Diplomacy and the Plague

[Dracos]

Oct 05 19:31:21 <Kotono>   It is a week. A long week of waiting and preparing, time passing by like molten sludge. Little happens during this time, only the endless pressures of waiting nicking and gnawing at you. The sense of day and night is lost from you, only the steady tick-tocks of your own beating hearts giving any sense of time. At last...the door opens. A handsome man in a black doublet and hose enters, bowing deep. His face has a jaunty grin, a black feathered cap on  his head. "G'day! This way, the Lady of the Green Kirtle will see you now. Your friend Nikkolai is with her."
Oct 05 19:32:49 *   Mari can't help but wonder if this one's undead just like the Lady's other servants, and can't help but look for signs of such. "About time," she grouses.
Oct 05 19:32:51 *   Kamvakua glances at the others, though having little to say at this point.  It was soon that they would learn whether or not they had left death for something worse.  He took the lead heading out after the man.
Oct 05 19:32:55 <Knight>   "How kind," replies Knight, arising and making for the door, already prepared in every way that matters.
Oct 05 19:33:23 *   Adail had spoken little during the week, spending most of it in(or trying to be in) a deep state of meditation or reading his book. But as the servant comes in, he unfolds himself from his sitting position and easily hops up to Kam's shoulder.
Oct 05 19:34:39 <Kotono>   His flesh looks whole and unblighted. His smile doesn't slip, "G'day, all," he greets as he leads them down the gray stone hall, lit only occasionally by smokeless torches, "Name's Arinzah."
Oct 05 19:35:11 *   Mari follows in silence, not feeling inclined to chat with the Lady's underlings.
Oct 05 19:35:25 *   Kamvakua doesn't seem very talkative, his face tight with a readied gaze.
Oct 05 19:36:09 <Knight>   "Would you mind telling me who has been preparing our food?" asks Knight, cutting through the silence.
Oct 05 19:36:51 <Kotono>   "I have," he says with a smiling look to Knight, "Is it satisfactory, m'lady?"
Oct 05 19:38:21 <Knight>   "'tis good enough. Did wish to ensure it was not created by beings who don't need to eat," replies Knight, glancing Arinzah up and down.
Oct 05 19:38:31 <Mari>   "So I guess you don't have to work very often? I mean, I'm assuming your employer doesn't eat anything. I wouldn't imagine there are too many guests here who do."
Oct 05 19:39:21 <Kotono>   Yulia stays on Mari's shoulders, quiet and resolute. Arinzah looks human, handsome, muscular and well formed. Like a gymnast, his stride vigorous. "I was summoned and bound to just this reason," he replies.
Oct 05 19:39:48 <Mari>   "Summoned, huh? Where from?"
Oct 05 19:41:40 <Kotono>   "A border town of Limbo," He leads you down not far, to another door like the one into your room of imprisonment. "I'm not a slaad, though a few are in my ancestory. No matter; the Lady awaits inside."
Oct 05 19:42:40 <Knight>   "My sincerest condolences," replies Knight, walking towards the door and opting to open it herself.
Oct 05 19:43:00 *   Mari enters. May as well get whatever she wants out of the way already.
Oct 05 19:43:08 *   Kamvakua enters as well.
Oct 05 19:45:36 *   Adail is riding along on Kam's shoulder, thusly going where he goes.
Oct 05 19:46:22 <Kotono>   Within you find a circular table. Seats are all about it, soft ones of decadent warmth and promised comfort. A pitcher of water sits on the table, several glasses stacked up besides it. Sitting in a chair facing the door is the Lady of the Green Kirtle. Her hands are folded in her lap as she awaits, a staff made of six lengths of twined mithral laying across her lap. Her beauty is pristine and
Oct 05 19:46:22 <Kotono>   untouched by any obvious undeath. Besides her stands Nikkolai...his face is drawn, haggard. It looks like parchment stained and left out to dry in the sun too long, an off white-yellow. There is a strange stillness to him. "Join your friends," The Lady turns her head to Nikkolai.
Oct 05 19:47:26 <Knight>   Knight's eyes slide towards Nikkolai, widening slightly at his latest transformation.
Oct 05 19:47:30 *   Mari remains standing, for the moment at least. "Nik, are you alright? You look sorta...cadaverous. What'd she do?"
Oct 05 19:47:40 *   Kamvakua sniffs, eying what has happened to Nikkolai with displeasure.  It was impossible to be pleased with his survival when the lady had clearly had her way with his life.
Oct 05 19:48:00 *   Nikkolai nods slightly in deference to the Lady and walks quietly over to the party. "I'm glad to see you're all doing well."
Oct 05 19:48:36 *   Mari narrows her eyes, looks from Nik to the Lady and back. "That doesn't really answer my questions."
Oct 05 19:48:56 *   Nikkolai glances at Mari, his eyes pale and empty. "I was...given a gift." His voice is carefully devoid of bitterness.
Oct 05 19:49:07 <Kotono>   "Nikkolai has been placed through the Ritual of Crucimigration." The Lady begins, "A better fate than being a hungry shadow for eternity. A body beyond the needs of mortality and of his own will."
