Through a series of portents, various powers across the multiverse as well as groups and individuals on Toril itself, have become aware that an ancient evil is stirring! Action to combat it will be necessary if the entire multiverse is not to be placed at risk! However, while some of these actors are friends, others are occasional allies at best and still others are competitors and even enemies. Not all of those aware of the risk are even aware that others are also aware. Consequently, most are developing their own plans of action; a key element of which is sending their own representatives to meet with the Lord of Neverwinter, Lord Dagult Neverember, at his villa at 2pm on 30 Uktar (The Rotting).
29 Uktar (The Rotting) 1492 DR
It is the last day of the journey for Lucas Dobson Jnr, Passoveloce Penumbra and Vidar Flamebeard who have in response to a request/order from a deity, friend, or superior officer been travelling towards Neverwinter for sometime; Anardil, Gyaan Rakshak, and Seraph Nakhash are already in domiciled in Neverwinter\ (Anardil in ‘The Scrawny Cat’ – an inn that can only be described as a ‘dive’ located near the Neverwinter Docks, Gyaan at the House of Knowledge and Seraph in a lodging house/barracks owned by his organisation). While Lucas has travelled the furtherest, they have done so by ship and it is actually Passoveloce who has been on the road the longest.
Generally the journeys undertaken by the various party members had with the exception of Vidar’s been relatively uneventful.
Vidar had had to leave his ship at Port Llast (35 miles north of Neverwinter) as it had been dismasted when running before a storm and had only just managed to limp into Port Llast. To ensure he would be Lord Neverember’s villa the next day he was going to have to complete the rest of his journey on foot the next morning. However, as he entered the Stonecutter’s solace to seek lodgings for the night he was the greeted by a cacophony of noise, which is mostly coming from a group of burly quarrymen who are clustered around one of the tables. They seem to be playing some sort of game which involves throwing a rat skull into a another person’s beer tankard, which the owner of the tankard has to then scull the beer before attempting to throw the rat skull into somebody else’s tankard. When he questioned the tavern owner what was going on he replied “it’s the weekly beer pong challenge!” After having paid for his lodgings and never one to pass up a challenge Vidar orders a pint of ale and moves towards the crowd of stoneworkers seeking to join in. His excellent hand/eye coordination soon has him at the top of the leaderboard. Several hours pass and eventually Vidar has exhausted all of his drinking companions who have passed out and are lying around the common room snoring. Vidar’s head gets heavier and he too soon slips in to an alcoholic fuelled stupor.
Vidar and Seraph only
That night both Seraph and Vidar have a dream as follows:
A shadowy figure made of stars interestingly both Seraph and Vidar recognise constellations familiar to them says in a voice which somehow is both booming yet whisper quiet says “the task you are about to embark upon will have an impact on the while multiverse. I have discussed this with both your patrons and I too have chosen to send a champion to represent me!”
Next morning Vidar, despite a throbbing head and dry mouth, sets off at a jog for Neverwinter while Seraph ponders the dream and what it might mean. Already aware that he was being held in reserve for an upcoming job, it was obvious that this dream somehow related to it.
At the 'Scrawny Cat' (Anardil only)
Anardil wakes the next morning unsure what the day will bring as she had effectively been drifting for the past five years since the fall of Myth Dranor. As she finishes her repast a tiny flying snake such as if often used by an organisation she has worked for in the past flies through her window. Attached between its wings is a small message case. Anardil unwinds the message and reads the following “Attend a meeting at the Lord of Neverwinter’s villa at 2pm today and report back on the outcomes. Remuneration will be as per normal practice!”L
29 Uktar (The Rotting) 1492 DR
The 35 mile jog from Port Llast to Neverwinter soon clears Vidar’s head but as he approaches the city he sights the three floating earthmotes above the city and wonders whether he is not in fact still a little under the influence of the alcohol he consumed the previous night.
As Lucas’s ship approaches from the south he too is amazed by the three floating earthmotes above the city.
In the Ante-room of Lord Neverember’s villa at 1.30 pm
In accordance with their respective instructions, Anardil, Gyaan, Seraph, Passoveloce and Vidar are sitting in the ante-room of Lord Neverember’s villa when a six foot tall humanoid garbed in a well-worn purple overcoat and wearing a wide-brimmed wizard's hat whose shadow perpetually obscures his face to the point that only his yellow tinted glasses remain visible rushes into the room muttering something that sounds like :”Frodo Baggins, a wizard is never late, nor is he ever early he arrives precisely when he means to!”. Despite his unkempt appearance, dust and grime appears not to linger on him, and a vague fragrance akin to a combination of woods and citrus surrounds him.
