You continue flying Eastward. The next morning though you are all able to sense another dragon, not far off your path of travel. This dragon is an orange dragon, which none of those aboard the flying castle are able to control. The halfling Tessa, or Sinder, would have been able to control it, but none of the rest of those on the castle can do so. Even so, you would all know you have great persuasion powers with dragons, regardless of your ability to control them. Do you wish to do anything about the orange, or do you continue on your current path. (You will need to travel a bit out of your way, not overly far, to get to the orange dragon.)
Then why are Corellon's children cowering on an island? Leareth did not say out loud. Her intelligence seemed to be far from her greatest strength. No matter. She will be of use in other ways and he made sure never to discard a capable ally. And the humans will be of use as well. Though he preferred quality over quantity, for obvious reasons, he was not so foolish as to disregard the law of large numbers. "I've heard there are fishes that bite, a small fish with a small bite. Problem is, there's never just one fish. They swarm over their prey and even small bites quickly tear big, strong animals to shreds." There were of course many other creatures which employed similar tactics to the same effect, but he saw her teeth in her dragon form and surmised from them that she fed on fish, so employed that analogy. "Even rats have their uses, and even among rats there are bound to be some capable ones. I will separate the wheat from the chaff and they will serve us well."
It occurred to him that her attitude, while not surprising, could cause problems. "Therefore restrain yourself when dealing with them." If she could not he may have to send her away. These humans would be building blocks for his new network, just as she was and just as the elves of Evermeet would be. He would not tolerate infighting.
Then why are Corellon's children cowering on an island? Leareth did not say out loud. Her intelligence seemed to be far from her greatest strength. No matter. She will be of use in other ways and he made sure never to discard a capable ally. And the humans will be of use as well. Though he preferred quality over quantity, for obvious reasons, he was not so foolish as to disregard the law of large numbers. "I've heard there are fishes that bite, a small fish with a small bite. Problem is, there's never just one fish. They swarm over their prey and even small bites quickly tear big, strong animals to shreds." There were of course many other creatures which employed similar tactics to the same effect, but he saw her teeth in her dragon form and surmised from them that she fed on fish, so employed that analogy. "Even rats have their uses, and even among rats there are bound to be some capable ones. I will separate the wheat from the chaff and they will serve us well."
It occurred to him that her attitude, while not surprising, could cause problems. "Therefore restrain yourself when dealing with them." If she could not he may have to send her away. These humans would be building blocks for his new network, just as she was and just as the elves of Evermeet would be. He would not tolerate infighting.
"As you wish." Tiondidirth said with a sigh. "I am sure you have the right of it, but I don't see how a horde of rats, or even a swarm of biting fish, will make your victory over this world grand and fulfilling." It is clear she prefers the fish to the humans. She glances over a shoulder to you, her golden hair swaying as she does so. "I am yours to command, even though that has never been my way before. If you wish a thing done, you only have to speak it and I will make it so."
As soon as you are able to detect the Orange dragon you also detect a Gray dragon, from just about the exact same location. From what you would know about the two, it would be unlikely an orange would allow a gray anywhere near its territory, so this is a fairly strange thing to sense.
"Do we ever know where she's off too?" Naivara asks, watching the other dragon's interactions with Grivryn
Kierro sighs, shaking his head. "One doesn't simply 'know where Tessa is off to.'"
On the subject of the dragons, he points out: "Gray and orange dragons share a similar disposition, if I remember correctly. It could very well be another of our kind with two dragons in tow."
Higgul "Isn't the lot of you enough?" Higgul asks with a frown. "I mean, the most powerful mage in the world says you guys need to get along, that gets less and less likely the more of you who turn up..." He sighs and lifts his ale, taking a deep pull. Honor would notice he has taken to drinking more than is likely good for him over the past few days.
Morgan "Hey, as long as I get a split of the fun, I am good with as many as who wish to hsow up." morgan says with a shrug directed at Higgul. "I mean, keep your friends close and your enemies closer, right..." He chuckles at this and pushes back on his chair, rocking back onto the back two legs. "I liked Tessa and that Sinder fellow was fun to have around, maybe this fellow will be just as interesting, if that is what this is."
