krazykemist

Already at a hightened sense of uneasiness in the company of such diverse individuals Volksen takes care with every bite he eats and sip he takes.
At the flicker of the candles he quickly slams down his mug and places his hand on the hilt of his sword.

"When are all these ceremonies and charades going to stop and the adventure to begin?"

Volksen cautiously awaits the arrival from the outside hall.

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"Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself." -- Tolstoy

GoldenOuroboros

Darghon looks at Siroh
Telepatheca to Siroh "Why have you scanned me? Do you fear me sir? If so I wish you no harm, for alike the golden dragons from which our kind of the were dragon species were spawned we are here to help all those with a kind heart or those who are in need of dire help, and just because I say that I have magic, what leads you to believe that I don't have any other talents?"

Darghon sighs and wonders why HE had to be the one that was sent here.. is there something that he doesn't know... "So young I still am.." he mutters to himself "Why did the elders do this?"

He looks up from the table to see that candles flame up. "Strange..."

Darghon looks around, waiting for the duke to come back. "I hope I didn't seem like to much of a slob before.. The elders would have punished me for acting so rude.. I hope they weren't watching.. hrmm" Darghon mutters to himself.

Darghon sits at his table waiting, taking sips of his wine in the goblet of silver, and partakes of the food that lays before him on the table. "Delicious.."

OOC: Sorry guys, had my internet down and had work!! ARGH! Will try and be more regular..

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

Bob Biter

Vinoh responds to Darghon's telepathic message in the same manner:

- Please forgive my intrusion, Darghon of the Golden Dragons. I was simply feeling for anything amiss, since I barely recognize any of the adventurers present here. I have heard only legends about your clan, so I hope you understand my need to ascertain my would-be allies' general mood.

As Vinoh severs his telepathic link to the were-dragon, he suddenly feels a steady gathering of power near the hall's entrance. Opening his mind to telepathy had also made it sensitive to other unnatural phenomena. At the same time, footsteps are heard coming towards the doors...

The mind mage has some difficulty pinpointing the exact source of the power at work. Is it magic? A powerful aura approaching? A trap? Vinoh could not be sure, but something was about to happen... He keeps his eyes on Evenyth, whom he didn't fully trust yet.

Suddenly, all chandeliers flare up for a brief moment, casting a harsh light on the collectively suprised faces of the hall's occupants. Vinoh instinctively brings up is mind block, fearing an unseen attack by a mage or other psychic, and steels himself for what's to come next.

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A plan is just a list of things that don't happen.

rogue49

redravin40

The Magistrate opens the door and announces the arrival of the Duke.
Moving to the head of table the Duke surveys the group that have come to help him and shakes his head in dismay.
"Welcome and thank you for your patience."
Then with a bit of a scowl, "I have noticed some of you are trying to spell cast. It will serve you little purpose in this room since the chandeliers are made from the crystal of Arimos, which absorbs all magic."
"I am offering five crowns a day with a bonus of a thousand crowns when the evil that plagues us is destroyed or put to rest."
The magistrate sets a tray of leather pouches on the table.
"This is an advance of two hundred crowns apiece."
"I also offer you full run of my armory and the kitchens to provide weapons and food for the trip." Looking at the ork, the Duke amends his statement, "I offer you a weeks worth of food, after that you will have to fend for yourselves. But you may take all the potable water you can carry. I suggest you arm and provision yourselves carefully since there is little around the Tombs to eat or drink. Thirst and hunger can kill you just as dead as a sword."
Gesturing to the Magistrate again, he watches as the man struggles to bring forward a huge wood stand on which are perched two crows. One is jet black in a way that makes you try to look deeper within. The other is bright white, almost painful to look upon for very long.
"This is Wit and Tiw. They will be my eyes and ears on this journey. If there is anything you need me to know or help that I may be able to offer, speak to them."

The black crow hops off its perch on to the table, lets out a caw and says, "You're all going to die, you're all going to die."

Cubby

Standing from attempting to talk with the strange rogue, Thantos asks,

"Duke, I received the summons from you to assist in determining the cause of mysterious occurances and if deemed to be evil, to bring the evil to an end. However, the summons did not describe any of the mysterious occurances. In order that we may be better prepared for this adventure might we not hear some of the tales that have been spread?

I realize many may be overly exaggerated, but knowledge is power when facing the unknown."

"Regardless, I will proceed on this quest for evil is likely the cause of anything unexplained. I accept your offer for money and food."

Finished, Thantos bowed deeply and moved over to the table, grabbed a money bag from the table. Sliding the bag into his belt without looking at its contents, he moved back from the table and stood waiting expectantly for something to happen.

