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Steel Dragon's "Tales of Orea"
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<blockquote data-quote="steeldragons" data-source="post: 6281450" data-attributes="member: 92511"><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The reunion was bittersweet as Alaria discovered that she had been unconscious for over two weeks.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Her alarm was doubled with the realization that they had a mere twelve days...”Eleven, now, actually.” Fen corrected...before the horrifying prospect that Desaarthal would attempt to revive the elder wyrm, Sharzaak.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">She thanked the twins and the somewhat off-putting Tidemaster for their intervention and assistance.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The following morning,the team began to weigh options and possibilities, taking into account the magess’ visions from her spell-sleep. How much were portents, precognition and/or simple images from her own mind and fears could not be discerned. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Their time was quickly becoming more limited. Aid from Hawkview was out of the question. Even though Pyrnion could make the flight in a little more than two days, any forces to be rallied and reach Shoal or the coast near Dragonbone Isle would require far more time than they had. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Similarly, treks on foot to reach Bridgetower and Daenfrii would need almost as much time, though the sorcery of the Dragonmage could guarantee a faster response time.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">It was decided that Fen would send avian messengers to the elves at Silver Falls, the guild-tower in Hawkview, and Bridgetower. The elves at the Falls had at least one Hawk-rider to carry on their news to Evandrial. Bridgetower could easily contact the Dragonmage’s keep. Of course, three sea-eagles were sent to the druidhold of Moonglade and the two other nearest druid “Keepers.” </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The Tidemaster reluctantly agreed to use his Sending magic to contact other associates at various temples in Hawkview, Daenfrii and to Tyrisian temples farther afield to spread the word of a potential assault or, at the least, to be aware of the possibility that an ancient evil might be returning to Orea.</span></span></p><p> <span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Alaria, herself, directly contacted Rhea through the emerald teardrop talisman she still carried and that might save them some time. She also requested, at Pyrnion’s urging, that Rhea contact the zephari’s liege, the Wind Wizard Car’Tyr, and apprise him of the situation.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Finally, in response to her visions, a messenger would be sent directly to the court of the magelord in Ablidon. What, if anything, might come of it the companions could not say, but they were secure in the belief that the message would reach its intended recipient.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">At her request, Fen would also send a messenger to Alaria’s family to warn them to be prepared to protect themselves and flee, if necessary. Haelan, similarly asked for word sent to Hillmother Saran in the Free Hollows. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The essence of these messages was, “We have ten days to thwart this plot or Sharzaak will rise. The Stormriders will do what is necessary, but we can not guarantee success. If we fail, the security of your realms, indeed for all Orea, will rest with you. All assistance will be appreciated.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">It was two more days until all of the messengers and magic messages were relayed. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">There was immediate response from the Lady of the Emerald Tear saying that the court of Daenfrii had been visited by a very angry Witch-queen of Dunsmoor. Her staff, which <the companions knew from the Overeer> held the <em>Fehs Repahl,</em> had been stolen from her possession.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">On hearing of the dragon/wizard, Tresahd/Desaarthal’s involvement, the witch-queen Selara had disappeared in a ball of fiery rage. It is assumed, she has gone to reclaim what is hers.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">This was “good” news, the companions assumed. They hoped the legendary wizardess might live up to her reputation, as told them by the Lord Gorathial. At the very least she would slow the dragon’s plans, if not deprive her of the fire-based Repahlentim (thus thwarting her plan), or best-case scenario, slay the dragon herself.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Then the companions had to decide on their own course of action. Exhausted from the days of conference and planning and message preparing and sending, the companions adjourned for the night and met again at first light...with seven days, one week, until the vernal equinox.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“My friends, we have seven days. What can we do?” Braddok stoically began.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">He was seated a large circular table in the temple’s main dining hall. The companions surrounded the table, and looked to each other uneasily. Each unsure how to begin or respond.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Waverider Trihna joined them, as she had the passed two days, in Jocuque’s stead. She was the first to stand and speak.