027.2 "The Seladrin and Tyr? This is a matter of united Good?"

[Corwin]

[21:39] <Kotono> The five gather in the tent. Of them, Tannin speaks. "Okay, so this is how it's going to go," he begins, eyes flashing purple and green. There's open spaces in Glitterrock, we can use any of those to appear in.  From there we go out and make contact with the local authorities and work our ways up. That about what you had in mind, Jaela?"
[21:41] <Jaela> "Correct. We do it flashy enough and the authorities come to us. But we can't just appear in the monarch's back yard or it looks like a threat. The tent's all yours, so take us somewhere public like that?"
[21:41] <Afina> "Who will stay to defend the tent against theft or attack and who will seek out the authorities?" Afina asks.
[21:43] <Jaela> "I think Tannin could do a great job of the former. Worst case, he takes it back to the Aurora and we know right away," Jaela responds. "And if they don't come to us after all, the rest of us can just go out towards the palace."
[21:43] <Kotono> "Sure," Tannin says, "In that case, just look for the guard patrols. They wear dark brown and carry pikes and axe-halberds."
[21:44] <Jaela> That sort of info is exactly why Tannin's on the trip, and Jaela nods to him. "Alright, let's get going."
[21:45] <Kotono> Commanding the tent, there is a moment of apprehension. A moment of swirling and rustling and then? You feel nothing - no sense of damnation or salvation, simply being somewhere else.
[21:46] <Jaela> It takes a moment to adjust to something so unusual, and then Jaela steps out of the tent. Her polished armor and the symbol upon it should draw plenty of attention, but she is clearly unarmed at the same time.
[21:48] <Afina> Wearing her usual attire but with no sign of Hywelbane on her - a huge risk in her mind but a necessary one for diplomacy - Afina flutters out after Jaela. "Let us know if anyone threatens you or acts strangely," she asks Tannin as she goes.
[21:50] <Jaela> "If Tannin can't spot a trap or sweet-talk a passing patrols into letting him be, his reputation clearly was inflated," Jaela murmurs, feeling certain of that part.
[21:51] <Kotono> Morniel follows without hesitation, armor polished to gleaming. Crystal flies along with a sedate courage, as Tannin nods, "I will," he says, "Good luck." Outside? Far above you a cave roof stretches. Hundreds of feet above, light far above. The roof glitters - glitters with spots of gold and light, shifting and ever-dancing on the cave roof. It sends steady but blinking light down to below.
[21:51] <Kotono> Closer to the ground, you can see you're in what looks to be a cleared, empty lot between sturdy, well crafted stone buildings. A smooth stone road leads along, a few dwarves on it. Typical dwarves by all apperances, rather guardedly looking at the tent and those that have emerged from it.
[21:52] <Jaela> "Glitter and rock. I see," Jaela muses, before approaching the nearest dwarf and giving him a curt nod. "Can you understand me," she asks in Common, "or do we have a language barrier?"
[21:56] <Kotono> The dwarf is dressed well enough - rugged looking clothes of a sturdy cut. "I can," he says, hands on hips as he looks up. The other one is dressed the same, but does a double-take at the approaching four-some. "I welcome you to Glitterrock,"  he says, eyes widening more as he comes back up, hands off his hips now. "You are...an angel?"
[21:58] <Jaela> "Hello," Jaela greets them, happy that this wouldn't be an issue like she feared. "I am, yes. Thank you for the welcome. My friends and I came to seek an audience with your monarch, Rihet the Third."
[22:01] <Kotono> "O-of course," He nods again, "I'll call the guard right away!" At that he hurries off at a run. Morniel smiles at this, and in a murmur that doesn't carry past the party, "It is always useful when mortals react in this way to us. Let us not do anything to shake this faith. It can be a powerful tool and bring great joy."
[22:02] * Jaela finds it somewhat distasteful, but at least she's not there to make the locals do anything against their will. "Thank you," Jaela repeats instead.
[22:03] * Afina lands on the ground to wait, commenting, "At least white-feathered wings overshadow any disgust they might feel towards those of us with pointed ears."
[22:03] <Kotono> Crystal smiles as he goes, and in your minds, 'I wonder if we were mistaken for diminuative angels, Afina?'
[22:05] * Afina doesn't look thrilled with that comparison. 'If it makes things more convenient I suppose there's no harm.'
[22:08] <Kotono> Within a minute, you see them coming. A full contigent of abou ta dozen guards, each one clad in dark brown and breastplates, greaves and helmet. They are each bearded and carry axe-halberds or pikes. One approaches, wearing a brown cloak to match his colors. "I am Fifth Stratum Valdar. You seek audiance with His Majesty?"