__________________
Don't be irreplaceable - if you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted!

Bob Biter

Vinoh's eyes grow wide as the black crow seemingly curses the entire group before they could even taste their adventure. He searches for deeper meaning, as Torun, his Guildmaster, had often hinted that the deepest mysteries of life were often heavily cloaked in metaphors to separate the wheat from the chaff. Was this a test of the group's morale? A group that scarcely knew each other to begin with?

Since his previous use of telekinetic, telepathy and aura reading powers had gone unchallenged by the chandeliers' magic-soaking ability, Vinoh thought that perhaps they only impeded conventional magic only. Indeed, all natural abilities, such as the morphing gifts of the weredragon and werewolf had also gone unchallenged. Perhaps only wizards, who wielded magic learned through study and tapped external forces, were truly at a disadvantage here.

With all of this in mind, the mind mage spoke to the Duke:

"My lord, surely there is some explanation for this. Why would you charge a crow to accompany us, only to let it berate us at the very beginning? I hope at least the white bird will be of better spirits!"

As he speaks, Vinoh attempts to read the black crow's aura, to see if there is more to it than meets the eye.

*Psychic power: read aura - black crow*

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A plan is just a list of things that don't happen.

Cubby

Suprised at this question, Thantos turns,

"Vinoh was the name correct? Vinoh, what makes you think the crow is berating us? All quests must be started with the realization that you may die, especially if the unknown is taken into account. Therefore, this crow is merely stating the idea that all of us should consider before accepting this quest...the idea that we may not survive."

__________________
Don't be irreplaceable - if you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted!

Bob Biter

Vinoh suddenly aborts his probe and turns to the knight.

"Hmm... Those are very sound words, Knight of the Eagle Order, and they ring true to me. Perhaps I was reading too much into this display, as I often do due to my training. I thank you for your insight and gladly take this quest!"

The mind mage reaches for one of the purses, slips it in his bag and bows to the Duke.

"Please forgive my brash questioning, my lord. It would seem Sir Thantos has more sense about him than I at this moment. My powers are at your disposal."

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A plan is just a list of things that don't happen.

GoldenOuroboros

"Money.. The elders didn't say anything of money.." Darghon grins slightly and gets up from his table and wanders over to where the bags of money are grabs one and slips it into his belt "I accept your offer" Pulling his cloak around him he bows slightly to the duke showing respect.

Thinking that the use of his bag won't work in here due to the crystals. "Excuse me Duke, if I may speak, Will there be anywhere where we can buy provisions? Unfortunately I cannot carry food for long in my own pouch?"

He takes a step back and stands next to Vinoh. He looks at Vinoh, pulls a smirk then looks back towards the duke. Telepathically he says "I think you and I will get along well. But I have a favour to ask of you. I shan't ask it now. Abit later when we know what's goin on."

He stands relaxed, waiting for what may come next.

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

arael

Walking slowly up to the Duke...
"My lord, your money does not interest me...."
"I am however, more interested in the spell book... the spell books of your country which money unfortuanely... cannot buy."
"You know very well what i am capable of, you will need me in this quest. Please consider my offer my lord"
Orpheon bows slowly

GoldenOuroboros

Eyes the being that wants the spell books for payment.. Telepathically says to Vinoh "Such a craving for power, could this be a good sign or not of this person?"

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

NeverBorn

My growls , feeling the presence of another defile the 'temple' of his mind. Thoughts flirt in an out in an entirly inhuman nature, the sentience and instinct clashing in a fierce battle. All the while the surface of the man gazes about and sits back a little at the flare of the lights..

redravin40

The Duke looks down his nose at the spell caster.
"The Book of Spells is knowledge only given to those who have earned it. When you return we can speak of this further. I do have two scroll that may be of use to you."
Gesturing to the magistrate, who once again scurries forward with two leather tubes. The seal on one is a rising sun and the second is sealed with the symbol for water. Passing the sun-marked scroll over to Orpheon, "This will give you light as bright as the noon sun for one turn of the sand dial. Use it well because it is only good once. The second will bring a storm of great power from which only the people closest to you will be safe. It too will only have one use."
At this the white crow hopes down to join his brother.
"You will succeed. Caw. Caw. You will succeed."
'You will all die. Die. Die." screeches the other.
They start to peck at each other when the Duke with a wave of his hand makes them fly back to their perches.
"As to the information you seek, I can only tell you the barest of facts. The two scouts I have sent ahead have not returned with information. I do not know them to be dead and I would appreciate any news of their well being."
"It started with the disappearance of children from the near by village. Soon thereafter the bodies of those who went in search of the children, were found ripped limb from limb. Their eyes and tongues were missing. The small force of soldiers who were stationed there went out, never to return. Wraiths, darkness at mid-day and horrible screams in the night have all been reported. You should be able to find food and water at the village, if it is still standing."
Suddenly the Duke seems to shrink in size; his skin becomes pale and his eyes large, filled with pain.
The Magistrate steps forward, "The Duke has said all he can. You must go to the kitchens and provision yourselves, then to the armory. Make it quick if you expect to leave by first light. These are not good times to be traveling by night." Looking first at the werewolf, then at the dark mage, "Even for those of you who are used to living in the shadows."

