The Heretic of Wyre - Part II
- Thread starter Sepulchrave II
- Start date
PaynAndispare
First Post
Helping Horacio with the bumpity bump bump !!
I just wanted to add to the chorus of thanks and praise for Sepulchrave and the players. The quality of writing and roleplaying here is astonishing and compelling.
[Also, while I'm here, this great little quote below ranks as one of my all-time favorite story hour moments, alongside Wulf's pennies incident.]
[Also, while I'm here, this great little quote below ranks as one of my all-time favorite story hour moments, alongside Wulf's pennies incident.]
Sepulchrave II said:
PaynAndispare
First Post
Ooo, twice a post by the great Horacio ... my skills at posting are improving.
*BUMP*
*BUMP*
Sepulchrave II
Legend
Mostin: The Gathering
Time for another update.
Ahh, my poor players.
**
"So?" Ortwin asked Eadric. He and Nwm had been waiting for Eadric to finish his hearing with the Prince.
"He may be an ally," the Paladin said. "Or at least a voice in the King’s ear which urges moderation in the Temple’s action. He didn’t seem too keen about the idea of my leading troops into Morne."
"That isn’t entirely surprising," the Bard said wrily. "Will you speak with him again?"
"I will try," Eadric said. "Perhaps in a week or so. He should have a chance to breathe, or I’ll rapidly become an annoyance."
"And if you lead troops across the Nund without royal sanction?"
The Paladin considered. "Initially, nothing," Eadric replied. "The western part of the valley is owned by the Duke of Kaurban, and it’s a pretty marginal tract. He is unlikely to object with force, although he may petition the King – and that would cause problems. But as soon as an army sets foot on the royal estates – and they are massive – then I commit High Treason."
"We can bypass them if we go through Thahan," Nwm suggested.
"It only delays the problem," Ortwin countered. "All of the land adjacent to Morne is owned by the crown. Right, Ed?"
"Except that owned by the Temple itself," Eadric nodded.
"I assume magical transportation is not a possibility?" Ortwin suggested.
"I think Mostin is unlikely to help us in this endeavour," Nwm said. "However, if I expended my entire spell capacity, I could transform a sizeable number into birds. We could fly in."
Ortwin raised an eyebrow. "How many?"
The Druid made a quick calculation. "Around two hundred or so."
But Eadric shook his head. "Even if we secured the Temple compound, we could not hold it. We need support – both from the crown and the people. Mounting a clandestine operation to seize the Temple will irritate a lot of people. Furthermore, I have yet to receive celestial approval – I will not act until that happens."
"Then perhaps its time that I stirred things up again," Ortwin grinned. "I had half of Morne in my pocket before your trial. It would be a simple matter to rouse the rabble again."
"Hmm," Eadric said. "As I remember you were arrested as a dissident."
"My tack would be more indirect this time," Ortwin explained sardonically. "After all, you aren’t in imminent danger of being turned into a human candle this time."
"No," Eadric said. "But you might be."
"I will go incognito, and appear in a variety of guises. My new hat will be invaluable."
"Do try not to cause any riots," Eadric beseeched him. "And I’m sure that Nwm would be upset if you fuelled the Uediians with crazy ideas again."
"Bah! Nwm’s perspective has changed," the Druid said. "He thinks that the Uediians could do with a good kick up the backside. Fire them up, Ortwin."
The Bard smiled broadly.
"As for me," Eadric said, "I think its time that Brey and I had a little talk: he’s had nearly a month to stew in the field, and his troops are probably almost as depressed as mine. I will lead an embassy to speak with him."
"Across the river?" Nwm asked. "I thought you were waiting for the divine say-so."
Eadric sighed. "Rintrah’s instructions were ‘initiate no act of war’ not ‘make no diplomatic efforts.’ Otherwise I wouldn’t be here, would I?"
"Fair point," the Druid conceded. "I might tag along."
**
The trio wind-walked back to the mustering grounds on Blackwater Mead, only to find that Mostin had disappeared, along with his portable manse. A patch of brown grass was all that had indicated the Alienist’s presence.
