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pogre's story hour Zandyrium -episode 66- (5/10/2006) A short update.
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<blockquote data-quote="pogre" data-source="post: 2188493" data-attributes="member: 6588"><p>A special massive 40th episode!</p><p></p><p>Zandyrium</p><p>Episode 40</p><p></p><p>“What’s wrong my son?” the ancient priest asked of Justinius.</p><p></p><p>“Father, I have left my friends to return here to Gravitas Morte’s temple. I felt compelled to reconnect with my god and commit to his work in a new way.” Justinius looked down, his feelings were conflicted about leaving his comrades on their rescue mission.</p><p></p><p>“You must always follow these instincts,” the old priest reassured Justinius. “Gravitas Morte gave me signs of your coming. I have prepared the lower library for your use. Meals will be brought to you, but otherwise you shall remain undisturbed.”</p><p></p><p>Justinius nodded his head in acknowledgement of the accommodations offered and felt reassured that his mentor too had received the signs. “I will go there now.”</p><p></p><p>The old priest nodded and stepped aside to allow Justinius access to the lower levels of the temple.</p><p></p><p>The library and lower study chambers of Gravitas Morte’s temple were small when compared next to many of the other temples. Not surprisingly, the temple rarely received huge donations – few folks are thrilled at the prospect of death, even a restful repose. However, the library did have many valuable tomes and Justinius had himself brought many of the books into the collection. He opened his latest find, <em>The Binding and Use of Soul Larvae in Domination of Diabolical Minios</em>, and began to study its yellowed pages. </p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>“So what are you trying to say?” Wassabe asked Rothlor.</p><p></p><p>“I think the Emperor is involved,” Rothlor answered.</p><p></p><p>“The Emperor a diabolists?” Wassabe smiled widely. “That’s fantastic.”</p><p></p><p>“It’s not funny,” Rothlor scolded.</p><p></p><p>“No, of course not,” Wassabe was doing a poor job concealing his snickering. “So what can you do about it?”</p><p></p><p>“If I expose him we might save Zandyrium,” Rothlor suggested.</p><p></p><p>“I’m not at all sure it’s worth saving, but if you are this concerned I will help anyway I can,” Wassabe stated.</p><p></p><p>“What do you care about Wassabe?” Rothlor asked.</p><p></p><p>“A lot of things, including you,” Wassabe tapped the ranger on his shoulder. “Friends are the substance of life; the rest is all details.”</p><p></p><p>“Do you think Silcrass would help us?” Rothlor asked.</p><p></p><p>“He better. I helped secure a nice big fat spellbook for my eight-legged friend,” Wassabe replied.</p><p></p><p>“Let’s ride out to see him,” Rothlor suggested.</p><p></p><p>“I have a better idea, let’s find Mercutio and have him <em>teleport</em> us,” Wassabe said.</p><p></p><p>“Magic has made you lazy,” Rothlor sniped.</p><p></p><p>“Well, let’s walk then, or even better – let’s belly crawl!” Wassabe replied.</p><p></p><p>“Fine, you have a point – let’s go find Mercutio. Where is Thoren at these days?”</p><p></p><p>“Last I know he went hunting with some friends.”</p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>Thoren ritually shook the Aurochs blood over his body and let out a howl. The other hunters danced wildly around and stabbed at the huge beast with spears. <em>”This is the good life”</em> Thoren thought as he munched on a bit of the great oxen’s heart. <em>”Still, perhaps I should return to the city?”</em> </p><p></p><p>“Tonight, we make blood rum to celebrate the kill and you will eat the tongue!” his half-naked hunting partner screamed at him.</p><p></p><p>Thoren peered down at the huge, lolling, purple tongue half dislodged out of the Aurochs’ mouth, <em>”The city will have to wait,”</em> he thought.</p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>“Look, I just do not have time to zap you from place to place. Besides <em>teleporting</em> can be very tricky business.” Mercutio knew magic looked easy to mundanes like Wassabe, but really it was more than that.</p><p></p><p>“What is the big deal?” Wassabe implored. “It will take you no time and save us days of travel.”</p><p></p><p>“The big deal is I am working on magical potions, creating a magical amulet, and I have a meeting with Justinius that will already interfere with a tight schedule. Plus, at some point I would like to lie down. It’s not just about time either, there is energy involved in what you ask.”</p><p></p><p>“How is Justinius?” Rothlor asked.</p><p></p><p>“You wouldn’t know, because he abandoned ship when we were coming to rescue you,” Wassabe retorted.