From Solinar the convoy of heroes and antiheroes alike mark north towards River Valley. They leave behind them so much, some know of the risk they take, while others can only guess. Some such as the Silverkin, Illiani Dourana, fear the worse, while Galiae extrudes a calm acceptance and bright optimism.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
I wonder if he sets traps for us to walk in...
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
I'm getting itchy, Pelgrin. I hope there is something to set fire to.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
The son of Lucifer? Setting fire to him will be hard.
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
I suppose fire won’t do much.
Illiani looks skyward for a moment muttering in Draconic.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
[Draconic] [Whisper] Unra drnii iraty...zii ehui poondr dryychmy yw drnii kytymy..chunfiunrak baiunstimy dry poi onmyity dry stwonhudrniihu drnii khuiedrihu kyyty. Zii lionmydr raydr ziyhuhuan wyhu yonhumyichfiimy, wyhu ifiihu estdrunyra wonhudrniihumy yonhu kytymy' kyechmy. IN THE END...WE ARE BUT TOOLS OF THE GODS...LIVING PIECES TO BE USED TO FURTHER THE GREATER GOOD. WE MUST NOT WORRY FOR OURSELVES, FOR EVER ACTION FURTHERS OUR GODS' GOALS.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
[Whisper] Where are Scyla and Galiae?
Nathan Geran
On their way. Move ahead. We'll catch up.
Illiani takes a deep breath and tries to reassure himself in draconic, while Candeth blows her candle out, storing it for later.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Come on we move. Be quick Nathan.
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
Hope you know where you're going...
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
I do.
The group pauses for a moment to regroup giving each member another moment to gather their personal thoughts and the understand more so their place in the group.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
[Draconic] Chetyan Huundrnianhura... LADY RITHYRN...
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
Hmm?
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
[Draconic] Myniyonchty Un poi ewhueunty? Dry dry myean; unmy undr huunknidr wyhu lii dry poi ewhueunty? SHOULD I BE AFRAID? TO SAY; IS IT RIGHT FOR ME TO BE AFRAID?
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
[Draconic] Wiehu unmy e raedronhuech unramydrunrastdr. Tyy raydr tyiraan undr. Tyy raydr weunch dry chunmydrira dry anyonhu poytyan. Poondr edr drnii myelii drunlii dregoi undr echch ziundrni e khueunra yw myechdr. FEAR IS A NATURAL INSTINCT. DO NOT DENY IT. DO NOT FAIL TO LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. BUT AT THE SAME TIME TAKE IT ALL WITH A GRAIN OF SALT.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Thank you Lady Rithyrn.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Illiani for the god’s sake. If you have something to say it's in common tongue.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
if I had something to say which I wanted all to know in Solinarian I would speak.
Zorthanos Ganforel
He is speaking his races tongue.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
It is nothing about races, realms or anything of the sort.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
It's -all- life that is concerned.
cheesespread** cheesespread** cheesespread**
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
I believe most of us are here, Warlord.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Today.. I saw Iscariot, he didn't look like a child. And said his purpose was to destroy this world, and that we didn’t deserved to live.
Galiae closes her eyes grieved by Pelgrin’s words.
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
I believe everyone is here, Warlord.
Pelgrin sighs for a moment, looking back to Solinar briefly.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Onward then.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Well he was searchin' for a purpose, yeah?
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
I'll look after ze back, I suppose.
Tammy Bell’Antall
'Least that's what Gally girl keeps blabbin' on 'bout.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
He told he had a purpose and it's to destroy the world.
Nathan Geran
Pelgrin, I'll stick at Galiae's side. You lead the way.
Illiani gives the scale of Claran’nathar one last kiss, before concealing it beneath his armour and padding.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Well I think the deal is pro'lly ta get 'im ta change 'is mind or stop 'im.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Or convince him to take his father's place.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
[Draconic] [Whisper] Ichhuedrnihuononch Un eli anyonhu ziehuhuunyhu. ELRATHRUUL I AM YOUR WARRIOR.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
And buying us time
Lady Scyla Revanos
…I distinctly remember the servant outside the tavern mentioning there were plans for certain corpses...
Tammy Bell’Antall
Mm?
Galiae Glaurd’Har
He wants a future....that's all... Just as any other living creature does.
A sudden crash upon the hilly entrance for River Valley caused the group to turn their heads towards the entrance of Shandalan Glaurd’Har the Archmage. Tammy cannot help but mutter something about mages and flashy entrances whilst Nathan chuckles.