GoldenOuroboros

Darghon looks at the birds and says "They're like the same bird with mirror image personalities" He raises a partly scaley eyebrow under the hood of his cloak. "Excuse me duke, can we put them in a cage and see who wins?" He jokes with chuckle.

"That is the only problem with scrolls, after you use them they fade away. I know a similar spell to that first one." The corner of his mouth raises slightly. "I don't know of that second one though, I have only been in the school of elements for only a few hundred years.. perhaps if I had specialised I would have had one element studied, if not maybe two, ahh wells.." Darghon sighs "oh well, diversity is good, please excuse my ramblings"

Darghons eyes open slightly "This sounds terrible indeed, a being that is able to call open wraiths, minions of the greater demons" Watches as the duke turns pale, shrinking slightly.. Telepathically he says to Viroh "The duke could be possessed... from my schooling that's what I remember a physical change like that as.. Goin from good health to bad in an instant.."

Darghon looks around "Well my fellow comrades, what do you all say?" He says with a load voice "Shall we go a hunting?" Darghon grins showing a few of his teeth.

Telepathically he says to Viroh "If the duke is possessed, then I fear that it may know that we are already coming" Darghon stands waiting a reply from his comrades...

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

Bob Biter

Vinoh, who was still coming to grips with the scope of the dangers that face the group, finally answers Darghon telepathically:

*Telepathic message to Darghon*

"My friend, our ability to communicate without speaking will surely be useful. I'm sorry I didn't answer you before, but I suspect that our conversations may be monitored. After all, anyone who possesses the ability to soak magic could also read minds, so it's best to be careful.

The other mage indeed worries me, as does Evenyth. It is rare indeed that indiviuals with such different backgrounds would come together for the common good... What plans could they possibly have?

As for your request, I'm not sure how a simple psychic like me could help a were-dragon, since your natural powers already surpass my own! However, I'll try to help you as best as can, and I'm sure you'll be able to help me in return."

The mind mage then looks at the Duke, who appears to be physically drained after his tragic introduction of the dire situation that threatens his realm. He again speaks to Darghon, but in a verbal whisper:

"(whispers) Perhaps the Duke is simply overwhelmed by the chaos, or maybe he has some link to his realm that weakens him as the land itself is weakened. I fear only time will tell, my friend."

Vinoh then proceeds to the armoury, to look for a sturdier club.

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A plan is just a list of things that don't happen.

GoldenOuroboros

Darghon thinks about Vinohs' comments, nods his head in agreement and walk after Vinoh. "There is something you could do, teach me how to use my psychic gifts, only the elders have the ability to use psychic powers, we can all telepath, but..." Darghon trails off.. "I am different, I had them from just after hatching... I could move things with my mind. When the elders did find out I was punished everytime I used them. I have no idea why."

He looks at his hands, with their long claws and scales that cover his hand and patch his arm "I'm also different from my kind, I'm more dragon-like when I'm in my human form, stronger and faster too. My mother had dissappeared when I was young and I never knew who my father was..." Darghon sighs and shrugs his shoulders..

"And yeah, I would like to learn some of your mind works if that's ok by you Vinoh?" Darghon looks at Vinoh as they head towards the Armoury. Looking straight ahead he then says "If we have time.."

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

Bob Biter

Vinoh addresses Darghon:

"I fear that I may not be the best teacher, Darghon. Psychic abilities, while they can be honed and perfected, cannot be taught like magic spells or rituals. An individual simply has the inner potential or does not.

In my guild, the Mind's Eye, we have 3 types of psychic levels: minor, major and master. Minor psychics can only master a few low-level powers, no matter how much time they put into their personal development. Major users know a little more, while master psychics have the potential to exhibit the full range of known mental powers. Even then, only a few choose to dedicate their lives to their mental development and become mind mages, reffered in the guild as "potentials", while the other master psychics choose another path, such as academics, combat or even theft.

