Dageron nods slowly, as if mulling over the words. In Common he says, "The Bright Lady you say?.. Perhaps. Perhaps it is fitting that the enemy of my enemy should be my friend. I would accept, if welcome by your battle brethren as well." He looks to Barok, and in Orc says, "A weak clan with a powerful alliance. That is a good start."
Brevon steps away from the wagon, having changed nothing, but giving Barok and Dageron a chance to talk and observing the interactions of these strangers. Take note, he thinks to himself, that even the “savage races” are vested with an implacable sense of honor. Is it a strength, or a weakness?
“Yes, Atoh. We are not driven from our destination. Not yet, at least. I do wonder where the Sorceress has thrown in in all of this. We may be walking into the enemy’s maw.”
To Jek, Brevon smiles, kneels, and places a hand on his shoulder. “We do what we have been tasked to do--to seek out the Shard of Division and the Tri-Forces. We are not tasked to kill or to create war. Perhaps it will be necessary at some point, but we see that this is not the case here. See how Barok possesses a sense of honor, and how he and Dageron show respect between themselves. Even Barok’s allies acknowledged defeat and fled. True, they could circle around and attack us again, but where we are going that will be the least of our concerns.” He considers a moment. “To kill unnecessarily is not the way of the Childlike Emperess, and therefore it is not the way of her emissaries.”
Barok approaches they orc and hobgoblin. “Dageron. Will you join us in our quest as emissaries of the Childlike Emperess? We cannot promise you battle or glory, although these things may arise. Or, we may perish in the desert at the hand’s of Vader’s forces. But, we can offer you a purpose beyond baking in this heat. What say you?”
Brevon suddenly clutches AURYN, looking off into the distance. He casts a nervous glance toward Barok. "Come. Let us decide and hasten on our way."
Locked away in Castle Grayskull is the secret of the Power, a mysterious magical force that is linked to something that is neither the AURYN force nor the Dark Crystal itself. Like AURYN, the source of the Power is unknown. While AURYN is often thought of as a refined and majestic energy source, the Power is raw and chaotic. Like the Spirit of the Hero, there is a legend that the Power gives rise to its own protector, known as the Champion, that often doubles as a de facto savior of the world.
The constant protector and curator of the Power is the Sorceress of Castle Grayskull, a woman who has stood sentinel over the secrets of the Power for trine untold. Having been bathed in the Pool of Power and therefore blessed with the magical abilities and wisdom that Castle Grayskull grants its closest disciple, the Sorceress is a force to be reckoned with. While the abilities imbued by the pool are vast, it is the Sorceresses wisdom that sets her above and beyond the common mortal.
AURYN The Crystal, the Triforce, and the Shard of Division
Part II
See how beautiful it is here...
...at the unraveling of things...
__________
The Order of the Phoenix left Barok behind to do as he would and continued on their path into the desert. The days were hot and long, but the nights were cool and hospitable, and it was these periods of tolerable conditions when travel was the easiest and fastest. It only took another four days travel to put the travelers on the doorstep of Castle Grayskull, the immense stronghold of the Sorceress and the Power. The yawning maw of the portcullis threatened to swallow them from a half mile away as they approached.
It was Brevon who first noticed her from afar as a red lump in the waste before the Castle. It wasn't until they had grown close that the single hole in the clouds overhead illuminated the red form enough that he knew it was a person, crouched in a red cape cloak with head down and hands outstretched to the sky, her hands clenching and unclenching as she prayed loud enough that there was no doubt it was a call to the godesses, or, rather, a god of some sort, though the words weren't exactly discernable.
She waited until they were almost on top of her before she turned, her face lighting up as if the answer to her prayers had just strolled up, though it seemed like it quite literally had. She scrambled, stumbling as she stood and stumbling still as she made her way to the Cleric and fell back to her knees, her hands reaching out, clutching as his breaches while she bowed her head and took a long look at the ground.
"You have come, my Lord, as the Lord of Light has said you would." The woman said, her voice plaintive like it could break at any moment. "The Lord of Light has brought me here to serve you, my Lord, to give you guidance in your quest. To give allof you guidance. Please, I know what you must do next, but let me be of service."
The hole in the clouds overhead followed her, bathing her and the Order of the Phoenix in light as she groveled before Brevon. She turned her pale face up to him, her blue eyes punctuations in the drapery of red cowl and red hair.
Once they are back on the road, Brevon calls everyone near to share the news from AURYN.
“Greko the Green has landed in Hylia and was met by corrupted Zoras. Ganondorf has stolen a sacred stone, killed the king and queen of the Zoras, and is responsible for the corrupt Zora. Greko has a question for an emissary of the empress. They have met joined with a warforge who is called Oten."
Greko also tells us that Blix has broken away from the Lord of Darkness and plans to use the alicorn for himself ruling over goblins. Ganon, an ally of the Lord of Darkness, has the triforce of power and the Sacred Stones. Greko’s sources tell their band that Ganon is going to unlock the Temple of Time for what lies within.”
As they continue on through the desert, Brevon speaks with Dageron, asking him questions of culture, faith, and philosophy. Brevon also gives of his knowledge of the Lady of Light, and explains how he was pulled from the darkness of the mortal coil to serve a greater purpose in the name of the Light. He’s particularly interested in Dageron’s religious beliefs and demonstrated divine power.
Each morning Brevon sits facing the rising suns, absorbed in thoughts. At times his prayers are peaceful, but at other times his head droops and his shoulders heave as some inner battle quietly rages.
As Castle Grayskull draws nearer to the horizon’s edge, Brevon recites the knowledge of the Sorceress.“A woman of great power and wisdom. Surely she has not fallen prey to the forces of darkness. She will help us in our quest.” His voice is steady and determined, leaving no room for doubt.
“There!”Brevon shouts excitedly, pointing toward the Castle. “The Sorceress! See the power that she wields!”
As they arrive, Brevon dismounts from the wagon and approaches. He is momentarily awestruck at the show of power wielded by the Sorceress, as the very clouds part for her, and again at her show of supplication.
