Kerwyn clutches the flower from Delph and gives them a smile. He puts it in a special pouch around his waist that he holds special things to him, rocks that are cool, skipping stones, a rub rock if he feels anxious. Like now. Like when goodbyes are occurring. “Thank you Delph. I hope you are the same, when we meet again. I’ll understand if you are not. We are all going to have to do things that none of us want to do to win this war. And this is a war now. If you have to use your skills to …*gulp* … kill someone, it’s ok Delph. Cause I know you’ll have done it only as a last resort. Cause you know the pathway of where it could lead to. Guess I’ve… guess I’ve grown up a little since I met you. … way back when. We’ve been through a lot. Stay safe.” He smiles at Johnathan as well. “Remember when we first met? That first night? Hah! I laugh about it all the time. Wasn’t laughing that night. Or at Ralik. You guys…” he looks at all of the Dawn Guard, “I’m gonna miss you. I’ll watch my back. You do the same. If you have need of me, send me word somehow. I’ll be there.” He finishes with Johnathan. With Ward, he says “Will do, my man. Just keep the pin in your grenade until you need to pull it, ok? Don’t explode prematurely, take my meaning?” He gives a snort at the joke to himself, but gives the militaristic Druid a hug back, clapping him on his metal back. “Travin, (and Birt) he says softly, “you’re with me my man. Maybe we’ll have a little more time to discuss the life of a human being together. We need to work together, ok?”
Kicking a few pebbles around and looking down a lot, he says the hardest goodbye of all. “So, uh… Shavaris. Will you… (he fumbles around in his pocket) … just … ah crap. Just stay safe, ok? Will you?” He gives her a hug that she seems to resist and walks away, quickly, saying no more.
Nodjeim narrows his eyes and does his best to evaluate this Jonathan as he introduces himself. Nodjeim is not familiar much with magic and mages but their tribes do have "casters" of their own so it's not a foreign concept. On general principle Nodjeim is reluctant to trust any from outside the tribes but if half of what he has heard is true it sounds as if this Jonathan, and the others who have been talked about, have proven themselves. Perhaps not to Nodjeim himself but to those who should know...
The white skinned, blue haired Tiefling gives a bow of the head when Jonathan is finished. "I am Nodjeim, Blade Dancer of the Diabhal. I a still confused by..." he pauses and looks around at the entirety of the madness around them. "Well, still confused by all of it. But if the dance of my axes can help, then they shall."
Through continued chat it becomes clear that Nodjeim Diabhal is a pretty straightforward fighting type. He wields two battleaxes and his Blade Dance is a deadly yet beautiful thing to behold... ((Dual Wield Fighter/Barbarian - Rage reflavored to the Blade Dance.))
"I will admit it sounds like I am getting into things I know little of. But I have proven myself in battle many times and will continue to do so until my dance is complete," Nodjeim says with a mixture of humility and pride. "Just point me at a partner and I will do the rest..."
Rum makes his way through the crowd of people looking for Oten and Tuto. The former is not difficult to find due to his size but the latter takes a little time.
If he manages to persuade the remaining members of the Twilight Embers to come together to talk, he will sit beside Tuto and look to the pair of them.
"Fellow Embers, it has been a difficult couple of days. It feels like our success at the Great Deku Tree is a lifetime ago, and all that remains is the defeat to the Lord of Darkness, the passing of our friends and the betrayal of our band mate", he says with a sad half smile.
"But hope is still there, through the actions of Greko we live to carry on the fight. What will happen to Lelith is now in other people's hands. I truly hope she is being sincere at this moment, but I do not believe I will ever fully trust her".
"But you two, I would trust with my life again. We must all have felt the compulsion from the rats and the Lord of Darkness. I don't know if your kind feels guilt or remorse, friend Oten. But I know you acted against your programming, and it was against whatever feature you call your will".
"And friend Tuto, you resisted the mental assault. That shows you are strong of mind. You tried to stop Ro, that shows your courage in the face of adversity. The purpose of the Twilight Embers in my mind has always been to bring hope, because without hope all is lost. You both give me hope. And although we are parting for a time, I hope to see you both soon and to carry on the mission together".
"Look out for one another, together you are formidable. Do not dwell on the recent past, focus on what you can both achieve in the future. May the Great Dragon guide you to success and bring you back safely".
With that he stands and puts his fist to his heart, bowing his head to his comrades.
With the dawn guard saying their heartfelt goodbyes and gift giving to Travin he seems non plussed by this all, "the Dawnguard has received things from Travin, use them to nots die hmmm? Travin does not likes losing his shinies yeh yeh, ok bye!" With that unceremonious farewell, Travin waddles off to find Dageron and Thea, to starts attempting to concentrate on listening to them formulate a plan.
When Johnathan has finished his talk with the Dawn Guard he turns to his new comrades for his next mission. Guess we are the lucky few that get to go on the front lines for this fight. You may call me Johnathan. Let’s get to the point, I’m not the sort that likes to beat around the bush so let’s talk about what’s ahead. I’m a caster of sorts, mostly in illusions and utility but I’ve got a few offence spells. I have a familiar that can act as a scout and a plant thing. He looks at the plant creature. Don’t ask, it was something Travin made for me. He pauses as he looks at the other comrades, taking note of weapons and armour. I would like to know what each of you can do, how do you fight? I see some of you carry weapons, is there anything else we can expect?
Just as Johnathan introduces himself to the new team, he notices a richly clad and refreshingly clean (freshly bathed!) beautiful young lady walk up, almost at a glide. She exudes power in so many ways: physical, cultural, and intellectual. Not someone to trifle with. Definitely a samurai warrior. Definitely royalty.
Addressing Johnathan's question like it's beneath her to respond to such trifle requests: "The only reason a warrior is alive is to fight, and the only reason a warrior fights is to win. Otherwise, why be a warrior? It is easier to count beads. Wisdom is the warrior’s greatest weapon. When you have wisdom, you are never unarmed, you are never defenseless, and you are never powerless. You need the skill to know how to shoot an arrow straight, but only wisdom can teach you how to never need to shoot it."
After speaking to Falkor, Jek will go and find the rest of the Order of the Phoenix.
Slade is by the easiest to find, he just needs to listen for Darla. He approaches them. "Hi Slade, Darla. Listen, be careful out there. I know Darla will take care of you, Slade, but that thing has ranged attacks now. So don't just fly around. Darla... I'm sorry for calling you a duck. You are the best Goose ever. Please stay safe and come back whole."
Jek finds Amitola next. "Hi new friend! It seems you are going on a very dangerous mission. This Red Bull sounds scary. But you can handle it! Please stay safe! We haven't really talked about it yet, but when you come back, there will be a place for you with the Order of the Phoenix. I hope you will join us. And, stay safe out there."
Jek chuckles a little as he sees Shirin, still in the same place, observing the people around.
Then he will find Dageron. He will approach, and take out the book. "Hi Dageron! It looks like we will be spliting up soon. I know you weren't one of the original members, but you've been here longer than most. Brevon sacrificed himself for us, Atoh and Tola I hope survived the assault on the Tower of the Elephant, and who knows what happened to Chuba and Orin. But, anyways, you are my friend and taught me a lot, and I don't want you to die, so be careful, okay! Thank you for giving me your book, but I think you might need it. You can use it to help the king and queen in Eternia. Atreyu says he has an extra Amulet. But still, it meant a lot that you trusted me with it.... Your friends seem nice! Was one of them a rabbit?"
