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Steel Dragon's "Tales of Orea"
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<blockquote data-quote="steeldragons" data-source="post: 6155260" data-attributes="member: 92511"><p><strong>The Ladies who Lunch</strong></p><p></p><p>Pyrnion offered to fly to the Wyvern’s Wing to reclaim Duor. The companions decided it better to leave the dwarf where he was, to “cool off and enjoy his gold” for the time being.</p><p> </p><p>Alaria, Haelan and Fen went to pay their respects and offer condolences to the widow-Dauphinne. They came upon the Lord Chamberlain upon their return to the keep, proper. He was busily instructing some pages and maid-servants upon various tasks.</p><p></p><p>“Lord Chamberlain, a word if I may?” Alaria asked. Haelan and Fen continued on to their chambers.</p><p></p><p>“Of course, Magess. Quite a council was it not? How may I be of service?” the kindly elf grinned, sending the servants off with a nod.</p><p></p><p>“Indeed, I confess I have little experience with such conferences. It was...intimidating." Alaria replied with due humility.</p><p></p><p>“Not at all. The Lordmage is not prone to outburst and is a man of benevolence. Endorm has been grating upon him for months. Your Duor, on the other hand, was simply a good-natured jest. He is, of course, welcome to return as he wishes." Celerion half-explained, half-apologized for the lordmage.</p><p></p><p>“I’m sure he is enjoying his afternoon just fine. Thank you. Perhaps we will collect him or he shall return of his own accord. But fr now, I’m sure he’s fine." Alaria smiled. “Can you tell me, are the gardens beneath the north tower available for our use? I had hoped to luncheon with Rhea.”</p><p></p><p>“Of course, lady. You are guests of the Lordmage. You are welcomed to all areas of the keep, save those reserved for the family, naturally.” Celerion said.</p><p></p><p>“And the library?" Alaria asked hopeful.</p><p></p><p>“The family library?" Celerion chuckled a dry old chuckle. “My dear, you are privy to the keep archives, the temple records of Sorilorr’s devoted, and the facilities of Manat...who will no doubt be most agreeable to deal with now that Endorm has been expelled...though I don’t doubt Corandralla shall send a replacement embassy with all speed.</p><p></p><p>“However, barring invitation from lord-prince Montor or one of the lord’s arcanists, I can not grant you unaccompanied access to the Dragonwing library. I am sorry."</p><p></p><p>“Excellent. That is fine. Thank you. How might I find the Lady Rhea?” Alaria sincerely replied.</p><p></p><p>“Well...” Celerion looked around, playfully acting like he might be overheard, “I have yet to rescind your Sapphire level access to Keep. With these recent events it seems a just precaution.” Celerion grinned and winked at Alaria.</p><p></p><p>“Oh!” Alaria said with surprise. She had not even considered the possibility. “Thank you, Lord Chamberlain. It is quite an honor to receive such trust...um...How do I...access?...the keep?”</p><p></p><p>“Simply call 'him' as you have seen us do. If I am unavailable, Keep should be able to see to most of your needs within the walls. Communications are one of its simplest abilities.” Celerion said.</p><p></p><p>“Ah.” Alaria said and looked about her in apparent confusion.</p><p></p><p>“Would you like to try?” Celerion said quietly to the magess as a grandfather might offer a jellied candy to a child.</p><p></p><p>“Yes. If I may?” Alaria said meekly. </p><p></p><p>Celerion smiled and held out a hand before Alaria, as if to say, “go right ahead.”</p><p></p><p>“Keep?” Alaria said uncertain.</p><p></p><p>The blue ball of light, about a foot in diameter swirled into being before her. After a moment of Alaria staring in awe at this remarkable sorcery she had never heard of before. Receiving no immediate instruction, the ball spoke first. </p><p></p><p>“Yes, Magess Alaria Stormrider?” the light-balls chorus said.</p><p></p><p>“uh...heh...Hi. Um...Can you find the Lady Rhea for me?” Alaria asked at first.</p><p></p><p>“Lady Rhea Willowlake is in her chambers. East tower. Level 6.” the floating ball said immediately.</p><p></p><p> “Um. Thank you. Can you ask her if she’d care to join me...” Alaria paused when Celerion’s long-fingered wrinkled hand touched her arm. </p><p></p><p>He smiled at her before speaking. “Keep, enable communication with Rhea.”