Sephrenia smiles. "I am not fully aware how the people with the gift for magical energy get theirs from your homeland. I believe some are born with it, some have to train and use components I think, to get it to work. If I get this wrong, please excuse me, but do you have what I think is called a Cleric? They get their magical powers from a deity? I am very much like one of those, except my goddess, Aphrael who is one of the Thousand of Styricum. I ask her for the energy, and through me, she channels it directly. It was Aphrael's will that mostly blocked the necromancer's ability to do magic, like an isolated case of amnesia. Its there, he just can't remember how to use it, and never will."
“Oh, I see, yes, Little Mother, of course you are a Cleric, like our Amanises here” Khessa smiles at both of them. "In that case," she continues to write and take notes "no, I won't be able to learn to do that myself. But it's still incredibly interesting; magic is still magic, after all. So your goddess, this Aphrael, she worked through you. But was the choice to remove the necromancer's magical powers yours or that of the goddess? I mean... did you ask the goddess to do this and she accepted? Or did you simply let the goddess act through you and she herself decided what to do?”
The explanation thar the Little Mother gives does little to make the lich feel better about what just happened...
"If that is the case, the kindest thing to do might be to execute him quickly now that we have what we need from him. That poor bastard..."
"You seem troubled, Master Akkron..." the tall adventuress looks at the lich with a hint of concern deep in her blue eyes "Is something wrong? Do you fear that the Zemoch gods may take away your powers just as Aphrael has done with the 'poor bastard'? I don't think it would be as easy to play a trick like that on you... Besides, do you hear? All in all, it's a banal loss of memory. Simple, but effective. If it were to happen to you, it would be enough cure that... and we also have some deity on our side..."
"Anyway, before talking about executions," the blonde arcane warrior points out "I would prefer to wait for the prisoners to respond to me... I still don't fully understand their certainty of victory. I can't explain it completely, given what emerged so far. I fear there is something we are missing... and I don't want to miss a thing".
If you are satisfied with the information that was gathered, Sparhawk returns you all to Vanion's chamber. When you arrive, you can see he is looking around.
"Are we missing someone, thought there would be one more."
Vanion just shrugs. "They are in the Chapterhouse, one of the few safe places in this city." He then turns and looks at the group. "I know it's been a long day, and I am sure you would rather eat and get some rest, but we should tell you about the battlefield you will enter tomorrow, the Hierocracy, Brother Maynard, this is your arena of expertise." Vanion takes a chair next to Sephrenia, who has another steaming cup of tea in her hands.
Brother Maynard steps up and faces the group. "The Elene Religion here on Eosia can be as troublesome, if not more than, a normal battlefield. Church politics make my teeth hurt, that's why I am a historian and not in that Hierocracy." He paces for a few steps, gathering his thoughts, hands clasped behind his back.
"So, The head of the Elene Church is the Archprelate, (i.e. the Pope in the Roman Catholic Church). The Archprelate is elected by a congress of Patriarchs, (i.e. cardinals in the Catholic Church)."
A Patriarch is usually in charge of the religious administration of a city; (so a Patriarch also seems to undertake the duties of local diocesan Catholic bishops or archbishops; in fact, the archbishops of several cities are usually made cardinals). The four preceptors of the Militant Orders (the Church Knights) also hold the rank of Patriarch. Each Patriarch (minus the Preceptors) seems to have a squad of Church soldiers at their command to ensure their protection. Primates are (the Elene equivalent of bishops) lower than a Patriarch (and seem to do less than a Roman Catholic bishop) they seem to be assistants to the Patriarchs.
At the bottom of the chain, are the priests who do all of the work.
The Archprelate must be elected by a vote of 100 votes, by all of the Patriarchs. It is witnessed by all of the sitting rulers, and Preceptors of the Church Knights to make sure all is above board. That is why dear friends that Primate Annias has a deep-seated grudge against us. When the last Archeprelate was literally hanging on by a thread, Annias made a move to try and buy the election. However, due to coordinated efforts, and a few indirect threats and intimidation against Annias supporters, we were able to get Dolmant elected. As he was a former member of this order, he was the best candidate for the jog. Granted, he was rather upset at us, and wouldn't even speak to us until at least a week after his accention.
Vanion gave a loud cough, and stared at Brother Maynard with a look of "Get on with it," Sephrenia chuckling and patting his arm.
"Ah yes my lord, right. The Elene Church believes in one God, who is reported to be all-powerful and forgiving." Brother Maynard stops again with a stricken look. "My apologize Little Mother, I meant no disrespect. It's all of these other Elene priests that I deal on who are very prejudice. I wish I had started my training with you before I went over to the hall of history."
She just smiles and shakes her head. "You would have been an excellent student as you have an open mind and a ravenous leaner, as compared to others."
Sparhawk looks down at his feet and says nothing.
"Yes, Little Mother, thank you. The Elene Church does not recognize the existence of any other gods, although the Church Knights are permitted to be trained in the secrets of Styricum, which involves making supplications to the Younger Gods of Styricum. This practice has been approved by all the Archprelates for the last nine hundred years, but there are some in the Church, who oppose it. These are the ones who could be an issue tomorrow as they also don't believe in the Elder God Azash, Ortho or any other Zemoch threat. They think they are fables and stories to frighten children.
The afterlife of the Elene Church is known as the "House of the Dead". Unfortunately it is preached to be rather one of loneliness and suffering. It is possible, through necromancy, to communicate with a soul in the House of the Dead, and an oath can call a soul back to perform a task that it left unfinished.
The Elene Church maintains chapels, churches, cathedrals and the Basilica at Chyrellos. Like the Church knights, priests work int he small towns, and monks like myself travel to gather information, or serve the Church where needed."
Sephrenia picks it from there. "As you suspect, the Elene church is a contradictory establishment." She looks at Vanion then back to Brother Maynard. "No offense."
Vanion just snorts, "Not an issue with me, I know its dysfunctional."
She continues. "We Styrics have a thousand different Gods we serve, known as the Young Gods. The Elder Gods, have not made their presence known in a long time. Azash is an elder God. As you must have learned, the Trolls have their own Gods. So while the Elene Church is very prejudicial towards Styricum and does not allow for the mention of any other Gods, they do, in secret, allow myself and a few others to train the Church Knights in the use of our powers. It was explained to me that the Younger Gods willed themselves into existence when the Elder Gods "tore at the fabric of reality" as Aphrael put it."
Vanion nods. "Well, there you have it. Unless you have any other questi9ons for me, I recommend rest. We have quarters ready for you here in the Chapter House. We must present ourselves to the Archprtelate at 1100."
Sephrenia smiles. "I am not fully aware how the people with the gift for magical energy get theirs from your homeland. I believe some are born with it, some have to train and use components I think, to get it to work. If I get this wrong, please excuse me, but do you have what I think is called a Cleric? They get their magical powers from a deity? I am very much like one of those, except my goddess, Aphrael who is one of the Thousand of Styricum. I ask her for the energy, and through me, she channels it directly. It was Aphrael's will that mostly blocked the necromancer's ability to do magic, like an isolated case of amnesia. Its there, he just can't remember how to use it, and never will."