[22:09] <Jaela> "Jaela," she responds to introduce herself in turn. "And we are. We came in peace to ask for that audience."
[22:10] <Kotono> "Come with me, please," He bows, the guards forming a loose procession around the four.
[22:11] <Jaela> So far, so good! Jaela offers a slight bow of acknowledgement back, and falls in step with the guards leading them.
[22:11] * Afina gives a respectful bow while letting Jaela talk and take the lead, exercising her legs for once by walking. Dwarves are easy to keep pace with for pixies.
[22:15] <Kotono> Crystal follows as Morniel smiles to them and follows. The group is lead along the streets - universally smooth but not slippery, well constructed. Stone is the theme here, and not a bit of it is chipped or weathered. Everything is perfect stonework, great columned buildings, towers looking like they were carved out of great pillars of rock, stairs as sharp as if a scorching ray had cut them.
[22:15] <Kotono> The residents of Glitterock are almost all dwarves, stopping what they're doing to stare. In your wake you leave whispers and looks. You do also see a few humans, acting just the same.
[22:17] * Jaela nods at the people they come across occasionally, being perfectly businesslike and polite. Her true nature would be unlikely to score any points with the locals, so this is one of those times where it's best to shut up when she can and fall back on her half-forgotten etiquette lessons when she must present her case.
[22:18] <Afina> Putting into practice long experience on the fringes of Ilsenine's Court, Afina responds to the residents with courtesey and grace, reserved and distant as it is, showing them gentle smiles and demurely lowered eyes as she passes with no indication of her the blatantly murderous reality.
[22:20] <Kotono> Crystal comes forth with open candor, steps refined and easy. Not too refined, hinting at the warrior beneath. She mades looks with looks of her own, and occasionally murmured greetings. Morniel walks with calm, seeming to make a point to at least make eye contact with everyone who looks his way. As you proceed on, you see it ahead. A great, multitiered building like a cake, surrounded by a vast
[22:20] <Kotono> yard of what looks to be pathways and statues. Thousands of statues surely, gates of pure wrought platinum before them.
[22:23] <Jaela> With that sort of money, the ransom should not be that high, Jaela muses to herself. It would be more a principle than a bribe, so their main drive should focus on the other part of their proposal, of taking troublemakers off his hands. Outwardly, she waits for the gates to open.
[22:28] <Kotono> The gates are opened! As they are a figure emerges from the sea of statues. A dwarf, clad in gleaming armor. It looks impossibly thick and heavy, far thicker than armor. Yet he moves without a hint of difficulty. He has a black beard, carrying a hugely oversized mace on his back. It's head is bigger than his own head, bouncing against the back of his head without any sign of bothering him. He
[22:28] <Kotono> pauses only to nod at the guards, who bow and head away. "Celestials," he greets in the tongue of the angels, "I am Pal Thronas, holy warrior of Moradin. I greet you as an emissary of His Majesty."
[22:30] <Afina> It's a good thing Afina is staying quiet since she has no idea what he just said! Doesn't look hostile, though.
[22:30] <Jaela> "Well met," Jaela responds, using Celestial herself. "I am Jaela of Aurora, Knight of the Triune Goddess and the Seldarine." It must be the first time she introduced herself so fully and formally, she muses briefly. "My friends and I come in good faith to discuss a mutual problem we share with His Majesty, out of hopes of settling it favorably for all involved."
[22:30] <Kotono> Morniel inclines his head, but defers to Jaela.
[22:31] <Kotono> "I understand," he says gravely, "Walk with me through the Garden of Ancestors." With that he turns, taking a path into the the great yard of statues.
[22:32] <Jaela> "Certainly," Jaela agrees, taking care to keep the dwarf's pace.
[22:32] <Kotono> "I am Morniel, servant of the Maimed God Tyr," Morniel introduces himself in the same language, following with Jaela.
[22:33] <Kotono> "The Seladrin and Tyr? This is a matter of united Good?" he asks, voice still grave. "Fey too." Around you are statues - so many statues of dwarves. Each one is a masterpiece, looking almost to be alive, every detail captured down to the smallest wrinkle or hair. "What is this mutual problem?"