After that, Jek will seek out Stasolya and Shavaris so they can start planning.
When done restringing her bow, Ereni stands, stretches laconically and bids farewell to the other four women of Andromeda's Answer (out of eye and earshot of everyone else) before ambling off to join her new Hagsgate-bound war party. For Andromeda's Answer only:
To all four: "Never had much to give back to my friends, me. You all stood by my side and lent me gold when I asked as willingly as an over-eager armory-man handing out fresh-forged spears. Emmett always said I showed less appreciation than a troglodyte with a toothache, but might be I can change. Take one before heading into danger - never know if it'll help." She hands them each a vial of antitoxin (four in all). Concocted herself from herbs harvested from the forest before it turned foul, and from the wooded area near Skyloft. The liquid within is greenish gray and smells pungent, but once imbibed, confers advantage on saving throws against poison for one hour (only if done before actually being poisoned).
To Cinder with a smile and handshake: "Sister flame-thrower. I hope for your sake that you find more explosives as we did back in Jappiter. And for everyone else's sake that you do not!"
To Thea tenderly, brushing the young human's cheek lightly once more with the knuckle of her hand: "My lady of butterflies. Don't ever change. Never forget what you are, even if you don't know all of it yourself yet."
To Stasolya, solmenly with a bow: "I'll not soon forget what you taught me m'lady centaur, though might be you never knew you did. Your poems to the Jappiter townsfolk while I was down there in the dark in my heart with Cole. So different, you and I. Too late for me to be righteous and pure as you are, but I'll not forget all the same. Remember with the eladrin. Lelith. When someone shows you who they are, believe them, as I believed you. Even if her mind wasn't her own when she turned traitor, I've seen what toxic brothers and sisters in arms did to The Infantry. Enemy within as bad as the enemy without. Worse."
And to Malenia, with whom Ereni has clearly formed a bond as a sparring partner and fellow scout: Ereni holds her gaze and clasps her shoulder. For a long moment, it looks as if she wants to say something more to the light saber wielder. If things were different, might be she would have grown to trust me with her secrets as I might trust her with mine. Perhaps one day yet to come.Ereni swallows, nods to herself, and walks away without another word or backward glance.
Approaching her new team bound for Hagsgate and the Red Bull, Ereni listens to the conversation already in progress, head tilted. A lanky half-elf with dirty blond hair, green eyes and dark green woodland clothing with a face scarf and wicked looking bow at her shoulder. As she passes through an area of darkness when approaching, she disappears completely, invisible to both darkvision and ordinary sight when in the gloom.
Allowing a respectful pause after the young highborn human woman concludes her words of wisdom, Ereni drawls: "If never needing to shoot an arrow is wisdom my lady, then no surprise, I'm less wise than a werewolf with a wandering eye. I am Ereni, and being a sharpshooter is mostly what I do when I am not scouting. Or maybe speaking with animals like a crazy person, as my fellow Infantrymen would say, and seeking out the darkest parts of the..." her gaze takes a moment to re-focus. "Be that as it may, take one of these each if you like. Good for a meal or a tiny spot of healing, even to bring up an ally when they go down." (She hands each of them one goodberry, only if they wish to take it).
Nodjeim listens to the woman speak to being a warrior respectfully but with an inner eyeroll and sigh. It wasn't that he disagreed with the words or meaning, merely the tone and attitude. Still, full of herself or not, she looked an able warrior so the rest didn't really matter. When she was finished Nodjeim have her a respectful nod before his attention was taken by the the newcomer.
Another warrior, the Tiefling happily sees. Fighting from a distance was not his forte but he couldn't dispute it's effectiveness. He gives her a nod of respect as well as he accepts the Goodberry with both hands as if accepting an honored gift. "Apologies, I have no gift of return... Though I will give you my word that your foes will be mine for as long as we walk together." Nodjeim then eyes the berry curiously before cautiously popping it in his mouth. His face is stoic for a moment but then a smile cracks his face. "It is very good!"
Shavaris listens to Stasolya and Rum as they chat about the coming trial a bit. She is slowly realizing what a daunting task this was going to be. She would rather use her weapon, not her insight as to what truly went down. But if that is what is asked of her…
As she is lost in her own reverie, Delph lights on her shoulder, breaking her from her thoughts and she gives him a bright smile. As they talk to her about hunting, she just listens, unsure how to take what they are saying to her. As they call her amazing and invite her to their home, reaches for them and holds them in her hands in front of her, then pressing the sweet fairy against her cheek in the best way to hug them that she can think of. She accepts the flower and places it behind her ear for the moment, wanting to enjoy its beauty.
As she hears Delph’s request, she responds, “I will be as honest and understanding as I can. I understand she was your friend, but her actions have resulted in the deaths of my friends. I hope you realize how serious this is. I will keep you in mind, I promise.”
“And with that, I know with whatever choice you do make about your father and all, you will always be you. I hope you find fun in your new adventure, and your speed will definitely grant you an advantage with what you’re about to do. Stay safe, and come back to me, Fireflight.”
Shavaris turns around in surprise as Johnathan starts addressing their band. She can tell this is a bit out of the norm for him, and listens as he addresses each of the bandmates. “Thank you for your words, and your insightfulness when I was a bit lost. I am glad I was there to help you, and I always will be. I know we’ll be separated for while, but you got this and we’ll see each other soon.
“You are not as lost as you think. You are stronger than you think, just trust in that and know you will succeed. I will see you again soon, and I look forward to us sharing our stories.”
Shavaris chuckles as Ward says they are a bit much together. That was one way to put it. As Ward addresses her and warns her to stay clear of the crossfire, she puts her hand on his metal shoulder, “You worry too much. You know I got this. Thank you Ward, my journey will not be the same without you. Please, be careful with all of your contraptions and mixtures and your want of blowing things up. Yes, you are very capable, but please, don’t get caught yourself. I hear this bull is not an easy foe, remember that.
“I do not doubt you would follow any of us past the realm of the living.”Shavaris grins as she says this, “I will do my best to give misery to those that aim at our heads, and most definitely give them Hell. You are one of a kind, my friend.”
As Kerwyn mumbles to her, she retorts, “Stay safe? That’s all you have to say to me?” Shavaris grabs his shoulders after he hugs her and looks him directly in the eyes, “Kerwyn, we’ve been through so much together. You mean a great deal to me, and I’m glad after so many close calls, you have found your sanity again. You keep ol’ Schmoopy here safe, alright? I don’t want to see one flail missing from him when we get back together alright?
"Or you’ll have to answer to me.” The emotion of the situation is overwhelming enough that she directs it to the flail snail, almost touching it, but remembers what happened when Travin did, and retracts her hand, placing it back on Kerwyn’s shoulder.
“I’m not sure what a crown will look like on you, probably terrible. This ringlet suits you much better. I hope the meeting with your parents goes well and that you not only raise this army that is needed, but find more about who you are and who you are meant to be. I’ll miss you, Kerwyn, come back safe.” She looks at him a moment longer, and then turns to her newest little friend.