"He has moved around six miles to the east, my lord" Tatterbrand explained to Eadric. "He said that things were becoming too noisy, and that the camp was upsetting his equilibrium, or somesuch. He found a nice meadow by a stream in the woods, and has - er – assembled – his mansion there."
"Did he rent it from the owner, or is he just squatting?" Eadric asked.
"Actually, it technically belongs to you, sir" Tatterbrand said. "It is in your game forest, southwest of Deorham."
"Hmph."
"I know the meadow," Nwm said, concentrating on his torc. "I hope the Sprites go easy on him."
"I don’t," Ortwin said.
"He also left these," Tatterbrand said, producing three envelopes, addressed to each of them in Mostin’s flamboyant script. Ortwin opened his, and read it.
To Ortwin the Satyr, formally of Jiuhu, from Mostin the Metagnostic, Greetings.
You are cordially invited to attend a grand triple celebration, to be held in honour of my forty-second birthday (which is imminent), my realization of the higher valences (which has just transpired), and my transcendence of the limited form which blights so many others, such as yourself (which occurred some time ago, but has yet to be fully rejoiced in).
As I am one seldom wont to hold parties, you should, of course, realize that you are greatly honoured by receiving such an invitation. Many great dignitaries in the field of Wizardry will doubtless attend, so you must ensure your correct behaviour at all times. They must not be affronted!
I will expect you at 7 o’clock sharp, two nights after the New Moon. Feel free to bring a guest.
Mostin
"Cheeky bastard," Ortwin said. "When is the New Moon?"
"Last night," Nwm replied. "Did he say anything to you about this?"
"No," the Bard replied. "But I have a feeling that he may be facing down the Mages of Wyre. Defying them, maybe. Showing them that he is unafraid, or has done nothing to merit their concern or intervention over the Injunction. It’s a bold move. I rather approve."
Nwm grunted. "I hope it passes without a hitch. If they show up, there will be enough firepower concentrated in his house to blow half the country away."
"The question is, why did he invite us?" Ortwin asked.
"Unlikely as it might seem," Eadric replied, "I think that this is Mostin’s method of asking for some emotional support."
**
The Sprites had proven to be no trouble. Mostin had spied several Grigs and Pixies with his magical sight, and had stepped forward and announced in a loud voice:
"I am Mostin, the Metagnostic. I am glad to share this wood with you, and I am gratified that you feel the same way. If you hear loud noises issuing from my abode, do not be alarmed! The screaming, the rattling of chains, the uncanny moans: these are not Feys that I am binding to my powerful will. You need have no fear on that count! The Demons and Elementals that I bind here are subject to my command, and are quite safe as long as I do not lapse in my diligence. Regrettably, I am a poor dancer, and I fear that were I invited to join you, the strain of concentrating on my footwork would inevitably cause some of my captives to escape, a state of affairs that we should all deplore."
The Sprites took his point, and decided to leave him alone.
Mostin fretted about his invitations, and wondered who would attend. He had issued sendings to Tozinak, Troap, Hlioth, Waide, Idro, and Griel. He had conjured a Succubus and sent it with tidings to Rimilin – whom he despised but knew he should invite – and a Horned Devil was dispatched with an invitation to Shomei: both were of the Pseudonatural variety, as Mostin was treading carefully. He even sent a Dream to Jovol, although he doubted that the great Ogre would make an appearance. Half a dozen others were also enjoined to attend.
He gave some thought to providing fare for his guests. Although a Magnificent Mansion would have been a simple solution, it was rather too easy and might imply that he had made no effort.
The Alienist summoned three djinns to make the preparations for the gathering. Whilst impressed with the copious quantities of wine produced by the genies, the food was rather uninspiring and had to be modified by several cantrips before it passed Mostin’s strict approval. The judicious application of the fabricate spell – new to Mostin’s repertoire – produce an immense oak table in the meadow from a nearby tree to support the viands, as well as wooden chairs, bowls, goblets, ewers and plates. A large canopy was raised above the area and lit with several torches that issued a continual flame. The Alienist grumbled as he sprinkled expensive ruby dust upon the flambeaux in order to invoke the magic.
