The noble drow prudently dismisses his familliar to it's pocket plane as the expedition approaches what is most likely a guardian of Gravenhollow. He nods in agreement with the blonde arcane warrior, ready to approach and address the singing sentry, hoping to get peaceful access to the secrets of the ancient library.
Horkas confers with Lulu while they wait for the familiar's report. "I have a mechanical device that can help protect one of us against aberrations, celestials, elementals, fey, fiends, and undead. I know you can call upon your goddess for a similar blessing. With the drow already resistant to the fear or charm of these types of creatures, we should probably help Khessa and Katryl out. Do you have a preference? I'll get the other..."
For whoever gets Horkas' help he hands them a metallic, braided bracelet with a small obsidian disk affixed in the center. It fits snugly against their wrist, and he explains that once the disk is tapped three times, it will sense the wearers' biometrics and send electrical signals if needed to maintain normal functions. (in effect, a Protection from Evil and Good charm =)
'Thank you, brother of mine!' Khessa smiles as she communicates the last message to Anator, then summons him next to her again, welcoming him onto her shoulder, hidden by her golden locks.
Once again in control of her senses, the blonde arcane warrior informs the rest of the army and the party that the large basilisk actually seems real and not illusory... and follows them to meet it: "At least, if it can sing in all languages, it will also be able to understand them..." she tries to be optimistic "Communicating shouldn't be a problem".
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The noble drow nods and follows along to the singing basilisk. Once there he steps forward to greet it, hoping it can communicate, being careful not to look straight at it, instead bowing respectfully before it. "Greetings guardian of fabled Gravenhollow, we have journeyd far to seek entrance to this ancient library to find the means to save the realms from the imminent threat of the Demon Lords of the Abyss and the foul corruption they have brought here."
Persuasion: 14 Another roll if help is provided: 22
"A singing basilisk? And multilingual to boot.” Lulu says, resisting the urge to sing back. “Well, that’s a welcome change from demons. My Mistress would certainly be interested in the tale of it, Queen of Talking Beasts as she is.” The firbolg rubs her chin in consideration, tail flicking back and forth. “Though they are no’ beasts if I recall. Nor are they extraplanar, but a type of… monstrosity? I do no’ believe our Protections apply to such a creature.”
Giving Horkas a pat on the shoulder, she smiles, “But I’ll do ye one better as we approach.” The cleric will hold a spell to Bless her companions should things seem like they’ll escalate.
"Indeed, singing sentinel" Khessa comes at Traydark's side. "We met even the foul Jubilex, the Faceless Lord itself, wandering this tunnels. Please, allow us access, before it's too late and the mad fury of the Abyss drowns knowledge - and everything else - forever!"
The many-legged reptile stretches out as if it has been sitting for a long while, avoiding your eyes as it looks to the rocky floor at your feet. “About time you lot arrived! Come! The library bid me guide you to the gates, and I’ve waited too long for you already.” Their tone is not discourteous, but pragmatic and urgent, deep and on the slower side. It begins to turn around some and start walking off, lumbering down through more twisting corridors, apparently leading you on the rest of the way.
It takes another 8 hours of walking before the caravan reaches a pair of massive basalt doors, flanked by stone giant statues. Anyone can push the doors and find them easy to open, after which the giant basilisk leads the group through with short instruction to simply continue on straightforward, after which it hurries off down a side passage and disappears.
Walking across the threshold of Gravenhollow is like stepping into another realm. The oppressive gloom of the Underdark is replaced by light and a sense of openness that brings back memories of the surface world. The corridor beyond the gates is wide enough for ten people to walk side by side, and the ceiling’s height reminds you of the great halls of Gauntlgrym.
The corridor opens into a central well, with walkways crossing its span to the opposite side. You can barely see the ends of the level to your right and left, with doors opening into so many rooms that you doubt you could explore them all in a single day.