Shandalan Shissath Glaurd’Har
Excuse me for coming so late.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Shandalan.
Galiae Glaurd’Har
Father...
Shandalan Shissath Glaurd’Har
Galiae, you had a message?
Galiae nods, tipping her chin up while Rithyrn holds her palm to the sky and her staff materializes from her home realm, dropping into her clasp, gripping it.
Galiae Glaurd’Har
It concerns the coming battle, Master Shandalan. There is...there is chance that what transpires between Goriand and Iscariot may spell doom for all of us. I wished for you to know this...that is all...
Shandalan Shissath Glaurd’Har
And where do these calculations come from, Galiae?
Galiae Glaurd’Har
A gift from Iscariot.
Syl´Thien’s head snaps to Galiae.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
What?
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
I wonder if Iscariot is really who we think he is.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
We all know that Lucifer's ways are made of Lies and illusions.
Shandalan Shissath Glaurd’Har
The enemy which wishes to destroy all of us, suddenly tells you that if we use our weapon against him, we'll destroy ourselves.
Galiae Glaurd’Har
I know it sounds like trickery...
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Sounds as good as a Pale Master's innocence.
Zorthanos Ganforel
You let one into your own home Pelgrin.
Shandalan Shissath Glaurd’Har
I suggest we take our odds at being destroyed if we destroy him.
Rithyrn leans against her staff in silence as yet another discussion resumes.
Nathan Geran
With all due respect Lord Shandalan, but do you think he'd be able to trick Anni?
Illiani tries to quash the fear within him, but cannot help but harbour an intense feeling of dread inside of his heart.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Quite frankly, it might do us all good if ya turn Iscariot into somethin' a bit more...constructive rather 'an destructive, if that's possible. Granted, it might not be.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Yes like, fighting the one that put him in that situation.
cheesespread** cheesespread** cheesespread**
Shurelia seeming Illiani standing alone with his thoughts moves to stand with him. Illiani turns his head towards Shurelia.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
[Whisper] You ok?
Shurelia nods slowly, not replying with words she then pulls out a old finely cut ruby that has an inner glow to it and looks at it for a moment while Candeth shields her face from the strange light. Shurelia puts away the ruby then sighs.
cheesespread** cheesespread** cheesespread**
Tammy Bell’Antall
Anyway. What's the deal?
Shandalan Shissath Glaurd’Har
I need you to contact Goriand'Rynn and take him to Iscariot. Decide what you will do. But time is against us. I must go now and prepare.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Mmhmm.
Nathan Geran
Where he can use the seven you mentioned into Seals on Iscariot?
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Iscariot told me that he wanted to kill Galiae first
Tammy Bell’Antall
Battle plan!
Nathan Geran
Alright, we'll have to go to Goriand'Rynn anyway.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
We have to hope Goriand will know more and tell us more.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Let's go with haste
Tammy raises a finger at this.
Tammy Bell’Antall
One tick.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Yes?
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
Let us be careful now.
Tammy Bell’Antall
If ya talk ta Goriand, that's basically choosin' ta destroy Iscariot.
Nathan Geran
No
Keldrin glances over the group with a degree of cynicism and disgust, keeping himself to himself.
Nathan Geran
He mentioned something 'bout seeing what'll happen.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
It’s basically knowing what we're about to face.
Nathan Geran
Perhaps we can imprison him for now? But despite that all, we'll need to go now. Or nothing is done and all is lost.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Yes let’s go.
Galiae Glaurd’Har
...Right...
Rithyrn seems to mutter incantations in draconic, and her spells take on a distinctive hotter temperature felt by those nearby. From the bottom of the hill a flustered soldier comes running, his armour battered and torn in places.
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
Hold!
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
What is it private?
Solinar Regional Sentry
Undead.. *huffs* All over the southern gate.. *huff* probably from that cursed temple in Zheradan.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Damnation....
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
...undead...
Solinar Regional Sentry
It's the red sword type…that my father has told me about
A soft light shines through Rithyrn's eyes as if she realises something, but remains still and silent.
Nathan Geran
Wait.. Red, glowing swords?
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Avengers
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
[Whisper] ...Inganil...?
Tammy Bell’Antall
That's pro'lly where Iscariot is.
Nathan Geran
Forces of the curse.
Rithyrn Dedraleaf
Excuse me.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Trying to delay us
Rithyrn steps away from the group creating a gate of shimmering fire and stepping into it. The gate flashes for a moment and extrudes the smell of brimstone before disappearing in wisp of smoke.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Rithyrn!?!
