Jeren: If they could bond together certainly they would be able to oppose any army. However, the knights are quite fragmented at the moment... aren't they Taurus?
Taurus nods slowly to both questions.
Zhage removes the daggers from his pack and looks them over.
Hawkeye: I don't think the few of us can do much, but we have to try something..
Vexin Sixtoes looks around his tree, finding a large recently-fllen branch and tosses it to Zhage
Taurus: They might rally to the aid of the Elves, if they are the leading force of the land. And they are fragmented so the force they could send would not be large.
Taurus: Things were bad before I left.. some Knights were attacked openly in the streets.
Hawkeye nods slowly
Hawkeye: You told me of the persecution of the Knights..
Jeren: It was not much different when I set off from home...
Taurus nods quietly.
Zhage moves out of the way and then retrieves the branch. "Thank you Vexin."
Hawkeye: What other force exists though, if not your brethern?
Taurus: Haven?
Zhage begins to test the daggers on the branch to see any particular effects.
Hawkeye: Where do you think the armies would go after Solace?
Hawkeye: They probably already took Haven
Taurus: Yes, perhaps.
Jeren glances over towards Zhage with his daggers and branch, her eyes betraying her curiosity
Zhage catches Jeren's glance and just simply smiles.
Taurus: At the very least we need to find out the fate of Haven, it is the largest settlement on Abanasia.
Hawkeye: I still think Pax Tharkas is the best way to go though. We know the Highlord's armies are there
Taurus: As determined as we are, it might not be wise to charge headlong into this conflict.
Hawkeye: The elves built Pax Tharkas, they might know a way..
Taurus: Even 10 full Knights would fall to the waves of an army.
Taurus nods slowly.
Hawkeye: If we slay the beast, verminaard, we may not need a full army
Hawkeye: And I'd take this band over ten full knights anyday
Zhage carefully sheaths the daggers, and sets them to the side.
Taurus smiles.
Jeren (murmuring): cut off the head of the snake...
Zhage: Where's the shield Taurus?
Hawkeye: After all, Jeren has saved my life twice now..
Taurus: I'll fetch it for you Zhage.
Zhage: Thank you.
Taurus rises, taking the shield from his pack and hands it to the Mage.
Hawkeye nods to the paladin
Taurus: As effective as taking out their leader will be, it will throw their armies into chaos.
Taurus: As it stands, with a leader they are less destructive to the lands and its people. At least they are taking captives than simply killing them all on sight; as leaderless bands do.
Taurus: If we cut off the head, we need to rally forces to deal with the writhing body.
Hawkeye: They're hobgoblins and the oike, without a leader it'd be easy pickings other than the occasional dragon beats
Vexin Sixtoes snores softly beneath the tree
Hawkeye: The elves could help in that regard
Jeren: Hmmm... I think we are underestimating our enemies abilities...
Taurus: Those near their own lands, yes.
Taurus: As much as I respect the elves, they do not have a history of helping their neighbours.
Hawkeye: I admit, I'm not a warrior like the two of you, but I still think Haven is a waste of time
Jeren: I doubt that the horde would just fall, some other oppurtunist would rise up and lead them
Taurus: It may be Hawkeye.
Taurus: We need to find the leader of the people.
Jeren: That is correct, that is the quest set to me by Mishakal... it is my first priority
Zhage carefully looks the shield over. He then sets it up against a tree. Zhage then stands and without warning hits the shield with his dagger testing branch.
Hawkeye: I wish your goddess wasn't so vague...
Taurus blinks in surprise, looking over to Zhage.
You bash it numerous times but nothing seems to reveal anything. You figure that someone will have to hold the shield.
Hawkeye: Well, Jeren, does your goddess have any lcues as to where this "leader of people" is?
Taurus leans back, rubbing his full stomach.
Zhage (panting): Well, this isn't working..
Jeren chuckles a little at Hawkeye's words, "I think the God's are entitled to be fickle... but you're correct Hawkeye, we do need guidance. Tonight, before we retire to sleep, I shall ask Mishakal for aid..."
Hawkeye nods
Hawkeye: Thank you
Zhage (catching his breath): Taurus, may I borrow you for a few moments?
Taurus: You learn nothing from a puzzle when someone else solves it for you.
Taurus stands, approaching Zhage.
Taurus: Certainly friend, what do you need?
Hawkeye: But sometimes it's nice to have the corner pieces picked out..
Taurus: Quite true Hawkeye.
Zhage wipes a little sweat from his brow. "Hold onto this shield. I will be hitting it with this branch."
Taurus: With.. the branch?
Jeren glances at Taurus and Zhage, "be careful where you swing that branch Zhage... we don't need our knight losing an eye..."
Taurus takes the shield, securing it to his arm none the less. (AC 12)
Hawkeye looks at Zhage and Taurs, amused at what's going on
Zhage: Would you rather I use my staff?
Taurus: Whatever you feel comfortable with.
Hawkeye: Wizards sure are strange...
Jeren: You're spot on there Hawkeye...
Zhage: I'll use my branch. I wouldn't want to injure your face with so many women around.
Taurus tilts his head slightly confused.
Taurus: ...ok
Hawkeye flashes a smile at jeren as he stands up, placing his axe back in it's holder
Jeren gives a little sigh, "I'll never understand the Arcane arts"
Hawkeye: I think it'd about time to retire. We can discuss strategy tomorrow after a good nights rest
Zhage proceeds to smack the shield a few times with the branch, watching for any sort of effect.
Hawkeye looks inot the sleeping area, wondering if it's divided up for men and women or one huge common room
Taurus braces the shield as the staff strikes it.
You bash the shield numerous times, over and over again. Eventually you think you have figured it out.
Zhage stops after several hits.
Taurus lowers the shield look at Zhage expectantly.
Zhage (panting): Well.. that's enoug of that..
Jeren supresses a smile as she watches Zhage swing at the shield. The wizards swings were a bit wide, but at least he hit his target
Jeren: Have you learnt anything Zhage?
Zhage wipes a bead of sweat away. "That's a finely crafted shield. I think it will give you a bit more protection than the one you are using now."
Taurus: Really?
Hawkeye is relieved upon seeing each sleeping area has it's one curtain, and with a nod towards the other party members, goes off to a fresh bed to try and recover from the earlier battle still.
Taurus doesnt look overly convinced.
Zhage: I think so.
Taurus: I'll try it out.
Taurus draws his longsword, turning it and offering its hilt to Jeren.
Zhage: Have Jeren smack you a few times.
Jeren stretches and yawns, "Well I suppose I can beat your new sheild a few times before I head off to bed..." she takes the sword with a grin
Jeren: Ready then Taurus?
Vexin Sixtoes after watching Zhage's antics, soon falls back asleep under the tree
Zhage: Anything else needed to be done?
Taurus: Go for it.
Zhage walks over to his parchment and looks at the list.
Jeren raises the longsword and aims it at Taurus' shield, grinning a little as it strikes the steel disc
Taurus hefts the disk up into the sword swings, feeling the balance of the masterworked item alone; but also noting how it pulls itself towards the sword strokes.
Taurus: Excellant.
Taurus: Thank you Jeren...
Zhage walks back towards the spot he was sitting and sees a pair of potions.