As a mind mage, I chose to devote myself to my powers, but they come to me naturally. My master's sole role is to guide me through each plateau, but he's not the one who instills new powers in me. Therefore, Darghon, while I can't "teach" you any psychic powers, just like you can't teach me to metamorph, I can perhaps help you interpret whatever new powers you may exhibit. I'm sure you'll get a chance to discover new things about yourself in our quest!"

As he speaks, Vinoh inspects a few war clubs lined up on a rack in the Duke's armoury. Unfortunately, they are all too heavy and cumbersome for him. He then spots a wooden scout's club, which is reinforced with sturdy metal strips imbedded deep in the weapon. He swings it a few times, checking the balance. Then, satisfied with his find, he replaces his own worn-out club with the new one.

"So, Darghon, as I see that you probably won't need any weapons, why don't we see what kind of provisions the Duke stocks in his kitchen? While we're at it, why don't you tell me about your clan?"

__________________
A plan is just a list of things that don't happen.

laughter

Evenyth drifts silently behind Vinoh and Darghon, making no apparent effort to hide.

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"Laughter is nothing else but a sudden glory arising from some sudden conception of some eminency in ourselves, by comparison with the infirmity of others, or with our own formerly."
-Thomas Hobbes

Cubby

After looking around the room at this relatively silent ragtag group of mercenaries, Sir Thantos suggests,

"Let's all prepare and meet just outside the palace to decide what to do next. If you see any of the few people who have left already tell them we are meeting in front of the palace as soon as possible."

Thantos then leaves the throne room and heads to the armoury.

He doesn't need any armour or sword as his own sword has served him well over the past few years. Thantos has however, run a little short of crossbow bolts and fills up his quiver with 20 extra iron bolts. As he is leaving the armoury he notices a small dagger that looks in excellent condition, he grabs that and a small dagger sheath and straps it onto his belt.

"Better to have too much steel than not enough", he thinks to himself.

He then heads to the kitchen and stocks up with a week's worth of food. Moving from the kitchen to the stables, the knight saddles his horse, straps his packs onto his horses saddle and moves to the front of the palace to await his companions. He settles down on the front steps and shuts his eyes to rest knowing his war horse will prevent anyone from getting too close too quickly.

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Don't be irreplaceable - if you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted!

GoldenOuroboros

"My clan is very, well, we keep ourselves hidden from everyone in some of the tallest unreachable mountains of the world. The clouds are our grasslands." Darghon smiles slightly remembering his home in the sky. "It's a great place, I'd take you there one day, but outsiders aren't allowed, sorry, best us stay myth and in legend" Darghon grins at Vinoh "You do realise I'm goin to have to kill you now" Darghon chuckles slightly.

"I can't really tell you that much of my clan, I was kept away from the rest of them. I was taught what I know by the elders themselves. There's four of them, each one has specialised in one of the areas of elemental magic, and then they have their psychic abilities, which we weredragons shouldn't seem to get till we reach the age of the elders, but I had some from birth, I also aquired earlier than normal alot of the abilities that I should get later as I get older..." Darghon makes a concerned look on his face "There's a night when the elders had me in this room, when I was very young, just after I had started moving things with my mind, but that night is all just a blur."

Darghon sighs, "I don't know who my father is, and my mother ran away just after I was born.. I wish I knew who my father was.. maybe he could answer a few question about myself.."

"Ahh well, we are a tight nit community who helps those in need, the elders give the older warriors tasks, usually people that need help or watching over, but it's the first time someone as young as me has been giving something of this magnitude." He smiles slightly "Well if the elders think I can do it, I'm sure I can"

"Mmmm, can you smell that?" Darghon rubs his stomach and grins slightly "Food, good food, the kitchen mustn't be to far away.."

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

forgotten_dream

Gell, having finally satiated his intense appetite, follows the others into the armory. "Me am not needing armor. Me am have orc axe, and orc skull am thick as helmet! Me am not needing-- Shiny!" The orc's eyes light up as he spots a large set of armor and several bastard swords and he squeezes into the armor, then straps on both swords before picking his axe back up. "Now Gell am have more shiny to fight dark with. With good armor, and orc strength, Gell am unstopable!" Proudly suited in this new armor, Gell tests the sharpness of the blades on a nearby table. Satisfied of their strength, he walks outside to wait for the others, blinking in the light.

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"A ouija board just works better if you've made it yourself. It's sortof like how 'Clue' is more interesting when one of you has actually killed someone."

redravin40

Father Quadrial loads up on food and water for the trip. In the armory he finds a simple ax that is to his liking and a fine yew wood longbow with a quiver of clothyard arrows.
He is a little disconcerted when the ravens fly down the hall and follow him out to the front gate where other members of the party are waiting.