[22:38] <Jaela> "Your world recently went through a difficult war, as we understand," Jaela responds, not beating around the bush. "The matter was settled, but there is always the option of it reigniting, especially if those taken as prisoners of war were to work at it." She pauses, briefly wonderng at the best way to introduce the concept. "I'm not certain if your world carries this practice, but among the planes, the concept of ransoming imprisoned foes exists. Our proposal is to take the troublemakers in your care off your hands, and put them to good use in our Crusade against the forces of evil that all of us--" Jaela gestures about her, '--have joined together to fight. We believe that along with a suitable compensation and the promise to keep them out of the issues of this world, this can be a fitting solution for all of us."
[22:47] <Kotono> "Ah." A short answer to a long question, "That will be up to his Majesty's discretion. He's further in the Garden. This way, I believe.
[22:47] <Kotono> "
[22:48] <Jaela> "We expected as much," Jaela accepts that, and once more proceeds after her dwarven guide.
[22:50] <Kotono> Further in you go. Round statue after statue. Until at last you come on another dwarf. He is dressed in simple golden robes, a fine brown-reddish beard tied off at the ends. He is a bit tall for a dwarf, the gaze of his purple eyes a strange contract to the neutral expression on his face. Pal Thronas comes to him and whispers a few words to him, to which he silently takes in. Thereafter, the
[22:50] <Kotono> paladin steps back and out of the way. As he does, "His Majesty, Rihet the Third."
[22:51] <Jaela> "Your Majesty," Jaela speaks, offering him a respectful bow.
[22:52] <Afina> Hearing the name of the dwarven king amongst the other gibberish, Afina kneels as one should for a monarch.
[22:54] <Kotono> Morniel bows as well. It is at this point that His Majesty shakes his head, "You aren't my subjects," he says, "Don't bother. Let's get down to the gold nuggets with this. You want the elven prisoners of war?"
[22:55] <Jaela> "That is correct, Majesty," Jaela responds to his question. "For the Aurora, it is a matter of honor. For this world, it means securing the peace that was hard-won. If our proposal is acceptable, then may we discuss terms?"
[22:56] * Afina stands up but otherwise remains a silently supportive presence.
[23:05] <Kotono> "It is an interesting offer, but one that is politically dangerous," Rihet's observation is as he turns back to a statue, making a show of examining it. "Money may buy many things, but it would be foolhardy to ask for money for ransom. Let alone asking without the proper political theater. Succinctly, there is a curiosity our sages and learned men have struggled to explain and have failed. If
[23:05] <Kotono> you offer in court to take the prisoners, with a proper magical pact, on the condition that you solve this curiosity, I will accept. Of course, the prisoner release will be contigent on the curiosity being dealt with."
[23:06] <Jaela> "We are prepared to prove our intent," Jaela responds. "If that proof requires both sides signing a magically-binding pact, it will not be an obstacle." Since that doesn't seem a problem, Jaela asks, "What is the curiousity at the center of this matter, Majesty?"
[23:11] <Kotono> "At the deepest point of our mines, we have come to a barrier. None of our wisemen have been able to figure out a thing about it, nor to penetrate it or the surrounding rock. Even an anti-magic field has failed to work on it, which left our chief sorceror in an apoplectic fit. It's garnered considerable curiosity. Some consider it the doorway to impossible wealth, others fear a horror is locked
[23:11] <Kotono> within. But people continue to try, even sneaking down past guards if they need to. I'd like you to solve this mystery, and if it is a menance, dispatch it. If it is treasure or bounty, it will be a national treasure."
[23:11] <Kotono> After that, and turning back, "I want it dealt with before someone manages to get lucky and find a way past it and isn't able to handle what is in there, or steals whatever is of value within."
[23:13] <Jaela> 'His offer sounds reasonable,' Jaela quickly thinks to the others. 'Are we fine with committing to it?'
[23:15] <Afina> Assuming the offer is translated, Afina replies with, 'No problem here.'
[23:19] <Kotono> 'No problem,' Morniel says, 'It's an unknown quantity, but with our fources success should be possible. We could wrangle with him, but I'm not sure it would be effective. He's taken the lead in this and doesn't look interested in losing it.'
[23:19] <Kotono> 'If it's a monster, we'll vanquish it,' Crystal adds in her own opinion.
[23:19] * Jaela bows before the monarch once more. "Your offer is more than reasonable, Your Majesty. Will you have someone guide us to the mine in question, or should we first proceed with making the official offer in court?"
[23:33] <Kotono> "There will be the proper court and ceremonies tomorrow," His Majesty replies, "You'll be provided rooms within the palace."
[23:35] * Jaela fills Tannin in on this development, before asking via their link, 'Want to return with the tent for now? Or rejoin us?'
