As you are finalizing the route and the plan for travel, a Paladin is shown into the room by a servant.
"My Lord Marshal, this Paladin of the Cyrinic Order has just arrived." The servant bows and leaves the newcomer with the group. The Lord Marshal nods to the Paladin.
"Hail and well met, it is an honor to see a Paladin from such a prestigious order join us. To have both a Cyrinic and a Pandion, makes one think if not the other Holy Militant orders may not join. It strengthens our cause, you are most welcome. Is there anything you need>?"
Before anything else, the heavy thudding of footsteps and the rhythmic clanking of metal on metal precede Clarac; next, the faint scent of honeysuckle; finally, in strides a woman clad in gleaming armor and a spotless, white cape, escorted by the servant. When Clarac reaches the others, she drops to one knee and bows her head.
"Well met, indeed," she replies to Sir Sparhawk. Still kneeling, she addresses the group. "The honor is all mine to you on this quest; I shall serve in whatever way I can. My name is Clarac Partridge, of Arcium. As stated, I am a knight of the Cyrinic Order. I need nothing except forgiveness for my tardiness, if you all would give it; I seem to have arrived in the midst of the proceedings."
"Oh, don't worry Clarac!" metal resonates on metal, when a tall, imposing, athletic figure of a smiling woman with long weavy blonde hair steps forward and pats (with the gauntlet of her metal armor) the paladin on the shoulder (also protected by the metal pauldron) "There's still one Nefarious Duo of evil deities left to stop - perhaps once and for all - so you are quite in time to help us (and the Multiverse, by the way)!"
"Pleasure to meet you!" her blue eyes light up with welcoming admiration, despite the different weapons that she carries on her, in various sheaths or secured to straps; and she stretches out a hand to shake. "I am Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield! I feel both glad and hoored to have a fellow blade like you at my side! I help myself in battle more with magic than with faith - I am an arcane warrior, not a holy one - but for this very reason I think we will complement each other wonderfully!"
A self-moving construct, humanoid in appearance, but clearly made of inorganic material remained at Khessa's side and now, invited by her, he holds out his hand in turn: "This is Alfred, my butler. And this" she says, as a bat that was flying near her lands on her shoulder "is my brother, Anator".
"Well met, indeed," she replies to Sir Sparhawk. Still kneeling, she addresses the group. "The honor is all mine to you on this quest; I shall serve in whatever way I can. My name is Clarac Partridge, of Arcium. As stated, I am a knight of the Cyrinic Order. I need nothing except forgiveness for my tardiness, if you all would give it; I seem to have arrived in the midst of the proceedings."
A satyr prances forward with light, nimble steps. He says, "Greetings, Clarac Partridge of Arcium. You may call me Vrox Honeysweet." He bows gracefully. Then, with a suppressed smile, he continues, "It is true that you have caught in the midst of 'proceedings.' These proceedings follow from the preceding events. And once these proceedings are complete, they will precede that which succeeds them: the succeeding events. Be glad, for it sounds like that will be a success!"
Standing up from prayer, "It is a pleasure to meet you. My name is..." She pauses fora moment, then continues. "My name is 'The Saintess'. Which, I guess, is more of a title. When I was an adventure, my name was Aya. Anyways, it is good to have another strong in the faith."
The night passes as you see to your gear, gathering supplies and rations from the Keep's quartermaster. The baths are made available to you, and the Lord Marshal prepares a feast to celebrate what you have done for him. When the morning arrives, a breakfast is laid out and when you enter the courtyard, your horses are waiting. The Lord Marshal and the Churchman are waiting.
"I wanted to see you off, and to thank you once again for stopping this sickness before it could spread. May your quest be successful, and you bring our enemies to heel. Strength and honor!"
Then the Churchman comes up and gives a blessing over the group before speaking privately with Brother Maynard. Then Sparhawk mounts his warhorse, and everyone else follows suite. Nodding to the Lord Marshal, he knees Faran and leads the party through the gate house. The morning air is crisp and fresh, almost invigorating once out in the open. It takes you five days to travel to the City of Cammoria, each night you were able to stay at either a Pandion safe house or an inn. Compatibly, other than some long days in the saddle, uneventful.
The city is a great fortress city, with walls and towers surrounding it. As the group approaches one of the main gates, the guards quickly bow as Sparhawk comes into view. He stops before the gate and speaks to the guards.