He lowers himself to one knee, taking her hands in his. “The Light shall prevail,”he offers simply, inwardly perplexed by this reference to a lord of light. Surely the Sorceress is confused, for the Lady is the true source. “We come as emissaries of the Childlike Empress, heralds of the Light to save the world against being cast into eternal darkness. Surely, my lady, you know of Vader’s attacks to the west, and know of the fall of the unicorn stallion. We come to you for advice and wisdom, it is true. Do you serve the Light, in defiance toward Vader and the forces of darkness? Will you accept us now as allies in the war for the dawn?”
After the Order of the Phoenix packs up camp and continues their travels towards Greyskull, Chuba finds quiet moments to approach some of her adopted tribe.
Jek approaches Chuba to discuss her clear frustration. They talk about honor in battle and judging who is enemy or friend. They talk about killing and not. They talk about tribe and trust. Chuba realizes that she has much to learn from her new tribe.
Chuba approaches Dageron. In her broken Common, which improves with each passing day spent with non-Goliath, she communicates: "You are battle-tested, yes? I hear you compliment the defeated. Is it hobgoblin custom or tribal custom to note positive qualities in your enemy? The Kashikatake defeat our does and seek to end their misery, not prolong their shame with curing and speeches." She will listen to Dageron's philosophy on battle, justice, and mercy, and will listen with the intent to learn. With the arrival of this second large, strong, tribal humanoid, Chuba feels less like an other among the smaller races.
She approaches Atoh and communicates: "After battle, you pray for the defeated enemy. The Kashikatake tribe sees honor in ending the suffering of pain and shame for the defeated, but the rest of the Order seems to prefer healing and prolonging their shame. Tell me of you religion and its preferences after battle." Again, Chuba listens to learn these foreign ways so that she might learn of other concepts of good and right.
She approaches Orin and communicates: "You have a strong connection to your pet, and together you perform well in battle. How did the two of you come together?" She listens to his stories to learn more about her bandmate.
She approaches Brevon and communicates: "You pray to the Lady of Light. I pray to The Everstone. In battle, I have often gained advantage by tapping into my controlled anger. Never before, however, did I see those ghostly figures appear, swirling around my enemy to protect my companions. Did you see them? They were in the shape of the many and varied shapes of shards of the Everstone, the shards of my deceased tribe mates and ancestors. The Kashikatake tribe believes the Everstone protects us and blesses us. I have long felt the blessings of the Everstone, especially in lucky circumstances during battle. Now I see direct proof. Do you, too, gain blessings or have proof of your Lady?" Chuba listens to learn more about her bandmate and what drives him.
Orin says to Chuba, "Dirk and I have a special bond. Dirk was made with my own two hands, guided by the great spirit. Even though he is made of metal he has a spirit just like any other animal. He knows my simple commands, both verbal and non. I also know his signs. He is very perceptive, so I always keep an eye out for his reactions."
During the journey with these strange new companions, Dageron at first keeps a respectful distance. They are not his clan. He is not theirs. But as Brevon takes the time to speak with him, he acknowledges the gesture of acceptance, and sits closer to the inner circle - but still not too close. He must earn his place among them, both literally and figuratively.
Dageron is pleased to speak with Brevon, and they exchange much knowledge. He would ask Brevon, "What is the Lady of Light? Is she some forgotten elder God, or a new force to this world?"
Of his peoples' ways, he explains the martialing begins for Hobgoblins around three years old. Childhood is not a concept they understand. From three to ten they train for the Legions. At ten, they are tested. Those that fail die, though this is practically unheard of. By time a child makes it to the testing any weaknesses have long been exposed... and no family would risk the embarrassment of a child failing the testing. Once passed, the rest become Rank 7 Soldiers. Everyone is in the Legions, which are divided into Banners based on clan affiliations. A Banner was your literal and figurative family. If they died, it was your family dying. If you shame yourself, you shame your whole Banner.
Of their religion, he explains their two gods. Nomog-Geaya is the greater of the two and the more frequently honored. He is seen as a stoic, cold-blooded, and tyrannical leader, and hobgoblins believe he expects the same behavior from them. Bargrivyek is a god of duty, unity, and discipline, and he is thought to be pleased by displays of those principles. Dageron is a War Priest of Bargrivyek only, and gives neither praise nor worship to Nomog-Geaya any longer.
Finally, of his philosophy, he relays why he is willing to side with those deemed 'the softer races'. Of how his people, the Aureki, did what Hobgoblins do and sold the services of their armies to a powerful wizard. Of how they were used as fodder, and ultimately left to die, spelling the end of the Aureki Polis. His people were shattered, and fled to regain standing in the realm. They fled to Vader. Vader took advantage of their broken state, and lack of strong leadership, forcing the remaining Aureki to abandon their heritage and identity and become faceless soldiers in his army. Dageron did not hate Vader for this, he hated Nomog-Geaya and the inheritance of his race to always think shortsightedly about governance. To be a people of war, a people must first conquer peace. It was these circumstances that led Dageron to consider Bargrivyek's teachings in a broader light. Not just as a Adjudicator of civic and military laws, but of duty to the state, not just its ambitions. Unity as an internal and external focus, and so not to be over-reliant on powerful patrons. Discipline against the shortsighted impulses of a martial mindset, as well as discipline in war. This approach doesn't abandon what Dageron thinks of as his peoples' strengths, while very much addressing what he sees are their weaknesses. More importantly, as a central point to his beliefs, war is essential. For this reason, Hobgoblins should never side with any force seeking 'ultimate victory', be they good or evil, soft or hard races. If ultimate victory were ever achieved, war would end. Therefore, balance demands the battles never end, and so no ultimate victors can ever win. For this reason, more than his bitterness about the fate of the Aureki, Dageron has set his sights on Vader. He doesn't know Sauron and Vader's end goals, but he knows they seek ultimate victory - and with it, an end to war.