[23:35] <Kotono> 'I'll return the tent and catch up with you. Don't worry, I have my ways,' Tannin sends back.
[23:36] <Jaela> "Thank you for your consideration, Majesty," Jaela responds, acknowledging Tannin's missive in the meantime in her head.
[23:38] <Kotono> Pal Thronas comes forth at this, "I'll walk you there," he offers, "It shall be as His Majesty decrees."
[23:41] <Kotono> You are escorted. Your rooms are of grand and large design, big enough for you  many times over. It is a night of peaceful luxury, on the third floor of the palace. As you settle in for the night, the windows to outside suddenly open. Tannin leaps through the window, brushing off dirt and closing the window behind him. "Sorry I'm late," he announces easily.
[23:43] <Jaela> "Going through the front door was too much of a hassle?" Jaela comments, raising an eyebrow. Tannin is lucky her weapon is only a thought away, because otherwise it would have already been drawn and pointed at him.
[23:43] * Afina stops just before driving her sword into Tannin's throat, putting Hywelbane behind her back and fluttering away from him as if nothing happened.
[23:45] <Kotono> "I was bored," Tannin chuckles, "Scaling up and sneaking past the guard was a burst of sudden inspiration. Especially since I'm not all that good a climber." Going to sit on one of the empty beds, "What did you think of the King?"
[23:47] <Afina> "They like angels so much they all speak their language," Afina observes neutrally.
[23:47] <Jaela> "He's fun. It's a shame we can't have him onboard for the Crusade," Jaela responds. Since it was just Tannin, she heads back for her bed.

[Corwin]

[19:58] <Kotono> Sleep comes that night. It's a peaceful night's sleep for all, and come the morning a meal is brought to the party. Once the group has eaten and freshened itself, another enters. This is a dwarf clad in gleaming and burnished full plate, walking upright and bearing the weight of it seemingly through pure pride. "Ambassadors?" he asks, "I am Yulan, master of protocol for the royal court. His
[19:58] <Kotono> Majesty sent me to ensure you're aware of the proper protocols for when he holds court today."
[19:59] <Jaela> "A sensible precaution," Jaela agrees, clad in her own mithral full plate. "Walk us through them?"
[20:00] <Afina> Cleaned, dressed, and fed, Afina stands attentively to listen, since this dwarf is at least speaking a proper (if somewhat vulgar) language.
[20:00] <Kotono> Tannin sits on his bed, cleaned up and at ease. Morniel stands and nods, stepping forward. "Please do."
[20:00] <Kotono> Crystal hangs back a bit near Afina, listening as well.
[20:05] <Kotono> "Let's get to it, then." Clearing his throat and stroking his heavy gray beard, "When you're admitted to the Hall of Triumph, you'll see dozens of thrones to either side of the main walkway. Ignore them. Those are the thrones of the lesser nobles. Looking at them instead of His Majesty's throne is a grave insult to the honor of the crown. Instead, walk ahead and keep your eyes on His Majesty.
[20:05] <Kotono> Once you are past all the lesser thrones, you will come to a gold inlaid sunburst-patern. In the center of it bow slightly to His Majesty. Do not kneel - it is improper for those who are not his subjects to do so. As Ambassadors, it is your right and responsibility not to humble yourselves to him. Thereafter, remain silent until His Majesty addresses you. Should another address you, ignore them
[20:05] <Kotono> unless His Majesty gives you leave to respond."
[20:07] <Jaela> "Why is it called the Hall of Triumph?" Jaela wonders out loud.
[20:07] * Afina nods, most of it straightforward enough and familiar. Except for the kneeling. Ilsenine would probably have an ambassador quietly killed for neglecting to do that.
[20:09] <Kotono> With a momentarily bemused look, "Flintheart IV so named it after the defeat and dissolution of the Argregian Dukedom in the Three Seasons War, to celebrate the great victory."
[20:10] <Jaela> So it doesn't sound like anything to do with the recent war. Jaela nods. "Alright. On to the address, then. Do we make our proposal when granted leave to speak, or will His Majesty make it and have us affirm it?"
[20:11] <Kotono> "Follow His Majesty's lead at all times." Yulan continues, "If there is doubt, answer to the letter of what was asked and allow His Majesty to guide the conversation onward."
[20:12] <Kotono> Morniel speaks up, "What language is favored at the court for these proceedings?"
[20:12] <Kotono> "Dwarven if spoken if possible. For foreign diplomats, Common is allowed. Are there any other questions?" Yulan looks about to everyone.