He looks around the room and spies five other humanoids which range in height from the very short to the extremely tall as follows:
a 3’ foot tall halfling dressed in non-descript clothing who is tossing a dagger from one hand to the other
a relatively short (5’1”) moon elf dressed in studded leather with a scimitar on his belt
a solidly built dark skinned human just over six feet tall wearing plate armor with a halberd resting beside him
a gold skinned dragonborn approaching seven feet in height and dressed in robes, and finally
a solidly built eight foot tall goliath with a flaming red beard.
“Hello” the wizardly looking character says to the others “… Lucas Dobson Jnr at your service. If you don’t mind me asking why are you here?”
Vidar positions himself in the room so that he can observe the party members whilst keeping an eye on a possible exit, not because he is intimidated or worried, feelings he hasn't felt in a long time, but the unfamiliarity of this realm already has him uneasy. The throbbing behind his eyes probably wasn't helping, not that he would admit that to anyone!
When the man in the strange robes walks in and addresses them he starts to speak in his native tongue.
"My name is Vidar, champion of Oden! The Allfather has tasked me to meet an important person in this place, so I may assist with a threat to the realms."
Sitting with her back at one wall there is a tall elven woman. She is wears a fine, blue toned dress, and carry no visible weapons. Perched in a candelabra near her there is a hawk, with white and grey plumage and piercing blue eyes that scans the room. She has long black hair but she has braided it into two braids that born at her temples and join in one at her shoulders. Her shoulders are partial visible thanks to the dress and a tattoo can be spotted at her left shoulder, but its hard to really identify it.
- I have an appointment with Lord Neverember - she says - As I guess has the rest. And you? -
Passoveloce peers out under the hood of his cloak - not that anyone would notice as he did not adjust his position - and just continues to toss his dagger from hand to hand. He does not noticeably respond to the remarks by the wizard. He is still considering the others in the room, and what threats or opportunities they may supply.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Tirohia te Moana - Level 2 Cleric - What shall we do with the Drunken Sailor?
Ebonitus de Viribus - Level 4 Cleric - The Storm King's Thunder - The Gods Respond.
Seraph looked around at the others as they gathered in the room. He said nothing untill the last to enter spoke.
"I am Seraph Nakhash of the Order of the Gauntlet. Yes, I have been sent to meet with Lord Neverember." He said as way of introduction. His voice was steady, fearless and commanding.
His eyes were a piercing yellow which nearly glowed in comparison to his dark skin. The scales of a snake rippled over his forehead and down his neck.
An amulet around his neck bears the depiction of a two headed figure with both heads facing away from each other. One head appears to be angry and the other appears to be non-expressive.
He looks around at the others but makes no expression until he looks at the cloaked halfling with the dagger. His eyes narrow for a moment.
Lucas nodded sternly as if he completely understood Vidar, and following a snap of his fingers he points to the Vidar and said, "Cool, cool, man." Then his attention immediately shifts as he addresses the others each in turn. "Eh, somethin' like that. You know Boss man Mirt? Old Wolf? Course ya do -- anyways, uh, he pretty much got me involved."He quickly directs to the elf before moving on to the 'tiny terror from La La Lane', and adding with a smile to his voice, "Sup bro'ski! I see you've also gone to the school of Aragorn, and I gotta say, it's sorta work'n for ya!" Then swiftly onwards to Seraph, who he actually gives a salute, if but a touch playful one. "And, uh, greetings Sir Nakhash. Or should it be Lord Seraph? I always get that crap mixed up, but either way, uhh-..."
Lucas suddenly looks taken aback as he gives everyone another once over. "... Hold up! Wait a minute... something ain't right. 'cause We got a cop, a foreigner, bite sized slim shady over here, a potential femme fatale, a poorly disguised ancient dragon, and my beautiful ass self all having been requested by the top dog of a major city -- well, major by this world's standards anyhow and more or less, but still?"He says, gesturing from Seraph to Vidar to Passoveloce to mysterious elf to the dragonborn yet to speak and then finally himself before letting out an exasperated sounding sigh. "Man shoot~ All I know this better not be some weird set up to a Descent into Avernus campaign, or I'mma bout to -- who-wee!! Ya'll just don't know. Freaking floating earth motes, I know I should've figured something-...." He trailed off from there muttering as he paced back and forth near the door.
The gold Dragonborn listens to the others introduce themselves and seems to be particularly interested in the fact that the flame bearded Goliath is speaking in a language that to his surprise he does not recognise. He turns to the party and says in heavily accented Common “I am called Geearne Rarkshark (at least that is what it sounds like) and I am a scholar at the House of Knowledge here in the city”. He then turns to the flame bearded Goliath saying “I am sorry but I did not understand what you said?”
