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Last Stand of the Dorinthians
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<blockquote data-quote="Deuce Traveler" data-source="post: 3430927" data-attributes="member: 34958"><p>The first move that Alexander made when he arrived was to find out if some kobold movements against the gnomes were perceived, but he heard no further news from Dartis, who was among the initial welcomers. </p><p></p><p>The young man who approached the group upon their return had all the look of the aristocracy of Dorinthia. The tall bearing and look of confidence was often manifested as arrogance. But the man moved with a subtle grace and fluidity, perhaps indicitive of many ball-room dances.</p><p></p><p>However, as he talked the party could see that he was no foppish court dandy. His armor was sweat-stained and riven in several places. The ease of his movements were due to years in the saddle. A well worn bow lied across his back and a decorated, but well used sword hung at his belt. No, this was not some sycophant of the king, but a member of the nobility that had maintained the tradition of mounted might that had kept Dorinthia strong for many years.</p><p></p><p>As he continued his discussion, a genuine smile was on his lips and he extended his hand several times in greeting to each party member, only to lower it when greeted by simple nods. The smile never left though.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: Green">"Greetings. Baron Dorin has asked me to join you in doing what we can to continue the fight. I am Baron Dartis Kalnian. The title still comes new to my tongue. I am the last of my house it seems."</span> He said this as the smile faded from his face. <span style="color: Green">"So, until my lands are no longer under the shadow of Tallione, please call me Dartis. Now I have a bow and a sword and wish to use them in defense of my home land in whatever mannner I may. To what end are we to put them?"</span></p><p></p><p>Kel greeted Dartis Kalnian with indifference <em><span style="color: seagreen">Why am I doing this?</span></em> He thought to himself as introductions were made. <em><span style="color: seagreen">Huntress guide my steps. I hope that I am interpreting your wishes correcty.</span></em> Without a word, the elf moved towards the back of the group, then disappeared to go meditate.</p><p></p><p>Alexander nodded at the aristocratic human, and drily said. <span style="color: Blue">"Welcome."</span> He didn't really know what to think about the young man for the time being. Two weeks ago he'd have been outright hostile to him... but after meeting his current companions, and Syra. Well, times had changed him.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: orange">"Well met, Dartis Kalnian. I am Silas Eyrstan."</span> Silas continued to talk with Dartis, and specifically asked him about his military service and revealed to him that he served in a unit at the Last Stand. However, the difference in social class kept Silas from becoming too chatty or familiar until he got to know him better.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: Green">"Well met, countryman. I served mostly on the southern border with Tallione for much of the past few years. I too was at the Last Stand, and my commander sent me back to Faircreek with the warning. It was thus that I lost my horse. But come, tell me more of your service."</span></p><p></p><p>Silas seemed pleased at Baron Dartis Kalnian's interest in his past duties. <span style="color: orange">"Lord Kalnian, I served as adjunct to Sir Martin, connected to the Dorinthian Foot."</span> His face took a grim cast. <span style="color: orange">"Sir Martin, gods rest his soul, sent me with missives back towards Baron Dorin's command tent just before the lines broke."</span> He met Dartis' eye and added, <span style="color: orange">"We were among the lucky ones that day, it seems, though it was some time after your message was delivered before I was able to make my way back to Fair Creek."</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Rix glanced up at the aristocrat, <em><span style="color: sienna">Sniveling money-grubbers,</span></em> he thought. He'd been in a bad mood (although who could tell the difference) ever since they returned. The incursion on the goblin camp had been primarily successful, his plan had gone off soundly and he had put down more than his fair share of the runt-faced creatures. However, he missed Danica. Although he was warming up to the half-orc, particularly now that the other stuffy one (Alexander's paladin sister) was no longer around. <em><span style="color: sienna">Imagine that. I'm warming up to being party to a half-orc companion.</span></em> He hated orcs, although this one was different.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">However, returning to the gnomish enclave had left Rix rife with internal strife. He was helping gnomes! They might as well burn in the pits of the Dragon's gut for what he wished, although the current crises possibly had created some internal strife that he might be able to play up and use to help plunge the race into chaos. The thought tickled him.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">He faced back to the aristocrat. <span style="color: sienna">"I am Vaerixsjach, do your best to leave me be human."</span> He turned away from this noble born warrior, the thought of noble blood all too painful for the orphaned dragonkin at the moment. He had been noble blooded among his people and now was treated no better than a dog by most.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Moving away at a quick pace, the kobold disappeared into the gnomish community, his hand constantly upon his blade. He hated this place, he hated gnomes, and now he was supposed to seek out the source of their kobold trouble and stop it. How he wanted these kobolds to overrun this hovel.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">When he thought he was alone, Rix found in the sack he had taken from the goblins 35 platinum pieces, 12 gold pieces, a dull iron ring that might have been worth a gold piece, and a scroll that looked to have magical writing on it.