Dabbert has a short conversation with Tobias as Thuribula leaves, and then nods, following after her as she goes into the city. He wanders after her, but stops short of going onto the grounds of the chapel. He hangs back and waits, taking a moment to himself to breathe and think while making sure he keeps an eye on the paladin.
As Fazil wanders around he eventually comes to where he believes is the place in court caravan.
This massive and heaving covered carriage is decorated with gold filigree and glimmering lanterns. Hitched beside it are two great steel-skinned oxen that exhale green fumes from their snouts. Three lanky attendants garbed in light armor and carrying crossbows patrol the grounds.
Seated before the carriage on a buckling wooden chair is a massive human man who must be nearly seven feet tall and almost as wide. He is garbed in masterfully tailored jet black silk that flatters his obese frae a frilled doublet, padded breeches, and riding gloves, all word under a great fur lined cloak, topped with a feathered cap. Each piece is delicately embroidered with elegant silver trim. The smell of fine tobacco mixed with perfume hangs in the air around him. He smokes a fine black pipe and drinks from a bottle of vintage wine, a rakish grin on his flabby face. He greets Fazil with a warm expression while rubbing his hands together with anticipation.
"Let's get down to business.. Shall we? What can I get you for my friend? The name is Aldor, They call me Aldor the immense! HAHAHA!"
OOC Is Dabbert inside or outside the church? If he's keeping an eye on the paladin/Thuribula he'd have to go inside.
Or he can just keep guard outside the church itself if he wishes.
"Do you have the Pole of Collapsing for sale, and for how much if you have it? Next, do you buy spell scrolls? And no, it doesn't crumble in 24 hours. I may be a Mageborn, but by no means that doesn't mean I don't have honor, unlike those fools."
Aldor crosses his arms nodding before handing a list to Fazil.
"I do indeed buy scrolls haha!"
He has a rakish grin looking Fazil over.
"Pole of collapsing eh? I can.. Order one for you. I'd normally charge a 100 gold but for the ordering fee it'd be 150 gold. Though if I ever get one in my "shipments" by chance I'll charge the simple 100."
OOC The scroll shows that he buys spell scrolls but for a mere pittance of their worth. He seems to buy scrolls from those who find them in the ruins rather than those trying to make a profit by selling them to him. For example he'd buy a first level scroll for about 13 gold.
Thuribula smiles, her relief at their welcome is evident on her face as the Flamekeeper and the three knights greet her. "It is my honor, Flamekeeper Hanna, and Flamekeeper Ophelia. Divine miracles? Truly the Sacred Flame must have arranged for you to be here, Hanna, where the need is so great close to Drakkenheim. A charism of miracles is an honor and a burden that I must say I am grateful not to share... useful though it would be. I hope that I can find other ways to serve with the talents that I do have."
She nods, almost a little shyly, to Ophelia. "It.. it is a personal pilgrimage. I know little of Theodore's work here, though I would like to know more. But it was my allegiance to an earlier crusade that brought me here. A dear mentor of mine from Elyria, Euthymius, though he did not found an Order, led several knights to Drakkenheim to protect the pilgrims from the errors of heresy that.. ah.. Lucretia was propagating. He was lost in the city, unfortunately, and few of his followers made it back to Elyria." She pauses, as if unsure how much of her own feeling she should reveal. "I hope to find him, if it's still possible. And, I hope to perhaps find better ways to continue his work that will not end in such tragedy."
Thuribula turns to greet the two knights as they introduce themselves. Though she gives Arthur first a startled, and then a bit of a hard glance at his effusive praise of her looks. But whatever offense she took melts first to genuine curiosity, as Dante mentions that Arthur is a true paladin, and then to relief and respect as he pulls out the bag of delerium fragments with obvious intent to destroy them.
"I am honored to make your acquaintance, Arthur, Dante. One needs friends such as you in a dangerous place like this, though I will forgive you, Arthur, for your distraction by baser things, though I make effort to do my part." And she modestly pulls her hood a little farther down as she says this, though her eyes are still visible so that she can reasonably continue the conversation. "I can't tell you how pleased I am to see you collecting that foul crystal to destroy... nearly everyone I have met so far here is enamoured with it, thoroughly deceived. It is a dangerous and terrible lure, and no good can come of it. And, a fighter, are you? A cavalier? I have done a bit of horsework myself, and swordwork, although lately I have been practicing with blunt weapons, it feels in some ways more consistent to my calling not to draw blood so readily. Though if you as well are blessed by the rare gift of Divine miracles, I can't say as I would stand a chance against you in a spar. I pray that the lineage of Saint Tarna will always help you in your noble work."
Aldor goes through his most recent shipment for Fazil before returning.
"First level eh? I've a detect magic a magic missile too and my most expensive identify!"
Meanwhile Maggwyn makes her way to find Orson and traveling about that is exactly what she does.
