Hazilegosa listens to the information given and though she seems to be unfavorable of your actions gives a small nod. "Not terrible for mortals. Where is this Wymeron you speak of at present?" she asks. "He is being held in one of the towers of the Seven. I don't believe we've been formally introduced. I am Varian, elected leader of the Seven. I can have him brought here immediately for questioning if you desire to interrogate him yourself.""Greetings Varian. I am Hazilegosa, sworn protector of Bahamut. I was apparently entombed within a stone for millenia through some magic by Neltharion's hand. I am not familiar with the Seven but for Bahamut not to strike you down for your candor I suppose you to be of high standing. In regards to your inquest I accept. Have him brought here at once. That way we might be able to extract some more information of use before we determine the best course of action." Hazel replies with a short curt bow. "Very well." Varian responds and blinks rapidly as he casts Sending. Within a minute there is a flash of arcane energy as two mages appear holding Wymeron still clasped in the specialized cuffs.
Wymeron squints shielding his eyes that have been used to darkness and it takes a few seconds to adjust. Bahamut steps forward and examines the man closely before taking a few steps back. "He appears to be nothing more than a mere mortal. Judging by his garb he appears to be a servant of yours." Bahamut says casting his gaze over to Davara who interjects, "Was.. He has since fallen from his place and descended into a darkness you and I are all too familiar with." "M'lady" Wymeron cries out falling on his knees. "I'm so sorry. I... I was corrupted by pride, deceived by my allies. I..." "Silence!" Davara shouts with a force that sends a small wave of pressure across your bodies. "You have caused enough sorrow. Stand and speak the truth. What is Neltharion's plot? Where and how did you communicate with him? Where is the portal to Shadowfell?" There's a short pause as Wymeron's facial features change slightly from one of reverence to a sneer of confidence. The voice that emanates from his mouth is no longer his own but that of Neltharion. "How lowly the gods have become... to rely on the aid of mortals. Come now Bahamut, did you really think you could contain me forever? You are more of a fool then those mortals who think they can defeat me. I am unstoppable, I am inevitable, I am the destroyer of worlds... I am... DEATH!" You feel an intense heat as Wymeron's eye's begin to glow red and his clothes catch fire. You watch as Wymeron's body chars as the flames engulf him then his skin begins to melt away and his mouth opens wider than natural and a light emits from within his throat.
There's a flash of light as Wymeron's body explodes blinding you. During the flash of light you see Bahamut, Hazilegosa and Valeera each begin to transform into dragons. You feel an intense wave of heat as you vision goes white and everyone takes: 20 fire damage and 19 necrotic damage from the blast and you feel your bodies lifted off their feet. Your ears ring and you blink rapidly trying to see but only see darkness. You still feel a warm all around you and as you reach out your hands you feel hard walls that are smooth like stone or metal. After another few seconds a crack opens in the wall and your visions are flooded with light and golden reflections. Surrounding each pair of people is a gigantic golden dragon. The light floods in as they raise their wings above you and slide their tails out from around you. You now stand amongst seven ancient gold dragons that seem too large to comprehend and towering above them stands Bahamut the platinum dragon shimmering in the sunlight. "Is everyone alright?" Bahamut asks as he and the others all transform back into their previous forms. Six of the seven returning to golden canaries that circle around Bahamut's head then land 3 on each shoulder. "It appears Neltharion is just as mischievous and arrogant as before. I see now that his corruption has spread beyond what we thought him capable of..."he stops and stares at the spot of Wymeron's explosion and looks at a still glowing ember. You look closer and see that it is in fact a dark red crystal that pulses, similar but much smaller than the one you encountered in Phoax.
Gaelin pats himself off and smells smoke then just stares at the beauty of the dragons. "All good, thanks to you all." Gaelin would tap his staff and cast Mass Cure Wounds on Iris, Cedany, Kelgos, the twins and Jinara.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Mucor would wipe some of the charred and decaying flesh covering his arms after the flames and necrotic energy subsides. He would then mutter a few words in minotaur as he casts mass cure wounds. Green flames would dance from his fingertips for a moment before forming into a small green serpant that zips through the air and seemingly ignites the wounds of those nearby... and as the flames disappear, so do the wounds.
20 healing for Mucor, Aryn, torq, jinara, and gaelin.