Seraph nods to the newcomer and then smiles. "I am neither knight nor lord but a humble servant. Just Seraph will suffice."
Seraph follows along as the newcomer gestures to each and finds himself smiling along though he really didn't know what a 'cop' was. "This is an eclectic group. I may presume that we have all been called, or sent, for the same reason. For my part, I have been assigned a task, though perhaps my superiors do not know the whole of it. But I had a dream last night that this task will impact the whole multiverse. Even Hoar, the Doombringer, who I serve has had some hand in my being chosen for this task." Seraph fingers the amulet at his neck for a moment.
"This tells me" He continues, "that someone, or some situation, must be brought to justice. That is why I am here. I am certain of it. A descent into Avernus may be the least of it. Only time will tell." he says matter of factly.
Vidar watches the Chittering Lucas with some amusement and makes note of who talks and who doesn't and wonders if that these first observations will dictate this group. The question pointed at him from the Dragonborn shocks him from his thoughts and he turns, having realised what he had done. He answers slowly in a thick accent, "Apologies, I forget which tongues to use at times and how each realm likes to rely on their own. Under the tutelage of the Allfather, I have learnt some of your..."he pauses for a moment before continuing, " 'common' as it is called. My name is Vidar and I am a champion of the Allfather, a warrior who has crossed the nine realms under his direction and due to such reasoning, I fine myself here."
Lucas did a bit of double take hearing the name of Seraph's god and squeaked out an, "Excuse me?!" But then after shuffling over for a better look at the amulet, he then puts a hand on his chest and breathes a sigh of relief. "Ooohhh! That guy! Well, god anyhow. Man, oh, man, hahah, that's an unfortunate..... Hold up, Fam. Did you just say whole-..." Before he can finish the thought, something Vidar says seems to give him pause, before then sharply turning to the giant-kin.
"Allfather? Also, so you CAN speak common? Aww man, here I was thinking we were gonna go through nearly a whole season worth of funny miscommunications." Lucas trails chuckling a bit before his demeanor gradually shifts into something more serious. "But man this is... this is all a lot more serious than I thought if Lord November is getting an Avengers initiative set up. Oof..."
Vidar seems taken aback and confused by Gyaan's question. He thinks for a moment and then responds with a smile in his thick accent, "Ah yes, I imagine you have travelled far and wide but I wonder if you have ever visited one of the other realms. I am told few worship or know about the Allfather here on Midgard anymore. He is also as known as Odin or Wodan, among many other names. He looks over this realm in addition to all the other realms connected by the World Tree, Yggdrasil. But I digress," he turns to the wizard and continues, "If you did not ask of us, I must leave and find whoever has requested my aid."
The conversation eventually peters out and some people have said a lot, some a bit and at least one nothing at all. The door to the ante-chamber opens and a major domo type says the “the Lord will see you now!”
The party steps up and in no particular order – unless you want there to be one – files into the Lord’s chamber.
Lord Neverember is sitting behind a large desk in deep discussion with several priests of Oghma. Two guards are present at the door. One of the priests look up and acknowledges Gyaan’s presence with a smile. Lord Neverember looks up and greets the party as follows “Gyaan, Seraph, Lucas and Vidar you are most welcome.”He looks over at Anardil and then at Passoveloce before continuing “… well you are obviously not the femme fatale so I’m guessing you’re the one they refer to as ‘bite sized slim shady’?” He looks at Anardil and says “… verily my lady you are the rose amongst the thorns but you too are welcome!”
He looks back at the entire party “… but onto more serious matters. About six weeks ago two important visitors to my city were kidnapped. They were found two days later in some sort of zombie state. Despite the best efforts of healers at House of Knowledge as well those of the Crying God their memories and minds could not be restored! It was this heinous crime which prompted me to reach through my network to your patrons to seek their assistance. However, in the last few days it seems whoever did this terrible thing is about to do it again. Four prominent citizens of the city appear to have been kidnapped and I fear the same may happen to them. And before you ask I can tell you that they are:
Eldon Keyward - a highly knowledgeable scholar who specializes in the Outer Planes
Sarcelle Malinosh- a human wild-magic sorcerer who plumbs the mysteries of the Outer Planes
Umberto Noblinis a gnome historian who has written books on various deities, and
Indrina Lamsensettle - a human actor who moves in Neverwinter’s highest social circles.