Velve Lloun’az
Calm yourself, boy, I'm sure she has good reason.
Nathan Geran
She's going to handle it.
Shurelia Elemia
Did she just plane-shift away?
Tammy Bell’Antall
She's a mage. They do that.
Nathan Geran
I hope
Lady Scyla Revanos
We may have to divide our forces...
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Soldier, all soldiers dressed and ready to fight, children and women in the temple
Solinar Regional Sentry
Already on it , sir.
Nathan Geran
Let's get moving people.
Solinar Regional Sentry
But we need all the help we can get.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Wake all special troops, and keep all exits watched and send a messenger to Nherazkar
Solinar Regional Sentry
That's the problem.. they're pouring from the sewers too
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Domorus is with us in this. We will bring help soon!
And so the heroes found their number split. Those sent to defend Solinar would find out that no undead threatened it, nor did any attack. It was a ruse played by the enemy to split the forces of our heroes. The great winds continue to blow in the Southern Plains.
Into the River Valley the heroes charge, blades drawn and magic at the ready. Illiani jumps up into the air over the head of a orc warrior, as Candeth strikes one to the ground with her sling. Landing Illiani’s hammer crushes the warrior’s skull while Tammy springs from the shadows to fall another. All of this was viewed by a Pale Master as he stands beside a strange ritual circle.
Nathan Geran
Who the hell are ya?
The heroes stand watching the Pale Master, wondering what his next action might be as the skirmish against the orcs ends.
Velve Lloun’az
Nathan, your questioning leaves something to be desired.
Nathan Geran
Fine! You question him.
Pale Master
Crux'araal… crux nathras... crux d'achan… thaer'khraal..
Strange words came from the mouth of the Pale Master. Words not known to the party at large.
Nathan Geran
I don't know about stuff like this!
Lady Scyla Revanos
From now on.. Pale Masters are forbidden to speak!
Pale Master
..crux mortem.. crux draconis..
Velve Lloun’az
Frankly, I have no wish to see him finish his ritual.
As Tammy reaches for a cloth Velve reaches forward, dagger in hand, and slices at the Pale Master’s jaw!
Pale Master
...you fool.. you have just finished i--
Galiae winces and snaps her head away as blood splatters over the ritual circle. Tammy slaps her forehead and Illiani groans in realisation.
Candeth Undennyskin
...blood sacrifice?
Syl´Thien Sylvan
what did he mean by ...
Tammy Bell’Antall
Duh.
Nathan Geran
Life energy..
Syl´Thien Sylvan
oh crap..
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Blood thirsty fool
Velve shrugs uncaringly and steps back from the ritual circle. There was a moment when the whole valley was silent. As one the group held their breath. Waiting; from the ritual circle the ground begins to rumble as a black gapping portal opens sucking them all in.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
ow shiiiit!
Candeth Undennyskin
Whhheeeeee!
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Sheeeaaannnaaa!
The heroes find themselves Elsewhere. Where Elsewhere is they do not know. It is a dark room, a pit leading downwards into the depth lies behind them, while only one exit leads out. They know not where they are. Or how they got there.
Avara Bestenson
[Whisper] 'ey Tam Tam ... vot'z 'appenin'?
Nathan Geran
We're here for a reason…that much's obvious..
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Everybody start looking around for a secret door or something…
Nathan Geran
Syl.. what'd I say about fingers in dark holes?
Velve decides to not rise to the blame cast upon him, instead he continues studying the surroundings, looking for anything unusual. Lady Scyla, having been silent the entire time, observes her surroundings. Galiae tosses up an orb of luminescence which bobs in place overhead, while Pelgrin, Candeth and Illiani stand near the pit glancing down. As Gallia’s light spell becomes into effect, a number of multicoloured orbs zap into existence around the room.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Pel i don’t think you should stand so close to that thin-- Oh.
Galiae Glaurd’Har
Wh--?
Nathan Geran
Nice one Gal.
Candeth Undennyskin
....uh, did I miss those?
Tammy moves over to the only visible exit and glances up a flight of stairs.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Scyla.
Lady Scyla Revanos
Yes, Tammy?
Tammy Bell’Antall
Your scythe can open ways ta other planes, right? Or other places?
Avara Bestenson
[Whisper] Vot's 'appenin'?
Candeth Undennyskin
[Whisper] I’m not sure.