Shavaris looks to Travin as he is about to waddle off, and she takes hold of his cabinet and turns him around. Bending down to his level, and taking hold of both of his hands, one so that she has his attention, two so that he doesn’t steal anything from her. “Travin, stay safe. Don’t take anything that will end up hurting you. Listen to Kerwyn and use your voice when necessary, you truly have a gift. One that you wouldn’t know by meeting you, which makes it all the more special. This shiny,” she smiles referring to herself this way sure feels odd, “plans on returning to your collection, so keep a spot for me.” She ruffles his hair as she stands back up, letting him wander off.
Once she has finished her goodbyes with her friends, she heads to a chair along the wall to sit and take a breather, the emotions of the conversations, completely taking it out of her.
In a breath, the long amber blade of her weapon retracted. She stood silently among this cacophony of new faces, of new voices as they spoke of heroes and deeds accomplished. Of what was plauging the lands to which she would scarcely consider herself a part of. Falling back into her old ways, the elven woman concealed herself within a tattered maroon cloak. Slinking back as far as she could, her breath a faint wisp. She could see everything.
Every face, every word said. In this rather colourful gathering of 'Heroes'. Not a word by which she would describe herself. The true gravity of the situation in which she now found herself was utterly crushing, What had been a means of distraction. Of breaking ones boundries had quickly grown into something that she was not prepared for. She had grown comfortable with her companions, Andromeda's Answer. She even considered them friends, yet this barrage of ceaseless personality and overbearing displays of authority and distrust was pushing her in an all to familiar direction. Her shoulder ached.
She reached to her prosthesis and found a hand. Meeting the gaze of one she had considered her equal, a friend found through trial. Gently squeezing Ereni's hand as they exchanged silent words. Malenia pulled her hood down and perhaps for the first time since meeting Ereni, Smiled. Whatever this was it wasnt goodbye, it was Farewell....for now.
The silent exchange proved more than enough to pull Malenia back into the moment, the elvens womans shoulders broadened. She shrugged her cloak back to reveal a rather slim, yet athletic physique wrapped in tattered and worn traveling attire. Yet out of habit she his her Prosthesis from sight, a tic from her past that would not be easy to break.
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Malenia - [Monk - Way of the Jedi] - Auryn: Princess of Destiny
Johnathan listens as Nodjeim explains their fighting as a sort of dance. Though the way he put it made sound strange they did look like a good fighter. Fair enough, I’m sure you will have plenty to dance with on this mission. Can always use more warriors in parties. When he turns to face the lady he sighs a little as he hears her tone and attitude to the question. Great, just what we needed. Not another arrogant one. This is the fox all over again. He thinks to himself. It was a simple question, no need to start bringing in philosophy or wisdom. Whatever, as long as you carry your weight in a fight you can have as much or as little wisdom as you need Kaede. He purposely does not use the title of lady. When she is done the archer appears before them after turning invisible from darkness. Neat trick Ereni was it? It didn’t look like you cast the spell for that. Interesting. When he is offered the berry Johnathan takes it but does not eat it. He just puts it in his pocket for later. Thank you for that, I’ll have it later when I’m hungry.
Oten looks at Rum. "I do believe I have now had some experience of guilt, yes. And I do not wish it to be a repeat occurrence. I am good with repairing things, but I know not how to mend my rapport with Tuto. I find myself less sure now than before as to who I can trust, and I fear I have alienated on of the few I can feel confident will have my back."
Stasolya joins her band as they gather one last time for their goodbyes. Pulled to far-flung missions across Hyboria, she doesn't know which of them she will see again, if any.
For Andromeda's Answer:
"Malenia, you have been a stoic presence at my side following Atreyu's since the Kraken devastated Argos. I don't doubt you will see the task through.
Cinder, you have incredible power and need only the training and guidance to channel it for great good. You will do much for Hyboria!
Thea, your faith, love, and trust has been a light to our whole group. Don't ever lose your spirit which shines in such harmony with that of the Childlike Empress."
Ereni, I am deeply grateful for your kind words and advice. It is a difficult task that I have been assigned. I will try to do it justice! Stand tall, soldier, the Childlike Empress' love has dawned in your heart. Hold it close, even when all else seems dark."
"And we will use Skyloft, Dageron." Gandalf says, trying to answer as many questions for Atreyu as possible as he addresses the Aureki leader. "You're missing a few key points here, however, my dear Hobgoblin. Our most crushing defeats have happened in the last few days and no one was prepared to deal with these issues. There is no infrastructure to move all these people, feed all these people, get all these people out of harms way. We're working on it, but we have limitations. You're right though, and we will be using Skyloft. It is our greatest stronghold...and perhaps our last. Your suggestion for anti-teleportation magic is sound, but it will have to be emplaced after this next series of maneuvers, and then there is a certainty that we would be limited by such a defense as well. It's a good idea. I'll have to work on it. I don't agree with your assessment of reactionary. Not entirely, anyway. The Childlike Empress originally sent the AURYN Bearers forth to capture key objectives before they could fall into the hands of the enemy. They were successful in getting the alicorn, but thusfar we have come up short in every other attempt. As for your offensive suggestions, we shall have to see. Fielding the tarrasque isn't a terrible idea...until we lose control of it. I don't even like the thought of using Godzilla, which is, allegedly, an ally. And I doubt the tarrasque stands a chance against Ganon, with what Ganon has now become. And what if they conquer the thing's mind, like how they played the Twilight Embers like a fiddle? Frightening indeed. We'll revisit these ideas when you lot have returned from your missions. For now we're talking about hypotheticals and the use of resources we don't even have yet. Undersea tunnels?"
Gandalf takes a moment to rummage under the table the map is spread on, then lays out a second map, a bit smaller, that shows a series of caverns vaguely reminiscent of the world's continents.
"We're not talking tunnels here. We are talking huge subterranean systems that are as big as the landmasses they preside under. We'd have to drain the oceans and destroy the world ecology. We'd be doing the Enemy a favor."
Gandalf pats Dageron's shoulder.
"These ideas aren't terrible. Let's revisit them when we have a better picture of a capabilities, after tomorrow. Tomorrow is going to be a very long day, General. When that is over, I'd love to pick your brain a little. Perhaps you have information that Atreyu could really use."
Atreyu and Gandalf both look at the almost naked Barbarian standing in the back of the room, who seems to have smuggled in a bottle of something that he's been trying to sneak and swill during the briefing. He wipes an arm across his lips after lowering the battle and side eyes Travin for a moment.
"I believe that right now we'll be asking mister Stephen Austin to remain here and guard the Room of Mirrors. If someone needs him, that way, they can send for him. As for your storytellers...well. It's a novel idea, but one that I will have to shelve for now. Bigger fish to fry, as the saying goes."
"The defenders of Skyloft should be able to help you, at least some." Atreyu says to Ward as the Warforged requests gunpowder.
"If you're talking about the visitors that took Ro Aleron as well as the Orrery of the Wanderer, then I think we need to shelve that conversation too. We have other focuses right now, Traveling Ward. Don't let your personal grudges pull your attention away from more immediate goals. You can worry about that later and on your own time."
Atreyu nods as Nodjeim speaks up.
"The unicorn is paramount, but not the objective. If the mare dies, the world will be plunged into endless darkness. If something happens, protect her. Otherwise, your goal, the reason for your mission, is to kill the Red Bull. Once the Red Bull is done, you should try to bring the Unicorn back where we can keep her safe."