“Oh, I see, yes, Little Mother, of course you are a Cleric, like our Amanises here” Khessa smiles at both of them. "In that case," she continues to write and take notes "no, I won't be able to learn to do that myself. But it's still incredibly interesting; magic is still magic, after all. So your goddess, this Aphrael, she worked through you. But was the choice to remove the necromancer's magical powers yours or that of the goddess? I mean... did you ask the goddess to do this and she accepted? Or did you simply let the goddess act through you and she herself decided what to do?”
The explanation thar the Little Mother gives does little to make the lich feel better about what just happened...
"If that is the case, the kindest thing to do might be to execute him quickly now that we have what we need from him. That poor bastard..."
"You seem troubled, Master Akkron..." the tall adventuress looks at the lich with a hint of concern deep in her blue eyes "Is something wrong? Do you fear that the Zemoch gods may take away your powers just as Aphrael has done with the 'poor bastard'? I don't think it would be as easy to play a trick like that on you... Besides, do you hear? All in all, it's a banal loss of memory. Simple, but effective. If it were to happen to you, it would be enough cure that... and we also have some deity on our side..."
"Anyway, before talking about executions," the blonde arcane warrior points out "I would prefer to wait for the prisoners to respond to me... I still don't fully understand their certainty of victory. I can't explain it completely, given what emerged so far. I fear there is something we are missing... and I don't want to miss a thing".
"It's not really fear for my own wellbeing that I am thinking of," Akkron explains. "I know well that it is unlikely I would be so easy a target... but the thought that such an ability to permanently sever a mage from his or her power exists, even if it's unlikely to be anything of personal concern to me, is still worrying. A mage's ability to cast is a part of him or her... to take that away... It would be like tearing out a gleeman's tongue. As I just said, it may well be kinder to end the elf's life than leave him in this state. What we just watched seems to me like watching a man have his tongue cut out or his eyes put out. No matter how deserved it may have been, I cannot help but be unnerved by watching a man be maimed to his very soul."
"Unfortunately, I have never understood much about religion..." admits Khessa, with embarrassment "This is probably why the belief you have exposed to me now doesn't make much sense to me. The Elene Church believes in one God, who is reported to be all-powerful and forgiving, does not recognize other gods... and still, the afterlife, the 'House of the Dead', is preached to be rather one of loneliness and suffering. I don't think that a 'forgiving' god would approve such an afterlife. And an 'all-powerful' god, especially if without competition from other gods, could very well change an afterlife he doesn't approve. And rely on other 'younger gods' to give power to his knights... when he doesn't recognize these 'younger gods'... and when, being 'all-powerful', he should be able to grant much greater powers himself..."
"Ahhh," the blonde arcane warrior gestures with her hand, as if to chase away all this jumble of thoughts "don't pay attention to me, I told you; I'm the one who isn't good at religion. It goes beyond my understanding. However, I do understand dangers" she becomes serious, looking at everyone intensely with her blue eyes. "And you shouldn't have such a religion. For it's a danger. Sooner or later, a fanatical Archprelate may be elected, who will no longer let you appeal to 'younger gods', thus incredibly diminishing your power. Or could do worse. He could declare those who follow other gods heretic... Potentially therefore condemning the Little Mother here to death... Do you realize, what you risk? And you can't count on always being able to get the right person elected. Sooner or later, the wrong person will be elected. It's just a matter of time. You should change your religion before that happens".
"I realize that it's neither easy nor quick" the tall adventurer softens her gaze. "But you shouldn't forget that you have to do it. Or, one bad day, you'll regret not having done it. However, for now, rest is fine by me. And no," she winks "I'm not telling the Archprelate anything of those opinions of mine".
Mal will gently grasp Khessa's arm and slow their walk as the group moves down to interrogate the prisoners, when they are a few steps behind the other she will lean in and whisper, "I will be back before sun up. I believe I have made contact with the cities thieves guild, maybe, at least I left a note while we traveled through the city that I seek an audience with the one in charge. Will I see them tonight, probably not, but at least I will let my intentions be known and make an introduction. Hopefully I will be bale to find out some additional information about the goings on in this land and if not, at least I will get some good food and some ale. You are welcome to join me, but your presence might shoo them away as well." Chuckling, "You do kind of stand out in a crowd and have a sense of authority about you."
With that, Mal will sneak away form the group and make her way to the Three-Headed Dragon, hopefully picking a table that is a bit more secluded than the others with a clear view of the entrances.
Stealth to sneak away: 38
You are able to get away from the group and head into the courtyard. As you start to cross the drawbridge, one of the mounted knights stops you.
"We have been told to be courteous to you. If you are going out on the town, and I can't say I blame you, then take this sigil so you can show it to enter the Chapterhouse." he leans down and hands you a small sigil of the Pandion order. He then winks and returns to watching the road as his horse whisks his mane.
You make your way through the inner city, and through the gate to the outer city. You could hear the Three Headed Dragon before it came into view. It was a massive Tavern and Inn, three stories tall with a wrap-around porch with benches. The sound nearly a roar of singing, laughing and music poured out of the open doors of the tavern. As you enter, there are two great fireplaces at either end of the "L" shaped first floor tap room. The bar is centered of the great room, with stairs going up to the next level on either side of it.
You find yourself a suitable corner where you can observe the tap room with your back protected, and a drink is brought to you. It is not long when you sense a presence and hear very soft footfalls. A man moves around you and takes a seat opposite of you. With the noise of the festivities going on around you, no one hears the thieves' cant, only you and he does. He also speaks with his fingers in a sign language.
"We have seen your note and welcome you here to Chyrellos and Eosia. You have come a long way. Khelder will meet you if you follow me." He rises up, leaves a few coins on the table to cover your drink, and leads you outside. He leads you down a few different alleyways, going in one direction, then turning back on another. From time to time he stops, and listens, before moving off. "You can't be too careful these days, it's amazing how many people are out there who want to cause trouble and harm you."
Finally, you arrive at what appears to be a trading guild hall near the cattle pens and leads you into a barn where a couple men are cleaning stalls. He nods to one of them who nods back, before pulling on a rope, and a door in the floor rises up with stairs going down. The man leads you down the stairs and once you are through, the door closes over you. You descend for about two floors until you come into a grand room full of people.
You can recognize thieves, prostitutes, small kids running around wearing clothes of beggars. There is what appears to be a clothing section of different type of clothing from rags to rich and fine evening wear. It is a good size and appears to be a well-ran organization. The man takes you to the far side, where up on a dais in a large stuffed chair, wearing black silk trousers, shirt and leather boots, was a small man with a long nose, almost like a rat.
"I read you would like to meet me," he says. "I am Khelder, the King of Thieves, how can I be of service to one of our own from far away?"
Before sleeping, Khessa will cast, as a precaution Private Sanctum and Alarm to protect the place where we rest.
She will also try to study the spells of the Zemochs...
If Akkron or Olem wish also to examine the spellbook, Khessa happily welcomes them!
She is interested in those: clairvoyance, detect thoughts, faerie fire, insect plague, invisibility; silence, suggestion, summon demon; and Spectral Dagger. This time she does not need to roll, since it is a spellbook, not a scroll.
But usually faerie fire, insect plague and silence are not wizard spells... Can she learn them all the same, since they are on the Zemoch's spellbook? Or no way?