</p><p></p><p>“That’s not fair Wassabe, and you know it,” Mercutio remonstrated. “Justinius was called back to his temple for meditation and introspection. He sent me a message that asked me to meet him tonight. He said he might need protection.”</p><p></p><p>“Protection?” Wassabe practically squealed. “What kind of protection does he need in a morgue?”</p><p></p><p>“Maybe we can help?” Rothlor suggested.</p><p></p><p>“No, I think…” Mercutio paused as if stopping himself from speaking further. “On reflection, yes, yes I think your presence would be helpful. If you come with me this evening, I will <em>teleport</em> you out to Silcrass’s tomorrow morning.”</p><p></p><p>“See, I know this desert rat was angling for a favor,” Wassabe smiled.</p><p></p><p>“It’s a deal,” Rothlor replied. “We’ll pick you up for supper and go from there.”</p><p></p><p>“Excellent!” the Saracen-touched sorcerer replied.</p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>Heinrich was working around the clock in his lab with Dar, his dwarven follower, and three other blacksmiths creating various armors and weapons. Justinius had stopped by twice to help, but Heinrich was disappointed he was not able to come around more. His friend seemed pre-occupied and a little distant in the two previous visits.</p><p></p><p>A messenger arrived in the lab and Heinrich was summoned to a meeting with Bishop Prolariate that evening. Heinrich left a set of instructions with Dar and headed for the grand Temple of Siegphorus. He was quickly shown to a private room where supper was waiting for him and the Bishop had already started eating.</p><p></p><p>“Forgive me for starting without you,” Bishop Prolariate said.</p><p></p><p>“No, not at all your Eminence,” Heinrich replied. He sat down and poured himself a cup of wine. “What do I owe the pleasure of this company and repast to?”</p><p></p><p>“A bit of pleasant temple and empire business,” Prolariate replied cryptically.</p><p></p><p>“Oh,” Heinrich replied.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, I have recommended you for a position in the Imperial Guard - Father Protector of the Greater Realm,” Bishop Prolariate paused to read Heinrich’s face.</p><p></p><p>“I’m not sure I am worthy for such a title,” Heinrich said.</p><p></p><p>“It is past due. I’m not sure why the Emperor dragged his feet in approving it. Especially given your recent service to the empire,” Prolariate took a drink from his wine cup. “It will have little direct effect on your day-to-day life, but might things a bit easier around the city. Of course, you will be expected to sit on the imperial guard’s council.”</p><p></p><p>“Of course, and thank you. I am overwhelmed,” Heinrich admitted.</p><p></p><p>“Don’t be, but it does mean you may have to lower your resistance to the idea of an invasion of Thray,” Prolariate warned.</p><p></p><p>“Your Eminence, Thray is a most inappropriate target until we know where Boethricus din Woad is and where he intends to strike next. I fear the Emperor and his advisors are gearing up for the wrong war. We very well may need Thray as an ally in the coming conflict.” Heinrich could see by the Bishop’s countenance he was not thrilled with his assessment.</p><p></p><p>“It is good to be cautious, but Thray as an ally?” Bishop Prolariate asked. “You of course shall make your views known plainly to the council, but you are also obligated to follow your Emperor if he demands it.”</p><p></p><p>“I know,” Heinrich said.</p><p></p><p>“We are the temple of war and victory – Siegphorus is the key to both,” Prolariate preached.</p><p></p><p>“Strength and honor,” Heinrich stated the sacred chant.</p><p></p><p>“Strength and honor,” Prolariate repeated nodding.</p><p></p><p>Heinrich returned to his food and realized this new position might be a bit more complicated than what he had planned on.</p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>“So why are we meeting ole’ death boy?” Wassabe asked Mercutio stuffing a piece of shrimp in his mouth.</p><p></p><p>“He was pretty vague,” Mercutio admitted. “But, I have a decent idea for what he has in mind.”</p><p></p><p>“Do tell,” Rothlor insisted.</p><p></p><p>“I believe he is going to summon a devil to try and gain information about Boethricus,” Mercutio explained.</p><p></p><p>“Father ‘Death is my friend’ would never summon a devil on purpose!” Wassabe exclaimed.</p><p></p><p>Mercutio just chuckled. “We shall see then.”</p><p></p><p>Rothlor explained his theory of how the Emperor was wrapped up in a diabolical cult and may be in league with the flame cult that kidnapped him up north. He even suggested that Boethricus might be somehow involved at that was the reason they were going to see Silcrass the following day.</p><p></p><p>“Perhaps we should let Justinius know?” Mercutio asked.</p><p></p><p>“I am not comfortable with that yet, maybe when I have some more solid evidence,” Rothlor said.</p><p></p><p>“He may have access to information sources you do not,” Mercutio suggested.