An iron-bound stagecoach is parked here flanked by two massive flat-bedded wagons with stacks of leaden and steel-studded chests, overseen by a dozen armored men.
The stout man has a heavily scarred and aged face, a leather eyepatch, and a mouth of gold teeth. He lets out a wide grin.
"Ahh here to sell Delirium I hope! Or... to purchase some info maybe?"
Meanwhile at the church as Thuribula speaks of miracles and not having them. She can feel.. her holy symbol with a soft hum. Dante and Arthur don't seem to take note but Hanna and Ophelia do. Ophelia even more so furrows her brow with a light smile.
"I wouldn't say that to be the case, sometimes they come to us in time of great dreams.. And great will. Arthur may not study often but his came from a desire to protect his friends in dire battle. Has anything happened on you're road here?"
Ophelia's eyes widen in surprise.
Euthymius? He is..an old friend of Theodore's. Are you sure that is the name? We too are searching for him but as you he is lost... Theodore among his many goals wishes to find him if it's possible."
Dante nods along with Thuribula.
"Heresy is right when it comes to Lucaretia she is guiding people astray. They have them convinced that Delirium is.. a holy crystal!"
Arthur doesn't seem to notice her look to be hard. Or rather he doesn't understand it before it had turned to respect it only garners him to look longer.
"You got a strong look in those eyes.. I like it! You look like a warrior! The type to protect her friends!!"
Arthur tilts his head a bit at her statement of baser things. Dante shakes his head at Arthur slightly.
"He's a bit.. Naive I'm afraid."
"Forgive me? Wait what'd I do? Baser things? Is this cause I don't use fancy words??"
Arthur grins a bit as she lowers her hood and talks of fighting and crystals.
"I can ride a horse but I am pretty good at footwork too! Still the only mount I use nowadays is a Griffon! Dante is our best rider!"
Arthur however goes from grinning to frowning a bit when she talks about a spar and losing.
"Cavalier is.. Also just a title for paladins in the order. Still... you shouldn't be so ready to accept limits! You don't need magic to be strong! Even if I didn't have magic.. I'd always fight to win for the Silver Order! The Flame! And most of all.. My friends. Blunt weapons? I prefer longswords and shields myself!!"
The young paladin offers her a bright smile as Ophelia looks to Thuribula.
"I'd be willing to pray with you, and if you want to destory Delirium.. You could join us but first I'd ask.. For a test of faith."
OOC Ahh Dabbert won't be able to watch the paladins than but he can stand guard at the front for sure! ^^
"I suppose that is the case," Thuribula admits. She notes the strange feeling emanating from her holy symbol, but doesn't think too much of it, merely as confirmation of her words. "The Sacred Flame shines its light to those who can reflect it to a world in need, and it is the Divine will to bestow powers... not due to any feat of our own." When Ophelia asks if anything had happened on the road, a change comes over Thuribula's face, lost in an intensity of feeling somewhere between sorrow, fear, and hope. "On my way to Emberwood village I encountered a worn trio, one of whom, Rikard, was very sick with the corruption of Drakkenheim. Over night, he... transformed, utterly losing his sanity. My companions attacked him, riling him to maul his own friends, and he was slain. I was in the company of several Mageborn, and all of them oblivious to the danger of the crystals, despite the evidence just in front of them. There is so much suffering in ignoring its danger, in the chaos and lust that it spreads. Was Rikard at fault for his exposure and transformation? Can even the innocent and righteous be corrupted this way? Is there no reversal for it? I fear the worst at times. I did my best to console them, but there is little consolation for such a tragedy. I have Rikard's old splint mail that they gifted to me, I hoped to have it repaired and fitted, in memory of what I am here to fight against."
Her eyes widen as Ophelia recognizes Euthymius' name. "That is his name, Euthymius. So they do know each other. I am happy for this news, but heartbroken that the Silver Order has no knowledge of his whereabouts either. I... I still fear the worst, especially after seeing what happened to Rikard. I do not want that to be Euthymius' fate... or anyone's. Back in Elyria, sometimes pilgrims would return from the city with signs of this corruption, and our healing magic did not affect it at all... there is some terrible, deeper evil here. I would not brook any compromise with this chaotic power to undo its own crimes, but with enough prayer and sacrifices, perhaps the Light will show me a way..."
"In that sense... I did not come here to destroy delerium, as glad as I am to know that the Silver Order is hard at this task." She nods at Arthur and his bag of delerium. "Of course, I would like to know how to destroy it, and how to neutralize its power, for I am sure this task may be called to me at some point in Drakkenheim. But I am looking first for guidance, for answers. I know there are holy places and relics in Drakkenheim. My intent was to visit them, if they are still there, and beg the Sacred Flame to show me how their power and virtues can be turned to this battle." Euphemia smiles."I would be honored to join you in prayer, it is close to the sixth hour now."