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“The isle is only a little over a day’s sail. We could, and I would pose 'should’, go there now and try to stop this thing before it starts.” Trihna suggested.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“But how do we do that?” Haelan asked. “Desaarthal’s power is easily beyond us. She has shown that at least three times now.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“We are not the same adventurers who met ‘Tresahd’ on the road to Deanfrii all those months ago, friend Hilltender.” Fen pointed out. “I am confident we can rely on assistance from Moonglade.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“I would not be surprised if my <em>kiri</em> <<em>translation from Elvish: “those-nearly-family”, alternately or more simply translated as “cousins.” All elves -and more liberally, those with elvish blood- of Miralostae are considered to be close enough to be considered “kin” in some way</em>> in Evandrial will not also rise in support. Though I wouldn’t expect confirmation of this for a few days yet.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Are you suggesting we wait for that confirmation?” Braddok asked calmly.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Fen thought for a moment. “No. As I can not say that, for sure, that aid will come... and by then it might be too late. I recommend we take the offensive.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Braddok grinned at this.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“You have been noticeably silent these passed days, Duor. What do you think?” Pyrnion urged the dwarf rogue.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The dwarf sat, arms crossed and sullen. He had, in fact, been rather silent through their entire stay in the Tyrisian temple. Perhaps more alarming, he’d noticeably not caused or gotten into trouble.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“No treasure in it. What’s it matter to me?” Duor grumbled with a shrug.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Are you serious! The whole flippin’ world is at risk and you’re still sulking because you didn’t get the dragon treasure in Gorathgraard!?! Have you<em> no </em>shame?!” Haelan burst.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Are you saying you won’t come with us?” Alaria said, similarly horrified.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Oh, I’ll go with yehs. If there’s treasure to be had, and I’d wager there’s gotta be sumthin’ there, I’ll go along. Better yet, if we slay the<em> first </em>dragon, then I need to be there to claim my share of th’treasure that’s still in that mountain in the swamp.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Well, there’s a ringing endorsement for trust, friendship and solidarity.” Haelan scoffed. Now the Hilltender folded his arms and scowled at the dwarf.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“‘Trust, friendship and solidarity’ have n’er a coffer filled, hairfoot.” Duor replied blandly.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The others looked at the dwarf strangely.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Ole dwarvish proverb.” Duor said plainly.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“You’re making that up.” Fen stated but couldn’t contain a smirk at the dwarf’s apparent attempt at a “hoodwink.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Think of it this way, Duor. If we fail the Dusk gets what you think is coming to them. There won’t even be a Hawkview to claim, let alone pilfer.” Braddok said, half tongue-in-cheek, to offset the tension.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Or, how about this way...if we fail, there won’t be treasure anywhere for you to claim because the whole damned world will fall to darkness and the super-dragon will take <strong><em>all</em></strong> treasure for itself.” Haelan said, lacking any tone of humor.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">At this, Duor’s bushy eyebrows rose. This was an outcome he hadn’t considered. The dwarf rose to his feet and pounded a gloved fist on the table top.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“What’re we waitin’ fer!? Y’heard the druid n’ the wave-priest. We gotta go <em>now</em>!” the dwarven rogue exclaimed.</span></span></p><p> <span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“We can assume the demons we’ve encountered will be there, assisting at their mistress’ bidding.” Fen added, turning the conversation back to the idea of a direct assault on Dragonbone Isle.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Is there anything we can do...or find out to help us against them?” Haelan asked, obviously nervous at the prospect of again encountering abyssal horrors.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“For that matter, is there anything about the ritual itself that we know? Something we can do to stop it without, perhaps, taking on Desaarthal directly?” Pyrnion added.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">All turned to Alaria. The magess, sadly, was lacking any more knowledge than they already possessed. She knew only the elements the dragon knew to conduct the ritual...all of which, save the Ihs Repahl, it was assumed she now had.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">As to the demons, Alaria knew there existed certain magical inscriptions and circles that could be used to trap or deter demonic creatures. This filled the companions with a momentary hope until Alaria continued.