More comments from the DM
Just as I did for Kat's post, I want to give you all an idea of what each destination/direction would entail in general terms. This might change if it actually happens, but I think it's fair to give you an idea of what you'd do on a first blush thing.
Queen_Dopplepopolis said:
(1.) A trip to One Oak followed by a trip to the Jade Forest Acad. and the Stone Oracle (switch them around, whatever... just want to visit those two places).
As with most of the adventure ideas from this point, you're going to have to deal with pursuit--not only from the draconids, but also from the King's open servants. You'll have the resources of the serpentblood and the Kingdom arrayed against you...and after this battle, the king will want to have...words...with the survivors.
Also, there are really three destinations here, rather than only two, and the order that you'd pursue them might change how things work. But, if you went to One Oak---->Jade Forest Academy---->Stone Oracle, the general adventure type would entail sneaking (or battling) past enemy lines, deep into enemy territory (One Oak is pretty close to Thanesport, where apparently the surviving members of the King's Army have gathered). Lots of role (as opposed to roll) playing in One Oak, and perhaps a festival for the return of One Oak's favorite half-son. However, there is a potential for a bit more action here if its discovered that the infamous circle of the phoenix has gathered in a tiny village in the south of Maelwysrin...not the kind of attention that a small village wants, to be certain. The academy would provide another very interesting role playing opportunity, and perhaps shed some light on Justice's past...but also may be dangerous. Though not any more beholden to the king than any other school, the academy is no stranger to the ties that bind. Expect some court intrigue, assassins, betrayal, and perhaps some new allies if you continue here. If, from here, you can make it to the nearby mountains, up to the old temple grounds, and deep into the bowels of the Prophet's Mountain, you too may speak to the Stone Oracle, and learn what Fate has in store for you. But, be warned. The Oracle is legendary for being fickle, and you may not be the only ones wishing for a glimpse at tomorrow....
Queen_Dopplepopolis said:
Sylvanus is all well and good but Justice simply has no connection there and, as such, little desire. I recognize the fact that this same standard will apply for all of you with the Jade Forest, though... so, it'll be a tough decision for all of us.
Out of character, I want to go to the Isle of Mourning-- kick some butt, get some experience, and throw a wild party.
But, my ideas could be greatly changed by simple persuasion or the indeterminable outcome of the battle.
Should you choose the isle of mourning, expect dangerous treks through strange wilderness, harried by creatures unlike any you've ever seen. This is a land twisted by millenia of evil, inhabited by
things that might once have been servants of the Light. There will be traps, ancient ruins, and perhaps a forgotten tomb or two. And, of course, the confrontation with the ancient, horrifying evil that makes men (and women) monsters, and monsters disturbingly like men (and women). Expect pursuit even here, as the enemy also desires the secrets of the island, and the treasures it holds...
Remember, these are just guesses at the moment, subject to change at my whim or whimsy...