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Silas sighed and frowned as he watched Rix quickly disappear. <span style="color: orange"><em>I do not know how to relate to that kobold.</em></span> His frowns deepened as he considered his own thoughts. <em><span style="color: orange">Perhaps if I started thinking of him as Rix first rather than 'that kobold'...</span></em> His musings interupted by the arrival of a group of gnomes with an offer of free adventuring geer, and Silas looked over the items and contented himself with refilling the supplies of bolts and travel rations he carried.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Dartis turned to Silas as Rix walked away. <span style="color: Green">"Pleasant little fellow isn't he,"</span> he asked Silas with a droll smile. <span style="color: Green">"Of course, he maybe upset and rightfully so at his current situation, but tell me how does a kobold come to be working with Dorinthians, for the cause of the gnomes? That is a riddle that I suppose would explain his sour mood. Though I must confess that I have dealt with few enough kobold to not assume that they are all that grumpy."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Dartis gladly picked through the gnome's extra equipment. <span style="color: Green">"I lost all I had at Kelnar, save what I wore."</span> He picked out a human-sized buckler, a chain shirt, a dagger, and a water skin and some rations, and after a long search of looking for arrows asked Silas, <span style="color: Green">"Is there somewhere to buy equipment that is not in this pile? There is no pack in my size and I would like more arrows."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Silas looked thoughtful for a moment. <span style="color: orange">"I can't rightly say why Rix is working on behalf of the Dorinthians. When the Baron sent out the call for aid he arrived. He has not got on well with the gnomes, though. Truth be told I worry about us heading into kobold territory with Rix."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: orange"></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: orange">"The nearest place I know of to purchase equipment is in the new community founded by the Fair Creek refugees, several days travel away. Perhaps the gnomes would be able to find you some equipment that isn't included amongst that offered to us."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: Blue">"These could be useful..."</span> said Alexander as he picked up a pair of daggers, slashing the air, and testing the grip of their handle before storing them; one in his boot and the other at the belt at his back.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: Blue">"Rix?"</span> Alexander turned around. <span style="color: Blue">"Just keep your eyes on him."</span> The half-orc stopped a second, likely considering his words before adding, <span style="color: Blue">"He's proven of high value for Fair Creek... And that's what interests him, how much they are disposed to pay for him."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: blue"><em>Father Ravil suggested I should let him be when I presented him my doubts... I'm doubting less, am I getting my sense of smell dulled? Or did I catch a wrong scent about Rix the first time?</em></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: blue"></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: blue">"Who knows what's breeding in his skull... know that he is a crafty lizardkin, he is."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Then he departed, coincidentially the same way Rix did. He followed the kobold's trail, but didn't try to make his presence hidden. He planned to join the kobold and ask if he wouldn't want to profit from the gnomes' offered free equipment.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Rix realized Alexander was trailing him and spun around, looking the half-orc in the eye from his four-foot stature. <span style="color: sienna">"Don't follow me, I've got business to attend to and I don't need your eyes crawling on me the entire time. Go play with the elf or the Baron, or maybe send up a few prayers to the Huntress. Maybe she'll save these obnoxious big-nosed rats."</span> He gestured around at the gnomish community and stormed away, obviously upset and wanting to be alone.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: blue"><em>He's still Rix... this night... I'll let him be.</em></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Meanwhile, Dartis managed to find a pack that would actually fit him and a few more arrows at a local gnome merchant. Aside from that he spent the next two days conversing with Kel, Alexander and Silas about their last excursion. Besides that, he did as any soldier does between the fighting and tried to catch up on sleeping on eating.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">During the same days, Alexander contemplated his previous actions. <span style="color: blue"><em>This time I was more in tune with the Huntress' way... as were my companions... we are learning to work as a pack...</em></span> When he got a chance, he told Horacius, <span style="color: Blue">"Hum... there were some gnolls along with th goblins in the camp..."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">He also sought out Harindan Loughphray, going up to him along with the rest of the party and among other things, chiming in with a warning. <span style="color: Blue">"I fear alliances between gnolls and goblins... possibly started by the dog-headed ones uniting the tribes... but I know that is difficult to belive. Do you know of any gnoll tribes near this area?"</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Both elder gnomes looked concerned when Alexander reported the news. Haracios avoided the topic and shrugged it off, however. Harindan said, <span style="color: teal">"Yes, we have been worried that our recent troubles might have been caused by a third party. We didn't want to believe it, however. It may be that some mercenaries have been hired by this new threat, since normally gnolls can be found more to the east. Please let us know if you find anything else."