She turns to Arthur and Dante. "Would you also join us? And... well, Arthur, perhaps I'll test the limits I'm so prepared to accept, and we can have a spar afterwards."
After his purchase of the mining equipment pack with gloves, Sinak accompanies Fazil to see Aldor the Immense, listening at first and walking around to look at his wares. He pauses to see if there are any other magical items that could help them in their journey to Drakkenheim. He looks through scrolls and looks for any potions of healing or anything else of note. He says conversationally, “Have you been? Have you been to see Drakkenheim? What do you think would be of use there?”
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Before Fazil leaves he holds one more scroll out with a wide rakish grin.
"What about Mage Armor? Last 8 hours.. Can save your skin.. And a spell before entering the ruins."
"I also have that spell." Fazil simply replied. "But, if you're interested in having someone supply you these spells in scroll form, non-24 hours lasting ones. Let me know."
Fenton having no interst in continuing shopping will head off the the chaple and sit in silent relfextion. He is confused by all that has happened already and by the task he has been given. "How is one suppose to find the truth, when the truth seems to be nowhere, and yet everyone seems to think they know it"
"I've got my supplies, but if you can sell them to me for cheap I'd be willing to buy haha! Till next time hooded one!"
Aldor gives a gruff laugh to Sinak and a nod.
"I've been, it's dangerous for sure! Even the Etherial plane has haze in it.. And monsters so things like rope trick don't help much so I don't sell things like that. I like to believe.. I am a useful merchant of war. I do have potions of healing! 100 gold a piece but I'll sell the first for 50 gold! I like to see new travelers here! As for items I've a cloak of protection for 750 gold but it'll keep you safe! You can also request an order as I make my shipments but that cost extra. I've a few odd items here and there. I've a sharp magical dagger.. I'd normally sell for 800 gold but.. Due to some lucky sells lately I'd part with for 300 gold instead."
As Fenton makes it to the chapel he can see Thuribula,Arthur,Dante,Ophelia,Hanna. Flamekeeper Hanna and her acolytes all bow seeing the angel. Ophelia even does as well and so does Arthur and Dante before the continue to converse with Thuribula but Hanna herself approaches Fenton as he speaks of truth.
"What truth are you searching for blessed one? It's an honor... To have you at Saint Ardenna's."
Arthur looks to Thuribula and Ophelia as well as she explains the corruption of Rikard. Ophelia clears her throat as Thuribula's symbol hums.
Once lost.. only death can release them I'm afraid.
"NO! I hate that answer.. Good people deserve to live we all deserve a chance! We deserve to live.. I want to find a cure... Somewhere in Drakkenheim.. I hope."
"Sorry.. Arthur is.. Emotionally charged. I am sorry young flame keeper that you had to vanquish Rikard but perhaps you're friends were right in this. However.. as for the crystals.. guide them away from it as best you can young keeper. As for Euthymius...
He.. he is the second strongest man from the order I've ever seen. It's hard to imagine his light is.. Snuffed out so easily. We can pray and hope.. Right? Also Delirium can be destroyed with brute force believe it or not. Radiance works well, larger crystals will have a violet reaction though so be careful! You are here.. for a pilgrimage.. And relics? The Silver Order was sent from Elyria to collect all the relics and reclaim every holy site that was lost while burning Drakkenheim and it's Delirium to the ground. Perhaps.. you should consider joining the order. First however... I'd ask for that test of faith. In Champions way.. Adventurers yearn to find Delirum and rumor.. If you can take one Fragment and destroy it before us.. you and any who helped may join us."
Dante nods to Thuribula of her prayers but decides to sit next to Fenton out of curiosty of the angel. Arthur however nods and begins to kneel.
"I want to hear you're prayer Thuribula! I want to see you... Push those limits! You have a beautiful warriors heart let it bloom! Hehe! Once you join.. There is one holy site I think.. We can trust you enough to tell about and something we need help.. In Saint Tairna's name.. And Saint Brenna's."
With that Arthur kneels beside Thuribula as Ophelia comes to her other side with a gentle smile.
Maggwyn returns the grin to Orson but shakes her head, "Sorry, 'fraid I have no delerium for sale, but I am looking for some information. I have been told you are the one to ask for information, what do you apparently charge for that?"
"I've got my supplies, but if you can sell them to me for cheap I'd be willing to buy haha! Till next time hooded one!"
Aldor gives a gruff laugh to Sinak and a nod.
"I've been, it's dangerous for sure! Even the Etherial plane has haze in it.. And monsters so things like rope trick don't help much so I don't sell things like that. I like to believe.. I am a useful merchant of war. I do have potions of healing! 100 gold a piece but I'll sell the first for 50 gold! I like to see new travelers here! As for items I've a cloak of protection for 750 gold but it'll keep you safe! You can also request an order as I make my shipments but that cost extra. I've a few odd items here and there. I've a sharp magical dagger.. I'd normally sell for 800 gold but.. Due to some lucky sells lately I'd part with for 300 gold instead."