Bob Biter

Vinoh listens with great interest to Darghon. How rare it is to get such little known information straight from the source! As they head for the kitchen, Vinoh notices Evenyth following them. The mind mage has had a weird feeling about the shadow being from the very beginning, but decides to address him again:

"Ah, Evenyth. I see you are someone who values actions over words, as I hardly heard you say anything since the Duke greeted us. I hope you understand my uneasiness in your presence, since my guild has been fighting the Dark and shadow mages for quite some time, but I'd rather see you as my ally than just a funny feeling at the back of my head!

Darghon and I are on our way to load up on food, why don't you join us?"

Vinoh then turns and heads for the kitchen, where he takes enough water, fuit and jerked beef to last him a week.

"Darghon, I hope you know a few water spells, so that we don't run out of it in the Tomb of Velix!"

The mind mage then heads outside, where the rest of the adventurers are gathered. He feels a swell of pride and hope upon seeing such stalwart heroes, and considers it a good omen for things to come.

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A plan is just a list of things that don't happen.

GoldenOuroboros

Darghon looks at the kitchen "I love the smell of freshly cooked food" He looks at the cook and smiles

He hears Vinoh talking to the mage he sensed following but couldn't sense much else about the being that stayed back yet following.. He looks at Evenyth and smiles. Grabbin some fruit and some of the dried beef that Vinoh grabbed "Interesting" Darghon sniffs the dried beef and chews on it "Interesting" he says again, putting abit more in the sack he grabs a water bag, nods his head towards Evenyth and heads out to where the gathering is happening.

He stands near Vinoh looking around looking at the crowd that has started.. noticing the warrior sleeping near his horse. He turns back to the group and waits.. "Wait, I guess we shall then Vinoh.."

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

Grondar

As the tray of gold-filled pouches touches down on the table, Vade arises from a corner table and smiles.

"Nothing sets a glimmer to my eye like the shimmer of gold in candlelight. I will accept this advance of 200 crowns, as I will accept the full reward when the task has been completed. The question isn't whether the task will be completed, but instead who will complete it, and whether they will do it alone.

"My profession is one of solitude and stealth, but if the story you tell is true, this task may be too great for even myself to handle alone. Having exchanged words with Sir Thantos I have concluded that he is a noble and good man. I befriend few, and trust fewer still. However, I have taken a liking to the noble Knight Sir Thantos, and intend to walk with him so that we may confer further."

Vade glides to the table, and conceals a gold-filled pouch somewhere within his flowing black garments.

"I have learned to trust only my own blades, and my sling can find limitless munitions in the wilderness that we will surely be spending more than a fair share of time in over the upcoming days.

"I require little food, as I like to keep myself light and nimble. Hunting small game with my sling will prevent starvation and keep me in practice. I am therefore ready to embark on this journey. It is my hope that the rest of you are as well. To die of your own accord is one thing, but to put the lives of others at risk with your ill-advised actions is unacceptable, and I strongly advise you to think before you act."

With that, Vade makes for the castle gates so that he may further confer with Sir Thantos.

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"Yes, I rather like this God fellow. He's very theatrical, you know, a pestilence here, a plague there. Omnipotence. Gotta get me some of that." -Stewie

Cubby

As Vade approaches Thantos, the knight's horse Spike neighs softly, waking the resting knight.

"Well met Vade, I was wondering when you would show up!"

Sitting up the knight glances around and sees a few of the others had already arrived but were waiting at various places out of the distance of his warhorse.

"So Vade, as I was saying earlier, we are indeed a motley crew are we not? I think we will do well on this quest but we must watch and determine everyone's strengths and weaknesses in order to be most effective in battle."

"Ah, but enough of that for now, I will tell you a little about myself. I have been a full knight for over 5 years now, and even in that short time I have seen countless battles. My king's lands lie far away and are constantly under seige from the forces of darkness. We are a proud folk of warriors. My father was a knight of the kingdom before me as was my grandfather and his father. My father was killed 10 years ago in the great battle of Gardur. He and his devout knights were able to hold the line against an army of ogres and trolls long enough for residents of Gardur to flee back to Moonvale. Alas, he and most of the Knights of the Eagle Order perished in that battle. Since then I have strived to make him proud and bring the Eagle Order back to its full strength and honour. Since the Eagle Order is still relatively small and wouldn't be put into battle(recruitment to the Eagle Order is very intense and very limited) the King felt many of the knights should go on quests of learning to keep their edge sharp and to gain knowledge of different lands. I, therefore, was assigned to assist in this particular endeavour. "

"What about you my good man Vade, what is your story..If you wish to tell? Why have you decided to risk your life for the Duke?"