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“However, I am certain we do not have the time for me to properly learn them. I wouldn’t even know where to begin researching.” the magess admitted. Seeing her friends’ disappointment, she added most sincerely, “I’m sorry.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“If that is the case should we, perhaps, move you, Alaria?” Trihna suggested.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">This brought questioning looks to all of the companions.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“If the dragon needs your wind-orb to conduct the ritual, should we not do everything we can to deprive her of it?” the Waverider stated, as if it were obvious.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Several of the companions found themselves feeling particularly stupid at that moment.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Perhaps we can find a way to magic you to the other side of the continent? Or hide you in some unknown enclave. If Daenfrii is truly as secure as I’ve heard the Hilltender tell, could you not just return there? We need only wait until after the vernal equinox, do we not?”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">This warranted some thought. Alaria was somewhat annoyed with herself and her hubris. In her single-mindedness to “stop Desaarthal”, the idea to simply deprive the dragon of what she needed had not entered the magess’ mind. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Can we?...hide from the dragon, I mean.” Haelan asked tentatively. “It seems she knows where we go all of the time.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“She doesn’t know we’re here.” Pyrnion said with more than a little ascending enthusiasm that the idea had merit. The looks on several other party members’ faces took on a similar hopeful light. Braddok’s did not.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“As far as we know.” Braddok amended.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Crests visibly fell and shoulders slumped all around the table.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“True.” Alaria admitted. It would be a very simple matter for the dragon to get from Dragonbone Isle to the temple and back again on the very day of the ritual if she wanted to.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Well, you said Dihm and Suhm protected you in the spell-sleep. Couldn’t they, maybe, mask you somehow if you stayed here?” the Hilltender asked with typical innocence.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Twelve hopeful eyes shot to Trihna.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Somewhat taken aback, the Waverider answered as honestly as she could.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“I couldn’t say. We would have to consult the Tidemaster and see if he feels the twins are up to, or at all capable of, such an thing. I am inclined to say no. They are very young, after all. The training in their mystical abilities, and I will grant I do not fully understand what those are, has only been a few weeks now. Since Jocuque’s arrival. Tidemaster Kama had inklings for the twins potential, but he had not yet begun to explore it.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Can’t hurt to ask.” Haelan insisted.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Trihna nodded and excused herself to go consult with the Tidemaster.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Let’s assume for the time being they can not,” Braddok continued as Trihna left. “What can we do?”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“That arcanist in Bridgetower hid us from ‘Tressie’ before. Couldn’t he do it again?” Duor off-handedly offered. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Alaria shook her head in the negative. “That was a relatively minor masking enchantment. Short term. I doubt it could thwart her and all of her demonic minions is she put them to the task of finding us.” </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“You don’t believe she has already done just that?” Fen said, in some disbelief.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“She hasn’t found us yet.” Haelan piped in.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“...That we know of.” Braddok again amended.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The party mused silently for a few moments.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“What do you think, Braddok?” Alaria asked. “You are the warrior. If we are to make a direct assault on the island, how would you suggest we succeed? None of us have ever had to fight an actual dragon.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Braddok thought for a moment. His mind raced with years of training, military histories, and legendary tales of heroes defeating dragons.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“I say we just go in and slit the damned thing’s throat. Works on jus‘bout everythin'.” Duor mumbled, now bored with the council. He took to flipping his ethereal dagger into the air, catching it effortlessly by the pommel every time.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The companions looked at the dwarf with some annoyance. Braddok’s eyes focused on the ethereal green flame circling through the air with each of the dwarf’s tosses. The magical energy blurring into circles as it rose and fell, seeming to be located in multiple places at once.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“That!” Braddok said aloud. “That’s it. Multiple places at once!”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">The rest of the companions looked at the swordsman in obvious confusion.