The ceiling is bright, with rainbows trapped in hundreds of crystal formations combining to create a warm and inviting illumination. Looking down is a dizzying experience. Staircases connect to different levels below, and you soon lose count of how far down they go.
A stout, rocky creature detaches from the perfectly smooth wall to your left, leaving an imprint of its body in the wall that quickly smooths out and fades from sight. “Trravelerrrrsss. I am Hourm. The masterrrsss arre occupied. Therre arre rroomsss forr all of you. Choose yourr own. The rresourrcesss of Grravenhollow arre at yourr disssposssal. You need only asssk.”
"Huh?" Khessa can't hide her surprise "Was it 'the library' that asked you to guide us? Does the library have a life and intelligence of its own? And you were waiting for us? But how long?" and over the hours of the journey she tries to make further conversation with the big basilisk, introducing herself, asking him his name and other details about the Library of Gravenhollow.
Once inside the library, the blonde arcane warrior is amazed and delighted by how... open... a place in the Underdark can look. The lighting by rainbows trapped in hundreds of crystal formations in particular fascinates her: "It's so beautiful..." she remains lost in admiration for a few moments.
When the courteous and helpful Hourm comes away from the wall to receive them, the tall adventuress introduces herself, as she had already done with the big basilisk: "Nice to meet you, Hourm! I am Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield!" she then goes on to introduce all the other members of the party and the army.
"Finding so much and ready collaboration is wonderful!" Khessa is enthusiastic "For this we thank you very much! Is it because you also know how serious the threat we are facing is?"
[[ OOC: @DM: What does the stout rocky creature look like? Humanoudf? Basilisk? Or...? ]]
Although not being sure what to expect, the noble drow is surprised at the relative courtesy of the magical beast, following it deeper to Gravenhollow.
Later as the stout rocky creature greets the team, Traydark would give it a polite bow. "Thank you Hourm. Would you kindly inform your masters that we would be pleased to meet them at their earlist convenience." He explains in a formal but friendly tone, then setting out to find lodgings and meals for him and his zhentarim servants.
"The library is the master," the creature responds. "There are keepers though should you seek them out. I can show you to the residences." The galeb duhr begins walking off as well at a gentle pace, leading you all down one level where a series of empty rooms await. "Please, choose any room you wish. Once chosen it will be ready for you upon your return." A quick glance into one of the rooms sees that it is currently empty. The galeb duhr then pauses for any last questions.
Lunaria laces her fingers through Katryl's and the connection burns away the worries that had begun to plague the cleric's mind. As the genasi admits she entrusted Lurue with their safety, her mismatched eyes widen, truly touched by it. "Then I have both of ye to thank," she whispers softly back before curling closer to gently press her forehead to Katryl's (a gesture of deep gratitude Katryl has likely seen before and come to conclude is a firbolg thing), pausing there before pulling away.
And when Katryl voices her doubts, Lulu gives the hand in her own a reassuring squeeze, though takes time to contemplate her answer. Sometimes blind faith is not as reassuring as one might think. "I do, love," she says truthfully. "I think it will be our... North star, of sorts. Our guide. All the wisdom held in those halls, there will surely be answers too."
She stills as someone stirs, ears twitching in the direction as she listens. When they settle down again, she quietly asks, "What answers would ye seek there? If we're given the chance to look beyond those for our cause?"
The gnome is almost giddy at the sight of all of these books and unending passages to explore. And they get nice rooms, too! He quickly claims one with smaller furniture to suit his stature, leaving Skitter and his backpack in there.
Lulu runs into the back of Khessa multiple times as she's distracted looking around the vast and mystical library and at their company's reactions to it--relieved to see hope rekindled in many of their expressions. Truly, Gravenhollow feels an eye in the storm as they're embraced by the peace of it all.
As her companions choose their rooms, Lulu asks after where their mounts might be kept during their time here and then how to access the knowledge of the library. "How might we find what we're looking for, friend? Is there a method or... organization to things? The, er, Sir Huey... Louie... Decimal whats-it?" she inquires, doing a half-turn as she takes in the space. "Seems ye could get lost quite easily here."