As far as my advisers can work out the victims don’t know each other and nor did they know the two visitors captured six weeks ago. The priests from the House of Knowledge have undertaken a variety of divinations and all they can say is that the] mystical trail of the victims ends at a specific place: Hallix Mausoleum in Neverdeath Graveyard. Despite their best efforts they are unable to scry further into the complex. If you can enter the complex and rescue Eldon and the others I can make it worth your while! What say you?”
Anardil bows her head slightly at the Lords words but doesn't reply for it's clear that this is not a mere social meeting.
"May I ask you Mylord"she speaks up "Who were this two first victims and what are their craft? Except for the actor I may see a patron emerging here..."
Seraph steps into the chamber with a calm, confident demeanor. Moments ago, in the antechamber, he had been carrying a halberd, but now the weapon is mysteriously absent. A quick glance back reveals that it wasn't left behind, nor does it appear anywhere within the room. What’s more, Seraph bears no other visible weapons; only a shield is strapped to his back, partially hidden beneath his cloak. The crest or emblem on the shield is obscured for now.
As Lord Neverember mentions his name, Seraph acknowledges it with and offers a modest bow. His voice is composed yet firm when he speaks. "The Order of the Gauntlet stands ready to serve Lord Neverember. You were wise to request our aid in this matter."
After making this formal declaration, Seraph steps back slightly, allowing the conversation to proceed. His sharp gaze is focused, and he listens intently as Lord Neverember outlines the situation. When Anardil begins to speak, Seraph's attention shifts towards her, his brow furrowing slightly in contemplation. "Yes, it would indeed be useful to understand more," he says thoughtfully. "Though I am curious how an actor fits into all this. The involvement of the others, and the possibility that their knowledge has somehow been stolen or compromised, is troubling. If this threat has managed to acquire such information, we could be dealing with something far more dangerous than anticipated."
His tone is cautious, yet there’s a hint of resolve underlying his words, signaling that Seraph is already piecing together the puzzle, ever vigilant for the next crucial clue.
In response to Anardil’s question, one of the advisers responds as follows “Grand Scribe Liethennson at your service my Lady. Once the bodies were discovered wandering the streets, representatives of my church tried to work out who they were. A frustrating task to say the least as they were not able to provide any assistance. We eventually managed to work out that one of them was Madevik Vargoba the Honourable Secretary of the Scriveners, Scribes and Clerk’s Guild of Waterdeep and the other was Zasheir Ostrogoth from the Sword Coast Trader’s Bank.”
"Thank you Grand Scribe Liethennson. Know that maybe it was hard, but that work could provide with the clue that is needed to solve this mystery. And I am sure that their family and friends already are grateful for knowing of their fate, even if it is a unfortunate one. " she pauses "About this complex... do we have access to any kind of map of the place? Known entrances? Has any kind of lookout of the kidnappers has been located? Anything that could be useful to an... " she looks to the others, for the time being, none has comitted, neither she has, but she doesn't want to assume or speak for anyone "... possible infiltration team?"
Though Lucas remained mostly mentally checked out during the transition from chamber to chamber, he followed along all the same with staff in hand and gently tapping against the ground with every step. At the later mention of his name however, Lucas snapped to attention and even gave a small but respectful bow. Yet, it is as he's coming out of it that hearing his own words casually thrown out that he startles and practically chokes on a greeting he was moments away from giving in turn.
Upon his quick recovery, he straightens out his posture in an effort to salvage some diginity, but pointedly avoided meeting anyone's gaze going forward. Or at least tried to, in any event. "Y-yea, uhm, what she said."Lucas says while thumbing Anardil's general direction. "Also this, uhh, actor dude. Aside from maybe knowing crap about other high society folks, which I guess if anyone wanted to plum his mind that'a be the thing they're after, he ain't, uhhh... has he been known to take part of shows revolving around the planes by any chance? Or moonlight as a, uhh... whatchamacallit, uhhh -- *finger snaps* Oh! Archeleogist! Wait, no, uh, shoot, uhh... Collector of expensive ass -- er, I mean, Collecter of notable artifacts on the side? Not necessarily magical stuff mind you, but stuff that might have cultural or historical significance regarding lives beyond this world?"
Suddenly a deep chuckle booms, and Vidar speaks up, "Infiltration ay? Where is the honor in such an approach?" He looks around and scans the room, "But yes the lady is correct in saying a map will be handy! If these people are in dangle, its better we not dawdle here and get going!" And with his eyes appear to glow and a grin tugs at the corners of his mouth.