__________________
Don't be irreplaceable - if you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted!

NeverBorn

The werewolf stands up and slides his chair back. "I have sat in silence long enough. The spirits speak, a quest at hand. I am Claws of Fury, great Warrior of my tribe. I have been sent here by the Chieftans because of a lost artifact. Any and all who aid me in this quest, could recieve passage from the Nation into our lands." His yellow eyes glance about. "The spirits shift, they also speak of fiends which mortal weapons cannot harm.."

Tower

[OOC: I realize I'm late in attempting to join this RPG, this is because of the absence of a Titled Roleplaying section and I just noticed the fact that this game exists in the "Suggestions" area. I do hope that my arrival is alright, and if not, feel free to 'smite' my character. Additionally, I am new to this, so I'm going to give it my best shot -- and I'm going to take some liberty with the weather, I hope that doesn't infringe or break any rules. Any help/criticism in PM is welcomed.]

Outside, the dark clouds slowly glide through the skies, casting a bleakness over the land. It isn't long before somber wave after wave of rain erupts forth and spills down, casting a dismal mood into the atmosphere.

..And shortly after the storm assembles, a large drawn carriage approaches. Pulled by four strong horses, the covered wagon is at least as long as three horses, making it exceptionally large. As it approaches it becomes evident that it is filled with other sentient creatures, humans and otherwise. It shakes occasionally, with shouts and howls resonating from within. The carriage comes up upon the adventurers and as it passes, a loud "CLANG!" interrupts the shouts and howls, and the wagon rocks side to side slightly.

Carriage Guard: 'Git Down! 'Git Down I Said!

The snap of a whip is then heard after the guard's words, and the carriage settles on it's axle for a moment. Then, as if by fate, a streak of lightning jets across the sky and booming thunder crashes across the landscape. In the flashing light and awesome thunder, the carriage rocks again, only this time much more violently. The cries of others increase, causing a near deafening amount of ruckus.

Again, lightning splits the skies. Something is definetly going on within the carriage, for the guard is now agitated and actively using the whip. The moans and screams of the prisoners increases two-fold, and thunder once more echoes. This time, as thunder makes it's presence known, the cheap iron-and-wood door on the back of the carriage shatters and a huge dark heap explodes forth into the air, collapsing onto the ground below. Lost in the confusion, cries and weather, the guard remains unaware from the front of the carriage, attempting to manage the others.

Kneeling on the ground with his head down, the massive dark heap slowly made it's way back to it's feet, apparently shaken up. The olive-skinned creature stood up, exposing a bald head. The frame was very well toned; bulky muscle was exposed atop a lean and tall body structure -- all in all standing at least six and a half feet tall. Black tattoos were roughly interposed on the outer upper arms and back of this individual, as were rough and crude scars. Most noticably, a deep reddish gouge was apparent over the left eye. Wearing nothing more than a leather loincloth and shackles with broken chains hanging from each wrist, the figure surveyed the gathering. This must be it.

He approached the gathering, nothing more but an imposing, hulking creature of some race, or combination of races. His skin, although criss-crossed with scars here and there and rough tattoos, seemed rather well-kept. Two protruding teeth from his lips were only a faint yellow in hue, a far cry from most shades seen in other's mouths in these days. He was clean and in well order, appearing as disciplined as any Paladin, and yet hard and rough like the standard Barbarian.

A unique individual, indeed.

His eyes watched each individual in turn, keeping quite alert for any sudden movements. He was well aware that everyone in the group would be questioning what they just saw -- and he knew that he looked like the common criminal escapee. So just what was this colossal man doing in prison? Perhaps just theft? Or maybe this individual gave in to his primordial and crude desires, his crime being rape. Or maybe, just maybe, this figure's dark physique and domineering aura was that of a serial killer, one with intentions only of tearing out intestines and dressing his victim with their own filth. Regardless of what they thought, they would all ask questions in a few moments, and thus he stood, awaiting the curious thrusts of inquiring minds.

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Regulator 2k3. Intergalatic Planetary.

laughter

Evenyth follows Vinoh and Darghon through the palace, the two picking up the supplies they need. Eventually, they make their way to the courtyard, where a sizable army has gathered. The shadowy figure beckons the two closer. Softly, he speaks.

"There is no reason to bring this zoo along. I have the knowledge to get to where we need to go, and you two have sufficient skill to defeat anything my former Master can send at us. I could easily do so myself, but due to the nature of my servitude, I am powerless against he himself. I sense something within each of you that may prove... useful.

