Perry spends his five days learning the customs of the people in the area. He's a surprisingly quick learner despite the initial hilarity of him failing at various tasks. One day he attempts ice fishing. Another day he tells stories of his adventures before the Blaze at the Town Hall while the villagers all talk and drink. And on another day he helps the offended fur lady sell her products with his expert marketing skills. By day five, he is sure that he has "mastered" the culture of this small village.
Now in his new fur outfit (with a hat to help keep his horns warm), Perry attempts to hype himself up near Lia for the negotiations to come. "Alright Perry, you've trained your whole life for this moment. You...you can do this. You just need to negotiate with a large white dragon who can eat you in one bite. No pressure...right?" He smiles nervously at Lia. Then, a roar is heard in the distance and he yelps a bit, "Ah, uhm, well...I really hope this works."
At the sound of the roar Velon stands quickly, spilling his hot beverage on the knees of his plate armor and clambering to the door of the town hall to gather his shield and weaponry. "Remember everyone, show no aggression, but also be ready for our next battle with a dragon if it comes to that. STAY. SPREAD. OUT!" Ensuring his hammer and swords are secured on his back and shield on his arm, the paladin rushes out across the snowy ground and up to the offering area. Near the door and whoever happened to be left on duty there, Velon had left a large white flag with a silver blaze in the center on the end of a ten foot pole. Gasping for air after his sprint, he collects himself and begins the effort of waving such a large flag back and forth to catch the dragon's attention. Velon ponders the cold resistance potion in the pouch near his waste, looking down at it briefly, but it is only one of two he had Perry purchase and thus decides to hold off for now.
Cratol heads off with the others to the offering area to see what we learn from the old white dragon. He is dressed in his furs to keep him warm out here and hopes that they will not have to fight the dragon but will be prepared in case they do. He will carry the skull if they have not already placed it in the tribute area.
Looking utterly unaware of the cause of Velon's stare, he waits for something more from the paladin. When he turns and walks away, smirking to himself, then heads off to spend some time studying the effects of the cold when offset by magical controls, hoping to incorporate the knowledge into a new spell. The next few days find him roaming around the village, testing various small magics and sampling soil, snow and icicles. When the roar is heard, he looks up, scanning the skies for signs of the incoming wind lord, both reluctant and eager to meet yet another of this world's great creatures!
When gathered with the group and hearing Perry's self-inspiration, he pats the bundled-up bard on the back and says "Don't worry, Perry. You've got this. Flattery in large quantity should be helpful, just like any fertilizer. We are all right behind you!" Moving away from the nervous teifling, he mutters "Way behind you, I think." and then moves to be about 40 feet to Perry's left rear side, moving with him as he steps forward.
(A) *What do you think our chances are*
(L) %Pretty good, actually. We've had experience with other dragons as violent adversaries, but the selfishness of chromatic dragons makes them less likely to be violent if we can bribe them. That's why this whole alliance of chromatics to bring Tiamat back seems unusual. It's against their own best interests to share power, and the Queen of Dragons returns would cut deeply into their power and wealth since she'll be demanding tribute.%
(A) *You think we have enough to bribe this one?*
(L) %We will soon find out, I guess. I'm only a little worried. If things go bad, we're a tough group. I still wish I had that spell working.%
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Lia grins at Velon. "Castle of course Velon. I can think of something that can keep us occupied. " She gives him a subtle wink. Lia spends the next few days checking up on the villagers. She will use her healing abilities where needed to remove serious issues and aid anyone that is suffering. Mari will accompany her throughout this and will keep a sober eye out for any trouble.
A few days later she is trying to comfort Perry. " Perry, this is nothing you haven't done before. I'll be with you as will our goddess Sune. As the roar is heard in the distance her throat tightens up some. She flashes a smile at Perry. " It will be fine Perry. Trust me. " She grasp the cube of force in her pocket. She will go out with Perry to greet Old White Death.