"Hail friend, what news from within the city?" He asks. The guard bows again and smiles. "The queen will be rather pleased to see you have arrived my lord prince, she has been waiting for your arrival. The city has been quiet for a change." Sparhawk nods. "I assume then a message must have been sent from the borderlands on our intent to travel here?" The guard smiles, and nods his head. "It has my lord, and we have been instructed for you to head directly to her presence upon arrival."
Sighing, Sparhawk hands the guard a few coins before leading you all to the palace. It is a functional palace, not too ornate but still well constructed. Servants run out and take charge of your horses as Sparhawk tries to knock some of the dust off from his cloak and armor. Sighing once more, "Well friends, no time like the present," and leads you into the palace. The servants all bow with knowing smiles and welcomed Sparhawk home. He stopped before the door that leads into the throne room so that the two guards may open it, also with smiles on their face.
You enter the throne room, like the palace more functional then overly ornate. At the end is a raised dais with three chairs. In the center sat a very attractive blonde-haired woman with a small crown, regal features, and an outward appearance of strength and authority. To her left in a small chair was a young girl, with black hair and a mischievous look. Thos in the group the longest make an uncanny realization that the young girl looks like Flute for some strange reason. To the woman's right, was an empty chair, you all assume it was for Sparhawk.
Near the dais is a man in full plate armor like Sparhawk's with a young woiman, a clergyman, and three advisors. Sparhawk approached and with proper form, knelt and bowed to the queen. She looked down on him, and then couldn't contain herself, and began to giggle. "Oh, do standup Sparhawk, no need to dwell on formality. Why don't you introduce me to your friends?" He rose and smiled at the queen, his wife. He turns to the group.
"I would like to introduce you all to Queen Ehlana of Elania, my wife. The young lady next to her is Princess Danae, our daughter." He then introduces the knight, "This is Preceptor Vannion of the Pandion Order and the woman is our Little Mother, Sephrania. This is Patriarch Ortzel from the Elene Church, and the advisors to our good Queen here."
"Oh, I already like you, Ehlana!" Khessa approaches with large and determined steps, patting the queen on the shoulder "I don't like to dwell on formality either! We will do everything to ensure that no one destroys the world in which you and your husband are raising your adorable daughter! And if I tell you, you can trust me,” she laughs “since I have two children of my own who need a decent world to grow up in!”
"Pleasure to meet you!" the blonde arcane warrior holds out her hand "Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield! You probably haven't heard of me, I'm from the other continent... plus, I'm not queen!"
At the feast, Tyekanik eats more than seems possible, even for a man his size, and asks for the largest, strongest, though not fastest of course, warhorse from the stables to not crush them under his, and his axe’s, weight. Each night on the road, again he eats and drinks heavily, enjoying the company of warriors who are, at least in some ways, his equal.
As they arrive, seeing the beautiful queen and princess, Tyekanik nudges Sparhawk, perhaps a bit too strongly, and says with a laugh, “How’d you manage to marry her?” Not really sure how to great a queen he simply nods and watches the others who are better at courtly etiquette.
"Oh, I already like you, Ehlana!" Khessa approaches with large and determined steps, patting the queen on the shoulder "I don't like to dwell on formality either! We will do everything to ensure that no one destroys the world in which you and your husband are raising your adorable daughter! And if I tell you, you can trust me,” she laughs “since I have two children of my own who need a decent world to grow up in!”
"Pleasure to meet you!" the blonde arcane warrior holds out her hand "Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield! You probably haven't heard of me, I'm from the other continent... plus, I'm not queen!"
She smiles and applauds, and very subtly , gives you a wink. "I do, I do, mama says I should learn to play, and I play the flute." She gives you an impish grin, and winks again. In your mind, you hear flute's voice, "I'll explain later."
At the feast, Tyekanik eats more than seems possible, even for a man his size, and asks for the largest, strongest, though not fastest of course, warhorse from the stables to not crush them under his, and his axe’s, weight. Each night on the road, again he eats and drinks heavily, enjoying the company of warriors who are, at least in some ways, his equal.
As they arrive, seeing the beautiful queen and princess, Tyekanik nudges Sparhawk, perhaps a bit too strongly, and says with a laugh, “How’d you manage to marry her?” Not really sure how to great a queen he simply nods and watches the others who are better at courtly etiquette.