Palvin "It will be as it will be." Palvin says with a smile, running a hand through his midnight black hair. "As long as we keep moving in the right direction, I don't see any problem with this potential new member, if that is what it is." He nods to Morgan, his steel-gray eyes meeting the human's own. "It might very well just be two dragons meeting, though I have to admit I haven't heard of an orange letting a gray get close to its home, and a gray is quite far from where it would be willing to set up a lair." He shrugs again. "Regardless, it all likely depends on what you guys do, or, if it is another like you, what they do." He directs this last to the dragonlords around the chamber. He adjusts the simple tunic he currently wears, crossing his legs under the table as he settles back into his chair, looking relaxed.
ymephis "A craven gray or a bully-boy orange?" ymephis says with a scowl, her emerald eyes flashing in clear agitation. She looks to Naivara. "We should just keep flying, and hope they don't belong to one like you. That sort is only going to cause more trouble than they are worth." She runs a hand over the scimitar at her side, currently wearing her studded leather, and not the fancy dresses she often wears aboard the castle.
iveodaenth Standing near Nadariel, she wears a gauzy dress today, but has a cloak on over that. Her white hair floats on a breeze that seems to follow her even inside a chamber like this one. She leans in and whispers into Nadariel's ear. "I am not sure why there is so much talk about this... It seems clear to me we have to check these two dragons out, regardless of individual thoughts on the matter. If it is another lord, then it is likely they will be seeking us out instead." She colors slightly as she realizes most of you could likely hear that anyway.
yrsaintinth "Yes." yrsaintinth says, nodding towards iveodaenth. He doesn't say more, just leans on the rune-carved staff he holds in his hands. He wears the same workman's britches and tunic as when Leto found him, just now with a cloak of protection over that. He seems to be looking more inward than outward as he stands there, absorbed in his own internal world and barely aware of the wider world.
Piazet He stands to one side, wearing a nobleman's finery, no wrinkles or spots to be seen. His hands are clasp behind his back as he turns his head to each person as they speak, clearly paying attention to it all. He does not speak up himself, his eyes moving often to Latrious, but then back to the next person to speak up. His helm and staff are no where to be seen, but a wide belt with runes on it can be seen around his waist.
Fraty "Come on Kyrian, let's fly out and see about these two." She says, glancing to Kyrian. Her rainbow-colored hair sways as she does a 360 spin in the middle of the floor. She stops by yrsaintinth, patting the stone dragon on the cheek. "You in there?" She asks, but the stone dragon doesn't seem to be aware of her. A small pout forms on her lips, but then a smile comes again and she swirls Emmy up for an impromptu dance around the chamber.
chysen chysen stands at attention next to the chair Kierro is seated in. He has removed his helm his golden hair loose to his shoulders. His greatsword rises up over his left shoulder, and his longsword is sheathed at his side. He remains silent, obviously waiting for Kierro to tell him how they will proceed. His blue eyes, flecked with gold, follow the chaos dragon around the chamber, his unflappable nature getting tested when she approaches the stone dragon. He relaxes though as the two women dance around the chamber a moment later.
emmy Emmy throws her head back and laughs, clearly enjoying herself as she dances with Fraty. It doesn't last long, as the chaos dragon gets distracted by something new, this time moving over to stand mimiking Piazet. Emmy moves over to Honor's side again. Emmy runs a hand through her auburn hair as she retakes a seat. She adjusts the rapier at her side, then glances to Honor. "Oh, come on, let's go and check them out already." She presses Honor. "I mean, there are a lot of us, so it wouldn't be much fun if we get into a fight or anything, but, this castle is so boring..." Zambunth Zambunth, still in his githyanki form, frowns as he listens to everyone speak. He has a cloak on, with his staff of power laying across his knees. "It would likely behoove us to learn more about these two, even if they have no other of your number attached to them." He says, glancing to the dragonlords around the chamber. "I mean, it is odd that two such different dragons are together. Maybe the gray was captured by the orange, and is being held against their will, or maybe the orange is less barbaric than others of its kind. both options would be interesting to learn more about, if either is the case."
Grivryn "The only orange I know of in these parts is Torreneg, and I will tell you he is orange from his crest to the tip of his tail." He adjusts the warhammer at his side, clearly not overly use to being in his tortel form. A webbed hand moves up and runs over his bald head as he looks thoughtful. "Can't say I have ever heard of any grays in this area, they normally like the much colder climates to the far north." He gives a shrug, the shield strapped to his shell rattling abit against the hard shell. "Fairly odd I will have to agree though."