Taurus glances around at his companions, guaging their wounds.
Jeren laughs, "Oh any time..." the Paladin stifles a yawn, "I think I best retire, here Taurus..." she hands him back his sword
Taurus takes the sword and sheaths it, nodding with a smile and patting Jeren's shoulder brotherly.
Zhage sits down and holds his stomach a little, wincing in a little pain.
Taurus: May the gods hear your prayers.
Taurus approaches Zhage, sitting beside him.
Taurus: Show me Zhage.
Jeren nods before moving towards the sleeping area
Zhage takes the top off of the first potion, dips his finger in and tests the sample.
Zhage: I should be fine in a few days Taurus.
Taurus: It wasn't a suggestion.
Taurus smiles.
The potion does not seem to have any effect, ill or otherwise.
Taurus: You're as bad as Hawkeye.
Zhage shruggs and lifts up his robe. There are a few bruises in the shape of a morning star.
Zhage: These are just bruises..
Taurus places his hand on the side of Zhage, very gentle to not aggrivate the wounds. Quietly whispering a prayer to the gods.
Taurus (Whispered): Bless he who has felt the touch of battle.
The wound glows softly and the brusies disapper
Zhage: Thank you Taurus.
Taurus nods and removes his hand.
Taurus: I'll pass on your regards.
Zhage smiles and simple bows his head.
Taurus stands and approaches Riverwind, eyeing the huge plainsmen.
Taurus: Are you going to be a problem, also?
Zhage takes a sample of the second potion, and tastes it.
Riverwind: My friend, there is no need for that. Save your skills for others in need
Taurus: It will be your blades that protect the weak, I need you in your best condition.
Taurus: Do not argue.
Taurus reaches out, hesitates for a second for permission.
Riverwind Riverwind does not try to stop Taurus
Taurus places his hand on the plainsman's shoulder, bowing his head in quiet prayer.
The wounds on the tall plainsmen seal up at the clerics touch
Taurus pats his shoulder then glances around at those remaining.
Riverwind: Thank you, my friend. I don't think I will ever get used to that feeling
Taurus: You and me the same Riverwind.
Taurus: I bid you all a good night.
Taurus: Get some rest, and that means you Zhage.
Vexin Sixtoes snores quietly beneath his tree
Zhage carefully places the potions next to his pack and puts on the gloves.
Zhage nods abesently at Taurus comments.
Taurus turns and makes his way towards the sleeping area, making a detour to heal Hawkeye. Commenting to himself; "Its always easier when they're unconcious."
Zhage he then runs various tests using the gloves.
Hawkeye eyes snap open as he grabs Taurus's hand, eyes wide with fear not knowing what's going on
Taurus continues to heal Hawkeye, lips moving in ever prayer. Blinking, he meets Hawkeye's gaze; going still to give the man a chance to adjust.
Taurus: If you didn't make it so difficult Hawkeye, I wouldn't have to sneak in whilst your asleep.
Hawkeye: What the heck are you doing, Taurus?
Hawkeye: You scared the holy...
Hawkeye: I feel well enough, but thanks..
Taurus: Ofcourse
Taurus grins, taking a step back.
Zhage tries breaking his branch with his bare hands, tumbles his in pen though his fingers, punches his pack.
Taurus: Sleep well Hawkeye, don't let the Draconians bite.
Hawkeye waits until Taurus leaves before going back to sleep
Hawkeye smiles slightly at Tuaurus' comment
Taurus laughs and heads off, pulling the curtain closed. He finds a bed and kneels beside it in prayer.
The gloves seem not to enchance any of your movements
Zhage then walks towards and tree and attempts to climb it..
normally, you would have trouble climbing this tree, but you notice that your climb is made much easier.
Zhage jumps down from the tree, takes off the gloves, grabs his pack and moves to an open bed.
Zhage glances towards Jeren's sleepin body before moving to his own bed.
The party sleep through out the day, enjoying the clean beds and safe sanctuary of the elven home. Several hours pass and the group is gently roused by elven servants, Laurana stands near by.
Hawkeye rises quickly, walking out to see Luarana standing there
Hawkeye: Hello, m'lady Luarana
Taurus blinks awake, having fallen asleep with his head on the bed but still kneeling beside it as though in prayer; somewhat an awkward possition.
Laurana: Good evening. The council with the speaker is to begin soon. you are all invited to attend.
Taurus: T-thank you, M'Lady.
Zhage wakes up, and half listens to Laurana. He grabs the spell books and begins to read.
Taurus stands, rubbing his neck. He splashes his face with water, secures his sword to his belt.
Hawkeye: Will we be getitng our armor back first?
Jeren stretches, stifiling a yawn with her hand and standing up. She straightens the sheets upon the bed and then moves to join her companions
Laurana: It is here.
Laurana points to the gleaming polished armor and newly mended straps
Taurus steps over to his armor and begins to long task of securing each and every plate on his form.
Laurana: but this is a formal occasion. There will be no need for battle garb.
Hawkeye: Thank you. the legendary craftsmanship of the elves is apparantly not exagerated
Vexin Sixtoes puts back on his leather armor, grabs his hoopak and twirls it around, waiting for the rest to put on their heavy armor
Taurus: Your smiths are quite talented, they even managed to repair the kender-shaped dent on the breastplate.
Hawkeye reaches down and grabs his chain shirt, pulling it over quickly as he loks at Taurus taiking forever
Taurus pauses, sets the current piece down. Leaving his sword at his waist however.
Hawkeye: I'm sorry, but I feel more comfortable in armor.
Jeren hesitates at Laurana's words, "Would you prefer it if we did not equip our armor M'lady?"
Laurana: As you wish.
Laurana: it may be taken as an offense to my father, but this is only because it is traditionally not an event that requires such dress. But after today, I'm sure he will not say anything of it.
Hawkeye looks to Taurus
Hawkeye: You're the expert here...
Jeren nods slowly and leaves her armor be. "I do not wish to offend anybody..."
Taurus: There is no need for armor, Lady Laurana is right. We are guests in her father's home.
Hawkeye frowns slightly, but removes his chain shirt quickly, then unstraps his weapons belt and lays it down next to it
Hawkeye: I don't rememebr the lsat time I was this under armed or armored...
Vexin Sixtoes plants his hoopak straight-up in the ground
Laurana: He will be most pleased if you wear the clothing we have provided. A single weapon is also allowed when attending
Zhage: Must everyone be present? I haven't been able to looks over my spell books in several days.
Vexin Sixtoes snatches back his hoopak, and twirls it while following Laurana
Hawkeye straps his scimitar on, thinking it looks far better than his hand axe for something formal.
Taurus: It appears your leg injury has dissolved Vexin.
Taurus smirks, nodding to the hoopak/crutch.
Laurana: you are not required to come, but it would please us all if you did attend. We wish not to pressure you, however. (smiles to Zhage)
Hawkeye can't help but grin at Laurana's smile
Jeren belts her greatsword to her waist, she wonders how the stable boys will react when they discover that Tahbor has apparently vanished overnight. She gives a little chuckle at the thought
Zhage nods, places his books upon his bed and grabs his staff.
Taurus: There will be plenty of time for study later, I'm sure.