The queen actually laughs, along with Vannion. "Why I captured him of course. When I was younger, they made Sparhawk my tutor as dour and unbecoming he tried to be, very set in his Pandion ways. When I was old enough, I made it my life goal to see him mine. I always get what I want, isn't that right dearest?" It is the first time that you all can believe you saw Sparhawk blush, just a little.
Patriarch Ortzel gives a slight bow to the group. He has a joyful manner, odd for someone high up in the clergy. "So these must be the great heroes that were asked for from across the sea? Welcome to our humble little kingdom." He does raise his eyebrows a little when he sees Lord Akron, and Tyekanik, then continues.
"It must be God's providence to see you here today, for we have very distressing news." When you hear this, you see Danae actually roll her eyes a little, and slightly shakes her head. "We were just discussing a report from Veldos up in the Eastern Pass. It stated that demons have arrived and are running amok, the undead rise from the grave, and a dark cult has appeared. People are being slaughtered, in the name of this cult. We have sent scouts, but none have returned."
"It seems we have arrived just in time,"Tyekanik says with a growl, and instinctively reaching for his axe, though he had left it at the entrance to the throne room. "The undead we can leave to Akkron, but it's been too long since I've cleaved many demons."He then looks to the others to explain more of the situation, mentally planning for a fight with a demon lord.
Aya, had been very quiet and reserved, but at the mention of the demon's, crosses herself and after Tyeanik's mention of 'leaving the undead to Akkron' pipes in "I will also be able to provide some solution to the undead and bring them peace. As for the vile darkspawn that is 'running amok'. I can deal with them as well." Her face much stronger and empowered then before. You can see the strength of a seasoned adventure and a vessel of God's power. "We should take our leave and go there immediately."
She bows to the court, and walks a few steps before turning. 'Looking back' she waits to see if the others will join her, though, through her face, you see that she is determined to take them on alone if needed.
Each night on the road, again he eats and drinks heavily, enjoying the company of warriors who are, at least in some ways, his equal.
Vrox enjoys the road and speaks frequently, telling funny stories and fairy tales, remarking on the scenery of their journey, or just making pleasant conversation with the others. You notice that any time you stop to rest outdoors, bees seem to find Vrox and over around him, sometimes even landing on him and walk across his head or down his legs. In the mornings, he always seems to be wearing a wreath of freshly woven clovers or wildflowers on his head, but you never see him making the wreath, no matter how early you're awake. If anyone asks him about it, he just laughs, removes it to take a look, and then compliments the beauty of the wreath while he puts it back on his head. If pressed, he simply says, "Who am I to say 'no' to such a pretty present?"
Arriving in Cammoria and the court of Queen Ehlana of Elania, Vrox simply gives a graceful bow. He is not formally introduced, and not knowing the proper etiquette for this kingdom, he simply observes from the back of the group. He almost seems to melt into the shadows as he waits and listens to the conversation with keen interest, trying to determine the any nuances (distrust, affection, jealousy, contempt, a hidden secret, etc.) in the relationships among Queen Ehlana and the other people in the throne room.
During the journey, the blue eyed woman is intrigued by the mystery of Vrox's wreath - to the point of even writing down some observations (and some of the cryptic answers) in her spellbook, a dark tome with a cover decorated with silvery spider-web-like motifs . However, she smiles and does not insist further, when the Fey believes he has reached the limit of what he is happy to reveal.
In response to flute's voice in her mind, Khessa thinks 'Good! My mind is open to your voice whenever you want, dear! No matter how much divine you are, you're really a sweet child! It's easy to love you' and she furtively winks back.
However, upon hearing the news of the massacres, the blonde arcane warrior becomes serious and determined: "Our diplomatic mission will have to undergo a slight delay, it seems. We certainly cannot let dark forces threaten innocent people! We will be the next scouts - and we will make sure to come back".
"Probably, in this kingdom," the tall adventuress muses aloud "the Nefarious Duo has decided to favor destructive force over subtle corruption. At least, our river allies" (she is covertly referring to the Devils of Avernus) "they should soon do their part on their front and force the Demons to divide their forces. As for the Demons who have already arrived..." she shrugs "we'll have to take care of them. You can not parley with Demons. And as far as undead are concerned... Master Akkron will soon understand whether there is hope of making them see reason or not".