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">(DM's note: At about this time I asked the party why they didn't use the <em>wand of darkness</em> to aid their earlier escape. The response was basically, whoops...)</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Immediately upon getting his own moment of privacy, Silas ducked into an out of the way corner and cast his <em>Comprehend Languages</em> spell and read the letter that he took from the table in the goblin stockade. </span></p><p><span style="color: orange">----</span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Shaman Gaaz,</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">I demand that you step up your attacks on our enemies. Your hesitation only allows the gnomes to regroup and to enlist outside aid, which has now happened just as I had divined. My envoys will stay with you and observe your preparations for battle. If any harm comes to them I will hold you responsible. Remember, I put you into power with my gifts. I can remove you.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh</span></p><p><span style="color: orange">----</span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Silas quickly moved to rejoin his companions as they discussed the success of their mission and related information regarding the goblins and their non-goblin allies.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Alexander and Silas located one another, and the half-orc reminded the human abjurer about the letter. <span style="color: Blue">"Will you work now in deciphering the paper you found in the fortress?"</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Grinning at the timing, the abjurer answered, <span style="color: orange">"Ah, I have already done so! And to prove it, I shall immediately explain what I have discovered."</span> Silas then related the contents of the letter to Alexander. Silas frowned and gave Alexander a sidelong glance. <span style="color: orange">"Perhaps you should have those cuts looked at. Goblins are filthy creatures and you wouldn't want the wounds to become infected."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: blue"><em>He's right.</em></span> For the first time Alexander spoke out loud what he'd otherwise kept to himself. He nodded affirmatively at Silas' words and added <span style="color: Blue">"Forgetting pain, any pain, should never happen... we must get used to pain, but never forget. So commands us the Huntress..."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: Blue"></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: Blue">"I'll ask Kel for some help in that matter,"</span> the towering half-orc moved to leave, answering to Silas' concern. <span style="color: Blue">"After seeing to my scratches I'll join you and Rix for a meal."</span> Half smiling once again, <span style="color: Blue">"and we can invite the new one, whoever he is."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Alexander went in search of Kel, who had tended him previously in battle... and saved his life. Finding him, the two believers in the Huntress gave greetings.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">After a brief inspection, Kel healed Alexander. <span style="color: seagreen">"I hear you speaking in reverant terms about a Huntress,"</span> the elf mentioned pointedly. <span style="color: seagreen">"Tell me of her. Who is this person?"</span> He asked as his healing magic infused the half orc. <span style="color: seagreen"><em>It can't be <strong>The Huntress,</strong></em></span> he thought to himself. <span style="color: seagreen"><em>Surely she is not worshipped by those with orc blood, as they are anathema to her."</em></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Alexander looked at the elf and smiled... warmly for the first time... <em><span style="color: blue">This smiling is getting to be a habit</span></em><span style="color: blue"> "Thanks for the mending. The Huntress, The Lady of the Lake who gives guidance through the eternal cycle; she who took me under her wing and taught me to survive,"</span> Alexander stood up from his seat before the fire. <span style="color: Blue">"She who presents everyone with the world and allows them to thread their own path." <strong>"She who sees as enemies the corruptors of the eternal cycle and desecrators of the shrine of Seven Trees, and who will be hunted and brought down by her wrath!"</strong></span> Noting that he was getting enthusiastic... but not caring <span style="color: Blue"><strong>"Artemis' wolves' breath on their neck while they are face down on the ground will be the last thing they feel..."</strong></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: Blue">"...I'm one of her wolves... that's why I joined the Dorinthians."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">And he stood there, waiting for Kel's reaction. The elf recognized that the half-orc belonged to a rare sect of the Huntress' faith that worshipped a goddess called Artemis, but still considered the Huntress, the Rider, the Lady of the Lake, and Artemis to be facets of the same being. The large majority of believers worshipped the Rider as the same as the Hunter or Huntress, depending upon preference of gender of the mysterious hooded god. Alexander's sect, however, was considered blasphemous by some. The two men conversed more for quite some time.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Later at a dinner he prepared, Silas shared his suspicions and related the contents of the letter with his companions, showing it to whomever wished to see it. He glanced at Rix, somewhat worried about how the kobold would handle the information. <span style="color: orange"><em>Well, his opinion of gnomes could hardly get much lower,</em></span> thought Silas.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: orange">"At this moment, however, the threat seems to be from kobolds."</span> Silas scowls. <span style="color: orange">"And unless the gnomes have received better information in our absence we have only a general direction of their lairs to go on. And a gnomish name connected to the goblins we just raided, 'Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh', I think it's pronounced."