[20:13] <Jaela> "Common sounds better," Jaela muses, glancing at Morniel. "We take a slight hit, but avoid misunderstandings that way."
[20:13] * Afina shakes her head. She'll just have to be there, really. Others will handle the talking.
[20:14] <Kotono> "It's for the best,"  Morniel nods his assent, "Unless all of us can speak dwarven?" He takes a moment to let that question hang.
[20:15] <Kotono> Tannin shakes his head, while Crystal replies, "I don't."
[20:15] <Jaela> "And just one more question," Jaela then tells Yulan. "Armor, arms, magic. Given our nature we have our share of those on us. How is it viewed?"
[20:15] * Afina shakes her head as well.
[20:16] <Kotono> "Of course armor and weapons are allowed!" The dwarf huffs, "It would be scandalous to send you out there naked and helpless! Only a prisoner deserves that fate! Worry not of magic - there are blessings in place that negate them within the Hall of Triumph."
[20:17] * Jaela grins. The dwarves here really do sound like her kind of people. "I think we're good, then."
[20:20] <Kotono> "You'll be summoned within three hours," Yulan replies, "A servant will check in on the half hour, to see if you require anything. If any more questions come to you, request that they call me and I will come." At that he turns and leaves.
[20:20] * Afina retrieves Hywelbane from Jaela and replaces it in its habitual spots behind her back, but is otherwise good for waiting.
[20:22] <Kotono> It is just about three hours. It passes in idle conversation and waiting. When at last Yulan returns, "It's time," he announces.
[20:24] <Jaela> "Lead the way. We're ready," Jaela responds.
[20:24] * Afina rises, intending to follow behind Jaela throughout.
[20:27] <Kotono> Your party is lead through the halls. The stonework is exquisite - one needs not be a dwarf to see that. Statues that are as real and detailed as living beings. Carved frescos and murals that are detailed down to the finest grain of stone, colored so vividly as to seem ready to leap from the mural and into reality. Pillars decorated with many things - great worms that twist around them, dwarves
[20:27] <Kotono> of all type at work, great hulking things with oversized arms, small lizards with stone-electricity around them, manta-ray like things with a mouth full of fangs.  But all of these are wonders only glimpsed in passing. Soon enough you come to massive double doors, reaching to the ceiling. The doors are covered in...something. Something you can't make out.
[20:29] * Afina barely squints at the doors, wondering if it's a trick of the light. Or perhaps powerful defensive magic so thick it can almost be seen?
[20:31] * Jaela pauses before the doors. They will be opened and admit her and the others, and then it would be negotiating time.
[20:36] <Kotono> Looking closer, Afina can make out writing. Incredibly tiny writing, swimming and shifting before her. Yulan speaks quietly, "On these doors are written the entire history of our nation and of the dwarvers." As he speaks he goes to the doors, pushing them open! For a moment you are blinded by light, until you see a path ahead, white stone amid a sea of gray stone. Far ahead you see a grand
[20:36] <Kotono> throne, two dozen feet tall and gleaming. A throne crafted of what looks to be pure platinum, studded with huge, richly blue gemstones. In this massive throne sits Rihel the Third. He wears armor of platinum and studded with blue gems, matching the throne. Despite the huge size of it, he seems to fill it perfectly, yet at the same time he is no bigger than before. To the sides one can glimpse
[20:36] <Kotono> dozens of thrones, these merely made of gold and otherwise unadorned.
[20:37] <Afina> Eyes fixed forward, Afina walks onwards with a serene and strange grace, her steps carefully measured for the slow pace that keeps her with the others.
[20:38] <Jaela> Simple enough, so far! Jaela strides ahead, not to fast that she looks arrogant, but clearly independant as an ambassador is seen in these parts. The thrones to the sides, or anything at all to the sides, for that matter, is ignored entirely in favor of the monarch. She approaches, all the way to the sunburst pattern, and then offers that proper bow to him, much as instructed.
[20:39] * Afina bows after reaching the sunburst a step behind Jaela.
[20:44] <Kotono> Morniel follows, steps stately and gazed fixed ahead. Crystal in at Afina's side, flying along with her. Tannin follows as well, eyes flashing blue as he follows on. On stepping in, there is a momentary jolt. A feeling of being disconnected, the magic that so readily comes to all of you fading away. Despite this the others follow, bowing with the others.
[20:47] <Jaela> It's a good thing they were told about the effect, or Jaela wouldn't be able to keep a straight face as it took place. She focuses on what comes after, instead. She bowed, and felt more than saw others do the same by her side. In that case, they are to wait for the monarch to address them before they can speak.
