The members of your party have been friends and worked together as adventurers for over a decade now. All born or raised in Cormyr, your families are scattered around the area in the various cities or towns surrounding the capital of Suzail. While your adventuring band is not strictly dedicated to Cormyr as heroes, you always find your way back, and have been at beck and call when the need arises.
Having done many deeds for the betterment of Cormyr, King Foril Obarskyr and his Queen Jemra are quite fond of your group, inviting you to many official gatherings and feasts at the castle and your group has become quite loved by the peoples of the nation for your acts of heroism.
Recently after coming back from an adventure that took you far north to the city of Luskan, you barely had more than a few days rest before the king had called you before him, telling you that your group’s strength was needed. From the intel that was received a lich in the service of Szass Tam by the name of Kor’Zakal had fled Thay taking a small portion of the Legion of Bone with him months ago. They had teleported away and disappeared, taking care to hide from even magical divination up to this point. Suspicion began to arise to the west of Cormyr when certain folk from the towns and villages nearby began to go missing.
After another group of heroes, The Iron Dragons, had gone to check on the area, word had been sent regarding Fort Helm to the west. The once home of soldiers in service to the god Helm had declined and been abandoned many years ago, but had thought to have been reclaimed and renewed again. The fort was infiltrated by one of The Iron Dragon’s members and was almost caught making his escape. The group managed to get away and remain undetected, but Fort Helm is currently on high alert.
Three groups of heroes in total have been put into the field currently as intel has reported there are innocents being held below the fort in the dungeon. The Iron Dragons are already nearby the fort and your group is being sent along with another by the name of The Elite Hammers. You were quickly introduced to the members of the group and provisioned before setting out to the west. That was several days ago, and you are currently a day away from Fort Helm as you break for the night and make camp to get some rest before the fight to come.
The Elite Hammers - Race, gender, weapons and armor from what you have seen since you met them.
Aden Dendar - Human male - warhammer and shield - plate armor Selga Rockcreeper - Half orc female - mace and shield with unicorn head symbol - hide armor with floral designs Kimi Rindehk - Human female - warhammer and shield emblazoned with a white cloud with a blue background - plate armor with the same symbols on the shoulders Yuriel Ki-amar - Human male with light blue skin and blueish grey hair - intricately carved staff with the symbol of a man with long flowing hair walking in the clouds- robes Abil Stask - Human male - Lyre in hand, light crossbow on his back - studded leather armor
Lia takes time to brush down the dark chocolate-colored mare she was riding. The horse is her favored mount, a sturdy riding horse that has served her good during the group's recent campaigns. After brushing the horse down, and tethering it to the picket line with the others, she moves back towards the group around the campfire (assuming we have one.)
Lia is a dazzlingly beautiful half-elf female. Her white-blond hair flutters in the slightest breeze, and her emerald eyes seem to drink in whatever they gaze upon. She has coppery skin and is slender for a human, but a bit curvy for an elf. She currently wears a tunic that goes down to her calves, which is belted at the waist. On one hip she has a dagger, and the other her crossbow. A rune-carved staff is near-at-hand always.
Also, not far away from Lia at any point, is Emma. Emma is an exact duplicate of Lia, only without the staff. She wears a tunic of the same style and length. She does carry a staff, but, to those who know what to look for, the staff is clearly just a normal quarterstaff with runes carved into it. It has no power of its own at all.
"So how far to Fort Helm from here?" Lia asks the group as she and Emma take a seat nearby.
Arriving at the campsite Hrothgar will put down his bag and speak to the group first responding to Lia. I believe we should reach it tomorrow, we are not far now.Lia, make sure you set an Alarm before we bed down. I dont want any surprises during the night. Looking around a moment at the others as well. We could be fighting the lich or his armies tomorrow, make sure you prepare for undead.
Hrothgar looks to see the other group settle in the camp. Without looking to the others he will say as he starts walking off Ill be back shortly to discus anything that is needed.
As he walks off the group sees his familiar shield placed on his back for easy carrying. A shield adorned with the carvings of a griffons head displayed as the moonlight highlights the outline of it. Anyone that knows of Hrothgar would recognize this shield as it is one of a kind. The rest of his armor mostly generic grey steel with red decorations on the edges but nothing that truly stands out. On his belt a few smaller bags are shown next to his sword sheathed on his side bouncing around a bit as he takes each step towards the other group.
A firm expression stands on his face. Still unshaven and starting to form a beard, not having had the time to clean up after the last mission. His hair short and like his beard dark brown.
Greetings he says as he reaches the others. He bows his head slightly in respect. He will address their spokesperson/leader if he knows who that is, otherwise will speak to them in general. I hope we reach the Iron Dragons tomorrow. The lich Kor’Zakal might have found them by now. Our first priority should be to locate the Iron Dragons and secure their safety. They might also have valuable information on how to get past the keeps defenses. We should work together on this to minimize casualties.