</p><p></p><p>“As you will, Lord Chamberlain." Keep replied.</p><p></p><p>Looking sidelong at Alaria he said with a wink, “When inviting one to luncheon, personal communication is best.”</p><p></p><p>By the time Celerion had completed his explanation, an image of Rhea’s face was appearing within the hovering ball of light.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, Celerion? Ah, Alaria. Is everything alright?” Rhea asked with a sudden concern in her voice.</p><p></p><p> “Yes, fine. Fine, Rhea. Alaria had something she wished to ask you. Good day.” Celerion answered and with a nod to Alaria walked away.</p><p></p><p>“Alaria?” Rhea asked.</p><p></p><p>“Well, I was wondering if you would be available to lunch in the west garden with my fellows and I. We would like to discuss things with you...and, of course, your company is always welcome.” Alaria said. She found speaking to the floating head in a ball somewhat disconcerting, but magic was magic.</p><p></p><p>“I would be happy to...how is two bells past noon?”Rhea responded with a kind smile.</p><p></p><p>“Two bells would be perfect.” Alaria smiled back. </p><p></p><p>“See you then.” Rhea said finally and her image disappeared from the ball, replaced with blue and white swirls of light.</p><p></p><p>Alaria stood for a moment looking at the ball of light. Again, not offering any commands, the ball spoke.</p><p></p><p>“Will that be all Magess Alaria Stormrider?” the voices hummed.</p><p></p><p>“Oh! Um. Yes. Sorry. Thank you, Keep.” Alaria fumbled over her words.</p><p></p><p>The ball of light dissipated in an instant.</p><p></p><p>Alaria stood there for a moment.</p><p></p><p>“Um...Keep?” Alaria finally said.</p><p></p><p>The ball of light reappeared.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, Magess Alaria Stormrider?”</p><p></p><p>“To whom do I speak to arrange a luncheon?” Alaria asked, doubly embarrassed for not knowing and the curious feeling that she was somehow ‘disturbing’ Keep with so trivial a question.</p><p></p><p>******</p><p></p><p>Rhea arrived promptly, as two bells rang out from the Vale’s bell-tower, pealing over the town and up to beyond the keep walls. She was, as usual, resplendent in a low-cut long tunic, thigh-high heeled boots and flowing glittering high-collared cloak of emerald green. The golden diadem with the teardrop emerald dangling perfectly between her dark arched brows. A smile gleamed from her face as she greeted the companions.</p><p></p><p>A table to seat six was strewn with platters of hard and soft cheeses, fruits of varying shape and color, a large basket of fresh baked dark grained breads and several platters of salted meats. A stew pot sat upon a tripod set-up above a fire, bubbling a hearty stew of venison and root vegetables. Alaria had opted for both golden elfvine and some of Daenfrii’s own deep red wine, warmed and spiced, were available.</p><p></p><p>Not the least of wonders of the magical stronghold was the grounds were kept snow free, trees and vines stayed green and blooming and the air, though crisp, was not uncomfortably cold for the day after Midwinter. </p><p></p><p>After some pleasantries and apologies about Duor, the company sat and the two servants (arranged by the Lord Chamberlain or the kitchen, itself, Alaria did not know) began serving bowls and passing platters and filling goblets, to be sure each person received their fill.</p><p></p><p>“So my dear, this is a pleasant surprise. Thank you for the invitation.” Rhea began. “What can I help you with?”</p><p></p><p>“Well, we were wondering...what would be the implications if we were to...continue on our own affairs without the 'permission’ of the lordmage?” Alaria posited cautiously.</p><p></p><p>“I see no reason you could not.” Rhea said, as if surprised by the question.</p><p></p><p>“Well, he said he wouldn’t 'allow’ us to return to the Feldmere.” Fen said curious.</p><p></p><p>“Ah. I see. He said<em> he </em>couldn’t allow you, yes. As your lord and the lord of all of Daenfrii... your presence here puts you under his protection...”Rhea began.</p><p></p><p>“...and his hospitality.” Haelan added.