[20:47] <Afina> Somewhat concerning, but Afina's most reliable spell of all remains ever at her call.
[20:53] <Kotono> As the five all present themselves, His Majesty speaks. "Travelers from realms fair beyond this one, you have come to my court. I welcome you with the hospitality of our forefathers and ask of you to speak of your divinely granted mission."
[21:04] <Jaela> It wasn't directly given them by a deity, but it does have ample divine sanction so after mulling over it for a split second Jaela decides to go with it. "Your Majesty," she responds, starting with the safe and neutral term. "Before we speak of our mission, let me show my appreciation to you and to this court for the hospitality we were met with." She offers another bow, silently beating down the desire to peer sideways and see the gathered nobles. It disappears, and she proceeds. "We come in peace. The request that we wish the court to entertain is the continuation and conservation of that peace for future generations. We believe there is a time for war. There comes a time, however, when the war is lost. It is at that point that any resistance is futile, and only winds up causing harm to all involved." They are intimately familiar with that situation, Jaela can't help but think. "Therefore, it is our belief that we might hold a solution for the war prisoners held at your pleasure, Majesty. We offer to take them off this world and ensure that they do not attempt to reignite the conflict that had been finally settled, and offer what compensation would be required to prove our sincerity in doing so."
[21:07] <Kotono> The murmurs of the assembled nobles whisper at your ears, soft little thing sthat can't easily be made out. This lasts for only a few moments before His Majesty speaks again, "Such is an offer not to be taken lightly, and is it understood that a ransom or service is requisite in this situation. Further, there must be an agreement that they will not be returned to this world to trouble us again."
[21:11] <Jaela> "The offer is not made lightly or often, but we consider its execution to be a matter of honor," Jaela responds, studiously ignoring the whispers. "Any agreement made here by us will be binding, and will be upheld, Majesty," she promises. "Ransom, too, is customary in such matters, and may easily be made a service to the throne. We came prepared to negotiate for either."
[21:18] <Kotono> "I accept your words that it will be made and be binding," His Majesty continues on, "Have you come with an offer divinely inspired for service?"
[21:24] <Jaela> Oh, that sneaky dwarf! "There is a barrier deep within your mines, is it not, Majesty?" Jaela asks, playing along. "No doubt, given time whatever might be behind it will be revealed. We could, however, determine what lies past it. If it is riches, then they will be given to their rightful owner. If an enemy, sealed long ago, then it would be dealt with."
[21:27] <Kotono> There is a moment more of murmuring, before His Majesty cuts it all off by clearing his throat. "This mystery has long been distracting many of our finest and brightest. To resolve it is a fair exchange. Go forth and do so. Yulan will make the arraingements."
[21:27] <Jaela> "It will be done, Majesty."
[21:28] <Kotono> "May all the forges and hammers of Moradin guide you," His Majesty intones, "Go now."
[21:30] <Afina> With dismissal granted, Afina bows again before she rises and waits for Jaela to take the lead so she can follow in the same manner as they arrived.
[21:30] <Kotono> Morniel bows slightly and turns to go. Crystal and Tannin follow suit.
[21:31] <Jaela> They are dismissed, and so with a final bow at the monarch Jaela heads out of the chamber. She isn't sure whether she can actually look at the nobles on the way out, but better safe than sorry.
[21:31] <Kotono> Once outside Yulan awaits, "Transportation to the deepest mines has already been prepared," he says, "Going down is swift and should take no more than the rest of the day."
[21:32] <Jaela> "I understand. Can you tell us what's been tried already, so we don't waste time on that?"
[21:33] <Kotono> "Every spell up to the seventh circle that our mages could come up with, and to the divine circles of the 7th as well," Yulan replies, "We simply can't seem to pierce the barrier or understand it."
[21:35] <Jaela> "Teleporting past it simply failed?"
[21:35] <Kotono> "Yes," Is the answer you get.
[21:35] * Jaela purses her lips. "Alright, let's go and take a look."
[21:35] <Kotono> As you walk downstairs and out of the palace, "The way down may be taxing for those who do not possess the stern make up of a dwarf," He goes on, "Make sure to have long hair or anything loose well secured on your person."
[21:36] <Afina> If her hat can stay on at the speeds she habitually moves at, Afina is confident it will stay on for this.
[21:36] <Kotono> "How exactly are we going down?" Crystal asks in return, frowning and reaching up to her hair. "That sounds more dangerous than I anticipated."