You all see Mucor conjure a flaming green serpent that flashes and sends green flames across your bodies. You tense preparing for pain but feel the hot searing pain from the explosion begin to cool as the green flames suck out the heat and the black ashy patches of your skin start to turn pink and begin the healing process. Bahamut examines the crystal closer along with Varian who carefully begins ritual casting a spell you would recognize as Identify. During this 10 minutes you collect yourselves and look around at the charred remains of the table and realize that were it not for the dragons' intervention the blast could have been deadly. Davara walks casually over to Jinara and smiles, her features unblemished by the blast. "Come my child, let's have a chat." and motions for Hazilegosa and Bahamut to accompany her.
Jinara- You stroll awkwardly across the mountainside flanked by two gods and an ancient golden dragons for almost a minute before Davara breaks the silence. "Jinara, you probably have so many questions.... Hazilegosa, you may as well. I hope to give you both the answers you seek, but know that there are still things even we are not capable of. Ask, and we will endeavor to aid you to our ability." she says nodding to Bahamut who continues. "Seregos... Jinara, forgive me I am just learning of your new name. You were... you are one of the few who deserves more than the body Davara has given you. Your service to me throughout hundreds of years and especially during the war with Neltharion was invaluable. That is why I both allowed and requested Davara's aid in restoring your soul to life. Your wounds and the toll of the battle were great on your body and soul. It took us millennia to ensure you could safely return to the living in this new vessel."
Jinara, actively trying to maintain a sense of confidence and strength in the presence of every deity who has actively impacted his lives. It's daunting for Jinara but he finds the courage to speak "I am ok with either name. I know I am Seregos. I know I am Jinara. I am still Seregos in a way now that I have my memories back, but I am also Jinara. Each have their own characteristics, benefits and flaws that creates the entity you see before you. My draconic lineage brings power and strength, but it also brings rage and ferocity. My divine connection brings knowledge and access to a well of magic, but it creates a disparity in reaction compared proaction. What I do know is that it was your strength and purpose, Bahumat, that gave me pride and honor in fighting with you three all those many years ago. It was your faith and love, Mother, that gave me my strength as a dragon to enter the fight against Neltharion the first time. Davara, my lady, it is your vision of me that gives me the strength and knowledge to enter this fight a 2nd time. I am honored and reverent at the opportunity to be in your presence, much less the chance to discuss and strategize with you."
Jinara pauses but for a moment to allow this moment to sink in as a memory for all, then begins "During my time in this form, my life has been focused around 2 aspects; my lady and my family. One I knew, one I didn't. I found a family thru war, ironically enough, in the Lightbringers. We keep each other in check and support when support is needed. Mucor keeps us grounded with his connection to the land. Aryn & Torq keeps us spry in training and fighting prowess. Gaelin brings joy in song. We have even gained new family members. Iris keeps us sharp mentally. Cedany reassures what faith can do. Kelgos shows that change for the better is always possible. We are our strength, but that is not enough for Neltharion. His return is a mixed bag. The obvious of impending doom to the people of Eraas is bad. However, Neltharion's return has brought back family to several of us. Our research of Neltharion created an opportunity for Mucor to see his estranged family again. And I found my mother. As daunting and frightening as it is for his pending return, there has been a silver lining for several of us."
Jinara pauses again "Tying all of this to issue at hand, there are several questions that I have. The first question I have is how did you save my soul when I died? What did you use or sacrifice for my return? How did you figure out the pillars for banishment? The alexandrite crystal at the black tower was a massive gem and I have my doubts on us finding a rock of that size in the short term. We can start there and I can pose more questions in a bit."
"What's come over Jianra? Before he seemed so nervous and shy. Now he's walking with two gods and a huge dragon and is acting like he's at home. I suppose one is his mom but still seems strange right?" Aryn says to whoever is listening and looks over to Inara. "Have you seen him like this before?" she asks.
(I promise I haven't left you all. Financials week has been hectic and one of our accountants is in the ER for appendicitis so its all hands on deck. Will post tomorrow or later this evening. Can't wait for this part too. been dying to get to this point in the character arcs.)
Aryn- Iris looks over to JInara and says, "Only when he is focused on something. I think he cares a great deal for the individuals he is currently with... or at least two of them. It is a strange thing to behold such a scene and we are all fortunate to bear witness to it." she smiles and turns away to look at something else but you catch the slightest blush on her cheeks. Cedany steps forward and says, "I see now why you do this. To be in the audience of the gods is something I never thought possible outside of my death. Thank you for allowing me into your ranks."