Avara Bestenson
[Whisper] I juzt popped 'ere?
Candeth shrugs at this while Tammy and Scyla continue to talk.
Lady Scyla Revanos
Into the Spiritual Plane... from there I can travel, yes.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Is it possible for people ta travel with ya?
Lady Scyla Revanos
...Yes. Dangerous, however.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Is it possible for ya ta take a small group at a time outta 'ere?
Candeth Undennyskin
...I have a feeling... that portal magic will not work here.
Galiae Glaurd’Har
Perhaps this is just where we are...meant to be?
Tammy Bell’Antall
Unlikely.
Avara Bestenson
Not empossible zough.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Well, Scyla? Is that possible?
Nathan Geran
Since it were pale masters, we're either in a distant plane… Or somewhere in Hell or so.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Wait what did he say again? Someone remembers the incantations?
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Crux Mortem.. Crux Draconis.. Crux araal....
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
..crux...that word sounds familiar
Lady Scyla Revanos
Crux Mortis.
Tammy Bell’Antall
See if your scythe actually works 'ere.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
crux... nathras…and crux dachan
Avara Bestenson
Crux ...
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
What the hells does that mean?
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Go figure..
Velve Lloun’az
I doubt it is wise to intone the words to a spell you have not fully identified.
Avara Bestenson
My memory might serve me wrong ... but isn't crux like ... disabling?
Candeth stares down into the darkness of a deep pit while Pelgrin elsewhere taps his chin in thought.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
I think it might have been a way to bind us to the portal so that it could identify us as its targets…
Illiani glances back to the group, a shiver ran down his spine, he suddenly felt clammy.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
I’ve just noticed my wards went poof...and I think everyone else’s did too
Candeth ignores the commotion from behind her and pulls out one of her sling stones from her pouch and drops it down the hole.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Milady Candeth might I suggest not getting so close to the edge
Lady Scyla Revanos lifts her scythe, away from the others and slices the air diagonally in front of her in a sweep. Meanwhile Lord Pelgrin mutters something, still pondering on the ritual. A rift begins to open where Lady Scyla cut the air, Tammy fearlessly peers through the rift..
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Mortis is surely death or something…
With an echo Candeth’s stone finally strikes the bottom of the pit.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Does crux mortis... Mean end death? ... Cause if this in a non material plane could be a timeless zone...and that... Would suck..
Illiani glances down to where Candeth stands on the edge of the great pit.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
It seems a mighty far drop and needless to say; it might not be a good idea to stand so close. A rumble in the ground for whatever reason could send you over
Candeth lies down next to the pit, peering over the edge.
Candeth Undennyskin
There, happy?
The group travelled from the dark room and up a set of stairs, arriving elsewhere. Elsewhere was a rocky valley, in appearance, hot, sticky and almost desert like. The group bumbled to the foot of a set of long stairs cut into the rock its’ self. Upon those stairs stood a group of skeletal undead with their master.
Seth Thamargul
Ah, you have finally arrived.
Avara Bestenson
I vemember 'ou. Vaguely ...
Seth Thamargul
A familiar face is always good to see eh, even if it's just the bones of it.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
..the hells?
Tammy Bell’Antall
Just go with it, Pelican.
Lady Scyla Revanos
You have been waiting for us, Thamargul?
Seth Thamargul
Waiting? I have sent for you. I was in quite a worry that you wouldn't find the last component for the portal but I guess you figured out the message after all. Who would have guessed that we have -evil heroes-?
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Tell me about it
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Blame it on Velve...
Velve Lloun’az
It came naturally.
Seth Thamargul:
Oh, a Lloun'az. How Artistic. I happen to remember your brother, Kalafein, he made a good minion until he lasted.
Velve Lloun’az
I've not seen my brother for many years. At least I know he met a fate befitting of him.
Tammy Bell’Antall
So whatcha want 'xactly?
Seth Thamargul
I usually am dormant in Zheradan but lately I have been vanquished from my lair by a very powerful entity. Thank goodness these depths have so many corpses to create an army with that I might not even go back. But a little revenge never hurts, yes?
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Iscariot perhaps?
Candeth Undennyskin
Revenge is not the answer to your problems...
Seth Thamargul:
Oh yes it is. And to yours too. I happen to know his weak spot.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Oh?
Seth Thamargul
He's highly vulnerable to the only type of energies he is unable to absorb. Arcane.
Galiae Glaurd’Har
I remember that now...
Candeth Undennyskin
Then how did you loose your sanctuary to him...if you're woven in arcane?