"I'll be watching from the Room of Mirrors." Gandalf says to answer Johnathan. "I've set up a room full of standing mirrors that we will be using as a sort of teleportation hub. I'll be able to send communications to you from there, too, and you'll be given a small mirror that if you speak into it I'll be able to speak back."
"I'll do what I can, Rumble. They'll be notified of the impending danger tonight." Gandalf says and nods as Rum lays out his plan for false information. "A good idea. If you would like to gather someone to aid you in sending some messages, be my guest. I believe that Dageron would be an excellent ally for picking targets for disinformation."
Soft music begins to filter into the Hall of the Celestials from somewhere outside. Someone is playing, someone is singing; it seems like a quartet of Bards, unaware of what is going on behind the walls of the sacred temple, have somehow picked a seemingly fitting song.
Hello stranger
Can you tell us where you've been?
More importantly
How ever did you come to be here?
Though a stranger
You can rest here for a while
But save your energy
Your journey here is far from over
Come the sunrise
We'll descend through Judgement Valley
No direction but to follow what you know
No direction but a faith in her decision
No direction but to never fight her flow
No direction but to trust the final destination
You're a stranger 'til she whispers you can stay
You're a stranger 'til she whispers that your journey's over
Falkor yawned and cracked his big eyes as the little Lightless appeared before him and began to speak. The Luck Dragon smiled, stretched, and yawned as his massive tongue, almost as big as Jek in itself, lolled from his mouth.
"Me? I'm fine! I was having a good nap!" Falkor says jovially. "How are you, little creature? Tola you say? And Atoh Khan? They are mighty warriors! Yes, they're safe! Though, I fear their people didn't do so well, it seems that luckwas really on their side! Perhaps you shall see them again someday! Most of their people have lived to fight another day!"
The next morning, as the heroes gathered at dawn to begin their tasks, Atreyu and Gandalf showed them Room of Mirrors, the hastily put together transportation and communications hub that Gandalf has created with help of the Elders. A large room, emptied out save for a couple of tables in the middle and the mirrors lining the walls, reflected images from different parts of Hyboria back into the room. The darkened entrance of Atlantis. King Haggard's Keep, sitting upon a hill overlooking the town of Hagsgate. The vast expanse of the crater and the beautiful glow from its center.
"This is simple, but I'll explain it to each group as I move you to your destination. I've linked the mirrors to your locations. I'll provide you with two mirrors; one big enough to act as a doorway back here and one we can speak through and pass simple items. Just something small. You cannot allow your mirrors to be broken or you'll be stuck in your location, and you cannot allow them to be captured by the enemy. Now, everyone out the door. I'll bring you in one at a time and get you moving."
Falkor yawned and cracked his big eyes as the little Lightless appeared before him and began to speak. The Luck Dragon smiled, stretched, and yawned as his massive tongue, almost as big as Jek in itself, lolled from his mouth.
"Me? I'm fine! I was having a good nap!" Falkor says jovially. "How are you, little creature? Tola you say? And Atoh Khan? They are mighty warriors! Yes, they're safe! Though, I fear their people didn't do so well, it seems that luckwas really on their side! Perhaps you shall see them again someday! Most of their people have lived to fight another day!"
A tension that Jek did not really realize was there lifts as he hears about his friends. They are alive! He laughs a little and runs up and hugs Falkor. " That is amazing news! I'm so happy they are safe! We've lost so much these past few days, I'm happy to have some good news! Thank you Falkor!"
Jek watches as the others slowly depart. He stands with Stasolya and Shavaris. He says "I wandered about here the first day I got here. I think there is a good room we can use. Oh, just so you are aware, these people apparently don't like it when you walk in on them bathing. I mean they are all covered in feathers, I didn't even know she was a she until she slapped me. Anyways." Jek will lead them a short way to a room that looks like a lecture hall. There are stadium style seats, but the first row has long tables in front. front of the room has a podium. "Do you think this could work? They were talking about boring stuff in here the other day, but I figure this could be good. Lelith stands at the front, we sit at the tables? Oh, by the way, I've never actually participated in a trial. How does this work? I've heard stories about them, there should be a judge that gets a hammer. Someone is supposed to yell 'OBJECTION' very dramatically, right? We should find Krille and ask him, plus we are supposed to have an elder here with us. I suppose we can take a look through her things, but I think we should ask her first. It can be a first test of sorts, seeing if she has anything to hide.... Do we need to push the table a bit back for you Stasolya?"
Shavaris raises her eyebrow at Jek when he talks about walking in on the owlins and arakocras as they were bathing... why would he in the first place? Best not to ask questions..
She follows him down to the lecture hall type room and looks around, "This looks like a good a place as any. Think we'll have any witnesses to bring in? Or are we just to question her? The rest that you're talking about, the hammer and objection? I have no idea." She smiles at this as the little lightless is all animated as he talks. "I'll see if I can find Krille and inquire about the elders. As for Lelith's things, why not look now? We can still ask her, she doesn't need to know that we have already looked."
And with that, Shavaris leaves the room in search of Krille.
Before Shavaris can leave the room, a dark brown Owlin Elder with horns of feather upon his head entered the room and looked around. He flexed his wings, and for the first time, Jek thought he'd seen one of the Elders be able to convey a feeling with facial expressions. This Elder looked formidable. Angry. Ready for anything. The forest green cloak he wore was tied in the front with an orange belt, and he walked with an air of power and authority.
"I am Elder Piccolo." He said as his head rotated around from Stasolya, to Jek, to Shavaris. "Elder Krille has asked me to assist you in the inquest of one Lelith, who is suspected of high treason. By my calculation, you have had ample time to bring the traitor before you. What are you doing? Why are you dallying? You, little man."
Piccolo points one wing at Jek.
"Haven't you been here for a few days? Why are you wasting time? I hate wasting time. If you want my services, you better get moving. We could be attacked at any time. I must be ready. If I am here, I am not ready. Why are you just standing there? It's almost time for me to eat. You're still not moving."
Jek stands up straight at the sight of this new Owlin entering the room. He has a similar energy to his eldest brother, Eet! Very serious and worried about everything. And makes you feel the disappointment with just a look.
Oh, here's the lecture, just like Eet. This starts to make Jek jittery and nervous.
In response Jek starts bouncing a bit on his feet. "Ahh, Oh, yes, what? No, we weren't wasting time, were we? I mean, we literally just found this room a few minutes ago. And, and, and we were discussing how to run the trial and we were going to look at her things and we were going to find Krille to ask about an elder, but you are here now so we don't have to do that and, and, and....." Jek takes a deep breath. "We should get started. Stasolya, do you need a chair or something, I don't think you will fit in the ones here. Sorry, is that offensive? Umm, how do we... I'll just find a guard."
Jek will stick his head out of the room and motions for the first guard he sees to come over. "Hey, we need to have the prisoner brought over. Along with her belongings. I assume that she was searched and all her possessions are far away from her. Oh, and we need 3 wooden hammer thingies. And maybe a horse chair?"
Shavaris takes a step back as the elder enters the room with scowl that would wither the flowers on Delphs head. As the owl starts berating Jek, Shavaris finds her voice, "Now wait just one moment. We have found a room to carry the trial and I was just on my way to find you so we could talk before the accused is brought in."