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Most successful battles and military campaigns, throughout Orea’s history, have been the result of a multi-pronged assault.” Braddok explained. Poorly, it seemed, as the questioning looks did not change.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Are you saying we should... <em>split the party?</em>... to <em>assault </em>a <em>dragon</em>'s lair?!” Pyrnion said, unsure. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Yes!” Braddok exclaimed, pleased with the plan that was forming in his head.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“We do as Trihna suggested. Keep the Ihs Repahl, and Alaria, away from Dragonbone Isle. While most of us go there to disrupt the ritual. We’ll need a decoy. Desaarthal will know we are coming to her, and if she believes Alaria is with us, she’ll let us come.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Devious, my boy. I approve. I volunteer to remain here and guard the magess.”</span></span> <span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">Duor smiled broadly.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Then how will you claim your share of any treasure to be had, my roguish friend?” Pyrnion jibed.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Eh! I’ll be doin’ my part!” Duor defended.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Stealth will be paramount, Duor. I am afraid you do not get to stay behind.” Braddok said.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“She’ll blow us outta the blasted water before we ever get near her! Stealth won’t be an option.” Duor replied deadpan. “I’ll be dipped in goblin guts...again...before I’d go along with that!”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“As much as I dislike agreeing with Duor, beloved, I am not comfortable with sending you there alone as a decoy for a dragon.” Alaria chimed in. “Without substantial magic on our side, it’s a suicide mission.”</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Prolly a suicide mission anywho.” Duor grumbled under his beard.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'">“Not helping!" Haelan scowled at the dwarf before taking on a worried countenance. The daelvar inwardly acknowledged the dwarf was very possibly correct.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 10px"><span style="font-family: 'tahoma'"></span></span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="steeldragons, post: 6281450, member: 92511"] [SIZE=2][FONT=tahoma]The reunion was bittersweet as Alaria discovered that she had been unconscious for over two weeks. Her alarm was doubled with the realization that they had a mere twelve days...”Eleven, now, actually.” Fen corrected...before the horrifying prospect that Desaarthal would attempt to revive the elder wyrm, Sharzaak. She thanked the twins and the somewhat off-putting Tidemaster for their intervention and assistance. The following morning,the team began to weigh options and possibilities, taking into account the magess’ visions from her spell-sleep. How much were portents, precognition and/or simple images from her own mind and fears could not be discerned. Their time was quickly becoming more limited. Aid from Hawkview was out of the question. Even though Pyrnion could make the flight in a little more than two days, any forces to be rallied and reach Shoal or the coast near Dragonbone Isle would require far more time than they had. Similarly, treks on foot to reach Bridgetower and Daenfrii would need almost as much time, though the sorcery of the Dragonmage could guarantee a faster response time. It was decided that Fen would send avian messengers to the elves at Silver Falls, the guild-tower in Hawkview, and Bridgetower. The elves at the Falls had at least one Hawk-rider to carry on their news to Evandrial. Bridgetower could easily contact the Dragonmage’s keep. Of course, three sea-eagles were sent to the druidhold of Moonglade and the two other nearest druid “Keepers.” The Tidemaster reluctantly agreed to use his Sending magic to contact other associates at various temples in Hawkview, Daenfrii and to Tyrisian temples farther afield to spread the word of a potential assault or, at the least, to be aware of the possibility that an ancient evil might be returning to Orea. Alaria, herself, directly contacted Rhea through the emerald teardrop talisman she still carried and that might save them some time. She also requested, at Pyrnion’s urging, that Rhea contact the zephari’s liege, the Wind Wizard Car’Tyr, and apprise him of the situation. Finally, in response to her visions, a messenger would be sent directly to the court of the magelord in Ablidon. What, if anything, might come of it the companions could not say, but they were secure in the belief that the message would reach its intended recipient. At her request, Fen would also send a messenger to Alaria’s family to warn them to be prepared to protect themselves and flee, if necessary. Haelan, similarly asked for word sent to Hillmother Saran in the Free Hollows. The essence of these messages was, “We have ten days to thwart this plot or Sharzaak will rise. The Stormriders will do what is necessary, but we can not guarantee success. If we fail, the security of your realms, indeed for all Orea, will rest with you. All assistance will be appreciated.” It was two more days until all of the messengers and magic messages were relayed. There was immediate response from the Lady of the Emerald Tear saying that the court of Daenfrii had been visited by a very angry Witch-queen of Dunsmoor. Her staff, which <the companions knew from