</p><p></p><p>“Yeah, he’s probably summoning half of hell for a party,” Wassabe snapped sarcastically.</p><p></p><p>“Even so, I would like to hold off,” Rothlor stated again.</p><p></p><p>“Fair enough,” Mercutio deferred. “We should get going to the Temple of Gravitas Morte to meet him.”</p><p></p><p>“Off to the morgue!” Wassabe announced whistling a strange tune.</p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>Justinius quickly put the dark tome in a hiding place. Mercutio would be at the temple shortly and he wanted the ritual to be mostly ready. He retrieved a massive gem from a hidden pouch he had been saving for just such an occasion. He carefully inscribed a summoning circle and had just finished when he heard footsteps coming down the stairs.</p><p></p><p>“A thousand pardons Sacred Revealer, but there are a group of people here to see you,” the young acolyte announced nervously.</p><p></p><p>“A group?” Justinius asked.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, Sacred Revealer, three men – one looks like a Saracen,” the acolyte reported.</p><p></p><p>“Fine, send them down,” Justinius ordered.</p><p></p><p>Mercutio, Wassabe, and Rothlor made their way down the ancient stone staircase into the lower portions of the temple. They all greeted Justinius warmly and Justinius apologized repeatedly to Rothlor for not being at his rescue.</p><p></p><p>“You had important business. I completely understood,” Rothlor reassured him. “What protection do you need tonight?”</p><p></p><p>“Probably none,” Justinius admitted. “I really just invited Mercutio as a back-up in case something unforeseen cropped up.”</p><p></p><p>“Like what?” Wassabe asked.</p><p></p><p>“Well, a number of things can go wrong when you call a devil,” Justinius replied.</p><p></p><p>“I do not believe it!” Wassabe exclaimed in genuine shock. “Why are you summoning a devil?”</p><p></p><p>“Not summoning exactly, but to answer your question – I’m hoping to get some insight as to whereabouts and intentions of our old friend Boethricus.”</p><p></p><p>“How do you know it won’t just lie?” Rothlor asked.</p><p></p><p>“It is a devil and we shall form an agreement or contract,” Justinius explained. “It will twist and bend the wording of the agreement in every way possible, but in the end it will not break the contract. Further, I will make it an offer for easy work for big rewards – it will have no incentive to lie.” Justinius held the massive gem up for the trio to admire.</p><p></p><p>“You’re giving the devil that!” this was proving too much for Wassabe to stomach.</p><p></p><p>“Certainly not. I would never give something like this away. I’m using it to pay him.”</p><p></p><p>“You should complete your ritual,” Mercutio suggested. “We will stand back here.”</p><p></p><p>Justinius agreed with Mercutio’s suggestion and began the long ritual process. A few minutes later a low gray smoke rose from the pentagram and a being emerged from the gray smoke with long chains full of murderous hooks wrapped around its body. The Kyton looked around quickly.</p><p></p><p>“You blaspheme your own temple priest!” the Kyton spat.</p><p></p><p>“Not at all,” Justinius disagreed. “I did not bring you to discuss religious differences in any case. I want a bargain.”</p><p></p><p>“The service?” the Kyton inquired.</p><p></p><p>“I need information,” Justinius replied.</p><p></p><p>“Your offer?” the Kyton asked.</p><p></p><p>“This,” Justinius replied holding the gem aloft.</p><p></p><p>“You have just retained the services of one Grimhook the Harsh,” the Kyton smiled.</p><p></p><p>“Excellent! Shall we say twenty fair questions with meaningful answers shall fulfill your obligation?” Justinius asked.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, but if I do not have the information requested – the question still counts,” Grimhook stipulated.</p><p></p><p>“No, twenty answers are required,” Justinius demanded.</p><p></p><p>“That’s unreasonable,” Grimhook complained. </p><p></p><p>Justinius held the marvelous gem up again for the fiend to view.</p><p></p><p>“On the other hand,” Grimhook paused. “I do have a lot of information. It is agreed.”</p><p></p><p>“Do you know of Boethricus din Woad?” Justinius asked.</p><p></p><p>The Kyton contorted its facial features to match those of Boethricus din Woad.</p><p></p><p>“I’ll take that as a yes,” Justinius said.</p><p></p><p>The priest and Kyton’s conversation continued until Justinius learned that Boethricus was serving Mammon and also the abomination known as Orcus. The Kyton also seemed to suspect there was yet another force involved beyond Boethricus. The Kyton revealed that both Arch-Devils had plans to move against the prime in the near future. Satisfied that the devil had fulfilled the bargain, Justinius paid it and it left.</p><p></p><p>“Did you believe that thing?” Wassabe asked.