Oct 05 19:49:13 *   Adail flicks his eyes to Yulia, hoping she manages not to break down at the sight of him.
Oct 05 19:49:54 <Kotono>   Yulia's face tightens, "Master..." she murmurs in a whisper, only heard by Mari.
Oct 05 19:49:56 <Mari>   "Uh-huh. And how much choice did he have in this?"
Oct 05 19:50:49 <Knight>   "Is that relevant, Mari?" asks Knight, frowning. "He was as good as dead and mindless the last we saw him. This is, clearly, an improvement."
Oct 05 19:50:50 *   Kamvakua steels himself.  It was not the place to worry for the young man.  Speaking with wrath here could endanger the rest of his friends.  Lacking though...the ability to speak decently in such a state, he kept his tongue silent.
Oct 05 19:52:02 *   Nikkolai gives Knight a grateful look. "Knight is correct. My choice in the matter is irrelevant."
Oct 05 19:52:43 <Kotono>   "Yes." Tapping her fingers together, "Sit or not, it is your choice. We shall speak of why I brought you here now." The Lady says.
Oct 05 19:53:09 <Knight>   Knight places her hand against one of the chairs. "I am prepared to deal."
Oct 05 19:53:16 *   Mari sighs. "Fine, we'll talk later, Nik. Let's get on with this." Mari's done a lot of sitting the past week and remains standing.
Oct 05 19:53:42 *   Kamvakua eyes the Lady, listening.  He remained standing though, a forboding presence beside the others.
Oct 05 19:53:51 *   Adail shifts his position so that he is sitting on Kam's shoulder rather then standing on it.
Oct 05 19:54:09 *   Nikkolai gives the others a small smile, giving Yulia a pained look, before returning to his master's side and standing slightly behind and beside her.
Oct 05 19:55:44 <Kotono>   "Has Nikkolai told you of this land?" Her question isn't left to be answered, "This is the dutchy of Amlyn. About one month ago, a great night of terror erupted around the dutchy. All the realm's heroes, priests and wizards were attacked by a combined force of humans, dark elves and yugoloths. Most were wiped out in the surprise attack." (More)
Oct 05 19:59:06 <Kotono>   "The few survivors had little time to rally," The Lady of the Green Kirtle continues, "For the next day plague exploded across Amlyn. A plague that burns the victims alive with fever, whilst they bleed from mouth, nose, nethers and erupting sores. It is not impossible to survive; most do or were cured with magic. However, it returns. For each time a victim survives it or is cured, they will get
Oct 05 19:59:06 <Kotono>   it again and the disease will be more malignant. It has been named the Bleeding Death and threatens to leave Amlyn a country of the rotted dead. The surviving healers are taxed to the limit keeping the population alive." (More)
Oct 05 20:02:00 <Kotono>   "I have discovered the source of the attacks and outbreak. It is the work of Ursagel, a priest-slave of the Oinoloth Mydianchlarus. With what few heroes remain occupied with saving the populace, none can oppose him. If Amlyn is to survive, an outside force is required."
Oct 05 20:03:15 <Knight>   "Do you wish us to be that force, then?"
Oct 05 20:05:08 <Kotono>   "Yes. Were he unguarded I could dispatch him, but he is warded against sorcery and his domain and lair are hidden from my magical sight." The Lady of the Green Kirtle replies, "If you choose not to act, tens of thousands die for the mad rites of a daemon prince's pride. If you choose to act,  you have the potential to defeat Ursagel and his minions, find a way to stop the plague and save Amlyn."
Oct 05 20:05:28 <Mari>   "What kind of forces are we looking at here? I mean, we're tough and all, but there's only six of us."
Oct 05 20:07:40 <Adail>   Adail's calm mask is very nearly shattered as she speaks that name, his face a mixture of shock, disgust and the barest hints of anger, "An Oinoloth. Any servant of such a creature is dangerous beyond words...and not something I can ignore."
Oct 05 20:07:52 <Kamvakua>   OOC: Can I roll K:P on Oinoloth? :)
Oct 05 20:08:27 <Kotono>   OOC: Sure, Kam.
Oct 05 20:10:41 <Kamvakua>   roll 1d20+10
Oct 05 20:10:41 <Hatbot>   
ACTION --> "Kamvakua rolls 1d20+10 and gets 12." [1d20=2]
Oct 05 20:11:33 <Kotono>   "THE Oinoloth," The Lady of the Green Kirtle corrects sharply, "The Lord of the Wasting Tower of Khin-Oin, said to be second only to the General of Gehenna." After a beat, "Human cultists and men-at-arms serving Ursagel and by extension the Oinoloth. Drow have been seen at well. From what I have gathered, the renegade house Guzzalien has sworn to the Oinoloth instead of the Spider Queen. Finally,    there are the yugoloths - from the weakest to reports of arcanaloths being spotted."
Oct 05 20:12:04 <Knight>   "It would be impossible to fight them all," notes Knight, dryly. "More to the point, what is your stake in this endeavour? It would seem to me that a plague, or the dire effects it has on the populance, are not something you need concern yourself with," responds Knight. "I have many questions."
Oct 05 20:12:55 <Nikkolai>   "As do I, my Lady." Nikkolai says quietly from her side.