And summon demon and Spectral Dagger... Can she learn them all the same, since they are on the Zemoch's spellbook? And if she can, what level are them?
Mal thanks the guard and puts the sigil inside his cloak.
"It is a pleasure to meet you King Khelder and I have to say, if you wanted me to be impressed by your arrangements down here, I am." As Mal looks around the room, "I am sure you already know who I am but just in case, I am Mal Fillion and I am with a group of adventures from Faerun that have been sought out to help with the growing threat in this land by a Sir Sparhawk and a pleasant fellow named Maynard. Seems the threat of the Zemochs has risen again and possibly with the help of Annias are making plays to," and Mal sighs, "Take over the World. I can never understand why zealots try and take over the world. Just become rulers of a small section of it and be done with it and live out your remaining life bathed in riches, because as far as I know, every idiot who tries to grab it all, fails. Whatever, idiots all seems to be the same no matter what land they hail from or whatever stupid god/deity backs them up."
"Anyway, our group was actually set upon by some Zemochs on the way here and not really surprisingly we quickly captured them and as we speak are being questioned by Sparhawk and a Lady Sepherina, hopefully they can learn more information that we did on the trail. I figured I would seek out a better more informed source of wisdom and find out what really is going on in this city and this new land. My group has several options in front of us and I want to make sure we have the most amount of information we can get before we make any rash decisions. I know the best way to get the most up to date information is by seeking out the local thieves guild and any help or information that you can provide I am sure I can arrange payment for from Sparhawk."
"Let's come to an arraignment so everyone above us can settle down and we can go back to what we do best as we are at our most lucrative when the land is not in turmoil." With that all said, Mal will take a seat on the dais step, "Have any wine or ale about I am still a bit parched from the long travel and would love to wash out all the grime stuck to the back of my throat."
Sephrenia smiles. "I am not fully aware how the people with the gift for magical energy get theirs from your homeland. I believe some are born with it, some have to train and use components I think, to get it to work. If I get this wrong, please excuse me, but do you have what I think is called a Cleric? They get their magical powers from a deity? I am very much like one of those, except my goddess, Aphrael who is one of the Thousand of Styricum. I ask her for the energy, and through me, she channels it directly. It was Aphrael's will that mostly blocked the necromancer's ability to do magic, like an isolated case of amnesia. Its there, he just can't remember how to use it, and never will."
“Oh, I see, yes, Little Mother, of course you are a Cleric, like our Amanises here” Khessa smiles at both of them. "In that case," she continues to write and take notes "no, I won't be able to learn to do that myself. But it's still incredibly interesting; magic is still magic, after all. So your goddess, this Aphrael, she worked through you. But was the choice to remove the necromancer's magical powers yours or that of the goddess? I mean... did you ask the goddess to do this and she accepted? Or did you simply let the goddess act through you and she herself decided what to do?”
The explanation thar the Little Mother gives does little to make the lich feel better about what just happened...
"If that is the case, the kindest thing to do might be to execute him quickly now that we have what we need from him. That poor bastard..."
"You seem troubled, Master Akkron..." the tall adventuress looks at the lich with a hint of concern deep in her blue eyes "Is something wrong? Do you fear that the Zemoch gods may take away your powers just as Aphrael has done with the 'poor bastard'? I don't think it would be as easy to play a trick like that on you... Besides, do you hear? All in all, it's a banal loss of memory. Simple, but effective. If it were to happen to you, it would be enough cure that... and we also have some deity on our side..."
"Anyway, before talking about executions," the blonde arcane warrior points out "I would prefer to wait for the prisoners to respond to me... I still don't fully understand their certainty of victory. I can't explain it completely, given what emerged so far. I fear there is something we are missing... and I don't want to miss a thing".
"It's not really fear for my own wellbeing that I am thinking of," Akkron explains. "I know well that it is unlikely I would be so easy a target... but the thought that such an ability to permanently sever a mage from his or her power exists, even if it's unlikely to be anything of personal concern to me, is still worrying. A mage's ability to cast is a part of him or her... to take that away... It would be like tearing out a gleeman's tongue. As I just said, it may well be kinder to end the elf's life than leave him in this state. What we just watched seems to me like watching a man have his tongue cut out or his eyes put out. No matter how deserved it may have been, I cannot help but be unnerved by watching a man be maimed to his very soul."
Sephrenia smiles with the questions. "Yes, I asked her to remove the necromancer's ability to be a threat, and she removed his ability to perform necromancy by amnesia. Though I have to admit, she does have a warped sense of humor, but she tries to avoid violence if possible."
Before sleeping, Khessa will cast, as a precaution Private Sanctum and Alarm to protect the place where we rest.
She will also try to study the spells of the Zemochs...
If Akkron or Olem wish also to examine the spellbook, Khessa happily welcomes them!
She is interested in those: clairvoyance, detect thoughts, faerie fire, insect plague, invisibility; silence, suggestion, summon demon; and Spectral Dagger. This time she does not need to roll, since it is a spellbook, not a scroll.
But usually faerie fire, insect plague and silence are not wizard spells... Can she learn them all the same, since they are on the Zemoch's spellbook? Or no way?
And summon demon and Spectral Dagger... Can she learn them all the same, since they are on the Zemoch's spellbook? And if she can, what level are them?
With the amount of time you have for rest, you won't be able to study them enough in detail, especially the Zemoch versions of the spells. clairvoyance, detect thoughts, and invisibility can be done and still be rested for the next day.
Mal thanks the guard and puts the sigil inside his cloak.
"It is a pleasure to meet you King Khelder and I have to say, if you wanted me to be impressed by your arrangements down here, I am." As Mal looks around the room, "I am sure you already know who I am but just in case, I am Mal Fillion and I am with a group of adventures from Faerun that have been sought out to help with the growing threat in this land by a Sir Sparhawk and a pleasant fellow named Maynard. Seems the threat of the Zemochs has risen again and possibly with the help of Annias are making plays to," and Mal sighs, "Take over the World. I can never understand why zealots try and take over the world. Just become rulers of a small section of it and be done with it and live out your remaining life bathed in riches, because as far as I know, every idiot who tries to grab it all, fails. Whatever, idiots all seems to be the same no matter what land they hail from or whatever stupid god/deity backs them up."
"Anyway, our group was actually set upon by some Zemochs on the way here and not really surprisingly we quickly captured them and as we speak are being questioned by Sparhawk and a Lady Sepherina, hopefully they can learn more information that we did on the trail. I figured I would seek out a better more informed source of wisdom and find out what really is going on in this city and this new land. My group has several options in front of us and I want to make sure we have the most amount of information we can get before we make any rash decisions. I know the best way to get the most up to date information is by seeking out the local thieves guild and any help or information that you can provide I am sure I can arrange payment for from Sparhawk."
"Let's come to an arraignment so everyone above us can settle down and we can go back to what we do best as we are at our most lucrative when the land is not in turmoil." With that all said, Mal will take a seat on the dais step, "Have any wine or ale about I am still a bit parched from the long travel and would love to wash out all the grime stuck to the back of my throat."
Mal thanks the guard and puts the sigil inside his cloak.
