Heroica RPG - Quest #147: Judgment Day

[Kintobor]

The Dragonlord seems tense.

"It seems Immortalis has made his choice. And it is not one we can allow. The Storm is upon us

We're already getting some disturbing reports.... For starters, so far, no one has successfully fled Eubric."

Karie comes in from the rain, ringing her coat out.

"No shit." Karie angrily growls as she removes her wet dress suit. "I try being a little nice to the big, blue bastard and this is what I get. Karie began pacing. "We need to get into Eschaton, and we need to bring this to it's end. Immortalis won't show up here. He'll likely hide in Eschaton when he delivers the final blow to the city."

[Lind Whisperer]

"It's not as if you're making any history to begin with. With all the reading you supposedly do you should know that cowards aren't worshiped in stories or songs. I'd rather go out fighting anyway. Even better if you're running the other way."

The Black Knight shook his head at the Knight's simplicity. "People that are erased from history don't appear anywhere at all."

The heroes gather in Heroica Hall the next morning. Rain pounds on the roof and windows. There's the occasional burst of lightning, followed by the low rumble of thunder...

OoC: I assume we can't post in the Hall topic, even though we're in it?

The Dragonlord seems tense.

"It seems Immortalis has made his choice. And it is not one we can allow. The Storm is upon us

We're already getting some disturbing reports.... For starters, so far, no one has successfully fled Eubric."

"...How the heck not? Has he raised some sort of a shield around the place?"

Karie comes in from the rain, ringing her coat out.

"No shit." Karie angrily growls as she removes her wet dress suit. "I try being a little nice to the big, blue bastard and this is what I get. Karie began pacing. "We need to get into Eschaton, and we need to bring this to it's end. Immortalis won't show up here. He'll likely hide in Eschaton when he delivers the final blow to the city."

"And just how do you propose we go to the very cut-off realm of Eschaton? We can't just walk there..." Edited April 11, 2016 by Lind Whisperer

[swils]

"No one has managed to leave, or no one has chosen to? I don't know what you all saw in your dreams, but I don't exactly expect the big guy to come paradin' in. We've gotta get back to Eschaton, somehow, if we're gonna stop this."

[JimBee]

Jinnipher looks out at the pouring rain, something between a grin and a grimace spreading across her face. "So this is it then. The mighty Immortalis has chosen to die today."

Karie comes in from the rain, ringing her coat out.

"No shit." Karie angrily growls as she removes her wet dress suit. "I try being a little nice to the big, blue bastard and this is what I get. Karie began pacing. "We need to get into Eschaton, and we need to bring this to it's end. Immortalis won't show up here. He'll likely hide in Eschaton when he delivers the final blow to the city."

"No one has managed to leave, or no one has chosen to? I don't know what you all saw in your dreams, but I don't exactly expect the big guy to come paradin' in. We've gotta get back to Eschaton, somehow, if we're gonna stop this."

Jinnipher nodded. "If the dreams weren't tricks. Not that I picture him being brave enough to come down here and fight us himself. Any suggestions, Cain?"

[Endgame]

"No shit." Karie angrily growls as she removes her wet dress suit. "I try being a little nice to the big, blue bastard and this is what I get. Karie began pacing. "We need to get into Eschaton, and we need to bring this to it's end. Immortalis won't show up here. He'll likely hide in Eschaton when he delivers the final blow to the city."

"If he comes to Eubric, it'd likely be just to clean up the scraps after he washes the city away."

"...How the heck not? Has he raised some sort of a shield around the place?"

"And just how do you propose we go to the very cut-off realm of Eschaton? We can't just walk there..."

"The sky is, of course, not an option for an escape. Boats that try to sail away have their masts split by a bolt of lightning without fail. And whenever people try to leave the city, they fall unconscious and wake up elsewhere. It seems Immortalis' lackeys are doing a good job of keeping the land under lockdown while Immortalis keeps the sea and sky in his grips.

A precious few may have already gotten out, but this is only getting worse... and who knows, perhaps Immortalis is accounting even for stragglers."

"No one has managed to leave, or no one has chosen to? I don't know what you all saw in your dreams, but I don't exactly expect the big guy to come paradin' in. We've gotta get back to Eschaton, somehow, if we're gonna stop this."

"You're right. Breaking back into Eschaton is the only way to end all of this."

Jinnipher nodded. "If the dreams weren't tricks. Not that I picture him being brave enough to come down here and fight us himself. Any suggestions, Cain?"

"I have an idea in mind, but first, I want to introduce a couple of people. Just five of you - six, counting Arx - is not enough anymore. Lethauros and Vorpalis put up enough of a fight as is, and we don't know what Immortalis is capable of in an actual fight.

Thus, I got you some back-up."

Two heroes and a dragon enter!