The queen smiles and nods, "It does seem my dearest your arrival couldn't be at a more opportune time. We will leave you all to discuss this crisis, as this is more in your arena then mine. Come along Danae, leave then to their discussions. Oh, by the way my love, you will stop by after you visit the royal baths, consider that a royal command." There was a twinkle in her eye as she said it, before she rose and Danae followed her. Everyone bowed after she exited.
Once she was gone, Vannion looked to Sephrenia who nodded, and with a sensation of magical energy, you saw with a flick of her wrist, a burst of energy went out.
"We are safe from prying ears," she stated and Vannion nodded. A few moments later, Danae entered the room and came over, Sparhawk given her a hard look.
"Oh, do relax, mama has no idea I have walked away and I need to be here for this meeting." She looks at the group, especially to the new commers. "I guess you probably need to explain our unique family situation for our friends here so we can focus on the crisis," she states with a sigh. Sparhawk turns to the group.
"What I am about to tell you all is a state secret, so let's keep it that way. You may have noticed that my sweet little daughter here has an uncanny resemblance and mannerisms of our dear friend flute. For our new members, Aphrael is one of the Younger Gods of Styricum, and is known as the Child-Goddess, as her preferred form is that of a six-year old girl with grass-stained feet who goes by the name of Flute. She plays a flute from time to time, so you may hear her. The good lady here is our little mother of the Pandion Order, also the high priestess of Aphrael." Sparhawk takes a deep breath before continuing.
"What the queen said was true, I was forced to be her tutor as part of a power play going on her in the palace. She was very young though the heir apparent. I was amazed how she doggedly pursued me, yet followed my instructions on how to be a good and decent leader. Unfortunately, there was a plot to have her removed to have an illegitimate figurehead placed on the throne. We of the Pandion Order swore to defend and make sure the queen took her rightful place. Then her father, who was King at the time, mysteriously died, we believed poisoned. She ascended the throne, and these people thought they could control this young girl. I have to admit, my instruction and tutelage gave her a spine and resolve of steel, and their plans fell apart. So they poisoned her and we had to use special magic to keep her alive until we could find a cure. We did, but the poison had an effect on her, she could not have children. So out of her love for the queen, Aphrael using her abilities became Danae as well. So yes, if you ask if she can be in two places at once, yes she can."
Danae gave a big grin and winked at everyone, "He may look rough around the edges, but he is a good father."
Both Ortzel and Vannion chuckled a little, hard to believe that the stone faced Sparhawk can be a doting father, though they knew he was. Then clearing his throat, Vannion began to explain the situation.
"This is what we learned, even with our scouts that were sent up into the pass, only small bits of information was sent before it ended. Our scouts reported, events similar to your reports Sparhawk that you were sending concerning Azash and Slaanesh. The scouts entered a small village on the road towards Veldos, everyone and everything was dead. Not only slaughtered, their blood was taken, their heads were piled up around a post, this symbol posted to it."
He shows you the sketch.
"As they moved closer to the city, they found one survivor, badly tortured and nearly on death's door. Spoke of a Blood God, a God of Rage called Kharneth who had demons with him. Large, red beasts with horns and black swords, relishing in slaughter. But the survivor described another group of demons, bluish/puplish in colors also relishing in torture. The two demons were working togther, and the cult were herding all they could capture towards the city. There is nothing from Prince Makova, no messages or requests for aid, nothing at all. Then the scouts stopped reporting and we haven't heard.
"That's because they're dead," Danae added nonchalantly as she sat in her chair, dangling her leg over one of the arms. "Kharneth is Azash in the language of the demons, and he with Slaanesh are cheating and broke the rules. We are not to directly interfere, but it seems Slaanesh is rather upset that you have stopped her plans twice, that she convinced Azash to bring their demons to the mortal world. This requires blood sacrifices, a lot of blood, plus the warlocks to perform the rituals. I have been directed that both the younger and older gods will continue to follow the pledge and stay out of this, for now. But if those two can establish a foothold like in a city, that comes under their complete control and get more and more cultists to follow, they will become more powerful, and the older gods may have to intervene. This could destroy the world as we know it, they will not let it fall into their hands."
"We stopped her plans twice..." Khessa says "...and she still fails to understand that maybe she should change her pastime? Dedicate herself, for example, to cabbage farming? Well," she shrugs "third time's a charm. After we have prevented her from establishing foothold, perhaps she will finally understand".