Zogar mindlessly hammers away at an anvil near the magically enchanted fire he's using as a forge. To a casual observer it would appear that he's preparing to reshoe his horses, and he is, but in truth he's using this time to relax his mind, meditate and to ponder the mysteries of his diety, Mythrien Sarath.
The rest of the group is used to this. The clinking of his hammer is their proof that Zogar is still alive and well and it comforts them knowing he'll be there when things get serious on the morrow. They also know that while he appears to be tuned out, he's hearing everything that is said and is aware of everything going on around him, though it would take a crisis to break him from his near trance.
Standing 6' 2" and a well put together 210 lbs, Zogar has the pale complexion that most would take for human. In truth his father is an orc. While his twin brother more closely resembles the stereotypical "half-orc" look, Zogar was favored with the softer features of his late mother. A look he's worked hard to enhance, trimming down the elongated orcish teeth and grooming and dressing himself in as human a fashion as possible.
For now he hammers away, at peace with his environment and with the few that he's ever called friend. What tomorrow will bring, who can say, but for today he would consider himself happy.
Aerdeth slides off his own horse, following Hrothgar over to the Hammers. Wheras Hrothgar is hale, and solid of build, Aerdeth is slender, almost impossibly so. Hrothgar is growing bearded and hairy, but Aerdeth's scalp and face show no growth. Hrothgar is encased in grey plate armor (mithral or not), wheras Aerdeth is wrapped in black half-plate that fits him almost like boiled leather, rising into an exaggerated gorget on his left side. Hrothgar was very much the picture of a true knight - it was why the party usually let him talk to their contacts.
Likewise, anyone looking between Aerdeth and Lia would find it hard to believe they were both the children of elves. She was tanned where he was pallid. She had a healthy figure, he was gaunt. Her eyes, a brilliant emerald, his a tar-black. He had let his gaze linger once or twice while they travelled together, but he told himself that was her magic at work. It didn't help that she had an identical 'sister' to avoid, too.
He doesn't speak up as Hrothgar addresses the Elite Hammers. His thoughts are occupied. A lich was a fearsome foe, and the Raven Queen would be pleased - as pleased as she ever was, anyway - to put an end to such undead perversion. He knew his magic would be hampered, but perhaps his bow would serve him well. If the Iron Dragons were captured, though, he was not optimistic about their fate.
Hastings rides a horse that is obviously of good breeding, looking like one a knight if no little standing would ride. Desipte the fact he is by no means a knight like his father and elder brother, he does ride with the skill of one. "Of all the things that we could fight it just had to be a lich. I can handle dragons and demons with a smile on my face but undead... Those blighted things make a shiver go from the tips of my toes to the top of my head."
Hastings is of average height for a man of his build, standing just over 6ft with a athletic yet with build. Despite having scars due to his years of adventuring they do not detract from his appearance as he always makes sure that he is clear of dirt even when others may be covered in it. His clothes are of good quality as is befitting of the Scion of a noble house, even his common studded leather armor made of a good material.
On his belt he wears a fine looking rapier that has a hilt of custom make to fit his own hand with an old but we made dagger on his other hip. The most stunning item he wears is the golden either ring of his family, a large jet black gem stone embedded in the middle. He keeps his hair at shoulder length and wears a nearly trimmed goatee.
As they ride he looks over the rest of his group and nods. Since they had begun adventuring of his return from his own solo journeys they had slowly regained his families favor with the king. Perhaps with this next quest under his he would be able to form a branch house of the Dirgeblade name so that his son children if and when he settled down to have some would still be among the nobility. He shook such thought from his mind though and blamed it on the musings of a man that was slowly moving out of his last vestiges of truly being a youth.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(OOC: If we're one day from "the fight", Zogar will prepare a Heroes' Feast. If combat isn't a certainty for tomorrow, he'd wait as it's prohibitively expensive. It wasn't immediately clear from the description.)
Heroes' Feast
You bring forth a great feast, including magnificent food and drink. The feast takes 1 hour to consume and disappears at the end of that time, and the beneficial effects don't set in until this hour is over. Up to twelve creatures can partake of the feast.
A creature that partakes of the feast gains several benefits. The creature is cured of all diseases and poison, becomes immune to poison and being frightened, and makes all Wisdom saving throws with advantage. Its hit point maximum also increases by 2d10, and it gains the same number of hit points. These benefits last for 24 hours.
Max HP Increase for 24 hours: 6
(Note that these are NOT temp HP)
The Elite Hammers would be invited to send personnel to join us up to the 12 spot limit of the spell.