Laurana: Are you ready, then?
Hawkeye nods
Taurus: Please, lead the way.
Hawkeye: I am
Zhage: I hope so..
Vexin Sixtoes: My leg was never injured Taurus...
Taurus: OH? You must be an excellant actor then.
Taurus: You had me fooled Vexin.
Taurus smiles.
Laurana leads the party back through the elven city, generally heading towards the center.
Vexin Sixtoes beams a smile
Jeren chuckles at the banter between Taurus and Vexin
Hawkeye: This is a beautiful city, m'lady
Taurus looks around in admiration at the city as they pass through it, catching the occasional glimpse of an elf; a rarity for him indeed.
Laurana (sadly): Thank you. You kind words brings us comfort.
Hawkeye: I hope the Dragon Armies don't destory it
Taurus raises a brow.
Taurus: Er.. What my ccompanion means to say..
Hawkeye looks at Taurus questiongly
Laurana head lowers as her golden hair hides her face. She walks on in scilence
Taurus: Is that surely a wonderful city such as this shall stand strong as a bastion of defense against the forces of the dragonkin.
Hawkeye: I meant o say I hope they don't destory it. They already destroyed my home twice now, I don't want that to happen hear as well.
Taurus gives Hawkeye a look.
Jeren places her hand gently against her forehead and sighs a little
Hawkeye: What are you looking at me like that for?
Taurus: Nothing Hawkeye.
You are lead into a large square
The entire population of Qualinesti seems to be gathered around the wide square. The warriors are in the center ring, around the Speaker and several of his chief officers and lieutenants; the other men, women, and children are more distant, but they still observe the proceedings attentively.
A path opens through the crowd to the center of the circle, and the Speaker looks up with a cool stare as the heroes of Xak Tsaroth enter his sight.
Solostaran (Slowly): Forgive our somber air, These are heavy times, and we face the beginning of a long and lonely road. Look, if you will, upon our situation.
Solostaran gestures to a detailed mosaic on the ground. The colors and shapes seem to represent a map. As the circle of elves draws back, the land of Qualinesti and its surroundings are displayed entirely.
Solostaran: We have learned from captives that the Dragon Highlord would like to see the race of elves driven from Ansalon; they have nearly succeeded with respect to our Silvanesti kin. And they mean to do the same to us. Here and here...
the Speaker says, tapping the end of his staff against the northern communities of Solace and Haven.
Solostaran: Two huge armies of the Dragon Highlord Verminaard have gathered. Even now they prepare to invade the ancient Elvenhome of Qualinesti. Now, we might be able to stand against them, if it is but those two armies that we face. But it is not. Still a third army poises against us here.
Now the Speakers staff strikes sharply on the narrow pass of Pax Tharkas, south of Qualinesti.
Solostaran: They have us outflanked, outnumbered, and without allies.
Solostaran breaks eye contact, as if he is ashamed to admit the truth.
Solostaran: We cannot defeat such a force. Our only choice is to flee Qualinesti to the west and hope to bring our people safely to some land in that unknown region.
The Speaker pauses to let his remark sink in; it is indeed stunning to think of the elves of this fabled wooda people who have lived here since the Age of Dreamsforced from their ancestral home by the cruel might of the Dragonarmies.
Taurus walks quietly through the group to stand at the edge of the small clearing around Solostaran. Listening to his great words but also paying attention to the crowds reactions; eyes drawing across the map at his feet.
The elves all stand with somber looks. you notice a few elves have tears rolling down their cheeks
Solostaran: I now come to how you can help. Here, in the depths of Pax Tharkas, work the warriors of Solace, Haven, and the other northern lands. Why would they slave in the mines, gaining iron for the forges of the evil Dragon Highlords? Because also here...
and the Speakers staff strikes Pax Tharkas with a vengeance.
Solostaran: ...are their women and childrenhostages, lest the warriors display the rage and hatred that they must feel against their villainous masters. This was the reason for Gilthanas mission only a few short days ago. He and his band were to enter Pax Tharkas by a hidden routethe Sla-Moriknown only to the elves. They would free the hostages and lead the slaves in a revolt, escaping to the south and drawing the Dragonarmy in pursuit. They failedbut Gilthanas believes a second attempt may succeed.
Solostaran: The humans can reach safety and elude the dragonmen, for the mountainous route contains many secluded valleys where they can hide. Far to the south may yet lie free lands where safety could be found.
Solostaran: We ask you to accept this heavy task. Gilthanas has offered to accompany your party and show you the ways of the Sla-Mori, even the room of the Great Chainthe quickest entrance to the fortress itself. If you accept this opportunity, you not only offer freedom to those of your kin trapped within the walls of the fortress, but you offer our beleaguered folk a chance to escape Qualinesti alive, for the army in Pax Tharkas, which even now prepares to crush our spirit, will think twice about marching if the slaves rebel and escape. Verminaard will never rest while a potential enemy lurks behind his advance. This distraction will give our shipwrights time to build a fleet capable of evacuating our people.
Solostaran: This chance before you is one that none of ours were given when your people caused the Cataclysm, the turning away of the gods. This is a chance to hand the Dragonarmies their first significant defeat, earn the friendship of the elves, and save countless livesboth elf and human.
Hawkeye (whispred): Our people caused the Cataclysm?
Jeren bowed her head solemnly at Solostaran's mention of the cataclysm. She could feel the hot prick of tears behind her eyes. She nodded slowly once at Hawkeye's question
Hawkeye: Looks like we're going to Pax Tharkas after all then..
Taurus listens silently for a long time to the words of the man, glancing between his companions for their support before turning back to Solostaran. Boldly, very boldly, he steps forward into the clearing around the man.
Solostaran observes the group with patience, and shifts his gaze to Taurus as he presents himself
Taurus: Fey brothers, and sisters.
Taurus addresses the group, as a whole, not just Solostaran.
Vexin Sixtoes: Fey? They aren't fairies...
Zhage (quietly): I hope he doesn't mess this up...
Hawkeye (whispred): Taurus needs to learn his classification better...
Jeren glares at the others, "Be silent."
Taurus: Whilst our people grew above their status and brought on the gods wrath has your people been arrogant to ignore their own part in the greater play.
Vexin Sixtoes sticks his tongue out, but stops talking
Zhage just shakes his head..
Taurus: This is a chance for BOTH our kind to band together as kin and unite against a greater force bent on destruction. We will not aid you and your kin out of responcibility for the cataclysm.
Solostaran Jaw cletches. The other elves shift their gaze onto the knight, many in glares, others in shock
Taurus: We will do it out of Goodness, Justice and for what is right.
Taurus: In faith and in virtue of the Gods Will!
Vexin Sixtoes: Or because it will be fun and exciting...
Solostaran: I have not the time to discuss the histroy of Ansalon with you, sir knight, but it is your choice. If you wish not to help your kind, as well as ours, then you many stay the night here in Qualinost. But I regret that you will be asked to leave come morning.
Hawkeye: I think he misundrstood...
Taurus: On the contrary Lord Solostaran. We will aid your people, and our own. It is our duty as kin.
Zhage (quietly): Wow...