"It is a pleasure to meet you King Khelder and I have to say, if you wanted me to be impressed by your arrangements down here, I am." As Mal looks around the room, "I am sure you already know who I am but just in case, I am Mal Fillion and I am with a group of adventures from Faerun that have been sought out to help with the growing threat in this land by a Sir Sparhawk and a pleasant fellow named Maynard. Seems the threat of the Zemochs has risen again and possibly with the help of Annias are making plays to," and Mal sighs, "Take over the World. I can never understand why zealots try and take over the world. Just become rulers of a small section of it and be done with it and live out your remaining life bathed in riches, because as far as I know, every idiot who tries to grab it all, fails. Whatever, idiots all seems to be the same no matter what land they hail from or whatever stupid god/deity backs them up."
"Anyway, our group was actually set upon by some Zemochs on the way here and not really surprisingly we quickly captured them and as we speak are being questioned by Sparhawk and a Lady Sepherina, hopefully they can learn more information that we did on the trail. I figured I would seek out a better more informed source of wisdom and find out what really is going on in this city and this new land. My group has several options in front of us and I want to make sure we have the most amount of information we can get before we make any rash decisions. I know the best way to get the most up to date information is by seeking out the local thieves guild and any help or information that you can provide I am sure I can arrange payment for from Sparhawk."
"Let's come to an arraignment so everyone above us can settle down and we can go back to what we do best as we are at our most lucrative when the land is not in turmoil." With that all said, Mal will take a seat on the dais step, "Have any wine or ale about I am still a bit parched from the long travel and would love to wash out all the grime stuck to the back of my throat."
Mal thanks the guard and puts the sigil inside his cloak.
"It is a pleasure to meet you King Khelder and I have to say, if you wanted me to be impressed by your arrangements down here, I am." As Mal looks around the room, "I am sure you already know who I am but just in case, I am Mal Fillion and I am with a group of adventures from Faerun that have been sought out to help with the growing threat in this land by a Sir Sparhawk and a pleasant fellow named Maynard. Seems the threat of the Zemochs has risen again and possibly with the help of Annias are making plays to," and Mal sighs, "Take over the World. I can never understand why zealots try and take over the world. Just become rulers of a small section of it and be done with it and live out your remaining life bathed in riches, because as far as I know, every idiot who tries to grab it all, fails. Whatever, idiots all seems to be the same no matter what land they hail from or whatever stupid god/deity backs them up."
"Anyway, our group was actually set upon by some Zemochs on the way here and not really surprisingly we quickly captured them and as we speak are being questioned by Sparhawk and a Lady Sepherina, hopefully they can learn more information that we did on the trail. I figured I would seek out a better more informed source of wisdom and find out what really is going on in this city and this new land. My group has several options in front of us and I want to make sure we have the most amount of information we can get before we make any rash decisions. I know the best way to get the most up to date information is by seeking out the local thieves guild and any help or information that you can provide I am sure I can arrange payment for from Sparhawk."
"Let's come to an arraignment so everyone above us can settle down and we can go back to what we do best as we are at our most lucrative when the land is not in turmoil." With that all said, Mal will take a seat on the dais step, "Have any wine or ale about I am still a bit parched from the long travel and would love to wash out all the grime stuck to the back of my throat."
Khelder nods his head. "Yes, we are well aware of this growing problem, for its very bad for our business. While we may be the dregs of society; thieves, beggars, murderers, we are loyal citizens to Eosia. We are also the best intelligence network there is out there. No one pays attention to the beggar int he street, lose tongues in the brothels, no one looks up at night on roof tops, our smugglers on the sea and in the mountains. We have been receiving information, and when I think it's important enough, drop it off at the Pandion Chapter House under the name of Silk. I send my dispatches to a Pandion named Kurick."
When you mention payment, he chuckles and gestures to the splendor you see arrayed before you. "I don't need payment, not in this corrupt city. I could have very easily bought the Archprelate's position three times over with what I have at my disposal. No good lady, I just want the good guys to win so bad guys like me can continue to live the way we want."
He motions to one of the teenagers near by, "Charles, the good stuff and two tankards!" The boy scampers off and returns with a very large and dusty bottle. He pours into the tankard, and out of habit, hands it to Khelder, who in turns hands it to you. Then he accepts the second one and raises a toast. "To you good lady and partner in crime, may we spit in the shadow's eye and live like Kings without the taxes!"
It is a strong but good drink, and those with drinks in the hall raise their cups and join in the toast with a loud salute and "Cheers!"
With the amount of time you have for rest, you won't be able to study them enough in detail, especially the Zemoch versions of the spells. clairvoyance, detect thoughts, and invisibility can be done and still be rested for the next day.
OK, thank you... with three new spells learned, Khessa can well call it a night and enjoy some sleep! But she will keep studying during the next days, so be ready, I'll ask again your ruling about the other spells...
Khelder nods his head. "Yes, we are well aware of this growing problem, for its very bad for our business. While we may be the dregs of society; thieves, beggars, murderers, we are loyal citizens to Eosia. We are also the best intelligence network there is out there. No one pays attention to the beggar int he street, lose tongues in the brothels, no one looks up at night on roof tops, our smugglers on the sea and in the mountains. We have been receiving information, and when I think it's important enough, drop it off at the Pandion Chapter House under the name of Silk. I send my dispatches to a Pandion named Kurick."
When you mention payment, he chuckles and gestures to the splendor you see arrayed before you. "I don't need payment, not in this corrupt city. I could have very easily bought the Archprelate's position three times over with what I have at my disposal. No good lady, I just want the good guys to win so bad guys like me can continue to live the way we want."
He motions to one of the teenagers near by, "Charles, the good stuff and two tankards!" The boy scampers off and returns with a very large and dusty bottle. He pours into the tankard, and out of habit, hands it to Khelder, who in turns hands it to you. Then he accepts the second one and raises a toast. "To you good lady and partner in crime, may we spit in the shadow's eye and live like Kings without the taxes!"
It is a strong but good drink, and those with drinks in the hall raise their cups and join in the toast with a loud salute and "Cheers!"
Laughing while enjoying her drink, "Good to know and it looks like I assumed correctly that this thieves guild is one of the better ones. Regardless of what we do during the day, err night rather, a successful thief knows that a land at peace is a lucrative land. If it is OK with you, I will enjoy your hospitality for the night," raising her glass and downing the drink, "as it has been a long day. Then early in the morning I will take my leave and if you happen to have any new info I can easily pass it along to this Kurick when I get back to the chapter house, seeking out his counsel. Also, if there is anything you need by all means feel free to ask and if I am able, I will happily help you."
You sleep in, at least long enough to be fully rested and ready to head to the Basilica. Your horses are saddled and waiting in the courtyard. Faran and another warhorse is fully saddled with Pandion barding. In the courtyard, aspirant Pandions practice with sword and shield.
Both Sparhawk and Vanion come out, wearing their full formal plate armor and surcoats. Sephrenia comes to wish everyone good luck with this important meeting. "I hope the Hierocracy is open minded this morning and is willing to listen," she says as Vanion and Sparhawk mount their horses. "We'll see soon enough," comments Sparhawk as he leads you all out of the Chapterhouse.