If there are enough rooms for everyone (including army members) Khessa chooses a room for herself - otherwise she will share one with the infantry, refusing the privilege of a private room if they can't have the same.
[[ OOC: @DM: During the hours of travel, did the Big Basilisk answer anything to Khessa's questions? Or did it ignore her? ( "Was it 'the library' that asked you to guide us? Does the library have a life and intelligence of its own? And you were waiting for us? But how long?" and over the hours of the journey she tries to make further conversation with the big basilisk, introducing herself, asking it its name and other details about the Library of Gravenhollow) ]]
The Galeb Duhr seems ready to answer any last questions, so the blonde arcane warrior, excited no less than curious, tries to ask: "Hourm, could you tell me why is the Library at our disposal? I'm pleased, mind you, but I would like to know the reason for such welcome availability... Is it because the Library is aware of the extent of the threat we are fighting against? Or is the Library always so kind to everyone? Furthermore... from how you talk about the Library, it seems that it is sentient and living. Nothing wrong with that - my friend Dawn here" she waves the blade of light to make it clear that she is talking about it "might be viewed by many as a mere thing but she is instead quite sentient (and quite kind). Is there any way to communicate with the Library? Are you able to communicate with it? And can we do it too? And how must we call it? Just 'Library of Gravenohllow' or has it a personal name, like, for example, Khessa or Hourm?"
While waiting for an answer, a disturbing thought appears in the mind of the tall adventuress: 'If the Library is alive and sentient... perhaps it too can fall prey to the Demon Lords' madness! We'll have to be careful how she behaves... Perhaps the Library has not been as lucky as me, who so far have managed to escape such a nefarious influence'.
"Huh?" Khessa can't hide her surprise "Was it 'the library' that asked you to guide us? Does the library have a life and intelligence of its own? And you were waiting for us? But how long?" and over the hours of the journey she tries to make further conversation with the big basilisk, introducing herself, asking him his name and other details about the Library of Gravenhollow.
Once inside the library, the blonde arcane warrior is amazed and delighted by how... open... a place in the Underdark can look. The lighting by rainbows trapped in hundreds of crystal formations in particular fascinates her: "It's so beautiful..." she remains lost in admiration for a few moments.
When the courteous and helpful Hourm comes away from the wall to receive them, the tall adventuress introduces herself, as she had already done with the big basilisk: "Nice to meet you, Hourm! I am Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield!" she then goes on to introduce all the other members of the party and the army.
"Finding so much and ready collaboration is wonderful!" Khessa is enthusiastic "For this we thank you very much! Is it because you also know how serious the threat we are facing is?"
[[ OOC: @DM: What does the stout rocky creature look like? Humanoudf? Basilisk? Or...? ]]
The basilisk doesn't answer much, saying yes to most things but not commenting on how long it has been there. You get the impression that it probably doesn't really know a whole lot about the library though, but just enough to be of a particular service to it.
The galeb duhr comments: "I know not what you face, I am only here to assist you in getting oriented. But if you are here there must be something you seek inside."
Lulu runs into the back of Khessa multiple times as she's distracted looking around the vast and mystical library and at their company's reactions to it--relieved to see hope rekindled in many of their expressions. Truly, Gravenhollow feels an eye in the storm as they're embraced by the peace of it all.
As her companions choose their rooms, Lulu asks after where their mounts might be kept during their time here and then how to access the knowledge of the library. "How might we find what we're looking for, friend? Is there a method or... organization to things? The, er, Sir Huey... Louie... Decimal whats-it?" she inquires, doing a half-turn as she takes in the space. "Seems ye could get lost quite easily here."
"Hourm. There are three overseers here that can assist, if you can find them. Otherwise you simply will yourself to where you want to go. If your will is strong enough, the library will get you there. You should always be able to find your quarters again, however." They point to the rooms, "The rooms will accommodate your steeds as well. The library is roughly divided into the past, the present, and the future."