As Fenton makes it to the chapel he can see Thuribula,Arthur,Dante,Ophelia,Hanna. Flamekeeper Hanna and her acolytes all bow seeing the angel. Ophelia even does as well and so does Arthur and Dante before the continue to converse with Thuribula but Hanna herself approaches Fenton as he speaks of truth.
"What truth are you searching for blessed one? It's an honor... To have you at Saint Ardenna's."
Arthur looks to Thuribula and Ophelia as well as she explains the corruption of Rikard. Ophelia clears her throat as Thuribula's symbol hums.
Once lost.. only death can release them I'm afraid.
"NO! I hate that answer.. Good people deserve to live we all deserve a chance! We deserve to live.. I want to find a cure... Somewhere in Drakkenheim.. I hope."
"Sorry.. Arthur is.. Emotionally charged. I am sorry young flame keeper that you had to vanquish Rikard but perhaps you're friends were right in this. However.. as for the crystals.. guide them away from it as best you can young keeper. As for Euthymius...
He.. he is the second strongest man from the order I've ever seen. It's hard to imagine his light is.. Snuffed out so easily. We can pray and hope.. Right? Also Delirium can be destroyed with brute force believe it or not. Radiance works well, larger crystals will have a violet reaction though so be careful! You are here.. for a pilgrimage.. And relics? The Silver Order was sent from Elyria to collect all the relics and reclaim every holy site that was lost while burning Drakkenheim and it's Delirium to the ground. Perhaps.. you should consider joining the order. First however... I'd ask for that test of faith. In Champions way.. Adventurers yearn to find Delirum and rumor.. If you can take one Fragment and destroy it before us.. you and any who helped may join us."
Dante nods to Thuribula of her prayers but decides to sit next to Fenton out of curiosty of the angel. Arthur however nods and begins to kneel.
"I want to hear you're prayer Thuribula! I want to see you... Push those limits! You have a beautiful warriors heart let it bloom! Hehe! Once you join.. There is one holy site I think.. We can trust you enough to tell about and something we need help.. In Saint Tairna's name.. And Saint Brenna's."
With that Arthur kneels beside Thuribula as Ophelia comes to her other side with a gentle smile.
Fenton rolls his eyes as he is being addressed, he was just getring use to being treated 'Normal'
"There is no need to treat me any different, in fact there are many others out there who deserve your praise and admiration more then I do. I am but a lost soul, torn between 2 worlds sent here to find the meaning of the meteor."
""Ahh in my old trade we'd charge a pretty lady half as much! Har har! Hmm.. depends what you wanna know? Than I can make a price it hahaha!"
Meanwhile Dante and Hanna look at one another Hanna puts a finger on her chin looking to Fenton.
"I don't know it's meaning.. But you do deserve some respect ser. You are touched.. by the divine."
Dante grumbles a bit looking to Fenton.
Hmm.. the truth you say? It's poison.. From another world. It turns things to monsters tempts with power and some crystals whisper dark secrets. Either it's poison.. or something this world isn't meant to have."
Thuribula looks a little troubled at Ophelia's statement that only death can release those corrupted. But Arthur's reaction doesn't sit entirely right with her, either. "Perhaps there is no way to redeem them that we know of. But perhaps also, a way may still be found. The law of Divine Order teaches us that a way forward in all things must exist, even if we must strive for that way in faith and walk a difficult road strewn with suffering. Many would like to look at evil and feel helpless to fight it, may believe there is nothing that can be done. And maybe the answer isn't what we would like to think...what I would like to think. But there is an answer."
As Ophelia describes what the test of faith consists of, Thuribula looks genuinely surprised, then thoughtful. "Destroying delerium a test of faith? I suppose this guarantees that one is resistant to the desire for money or power that could be gained from it. But then, it makes me think, is destroying physical delerium the end goal? Isn't it everywhere in Drakkenheim? You could go in with a sledgehammer and never find the end of the crystals before you came to a misstep or were lost. There is a way to combat this evil... I am sure of it... but I am not sure that is the way. Is it physically possible for us to destroy every crystal? Would that restore Drakkenheim? Better, I think," she nods at Ophelia, "is your suggestion... to steer my companions away from it as best I can... for the true commodity of concern here is souls that may be warped or corrupted by the stuff, not the stuff itself." She sighs. "I... I perhaps too much thought, in Elyria, that if I were somehow able to keep people away from Drakkenheim, away from the influence of the delerium, it could be sectioned off, in a way, it couldn't cause harm. But of course, that isn't the case. The siren songs of power and heresy call too many, drawing them here to their destruction."