</p><p></p><p>“It had no incentive to lie. I think everything it stated had an air of legitimacy,” Justinius admitted.</p><p></p><p>“I agree,” Mercutio said. “I knew we were far from done with Boethricus.”</p><p></p><p>“It all seems to tie together,” Rothlor stated.</p><p></p><p>When Justinius asked what the ranger meant, Rothlor dodged the question. The trio then left the temple and headed back to the Princess’s Barrel to get some sleep.</p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>The following morning Mercutio quickly <em>teleported</em> Rothlor and Wassabe out to Silcrass’s cavern and then went back to the city.</p><p></p><p>“What is Mercutio’s hurry?” Silcrass asked.</p><p></p><p>“I think he has something cooking in the lab,” Wassabe responded.</p><p></p><p>Rothlor then laid out his theories concerning the related links between the flame cult, Boethricus din Woad, Orcus, Mammon, and the Emperor. Silcrass listened thoughtfully before finally speaking up, “I have one more item concerning this that may interest you. I returned to my old lair last week to see if I could scavenge anything and found this.” Silcrass held a small, dark red item aloft.</p><p></p><p>“What is that?” Rothlor asked.</p><p></p><p>“A scale from the dragon that attacked my lair and wounded my mate, Neolepta,” Silcrass replied.</p><p></p><p>“So?” Wassabe asked.</p><p></p><p>“It has helped me locate him,” Silcrass replied. “To make it even better, I believe he is particularly vulnerable.”</p><p></p><p>“Silcrass, as much as I would love to wreak revenge on this dragon, I think he is much too powerful for us,” Wassabe stated.</p><p></p><p>“Normally I would agree, but I have been <em>scrying</em> his lair and he is going through some sort of metamorphosis. His lair has no fires, no guardians, and he is in pain as his body is succumbing to some sort of fiendish implantation.”</p><p></p><p>“A fiendish process that will no doubt make him much more dangerous,” Rothlor suggested.</p><p></p><p>“Yes, but for the moment he is too weak to even detect or at least resist my scrying. We may have a very limited opportunity to act here,” Silcrass stated. “I have noticed some other interesting things in my scrying. A few visitors have come to the dragon wearing the robes of the flame cult you mentioned before.”</p><p></p><p>“That’s it, that’s the connection,” Rothlor said.</p><p></p><p>“Perhaps, in combination with the documentation you found earlier, the dragon may prove to be the connection between Boethricus and the Flame Cult,” Silcrass said.</p><p></p><p>“If we can prove the association between the flame cult and the dragon, I know the Emperor is involved. The flame cult knew I was coming, because the Emperor let them know. The Emperor is in league with the cult, Boethricus, and all the rest.” Rothlor was verbalizing all of his suspicions of the last few weeks.</p><p></p><p>“You are making a few jumps in logic,” Silcrass suggested gently. “We will need much more concrete proof than this to move against any diabolical conspiracy in the Emperor’s circle.”</p><p></p><p>“If the dragon had a communication from the cult…” Wassabe said.</p><p></p><p>“It would go a long way to proving these connections,” Silcrass finished Wassabe’s thought. “We must act quickly though.”</p><p></p><p>“How much longer will it be going through this metamorphosis?” Rothlor asked.</p><p></p><p>“I cannot be sure,” Silcrass admitted. “Let’s go have a look.” Silcrass started <em>scrying</em> the dragon.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.pogre.com/4001_scrying_bezzalt.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.pogre.com/4001_scrying_bezzalt_th.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></a></p><p></p><p>The beast was rolling in pain as black ooze pustules burst forth from various locations on its body. It appeared emaciated and its wings looked fragile and battered.</p><p></p><p>“We’re never going to get a better shot than this,” Wassabe said. “Silcrass, take me back to Zandyrium. I’ll get everyone I can. Rothlor, you need to help us find that flame cult. Once we move against the dragon, we will have to strike against them quickly.”</p><p></p><p>Silcrass and Rothlor nodded in agreement.</p><p></p><p>*****</p><p></p><p>Wassabe had managed to convince nearly everyone to come. The only ones he could not reach were Morguhn and Justinius. He was not completely disappointed that Justinius could not make it, at least he could raise them if they did not survive the encounter. Wassabe filled Mercutio in on what information they had gathered at Silcrass’s lair, but left out key elements concerning the emperor’s possible involvement when discussing it with Heinrich.</p><p></p><p>Silcrass <em>scryed</em> the dragon again and promised to help <em>teleport</em> the adventurers into combat despite Neolepta’s objections. Mercutio and Heinrich cast a number of buff spells as they prepared to assault the wyrm. Thoren covered his face in bloody warpaint and gave a thunderous hoop.