If there are enough rooms for everyone (including army members) Khessa chooses a room for herself - otherwise she will share one with the infantry, refusing the privilege of a private room if they can't have the same.
[[ OOC: @DM: During the hours of travel, did the Big Basilisk answer anything to Khessa's questions? Or did it ignore her? ( "Was it 'the library' that asked you to guide us? Does the library have a life and intelligence of its own? And you were waiting for us? But how long?" and over the hours of the journey she tries to make further conversation with the big basilisk, introducing herself, asking it its name and other details about the Library of Gravenhollow) ]]
The Galeb Duhr seems ready to answer any last questions, so the blonde arcane warrior, excited no less than curious, tries to ask: "Hourm, could you tell me why is the Library at our disposal? I'm pleased, mind you, but I would like to know the reason for such welcome availability... Is it because the Library is aware of the extent of the threat we are fighting against? Or is the Library always so kind to everyone? Furthermore... from how you talk about the Library, it seems that it is sentient and living. Nothing wrong with that - my friend Dawn here" she waves the blade of light to make it clear that she is talking about it "might be viewed by many as a mere thing but she is instead quite sentient (and quite kind). Is there any way to communicate with the Library? Are you able to communicate with it? And can we do it too? And how must we call it? Just 'Library of Gravenohllow' or has it a personal name, like, for example, Khessa or Hourm?"
While waiting for an answer, a disturbing thought appears in the mind of the tall adventuress: 'If the Library is alive and sentient... perhaps it too can fall prey to the Demon Lords' madness! We'll have to be careful how she behaves... Perhaps the Library has not been as lucky as me, who so far have managed to escape such a nefarious influence'.
Hourm speaks: "The Library helps all who need it. It has for countless ages. It does not speak, but it does understand. I cannot speak to any possible inherent knowledge, but if you wish for answers to your current situation, the level of the Present will be your best choice."
The gnome is almost giddy at the sight of all of these books and unending passages to explore. And they get nice rooms, too! He quickly claims one with smaller furniture to suit his stature, leaving Skitter and his backpack in there.
He notices that his room upon reentry, is molded and furnished exactly as he might wish it to be, just as each and every other room turns into exactly what their lodger desires.
Katryl gives a confused look to the others as they seem to immediately assume this creature is some benevolent representative of Gravenhollow. 'I suppose it is singing,' she thinks. And as it is revealed to be seeming to speak almost all languages, she relaxes a tiny bit. 'It is quite a strange occurrence. Perhaps it really is something. Though look at how crazy Khessa has become. It could be some trap or trick.'
Once the basilisk reveals itself to represent the library, it seems everyone is immediately eager to follow. "It is good to have a guide to bring us to our goal. But we should be careful," she urges the others. She follows along though without further word. After an hour passes, she thinks maybe this was a mistake. 'But nobody else seems to care. Maybe I'll just wait.' It's finally a bit more than the two-hour mark that she speaks up. "Really, how long is this going to take! If it's leading us to Gravenhollow, perhaps it's become lost!" A few words from others, and a reminder that she can tell the way to Gravenhollow, and she realizes they are indeed on the correct path.
When at long last they are in Gravenhollow, she is amazed at the wonders of the place. She kept close to Lulu as she inquires about their mounts and how to make use of the library. When Horus explains that if your will is strong enough you will find what you seek, Katryl is a little concerned. 'I can't my will being able to control anything in such a magnificent place as this. Perhaps Traydark, in all is arrogance, will be able to make it work. Well, and surely Lunaria will.' She is glad though that their mounts will have a place.
For her room, she just needs a small space where she can be comfortable and rest. It need not be elaborate or fancy.
Night of Juiblex encounter / Lunaria
Lunaria's presence and words did help to renew the hope within Katryl that they would find what they needed here in the Underdark.