Mari will stand off to the side a small distance away with her weapons sheathed. She will be far enough away to not be threatening but close enough to engage if needed.Her eyes reveal the awe she feels for such a majestic creature.
Poljen helps with any task he can during the wait. Hauling nets, moving heavy things, whatever is asked. When the roar echoes through the village he grins. He follows Velon to the tribute area and waits. His greatsword's extra cold damage would be wasted, so he has it slung across his back. His other sword and shield are also ready. But for now, his hands are empty, save for a last pitcher of ale.
Morgaine, adorned in her new fur clothing also helps the villagers with whatever tasks she can while everyone waits for the dragon to arrive. Morgaine will also spend sometime practicing with her sword to keep herself active in this colder climate. She tries to spend some quality time with Poljen as well.
Upon hearing the roar in the distance, Morgaine will go to where the Blaze had stated they wanted to meet up at. She readies her sword and shield for a possible fight, but she hopes it is not needed and things go smoothly.
The slow beating of great wings can be heard as a dark shape coalesces through the clouds above. Old White Death slowly and laboriously brings himself down to earth, causing the snow to fly away from his landing site and form tall drifts around him. He is massive, far larger than any dragon the Blaze has encountered before, nearly a hundred feet in length from his nose to the tip of his tail.
His scales are a dull white, with patches of light blue and grey. They look as old as the sea itself. As you approach him, the air, already rather cold, takes on a chilly bite to it.
At first he appears intent upon raiding the storage area for his tribute, but soon sees you approaching. He sits back and beckons you closer, a deep voice rumbles out, "It has been quite some time since I have been openly approached. And you come under a peace banner no less. Speak."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Perry steps forward. He's nervous, but on the surface he looks calm and ready. He addresses Old White Death, "Oh great White Death, Ruler of the Arctic, Dragon of Dragons, Guardian of the Villages in the North, we have gathered here today to offer you tribute in exchange for safe travels in your vast and impressive territory! The tribute is the skull of one of your own, the white dragon once known as Glazhael, whom these fine people here slew. Together, we are searching for a friend by the name of Maccath. She would have come through here around a year ago on an expedition. If you have any knowledge of her whereabouts, we would appreciate it greatly, oh Great One."
The dragon turns his head, focusing one eye on the small figure before it. "Glazhael? Then you would be the Silver Blaze I was warned of. You are considerably more polite than I was led to believe. Let me see the skull."
"Greetings, Mighty One, I am Velon of the Silver Blaze. Thank you for speaking with us. Surely one such as yourself has no need of such warning against our meager group. We have never fought one such as yourself, and wouldn't dare. Most importantly we are not your enemies, and simply come to pay tribute and ask the small favor of passage in your lands. Beyond that if you would choose to talk more, it would be our honor. There is much afoot in the world, as you know."
At the mention of tribute Velon gestures towards the large skull they have set out in the designated tribute area. He bows his head as he speaks his last two sentences and takes a few steps towards the offering area, preparing to present the skull himself if the dragon seems to prefer.
The dragon leans over, and delicately picks up the skull. Bringing it close, he examines it closely, smelling it and even licking it once. After a few moments he says, "Yes, this was indeed my grandson."
"A prancing fool came by a month ago and tried to enrage me with accounts of his death at your hands. From the sound of it, you gave him an honorable death in combat. For that, I thank you. Its more than that blasted cult ever did for him, they turned him into a glorified watch-hound. One of my blood should never have stooped to such."
"Now then, you were wanting to find someone. Maccath was it? I seem to recall that name. Oh yes, a Red tiefling, she smelled of arcane power. Are you seeking the horn as she was then?"
Perry's eyes widen when the dragon says red tiefling. He looks towards Velon with great excitement, then towards the rest of the Blaze, then back to Velon. Then, Perry continues the dialogue with the dragon, “Ah yes, yes indeed, that bookish red tiefling woman sounds like exactly the…*cough* individual that we’re looking for. We had heard of this horn she was after as well and wanted to investigate the overall situation. Of course, again, only if that's okay with you, Great White Death sir.”