Oct 05 20:13:20 *   Kamvakua eyes Knight, though truthfully such disaster would be something he couldn't turn a blind eye to either.  But he'd already been outmaneuvered by this woman once, he wouldn't simply follow her script.
Oct 05 20:15:00 <Kotono>   "Why?" The Lady asks this back, her gaze going into Knight. It is a gaze with no feeling, no compassion. "The Yugoloths are the ultimate liars, nihilists that care for nothing but Evil. I have no use for them in this world, nor use for a dead, lifeless duchy before me."
Oct 05 20:17:11 <Knight>   "To what ends do you intend to put the duchy, once it has recovered?"
Oct 05 20:17:22 <Mari>   "I'm okay with killing yugoloths," Mari says, rather quietly at first, then: "But this sounds like a lot for a handful of adventurers to deal with. Are you fielding anyone else here? Calling in any allies to help?"
Oct 05 20:18:32 <Adail>   "I would wager you wish to ask us to cut the head off the snake?" Adail quietly hazards a guess.
Oct 05 20:21:30 <Kotono>   "Yes, a strike force that can decapitate the other side and ultimately end the threat for good." The Lady of the Green Kirtle looks to them, "You are no insignificant force; nor is my apprentice, no matter how shortsighted he is." There is another moment, "I have no dreams of an undead kingdom or rulership in a direct way. But a land without people is a land where knowledge is lost, culture is forgotten and progress regresses. I will not give up my homeland without a battle.""
Oct 05 20:22:42 <Kamvakua>   "Are you from Amlyn?" Kamvakua asked curtly.
Oct 05 20:22:46 <Nikkolai>   Nikkolai's face morphs into a mask of surprise. This is certainly not the harsh mistress of his youth or his memories.
Oct 05 20:23:42 <Mari>   "Then what can you do in the way of supplying us? If you want this done right, you should make sure we're as well-equipped for the job as possible, shouldn't you? I lost a sword on the plane of ice and I'll need another one. Kam lost a helluva lot more, too."
Oct 05 20:24:13 <Knight>   "I see. In that case, allow me to speak on another matter. It is a fact that your agents have pursued Nikkolai throughout the planes. In the past, he has spoken of certain pains you have inflicted upon him. I must understand your rationale for these actions."
Oct 05 20:25:28 <Kotono>   "I was, long ago," Is the Lady's answer, "Supplies are a simple matter; one easily done. Should any of you wish to obtain a higher state of existence, the removal of your mortality can be arranged as well." Another beat to that last question, "Because," Her smile is without feeling, "He has stolen something that belongs to me."
Oct 05 20:25:29 *   Nikkolai shakes his head slightly at Knight, making a curt dismissive motion with his hand.
Oct 05 20:27:31 <Knight>   Knight glances sharply at Nikkolai. "I see," she replies, slowly. "I will refuse your offer. The mind is a prisoner of the body, it is true, but for me, that kind of transcendence is impossible. Then the only matter left to discuss is that of compensation."
Oct 05 20:28:42 <Kamvakua>   "What about the plague?"  Kamvakua frowned.  "Do you have something to hold off the disease?  And no, I'm not interested in any removal."
Oct 05 20:29:31 <Mari>   "Yeah, uh, I'll pass on joining the ranks of the walking dead. No offense, just, Nik doesn't look his usual cheerful self nowadays and that doesn't make the offer sound real attractive. Just supplies'll do."
Oct 05 20:30:01 *   Nikkolai snickers softly at Mari's jibe. It *was* funny for once.
Oct 05 20:31:31 <Kotono>   "Is it, card?" With a look to Knght the Lady snaps her fingers. Arinzah enters in, carrying a heavy box of lead. Angry red and black sigils throb on the surface of the box, almost melting every few seconds before reforming. As he goes to stand behind the Lady of the Green Kirtle, "Remove disease will suffice for the first few infections; I have secured a set of scrolls of that spell. Beyond
Oct 05 20:31:31 <Kotono>   that, it is a reason for you not to tarry or delay at this task."
Oct 05 20:32:54 <Kamvakua>   "And your plans for afterwards?" Kamvakua wasn't distracted from the fact they were prisoners.
Oct 05 20:33:15 <Knight>   "In terms of what must be done to secure our loyalty? I would say so," responds Knight, with a shrug. "At this point, this is just business to me. It's basic for us to exchange services."
Oct 05 20:33:23 <Mari>   "That what's in the box?" Mari wonders, doubting this somewhat. It looks like it's meant to keep something more dangerous in, really.
Oct 05 20:34:19 *   Adail eyes the box, though he doesn't expect to recognize the sigils.
Oct 05 20:34:57 <Kotono>   "No," With a dry smile, "It is the one known as Skull. A cursed thing, bringing only misery, death and torment to those that draw it.
Oct 05 20:34:58 <Kotono>   "
Oct 05 20:36:35 <Knight>   Knight's eyes narrow. "You seem to have the answers," she notes, frowning. "I cannot sense him to ascertain your claim, however. I presume the box is heavily warded."