Kierro deliberates for a moment, his aura intensifying a moment as he focuses. He wears his plain white robe and blue sash, much more at ease without armor. He stands. "I propose that some of us fly out to investigate from a distance. If the gray and orange dragons are not accompanied by one of our kind, it would do us better to leave them be - they would likely attack us on sight if we came into view, and I would rather not risk an altercation."
He surveys the assembled crew. "If the two are being led by a dragonlord, it would fall on them to demonstrate that they can be cooperative, or at least ambivalent. Meaning - if they attack us, seem to be incapable of reason and understanding, or cannot keep their companions in check, I would not recommend allowing them to travel with us." Looking to his fellow dragonlords, he adds: "I would suggest retreat if that apparent dragonlord chooses violence - I do not wish to test the limits of how much fighting between us is necessary to provoke another cataclysmic event like the one Elmenster showed us."
Unaware of what the dragonlords are sensing (see further below)...
Higgul Glances to Honor and grimaces. "I could ride double with you, on Emmy, if she'll let me. I don't much like the idea of you going off without me..." He downs the rest of his ale, preparing to get to his feet.
Morgan "Unless you need me along for some reason, I'll just stay here." Morgan says, glancing to Leto. "Hold downt he home fort and all of that..." He is still leaning back on his chair, but drops to all fours as he sees Fraty eyeing him with a speculative look, likely considering knocking him over with how he was leaning back.
Palvin Simply glances to Naivara to see what she thinks of Kierro's plan, and waiting to see if she plans to go with the scouting group.
ymephis "If you go, then I go." She informs Naivara, gripping the hilt of her scimitar as she frowns then at Kierro. "If there is none of your kind with them, the two dragons will likely attack on sight." She informs him, her emerald eyes intense.
iveodaenth Stands behind Nadariel. She runs a hand through her wild white hair, looking out of place and wishing she was elsewhere.
yrsaintinth "Stay." He says, his statue-like body turning slightly to glance to Leto. The word comes out more like a question than a statement though. He frowns as he looks to Leto, waiting to see if his master will command him to go with or not.
Piazet "I assume I will stay with the castle." He says, standing in his same position, but now looking to Latrius, also clearly waiting to see if his lord will countermand that decision. "It would likely be best for me to stay here, as I currently am the only one who can fly this castle." He explains his reasoning.
Fraty Gives a slight huff as Morgan takes her next bit of fun away. She steps up to him though, leaning down and kissing him deep, long, and passionately. When she pulls away Morgan is breathing hard and Fraty looks amused. She steps away, moving to stand near Kyrian. "Ready to go when you are boss man..." She says, slipping an arm around Kyrian and giving him a grin.
chysen "Very well." Chysen says, nodding to Kierro. "Will you fly on my back, or will you fly under your own power then?" His golden scale armor rattles slightly as he shifts, clearly ready to head out and start this scouting mission.
emmy "Let's go, let's go, let's go..." She says, hopping up and down and looking pleased. "Oh sure Higgy, you can ride, if Honor wants you along." She says,, glancing to Higul. She is already starting to change into her dragon-shape as she rushes for the exit. "I'll be outside, don't be long or I'll likely go scout on my own..."
Zambunth "I prefer to do my investigating in a less stress-filled situation." Zambunth says with a glance to Latrius. "I suppose though, if you need a mount, I could perform that task for you." He runs a hand down the length of his staff of power as he speaks.
Grivryn "Unless someone wants to give me a ride, I think I'd just slow you all down." The tortel says with a shrug.
As Kierro stands and gives his speach, the choice is taken from you. You all sense the two dragons heading directly to intersect the flight of your castle. The dragons are moving at speed, so it is clear they are aloft and moving much faster than the castle can. What would have taken you a full day of travel, just to reach the dragons, will likely take them only 3 or so hours, likely less as you move towards them at your own plodding pace. Do you await them here, or will some of you fly out to meet them?
"Well, I haven't tested the harness with two people, but I'm sure we can make something work,"Honor says, mostly concerned about Emmy going out alone. She stops moving towards the door as she senses the change in the dragons' direction. She curses. "Well, they're coming this way after all. Might as well make sure they know we're aware of them."She continues heading outside.
chysen "Very well." Chysen says, nodding to Kierro. "Will you fly on my back, or will you fly under your own power then?" His golden scale armor rattles slightly as he shifts, clearly ready to head out and start this scouting mission.
"I would not burden you with carrying me." Kierro replies, standing to exit as well. He stops as Honor tells everyone of the dragons approaching. "Agreed. Let's meet them. Not too far from the castle, though.”