[21:37] * Jaela looks somewhat incredulous at those words, before pulling her gathered hair over her shoulder, taking it out of its ponytail and starting to braid it. That's a fun task that should take ages, but it sounds like they have the time to spare.
[21:39] <Kotono> "Ah, the slide holes," Yulan nods as he contines on, "Downward travel is focused on speed, and the slide holes allow non-fragile items and dwarves to travel down long, sloped, slippery tunnels. It's like a child sliding down a snowy hill. I've heard humans complain that it's rather nauseating, but it's good fun and swift travel for our kin."
[21:40] <Jaela> "We will slide. For hours?"
[21:42] <Kotono> "Oh yes. Up and down, down great tubes and picking up considerable speed. There are occasional way points and stations. You'll stop briefly at those but always continue downward. Lowest Depths is the final station and where you're going." He pauses, "I'm told you go as fast as a horse gallops, often sliding wildly down the tunnels, often spinning about."
[21:42] <Kotono> Tannin grins, "That sounds amazing!" he enthuses, "How the hell did you design that without people hurting themselves?"
[21:44] <Kotono> "We are masters of stonework." Sniffing as you head down the streets of Glitterrock, "Come now ,we're not far from the station."
[21:44] <Jaela> So if she keeps her braided hair inside her full plate, and sliders on her stomach to protect her wings... might be possible. Jaela decides to go with that and rely on Stone Body if a turn looks dangerous.
[21:45] <Afina> Removing Hywelbane lest it catch in the stonework and be left behind, Afina wordlessly hands it to Jaela for safe storage.
[21:46] <Kotono> Amid stares from the common folk, the party reaches the station. It is a small, single story stone structure. Within you find three holes in the ground, surrounded mostly by silk rope, save for a segment in the front.  A sign past each one can be seen. As Afina does that, the other three look to each other, Morniel asks, "Can you hold our wepaons as well, Jaela?"
[21:46] <Kotono> "Take the center one, and keep going down. There will be someone waiting for you at the Lowest Depths." Yulan replies, "Good traveling."
[21:48] <Afina> "I'll take the lead," Afina volunteers, most used to high speeds, she sits herself on the edge and folds her wings in over her body, crossing her arms over her chest and crossing her legs at the ankles before she lets herself drop!
[21:52] <Jaela> Waiting a moment to let Afina gain some distance, Jaela ensures that all their weapons are properly stored away and follows!
[21:55] <Kotono> Tannin is right after her, kneeling and positioning carefully ,before slipping right in! Crystal is next, mimicking Afina and murmuring a few words of prayer to the Court of Stars. Morniel takes the rear, shaking his head with a wry smile before tucking his wings in and following! Immediately you slip down the smooth stone, all earth tones and offering no resistance at all. It's a circular
[21:55] <Kotono> tunnel, picking up speed as you slide down! Fast and faster, the light coming from occasional glowing point son the wall! Within ten seconds you're going as fast as a horse, sliding down fast, yet creating no friction to slow you or burn you.
[21:56] * Afina closes her eyes and just relaxes. It's going to be a long trip, after all.
[21:57] <Jaela> Nausea? Jaela finds it surprisingly fun, despite the facade she put earlier. And there is hours of it ahead!
[21:58] <Kotono> Woosh! Soon enough you come to turns and twists - looping up and spinning, along th eroof as you pick up yet more speed! On and on and on you go, racing down until...a moment of freefall and then WHAM. The impact of a racing object into solid stone should be hilariously painful. And yet it doesn't hurt at all. Each of the party comes zooming out of the tunnel and lands hard, yet impacting the
[21:58] <Kotono> stone causes no damage at all. It's simply stopping.
[22:00] * Afina quickly moves so as not to be flattened by those behind her, before looking around. One of the way stations mentioned?
[22:00] * Jaela picks herself off the ground and takes a look about as well.
[22:01] <Kotono> There's another hole a little away, the same as the ones above. There's also a few stairs leading up to a platform. At the far end of the platform is a pathway rising up a little further and out of sight. Sitting on those stairs is a pair of dwarves, wearing chainmail. They glance over, before doing a double-take.
[22:01] * Jaela salutes them, before glancing at the hole leading further down. "Same as before?" she asks Afina.
[22:02] <Afina> "Hello," Afina greets rather than ignoring them as she head towards the hole. "We're on our way down to the deepest mines," she explains for their likely curiousity, positioning herself over the hole before she lets herself go!