Arthur Justus Regulus VII Ziegfried, a Hero Who Is Actually Worth Something (played by Flipz), Level 42.4 Dragoon, 23-year-old male Human *Immune to Hexed, Petrified, Minimized, Jinxed, Stunned, Slowed, Hastened, Blind, Confused, and Defense Reduction* *Immune to Magic and Healing*

Power Bonus: +7

Health: 68/68

Defense: 58

Gold: 32 (Owed 128 gold by Boomingham)

Equipment: Dauntlet Index (WP: 20, doubled against humanoids, Darkness-elemental; spear), Blue Hand Shield (SP:15, Immune to Hexed, Petrified, Minimized, Jinxed, and Stunned; shield), Tin Armor (SP:6, multiplied by the number of “tin” artifacts equipped; suitable to knights, dragoons, skirmishers and vindicators; bodywear), Shadeaux Cape (SP:13, Immune to Blind, Confused, and Defense Reduction, suitable to those with reputation among the Shadeaux only; if reputation is great, SP is doubled; if reputation is outstanding, SP is tripled; backwear), Tin Greaves (Immunity to Stunned-, Slowed-, and Hastened-effects; footwear), Duplovian Helmet of the Guard (SP:2, Immune to Magic and Healing; headwear, suitable for anyone), Mail of the Renegade Commander (SP: 3, Free hits deal half damage, Bodywear), Coathanger (Allows for a second body wear, accessory),

Abilities: First Breath (Arthur may sacrifice a turn of combat to focus and gain +3 power. Power resets at the end of a battle or when the hero is KO'd).

Inventory:

Weapons: Zoot's Rebel (WP:20 "halberd", suitable to Arthur only), Clockwork Lance (WP:12, Light-elemental, has 1/3 chance to cause slowed-effect on the target; lance), Gladiator Trident (WP: 11, Spear, causes bleeding-by-5 effect), Stag Antlers (WP:10, grants Intimidation; halberd), Metasimian Dory (WP:10, pierces defense; spear), Spider Leg (WP:10, doubled against flying enemies, Lightning- and Wind-elemental; spear), Duplovian Swift Halberd (WP:3, halberd, stuns on successful hits, Hollow [--]), Sven's Dagger (WP: 14, Fire-Earth Elemental)

Artifacts: Sylvania's Cowl (Permits Animal Talk, Headwear), Stingy Gloves (Prevents enemies from ever stealing gold from you; handwear, wearable by everybody), Overkill Gloves (Grants Overkill gold on kills; handwear, suitable for anyone) (currently loaned indefinitely to Namyrra), Winged Sandals (Protects from bound- and slowed-effects; footwear), Fur Leggings (SP: 1, Beast enemies do not deal free hits to the wearer; footwear, suitable for anyone), Shackles of War (Prevents anyone from fleeing battles; Accessory, suitable for anyone), Macabre Collar (Provides immunity to Insta-Kill and Doomed; Accessory, suitable for anyone), Scarf of Misfortune (Wearer deals the Jinxed effect on every third round; Accessory, suitable for anyone), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (changes the wearer into an elf of the same gender when worn; Accessory, suitable for anyone), Sandman’s Parasol (Protects from asleep- and fast asleep –effects; accessory), Enchanted Bracelet (Protects from sealed-effect; accessory), Comfy Pillow (If the user is inflicted by asleep- or fast asleep-effect, they regain full health and ether; accessory.), Unicorn Helmet (SP:1; the wearer can only receive one negative effect at a time, with a new effect replacing the old one; headwear, usable by barbarians, knights, dragoons, infiltrators, regulators, skirmishers, and winged warriors), Tin Gloves (Power +1, multiplied by the number of “tin” artifacts equipped; suitable to knights, dragoons, skirmishers and vindicators; handwear),

Unsuitable Weapons/Artifacts: Weatherfax Broom (WP:25; makes weather forecasts instant instead of being applied at the end of the round; suitable to weather mages; broomstick), Sword of the Vampir (WP:17, user is Jinxed), Sir Roderick's Sword (WP:12, Longsword), Staff of the Cultist Battlemage (WP: 7, staff, 50% chance of Fleeing upon being KO'd), Staff of Ennon - (WP: 5, Light-Elemental, staff, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2, 3, or 4), Pointy Hat (+2 Max Ether), White Ninja Cowl (The wearer can choose to hide for up to three rounds, avoiding Free Hits; the effect ends if the user targets an enemy; suitable to rogues, beast warriors, chi monks and infiltrators; headwear),

Spell Items (unsuitable): Etherial Opal (Ice+Fragile), Etherial Garnet (Earth+Sealed), Ruby (Fire), Etherial Topaz (Lighting+Stunned) Etherial Sapphire (Wind+Slowed)

Tools: Bedroll, Telescope, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Pickaxe, Magic Compass, Of Power and Mortals (+1 power each successful quest)

Consumables: Adamantite Shard, Potion, 14x Grand Potion, Tonic, Grand Tonic, 10x Remedy, 9x Mead, 6x Nostrum, Hurricane, 3x Neutralizer, Exterlate, Noxious Venom (When used on a weapon, the weapon deals the Poisoned-by-10 effect for the duration of the battle and the Confused effect for the next three rounds, for the duration of one battle.), Crumbling Venom (-3 HP/-1 SP per round), Blind Fury, Love Potion, Grating Stone, Ella's Pie (Permanently boosts max. ether by 5 but permanently decreases max. health by 5 when consumed.), 3x Stun Bomb, 5x Smoke Bomb, 3x Bone, Negative Nelly (Causes 30 damage and jinxed but has 1/6 chance to break whenever used), 2x Silver Ore, Trial Brew, Henry Award, Shining Polish (SP +2 to one shield or artifact that has SP when consumed.)

Miirym, 8-month-old Dragon hatchling (dragon companion controlled by Flipz), Level 42.4 Dragon

Power Bonus: 3

Power: 42

Health: 72/72

Element: Darkness

Ability: May pay 10 health for a 2/6 chance to make a party member Lucky.