"When everyone is ready Emma will create a tiny hut for us. Lia informs the group. this would be normal practice for the group, so they would know to gather together before night guard duty started, so that the spell could be cast with them all inside of it. Emma would be doing the casting, so that Lia herself would be free to enter and leave the hut as she wishes.
"Before the hut is created Emma and I will lay down some alarm areas around the campsite." Lia confirms, business as usual after all.
Hrothgar & Aerdeth: The members of The Elite Hammers turn as you approach and Aden steps forward, "Agreed, The Iron Dragons are a noble and hearty bunch, and I wish nothing but safety for them in this dark hour. This creature that fouls the area must be put down like a rabid dog." Kimi walks up to Aden's side to place her hand gently on his shoulder and you see tiny static electric bolts arc from her finger to the metal, "Edward will be fine my love, he's as much wizard as he is fighter these days and he uses it to great effect." She gives you both a smile and a nod before walking over to the feast that Zogar has created. Aden watches her walk away, his stern face taking on a quick smile before turning back to slight worry. "My brother Edward is leader of The Iron Dragons. He is a very capable warrior, but we always worry about the other out in the field."
Zogar: As you are working at your makeshift forge, you see Selga greet Hrothgar and Aerdeth before walking over to observe your work. "I almost didn't recognize your heritage at first, you surely take after your human parent... I wish I looked more like my father." Her orcish features are more prominent than yours, though she is definitely attractive, in a wild animal sort of way. Her face quickly takes on a look as if she wonders if she might have just said something offensive and she follows up with, "Not that I don't like my orc heritage, I just miss my father, he was a good man." She points to the fire where you were hammering, "What are you making?" She says with a genuine smile, her fangs poking slightly above her bottom lip.
Lia & Emma: Shortly after you sit down Abil comes over and sits nearby, strumming on his lyre and humming lightly to himself. "I heard you ask how far away we were. We should be close enough to signal The Iron Dragons by noon tomorrow if we head out early enough." He smiles and looks back and forth between you and Emma. "I honestly don't think I've ever met twins before."
Hastings:"You look like a man with many things on his mind." Lost in your thoughts, you didn't notice Yuriel step up to address you. "Do not mind me friend, just looking to get familiar with our new allies. I have heard of your group many times over the years. It is very nice to know there are so many heroes out there working to make the world safe. I am glad that we can finally work together to do so this time."
Zogar tries to smile kindly at Selga, but it ends up coming out awkwardly. He starts mumbling something indecipherable under his breath, then realizes that a human would consider this to be rude. "I'm just shoeing the horses for tomorrow. Can't have someone getting thrown in battle. But please, come eat."
He puts down his tongs and hammer and shows his guest to the feast.
"I'm afraid I have no talent for divination, so I won't speak empty platitudes about your brother and his men," Aerdeth states simply, but softly. His emotions were mixed. He understood Aden's concern, and he too hoped the Dragons were still alive. Yet he knew that his Queen would benefit from a tragedy. She always did. Grief and fear were among the strongest emotions a living thing could feel, and his Queen would drink in it like a parched field in a spring rain.
Or would the cause taint the essence? Would she refuse the experience, spit out the memory because of the lich's corruption? He could not know. He could only do what he thought was right, and trust that she would continue to act through him and empower him in such endeavors.
"Our odds are good, though. If the Dragons indeed crossed paths with this abomination, it must be weakened. Our reinforcement will be it's doom. But, we should eat. Zogar's feast loses its potency when it grows cold, and I am a slow eater."
Aerdeth waves towards the others in invitation before going to take his place at the table.
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Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Hrothgar nods at Aerdeth's words, knowing him well enough to know his feelings about the matter are like a scale, easily tipping to his Queens desires but always having faith that Aerdeth would do the right thing.
As Aden follows the invitation of Aerdeth Hrothgar walks with Aden putting a hand on his shoulder in comfort Worry not, we will do what is in our power to aid them. Untill then you must trust that his experience will keep him safe, as i am sure it has in the past.
Before going to eat he will walk over to his warhorse speaking to him while taking some food out for him to eat before he goes to eat himself. Another adventure Argento (warhorse). He places his hand on the horses armor which covers its back and chest completely. Only displaying his muscular legs. Hrothgar removes the headpiece protecting the top of the horse's head so Argento is more comfortable. A brown horse with manes black as night. Like the other horses at ease with loud noises such as Zogars hammering. Used to the sounds of battle.
Before going to eat he will make sure all the horses are being fed and his group is at the fire. He will be the last to sit down and eat.