Vexin Sixtoes: He said we will do it... somewhere in that boring speech
Jeren steps forward, standing sholder to shoulder with Taurus, she looks at Solostaran and then at the crowd of elves
Hawkeye: Yeah.. elves....
Vexin Sixtoes yawns loudly
Hawkeye shakes his head sadly
Jeren: Dwelling upon the past will do no good. We must instead look to the future.
Solostaran: Then we are in accord. We are glad that you are willing to do this, as it will provide our people the means to leave our lands, as well as give you a chance to save your people.
Jeren: The cataclysm has already happened, and it is behind us. Now is the time for the Gods return. It is this reason which should guide our actions
Vexin Sixtoes: There are dragons that need killing at Pax Tharkas, right? Then we go
Zhage moves through the crowd and stand next to Jeren. "I'll help.."
Taurus nods slowly, thoughtful.
Hawkeye: I thought we had deciuded to go last night...
Hawkeye: slay a dragon, free the slaves..
Hawkeye: another story for Vexin Sixtoes, Dragonslayer
Taurus smiles to both Zhage and Jeren at his side.
Vexin Sixtoes: If I slay another dragon, am I then Vexin Sixtoes, Many-dragonslayer?
Hawkeye: No, just Dragonslayer Elite
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh
Solostaran: The gods condemed all of Krynn because of humans. If they have returned, it is a great thing for us all. But do not ever tell me to forget what happened the day of the Cataclysim.
Hawkeye: The gods returned to Humans
Jeren fixes Solostaran with her stare, "I did not ask you to forget, My Lord. I asked you to forgive."
Hawkeye: And I say that people in far away cities causing the gods wrath are not the same humans as we who live our lives on the plains
Taurus: Then now is the time for action, Lord Solostaran is correct; we can debate history later. We should prepare for the upcoming journey.
Solostaran bites back his words.
Solostaran: very well! This quest, taken on by you, must begin soon. We haven't much time. My scouts tell me that the army at Pax Tharkas is preparing to march on Qualinost as we speak.
Hawkeye: Then let's quit wasting time here and get moving..
Taurus: We are rested and ready.
Zhage (muttering): You may be.. I'm not..
Solostaran: I would suggest you leave by morning. It will provide you the extra rest you will need without hindering the plan
Solostaran: of course, the choice is up to you...
Taurus: Then the morning it is, before the first light hits your great peaks.
Hawkeye: Then let's get going
Hawkeye turns around, waiting for his companions
Taurus: We beg your leave, M'Lord.
Solostaran nods
Laurana leads you out throught the crowd of elves.
Hawkeye: Taurus...
Taurus follows Laurana out, glancing breifly to Hawkeye questioningly.
Zhage follows the young elf out.
as you leave, the elves gathered begin to chant a ancient, haunting song.
Hawkeye: I think it's time we had a talk... about what is considered a Fey.. and what isn't...
Taurus: Elves... arn't Fey?
Hawkeye: No. Elves are Elves
Taurus: ...Oh.
Vexin Sixtoes: No, silly...
Hawkeye: Fey are dryads, nypmhs, satyrs, and the like
Taurus: Are you sure they're not related to Fey?
Hawkeye: They are not related to Fey
Taurus: Distantly?
Vexin Sixtoes: Sprites, Pixies...
Hawkeye: Not even remotely
Taurus (Quietly): They pointed ears though...
Hawkeye: so do kender
Vexin Sixtoes: SO DO I!
Hawkeye: and kender are related to Gully Dwarves
Taurus: You mean...
Vexin Sixtoes: You don't see me tossing pixie dust, do you?
Taurus: ... Kender arn't Fey either?
Hawkeye: NO Taurus!
Vexin Sixtoes: Although that would be very interesting...
Taurus: Oh.
Taurus: ...OH!
Vexin Sixtoes: I should get me some fairy dust...
Taurus blinks realizing he called an entire city of Elves fey.
Hawkeye: Exactly...
Taurus hangs his head in shame.
Jeren laughs at Taurus' expression and pats him on the back
Taurus (Muttered): Idiot...
Hawkeye: We all make mistakes, Taurus..
Vexin Sixtoes: Not idiot... just temporarily insane
Hawkeye: I don't think that offended them as much as the other things you said
Zhage chuckles quietly at the confused knight.
Jeren: No need to be so hard on yourself, after all... I don't think Solostaran likes me much either
Taurus: I suppose I can take comfort in that.
Hawkeye: Speaker of the Suns or not, that man is an aoorgant..
Hawkeye trails off realizing Laurana is with them still
Zhage: Don't think he like humans Jeren
Taurus: Elves live detached from the real world. I understand... at least partially.
Jeren shakes her head, "Mishakal teaches forgivness. How are we to welcome her back into Krynn if we still harbor grudges centuries old?"
Hawkeye: Still, to blame us for the Cataclysm and the gods leaving? The gods didn't just leave humans.. I didn't see any elf priests around either..
Laurana moves ahead of the group, not making any reaction to what is said.
Taurus: Jeren is right.
Taurus: Aye Hawkeye, then lets proove to them their misunderstanding.
Taurus: Through our actions.
Vexin Sixtoes: Blah blah blah... let's just go to sleep so the morning comes sooner and we can go slay dragons!
Hawkeye: Nothing will prove anything to them
Hawkeye: We could lsay 1,000 dragons, and if a single elf is with us it;s because they were with us
Vexin Sixtoes: Wonder what other colors dragons come in?
Jeren: At least Vexin remains optimisitc!
Laurana turns to face the party, her eyes are brimmed with tears.
Hawkeye: Green, red, Black, Blue, and White Vexin
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh! I wanna see a blue one!
Hawkeye looks at Laurana, slienced by her tears
Taurus stumbles to a halt, eyes setting on Laurana.
Laurana: My father is a great man! He is misunderstood, YES! But that gives you no right! He was around during the Cataclysim! None of you would understand what he saw and went through!
Vexin Sixtoes: Oops...
Taurus: I apologize M'Lady, we spoke out of turn.
Hawkeye: And twice now my homes have been burned to the ground by dragons, and I have had to see friends and family's charred remains on the ground before me. I buried my entire tribe., He has no right. Maybe we were wrong, but so was he.
Taurus: Myself and my companions have spent the last week waiding through graveyards that were once cities. We have forgotten our manners.
Laurana lowers her head and wipes the tears from her eyes.
Taurus: It is hard for us to understand the reality of you being forced from your homes.
Hawkeye walks ahead angrily, muttering "at least she gets to leave it with her family and not see it destroyed"
Zhage just remains quiet, not wanting to upset anyone.
Jeren glances at Laurana and her tears. "I apologise for upsetting you M'lady." she murmurs, although inwardly she's fuming at this outburst
Laurana: I know that you have lost your homes, just as we are about to have happen to us... but don't you see? You all have the same animosity towards us just as my father and kin have to your people? It will never end if we continue to act like this.
Jeren: I have no animosity towards anyone M'lady
Taurus: You are wise beyond your years.
Taurus once again shows his lack of knowledge regarding elves.
Hawkeye: I don't hate elves.. I show anger at people, not races
Vexin Sixtoes: I didn't lose my home... I never had one
Zhage: I have no disrespect towards the elves. Many of my mage friends are elves.