She is a little taken aback when she asks about what knowledge she would want if there were an opportunity beyond confronting the demons. "I... I don't know. I mean, the fight against the demons is what comes first. So, it's kind of moot," she starts. She then grows quiet, looking closely at Lulu with her eyes almost seeming to burn with brightness. She knows the firbolg will not just let her not answer, so she gives the question her consideration.
"I would want to learn about my parents. Know what happened to them," she finally answers, giving Lulu a quick glance then look at her feet. "It's pointless I know. And you've done so much to help me. But I just... want to know." She takes a deep breath. "Beyond that, I'd just like to maybe have a chance to know more about the natural world around me. And to enjoy it and protect it."
Any other thoughts are left unsaid. She then asks, "What about you Lunaria? What knowledge would you seek for yourself if not for our immediate task."
“In that case, if the Library does understand, I want to thank it for its help” Khessa smiles gratefully. "Please, Hourm, present you too my thanks, in case mine were not perceived... will you?" and she tries to focus thoughts and emotions of gratitude towards the Library.
The blonde arcane warrior, however, is then struck by a worrying thought: "By any chance, did you also help the Demon Lord Jubilex? A creature similar to a creative composition of foul-stinking self-moving acid oozes, perhaps originating from the union of the vomit (or worse biological waste) of the majority of the demons of the Abyss... You know, we ran into him on our way here..."
'If the Faceless Lord was here, perhaps to gather information for his schemes,' the tall adventurer thinks 'perhaps it would be useful to us to know what knowledge he sought... and what he came to know'.
The noble drow prudently dismisses his familliar to it's pocket plane as the expedition approaches what is most likely a guardian of Gravenhollow. He nods in agreement with the blonde arcane warrior, ready to approach and address the singing sentry, hoping to get peaceful access to the secrets of the ancient library.
Horkas confers with Lulu while they wait for the familiar's report. "I have a mechanical device that can help protect one of us against aberrations, celestials, elementals, fey, fiends, and undead. I know you can call upon your goddess for a similar blessing. With the drow already resistant to the fear or charm of these types of creatures, we should probably help Khessa and Katryl out. Do you have a preference? I'll get the other..."
For whoever gets Horkas' help he hands them a metallic, braided bracelet with a small obsidian disk affixed in the center. It fits snugly against their wrist, and he explains that once the disk is tapped three times, it will sense the wearers' biometrics and send electrical signals if needed to maintain normal functions. (in effect, a Protection from Evil and Good charm =)
Love God. Love Others. Any Questions?
It does appear to be a regular, albeit maybe larger then typical, basilisk.
'Thank you, brother of mine!' Khessa smiles as she communicates the last message to Anator, then summons him next to her again, welcoming him onto her shoulder, hidden by her golden locks.
Once again in control of her senses, the blonde arcane warrior informs the rest of the army and the party that the large basilisk actually seems real and not illusory... and follows them to meet it: "At least, if it can sing in all languages, it will also be able to understand them..." she tries to be optimistic "Communicating shouldn't be a problem".
The noble drow nods and follows along to the singing basilisk. Once there he steps forward to greet it, hoping it can communicate, being careful not to look straight at it, instead bowing respectfully before it. "Greetings guardian of fabled Gravenhollow, we have journeyd far to seek entrance to this ancient library to find the means to save the realms from the imminent threat of the Demon Lords of the Abyss and the foul corruption they have brought here."
Persuasion: 14 Another roll if help is provided: 22
"A singing basilisk? And multilingual to boot.” Lulu says, resisting the urge to sing back. “Well, that’s a welcome change from demons. My Mistress would certainly be interested in the tale of it, Queen of Talking Beasts as she is.” The firbolg rubs her chin in consideration, tail flicking back and forth. “Though they are no’ beasts if I recall. Nor are they extraplanar, but a type of… monstrosity? I do no’ believe our Protections apply to such a creature.”