While they eat Hrothgar would not say much as he is content seeing his group eat in safety and in the presence of another capable group. As he enjoys Zogar's feast he will look over to Zogar to catch his eye and hold up a piece of food saying with a smile Your food is wonderfull as always. His smile as best he can to keep the group from having worries and keep morale up. When the eyes of the group are no longer on Hrothgar he drops his smile and continues eating as his mind wanders to the upcoming days. Worried of what they might bring and the choices they would have to make.
"Oh, it is not like you don't know we aren't twins." Lia says with a chuckle. "The whole country knows Emma's not-so-secret secret. She is a construct I created to aid us in our journeys." Lia lays a hand on Emma's shoulder as she speaks. "Not like I could just suddenly acquire a twin without it becoming newsworthy across the country after all." She shrugs then.
"We do consider ourselves sisters, of a sort though." Emma speaks up, the two women sharing a smile then.
"Ready for some food?" Lia asks,nodding to where the food is ready. "Best be prepared for tomorrow after all..."
"Ready to eat?" Emma asks then, nodding towards wehre the food is prepared.
Hastings turn to the one that had addressed him, nodding as he moves his hand aways from the hilt of his dagger as his surprise lessens. "As I have heard some talk of your own deeds. But rest assured all the talk does not do myself or my companions quite enough justice." He says with a small chuckle escaping before his face turns serious once more. "But enough jests I to look forward to working with you and your own company as well. With our combined efforts we should have no problem sending this lich to whatever abyss awaits it."
Lia/Emma: Abil gives you a sheepish grin, "Ofcourse not, but I wanted to be considerate just in case you had that mindset. My grandfather was a wizard of considerable power, and after he retired from the adventuring life, he created himself a companion like this. Considered it family in his last days." He gives you a sad smile, nods at your invitation and turns towards the food.
The Elite Hammers only have five members so the feast will cover everyone.
Zogar - 11 <-- I'll let you keep your 9 if this isn't higher. :) Lia - 16 Emma - 12 Hrothgar - 11 Hastings - 13 Aerdeth - 10
You feast and drink, talking cheerfully, knowing that tomorrow could only bring horrors to you and those you call friends. After which, everyone beds down for the night. Everyone sleeps well under the effects of the feast despite the tension you felt earlier in the night. Morning comes early, and it is still dark when everyone rises to pack up and get prepared to get on the road again.
You ride through the morning until you reach the city of Proskur, heading to the temple of Tempus, the designated meeting place with The Iron Dragons. After waiting for an hour after you arrive, a male Halfling appears out of the shadows, "Aden! You and your companions are a sight for sore eyes."
Aden turns to see the halfling, then rushes forward to embrace the small man, "Ferik, thank the gods you are alright! How is my brother and the others?"
Ferik, apparently weary, looks for a place to sit for a moment then remembers this particular temple's holy warriors view standing and cheering during their services to be preferable to sitting around just listening and just got rid of the benches all together. He backs up to one of the walls and slides down it to sit on the floor for a bit of rest. "They are well, we managed to hole up in a cave not far from Fort Helm to keep reconnaissance up. Everyone is safe at the moment, but this place is really bad. Lots of undead. You could walk right up to it and it looks good with people walking around happy and carefree, but once I got inside... the sickness and death hanging in the air is almost overwhelming. There is definitely some magic keeping all the bad mojo inside. Tezi has been constantly trying to get some magical sight inside for everyone to see, but the whole place is on lock-down."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Hrothgar steadies his horse as the small man makes himself known. Since he seems to know Aden Hrothgar will remain on his horse. Walking slowly to make sure Aden and Ferik are in the mids of their company. He keeps his eyes on the surroundings barely looking at the halfling in case he was followed.
(perception to see if anything else is visible in the streets and to see if Proskur looks like it was attacked recently 24)
Trusting his group will also keep an eye out he turns towards the halfling having heard their conversation. Well met, I am Hrothgar of the Mithral Blades. Do you know why the lich is here? Is there anything in the keep or the area that would of lured him here?
Hastings keeps a tight grip on the reigns of his horse, running a hand along its neck to keep it calm as they come upon the halfling. He listens closely to what is said, making mental notes on the important details. Once they get close enough he will slide down from the saddle and begin to walk his mount.
"Perhaps it would also be wise to know what type of creatures does this lich have on its service? I do not think such a thing would be the only threat."
Zogar sits atop his steed calmly while formalities are handled by those with more tact.
(OOC: This is a good time to put it in writing in the thread. Zogar habitually applies Blessing of the Forge to his mace after every long rest. His armor being magical, he can only apply this to his weapon.)
Blessing of the Forge (Special)
At the end of a long rest, you can imbue magic into a weapon or armor by touching a nonmagical version. Until your next long rest or you die, the object grants a +1 bonus to either AC or attack and damage rolls. You can't use this feature again until you finish a long rest
Lia slips gracefully out of her saddle and tosses the reigns to Emma. Emma, astride her phantom steed, summoned for her to ride, catches it easily. Moving over to where the hafling is sitting, she kneels down and nods to him.