“We better move fast,” the blonde arcane warrior muses. "I remember that my husband Jasper, appealing to the divine forces of good, knew how to make people fly in the form of a cloud, on the wings of the wind ... it was a very rapid way of travel. Someone of us know how to do it? If not, even without going that far, tomorrow morning I can prepare a spell myself capable of summoning supernaturally fast horses".
As you are finalizing the route and the plan for travel, a Paladin is shown into the room by a servant.
"My Lord Marshal, this Paladin of the Cyrinic Order has just arrived." The servant bows and leaves the newcomer with the group. The Lord Marshal nods to the Paladin.
"Hail and well met, it is an honor to see a Paladin from such a prestigious order join us. To have both a Cyrinic and a Pandion, makes one think if not the other Holy Militant orders may not join. It strengthens our cause, you are most welcome. Is there anything you need>?"
Before anything else, the heavy thudding of footsteps and the rhythmic clanking of metal on metal precede Clarac; next, the faint scent of honeysuckle; finally, in strides a woman clad in gleaming armor and a spotless, white cape, escorted by the servant. When Clarac reaches the others, she drops to one knee and bows her head.
"Well met, indeed," she replies to Sir Sparhawk. Still kneeling, she addresses the group. "The honor is all mine to you on this quest; I shall serve in whatever way I can. My name is Clarac Partridge, of Arcium. As stated, I am a knight of the Cyrinic Order. I need nothing except forgiveness for my tardiness, if you all would give it; I seem to have arrived in the midst of the proceedings."
"Oh, don't worry Clarac!" metal resonates on metal, when a tall, imposing, athletic figure of a smiling woman with long weavy blonde hair steps forward and pats (with the gauntlet of her metal armor) the paladin on the shoulder (also protected by the metal pauldron) "There's still one Nefarious Duo of evil deities left to stop - perhaps once and for all - so you are quite in time to help us (and the Multiverse, by the way)!"
"Pleasure to meet you!" her blue eyes light up with welcoming admiration, despite the different weapons that she carries on her, in various sheaths or secured to straps; and she stretches out a hand to shake. "I am Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield! I feel both glad and hoored to have a fellow blade like you at my side! I help myself in battle more with magic than with faith - I am an arcane warrior, not a holy one - but for this very reason I think we will complement each other wonderfully!"
A self-moving construct, humanoid in appearance, but clearly made of inorganic material remained at Khessa's side and now, invited by her, he holds out his hand in turn: "This is Alfred, my butler. And this" she says, as a bat that was flying near her lands on her shoulder "is my brother, Anator".
A satyr prances forward with light, nimble steps. He says, "Greetings, Clarac Partridge of Arcium. You may call me Vrox Honeysweet." He bows gracefully. Then, with a suppressed smile, he continues, "It is true that you have caught in the midst of 'proceedings.' These proceedings follow from the preceding events. And once these proceedings are complete, they will precede that which succeeds them: the succeeding events. Be glad, for it sounds like that will be a success!"
Standing up from prayer, "It is a pleasure to meet you. My name is..." She pauses fora moment, then continues. "My name is 'The Saintess'. Which, I guess, is more of a title. When I was an adventure, my name was Aya. Anyways, it is good to have another strong in the faith."
D&D since 1984
The night passes as you see to your gear, gathering supplies and rations from the Keep's quartermaster. The baths are made available to you, and the Lord Marshal prepares a feast to celebrate what you have done for him. When the morning arrives, a breakfast is laid out and when you enter the courtyard, your horses are waiting. The Lord Marshal and the Churchman are waiting.
"I wanted to see you off, and to thank you once again for stopping this sickness before it could spread. May your quest be successful, and you bring our enemies to heel. Strength and honor!"
Then the Churchman comes up and gives a blessing over the group before speaking privately with Brother Maynard. Then Sparhawk mounts his warhorse, and everyone else follows suite. Nodding to the Lord Marshal, he knees Faran and leads the party through the gate house. The morning air is crisp and fresh, almost invigorating once out in the open. It takes you five days to travel to the City of Cammoria, each night you were able to stay at either a Pandion safe house or an inn. Compatibly, other than some long days in the saddle, uneventful.