</p><p></p><p>Rhea smiled. “Just so, Hilltender. What he was saying was that he could not give you permission to such an undertaking. With the ShiDaeiri abroad, and gods permit we are mistaken and this was a solitary incident, it would be too dangerous. </p><p></p><p>“And I will add, by your own admission, your last foray into his realm was disaster.”</p><p></p><p>The company all experienced a wave of melancholy as they recalled the loss of Coerraine, Erevan and Festus.</p><p></p><p>“So he, as the lord and protector, would not allow you.” Rhea concluded and looked at the company for understanding.</p><p></p><p>Seeing none forthcoming, the Lady of the Emerald Tear continued. </p><p></p><p>“He is cautious with his sons...Understandably so! Montor is the Dragonmage apparent, after all. Until he produces an heir that is recognized by Wyr, the line of the Dragonmage is tentative, at best. And, to save face at the council, he could not possibly deny the Steel Dragons and permit you to go.</p><p></p><p>“However, Arganor is no despot!” Rhea laughed. “He can not, and <em>would</em> not, prevent you from doing as you will. You are not prisoners here!"</p><p></p><p>“Ooooooh.” waved over the table as all of the companions gleaned understanding at once.</p><p></p><p>“Let me ask you this...” Rhea posed, “Do you believe, if you returned to Nor Gorthok you could be victorious?” There was no malice or assumption in her question. She looked around the table with questioning eyes as she took a delicate bite of one of the hard goat cheeses.</p><p></p><p>There was little doubt among the company she was scanning their surface thoughts as they all thought.</p><p></p><p>“We believe,” Braddok answered, “with a month, maybe two, we could be. Before the thaw for sure.”</p><p></p><p>Rhea nodded in full acknowledgement of the warrior’s sincerity.</p><p></p><p>“Braddok believes Tresahd would not continue with his plans until the spring.” Alaria explained further.</p><p></p><p>“Then that is well done. Decline the offer to act as envoy to Resahd and remain here. Marshall your resources as you, Alaria, said at council. Set off when you believe you are ready.”</p><p></p><p>“Will that anger the Lordmage though? Declining his offer, I mean. I suppose he doesn’t offer diplomatic stations to just anyone.” Haelan posed.</p><p></p><p>Rhea nodded. “It is a just question. But I have known the lordmage most of my life. The princes and I have been friends since we were young, you know? Montor and I both trained in sorcery together as children. He is not an unreasonable man. I have the inkling that his offer was expected to be declined. It was simply an immediate way to fill in the gap left by Londar staying on for a time.”</p><p></p><p>As an aside to Alaria, though loud enough for all to hear, “A posting I, myself, can not find fault with in the slightest.” Rhea giggled and gave her ‘knowing’ look.</p><p></p><p>Alaria blushed at the woman’s unabashed sexuality once more.</p><p></p><p>Pyrnion wondered why the magess blushed. But unconcerned asked for Haelan to pass the fruits.</p><p></p><p>“I have concerns for the Ihs Repahl, my lady.” the zephari spoke between bites of a dark purple plum.</p><p></p><p>“And what concerns are they, Pyrnion?” the elegant lady of green replied.</p><p></p><p>“If the evil wizard has the item he has striven for half a year to regain, what is to stop him from using it before the spring? A ritual or spell needs not wait for the thaw.” the winged man posed.</p><p></p><p>Rhea nodded. “True. But we have indications that he requires more than just that orb, do we not?”</p><p></p><p>“Explain?” Pyrnion replied, uncertain.</p><p></p><p>“From what I’ve been told, your companions found the Ihs Repahl on Dragonbone Isle in the Whitegull Bay. Is that not so?”</p><p></p><p>“RIght!” Haelan jumped in. “And he had the Tidemaster Kama’s pearl there too...and there were pedestals that were yet to be filled in that chamber, weren’t there?” the Hilltender asked his companions.</p><p></p><p>“There were indeed, as I recall.” Fen, who had been munching upon fruits and nuts in his usual silent way. </p><p></p><p>“So, we can presume he needs more than just the Ihs Repahl to carry out his plans!” Haelan said in excited understanding.</p><p></p><p> “If I am correct, and Tresahd/Desaarthal is trying to revive Shaarzak...the ritual must happen there...with her bones!” Alaria said parsing together her understanding of ritual work.