"Well met." She says with a friendly smile. "You have been inside the place then... if so, what are we looking at for defenses and other threats? Anything you can tell us might aid in our finding out how to deal with this threat..."
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Tarshak 16th 1450 DR, The Year of Holy Thunder
The members of your party have been friends and worked together as adventurers for over a decade now. All born or raised in Cormyr, your families are scattered around the area in the various cities or towns surrounding the capital of Suzail. While your adventuring band is not strictly dedicated to Cormyr as heroes, you always find your way back, and have been at beck and call when the need arises.
Having done many deeds for the betterment of Cormyr, King Foril Obarskyr and his Queen Jemra are quite fond of your group, inviting you to many official gatherings and feasts at the castle and your group has become quite loved by the peoples of the nation for your acts of heroism.
Recently after coming back from an adventure that took you far north to the city of Luskan, you barely had more than a few days rest before the king had called you before him, telling you that your group’s strength was needed. From the intel that was received a lich in the service of Szass Tam by the name of Kor’Zakal had fled Thay taking a small portion of the Legion of Bone with him months ago. They had teleported away and disappeared, taking care to hide from even magical divination up to this point. Suspicion began to arise to the west of Cormyr when certain folk from the towns and villages nearby began to go missing.
After another group of heroes, The Iron Dragons, had gone to check on the area, word had been sent regarding Fort Helm to the west. The once home of soldiers in service to the god Helm had declined and been abandoned many years ago, but had thought to have been reclaimed and renewed again. The fort was infiltrated by one of The Iron Dragon’s members and was almost caught making his escape. The group managed to get away and remain undetected, but Fort Helm is currently on high alert.
Three groups of heroes in total have been put into the field currently as intel has reported there are innocents being held below the fort in the dungeon. The Iron Dragons are already nearby the fort and your group is being sent along with another by the name of The Elite Hammers. You were quickly introduced to the members of the group and provisioned before setting out to the west. That was several days ago, and you are currently a day away from Fort Helm as you break for the night and make camp to get some rest before the fight to come.
Aden Dendar - Human male - warhammer and shield - plate armor
Selga Rockcreeper - Half orc female - mace and shield with unicorn head symbol - hide armor with floral designs
Kimi Rindehk - Human female - warhammer and shield emblazoned with a white cloud with a blue background - plate armor with the same symbols on the shoulders
Yuriel Ki-amar - Human male with light blue skin and blueish grey hair - intricately carved staff with the symbol of a man with long flowing hair walking in the clouds- robes
Abil Stask - Human male - Lyre in hand, light crossbow on his back - studded leather armor
Lia takes time to brush down the dark chocolate-colored mare she was riding. The horse is her favored mount, a sturdy riding horse that has served her good during the group's recent campaigns. After brushing the horse down, and tethering it to the picket line with the others, she moves back towards the group around the campfire (assuming we have one.)
Lia is a dazzlingly beautiful half-elf female. Her white-blond hair flutters in the slightest breeze, and her emerald eyes seem to drink in whatever they gaze upon. She has coppery skin and is slender for a human, but a bit curvy for an elf. She currently wears a tunic that goes down to her calves, which is belted at the waist. On one hip she has a dagger, and the other her crossbow. A rune-carved staff is near-at-hand always.
Also, not far away from Lia at any point, is Emma. Emma is an exact duplicate of Lia, only without the staff. She wears a tunic of the same style and length. She does carry a staff, but, to those who know what to look for, the staff is clearly just a normal quarterstaff with runes carved into it. It has no power of its own at all.
"So how far to Fort Helm from here?" Lia asks the group as she and Emma take a seat nearby.
Arriving at the campsite Hrothgar will put down his bag and speak to the group first responding to Lia. I believe we should reach it tomorrow, we are not far now. Lia, make sure you set an Alarm before we bed down. I dont want any surprises during the night. Looking around a moment at the others as well. We could be fighting the lich or his armies tomorrow, make sure you prepare for undead.
Hrothgar looks to see the other group settle in the camp. Without looking to the others he will say as he starts walking off Ill be back shortly to discus anything that is needed.
As he walks off the group sees his familiar shield placed on his back for easy carrying. A shield adorned with the carvings of a griffons head displayed as the moonlight highlights the outline of it. Anyone that knows of Hrothgar would recognize this shield as it is one of a kind. The rest of his armor mostly generic grey steel with red decorations on the edges but nothing that truly stands out. On his belt a few smaller bags are shown next to his sword sheathed on his side bouncing around a bit as he takes each step towards the other group.