Vindsval Half-Born (Asphalt)

39 year old, Male, Half Giant,

Level: 31 Paladin *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened, Effects* (Attacks cause bleeding in Humanoids, 1/3 chance against all others) When Poisoned becomes Blessed

Power: 57 (31+24+1+1)

Power Bonus +2 (2015 Henry Awards)

Defense: 30

Health: 50/50 (9+30+11)

Ether: 35/35 (5+30)

Gold: 359

Equipment:

Vampire's Court Sword (WP:12 (24); 1/3 chance to cause bleeding; always causes bleeding to humanoids; great sword.)

Mythril Mail (SP:10; suitable to knights and barbarians only; bodywear)

Mythril Shield (SP: 20 Shield)

Mechanical Arm (Doubles WP for the equipped weapon; wearer cannot become disarmed; suitable for Vindsval only; handwear)

Toxic Hood: (Headwear. The green hood worn by the Rosalia Pestilence. Changes the poisoned effect, to Blessed for the duration of the battle if poisoned while wearing the hood, Usable by all.)

Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity toAsleep,Blinded,Confused, Fragile, and Weakened effects)(lent by Benji)

Inventory:

Consumables: 4X Mead, 4X Smelling Salts, 5X Remedy, Potion, 6X Grand Potion, 3X Smoke Bomb, 4X Tonic, 4x Venom (poison -1), 4X Deadly Poison (Poison -10), Banana, Poison Bomb, 4X Hurricane - This exotic drink grants the Hilariously and Luckily Drunk-effect, doubling the power of every attack, provided the consumer can state a pun related to his attack with every attack for the duration of one battle, Bone, Jarate (deals the Fragile effect to all opponents for three rounds, Consumable Bomb), Fenghuang Essence, Agni Bomb, Elixir, Myrrh, Ambrosia, Mulled Wine.

Misc: Mythril Shard, 4X Grating Stone

Weapons And Shieds

Very Pink Parasol: Broomstick, WP:1, Male enemies are Enamored with the hero

Verkenner (WP:10, Darkness elemental Broomstick,(X2 against Humanoid and Holy/Luminous)ranged)

Xeno Whip (WP:4, poisoning the Xeno Whip doubles the poison output, whip)

Leets d’Loc (WP:9, ice-elemental longsword)

Simurgh Wingblade (WP:12, cannot be used with a shield; greatsword)

Ignis Blade (WP:5, Fire-elemental, ignores SP of foes weak to Fire, (Beasts, Icey, and Plants) gems cannot be merged into or removed from the weapon; greatsword)

Gaia Blade (WP:5, Wood-elemental, ignores SP foes weak to Wood,(aquatic and Rock) gems cannot be merged into or removed from the weapon; greatsword

Twin Sai (WP: 12, dual strike, dagger)

Artefacts:

Wonky Shoes (footwear, SP: 3, suitable for all classes)(lent by Benj),

Ten-Gallon Hat: Gives the wearer the "Tourist" effect, causing no one to take them seriously)

Witch's Talisman (Causes the witch's poisonous attacks to deal poison 10 instead of poison 1; suitable for witches, accessory)

Gloves of the Hypocritical/Hippocratic Oath, Handwear, (Adds +10 to healing for characters with the Healing job trait and + 10 Poisoning for characters with the Wicked (or future equivalent) fighting style )

Lethauros Mail: SP: 4. Prismatic armor bright enough to banish darkness. You can feel the dragon watching you as your continue on your journey, aiding you in your hunt. The wearer takes half damage from Demon and Dark type enemies. Suitable for anyone, bodywear.

Shikokku's Stealth Suit (SP:6; Power +6, User is immune to Dark & Demonic enemies; Body, Head and Backwear counts as 1 Artefact)

Anniversary Medal (Power +4, SP +4, Max Health +4, Max Ether +4. Values increase by 1 with each passing year; Accessory)

Gauntlets of the Legionnaire (Power +5, immune to Petrified, Handwear)

Gems: Emerald X2, Aquamarine X2, Garnet X2, Ruby, Opal, Diamond, Topaz

Scrolls,

Scroll of Poisoning. Can be cast on a weapon to give it Poison 10, for the duration of the battle at the cost of 5 Ether.

Scroll of Frailty (Enables casting the Fragile effect to one target for three round. Each casting has a 50/50 chance of success and costs 1 ether.)

Decamon Cards: Cherub (Luminous 3)

Tools: Bed Roll, Shovel, Magic Compass

[JimBee]

Jinnipher looked the newcomers up and down. "Tch, what is this? Another dragoon and some sort of orc paladin? You had better be up to snuff. I suppose we'll need you now that this one here is planning on running away and this one over here tried to join the dragon's angel army." She indicated to Lind and Siercon, respectively. "That's right, Dragonlord. Almost half of the party you picked is incompetent. After what the kid did in Moone, I would expect you to know to never hire him again. You might as well send him on his way now." She sneered.

OOC: I'd also like to know if we can interact with anyone in the Hall... even if it's just dropping off an item.

[Asphalt]

Vindsval steps up to the group whom he thought was out vanquishing a dragon. He overhears The elf comment.

I am no orc Mistress, but I have recently donned the cape and shield of the Paladin. I am Vindsval Called the Half Born, First Paladin of the Wanderer. What path has led you to be one so quick to judge.

