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Post by Joliette Thorne on Aug 21, 2006 2:20:45 GMT -5
Schalk smiles as his friend appears. His hand is extended to the rogue as he appears down the path ''By the Gods Leo, good chap, long time no see, I must say.''
Leoxander approached in silence, the dog padding almost as stealthily at his heels. Dressed in the familiar dark colours, but lacking most of his armour, as well as the tears and stains of dirt that usually came with it, the pirate's stride was lazy and patient. He wore his Captain hat almost like a cowboy hat, tipped at the right angle to cover most of the leather patch hiding the fact he had different coloured eyes. Only blue iris would be seen, scanning over the three when and if they came into view. A smirk was given to Schalk, and he'd clasp hands without hesitance. "Too long."
Doel nodded to the new comer, as well as rest of the group.
Schalk shakes the captains hand vigorously, before picking up the lime wood round shield, bearing his personal code of arms, containing the mark of his name, the rune of Ziu and the insignia of his own war band. He turns it upside down, a sure, commonly known sign he comes in peace. His left-hand is then extended in a gesture towards Fertangle. ''I dare say you have met or heard of master Fertangle Stronghammer, one of the most noble dwarfs in these lands?''
Leoxander turned his gaze with a lopsided grin down toward the stout dwarf, inclining his head in a respectful nod to his old mining buddy and mug mate. "All sobered up then, Fert'? I expect this' a big deal..."
Fertangle `s face creases at one side forming a sort of smirk, nodding to his old friend Leo."Well met my friend, I trust your travels have been safe?"
Fertangle adds as an after thought" Aye all sobered up for this" the smirk turning into a full blown grin. You smiles brightly ''Excellent, leaves us to be introduced to our dragon friend and we are all friends here.....''
Leoxander said, "Huh." The rogue laughed, and the black dog beside him nearly as tall as Fertangle bore a canine grin. His eyes roamed Doel's way, though he was speaking to everyone in general. "Nothin's safe in these lands anymore..."
Fertangle said, "I’d like you all to meet one of my clansmen Doel, he will be joining us today, and hopefully see if the Temple can also open trades with the king."
Leoxander didn't often get along with dragons. But he wasn't one to particularly judge a book by it's cover. A reach toward his knee and he'd discover his flask missing, probably left at the Corpse again. "Damn, anybody got somethin' to tide me over for this thing? Fert', don't be holdin' out on me. I know you gotta flask of somethin' hidden in that beard." And the dwarf would earn a suspicious glance, lifting the eye patch to do so. Hey, thieves had to have their disguises.
Schalk gives a courteous wave of the hand to the druid Doel, a wave that looks like a salute, though it could be a way of mimicking the taking off of a hat.
Fertangle looks over his shoulder as a figure approaches the shadows seemingly following him, just as you think you will see his face they become obscured by the shadows. He introduces himself to the group as Tardka, as was asked to meet here, though he knows not why.
Doel grins at Schalk's wave, and nods, politely.
Fertangle pulls a bottle of whisky out of a side pocket on his backpack and tosses it to Leo, "Only gots this for now."
Fertangle looks at Tardka, and gives the stranger a nod in greeting.
Schalk casts a glance at Tardka, knowing he has seen him before. After moments the elvergast finds he cannot place the man, though he gives him a nod while brushing a finger along his hairline, pushing a long blonde ringlet out of his face. If it were not for the many scars, the noose tattoo and his warriors stature, he would look like an innocent youth
Doel steps back to make room for the new comer, and nods to him.
Leoxander couldn't help a wary glance that darted toward the dragon when he took a step, before a sigh left him quietly, and he relaxed. Curling fingers 'round the neck of the large bottle, he gave the half full contents a disappointed look, then downed them with a tilt back of his head. He wasn't quite drunk enough for a meeting with royalty, yet. "Jack, get lost for awhile. Might get eaten if you follow me into Craughmoyle." Snorting laughter at his own joke, he realized a moment later his friend present was a dwarf, and probably from there. Leo would cough and cease abruptly, rubbing his nose to hide the smirk.
Leoxander looked at Jack, and the canine pricked his ears before they dropped in despair. A glance around at the others, as if valuing their opinion, then the dog went wandering off down the hill.
Fertangle watches as you are approached directly by a secretive dwarf named Dakhak. He was a middle-aged dwarf with fine mail who had been very pleasant and courteous. After a few minutes of conversation you had decided you quite liked the red haired guy. He needed you to go to the Xalious Mountains with a mercenary that was recruited from Kelay. You sensed something inside you that told you to go, it felt like fate or something similar. Dakhak didn't even tell you what he wanted you to do.
Leoxander was a little wary with fate, and not much of a talker. Rogues...
Schalk looks around at the others, waiting for their response to the dwarf’s ways. Indeed, it seemed this must all be some protocol to be followed and not at all something to be suspicious off, but the elvergast was naturally suspicious, having encountered too many tricks among the royalty of the world and their courtiers.
Schalk gently takes his great axe from the sling on his back, just in case, then looks at the dwarfs, the dragon and the rogue, half indicating they might best follow, but off course, it is not his decision to make, but that of each one for himself.
Leoxander subtly adjusted the untucked silk shirt worn over his torso to hide the black and silver hilts of daggers he feared would be stripped of his person the moment they set foot in important places. Looking over the shady figures coming into play that evening, the pirate lifted the collar of his shirt a little higher, and popped a few bones in preparation to follow the group.