Mostin considered entertainment, entered his cellar, and used a Planar Binding to call a Lillend. Her beautiful blue and green feathered wings almost caused the Alienist to throw up, as he spoke to her in an unsteady voice. The outsider was subdued, expecting an onerous task to be demanded of her.
"I am having a party," Mostin said. "I should like to engage your services for twelve hours or so. You need only sing, recite poetry, play your lyre, relax and impress my guests with your..." he swallowed, "…beauty. If you agree to this modest proposal, I will give you some emeralds which complement your…feathers." He shuddered.
The Lillend, taken aback by the ease of the proposed task, agreed forthwith. Mostin lamented the sacrifices that one had to make on the treacherous path of social climbing.
**
Less than an hour before things were due to begin, Eadric arrived on Contundor.
"I don’t remember leasing this meadow to you, Mostin," he said, dismounting.
The Alienist smiled uneasily, unsure whether the Paladin was joking.
"Who exactly is attending this gathering," Eadric asked. "That is, to say, am I likely to be in violation of my oaths if I make an appearance?"
Mostin coughed. "Well, perhaps, if you strictly interpret your personal code."
Eadric raised an eyebrow.
"Shomei the Infernalist will be here," Mostin replied, "although she is not evil, per se," he quickly added. "Umm, yes".
"And?" The Paladin asked.
Mostin sighed. "I have also invited Rimilin. He may or may not come, but I could hardly snub him. He is a thoroughly unpleasant character. For what it’s worth, I don’t like him either."
"What does he do?" Eadric inquired archly.
"He is a demonist," the Alienist muttered, "an Acolyte of the Skin."
"Mostin…"
"Eadric, you need to understand that we – wizards, that is – do not use the same criteria as you to decide friendship and acquaintance. We are no less judgmental, but we operate using a different paradigm. Those of us who profess a certain philosophical stance – morally and ethically speaking, that is – must coexist in relative peace with one another. We are forgiving of each others’ idiosyncrasies."
"And Feezuu?"
"Feezuu went too far," Mostin said. "She was a disruptive influence, who threatened the ‘Body Magical’ – if you understand my meaning. She slew several other mages in her bid for power and revenge. That is unacceptable behaviour. Besides, she was a Cambion from another Plane – that puts an entirely different slant on things."
"I’m sorry Mostin. I’m afraid it would compromise me too much. I cannot freely associate with evil creatures."
Mostin sighed. "And Nwm and Ortwin?"
"Are you kidding? Ortwin wouldn’t miss a party. And Nwm is both more curious and tolerant than I. You should get Ortwin to perform."
"He needs no encouragement from me. Besides, I have temporarily contracted with a Lillend for the purpose." Mostin replied.
"A Lillend? I have never met one. Perhaps before I go…"
"And Rimilin may not come at all," Mostin said brightly. "You can always depart immediately if he does."
So Eadric remained, ready to leave as soon as Rimilin – or anyone else upon whom he detected Taint - arrived. Several wizards of modest ability were flying in from various directions, and a cacophonous roar accompanied by a blinding flash of lightning announced the dramatic appearance of Mulissu. She floated effortlessly fifteen feet above the ground, and her skin crackled and crawled with electricity for a moment before dissipating.
"Why was I not invited?" She snapped.
Oops, thought Mostin. "I had assumed…" he began.
"Presumed, I think you mean."
"Yes," Mostin said apologetically. "If I might inquire, what method did you use to arrive?"
"I am surprised that my daughter has not shown you the scrolls that she ‘borrowed’ from me.*"
"Oh?" Mostin said. "Would you like a drink?" He tactlessly changed the subject.
**
All in all, things went rather well for Mostin. Nwm, Ortwin, Nehael and Iua all attended. Despite their feud, Idro and Troap – who had flown in on his enormous Wyvern – managed to remain civil with one another. Hlioth arrived in the form of an elfin maiden, and promptly disappeared into the woods nearby to cavort with the Feys – pursued by a certain lusty Satyr. The Lillend was well-received, and the gathering was praised for its ‘rustic charm.’
No mention was made of the Injunction, and no dire threats were issued – although a phrase from the humourless Waide made the Alienist pause for thought:
"Good party, Mostin. Glad to see nothing controversial here."