For those curious about Vader, Dageron is liberal with what he knows. Dageron does not know Vader's past, but has heard the rumors he may have once been a paladin, or otherwise servant to an otherworldly power. Vader is indeed worthy of his reputation, as Dageron has seen him in training sessions when he sought to impress upon new recruits who was in charge. Vader's power is undeniable, and Dageron cannot fathom any warrior of greater skill. For this reason, Dageron believes it possible a divine force guides Vader. Vader is considered to be both intelligent and calculating, and given his power Dageron does not believe Sauron holds the sway over Vader that Sauron believes he does. In fact, Dageron suspects it is Vader using Sauron's strength towards some unknown goal, ready at a moment's notice to drop Sauron like a sack of potatoes.
However, Dageron has some fundamental assumptions about Vader based on what he has seen. Vader is cautious to build an army, and to seek a powerful ally to back him. He did not assault the Shem until his forces were ready. But when he did, he has used uniform tactics during engagements, and an overall war strategy that is very direct. Vader strikes like a hammer on an anvil with his armies, spending their lives just as so many others do with the harder races at their command. In this, Vader may be projecting his own ego through his strategizing. His personal prowess makes him formidable, and he would personally wade into a battlefield almost every time - seemingly preferring to do so. This mindset, to Dageron, is telling. Vader is prideful. His forces are instructed to fight as he would. Be bigger, be more powerful, overwhelm. A weaker enemy could do much to an army so managed. Goblin warfare (because who has ever heard of Guerillas going to war?), for example, using hit-and-run tactics, attacks on supply lines which would be critical for such a large legionary force, and the use of poisoned granaries and crops, and scorched earth tactics to slow the enemy. Also, formation fighting has a number of disadvantages against specific types of magical area attacks. Dageron has been on the wrong side of those attacks, and has seen how devastating they can be firsthand to a legion. Vader fields mixed-race forces, encompassing legions, sappers, scouts, flying units, and large and huge creatures. But they are all highly regimented and require an enormous amount of logistical command. They are not trained to fight autonomously as a cohesive force, they are dependent on orders and afraid to do anything Vader has not told them to. Failure means death. In this, his prowess works against innovative commanders, and the morale of his officers.
After the Order of the Phoenix packs up camp and continues their travels towards Greyskull, Chuba finds quiet moments to approach some of her adopted tribe.
Chuba approaches Dageron. In her broken Common, which improves with each passing day spent with non-Goliath, she communicates: "You are battle-tested, yes? I hear you compliment the defeated. Is it hobgoblin custom or tribal custom to note positive qualities in your enemy? The Kashikatake defeat our does and seek to end their misery, not prolong their shame with curing and speeches." She will listen to Dageron's philosophy on battle, justice, and mercy, and will listen with the intent to learn. With the arrival of this second large, strong, tribal humanoid, Chuba feels less like an other among the smaller races.
Dageron smiles broadly as the Goliath speaks to him. He had hoped to speak with this one. "You are a great warrior, and your blood calls for blood. I am honored to meet you. To answer your question, no. My peoples disdain prisoners, except to keep as slaves. To be a slave is to be humiliated forever, and there is no recovery of your honor from such a state. However, my peoples are gone. They themselves were destroyed. They were strong - very powerful in truth, but unwise. With their loss I sought to understand why such a strong peoples could lose. That is when I learned that there are many ways to be strong. Wisdom is a great strength. Barok showed cunning and composure in an impossible situation. He could never have defeated your party, with the exhaustion and loss of morale his men had endured, but he sought a way forward that came close to working. I believe such wisdom comes from defeat only, and so I saw in him a valuable person. A person who could lend wisdom to strength. Given a new opportunity to regain his honor, I believe he would have become a better leader. But if left to return to Vader, his journey, his gained wisdom, would be wasted. I am saddened more than I can express that he has been wasted to the desert... that so many have. However, if he had shown no such cunning, I would not mark his passing in the slightest. The old ways of my people were taught to us by Gods who never lived as mortals live. Mortals are not gods. We are flawed, and we cannot learn from victory alone. We must be allowed our defeats, to gain greater wisdom. Gods and customs that discourage failure, discourage strength. A person unwilling to learn from defeat is just as useless as the traditions that refuse to accept defeat. That is my belief now."
When Dageron mentions that his people are gone, Chuba's eyes widen. She listens to him, then responds, "I am Chuba Treewalker Kashikatake. We are a proud tribe blessed by the Everstone to remain protected and successful in battle. But I, like you, have lost my tribe. I was away on my sojourn to the Everstone to claim my shard and returned to a tribal land in ruins, the burned bodies of my tribe laid to waste by the Smoking One. This," and she pulls out the damaged mace from her straps, "is all I have left of my lifelong mate, Hanath. And this," she pulls out her Everstone shard, "is all I have left of my tribe, my ancestors, my heritage. But the Everstone continues to bless me in the face of horror. I have found this new adopted tribe, to whom I will defend in battle as I did for Kashikatake tribe. When I was able..." She trails off. "Alas, I have much for which to make amends."
The Lady in Red looked wide eyed and confused as Brevon spoke. She looked up from her fallen position, her eyes landing on his with the piercing intensity of a lightning strike.
"I fear you mistake me, Promised One." The lady said to Brevon. Her eyes traveled from Brevon's, to Orin's, back to Brevon. She was adorned in a burgundy dress and a red cloak that was dusted with the sands of the Shem. A broad necklace collared her throat. "I am but a servant of the Lord of Light, directed by the Lord here to serve you, the Priest that was Promised, and the Order of the Phoenix. He has brought me to you, brought me to you as nothing more than a humble servant. Yes, I know of Lord Vader's push south, and I know, too, of the loss of the Unicorn...but the Great Light did command me to find you and to do what I could to support you on your journey. My name is Melisandre, the Red Priestess. I am not the Sorceress of Castle Grayskull."