Jinara- Bahamut nods and says, "Jinara it is. You sound like you have spent a great deal of time with the Elanaetas. They two see the balance in the midst of chaos." He listens as you ask your questions and thinks for a moment before Davara jumps in. "It is hard to put into words for a mortal. The simplest way I can explain it is that when a creature, who serves a deity willingly and fervently, their soul is... bound to the diety in way. When that creature dies their soul is protected by the diety and brought to the deity's plane to reside indefinitely. Bahamut and I's struggle was how to coordinate to restore the soul to the world of the living, and when. The only sacrifice made was that of time. Bahamut and I watched over the world of Eraas for years and it wasn't until we felt the growing power of Daegon that we chose to restore you to life. A sufficient time had passed for your soul to recover and the mortals needed a brave soul to protect them. So I crafted you from the earth and Bahamut relinquished your soul to this new shell." she says placing her warm hand gently on your shoulder. There's a strange tingling like built up energy to her touch as if you can feel the power emitting from her body.
Bahamut nods at this explanation and says, "I couldn't have said it better myself. The pillars were an emergency measure to safeguard the mortals scattered across the world. We didn't know Nelhtarion's true power until our first battle when the island of monsigneus exploded. We didn't know what devestation his death could cause so we decided on banishing him to shadowfell. There he would survive but hopefully never be able to return. Like most spells a focus or material component is required and destroyed. This is what gives spells their lack of duration. However, when you combine the natural effects of alexandrite with pure materials of a large size you can empower the spell beyond its natural limits. By scouring the world for pure crystals we were able to successfully empower them and seal a being as powerful as Neltharion away, but as you know the weakness of this tactic was that if the pillars were ever destroyed, it would dispel the banishment. That is why each was entrusted to a select group to guard so that even if one may be destroyed the others might still be safe. If you are considering the idea of creating more pillars it will not work. Once cast the spell was bound to only those four pillars. No replacement can be made."
"It is a sight to see for sure." Torq replies. With the uber powerful people further away he breathed a small sigh of relief and felt safe enough to speak. "He was just reunited with his mother, he's probably on cloud 9 right now."
"Thank Lord Bahamut. My demeanor is one derived from knowledge. I have my lady to thank for that" Jinara says as he glances at Davara (Who begins what you have above). He listens with intent to her description before responding "I do not know what to say. The respect and gratitude I have to be back is abundant."
(In response to Bahamut's explanation of the pillars)
"If the contingency of banishment is no longer an option for us, we will need some type of advantage of great power. Like we mentioned, his avatar almost felled us. It incapacitated me for nearly the entire fight. Are you three willing to fight with us and eradicate Neltharion once and for all? If not, we need something that enhances each of our unique abilities drastically." Jinara says with fervor. He pauses for just a moment before interrupting the silence realizing he is asking gods to fight with mortals and wants to avoid any awkwardness "Please forgive me, this discussion was not intended to ask for a handout, but to discuss a proactive strategy to battle Neltharion. Arrogance and pride describe his character. He has skill in utilizing shadows to his advantage. His breath does both fire and necrotic damage. If he were to return to this plane, where would he return? Near a pillar? where he was originally banished? Could he escape through an existing portal? Would it be possible to draw him towards a portal in order to set a trap?" Jinara continues to ramble as the nerve of being in their presence is weighing on him, but he knows he will never have an opportunity like this again.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Jinara- Bahamut stops and the group pauses now 3-400 feet away from the rest of the group. "You speak as if his return is a certainty. Are you suggesting we destroy the other pillars to guarantee his return but on our own time and plan? I can see the wisdom and bravery in that but also the foolishness. We still do not know the depth of Neltharion's power or whence it comes. As long as there are two pillars still remaining we should continue to search for the source of his power. The second pillar was not destroyed for thousands of years. Who's to say the third or fourth will not last just as long." He pauses thinking over his next words. "Do not think I am disowning your idea. It hold much merit, but when dealing with a power such as this, strategies and plans can all go up in smoke in seconds. If we were to destroy the pillars Neltharion would reappear back above the remains of monsigneus. I believe it's referred to as the middle islands now. Before the explosion they all were part of the giant island. The explosion left a massive crater that filled with water leaving behind the bits these dragonborn now inhabit. Neltharion would arrive either slightly below the water or in the sky above. It is hard to pinpoint the location since the land has eroded and the volcano has only recently sprouted above the water." Davara leans in and says, "It is something to consider. Something we have long thought over and forgotten thanks to the passage of time and many distractions. We do not know what the future holds, only how we can attempt to shape it..." she stops speaking and looks out across the sky to the east near the sun. Bahamut also turns and peers into the clear sky ahead. His voice changes growing long and more firm. "We must return to the others. Now. Be on your guard." You look in the same direction but can't see anything due to the blinding sun. You hear Varian shout to come over as the ten minutes required for his spell has ended. You walk quickly back to the group and your adrenaline is pumping.