You follow one of the main streets towards the large Basilica in the center of the city on a hill. The regular people go about their morning routines, only a few looks at you pass by. Most ignore you and go on with their business. Sparhawk leads you through the great doors flanked by red livered church soldiers, into the great courtyard. There was a great hustle in the courtyard as priests, monks and some of the primates in black cassocks appear to be heading to the main entrance. Sparhawk leads over to where other horses are secured, to include other warhorses with different colored barding.
"Good the other preceptors are here, this is going to fun," remarks Vanion, and Sparhawk chuckles. They turn and lead you up a large set of steps to the large, gilded entrance doors to the Basilica. There are red uniformed church soldiers standing with pikes on every step level leading up to the doors. As Vanion and Sparhawk was approaching the door, it appeared that one of the officers was going to say something, for he was pointing at their swords, when another whispered in his ear. The officer froze, smiled and returned to his post as two soldiers opened the door for the party.
Inside, Brother Maynard was waiting, wearing a deep brown monk's robe. "Good morning all, I hope you were all able to get caught up on some sleep. I will accompany and sit with you to advise you on what is occurring and answer questions the best that I can." Sparhawk and Vanion lead you down a red carpeted hall to another set of gilded doors, flanked by red uniformed church soldiers with halberds. The soldiers opened the doors for you to enter.
You enter a great circular room, with circular seating at different levels, and in the center a dais with a gilded chair upon it. The room was heavy with incense, and already full of Patriarchs and Primates, Sparhawk and Vanion head over to where 4 more armored knights stood. Brother Maynard moved you to seating in the front row, across from Vanion and Sparhawk. As you all sit, you noticed a scrawny and less then appealing primate who wore the only different color of cassock, a purple one. As you sit, Brother Maynard Whispers and points up over his shoulder.
"The one in the purple, that is Annias. Across from us, are the Preceptors or leaders of the militant order or better known here as the Church Knights."
Soon, doors on the opposite open, and a procession of clergy in white, incense burners, and in the center, the Archprelate Dolmant. The wood all creaked as everyone stood and bowed to the Archprelate as he took his seat and motioned for everyone to sit.
"The reason for this calling is Preceptor Vanion of the Pandion Order has information to be presented for decision, as they have confirmed there is a threat to all of Eosia. Preceptor Vanion, if you may?" He points to the podium before the chair and centered on the hall.
As Vanion approached, you can overhear some whispers and discussions going on behind you, you guess it is from those sitting around Annias. Vanion presents the information you have gleaned from the prisoners, that included an uproar when it was mentioned Zemochs were found this deep in Cimuria.
Dolmant waited for the ruckus to die down before continuing. "Preceptor Vanion, what do you propose?"
"We propose to go forth with our new allies here to confirm the presence of Zemochs this far west of the mountains and determine their intent to the fullest of our abilities."
Again the hall began a heated discussion between the different Primates and Patriarchs, you can hear the division. There was a group in full support of finding out the truth, where the other group was in full denial of any threat.
"Preceptor Vanion, on whose authority did you bring these foreigners to our lands. Perhaps they are the enemy we should fear." The voice was scratchy and whiney at the same time. Brother Maynard shook his head, and whispered, "Annias."
The group who appeared to be in support of Annias seem to applauding the statement, and started including to say ,"send the foreigners back," and " we don't need them."
"Sit down Annias, you are out of order," commanded Dolmant. "I sent for them, or do you wish to challenge me on my authority to do so, when there may be a risk even if slight? " Dolmant stared right at Annias. "You have anything to say?"
"No, your eminence." Dolmant scowled at Annias. "Then sit down you and your cronies over there shut up!"
Brother Maynard chuckled quietly. "He is a very direct archprelate, must be that Pandion training."
Dolmant turns and looks at the party. "Would you like to address the Hierocracy?"
"Well, at least they seem to realize that there is a 'threat to all of Eosia'..." Khessa had whispered to Master Akkron and Maynard, next to her "I'd say that's a good start".
Then, the blonde arcane warrior had let her blue eyes run from Vanion to Annias... interested in how one will present the information and how the other will react.
As Dolmant turns and looks at the party, asking if they want to address the Hierocracy, she quickly thinks if there is in fact something to gain from that... or if there is simply the risk to alienate someone with a wrong word.
I think Akkron would have picked up a spell scroll of detect thoughts the previous night (in disguise rather than just wandering around all dead-like) and copied it into his spellbook in preparation for this meeting.
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Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
I think Akkron would have picked up a spell scroll of detect thoughts the previous night (in disguise rather than just wandering around all dead-like) and copied it into his spellbook in preparation for this meeting.
You don't need a scroll, it was in the Zemoch's spellbook and Khessa invited you to study with her, at night!
I think Akkron would have picked up a spell scroll of detect thoughts the previous night (in disguise rather than just wandering around all dead-like) and copied it into his spellbook in preparation for this meeting.
You don't need a scroll, it was in the Zemoch's spellbook and Khessa invited you to study with her, at night!
Oh... me is so smart... (but seriously, I've been having trouble keeping track of everything because I've been stuck doing everything on mobile ever since my employers apparently decided I don't ever deserve a day off and that I should be working 12-hour shifts every other day)
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Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
(OOC: @Mister_Whisker: Oh, sorry about that! I wish you to find a better job, with better employers, soon)
In the end, Khessa decides that it may be worth trying to instill some confidence in these people and urge them to unity, which will undoubtedly be invaluable in facing the threat that looms.
"Just two words to reassure those who have shown themselves to be wary of us" Khessa smiles at Dolmant, standing up to her full height for all to see without difficulty.
The blonde arcane warrior confidently addresses the gathering: "Being here today to speak to those who represent the Soul of Eosia, is an honor for which I thank" and she bows deeply, before standing up and continuing. "Some of you say that 'you do not need us'..." she looks at Annias and some of the others who have said this "Indeed, it is true" and she pauses, letting the surprise that she has not denied the opponent argument has its effect.
Then, the tall adventuress goes on: "In the past you have faced, alone, a threat similar to the one that now looms. You have already been to the limit of the Immrama, a thousand years ago, paying a very heavy price for the victory. Probably, on your own you would still be able to repeat what you have already accomplished. We are completely convinced of this. But we are not here because 'you need us'! We are here to be by your side and be part of what you accomplish - and to help you accomplish it without having to pay again what you have already paid in the past!"
"This is why my friends and I were called from across the sea" the blue eyed woman smiles reassuringly and confidently. “We will verify the scope of the threat, as the head of your holy church, which you all respect no less than we do, asks us. A very wise decision, because given that there are those who believe in the threat and those who don't... if we have to decide, it's better to be safe than sorry! Then, once discovered what we have to face, united, we will face it – and neutralize it! The people of Eosia, who look at you in seek of light, guidance and hope, deserve nothing less! Together, we will do it!”
“Oh, I see, yes, Little Mother, of course you are a Cleric, like our Amanises here” Khessa smiles at both of them. "In that case," she continues to write and take notes "no, I won't be able to learn to do that myself. But it's still incredibly interesting; magic is still magic, after all. So your goddess, this Aphrael, she worked through you. But was the choice to remove the necromancer's magical powers yours or that of the goddess? I mean... did you ask the goddess to do this and she accepted? Or did you simply let the goddess act through you and she herself decided what to do?”