Grand Scribe Liethennson continues the "I'm sorry why Lady but all I know about the mausoleum is that it was constructed by a minor noble family - now extinct - before the cataclysm of 1451."He pauses and then continues "I'm sorry my lady I still don't know your name nor that of the one referred to so succinctly by my Lord as ‘bite sized slim shady! and it would be nice for our records if you could supply them!":
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM - Stopping a god in his tracks
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
Through a series of portents, various powers across the multiverse as well as groups and individuals on Toril itself, have become aware that an ancient evil is stirring! Action to combat it will be necessary if the entire multiverse is not to be placed at risk! However, while some of these actors are friends, others are occasional allies at best and still others are competitors and even enemies. Not all of those aware of the risk are even aware that others are also aware. Consequently, most are developing their own plans of action; a key element of which is sending their own representatives to meet with the Lord of Neverwinter, Lord Dagult Neverember, at his villa at 2pm on 30 Uktar (The Rotting).
29 Uktar (The Rotting) 1492 DR
It is the last day of the journey for Lucas Dobson Jnr, Passoveloce Penumbra and Vidar Flamebeard who have in response to a request/order from a deity, friend, or superior officer been travelling towards Neverwinter for sometime; Anardil, Gyaan Rakshak, and Seraph Nakhash are already in domiciled in Neverwinter\ (Anardil in ‘The Scrawny Cat’ – an inn that can only be described as a ‘dive’ located near the Neverwinter Docks, Gyaan at the House of Knowledge and Seraph in a lodging house/barracks owned by his organisation). While Lucas has travelled the furtherest, they have done so by ship and it is actually Passoveloce who has been on the road the longest.
Generally the journeys undertaken by the various party members had with the exception of Vidar’s been relatively uneventful.
Vidar had had to leave his ship at Port Llast (35 miles north of Neverwinter) as it had been dismasted when running before a storm and had only just managed to limp into Port Llast. To ensure he would be Lord Neverember’s villa the next day he was going to have to complete the rest of his journey on foot the next morning. However, as he entered the Stonecutter’s solace to seek lodgings for the night he was the greeted by a cacophony of noise, which is mostly coming from a group of burly quarrymen who are clustered around one of the tables. They seem to be playing some sort of game which involves throwing a rat skull into a another person’s beer tankard, which the owner of the tankard has to then scull the beer before attempting to throw the rat skull into somebody else’s tankard. When he questioned the tavern owner what was going on he replied “it’s the weekly beer pong challenge!” After having paid for his lodgings and never one to pass up a challenge Vidar orders a pint of ale and moves towards the crowd of stoneworkers seeking to join in. His excellent hand/eye coordination soon has him at the top of the leaderboard. Several hours pass and eventually Vidar has exhausted all of his drinking companions who have passed out and are lying around the common room snoring. Vidar’s head gets heavier and he too soon slips in to an alcoholic fuelled stupor.
Vidar and Seraph only
That night both Seraph and Vidar have a dream as follows:
A shadowy figure made of stars interestingly both Seraph and Vidar recognise constellations familiar to them says in a voice which somehow is both booming yet whisper quiet says “the task you are about to embark upon will have an impact on the while multiverse. I have discussed this with both your patrons and I too have chosen to send a champion to represent me!”
Next morning Vidar, despite a throbbing head and dry mouth, sets off at a jog for Neverwinter while Seraph ponders the dream and what it might mean. Already aware that he was being held in reserve for an upcoming job, it was obvious that this dream somehow related to it.
At the 'Scrawny Cat' (Anardil only)
Anardil wakes the next morning unsure what the day will bring as she had effectively been drifting for the past five years since the fall of Myth Dranor. As she finishes her repast a tiny flying snake such as if often used by an organisation she has worked for in the past flies through her window. Attached between its wings is a small message case. Anardil unwinds the message and reads the following “Attend a meeting at the Lord of Neverwinter’s villa at 2pm today and report back on the outcomes. Remuneration will be as per normal practice!”L
29 Uktar (The Rotting) 1492 DR
The 35 mile jog from Port Llast to Neverwinter soon clears Vidar’s head but as he approaches the city he sights the three floating earthmotes above the city and wonders whether he is not in fact still a little under the influence of the alcohol he consumed the previous night.
As Lucas’s ship approaches from the south he too is amazed by the three floating earthmotes above the city.
In the Ante-room of Lord Neverember’s villa at 1.30 pm
In accordance with their respective instructions, Anardil, Gyaan, Seraph, Passoveloce and Vidar are sitting in the ante-room of Lord Neverember’s villa when a six foot tall humanoid garbed in a well-worn purple overcoat and wearing a wide-brimmed wizard's hat whose shadow perpetually obscures his face to the point that only his yellow tinted glasses remain visible rushes into the room muttering something that sounds like :”Frodo Baggins, a wizard is never late, nor is he ever early he arrives precisely when he means to!”. Despite his unkempt appearance, dust and grime appears not to linger on him, and a vague fragrance akin to a combination of woods and citrus surrounds him.