"I suggest we leave this lot behind. Three travel swifter than two dozen, and stealthier as well. What do you say?"

He stands, his face as exressionless as before, awaiting a reply.

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"Laughter is nothing else but a sudden glory arising from some sudden conception of some eminency in ourselves, by comparison with the infirmity of others, or with our own formerly."
-Thomas Hobbes

GoldenOuroboros

Darghon feels a little wet pulling his leather cloak around him to keep him abit dryer... "I mean not to be rude Evenyth" Looks past Evenyth, looking over the mages shoulder at the strange creature that just erupted from the carriage "But shouldn't we find out the intentions of the creature that just burst out of the prison carriage over there before we go rushin off?" Darghon slightly raises his eye brow.

"Excuse me.." Darghon walks past Evenyth and stands in front of the crowd nearer the being "May I ask you of your name?" he directs to the newcomer...

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Can you see me grin grin grrriiiiinnnning?!

Bob Biter

Vinoh eyes Evenyth suspiciously and answers him:

"While I agree that a smaller group can travel quicker and with less chance of being detected, I fear I don't have all the experience necessary to face the Dark with only 2 people I barely know, especially when one of them actually served the Dark.

I mean no offense by this, Evenyth, but since I've fought the Dark a few times and know them to be deceivers, I find it hard to follow one. Also, while Darghon surely has vast potential, he is also inexperienced, so I think we should wait and see what the Duke has to say. For what it's worth, I think that breaking the group into units of, say, 4-5 people and coordinating their journey with the 2 birds could work wonders without slowing us down."

Suddenly, Vinoh becomes aware that Darghon is looking at something over Evenyth's shoulder. He looks as well and sees that a new member has joined the party, albeit a somewhat unusual one. Vinoh turns back to Evenyth.

"Look, I'm aware that your powers and very nature could be invaluable to us during our quest, but leaving the group now would be dangerous and we're facing enough danger as it is... Please, let's wait to see what the plan is first."

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A plan is just a list of things that don't happen.

redravin40

Father Quadrial chewed slowly on one of the turkey legs he had taken from the kitchen. He was not certain if he wanted to go on this journey now. A mismatched group, the possibility of running out of food and the two crows circling slowly above were more then a bit offputting.
Then to add insult to injury, a strange looking fellow walks right up looking like danger on two legs and the good father had known many a dngerous man.
The two crows glided in to land on the gate edge.
"We are here to guide you to glory." said the white.
"Follow us and you will die." said the black.
Then they tucked their heads under their wings as if to say 'we'll be ready when you are.'

laughter

"Very well. It is a ... cautious decision. Although one you may regret later."

__________________
"Laughter is nothing else but a sudden glory arising from some sudden conception of some eminency in ourselves, by comparison with the infirmity of others, or with our own formerly."
-Thomas Hobbes

Cubby

When the wet weather suddenly started, Thantos had grabbed his cloak from his saddlebag and had thrown it over his shoulders.

Now, protected from this sudden rainstorm, the Knight was suprised to see a prision carriage driving by from seemingly out of nowhere. Suddenly, a prisioner had burst out of the back of the carriage as the carriage continued on (OOC: I'm presuming that as I'm not clear where the carriage went).

Seeing this, Thantos draws his sword, and shouts at the departing carriage. "STOP Jailer! Stop the carriage! A prisoner has escaped!"

Moving towards this strange creature with sword drawn, Thantos says, "Stay where you are prisoner! I don't know what you did and I don't really care. We will keep you here until the jailer gets his carriage under control and returns."

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Don't be irreplaceable - if you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted!

forgotten_dream

Gell's ears perk up slightly as he overhears Evenyth's whispered conversation. Even with their lowered tones, years of tracking game and enemy much quieter than any in this group had sharpened his hearing, and he turns toward the three warriors. Gell points his axe at Evenyth, his eyes narrowed. "Just because me am orc, not mean me am stupid dark one! Or deaf!" He nods to Vinoh and Darghon, appeased slightly by their responses but still upset at the insult of being declared unneeded. "You am smart not to go with him. He am probably SENT by the dark we am going to fight, so he can lead you into trap! You should stay with Gell- me am not smart in all ways, but Gell can be trusted, and Gell knows who to trust."
Gell then turns his dark eyes to this new man, eyeing him curiously even as he keeps one distrustful eye on Evenyth. The man appears to be strong, and is dressed almost like a barbarian. Yet the man carries no weapons at all. Gell scratches his head quizzically as he puzzles over the man's appearance. He does not look like any of the monks Gell has seen before, but his experience with that curious class of warrior was limited. Gell scoops up a small rock and chucks it at the black crow as he walks over to the new man. "You am shut up, bird. So, who am you?"

