Lira splashes some water on her face to freshen up. It is about all she can do, her mind whirling with emotions and information.

"Have you all ever heard the story of the River of Blood?"

(you can continue that dialog from Lira's question on the side, but wanna move to our next scene for the weekend :-)

There is another knock on the outside, it is Baatar.

"It is time my friends, I suggest you bring that smoked salmon you spoke of. That will make a good impression on the council, but don't offer it too quickly."

You approach the largest yurt in camp. It is decorated and well lit. You enter a crowded room filled with huge warriors. Looking around, the size of the large group of assembled Toa-Suo is almost overwhelming, but, Baatar pushes several people to the side and you are ushered closer to the front so that you can see. In the center is a bonfire, warming the interior. In the back are what you guess to be the counsel. Present is a very old Troll/Elf Toa-Suo who sits on a damaged tree, missing its top, which has been made into a sort of throne or seat of honor. The gnarled and twisted tree roots and the sinuous muscles of his body seem to be as one. You guess this to be Inauniq. Next to him, is a woman with many piercings, feathers, and tattoos, Aisulu, the high priestess of the tribe. Nimka also stands nearby, wearing a change of clothing. She smiles and nods at you in greeting when you arrive. You note that she may be related to Inauniq, sharing some of his characteristics. Many others are gathered in a circle around the exterior of the great round hall, allowing some room by the fire and for the council.

“That is the high priestess, Aisulu,” Baatar says quietly as you enter. “We will wait here until the elder addresses you.” She is telling a story to a group of children who sit attentively. No one else in the room speaks. As Aisulu speaks, she chants, and the bonfire emits colorful smoke and fire, creating images of her story. Several others play drum-like instruments or hit sticks together, further enhancing the drama of the storytelling.

The Tale of Elric and the Polar Bear, as told by Aisulu, high priestess of the Toa-Suo.

In the frozen lands above the Icefinger Mountain range, where the snowflakes danced like fairies and the nights stretched endlessly, there lived a young hunter named Elric. Known for his skill with a bow, Elric was ambitious and proud, believing he could conquer any beast that roamed the icy expanse. 

One fateful winter, as the Toa-Suo faced a shortage of food, Elric boasted that he would hunt the legendary polar bear known as Gromnar, the father of all bears, a creature feared for its size and strength. The people warned him, telling tales of Gromnar’s fierce spirit and strength that surpassed that of any ordinary animal. But Elric, fueled by pride and the desire to prove himself the greatest warrior in the land, dismissed their concerns.

With determination, he set off into the heart of the tundra, tracking the great bear. Days passed as he braved the biting cold and treacherous snowdrifts. Eventually, he stumbled upon a huge cave nestled within a towering cliff of ice, Gromnar’s lair.

As he entered, Elric was met by the immense figure of Gromnar, whose white fur glistened like the snow itself. Shards of ice surrounded the bear and clung to his fur, almost like armor. The bear’s glowing eyes, deep and ancient, fixed on Elric, as if perceiving his every thought. Elric did not fear Gromnar, he was intent on killing him.

“Why do you come here, young hunter?” Gromnar’s voice rumbled like thunder, echoing in the cave as shards of ice feel from both the roof and the bear.

“I seek to prove my strength!” Elric declared, raising his bow. “I will hunt you down, the strongest beast in all of the land and bring great glory to my name!”

Gromnar let out a low growl as sharp teeth and icy breath escaped his mouth, the sound resonating within the cave. “Strength is not measured by the hunt, young one, but by the choices we make.”

Elric, angered by the bear’s calmness, loosed an arrow. It flew true but struck the thick ice on his fur, not harming Gromnar. The bear remained unperturbed, his gaze unyielding. Elric stabbed at the enormous bear with his sharpened spear. Again, it hit the bear's toughened exterior but did not penetrate the thick icy armor.

“Come, young hunter,” Gromnar said, “I will fight you if you wish, but first, let me show you the heart of this land.”

Reluctant yet intrigued, Elric followed the bear outside. Gromnar led him across the frozen landscape, where they encountered a group of seals basking on the ice. Elric watched as Gromnar, instead of attacking in violence, shared the space peacefully with the creatures, respecting their right to live.

“This land is a web of life, each creature playing its part,” Gromnar explained. “To hunt without understanding is to disrupt the balance, and can cause unintended consequences to other animals.”

As they traveled further, they came upon a wounded fox trapped in a hunter’s snare. Without hesitation, Gromnar used his powerful paws to break the trap, freeing the fox. Elric witnessed the compassion in the bear’s actions, a stark contrast to his own prideful ambitions.