</p><p></p><p>“You are definitely the scariest clown I have ever seen,” Wassabe said to Thoren.</p><p></p><p>“I am invoking the hunter spirits for blood rage,” Thoren answered.</p><p></p><p>“Let me add a little bulk behind that rage,” Dar stated. Heinrich’s follower cast <em>enlarge</em> on Thoren.</p><p></p><p>“Let’s go kick some Wyrm!” Thoren shouted.</p><p></p><p>The group <em>teleported</em> into the beast’s lair in two separate flanking groups.</p><p></p><p>“Strength and honor,” Heinrich chanted as the group appeared in the cavern.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.pogre.com/4002_fighting_bezzalt.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.pogre.com/4002_fighting_bezzalt_th.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></a></p><p></p><p>to be continued…</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>GM Note 1: Thoren picked up a level of Barbarian.</p><p></p><p>GM Note 2: No, the dragon the pcs were actually facing was not this big in scale terms, but you know I’m going to use the figure every chance I get right? <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite2" alt=";)" title="Wink ;)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=";)" /></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="pogre, post: 2188493, member: 6588"] A special massive 40th episode! Zandyrium Episode 40 “What’s wrong my son?” the ancient priest asked of Justinius. “Father, I have left my friends to return here to Gravitas Morte’s temple. I felt compelled to reconnect with my god and commit to his work in a new way.” Justinius looked down, his feelings were conflicted about leaving his comrades on their rescue mission. “You must always follow these instincts,” the old priest reassured Justinius. “Gravitas Morte gave me signs of your coming. I have prepared the lower library for your use. Meals will be brought to you, but otherwise you shall remain undisturbed.” Justinius nodded his head in acknowledgement of the accommodations offered and felt reassured that his mentor too had received the signs. “I will go there now.” The old priest nodded and stepped aside to allow Justinius access to the lower levels of the temple. The library and lower study chambers of Gravitas Morte’s temple were small when compared next to many of the other temples. Not surprisingly, the temple rarely received huge donations – few folks are thrilled at the prospect of death, even a restful repose. However, the library did have many valuable tomes and Justinius had himself brought many of the books into the collection. He opened his latest find, [I]The Binding and Use of Soul Larvae in Domination of Diabolical Minios[/I], and began to study its yellowed pages. ***** “So what are you trying to say?” Wassabe asked Rothlor. “I think the Emperor is involved,” Rothlor answered. “The Emperor a diabolists?” Wassabe smiled widely. “That’s fantastic.” “It’s not funny,” Rothlor scolded. “No, of course not,” Wassabe was doing a poor job concealing his snickering. “So what can you do about it?” “If I expose him we might save Zandyrium,” Rothlor suggested. “I’m not at all sure it’s worth saving, but if you are this concerned I will help anyway I can,” Wassabe stated. “What do you care about Wassabe?” Rothlor asked. “A lot of things, including you,” Wassabe tapped the ranger on his shoulder. “Friends are the substance of life; the rest is all details.” “Do you think Silcrass would help us?” Rothlor asked. “He better. I helped secure a nice big fat spellbook for my eight-legged friend,” Wassabe replied. “Let’s ride out to see him,” Rothlor suggested. “I have a better idea, let’s find Mercutio and have him [I]teleport[/I] us,” Wassabe said. “Magic has made you lazy,” Rothlor sniped. “Well, let’s walk then, or even better – let’s belly crawl!” Wassabe replied. “Fine, you have a point – let’s go find Mercutio. Where is Thoren at these days?” “Last I know he went hunting with some friends.” ***** Thoren ritually shook the Aurochs blood over his body and let out a howl. The other hunters danced wildly around and stabbed at the huge beast with spears. [I]”This is the good life”[/I] Thoren thought as he munched on a bit of the great oxen’s heart. [I]”Still, perhaps I should return to the city?”