When the dragon recognizes the name of the Silver Blaze, a rush of emotion floods over Poljen. Part of him thinks it is time to battle. Part of him feels a small swell of pride, and is tempted to boast of their successes and threaten the beast. Still another part simply wants to say, "Even up here the Blaze is famous, eh? What do they say of us?" But he knows he is likely to upset things, so he covers himself by taking a deep drink from his pitcher.
Then when the dragon appears to be accepting of their request for information, he wants to ask of the 'prancing fool,' and his fate, but again decides that remaining silent for the moment would be best.
Cratol will stand there with the others a little bit spread out like prudent when facing a dragon and wait to see what becomes of this talk. He is hoping that the dragon honors the truce flag that he recongized and will allow us to travel his lands or at least depart this area peacefully.
Lia smiles up at Great White Death. " It is truly an honor to speak with you. You make my people seem like infants compared to you in lifespan. My, what you must have seen and done oh great one. I would love to chat with you one day and hear just a few of your wondrous tales if you ever had time to spare. I have some skill in healing and offer my aid to you. If you ever need some healing that my meagre abilities might provide feel free to call upon me. I am Lia Galanodal. "
Not wanting to distract from Perry's handling of the 'negotiations' with the Ancient being, Lawrance remains quiet. His perceptions, however are extended to their fullest, making good use of his magical robe to inspect this legend in detail, head to tail a wonder of magic and might. Marveling at how much he has encountered over his few months with the Blaze, Lawrance secretly feels thankful he decided to join their quest, as worthy as it is in the essential goals.
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“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Morgaine stands off to the side, quiet and in awe of the magnificent Ancient White Dragon before her. After a short time she lets out a breathe she had not realized she was holding when the Great White Dragon arrived and addressed Perry and saying that they had heard of the Blaze. She listens to the conversation between the Ancient and the members of the Blaze but stays quiet and looks over at Poljen briefly then back to Perry, Velon, Lia and the dragon as they talk waiting to see what the outcome will be.
The dragon stares at you all for some time before snorting and saying, "Hmph, I might as well tell you then, somehow I suspect you'd be the last ones to let it end up in the cult's hands."
"The draakhorn was once a part of my collection. I claimed it at the end of the last war, a token payment for the stupidity I was dragged into back then. Some time ago, perhaps a century now, a particularly enterprising thief made off with it along with some of my other treasures. I almost caught up with them, but they fled into a place where I could not follow, and none of the servants I sent in returned. I have had a watch kept over the place ever since, but the thief never resurfaced. As far as I know, either the horn still remains within, or it was taken out by some underground route I am not aware of."
"When she came here, I offered a deal to Maccath, in exchange for information on where to look and the chance to spend as much time as she liked studying the horn, she swore to recover and return what she could of my stolen items. She never returned, and is likely dead by now. I am willing to offer you the same deal, and you can look for her along the way. Does this appeal to you?"
"Indeed it does, Great One. If I may ask, you said you offered her time to study the horn. Does that mean it will remain in your possession, or we may take it on our travels in order to study it? We would not want to risk offending you later via any misunderstanding, is all. We absolutely will not let the cult get their hands on it either way, I promise you."
"Also, since you are being so fair and generous with us, may I ask who this thief was? Who this prancing fool was? If there is anything about this place the thief hides in that we should know, even?"
"Lastly, Great One, we did not know when we came that Glazhael was your grandson. You should know that he was impressive and fierce and I myself dared not approach him for quite some time during the battle as I did not possess the will. His mere presence was more than I had even imagined. Several of our party members fell, one of us like ten times, I kid you not, like, for real, and only divine intervention kept us alive against such a foe. One of us did not make it out alive even. I thought you should know at least some of the tale, and from us."