the Overeer> held the [I]Fehs Repahl,[/I] had been stolen from her possession. On hearing of the dragon/wizard, Tresahd/Desaarthal’s involvement, the witch-queen Selara had disappeared in a ball of fiery rage. It is assumed, she has gone to reclaim what is hers. This was “good” news, the companions assumed. They hoped the legendary wizardess might live up to her reputation, as told them by the Lord Gorathial. At the very least she would slow the dragon’s plans, if not deprive her of the fire-based Repahlentim (thus thwarting her plan), or best-case scenario, slay the dragon herself. Then the companions had to decide on their own course of action. Exhausted from the days of conference and planning and message preparing and sending, the companions adjourned for the night and met again at first light...with seven days, one week, until the vernal equinox. “My friends, we have seven days. What can we do?” Braddok stoically began. He was seated a large circular table in the temple’s main dining hall. The companions surrounded the table, and looked to each other uneasily. Each unsure how to begin or respond. Waverider Trihna joined them, as she had the passed two days, in Jocuque’s stead. She was the first to stand and speak. “The isle is only a little over a day’s sail. We could, and I would pose 'should’, go there now and try to stop this thing before it starts.” Trihna suggested. “But how do we do that?” Haelan asked. “Desaarthal’s power is easily beyond us. She has shown that at least three times now.” “We are not the same adventurers who met ‘Tresahd’ on the road to Deanfrii all those months ago, friend Hilltender.” Fen pointed out. “I am confident we can rely on assistance from Moonglade. “I would not be surprised if my [I]kiri[/I] <[I]translation from Elvish: “those-nearly-family”, alternately or more simply translated as “cousins.” All elves -and more liberally, those with elvish blood- of Miralostae are considered to be close enough to be considered “kin” in some way[/I]> in Evandrial will not also rise in support. Though I wouldn’t expect confirmation of this for a few days yet.” “Are you suggesting we wait for that confirmation?” Braddok asked calmly. Fen thought for a moment. “No. As I can not say that, for sure, that aid will come... and by then it might be too late. I recommend we take the offensive.” Braddok grinned at this. “You have been noticeably silent these passed days, Duor. What do you think?” Pyrnion urged the dwarf rogue. The dwarf sat, arms crossed and sullen. He had, in fact, been rather silent through their entire stay in the Tyrisian temple. Perhaps more alarming, he’d noticeably not caused or gotten into trouble. “No treasure in it. What’s it matter to me?” Duor grumbled with a shrug. “Are you serious! The whole flippin’ world is at risk and you’re still sulking because you didn’t get the dragon treasure in Gorathgraard!?! Have you[I] no [/I]shame?!” Haelan burst. “Are you saying you won’t come with us?” Alaria said, similarly horrified. “Oh, I’ll go with yehs. If there’s treasure to be had, and I’d wager there’s gotta be sumthin’ there, I’ll go along. Better yet, if we slay the[I] first [/I]dragon, then I need to be there to claim my share of th’treasure that’s still in that mountain in the swamp.” “Well, there’s a ringing endorsement for trust, friendship and solidarity.” Haelan scoffed. Now the Hilltender folded his arms and scowled at the dwarf. “‘Trust, friendship and solidarity’ have n’er a coffer filled, hairfoot.” Duor replied blandly. The others looked at the dwarf strangely. “Ole dwarvish proverb.” Duor said plainly. “You’re making that up.” Fen stated but couldn’t contain a smirk at the dwarf’s apparent attempt at a “hoodwink.” “Think of it this way, Duor. If we fail the Dusk gets what you think is coming to them. There won’t even be a Hawkview to claim, let alone pilfer.” Braddok said, half tongue-in-cheek, to offset the tension. “Or, how about this way...if we fail, there won’t be treasure anywhere for you to claim because the whole damned world will fall to darkness and the super-dragon will take [B][I]all[/I][/B] treasure for itself.” Haelan said, lacking any tone of humor. At this, Duor’s bushy eyebrows rose. This was an outcome he hadn’t considered. The dwarf rose to his feet and pounded a gloved fist on the table top. “What’re we waitin’ fer!? Y’heard the druid n’ the wave-priest. We gotta go [I]now[/I]!” the dwarven rogue exclaimed. “We can assume the demons we’ve encountered will be there, assisting at their mistress’ bidding.” Fen added, turning the conversation back to the idea of a direct assault on Dragonbone Isle. “Is there anything we can do...or find out to help us against them?” Haelan asked, obviously nervous at the prospect of again encountering abyssal horrors. “For that matter, is there anything about the ritual itself that we know? Something we can do to stop it without, perhaps, taking on Desaarthal directly?” Pyrnion added. All turned to Alaria. The magess, sadly, was lacking any more knowledge than they already possessed. She knew only the elements the dragon knew to conduct the ritual...all of which, save the Ihs Repahl, it was assumed she now had. As to the demons, Alaria knew there existed certain magical inscriptions and circles that could be used to trap or deter demonic creatures. This filled the companions with a momentary hope until Alaria continued. “However, I am certain we do not have the time for me to properly learn them. I wouldn’t even know where to begin researching.” the magess admitted. Seeing her friends’ disappointment, she added most sincerely, “I’m sorry.” “If that is the case should we, perhaps, move