Her voice begins to sink as she reveals who she is. It's clear that she's suddenly unsure of herself, unsure if she's done the right thing, even as she burns a hole in Brevon's soul with her eyes.
"She may not by the Sorceress you seek, but I am." Another voice calls from behind Melisandre, over the bridge that leads to the gaping mouth of the castle. Inside the gate another woman stands, her own attire made of silk and feathers, white and blue and orange and sewn to imitate the look of a falcon. The avian ensemble was even complete with a cowl that was very much like a raptor.
Dageron looks at Brevon. "Your Lady of Light is very generous to have sent you such a prize as this woman. Our Gods requires us to compete for the affections of a female, they never just send them to us. And this one, she wears red. Red is a holy color. Most auspicious indeed."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Atoh couldn't sleep well since their encounter with Barok and others. Night by night, the dark dreams visited her sleep in many forms. It reminded her of the endless argument between Zeki and Guld over who will be the leader of the Khun clan. Atoh relived the day, Melk, her closest brother left the tribe because he fed up with the fruitless infight. She saw Esin, her bravest sister charged toward the wave of enemies with her emerald sword in hand. Esin's dragon screamed in pain, its golden mane was smeared with blood.
The nightmare tormented Atoh in various ways. Yet it always ended the same. The Darkness chained her through the hole in her chest and dragged the girl into the sea of death and blackness.
Atoh became reticent and introspective. And the more she suffered, the more the girl devoted herself to sharpening her bowmanship.
Tola on the other hand, became more talkative and sociable.The little dragon tried to speak to everyone for everything as much as possible. Though his Common is awful at best. But he never stopped and improved his vocabulary significantly.
_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/
So when the priestess approaches their group, Tola can totally understand what Dageron said. " Is it true, Atoh, that she wants Brevon to seed her egg? " " I, I don't know…B, but I have never heard that Tollmans (that is how Halflings and other small people call humans) are oviparous … " No! No! That's not the point! The girl thinks. And who taught Tola such bad languages! Just when Atoh barely grasps the situation, another woman steps in the scene. " Oh holy whiskers of Dragon God! She has watermelons hanging on her chest! " Tola stares at the Sorceress in wonder and awe. " Stop it Tola! That's rude! " " But look at their size! I've never seen something like that …Mghhh!! " Holding the little dragon's mouth, Atoh deeply regrets that she neglected her partner's education these days.
But no matter how much she is panicking,Atoh never forgets her duty as the party's scout. Secretlyactivating her magic shield, the Halfling girl carefully observes the two women and tries to figure out if they are really what they declared.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Jek starts getting down from Iron-Hoove as Brevon starts to kneel. Before he can get down, another lady shows up. He looks back and forth between the two. Jek was about to ask some question to Mel.... Meli... Melsd... Melds........ the Red lady, but decides to hold off as the real Sorcerous shows up.
For now, he move closer to Brevon and observe the two new people that showed up. If he needs help, he will aid where he can.
“There are many forces at work in this world, all wondrous, yet many dangerous. The Lady of Light presides over all, ever watchful as she guides the sun and stars on their eternal paths through the sky. She sun and stars themselves are proof of her power. As are the miracles that she works through her believers, myself included. Surely you recall how she vanquished the giant, using me as her vessel. She is the warden over all creation, and has many children, including your Everstone. I have no doubt that you are also touched by the divine Chuba. The spirits that surround you must be your ancestors keeping watch over you and maintaining the traditions of your people that have endured for generations. You are blessed, indeed.”
(Talking with Dageron):
“The Lady of Light has always been, since even before light first emerged from the primordial darkness of existence. Hers is the power of being itself, manifest through the creation and illumination. Hers is the power of extinction as well, just as destruction creates an openness, and opportunity for new growth. The cycle of life, death, and rebirth, the possibility of new life from annihilation, even darkness itself, as an absence of light, these are all aspects of our Lady. That is why I do not believe the forces of darkness will prevail in their mission to ‘destroy’ the light, for in the end they all serve her purposes.”
(With Melisandre):
Brevon seems taken aback, return to his feet. “Melisandre. The Red Priestess. I am sorry. With your proximity to the Castle Grayskull, and your show of power--” he looks up at the clouds. ”--I assumed.” He hesitates a moment under the heat of her gaze. “Lord of Light, you say? Mine is the Lady of Light, creator and shepard of all. I--”
His response is interrupted by the Sorceress herself.
Brevon remains near Melisandre. “And here we are met by another possible ally?” He lifts his mace overhead in greeting to the newcomer. “Hail!” He calls. “Wise Sorceress, Imperator of Castle Grayskull, word has traveled far of your power and wisdom. I am Brevon, Chosen of Light, and these are my companions.” He side-eyes Melisandre. “We come as emissaries of the Childlike Empress. Darkness gathers on your western front. The unicorn stallion has been slain and his alicorn has fallen into the hands of those who would use it to cast the world into eternal night. We seek your counsel in our quest. Will you accept us as allies?”
Melisandre watches Brevon stand but remains kneeling.
"I am sorry. I did not mean to misrepresent myself to you." She said to Brevon. Her eyes shifted back and forth to the other's gathered there. "The power is not mine. I only borrow it from the Lord, Lady, of Light, through whom my abilities are possible. I believe we speak of the same divinity, though the name may be different. What is important is that you have been chosen, the Priest that was Promised, and I have been sent as a vessel for our Lady."
It is the Sorceress who further steals the show, however. She steps out onto the walkway leading up to the castle and looks down at the group gathered below.
"It is not for me to accept. I only provide guidance." The Sorceress said. She reaches out with her hand and motions for the party to follow her up. "Come into the castle and we shall discuss the state of the world."
Chuba follows Brevon closely as a sort of bodyguard; certainly he can take care of himself, but Chuba sees the extra attention he is getting and wants to be nearby in case that attention turns sour. Chuba distrusts everyone outside the Order until they prove themselves allies.