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Perry spends his five days learning the customs of the people in the area. He's a surprisingly quick learner despite the initial hilarity of him failing at various tasks. One day he attempts ice fishing. Another day he tells stories of his adventures before the Blaze at the Town Hall while the villagers all talk and drink. And on another day he helps the offended fur lady sell her products with his expert marketing skills. By day five, he is sure that he has "mastered" the culture of this small village.
Now in his new fur outfit (with a hat to help keep his horns warm), Perry attempts to hype himself up near Lia for the negotiations to come. "Alright Perry, you've trained your whole life for this moment. You...you can do this. You just need to negotiate with a large white dragon who can eat you in one bite. No pressure...right?" He smiles nervously at Lia. Then, a roar is heard in the distance and he yelps a bit, "Ah, uhm, well...I really hope this works."
He looks to Lia, clearly in a bit of distress.
At the sound of the roar Velon stands quickly, spilling his hot beverage on the knees of his plate armor and clambering to the door of the town hall to gather his shield and weaponry. "Remember everyone, show no aggression, but also be ready for our next battle with a dragon if it comes to that. STAY. SPREAD. OUT!" Ensuring his hammer and swords are secured on his back and shield on his arm, the paladin rushes out across the snowy ground and up to the offering area. Near the door and whoever happened to be left on duty there, Velon had left a large white flag with a silver blaze in the center on the end of a ten foot pole. Gasping for air after his sprint, he collects himself and begins the effort of waving such a large flag back and forth to catch the dragon's attention. Velon ponders the cold resistance potion in the pouch near his waste, looking down at it briefly, but it is only one of two he had Perry purchase and thus decides to hold off for now.
Cratol heads off with the others to the offering area to see what we learn from the old white dragon. He is dressed in his furs to keep him warm out here and hopes that they will not have to fight the dragon but will be prepared in case they do. He will carry the skull if they have not already placed it in the tribute area.
Looking utterly unaware of the cause of Velon's stare, he waits for something more from the paladin. When he turns and walks away, smirking to himself, then heads off to spend some time studying the effects of the cold when offset by magical controls, hoping to incorporate the knowledge into a new spell. The next few days find him roaming around the village, testing various small magics and sampling soil, snow and icicles. When the roar is heard, he looks up, scanning the skies for signs of the incoming wind lord, both reluctant and eager to meet yet another of this world's great creatures!
When gathered with the group and hearing Perry's self-inspiration, he pats the bundled-up bard on the back and says "Don't worry, Perry. You've got this. Flattery in large quantity should be helpful, just like any fertilizer. We are all right behind you!" Moving away from the nervous teifling, he mutters "Way behind you, I think." and then moves to be about 40 feet to Perry's left rear side, moving with him as he steps forward.
(A) *What do you think our chances are*
(L) %Pretty good, actually. We've had experience with other dragons as violent adversaries, but the selfishness of chromatic dragons makes them less likely to be violent if we can bribe them. That's why this whole alliance of chromatics to bring Tiamat back seems unusual. It's against their own best interests to share power, and the Queen of Dragons returns would cut deeply into their power and wealth since she'll be demanding tribute.%
(A) *You think we have enough to bribe this one?*
(L) %We will soon find out, I guess. I'm only a little worried. If things go bad, we're a tough group. I still wish I had that spell working.%
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Lia grins at Velon. "Castle of course Velon. I can think of something that can keep us occupied. " She gives him a subtle wink. Lia spends the next few days checking up on the villagers. She will use her healing abilities where needed to remove serious issues and aid anyone that is suffering. Mari will accompany her throughout this and will keep a sober eye out for any trouble.
A few days later she is trying to comfort Perry. " Perry, this is nothing you haven't done before. I'll be with you as will our goddess Sune. As the roar is heard in the distance her throat tightens up some. She flashes a smile at Perry. " It will be fine Perry. Trust me. " She grasp the cube of force in her pocket. She will go out with Perry to greet Old White Death.