Fertangle follows as the dwarf guide leads, Leoxander, Schalk and Doel along an old forgotten trade road, which travels to the Dwarven Capital in Craughmoyle. The secrecy seeming odd. After all there were enough of you to easily sway any bandits or more evil things from bothering you. You felt it prudent not to ask, yet.
Fertangle stands up brushing the dirt and dust from his clothing, before following the guide north.
Schalk loosens his grip on his axe, a sure mark for this experienced and dogged fighter that he is ready to face anything. He has found long ago that relaxation of muscles causes the reaction speed to increase dramatically. For another moment he looks carefully around, then follows master Stronghammer north.
Fertangle creeps up on the hill giant, and smashes him over the head repeatedly, knocking out the giant. It must have been something the Dwarf had eaten or drank but he seems full of strength today," Well he won't give us any trouble today", he chuckles.
Leoxander jerked the blade from beneath the giant protrusion of rib, blood leaking from silvered edge while an arm wiped the peppering of sweat from the bridge of his nose. Like a shadow joining it's brethren, Leo crept to the edge of the path and stalked...
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Post by Joliette Thorne on Aug 21, 2006 2:23:56 GMT -5
Fertangle looks about for after a few hours travel you entered through a small inconspicuous side entrance tucked away behind thick scrub almost as if hidden. Once inside you followed the rough hewn passageway further into the mountains until only the dwarves among you realised how far you had travelled (about six miles they revealed), at points the ground rose and others it could dip sharply. This was no ordinary straight cut angular passage so typical of Dwarven construction. Fertangle`s head turns slightly towards Tardka as he asked if the dwarves had made this tunnel in haste, but Dakhak had shrugged none committedly and carried on his way at a faster pace. It was hard to keep up and no one asked anymore questions about the tunnel even when it had widened suddenly to a star shaped chamber with a black rock in the centre. This stone had been covered in runes of an unknown style and was perfectly circular (about 20feet in radius). This room had made your head fill with a buzzing noise and your bones had gently vibrated. Dakhak had got very serious at that point bidding you to keep to the sides of the room and on no circumstances touch the dark plug, as he had called it. He had hurried through here very quickly.
Schalk follows the others down the stairs that lead to the upper levels of Craughmoyle, the trade route through. They halt at the gate, the large solid door that protects the lower levels. The elvergast looks at their guide, waiting for what is to come now, but unmistakenly he is still wondering what might be going on or not. As his eyes grow used to the reduction of light, he notices the diamonds in the sign and hopes that the rogue will be able to restrain himself so they will actually remain in place. Fertangle does as he is directed, weary as his whole body seemed to vibrate slightly, never the less he felt it prudent to follow.
Leoxander was a team player when it came to following directions that caused him to stick to the edges, creeping down a suspicious path that had the tall human ducked down low, even if there was no threat of his head hitting anything. The brim of a triangular Captain hat was lifted to look around that circular room, committing everything he saw to clockwork memory. Particularly the dark shape looming in the center of the room. Barely daring to breathe, he remained utterly silent.
Leoxander left his mouth open, slightly parted a moment, when he caught a vague glitter provided with little to no light. For a moment, the gems had his undivided attention, but he made no bold reach for profit just yet. They always had to get out of there alive, yet.
Doel kept the human shape, allowing him to traverse the ring beside the wall, looking all around as they went, checking for any markings on the circular 'plug', that might indicate its origin. These runes remained a mystery.
Tenebrae arrived almost as unobtrusively as the rogue before her, swathed in demure green velvet and minus the vicious heels that doubled as both method of increasing her stance and unexpected weaponry in a pinch. Fingers clasped to the hem of that soft fabric, she had no need to dip her head, her true height far less than the Captain's. Making her way into the chamber, peridot eyes adjusted the dark shapes to living forms, a wave given Schalk and the others before the necromancer took her place at Leoxander's side.
Doel nods his head at the lady, and follows the group.
Leoxander tore his eyes from one glittering jewel, only to find another - emerald in hue. With the hat still tipped low to hide the red eye covered in leather, she'd only see his right, looking over the vampiress' visage with a hinted smile of approval. One hand skimmed the small of her back, a touch as light as a feather, and he would fall into step behind her once they moved again.
Schalk inclines his head as lady Tenebrae shows up, a bit belated, but he had already received word she had urgent business to attend to before arriving here. His eyes remain fixed on the dwarf guides as they travel underground. Indeed, he has been in Craughmoyle, but being a sailor and warrior instead of a dwarf, he finds it hard to keep track of all details below ground. Fertangle notices before long the tunnel became a bit squarer and it began to widen. Then the paved floor started and after a few minutes more walking you entered a broad tunnel with many others similar tunnels like the one you had left branching off either side as you followed it slowly upwards it. After a little longer you heard the sounds of smithying and before you got close enough to see these craftsmen you had been hustled off down a smaller side tunnel by Dakhak. This led to a dead end.
Tenebrae said to Schalk, "All is in order? I have to admit to being a little nervous..."
Doel hangs to the rear, keeping his eye for whoever is following them, is being very quiet.
Fertangle places a hand on the hilt of his sword unknowing if they have been walked into a trap, as he could not tell of any exits.
Leoxander muttered lowly from the back of the crowd, "How's anybody live without the sky?" He'd slow to a stop, feeling the slope of the tunnel narrow in. As an explorer, the rogue knew they were coming in on a dead end...
Schalk nods to Tenebrae as he too follows down the paved path ''All in order. I don't trust the guides entirely, having met too many protocols and tricks before, but it seems to be in order'' a small silence follows his walks and the only sound he makes is the sound of his soft boots tapping lightly on the pavement ''I do hope you are prepared for this though...most dwarfs down here stand on protocol and courtesy.''