“True strength,” Gromnar said, “lies not in conquest, but in the courage to protect and heal.”

Elric felt a shift within himself. He realized that his desire for glory had blinded him to the greater truths of existence. The bear’s wisdom resonated deeply, opening his eyes to the interconnectedness of all life in the Icefinger mountains and the Frozen Plateau beyond.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow across the snowy plains, Gronmar and Elric returned to the ice cave. The bear then asked, “Now young hunter, are you ready to fight?” Elric turned to Gromnar. “I understand now. I do not need to prove my worth through hunting or conquest. I wish to learn more from you instead.”

Gromnar nodded, a glimmer of approval in his eyes. “Then walk with me, young hunter. There is much to learn about strength, wisdom, and the balance of nature.”

From that day forward, Elric became a protector of the land, using his skills to safeguard the creatures of the land and maintain nature's delicate balance, rather than hunting for sport and personal pride. He learned that mutual respect and honor must be shown to all creatures, and to the lands they lived on. Absorbing the great bear's wisdom of the wild, Elric returned to his people, sharing what he had learned.

In time, Elric became a revered figure among the Toa-Suo people, not for his prowess as a hunter but for his understanding of harmony with nature. The story of Elric and Gromnar spread through the land, teaching generations of our people that true strength lies in wisdom, compassion, and the courage to protect all forms of life.

The children all stand and thank Aisulu for the tale. Then they are ushered out of the large semi-permanent structure.

Nimka then speaks up, “Grandfather, these are the travelers I told you about. They speak of a great quest, of our people being in danger by cults, and of these cults taking one of their companions. They claim to be friends with Na’ah’tali Sh’torem and say she was murdered."

“Ah”, the old one looks at you for a moment, seeming to study each of you in turn. He seems still attached to the tree and its roots behind him, his movements very slow and gradual. As he moves, some of the branches and roots move with him. In a voice that almost sounds like two branches rubbing against each other, “I am Inauniq. Tell me what you are called. (assuming each says their name, but if you post, say how you would be called by Inauniq.)  

“What proof have you that you were a friend of Na’ah’tali Sh’torem?”

Iólinder took stock of what Zarbyn, Vydar and Lira theorised when pouring over Professor Storm's notes. The danger of the artefacts was apparent but there were two things that concerned him the most. One was that the other parties had their own version of Professor Storm's notes: the cultists could use demonic magic to guide their way while Shareella's minions would know the lay of the land better. Or if the group of kobolds were an indication, they held the sheer numbers advantage. The other concerning thought was the element of Libra. If the artefacts were indeed forged using Libra's devotees in the process, that would mean that Libra herself could be in Myurr's sight. Not to mention, Iólinder realised at the same time, that he was a follower of Libra. He could not fathom whether that would prove to be a boon or detriment.

He listened to Lira's tale of the River of Blood. It could prove useful information for later when he had the time to piece everything together like a puzzle of strings and theories. After the half-elf was finished, the group was fetched by Baatar for their audience with the village elder.

Iólinder patiently waited for the children's storytime to be concluded. Likewise he paid close attention to this tale as well. Anything that could provide more insight into the Toa-Suo people was a welcome piece of knowledge. The less unknown variables there were, the more he could prepare for the future.

He introduced himself to the village elder. Iólinder was about to tell his name but, remembering how the Toa-Suo's tongue yielded some odd pronunciations, switched to something he hoped would be more easy to speak. 'My name is Corrach.' He said with a bow. As to how to prove that they were friends of Professor Storm, he glanced at Vydar. The dark elf had had the most dealings with the professor so he was best suited to speak in their favour.

He finds it difficult to stay focused as the elder tells the story to the children, but does his best not to appear as if his mind has strayed. He toys with the amulet around his neck, still rather concerned and confused about the vision he witnessed after they rushed in to save Lira. Everything they've been talking about... well it seems that Libra is somehow connected to all this. Perhaps it's time he actually tries to find out more about the ideals of those who follow the goddess of justice. Aside from just that... justice, he doesn't really know much. Religion was never really a big concern for him while looking after his brother. He clenches his teeth, momentarily failing to appear attentive as his eyes dart downward. 