Edited April 11, 2016 by Asphalt

[Endgame]

OOC: I'd also like to know if we can interact with anyone in the Hall... even if it's just dropping off an item.

QM Note: I'd prefer to keep this hall interaction one-way... Is it something urgent?

[JimBee]

I am no orc Mistress, but I have recently donned the cape and shield of the Paladin. I am Vindsval Called the Half Born, First Paladin of the Wanderer. What path has led you to be one so quick to judge.

"The path that's seen too many imbeciles and traitors, especially in this organization."

QM Note: I'd prefer to keep this hall interaction one-way... Is it something urgent?

OOC: No, just thought I'd ask.

[Asphalt]

"The path that's seen too many imbeciles and traitors, especially in this organization."

Vindsval Smirks

You remind me of a certain Dwarf I have travelled with.

"I have an idea in mind, but first, I want to introduce a couple of people. Just five of you - six, counting Arx - is not enough anymore. Lethauros and Vorpalis put up enough of a fight as is, and we don't know what Immortalis is capable of in an actual fight.

Thus, I got you some back-up."

​What is it you have brought me here to achieve Dragon Lord?

Edited April 12, 2016 by Asphalt

[Endgame]

"The Father of Dragons, Immortalis, is a judge of sorts - and if his verdict comes back guilty, he erases the city in question. Previously, the heroes escorted various ambassadors to his realm, Eschaton, in order for him to conduct his trial. They returned yesterday, and as you can see, his verdict is not favorable. If we do not stop him, this storm may sweep Eubric away. You must break back into Eschaton and stop this primordial dragon.

You may better know him not as the Father of Dragons, but as the father of Lethauros."

Edited April 12, 2016 by Endgame

[Asphalt]

The Great Beast's Father. The Child could destroy a countryside with the beat of his wings. Does the father truly have the power to erase an entire city and all its peoples?

He looks at the assembled party.

A trial was held you say? And those here were found wanting? Who were these Ambassadors?

[Lind Whisperer]

"...A precious few may have already gotten out, but this is only getting worse... and who knows, perhaps Immortalis is accounting even for stragglers."

"Immortalis...will act as he sees best."

"I have an idea in mind, but first, I want to introduce a couple of people. Just five of you - six, counting Arx - is not enough anymore. Lethauros and Vorpalis put up enough of a fight as is, and we don't know what Immortalis is capable of in an actual fight.

Thus, I got you some back-up."

"If it's that necromancer, I'm pretty sure I've already fulfilled my part of this contract-"

"Sir Arthur!" The Black Knight flung his arms around the newly arrived Dragoon with a motion that could only be described as "glomp".

"Where've you been? I haven't seen you around the Hall for what seems like months-"

He saw the dragon.

"Oooh, hello there, little - well, biggish - one. What's your name?"

The Black Knight saluted the Paladin. "Good to see another decent blade in the party..."

He tilted his head. "I remember you loaned me a few gold awhile back...but I can't remember if we've met since then...unless it was during that One Night, of which we shan't speak - me, the more so, since I blacked out so hard I still can't remember what happened, although it seems to have involved fake elf ears..."

Jinnipher looked the newcomers up and down. "Tch, what is this? Another dragoon and some sort of orc paladin? You had better be up to snuff. I suppose we'll need you now that this one here is planning on running away and this one over here tried to join the dragon's angel army." She indicated to Lind and Siercon, respectively. "That's right, Dragonlord. Almost half of the party you picked is incompetent. After what the kid did in Moone, I would expect you to know to never hire him again. You might as well send him on his way now." She sneered.

"Strategic retreat; Sir Arthur himself once advised me to use it, if the occasion demanded.

And for point of reference, Princess, I saved the king's life in Moone. If he'd died, we'd have failed that contract completely, and your country would have been in an even worse mess than it is now."

Vindsval steps up to the group whom he thought was out vanquishing a dragon. He overhears The elf comment.

I am no orc Mistress, but I have recently donned the cape and shield of the Paladin. I am Vindsval Called the Half Born, First Paladin of the Wanderer. What path has led you to be one so quick to judge.

"Vindsval! That was it." The Black Knight held out his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you again."

Vindsval Smirks

You remind me of a certain Dwarf I have travelled with.

"I don't suppose he'd be named Tholar?"

"The Father of Dragons, Immortalis, is a judge of sorts - and if his verdict comes back guilty, he erases the city in question. Previously, the heroes escorted various ambassadors to his realm, Eschaton, in order for him to conduct his trial. They returned yesterday, and as you can see, his verdict is not favorable. If we do not stop him, this storm may sweep Eubric away. You must break back into Eschaton and stop this primordial dragon.

"Again...not to be rude, My Lord, but...how are we going to break into a realm in a completely different dimension? And with the Drachenvater's forsight, what will prevent him from forseeing our assault?"

The Great Beast's Father. The Child could destroy a countryside with the beat of his wings. Does the father truly have the power to erase an entire city and all its peoples?

"I watched him do it. It...was quite really indescribable.

He's got that power, and then some."

A trial was held you say? And those here were found wanting? Who were these Ambassadors?

"Umbra Shadeaux, from House Shadeaux, Geor Bullsworth, from the Bonapartes, Monalisa Gioconda, of the Ji Pei, Patricia Ziegfried, from, well, the Ziegfrieds, and a friendly little Progg named Punii, from the Guild of Invasion."