Seth Thamargul
Well my minions aren't arcane and I use necromancy, not force magic.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Oh he means magical missiles!
Seth Thamargul
No, I don't mean swords imbued with magic damage or magic missiles. I mean focused, concentrated arcane blasting. Some elven monks used to be able to focus that kind of energy in their hits, centuries ago.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
What do you have to gain from all this?
Seth Thamargul
Revenge, Pelgrin. What else.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Oh, how silly of me.
Seth Thamargul
You helped me gain my current state of power and form; I help you keep your world.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
...I did?
Nathan Geran
Yeah.. we did Pelgrin..
Tammy Bell’Antall
Question; how d'ya propose we get this concentrated focused arcane blastin'?
Seth Thamargul
No doubt you have mages in your ranks or know some. Let that be your problem.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Mmhmm.
Seth Thamargul
Now I need some more rest. All this excitement is giving me wrinkles.
Candeth Undennyskin
...You need flesh for that.
Seth Thamargul
Valithrulia my dear.
One of the skeletal undead remove their own skull and puts Seth on top.
Seth Thamargul
She used to be an elven necromancer. She was pretty.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Oh I am sure she was
Seth Thamargul
I would have loved to bone her but I was dead for a thousand years when she was born.
Tammy Bell’Antall
...Gods, the puns. They're killin' me.
After Tammy’s comment there was a long pause.
Tammy Bell’Antall
No pun intended.
The heroes climbed the stairs after the Demi-lich had left and entered into a much darker area. A great chasm crossed by a single, thin, Iron Bridge. On that bridge stood a Pale Master of great power.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
...A Bone Lord?
Nathan Geran
A legend in roburan tribes..
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Nathan please stand back. You're hiding the sight that makes me happy to hate. This is Goriand'Rynn's body guard.
Nathan Geran
Hold on.. we were goin towards.. Goriand..
Avara Bestenson
‘re ve on zome zort of errrr ... villainz srough ze agez tvip?
Nathan Geran
An first Seth.. now Goriand'Rynn..
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
What are you doing here?
Boyo Daong
The master wishes to keep you at bay so that the Betraying Son may lead Earth back to its initial silence. Death to all the unfit. Those of you that survive the onslaught will deserve to exist.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Goddess protect…
Candeth Undennyskin
If you will just... shimmy to the side, we can go on our way..
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Then It will be my pleasure to send you in hells, Boyo. You are sentenced to death by the Glorious realm Of Solinar for having betraying your brothers
Boyo Daong
The Betraying Son shall succeed at leading the earth back into its initial silence. Those of the species that are fit enough, shall survive. The rest shall perish.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
hum... didn’t he just say that..
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Its an Illusion!
Syl´Thien eyes Illiani, giving him a look that suggested Illiani was a fool. Rather than mock Illiani, Doyo Daong’s voice changed considerably.
Boyo Daong
Bright one you are indeed, Dourana of the silver flight.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Ten points ta the half dragon.
Illiani bowed his head in prayer as the others congratulated him.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
...thank you Elrathruul for your guidance…
Goriand’Rynn
The lich. The pale masters. The chamber. All my trials to see if you are ready for the task.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
And are we, my lord?
Goriand’Rynn
Answer yourself.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
We are. We never backed down. We're all ready to go till the end.
As Pelgrin continued his speech Illiani shudders; fear once more a presence in his young mind.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
We have faith in our goal
Goriand’Rynn
I have found a way to defeat the betraying son but it shan't be easy.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
[Whisper] I wish Rithyrn was here...
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
By Domorus and all other gods, we are ready.
Avara Bestenson
Ztop zayinvg 'Ve'.
Goriand’Rynn
As a pure physical entity, Iscariot is immensely powerful and is created of both infernal and celestial essence, poured into earthen matter.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
So you say that we need evil, good and neutral to defeat him?
Nathan Geran
No…That we can't fight him physically.
Goriand’Rynn
No, you cannot defeat him. That is what I am saying. Even I cannot defeat him.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
I am only a descendant of glorious Claran'nathar, not a half-blood, not a true Dragon. For a task such as this I will never be ready. But Elrathruul has led me here for a reason, there must be something we can do?
Tammy Bell’Antall
What about spiritually or otherwise? Other 'an physical.
Goriand’Rynn
Exactly. You are going to enter his mind through my psychic link. And have him defeat himself. If you fail your bodies will be lost without a mind.