Laurana (to Hawkwye): you said that nothing would prove anything to us! If there were an elf with you when you killed a 1000 dragons, it would be because of him!
Hawkeye: That was meant towards your father and his council, not to all elves
Jeren: Enough
Jeren: I do not wish to stand here and listen to accusations thrown back and forth
Laurana: You are right...
Jeren: M'Lady Laurana, we are all truly sorry to have cause you grievance, but forgive us, we are not noble men and women. We are simple folk, we easily forget our manners
Hawkeye nods to Jeren
Vexin Sixtoes: I AM not SIMPLE!
Laurana (quietly): It's okay.
Taurus nudges Vexin.
Hawkeye: I'm.. sorry, Laurana...
Hawkeye: Perhaps I crossed the line with my comments..
Laurana: An I am sorry too.
Laurana: You are right... we elves are secluded from the rest of the world. It's our ouwn falt for that. With us leaving, it is a scary thought for us all
Vexin Sixtoes: Awww...
Taurus slips a handkercheif into Hawkeye's hand, subtly.
Jeren was pleased her intervention went according to plan, she offered Laurana a bow of her head and a sincere smile
Hawkeye looks at Taurus, confused, as he is not crying
Vexin Sixtoes claps his hands and hugs Laurana and Hawkeye
Taurus gestures to Laurana.
Zhage tries very blantently to change the subjet. "Do you know where I can purcase some pearls Laurana?"
Hawkeye looks at Taurus, then his hand again, realization coming quickly as he hands it to Laurana
Jeren: M'lady, I am certain your people will be able to return to this fair city
Vexin Sixtoes: Zhage... don't GIRLS wear pearls?
Laurana: oh... ah... if you need some... we can bring some to you.
Zhage: They do Vexin, but I have another use for them.
Laurana (to Jeren): I hope you are right.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh ok
Zhage: If you are able to bring me some, I will gladly pay for them.
Hawkeye: Aye. We'll stop Verminaard and free the slaves. After all, we have two certified Dragonslayers with us
Hawkeye gestures to Vexin and Taurus
Jeren: Have faith Lady Laurana
Vexin Sixtoes beams a smile and puffs out his chest
Taurus: Killing Dragons is our business, and business is good.
Laurana (smiles): thank you all for your help
Taurus nods.
Zhage (muttering): and a dragonslayed.
Laurana: Here are your quarters. I bid you all good night.
Vexin Sixtoes: Gnite Lady!
Taurus bows to Laurana.
Hawkeye offers one more apologetic glance at Laurana before she leaves, though he remains silent
Taurus once she leaves he sits carefully on a chair, comments to himself.
Taurus (Mutters): We'll... we've pissed off our only allies.
Hawkeye: Aye.. I think we all aided in that... I'm sorry though, for my outburst...
Vexin Sixtoes sprawls in the grass beneath his tree and begins to dream of dragons
Taurus (Mutters): Diplomacy Rule 1 - Don't insult a ruler infront of his people.
Hawkeye: I guess we'll just have to slay another dragon to get them to be our friends
Hawkeye: The question is.. how? Without the Blue Crystal Staff we'll be hurting...
Jeren: Well... I think it will take a little more than that Hawkeye, but it is a start
Hawkeye: What kind of dragon did they say Verminaard rode again?
Jeren: Red
Taurus: If we could collapse the pass it might be possible to stop the army approaching on that front and the Elves wouldn't have to leave.
Hawkeye: Hmm.. fire Based...
Zhage catching up to Laurana. "How long until I can get the pearls?"
Hawkeye: Where would the slaves go?
Taurus: Perhaps after they're through?
Jeren: we would need to evacuate the slaves and their families first, and then block the pass
Hawkeye: And how do you stop the dragons from flying?
Laurana: I will have a servant bring you some. If you make a list of other spell components, we can probably provide them.
Bback at your quarters in the aspen grove, Beside your cleaned and mended armor, you find your own clothes clean and folded, and your quivers have been filled with masterwork Qualinesti arrrows
Zhage: I think I shall.
Zhage (in Elvish): Good night M'lady.
Taurus: You don't. But at least its not an army thousands strong.
Laurana smiles to Zhage
Jeren: Well, we can not stop that Hawkeye, but I'm certain Taurus and Vexin can handle a dragon or two...
Laurana (elven): goodnight
Hawkeye: I think they elves are going to evacuate while we're away...
Taurus gives Jeren a look.
Hawkeye: And I don't fdoubt that, jeen
Zhage bows simplily and walks back towards the grove.
Taurus: You saw what the Draks did to Solace, I'd hate for this place to suffer the same fate.
Jeren smiles at Taurus and quirks a brow, "What... you are a dragon slayer, aren't you?"
Taurus: The Gods are the real slayers of Dragons, I am merely their blade to wield.
Jeren chuckles softly, "Oh Taurus, I don't think I've ever met a man more humble."
Taurus: What about Vexin?
Zhage walks towards his bed and pulls out his spell books.
Hawkeye: Still, how are we going to defeat a red dragon?
Jeren: Oh, yes well... Vexin is a little more... blatant about his achievments
Hawkeye: Fire breath weapon, larger than the previous black dragon..
Taurus: I'll ask Kiri-Joliath.
Hawkeye: You'll ask Kiri-Jolith how to kill the dragon?
Taurus: Sure.
Taurus smiles.
The night passes uneventful as you all get a much needed rest. In the morning, a bag of pearls rest by Zhage's bed stand.
The door is flung open and Gilthanas sticks his head inside.
Hawkeye rises again, slipping his armor on quickly waiting for the others to awake
Gilthanas: quickly, somthing has happened!
he exits as quickly as he came
Hawkeye grabbing his weapon belt, he rushes towards Gilthanas
Zhage wakes up and promptly begins to reach for his spell books.
Taurus looks up from prayer, rising quickly at the urgency. Striding towards the door, scatching up his shield and sheathing his sword.
Vexin Sixtoes gets up rom the grass and looks around
Zhage shaking his head, he follows Taurus out.
You exit out of the grove to see a bustle of elven warriors runnig down the street in various directions.
Zhage (muttering): Why do I even try..
Gilthanas stands at the street looking around, worry strunk across his face.
Taurus: What is it Gilthanas?
Gilthanas: Laurana... that Slime, Toede has taken her!
Hawkeye: Toede....
Taurus: What?!
Taurus: How did he get in?
Jeren wakes to see her party exiting the room. She pulls herself out of bed and grabs up her sword, rushing out of the room "What's going on?"
Hawkeye: There's no time to waste, we have to go save her..
Jeren: Save who?
Hawkeye: Toede kidnapped Laurana
Hawkeye: How did that little runt get in here?
Vexin Sixtoes: The fat sack of lard can't have rolled far...
Gilthanas: he flew atop a wyvern... She was returning from the grove here when he must have spotted her. Our guards killed some of the dragonmen with him but not before he escaped.
Vexin Sixtoes: Not to mention we could smell him for miles...
Vexin Sixtoes: A wyvern could CARRY that mountain?
Hawkeye: There's no hope in tracking him then. Which direction did he go?