She watches as Jek starts panicking a bit, stammering as the elder singles him out. As Jek tries to signal a guard, Shavaris focuses on Piccolo, hands on her hips, "So, what are your capabilites? How are you going to help us get to the truth when it comes to Lelith? To find out if she did this of her own volition or if she was under the control of the Lord of Darkness? I think it would be good for us to know before she enters the room. Her life is on the line here, not something to rush through."
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Kerwyn clutches the flower from Delph and gives them a smile. He puts it in a special pouch around his waist that he holds special things to him, rocks that are cool, skipping stones, a rub rock if he feels anxious. Like now. Like when goodbyes are occurring. “Thank you Delph. I hope you are the same, when we meet again. I’ll understand if you are not. We are all going to have to do things that none of us want to do to win this war. And this is a war now. If you have to use your skills to … *gulp* … kill someone, it’s ok Delph. Cause I know you’ll have done it only as a last resort. Cause you know the pathway of where it could lead to. Guess I’ve… guess I’ve grown up a little since I met you. … way back when. We’ve been through a lot. Stay safe.” He smiles at Johnathan as well. “Remember when we first met? That first night? Hah! I laugh about it all the time. Wasn’t laughing that night. Or at Ralik. You guys…” he looks at all of the Dawn Guard, “I’m gonna miss you. I’ll watch my back. You do the same. If you have need of me, send me word somehow. I’ll be there.” He finishes with Johnathan. With Ward, he says “Will do, my man. Just keep the pin in your grenade until you need to pull it, ok? Don’t explode prematurely, take my meaning?” He gives a snort at the joke to himself, but gives the militaristic Druid a hug back, clapping him on his metal back. “Travin, (and Birt) he says softly, “you’re with me my man. Maybe we’ll have a little more time to discuss the life of a human being together. We need to work together, ok?”
Kicking a few pebbles around and looking down a lot, he says the hardest goodbye of all. “So, uh… Shavaris. Will you… (he fumbles around in his pocket) … just … ah crap. Just stay safe, ok? Will you?” He gives her a hug that she seems to resist and walks away, quickly, saying no more.
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Nodjeim narrows his eyes and does his best to evaluate this Jonathan as he introduces himself. Nodjeim is not familiar much with magic and mages but their tribes do have "casters" of their own so it's not a foreign concept. On general principle Nodjeim is reluctant to trust any from outside the tribes but if half of what he has heard is true it sounds as if this Jonathan, and the others who have been talked about, have proven themselves. Perhaps not to Nodjeim himself but to those who should know...
The white skinned, blue haired Tiefling gives a bow of the head when Jonathan is finished. "I am Nodjeim, Blade Dancer of the Diabhal. I a still confused by..." he pauses and looks around at the entirety of the madness around them. "Well, still confused by all of it. But if the dance of my axes can help, then they shall."
Through continued chat it becomes clear that Nodjeim Diabhal is a pretty straightforward fighting type. He wields two battleaxes and his Blade Dance is a deadly yet beautiful thing to behold... ((Dual Wield Fighter/Barbarian - Rage reflavored to the Blade Dance.))
"I will admit it sounds like I am getting into things I know little of. But I have proven myself in battle many times and will continue to do so until my dance is complete," Nodjeim says with a mixture of humility and pride. "Just point me at a partner and I will do the rest..."
Rum makes his way through the crowd of people looking for Oten and Tuto. The former is not difficult to find due to his size but the latter takes a little time.
If he manages to persuade the remaining members of the Twilight Embers to come together to talk, he will sit beside Tuto and look to the pair of them.
"Fellow Embers, it has been a difficult couple of days. It feels like our success at the Great Deku Tree is a lifetime ago, and all that remains is the defeat to the Lord of Darkness, the passing of our friends and the betrayal of our band mate", he says with a sad half smile.
"But hope is still there, through the actions of Greko we live to carry on the fight. What will happen to Lelith is now in other people's hands. I truly hope she is being sincere at this moment, but I do not believe I will ever fully trust her".
"But you two, I would trust with my life again. We must all have felt the compulsion from the rats and the Lord of Darkness. I don't know if your kind feels guilt or remorse, friend Oten. But I know you acted against your programming, and it was against whatever feature you call your will".
"And friend Tuto, you resisted the mental assault. That shows you are strong of mind. You tried to stop Ro, that shows your courage in the face of adversity. The purpose of the Twilight Embers in my mind has always been to bring hope, because without hope all is lost. You both give me hope. And although we are parting for a time, I hope to see you both soon and to carry on the mission together".
"Look out for one another, together you are formidable. Do not dwell on the recent past, focus on what you can both achieve in the future. May the Great Dragon guide you to success and bring you back safely".
With that he stands and puts his fist to his heart, bowing his head to his comrades.
With the dawn guard saying their heartfelt goodbyes and gift giving to Travin he seems non plussed by this all, "the Dawnguard has received things from Travin, use them to nots die hmmm? Travin does not likes losing his shinies yeh yeh, ok bye!" With that unceremonious farewell, Travin waddles off to find Dageron and Thea, to starts attempting to concentrate on listening to them formulate a plan.
Just as Johnathan introduces himself to the new team, he notices a richly clad and refreshingly clean (freshly bathed!) beautiful young lady walk up, almost at a glide. She exudes power in so many ways: physical, cultural, and intellectual. Not someone to trifle with. Definitely a samurai warrior. Definitely royalty.
Addressing Johnathan's question like it's beneath her to respond to such trifle requests: "The only reason a warrior is alive is to fight, and the only reason a warrior fights is to win. Otherwise, why be a warrior? It is easier to count beads. Wisdom is the warrior’s greatest weapon. When you have wisdom, you are never unarmed, you are never defenseless, and you are never powerless. You need the skill to know how to shoot an arrow straight, but only wisdom can teach you how to never need to shoot it."
Last to know and first to be blamed...
As a free action, can I regret my life choices?
After speaking to Falkor, Jek will go and find the rest of the Order of the Phoenix.
Slade is by the easiest to find, he just needs to listen for Darla. He approaches them. "Hi Slade, Darla. Listen, be careful out there. I know Darla will take care of you, Slade, but that thing has ranged attacks now. So don't just fly around. Darla... I'm sorry for calling you a duck. You are the best Goose ever. Please stay safe and come back whole."
Jek finds Amitola next. "Hi new friend! It seems you are going on a very dangerous mission. This Red Bull sounds scary. But you can handle it! Please stay safe! We haven't really talked about it yet, but when you come back, there will be a place for you with the Order of the Phoenix. I hope you will join us. And, stay safe out there."
Jek chuckles a little as he sees Shirin, still in the same place, observing the people around.
Then he will find Dageron. He will approach, and take out the book. "Hi Dageron! It looks like we will be spliting up soon. I know you weren't one of the original members, but you've been here longer than most. Brevon sacrificed himself for us, Atoh and Tola I hope survived the assault on the Tower of the Elephant, and who knows what happened to Chuba and Orin. But, anyways, you are my friend and taught me a lot, and I don't want you to die, so be careful, okay! Thank you for giving me your book, but I think you might need it. You can use it to help the king and queen in Eternia. Atreyu says he has an extra Amulet. But still, it meant a lot that you trusted me with it.... Your friends seem nice! Was one of them a rabbit?"