Tammy Bell’Antall
We become vegetables, in other words.
Candeth Undennyskin
...if we fail, will we even have bodies?
Lady Scyla Revanos
Can we expect to call upon certain abilities while in this state?
Goriand’Rynn
Only your own minds.
Lady Scyla Revanos
... in that case, separating his soul from his physical body is out of the question.
Nathan Geran
Do we all have to go?
Avara Bestenson
'nd vot vill 'our minz 'ave to do zere?
Goriand’Rynn
Find a way to stop him.
Tammy Bell’Antall
I vote persuasion, really. There's a chance that if he does self-implode or whatever...we might go 'long with 'im. 'Least that's what I would think.
Goriand’Rynn
Inside his own mind he's powerless. But remember, you'll become what you are in your minds, as well.
Tammy Bell’Antall
So in other words...Pelican won' 'ave grey hair an' will actually be intelligent? Sorry, I couldn' resist.
Nathan Geran
Lord Goriand.. if this doesn't happen.. the world we love.. the people we love.. they'd die, right?
Goriand’Rynn: Yes.
Nathan Geran
Doesn't Gabe always say.. nothing is impossible?
Galiae Glaurd’Har
This is....the only option we have, right now. The best option... Otherwise....
Tammy Bell’Antall
So question. We're all goin' in? Or can ya only send in select people?
Avara Bestenson
Perrapz zome of uz zhould ztay to guard ze bodiez?
Goriand’Rynn: Look around you. You are already in.
The heroes found themselves transported into Iscariot’s mind. There in the midst of a great desert. The sand was too yellow, the sky too blue and where the two met they merged together like a pastel picture that has be smudged.
Goriand’Rynn
Welcome...To the desert of the mind.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Barren.
Candeth Undennyskin
...Needs some more imagination.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
...it’s like Morticans' pocket plane...in a manner…
Illiani glances down at himself, then to the others.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Hmm…so in our minds we look the same as we do on the outside?
Goriand’Rynn
Now focus on what you think you are inside. I shall make sure that if you succeed, you all forget about one another's true form so that your personal image will not get damaged. But you'll need to be truthful, Dourana, you first.
The group looked to Illiani as he closed his eyes and shuddered. He would have to reveal himself to all present, reveal himself without the emotional masks he wore. Bare to their ridicule, he would have to reveal just how weak he was. He felt cold hands enter him, they were searching through him, heading for his core. His very centre they sought out and when they found it they withdrew suddenly.
Goriand’Rynn
Remember, you have to be truthful, or you are going to die to him.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
...Elrathruul aid me here...
Before the gathering a small weak looking boy appeared. His skin was pale and eyes shadowed. Nervously the boy glances about the crowd before speaking.
Boy
I cannot save those who I love.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
huh?
Tammy looks to the sickly boy and Illiani bows his head in shame.[/i
Goriand’Rynn Your strength is in your sight. No trickery may bypass your awareness.
Goriand’Rynn Candeth Undennyskin. Remember, be truthful, or you are going to die to him.
Girl I just want to belong somewhere.
Goriand’Rynn Your strength is in building bonds and fortresses, purely with your heart.
Goriand’Rynn Pelgrin.
[i]Illiani raises his head and looks to the girl, then down to Candeth, then looks away. Next it was Pelgrin who was called forth next, then Syl´Thien.
Man
I cannot forgive my sins, or that of others.
Goriand’Rynn
Your strength is in your soul - which you can hold those you love together with care.
Goriand’Rynn
Syl´Thien.
Silver Mask
I fear to show my face.
Goriand’Rynn
Your strength is in trust - in all but yourself.
Goriand’Rynn
Avara.
Elf Male
I fear myself more than anybody else - it is I, I cannot understand.
Goriand’Rynn
Velve.
Clutching his sword so tightly that the sounds of leather against leather can be heard by all, a barely visible shaking extends across his body the drow swordsman, Velve, stepped forward. Before him appear a trio of dark elves, each dressed like him.
Elf Male + Elf Female + Dark Elf Male + Dark Elf Female
I am Velve Lloun’az
And they begin to argue…
Dark Elf Female
I am..
Elf Male
No, I am!
…And they do not stop.
Goriand’Rynn
Your greatest strength is uniting all those fragments of images as one in a lethal strike when you need to.
Illiani's hand remains upon Candeth's shoulder, as his eyes rest from valve's Multiple Personality Disorder to his own manifestation; a weak, sickly boy.