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Leareth smiled briefly at her submission. He was not one for magical domination - such spells were notoriously unreliable - and he tried never to employ them or rely on them. As a dragonlord, he had power over her and other similar dragons, but it was clearly unnatural and, he was certain, unsustainable in the face of abuse. If there was any dissonance in their minds, as a result of his demands, then his control might be resisted and, perhaps, broken just when he was really counting on it. Perhaps distance might also affect his power, and he needed to be able to rely on her and others in his service without having to be there with them. In short, he always tried to get their willing cooperation. It was often a challenge, but he felt pride in the memory of incorporating even such seemingly opposed people as paladins and rangers into his organization.
Besides, submission was so much better when delivered voluntarily.
When they first met, he did not demand her hoard, though it was full of valuables he could really use and magic items. He merely pointed out that the two of them were going to be absent for a long time, leaving it unprotected, and someone might plunder it. She assented - out of agreement or from his power over her - and he felt that he'd avoided the risk of pitting her natural protectiveness over her hoard (so characteristic of dragons) against her bond to him. So, they had chosen the most valuable items and hid them away in the Ethereal Plane, by means of his spell. Among these was a particular amulet which he had been reluctant to use at first, but he changed his mind.
"Tiondidirth, I'll be borrowing that amulet. Hold a moment." He cast the spell and the enchanted chest appeared before them. "We'll take a shortcut to Waterdeep. I'll transport us to the Ethereal Plane, then back and to the city. We might take some time to establish some contacts with elves or magic users there. I'm sure some can be of use."
He opened the chest and took it out, then cast the spell again to put the chest back in its hiding place on the Ethereal plane. He focused his will on the amulet to activate its magic. "Are you ready? Here we go."
"Hopefully your sword won't be needed for now."Leto says to Morgan, and simply nods to Saint, approving the dragon's request to stay. He then adds to the others, "It would be good to get some air and see who's around."A split second later Leto looks up and his imp appears in the air next to him, still chewing on something, and looking surprised to have been suddenly called back into existence, but after a quick look from Leto straightens up and flies off to find Leto's Gloomstalker who should be hanging around under the castle at the moment after hunting for food in the night. Leto then heads up towards the roof where his mount and imp will be waiting, saying to the others, "I'll be waiting when you're ready."
Leareth smiled briefly at her submission. He was not one for magical domination - such spells were notoriously unreliable - and he tried never to employ them or rely on them. As a dragonlord, he had power over her and other similar dragons, but it was clearly unnatural and, he was certain, unsustainable in the face of abuse. If there was any dissonance in their minds, as a result of his demands, then his control might be resisted and, perhaps, broken just when he was really counting on it. Perhaps distance might also affect his power, and he needed to be able to rely on her and others in his service without having to be there with them. In short, he always tried to get their willing cooperation. It was often a challenge, but he felt pride in the memory of incorporating even such seemingly opposed people as paladins and rangers into his organization.
Besides, submission was so much better when delivered voluntarily.
When they first met, he did not demand her hoard, though it was full of valuables he could really use and magic items. He merely pointed out that the two of them were going to be absent for a long time, leaving it unprotected, and someone might plunder it. She assented - out of agreement or from his power over her - and he felt that he'd avoided the risk of pitting her natural protectiveness over her hoard (so characteristic of dragons) against her bond to him. So, they had chosen the most valuable items and hid them away in the Ethereal Plane, by means of his spell. Among these was a particular amulet which he had been reluctant to use at first, but he changed his mind.
"Tiondidirth, I'll be borrowing that amulet. Hold a moment." He cast the spell and the enchanted chest appeared before them. "We'll take a shortcut to Waterdeep. I'll transport us to the Ethereal Plane, then back and to the city. We might take some time to establish some contacts with elves or magic users there. I'm sure some can be of use."
He opened the chest and took it out, then cast the spell again to put the chest back in its hiding place on the Ethereal plane. He focused his will on the amulet to activate its magic. "Are you ready? Here we go."
Upon activating the amulet, you have a momentary shifting sensation, then stand in the swirling grayness of the etherial plane. You are only there for a moment though, before the shifting comes again, and you stand back on solid ground, with the City of Splenders spread out before you. You stand outside of the Northern gate to the city.