Everyone- You see Varian complete his spell and he turns to Jinara's group and hollers for them to join you. You notice that they have already begun heading in your direction and rapidly approach. Bahamut opens his mouth to speak but Varian breaks in still looking at the crystal. "It appears to be a beacon of sorts. I'm not sure for what..." he pauses and notices the tense silence from bahamut. "You don't think..." "They are coming..." Bahamut replies his eyes flaring with energy. There's a sudden heat wave and time seems to slow as black dots emerge from the sunlight above and descend rapidly down. The air crackles with energy and you watch as Bahamut, the canaries, Hazilegosa and Valeera all transform into their dragon forms. The shimmering metallic scales cast dancing reflections along the ground and you see them all look up. You draw your weapons and gaze up into the sky and see three large dark figures of dragons descending rapidly. You squint and make out the green tint of a dragon, to the left a blue dragon and to the right a pale white dragon each gigantic in size. The three dragons split and circle above the collection of dragons who instinctively protect the mortals below them looking for an opening. The three dive in unison and each spraying their various breaths down onto the group.
Your vision is partially blocked by the giant form of the gold and platinum dragons who move closer in to protect you and feel a strange aura within the air. You watch as streaks of lightning slam into an invisible forcefield above your heads. You turn to see Davara holding up her hands with her eyes closed, ethereal white and gold wings splayed out from her back that glow with divine radiance. The icy cold white breath hits the field next and you see the forcefield shatter and feel the cold air but not pain. You look up just in time to see a descending green cloud of dense poison and begin to cough as it reaches your lungs. You feel the heat of the gold dragons breath as they each attempt to attack the flying dragons and see them impact the ancient chromatic dragons but they are each able to escape to the air. Unwilling to follow and leave you unprotected the metallic dragons crouch and prepare to defend for another assault. There's a tense moment of silence as the three circle above before the sky above becomes darker and you see an incredibly large dark red and black dragon descend from the sky. Closely resembling Neltharion in appearance the dragon hovers above you and calls out in a loud voice that does not match Neltharions. "Insects! How easily the lord of dragons is brought to the ground. Bow before the daughter of the Immortal Nightmare. My father's injustice will be avenged! Eraas will burn!" The voice resounds through your bodies and you see the dark dragon rear back its head and breath out a jet of dark red flame. The flames sear your skin but the dragons do what they can to shield you and as the smoke clears you watch as the dark dragon seemingly conjure a huge dark portal in the sky and the four dragons disappear. The entire attack lasts only a few seconds and you are left with the sight of Cedany and Iris lying unconscious on the ground.
Everyone make a DC 22 Con save! On fail you take: 92 poison damage, half on success.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Well that escalated quickly? Were we at full health or still a little damaged? I know I healed some people but I assume many of us were not quite at full health.
Con save! 15 Dex save! 2117
Mucor sees the poison coming and does little to resist at first. The moment it touches his skin, he is reminded that he is no longer immune to its effects as pain washes over. him. The pain coursing through is veins is forgotten however as flames engulf his body. his charred skin immediately blisters and peels as the elf collapses to the ground.
Jinara (unplanned) looks at Aryn at the same time as Gaelin and gives a similar nod
Mucor just looks proud as a small smile spreads across his face with a small glance towards aryn.
(Aryn dropping knowledge!)
(lol)
Hazilegosa listens to the information given and though she seems to be unfavorable of your actions gives a small nod. "Not terrible for mortals. Where is this Wymeron you speak of at present?" she asks. "He is being held in one of the towers of the Seven. I don't believe we've been formally introduced. I am Varian, elected leader of the Seven. I can have him brought here immediately for questioning if you desire to interrogate him yourself." "Greetings Varian. I am Hazilegosa, sworn protector of Bahamut. I was apparently entombed within a stone for millenia through some magic by Neltharion's hand. I am not familiar with the Seven but for Bahamut not to strike you down for your candor I suppose you to be of high standing. In regards to your inquest I accept. Have him brought here at once. That way we might be able to extract some more information of use before we determine the best course of action." Hazel replies with a short curt bow. "Very well." Varian responds and blinks rapidly as he casts Sending. Within a minute there is a flash of arcane energy as two mages appear holding Wymeron still clasped in the specialized cuffs.