Goriand’Rynn
And spreading all your pain among them so you, yourself feel none.
A titter of psychotic laughter briefly escapes Velve’s helm before he forces himself silent.
Goriand’Rynn
Scyla.
A beast rises from the darkness, with three heads, tongues snapping forth in hunger, fangs dripping of poison and blood.
Goriand’Rynn
You are weak. Your only strength is the many souls that love you enough to serve and protect - you are their mother they can turn to.
Goriand’Rynn
Nathan.
Human Male
I am afraid of being weak and helpless.
Goriand’Rynn
Your strength is the strength you find in that fear to help others.
Goriand’Rynn
Tammy.
Tammy nods, looking upwards briefly before closing her eyes.
Woman
I hate to be alone, I fear being left alone.
Tammy folds her arms behind her back then opens her eyes again, looking to Goriand.
Goriand’Rynn
Your strength is in finding what you seek - company, knowledge, or a solution.
Goriand'Rynn then looks to Galiae who clasps her hands to her heart, closing her eyes.
Girl
I...I…I don't want to wake up.
Goriand’Rynn
Your dreams are often stronger than reality. What strength you find in them - is up to you
At Gorian’Rynn’s words Galiae opens her eyes and smiles.
Candeth Undennyskin
...Does Avara not have strength?
Goriand’Rynn
Her strength is too obvious. She is fearless of all but herself.
Tammy Bell’Antall
Right. So what now?
Goriand’Rynn
Stand behind your images and be prepared. The threats you'll face are from each one of you.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
It has been an honour...our friendship... I am glad to have met you...thank you for everything lady Candeth.
Candeth offers Illiani the silver scale necklace back, but he gently pushes it away closing Candeth’s fist around it.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Give it back after this.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
Not to break anything, But the necklace doesn’t exist here it's an image of it
As the heroes watch each of them in turn face, as a group, moral questions from their own past. Meanwhile those in Solinar fight off several waves of undead, the guards advised everybody to stay safely within walls, but the tides did not seem to lessen. One, by one the heroes began to fail their tasks, they disappeared as if they had never existed. Eventually the death and morality cease and Iscariot turns to the group.
Iscariot Judas
... so this is what it feels like?
Like a drug induced dream the group as one, even those who failed, stand back again upon the bridge before the betraying son. Quickly the bridge changes and the heroes find themselves in an unknown layer of the Hells.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Oh...this just keeps getting better..
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Is...is it raining blood?!
Iscariot Judas
I lured you in here because…because I thought I could win this way. You just made your own choice to enter. And I was going to slay you all.
Lucifer
What presents have you brought me, son?
As one the horrified group turned to Lucifer.
Syl´Thien Sylvan
Oh…crap
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
...oh...fuck
Candeth Undennyskin
So you're the one of evil?
Iscariot Judas
Wait. You call me the betraying son. I have betrayed my mother, my allies, and my chosen destiny to wreak havoc.
Candeth Undennyskin
...It all makes sense.
Lucifer
You make me proud.
Iscariot Judas
I know what my destiny is.
Tammy Bell’Antall
What 'ave ya chosen?
Iscariot Judas
I never had a choice. But since you have made me like this…it is time I betrayed your plan.
Lucifer
What?!
Iscariot waves a hand and a portal appears behind them glowing with a golden light in the darkness of the Hells.
Iscariot Judas
Time for me to betray the last thing I have. My legacy.
Iscariot threw himself at his father, Lucifer, the others were forced into a retreat by the aggressiveness of their battle. As all fled into the closing portal Nathan & Scyla were left behind. The undead ceased to scour the living lands, as the darkened plains of Malebolge quaked beneath the hooves of the Betrayer and his son living up to his namesake. "Forgive me, mother" - a little boy's voice can be heard coming from every shadow and nightmare." In the south plans of Solinar, under the shade of the Great Tree, whose branches no longer moved – the wind dead, the heroes arrived.
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
We’ll pray that they come back safe
Shurelia Elemia
Where's big bro? Erm Nathan..
Candeth Undennyskin
He's coming.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Dead
Tammy Bell’Antall
Gods. He's not dead. Scyla was with 'im. So they're just walkin' in the land've the dead. Duh.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
How can you know such, the portal was almost falling as I entered
Tammy Bell’Antall
I'm psychic....ooooo...