Tozinak arrived late, and only his cloak gave away his identity to those who knew him. He entertained people with a number of lewd but amusing illusions until Mostin asked him to stop.
Predictably, Jovol was absent. Neither Griel, nor the Hag Jalael made an appearance, and neither did Rimilin - for which Mostin was grateful. At least Eadric could relax.
But, just as the Paladin was leaving, Shomei appeared with her guest – rather later than Mostin had anticipated. Both arrived in a blaze of fire.
Mostin was right - the trace of evil around the witch was so faint as to be almost undetectable. Her guest, however, was another matter entirely. He was a handsome man who possessed a poise, elegance and natural ease which thinly veiled what seemed to be a core of raw power and evil. The reek of taint was so profound, so deep, so primal, that Eadric was almost overwhelmed by it. One of the Fallen, without any doubt. He drew Lukarn and light surrounded him.
Zhuel immediately manifested from the Ethereal Plane and interposed himself between Eadric and the newcomer.
Mostin looked horrified at the prospect of some dreadful scene occurring.
The man held up his hand, palm outwards. "Peace, Archon," he said to the Celestial. "I am here by calling, have committed no evil act, and violate no laws. This is legitimate business, and there is no coercion involved. I am within my rights as determined by the Accord."
Zhuel hissed.
The man bowed low, more a gesture of mockery than respect. "Greetings, Eadric of Deorham, Blessed of Oronthon – your circumstances are well- known to me. Greetings, Nehael – it has been a long, long time. And greetings, Mostin the Metagnostic – this is a pleasant soirée. Perhaps we could make time to speak later?"
Mostin glowered at Shomei, and then turned to Eadric. "I think you’d better go," he said. "You're unlikely to ever feel much more compromised than this."
*A reference to the spells which Iua had attempted to bribe Mostin with. Mulissu’s Passage of Lightning is an 8th level Transmutation [Teleportation] which allows instantaneous interplanar travel to a specific location. A kind of refined Plane Shift.
Time for another update.
Ahh, my poor players.
**
"So?" Ortwin asked Eadric. He and Nwm had been waiting for Eadric to finish his hearing with the Prince.
"He may be an ally," the Paladin said. "Or at least a voice in the King’s ear which urges moderation in the Temple’s action. He didn’t seem too keen about the idea of my leading troops into Morne."
"That isn’t entirely surprising," the Bard said wrily. "Will you speak with him again?"
"I will try," Eadric said. "Perhaps in a week or so. He should have a chance to breathe, or I’ll rapidly become an annoyance."
"And if you lead troops across the Nund without royal sanction?"
The Paladin considered. "Initially, nothing," Eadric replied. "The western part of the valley is owned by the Duke of Kaurban, and it’s a pretty marginal tract. He is unlikely to object with force, although he may petition the King – and that would cause problems. But as soon as an army sets foot on the royal estates – and they are massive – then I commit High Treason."
"We can bypass them if we go through Thahan," Nwm suggested.
"It only delays the problem," Ortwin countered. "All of the land adjacent to Morne is owned by the crown. Right, Ed?"
"Except that owned by the Temple itself," Eadric nodded.
"I assume magical transportation is not a possibility?" Ortwin suggested.
"I think Mostin is unlikely to help us in this endeavour," Nwm said. "However, if I expended my entire spell capacity, I could transform a sizeable number into birds. We could fly in."
Ortwin raised an eyebrow. "How many?"
The Druid made a quick calculation. "Around two hundred or so."
But Eadric shook his head. "Even if we secured the Temple compound, we could not hold it. We need support – both from the crown and the people. Mounting a clandestine operation to seize the Temple will irritate a lot of people. Furthermore, I have yet to receive celestial approval – I will not act until that happens."
"Then perhaps its time that I stirred things up again," Ortwin grinned. "I had half of Morne in my pocket before your trial. It would be a simple matter to rouse the rabble again."
"Hmm," Eadric said. "As I remember you were arrested as a dissident."
"My tack would be more indirect this time," Ortwin explained sardonically. "After all, you aren’t in imminent danger of being turned into a human candle this time."