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"A ouija board just works better if you've made it yourself. It's sortof like how 'Clue' is more interesting when one of you has actually killed someone."

Tower

[OOC: Interesting twist you added Cubby, I wasn't anticipating it. I'll let redravin40 decide whether or not the jailor hears, and what continues from that point.]

As the rain drizzled down, the man's broad shoulders heaved wearily. It was apparent that he'd been struggling for quite some time -- most likely with the chains that dangled from his shackles. The uneven chain lengths, with rings bent out of shape give way to the idea that they were snapped, pulled with brute strength until they gave way.

Pausing to take a deep breath, he closed his eyes and let the cool rain drizzle down his head. It felt good and refreshing, something he had not recently experienced in the dungeon known as a jail. It seemed like an eternity he spent at that moment, feeling the rain again and breathing free air. Only when the silence was broken did he return to reality.

His eyelids peeled open like fresh oranges, split quickly and keenly, his eyes set upon Darghon as the comment escaped his mouth. It was expected. His response came slow, but was spoken solemnly.

Tower: My name is Nazdreg..but those in prison called me Tower.

Still watching Darghon, the words were deliberate and vocalized very articulately, giving off the radiance of at least some education. With that, he turned his perspective to that of Vinoh as he cast him a glance, and he returned the watchful eye. As Vinoh turned back to Evenyth, Tower's attention was once again stolen from Darghon as Thantos made his introduction.

Tower was compelled to snarl as Thantos drew his sword, his upper lift curling upwards to expose additional pointed canines. Jaw tipping down slightly, he focused on the Knight. The words that came forth was like a thousand knives churning in his intestines; the shouting for the guards and the screams of 'Stop!' reverberated in his cranium as he looked on. Veins buried within folds of muscle exposed themselves and danced across his neck and his shoulders heaved simultaneously.

Watching the Knight closely, Tower intended to speak his mind in a purposeful way to get his point across, but without expressing implied harm, as that was as far from his goal as could be.

Tower: I'll go back over my dead body.

He stood firm, unthreatening but nonetheless prepared to move quickly if need be. The situation was only complicated with the arrival of Gell, an individual who looked very similar to himself. Gell made his introduction, and although Tower heard him fine, he dared not let his guard down to Thantos right now. Hopefully, Gell would understand why he didn't greet him in return, due to the little situation at hand.

Bracing himself, Tower awaited what would come next.

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Regulator 2k3. Intergalatic Planetary.

forgotten_dream

Looking from Tower to Thantos, Gell draws his rather impressive battle axe and steps between this new, strange half orc and this knight of the Eagle Order, his dark eyes narrowed at Thantos through the rain. "You am not hurt him! He am orc like Gell, am like brother! Me am not having honor as warrior if me am letting you hurt brother orc!" Gell straightens up to his full intimidating hight, his teeth showing slightly in a fierce snarl. "Tower am here to help fight darkness, like Gell and you and tiny chair warrior! You am not stop him! If you am wanting to fight him, you am having to fight Gell too!"

__________________
"A ouija board just works better if you've made it yourself. It's sortof like how 'Clue' is more interesting when one of you has actually killed someone."

redravin40

Father Quadrial watches in amazement as the stone so casually thrown at the circling raven passes right through the bird.

He is still staring at the bird when he realizes that a stand off of sorts is developing around the fellow from the prison wagon (which seems to have disappeared into the misty morning.) The tenseness of the situation draws the big priest too its center (a habit that had caused Quadrial problems in the past).
"Friends, friends, save your energy for the minions of the dark." Pointing to the sky. "It looks like our two guides have decided to leave without us."
Indeed the white and black birds have started a slow flight down the Southern Road from the Dukes castle.

forgotten_dream

Gell eyes Thantos a moment longer, then looks up at the sky as the monk points. He shades his eyes, squinting against the morning sun, then grunts. "Birds am move fast! We am better get going after them or birds am get lost- or we am get lost." Gell throws his pack over one shoulder, and straps his axe to his side as he turns to the others.
"Come on, we am follow birds! And we am making sure noone am getting left behind." Gell eyes first the warrior Thantos then the dark quiet shade Evenyth as he says this, then he looks around at the others.
Grinning at Sarael, L'huts Namreg and Tower, Gell starts off after the birds. "Come funny squishy man! Come tiny chair-warrior! Come, my orc brother! We am have many great battles ahead! Adventure am waiting for us!"

__________________
"A ouija board just works better if you've made it yourself. It's sortof like how 'Clue' is more interesting when one of you has actually killed someone."