Lord Pelgrin Swordjust
FAITH! Something you lack of. You shout a god's name without faith Now be quiet and pray
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Pelgrin you can doubt as much as you like about me. I know my ill deeds better than any here, But one thing you have no right to doubt and that is my faith in Elrathruul. Do it again and I'll show you just how much I've learned over the past year. Just because I can't summon Elrathruul's power, or heal the sick...it doesn't mean I do not have faith in her. Bah what do you even care Pelgrin. As far as you're concerned I'll always be that gutter snipe you arrested a year just gone.
Turning on his heals, Illiani walks away heading into the Northern Plains his mind deep in thought. Such thoughts were interrupted by Avara landing on his back, spinning around Illiani growled at the two Hinlings before him.
Sandra
Ah, back as well are we?
Avara Bestenson
Vhere ya goin'?
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Away
Avara Bestenson
Avay vhere?
Sandra
Bring back that little souvenir Avara?
Avara jumps off of Illiani’s back and shakes her head.
Sandra
Tsh. Just let it go away Avara. He's a grumpy egoistical silver.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
No...I'm a coward
Avara Bestenson
Covard?
Sandra
Your right there.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
And a murderer
Sandra
Exactly.
Avara Bestenson
Nope. 'ou deed everysing vight back zere az far az I zaw.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Except leaving Scyla and Nathan behind to die at Lucifer's hands rather than making sure they entered through the portal
Sandra
Doesn’t quite put right the fact he murdered his own sister. Tsh. They knew the risks Illiani.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Aye but something Pelgrin said a moment ago
Avara Bestenson
Eegnore 'im
Sandra
Pelgrin says a lot of things.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
And most of them are wrong...But he was right about one thing; I have no faith in Elrathruul. I may claim to follow her...but I am no paladin, or priest...
Avara Bestenson
Illiani, vot 'ou zaid to 'im voz true. 'ou may not be a pviezt or paladin ... but like any citizen of zolinar 'ou pvay to 'our god.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
I am not a citizen of Solinar
Avara Bestenson
do ze citizenz of zolinar 'ave 'ealing poverz even zough zey vorship Domoruz zough -- Ze average zitizen?
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
It matters little.
Avara Bestenson
'ou do not need poverz to 'ave 'nd love a god.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
I am just a soldier, I don't need to worry about gods...I just need to remember to do what I'm told
Sandra
Welcome to the club.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
I heard of your promotion Lady Sandra. What title do you hold now?
Sandra
Oho it's -Lady- now? Captain of the Guard and until Candeth wakes up, Matriarch.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Then you will receive my weekly summery of the River Valley activities on your desk by dusk tomorrow Ma'am.
Sandra
Ease up Illiani.
Avara Bestenson
I'm goin' back
Sandra
I don't have a desk either.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Then I will deliver them personally to you. You will need to take careful look at the activities of Scar he is still giving us problems.
Sandra
You hit your head or something while down there?
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
No I wasn't...I just...it doesn't matter
Sandra
Scar -always- give's us problems. I'd be worried if he wasn't.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
His band has got bigger however
Sandra
That happens from time to time.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
It seems our sorties only pull troops towards him. He picks up the stranglers and survivors. It looks like he could become a new power in the valley if not dealt with soon. Illiani, let me worry about what he's doing. You need to relax a little. I already have something in mind anyways. Wouldn't want Candeth’s job though.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
No...me neither
Sandra
You going alright though?
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Yeah I'll be fine...
Sandra
Lost count how many times I've heard that from you.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
I just learned some things about myself today...
Goriand’Rynn
Dourana of the silver flight.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
Is it over?
Goriand’Rynn
With the end of something , begins something new.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
So a new evil will arise?
Goriand’Rynn
A new one or an old one - what is the difference. The balance needs one such as you.
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
That’s why the heroes are here...me?
Goriand’Rynn hands a hammer to Illiani.
Goriand’Rynn
The true merits are one's flaws. Once you learn to use them, that is. Our choices make us who we really are. What we are able to do - is nothing but a step made.
With that Goriand’Rynn simply left leaving Illiani to look at the hammer in his hands.
Sandra
Creepy bastard. He always like that?
Illiani Dourana the Hoardless
I only met him today
Sandra
Lovely. Well I best be off. Bloody Shire doesn’t seem to last a minute without me. Take care.
_________________ http://www.rpgmp3.com"Arrogance on the part of the meritorious is even more offensive to us than the arrogance of those without merit: for merit itself is offensive." Friedrich Nietzsche
Last edited by Illy-Dan on Jul 4th, '08, 08:35, edited 1 time in total.
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