[/I] “Tonight, we make blood rum to celebrate the kill and you will eat the tongue!” his half-naked hunting partner screamed at him. Thoren peered down at the huge, lolling, purple tongue half dislodged out of the Aurochs’ mouth, [I]”The city will have to wait,”[/I] he thought. ***** “Look, I just do not have time to zap you from place to place. Besides [I]teleporting[/I] can be very tricky business.” Mercutio knew magic looked easy to mundanes like Wassabe, but really it was more than that. “What is the big deal?” Wassabe implored. “It will take you no time and save us days of travel.” “The big deal is I am working on magical potions, creating a magical amulet, and I have a meeting with Justinius that will already interfere with a tight schedule. Plus, at some point I would like to lie down. It’s not just about time either, there is energy involved in what you ask.” “How is Justinius?” Rothlor asked. “You wouldn’t know, because he abandoned ship when we were coming to rescue you,” Wassabe retorted. “That’s not fair Wassabe, and you know it,” Mercutio remonstrated. “Justinius was called back to his temple for meditation and introspection. He sent me a message that asked me to meet him tonight. He said he might need protection.” “Protection?” Wassabe practically squealed. “What kind of protection does he need in a morgue?” “Maybe we can help?” Rothlor suggested. “No, I think…” Mercutio paused as if stopping himself from speaking further. “On reflection, yes, yes I think your presence would be helpful. If you come with me this evening, I will [I]teleport[/I] you out to Silcrass’s tomorrow morning.” “See, I know this desert rat was angling for a favor,” Wassabe smiled. “It’s a deal,” Rothlor replied. “We’ll pick you up for supper and go from there.” “Excellent!” the Saracen-touched sorcerer replied. ***** Heinrich was working around the clock in his lab with Dar, his dwarven follower, and three other blacksmiths creating various armors and weapons. Justinius had stopped by twice to help, but Heinrich was disappointed he was not able to come around more. His friend seemed pre-occupied and a little distant in the two previous visits. A messenger arrived in the lab and Heinrich was summoned to a meeting with Bishop Prolariate that evening. Heinrich left a set of instructions with Dar and headed for the grand Temple of Siegphorus. He was quickly shown to a private room where supper was waiting for him and the Bishop had already started eating. “Forgive me for starting without you,” Bishop Prolariate said. “No, not at all your Eminence,” Heinrich replied. He sat down and poured himself a cup of wine. “What do I owe the pleasure of this company and repast to?” “A bit of pleasant temple and empire business,” Prolariate replied cryptically. “Oh,” Heinrich replied. “Yes, I have recommended you for a position in the Imperial Guard - Father Protector of the Greater Realm,” Bishop Prolariate paused to read Heinrich’s face. “I’m not sure I am worthy for such a title,” Heinrich said. “It is past due. I’m not sure why the Emperor dragged his feet in approving it. Especially given your recent service to the empire,” Prolariate took a drink from his wine cup. “It will have little direct effect on your day-to-day life, but might things a bit easier around the city. Of course, you will be expected to sit on the imperial guard’s council.” “Of course, and thank you. I am overwhelmed,” Heinrich admitted. “Don’t be, but it does mean you may have to lower your resistance to the idea of an invasion of Thray,” Prolariate warned. “Your Eminence, Thray is a most inappropriate target until we know where Boethricus din Woad is and where he intends to strike next. I fear the Emperor and his advisors are gearing up for the wrong war. We very well may need Thray as an ally in the coming conflict.” Heinrich could see by the Bishop’s countenance he was not thrilled with his assessment. “It is good to be cautious, but Thray as an ally?” Bishop Prolariate asked. “You of course shall make your views known plainly to the council, but you are also obligated to follow your Emperor if he demands it.” “I know,” Heinrich said. “We are the temple of war and victory – Siegphorus is the key to both,” Prolariate preached. “Strength and honor,” Heinrich stated the sacred chant. “Strength and honor,” Prolariate repeated nodding. Heinrich returned to his food and realized this new position might be a bit more complicated than what he had planned on. ***** “So why are we meeting ole’ death boy?” Wassabe asked Mercutio stuffing a piece of shrimp in his mouth. “He was pretty vague,” Mercutio admitted. “But, I have a decent idea for what he has in mind.” “Do tell,” Rothlor insisted. “I believe he is going to summon a devil to try and gain information about Boethricus,” Mercutio explained. “Father ‘Death is my friend’ would never summon a devil on purpose!” Wassabe exclaimed. Mercutio just chuckled. “We shall see then.” Rothlor explained his theory of how the Emperor was wrapped up in a diabolical cult and may be in league with the flame cult that kidnapped him up north. He even suggested that Boethricus might be somehow involved at that was the reason they were going to see Silcrass the following day. “Perhaps we should let Justinius know?” Mercutio asked. “I am not comfortable with that yet, maybe when I have some more solid evidence,” Rothlor