</span> The party members were quite uncomfortable with the implications of the letter, but decided to keep the information to themselves rather than share it with the gnomes, and to look out for further clues. (DM: Saw what?! Boggled...)</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">After two days of uneventful relaxation, the party felt once again healthy enough to take to the road. Harindan Loughphray greeted Alexander at first, <span style="color: teal">"Alexander, good to see you looking well again. We still have received no word about the current state of your people, but I did send Phly as a messenger to describe your adventures, and your amazing infiltration in order to recover the totem staff. If your team is ready, I will begin."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: teal"></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: teal">"Thankfully you brought back the totem staff and we've noticed a lack of coordinated effort by the goblins to our southeast. Unfortunately, we still have not discovered who has been supplying them. But, we have found something that has truly disturbed us. Our scouts have located the tunnels that are being used as the headquarters of the kobold forces. What's truly odd, is the behavior of the kobolds that were observed from a distance. First, there seems to be a number of kobold tribes working together in that area. Kobolds from opposing tribes normally have trouble cooperating if not feeling outright hostility for one another. Second, the kobolds seemed well disciplined, standing like rocks while at guard posts. Whatever charismatic leader was able to unite these tribes and train these kobolds must be a power that is a great threat to us. The Dragon Eye tribe is definitely keeping the others in line. For 100gp each, find out how they are influencing the other kobolds and shut down their operation for another 100gp each."</span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Rix meanwhile, sought to acquire a set of masterwork thieves tools and resell his older ones. He also sought to see if he could find some time to get the iron ring and scroll magically examined. Spending a good amount of time each day exploring the tunnels and community, Rix kept the gnomish name on the parchment Silas translated in mind while he explored, but he found no trace of a Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh in the settlement. </span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Besides that, he was mostly absent in the two days of rest at the Loughphray tunnels, and what others did see of him was a mixture of anger and sulking. The normally fast quips and jabs were missing and a sullen quiet hung over him. The whole business was getting to the dragonkin, and being around the eon old nemesis of his race did not make it much better. <span style="color: sienna">"We'll see,"</span> he would sometimes mutter <span style="color: sienna"><em>The world would be a better place if we just let them overrun your sniveling hovel.</em></span></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Rix was frustrated in his initial attempts to find a smith willing to work for a kobold, and he began to truly hate having to reside with the gnomes who treated him with contempt. Giving up, Rix moved to have his items identified, but ran into the same problem with Horacios' apprentices, and the kobold did his best to avoid Horacios himself. Rix was busy cursing under his breath when he noticed a gnome behind him.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange"><span style="color: yellow">"Ungrateful wretches,"</span> Horacios said under his breath. <span style="color: yellow">"Well come on, let's get those items of yours checked."</span> The gnome's manner was curious. He did not try to avoid Rix or attempt a weak smile for the kobold's benefit like most of his kinsmen did. As the gnome placed the ring and scroll on his work table, he almost seemed to forget Rix's presence until he began speaking to him absent-mindedly, explaining the magic he was employing. His manner showed an acceptance of Rix so complete and natural that it took the kobold by surprise. <span style="color: yellow">"Hmmm... I'm afraid the ring is non-magical, although the scroll seems to radiate a faint aura. The writing of the scroll itself is an animal trance spell, and may come in handy, although you might want to consider selling it instead. I didn't have to use a spell to identify the items, so this time its no charge. In the future, however, such magic can cast over 100gp."</span> He warned, handing the kobold back the items.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">For some reason Rix felt compelled to tell him of his troubles with the smith. After a thoughtful moment Horacios nodded and had the kobold follow him to the closest smith with talent, then chastised him. <span style="color: yellow">"Now Burelianieos, don't make me tell your aunt how you treat guests. This young man here has come to give our people some aid, and I don't want you cheating him or wasting his time. And remember your son is one of my apprentices, and I may just forget that next time he forgets to collect his components like he should."</span> After his conversation he looked back at Rix and said, <span style="color: yellow">"There. Burelianieos will have your tools ready in no time and will pay the 75gp and your old tools. Let me know if he acts less than honorably in the future. I wouldn't make excuses for the rest of my kin, but they are a bit shaken of late. Less knowledgable people think they can look at evil and know it. They'd be surprised what faces evil men really wear. It may even wear the face of a man you once thought your friend."</span> With that, Horacios walked away to go back to his work.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Stunned by the openness and honesty of Horacios, Rix let the whole situation unfold as if in a daze. He could barely mumble a thanks before the gnome walked off to his work. It had been surreal for the dragonkin. His coin purse lighter, but his mind heavy with an odd feeling, one which he couldn't fully identify, he returned to his companions. The iron ring around one finger, an odd reminder of this occurence.