Fertangle watches Dakhak intently as the guide after a few moments casting about pushed part of the wall and it had released a trap door, which slowly opened itself in front of you. Steps led down into the unlit stairway. Dakhak bid you go down them, handing out a few torches, which he promptly lit from the lanterns in the room. He led the way. After a steep climb down of about a hundred feet, the stairway sometimes taking tortuous twists your group came to another seemingly dead end. However most of the group spotted the latch on this side before Dakhak pulled down on it and led you into a plush chamber. There he asked you leave your equipment before ushering you into the next room telling you to sit with the Dwarf in there.
Tenebrae was clueless, but picked up on the scent of danger emanating from the men around her, and pressed her shoulder against the rogue's. She had his back.
Doel looks at the walls near the dead end, and sees several cracks that might indicate secret passages or hidden doors. Knowing how a dragon would make a tunnel, he looks back toward the passage they just left, letting his dragon sight aid him.
Doel follows down the steps, slowly, wary of a trap here.
Leoxander would not take a torch. He would only keep his good 'eye' on Dakhak, reluctant to pass the man and turn his vulnerable back upon him. So, somewhere behind Tenebrae, he'd find his place, his steps just as silent despite that more formal footwear was buckled to his shins. It wasn't until that second hidden entrance was revealed into a new chamber that Leo would lose the cool composure he'd managed the whole of the claustrophobic path. And that was when the dwarf told him to leave his things. Immediately, he took a step away from others and lowered his hands to the hilts of his weapons, but not to remove them. To use them, if anyone tried to take his stuff off his person. What was a well dressed and presentable boat captain looked like a cornered wildcat in moments, dropping his stance by a few inches, tension creeping through his frame. He would not be relinquishing his equipment. Schalk carefully looks around as he is asked to leave his weapons here. He ponders for a moment, looking around the room for any hidden traps or doors through which guardsmen could come. For a moment, he remains fixed on the spot, motionless, then he places his axe on the ground and removes his sword from the scabbard on his hip. The only thing he holds with him is the upturned shield, the mark he comes in peace and the unobtrusive dagger at the back of his hip. These could be deadly weapons in the right hands, but most would see no harm in letting him keep these
Tenebrae handed over her own sword with a polite nod, eager to return to Leoxander, a calming hand placed on a black-clad shoulder. If he did not want his knives relinquished, then keep them he would. And also by way of assurance, the necromancer quite at home in dank tunnels and the like -- entering crypts and tombs were a part of her job description, after all. She'd murmur a few words of comfort to the thief, knowing his dislike of being boxed in, watching the proceedings in silence after.
Tenebrae whispered to Leoxander, "Cap'n, calm yourself. All is well. I too have my defences, and should anything untoward occur, we'll deal with it, as only we can."
Doel turns his shield upside down as Schalk has shown him means peace, and leans on his walking staff, to guide him. No one would take a walking staff from a 700 year old man.
_____At The Dwarven Royal Court________
Fertangle hands over his sword and his axe, the daggers hidden about his person remain just that, hidden....He too feels naked without a good strong blade nearby, just in case.....
Schalk gives Leo a serious look, urging him silently to lay off his daggers, knowing those will not be the only weapons the rogue carries. If he decides to go against the court protocol, he might find himself thrown unceremoniously from the city, which will not help their cause at all.
Leoxander knit his brow in frustration with his attention divided between the many eyes on him. The guide, who waited impatiently for twin blades to be handed over. It still didn't happen with Tenebrae's reassurances, though she caused him to bring his hands to the front of his geared belt, rather than the sides where daggers were sheathed. Frowning deeply, and unmasked to reveal it, he looked at the Necromancer first, and knew Fertangle felt similar to Leo, unarmed. Finally, the heavy leather cinch was unlatched, and ten pounds was removed from the rogue's waist, giving up daggers, lockpicks (well, some of them), and some of the obvious bulky things he wore like tools. It took Schalk's stern look to have him handing it over, practically throwing it into a stranger's hands. "...Fi'don't get that back, somebody's gettin' hurt." This was the lowly warning the short dwarven charges would receive, with a menacing look 'round to promise it. Leoxander took off twin daggers. Leoxander took off 1 gleaming shuriken. Leoxander unequipped lockpicks and darts. Leoxander nearly dropped a vial of poison. Leoxander rolled his eyes and handed over a couple throwing blades after hearing a grunt.
Leoxander had a few other things packed away, only some of them piled into one of the dwarf's arms. He'd be the last to leave, still taking things off while the others filed out. Hey, their fault for bringing a thief.
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Post by Joliette Thorne on Aug 21, 2006 2:26:50 GMT -5
Fertangle `s eyes wander around the room you are in, a large shadowy square cut hall, a blue stone ceiling reaching 30 feet high above you. Around you sitting at a large heptagon table inlayed with gold are your companions. They appear to be studying a richly dressed dwarf. He seems to be in his late hundreds and is resplendent in ceremonial armour (it looks too gaudy to be of use in battle). He stands as you begin to take in the rest of the room and clears his throat indicating he would like your attention.
Schalk places an arm on the rogues shoulder, as though complimenting him on handing in his daggers in the end. A whisper is given to him as his chest hits the back of the rogues other shoulder. The gesture is friendly, but perhaps there is more to it. His shield is held up slightly, covering the rogues lefthand-side from view.
Schalk whispered something to Leoxander.