"No," Eadric said. "But you might be."
"I will go incognito, and appear in a variety of guises. My new hat will be invaluable."
"Do try not to cause any riots," Eadric beseeched him. "And I’m sure that Nwm would be upset if you fuelled the Uediians with crazy ideas again."
"Bah! Nwm’s perspective has changed," the Druid said. "He thinks that the Uediians could do with a good kick up the backside. Fire them up, Ortwin."
The Bard smiled broadly.
"As for me," Eadric said, "I think its time that Brey and I had a little talk: he’s had nearly a month to stew in the field, and his troops are probably almost as depressed as mine. I will lead an embassy to speak with him."
"Across the river?" Nwm asked. "I thought you were waiting for the divine say-so."
Eadric sighed. "Rintrah’s instructions were ‘initiate no act of war’ not ‘make no diplomatic efforts.’ Otherwise I wouldn’t be here, would I?"
"Fair point," the Druid conceded. "I might tag along."
**
The trio wind-walked back to the mustering grounds on Blackwater Mead, only to find that Mostin had disappeared, along with his portable manse. A patch of brown grass was all that had indicated the Alienist’s presence.
"He has moved around six miles to the east, my lord" Tatterbrand explained to Eadric. "He said that things were becoming too noisy, and that the camp was upsetting his equilibrium, or somesuch. He found a nice meadow by a stream in the woods, and has - er – assembled – his mansion there."
"Did he rent it from the owner, or is he just squatting?" Eadric asked.
"Actually, it technically belongs to you, sir" Tatterbrand said. "It is in your game forest, southwest of Deorham."
"Hmph."
"I know the meadow," Nwm said, concentrating on his torc. "I hope the Sprites go easy on him."
"I don’t," Ortwin said.
"He also left these," Tatterbrand said, producing three envelopes, addressed to each of them in Mostin’s flamboyant script. Ortwin opened his, and read it.
To Ortwin the Satyr, formally of Jiuhu, from Mostin the Metagnostic, Greetings.
You are cordially invited to attend a grand triple celebration, to be held in honour of my forty-second birthday (which is imminent), my realization of the higher valences (which has just transpired), and my transcendence of the limited form which blights so many others, such as yourself (which occurred some time ago, but has yet to be fully rejoiced in).
As I am one seldom wont to hold parties, you should, of course, realize that you are greatly honoured by receiving such an invitation. Many great dignitaries in the field of Wizardry will doubtless attend, so you must ensure your correct behaviour at all times. They must not be affronted!
I will expect you at 7 o’clock sharp, two nights after the New Moon. Feel free to bring a guest.
Mostin
"Cheeky bastard," Ortwin said. "When is the New Moon?"
"Last night," Nwm replied. "Did he say anything to you about this?"
"No," the Bard replied. "But I have a feeling that he may be facing down the Mages of Wyre. Defying them, maybe. Showing them that he is unafraid, or has done nothing to merit their concern or intervention over the Injunction. It’s a bold move. I rather approve."
Nwm grunted. "I hope it passes without a hitch. If they show up, there will be enough firepower concentrated in his house to blow half the country away."
"The question is, why did he invite us?" Ortwin asked.
"Unlikely as it might seem," Eadric replied, "I think that this is Mostin’s method of asking for some emotional support."
**
The Sprites had proven to be no trouble. Mostin had spied several Grigs and Pixies with his magical sight, and had stepped forward and announced in a loud voice:
"I am Mostin, the Metagnostic. I am glad to share this wood with you, and I am gratified that you feel the same way. If you hear loud noises issuing from my abode, do not be alarmed! The screaming, the rattling of chains, the uncanny moans: these are not Feys that I am binding to my powerful will. You need have no fear on that count! The Demons and Elementals that I bind here are subject to my command, and are quite safe as long as I do not lapse in my diligence. Regrettably, I am a poor dancer, and I fear that were I invited to join you, the strain of concentrating on my footwork would inevitably cause some of my captives to escape, a state of affairs that we should all deplore."
The Sprites took his point, and decided to leave him alone.