[Endgame]

The Dragonlord cringes.

"Perhaps I should listen to you more, Jinnipher. Black Knight, peel yourself off the newcomer."

[Kintobor]

"Vindsval. Good to see you again." Karie nods. She turns to Arthur. "Um... Arthur. It's good to see you too."

"Immortalis...will act as he sees best."

"Running out of excuses to praise your dragon bedfellow, Lind?" Karie raised an eyebrow.

[Lind Whisperer]

The Dragonlord cringes.

"Perhaps I should listen to you more, Jinnipher. Black Knight, peel yourself off the newcomer."

"Aw." The Black Knight gave Arthur one more squeeze before letting him go. "Great seeing you again, sir."

He looked at Jinnipher and the Dragonlord. "If Princess Jenny has any actual complaints, she is quite welcome to share them.

Otherwise..."

"Running out of excuses to praise your dragon bedfellow, Lind?" Karie raised an eyebrow.

"If I remember right, you still haven't told us if he was your bedfellow or not..."

[Kintobor]

"If I remember right, you still haven't told us if he was your bedfellow or not..."

Karie raises her arms. "What exactly is that supposed to mean?"

[Lind Whisperer]

Karie raises her arms. "What exactly is that supposed to mean?"

"You were telling us about how you had learned that dragons were well endowed - but you never did tell us how you came by that knowledge..."

[Siercon and Coral]

Arthur Justus Regulus VII Ziegfried, a Hero Who Is Actually Worth Something (played by Flipz)

Miirym, 8-month-old Dragon hatchling (dragon companion controlled by Flipz)

Vindsval Half-Born (Asphalt)

"Arthur, Miirym, Vindsval, I'm Siercon. I suppose you're now stuck in the throws now with us. Truly we're glad to have your aid." Siercon said, making a pointed show to ignore the others exchanging low blows.

"If he comes to Eubric, it'd likely be just to clean up the scraps after he washes the city away."

"Dragonlord. And for any heroes who care to listen. While in Eschaton I feared it would come to this, so I both gained their confidence as one of their own, and then purposely walked into Immortalis' judgement. As a result, this is some potentially pertinent information i've learned."

Siercon unfolds a recently made sketch paper with bullet points on it.

1. I'm almost sure that Immortals can read thoughts if he tries. I wasn't able to prove it, but still think it's likely he can.

2. Immortalis is at a minimum a lightning and flying type dragon. I would not be surprised if he had all of the elements, but lightning will most likely be his favorite.

3. He can see into peoples life essences. At a glance he will be able to determine weaknesses.

4. I imagine we'll face Charon first. He is openly very skilled with portals and warping magic, however occasionally I got a glimpse of him using telekinesis, in the form of a force push. I have a feeling this part of his true power.

5. And there is something they want to keep a secret within Eschaton's walls, I have no idea if it's anything big.

6. Immortalis cannot raise the dead.

At a minimum, I suggest we prepare ourselves for dealing with lightning.

Thoughts?

With that, Siercon took his crystalline feather (Equipped instead of his hood) and pinned it to his cloak.

Turning to the other heroes who went to Eschaton and asked. "What did you learn from your visit? We need as much information as possible."

[Flipz]

Arthur seems a little off-balance as the Dragonlord sweeps him away to join the group of Heroes, but the wheels begin to turn in his head. Well, that explains a few things... he thinks to himself.

And soon the time for thinking is over as he finds himself nearly tackled by the Black Knight. Miirym bares her teeth, but chooses to remain otherwise civil. The Dragon interposes herself between the two as soon as Whisperer lets go, black mist spewing from every pore. "<You will show my partner respect, stranger.>"

Arthur struggles to reconcile Lind's apparent joviality with the reputation he'd developed, including with the party's other members. "...Consent, Mr. Whisperer. Learn to ask it." he finally manages to get out. "And maybe work on reading people, while you're at it. Perhaps you might have sensed my...discomfort...sooner." The Dragoon makes a promise with himself to give the Munchkin a fair chance, but it's clear it will be an uphill battle.

Jinnipher looked the newcomers up and down. "Tch, what is this? Another dragoon and some sort of orc paladin? You had better be up to snuff. I suppose we'll need you now that this one here is planning on running away and this one over here tried to join the dragon's angel army." She indicated to Lind and Siercon, respectively. "That's right, Dragonlord. Almost half of the party you picked is incompetent. After what the kid did in Moone, I would expect you to know to never hire him again. You might as well send him on his way now." She sneered.

"<Moone? So you have faced Vorpalis directly, then? Yes...his scent lingers upon your blade. I am Miirym. We must speak, when opportunity presents. As a member of another elder race, perhaps you will better understand my inquiries into the shadow Dragon's nature.>"

Vindsval steps up to the group whom he thought was out vanquishing a dragon. He overhears The elf comment.

I am no orc Mistress, but I have recently donned the cape and shield of the Paladin. I am Vindsval Called the Half Born, First Paladin of the Wanderer. What path has led you to be one so quick to judge.

"The path that's seen too many imbeciles and traitors, especially in this organization."

Vindsval Smirks

You remind me of a certain Dwarf I have travelled with.

"...oddly enough, I think I know the Dwarf you're talking about."

"<Indeed? I do not recall any Dwarven acquaintances of yours.>"

"No, he was before your time..."