Tenebrae entered the room with a gracious sweep of velvet hem across the floor, silently slippering her way behind the elvergast and Fertangle. Pausing momentarily to cast a wide-eyed gaze around the spacious chamber, her eyes were drawn to the regally-clad individual who appeared ready to speak, looking to the male expectantly. The interaction between Schalk and her rogue did not go unnoticed, though the serenity and sweet demeanour of her expression would not have given any clue to this awareness. A brief curtsey and polite dip of ebon-wreathed head was given, and she rose from it with uncanny grace, her composure perfect and entirely in keeping with a woman of her status.
Leoxander seemed to bump into Schalk and calm a little more, head dipping in an understanding and casual nod to the elvergast with one hand out of sight, out of mind, for a moment. He'd already been patted down a few times, no need to do so again, so the hand slipping into shirt to scratch blunt nails across his bare ribs wasn't anything to draw attention. Keeping the edge of nautical cap tipped over his vision, he kept his eyes on Tenebrae for most part, following her moves like a familiar shadow. The clearing of grated throat brought blue eye lifting over the curve of the vampire's shoulder, settling on the richly dressed dwarf. At once, Leo looked toward the pockets and belt of what he assumed was the King of Craughmoyle, seriously considering a stealthy robbery.
Schalk bows his head slightly as the dwarf in ceremonial dress ask for his attention. His sky-blue eyes remain fixed on the dwarf for a moment, not sure wether this man should be treated as an inferior or a superior. He chooses to go for a path between the two manners of behaviour and is courteous, yet remains the tall, proud figure he has always been.
Doel enters and makes his way to the others, leaning on his staff for aid in walking, then bows low while keeping his eyes up, watching, and again using his staff, to straighten his body up from the low bow. He remembers how it was when he was younger, and presents a graciousness to the royalty in the dress armor. He will not embarrass his clansman.
Fertangle `s attention returns to the richly dressed Dwarf “My name is Khand hammer of the Goblins. I am, the king of Craughmoyle. I am grateful you have come and ask you to trust me. You are known to the Dwarven kind though I cannot tell you why, at least not now. Please tell me why you have asked for an audience with myself”. Khand listens intently to what everyone has to say.
Schalk steps forward slightly, giving a deep bow, though his posture remains erect and his keen eyes fixed on the King. Indeed, if his experience with the dwarfs has taught him anything it is that they are a proud people, but do look down on people who treat them as though they are the gods of the world, merely out of courtesy. After bowing he looks at Tenebrae and Leoxander, his partners in crime, so to say. His eyes then fall on Doel and Fertangle. The gaze betrays his question to all: who shall speak?
Tenebrae cleared her throat softly.
Tenebrae stepped forward, another curtsey given, this one much deeper, the necromancers small frame dipping and her head bowing low, 'til silken ebon fell about her pale features. Rising, she spoke in a clear, sweet voice carefully modulated to a polite, yet firm tone. "Your Majesty, I am Tenebrae of the clan Eldritch Cabal. My people are many, and we seek lands to settle with a coast where we may carry on our trade by sea. Cenril is a likely spot, and has been left fallow by the Flaming Claw for decades. We aim to bring life to the lands, and open it for trade with all the peoples of Hollow. What we ask in return is a degree of support, in the taking of the ports and lands from the suffocating grip of the Claw. I humbly request your assistance."
Leoxander was part of the background, still as a statue to prevent looking suspicious, though the nature of him made him want to pace the underground room. He did not bow, nor would he slouch in the presence of the dwarf king, and his eye contact was made only when it necessarily needed to be. Of course, he would not be the one to speak first. Perhaps not at all. But he was there as guard of the Cabal, to listen, remember the day and the events that would take place. And, though he'd never admit it out loud, to be there as requested, for his friends.
Schalk stands still, dropping his right arm, his shield-arm slightly as he relaxes. Clearly he is relieved Tene was the one to take the initiative for the moment, as he feel uncomfortable when he cannot dictate the terms of a meeting. His gaze is turned from the necromancer to the King, hoping to see a betrayal of his thoughts on his face Schalk 's eyes remain fixed on the King as he waits for a first answer to the question posed to him by Tenebrae. He will make his move, reveal his cards, when he knows the Kings mind.
Fertangle is a bit delayed in responding to the king, choosing his word carefully before speaking. "I am Lord Fertangle Stronghammer, I lead those of a clan called The Temple, we too seek to gain trade from you and you great city, and I would be honoured if you would consider this also. I could see great profits for our peoples, in the exchange."
Schalk nods as he hears Fertangle’s words. ''I come as an ambassador to the people of King Radboud III, King of the Frisi. Though we live far away, the fame of the craftsmen of Craughmoyle has reached our ears. I have come too, as an ally of the Cabal in their venture to recover the use of Cenril for all.''
Doel nods his head very slightly as Lord Fertangle speaks, indicating agreement, and knowing the dwarves that are watching them will notice it as something that slipped out.
Fertangle listens eagerly as Khand nods, smiles and thinks carefully before he continues “I wish to tell you a story but it must never be told again outside these walls. I must ensure this by asking each of you to swear on a great artefact from the elder days, the Arkhand!" With this word appears in his outstretched palms a huge blue faceted gem, it must be over a foot in height and width. Strange whispers and mutterings fill your head but flit in and out so quickly you cannot understand what they say. He continues a deep resonance in his raised voice, "This gem has the power of the mountains in it and this oath must not be taken lightly. Should you break your oath then terrible to you will be the consequences. Should you not wish to take the oath then no malice is wished upon you and you are free to leave this mountain with a purse of gold. Stay, take the oath and you will leave with a chest of gold and more! Who wishes to take the oath and become a dwarven friend?"