Wymeron squints shielding his eyes that have been used to darkness and it takes a few seconds to adjust. Bahamut steps forward and examines the man closely before taking a few steps back. "He appears to be nothing more than a mere mortal. Judging by his garb he appears to be a servant of yours." Bahamut says casting his gaze over to Davara who interjects, "Was.. He has since fallen from his place and descended into a darkness you and I are all too familiar with." "M'lady" Wymeron cries out falling on his knees. "I'm so sorry. I... I was corrupted by pride, deceived by my allies. I..." "Silence!" Davara shouts with a force that sends a small wave of pressure across your bodies. "You have caused enough sorrow. Stand and speak the truth. What is Neltharion's plot? Where and how did you communicate with him? Where is the portal to Shadowfell?" There's a short pause as Wymeron's facial features change slightly from one of reverence to a sneer of confidence. The voice that emanates from his mouth is no longer his own but that of Neltharion. "How lowly the gods have become... to rely on the aid of mortals. Come now Bahamut, did you really think you could contain me forever? You are more of a fool then those mortals who think they can defeat me. I am unstoppable, I am inevitable, I am the destroyer of worlds... I am... DEATH!" You feel an intense heat as Wymeron's eye's begin to glow red and his clothes catch fire. You watch as Wymeron's body chars as the flames engulf him then his skin begins to melt away and his mouth opens wider than natural and a light emits from within his throat.
There's a flash of light as Wymeron's body explodes blinding you. During the flash of light you see Bahamut, Hazilegosa and Valeera each begin to transform into dragons. You feel an intense wave of heat as you vision goes white and everyone takes: 20 fire damage and 19 necrotic damage from the blast and you feel your bodies lifted off their feet. Your ears ring and you blink rapidly trying to see but only see darkness. You still feel a warm all around you and as you reach out your hands you feel hard walls that are smooth like stone or metal. After another few seconds a crack opens in the wall and your visions are flooded with light and golden reflections. Surrounding each pair of people is a gigantic golden dragon. The light floods in as they raise their wings above you and slide their tails out from around you. You now stand amongst seven ancient gold dragons that seem too large to comprehend and towering above them stands Bahamut the platinum dragon shimmering in the sunlight. "Is everyone alright?" Bahamut asks as he and the others all transform back into their previous forms. Six of the seven returning to golden canaries that circle around Bahamut's head then land 3 on each shoulder. "It appears Neltharion is just as mischievous and arrogant as before. I see now that his corruption has spread beyond what we thought him capable of..." he stops and stares at the spot of Wymeron's explosion and looks at a still glowing ember. You look closer and see that it is in fact a dark red crystal that pulses, similar but much smaller than the one you encountered in Phoax.
"Wy, Wy, Wy..." Jinara is at a loss for words. He just drops to his knees lost in his stare at the red crystal in the place of Wymeron's body.
Gaelin pats himself off and smells smoke then just stares at the beauty of the dragons. "All good, thanks to you all." Gaelin would tap his staff and cast Mass Cure Wounds on Iris, Cedany, Kelgos, the twins and Jinara.
healing: 29
"Be careful with that thing. The one we found in Phoax turned into the aspect of Neltharion." Aryn says preparing to draw her weapons just in case.
Mucor would wipe some of the charred and decaying flesh covering his arms after the flames and necrotic energy subsides. He would then mutter a few words in minotaur as he casts mass cure wounds. Green flames would dance from his fingertips for a moment before forming into a small green serpant that zips through the air and seemingly ignites the wounds of those nearby... and as the flames disappear, so do the wounds.
20 healing for Mucor, Aryn, torq, jinara, and gaelin.