"Arthur, Miirym, Vindsval, I'm Siercon. I suppose you're now stuck in the throws now with us. Truly we're glad to have your aid." Siercon said, making a pointed show to ignore the others exchanging low blows.

"...as is Siercon, I suppose. I guess it has been some time since our first encounter. I do hope that robe served you well, in the end--"

Not willing to wait for Arthur to continue to wade through old memories, Miirym decides to introduce herself. "<To those who do not know me, I am Miirym. To those who do, I offer you greetings. I am unsure why I and my caretaker were selected for this task, but I shall harbor my guesses. With care and wisdom, we may prove worthy guardians of this city, and I hope that every one of us comes to demonstrate such wisdom, preferably sooner than later.>" Miirym surveys the party, satisfied her intentions had been communicated. To her irritation, the Black Knight had turned his attention to the Minstrel she recognized from a brief visit to her and Arthur's home just before the assignment for Guffington. She swoops down to loom over them.

"Vindsval. Good to see you again." Karie nods. She turns to Arthur. "Um... Arthur. It's good to see you too."

"Running out of excuses to praise your dragon bedfellow, Lind?" Karie raised an eyebrow.

"If I remember right, you still haven't told us if he was your bedfellow or not..."

Karie raises her arms. "What exactly is that supposed to mean?"

"You were telling us about how you had learned that dragons were well endowed - but you never did tell us how you came by that knowledge..."

"<I would hope,>" Miirym seethes, "<that this Dragon's strength would be of more concern than the size of his hoard. Honestly, the greed of you mortals...>"

Arthur coughs. "That's, er...not what he's talking about, sweetheart."

Miirym shoots her caretaker an incredulous gaze. "<Then what is he implying?>"

The ex-Mage groans. "Gee, thanks you two." He draws a Remedy from his pouch and seriously considers consuming it in a vain attempt to stave off the headache he felt impending. "When you're older, Miirym," he sighs. Later. Much later. Once I've had a chance to research the answers to all the questions you'll have.

The Dragon shrugs, trotting over to investigate the other in the party of her kind.

...okay, so maybe later isn't such a great plan...

Arthur massages his aching forehead. "Good to see you too, by the way, Karie," he adds belatedly. "Hope you and Masson are having an easier time with Rachelle than I am with her..." he mutters for the Minstrel's ears only.

Miirym approaches Arx, but keeps an eye towards Thormanil for any signs of disapproval. She had met the Dragoon briefly, in passing, back when she was a hatchling. She had sought after his companion then, intrigued at what she had felt in the Spirit Pools, but the youngling had proven elusive. Now, it seemed, the two would be journeying together, and she was intrigued by his presence. Though the oldest Dragon in the Hall by her caretaker's reckoning, Arx appeared somehow younger, less mature than her previous questmate Torc, though by appearances not by much. She hoped her relationship with this member of her species would prove less volatile.

"Dragonlord. And for any heroes who care to listen. While in Eschaton I feared it would come to this, so I both gained their confidence as one of their own, and then purposely walked into Immortalis' judgement. As a result, this is some potentially pertinent information i've learned."

Siercon unfolds a recently made sketch paper with bullet points on it.

1. I'm almost sure that Immortals can read thoughts if he tries. I wasn't able to prove it, but still think it's likely he can.

2. Immortalis is at a minimum a lightning and flying type dragon. I would not be surprised if he had all of the elements, but lightning will most likely be his favorite.

3. He can see into peoples life essences. At a glance he will be able to determine weaknesses.

4. I imagine we'll face Charon first. He is openly very skilled with portals and warping magic, however occasionally I got a glimpse of him using telekinesis, in the form of a force push. I have a feeling this part of his true power.

5. And there is something they want to keep a secret within Eschaton's walls, I have no idea if it's anything big.

6. Immortalis cannot raise the dead.

At a minimum, I suggest we prepare ourselves for dealing with lightning.

Thoughts?

With that, Siercon took his crystalline feather (Equipped instead of his hood) and pinned it to his cloak.

Turning to the other heroes who went to Eschaton and asked. "What did you learn from your visit? We need as much information as possible."

Arthur chuckles in appreciation. "You've certainly an eye for detail, Siercon. The thought-reading and sensing of life essences are fairly standard for Dragons of primarily Dastanian descent. Miirym and I were recently in Dastan, and my old friend Vipera was gracious enough to begin Miirym's training in the Dragons' spiritual ways--it is why you are all able to comprehend Miirym's speech, she projects her thoughts through the Spirit Pools into our minds. As for your second point..." Arthur fishes in his pack. "In retrospect I ought to have waited to make this switch, but why don't you hold onto this for now?" he says, offering to lend Siercon Sven's Dagger. "You should probably borrow my gems as well, while you're at it. I imagine a good Circle of Might and Magic with that Ethereal Opal through that blade ought to pack quite the one-two punch." With little time to prepare, Arthur had failed to resupply on Phoenix Essences, so he reluctantly slots a Remedy into the Hollow Blade of his Duplovian Swift Halberd.

[Endgame]

"Dragonlord. And for any heroes who care to listen. While in Eschaton I feared it would come to this, so I both gained their confidence as one of their own, and then purposely walked into Immortalis' judgement. As a result, this is some potentially pertinent information i've learned."

Siercon unfolds a recently made sketch paper with bullet points on it.