Oct 05 20:39:39 <Kotono>   "Yes, for your own safety," The Lady says, "Allow me to lay the terms fully. You will serve me, in defeating this Yugoloth swine. I will ensorcel each of you, so that you cannot betray me, but not otherwise impinge our will. Futher, you will submit to my study once this is concluded, Knight. In return, I will give you support, supplies and Skull. Oh, and you will return what you have stolen from me."
Oct 05 20:40:49 <Mari>   "First important question: what does studying Knight involve? Second important question: what happens to Nik when all this is over?"
Oct 05 20:42:29 <Kotono>   "I wish to understand what she is better. Within her lies the power of an artifact. To harness that is to harness magic beyond the ninth circle," Pointing a perfect, pale finger at Knight, "I will not do undo harm to her during this. As for Nikkolai...I have taken the liberty of shattering the pact he made with the Fey. He is my servant. But," she pauses to lean back and look at them, "Please
Oct 05 20:42:29 <Kotono>   me and I will allow him to travel with you after."
Oct 05 20:43:41 <Kamvakua>   "No.  You will have to trust my word that, for the duration of the mission to deal with Ursagel that I will not betray you, but I shall not be bound indefinitely to such an agreement." Kamvakua eyed the woman.
Oct 05 20:43:42 *   Nikkolai steps forward smoothly. "I have some requests of my own, my Lady." He bows, waiting for her to acknowledge him.
Oct 05 20:44:19 <Knight>   "We have no way of ensuring you will keep to your end of the bargain once it is done. Therefore, at the least, you must provide us with everything you offer in advance," replies Knight. "The terms of your Geas are only to extend to the completion of this quest. We will not be betrayed, either. Furthermore, you have Skull as it is," she notes. "Why is there a need to study me?"
Oct 05 20:45:28 <Kotono>   The Lady holds a hand up to Nikkolai, but then pauses a moment. "Elaborate your own before I answer the others, servant."
Oct 05 20:48:47 <Nikkolai>   "I am, of course, my Lady's devoted servant. I will serve you to the best of my ability. However, I will not be a mindless servant. I have aspirations to be something greater than I was." Nikkolai straightens. "I wish to be your apprentice in full, your heir to the power you wield. I've learned that you obtained another boy in my absence." (more)
Oct 05 20:50:05 <Nikkolai>   "In being the sword that is guided by your hand, let me prove that there can be no room for two apprentices in your house. If I please you, send the boy away. Do not let him be deserving of your attentions." Nikkolai delivers this smoothly, hoping against hope that she cannot read his thoughts. Yet.
Oct 05 20:51:42 <Kotono>   OOC: Make a bluff check, NIkko?
Oct 05 20:52:33 <Nikkolai>   roll 1d20+22 Here's hoping she isn't a mindreader.
Oct 05 20:52:34 <Hatbot>   
ACTION --> "Nikkolai rolls 1d20+22 Here's hoping she isn't a mindreader. and gets 24." [1d20=2]
Oct 05 20:54:22 <Kotono>   Laughter. It's not quite that, but the Lady of the Green Kirtle chuckles. Yet her lips don't even move to a smile, her eyes dead as glaciers. "You seek a long, difficult road. Try then with all your might to impress me, servant."
Oct 05 20:54:51 *   Kamvakua eyes with...disappointment in Nikkolai.
Oct 05 20:56:14 <Knight>   Knight appears slightly impatient!
Oct 05 20:56:26 *   Nikkolai bows his head, mindful of the eyes upon his back. "Then we are agreed?" He replies quietly, testing the boundaries of his servitude.
Oct 05 20:58:34 <Kotono>   "If you impress me enough, yes." The Lady agrees. There after she turns her attention to Knight, "I will give you what you seek in advance, but the magics stay. As for that...Skull is only one part of the puzzle of the Deck. With you, I will grasp other parts. Further, Skull is...difficult to study."
Oct 05 21:00:30 *   Nikkolai straightens fully and silently returns to her side, unwilling to meet the eyes of his friends.
Oct 05 21:01:36 <Knight>   "It is impossible for us to accept unconditional servitude," replies Knight. "Frankly, there should be no reason for us to assault you once we are done here. I have better things to do that play games with a sorcerer, and this human life is too short to waste on such things. But I will retain the ability to turn on you, should you turn on us or ours."
Oct 05 21:05:31 <Kotono>   "There should not be, yet fate and desire are whimsical things," The Lady of the Green Kirtle notes. "Then perhaps a vow of peace between us then. I shall not betray you after; none of you will raise arms or send your compatriots to interfere in my affairs."
Oct 05 21:08:04 <Mari>   "I don't object," Mari says, "assuming my friends don't. Nik and Knight are the most directly affected here, so it's up to them as far as I'm concerned. If they're happy with these terms, well...who am I to say otherwise?"
Oct 05 21:10:09 *   Nikkolai finally brings his gaze to bear on the others. "These terms seem to be what is best for you at the moment. I doubt you will get a better offer from the Lady." He pauses. "I personally believe that this is best for most everyone involved."
Oct 05 21:10:49 <Kamvakua>   "...Is this truly your wish, Nikkolai?"  Kamvakua looked, conflicted, eying the young man rather than the lich at all.