Letting out a silent but long breath, he refocuses on the situation at hand. When it comes time to introduce himself, he simply says "Lev." His name is simple enough he doubts the Toa-Suo will have issues pronouncing it. If they do then whatever, he'll deal with it. He also glances at Vydar. He doesn't really consider himself a real friend of Natalie's considering he met her years ago and was too late to meet her again. Depending on what sort of proof the elder is looking for, he might not be able to provide it. Showing off Natalie's belongings doesn't seem like the best option here, as that could make their potential allies think they were the one's who killed Storm. 

(Ooc the river of blood was one of storms private documents…do you need me to repost?)

(OOC: Oops, sorry, been busy. I'll go back and look and also edit my post.)

Amdaeng paid as close attention as she could though she was slightly distracted by a certain presence.  When asked she stood, " I am Amdaeng. Of Chiang Mai to the east, of Fang its greatest City."

" I was not a friend of Ms Storm. I never got to meet her, she was taken before I had that opportunity."

(Vydar, Lira)

"I am Zarbyn."

Thinking a little more of an introduction may be necessary.

"I first met Professor Storm about 3 seasons ago. I was regaling the other patrons of an ale house with the tale of some recent dire events that had befallen me and Professor Storm, upon hearing part of the tale, requested that I give her a more detailed version. She was quite interested in what had befallen me as it aligned with her research and goals."

Taking a moment to bow his head as thoughts and memories of that long ago night remind him of how passionate she was about her quest. Many conflicting emotions of grief and sorrow at her untimely death mixed with her passion and determination, which were quite infectious, war upon Zarbyn's face and are evident in his composure and countenance.

"When I learned of her death and saw that her donkey, Charlie, and many of her notes survived... well, we search the notes and her journal for any clues as to who would of slain her and why. That is when we learned of at two different factions that were competing to gain possession of several ancient artifacts, each for their own dire designs. Professor Storm sought to prevent either evil outcome from occurring."

Taking another moment to steel himself and get out enough of what he felt was necessary to at least warn the Toa-Suo of the imminent danger everyone faced he pushed on.

"Most of here first wanted to simply avenge her death by finding those responsible and making them pay for what they had done. But upon learning of the danger to all and remembering how passionate Professor Storm was about her quest we felt the best way to honor her was to take up her quest for our own."

(ooc: since Zarbyn spoke true about what he could recall of Natalie Storm and her quest, and did not try to hide his feelings of friendship with her in his recounting to the Toa-Suo, I think it would be a Persausion roll?... willing to reroll if something else seems more appropriate.)

Persausion: 26 

Lira stepped forward, her movements respectful, bowing deeply before the council and Inauniq. She straightened, her green eyes meeting his slow, ancient gaze as she introduced herself. "I am Lira," she said, her voice steady despite the gravity of the moment. "I only learned of Na’ah’tali Sh’torem recently, when these brave adventurers saved me from the cult of the dragon king."

With careful movements, she reached into her pack and withdrew two neatly-wrapped parcels containing the Special Treats she made earlier. The aroma of smoked salmon wafted from the bundles as she approached Aisulu and Inauniq, offering each of them one. "I prepared these with care," she said softly, bowing again as she presented the gifts. "I hope they serve as a token of respect and gratitude to your people for hearing us out. We have also brought much smoked salmon as a gift for your people, prepared by Na’ah’tali Sh’torem herself before she was slain."

Lira stepped back, her expression earnest. She understood the weight of the moment and the importance of earning the Toa-Suo’s trust. 

Inauniq studies each of you carefully, hearing your words. (Vydar can add in prior to this)

"I see that you speak from your hearts, and although it seems none of you knew Na’ah’tali Sh’torem well, you have taken on her quest, and even learned of some of our customs." He reaches and takes Lira's offering and hands one to Aisulu. As he slowly rises, you see that the tree branches seem to help him up, supporting him as he stands. "Our revered friend wanted to make the world a better place, and if you have taken this great burden upon yourselves, then you honor us with your presence here."

He then sits again in his chair. Aisulu moves forward, “I am called Aisulu, I am the high priestess of these people. A blessing of peace upon you. I see that her death has unified your group in strong purpose. Yet, you are saddened and angered by Na’ah’tali Sh’torem’s death. This anger will not serve you well, as it will cloud your judgment, impair your abilities in combat, and could even be used against you by those who can manipulate. Great Inauniq, we must help these people restore balance to their spirits.”

Then Temujin, a battle-scarred grizzled warrior comes forward. “Honored guests, you spoke of danger to our people. Tell me more of these cults and of the friend you seek.”