So, Thuribula nods. "I accept your test of faith. Of course I will do nothing immoral to accomplish it; as I said, more important is to convince my companions of its danger and protect them from its influence, but if I happen to be able to procure a fragment to bring to you and destroy it in front of you... then I will do that." She smiles. "To find the truth..."Glancing behind her as Hanna and Dante move to greet someone, she sees that Fenton has come to pray in the church. "That is Fenton, he is one of the ones I traveled here with. He has no compass now, but he seeks not money or power, he seeks the truth. I start with a compass, but I seek the truth too; I know that I do not know everything." She nods to Arthur. "I hope that I may gain the Order's help and guidance, and pray at this holy site."
Thuribula kneels before the altar of the church and the brazier, while Arthur and Ophelia kneel beside her. She bows her head. "In the name of Saint Tarna, and Saint Brenna," she repeats with Arthur. "Divine Light, illuminate us. Let the beacon of your Lantern show us the truth, unsullied by temptations to compromise with evil for a good cause or to go astray. Let the hope of your Candle remind us in the darkness and face of corruption that we must keep our eyes fixed on the tiniest flame, that always chases away the shadows whereever it appears. Let the conviction of your Torch burn out in all of us any cowardice from the fight. The Lantern shows us how to fight. The Candle shows us why to fight. The Torch shows us that we must fight. And the Hearth shows us when to stop fighting."
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Dabbert has a short conversation with Tobias as Thuribula leaves, and then nods, following after her as she goes into the city. He wanders after her, but stops short of going onto the grounds of the chapel. He hangs back and waits, taking a moment to himself to breathe and think while making sure he keeps an eye on the paladin.
DM of AURYN: The Measure of Devotion - Escape from New York
As Fazil wanders around he eventually comes to where he believes is the place in court caravan.
This massive and heaving covered carriage is decorated with gold filigree and glimmering lanterns. Hitched beside it are two great steel-skinned oxen that exhale green fumes from their snouts. Three lanky attendants garbed in light armor and carrying crossbows patrol the grounds.
Seated before the carriage on a buckling wooden chair is a massive human man who must be nearly seven feet tall and almost as wide. He is garbed in masterfully tailored jet black silk that flatters his obese frae a frilled doublet, padded breeches, and riding gloves, all word under a great fur lined cloak, topped with a feathered cap. Each piece is delicately embroidered with elegant silver trim. The smell of fine tobacco mixed with perfume hangs in the air around him. He smokes a fine black pipe and drinks from a bottle of vintage wine, a rakish grin on his flabby face. He greets Fazil with a warm expression while rubbing his hands together with anticipation.
"Let's get down to business.. Shall we? What can I get you for my friend? The name is Aldor, They call me Aldor the immense! HAHAHA!"
OOC
Is Dabbert inside or outside the church?
If he's keeping an eye on the paladin/Thuribula he'd have to go inside.
Or he can just keep guard outside the church itself if he wishes.
"Do you have the Pole of Collapsing for sale, and for how much if you have it? Next, do you buy spell scrolls? And no, it doesn't crumble in 24 hours. I may be a Mageborn, but by no means that doesn't mean I don't have honor, unlike those fools."
Aldor crosses his arms nodding before handing a list to Fazil.
"I do indeed buy scrolls haha!"
He has a rakish grin looking Fazil over.
"Pole of collapsing eh? I can.. Order one for you. I'd normally charge a 100 gold but for the ordering fee it'd be 150 gold. Though if I ever get one in my "shipments" by chance I'll charge the simple 100."
OOC
The scroll shows that he buys spell scrolls but for a mere pittance of their worth. He seems to buy scrolls from those who find them in the ruins rather than those trying to make a profit by selling them to him. For example he'd buy a first level scroll for about 13 gold.
Fazil frowns, not that it could be seen.
"Alright, I'll keep that in mind for now." He slowly nods. "Also, what spell scrolls do you have available? Mainly level 1 spells."
Thuribula smiles, her relief at their welcome is evident on her face as the Flamekeeper and the three knights greet her. "It is my honor, Flamekeeper Hanna, and Flamekeeper Ophelia. Divine miracles? Truly the Sacred Flame must have arranged for you to be here, Hanna, where the need is so great close to Drakkenheim. A charism of miracles is an honor and a burden that I must say I am grateful not to share... useful though it would be. I hope that I can find other ways to serve with the talents that I do have."
She nods, almost a little shyly, to Ophelia. "It.. it is a personal pilgrimage. I know little of Theodore's work here, though I would like to know more. But it was my allegiance to an earlier crusade that brought me here. A dear mentor of mine from Elyria, Euthymius, though he did not found an Order, led several knights to Drakkenheim to protect the pilgrims from the errors of heresy that.. ah.. Lucretia was propagating. He was lost in the city, unfortunately, and few of his followers made it back to Elyria." She pauses, as if unsure how much of her own feeling she should reveal. "I hope to find him, if it's still possible. And, I hope to perhaps find better ways to continue his work that will not end in such tragedy."