said. “He may have access to information sources you do not,” Mercutio suggested. “Yeah, he’s probably summoning half of hell for a party,” Wassabe snapped sarcastically. “Even so, I would like to hold off,” Rothlor stated again. “Fair enough,” Mercutio deferred. “We should get going to the Temple of Gravitas Morte to meet him.” “Off to the morgue!” Wassabe announced whistling a strange tune. ***** Justinius quickly put the dark tome in a hiding place. Mercutio would be at the temple shortly and he wanted the ritual to be mostly ready. He retrieved a massive gem from a hidden pouch he had been saving for just such an occasion. He carefully inscribed a summoning circle and had just finished when he heard footsteps coming down the stairs. “A thousand pardons Sacred Revealer, but there are a group of people here to see you,” the young acolyte announced nervously. “A group?” Justinius asked. “Yes, Sacred Revealer, three men – one looks like a Saracen,” the acolyte reported. “Fine, send them down,” Justinius ordered. Mercutio, Wassabe, and Rothlor made their way down the ancient stone staircase into the lower portions of the temple. They all greeted Justinius warmly and Justinius apologized repeatedly to Rothlor for not being at his rescue. “You had important business. I completely understood,” Rothlor reassured him. “What protection do you need tonight?” “Probably none,” Justinius admitted. “I really just invited Mercutio as a back-up in case something unforeseen cropped up.” “Like what?” Wassabe asked. “Well, a number of things can go wrong when you call a devil,” Justinius replied. “I do not believe it!” Wassabe exclaimed in genuine shock. “Why are you summoning a devil?” “Not summoning exactly, but to answer your question – I’m hoping to get some insight as to whereabouts and intentions of our old friend Boethricus.” “How do you know it won’t just lie?” Rothlor asked. “It is a devil and we shall form an agreement or contract,” Justinius explained. “It will twist and bend the wording of the agreement in every way possible, but in the end it will not break the contract. Further, I will make it an offer for easy work for big rewards – it will have no incentive to lie.” Justinius held the massive gem up for the trio to admire. “You’re giving the devil that!” this was proving too much for Wassabe to stomach. “Certainly not. I would never give something like this away. I’m using it to pay him.” “You should complete your ritual,” Mercutio suggested. “We will stand back here.” Justinius agreed with Mercutio’s suggestion and began the long ritual process. A few minutes later a low gray smoke rose from the pentagram and a being emerged from the gray smoke with long chains full of murderous hooks wrapped around its body. The Kyton looked around quickly. “You blaspheme your own temple priest!” the Kyton spat. “Not at all,” Justinius disagreed. “I did not bring you to discuss religious differences in any case. I want a bargain.” “The service?” the Kyton inquired. “I need information,” Justinius replied. “Your offer?” the Kyton asked. “This,” Justinius replied holding the gem aloft. “You have just retained the services of one Grimhook the Harsh,” the Kyton smiled. “Excellent! Shall we say twenty fair questions with meaningful answers shall fulfill your obligation?” Justinius asked. “Yes, but if I do not have the information requested – the question still counts,” Grimhook stipulated. “No, twenty answers are required,” Justinius demanded. “That’s unreasonable,” Grimhook complained. Justinius held the marvelous gem up again for the fiend to view. “On the other hand,” Grimhook paused. “I do have a lot of information. It is agreed.” “Do you know of Boethricus din Woad?” Justinius asked. The Kyton contorted its facial features to match those of Boethricus din Woad. “I’ll take that as a yes,” Justinius said. The priest and Kyton’s conversation continued until Justinius learned that Boethricus was serving Mammon and also the abomination known as Orcus. The Kyton also seemed to suspect there was yet another force involved beyond Boethricus. The Kyton revealed that both Arch-Devils had plans to move against the prime in the near future. Satisfied that the devil had fulfilled the bargain, Justinius paid it and it left. “Did you believe that thing?” Wassabe asked. “It had no incentive to lie. I think everything it stated had an air of legitimacy,” Justinius admitted. “I agree,” Mercutio said. “I knew we were far from done with Boethricus.” “It all seems to tie together,” Rothlor stated. When Justinius asked what the ranger meant, Rothlor dodged the question. The trio then left the temple and headed back to the Princess’s Barrel to get some sleep. ***** The following morning Mercutio quickly [I]teleported[/I] Rothlor and Wassabe out to Silcrass’s cavern and then went back to the city. “What is Mercutio’s hurry?” Silcrass asked. “I