Oct 05 21:11:26 <Knight>   "These terms are sufficient. Then, we will destroy the originator of this plague and his ability to propogate it, I will submit myself to your study, which is to be non-invasive and leave no damage nor permanent changes to my physique or nature. You will give provide us with supplies, information, equipment, contacts, and all things necessary for us to undertake this task.
Oct 05 21:11:26 <Knight>   "You will also grant me Skull; if he will not ally with me, then he will be absorbed. Nikkolai shall be permitted to continue traveling with us once we are done here. We shall not interfere in your affairs so long as they do not interfere with ours; that is, I will not oppose you on moral grounds, nor for what takes place in this duchy. You would not interfere in my quest to relocate the rest of my family. Is there anything else?"
Oct 05 21:12:18 *   Nikkolai locks eyes with Kamvakua. "This is as good as it gets, my friend." He replies grimly.
Oct 05 21:13:06 <Kotono>   "Two things...more like gifts," The Lady of the Green Kirtle says, "But the terms are accepted. Do the rest of you accept them? Mari has, what of you, outsider? What of you, Arborea's champion?"
Oct 05 21:15:25 *   Adail sighs, "From all I have seen of your objectives here, in the grand scheme of things you are, and I trust you will not take affront at this phrasing, a lesser evil. Thus...I can agree to those terms."
Oct 05 21:20:33 <Kamvakua>   "Had you but asked, we would stand beside you in anything, Nikkolai.  If your wish is to learn her ways in truth,...well, that is your choice."  Kamvakua frowned.  "I will agree to a vow of peace, such that you and I shall never again cross each others paths.  I will not wage war against you, nor come to hunt you again after this, provided that you do not come to bring harm to any in my protection.  Hopefully, we will only ever speak once more, Lady of the Green Kirtle, when we return victorious to finish our agreement.  We will strike dead this priest Ursagel and then we will part ways.  I ask only one more thing, that as Nikkolai is taking such a route, that the child he seeks to replace goes free with us when we return victorious."
Oct 05 21:22:52 <Kotono>   There is a long pause, but at last the Lady nods. "Very well, then we are agreed." The Lady of the Green Kirtle rises, "The first order is Skull." Her servant brings forth the lead box to her, which she puts on the table. "When the box is opened, you may have to face Skull in combat. Surely you understand that you  must fight him alone, or others of his kind will appear to battle interlopers."
Oct 05 21:24:58 *   Adail tilts his head to the side and cracks the knuckles of one paw, "...heh. I'm almost tempted to test myself there."
Oct 05 21:25:47 <Knight>   "I understand. It would be necessary to take precautions before doing combat with him," admits Knight. "Of all of us, it would be Adail who has the best chance of victory. Armor is of no use against him, and his form is not entirely in the real, so ordinary weapons would fail."
Oct 05 21:26:27 *   Kamvakua holds his pike, offering it to Knight, assuming she would intend to fight it herself as kin.
Oct 05 21:27:22 *   Adail then nods to Knight, "If any one of us can fight him, I am willing to fight on your behalf if you wish."
Oct 05 21:28:12 <Knight>   "He needs but to touch you to inflict grievous wounds and sap your very spirit," continues Knight. "I would recommend magical preparations for defense. Your 'Hunting Fang' is of the right nature to injure him reliably, but it will take many volleys to bring him down."
Oct 05 21:28:48 <Knight>   "We would also have the option of trapping him within an area of daylight, within some kind of barrier he cannot pass, yet the light can."
Oct 05 21:28:59 <Knight>   "In there, he would be utterly powerless, and any one of us could dispatch him with ease."
Oct 05 21:29:35 <Knight>   Knight nods at Kam. "I appreciate the offer, but in an even match, Skull would slay me... even with the best weapon for the task, my chances are low."
Oct 05 21:29:38 <Nikkolai>   "Perhaps Yulia can Haste you before engage him?" Nikkolai offers. "I am also in command of magics that can harm the incorporeal."
Oct 05 21:29:43 <Kotono>   "He has supped on the energies of this place," The Lady of the Green Kirtle speaks up, "Such a strategy may be less effective than you would expect. Be wary."
Oct 05 21:30:27 <Knight>   roll 1d20+20 deckage!
Oct 05 21:30:28 <Hatbot>   
ACTION --> "Knight rolls 1d20+20 deckage! and gets 39." [1d20=19]
Oct 05 21:30:34 <Kamvakua>   "Adail is a brave warrior.  Your kinsmen shall be laid low by him for certain."  Kamvakua nodded.
Oct 05 21:31:53 <Adail>   "With a name like skull, and with the way you speak of his abilities, I wager he takes the form of an incorporeal undead?"
Oct 05 21:32:13 <Mari>   "Hey, you can borrow any of my stuff if you want, Adail. This amulet's saved me plenty of times, at least."
Oct 05 21:32:20 <Knight>   "You would need to cast any spells before the battle is joined," adds Knight. "Indeed, it is the same as the most powerful of wraiths. They are a blight, you know, that would spread if left unchecked."
Oct 05 21:34:13 *   Adail shakes his head at Mari, "If he is like a Wraith, that will not help me at all."
Oct 05 21:35:13 <Mari>   "Oh. Well. You'll just have to be happy with me cheering for you, then."