He looks around the room and spies five other humanoids which range in height from the very short to the extremely tall as follows:
“Hello” the wizardly looking character says to the others “… Lucas Dobson Jnr at your service. If you don’t mind me asking why are you here?”
DM - Stopping a god in his tracks
Vidar positions himself in the room so that he can observe the party members whilst keeping an eye on a possible exit, not because he is intimidated or worried, feelings he hasn't felt in a long time, but the unfamiliarity of this realm already has him uneasy. The throbbing behind his eyes probably wasn't helping, not that he would admit that to anyone!
When the man in the strange robes walks in and addresses them he starts to speak in his native tongue.
"My name is Vidar, champion of Oden! The Allfather has tasked me to meet an important person in this place, so I may assist with a threat to the realms."
Sitting with her back at one wall there is a tall elven woman. She is wears a fine, blue toned dress, and carry no visible weapons. Perched in a candelabra near her there is a hawk, with white and grey plumage and piercing blue eyes that scans the room. She has long black hair but she has braided it into two braids that born at her temples and join in one at her shoulders. Her shoulders are partial visible thanks to the dress and a tattoo can be spotted at her left shoulder, but its hard to really identify it.
- I have an appointment with Lord Neverember - she says - As I guess has the rest. And you? -
PbP Character: A few ;)
Passoveloce peers out under the hood of his cloak - not that anyone would notice as he did not adjust his position - and just continues to toss his dagger from hand to hand. He does not noticeably respond to the remarks by the wizard. He is still considering the others in the room, and what threats or opportunities they may supply.
Tirohia te Moana - Level 2 Cleric - What shall we do with the Drunken Sailor?
Ebonitus de Viribus - Level 4 Cleric - The Storm King's Thunder - The Gods Respond.
Seraph looked around at the others as they gathered in the room. He said nothing untill the last to enter spoke.
"I am Seraph Nakhash of the Order of the Gauntlet. Yes, I have been sent to meet with Lord Neverember." He said as way of introduction. His voice was steady, fearless and commanding.
His eyes were a piercing yellow which nearly glowed in comparison to his dark skin. The scales of a snake rippled over his forehead and down his neck.
An amulet around his neck bears the depiction of a two headed figure with both heads facing away from each other. One head appears to be angry and the other appears to be non-expressive.
He looks around at the others but makes no expression until he looks at the cloaked halfling with the dagger. His eyes narrow for a moment.
His face relaxes again as he waits.
Lucas nodded sternly as if he completely understood Vidar, and following a snap of his fingers he points to the Vidar and said, "Cool, cool, man." Then his attention immediately shifts as he addresses the others each in turn. "Eh, somethin' like that. You know Boss man Mirt? Old Wolf? Course ya do -- anyways, uh, he pretty much got me involved." He quickly directs to the elf before moving on to the 'tiny terror from La La Lane', and adding with a smile to his voice, "Sup bro'ski! I see you've also gone to the school of Aragorn, and I gotta say, it's sorta work'n for ya!" Then swiftly onwards to Seraph, who he actually gives a salute, if but a touch playful one. "And, uh, greetings Sir Nakhash. Or should it be Lord Seraph? I always get that crap mixed up, but either way, uhh-..."
Lucas suddenly looks taken aback as he gives everyone another once over. "... Hold up! Wait a minute... something ain't right. 'cause We got a cop, a foreigner, bite sized slim shady over here, a potential femme fatale, a poorly disguised ancient dragon, and my beautiful ass self all having been requested by the top dog of a major city -- well, major by this world's standards anyhow and more or less, but still?" He says, gesturing from Seraph to Vidar to Passoveloce to mysterious elf to the dragonborn yet to speak and then finally himself before letting out an exasperated sounding sigh. "Man shoot~ All I know this better not be some weird set up to a Descent into Avernus campaign, or I'mma bout to -- who-wee!! Ya'll just don't know. Freaking floating earth motes, I know I should've figured something-...." He trailed off from there muttering as he paced back and forth near the door.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
The gold Dragonborn listens to the others introduce themselves and seems to be particularly interested in the fact that the flame bearded Goliath is speaking in a language that to his surprise he does not recognise. He turns to the party and says in heavily accented Common “I am called Geearne Rarkshark (at least that is what it sounds like) and I am a scholar at the House of Knowledge here in the city”. He then turns to the flame bearded Goliath saying “I am sorry but I did not understand what you said?”