Fertangle gets barged out of the way as the red haired man with the drooping small forest of a moustache, who had introduced himself as Tardka briefly, but had said precious little else got out of his chair. His flamboyant gold trimmed red cape parted slightly to give a glimpse of polished rigid leather which glinted in the gem's subtle light. At his side, strung off a shoulder, was a lute. A white fur skin scabbard, presumably dangling from his waist, showed off the bottom end of some kind of bladed weapon poking out from under his cloak. He walked slowly forward to take up his position beside the gem and simply nodded in agreement.
Tenebrae had enough gold of her own, and gave the offer no thought whatsoever. She offered Khand a smile, and nodded her assent. "It would be my pleasure, and my honour Your Majesty, to swear fealty to the oath. I will never reveal your tale, while my body lives."
Leoxander did not give his introduction just yet. His place was just behind Tenebrae's right shoulder, and there he remained, listening to the words of his acquaintances. Each dirty look he received from a guard was given right back, but Leo felt the cold steel of Schalk's dagger near his heart and felt somewhat comforted to know he wasn't completely unarmed. His gaze roamed, to the structure of stone walls, and possibly the jewels laid within. Surely a royal court of dwarven people would have something sparkly and expensive on display. Fingers twitched against his bare palm with a taint of greed swimming his bloodstream, and his conscience reminded him they were there for reasons of diplomacy, not profit. The only words Leo would add were that of reason. "Cenril, and any other lands that fall into the Claw's hold will crumble and rot. As it is, it's a ghost town in the making..."
Schalk walks forward, stepping up to the King and placing his hand on the gem, catching it between his hand and the Kings, as Tardka did before him. ''I, Schalk, son of Everhardt, son of Bernhelm, swear not to carry your tale to any beyond the walls of this courtroom'' his eyes twinkle lightly, as he nurtures a secret hope the King will not notice the gaps that leaves in an oath of fealty. Gaps that leave room for trade routes to run through his oath.
Fertangle too walks over to the King and as those before him, he to swears that what is told will never leave these walls.
Doel steps up to the gem, and swears that this tale shall not pass by his lips to any beyond those represented here in this room.
Fertangle looks over to Leo waiting for his friend to take the oath.
Leoxander again lingered uncomfortably behind, a doleful glance spared to the mighty gem of Arkhand. Wasn't there another gem rumored to be down in that city somewhere? One with the power of the gods to be used by an innocent? Damn if the rogue couldn't get a nice handful for all the gems he could scrounge up down there. He was forced to make a difficult decision. A purse of gold sounded so much more appealing than a chest of gold. After all, what if the dwarf ended up stabbing the four of them in the heart with a gold forged sword? That would be a clever way of keeping his word - meanwhile, the thief could be walking out some hefty earnings done legally. Frowning with indecision, he watched all the rest of the party he'd arrived with, deciding then he wasn't all that fond of this trip thus far.
Tenebrae 's pale hand had come to rest on that noblest of gems, peridot eyes lowered respectfully as she took her oath. Stepping back now, she waited silently for the King's tale, that ever-burning curiosity of hers heightened both by the atmosphere and the solemnity of the vow taken. Though, technically, the necromancer's body wasn't truly alive, in any true sense...
Leoxander kept his eyes on his old mining buddy for a moment, feeling guilt pang his stomach. After all, he owed Fert' a favor...
Leoxander took the time to look at Tenebrae's hand upon the gem. That made him step forward once, but he spared the king one more suspicious glance, mouth compressed to try to keep his expression a blank mask. His eyes would betray the lack of trust, after all, the only few who had ever earned it were collected in that underground court.
Schalk casts a glance to where Tene and Leo are to be found side by side, as is quite common these days. His eyes shift in their sockets, swivveling through the room and over the faces of all those present, but his gaze is steady enough. He can play the game as long as needed, he has done it countless times before, but he hopes others will be able to do so too. He has complete trust in Fertangle, who, hailing from the dwarven city, knows the ways of its nobility, and indeed the others in the party seem to know their part too. His suspicion is mainly directed at the dwarven generals and other officers who line the room, as they clearly have a certain mistrust for them.
Tenebrae glanced to the rogue, his restlessness causing a ripple on her own skin, with that almost sixth sense she'd developed around him. Her eyes would have communicated a calm plea for him to keep to her side, but instead they fell on the chain about his neck, so long barren of a gift bestowed as a symbol, long ago and worn as such until.. Its return meant more to the vampiress than all the jewels in Craughmoyle, and the look in those green eyes would tell him so.
Leoxander lifted his left hand with his eyes landing upon Fertangle once more. Unaware of Tenebrae's discovery, he kept his gaze upon the dwarf to read his calm expression through what appeared to be a graying beard. Sure, he trusted his drinking pal alright, but he was one of those die hard independant type that... ironically, wouldn't die for anybody. Well, maybe one soul, but he sure as hell wouldn't jump into dark water ever again. It wasn't until he stepped forward and rested his hand upon the Arkhand artifact that his single visible eye of blue lifted to meet the Necromancer's, and he spoke only one word of commitment. "Agreed."
Fertangle smiles slightly as the last oath taker agreed, his final syllable echoed around the silent hall. With a loud but short lived crackle the Arkhand momentarily froze everyone in an incandescent flash of blue light. There was a curt high-pitched noise, it may have been a scream but it was over too quickly to discern. Ignoring the pile of ash that was once Tardka, Khand smiled. "Good, all you who still breathe are worthy of the Arkhand! Now I must tell you the tale for you are all tied to it.” He opened his mouth to say something but was interrupted by Dakhak bustling out of the shadows with a shovel and large bucket. Khand studied each confidant in turn as the other dwarf busied himself with scooping up the unfortunate bard’s remains. Leoxander stiffened a little, in stance and posture. He'd look slowly to his right, tilting his boot to watch the charred remains of Tardka dust off the edge. Jaw clenching to define a little better, he was loathe to leave his hand in place, but kept still and listened hard to the words, and the scraping sound of the shovel near Leoxander's foot.