Mari will stand off to the side a small distance away with her weapons sheathed. She will be far enough away to not be threatening but close enough to engage if needed.Her eyes reveal the awe she feels for such a majestic creature.
Poljen helps with any task he can during the wait. Hauling nets, moving heavy things, whatever is asked. When the roar echoes through the village he grins. He follows Velon to the tribute area and waits. His greatsword's extra cold damage would be wasted, so he has it slung across his back. His other sword and shield are also ready. But for now, his hands are empty, save for a last pitcher of ale.
Morgaine, adorned in her new fur clothing also helps the villagers with whatever tasks she can while everyone waits for the dragon to arrive. Morgaine will also spend sometime practicing with her sword to keep herself active in this colder climate. She tries to spend some quality time with Poljen as well.
Upon hearing the roar in the distance, Morgaine will go to where the Blaze had stated they wanted to meet up at. She readies her sword and shield for a possible fight, but she hopes it is not needed and things go smoothly.
The slow beating of great wings can be heard as a dark shape coalesces through the clouds above. Old White Death slowly and laboriously brings himself down to earth, causing the snow to fly away from his landing site and form tall drifts around him. He is massive, far larger than any dragon the Blaze has encountered before, nearly a hundred feet in length from his nose to the tip of his tail.
His scales are a dull white, with patches of light blue and grey. They look as old as the sea itself. As you approach him, the air, already rather cold, takes on a chilly bite to it.
At first he appears intent upon raiding the storage area for his tribute, but soon sees you approaching. He sits back and beckons you closer, a deep voice rumbles out, "It has been quite some time since I have been openly approached. And you come under a peace banner no less. Speak."
Perry steps forward. He's nervous, but on the surface he looks calm and ready. He addresses Old White Death, "Oh great White Death, Ruler of the Arctic, Dragon of Dragons, Guardian of the Villages in the North, we have gathered here today to offer you tribute in exchange for safe travels in your vast and impressive territory! The tribute is the skull of one of your own, the white dragon once known as Glazhael, whom these fine people here slew. Together, we are searching for a friend by the name of Maccath. She would have come through here around a year ago on an expedition. If you have any knowledge of her whereabouts, we would appreciate it greatly, oh Great One."
Persuasion: 18
The dragon turns his head, focusing one eye on the small figure before it. "Glazhael? Then you would be the Silver Blaze I was warned of. You are considerably more polite than I was led to believe. Let me see the skull."
"Greetings, Mighty One, I am Velon of the Silver Blaze. Thank you for speaking with us. Surely one such as yourself has no need of such warning against our meager group. We have never fought one such as yourself, and wouldn't dare. Most importantly we are not your enemies, and simply come to pay tribute and ask the small favor of passage in your lands. Beyond that if you would choose to talk more, it would be our honor. There is much afoot in the world, as you know."
At the mention of tribute Velon gestures towards the large skull they have set out in the designated tribute area. He bows his head as he speaks his last two sentences and takes a few steps towards the offering area, preparing to present the skull himself if the dragon seems to prefer.
The dragon leans over, and delicately picks up the skull. Bringing it close, he examines it closely, smelling it and even licking it once. After a few moments he says, "Yes, this was indeed my grandson."
"A prancing fool came by a month ago and tried to enrage me with accounts of his death at your hands. From the sound of it, you gave him an honorable death in combat. For that, I thank you. Its more than that blasted cult ever did for him, they turned him into a glorified watch-hound. One of my blood should never have stooped to such."
"Now then, you were wanting to find someone. Maccath was it? I seem to recall that name. Oh yes, a Red tiefling, she smelled of arcane power. Are you seeking the horn as she was then?"
Perry's eyes widen when the dragon says red tiefling. He looks towards Velon with great excitement, then towards the rest of the Blaze, then back to Velon. Then, Perry continues the dialogue with the dragon, “Ah yes, yes indeed, that bookish red tiefling woman sounds like exactly the…*cough* individual that we’re looking for. We had heard of this horn she was after as well and wanted to investigate the overall situation. Of course, again, only if that's okay with you, Great White Death sir.”