</p><p></p><p>“Should we not just go, then, and take some bones to prevent the ritual?” Pyrnion said as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.</p><p></p><p>The rest of the party just looked blankly at the zephari. Alaria mentally smacked herself roundly about the head for not realizing this (terribly obvious) thwart sooner. </p><p></p><p>“A reasonable assumption, Pyrnion.” Fen said. “But these bones are far too massive to move.”</p><p></p><p>“Oh.” Pyrnion said, nonplussed as he took a large chunk out of haunch of roasted herbed pheasant the servants had just begun to pass.</p><p></p><p>“I mean...<em>we </em>can’t...but would that be possible?” Alaria said intrigued by the suggestion and cursing herself for not thinking of it herself.</p><p></p><p>“What do you mean, Magess?” Rhea said quizzically.</p><p></p><p>“Well, could the lordmage or one of his court wizards, whose magics I am sure surpass my own, move some of the bones from the isle? Perhaps just the smaller ones...There is a Transmutation mage here. Is there not? Could he teleport them off the island? Or <em>change </em>them into something other than bone so they'd be easier to move?!” Alaria excitement mounted the more she thought of these possibilities.</p><p></p><p>Rhea crooked her head at the magess. “<em>‘Change them’</em>? You know polymorphing is strictly forbidden...I don’t know where one would even <em>find </em>such a spell outside of R’Hath. My understanding was the Archmagus Dalum was the only wizard with access to such things!”</p><p></p><p>Alaria nodded, defeated once more. Indeed, Rhea was correct, even citing her own fears and admonishments to the Lady Evaranthriine once.</p><p></p><p>“But teleport...perhaps. We would have to consult with Trymis...the transmuter you referred to. If he can not, than I doubt other mages here could.”</p><p></p><p>“We had your Dragonmage-apparent teleport all of us, and your friends, and all of our stuff here!” Haelan recalled between large mouthfuls of the stew.</p><p></p><p>“Montor is unlikely to disobey his father...and a foray to the Whitegull Bay and Dragonbone Isle would most certainly be out of the question.” Rhea said. “Even he, however, I do not know could move more than one at a time."</p><p></p><p>The party passed the rest of the afternoon proposing plots and possibilities, enjoying their meal and company, but not really getting to any conclusions.</p><p></p><p>Could Keep transport the bones here? Keep’s powers did not extend beyond its walls.</p><p></p><p>Would a ritual with several wizards permit the movement of the massive ancient bones? Something to put a pin in and research.</p><p></p><p>The simplest and most direct option seemed to be returning to Nor Gorthok and getting the Ihs Repahl back! Which Alaria had every intention and desire to do anyway.</p><p></p><p>Rhea thanked the party again for the kind invitation and repast and assured them she would always be at their disposal should they have further questions.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="steeldragons, post: 6155260, member: 92511"] [b]The Ladies who Lunch[/b] Pyrnion offered to fly to the Wyvern’s Wing to reclaim Duor. The companions decided it better to leave the dwarf where he was, to “cool off and enjoy his gold” for the time being. Alaria, Haelan and Fen went to pay their respects and offer condolences to the widow-Dauphinne. They came upon the Lord Chamberlain upon their return to the keep, proper. He was busily instructing some pages and maid-servants upon various tasks. “Lord Chamberlain, a word if I may?” Alaria asked. Haelan and Fen continued on to their chambers. “Of course, Magess. Quite a council was it not? How may I be of service?” the kindly elf grinned, sending the servants off with a nod. “Indeed, I confess I have little experience with such conferences. It was...intimidating." Alaria replied with due humility. “Not at all. The Lordmage is not prone to outburst and is a man of benevolence. Endorm has been grating upon him for months. Your Duor, on the other hand, was simply a good-natured jest. He is, of course, welcome to return as he wishes." Celerion half-explained, half-apologized for the lordmage. “I’m sure he is enjoying his afternoon just fine. Thank you. Perhaps we will collect him or he shall return of his own accord. But fr now, I’m sure he’s fine." Alaria smiled. “Can you tell me, are the gardens beneath the