A firm expression stands on his face. Still unshaven and starting to form a beard, not having had the time to clean up after the last mission. His hair short and like his beard dark brown.
Greetings he says as he reaches the others. He bows his head slightly in respect. He will address their spokesperson/leader if he knows who that is, otherwise will speak to them in general.
I hope we reach the Iron Dragons tomorrow. The lich Kor’Zakal might have found them by now. Our first priority should be to locate the Iron Dragons and secure their safety. They might also have valuable information on how to get past the keeps defenses. We should work together on this to minimize casualties.
Zogar mindlessly hammers away at an anvil near the magically enchanted fire he's using as a forge. To a casual observer it would appear that he's preparing to reshoe his horses, and he is, but in truth he's using this time to relax his mind, meditate and to ponder the mysteries of his diety, Mythrien Sarath.
The rest of the group is used to this. The clinking of his hammer is their proof that Zogar is still alive and well and it comforts them knowing he'll be there when things get serious on the morrow. They also know that while he appears to be tuned out, he's hearing everything that is said and is aware of everything going on around him, though it would take a crisis to break him from his near trance.
Standing 6' 2" and a well put together 210 lbs, Zogar has the pale complexion that most would take for human. In truth his father is an orc. While his twin brother more closely resembles the stereotypical "half-orc" look, Zogar was favored with the softer features of his late mother. A look he's worked hard to enhance, trimming down the elongated orcish teeth and grooming and dressing himself in as human a fashion as possible.
For now he hammers away, at peace with his environment and with the few that he's ever called friend. What tomorrow will bring, who can say, but for today he would consider himself happy.
"I don't know, Lia. Perhaps a day away now?"
Aerdeth slides off his own horse, following Hrothgar over to the Hammers. Wheras Hrothgar is hale, and solid of build, Aerdeth is slender, almost impossibly so. Hrothgar is growing bearded and hairy, but Aerdeth's scalp and face show no growth. Hrothgar is encased in grey plate armor (mithral or not), wheras Aerdeth is wrapped in black half-plate that fits him almost like boiled leather, rising into an exaggerated gorget on his left side. Hrothgar was very much the picture of a true knight - it was why the party usually let him talk to their contacts.
Likewise, anyone looking between Aerdeth and Lia would find it hard to believe they were both the children of elves. She was tanned where he was pallid. She had a healthy figure, he was gaunt. Her eyes, a brilliant emerald, his a tar-black. He had let his gaze linger once or twice while they travelled together, but he told himself that was her magic at work. It didn't help that she had an identical 'sister' to avoid, too.
He doesn't speak up as Hrothgar addresses the Elite Hammers. His thoughts are occupied. A lich was a fearsome foe, and the Raven Queen would be pleased - as pleased as she ever was, anyway - to put an end to such undead perversion. He knew his magic would be hampered, but perhaps his bow would serve him well. If the Iron Dragons were captured, though, he was not optimistic about their fate.
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Hastings rides a horse that is obviously of good breeding, looking like one a knight if no little standing would ride. Desipte the fact he is by no means a knight like his father and elder brother, he does ride with the skill of one. "Of all the things that we could fight it just had to be a lich. I can handle dragons and demons with a smile on my face but undead... Those blighted things make a shiver go from the tips of my toes to the top of my head."
Hastings is of average height for a man of his build, standing just over 6ft with a athletic yet with build. Despite having scars due to his years of adventuring they do not detract from his appearance as he always makes sure that he is clear of dirt even when others may be covered in it. His clothes are of good quality as is befitting of the Scion of a noble house, even his common studded leather armor made of a good material.
On his belt he wears a fine looking rapier that has a hilt of custom make to fit his own hand with an old but we made dagger on his other hip. The most stunning item he wears is the golden either ring of his family, a large jet black gem stone embedded in the middle. He keeps his hair at shoulder length and wears a nearly trimmed goatee.
As they ride he looks over the rest of his group and nods. Since they had begun adventuring of his return from his own solo journeys they had slowly regained his families favor with the king. Perhaps with this next quest under his he would be able to form a branch house of the Dirgeblade name so that his son children if and when he settled down to have some would still be among the nobility. He shook such thought from his mind though and blamed it on the musings of a man that was slowly moving out of his last vestiges of truly being a youth.
(OOC: If we're one day from "the fight", Zogar will prepare a Heroes' Feast. If combat isn't a certainty for tomorrow, he'd wait as it's prohibitively expensive. It wasn't immediately clear from the description.)
Max HP Increase for 24 hours: 6
(Note that these are NOT temp HP)
The Elite Hammers would be invited to send personnel to join us up to the 12 spot limit of the spell.
"When everyone is ready Emma will create a tiny hut for us. Lia informs the group. this would be normal practice for the group, so they would know to gather together before night guard duty started, so that the spell could be cast with them all inside of it. Emma would be doing the casting, so that Lia herself would be free to enter and leave the hut as she wishes.