Oct 05 21:35:48 <Knight>   "I shall have Star shield you from harm before the onset of the duel." She glances from person to person. "Is there any need to prepare before the battle, or are we well enough to hold it now?"
Oct 05 21:36:00 <Kotono>   "I can," Yulia blinks and answers at last, "Okay?"
Oct 05 21:36:09 <Mari>   "I DO have this weird brandy from Ysgard that I think maybe possibly is supposed to make someone a better warrior or something, but I was really drunk when I heard so really I dunno."
Oct 05 21:37:14 <Adail>   "Then let us make a plan, and deal with him tomorrow?" Adail asks, then directs his attention to Nik, "Nikkolai, I do not suppose you know the Mage Armor spell, do you? I always forget. And..no, thank you Mari. My style is not drunken boxing."
Oct 05 21:38:28 *   Nikkolai sighs apologetically at Adail. "I'm afraid not, Adail. I'm sorry that I cannot be of any use."
Oct 05 21:39:37 <Adail>   "Hmm. Then yes, I will wish to prepare my spells specifically for dealing with this foe. A dread wraith is not something even I should take lightly."
Oct 05 21:40:29 <Knight>   "Then we will do this tomorrow," replies Knight, turning back to the Lady. "We should not spend the rest of our time idly, however. Shall we discuss our strategy for dealing with Ursagel?"
Oct 05 21:40:31 <Kotono>   "As you wish," The Lady of the Green Kirtle says, "I will have the first target ready for the 'morrow. Now, what supplies and services do you require for your mission?"
Oct 05 21:41:20 <Adail>   "I will need a way to heal Nikkolai." Adail states immediately. "Our usual methods obviously will not work, and I cannot spontaneously cast inflict spells."
Oct 05 21:42:23 <Kotono>   "A wand can be provided," The Lady of the Green Kirtle says.
Oct 05 21:43:17 <Mari>   "Personally, I could use a new short sword to replace the one destroyed back on Ice. The one I've got right now is great for shanking unsuspecting foes; a partner for it would be great, but anything magic will do."
Oct 05 21:43:25 <Kamvakua>   "I lost a cloak of resistance during the travel, it seems one would be quite handy where we are going, if you have one."  Kamvakua shifted uncomfortably.
Oct 05 21:43:29 *   Adail nods, "I require nothing else in the way of supplies, then." He then nods to the others to make thier own inquiries before hopping off Kam's shoulder to pace around and consider his battle strategy.
Oct 05 21:44:08 <Nikkolai>   "I have in my possession a wand that increases the destructive potential of my spell. Is there perhaps something in the depths of your vaults that can do better?" Nikkolai is now going to shamelessly take advantage of the fact that he's his master's apprentice.
Oct 05 21:44:24 <Knight>   "Weapons suited to dealing with Yugoloths. Methods we can use to defend against their magics; I'm afraid I'm not familiar with them," replies Knight, frowning. "They can teleport, can they not? We must have a method to prevent our foes escaping to fight another day."
Oct 05 21:45:00 <Knight>   "Furthermore, information will be the key point of this struggle. We must reach a state where we can assault Usragel in his lair directly. Perhaps that is a good starting point; where is it, and what is known about it?"
Oct 05 21:45:58 <Kotono>   "Those things will be provided," The Lady of the Green Kirtle says. "What of your equipment? Do you need things identified or analyzed as well?"
Oct 05 21:46:36 <Mari>   "Oh yeah, we got that haul from Balance still, don't we? Be nice to know what it all does."
Oct 05 21:48:39 <Knight>   "Indeed. I believe there are also repairs that must be done," notes Knight, glancing at Kamvakua. "I require a workshop, as well. My steed must be tended to when not in use. I have most of the tools, but require a space. However, if you possess any raw adamant or the like, it would increase our chances."
Oct 05 21:49:43 <Kotono>   "Very well," The Lady agrees again. "Now then, all of you will be returned to your rooms. Arinzah will be by to collect your equipment for analysis. We will then proceed on the 'morrow, be prepared."
Oct 05 21:50:53 <Adail>   "Knight," Adail pads up to her and asks, "exactly how large is Skull? Do you know?"
Oct 05 21:50:55 <Kamvakua>   "I would have a book on the geography of the area of Amlyn, if you have one, to study the terrain while we wait." Kamvakua was pragmatic, the more they knew about where they were going, the better.
Oct 05 21:51:18 <Knight>   "Naturally. I am surprised," notes Knight. "Your hospitality is commendable. Will Nikkolai be accompanying us?.. oh, a little more imposing than Kamvakua, I would say," notes Knight.
Oct 05 21:51:35 *   Mari nods. She's heard all she needs to for now.
Oct 05 21:51:53 *   Adail nods, then goes back to pacing around
Oct 05 21:53:40 <Kotono>   "Yes," The Lady says, "Arinzah will take you back now." With Nikkolai back in tow, the party is returned to their quarters. A fresh meal has been laid out while they were gone. OOC: Ball's in your courts, go ahead.
Oct 05 21:55:40 <Knight>   "Your Lady seems remarkably cordial," notes Knight, taking a seat by one of the tables. "I had not expected her to offer me Skull."