Giving Horkas a pat on the shoulder, she smiles, “But I’ll do ye one better as we approach.” The cleric will hold a spell to Bless her companions should things seem like they’ll escalate.
"Indeed, singing sentinel" Khessa comes at Traydark's side. "We met even the foul Jubilex, the Faceless Lord itself, wandering this tunnels. Please, allow us access, before it's too late and the mad fury of the Abyss drowns knowledge - and everything else - forever!"
[[ OOC: Hoping to have provided help ]]
The many-legged reptile stretches out as if it has been sitting for a long while, avoiding your eyes as it looks to the rocky floor at your feet. “About time you lot arrived! Come! The library bid me guide you to the gates, and I’ve waited too long for you already.” Their tone is not discourteous, but pragmatic and urgent, deep and on the slower side. It begins to turn around some and start walking off, lumbering down through more twisting corridors, apparently leading you on the rest of the way.
It takes another 8 hours of walking before the caravan reaches a pair of massive basalt doors, flanked by stone giant statues. Anyone can push the doors and find them easy to open, after which the giant basilisk leads the group through with short instruction to simply continue on straightforward, after which it hurries off down a side passage and disappears.
Walking across the threshold of Gravenhollow is like stepping into another realm. The oppressive gloom of the Underdark is replaced by light and a sense of openness that brings back memories of the surface world. The corridor beyond the gates is wide enough for ten people to walk side by side, and the ceiling’s height reminds you of the great halls of Gauntlgrym.
The corridor opens into a central well, with walkways crossing its span to the opposite side. You can barely see the ends of the level to your right and left, with doors opening into so many rooms that you doubt you could explore them all in a single day.
The ceiling is bright, with rainbows trapped in hundreds of crystal formations combining to create a warm and inviting illumination. Looking down is a dizzying experience. Staircases connect to different levels below, and you soon lose count of how far down they go.
A stout, rocky creature detaches from the perfectly smooth wall to your left, leaving an imprint of its body in the wall that quickly smooths out and fades from sight. “Trravelerrrrsss. I am Hourm. The masterrrsss arre occupied. Therre arre rroomsss forr all of you. Choose yourr own. The rresourrcesss of Grravenhollow arre at yourr disssposssal. You need only asssk.”
"Huh?" Khessa can't hide her surprise "Was it 'the library' that asked you to guide us? Does the library have a life and intelligence of its own? And you were waiting for us? But how long?" and over the hours of the journey she tries to make further conversation with the big basilisk, introducing herself, asking him his name and other details about the Library of Gravenhollow.
Once inside the library, the blonde arcane warrior is amazed and delighted by how... open... a place in the Underdark can look. The lighting by rainbows trapped in hundreds of crystal formations in particular fascinates her: "It's so beautiful..." she remains lost in admiration for a few moments.
When the courteous and helpful Hourm comes away from the wall to receive them, the tall adventuress introduces herself, as she had already done with the big basilisk: "Nice to meet you, Hourm! I am Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield!" she then goes on to introduce all the other members of the party and the army.
"Finding so much and ready collaboration is wonderful!" Khessa is enthusiastic "For this we thank you very much! Is it because you also know how serious the threat we are facing is?"
[[ OOC: @DM: What does the stout rocky creature look like? Humanoudf? Basilisk? Or...? ]]
(It looks like a galeb duhr)
Although not being sure what to expect, the noble drow is surprised at the relative courtesy of the magical beast, following it deeper to Gravenhollow.
Later as the stout rocky creature greets the team, Traydark would give it a polite bow. "Thank you Hourm. Would you kindly inform your masters that we would be pleased to meet them at their earlist convenience." He explains in a formal but friendly tone, then setting out to find lodgings and meals for him and his zhentarim servants.
"The library is the master," the creature responds. "There are keepers though should you seek them out. I can show you to the residences." The galeb duhr begins walking off as well at a gentle pace, leading you all down one level where a series of empty rooms await. "Please, choose any room you wish. Once chosen it will be ready for you upon your return." A quick glance into one of the rooms sees that it is currently empty. The galeb duhr then pauses for any last questions.