You all see Mucor conjure a flaming green serpent that flashes and sends green flames across your bodies. You tense preparing for pain but feel the hot searing pain from the explosion begin to cool as the green flames suck out the heat and the black ashy patches of your skin start to turn pink and begin the healing process. Bahamut examines the crystal closer along with Varian who carefully begins ritual casting a spell you would recognize as Identify. During this 10 minutes you collect yourselves and look around at the charred remains of the table and realize that were it not for the dragons' intervention the blast could have been deadly. Davara walks casually over to Jinara and smiles, her features unblemished by the blast. "Come my child, let's have a chat." and motions for Hazilegosa and Bahamut to accompany her.
Jinara- You stroll awkwardly across the mountainside flanked by two gods and an ancient golden dragons for almost a minute before Davara breaks the silence. "Jinara, you probably have so many questions.... Hazilegosa, you may as well. I hope to give you both the answers you seek, but know that there are still things even we are not capable of. Ask, and we will endeavor to aid you to our ability." she says nodding to Bahamut who continues. "Seregos... Jinara, forgive me I am just learning of your new name. You were... you are one of the few who deserves more than the body Davara has given you. Your service to me throughout hundreds of years and especially during the war with Neltharion was invaluable. That is why I both allowed and requested Davara's aid in restoring your soul to life. Your wounds and the toll of the battle were great on your body and soul. It took us millennia to ensure you could safely return to the living in this new vessel."
Jinara, actively trying to maintain a sense of confidence and strength in the presence of every deity who has actively impacted his lives. It's daunting for Jinara but he finds the courage to speak "I am ok with either name. I know I am Seregos. I know I am Jinara. I am still Seregos in a way now that I have my memories back, but I am also Jinara. Each have their own characteristics, benefits and flaws that creates the entity you see before you. My draconic lineage brings power and strength, but it also brings rage and ferocity. My divine connection brings knowledge and access to a well of magic, but it creates a disparity in reaction compared proaction. What I do know is that it was your strength and purpose, Bahumat, that gave me pride and honor in fighting with you three all those many years ago. It was your faith and love, Mother, that gave me my strength as a dragon to enter the fight against Neltharion the first time. Davara, my lady, it is your vision of me that gives me the strength and knowledge to enter this fight a 2nd time. I am honored and reverent at the opportunity to be in your presence, much less the chance to discuss and strategize with you."
Jinara pauses but for a moment to allow this moment to sink in as a memory for all, then begins "During my time in this form, my life has been focused around 2 aspects; my lady and my family. One I knew, one I didn't. I found a family thru war, ironically enough, in the Lightbringers. We keep each other in check and support when support is needed. Mucor keeps us grounded with his connection to the land. Aryn & Torq keeps us spry in training and fighting prowess. Gaelin brings joy in song. We have even gained new family members. Iris keeps us sharp mentally. Cedany reassures what faith can do. Kelgos shows that change for the better is always possible. We are our strength, but that is not enough for Neltharion. His return is a mixed bag. The obvious of impending doom to the people of Eraas is bad. However, Neltharion's return has brought back family to several of us. Our research of Neltharion created an opportunity for Mucor to see his estranged family again. And I found my mother. As daunting and frightening as it is for his pending return, there has been a silver lining for several of us."
Jinara pauses again "Tying all of this to issue at hand, there are several questions that I have. The first question I have is how did you save my soul when I died? What did you use or sacrifice for my return? How did you figure out the pillars for banishment? The alexandrite crystal at the black tower was a massive gem and I have my doubts on us finding a rock of that size in the short term. We can start there and I can pose more questions in a bit."
"What's come over Jianra? Before he seemed so nervous and shy. Now he's walking with two gods and a huge dragon and is acting like he's at home. I suppose one is his mom but still seems strange right?" Aryn says to whoever is listening and looks over to Inara. "Have you seen him like this before?" she asks.
(I promise I haven't left you all. Financials week has been hectic and one of our accountants is in the ER for appendicitis so its all hands on deck. Will post tomorrow or later this evening. Can't wait for this part too. been dying to get to this point in the character arcs.)
Aryn- Iris looks over to JInara and says, "Only when he is focused on something. I think he cares a great deal for the individuals he is currently with... or at least two of them. It is a strange thing to behold such a scene and we are all fortunate to bear witness to it." she smiles and turns away to look at something else but you catch the slightest blush on her cheeks. Cedany steps forward and says, "I see now why you do this. To be in the audience of the gods is something I never thought possible outside of my death. Thank you for allowing me into your ranks."