think he has something cooking in the lab,” Wassabe responded. Rothlor then laid out his theories concerning the related links between the flame cult, Boethricus din Woad, Orcus, Mammon, and the Emperor. Silcrass listened thoughtfully before finally speaking up, “I have one more item concerning this that may interest you. I returned to my old lair last week to see if I could scavenge anything and found this.” Silcrass held a small, dark red item aloft. “What is that?” Rothlor asked. “A scale from the dragon that attacked my lair and wounded my mate, Neolepta,” Silcrass replied. “So?” Wassabe asked. “It has helped me locate him,” Silcrass replied. “To make it even better, I believe he is particularly vulnerable.” “Silcrass, as much as I would love to wreak revenge on this dragon, I think he is much too powerful for us,” Wassabe stated. “Normally I would agree, but I have been [I]scrying[/I] his lair and he is going through some sort of metamorphosis. His lair has no fires, no guardians, and he is in pain as his body is succumbing to some sort of fiendish implantation.” “A fiendish process that will no doubt make him much more dangerous,” Rothlor suggested. “Yes, but for the moment he is too weak to even detect or at least resist my scrying. We may have a very limited opportunity to act here,” Silcrass stated. “I have noticed some other interesting things in my scrying. A few visitors have come to the dragon wearing the robes of the flame cult you mentioned before.” “That’s it, that’s the connection,” Rothlor said. “Perhaps, in combination with the documentation you found earlier, the dragon may prove to be the connection between Boethricus and the Flame Cult,” Silcrass said. “If we can prove the association between the flame cult and the dragon, I know the Emperor is involved. The flame cult knew I was coming, because the Emperor let them know. The Emperor is in league with the cult, Boethricus, and all the rest.” Rothlor was verbalizing all of his suspicions of the last few weeks. “You are making a few jumps in logic,” Silcrass suggested gently. “We will need much more concrete proof than this to move against any diabolical conspiracy in the Emperor’s circle.” “If the dragon had a communication from the cult…” Wassabe said. “It would go a long way to proving these connections,” Silcrass finished Wassabe’s thought. “We must act quickly though.” “How much longer will it be going through this metamorphosis?” Rothlor asked. “I cannot be sure,” Silcrass admitted. “Let’s go have a look.” Silcrass started [I]scrying[/I] the dragon. [URL=http://www.pogre.com/4001_scrying_bezzalt.jpg][IMG]http://www.pogre.com/4001_scrying_bezzalt_th.jpg[/IMG][/URL] The beast was rolling in pain as black ooze pustules burst forth from various locations on its body. It appeared emaciated and its wings looked fragile and battered. “We’re never going to get a better shot than this,” Wassabe said. “Silcrass, take me back to Zandyrium. I’ll get everyone I can. Rothlor, you need to help us find that flame cult. Once we move against the dragon, we will have to strike against them quickly.” Silcrass and Rothlor nodded in agreement. ***** Wassabe had managed to convince nearly everyone to come. The only ones he could not reach were Morguhn and Justinius. He was not completely disappointed that Justinius could not make it, at least he could raise them if they did not survive the encounter. Wassabe filled Mercutio in on what information they had gathered at Silcrass’s lair, but left out key elements concerning the emperor’s possible involvement when discussing it with Heinrich. Silcrass [I]scryed[/I] the dragon again and promised to help [I]teleport[/I] the adventurers into combat despite Neolepta’s objections. Mercutio and Heinrich cast a number of buff spells as they prepared to assault the wyrm. Thoren covered his face in bloody warpaint and gave a thunderous hoop. “You are definitely the scariest clown I have ever seen,” Wassabe said to Thoren. “I am invoking the hunter spirits for blood rage,” Thoren answered. “Let me add a little bulk behind that rage,” Dar stated. Heinrich’s follower cast [I]enlarge[/I] on Thoren. “Let’s go kick some Wyrm!” Thoren shouted. The group [I]teleported[/I] into the beast’s lair in two separate flanking groups. “Strength and honor,” Heinrich chanted as the group appeared in the cavern. [URL=http://www.pogre.com/4002_fighting_bezzalt.jpg][IMG]http://www.pogre.com/4002_fighting_bezzalt_th.jpg[/IMG][/URL] to be continued… GM Note 1: Thoren picked up a level of Barbarian. GM Note 2: No, the dragon the pcs were actually facing was not this big in scale terms, but you know I’m going to use the figure every chance I get right? ;) [/QUOTE]
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pogre's story hour Zandyrium -episode 66- (5/10/2006) A short update.
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