Night of the Juiblex encounter:
Lunaria laces her fingers through Katryl's and the connection burns away the worries that had begun to plague the cleric's mind. As the genasi admits she entrusted Lurue with their safety, her mismatched eyes widen, truly touched by it. "Then I have both of ye to thank," she whispers softly back before curling closer to gently press her forehead to Katryl's (a gesture of deep gratitude Katryl has likely seen before and come to conclude is a firbolg thing), pausing there before pulling away.
And when Katryl voices her doubts, Lulu gives the hand in her own a reassuring squeeze, though takes time to contemplate her answer. Sometimes blind faith is not as reassuring as one might think. "I do, love," she says truthfully. "I think it will be our... North star, of sorts. Our guide. All the wisdom held in those halls, there will surely be answers too."
She stills as someone stirs, ears twitching in the direction as she listens. When they settle down again, she quietly asks, "What answers would ye seek there? If we're given the chance to look beyond those for our cause?"
The gnome is almost giddy at the sight of all of these books and unending passages to explore. And they get nice rooms, too! He quickly claims one with smaller furniture to suit his stature, leaving Skitter and his backpack in there.
Love God. Love Others. Any Questions?
Lulu runs into the back of Khessa multiple times as she's distracted looking around the vast and mystical library and at their company's reactions to it--relieved to see hope rekindled in many of their expressions. Truly, Gravenhollow feels an eye in the storm as they're embraced by the peace of it all.
As her companions choose their rooms, Lulu asks after where their mounts might be kept during their time here and then how to access the knowledge of the library. "How might we find what we're looking for, friend? Is there a method or... organization to things? The, er, Sir Huey... Louie... Decimal whats-it?" she inquires, doing a half-turn as she takes in the space. "Seems ye could get lost quite easily here."
If there are enough rooms for everyone (including army members) Khessa chooses a room for herself - otherwise she will share one with the infantry, refusing the privilege of a private room if they can't have the same.
[[ OOC: @DM: During the hours of travel, did the Big Basilisk answer anything to Khessa's questions? Or did it ignore her? ( "Was it 'the library' that asked you to guide us? Does the library have a life and intelligence of its own? And you were waiting for us? But how long?" and over the hours of the journey she tries to make further conversation with the big basilisk, introducing herself, asking it its name and other details about the Library of Gravenhollow) ]]
The Galeb Duhr seems ready to answer any last questions, so the blonde arcane warrior, excited no less than curious, tries to ask: "Hourm, could you tell me why is the Library at our disposal? I'm pleased, mind you, but I would like to know the reason for such welcome availability... Is it because the Library is aware of the extent of the threat we are fighting against? Or is the Library always so kind to everyone? Furthermore... from how you talk about the Library, it seems that it is sentient and living. Nothing wrong with that - my friend Dawn here" she waves the blade of light to make it clear that she is talking about it "might be viewed by many as a mere thing but she is instead quite sentient (and quite kind). Is there any way to communicate with the Library? Are you able to communicate with it? And can we do it too? And how must we call it? Just 'Library of Gravenohllow' or has it a personal name, like, for example, Khessa or Hourm?"
While waiting for an answer, a disturbing thought appears in the mind of the tall adventuress: 'If the Library is alive and sentient... perhaps it too can fall prey to the Demon Lords' madness! We'll have to be careful how she behaves... Perhaps the Library has not been as lucky as me, who so far have managed to escape such a nefarious influence'.
The basilisk doesn't answer much, saying yes to most things but not commenting on how long it has been there. You get the impression that it probably doesn't really know a whole lot about the library though, but just enough to be of a particular service to it.
The galeb duhr comments: "I know not what you face, I am only here to assist you in getting oriented. But if you are here there must be something you seek inside."