Jinara- Bahamut nods and says, "Jinara it is. You sound like you have spent a great deal of time with the Elanaetas. They two see the balance in the midst of chaos." He listens as you ask your questions and thinks for a moment before Davara jumps in. "It is hard to put into words for a mortal. The simplest way I can explain it is that when a creature, who serves a deity willingly and fervently, their soul is... bound to the diety in way. When that creature dies their soul is protected by the diety and brought to the deity's plane to reside indefinitely. Bahamut and I's struggle was how to coordinate to restore the soul to the world of the living, and when. The only sacrifice made was that of time. Bahamut and I watched over the world of Eraas for years and it wasn't until we felt the growing power of Daegon that we chose to restore you to life. A sufficient time had passed for your soul to recover and the mortals needed a brave soul to protect them. So I crafted you from the earth and Bahamut relinquished your soul to this new shell." she says placing her warm hand gently on your shoulder. There's a strange tingling like built up energy to her touch as if you can feel the power emitting from her body.
Bahamut nods at this explanation and says, "I couldn't have said it better myself. The pillars were an emergency measure to safeguard the mortals scattered across the world. We didn't know Nelhtarion's true power until our first battle when the island of monsigneus exploded. We didn't know what devestation his death could cause so we decided on banishing him to shadowfell. There he would survive but hopefully never be able to return. Like most spells a focus or material component is required and destroyed. This is what gives spells their lack of duration. However, when you combine the natural effects of alexandrite with pure materials of a large size you can empower the spell beyond its natural limits. By scouring the world for pure crystals we were able to successfully empower them and seal a being as powerful as Neltharion away, but as you know the weakness of this tactic was that if the pillars were ever destroyed, it would dispel the banishment. That is why each was entrusted to a select group to guard so that even if one may be destroyed the others might still be safe. If you are considering the idea of creating more pillars it will not work. Once cast the spell was bound to only those four pillars. No replacement can be made."
"It is a sight to see for sure." Torq replies. With the uber powerful people further away he breathed a small sigh of relief and felt safe enough to speak. "He was just reunited with his mother, he's probably on cloud 9 right now."
"Thank Lord Bahamut. My demeanor is one derived from knowledge. I have my lady to thank for that" Jinara says as he glances at Davara (Who begins what you have above). He listens with intent to her description before responding "I do not know what to say. The respect and gratitude I have to be back is abundant."
(In response to Bahamut's explanation of the pillars)
"If the contingency of banishment is no longer an option for us, we will need some type of advantage of great power. Like we mentioned, his avatar almost felled us. It incapacitated me for nearly the entire fight. Are you three willing to fight with us and eradicate Neltharion once and for all? If not, we need something that enhances each of our unique abilities drastically." Jinara says with fervor. He pauses for just a moment before interrupting the silence realizing he is asking gods to fight with mortals and wants to avoid any awkwardness "Please forgive me, this discussion was not intended to ask for a handout, but to discuss a proactive strategy to battle Neltharion. Arrogance and pride describe his character. He has skill in utilizing shadows to his advantage. His breath does both fire and necrotic damage. If he were to return to this plane, where would he return? Near a pillar? where he was originally banished? Could he escape through an existing portal? Would it be possible to draw him towards a portal in order to set a trap?" Jinara continues to ramble as the nerve of being in their presence is weighing on him, but he knows he will never have an opportunity like this again.
Jinara- Bahamut stops and the group pauses now 3-400 feet away from the rest of the group. "You speak as if his return is a certainty. Are you suggesting we destroy the other pillars to guarantee his return but on our own time and plan? I can see the wisdom and bravery in that but also the foolishness. We still do not know the depth of Neltharion's power or whence it comes. As long as there are two pillars still remaining we should continue to search for the source of his power. The second pillar was not destroyed for thousands of years. Who's to say the third or fourth will not last just as long." He pauses thinking over his next words. "Do not think I am disowning your idea. It hold much merit, but when dealing with a power such as this, strategies and plans can all go up in smoke in seconds. If we were to destroy the pillars Neltharion would reappear back above the remains of monsigneus. I believe it's referred to as the middle islands now. Before the explosion they all were part of the giant island. The explosion left a massive crater that filled with water leaving behind the bits these dragonborn now inhabit. Neltharion would arrive either slightly below the water or in the sky above. It is hard to pinpoint the location since the land has eroded and the volcano has only recently sprouted above the water." Davara leans in and says, "It is something to consider. Something we have long thought over and forgotten thanks to the passage of time and many distractions. We do not know what the future holds, only how we can attempt to shape it..." she stops speaking and looks out across the sky to the east near the sun. Bahamut also turns and peers into the clear sky ahead. His voice changes growing long and more firm. "We must return to the others. Now. Be on your guard." You look in the same direction but can't see anything due to the blinding sun. You hear Varian shout to come over as the ten minutes required for his spell has ended. You walk quickly back to the group and your adrenaline is pumping.