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">(DM's Note: This was a hint that Horacios might be a good source to find out what happened in regards to the gnome, Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh. The 'evil may even wear the face of a man you once thought your friend' was as direct a hint as I wanted to go. Horacios had not thought that his former ally and illusionist had fallen so far into insanity to be involved with the goblin and kobold attacks. The letter Silas had would have made him realize some of what was going on and given the party some important hints. But alas, those hints never came out in time.)</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Silas spent his last amount of free time around for meal times in the evening and gladly chatting with his companions. Otherwise, he spent his time sequestered in the gnome's library making scrolls and wishing that the gnomes had bigger geese...</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">The half-orc ranger, Alexander, passed the days in quiet meditation, spending as much time as possible outside the cramped gnomish tunnels. He went on "scouting trips" to familiarize himself with the sorroundings and have a breath or two - the problem was not so much the size of the tunnels as the constant large numbers of people that gave him the feeling of confinement.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">From sunrise to sunset he walked outdoors, even spending a restless night hunting under the moon, trying to feel rather than to know the place. And reinforcing his link with the wild, which had been weakened in the last day.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">The gnomes have directions given to the party and a rough sketch of the hills the kobolds are living inside. Dartis and Alexander come to the realization that the kobold base is nearly two days travel from the gnomish tunnels by foot.</span></p><p><span style="color: orange"></span></p><p><span style="color: orange">Next: The party moves out.</span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Deuce Traveler, post: 3430927, member: 34958"] The first move that Alexander made when he arrived was to find out if some kobold movements against the gnomes were perceived, but he heard no further news from Dartis, who was among the initial welcomers. The young man who approached the group upon their return had all the look of the aristocracy of Dorinthia. The tall bearing and look of confidence was often manifested as arrogance. But the man moved with a subtle grace and fluidity, perhaps indicitive of many ball-room dances. However, as he talked the party could see that he was no foppish court dandy. His armor was sweat-stained and riven in several places. The ease of his movements were due to years in the saddle. A well worn bow lied across his back and a decorated, but well used sword hung at his belt. No, this was not some sycophant of the king, but a member of the nobility that had maintained the tradition of mounted might that had kept Dorinthia strong for many years. As he continued his discussion, a genuine smile was on his lips and he extended his hand several times in greeting to each party member, only to lower it when greeted by simple nods. The smile never left though. [COLOR=Green]"Greetings. Baron Dorin has asked me to join you in doing what we can to continue the fight. I am Baron Dartis Kalnian. The title still comes new to my tongue. I am the last of my house it seems."[/COLOR] He said this as the smile faded from his face. [COLOR=Green]"So, until my lands are no longer under the shadow of Tallione, please call me Dartis. Now I have a bow and a sword and wish to use them in defense of my home land in whatever mannner I may. To what end are we to put them?"[/COLOR] Kel greeted Dartis Kalnian with indifference [i][color=seagreen]Why am I doing this?[/color][/i] He thought to himself as introductions were made. [i][color=seagreen]Huntress guide my steps. I hope that I am interpreting your wishes correcty.[/color][/i] Without a word, the elf moved towards the back of the group, then disappeared to go meditate. Alexander nodded at the aristocratic human, and drily said. [COLOR=Blue]"Welcome."[/COLOR] He didn't really know what to think about the young man for the time being. Two weeks ago he'd have been outright hostile to him... but after meeting his current companions, and Syra. Well, times had changed him. [color=orange]"Well met, Dartis Kalnian. I am Silas Eyrstan."[/color] Silas continued to talk with Dartis, and specifically asked him about his military service and revealed to him that he served in a unit at the Last Stand. However, the difference in social class kept Silas from becoming too chatty or familiar until he got to know him better. [COLOR=Green]"Well met, countryman. I served mostly on the southern border with Tallione for much of the past few years. I too was at the Last Stand, and my commander sent me back to Faircreek with the warning. It was thus that I lost my horse. But come, tell me more of your service."[/COLOR] Silas seemed pleased at Baron Dartis Kalnian's interest in his past duties. [color=orange]"Lord Kalnian, I served as adjunct to Sir Martin, connected to the Dorinthian Foot."[/color] His face took a grim cast. [color=orange]"Sir Martin, gods rest his soul, sent me with missives back towards Baron Dorin's command tent just before the lines broke."[/color] He met Dartis' eye and added, [color=orange]"We were among the lucky ones that day, it seems, though it was some time after your message was delivered before I was able to make my way back to Fair Creek." Rix glanced up at the aristocrat, [i][color=sienna]Sniveling money-grubbers,[/color][/i][color=sienna][/color] he thought. He'd been in a bad mood (although who could tell the difference) ever since they returned. The incursion on the goblin camp had been primarily successful, his plan had gone off soundly and he had put down more than his fair share of the runt-faced creatures. However, he missed Danica. Although he was warming up to the half-orc, particularly now that the other stuffy one (Alexander's paladin sister) was no longer around. [i][color=sienna]Imagine that. I'm warming up to being party to a half-orc companion.