"Before the hut is created Emma and I will lay down some alarm areas around the campsite." Lia confirms, business as usual after all.
Hrothgar & Aerdeth: The members of The Elite Hammers turn as you approach and Aden steps forward, "Agreed, The Iron Dragons are a noble and hearty bunch, and I wish nothing but safety for them in this dark hour. This creature that fouls the area must be put down like a rabid dog."
Kimi walks up to Aden's side to place her hand gently on his shoulder and you see tiny static electric bolts arc from her finger to the metal, "Edward will be fine my love, he's as much wizard as he is fighter these days and he uses it to great effect." She gives you both a smile and a nod before walking over to the feast that Zogar has created. Aden watches her walk away, his stern face taking on a quick smile before turning back to slight worry. "My brother Edward is leader of The Iron Dragons. He is a very capable warrior, but we always worry about the other out in the field."
Zogar: As you are working at your makeshift forge, you see Selga greet Hrothgar and Aerdeth before walking over to observe your work. "I almost didn't recognize your heritage at first, you surely take after your human parent... I wish I looked more like my father." Her orcish features are more prominent than yours, though she is definitely attractive, in a wild animal sort of way. Her face quickly takes on a look as if she wonders if she might have just said something offensive and she follows up with, "Not that I don't like my orc heritage, I just miss my father, he was a good man." She points to the fire where you were hammering, "What are you making?" She says with a genuine smile, her fangs poking slightly above her bottom lip.
Lia & Emma: Shortly after you sit down Abil comes over and sits nearby, strumming on his lyre and humming lightly to himself. "I heard you ask how far away we were. We should be close enough to signal The Iron Dragons by noon tomorrow if we head out early enough." He smiles and looks back and forth between you and Emma. "I honestly don't think I've ever met twins before."
Hastings: "You look like a man with many things on his mind." Lost in your thoughts, you didn't notice Yuriel step up to address you. "Do not mind me friend, just looking to get familiar with our new allies. I have heard of your group many times over the years. It is very nice to know there are so many heroes out there working to make the world safe. I am glad that we can finally work together to do so this time."
Zogar tries to smile kindly at Selga, but it ends up coming out awkwardly. He starts mumbling something indecipherable under his breath, then realizes that a human would consider this to be rude. "I'm just shoeing the horses for tomorrow. Can't have someone getting thrown in battle. But please, come eat."
He puts down his tongs and hammer and shows his guest to the feast.
"I'm afraid I have no talent for divination, so I won't speak empty platitudes about your brother and his men," Aerdeth states simply, but softly. His emotions were mixed. He understood Aden's concern, and he too hoped the Dragons were still alive. Yet he knew that his Queen would benefit from a tragedy. She always did. Grief and fear were among the strongest emotions a living thing could feel, and his Queen would drink in it like a parched field in a spring rain.
Or would the cause taint the essence? Would she refuse the experience, spit out the memory because of the lich's corruption? He could not know. He could only do what he thought was right, and trust that she would continue to act through him and empower him in such endeavors.
"Our odds are good, though. If the Dragons indeed crossed paths with this abomination, it must be weakened. Our reinforcement will be it's doom. But, we should eat. Zogar's feast loses its potency when it grows cold, and I am a slow eater."
Aerdeth waves towards the others in invitation before going to take his place at the table.
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Hrothgar nods at Aerdeth's words, knowing him well enough to know his feelings about the matter are like a scale, easily tipping to his Queens desires but always having faith that Aerdeth would do the right thing.
As Aden follows the invitation of Aerdeth Hrothgar walks with Aden putting a hand on his shoulder in comfort Worry not, we will do what is in our power to aid them. Untill then you must trust that his experience will keep him safe, as i am sure it has in the past.
Before going to eat he will walk over to his warhorse speaking to him while taking some food out for him to eat before he goes to eat himself. Another adventure Argento (warhorse). He places his hand on the horses armor which covers its back and chest completely. Only displaying his muscular legs. Hrothgar removes the headpiece protecting the top of the horse's head so Argento is more comfortable. A brown horse with manes black as night. Like the other horses at ease with loud noises such as Zogars hammering. Used to the sounds of battle.
Before going to eat he will make sure all the horses are being fed and his group is at the fire. He will be the last to sit down and eat.
While they eat Hrothgar would not say much as he is content seeing his group eat in safety and in the presence of another capable group. As he enjoys Zogar's feast he will look over to Zogar to catch his eye and hold up a piece of food saying with a smile Your food is wonderfull as always. His smile as best he can to keep the group from having worries and keep morale up. When the eyes of the group are no longer on Hrothgar he drops his smile and continues eating as his mind wanders to the upcoming days. Worried of what they might bring and the choices they would have to make.