After that, Jek will seek out Stasolya and Shavaris so they can start planning.
When done restringing her bow, Ereni stands, stretches laconically and bids farewell to the other four women of Andromeda's Answer (out of eye and earshot of everyone else) before ambling off to join her new Hagsgate-bound war party. For Andromeda's Answer only:
To all four: "Never had much to give back to my friends, me. You all stood by my side and lent me gold when I asked as willingly as an over-eager armory-man handing out fresh-forged spears. Emmett always said I showed less appreciation than a troglodyte with a toothache, but might be I can change. Take one before heading into danger - never know if it'll help." She hands them each a vial of antitoxin (four in all). Concocted herself from herbs harvested from the forest before it turned foul, and from the wooded area near Skyloft. The liquid within is greenish gray and smells pungent, but once imbibed, confers advantage on saving throws against poison for one hour (only if done before actually being poisoned).
To Cinder with a smile and handshake:
"Sister flame-thrower. I hope for your sake that you find more explosives as we did back in Jappiter. And for everyone else's sake that you do not!"
To Thea tenderly, brushing the young human's cheek lightly once more with the knuckle of her hand:
"My lady of butterflies. Don't ever change. Never forget what you are, even if you don't know all of it yourself yet."
To Stasolya, solmenly with a bow:
"I'll not soon forget what you taught me m'lady centaur, though might be you never knew you did. Your poems to the Jappiter townsfolk while I was down there in the dark in my heart with Cole. So different, you and I. Too late for me to be righteous and pure as you are, but I'll not forget all the same. Remember with the eladrin. Lelith. When someone shows you who they are, believe them, as I believed you. Even if her mind wasn't her own when she turned traitor, I've seen what toxic brothers and sisters in arms did to The Infantry. Enemy within as bad as the enemy without. Worse."
And to Malenia, with whom Ereni has clearly formed a bond as a sparring partner and fellow scout:
Ereni holds her gaze and clasps her shoulder. For a long moment, it looks as if she wants to say something more to the light saber wielder. If things were different, might be she would have grown to trust me with her secrets as I might trust her with mine. Perhaps one day yet to come. Ereni swallows, nods to herself, and walks away without another word or backward glance.
Approaching her new team bound for Hagsgate and the Red Bull, Ereni listens to the conversation already in progress, head tilted. A lanky half-elf with dirty blond hair, green eyes and dark green woodland clothing with a face scarf and wicked looking bow at her shoulder. As she passes through an area of darkness when approaching, she disappears completely, invisible to both darkvision and ordinary sight when in the gloom.
Allowing a respectful pause after the young highborn human woman concludes her words of wisdom, Ereni drawls:
"If never needing to shoot an arrow is wisdom my lady, then no surprise, I'm less wise than a werewolf with a wandering eye. I am Ereni, and being a sharpshooter is mostly what I do when I am not scouting. Or maybe speaking with animals like a crazy person, as my fellow Infantrymen would say, and seeking out the darkest parts of the..." her gaze takes a moment to re-focus. "Be that as it may, take one of these each if you like. Good for a meal or a tiny spot of healing, even to bring up an ally when they go down." (She hands each of them one goodberry, only if they wish to take it).
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Nodjeim listens to the woman speak to being a warrior respectfully but with an inner eyeroll and sigh. It wasn't that he disagreed with the words or meaning, merely the tone and attitude. Still, full of herself or not, she looked an able warrior so the rest didn't really matter. When she was finished Nodjeim have her a respectful nod before his attention was taken by the the newcomer.
Another warrior, the Tiefling happily sees. Fighting from a distance was not his forte but he couldn't dispute it's effectiveness. He gives her a nod of respect as well as he accepts the Goodberry with both hands as if accepting an honored gift. "Apologies, I have no gift of return... Though I will give you my word that your foes will be mine for as long as we walk together." Nodjeim then eyes the berry curiously before cautiously popping it in his mouth. His face is stoic for a moment but then a smile cracks his face. "It is very good!"
Shavaris listens to Stasolya and Rum as they chat about the coming trial a bit. She is slowly realizing what a daunting task this was going to be. She would rather use her weapon, not her insight as to what truly went down. But if that is what is asked of her…
As she is lost in her own reverie, Delph lights on her shoulder, breaking her from her thoughts and she gives him a bright smile. As they talk to her about hunting, she just listens, unsure how to take what they are saying to her. As they call her amazing and invite her to their home, reaches for them and holds them in her hands in front of her, then pressing the sweet fairy against her cheek in the best way to hug them that she can think of. She accepts the flower and places it behind her ear for the moment, wanting to enjoy its beauty.
As she hears Delph’s request, she responds, “I will be as honest and understanding as I can. I understand she was your friend, but her actions have resulted in the deaths of my friends. I hope you realize how serious this is. I will keep you in mind, I promise.”
“And with that, I know with whatever choice you do make about your father and all, you will always be you. I hope you find fun in your new adventure, and your speed will definitely grant you an advantage with what you’re about to do. Stay safe, and come back to me, Fireflight.”
Shavaris turns around in surprise as Johnathan starts addressing their band. She can tell this is a bit out of the norm for him, and listens as he addresses each of the bandmates. “Thank you for your words, and your insightfulness when I was a bit lost. I am glad I was there to help you, and I always will be. I know we’ll be separated for while, but you got this and we’ll see each other soon.
“You are not as lost as you think. You are stronger than you think, just trust in that and know you will succeed. I will see you again soon, and I look forward to us sharing our stories.”
Shavaris chuckles as Ward says they are a bit much together. That was one way to put it. As Ward addresses her and warns her to stay clear of the crossfire, she puts her hand on his metal shoulder, “You worry too much. You know I got this. Thank you Ward, my journey will not be the same without you. Please, be careful with all of your contraptions and mixtures and your want of blowing things up. Yes, you are very capable, but please, don’t get caught yourself. I hear this bull is not an easy foe, remember that.
“I do not doubt you would follow any of us past the realm of the living.” Shavaris grins as she says this, “I will do my best to give misery to those that aim at our heads, and most definitely give them Hell. You are one of a kind, my friend.”
As Kerwyn mumbles to her, she retorts, “Stay safe? That’s all you have to say to me?” Shavaris grabs his shoulders after he hugs her and looks him directly in the eyes, “Kerwyn, we’ve been through so much together. You mean a great deal to me, and I’m glad after so many close calls, you have found your sanity again. You keep ol’ Schmoopy here safe, alright? I don’t want to see one flail missing from him when we get back together alright?
"Or you’ll have to answer to me.” The emotion of the situation is overwhelming enough that she directs it to the flail snail, almost touching it, but remembers what happened when Travin did, and retracts her hand, placing it back on Kerwyn’s shoulder.
“I’m not sure what a crown will look like on you, probably terrible. This ringlet suits you much better. I hope the meeting with your parents goes well and that you not only raise this army that is needed, but find more about who you are and who you are meant to be. I’ll miss you, Kerwyn, come back safe.” She looks at him a moment longer, and then turns to her newest little friend.