you, Alaria?” Trihna suggested. This brought questioning looks to all of the companions. “If the dragon needs your wind-orb to conduct the ritual, should we not do everything we can to deprive her of it?” the Waverider stated, as if it were obvious. Several of the companions found themselves feeling particularly stupid at that moment. “Perhaps we can find a way to magic you to the other side of the continent? Or hide you in some unknown enclave. If Daenfrii is truly as secure as I’ve heard the Hilltender tell, could you not just return there? We need only wait until after the vernal equinox, do we not?” This warranted some thought. Alaria was somewhat annoyed with herself and her hubris. In her single-mindedness to “stop Desaarthal”, the idea to simply deprive the dragon of what she needed had not entered the magess’ mind. “Can we?...hide from the dragon, I mean.” Haelan asked tentatively. “It seems she knows where we go all of the time.” “She doesn’t know we’re here.” Pyrnion said with more than a little ascending enthusiasm that the idea had merit. The looks on several other party members’ faces took on a similar hopeful light. Braddok’s did not. “As far as we know.” Braddok amended. Crests visibly fell and shoulders slumped all around the table. “True.” Alaria admitted. It would be a very simple matter for the dragon to get from Dragonbone Isle to the temple and back again on the very day of the ritual if she wanted to. “Well, you said Dihm and Suhm protected you in the spell-sleep. Couldn’t they, maybe, mask you somehow if you stayed here?” the Hilltender asked with typical innocence. Twelve hopeful eyes shot to Trihna. Somewhat taken aback, the Waverider answered as honestly as she could. “I couldn’t say. We would have to consult the Tidemaster and see if he feels the twins are up to, or at all capable of, such an thing. I am inclined to say no. They are very young, after all. The training in their mystical abilities, and I will grant I do not fully understand what those are, has only been a few weeks now. Since Jocuque’s arrival. Tidemaster Kama had inklings for the twins potential, but he had not yet begun to explore it.” “Can’t hurt to ask.” Haelan insisted. Trihna nodded and excused herself to go consult with the Tidemaster. “Let’s assume for the time being they can not,” Braddok continued as Trihna left. “What can we do?” “That arcanist in Bridgetower hid us from ‘Tressie’ before. Couldn’t he do it again?” Duor off-handedly offered. Alaria shook her head in the negative. “That was a relatively minor masking enchantment. Short term. I doubt it could thwart her and all of her demonic minions is she put them to the task of finding us.” “You don’t believe she has already done just that?” Fen said, in some disbelief. “She hasn’t found us yet.” Haelan piped in. “...That we know of.” Braddok again amended. The party mused silently for a few moments. “What do you think, Braddok?” Alaria asked. “You are the warrior. If we are to make a direct assault on the island, how would you suggest we succeed? None of us have ever had to fight an actual dragon.” Braddok thought for a moment. His mind raced with years of training, military histories, and legendary tales of heroes defeating dragons. “I say we just go in and slit the damned thing’s throat. Works on jus‘bout everythin'.” Duor mumbled, now bored with the council. He took to flipping his ethereal dagger into the air, catching it effortlessly by the pommel every time. The companions looked at the dwarf with some annoyance. Braddok’s eyes focused on the ethereal green flame circling through the air with each of the dwarf’s tosses. The magical energy blurring into circles as it rose and fell, seeming to be located in multiple places at once. “That!” Braddok said aloud. “That’s it. Multiple places at once!” The rest of the companions looked at the swordsman in obvious confusion. “Most successful battles and military campaigns, throughout Orea’s history, have been the result of a multi-pronged assault.” Braddok explained. Poorly, it seemed, as the questioning looks did not change. “Are you saying we should... [I]split the party?[/I]... to [I]assault [/I]a [I]dragon[/I]'s lair?!” Pyrnion said, unsure. “Yes!” Braddok exclaimed, pleased with the plan that was forming in his head. “We do as Trihna suggested. Keep the Ihs Repahl, and Alaria, away from Dragonbone Isle. While most of us go there to disrupt the ritual. We’ll need a decoy. Desaarthal will know we are coming to her, and if she believes Alaria is with us, she’ll let us come.” “Devious, my boy. I approve. I volunteer to remain here and guard the magess.”[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=2][FONT=tahoma]Duor smiled broadly. [/FONT][/SIZE][SIZE=2][FONT=tahoma] “Then how will you claim your share of any treasure to be had, my roguish friend?” Pyrnion jibed. “Eh! I’ll be doin’ my part!” Duor defended. “Stealth will be paramount, Duor. I am afraid you do not get to stay behind.” Braddok said. “She’ll blow us outta the blasted water before we ever get near her! Stealth won’t be an option.” Duor replied deadpan. “I’ll be dipped in goblin guts...again...before I’d go along with that!” “As much as I dislike agreeing with Duor, beloved, I am not comfortable with sending you there alone as a decoy for a dragon.” Alaria chimed in. “Without substantial magic on our side, it’s a suicide mission.” “Prolly a suicide mission anywho.” Duor grumbled under his beard. “Not helping!" Haelan scowled at the dwarf before taking on a worried countenance. The daelvar inwardly acknowledged the dwarf was very possibly correct. [/FONT][/SIZE] [/QUOTE]
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