The city is a great fortress city, with walls and towers surrounding it. As the group approaches one of the main gates, the guards quickly bow as Sparhawk comes into view. He stops before the gate and speaks to the guards.
"Hail friend, what news from within the city?" He asks. The guard bows again and smiles. "The queen will be rather pleased to see you have arrived my lord prince, she has been waiting for your arrival. The city has been quiet for a change." Sparhawk nods. "I assume then a message must have been sent from the borderlands on our intent to travel here?" The guard smiles, and nods his head. "It has my lord, and we have been instructed for you to head directly to her presence upon arrival."
Sighing, Sparhawk hands the guard a few coins before leading you all to the palace. It is a functional palace, not too ornate but still well constructed. Servants run out and take charge of your horses as Sparhawk tries to knock some of the dust off from his cloak and armor. Sighing once more, "Well friends, no time like the present," and leads you into the palace. The servants all bow with knowing smiles and welcomed Sparhawk home. He stopped before the door that leads into the throne room so that the two guards may open it, also with smiles on their face.
You enter the throne room, like the palace more functional then overly ornate. At the end is a raised dais with three chairs. In the center sat a very attractive blonde-haired woman with a small crown, regal features, and an outward appearance of strength and authority. To her left in a small chair was a young girl, with black hair and a mischievous look. Thos in the group the longest make an uncanny realization that the young girl looks like Flute for some strange reason. To the woman's right, was an empty chair, you all assume it was for Sparhawk.
Near the dais is a man in full plate armor like Sparhawk's with a young woiman, a clergyman, and three advisors. Sparhawk approached and with proper form, knelt and bowed to the queen. She looked down on him, and then couldn't contain herself, and began to giggle. "Oh, do standup Sparhawk, no need to dwell on formality. Why don't you introduce me to your friends?" He rose and smiled at the queen, his wife. He turns to the group.
"I would like to introduce you all to Queen Ehlana of Elania, my wife. The young lady next to her is Princess Danae, our daughter." He then introduces the knight, "This is Preceptor Vannion of the Pandion Order and the woman is our Little Mother, Sephrania. This is Patriarch Ortzel from the Elene Church, and the advisors to our good Queen here."
Aya (the Saintess) bows deeply to the queen.
D&D since 1984
"Oh, I already like you, Ehlana!" Khessa approaches with large and determined steps, patting the queen on the shoulder "I don't like to dwell on formality either! We will do everything to ensure that no one destroys the world in which you and your husband are raising your adorable daughter! And if I tell you, you can trust me,” she laughs “since I have two children of my own who need a decent world to grow up in!”
"Pleasure to meet you!" the blonde arcane warrior holds out her hand "Khessa, Khessa Cabbagefield! You probably haven't heard of me, I'm from the other continent... plus, I'm not queen!"
"Hi Danae!" the tall adventuress then kneels down to look at the little girl better and to be at a height more similar to hers "What a wonderful princess you are! Just seeing you, everything seems more... cheerful and colourful!" and at those words (and after a furtive gesture) many perfumed colored bubbles start flying around. Every now and then, a bubble bursts, emitting a small rainbow, at the other end of which a new bubble is formed... "You know? We met a little girl who looked a little like you, during our journey... Do you happen to play the flute, by chance, Danae?”
At the feast, Tyekanik eats more than seems possible, even for a man his size, and asks for the largest, strongest, though not fastest of course, warhorse from the stables to not crush them under his, and his axe’s, weight. Each night on the road, again he eats and drinks heavily, enjoying the company of warriors who are, at least in some ways, his equal.
As they arrive, seeing the beautiful queen and princess, Tyekanik nudges Sparhawk, perhaps a bit too strongly, and says with a laugh, “How’d you manage to marry her?” Not really sure how to great a queen he simply nods and watches the others who are better at courtly etiquette.
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
She smiles and applauds, and very subtly , gives you a wink. "I do, I do, mama says I should learn to play, and I play the flute." She gives you an impish grin, and winks again. In your mind, you hear flute's voice, "I'll explain later."
The queen actually laughs, along with Vannion. "Why I captured him of course. When I was younger, they made Sparhawk my tutor as dour and unbecoming he tried to be, very set in his Pandion ways. When I was old enough, I made it my life goal to see him mine. I always get what I want, isn't that right dearest?" It is the first time that you all can believe you saw Sparhawk blush, just a little.