1. I'm almost sure that Immortals can read thoughts if he tries. I wasn't able to prove it, but still think it's likely he can.

2. Immortalis is at a minimum a lightning and flying type dragon. I would not be surprised if he had all of the elements, but lightning will most likely be his favorite.

3. He can see into peoples life essences. At a glance he will be able to determine weaknesses.

4. I imagine we'll face Charon first. He is openly very skilled with portals and warping magic, however occasionally I got a glimpse of him using telekinesis, in the form of a force push. I have a feeling this part of his true power.

5. And there is something they want to keep a secret within Eschaton's walls, I have no idea if it's anything big.

6. Immortalis cannot raise the dead.

"All good intel. I would like to add a number seven to the list - Immortalis is prophetic. He can see the future. He likely already knows the plan I have in mind, but his way of upholding his law is via his squadron of fallen angels. They will find way to stop you, to distract you, while the storm grows and grows. The only way you'll get a shot at Immortalis' throat is if you overcome the obstacles they put in your way.

Eschaton is a very remote realm. We've opened portals before... To Azzurat and Spesialia, and such. However, we have a problem. We would need all the veterans to create a portal that can break you fellows into Eschaton. And the Falconer is currently off on her training grounds on Billow... Off the coast of Uland. She's practically stranded. It would be a very quick sail, if Immortalis didn't destroy any boat that tried to take to the open waters."

"You can't walk, you can't sail, you can't fly... But you can tunnel. Are any of you familiar with the colony of Proggs beneath Eubric?"

Edited April 12, 2016 by Endgame

[Lind Whisperer]

With that, Siercon took his crystalline feather (Equipped instead of his hood) and pinned it to his cloak.

Turning to the other heroes who went to Eschaton and asked. "What did you learn from your visit? We need as much information as possible."

"All I can immediately add, is that Immortalis does not consider himself a god.

Beyond that...I shall consider."

And soon the time for thinking is over as he finds himself nearly tackled by the Black Knight. Miirym bares her teeth, but chooses to remain otherwise civil. The Dragon interposes herself between the two as soon as Whisperer lets go, black mist spewing from every pore. "<You will show my partner respect, stranger.>"

"My apologies, little one. Your master helped me out as a very young knight - rogue, actually - and I was quite pleased to find we'd once more be questing together."

Arthur struggles to reconcile Lind's apparent joviality with the reputation he'd developed, including with the party's other members. "...Consent, Mr. Whisperer. Learn to ask it." he finally manages to get out. "And maybe work on reading people, while you're at it. Perhaps you might have sensed my...discomfort...sooner."

"...Yes sir." He stepped back, his face drooping slightly.

"<Moone? So you have faced Vorpalis directly, then? Yes...his scent lingers upon your blade. I am Miirym. We must speak, when opportunity presents. As a member of another elder race, perhaps you will better understand my inquiries into the shadow Dragon's nature.>"

The Black Knight raised his hand. "If you wish to know more about Vorpalis, I spent more time face to face with him than Jenny ever did." He frowned at the Elf. "Since someone, and the rest of the group decided to hang back and admire the scenery, leaving someone to investigate alone."

Not willing to wait for Arthur to continue to wade through old memories, Miirym decides to introduce herself. "<To those who do not know me, I am Miirym. To those who do, I offer you greetings. I am unsure why I and my caretaker were selected for this task, but I shall harbor my guesses. With care and wisdom, we may prove worthy guardians of this city, and I hope that every one of us comes to demonstrate such wisdom, preferably sooner than later.>" Miirym surveys the party, satisfied her intentions had been communicated. To her irritation, the Black Knight had turned his attention to the Minstrel she recognized from a brief visit to her and Arthur's home just before the assignment for Guffington. She swoops down to loom over them.

"<I would hope,>" Miirym seethes, "<that this Dragon's strength would be of more concern than the size of his hoard. Honestly, the greed of you mortals...>"

Arthur coughs. "That's, er...not what he's talking about, sweetheart."

Miirym shoots her caretaker an incredulous gaze. "<Then what is he implying?>"

The ex-Mage groans. "Gee, thanks you two." He draws a Remedy from his pouch and seriously considers consuming it in a vain attempt to stave off the headache he felt impending. "When you're older, Miirym," he sighs. Later. Much later. Once I've had a chance to research the answers to all the questions you'll have.

Lind had to hold his hand very tightly over his mouth, to prevent his chuckles from escaping.

[Flipz]

"All good intel. I would like to add a number seven to the list - Immortalis is prophetic. He can see the future. He likely already knows the plan I have in mind, but his way of upholding his law is via his squadron of fallen angels. They will find way to stop you, to distract you, while the storm grows and grows. The only way you'll get a shot at Immortalis' throat is if you overcome the obstacles they put in your way.

Eschaton is a very remote realm. We've opened portals before... To Azzurat and Spesialia, and such. However, we have a problem. We would need all the veterans to create a portal that can break you fellows into Eschaton. And the Falconer is currently off on her training grounds on Billow... Off the coast of Uland. She's practically stranded. It would be a very quick sail, if Immortalis didn't destroy any boat that tried to take to the open waters."

"You can't walk, you can't sail, you can't fly... But you can tunnel. Are any of you familiar with the colony of Proggs beneath Eubric?"