"Oh, it is not like you don't know we aren't twins." Lia says with a chuckle. "The whole country knows Emma's not-so-secret secret. She is a construct I created to aid us in our journeys." Lia lays a hand on Emma's shoulder as she speaks. "Not like I could just suddenly acquire a twin without it becoming newsworthy across the country after all." She shrugs then.
"We do consider ourselves sisters, of a sort though." Emma speaks up, the two women sharing a smile then.
"Ready for some food?" Lia asks,nodding to where the food is ready. "Best be prepared for tomorrow after all..."
"Ready to eat?" Emma asks then, nodding towards wehre the food is prepared.
Hastings turn to the one that had addressed him, nodding as he moves his hand aways from the hilt of his dagger as his surprise lessens. "As I have heard some talk of your own deeds. But rest assured all the talk does not do myself or my companions quite enough justice." He says with a small chuckle escaping before his face turns serious once more. "But enough jests I to look forward to working with you and your own company as well. With our combined efforts we should have no problem sending this lich to whatever abyss awaits it."
Tarshak 17th 1450 DR, The Year of Holy Thunder
Lia/Emma: Abil gives you a sheepish grin, "Ofcourse not, but I wanted to be considerate just in case you had that mindset. My grandfather was a wizard of considerable power, and after he retired from the adventuring life, he created himself a companion like this. Considered it family in his last days." He gives you a sad smile, nods at your invitation and turns towards the food.
The Elite Hammers only have five members so the feast will cover everyone.
Zogar - 11 <-- I'll let you keep your 9 if this isn't higher. :)
Lia - 16
Emma - 12
Hrothgar - 11
Hastings - 13
Aerdeth - 10
You feast and drink, talking cheerfully, knowing that tomorrow could only bring horrors to you and those you call friends. After which, everyone beds down for the night. Everyone sleeps well under the effects of the feast despite the tension you felt earlier in the night. Morning comes early, and it is still dark when everyone rises to pack up and get prepared to get on the road again.
You ride through the morning until you reach the city of Proskur, heading to the temple of Tempus, the designated meeting place with The Iron Dragons. After waiting for an hour after you arrive, a male Halfling appears out of the shadows, "Aden! You and your companions are a sight for sore eyes."
Aden turns to see the halfling, then rushes forward to embrace the small man, "Ferik, thank the gods you are alright! How is my brother and the others?"
Ferik, apparently weary, looks for a place to sit for a moment then remembers this particular temple's holy warriors view standing and cheering during their services to be preferable to sitting around just listening and just got rid of the benches all together. He backs up to one of the walls and slides down it to sit on the floor for a bit of rest. "They are well, we managed to hole up in a cave not far from Fort Helm to keep reconnaissance up. Everyone is safe at the moment, but this place is really bad. Lots of undead. You could walk right up to it and it looks good with people walking around happy and carefree, but once I got inside... the sickness and death hanging in the air is almost overwhelming. There is definitely some magic keeping all the bad mojo inside. Tezi has been constantly trying to get some magical sight inside for everyone to see, but the whole place is on lock-down."
Hrothgar steadies his horse as the small man makes himself known. Since he seems to know Aden Hrothgar will remain on his horse. Walking slowly to make sure Aden and Ferik are in the mids of their company. He keeps his eyes on the surroundings barely looking at the halfling in case he was followed.
(perception to see if anything else is visible in the streets and to see if Proskur looks like it was attacked recently 24)
Trusting his group will also keep an eye out he turns towards the halfling having heard their conversation. Well met, I am Hrothgar of the Mithral Blades. Do you know why the lich is here? Is there anything in the keep or the area that would of lured him here?
Hastings keeps a tight grip on the reigns of his horse, running a hand along its neck to keep it calm as they come upon the halfling. He listens closely to what is said, making mental notes on the important details. Once they get close enough he will slide down from the saddle and begin to walk his mount.
"Perhaps it would also be wise to know what type of creatures does this lich have on its service? I do not think such a thing would be the only threat."
Zogar sits atop his steed calmly while formalities are handled by those with more tact.
(OOC: This is a good time to put it in writing in the thread. Zogar habitually applies Blessing of the Forge to his mace after every long rest. His armor being magical, he can only apply this to his weapon.)
Lia slips gracefully out of her saddle and tosses the reigns to Emma. Emma, astride her phantom steed, summoned for her to ride, catches it easily. Moving over to where the hafling is sitting, she kneels down and nods to him.
"Well met." She says with a friendly smile. "You have been inside the place then... if so, what are we looking at for defenses and other threats? Anything you can tell us might aid in our finding out how to deal with this threat..."