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Dageron nods slowly, as if mulling over the words. In Common he says, "The Bright Lady you say?.. Perhaps. Perhaps it is fitting that the enemy of my enemy should be my friend. I would accept, if welcome by your battle brethren as well." He looks to Barok, and in Orc says, "A weak clan with a powerful alliance. That is a good start."
Brevon steps away from the wagon, having changed nothing, but giving Barok and Dageron a chance to talk and observing the interactions of these strangers. Take note, he thinks to himself, that even the “savage races” are vested with an implacable sense of honor. Is it a strength, or a weakness?
“Yes, Atoh. We are not driven from our destination. Not yet, at least. I do wonder where the Sorceress has thrown in in all of this. We may be walking into the enemy’s maw.”
To Jek, Brevon smiles, kneels, and places a hand on his shoulder. “We do what we have been tasked to do--to seek out the Shard of Division and the Tri-Forces. We are not tasked to kill or to create war. Perhaps it will be necessary at some point, but we see that this is not the case here. See how Barok possesses a sense of honor, and how he and Dageron show respect between themselves. Even Barok’s allies acknowledged defeat and fled. True, they could circle around and attack us again, but where we are going that will be the least of our concerns.” He considers a moment. “To kill unnecessarily is not the way of the Childlike Emperess, and therefore it is not the way of her emissaries.”
Barok approaches they orc and hobgoblin. “Dageron. Will you join us in our quest as emissaries of the Childlike Emperess? We cannot promise you battle or glory, although these things may arise. Or, we may perish in the desert at the hand’s of Vader’s forces. But, we can offer you a purpose beyond baking in this heat. What say you?”
Brevon suddenly clutches AURYN, looking off into the distance. He casts a nervous glance toward Barok. "Come. Let us decide and hasten on our way."
The Sorceress of Castle Grayskull
Locked away in Castle Grayskull is the secret of the Power, a mysterious magical force that is linked to something that is neither the AURYN force nor the Dark Crystal itself. Like AURYN, the source of the Power is unknown. While AURYN is often thought of as a refined and majestic energy source, the Power is raw and chaotic. Like the Spirit of the Hero, there is a legend that the Power gives rise to its own protector, known as the Champion, that often doubles as a de facto savior of the world.
The constant protector and curator of the Power is the Sorceress of Castle Grayskull, a woman who has stood sentinel over the secrets of the Power for trine untold. Having been bathed in the Pool of Power and therefore blessed with the magical abilities and wisdom that Castle Grayskull grants its closest disciple, the Sorceress is a force to be reckoned with. While the abilities imbued by the pool are vast, it is the Sorceresses wisdom that sets her above and beyond the common mortal.
AURYN
The Crystal, the Triforce, and the Shard of Division
Part II
See how beautiful it is here...
...at the unraveling of things...
__________
The Order of the Phoenix left Barok behind to do as he would and continued on their path into the desert. The days were hot and long, but the nights were cool and hospitable, and it was these periods of tolerable conditions when travel was the easiest and fastest. It only took another four days travel to put the travelers on the doorstep of Castle Grayskull, the immense stronghold of the Sorceress and the Power. The yawning maw of the portcullis threatened to swallow them from a half mile away as they approached.
It was Brevon who first noticed her from afar as a red lump in the waste before the Castle. It wasn't until they had grown close that the single hole in the clouds overhead illuminated the red form enough that he knew it was a person, crouched in a red cape cloak with head down and hands outstretched to the sky, her hands clenching and unclenching as she prayed loud enough that there was no doubt it was a call to the godesses, or, rather, a god of some sort, though the words weren't exactly discernable.
She waited until they were almost on top of her before she turned, her face lighting up as if the answer to her prayers had just strolled up, though it seemed like it quite literally had. She scrambled, stumbling as she stood and stumbling still as she made her way to the Cleric and fell back to her knees, her hands reaching out, clutching as his breaches while she bowed her head and took a long look at the ground.
"You have come, my Lord, as the Lord of Light has said you would." The woman said, her voice plaintive like it could break at any moment. "The Lord of Light has brought me here to serve you, my Lord, to give you guidance in your quest. To give all of you guidance. Please, I know what you must do next, but let me be of service."
The hole in the clouds overhead followed her, bathing her and the Order of the Phoenix in light as she groveled before Brevon. She turned her pale face up to him, her blue eyes punctuations in the drapery of red cowl and red hair.
DM of AURYN: The Measure of Devotion - Escape from New York
Dageron raises an eyebrow and looks to the others. "I had no idea Human mating rituals were so.. dramatic."
Jek nods along to Dageron. "Mm-hmm, Mm-hmm, Mm-hmm.... What's mating?"
Once they are back on the road, Brevon calls everyone near to share the news from AURYN.
“Greko the Green has landed in Hylia and was met by corrupted Zoras. Ganondorf has stolen a sacred stone, killed the king and queen of the Zoras, and is responsible for the corrupt Zora. Greko has a question for an emissary of the empress. They have met joined with a warforge who is called Oten."
Greko also tells us that Blix has broken away from the Lord of Darkness and plans to use the alicorn for himself ruling over goblins. Ganon, an ally of the Lord of Darkness, has the triforce of power and the Sacred Stones. Greko’s sources tell their band that Ganon is going to unlock the Temple of Time for what lies within.”
As they continue on through the desert, Brevon speaks with Dageron, asking him questions of culture, faith, and philosophy. Brevon also gives of his knowledge of the Lady of Light, and explains how he was pulled from the darkness of the mortal coil to serve a greater purpose in the name of the Light. He’s particularly interested in Dageron’s religious beliefs and demonstrated divine power.
Each morning Brevon sits facing the rising suns, absorbed in thoughts. At times his prayers are peaceful, but at other times his head droops and his shoulders heave as some inner battle quietly rages.
As Castle Grayskull draws nearer to the horizon’s edge, Brevon recites the knowledge of the Sorceress. “A woman of great power and wisdom. Surely she has not fallen prey to the forces of darkness. She will help us in our quest.” His voice is steady and determined, leaving no room for doubt.