Thuribula turns to greet the two knights as they introduce themselves. Though she gives Arthur first a startled, and then a bit of a hard glance at his effusive praise of her looks. But whatever offense she took melts first to genuine curiosity, as Dante mentions that Arthur is a true paladin, and then to relief and respect as he pulls out the bag of delerium fragments with obvious intent to destroy them.
"I am honored to make your acquaintance, Arthur, Dante. One needs friends such as you in a dangerous place like this, though I will forgive you, Arthur, for your distraction by baser things, though I make effort to do my part." And she modestly pulls her hood a little farther down as she says this, though her eyes are still visible so that she can reasonably continue the conversation. "I can't tell you how pleased I am to see you collecting that foul crystal to destroy... nearly everyone I have met so far here is enamoured with it, thoroughly deceived. It is a dangerous and terrible lure, and no good can come of it. And, a fighter, are you? A cavalier? I have done a bit of horsework myself, and swordwork, although lately I have been practicing with blunt weapons, it feels in some ways more consistent to my calling not to draw blood so readily. Though if you as well are blessed by the rare gift of Divine miracles, I can't say as I would stand a chance against you in a spar. I pray that the lineage of Saint Tarna will always help you in your noble work."
Maggwyn meanders a bit, then nods to Armin, "Thank you for showing me the way and helping us out." She then heads off to find Orson.
OOC: Dabbert has not attempted to enter the chapel or grounds. He's just staying at a respectful distance and waiting patiently.
DM of AURYN: The Measure of Devotion - Escape from New York
Aldor goes through his most recent shipment for Fazil before returning.
"First level eh? I've a detect magic a magic missile too and my most expensive identify!"
Meanwhile Maggwyn makes her way to find Orson and traveling about that is exactly what she does.
An iron-bound stagecoach is parked here flanked by two massive flat-bedded wagons with stacks of leaden and steel-studded chests, overseen by a dozen armored men.
The stout man has a heavily scarred and aged face, a leather eyepatch, and a mouth of gold teeth. He lets out a wide grin.
"Ahh here to sell Delirium I hope! Or... to purchase some info maybe?"
Meanwhile at the church as Thuribula speaks of miracles and not having them. She can feel.. her holy symbol with a soft hum. Dante and Arthur don't seem to take note but Hanna and Ophelia do. Ophelia even more so furrows her brow with a light smile.
"I wouldn't say that to be the case, sometimes they come to us in time of great dreams.. And great will. Arthur may not study often but his came from a desire to protect his friends in dire battle. Has anything happened on you're road here?"
Ophelia's eyes widen in surprise.
Euthymius? He is..an old friend of Theodore's. Are you sure that is the name? We too are searching for him but as you he is lost... Theodore among his many goals wishes to find him if it's possible."
Dante nods along with Thuribula.
"Heresy is right when it comes to Lucaretia she is guiding people astray. They have them convinced that Delirium is.. a holy crystal!"
Arthur doesn't seem to notice her look to be hard. Or rather he doesn't understand it before it had turned to respect it only garners him to look longer.
"You got a strong look in those eyes.. I like it! You look like a warrior! The type to protect her friends!!"
Arthur tilts his head a bit at her statement of baser things. Dante shakes his head at Arthur slightly.
"He's a bit.. Naive I'm afraid."
"Forgive me? Wait what'd I do? Baser things? Is this cause I don't use fancy words??"
Arthur grins a bit as she lowers her hood and talks of fighting and crystals.
"I can ride a horse but I am pretty good at footwork too! Still the only mount I use nowadays is a Griffon! Dante is our best rider!"
Arthur however goes from grinning to frowning a bit when she talks about a spar and losing.
"Cavalier is.. Also just a title for paladins in the order. Still... you shouldn't be so ready to accept limits! You don't need magic to be strong! Even if I didn't have magic.. I'd always fight to win for the Silver Order! The Flame! And most of all.. My friends. Blunt weapons? I prefer longswords and shields myself!!"
The young paladin offers her a bright smile as Ophelia looks to Thuribula.
"I'd be willing to pray with you, and if you want to destory Delirium.. You could join us but first I'd ask.. For a test of faith."
OOC
Ahh Dabbert won't be able to watch the paladins than but he can stand guard at the front for sure! ^^
"Oh. I know all three spells." Fazil sighs. "Well, I'll come back here later."
Before Fazil leaves he holds one more scroll out with a wide rakish grin.
"What about Mage Armor? Last 8 hours.. Can save your skin.. And a spell before entering the ruins."