Shavaris looks to Travin as he is about to waddle off, and she takes hold of his cabinet and turns him around. Bending down to his level, and taking hold of both of his hands, one so that she has his attention, two so that he doesn’t steal anything from her. “Travin, stay safe. Don’t take anything that will end up hurting you. Listen to Kerwyn and use your voice when necessary, you truly have a gift. One that you wouldn’t know by meeting you, which makes it all the more special. This shiny,” she smiles referring to herself this way sure feels odd, “plans on returning to your collection, so keep a spot for me.” She ruffles his hair as she stands back up, letting him wander off.
Once she has finished her goodbyes with her friends, she heads to a chair along the wall to sit and take a breather, the emotions of the conversations, completely taking it out of her.
In a breath, the long amber blade of her weapon retracted. She stood silently among this cacophony of new faces, of new voices as they spoke of heroes and deeds accomplished. Of what was plauging the lands to which she would scarcely consider herself a part of. Falling back into her old ways, the elven woman concealed herself within a tattered maroon cloak. Slinking back as far as she could, her breath a faint wisp. She could see everything.
Every face, every word said. In this rather colourful gathering of 'Heroes'. Not a word by which she would describe herself. The true gravity of the situation in which she now found herself was utterly crushing, What had been a means of distraction. Of breaking ones boundries had quickly grown into something that she was not prepared for. She had grown comfortable with her companions, Andromeda's Answer. She even considered them friends, yet this barrage of ceaseless personality and overbearing displays of authority and distrust was pushing her in an all to familiar direction. Her shoulder ached.
She reached to her prosthesis and found a hand. Meeting the gaze of one she had considered her equal, a friend found through trial. Gently squeezing Ereni's hand as they exchanged silent words. Malenia pulled her hood down and perhaps for the first time since meeting Ereni, Smiled. Whatever this was it wasnt goodbye, it was Farewell....for now.
The silent exchange proved more than enough to pull Malenia back into the moment, the elvens womans shoulders broadened. She shrugged her cloak back to reveal a rather slim, yet athletic physique wrapped in tattered and worn traveling attire. Yet out of habit she his her Prosthesis from sight, a tic from her past that would not be easy to break.
Malenia - [Monk - Way of the Jedi] - Auryn: Princess of Destiny
Johnathan listens as Nodjeim explains their fighting as a sort of dance. Though the way he put it made sound strange they did look like a good fighter. Fair enough, I’m sure you will have plenty to dance with on this mission. Can always use more warriors in parties. When he turns to face the lady he sighs a little as he hears her tone and attitude to the question. Great, just what we needed. Not another arrogant one. This is the fox all over again. He thinks to himself. It was a simple question, no need to start bringing in philosophy or wisdom. Whatever, as long as you carry your weight in a fight you can have as much or as little wisdom as you need Kaede. He purposely does not use the title of lady. When she is done the archer appears before them after turning invisible from darkness. Neat trick Ereni was it? It didn’t look like you cast the spell for that. Interesting. When he is offered the berry Johnathan takes it but does not eat it. He just puts it in his pocket for later. Thank you for that, I’ll have it later when I’m hungry.
Oten looks at Rum. "I do believe I have now had some experience of guilt, yes. And I do not wish it to be a repeat occurrence. I am good with repairing things, but I know not how to mend my rapport with Tuto. I find myself less sure now than before as to who I can trust, and I fear I have alienated on of the few I can feel confident will have my back."
Stasolya joins her band as they gather one last time for their goodbyes. Pulled to far-flung missions across Hyboria, she doesn't know which of them she will see again, if any.
For Andromeda's Answer:
"Malenia, you have been a stoic presence at my side following Atreyu's since the Kraken devastated Argos. I don't doubt you will see the task through.
Cinder, you have incredible power and need only the training and guidance to channel it for great good. You will do much for Hyboria!
Thea, your faith, love, and trust has been a light to our whole group. Don't ever lose your spirit which shines in such harmony with that of the Childlike Empress."
Ereni, I am deeply grateful for your kind words and advice. It is a difficult task that I have been assigned. I will try to do it justice! Stand tall, soldier, the Childlike Empress' love has dawned in your heart. Hold it close, even when all else seems dark."
"And we will use Skyloft, Dageron." Gandalf says, trying to answer as many questions for Atreyu as possible as he addresses the Aureki leader. "You're missing a few key points here, however, my dear Hobgoblin. Our most crushing defeats have happened in the last few days and no one was prepared to deal with these issues. There is no infrastructure to move all these people, feed all these people, get all these people out of harms way. We're working on it, but we have limitations. You're right though, and we will be using Skyloft. It is our greatest stronghold...and perhaps our last. Your suggestion for anti-teleportation magic is sound, but it will have to be emplaced after this next series of maneuvers, and then there is a certainty that we would be limited by such a defense as well. It's a good idea. I'll have to work on it. I don't agree with your assessment of reactionary. Not entirely, anyway. The Childlike Empress originally sent the AURYN Bearers forth to capture key objectives before they could fall into the hands of the enemy. They were successful in getting the alicorn, but thusfar we have come up short in every other attempt. As for your offensive suggestions, we shall have to see. Fielding the tarrasque isn't a terrible idea...until we lose control of it. I don't even like the thought of using Godzilla, which is, allegedly, an ally. And I doubt the tarrasque stands a chance against Ganon, with what Ganon has now become. And what if they conquer the thing's mind, like how they played the Twilight Embers like a fiddle? Frightening indeed. We'll revisit these ideas when you lot have returned from your missions. For now we're talking about hypotheticals and the use of resources we don't even have yet. Undersea tunnels?"
Gandalf takes a moment to rummage under the table the map is spread on, then lays out a second map, a bit smaller, that shows a series of caverns vaguely reminiscent of the world's continents.
"We're not talking tunnels here. We are talking huge subterranean systems that are as big as the landmasses they preside under. We'd have to drain the oceans and destroy the world ecology. We'd be doing the Enemy a favor."
Gandalf pats Dageron's shoulder.
"These ideas aren't terrible. Let's revisit them when we have a better picture of a capabilities, after tomorrow. Tomorrow is going to be a very long day, General. When that is over, I'd love to pick your brain a little. Perhaps you have information that Atreyu could really use."
Atreyu and Gandalf both look at the almost naked Barbarian standing in the back of the room, who seems to have smuggled in a bottle of something that he's been trying to sneak and swill during the briefing. He wipes an arm across his lips after lowering the battle and side eyes Travin for a moment.
"I believe that right now we'll be asking mister Stephen Austin to remain here and guard the Room of Mirrors. If someone needs him, that way, they can send for him. As for your storytellers...well. It's a novel idea, but one that I will have to shelve for now. Bigger fish to fry, as the saying goes."
"The defenders of Skyloft should be able to help you, at least some." Atreyu says to Ward as the Warforged requests gunpowder.
"If you're talking about the visitors that took Ro Aleron as well as the Orrery of the Wanderer, then I think we need to shelve that conversation too. We have other focuses right now, Traveling Ward. Don't let your personal grudges pull your attention away from more immediate goals. You can worry about that later and on your own time."
Atreyu nods as Nodjeim speaks up.
"The unicorn is paramount, but not the objective. If the mare dies, the world will be plunged into endless darkness. If something happens, protect her. Otherwise, your goal, the reason for your mission, is to kill the Red Bull. Once the Red Bull is done, you should try to bring the Unicorn back where we can keep her safe."