“There!” Brevon shouts excitedly, pointing toward the Castle. “The Sorceress! See the power that she wields!”
As they arrive, Brevon dismounts from the wagon and approaches. He is momentarily awestruck at the show of power wielded by the Sorceress, as the very clouds part for her, and again at her show of supplication.
He lowers himself to one knee, taking her hands in his. “The Light shall prevail,” he offers simply, inwardly perplexed by this reference to a lord of light. Surely the Sorceress is confused, for the Lady is the true source. “We come as emissaries of the Childlike Empress, heralds of the Light to save the world against being cast into eternal darkness. Surely, my lady, you know of Vader’s attacks to the west, and know of the fall of the unicorn stallion. We come to you for advice and wisdom, it is true. Do you serve the Light, in defiance toward Vader and the forces of darkness? Will you accept us now as allies in the war for the dawn?”
Orin takes a knee as well
D&D since 1984
After the Order of the Phoenix packs up camp and continues their travels towards Greyskull, Chuba finds quiet moments to approach some of her adopted tribe.
Jek approaches Chuba to discuss her clear frustration. They talk about honor in battle and judging who is enemy or friend. They talk about killing and not. They talk about tribe and trust. Chuba realizes that she has much to learn from her new tribe.
Chuba approaches Dageron. In her broken Common, which improves with each passing day spent with non-Goliath, she communicates: "You are battle-tested, yes? I hear you compliment the defeated. Is it hobgoblin custom or tribal custom to note positive qualities in your enemy? The Kashikatake defeat our does and seek to end their misery, not prolong their shame with curing and speeches." She will listen to Dageron's philosophy on battle, justice, and mercy, and will listen with the intent to learn. With the arrival of this second large, strong, tribal humanoid, Chuba feels less like an other among the smaller races.
She approaches Atoh and communicates: "After battle, you pray for the defeated enemy. The Kashikatake tribe sees honor in ending the suffering of pain and shame for the defeated, but the rest of the Order seems to prefer healing and prolonging their shame. Tell me of you religion and its preferences after battle." Again, Chuba listens to learn these foreign ways so that she might learn of other concepts of good and right.
She approaches Orin and communicates: "You have a strong connection to your pet, and together you perform well in battle. How did the two of you come together?" She listens to his stories to learn more about her bandmate.
She approaches Brevon and communicates: "You pray to the Lady of Light. I pray to The Everstone. In battle, I have often gained advantage by tapping into my controlled anger. Never before, however, did I see those ghostly figures appear, swirling around my enemy to protect my companions. Did you see them? They were in the shape of the many and varied shapes of shards of the Everstone, the shards of my deceased tribe mates and ancestors. The Kashikatake tribe believes the Everstone protects us and blesses us. I have long felt the blessings of the Everstone, especially in lucky circumstances during battle. Now I see direct proof. Do you, too, gain blessings or have proof of your Lady?" Chuba listens to learn more about her bandmate and what drives him.
Orin says to Chuba, "Dirk and I have a special bond. Dirk was made with my own two hands, guided by the great spirit. Even though he is made of metal he has a spirit just like any other animal. He knows my simple commands, both verbal and non. I also know his signs. He is very perceptive, so I always keep an eye out for his reactions."
D&D since 1984
During the journey with these strange new companions, Dageron at first keeps a respectful distance. They are not his clan. He is not theirs. But as Brevon takes the time to speak with him, he acknowledges the gesture of acceptance, and sits closer to the inner circle - but still not too close. He must earn his place among them, both literally and figuratively.
Dageron is pleased to speak with Brevon, and they exchange much knowledge. He would ask Brevon, "What is the Lady of Light? Is she some forgotten elder God, or a new force to this world?"
Of his peoples' ways, he explains the martialing begins for Hobgoblins around three years old. Childhood is not a concept they understand. From three to ten they train for the Legions. At ten, they are tested. Those that fail die, though this is practically unheard of. By time a child makes it to the testing any weaknesses have long been exposed... and no family would risk the embarrassment of a child failing the testing. Once passed, the rest become Rank 7 Soldiers. Everyone is in the Legions, which are divided into Banners based on clan affiliations. A Banner was your literal and figurative family. If they died, it was your family dying. If you shame yourself, you shame your whole Banner.
Of their religion, he explains their two gods. Nomog-Geaya is the greater of the two and the more frequently honored. He is seen as a stoic, cold-blooded, and tyrannical leader, and hobgoblins believe he expects the same behavior from them. Bargrivyek is a god of duty, unity, and discipline, and he is thought to be pleased by displays of those principles. Dageron is a War Priest of Bargrivyek only, and gives neither praise nor worship to Nomog-Geaya any longer.
Finally, of his philosophy, he relays why he is willing to side with those deemed 'the softer races'. Of how his people, the Aureki, did what Hobgoblins do and sold the services of their armies to a powerful wizard. Of how they were used as fodder, and ultimately left to die, spelling the end of the Aureki Polis. His people were shattered, and fled to regain standing in the realm. They fled to Vader. Vader took advantage of their broken state, and lack of strong leadership, forcing the remaining Aureki to abandon their heritage and identity and become faceless soldiers in his army. Dageron did not hate Vader for this, he hated Nomog-Geaya and the inheritance of his race to always think shortsightedly about governance. To be a people of war, a people must first conquer peace. It was these circumstances that led Dageron to consider Bargrivyek's teachings in a broader light. Not just as a Adjudicator of civic and military laws, but of duty to the state, not just its ambitions. Unity as an internal and external focus, and so not to be over-reliant on powerful patrons. Discipline against the shortsighted impulses of a martial mindset, as well as discipline in war. This approach doesn't abandon what Dageron thinks of as his peoples' strengths, while very much addressing what he sees are their weaknesses. More importantly, as a central point to his beliefs, war is essential. For this reason, Hobgoblins should never side with any force seeking 'ultimate victory', be they good or evil, soft or hard races. If ultimate victory were ever achieved, war would end. Therefore, balance demands the battles never end, and so no ultimate victors can ever win. For this reason, more than his bitterness about the fate of the Aureki, Dageron has set his sights on Vader. He doesn't know Sauron and Vader's end goals, but he knows they seek ultimate victory - and with it, an end to war.