Hawkeye: Taurus's horse could carry him.. THAT was a shock..
Gilthanas: The flew to the south east. Towards Pax Tharkas...
Hawkeye: Looks like the gods have willed us there no matter what, Taurus...
Vexin Sixtoes: 1 more person to rescue
Taurus nods to Hawkeye.
Taurus: I asked about the Red Dragon, how to kill it Hawkeye.
Jeren: Alright, we must make haste then. Let me don my armor...
Hawkeye: And?
Taurus: Faith, Perservearance and a sharp blade.
Taurus grins at him.
Taurus: Lets go!
Hawkeye: Good enough for me!
Gilthanas: We are to leave in an hour. Meet me in the square when you are ready.
Taurus nods to Gilthanas, striding back to the grove.
Jeren dissapeared back into the room to strap on her banded mail
Taurus: Alright comrades, eat up and fill your skins.
Taurus: Who knows when we'll get a chance to break for camp.
Zhage walks back to his bed to gather his belongings.
Vexin Sixtoes asks a servant to show him to the stables where Skitters is quartered
Hawkeye nods, snatching up some of the nearby fruit before walking over to a small, secluded space in the grove to sit down
Taurus pulls Hawkeye aside, glancing to Tika.
a servant leads you to the stables. Skitters is there, well fed and clean.
Taurus (Whispered): We should leave her here...
Hawkeye (nodding): This is no place for her. Or goldmoon, for that matter
Vexin Sixtoes rides Skitters back to the party, waiting for them to get ready
Taurus: Agreed.
Taurus: Tika. Goldmoon. I have a task for you both.
Tika: Sure!
Goldmoon listens to Taurus
Taurus: I need you both to help the Elves with their evacuation plans. They'll need every strong and able body they can find.
Zhage walks back into the grove with his red robe tighened and his staff and pack in his hand.
Tika: No way! I'm coming wit you guys! I can fight!
Taurus frowns.
Hawkeye sits on the grass, and closes his eyes, slowing his breathing slightly. Silently, he begins to say a prayer, hoping that their party will be able survive this ordeal.
Goldmoon: I will not leave Riverwind... or my people. They too are in Pax Tharkas
Taurus: I know you can Tika, Goldmoon too... but preparations need to be made for the free'd slaves.
Goldmoon (quietly): or so I hope
Goldmoon: But the elves are leaving! What if you don't come back?! We can't go with the elves to gods know where!
Tika: But the elves are leaving! What if you don't come back?! We can't go with the elves to gods know where!
Jeren emerged from the sleeping quarters, fully armored and great sword at her side. She stopped walking as she heard Tika's protests and glanced curiosly towards Taurus
Zhage walks over to Hawkeye, catching him in his meditation. "Umm, Hawkeye?"
Taurus: We're going to have a Dragon Army behind us.
Taurus: The Refugee's cant fend for themselves.
Hawkeye finishes his prayer, and opens his eyes, hoping that no one noticed him as he bites into some of the fruit and stands
Tika: I know! That's why you need me more than the elves do!
Taurus: No Tika!
Tika pouts
Hawkeye walks over to wher Tika and Taurus are arguing
Tika: it's not fair!
Hawkeye: The elves are lost outside their forest, Tika. they need someone familiar with the outside world to help them
Taurus: We'll send them through the pass to meet with you, whilst we lead the army the other way.
Zhage follows Hawkeye and taps him on the shoulder.
Zhage: Hey Hawkeye.
Hawkeye turns to look at Zhage
Hawkeye: Yes?
Zhage: I can
Tika (relcutantly): fine...
Zhage: I can't remember, did you say you needed a dagger?
Taurus smiles and takes her shoulder, giving it a soft squeeze.
Hawkeye: Aye, it'd be nice to have something small available in the futre to try and hide
Taurus: Please... we're relying on you, as are the Refugees. Goldmoon too.
Taurus looks towards Goldmoon, holding Riverwind will help convince her.
Zhage: Hold on
Zhage begins to rummage through his pack and pulls out a single dagger.
Riverwind: Taurus is right. I do not wish to see any harm come to you. It will be dangerous
Zhage: This should be a good backup weapon.
Hawkeye: Thank you, friend
Goldmoon (gently): no. they are my people too. I am chieftan. it is my responsability
Zhage: Just becareful, it is extremly sharp.
Hawkeye takes the dagger and slips it into one of his boots
Hawkeye: Thanks for the warning
Riverwind looks to Taurus and shakes his head.
Taurus approaches the two.
Taurus (Quietly): Goldmoon, I will keep an eye on Riverwind. I promise.
Taurus (Quietly): You won't be seperated for long.
Riverwind: Thank you, Taurus... But I am the chieftan. I must be with my people. You cannot convince me otherwise.
Vexin Sixtoes giggles at Taurus
Vexin Sixtoes: OoooooOOOoooh
Goldmoon: Thank you, Taurus... But I am the chieftan. I must be with my people. You cannot convince me otherwise.
Taurus (Quietly): You are no good to your people dead. Its your task to lead them into their new lands, to freedom. You will travel with Tika and guide them there when we send them through the pass.
Zhage walks towards Vexin. "Vexin, I think these are your gloves.?"
Vexin Sixtoes: Hmm, no. Don't need 'em. But thank you!
Goldmoon: I will be there to guid them... every step of the way.
Zhage: Oh, ok.
Vexin Sixtoes: They look better on you
Taurus: There is no convincing you? is there?
Zhage: Thank you I guess.
Goldmoon: no
Taurus grins.
Taurus: Fine.
Riverwind shrugs to Taurus
Taurus nods to Riverwind
Zhage looks around to see if Jeren is watching her backpack.
Taurus: Alright, everyone ready? Lets move out?
Hawkeye: Is everyone ready?
Jeren: Ready when you are...
Hawkeye: Aye
Jeren slung her pack over her shoulder and gave her companions a grin
You make your way to the square, where only the night before, you were asked to take on the task of saving the refugees of Pak Tharkas.
Standing there is Gilthanas, Porthios, Theros, and Solostaran
Taurus looks around the square, then down at the tiled map.
Zhage moves up close behind Jeren, slips something small and blue into her pack.
Zhage he then moves away and puts on the gloves Vexin gave him.
Hawkeye: Are we rdy to go then?
Vexin Sixtoes: Yep
Hawkeye: ./o I said RDY
Vexin Sixtoes: Waiting on you all
Solostaran: Gilthanas will lead you to the Ska-Mori, the secret entrance into Pak Tharkas.
Zhage: I am ready.
Solostaran: Time is of the essence and we bid thee good luck
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh.... secret entrance!
Porthios: Bring her home, Gilthanas.
Taurus: We have the gods on our side, we will be triumphant.
Gilthanas nods to his older brother.
Hawkeye: We will, good elf..
Jeren bows her head to Solostaran, "We will not fail you"
Vexin Sixtoes: Reminds me of the great story of this one time I met a 3-headed Ettin...
Hawkeye: Really Vexin? tel;l us on the way...
Taurus inwardly cringes.
Gilthanas: Let us go, then. Follow me, my friends.
Vexin Sixtoes: Onward, Skitters!
Hawkeye looks up the the sky to make sure Talon is pacing with them
Hawkeye: We may need your help later, friend...