Mostin fretted about his invitations, and wondered who would attend. He had issued sendings to Tozinak, Troap, Hlioth, Waide, Idro, and Griel. He had conjured a Succubus and sent it with tidings to Rimilin – whom he despised but knew he should invite – and a Horned Devil was dispatched with an invitation to Shomei: both were of the Pseudonatural variety, as Mostin was treading carefully. He even sent a Dream to Jovol, although he doubted that the great Ogre would make an appearance. Half a dozen others were also enjoined to attend.
He gave some thought to providing fare for his guests. Although a Magnificent Mansion would have been a simple solution, it was rather too easy and might imply that he had made no effort.
The Alienist summoned three djinns to make the preparations for the gathering. Whilst impressed with the copious quantities of wine produced by the genies, the food was rather uninspiring and had to be modified by several cantrips before it passed Mostin’s strict approval. The judicious application of the fabricate spell – new to Mostin’s repertoire – produce an immense oak table in the meadow from a nearby tree to support the viands, as well as wooden chairs, bowls, goblets, ewers and plates. A large canopy was raised above the area and lit with several torches that issued a continual flame. The Alienist grumbled as he sprinkled expensive ruby dust upon the flambeaux in order to invoke the magic.
Mostin considered entertainment, entered his cellar, and used a Planar Binding to call a Lillend. Her beautiful blue and green feathered wings almost caused the Alienist to throw up, as he spoke to her in an unsteady voice. The outsider was subdued, expecting an onerous task to be demanded of her.
"I am having a party," Mostin said. "I should like to engage your services for twelve hours or so. You need only sing, recite poetry, play your lyre, relax and impress my guests with your..." he swallowed, "…beauty. If you agree to this modest proposal, I will give you some emeralds which complement your…feathers." He shuddered.
The Lillend, taken aback by the ease of the proposed task, agreed forthwith. Mostin lamented the sacrifices that one had to make on the treacherous path of social climbing.
**
Less than an hour before things were due to begin, Eadric arrived on Contundor.
"I don’t remember leasing this meadow to you, Mostin," he said, dismounting.
The Alienist smiled uneasily, unsure whether the Paladin was joking.
"Who exactly is attending this gathering," Eadric asked. "That is, to say, am I likely to be in violation of my oaths if I make an appearance?"
Mostin coughed. "Well, perhaps, if you strictly interpret your personal code."
Eadric raised an eyebrow.
"Shomei the Infernalist will be here," Mostin replied, "although she is not evil, per se," he quickly added. "Umm, yes".
"And?" The Paladin asked.
Mostin sighed. "I have also invited Rimilin. He may or may not come, but I could hardly snub him. He is a thoroughly unpleasant character. For what it’s worth, I don’t like him either."
"What does he do?" Eadric inquired archly.
"He is a demonist," the Alienist muttered, "an Acolyte of the Skin."
"Mostin…"
"Eadric, you need to understand that we – wizards, that is – do not use the same criteria as you to decide friendship and acquaintance. We are no less judgmental, but we operate using a different paradigm. Those of us who profess a certain philosophical stance – morally and ethically speaking, that is – must coexist in relative peace with one another. We are forgiving of each others’ idiosyncrasies."
"And Feezuu?"
"Feezuu went too far," Mostin said. "She was a disruptive influence, who threatened the ‘Body Magical’ – if you understand my meaning. She slew several other mages in her bid for power and revenge. That is unacceptable behaviour. Besides, she was a Cambion from another Plane – that puts an entirely different slant on things."
"I’m sorry Mostin. I’m afraid it would compromise me too much. I cannot freely associate with evil creatures."
Mostin sighed. "And Nwm and Ortwin?"
"Are you kidding? Ortwin wouldn’t miss a party. And Nwm is both more curious and tolerant than I. You should get Ortwin to perform."
"He needs no encouragement from me. Besides, I have temporarily contracted with a Lillend for the purpose." Mostin replied.
"A Lillend? I have never met one. Perhaps before I go…"
"And Rimilin may not come at all," Mostin said brightly. "You can always depart immediately if he does."