For those curious about Vader, Dageron is liberal with what he knows. Dageron does not know Vader's past, but has heard the rumors he may have once been a paladin, or otherwise servant to an otherworldly power. Vader is indeed worthy of his reputation, as Dageron has seen him in training sessions when he sought to impress upon new recruits who was in charge. Vader's power is undeniable, and Dageron cannot fathom any warrior of greater skill. For this reason, Dageron believes it possible a divine force guides Vader. Vader is considered to be both intelligent and calculating, and given his power Dageron does not believe Sauron holds the sway over Vader that Sauron believes he does. In fact, Dageron suspects it is Vader using Sauron's strength towards some unknown goal, ready at a moment's notice to drop Sauron like a sack of potatoes.
However, Dageron has some fundamental assumptions about Vader based on what he has seen. Vader is cautious to build an army, and to seek a powerful ally to back him. He did not assault the Shem until his forces were ready. But when he did, he has used uniform tactics during engagements, and an overall war strategy that is very direct. Vader strikes like a hammer on an anvil with his armies, spending their lives just as so many others do with the harder races at their command. In this, Vader may be projecting his own ego through his strategizing. His personal prowess makes him formidable, and he would personally wade into a battlefield almost every time - seemingly preferring to do so. This mindset, to Dageron, is telling. Vader is prideful. His forces are instructed to fight as he would. Be bigger, be more powerful, overwhelm. A weaker enemy could do much to an army so managed. Goblin warfare (because who has ever heard of Guerillas going to war?), for example, using hit-and-run tactics, attacks on supply lines which would be critical for such a large legionary force, and the use of poisoned granaries and crops, and scorched earth tactics to slow the enemy. Also, formation fighting has a number of disadvantages against specific types of magical area attacks. Dageron has been on the wrong side of those attacks, and has seen how devastating they can be firsthand to a legion. Vader fields mixed-race forces, encompassing legions, sappers, scouts, flying units, and large and huge creatures. But they are all highly regimented and require an enormous amount of logistical command. They are not trained to fight autonomously as a cohesive force, they are dependent on orders and afraid to do anything Vader has not told them to. Failure means death. In this, his prowess works against innovative commanders, and the morale of his officers.
Dageron stands back from the others, and does not kneel. This woman is not his liege.
Dageron smiles broadly as the Goliath speaks to him. He had hoped to speak with this one. "You are a great warrior, and your blood calls for blood. I am honored to meet you. To answer your question, no. My peoples disdain prisoners, except to keep as slaves. To be a slave is to be humiliated forever, and there is no recovery of your honor from such a state. However, my peoples are gone. They themselves were destroyed. They were strong - very powerful in truth, but unwise. With their loss I sought to understand why such a strong peoples could lose. That is when I learned that there are many ways to be strong. Wisdom is a great strength. Barok showed cunning and composure in an impossible situation. He could never have defeated your party, with the exhaustion and loss of morale his men had endured, but he sought a way forward that came close to working. I believe such wisdom comes from defeat only, and so I saw in him a valuable person. A person who could lend wisdom to strength. Given a new opportunity to regain his honor, I believe he would have become a better leader. But if left to return to Vader, his journey, his gained wisdom, would be wasted. I am saddened more than I can express that he has been wasted to the desert... that so many have. However, if he had shown no such cunning, I would not mark his passing in the slightest. The old ways of my people were taught to us by Gods who never lived as mortals live. Mortals are not gods. We are flawed, and we cannot learn from victory alone. We must be allowed our defeats, to gain greater wisdom. Gods and customs that discourage failure, discourage strength. A person unwilling to learn from defeat is just as useless as the traditions that refuse to accept defeat. That is my belief now."
"What is your name Goliath? What do you believe?"
@Dageron
When Dageron mentions that his people are gone, Chuba's eyes widen. She listens to him, then responds, "I am Chuba Treewalker Kashikatake. We are a proud tribe blessed by the Everstone to remain protected and successful in battle. But I, like you, have lost my tribe. I was away on my sojourn to the Everstone to claim my shard and returned to a tribal land in ruins, the burned bodies of my tribe laid to waste by the Smoking One. This," and she pulls out the damaged mace from her straps, "is all I have left of my lifelong mate, Hanath. And this," she pulls out her Everstone shard, "is all I have left of my tribe, my ancestors, my heritage. But the Everstone continues to bless me in the face of horror. I have found this new adopted tribe, to whom I will defend in battle as I did for Kashikatake tribe. When I was able..." She trails off. "Alas, I have much for which to make amends."
The Lady in Red looked wide eyed and confused as Brevon spoke. She looked up from her fallen position, her eyes landing on his with the piercing intensity of a lightning strike.
"I fear you mistake me, Promised One." The lady said to Brevon. Her eyes traveled from Brevon's, to Orin's, back to Brevon. She was adorned in a burgundy dress and a red cloak that was dusted with the sands of the Shem. A broad necklace collared her throat. "I am but a servant of the Lord of Light, directed by the Lord here to serve you, the Priest that was Promised, and the Order of the Phoenix. He has brought me to you, brought me to you as nothing more than a humble servant. Yes, I know of Lord Vader's push south, and I know, too, of the loss of the Unicorn...but the Great Light did command me to find you and to do what I could to support you on your journey. My name is Melisandre, the Red Priestess. I am not the Sorceress of Castle Grayskull."
Her voice begins to sink as she reveals who she is. It's clear that she's suddenly unsure of herself, unsure if she's done the right thing, even as she burns a hole in Brevon's soul with her eyes.