"Hourm. There are three overseers here that can assist, if you can find them. Otherwise you simply will yourself to where you want to go. If your will is strong enough, the library will get you there. You should always be able to find your quarters again, however." They point to the rooms, "The rooms will accommodate your steeds as well. The library is roughly divided into the past, the present, and the future."
Hourm speaks: "The Library helps all who need it. It has for countless ages. It does not speak, but it does understand. I cannot speak to any possible inherent knowledge, but if you wish for answers to your current situation, the level of the Present will be your best choice."
He notices that his room upon reentry, is molded and furnished exactly as he might wish it to be, just as each and every other room turns into exactly what their lodger desires.
Katryl gives a confused look to the others as they seem to immediately assume this creature is some benevolent representative of Gravenhollow. 'I suppose it is singing,' she thinks. And as it is revealed to be seeming to speak almost all languages, she relaxes a tiny bit. 'It is quite a strange occurrence. Perhaps it really is something. Though look at how crazy Khessa has become. It could be some trap or trick.'
Once the basilisk reveals itself to represent the library, it seems everyone is immediately eager to follow. "It is good to have a guide to bring us to our goal. But we should be careful," she urges the others. She follows along though without further word. After an hour passes, she thinks maybe this was a mistake. 'But nobody else seems to care. Maybe I'll just wait.' It's finally a bit more than the two-hour mark that she speaks up. "Really, how long is this going to take! If it's leading us to Gravenhollow, perhaps it's become lost!" A few words from others, and a reminder that she can tell the way to Gravenhollow, and she realizes they are indeed on the correct path.
When at long last they are in Gravenhollow, she is amazed at the wonders of the place. She kept close to Lulu as she inquires about their mounts and how to make use of the library. When Horus explains that if your will is strong enough you will find what you seek, Katryl is a little concerned. 'I can't my will being able to control anything in such a magnificent place as this. Perhaps Traydark, in all is arrogance, will be able to make it work. Well, and surely Lunaria will.' She is glad though that their mounts will have a place.
For her room, she just needs a small space where she can be comfortable and rest. It need not be elaborate or fancy.
Night of Juiblex encounter / Lunaria
Lunaria's presence and words did help to renew the hope within Katryl that they would find what they needed here in the Underdark.
She is a little taken aback when she asks about what knowledge she would want if there were an opportunity beyond confronting the demons. "I... I don't know. I mean, the fight against the demons is what comes first. So, it's kind of moot," she starts. She then grows quiet, looking closely at Lulu with her eyes almost seeming to burn with brightness. She knows the firbolg will not just let her not answer, so she gives the question her consideration.
"I would want to learn about my parents. Know what happened to them," she finally answers, giving Lulu a quick glance then look at her feet. "It's pointless I know. And you've done so much to help me. But I just... want to know." She takes a deep breath. "Beyond that, I'd just like to maybe have a chance to know more about the natural world around me. And to enjoy it and protect it."
Any other thoughts are left unsaid. She then asks, "What about you Lunaria? What knowledge would you seek for yourself if not for our immediate task."
Rabbit Sebrica | Skarai | Katryl Brightfury | Rylia Lionrage | Roxana Raincrest | Janek Whitmor | Lokilia Vaelphin
“In that case, if the Library does understand, I want to thank it for its help” Khessa smiles gratefully. "Please, Hourm, present you too my thanks, in case mine were not perceived... will you?" and she tries to focus thoughts and emotions of gratitude towards the Library.
The blonde arcane warrior, however, is then struck by a worrying thought: "By any chance, did you also help the Demon Lord Jubilex? A creature similar to a creative composition of foul-stinking self-moving acid oozes, perhaps originating from the union of the vomit (or worse biological waste) of the majority of the demons of the Abyss... You know, we ran into him on our way here..."
'If the Faceless Lord was here, perhaps to gather information for his schemes,' the tall adventurer thinks 'perhaps it would be useful to us to know what knowledge he sought... and what he came to know'.