When the dragon recognizes the name of the Silver Blaze, a rush of emotion floods over Poljen. Part of him thinks it is time to battle. Part of him feels a small swell of pride, and is tempted to boast of their successes and threaten the beast. Still another part simply wants to say, "Even up here the Blaze is famous, eh? What do they say of us?" But he knows he is likely to upset things, so he covers himself by taking a deep drink from his pitcher.
Then when the dragon appears to be accepting of their request for information, he wants to ask of the 'prancing fool,' and his fate, but again decides that remaining silent for the moment would be best.
Cratol will stand there with the others a little bit spread out like prudent when facing a dragon and wait to see what becomes of this talk. He is hoping that the dragon honors the truce flag that he recongized and will allow us to travel his lands or at least depart this area peacefully.
Lia smiles up at Great White Death. " It is truly an honor to speak with you. You make my people seem like infants compared to you in lifespan. My, what you must have seen and done oh great one. I would love to chat with you one day and hear just a few of your wondrous tales if you ever had time to spare. I have some skill in healing and offer my aid to you. If you ever need some healing that my meagre abilities might provide feel free to call upon me. I am Lia Galanodal. "
Not wanting to distract from Perry's handling of the 'negotiations' with the Ancient being, Lawrance remains quiet. His perceptions, however are extended to their fullest, making good use of his magical robe to inspect this legend in detail, head to tail a wonder of magic and might. Marveling at how much he has encountered over his few months with the Blaze, Lawrance secretly feels thankful he decided to join their quest, as worthy as it is in the essential goals.
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Morgaine stands off to the side, quiet and in awe of the magnificent Ancient White Dragon before her. After a short time she lets out a breathe she had not realized she was holding when the Great White Dragon arrived and addressed Perry and saying that they had heard of the Blaze. She listens to the conversation between the Ancient and the members of the Blaze but stays quiet and looks over at Poljen briefly then back to Perry, Velon, Lia and the dragon as they talk waiting to see what the outcome will be.
The dragon stares at you all for some time before snorting and saying, "Hmph, I might as well tell you then, somehow I suspect you'd be the last ones to let it end up in the cult's hands."
"The draakhorn was once a part of my collection. I claimed it at the end of the last war, a token payment for the stupidity I was dragged into back then. Some time ago, perhaps a century now, a particularly enterprising thief made off with it along with some of my other treasures. I almost caught up with them, but they fled into a place where I could not follow, and none of the servants I sent in returned. I have had a watch kept over the place ever since, but the thief never resurfaced. As far as I know, either the horn still remains within, or it was taken out by some underground route I am not aware of."
"When she came here, I offered a deal to Maccath, in exchange for information on where to look and the chance to spend as much time as she liked studying the horn, she swore to recover and return what she could of my stolen items. She never returned, and is likely dead by now. I am willing to offer you the same deal, and you can look for her along the way. Does this appeal to you?"
"Indeed it does, Great One. If I may ask, you said you offered her time to study the horn. Does that mean it will remain in your possession, or we may take it on our travels in order to study it? We would not want to risk offending you later via any misunderstanding, is all. We absolutely will not let the cult get their hands on it either way, I promise you."
"Also, since you are being so fair and generous with us, may I ask who this thief was? Who this prancing fool was? If there is anything about this place the thief hides in that we should know, even?"
"Lastly, Great One, we did not know when we came that Glazhael was your grandson. You should know that he was impressive and fierce and I myself dared not approach him for quite some time during the battle as I did not possess the will. His mere presence was more than I had even imagined. Several of our party members fell, one of us like ten times, I kid you not, like, for real, and only divine intervention kept us alive against such a foe. One of us did not make it out alive even. I thought you should know at least some of the tale, and from us."