Tiondidirth grimaces as she steps back from the city several paces. "I cannot enter." She says, scowling at the city. "There is some barrior, that keeps me from moving any closer to the city." She glares at it with obvious anger. "How dare those rats do this, I will destroy their city and show them the power of a dragon..." She grimaces, getting her temper under control with effort. "Well, I'll find a way to get past that barrior and do so, but not now. Someday maybe, once you have the humans under your heel." She glances to Leareth. "If you go in to the city I will not be able to go with you." She explains. Some barrior defends the city against all dragons. I had heard of it, but did not truly credit it as anything more than a fantasy tail."
Kyrian grimaces "Don't call me boss, it makes me feel old." He turns in a full circle, looking around. After a few seconds, he shrugs. "Doesn't look like there is anyone else to fight, so I'm in." He lifts his right hand, revealing a spell construct that floats above it. The runes float aimlessly for a short time before snapping into place. "Ready whenever you guys are"
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“I will take responsibility for what I have done. [...] If must fall, I will rise each time a better man.” ― Brandon Sanderson, Oathbringer.
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Sent a PM about something, but other than that ready to continue onward.
(Ready to move on.)
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
You continue flying Eastward. The next morning though you are all able to sense another dragon, not far off your path of travel. This dragon is an orange dragon, which none of those aboard the flying castle are able to control. The halfling Tessa, or Sinder, would have been able to control it, but none of the rest of those on the castle can do so. Even so, you would all know you have great persuasion powers with dragons, regardless of your ability to control them. Do you wish to do anything about the orange, or do you continue on your current path. (You will need to travel a bit out of your way, not overly far, to get to the orange dragon.)
Then why are Corellon's children cowering on an island? Leareth did not say out loud. Her intelligence seemed to be far from her greatest strength. No matter. She will be of use in other ways and he made sure never to discard a capable ally. And the humans will be of use as well. Though he preferred quality over quantity, for obvious reasons, he was not so foolish as to disregard the law of large numbers. "I've heard there are fishes that bite, a small fish with a small bite. Problem is, there's never just one fish. They swarm over their prey and even small bites quickly tear big, strong animals to shreds." There were of course many other creatures which employed similar tactics to the same effect, but he saw her teeth in her dragon form and surmised from them that she fed on fish, so employed that analogy. "Even rats have their uses, and even among rats there are bound to be some capable ones. I will separate the wheat from the chaff and they will serve us well."
It occurred to him that her attitude, while not surprising, could cause problems. "Therefore restrain yourself when dealing with them." If she could not he may have to send her away. These humans would be building blocks for his new network, just as she was and just as the elves of Evermeet would be. He would not tolerate infighting.
Kierro and Chysen exchange glances. “Probably not in our best interest. We should continue onward.”
Honor sighs. "If I knew where Tessa was, I'd send it her way, but I haven't a clue."
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
"As you wish." Tiondidirth said with a sigh. "I am sure you have the right of it, but I don't see how a horde of rats, or even a swarm of biting fish, will make your victory over this world grand and fulfilling." It is clear she prefers the fish to the humans. She glances over a shoulder to you, her golden hair swaying as she does so. "I am yours to command, even though that has never been my way before. If you wish a thing done, you only have to speak it and I will make it so."
"Do we ever know where she's off too?" Naivara asks, watching the other dragon's interactions with Grivryn
Elra Skylash - Human Cleric | Vanzaren Tanidoni - Half Elf Wizard
Mindartis Liadon - Eladrin Barbarian | Naivara Siannodel - Half Elf Ranger
Arrila Evenwood - Half Elf Paladin | Callaphe of Setessa - Human Rogue
Katernin Nemetsk - Aasimar Cleric | Melody - Tiefling Bard
(OOC important item I forgot earlier!!)
As soon as you are able to detect the Orange dragon you also detect a Gray dragon, from just about the exact same location. From what you would know about the two, it would be unlikely an orange would allow a gray anywhere near its territory, so this is a fairly strange thing to sense.
"Shall we go see what the beasts are up to?" Leto says when it's clear they all recognize the interesting fact of the two dragons together.
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
Kierro sighs, shaking his head. "One doesn't simply 'know where Tessa is off to.'"
On the subject of the dragons, he points out: "Gray and orange dragons share a similar disposition, if I remember correctly. It could very well be another of our kind with two dragons in tow."