Patriarch Ortzel gives a slight bow to the group. He has a joyful manner, odd for someone high up in the clergy. "So these must be the great heroes that were asked for from across the sea? Welcome to our humble little kingdom." He does raise his eyebrows a little when he sees Lord Akron, and Tyekanik, then continues.
"It must be God's providence to see you here today, for we have very distressing news." When you hear this, you see Danae actually roll her eyes a little, and slightly shakes her head. "We were just discussing a report from Veldos up in the Eastern Pass. It stated that demons have arrived and are running amok, the undead rise from the grave, and a dark cult has appeared. People are being slaughtered, in the name of this cult. We have sent scouts, but none have returned."
"It seems we have arrived just in time," Tyekanik says with a growl, and instinctively reaching for his axe, though he had left it at the entrance to the throne room. "The undead we can leave to Akkron, but it's been too long since I've cleaved many demons." He then looks to the others to explain more of the situation, mentally planning for a fight with a demon lord.
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
Aya, had been very quiet and reserved, but at the mention of the demon's, crosses herself and after Tyeanik's mention of 'leaving the undead to Akkron' pipes in "I will also be able to provide some solution to the undead and bring them peace. As for the vile darkspawn that is 'running amok'. I can deal with them as well." Her face much stronger and empowered then before. You can see the strength of a seasoned adventure and a vessel of God's power. "We should take our leave and go there immediately."
She bows to the court, and walks a few steps before turning. 'Looking back' she waits to see if the others will join her, though, through her face, you see that she is determined to take them on alone if needed.
D&D since 1984
Vrox enjoys the road and speaks frequently, telling funny stories and fairy tales, remarking on the scenery of their journey, or just making pleasant conversation with the others. You notice that any time you stop to rest outdoors, bees seem to find Vrox and over around him, sometimes even landing on him and walk across his head or down his legs. In the mornings, he always seems to be wearing a wreath of freshly woven clovers or wildflowers on his head, but you never see him making the wreath, no matter how early you're awake. If anyone asks him about it, he just laughs, removes it to take a look, and then compliments the beauty of the wreath while he puts it back on his head. If pressed, he simply says, "Who am I to say 'no' to such a pretty present?"
Arriving in Cammoria and the court of Queen Ehlana of Elania, Vrox simply gives a graceful bow. He is not formally introduced, and not knowing the proper etiquette for this kingdom, he simply observes from the back of the group. He almost seems to melt into the shadows as he waits and listens to the conversation with keen interest, trying to determine the any nuances (distrust, affection, jealousy, contempt, a hidden secret, etc.) in the relationships among Queen Ehlana and the other people in the throne room.
Insight 17
During the journey, the blue eyed woman is intrigued by the mystery of Vrox's wreath - to the point of even writing down some observations (and some of the cryptic answers) in her spellbook, a dark tome with a cover decorated with silvery spider-web-like motifs . However, she smiles and does not insist further, when the Fey believes he has reached the limit of what he is happy to reveal.
In response to flute's voice in her mind, Khessa thinks 'Good! My mind is open to your voice whenever you want, dear! No matter how much divine you are, you're really a sweet child! It's easy to love you' and she furtively winks back.
However, upon hearing the news of the massacres, the blonde arcane warrior becomes serious and determined: "Our diplomatic mission will have to undergo a slight delay, it seems. We certainly cannot let dark forces threaten innocent people! We will be the next scouts - and we will make sure to come back".
"Probably, in this kingdom," the tall adventuress muses aloud "the Nefarious Duo has decided to favor destructive force over subtle corruption. At least, our river allies" (she is covertly referring to the Devils of Avernus) "they should soon do their part on their front and force the Demons to divide their forces. As for the Demons who have already arrived..." she shrugs "we'll have to take care of them. You can not parley with Demons. And as far as undead are concerned... Master Akkron will soon understand whether there is hope of making them see reason or not".
The queen smiles and nods, "It does seem my dearest your arrival couldn't be at a more opportune time. We will leave you all to discuss this crisis, as this is more in your arena then mine. Come along Danae, leave then to their discussions. Oh, by the way my love, you will stop by after you visit the royal baths, consider that a royal command." There was a twinkle in her eye as she said it, before she rose and Danae followed her. Everyone bowed after she exited.