north tower available for our use? I had hoped to luncheon with Rhea.” “Of course, lady. You are guests of the Lordmage. You are welcomed to all areas of the keep, save those reserved for the family, naturally.” Celerion said. “And the library?" Alaria asked hopeful. “The family library?" Celerion chuckled a dry old chuckle. “My dear, you are privy to the keep archives, the temple records of Sorilorr’s devoted, and the facilities of Manat...who will no doubt be most agreeable to deal with now that Endorm has been expelled...though I don’t doubt Corandralla shall send a replacement embassy with all speed. “However, barring invitation from lord-prince Montor or one of the lord’s arcanists, I can not grant you unaccompanied access to the Dragonwing library. I am sorry." “Excellent. That is fine. Thank you. How might I find the Lady Rhea?” Alaria sincerely replied. “Well...” Celerion looked around, playfully acting like he might be overheard, “I have yet to rescind your Sapphire level access to Keep. With these recent events it seems a just precaution.” Celerion grinned and winked at Alaria. “Oh!” Alaria said with surprise. She had not even considered the possibility. “Thank you, Lord Chamberlain. It is quite an honor to receive such trust...um...How do I...access?...the keep?” “Simply call 'him' as you have seen us do. If I am unavailable, Keep should be able to see to most of your needs within the walls. Communications are one of its simplest abilities.” Celerion said. “Ah.” Alaria said and looked about her in apparent confusion. “Would you like to try?” Celerion said quietly to the magess as a grandfather might offer a jellied candy to a child. “Yes. If I may?” Alaria said meekly. Celerion smiled and held out a hand before Alaria, as if to say, “go right ahead.” “Keep?” Alaria said uncertain. The blue ball of light, about a foot in diameter swirled into being before her. After a moment of Alaria staring in awe at this remarkable sorcery she had never heard of before. Receiving no immediate instruction, the ball spoke first. “Yes, Magess Alaria Stormrider?” the light-balls chorus said. “uh...heh...Hi. Um...Can you find the Lady Rhea for me?” Alaria asked at first. “Lady Rhea Willowlake is in her chambers. East tower. Level 6.” the floating ball said immediately. “Um. Thank you. Can you ask her if she’d care to join me...” Alaria paused when Celerion’s long-fingered wrinkled hand touched her arm. He smiled at her before speaking. “Keep, enable communication with Rhea.” “As you will, Lord Chamberlain." Keep replied. Looking sidelong at Alaria he said with a wink, “When inviting one to luncheon, personal communication is best.” By the time Celerion had completed his explanation, an image of Rhea’s face was appearing within the hovering ball of light. “Yes, Celerion? Ah, Alaria. Is everything alright?” Rhea asked with a sudden concern in her voice. “Yes, fine. Fine, Rhea. Alaria had something she wished to ask you. Good day.” Celerion answered and with a nod to Alaria walked away. “Alaria?” Rhea asked. “Well, I was wondering if you would be available to lunch in the west garden with my fellows and I. We would like to discuss things with you...and, of course, your company is always welcome.” Alaria said. She found speaking to the floating head in a ball somewhat disconcerting, but magic was magic. “I would be happy to...how is two bells past noon?”Rhea responded with a kind smile. “Two bells would be perfect.” Alaria smiled back. “See you then.” Rhea said finally and her image disappeared from the ball, replaced with blue and white swirls of light. Alaria stood for a moment looking at the ball of light. Again, not offering any commands, the ball spoke. “Will that be all Magess Alaria Stormrider?” the voices hummed. “Oh! Um. Yes. Sorry. Thank you, Keep.” Alaria fumbled over her words. The ball of light dissipated in an instant. Alaria stood there for a moment. “Um...Keep?” Alaria finally said. The ball of light reappeared. “Yes, Magess Alaria Stormrider?” “To whom do I speak to arrange a luncheon?” Alaria asked, doubly embarrassed for not knowing and the curious feeling that she was somehow ‘disturbing’ Keep with so trivial a question. ****** Rhea arrived promptly, as two bells rang out from the Vale’s bell-tower, pealing over the town and up to beyond the keep walls. She was, as usual, resplendent