Higgul
"Isn't the lot of you enough?" Higgul asks with a frown. "I mean, the most powerful mage in the world says you guys need to get along, that gets less and less likely the more of you who turn up..." He sighs and lifts his ale, taking a deep pull. Honor would notice he has taken to drinking more than is likely good for him over the past few days.
Morgan
"Hey, as long as I get a split of the fun, I am good with as many as who wish to hsow up." morgan says with a shrug directed at Higgul. "I mean, keep your friends close and your enemies closer, right..." He chuckles at this and pushes back on his chair, rocking back onto the back two legs. "I liked Tessa and that Sinder fellow was fun to have around, maybe this fellow will be just as interesting, if that is what this is."
Palvin
"It will be as it will be." Palvin says with a smile, running a hand through his midnight black hair. "As long as we keep moving in the right direction, I don't see any problem with this potential new member, if that is what it is." He nods to Morgan, his steel-gray eyes meeting the human's own. "It might very well just be two dragons meeting, though I have to admit I haven't heard of an orange letting a gray get close to its home, and a gray is quite far from where it would be willing to set up a lair." He shrugs again. "Regardless, it all likely depends on what you guys do, or, if it is another like you, what they do." He directs this last to the dragonlords around the chamber. He adjusts the simple tunic he currently wears, crossing his legs under the table as he settles back into his chair, looking relaxed.
ymephis
"A craven gray or a bully-boy orange?" ymephis says with a scowl, her emerald eyes flashing in clear agitation. She looks to Naivara. "We should just keep flying, and hope they don't belong to one like you. That sort is only going to cause more trouble than they are worth." She runs a hand over the scimitar at her side, currently wearing her studded leather, and not the fancy dresses she often wears aboard the castle.
iveodaenth
Standing near Nadariel, she wears a gauzy dress today, but has a cloak on over that. Her white hair floats on a breeze that seems to follow her even inside a chamber like this one. She leans in and whispers into Nadariel's ear. "I am not sure why there is so much talk about this... It seems clear to me we have to check these two dragons out, regardless of individual thoughts on the matter. If it is another lord, then it is likely they will be seeking us out instead." She colors slightly as she realizes most of you could likely hear that anyway.
yrsaintinth
"Yes." yrsaintinth says, nodding towards iveodaenth. He doesn't say more, just leans on the rune-carved staff he holds in his hands. He wears the same workman's britches and tunic as when Leto found him, just now with a cloak of protection over that. He seems to be looking more inward than outward as he stands there, absorbed in his own internal world and barely aware of the wider world.
Piazet
He stands to one side, wearing a nobleman's finery, no wrinkles or spots to be seen. His hands are clasp behind his back as he turns his head to each person as they speak, clearly paying attention to it all. He does not speak up himself, his eyes moving often to Latrious, but then back to the next person to speak up. His helm and staff are no where to be seen, but a wide belt with runes on it can be seen around his waist.
Fraty
"Come on Kyrian, let's fly out and see about these two." She says, glancing to Kyrian. Her rainbow-colored hair sways as she does a 360 spin in the middle of the floor. She stops by yrsaintinth, patting the stone dragon on the cheek. "You in there?" She asks, but the stone dragon doesn't seem to be aware of her. A small pout forms on her lips, but then a smile comes again and she swirls Emmy up for an impromptu dance around the chamber.
chysen
chysen stands at attention next to the chair Kierro is seated in. He has removed his helm his golden hair loose to his shoulders. His greatsword rises up over his left shoulder, and his longsword is sheathed at his side. He remains silent, obviously waiting for Kierro to tell him how they will proceed. His blue eyes, flecked with gold, follow the chaos dragon around the chamber, his unflappable nature getting tested when she approaches the stone dragon. He relaxes though as the two women dance around the chamber a moment later.
emmy
Emmy throws her head back and laughs, clearly enjoying herself as she dances with Fraty. It doesn't last long, as the chaos dragon gets distracted by something new, this time moving over to stand mimiking Piazet. Emmy moves over to Honor's side again. Emmy runs a hand through her auburn hair as she retakes a seat. She adjusts the rapier at her side, then glances to Honor. "Oh, come on, let's go and check them out already." She presses Honor. "I mean, there are a lot of us, so it wouldn't be much fun if we get into a fight or anything, but, this castle is so boring..."