DM - Stopping a god in his tracks
Seraph nods to the newcomer and then smiles. "I am neither knight nor lord but a humble servant. Just Seraph will suffice."
Seraph follows along as the newcomer gestures to each and finds himself smiling along though he really didn't know what a 'cop' was. "This is an eclectic group. I may presume that we have all been called, or sent, for the same reason. For my part, I have been assigned a task, though perhaps my superiors do not know the whole of it. But I had a dream last night that this task will impact the whole multiverse. Even Hoar, the Doombringer, who I serve has had some hand in my being chosen for this task." Seraph fingers the amulet at his neck for a moment.
"This tells me" He continues, "that someone, or some situation, must be brought to justice. That is why I am here. I am certain of it. A descent into Avernus may be the least of it. Only time will tell." he says matter of factly.
Vidar watches the Chittering Lucas with some amusement and makes note of who talks and who doesn't and wonders if that these first observations will dictate this group. The question pointed at him from the Dragonborn shocks him from his thoughts and he turns, having realised what he had done. He answers slowly in a thick accent, "Apologies, I forget which tongues to use at times and how each realm likes to rely on their own. Under the tutelage of the Allfather, I have learnt some of your..." he pauses for a moment before continuing, " 'common' as it is called. My name is Vidar and I am a champion of the Allfather, a warrior who has crossed the nine realms under his direction and due to such reasoning, I fine myself here."
Lucas did a bit of double take hearing the name of Seraph's god and squeaked out an, "Excuse me?!" But then after shuffling over for a better look at the amulet, he then puts a hand on his chest and breathes a sigh of relief. "Ooohhh! That guy! Well, god anyhow. Man, oh, man, hahah, that's an unfortunate..... Hold up, Fam. Did you just say whole-..." Before he can finish the thought, something Vidar says seems to give him pause, before then sharply turning to the giant-kin.
"Allfather? Also, so you CAN speak common? Aww man, here I was thinking we were gonna go through nearly a whole season worth of funny miscommunications." Lucas trails chuckling a bit before his demeanor gradually shifts into something more serious. "But man this is... this is all a lot more serious than I thought if Lord November is getting an Avengers initiative set up. Oof..."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Gyaan says to Vidar “… please tell me more of this Allfather. I have travelled wildly and he is not a figure I am aware of?”
DM - Stopping a god in his tracks
Vidar seems taken aback and confused by Gyaan's question. He thinks for a moment and then responds with a smile in his thick accent, "Ah yes, I imagine you have travelled far and wide but I wonder if you have ever visited one of the other realms. I am told few worship or know about the Allfather here on Midgard anymore. He is also as known as Odin or Wodan, among many other names. He looks over this realm in addition to all the other realms connected by the World Tree, Yggdrasil. But I digress," he turns to the wizard and continues, "If you did not ask of us, I must leave and find whoever has requested my aid."
The conversation eventually peters out and some people have said a lot, some a bit and at least one nothing at all. The door to the ante-chamber opens and a major domo type says the “the Lord will see you now!”
The party steps up and in no particular order – unless you want there to be one – files into the Lord’s chamber.
Lord Neverember is sitting behind a large desk in deep discussion with several priests of Oghma. Two guards are present at the door. One of the priests look up and acknowledges Gyaan’s presence with a smile. Lord Neverember looks up and greets the party as follows “Gyaan, Seraph, Lucas and Vidar you are most welcome.” He looks over at Anardil and then at Passoveloce before continuing “… well you are obviously not the femme fatale so I’m guessing you’re the one they refer to as ‘bite sized slim shady’?” He looks at Anardil and says “… verily my lady you are the rose amongst the thorns but you too are welcome!”
He looks back at the entire party “… but onto more serious matters. About six weeks ago two important visitors to my city were kidnapped. They were found two days later in some sort of zombie state. Despite the best efforts of healers at House of Knowledge as well those of the Crying God their memories and minds could not be restored! It was this heinous crime which prompted me to reach through my network to your patrons to seek their assistance. However, in the last few days it seems whoever did this terrible thing is about to do it again. Four prominent citizens of the city appear to have been kidnapped and I fear the same may happen to them. And before you ask I can tell you that they are:
As far as my advisers can work out the victims don’t know each other and nor did they know the two visitors captured six weeks ago. The priests from the House of Knowledge have undertaken a variety of divinations and all they can say is that the] mystical trail of the victims ends at a specific place: Hallix Mausoleum in Neverdeath Graveyard. Despite their best efforts they are unable to scry further into the complex. If you can enter the complex and rescue Eldon and the others I can make it worth your while! What say you?”