"You seem troubled, Master Akkron..." the tall adventuress looks at the lich with a hint of concern deep in her blue eyes "Is something wrong? Do you fear that the Zemoch gods may take away your powers just as Aphrael has done with the 'poor bastard'? I don't think it would be as easy to play a trick like that on you... Besides, do you hear? All in all, it's a banal loss of memory. Simple, but effective. If it were to happen to you, it would be enough cure that... and we also have some deity on our side..."
"Anyway, before talking about executions," the blonde arcane warrior points out "I would prefer to wait for the prisoners to respond to me... I still don't fully understand their certainty of victory. I can't explain it completely, given what emerged so far. I fear there is something we are missing... and I don't want to miss a thing".
If you are satisfied with the information that was gathered, Sparhawk returns you all to Vanion's chamber. When you arrive, you can see he is looking around.
"Are we missing someone, thought there would be one more."
Vanion just shrugs. "They are in the Chapterhouse, one of the few safe places in this city." He then turns and looks at the group. "I know it's been a long day, and I am sure you would rather eat and get some rest, but we should tell you about the battlefield you will enter tomorrow, the Hierocracy, Brother Maynard, this is your arena of expertise." Vanion takes a chair next to Sephrenia, who has another steaming cup of tea in her hands.
Brother Maynard steps up and faces the group. "The Elene Religion here on Eosia can be as troublesome, if not more than, a normal battlefield. Church politics make my teeth hurt, that's why I am a historian and not in that Hierocracy." He paces for a few steps, gathering his thoughts, hands clasped behind his back.
"So, The head of the Elene Church is the Archprelate, (i.e. the Pope in the Roman Catholic Church). The Archprelate is elected by a congress of Patriarchs, (i.e. cardinals in the Catholic Church)."
A Patriarch is usually in charge of the religious administration of a city; (so a Patriarch also seems to undertake the duties of local diocesan Catholic bishops or archbishops; in fact, the archbishops of several cities are usually made cardinals). The four preceptors of the Militant Orders (the Church Knights) also hold the rank of Patriarch. Each Patriarch (minus the Preceptors) seems to have a squad of Church soldiers at their command to ensure their protection. Primates are (the Elene equivalent of bishops) lower than a Patriarch (and seem to do less than a Roman Catholic bishop) they seem to be assistants to the Patriarchs.
At the bottom of the chain, are the priests who do all of the work.
The Archprelate must be elected by a vote of 100 votes, by all of the Patriarchs. It is witnessed by all of the sitting rulers, and Preceptors of the Church Knights to make sure all is above board. That is why dear friends that Primate Annias has a deep-seated grudge against us. When the last Archeprelate was literally hanging on by a thread, Annias made a move to try and buy the election. However, due to coordinated efforts, and a few indirect threats and intimidation against Annias supporters, we were able to get Dolmant elected. As he was a former member of this order, he was the best candidate for the jog. Granted, he was rather upset at us, and wouldn't even speak to us until at least a week after his accention.
Vanion gave a loud cough, and stared at Brother Maynard with a look of "Get on with it," Sephrenia chuckling and patting his arm.
"Ah yes my lord, right. The Elene Church believes in one God, who is reported to be all-powerful and forgiving." Brother Maynard stops again with a stricken look. "My apologize Little Mother, I meant no disrespect. It's all of these other Elene priests that I deal on who are very prejudice. I wish I had started my training with you before I went over to the hall of history."
She just smiles and shakes her head. "You would have been an excellent student as you have an open mind and a ravenous leaner, as compared to others."
Sparhawk looks down at his feet and says nothing.
"Yes, Little Mother, thank you. The Elene Church does not recognize the existence of any other gods, although the Church Knights are permitted to be trained in the secrets of Styricum, which involves making supplications to the Younger Gods of Styricum. This practice has been approved by all the Archprelates for the last nine hundred years, but there are some in the Church, who oppose it. These are the ones who could be an issue tomorrow as they also don't believe in the Elder God Azash, Ortho or any other Zemoch threat. They think they are fables and stories to frighten children.
The afterlife of the Elene Church is known as the "House of the Dead". Unfortunately it is preached to be rather one of loneliness and suffering. It is possible, through necromancy, to communicate with a soul in the House of the Dead, and an oath can call a soul back to perform a task that it left unfinished.
The Elene Church maintains chapels, churches, cathedrals and the Basilica at Chyrellos. Like the Church knights, priests work int he small towns, and monks like myself travel to gather information, or serve the Church where needed."
Sephrenia picks it from there. "As you suspect, the Elene church is a contradictory establishment." She looks at Vanion then back to Brother Maynard. "No offense."
Vanion just snorts, "Not an issue with me, I know its dysfunctional."
She continues. "We Styrics have a thousand different Gods we serve, known as the Young Gods. The Elder Gods, have not made their presence known in a long time. Azash is an elder God. As you must have learned, the Trolls have their own Gods. So while the Elene Church is very prejudicial towards Styricum and does not allow for the mention of any other Gods, they do, in secret, allow myself and a few others to train the Church Knights in the use of our powers. It was explained to me that the Younger Gods willed themselves into existence when the Elder Gods "tore at the fabric of reality" as Aphrael put it."
Vanion nods. "Well, there you have it. Unless you have any other questi9ons for me, I recommend rest. We have quarters ready for you here in the Chapter House. We must present ourselves to the Archprtelate at 1100."
"It's not really fear for my own wellbeing that I am thinking of," Akkron explains. "I know well that it is unlikely I would be so easy a target... but the thought that such an ability to permanently sever a mage from his or her power exists, even if it's unlikely to be anything of personal concern to me, is still worrying. A mage's ability to cast is a part of him or her... to take that away... It would be like tearing out a gleeman's tongue. As I just said, it may well be kinder to end the elf's life than leave him in this state. What we just watched seems to me like watching a man have his tongue cut out or his eyes put out. No matter how deserved it may have been, I cannot help but be unnerved by watching a man be maimed to his very soul."
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"Unfortunately, I have never understood much about religion..." admits Khessa, with embarrassment "This is probably why the belief you have exposed to me now doesn't make much sense to me. The Elene Church believes in one God, who is reported to be all-powerful and forgiving, does not recognize other gods... and still, the afterlife, the 'House of the Dead', is preached to be rather one of loneliness and suffering. I don't think that a 'forgiving' god would approve such an afterlife. And an 'all-powerful' god, especially if without competition from other gods, could very well change an afterlife he doesn't approve. And rely on other 'younger gods' to give power to his knights... when he doesn't recognize these 'younger gods'... and when, being 'all-powerful', he should be able to grant much greater powers himself..."
"Ahhh," the blonde arcane warrior gestures with her hand, as if to chase away all this jumble of thoughts "don't pay attention to me, I told you; I'm the one who isn't good at religion. It goes beyond my understanding. However, I do understand dangers" she becomes serious, looking at everyone intensely with her blue eyes. "And you shouldn't have such a religion. For it's a danger. Sooner or later, a fanatical Archprelate may be elected, who will no longer let you appeal to 'younger gods', thus incredibly diminishing your power. Or could do worse. He could declare those who follow other gods heretic... Potentially therefore condemning the Little Mother here to death... Do you realize, what you risk? And you can't count on always being able to get the right person elected. Sooner or later, the wrong person will be elected. It's just a matter of time. You should change your religion before that happens".