"I suppose that is the case," Thuribula admits. She notes the strange feeling emanating from her holy symbol, but doesn't think too much of it, merely as confirmation of her words. "The Sacred Flame shines its light to those who can reflect it to a world in need, and it is the Divine will to bestow powers... not due to any feat of our own." When Ophelia asks if anything had happened on the road, a change comes over Thuribula's face, lost in an intensity of feeling somewhere between sorrow, fear, and hope. "On my way to Emberwood village I encountered a worn trio, one of whom, Rikard, was very sick with the corruption of Drakkenheim. Over night, he... transformed, utterly losing his sanity. My companions attacked him, riling him to maul his own friends, and he was slain. I was in the company of several Mageborn, and all of them oblivious to the danger of the crystals, despite the evidence just in front of them. There is so much suffering in ignoring its danger, in the chaos and lust that it spreads. Was Rikard at fault for his exposure and transformation? Can even the innocent and righteous be corrupted this way? Is there no reversal for it? I fear the worst at times. I did my best to console them, but there is little consolation for such a tragedy. I have Rikard's old splint mail that they gifted to me, I hoped to have it repaired and fitted, in memory of what I am here to fight against."
Her eyes widen as Ophelia recognizes Euthymius' name. "That is his name, Euthymius. So they do know each other. I am happy for this news, but heartbroken that the Silver Order has no knowledge of his whereabouts either. I... I still fear the worst, especially after seeing what happened to Rikard. I do not want that to be Euthymius' fate... or anyone's. Back in Elyria, sometimes pilgrims would return from the city with signs of this corruption, and our healing magic did not affect it at all... there is some terrible, deeper evil here. I would not brook any compromise with this chaotic power to undo its own crimes, but with enough prayer and sacrifices, perhaps the Light will show me a way..."
"In that sense... I did not come here to destroy delerium, as glad as I am to know that the Silver Order is hard at this task." She nods at Arthur and his bag of delerium. "Of course, I would like to know how to destroy it, and how to neutralize its power, for I am sure this task may be called to me at some point in Drakkenheim. But I am looking first for guidance, for answers. I know there are holy places and relics in Drakkenheim. My intent was to visit them, if they are still there, and beg the Sacred Flame to show me how their power and virtues can be turned to this battle." Euphemia smiles. "I would be honored to join you in prayer, it is close to the sixth hour now."
She turns to Arthur and Dante. "Would you also join us? And... well, Arthur, perhaps I'll test the limits I'm so prepared to accept, and we can have a spar afterwards."
After his purchase of the mining equipment pack with gloves, Sinak accompanies Fazil to see Aldor the Immense, listening at first and walking around to look at his wares. He pauses to see if there are any other magical items that could help them in their journey to Drakkenheim. He looks through scrolls and looks for any potions of healing or anything else of note. He says conversationally, “Have you been? Have you been to see Drakkenheim? What do you think would be of use there?”
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
"I also have that spell." Fazil simply replied. "But, if you're interested in having someone supply you these spells in scroll form, non-24 hours lasting ones. Let me know."
Fenton having no interst in continuing shopping will head off the the chaple and sit in silent relfextion. He is confused by all that has happened already and by the task he has been given. "How is one suppose to find the truth, when the truth seems to be nowhere, and yet everyone seems to think they know it"
"I've got my supplies, but if you can sell them to me for cheap I'd be willing to buy haha! Till next time hooded one!"
Aldor gives a gruff laugh to Sinak and a nod.
"I've been, it's dangerous for sure! Even the Etherial plane has haze in it.. And monsters so things like rope trick don't help much so I don't sell things like that. I like to believe.. I am a useful merchant of war. I do have potions of healing! 100 gold a piece but I'll sell the first for 50 gold! I like to see new travelers here! As for items I've a cloak of protection for 750 gold but it'll keep you safe! You can also request an order as I make my shipments but that cost extra. I've a few odd items here and there. I've a sharp magical dagger.. I'd normally sell for 800 gold but.. Due to some lucky sells lately I'd part with for 300 gold instead."
As Fenton makes it to the chapel he can see Thuribula,Arthur,Dante,Ophelia,Hanna. Flamekeeper Hanna and her acolytes all bow seeing the angel. Ophelia even does as well and so does Arthur and Dante before the continue to converse with Thuribula but Hanna herself approaches Fenton as he speaks of truth.
"What truth are you searching for blessed one? It's an honor... To have you at Saint Ardenna's."
Arthur looks to Thuribula and Ophelia as well as she explains the corruption of Rikard. Ophelia clears her throat as Thuribula's symbol hums.
Once lost.. only death can release them I'm afraid.
"NO! I hate that answer.. Good people deserve to live we all deserve a chance! We deserve to live.. I want to find a cure... Somewhere in Drakkenheim.. I hope."
"Sorry.. Arthur is.. Emotionally charged. I am sorry young flame keeper that you had to vanquish Rikard but perhaps you're friends were right in this. However.. as for the crystals.. guide them away from it as best you can young keeper. As for Euthymius...