Zambunth
Zambunth, still in his githyanki form, frowns as he listens to everyone speak. He has a cloak on, with his staff of power laying across his knees. "It would likely behoove us to learn more about these two, even if they have no other of your number attached to them." He says, glancing to the dragonlords around the chamber. "I mean, it is odd that two such different dragons are together. Maybe the gray was captured by the orange, and is being held against their will, or maybe the orange is less barbaric than others of its kind. both options would be interesting to learn more about, if either is the case."
Grivryn
"The only orange I know of in these parts is Torreneg, and I will tell you he is orange from his crest to the tip of his tail." He adjusts the warhammer at his side, clearly not overly use to being in his tortel form. A webbed hand moves up and runs over his bald head as he looks thoughtful. "Can't say I have ever heard of any grays in this area, they normally like the much colder climates to the far north." He gives a shrug, the shield strapped to his shell rattling abit against the hard shell. "Fairly odd I will have to agree though."
Kierro deliberates for a moment, his aura intensifying a moment as he focuses. He wears his plain white robe and blue sash, much more at ease without armor. He stands. "I propose that some of us fly out to investigate from a distance. If the gray and orange dragons are not accompanied by one of our kind, it would do us better to leave them be - they would likely attack us on sight if we came into view, and I would rather not risk an altercation."
He surveys the assembled crew. "If the two are being led by a dragonlord, it would fall on them to demonstrate that they can be cooperative, or at least ambivalent. Meaning - if they attack us, seem to be incapable of reason and understanding, or cannot keep their companions in check, I would not recommend allowing them to travel with us." Looking to his fellow dragonlords, he adds: "I would suggest retreat if that apparent dragonlord chooses violence - I do not wish to test the limits of how much fighting between us is necessary to provoke another cataclysmic event like the one Elmenster showed us."
Unaware of what the dragonlords are sensing (see further below)...
Higgul
Glances to Honor and grimaces. "I could ride double with you, on Emmy, if she'll let me. I don't much like the idea of you going off without me..." He downs the rest of his ale, preparing to get to his feet.
Morgan
"Unless you need me along for some reason, I'll just stay here." Morgan says, glancing to Leto. "Hold downt he home fort and all of that..." He is still leaning back on his chair, but drops to all fours as he sees Fraty eyeing him with a speculative look, likely considering knocking him over with how he was leaning back.
Palvin
Simply glances to Naivara to see what she thinks of Kierro's plan, and waiting to see if she plans to go with the scouting group.
ymephis
"If you go, then I go." She informs Naivara, gripping the hilt of her scimitar as she frowns then at Kierro. "If there is none of your kind with them, the two dragons will likely attack on sight." She informs him, her emerald eyes intense.
iveodaenth
Stands behind Nadariel. She runs a hand through her wild white hair, looking out of place and wishing she was elsewhere.
yrsaintinth
"Stay." He says, his statue-like body turning slightly to glance to Leto. The word comes out more like a question than a statement though. He frowns as he looks to Leto, waiting to see if his master will command him to go with or not.
Piazet
"I assume I will stay with the castle." He says, standing in his same position, but now looking to Latrius, also clearly waiting to see if his lord will countermand that decision. "It would likely be best for me to stay here, as I currently am the only one who can fly this castle." He explains his reasoning.
Fraty
Gives a slight huff as Morgan takes her next bit of fun away. She steps up to him though, leaning down and kissing him deep, long, and passionately. When she pulls away Morgan is breathing hard and Fraty looks amused. She steps away, moving to stand near Kyrian. "Ready to go when you are boss man..." She says, slipping an arm around Kyrian and giving him a grin.
chysen
"Very well." Chysen says, nodding to Kierro. "Will you fly on my back, or will you fly under your own power then?" His golden scale armor rattles slightly as he shifts, clearly ready to head out and start this scouting mission.
emmy
"Let's go, let's go, let's go..." She says, hopping up and down and looking pleased. "Oh sure Higgy, you can ride, if Honor wants you along." She says,, glancing to Higul. She is already starting to change into her dragon-shape as she rushes for the exit. "I'll be outside, don't be long or I'll likely go scout on my own..."
Zambunth
"I prefer to do my investigating in a less stress-filled situation." Zambunth says with a glance to Latrius. "I suppose though, if you need a mount, I could perform that task for you." He runs a hand down the length of his staff of power as he speaks.
Grivryn
"Unless someone wants to give me a ride, I think I'd just slow you all down." The tortel says with a shrug.