[/color][/i][color=sienna][/color] He hated orcs, although this one was different. However, returning to the gnomish enclave had left Rix rife with internal strife. He was helping gnomes! They might as well burn in the pits of the Dragon's gut for what he wished, although the current crises possibly had created some internal strife that he might be able to play up and use to help plunge the race into chaos. The thought tickled him. He faced back to the aristocrat. [color=sienna]"I am Vaerixsjach, do your best to leave me be human."[/color] He turned away from this noble born warrior, the thought of noble blood all too painful for the orphaned dragonkin at the moment. He had been noble blooded among his people and now was treated no better than a dog by most. Moving away at a quick pace, the kobold disappeared into the gnomish community, his hand constantly upon his blade. He hated this place, he hated gnomes, and now he was supposed to seek out the source of their kobold trouble and stop it. How he wanted these kobolds to overrun this hovel. When he thought he was alone, Rix found in the sack he had taken from the goblins 35 platinum pieces, 12 gold pieces, a dull iron ring that might have been worth a gold piece, and a scroll that looked to have magical writing on it. Silas sighed and frowned as he watched Rix quickly disappear. [color=orange][i]I do not know how to relate to that kobold.[/i][/color] His frowns deepened as he considered his own thoughts. [i][color=orange]Perhaps if I started thinking of him as Rix first rather than 'that kobold'...[/color][/i][color=orange][/color] His musings interupted by the arrival of a group of gnomes with an offer of free adventuring geer, and Silas looked over the items and contented himself with refilling the supplies of bolts and travel rations he carried. Dartis turned to Silas as Rix walked away. [COLOR=Green]"Pleasant little fellow isn't he,"[/COLOR] he asked Silas with a droll smile. [COLOR=Green]"Of course, he maybe upset and rightfully so at his current situation, but tell me how does a kobold come to be working with Dorinthians, for the cause of the gnomes? That is a riddle that I suppose would explain his sour mood. Though I must confess that I have dealt with few enough kobold to not assume that they are all that grumpy."[/COLOR] Dartis gladly picked through the gnome's extra equipment. [COLOR=Green]"I lost all I had at Kelnar, save what I wore."[/COLOR] He picked out a human-sized buckler, a chain shirt, a dagger, and a water skin and some rations, and after a long search of looking for arrows asked Silas, [COLOR=Green]"Is there somewhere to buy equipment that is not in this pile? There is no pack in my size and I would like more arrows."[/COLOR] Silas looked thoughtful for a moment. [color=orange]"I can't rightly say why Rix is working on behalf of the Dorinthians. When the Baron sent out the call for aid he arrived. He has not got on well with the gnomes, though. Truth be told I worry about us heading into kobold territory with Rix." "The nearest place I know of to purchase equipment is in the new community founded by the Fair Creek refugees, several days travel away. Perhaps the gnomes would be able to find you some equipment that isn't included amongst that offered to us."[/color] [COLOR=Blue]"These could be useful..."[/COLOR] said Alexander as he picked up a pair of daggers, slashing the air, and testing the grip of their handle before storing them; one in his boot and the other at the belt at his back. [COLOR=Blue]"Rix?"[/COLOR] Alexander turned around. [COLOR=Blue]"Just keep your eyes on him."[/COLOR] The half-orc stopped a second, likely considering his words before adding, [COLOR=Blue]"He's proven of high value for Fair Creek... And that's what interests him, how much they are disposed to pay for him."[/COLOR] [color=blue][I]Father Ravil suggested I should let him be when I presented him my doubts... I'm doubting less, am I getting my sense of smell dulled? Or did I catch a wrong scent about Rix the first time?[/I] "Who knows what's breeding in his skull... know that he is a crafty lizardkin, he is."[/COLOR] Then he departed, coincidentially the same way Rix did. He followed the kobold's trail, but didn't try to make his presence hidden. He planned to join the kobold and ask if he wouldn't want to profit from the gnomes' offered free equipment. Rix realized Alexander was trailing him and spun around, looking the half-orc in the eye from his four-foot stature. [color=sienna]"Don't follow me, I've got business to attend to and I don't need your eyes crawling on me the entire time. Go play with the elf or the Baron, or maybe send up a few prayers to the Huntress. Maybe she'll save these obnoxious big-nosed rats."[/color] He gestured around at the gnomish community and stormed away, obviously upset and wanting to be alone. [color=blue][I]He's still Rix... this night... I'll let him be.[/I][/color] Meanwhile, Dartis managed to find a pack that would actually fit him and a few more arrows at a local gnome merchant. Aside from that he spent the next two days conversing with Kel, Alexander and Silas about their last excursion. Besides that, he did as any soldier does between the fighting and tried to catch up on sleeping on eating. During the same days, Alexander contemplated his previous actions. [color=blue][I]This time I was more in tune with the Huntress' way... as were my companions... we are learning to work as a pack...[/I][/color] When he got a chance, he told Horacius, [COLOR=Blue]"Hum... there were some gnolls along with th goblins in the camp..."[/COLOR] He also sought out Harindan Loughphray, going up to him along with the rest of the party and among other things, chiming in with a warning. [COLOR=Blue]"I fear alliances between gnolls and goblins... possibly started by the dog-headed ones uniting the tribes... but I know that is difficult to belive. Do you know of any gnoll tribes near this area?"[/COLOR] Both elder gnomes looked concerned when Alexander reported the news. Haracios avoided the topic and shrugged it off, however. Harindan said, [color=teal]"Yes, we have been worried that our recent troubles might have been caused by a third party. We didn't want to believe it, however. It may be that some mercenaries have been hired by this new threat, since normally gnolls can be found more to the east. Please let us know if you find anything else."