Taurus steps in behind Gilthanas, securing his shield on his arm.
Gilthanas knows the way and leads you skillfully through the Qualinesti forest without difficulty. The trail leads along a rushing brook. The terrain gets steeper as the heroes go south, and the brook becomes a raging mountain river. Evergreen trees loom across the trail. The trail turns to the west and opens out into a flat, open clearing about 150 ft. across. The grass has been churned into mud by a ferocious combat, and corpses of humans and hobgoblins litter the ground.
Jeren mutters a prayer for the souls of the departed as they pass
Taurus peers across the clearing, nose twitching some at the smell of death on the air.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ew
Jeren: This scene is getting a little to familiar...
Hawkeye: Looks like we need to hurry
GM: listen checks
Vexin Sixtoes: dead hobs smell nasty
Taurus pants lightly from the travelling in fullplate, good thing he has had a lot of experience in heavy amor and has high endurance.
Hawkeye and vexin both hear a groan coming from the center of the carnage
Hawkeye: You going to be alright, Taurus? I keep telling you to....
Hawkeye stops as he hears a groan
Hawkeye: Soemthing is still alive..
Taurus groans, gives Hawkeye a look.
Vexin Sixtoes bounds forward towards the groaning
Taurus: I'm fine, its not the first tim--
Zhage lets out a whistle, and waits for a few seconds.
Taurus pauses, looks in the direction that Hawkeye does.
Hawkeye follows Vexin closely, drawing both weapons in preparation
Taurus rests his hand on the pommel of his sword, stepping in rank.
The little Lizard bounds through the tall grass and awaits infront of Zhage
Jeren glances after Vexin and Hawkeye, but holds her ground
You make your way through the clearing and see a human begin to stand. He looks dazed and wounded
Zhage smiles a bit and begins to look around to figure our what s going on.
Hawkeye: Who are you?
Hawkeye raises his weaponl, unsure which side he is on
Taurus moves to the side of the human to offer him some support.
Before he can respond, a bad of draconians appear on the otherside of the field, along with two ogres. The man collapses.
Hawkeye: Taurus, we've got company!
Jeren rushes forward after Taurus and glances towards the approaching draconians and ogres. "I don't think they're coming to say hello..."
Taurus looks up hearing Hawkeye, sight narrowing in on the other creatures.
GM: inti
Taurus: Behind cover!
Hawkeye
Hawkeye rushes forward, dropping his weapons on the ground to allow him time to unsling his bow and fire off an arrow at the closest draconian to him
THe arrow soars through the air and lands with a thunk deep into the baaz's chest.
Taurus
Taurus legs it across the plain to try and reach the cover of the boulder.
Zhage
Zhage begins to chant and then points towards Baaz 4.
A blast of fire scorches through the air. It detonates at the draconian as the grass smolders around the area
Hawkeye looks as as a massive fireball erupts in front of him
Taurus watches as the bead of light flys past him and then hears the explosion of fire, peeking out from behind the rock as the fire explodes around the Draks.
Jeren lets out a low whistle, as she watches the explosion. It was the first time she'd ever seen Zhage cast a spell. He was certainly no amateur
Zhage smiles as he sees the small bead turn into a giant ball of fire.
The ball of flame engulfs the group of enemies, but they don't looks so burnt
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes casts Entangle on the attackers
Vexin Sixtoes moves towards Taurus
THe plants around the draconians and ogres come alive and begin to wrap themselves around them.
Gilthanas moves forward and fires off his long bow at the closest drac
THe arrow thuds next to Hawkeyes and the draconian turns to stone
THe draconians all struggle to free themselves. Only one seems to have any amount of success. the only draconian not entangled, rushes forward.
The powerful ogres break and tear the plants with ease. The one ogre flings a javilin at Hawkeye.
THe javilin falls short and is way off the mark
Riverwind runs forward and fires an arrow at the ogre
The arrow punctures the ogre's arm.
Jeren
Jeren hold her hand up to the sky once more and calls for her faithful mount to assit her
The air swirls and lights up with a blue light show. Suddenly, the stallion appears by Jeren's side
Goldmoon rushes towards the cover of the boulder
Hawkeye
Hawkeye draws another arrow and quickly nocks it, taking aim at the closer Ogre. He steadies his arm quickly, then releases it hoping for a solid shot.
The arrow lodges into the ogre's leg.
Taurus
Taurus checks his shield and moves in to Hawkeye, placing his hand on his shoulder. "Kiri-Joliath bless your armor for battle."
Taurus casts Magic Vestment on his armor (+1 ac enchancement)
Hawkeye looks at his friend and nods his thanks beforing turning his attention back to the battle at hand
Zhage
Zhage chants one more time, pointing at the closing Orge.
THe arrow speeds forth and smashes into the ogre's chest
Vexin Sixtoes
Taurus blinks as another magical presence whizzes past, feeling somewhat uncomfortable with that at his back.
Vexin Sixtoes casts Magic Stone, and 3 far more damaging stones appear in his hand.
Gilthanas moves to stand next to Hawkeye as he fires another arrow at the advancing ogre
The arrow sails by and Gilthanas gives an odd look of disbelief that he missed
One ogre charges forward while the other slowly advances while he hurls the javilins at Hawkeye
The javilin lands in the ground, sticking straight up infront of Taurus. The ogre growls in frustration
Taurus blinks and looks down at the huge javelin sticking in the ground.
Hawkeye: I'd be careful Taurus, he looks mad at you
THe draconians continue to struggle and two free themselves.
Riverwind moves up and shoots his arrow at the draconian on the left
The arrow lodges into the draconian's leg as he stumbles on his rush across the field
Jeren
Hawkeye
Hawkeye whips another arrow out, aiming a little higher than the last time as he releases it at the ogre
The ogre falls to his knees as the arrow pierces his skin. he drops his javilin in the long grass.
Jeren Mounts Tahbor and spurs him onwards into battle, towards the ogre (#2)
Taurus
Taurus pops down his visor, "Wish me luck." And with a *clankclankclank* He strides out into the open, drawing his longsword and clangs it several times against his shield in taunt before adopting a full defencive stance; shield nice and high.
Jeren brings the huge sword around and cleaves it into the ogre's shoulder. He howls in pain as he looks menacingly towards the palidin
Zhage
Taurus: Jeren! You got Tiny over there??
Hawkeye: I'll give her ranged support, Taurus...
Zhage moves to his left and lets loose a bolt.
Jeren: Tiny is all under control Taurus
Zhage: bah..
The bolt thunks into the ogre's bicep.
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes fires a Magic Stone at the Ogre
The stone rattles off the ogre's head. He goes cross eyed before he slumps to the ground
Hawkeye: Vexin the Ogreslayer...
Vexin Sixtoes cheers and shouts VEXIN THE OGRESLAYER!
Gilthanas shifts his weight to his right and fires off an arrow at the draconian
Jeren blinks as the ogre falls to the ground, she throws a glance over her shoulder at Vexin, "Nice shot!"
The arrow lodges itself into the tree that the draconian is using as cover. Gilthanas frowns
Vexin Sixtoes beams a smile at Jeren and holds aloft another glowing stone, slapping it into the sling
Taurus grins as he watches the battle unfold through his visor, seeing the final ogre fall he turns his attention on the approaching Drak's.