Oct 05 21:56:21 *   Nikkolai sits down on the bed nearest the door, not sleepy precisely, but perhaps tired. It will take some time to become acclimated to his new form. "She is cordial when she wishes to be. Be glad you are not her enemy."
Oct 05 21:56:24 *   Kamvakua seems to go solemnly quiet eying nikkolai a bit as he picked at a plate of the available food.
Oct 05 21:56:32 *   Adail eyes Knight, "she wishes to study you. Seeing you absorb one of your siblings is surely part of that."
Oct 05 21:57:01 <Kamvakua>   "We've already been her enemy.  We lost."
Oct 05 21:57:13 <Kamvakua>   Twice, he continued to himself, not voicing that aloud.
Oct 05 21:58:28 *   Nikkolai chuckles. "You are not enemies, I think. You were simply...outmaneuvered, I believe."
Oct 05 21:58:30 <Knight>   "I do not truly mind being studied," admits Knight. "I am wary she would not keep her word, and attempt to use us directly."
Oct 05 21:59:35 <Nikkolai>   "If you were to make an attempt on her life...well. That is another thing entirely." Nikkolai pauses. "That is my great fear as well. I did not put myself back into servitude merely to see you all suffer as I did."
Oct 05 22:00:09 <Knight>   "Why would she wish to see us suffer, truly? You described her as a cruel and sadistic woman," replies Knight, pursing her lips. "Perhaps those impulses died with her heart."
Oct 05 22:00:52 <Knight>   Knight shakes her head. "Regardless, for now, she requires our services. It is natural to treat people working for you with dignity. If that is to change, it would do so once our task is completed."
Oct 05 22:01:04 <Nikkolai>   "Perhaps. Death does have a way of...mellowing one out."
Oct 05 22:01:17 *   Nikkolai holds a hand up and studies the dry, dead skin.
Oct 05 22:01:33 <Knight>   Knight flinches. "I did not mean any offense. Is your condition intolerable?"
Oct 05 22:03:16 <Nikkolai>   "...it is not. I only regret that I am now no longer fit for polite company." Nikkolai smiles, a rictus of a grin, and recalls the swift ebbing of the warmth of an angel's arms. "Perhaps this is repayment for the wrongs I have committed in my previous life."
Oct 05 22:04:01 <Adail>   "Even at your worst, you had not sinned so grievously that this is just," Adail quietly, but very firmly, responds.
Oct 05 22:04:18 *   Kamvakua is more silent than encouraging.
Oct 05 22:04:53 <Knight>   "Wrongs?" replies Knight, snorting. "You've committed no wrongs worthy of note. And regardless, it is possible for anyone of sufficient will and power to overcome karma."
Oct 05 22:06:29 *   Nikkolai shrugs. "You have known me a short while, good Adail. I have done many things to survive in Her house and some after I escaped it." His eyes drift over to Knight. "And what shall I do? I cannot leave her service until the boy and yourselves are free."
Oct 05 22:07:12 <Nikkolai>   "Even if I were to free myself once more...this form presents some problems." He adds dryly.
Oct 05 22:09:05 <Knight>   "There is no wrong in doing what it takes to survive. That is simply the nature of beings that live," replies Knight. "You need not consider us prisoners any further besides. What we do now is by our own choice..." Knight shakes her head. "The issue is not us, but you. Knowing what we know, it is likely we would take on this course of action as it is-" (More)
Oct 05 22:09:28 <Kamvakua>   "Life presents many mountains in a man's life.  A great danger is mistaking a mountain for a wall....or a wall for a mountain."
Oct 05 22:10:51 <Knight>   "-that is not the point. Where will striving for your sake take us? Must we struggle to find a method that will allow you to regain your original form? Are you comfortable, working for her, even if you travel with us when we depart? Will you continue to swear vengeance? And can she be trusted, at the end of the day?"
Oct 05 22:12:14 <Nikkolai>   "..."
Oct 05 22:12:15 <Kotono>   Yulia has stayed quiet, on Mari's shoulder and curled up. "Will you," she murmurs to Knight's last words.
Oct 05 22:13:34 <Adail>   "It can be fixed, though not easily." Adail adds.
Oct 05 22:14:53 *   Nikkolai looks to Yulia, deep in thought. "I do not love her. I do not serve her out of loyalty, but at the chance to free myself forever from her grasp. She is trustworthy...to a point. She cannot but know the depths of my hatred for her. She would be blind not to. Perhaps it amuses her to see me dance to her tune. I do know that one day, she will misstep...(more
Oct 05 22:16:10 <Nikkolai>   ...and I will be there to plant the knife in her back. She does not have a slave chained to her feet. She has a wolf as a mount that she should take great care in riding. I will avenge all wrongs, even at the cost of my life."
Oct 05 22:17:42 <Kotono>   "You know," Yulia sniffles, "You almost sound like a resolute hero that way."
Oct 05 22:18:01 <Mari>   "Yeah, almost," Mari says, for old times' sake.
Oct 05 22:18:48 <Knight>   "Shall I ask you what sort of misstep you are anticipating?" asks Knight, moving to lean against the wall. "For I can see few greater than allowing those most likely to be your enemies towards your inner sanctum."