Schalk can't help but produce an insane smile as he looks at the bard’ remains. He feels a strange liking for people who can give sucha a display of power under their noses without being opposed, yet his wheels of his mind click into place and turn swiftly, running a series of possible plots through in front of his minds eye. It is clear that the King has great power behind him, and his alliance would certainly make them favourite to win their race against time and the troops of the Flaming Claw.
Fertangle waits for Dakhak to finish, and then turned his attention back to Khand. The gaudily dressed Dwarf seemed satisfied with something so continued, “The Arkhand is no ordinary gem as I am sure you have guessed. It was discovered long ago by my ancestors and found to have many powers that I cannot reveal to you as there are other secrets we must keep. However, one of those powers concerns the well being of the Dwarven kind. This artefact was not always this colour. Three weeks ago this gem was crystal clear. Concerned, I performed the ceremony and was able to gain great insight. I saw you all at the Underdark though that day had not yet dawned.” He frowned for a moment, “These past few weeks, I have seen most your faces in dreams. You are all involved, I am sure, but some faces are not present in this hall tonight.” He shrugged, pointing to a dark corner behind him where the scout now stood, he said, “Dhakhak knew who to look for and it looks like he has found some of you with others whose fate must be entwined.”
Tenebrae 's eyes had turned from Leo, toward the pile of grit that had been a man – her features showing neither fear nor surprise at this development – and back toward the King; her gaze almost childlike both with joy at her recent discovery and in anticipation of the tale to be told. From her long-ago childhood to this day the vampiress loved a story, and her features were set in an attitude of awe at the King's words even as he spoke. His words were met with a frown of deep thought, for the necromancer believed in the power of dreams -- had not she seen enough prophecy procured in that manner come to pass?-- and she absorbed the information he gave, etching in to the vaults of her memory. Talk of Fate ever made her nervous, her own surely the result of some unremembered falling-out with that power. This would not be discerned, however, as she forced her brow to smoothness and listened on, intently.
Schalk frowns, casting a look at his companions. Having been involved in seidr all his life, he knows dreams are a serious sign of the Gods and this one could go either way. His mind races, running another series of plots and his eyes light up as he watches King Khand
Leoxander looked at Khand; nothing to do but listen.
Fertangle looks over to Dhakhak before returning his attention to the King and continues to listen as Khand clears his throat. “But I digress; let me tell you of Baleke." Suddenly the Arkhand darkened in hue to a deep blue. The lanterns spluttered as an intense chill swept into the hall. Unperturbed, Khand closed his eyes and the Arkhand slowly returned to its original colour. Khand continued, his breath still frosting in the icy air, "I will not mention that name again neither should any of you. We will refer to her as the underlord. Who she was once has been lost in the aeons. What she became few now know. I do, and oath takers, so will you.”
Doel watches their back side yet, for he feels there is much here that Khand has not been open about. He worriedly casts glances backward, then forward again.
Schalk utters a soft curse: ''Deirne”, his native tongue coming easier to him on these occasions than any other. The race in his mind has reached the finish-line and it seems it has won: the prize is near, all left to do is to go up to the stage and receive it. His features are alight with comprehension, for, though he has not heard of Baleke before, the way the Arkhand changed colour and the way the king speaks, tell him the seriousness of the tale. This will lead to something, he knows it, but the one who will present the prize is yet to reveal the magnitude of the victory to those onlookers.
Tenebrae shivered a little in that abrupt and icy gust, sooty-lashed lids fluttering against the chill of it. She knew all too well the power of being that dwelt below. Her silence was profound, the respect stamped on her features more so. If she'd noted the nervousness of her companions, nothing in that countenance would speak of it. The necromancer smelled a … not exactly a rat. But something was afoot, that was for sure. Leoxander was still just another shadow, watching every change that should occur in the rogue's surroundings. Though he would never utter those names again, they were devoted to memory the same as visual detail had been on their way to Royal chambers. Schalk's tone was enough to impress in Leo's mind how dire the situation was, or could be. And like Elspeth had promised, it seemed he was being unwillingly volunteered to aid the outcome of their world. Apparently someone thought that he could help do so for the better. But what exactly could a pickpocketing human with a knack for speed accomplish that supported the greater good?
Fertangle follows Khands eyes, as he took a look towards another shadowy part of the hall then, in a quieter voice; said “As legends say Morgoth was banished to the void at the end of the First Age. Only the Witch king and Necromancer remain and their time will pass. But there are evils down here that have not been destroyed only defeated. Wars have raged in the deep tunnels that riddle Hollow since we first discovered the enemy. He leaned closer to the group, “I have seen through the Wielder’s eyes! The Underlord must be the greatest of these beings. She can, and did, assume Dragon form though few believed she was. In the visions, she has a great power that she uses to corrupt and pervert like the Dread Morgoth. Her touch transformed Dwarves to twisted misshapen servants of her own. Her will could drive them to fall upon each other. Dwarf killed dwarf and many died before the Arkhand was discovered.”