The dracoinans continue to struggle out of the plants that hold them tight. One free's himself as he stumbles out of the grass
The draconians rush forward, one raises his blade to attack Taurus
The sword bounces off the knights shield and the drac struggles to hang on to the blade as it vibrates in his hands
Riverwind advances and launches an arrow at the dracoinan near the pond
Taurus grins as he keeps his defenses high.
The arrow skiffs over the grass and falls short of the drac
Jeren
Jeren rides towards the approaching Draconians and attacks
Hawkeye: Now THAT is no Lady... Good job Jeren!
Jeren lets out a shrill battle cry as she strikes the Draconian "Take that heathen!"
Taurus whispers to the Drak infront of him; "See that? behind you? Thats you in 6 seconds."
Zhage jaw drops as he witnesses Jeren wrath..
The great sword slices through the draconian like butter. The blade swings free as the draconian turns to stone
Hawkeye
Vexin Sixtoes gapes as he watches the head roll
Vexin Sixtoes the stone head
Hawkeye looks away from Jeren's massive kill to see the Drac in the distance and shoots off an arrow at it.
The arrow hits the drac in the side as he rushes forward
Taurus
Taurus thrusts the shield forward as a feint before smashing his longsword down at the shoulder of the drak opposite him.
The draconian blocks the attack just in time as the two combatants lock blades
Zhage
Zhage moves closerr to the battle and fires and the drac assaulting Taurus
The bolt whistles passed the two warriors, landing somwhere in the tall grass
Taurus: You're a slippery one...
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes lets fly a Magic Stone at Baaz 4
The stone rattles off the helm of the draconian. He is clearly shaken by it as he stumbles forward
The dire weasel lunges at the drac but he somehow evades him
Gilthanas tries again at shooting the drac by the pond
The arrow lodges into the drac's stomach. Gilthanas looks please but it soon vanashes when he sees the monster still alive
The three draconians struggle to free themselves, but to no avail
One draconian advances to Jeren while the other bounds through the grass towards the kender. The other Draconian slashes at Taurus
The longsword misses and the vile draconian tries to bite the knight. The knight pushes his shield in the dragonman's face at the last second
Riverwind shoots and arrow at the draconian near Jeren.
THe first arrow whistles past but the second grazes his cheek
The arrow takes his cheek off and the drac turns to stone
Jeren
Jeren charges towards the Drac advancing on Vexin, swining her blade and hoping for another fatal blow
The sword cuts into the dragonman's torso. The draconian turns to stone and Jeren struggles to free the sword. it comes loose just as the draconian is completly turned to stone
Hawkeye
Hawkeye brings his bow to bear quickly onyl to see Jeren rush in and slay the draconian he was targeting. He looks down at his weapons, and decides he can pick them up after the battle so moves forward to keep pelting the draconians in the distance.
Jeren breathes a sigh of relief and then narrows her gaze upon the Drac near Taurus
Hawkeye takes aim at closest draconian in the distance and fires, hoping for a solid blow
The arrow slices through the draconian's throat. He grasps it as he struggles to get free.
Hawkeye: Looks like you and I have this under control, Jeren. And Vexin too of course!
Taurus
Taurus steps around the Drak, looking for an opening on the slippery beast. Seeing his oppertunity he lunges forward to drive the point of his longsword between its scales.
The draconian knocks the knights attack to the side once more as the two continue their duel
Taurus: Scaly fiend!
Zhage
Zhage sees Taurus struggling with his drac, begins to chant.
The glowing missles streak across the battlefield and thump into the draconian's chest
Vexin Sixtoes
The stone bounces into the grass
Skitters snarls as he nips at the draconian.
Gilthanas shoots an arrow at an entangled drac
The arrow crashes into the pine trees
Vexin Sixtoes cries out as his last Magic stone vanishes in a puff of vapor in the grass
The draconians struggle still. one gets free and tries to make his way out of the entangling grass
The other dracoinan attacks the heavily armored knight
The drac continues his assult but with no results
Riverwind moves up and shoots at the escaping drac
Jeren: Morningstar
The arrow hits the drac in the arm
Jeren
Jeren moves towards the Drac attacking Taurus, and growls
Jeren: I think we've had enough of you..
hisses at Jeren as he sees the mounted warrior
The sword lodges into the draconians skull. This time, the sword is stuck fast within the baaz's stoney death.
Jeren howls in frustration and tugs at her sword
Hawkeye
Jeren: Bastard Draconian!
Taurus frowns at the language that comes out of Jeren's mouth. Raising a brow at her.
Hawkeye quickly changes targets, aiming for the draconian closest to escaping
The arrow sticks into the dragonman's wrist. He still stands
Taurus
Taurus sheaths his longsword as he moves forward.
Zhage
Taurus: Let none escape!
Zhage moves up to the others keping his bow ready.
Vexin Sixtoes
Vexin Sixtoes lets fly a normal, mundane stone
The stone knocks the draconian off his feet. The entangling grass release the stone corpse
Gilthanas aims for the drac in the middle of the entanglement
the arrow hits the drac
The two draconians begin to panic as they see the skilled warriors closing in.
Riverwind lets loose a couple of arrows
The two arrows lodge themselves into the draconian, as he begins to look like a pin cusion
Jeren
Jeren abandons her sword in the stone draconian, chosing to take her frustrations out on his living companions.
The horse stumbles as the grass wraps around the horses legs
Hawkeye
Hawkeye shoots at the outside draconian again
Taurus
Taurus steps forwards and hurls a shortspear at Baaz 3
The spear lodges into the dracs chest as he falls to the ground, turning to stone in the process
Zhage
Vexin Sixtoes
Taurus shoots Jeren a triumphant grin.
Hawkeye: About time, Taurus
Taurus: I was waiting for just the right moment.
Vexin Sixtoes (shouts): PLANTS! MY MINIONS! RELEASE THEM
Hawkeye: Better late than never
The grass pulls away and the horse and draconian are free
Vexin Sixtoes lets afly another puny, normal stone
The draconian falls to the ground in a heap
Vexin Sixtoes cheers
Hawkeye rushes over to pick up his weapons quickly
Vexin Sixtoes: Well, glad I was here to save you all
Taurus stalks up to his single Drak kill, leans against the shortspear sticking out of it. Panting lightly.
Jeren turns Tahbor around to face her companions, "Nicely done!"
Hawkeye: Well fought, Jeren
Vexin Sixtoes: With the way things were going, you guys were toast without me!
Hawkeye: Of course, Vexin!
Vexin Sixtoes: Except Jeren the beheading horsewoman
Hawkeye: I did some work too..
Vexin Sixtoes: Whew
Jeren: We all do our part Vexin
Hawkeye pouts slightly for Vexin
Hawkeye winks at everyone else in the party
Vexin Sixtoes: Yes, yes hawkeye, you assisted me well
Jeren grins at Hawkeye
Taurus: Now you can say you've slain more than one Dragon, Vexin.
Taurus: Dragonbane.
Vexin Sixtoes: Well... those are but shadows of the dragons they might have been