Oct 05 22:19:10 <Nikkolai>   "I am not a hero, bright one." Nikkolai says gently. "I am merely a man with someone to kill."
Oct 05 22:20:26 <Mari>   "I'd just as soon not have anything to do with her when this is over with. I mean, if she double-crosses us, sure, but otherwise...One thing at a time, we pry Nik away from her and then worry about a long-term fix."
Oct 05 22:20:37 <Kotono>   "But you can be if you try!" Yulia raises her voice a little bit, "Hey listen everyone! Nikkolai can really do it, can't he?"
Oct 05 22:21:35 <Mari>   "Maybe with some help?"
Oct 05 22:22:55 <Nikkolai>   "Maybe." Nikkolai agrees. "Keeping me alive was one such misstep. She has been overly lenient with me and I believe she will continue to do so."
Oct 05 22:23:07 <Kotono>   "I mean, this could be his chance to really make it! To do something really good!" Yulia points, "You could earn a place with Calariel or the Court of the Stars or anything if you work with that, Master! Nikkolai, one of the heroes that stopped the bleeding death then stopped an evil lich?"
Oct 05 22:23:23 <Kamvakua>   "A heart full of hate for another has difficulty living."  Kamvakua paused, perhaps he would say more...perhaps much more.  "We should not speak of such in a place with ears in the walls."
Oct 05 22:23:30 <Knight>   Knight throws back her head and laughs. "Oh, Yulia! Do you even understand what you're saying?"
Oct 05 22:24:09 <Knight>   "The lich is giving us the means, information, and ability to throw back this plague! We will be heroes for stopping it. Yet she will remain evil? Is that how it works? We will be heroes for slaying her, despite what is a form of her service to this land?"
Oct 05 22:24:25 <Kamvakua>   "A mountain is climbed by one step at a time.  We have a plague to face, and a dark priest to destroy.  These are no small challenges."
Oct 05 22:25:19 <Mari>   "Kam's right. About everything. Nik, if all you're living for is killing someone, you're not gonna be the same person by the time it's done. Anyway, I can't imagine she doesn't have some means of keeping an eye on us, so it's real silly to talk about it here."
Oct 05 22:25:34 <Kotono>   Yulia shrinks back but doesn't reply.
Oct 05 22:31:11 <Nikkolai>   A hint of emotionless cold creeps into Nikkolai's voice as he replies. "I am no longer the same person I was. Do you not agree?" Without waiting for an answer, he closes his eyes and sinks into the depths of his mind, fleetingly hoping for the small comfort of a warm body beside him.
Oct 05 22:33:56 *   Adail chuckles slightly, "It is difficult for our kind to see in other then black and white sometimes, Knight. Especially for one as young as Yulia." He then smiles a bit at Yulia so she knows that wasn't exactly a rebuke.
Oct 05 22:38:20 <Knight>   "My apologies. I mean to ensure our eyes are open to just what our situation is, and what our options are. What is right, and what is wrong, I shall leave to others henceforth."
Oct 05 22:45:56 <Nikkolai>   Nikkolai's lips move, even though his eyes are still closed. "Something has been troubling me. Why am I still alive? So to speak. I burnt down her old home, stole something from her, and have made a considerable nuisance of myself in her affairs. I should be dead. Or a shadow. She has a new apprentice, after all."
Oct 05 22:47:20 <Mari>   "Because this way she gets to watch you suffer for a long, long time. I've gotta assume there's some vindictive pleasure to be had in that, for her."
Oct 05 22:47:55 <Knight>   "That seems unlikely. You are useful to her in some fashion. That is all," replies Knight. "It may be prosaic, and she uses you to gain our service. It may be more mystical in nature. I do not know."
Oct 05 22:49:15 *   Nikkolai hums in thought. "Perhaps I shall bring it up with her myself."
Oct 05 22:49:40 <Kamvakua>   "What MORE could you have to lose by asking?"
Oct 05 22:49:50 *   Adail shakes his head, "I was not rebuking you either, Knight, you have no need to apologize." Then to Nik, he shrugs, "Pride, perhaps? Many of great power fall victim to that particular vice. It could be she does not like to lose, and letting you go, either to your own life or to death, would be 'losing' all the effort she put into you already."
Oct 05 22:50:11 <Mari>   "Could be a pride thing. I mean, you threw off her chains and disrupted her affairs, but now here you are again, back under her control." Mari shrugs.
Oct 05 22:51:01 <Nikkolai>   "Pride is such a wasteful emotion." Nikkolai comments. A beat. "I believe that is very ironic coming from me."
Oct 05 22:51:53 <Mari>   "Just surprising, really."
Oct 05 22:52:35 <Kotono>   "See? You're getting a little better," Yulia murmurs quietly, staying to Mari.
Oct 05 22:53:05 <Knight>   "Ah, you really think so? It is one of the vices I do admire," admits Knight. "A vice it remains, mind."
Oct 05 22:54:56 <Adail>   "In moderation, it has it's place. When pride is what causes you to stand and fight when you should have fallen long since, it can be good. But it is very easy to take it too far."