[/color] (DM's note: At about this time I asked the party why they didn't use the [i]wand of darkness[/i] to aid their earlier escape. The response was basically, whoops...) Immediately upon getting his own moment of privacy, Silas ducked into an out of the way corner and cast his [i]Comprehend Languages[/i] spell and read the letter that he took from the table in the goblin stockade. ---- Shaman Gaaz, I demand that you step up your attacks on our enemies. Your hesitation only allows the gnomes to regroup and to enlist outside aid, which has now happened just as I had divined. My envoys will stay with you and observe your preparations for battle. If any harm comes to them I will hold you responsible. Remember, I put you into power with my gifts. I can remove you. Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh ---- Silas quickly moved to rejoin his companions as they discussed the success of their mission and related information regarding the goblins and their non-goblin allies. Alexander and Silas located one another, and the half-orc reminded the human abjurer about the letter. [COLOR=Blue]"Will you work now in deciphering the paper you found in the fortress?"[/COLOR] Grinning at the timing, the abjurer answered, [color=orange]"Ah, I have already done so! And to prove it, I shall immediately explain what I have discovered."[/color] Silas then related the contents of the letter to Alexander. Silas frowned and gave Alexander a sidelong glance. [color=orange]"Perhaps you should have those cuts looked at. Goblins are filthy creatures and you wouldn't want the wounds to become infected."[/color] [color=blue][I]He's right.[/I][/color] For the first time Alexander spoke out loud what he'd otherwise kept to himself. He nodded affirmatively at Silas' words and added [COLOR=Blue]"Forgetting pain, any pain, should never happen... we must get used to pain, but never forget. So commands us the Huntress..." "I'll ask Kel for some help in that matter,"[/COLOR] the towering half-orc moved to leave, answering to Silas' concern. [COLOR=Blue]"After seeing to my scratches I'll join you and Rix for a meal."[/COLOR] Half smiling once again, [COLOR=Blue]"and we can invite the new one, whoever he is."[/COLOR] Alexander went in search of Kel, who had tended him previously in battle... and saved his life. Finding him, the two believers in the Huntress gave greetings. After a brief inspection, Kel healed Alexander. [color=seagreen]"I hear you speaking in reverant terms about a Huntress,"[/color] the elf mentioned pointedly. [color=seagreen]"Tell me of her. Who is this person?"[/color] He asked as his healing magic infused the half orc. [color=seagreen][i]It can't be [B]The Huntress,[/B][/i][/color][i][/i] he thought to himself. [color=seagreen][i]Surely she is not worshipped by those with orc blood, as they are anathema to her."[/i][/color][i][/i] Alexander looked at the elf and smiled... warmly for the first time... [I][color=blue]This smiling is getting to be a habit[/color][/I][color=blue] "Thanks for the mending. The Huntress, The Lady of the Lake who gives guidance through the eternal cycle; she who took me under her wing and taught me to survive,"[/COLOR] Alexander stood up from his seat before the fire. [COLOR=Blue]"She who presents everyone with the world and allows them to thread their own path." [B]"She who sees as enemies the corruptors of the eternal cycle and desecrators of the shrine of Seven Trees, and who will be hunted and brought down by her wrath!"[/B][/COLOR] Noting that he was getting enthusiastic... but not caring [COLOR=Blue][B]"Artemis' wolves' breath on their neck while they are face down on the ground will be the last thing they feel..."[/B][/COLOR] [COLOR=Blue]"...I'm one of her wolves... that's why I joined the Dorinthians."[/COLOR] And he stood there, waiting for Kel's reaction. The elf recognized that the half-orc belonged to a rare sect of the Huntress' faith that worshipped a goddess called Artemis, but still considered the Huntress, the Rider, the Lady of the Lake, and Artemis to be facets of the same being. The large majority of believers worshipped the Rider as the same as the Hunter or Huntress, depending upon preference of gender of the mysterious hooded god. Alexander's sect, however, was considered blasphemous by some. The two men conversed more for quite some time. Later at a dinner he prepared, Silas shared his suspicions and related the contents of the letter with his companions, showing it to whomever wished to see it. He glanced at Rix, somewhat worried about how the kobold would handle the information. [color=orange][i]Well, his opinion of gnomes could hardly get much lower,[/i][/color] thought Silas. [color=orange]"At this moment, however, the threat seems to be from kobolds."[/color] Silas scowls. [color=orange]"And unless the gnomes have received better information in our absence we have only a general direction of their lairs to go on. And a gnomish name connected to the goblins we just raided, 'Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh', I think it's pronounced."[/color] The party members were quite uncomfortable with the implications of the letter, but decided to keep the information to themselves rather than share it with the gnomes, and to look out for further clues. (DM: Saw what?! Boggled...) After two days of uneventful relaxation, the party felt once again healthy enough to take to the road. Harindan Loughphray greeted Alexander at first, [color=teal]"Alexander, good to see you looking well again. We still have received no word about the current state of your people, but I did send Phly as a messenger to describe your adventures, and your amazing infiltration in order to recover the totem staff. If your team is ready, I will begin." "Thankfully you brought back the totem staff and we've noticed a lack of coordinated effort by the goblins to our southeast. Unfortunately, we still have not discovered who has been supplying them. But, we have found something that has truly disturbed us. Our scouts have located the tunnels that are being used as the headquarters of the kobold forces. What's truly odd, is the behavior of the kobolds that were observed from a distance. First, there seems to be a number of kobold tribes working together in that area. Kobolds from opposing tribes normally have trouble cooperating if not feeling outright hostility for one another. Second, the kobolds seemed well disciplined, standing like rocks while at guard posts. Whatever charismatic leader was able to unite these tribes and train these kobolds must be a power that is a great threat to us. The Dragon Eye tribe is definitely keeping the others in line. For 100gp each, find out how they are influencing the other kobolds and shut down their operation for another 100gp each."