So Eadric remained, ready to leave as soon as Rimilin – or anyone else upon whom he detected Taint - arrived. Several wizards of modest ability were flying in from various directions, and a cacophonous roar accompanied by a blinding flash of lightning announced the dramatic appearance of Mulissu. She floated effortlessly fifteen feet above the ground, and her skin crackled and crawled with electricity for a moment before dissipating.
"Why was I not invited?" She snapped.
Oops, thought Mostin. "I had assumed…" he began.
"Presumed, I think you mean."
"Yes," Mostin said apologetically. "If I might inquire, what method did you use to arrive?"
"I am surprised that my daughter has not shown you the scrolls that she ‘borrowed’ from me.*"
"Oh?" Mostin said. "Would you like a drink?" He tactlessly changed the subject.
**
All in all, things went rather well for Mostin. Nwm, Ortwin, Nehael and Iua all attended. Despite their feud, Idro and Troap – who had flown in on his enormous Wyvern – managed to remain civil with one another. Hlioth arrived in the form of an elfin maiden, and promptly disappeared into the woods nearby to cavort with the Feys – pursued by a certain lusty Satyr. The Lillend was well-received, and the gathering was praised for its ‘rustic charm.’
No mention was made of the Injunction, and no dire threats were issued – although a phrase from the humourless Waide made the Alienist pause for thought:
"Good party, Mostin. Glad to see nothing controversial here."
Tozinak arrived late, and only his cloak gave away his identity to those who knew him. He entertained people with a number of lewd but amusing illusions until Mostin asked him to stop.
Predictably, Jovol was absent. Neither Griel, nor the Hag Jalael made an appearance, and neither did Rimilin - for which Mostin was grateful. At least Eadric could relax.
But, just as the Paladin was leaving, Shomei appeared with her guest – rather later than Mostin had anticipated. Both arrived in a blaze of fire.
Mostin was right - the trace of evil around the witch was so faint as to be almost undetectable. Her guest, however, was another matter entirely. He was a handsome man who possessed a poise, elegance and natural ease which thinly veiled what seemed to be a core of raw power and evil. The reek of taint was so profound, so deep, so primal, that Eadric was almost overwhelmed by it. One of the Fallen, without any doubt. He drew Lukarn and light surrounded him.
Zhuel immediately manifested from the Ethereal Plane and interposed himself between Eadric and the newcomer.
Mostin looked horrified at the prospect of some dreadful scene occurring.
The man held up his hand, palm outwards. "Peace, Archon," he said to the Celestial. "I am here by calling, have committed no evil act, and violate no laws. This is legitimate business, and there is no coercion involved. I am within my rights as determined by the Accord."
Zhuel hissed.
The man bowed low, more a gesture of mockery than respect. "Greetings, Eadric of Deorham, Blessed of Oronthon – your circumstances are well- known to me. Greetings, Nehael – it has been a long, long time. And greetings, Mostin the Metagnostic – this is a pleasant soirée. Perhaps we could make time to speak later?"
Mostin glowered at Shomei, and then turned to Eadric. "I think you’d better go," he said. "You're unlikely to ever feel much more compromised than this."
*A reference to the spells which Iua had attempted to bribe Mostin with. Mulissu’s Passage of Lightning is an 8th level Transmutation [Teleportation] which allows instantaneous interplanar travel to a specific location. A kind of refined Plane Shift.
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Eridanis
Bard 7/Mod (ret) 10/Mgr 3
Kid Charlamagne recommended this thread to me several months ago, and I haven't gotten around to reading it until now...
My great loss. But not anymore; I have it in Word, and am taking it home to reread....
I've been pondering a basically-monotheistic religious setting for my campaign world, and now that I've seen a doctoral student's take on it in a fantasy setting, I might have to lift key ideas of it for my own (imitation being the sincerest form of flattery, and all that..)
thanks for such a great story. Looking forward to more!!!!!
My great loss. But not anymore; I have it in Word, and am taking it home to reread....
I've been pondering a basically-monotheistic religious setting for my campaign world, and now that I've seen a doctoral student's take on it in a fantasy setting, I might have to lift key ideas of it for my own (imitation being the sincerest form of flattery, and all that..)
thanks for such a great story. Looking forward to more!!!!!
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