Once she was gone, Vannion looked to Sephrenia who nodded, and with a sensation of magical energy, you saw with a flick of her wrist, a burst of energy went out.
"We are safe from prying ears," she stated and Vannion nodded. A few moments later, Danae entered the room and came over, Sparhawk given her a hard look.
"Oh, do relax, mama has no idea I have walked away and I need to be here for this meeting." She looks at the group, especially to the new commers. "I guess you probably need to explain our unique family situation for our friends here so we can focus on the crisis," she states with a sigh. Sparhawk turns to the group.
"What I am about to tell you all is a state secret, so let's keep it that way. You may have noticed that my sweet little daughter here has an uncanny resemblance and mannerisms of our dear friend flute. For our new members, Aphrael is one of the Younger Gods of Styricum, and is known as the Child-Goddess, as her preferred form is that of a six-year old girl with grass-stained feet who goes by the name of Flute. She plays a flute from time to time, so you may hear her. The good lady here is our little mother of the Pandion Order, also the high priestess of Aphrael." Sparhawk takes a deep breath before continuing.
"What the queen said was true, I was forced to be her tutor as part of a power play going on her in the palace. She was very young though the heir apparent. I was amazed how she doggedly pursued me, yet followed my instructions on how to be a good and decent leader. Unfortunately, there was a plot to have her removed to have an illegitimate figurehead placed on the throne. We of the Pandion Order swore to defend and make sure the queen took her rightful place. Then her father, who was King at the time, mysteriously died, we believed poisoned. She ascended the throne, and these people thought they could control this young girl. I have to admit, my instruction and tutelage gave her a spine and resolve of steel, and their plans fell apart. So they poisoned her and we had to use special magic to keep her alive until we could find a cure. We did, but the poison had an effect on her, she could not have children. So out of her love for the queen, Aphrael using her abilities became Danae as well. So yes, if you ask if she can be in two places at once, yes she can."
Danae gave a big grin and winked at everyone, "He may look rough around the edges, but he is a good father."
"This is what we learned, even with our scouts that were sent up into the pass, only small bits of information was sent before it ended. Our scouts reported, events similar to your reports Sparhawk that you were sending concerning Azash and Slaanesh. The scouts entered a small village on the road towards Veldos, everyone and everything was dead. Not only slaughtered, their blood was taken, their heads were piled up around a post, this symbol posted to it."
He shows you the sketch.
"As they moved closer to the city, they found one survivor, badly tortured and nearly on death's door. Spoke of a Blood God, a God of Rage called Kharneth who had demons with him. Large, red beasts with horns and black swords, relishing in slaughter. But the survivor described another group of demons, bluish/puplish in colors also relishing in torture. The two demons were working togther, and the cult were herding all they could capture towards the city. There is nothing from Prince Makova, no messages or requests for aid, nothing at all. Then the scouts stopped reporting and we haven't heard.
"That's because they're dead," Danae added nonchalantly as she sat in her chair, dangling her leg over one of the arms. "Kharneth is Azash in the language of the demons, and he with Slaanesh are cheating and broke the rules. We are not to directly interfere, but it seems Slaanesh is rather upset that you have stopped her plans twice, that she convinced Azash to bring their demons to the mortal world. This requires blood sacrifices, a lot of blood, plus the warlocks to perform the rituals. I have been directed that both the younger and older gods will continue to follow the pledge and stay out of this, for now. But if those two can establish a foothold like in a city, that comes under their complete control and get more and more cultists to follow, they will become more powerful, and the older gods may have to intervene. This could destroy the world as we know it, they will not let it fall into their hands."
"We stopped her plans twice..." Khessa says "...and she still fails to understand that maybe she should change her pastime? Dedicate herself, for example, to cabbage farming? Well," she shrugs "third time's a charm. After we have prevented her from establishing foothold, perhaps she will finally understand".
“We better move fast,” the blonde arcane warrior muses. "I remember that my husband Jasper, appealing to the divine forces of good, knew how to make people fly in the form of a cloud, on the wings of the wind ... it was a very rapid way of travel. Someone of us know how to do it? If not, even without going that far, tomorrow morning I can prepare a spell myself capable of summoning supernaturally fast horses".
“Khessa, I’m not familiar with that divine spell, but I believe Druids have something like that called Wind Walk. “
Turning to her hosts, “Do you have a higher level Druid that could send us on our way?”
D&D since 1984