[/color] Rix meanwhile, sought to acquire a set of masterwork thieves tools and resell his older ones. He also sought to see if he could find some time to get the iron ring and scroll magically examined. Spending a good amount of time each day exploring the tunnels and community, Rix kept the gnomish name on the parchment Silas translated in mind while he explored, but he found no trace of a Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh in the settlement. Besides that, he was mostly absent in the two days of rest at the Loughphray tunnels, and what others did see of him was a mixture of anger and sulking. The normally fast quips and jabs were missing and a sullen quiet hung over him. The whole business was getting to the dragonkin, and being around the eon old nemesis of his race did not make it much better. [color=sienna]"We'll see,"[/color] he would sometimes mutter [color=sienna][i]The world would be a better place if we just let them overrun your sniveling hovel.[/i][/color] Rix was frustrated in his initial attempts to find a smith willing to work for a kobold, and he began to truly hate having to reside with the gnomes who treated him with contempt. Giving up, Rix moved to have his items identified, but ran into the same problem with Horacios' apprentices, and the kobold did his best to avoid Horacios himself. Rix was busy cursing under his breath when he noticed a gnome behind him. [color=yellow]"Ungrateful wretches,"[/color] Horacios said under his breath. [color=yellow]"Well come on, let's get those items of yours checked."[/color] The gnome's manner was curious. He did not try to avoid Rix or attempt a weak smile for the kobold's benefit like most of his kinsmen did. As the gnome placed the ring and scroll on his work table, he almost seemed to forget Rix's presence until he began speaking to him absent-mindedly, explaining the magic he was employing. His manner showed an acceptance of Rix so complete and natural that it took the kobold by surprise. [color=yellow]"Hmmm... I'm afraid the ring is non-magical, although the scroll seems to radiate a faint aura. The writing of the scroll itself is an animal trance spell, and may come in handy, although you might want to consider selling it instead. I didn't have to use a spell to identify the items, so this time its no charge. In the future, however, such magic can cast over 100gp."[/color] He warned, handing the kobold back the items. For some reason Rix felt compelled to tell him of his troubles with the smith. After a thoughtful moment Horacios nodded and had the kobold follow him to the closest smith with talent, then chastised him. [color=yellow]"Now Burelianieos, don't make me tell your aunt how you treat guests. This young man here has come to give our people some aid, and I don't want you cheating him or wasting his time. And remember your son is one of my apprentices, and I may just forget that next time he forgets to collect his components like he should."[/color] After his conversation he looked back at Rix and said, [color=yellow]"There. Burelianieos will have your tools ready in no time and will pay the 75gp and your old tools. Let me know if he acts less than honorably in the future. I wouldn't make excuses for the rest of my kin, but they are a bit shaken of late. Less knowledgable people think they can look at evil and know it. They'd be surprised what faces evil men really wear. It may even wear the face of a man you once thought your friend."[/color] With that, Horacios walked away to go back to his work. Stunned by the openness and honesty of Horacios, Rix let the whole situation unfold as if in a daze. He could barely mumble a thanks before the gnome walked off to his work. It had been surreal for the dragonkin. His coin purse lighter, but his mind heavy with an odd feeling, one which he couldn't fully identify, he returned to his companions. The iron ring around one finger, an odd reminder of this occurence. (DM's Note: This was a hint that Horacios might be a good source to find out what happened in regards to the gnome, Astraughlay Kondeeistreigh. The 'evil may even wear the face of a man you once thought your friend' was as direct a hint as I wanted to go. Horacios had not thought that his former ally and illusionist had fallen so far into insanity to be involved with the goblin and kobold attacks. The letter Silas had would have made him realize some of what was going on and given the party some important hints. But alas, those hints never came out in time.) Silas spent his last amount of free time around for meal times in the evening and gladly chatting with his companions. Otherwise, he spent his time sequestered in the gnome's library making scrolls and wishing that the gnomes had bigger geese... The half-orc ranger, Alexander, passed the days in quiet meditation, spending as much time as possible outside the cramped gnomish tunnels. He went on "scouting trips" to familiarize himself with the sorroundings and have a breath or two - the problem was not so much the size of the tunnels as the constant large numbers of people that gave him the feeling of confinement. From sunrise to sunset he walked outdoors, even spending a restless night hunting under the moon, trying to feel rather than to know the place. And reinforcing his link with the wild, which had been weakened in the last day. The gnomes have directions given to the party and a rough sketch of the hills the kobolds are living inside. Dartis and Alexander come to the realization that the kobold base is nearly two days travel from the gnomish tunnels by foot. Next: The party moves out.[/color] [/QUOTE]
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