"She may not by the Sorceress you seek, but I am." Another voice calls from behind Melisandre, over the bridge that leads to the gaping mouth of the castle. Inside the gate another woman stands, her own attire made of silk and feathers, white and blue and orange and sewn to imitate the look of a falcon. The avian ensemble was even complete with a cowl that was very much like a raptor.
DM of AURYN: The Measure of Devotion - Escape from New York
Dageron looks at Brevon. "Your Lady of Light is very generous to have sent you such a prize as this woman. Our Gods requires us to compete for the affections of a female, they never just send them to us. And this one, she wears red. Red is a holy color. Most auspicious indeed."
Atoh couldn't sleep well since their encounter with Barok and others. Night by night, the dark dreams visited her sleep in many forms. It reminded her of the endless argument between Zeki and Guld over who will be the leader of the Khun clan. Atoh relived the day, Melk, her closest brother left the tribe because he fed up with the fruitless infight. She saw Esin, her bravest sister charged toward the wave of enemies with her emerald sword in hand. Esin's dragon screamed in pain, its golden mane was smeared with blood.
The nightmare tormented Atoh in various ways. Yet it always ended the same. The Darkness chained her through the hole in her chest and dragged the girl into the sea of death and blackness.
Atoh became reticent and introspective. And the more she suffered, the more the girl devoted herself to sharpening her bowmanship.
Tola on the other hand, became more talkative and sociable.The little dragon tried to speak to everyone for everything as much as possible. Though his Common is awful at best. But he never stopped and improved his vocabulary significantly.
_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/
So when the priestess approaches their group, Tola can totally understand what Dageron said. " Is it true, Atoh, that she wants Brevon to seed her egg? " " I, I don't know…B, but I have never heard that Tollmans (that is how Halflings and other small people call humans) are oviparous … " No! No! That's not the point! The girl thinks. And who taught Tola such bad languages! Just when Atoh barely grasps the situation, another woman steps in the scene. " Oh holy whiskers of Dragon God! She has watermelons hanging on her chest! " Tola stares at the Sorceress in wonder and awe. " Stop it Tola! That's rude! " " But look at their size! I've never seen something like that …Mghhh!! " Holding the little dragon's mouth, Atoh deeply regrets that she neglected her partner's education these days.
But no matter how much she is panicking,Atoh never forgets her duty as the party's scout. Secretly activating her magic shield, the Halfling girl carefully observes the two women and tries to figure out if they are really what they declared.
Observing Melisandre.
Perception:16
Insight : 25
Observing the Sorceress.
Perception:24
Insight : 20
Jek starts getting down from Iron-Hoove as Brevon starts to kneel. Before he can get down, another lady shows up. He looks back and forth between the two. Jek was about to ask some question to Mel.... Meli... Melsd... Melds........ the Red lady, but decides to hold off as the real Sorcerous shows up.
For now, he move closer to Brevon and observe the two new people that showed up. If he needs help, he will aid where he can.
Insight Melisandre 23
Insight Sorcerous 23
(Talking with Chuba):
“There are many forces at work in this world, all wondrous, yet many dangerous. The Lady of Light presides over all, ever watchful as she guides the sun and stars on their eternal paths through the sky. She sun and stars themselves are proof of her power. As are the miracles that she works through her believers, myself included. Surely you recall how she vanquished the giant, using me as her vessel. She is the warden over all creation, and has many children, including your Everstone. I have no doubt that you are also touched by the divine Chuba. The spirits that surround you must be your ancestors keeping watch over you and maintaining the traditions of your people that have endured for generations. You are blessed, indeed.”
(Talking with Dageron):
“The Lady of Light has always been, since even before light first emerged from the primordial darkness of existence. Hers is the power of being itself, manifest through the creation and illumination. Hers is the power of extinction as well, just as destruction creates an openness, and opportunity for new growth. The cycle of life, death, and rebirth, the possibility of new life from annihilation, even darkness itself, as an absence of light, these are all aspects of our Lady. That is why I do not believe the forces of darkness will prevail in their mission to ‘destroy’ the light, for in the end they all serve her purposes.”
(With Melisandre):
Brevon seems taken aback, return to his feet. “Melisandre. The Red Priestess. I am sorry. With your proximity to the Castle Grayskull, and your show of power--” he looks up at the clouds. ”--I assumed.” He hesitates a moment under the heat of her gaze. “Lord of Light, you say? Mine is the Lady of Light, creator and shepard of all. I--”
His response is interrupted by the Sorceress herself.
Brevon remains near Melisandre. “And here we are met by another possible ally?” He lifts his mace overhead in greeting to the newcomer. “Hail!” He calls. “Wise Sorceress, Imperator of Castle Grayskull, word has traveled far of your power and wisdom. I am Brevon, Chosen of Light, and these are my companions.” He side-eyes Melisandre. “We come as emissaries of the Childlike Empress. Darkness gathers on your western front. The unicorn stallion has been slain and his alicorn has fallen into the hands of those who would use it to cast the world into eternal night. We seek your counsel in our quest. Will you accept us as allies?”
Melisandre watches Brevon stand but remains kneeling.
"I am sorry. I did not mean to misrepresent myself to you." She said to Brevon. Her eyes shifted back and forth to the other's gathered there. "The power is not mine. I only borrow it from the Lord, Lady, of Light, through whom my abilities are possible. I believe we speak of the same divinity, though the name may be different. What is important is that you have been chosen, the Priest that was Promised, and I have been sent as a vessel for our Lady."
It is the Sorceress who further steals the show, however. She steps out onto the walkway leading up to the castle and looks down at the group gathered below.
"It is not for me to accept. I only provide guidance." The Sorceress said. She reaches out with her hand and motions for the party to follow her up. "Come into the castle and we shall discuss the state of the world."
DM of AURYN: The Measure of Devotion - Escape from New York
Chuba follows Brevon closely as a sort of bodyguard; certainly he can take care of himself, but Chuba sees the extra attention he is getting and wants to be nearby in case that attention turns sour. Chuba distrusts everyone outside the Order until they prove themselves allies.