in a low-cut long tunic, thigh-high heeled boots and flowing glittering high-collared cloak of emerald green. The golden diadem with the teardrop emerald dangling perfectly between her dark arched brows. A smile gleamed from her face as she greeted the companions. A table to seat six was strewn with platters of hard and soft cheeses, fruits of varying shape and color, a large basket of fresh baked dark grained breads and several platters of salted meats. A stew pot sat upon a tripod set-up above a fire, bubbling a hearty stew of venison and root vegetables. Alaria had opted for both golden elfvine and some of Daenfrii’s own deep red wine, warmed and spiced, were available. Not the least of wonders of the magical stronghold was the grounds were kept snow free, trees and vines stayed green and blooming and the air, though crisp, was not uncomfortably cold for the day after Midwinter. After some pleasantries and apologies about Duor, the company sat and the two servants (arranged by the Lord Chamberlain or the kitchen, itself, Alaria did not know) began serving bowls and passing platters and filling goblets, to be sure each person received their fill. “So my dear, this is a pleasant surprise. Thank you for the invitation.” Rhea began. “What can I help you with?” “Well, we were wondering...what would be the implications if we were to...continue on our own affairs without the 'permission’ of the lordmage?” Alaria posited cautiously. “I see no reason you could not.” Rhea said, as if surprised by the question. “Well, he said he wouldn’t 'allow’ us to return to the Feldmere.” Fen said curious. “Ah. I see. He said[I] he [/I]couldn’t allow you, yes. As your lord and the lord of all of Daenfrii... your presence here puts you under his protection...”Rhea began. “...and his hospitality.” Haelan added. Rhea smiled. “Just so, Hilltender. What he was saying was that he could not give you permission to such an undertaking. With the ShiDaeiri abroad, and gods permit we are mistaken and this was a solitary incident, it would be too dangerous. “And I will add, by your own admission, your last foray into his realm was disaster.” The company all experienced a wave of melancholy as they recalled the loss of Coerraine, Erevan and Festus. “So he, as the lord and protector, would not allow you.” Rhea concluded and looked at the company for understanding. Seeing none forthcoming, the Lady of the Emerald Tear continued. “He is cautious with his sons...Understandably so! Montor is the Dragonmage apparent, after all. Until he produces an heir that is recognized by Wyr, the line of the Dragonmage is tentative, at best. And, to save face at the council, he could not possibly deny the Steel Dragons and permit you to go. “However, Arganor is no despot!” Rhea laughed. “He can not, and [I]would[/I] not, prevent you from doing as you will. You are not prisoners here!" “Ooooooh.” waved over the table as all of the companions gleaned understanding at once. “Let me ask you this...” Rhea posed, “Do you believe, if you returned to Nor Gorthok you could be victorious?” There was no malice or assumption in her question. She looked around the table with questioning eyes as she took a delicate bite of one of the hard goat cheeses. There was little doubt among the company she was scanning their surface thoughts as they all thought. “We believe,” Braddok answered, “with a month, maybe two, we could be. Before the thaw for sure.” Rhea nodded in full acknowledgement of the warrior’s sincerity. “Braddok believes Tresahd would not continue with his plans until the spring.” Alaria explained further. “Then that is well done. Decline the offer to act as envoy to Resahd and remain here. Marshall your resources as you, Alaria, said at council. Set off when you believe you are ready.” “Will that anger the Lordmage though? Declining his offer, I mean. I suppose he doesn’t offer diplomatic stations to just anyone.” Haelan posed. Rhea nodded. “It is a just question. But I have known the lordmage most of my life. The princes and I have been friends since we were young, you know? Montor and I both trained in sorcery together as children. He is not an unreasonable man. I have the inkling that his offer was expected to be declined. It was simply an immediate way to fill in the gap left by Londar staying on for a time.” As an aside to Alaria, though