DM - Stopping a god in his tracks
Anardil bows her head slightly at the Lords words but doesn't reply for it's clear that this is not a mere social meeting.
"May I ask you Mylord" she speaks up "Who were this two first victims and what are their craft? Except for the actor I may see a patron emerging here..."
PbP Character: A few ;)
Seraph steps into the chamber with a calm, confident demeanor. Moments ago, in the antechamber, he had been carrying a halberd, but now the weapon is mysteriously absent. A quick glance back reveals that it wasn't left behind, nor does it appear anywhere within the room. What’s more, Seraph bears no other visible weapons; only a shield is strapped to his back, partially hidden beneath his cloak. The crest or emblem on the shield is obscured for now.
As Lord Neverember mentions his name, Seraph acknowledges it with and offers a modest bow. His voice is composed yet firm when he speaks. "The Order of the Gauntlet stands ready to serve Lord Neverember. You were wise to request our aid in this matter."
After making this formal declaration, Seraph steps back slightly, allowing the conversation to proceed. His sharp gaze is focused, and he listens intently as Lord Neverember outlines the situation. When Anardil begins to speak, Seraph's attention shifts towards her, his brow furrowing slightly in contemplation. "Yes, it would indeed be useful to understand more," he says thoughtfully. "Though I am curious how an actor fits into all this. The involvement of the others, and the possibility that their knowledge has somehow been stolen or compromised, is troubling. If this threat has managed to acquire such information, we could be dealing with something far more dangerous than anticipated."
His tone is cautious, yet there’s a hint of resolve underlying his words, signaling that Seraph is already piecing together the puzzle, ever vigilant for the next crucial clue.
In response to Anardil’s question, one of the advisers responds as follows “Grand Scribe Liethennson at your service my Lady. Once the bodies were discovered wandering the streets, representatives of my church tried to work out who they were. A frustrating task to say the least as they were not able to provide any assistance. We eventually managed to work out that one of them was Madevik Vargoba the Honourable Secretary of the Scriveners, Scribes and Clerk’s Guild of Waterdeep and the other was Zasheir Ostrogoth from the Sword Coast Trader’s Bank.”
DM - Stopping a god in his tracks
"Thank you Grand Scribe Liethennson. Know that maybe it was hard, but that work could provide with the clue that is needed to solve this mystery. And I am sure that their family and friends already are grateful for knowing of their fate, even if it is a unfortunate one. " she pauses "About this complex... do we have access to any kind of map of the place? Known entrances? Has any kind of lookout of the kidnappers has been located? Anything that could be useful to an... " she looks to the others, for the time being, none has comitted, neither she has, but she doesn't want to assume or speak for anyone "... possible infiltration team?"
PbP Character: A few ;)
Though Lucas remained mostly mentally checked out during the transition from chamber to chamber, he followed along all the same with staff in hand and gently tapping against the ground with every step. At the later mention of his name however, Lucas snapped to attention and even gave a small but respectful bow. Yet, it is as he's coming out of it that hearing his own words casually thrown out that he startles and practically chokes on a greeting he was moments away from giving in turn.
Upon his quick recovery, he straightens out his posture in an effort to salvage some diginity, but pointedly avoided meeting anyone's gaze going forward. Or at least tried to, in any event. "Y-yea, uhm, what she said." Lucas says while thumbing Anardil's general direction. "Also this, uhh, actor dude. Aside from maybe knowing crap about other high society folks, which I guess if anyone wanted to plum his mind that'a be the thing they're after, he ain't, uhhh... has he been known to take part of shows revolving around the planes by any chance? Or moonlight as a, uhh... whatchamacallit, uhhh -- *finger snaps* Oh! Archeleogist! Wait, no, uh, shoot, uhh... Collector of expensive ass -- er, I mean, Collecter of notable artifacts on the side? Not necessarily magical stuff mind you, but stuff that might have cultural or historical significance regarding lives beyond this world?"
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Suddenly a deep chuckle booms, and Vidar speaks up, "Infiltration ay? Where is the honor in such an approach?" He looks around and scans the room, "But yes the lady is correct in saying a map will be handy! If these people are in dangle, its better we not dawdle here and get going!" And with his eyes appear to glow and a grin tugs at the corners of his mouth.
Grand Scribe Liethennson continues the "I'm sorry why Lady but all I know about the mausoleum is that it was constructed by a minor noble family - now extinct - before the cataclysm of 1451." He pauses and then continues "I'm sorry my lady I still don't know your name nor that of the one referred to so succinctly by my Lord as ‘bite sized slim shady! and it would be nice for our records if you could supply them!":
DM - Stopping a god in his tracks