(Apologies I’ve been super busy)

Vydar nods at Lira’s description of her vision. It was the same as his. Coming to the conclusion that the daggers were used to create the idols, he wonders if the second dagger would hold a different vision, if these visions were indeed trapped memories of the events leading to the creation of idols. He grimaces, not that he wants to test that theory. 

He looks up when they are invited to see the elder. He continues to stay silent until he catches Iolinder and then Lev’s glances. His jaw tightens, of course. He’s knew Natalie longer than any one else. Even if he’d only traveled with her for a short time. A knot forms in his stomach as he thinks about her, partly diffusing the ever present anger he feels towards those who killed her. He’d stored those emotions in the back of his mind for so long, they had become numbed. However, revisiting those memories brings them back.

His fists tighten as the burning rage rekindles, “I didn’t travel with her for long, and I didn’t learn of her quest until after her murder. Despite the short time I knew her, she still proved to be the kindest person I’ve met. The dangerous quest she had undertaken only proves that fact farther. She cared about the fate of everyone present here and more.”

His knuckles turn white and he quivers slightly, “I will avenge her, and I will finish what she started.” 

His words are filled with anger and frustration, probably not the best way to address the elder or high priestess. Unfortunately, the young dark elf has a hard time containing his emotions, and lacks social skills. 

He turns his gaze to the high priestess when she speaks, her comment about anger feeling like a knife targeting him specifically. This only makes him more angry, holding he grits his teeth, forcing himself to stay silent and he quickly looks to the ground. He has a right to be angry, how can he not be angry about all this? 

He continues to stare at the ground, attempting to contain himself as the others explain about the cult.

Iólinder spoke up to answer Temujin's request. 'There are two groups who seek the artefacts for their own desires. One is the cult of the dragon king. As the story goes, the artefacts can be used to summon dragons. Should they get their hands on the artefacts, they will no doubt use these to bring forth dragons under their command to raze and dominate the land. The other are the minions of Shareella, the snow witch. They would use the artefacts not to summon dragons but to bring an ice demon prince into this world.'

Iólinder eyed Vydar from the corner of his eye. The dark elf was getting worked up. Iólinder hoped to distract the Toa-Suo from potentially taking offence to his direct language.
'Shareella controls those under her command with the use of magic. Beasts are outfitted with collars that enrage them and drives them to attack without regard for their own wellbeing. Women are given positions of power but they are controlled through magic amulets. Though cursed may be a better word.'

He swallowed and continued. 'It is for that reason her minions kidnapped our friend Paevira: to turn her in one of her lieutenants. To turn her against us.'

Temujin considers Iólinders’s words.

”we must protect our people and delay these groups while our guests continue to seek these artifacts.”

Aisulu then speaks again.

”what do you need from our people. What was your professor wanting of us?”

"We would not ask you to go against your beliefs. These cults are already upsetting the balance and seek even more chaos and evil with their calamitous schemes."

Zarbyn looks around at his companions before addressing the Toa-Suo again.

"Professor Storm wrote in her notes that you were a noble people that lived in the mountains and therefore may have some knowledge of where these caches might be located, in particular the location of cache 3 which was rumored to be hidden behind a frozen waterfall. She suspected that during the thaw it might prove to be more accessible."

"All we would ask is this small favor, if you do indeed know of such a place could you point us in the right direction. If we are able to obtain and destroy enough of these artifacts we could put a stop to the evil these cults wish to visit upon the world. Many of their followers may even leave once they realize their evil plans won't come to fruition."

Inauniq considers Zarbyns words.

He considers. "We cannot anger the elemental or primal gods by aiding directly, but we may be able to guide you and allow you to make your own choices."However, if either of the cults enter our lands, we can protect ourselves." He looks at Tseren. "Tseren can guide you to the place that you speak of. It is an ancient palace, built into the very cliff. It is said to be cursed and a restless spirit resides within. Some of my people have tried to enter that place, but none have returned."

Sukhbaatar, A strong charismatic woman troll/elf who Amdaeng observed running hand to hand and grappling training, steps forward.  
“Esteemed council, remember what you allowed with the great Na’ah’tali Sh’torem.   What if these people had blood relations to us. The Sh’torem went through our rituals and became an honored friend. It is clear that most of our guests are elvish. If the majority of them were related through mutual ancestors, could we send them on a warriors right of passage, and thereby empower them with some of our magical protection.?”

There is a lot of mumbling and conversation. Many think it’s a bad idea, and this could anger the dark gods. 

Amdaeng looks extremely eager but tries to stop herself from visibly vibrating with excitement.