"Much like Princess Ella...again, unsurprising for one connected to the Spirit Pools, though the others I've known who possess such a connection would likely be...displeased at this Immortalis' abuse."

"<I would not be so sure. It is a Dragon's nature to exert our will upon the world. This Immortalis simply seems to have taken it overly far.>"

"Still."

Arthur remains pointedly silent at the mention of the Falconer. At one time, he might have taken a jab at the unreliability of the Bonapartes, but whether it was maturity or gratitude for the Falconer's relatively gentle treatment a few days prior, the ex-Mage chooses to take a different tack. "If you're opening a portal, your best bet is to speak to my mother, Valentine Ziegfried. As Head Transportatrix, she is our family's primary expert on portals and teleportation, and nearly all of the Circles acknowledge her prowess as one of, if not the, leading voices in the field."

"Anyway, I've never been to the Progg colony," Arthur continues, "but I do know a few Proggs. I briefly met a small, yellow Progg some time back--Punii, I think his name was?--and then when I was a member of the Watch Karie and I both encountered five energetic youngsters who mentioned the Progg colony. Gods...it seems so long ago now..." Arthur soon drifts into a wistful reverie.

The Black Knight raised his hand. "If you wish to know more about Vorpalis, I spent more time face to face with him than Jenny ever did." He frowned at the Elf. "Since someone, and the rest of the group decided to hang back and admire the scenery, leaving someone to investigate alone."

Miirym does not move from her place alongside Arx, but after a few moments of careful consideration slowly nods to the Black Knight. She would approach him when she was ready, on her own terms.

[Asphalt]

"Oooh, hello there, little - well, biggish - one. What's your name?"

The Black Knight saluted the Paladin. "Good to see another decent blade in the party..."

He tilted his head. "I remember you loaned me a few gold awhile back...but I can't remember if we've met since then...unless it was during that One Night, of which we shan't speak - me, the more so, since I blacked out so hard I still can't remember what happened, although it seems to have involved fake elf ears..."

"Strategic retreat; Sir Arthur himself once advised me to use it, if the occasion demanded.

And for point of reference, Princess, I saved the king's life in Moone. If he'd died, we'd have failed that contract completely, and your country would have been in an even worse mess than it is now."

"Vindsval! That was it." The Black Knight held out his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you again."

"I don't suppose he'd be named Tholar?"

Those who know him, know of whom I speak. It has indeed been long since we have spoken. Well Met. It is good to see that you are once again sober, and have lost those ridiculous ears. You mumbled in your sleep, and I have heard tales spoken of you regarding your friends in the Flock. I was not aware that you were part of a religious order.

"Arthur, Miirym, Vindsval, I'm Siercon. I suppose you're now stuck in the throws now with us. Truly we're glad to have your aid." Siercon said, making a pointed show to ignore the others exchanging low blows.

Well Met Master Siercon, it would seem that there is a great deal of backplay going on between the members here. What can you tell me of it?

"Vindsval. Good to see you again." Karie nods. She turns to Arthur. "Um... Arthur. It's good to see you too."

"Running out of excuses to praise your dragon bedfellow, Lind?" Karie raised an eyebrow.

Mistress Karie, a pleasure to speak to you again. How is it that the Whisperer has taken to bedding dragons?

"All good intel. I would like to add a number seven to the list - Immortalis is prophetic. He can see the future. He likely already knows the plan I have in mind, but his way of upholding his law is via his squadron of fallen angels. They will find way to stop you, to distract you, while the storm grows and grows. The only way you'll get a shot at Immortalis' throat is if you overcome the obstacles they put in your way.

Eschaton is a very remote realm. We've opened portals before... To Azzurat and Spesialia, and such. However, we have a problem. We would need all the veterans to create a portal that can break you fellows into Eschaton. And the Falconer is currently off on her training grounds on Billow... Off the coast of Uland. She's practically stranded. It would be a very quick sail, if Immortalis didn't destroy any boat that tried to take to the open waters."

"You can't walk, you can't sail, you can't fly... But you can tunnel. Are any of you familiar with the colony of Proggs beneath Eubric?"

If I understand this correctly we are not trapped within the city, simply barred from where we need be? And this Father Of Dragons holds power over storm and sky, thus blocking out transport. He holds no sway over the earth however. By the Wanderer, more damnable tunnels. Always tunnels. And what is a Progg?

Edited April 12, 2016 by Asphalt

[Lind Whisperer]

Those who know him, know of whom I speak.

"That'll be Throlar, then. Good chap, we talked a few times."

It has indeed been long since we have spoken. Well Met. It is good to see that you are once again sober, and have lost those ridiculous ears. You mumbled in your sleep, and I have heard tales spoken of you regarding your friends in the Flock. I was not aware that you were part of a religious order.

"Well Met to you as well.

Ah, the Dodekube. It's...sort of a religious order, without an order, based on a belief in a particular set of order..."

If I understand this correctly we are not trapped within the city, simply barred from where we need be? And this Father Of Dragons holds power over storm and sky, thus blocking out transport. He holds no sway over the earth however.

"That's about it - or, rather, we think he holds no sway over the Earth. He claims to see all possible outcomes - I highly doubt he will not have foreseen our leaving through the Progg colonies."

By the Wanderer, more damnable tunnels. Always tunnels.

"I hear they have snakes, too."

And what is a Progg?

"Very cute, cuddly little creatures.

With claws, a stinger, and a beak."