Everyone- You see Varian complete his spell and he turns to Jinara's group and hollers for them to join you. You notice that they have already begun heading in your direction and rapidly approach. Bahamut opens his mouth to speak but Varian breaks in still looking at the crystal. "It appears to be a beacon of sorts. I'm not sure for what..." he pauses and notices the tense silence from bahamut. "You don't think..." "They are coming..." Bahamut replies his eyes flaring with energy. There's a sudden heat wave and time seems to slow as black dots emerge from the sunlight above and descend rapidly down. The air crackles with energy and you watch as Bahamut, the canaries, Hazilegosa and Valeera all transform into their dragon forms. The shimmering metallic scales cast dancing reflections along the ground and you see them all look up. You draw your weapons and gaze up into the sky and see three large dark figures of dragons descending rapidly. You squint and make out the green tint of a dragon, to the left a blue dragon and to the right a pale white dragon each gigantic in size. The three dragons split and circle above the collection of dragons who instinctively protect the mortals below them looking for an opening. The three dive in unison and each spraying their various breaths down onto the group.
Your vision is partially blocked by the giant form of the gold and platinum dragons who move closer in to protect you and feel a strange aura within the air. You watch as streaks of lightning slam into an invisible forcefield above your heads. You turn to see Davara holding up her hands with her eyes closed, ethereal white and gold wings splayed out from her back that glow with divine radiance. The icy cold white breath hits the field next and you see the forcefield shatter and feel the cold air but not pain. You look up just in time to see a descending green cloud of dense poison and begin to cough as it reaches your lungs. You feel the heat of the gold dragons breath as they each attempt to attack the flying dragons and see them impact the ancient chromatic dragons but they are each able to escape to the air. Unwilling to follow and leave you unprotected the metallic dragons crouch and prepare to defend for another assault. There's a tense moment of silence as the three circle above before the sky above becomes darker and you see an incredibly large dark red and black dragon descend from the sky. Closely resembling Neltharion in appearance the dragon hovers above you and calls out in a loud voice that does not match Neltharions. "Insects! How easily the lord of dragons is brought to the ground. Bow before the daughter of the Immortal Nightmare. My father's injustice will be avenged! Eraas will burn!" The voice resounds through your bodies and you see the dark dragon rear back its head and breath out a jet of dark red flame. The flames sear your skin but the dragons do what they can to shield you and as the smoke clears you watch as the dark dragon seemingly conjure a huge dark portal in the sky and the four dragons disappear. The entire attack lasts only a few seconds and you are left with the sight of Cedany and Iris lying unconscious on the ground.
Everyone make a DC 22 Con save! On fail you take: 92 poison damage, half on success.
Cedany: 14 Inara: 20 Iris: 12 Kelgos: 13 Varian: 22
Make a DC 24 Dex save with advantage or take: 96 fire damage, half on success.
Cedany: 17 Inara: 12 Iris: 20 Kelgos: 27 Varian: 16
(Dang!)
Con Save = 21
Dex Save = 15
Davara's Favor = 7 (added to Con Save making it a success)
And I am unconscious.....
(Geez!)
Aryn will not go down without a fight.
Con: 20
Dex: 19 (Evasion)
Hunter's mark, Action Surge and Sharpshooter attacks on the big red dragon with her bow.
Attacks: (1) 18 (2) 11 (3) 15 (4) 8
Damage: (1) 16 7 (2) 17 9 (3) 19 9 (4) 23 1
Well that escalated quickly? Were we at full health or still a little damaged? I know I healed some people but I assume many of us were not quite at full health.
Con save! 15
Dex save! 21 17
Mucor sees the poison coming and does little to resist at first. The moment it touches his skin, he is reminded that he is no longer immune to its effects as pain washes over. him. The pain coursing through is veins is forgotten however as flames engulf his body. his charred skin immediately blisters and peels as the elf collapses to the ground.
(What the what? I was 7 away from full.)
Con: 19 Dex: 11
Gaelin coughs from the poison and just catches a glimpse of the flames before the lights go out.