"I realize that it's neither easy nor quick" the tall adventurer softens her gaze. "But you shouldn't forget that you have to do it. Or, one bad day, you'll regret not having done it. However, for now, rest is fine by me. And no," she winks "I'm not telling the Archprelate anything of those opinions of mine".
You are able to get away from the group and head into the courtyard. As you start to cross the drawbridge, one of the mounted knights stops you.
"We have been told to be courteous to you. If you are going out on the town, and I can't say I blame you, then take this sigil so you can show it to enter the Chapterhouse." he leans down and hands you a small sigil of the Pandion order. He then winks and returns to watching the road as his horse whisks his mane.
You make your way through the inner city, and through the gate to the outer city. You could hear the Three Headed Dragon before it came into view. It was a massive Tavern and Inn, three stories tall with a wrap-around porch with benches. The sound nearly a roar of singing, laughing and music poured out of the open doors of the tavern. As you enter, there are two great fireplaces at either end of the "L" shaped first floor tap room. The bar is centered of the great room, with stairs going up to the next level on either side of it.
You find yourself a suitable corner where you can observe the tap room with your back protected, and a drink is brought to you. It is not long when you sense a presence and hear very soft footfalls. A man moves around you and takes a seat opposite of you. With the noise of the festivities going on around you, no one hears the thieves' cant, only you and he does. He also speaks with his fingers in a sign language.
"We have seen your note and welcome you here to Chyrellos and Eosia. You have come a long way. Khelder will meet you if you follow me." He rises up, leaves a few coins on the table to cover your drink, and leads you outside. He leads you down a few different alleyways, going in one direction, then turning back on another. From time to time he stops, and listens, before moving off. "You can't be too careful these days, it's amazing how many people are out there who want to cause trouble and harm you."
Finally, you arrive at what appears to be a trading guild hall near the cattle pens and leads you into a barn where a couple men are cleaning stalls. He nods to one of them who nods back, before pulling on a rope, and a door in the floor rises up with stairs going down. The man leads you down the stairs and once you are through, the door closes over you. You descend for about two floors until you come into a grand room full of people.
You can recognize thieves, prostitutes, small kids running around wearing clothes of beggars. There is what appears to be a clothing section of different type of clothing from rags to rich and fine evening wear. It is a good size and appears to be a well-ran organization. The man takes you to the far side, where up on a dais in a large stuffed chair, wearing black silk trousers, shirt and leather boots, was a small man with a long nose, almost like a rat.
"I read you would like to meet me," he says. "I am Khelder, the King of Thieves, how can I be of service to one of our own from far away?"
Before sleeping, Khessa will cast, as a precaution Private Sanctum and Alarm to protect the place where we rest.
She will also try to study the spells of the Zemochs...
If Akkron or Olem wish also to examine the spellbook, Khessa happily welcomes them!
She is interested in those: clairvoyance, detect thoughts, faerie fire, insect plague, invisibility; silence, suggestion, summon demon; and Spectral Dagger. This time she does not need to roll, since it is a spellbook, not a scroll.
But usually faerie fire, insect plague and silence are not wizard spells... Can she learn them all the same, since they are on the Zemoch's spellbook? Or no way?
And summon demon and Spectral Dagger... Can she learn them all the same, since they are on the Zemoch's spellbook? And if she can, what level are them?
Mal thanks the guard and puts the sigil inside his cloak.
"It is a pleasure to meet you King Khelder and I have to say, if you wanted me to be impressed by your arrangements down here, I am." As Mal looks around the room, "I am sure you already know who I am but just in case, I am Mal Fillion and I am with a group of adventures from Faerun that have been sought out to help with the growing threat in this land by a Sir Sparhawk and a pleasant fellow named Maynard. Seems the threat of the Zemochs has risen again and possibly with the help of Annias are making plays to," and Mal sighs, "Take over the World. I can never understand why zealots try and take over the world. Just become rulers of a small section of it and be done with it and live out your remaining life bathed in riches, because as far as I know, every idiot who tries to grab it all, fails. Whatever, idiots all seems to be the same no matter what land they hail from or whatever stupid god/deity backs them up."
"Anyway, our group was actually set upon by some Zemochs on the way here and not really surprisingly we quickly captured them and as we speak are being questioned by Sparhawk and a Lady Sepherina, hopefully they can learn more information that we did on the trail. I figured I would seek out a better more informed source of wisdom and find out what really is going on in this city and this new land. My group has several options in front of us and I want to make sure we have the most amount of information we can get before we make any rash decisions. I know the best way to get the most up to date information is by seeking out the local thieves guild and any help or information that you can provide I am sure I can arrange payment for from Sparhawk."
"Let's come to an arraignment so everyone above us can settle down and we can go back to what we do best as we are at our most lucrative when the land is not in turmoil." With that all said, Mal will take a seat on the dais step, "Have any wine or ale about I am still a bit parched from the long travel and would love to wash out all the grime stuck to the back of my throat."
Sephrenia smiles with the questions. "Yes, I asked her to remove the necromancer's ability to be a threat, and she removed his ability to perform necromancy by amnesia. Though I have to admit, she does have a warped sense of humor, but she tries to avoid violence if possible."
With the amount of time you have for rest, you won't be able to study them enough in detail, especially the Zemoch versions of the spells. clairvoyance, detect thoughts, and invisibility can be done and still be rested for the next day.
Khelder nods his head. "Yes, we are well aware of this growing problem, for its very bad for our business. While we may be the dregs of society; thieves, beggars, murderers, we are loyal citizens to Eosia. We are also the best intelligence network there is out there. No one pays attention to the beggar int he street, lose tongues in the brothels, no one looks up at night on roof tops, our smugglers on the sea and in the mountains. We have been receiving information, and when I think it's important enough, drop it off at the Pandion Chapter House under the name of Silk. I send my dispatches to a Pandion named Kurick."
When you mention payment, he chuckles and gestures to the splendor you see arrayed before you. "I don't need payment, not in this corrupt city. I could have very easily bought the Archprelate's position three times over with what I have at my disposal. No good lady, I just want the good guys to win so bad guys like me can continue to live the way we want."
He motions to one of the teenagers near by, "Charles, the good stuff and two tankards!" The boy scampers off and returns with a very large and dusty bottle. He pours into the tankard, and out of habit, hands it to Khelder, who in turns hands it to you. Then he accepts the second one and raises a toast. "To you good lady and partner in crime, may we spit in the shadow's eye and live like Kings without the taxes!"
It is a strong but good drink, and those with drinks in the hall raise their cups and join in the toast with a loud salute and "Cheers!"
OK, thank you... with three new spells learned, Khessa can well call it a night and enjoy some sleep! But she will keep studying during the next days, so be ready, I'll ask again your ruling about the other spells...
Laughing while enjoying her drink, "Good to know and it looks like I assumed correctly that this thieves guild is one of the better ones. Regardless of what we do during the day, err night rather, a successful thief knows that a land at peace is a lucrative land. If it is OK with you, I will enjoy your hospitality for the night," raising her glass and downing the drink, "as it has been a long day. Then early in the morning I will take my leave and if you happen to have any new info I can easily pass it along to this Kurick when I get back to the chapter house, seeking out his counsel. Also, if there is anything you need by all means feel free to ask and if I am able, I will happily help you."