He.. he is the second strongest man from the order I've ever seen. It's hard to imagine his light is.. Snuffed out so easily. We can pray and hope.. Right? Also Delirium can be destroyed with brute force believe it or not. Radiance works well, larger crystals will have a violet reaction though so be careful! You are here.. for a pilgrimage.. And relics? The Silver Order was sent from Elyria to collect all the relics and reclaim every holy site that was lost while burning Drakkenheim and it's Delirium to the ground. Perhaps.. you should consider joining the order. First however... I'd ask for that test of faith. In Champions way.. Adventurers yearn to find Delirum and rumor.. If you can take one Fragment and destroy it before us.. you and any who helped may join us."
Dante nods to Thuribula of her prayers but decides to sit next to Fenton out of curiosty of the angel. Arthur however nods and begins to kneel.
"I want to hear you're prayer Thuribula! I want to see you... Push those limits! You have a beautiful warriors heart let it bloom! Hehe! Once you join.. There is one holy site I think.. We can trust you enough to tell about and something we need help.. In Saint Tairna's name.. And Saint Brenna's."
With that Arthur kneels beside Thuribula as Ophelia comes to her other side with a gentle smile.
Maggwyn returns the grin to Orson but shakes her head, "Sorry, 'fraid I have no delerium for sale, but I am looking for some information. I have been told you are the one to ask for information, what do you apparently charge for that?"
Fenton rolls his eyes as he is being addressed, he was just getring use to being treated 'Normal'
"There is no need to treat me any different, in fact there are many others out there who deserve your praise and admiration more then I do. I am but a lost soul, torn between 2 worlds sent here to find the meaning of the meteor."
Orson looks at Maggwyn up and down.
""Ahh in my old trade we'd charge a pretty lady half as much! Har har! Hmm.. depends what you wanna know? Than I can make a price it hahaha!"
Meanwhile Dante and Hanna look at one another Hanna puts a finger on her chin looking to Fenton.
"I don't know it's meaning.. But you do deserve some respect ser. You are touched.. by the divine."
Dante grumbles a bit looking to Fenton.
Hmm.. the truth you say? It's poison.. From another world. It turns things to monsters tempts with power and some crystals whisper dark secrets. Either it's poison.. or something this world isn't meant to have."
Thuribula looks a little troubled at Ophelia's statement that only death can release those corrupted. But Arthur's reaction doesn't sit entirely right with her, either. "Perhaps there is no way to redeem them that we know of. But perhaps also, a way may still be found. The law of Divine Order teaches us that a way forward in all things must exist, even if we must strive for that way in faith and walk a difficult road strewn with suffering. Many would like to look at evil and feel helpless to fight it, may believe there is nothing that can be done. And maybe the answer isn't what we would like to think...what I would like to think. But there is an answer."
As Ophelia describes what the test of faith consists of, Thuribula looks genuinely surprised, then thoughtful. "Destroying delerium a test of faith? I suppose this guarantees that one is resistant to the desire for money or power that could be gained from it. But then, it makes me think, is destroying physical delerium the end goal? Isn't it everywhere in Drakkenheim? You could go in with a sledgehammer and never find the end of the crystals before you came to a misstep or were lost. There is a way to combat this evil... I am sure of it... but I am not sure that is the way. Is it physically possible for us to destroy every crystal? Would that restore Drakkenheim? Better, I think," she nods at Ophelia, "is your suggestion... to steer my companions away from it as best I can... for the true commodity of concern here is souls that may be warped or corrupted by the stuff, not the stuff itself." She sighs. "I... I perhaps too much thought, in Elyria, that if I were somehow able to keep people away from Drakkenheim, away from the influence of the delerium, it could be sectioned off, in a way, it couldn't cause harm. But of course, that isn't the case. The siren songs of power and heresy call too many, drawing them here to their destruction."
So, Thuribula nods. "I accept your test of faith. Of course I will do nothing immoral to accomplish it; as I said, more important is to convince my companions of its danger and protect them from its influence, but if I happen to be able to procure a fragment to bring to you and destroy it in front of you... then I will do that." She smiles. "To find the truth..." Glancing behind her as Hanna and Dante move to greet someone, she sees that Fenton has come to pray in the church. "That is Fenton, he is one of the ones I traveled here with. He has no compass now, but he seeks not money or power, he seeks the truth. I start with a compass, but I seek the truth too; I know that I do not know everything." She nods to Arthur. "I hope that I may gain the Order's help and guidance, and pray at this holy site."
Thuribula kneels before the altar of the church and the brazier, while Arthur and Ophelia kneel beside her. She bows her head. "In the name of Saint Tarna, and Saint Brenna," she repeats with Arthur. "Divine Light, illuminate us. Let the beacon of your Lantern show us the truth, unsullied by temptations to compromise with evil for a good cause or to go astray. Let the hope of your Candle remind us in the darkness and face of corruption that we must keep our eyes fixed on the tiniest flame, that always chases away the shadows whereever it appears. Let the conviction of your Torch burn out in all of us any cowardice from the fight. The Lantern shows us how to fight. The Candle shows us why to fight. The Torch shows us that we must fight. And the Hearth shows us when to stop fighting."