Schalk nods at the King, hoping to urge him to continue his tale swiftly, as indeed impatience begins to shimmer behind the veil the elvergast now presents as his true face. His hand strokes over his left cheek, touching the noose tattoo nervously with his thumb. Internally he damns all this pomp and ceremony, all this courteous behaviour and the damned detours. Externally it does not show however, as years of representing his family at the courts of his own King and in the courts of foreign sovereigns have taught him to mask his emotions.
Tenebrae 's eyes widened once more as the King inched forward, his voice growing more dire with each passing word. The tale he told was a grim one, the names unfamiliar in sound but fitting the kind of Darkness she had had the misfortune to know almost all her life. The kind that could misbeget, never truly make, and sought to corrupt evil and good alike in its wake, and its never-ending grasp for power, whatever shapes it might take in the World of Form. Nodding gently, she'd stay intent on the tale at hand.
Fertangle `s stance begins to tire, so he shuffles putting his weight on his other leg to ease it. Khand took his hands away from the gem but it remained hovering. Khand stared off into the distance before his eyes flicked back to the huge gem before him. “There is a story in my family that Khond, the Wielder, was led there by voices in his head but we,” His serious façade faltered for a second, “keep that to ourselves. I truly believe that if it was not for this artefact then no dwarf would have been able to stand against her such was her presence and the fear,” He looked up at the group with proud eyes, “yes fear, she installed in our race. But it was used to destroy her.” Dropping his head again he said sadly, “The gem has not revealed to me how, only to confirm that she has not been destroyed. I sent a trusted friend out to check the plugs. I have not heard from him for a few days and now must fear the worst as he had reported that his minions showed signs of being active again. If we do not act swiftly, they might even reach the surface.” He shuddered. Fertangle clears his throat, as the king lifts his chin again his countenance was grim, “What her powers are to non dwarfs we do not know but we cannot take the risk of her rising again. The place of her demise was sealed. You have gone past one such shaft in the star shaped room. That black rock or plug seals the hole that leads to the Deeps, home of the Arkhand and other equally powerful forces. When it is black she will have regained her might. Should that happen the dwarves of this area will be in great peril. We must stop her before it is too late. No one must know of our weakness. No one.”
Leoxander remained close to the Mistress of Eldritch's Cabal, his hat slowly removed in the first sign of respect he'd show all night. Listening to the King, like the others, he still kept his gaze trained on shadows at corners, searching General's faces, for the slightest sign of a person or thing looking out of place. Tousled blonde fell over the leather patch that covered the red, cursed eye that was slightly rimmed with a usual, random bruise. It wasn't until Khand spoke that Leo would blurt out in retaliation, his deep voice echoing in the tall structure of a royal worthy room. "Don't tell me you want to send one'r more of us into the damned thing that pile of ash o'er there told us to stay away from..." A dirt stained thumb jerked in the general direction of the bucket and shovel.
Schalk takes a deep breath, nodding silently, as he knows what request will come fom the King. It is as he suspected, this is where it will come to and the King will not yield on these terms, though perhaps they can be bend a bit to accomodate for all parties to be pleased with an agreement. His eyes fall on Tenebrae's face, trying to read her thoughts, a silent communication speaking from his skyblue pools of twinkling light. Fertangle is given a similar look, as he knows a lot will depend on the master armourer too.
Fertangle raises an eyebrow as king Khand says “I need you to go to the underdark and destroy the Underlord residing deep within, I Don`t think there are many Dragons down there, so she will be easy to spot. Do this for me and my people; bring me proof of her demise and you will have earned our respect, gratitude and we will gladly open up trades with you, and give you any aid you may need”. Taking a deep breath he addressed Tenebrae, Leoxander, Fertangle, Doel and Schalk “So, will you help?”
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Post by Joliette Thorne on Aug 21, 2006 2:27:41 GMT -5
Doel thinks back to the place where the weapons were dropped, wondering how this party of 5 can best a villan that can defeat the whole dwarven race. The king's story has a great many holes, as yet, and he still has not seen who was following them out of sight.
Leoxander took off pirate-captain hat.
Schalk bows his head to the King, as a premature apology for his next move. The elvergast turns on his heels, his back now to the King, his front turned directly to the rest of the group. His expression quizzing, again not a word spoken, but it is clear what he wants. This is a dangerous mission and he has to know wether the Temple and the Cabal will aide the King, for he cannot vow his support if it means he will have to go alone and die. It is as the Wise One once said: nothing good can come from a corpse.....
Tenebrae's expression shifted from her silent, respectful vigil to something ofshock, rose-hued lips parting as the Monarch continued with his tale, and then shifting to a blank sort of realisation as it began to twig in the necromancer's mind where this might be headed. At Leo's words, she'd turn sharply toward him, the rogue having spoken the very thoughts that troubled her own mind, and to Schalk, wise elvergast. She swallowed as she turned back to the King, not in fear or dread but merely with the enormity of the decision she knew they were going to be asked to make. Squaring her slim shoulders slightly, nubile spine coming erect from the rounded posture it'd taken in her listening, she reached her full height -- not much more than five feet -- and stood tall, it seemed, against the horrors he described. Whatever her choice, she'd fear nothing and nobody, or at least swear to give it a damned good beating before it might have any chance to get the best of her. Or any of her people. She paused, looking again to each.
Leoxander stared. His response...? "...Not... -many- dragons, he says..!" How did he know this was going to be some crazy mission, and into the Underdark, no less! A shiver convulsed through him, remembering the torturous images Imar had created; Leo didn't care for the Underdark, since. It never had stopped him from going there. With a sigh, he turned from the King of Craughmoyle, a hand touching his brow with a subtle shake of his head, to himself, not Khand. Of course, his answer would be whatever the Necromancer gave the Dwarf in response, and he was holding his breath waiting for that.