As Kierro stands and gives his speach, the choice is taken from you. You all sense the two dragons heading directly to intersect the flight of your castle. The dragons are moving at speed, so it is clear they are aloft and moving much faster than the castle can. What would have taken you a full day of travel, just to reach the dragons, will likely take them only 3 or so hours, likely less as you move towards them at your own plodding pace. Do you await them here, or will some of you fly out to meet them?
"Well, I haven't tested the harness with two people, but I'm sure we can make something work," Honor says, mostly concerned about Emmy going out alone. She stops moving towards the door as she senses the change in the dragons' direction. She curses. "Well, they're coming this way after all. Might as well make sure they know we're aware of them." She continues heading outside.
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
"I would not burden you with carrying me." Kierro replies, standing to exit as well. He stops as Honor tells everyone of the dragons approaching. "Agreed. Let's meet them. Not too far from the castle, though.”
Leareth smiled briefly at her submission. He was not one for magical domination - such spells were notoriously unreliable - and he tried never to employ them or rely on them. As a dragonlord, he had power over her and other similar dragons, but it was clearly unnatural and, he was certain, unsustainable in the face of abuse. If there was any dissonance in their minds, as a result of his demands, then his control might be resisted and, perhaps, broken just when he was really counting on it. Perhaps distance might also affect his power, and he needed to be able to rely on her and others in his service without having to be there with them. In short, he always tried to get their willing cooperation. It was often a challenge, but he felt pride in the memory of incorporating even such seemingly opposed people as paladins and rangers into his organization.
Besides, submission was so much better when delivered voluntarily.
When they first met, he did not demand her hoard, though it was full of valuables he could really use and magic items. He merely pointed out that the two of them were going to be absent for a long time, leaving it unprotected, and someone might plunder it. She assented - out of agreement or from his power over her - and he felt that he'd avoided the risk of pitting her natural protectiveness over her hoard (so characteristic of dragons) against her bond to him. So, they had chosen the most valuable items and hid them away in the Ethereal Plane, by means of his spell. Among these was a particular amulet which he had been reluctant to use at first, but he changed his mind.
"Tiondidirth, I'll be borrowing that amulet. Hold a moment." He cast the spell and the enchanted chest appeared before them. "We'll take a shortcut to Waterdeep. I'll transport us to the Ethereal Plane, then back and to the city. We might take some time to establish some contacts with elves or magic users there. I'm sure some can be of use."
He opened the chest and took it out, then cast the spell again to put the chest back in its hiding place on the Ethereal plane. He focused his will on the amulet to activate its magic. "Are you ready? Here we go."
((Intelligence check 1: 18. Intelligence check 2: 15 ))
"Hopefully your sword won't be needed for now." Leto says to Morgan, and simply nods to Saint, approving the dragon's request to stay. He then adds to the others, "It would be good to get some air and see who's around." A split second later Leto looks up and his imp appears in the air next to him, still chewing on something, and looking surprised to have been suddenly called back into existence, but after a quick look from Leto straightens up and flies off to find Leto's Gloomstalker who should be hanging around under the castle at the moment after hunting for food in the night. Leto then heads up towards the roof where his mount and imp will be waiting, saying to the others, "I'll be waiting when you're ready."
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
Upon activating the amulet, you have a momentary shifting sensation, then stand in the swirling grayness of the etherial plane. You are only there for a moment though, before the shifting comes again, and you stand back on solid ground, with the City of Splenders spread out before you. You stand outside of the Northern gate to the city.
Tiondidirth grimaces as she steps back from the city several paces. "I cannot enter." She says, scowling at the city. "There is some barrior, that keeps me from moving any closer to the city." She glares at it with obvious anger. "How dare those rats do this, I will destroy their city and show them the power of a dragon..." She grimaces, getting her temper under control with effort. "Well, I'll find a way to get past that barrior and do so, but not now. Someday maybe, once you have the humans under your heel." She glances to Leareth. "If you go in to the city I will not be able to go with you." She explains. Some barrior defends the city against all dragons. I had heard of it, but did not truly credit it as anything more than a fantasy tail."
Kyrian grimaces "Don't call me boss, it makes me feel old." He turns in a full circle, looking around. After a few seconds, he shrugs. "Doesn't look like there is anyone else to fight, so I'm in." He lifts his right hand, revealing a spell construct that floats above it. The runes float aimlessly for a short time before snapping into place. "Ready whenever you guys are"
“I will take responsibility for what I have done. [...] If must fall, I will rise each time a better man.” ― Brandon Sanderson, Oathbringer.