"I'll be watching from the Room of Mirrors." Gandalf says to answer Johnathan. "I've set up a room full of standing mirrors that we will be using as a sort of teleportation hub. I'll be able to send communications to you from there, too, and you'll be given a small mirror that if you speak into it I'll be able to speak back."
"I'll do what I can, Rumble. They'll be notified of the impending danger tonight." Gandalf says and nods as Rum lays out his plan for false information. "A good idea. If you would like to gather someone to aid you in sending some messages, be my guest. I believe that Dageron would be an excellent ally for picking targets for disinformation."
Soft music begins to filter into the Hall of the Celestials from somewhere outside. Someone is playing, someone is singing; it seems like a quartet of Bards, unaware of what is going on behind the walls of the sacred temple, have somehow picked a seemingly fitting song.
Hello stranger
Can you tell us where you've been?
More importantly
How ever did you come to be here?
Though a stranger
You can rest here for a while
But save your energy
Your journey here is far from over
Come the sunrise
We'll descend through Judgement Valley
No direction but to follow what you know
No direction but a faith in her decision
No direction but to never fight her flow
No direction but to trust the final destination
You're a stranger 'til she whispers you can stay
You're a stranger 'til she whispers that your journey's over
Falkor yawned and cracked his big eyes as the little Lightless appeared before him and began to speak. The Luck Dragon smiled, stretched, and yawned as his massive tongue, almost as big as Jek in itself, lolled from his mouth.
"Me? I'm fine! I was having a good nap!" Falkor says jovially. "How are you, little creature? Tola you say? And Atoh Khan? They are mighty warriors! Yes, they're safe! Though, I fear their people didn't do so well, it seems that luck was really on their side! Perhaps you shall see them again someday! Most of their people have lived to fight another day!"
The next morning, as the heroes gathered at dawn to begin their tasks, Atreyu and Gandalf showed them Room of Mirrors, the hastily put together transportation and communications hub that Gandalf has created with help of the Elders. A large room, emptied out save for a couple of tables in the middle and the mirrors lining the walls, reflected images from different parts of Hyboria back into the room. The darkened entrance of Atlantis. King Haggard's Keep, sitting upon a hill overlooking the town of Hagsgate. The vast expanse of the crater and the beautiful glow from its center.
"This is simple, but I'll explain it to each group as I move you to your destination. I've linked the mirrors to your locations. I'll provide you with two mirrors; one big enough to act as a doorway back here and one we can speak through and pass simple items. Just something small. You cannot allow your mirrors to be broken or you'll be stuck in your location, and you cannot allow them to be captured by the enemy. Now, everyone out the door. I'll bring you in one at a time and get you moving."
DM of AURYN: The Measure of Devotion - Escape from New York
A tension that Jek did not really realize was there lifts as he hears about his friends. They are alive! He laughs a little and runs up and hugs Falkor. " That is amazing news! I'm so happy they are safe! We've lost so much these past few days, I'm happy to have some good news! Thank you Falkor!"
Jek watches as the others slowly depart. He stands with Stasolya and Shavaris. He says "I wandered about here the first day I got here. I think there is a good room we can use. Oh, just so you are aware, these people apparently don't like it when you walk in on them bathing. I mean they are all covered in feathers, I didn't even know she was a she until she slapped me. Anyways." Jek will lead them a short way to a room that looks like a lecture hall. There are stadium style seats, but the first row has long tables in front. front of the room has a podium. "Do you think this could work? They were talking about boring stuff in here the other day, but I figure this could be good. Lelith stands at the front, we sit at the tables? Oh, by the way, I've never actually participated in a trial. How does this work? I've heard stories about them, there should be a judge that gets a hammer. Someone is supposed to yell 'OBJECTION' very dramatically, right? We should find Krille and ask him, plus we are supposed to have an elder here with us. I suppose we can take a look through her things, but I think we should ask her first. It can be a first test of sorts, seeing if she has anything to hide.... Do we need to push the table a bit back for you Stasolya?"
Shavaris raises her eyebrow at Jek when he talks about walking in on the owlins and arakocras as they were bathing... why would he in the first place? Best not to ask questions..
She follows him down to the lecture hall type room and looks around, "This looks like a good a place as any. Think we'll have any witnesses to bring in? Or are we just to question her? The rest that you're talking about, the hammer and objection? I have no idea." She smiles at this as the little lightless is all animated as he talks. "I'll see if I can find Krille and inquire about the elders. As for Lelith's things, why not look now? We can still ask her, she doesn't need to know that we have already looked."
And with that, Shavaris leaves the room in search of Krille.
Before Shavaris can leave the room, a dark brown Owlin Elder with horns of feather upon his head entered the room and looked around. He flexed his wings, and for the first time, Jek thought he'd seen one of the Elders be able to convey a feeling with facial expressions. This Elder looked formidable. Angry. Ready for anything. The forest green cloak he wore was tied in the front with an orange belt, and he walked with an air of power and authority.
"I am Elder Piccolo." He said as his head rotated around from Stasolya, to Jek, to Shavaris. "Elder Krille has asked me to assist you in the inquest of one Lelith, who is suspected of high treason. By my calculation, you have had ample time to bring the traitor before you. What are you doing? Why are you dallying? You, little man."
Piccolo points one wing at Jek.
"Haven't you been here for a few days? Why are you wasting time? I hate wasting time. If you want my services, you better get moving. We could be attacked at any time. I must be ready. If I am here, I am not ready. Why are you just standing there? It's almost time for me to eat. You're still not moving."
DM of AURYN: The Measure of Devotion - Escape from New York
Jek stands up straight at the sight of this new Owlin entering the room. He has a similar energy to his eldest brother, Eet! Very serious and worried about everything. And makes you feel the disappointment with just a look.
Oh, here's the lecture, just like Eet. This starts to make Jek jittery and nervous.
In response Jek starts bouncing a bit on his feet. "Ahh, Oh, yes, what? No, we weren't wasting time, were we? I mean, we literally just found this room a few minutes ago. And, and, and we were discussing how to run the trial and we were going to look at her things and we were going to find Krille to ask about an elder, but you are here now so we don't have to do that and, and, and....." Jek takes a deep breath. "We should get started. Stasolya, do you need a chair or something, I don't think you will fit in the ones here. Sorry, is that offensive? Umm, how do we... I'll just find a guard."
Jek will stick his head out of the room and motions for the first guard he sees to come over. "Hey, we need to have the prisoner brought over. Along with her belongings. I assume that she was searched and all her possessions are far away from her. Oh, and we need 3 wooden hammer thingies. And maybe a horse chair?"
Shavaris takes a step back as the elder enters the room with scowl that would wither the flowers on Delphs head. As the owl starts berating Jek, Shavaris finds her voice, "Now wait just one moment. We have found a room to carry the trial and I was just on my way to find you so we could talk before the accused is brought in."
She watches as Jek starts panicking a bit, stammering as the elder singles him out. As Jek tries to signal a guard, Shavaris focuses on Piccolo, hands on her hips, "So, what are your capabilites? How are you going to help us get to the truth when it comes to Lelith? To find out if she did this of her own volition or if she was under the control of the Lord of Darkness? I think it would be good for us to know before she enters the room. Her life is on the line here, not something to rush through."