Tenebrae nodded to the rogue, her face slightly more pale than when she'd entered. She turned to the King. "I have agreed. What help can you bring us, in turn?"
Schalk sighs, then turns back to face the King and gives a short nod ''My axe, spear and sword are yours in this mission, if indeed, it will gain your aide in our venture. I shall do my utmost to ensure the safety of your people, Lord King.'' his words are spoken as those of a courtier, the words of a nobleman and he knows what his promise implies. It will mean the long twilight of the Underworld, the threat of dragons and the possibility of death, not only for himself but for his dear friends too.
Fertangle said to Khand, " My axe is yours to bid, I will do what I can to help bring this foe down, but if her powers are that great then it will be a hard task to accomplish, it may be easier for us to attempt to banish her to another plane of existence. Either way The Temple will try to do this for you, as I’m sure The Cabal will.*looking over to the others*" Leoxander finally made a move forward from the back of the crowd, brushing hesitantly passed Tenebrae and Schalk toward Khand, King of Craughmoyle. He hadn't said much at all the entire time, but now that it was time to be bargaining, and establishing trust, the young human approached with a certain confidence and casual manner that might have surprised even a dwarf that old. He was younger than he acted. "We do this for you... we take care of this problem, and you'd be so inclined to give us a hand with a problem of our own..?" With only one eye visible, his gaze was more difficult to read, and that was exactly what he meant for. Still, he stood before the ruler of that city and waited to see the response he would get. Leo was prepared to define that 'friendship' by opening up for a little conversation with His Majesty, if he'd have it. The Temple's Patriarch, Fertangle, was given a brief, studying glance.
Doel looks at Lord Fertangle, then at the King, and knows this will be a test of his skills, but not his alone. For the first time, the inherited spell from the God of Gods may make a difference, and he has not used it enough to know what it can do. A slight fear goes through him as he remembers the first time the spell took him. Yet, a dragon's heart stands stout against all odds. He nods to Lord Fertangle, then turns and says, "Aye, the Temple will stand with you!"
Fertangle watches his friend address the King, who proceeds to clear his throat once more," Yes, as you so nicely put it, if you remove this problem for us from the equation, then we would not have to pour our resources into finding a way to solve this ourself. Our people could concentrate on building up a profitable relation. I was always told a problem shared is a problem solved." Raising his eyebrows at Leoxander: "Do you not agree?"
Doel 's mind wanders, as the others ponder their plight. What do you do with a spell that you can't learn, but inherit? How can you use it? For sure it can use me just fine! What if it knocks me down as it did the first time, and I cannot get up? What if it behaves as it did the second time, and changes me into something awful? Well, there's only one way to find out ... I guess ... so let's do it!!
Schalk finds his tradesman’s and warriors instincts act up on him as he hears the Kings words. The question escapes his lips before he has a chance to ponder his words ''What would be the exact equation here? what is the support we can expect from you, Lord King?'' his question is reasonable enough, as indeed the equation must be balanced and by putting their necks on the line for the King, the return promise has to be worth while.
Leoxander dipped his head in a slow nod, talking to royalty as though he were another guy across the table at a card game, his posture a little more relaxed. "Some problems... like this one..." He had meaning to his reminder. "...Tend to be pretty big problems." But he looked satisfied with unspoken words and some eye contact, and at last, his head slightly bowed before Khand in some understanding that he was under work of the Craughmoyle Kingdom, for a short time. His eyes searched back toward Tenebrae after this silent spoken agreement, just as he retreated a few paces to move to her side, and she'd see the mischief, the plotting. Hell, the grind of his brain's gears was nearly audible. He went to clip his hat to his belt, then realized there was no such thing 'round his waist. So the cap was replaced over a mess of blonde and tipped low, Marlboro style.
Tenebrae considered the working out of the details merely an afterthought. After all, to rid the Dwarven Kingdom of this threat was going to rack up some pretty big favours. Tene and her folk would have much to bargain with, now and after, and so though her agreement may have seemed eager, it was merely the necromancer's mind, as always, working twelve steps ahead. After all, were the King to recant on his promises the shadowmancer had things at her disposal, horrors beyond horrors, to replace whatever evil the Cabal might happen to dislodge, more or less as bad. Her small chin would tilt in pride as she watched Leo bargain with a King, lips curving to a slight smile, and offered Schalk a subtle nod, Fertangle and Doel too, by way of assurance. It was entirely possible she was leading her people once more into Hell, and that her own lack of fear was a folly. But it'd be damned fine adventure, a tale worth telling after -- it didn't occur to her they might not survive it -- and the chance to clinch Cenril as a home for her clan. She'd listen more, let the men debate the terms. Tene was ready for whatever might come.
Fertangle waits briefly as Dakhak bids you all to follow him. He took you much the same way as you came. Again hurrying past the dark plug you travelled on towards the exit without much further incident. At last you came upon the door which Dakhak opened onto a wickedly bright afternoon with around 20% cloud cover, a north easterly chilly breeze and the ground slightly moist from recent rainfall. Outside the door on the small plateau beside it were two stout ponies with various supplies on it. A grumpy young gingered haired dwarf sees the party and immediately walks down the mountainside towards the main gate. Giving the ponies a cursory inspection, reveals rations, rope, pulleys, chains, picks, shovels, a couple of hefty wooden planks, a few hatchets’, 40 square foot of canvas, 14 lanterns and two barrels of oil, and various other items that may aid you on your travel, as well as every ones weapons.
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