You sleep in, at least long enough to be fully rested and ready to head to the Basilica. Your horses are saddled and waiting in the courtyard. Faran and another warhorse is fully saddled with Pandion barding. In the courtyard, aspirant Pandions practice with sword and shield.
Both Sparhawk and Vanion come out, wearing their full formal plate armor and surcoats. Sephrenia comes to wish everyone good luck with this important meeting. "I hope the Hierocracy is open minded this morning and is willing to listen," she says as Vanion and Sparhawk mount their horses. "We'll see soon enough," comments Sparhawk as he leads you all out of the Chapterhouse.
You follow one of the main streets towards the large Basilica in the center of the city on a hill. The regular people go about their morning routines, only a few looks at you pass by. Most ignore you and go on with their business. Sparhawk leads you through the great doors flanked by red livered church soldiers, into the great courtyard. There was a great hustle in the courtyard as priests, monks and some of the primates in black cassocks appear to be heading to the main entrance. Sparhawk leads over to where other horses are secured, to include other warhorses with different colored barding.
"Good the other preceptors are here, this is going to fun," remarks Vanion, and Sparhawk chuckles. They turn and lead you up a large set of steps to the large, gilded entrance doors to the Basilica. There are red uniformed church soldiers standing with pikes on every step level leading up to the doors. As Vanion and Sparhawk was approaching the door, it appeared that one of the officers was going to say something, for he was pointing at their swords, when another whispered in his ear. The officer froze, smiled and returned to his post as two soldiers opened the door for the party.
Inside, Brother Maynard was waiting, wearing a deep brown monk's robe. "Good morning all, I hope you were all able to get caught up on some sleep. I will accompany and sit with you to advise you on what is occurring and answer questions the best that I can." Sparhawk and Vanion lead you down a red carpeted hall to another set of gilded doors, flanked by red uniformed church soldiers with halberds. The soldiers opened the doors for you to enter.
You enter a great circular room, with circular seating at different levels, and in the center a dais with a gilded chair upon it. The room was heavy with incense, and already full of Patriarchs and Primates, Sparhawk and Vanion head over to where 4 more armored knights stood. Brother Maynard moved you to seating in the front row, across from Vanion and Sparhawk. As you all sit, you noticed a scrawny and less then appealing primate who wore the only different color of cassock, a purple one. As you sit, Brother Maynard Whispers and points up over his shoulder.
"The one in the purple, that is Annias. Across from us, are the Preceptors or leaders of the militant order or better known here as the Church Knights."
Soon, doors on the opposite open, and a procession of clergy in white, incense burners, and in the center, the Archprelate Dolmant. The wood all creaked as everyone stood and bowed to the Archprelate as he took his seat and motioned for everyone to sit.
"The reason for this calling is Preceptor Vanion of the Pandion Order has information to be presented for decision, as they have confirmed there is a threat to all of Eosia. Preceptor Vanion, if you may?" He points to the podium before the chair and centered on the hall.
As Vanion approached, you can overhear some whispers and discussions going on behind you, you guess it is from those sitting around Annias. Vanion presents the information you have gleaned from the prisoners, that included an uproar when it was mentioned Zemochs were found this deep in Cimuria.
Dolmant waited for the ruckus to die down before continuing. "Preceptor Vanion, what do you propose?"
"We propose to go forth with our new allies here to confirm the presence of Zemochs this far west of the mountains and determine their intent to the fullest of our abilities."
Again the hall began a heated discussion between the different Primates and Patriarchs, you can hear the division. There was a group in full support of finding out the truth, where the other group was in full denial of any threat.
"Preceptor Vanion, on whose authority did you bring these foreigners to our lands. Perhaps they are the enemy we should fear." The voice was scratchy and whiney at the same time. Brother Maynard shook his head, and whispered, "Annias."
The group who appeared to be in support of Annias seem to applauding the statement, and started including to say ,"send the foreigners back," and "
we don't need them."
"Sit down Annias, you are out of order," commanded Dolmant. "I sent for them, or do you wish to challenge me on my authority to do so, when there may be a risk even if slight?
" Dolmant stared right at Annias. "You have anything to say?"
"No, your eminence." Dolmant scowled at Annias. "Then sit down you and your cronies over there shut up!"
Brother Maynard chuckled quietly. "He is a very direct archprelate, must be that Pandion training."
Dolmant turns and looks at the party. "Would you like to address the Hierocracy?"
"Well, at least they seem to realize that there is a 'threat to all of Eosia'..." Khessa had whispered to Master Akkron and Maynard, next to her "I'd say that's a good start".
Then, the blonde arcane warrior had let her blue eyes run from Vanion to Annias... interested in how one will present the information and how the other will react.
As Dolmant turns and looks at the party, asking if they want to address the Hierocracy, she quickly thinks if there is in fact something to gain from that... or if there is simply the risk to alienate someone with a wrong word.
I think Akkron would have picked up a spell scroll of detect thoughts the previous night (in disguise rather than just wandering around all dead-like) and copied it into his spellbook in preparation for this meeting.
Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
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You don't need a scroll, it was in the Zemoch's spellbook and Khessa invited you to study with her, at night!
Oh... me is so smart... (but seriously, I've been having trouble keeping track of everything because I've been stuck doing everything on mobile ever since my employers apparently decided I don't ever deserve a day off and that I should be working 12-hour shifts every other day)
Unhappy that the market got rid of individual purchases for one-off subclasses, magic items, and monsters?
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(OOC: @Mister_Whisker: Oh, sorry about that! I wish you to find a better job, with better employers, soon)
In the end, Khessa decides that it may be worth trying to instill some confidence in these people and urge them to unity, which will undoubtedly be invaluable in facing the threat that looms.
"Just two words to reassure those who have shown themselves to be wary of us" Khessa smiles at Dolmant, standing up to her full height for all to see without difficulty.
The blonde arcane warrior confidently addresses the gathering: "Being here today to speak to those who represent the Soul of Eosia, is an honor for which I thank" and she bows deeply, before standing up and continuing. "Some of you say that 'you do not need us'..." she looks at Annias and some of the others who have said this "Indeed, it is true" and she pauses, letting the surprise that she has not denied the opponent argument has its effect.
Then, the tall adventuress goes on: "In the past you have faced, alone, a threat similar to the one that now looms. You have already been to the limit of the Immrama, a thousand years ago, paying a very heavy price for the victory. Probably, on your own you would still be able to repeat what you have already accomplished. We are completely convinced of this. But we are not here because 'you need us'! We are here to be by your side and be part of what you accomplish - and to help you accomplish it without having to pay again what you have already paid in the past!"
"This is why my friends and I were called from across the sea" the blue eyed woman smiles reassuringly and confidently. “We will verify the scope of the threat, as the head of your holy church, which you all respect no less than we do, asks us. A very wise decision, because given that there are those who believe in the threat and those who don't... if we have to decide, it's better to be safe than sorry! Then, once discovered what we have to face, united, we will face it – and neutralize it! The people of Eosia, who look at you in seek of light, guidance and hope, deserve nothing less! Together, we will do it!”
Khessa bows one last time, then resumes her seat.