loud enough for all to hear, “A posting I, myself, can not find fault with in the slightest.” Rhea giggled and gave her ‘knowing’ look. Alaria blushed at the woman’s unabashed sexuality once more. Pyrnion wondered why the magess blushed. But unconcerned asked for Haelan to pass the fruits. “I have concerns for the Ihs Repahl, my lady.” the zephari spoke between bites of a dark purple plum. “And what concerns are they, Pyrnion?” the elegant lady of green replied. “If the evil wizard has the item he has striven for half a year to regain, what is to stop him from using it before the spring? A ritual or spell needs not wait for the thaw.” the winged man posed. Rhea nodded. “True. But we have indications that he requires more than just that orb, do we not?” “Explain?” Pyrnion replied, uncertain. “From what I’ve been told, your companions found the Ihs Repahl on Dragonbone Isle in the Whitegull Bay. Is that not so?” “RIght!” Haelan jumped in. “And he had the Tidemaster Kama’s pearl there too...and there were pedestals that were yet to be filled in that chamber, weren’t there?” the Hilltender asked his companions. “There were indeed, as I recall.” Fen, who had been munching upon fruits and nuts in his usual silent way. “So, we can presume he needs more than just the Ihs Repahl to carry out his plans!” Haelan said in excited understanding. “If I am correct, and Tresahd/Desaarthal is trying to revive Shaarzak...the ritual must happen there...with her bones!” Alaria said parsing together her understanding of ritual work. “Should we not just go, then, and take some bones to prevent the ritual?” Pyrnion said as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. The rest of the party just looked blankly at the zephari. Alaria mentally smacked herself roundly about the head for not realizing this (terribly obvious) thwart sooner. “A reasonable assumption, Pyrnion.” Fen said. “But these bones are far too massive to move.” “Oh.” Pyrnion said, nonplussed as he took a large chunk out of haunch of roasted herbed pheasant the servants had just begun to pass. “I mean...[I]we [/I]can’t...but would that be possible?” Alaria said intrigued by the suggestion and cursing herself for not thinking of it herself. “What do you mean, Magess?” Rhea said quizzically. “Well, could the lordmage or one of his court wizards, whose magics I am sure surpass my own, move some of the bones from the isle? Perhaps just the smaller ones...There is a Transmutation mage here. Is there not? Could he teleport them off the island? Or [I]change [/I]them into something other than bone so they'd be easier to move?!” Alaria excitement mounted the more she thought of these possibilities. Rhea crooked her head at the magess. “[I]‘Change them’[/I]? You know polymorphing is strictly forbidden...I don’t know where one would even [I]find [/I]such a spell outside of R’Hath. My understanding was the Archmagus Dalum was the only wizard with access to such things!” Alaria nodded, defeated once more. Indeed, Rhea was correct, even citing her own fears and admonishments to the Lady Evaranthriine once. “But teleport...perhaps. We would have to consult with Trymis...the transmuter you referred to. If he can not, than I doubt other mages here could.” “We had your Dragonmage-apparent teleport all of us, and your friends, and all of our stuff here!” Haelan recalled between large mouthfuls of the stew. “Montor is unlikely to disobey his father...and a foray to the Whitegull Bay and Dragonbone Isle would most certainly be out of the question.” Rhea said. “Even he, however, I do not know could move more than one at a time." The party passed the rest of the afternoon proposing plots and possibilities, enjoying their meal and company, but not really getting to any conclusions. Could Keep transport the bones here? Keep’s powers did not extend beyond its walls. Would a ritual with several wizards permit the movement of the massive ancient bones? Something to put a pin in and research. The simplest and most direct option seemed to be returning to Nor Gorthok and getting the Ihs Repahl back! Which Alaria had every intention and desire to do anyway. Rhea thanked the party again for the kind invitation and repast and assured them she would always be at their disposal should they have further questions. [/QUOTE]
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