[22:09] <Kotono> Tannin springs up, nodding to them as he follows! Crystal is a little slower, taking to the air and wobbling about. She loops about as if drunk. Morniel smiles and takes a hold of her, holding her steady. With that help the two follow as wlel! Hours of this follow - fast sliding, followed by the momentary break of the waystations. By the third time, Crystal simply clings to Morniel, held close
[22:09] <Kotono> the next time they go down. Eventually, it does end. You faceplant again, but the party sees no other hole. It's quiet here, the same as the other stations. A single dwarf awaits. An ancient one, back unstooped and yet his long hair and beard are snow white. He wears a breastplate and greaves, nodding once, "This is the Lowest Depths."
[22:11] <Jaela> "Hello," Jaela greets him, picking herself up from the ground as she has become accustomed to, and finally freeing her hair from its confinement. "You don't seem surprised to see us, unlike the rest we came across."
[22:11] <Afina> "Greetings," Afina nods to him, unruffled by the journey, although her feet have gone to sleep her wings are happy enough to take her aloft quickly. "I am Afina, this is Jaela, Tannin, Morniel, and Crystal," she provides the necessary introductions.
[22:12] <Kotono> "I was sent word from above," Answering this he comes forward, offering his hadn out, "Tinstom. Are you ready to go to the barrier right away, or would you like to rest first?"
[22:12] * Afina is fine but will wait on the others giving word.
[22:12] <Kotono> Tannin springs back up, stretching out some kinks and adjusting his hood. His eyes flash pure white. Meanwhile Morniel rises, still holding a decidedly dazed looking Crystal. She perches on his shoulder, holding onto his neck as she shakes her head.
[22:13] <Kotono> "I'm ready to go," Tannin adds. Morniel nods, "We can begin whenever, assuming my companions feel the same."
[22:13] <Jaela> She's fine, but-- Jaela glances at the Crystal. "How about some refreshments? Do you have anything to drink around here?"
[22:15] * Afina shakes Tinstom's hand. "The journey required little effort, but it has been a while since I had a drink," she agrees.
[22:17] <Kotono> "Of course we do." Tinstrom's grip is like iron, despite his hand being swollen and gnarled. With that, the party is lead on. Past this is a large, empty cave. A few buildings are about in the opening, before the cave narrows ahead. A few sources of light shine, but it's otherwise serene. You're lead into a tavern - an abandoned one, sized to dwarves. Everything is stonework here, sturdy and
[22:17] <Kotono> well made. Going behind a granite bar, a huge shelf of bottles behind him and built into the wall, "What would you like?"
[22:17] <Jaela> "How about something local?"
[22:18] <Afina> Dwarf size isn't that far off of pixie size, so Afina finds it rather comforting.
[22:21] <Kotono> "Same," Tannin instructs, Morniel shaking his head. Meanwhile Crystal has recovered enough to sit on her own, "No thanks," she says, her face falling to rest against the bar.
[22:22] * Jaela passes by Crystal on her way to the bar, and places a hand on her shoulder. That contact is all it takes to convey a Heal spell to the pixie.
[22:23] <Afina> "I'll just have water, please," Afina demurs, recalling her last experience with dwarven booze.
[22:23] <Kotono> Two dwarf sized mugs are produced, a bottle opened and the mugs filled. Tannin gets one, as does Jaela. "Drink up," he says, raising the bottle. Meanwhile Crystal sits up, "Thanks," she murmurs.
[22:23] * Jaela gives her a smile before trying the local brew!
[22:25] <Kotono> Jaela takes a drink! It's...water. Cold, clean water with a pleasant aftertaste. Wonderfully good water, but just water. With a grin and using the same bottle, the dwarf fills a third mug and slides it over to Afina. "There's an underground lake nearby. Purest water anyone's ever found underground."
[22:26] * Jaela snorts, and finishes the water in her mug.
[22:27] * Afina gladly drinks and refreshes herself. "Think there's a connection with that and the mystery down here?"
[22:29] <Kotono> "There might be. This water doesn't ferment - you can add booze to it and it'll dilute it down quickly. You can't even make potions out of this water." Pouring himself a mug and drinking, "It's a running theory. Some think what's behind the barrier has something to do with it. It might be some source of purity that's leaking...or perhaps it's something so vile all the impurities nearby are sucked
[22:29] <Kotono> out and to that instead."
[22:31] <Jaela> "Don't suppose there is some sort of legend about what came before your civilization?"
[22:34] <Kotono> "In the beginning, Moradin made the dwarves. He told them to be fruitful and multiply, and to search all the ground for his treasures." Shaking his head, "According to the priests, we were the first ones underground."
[22:34] <Kotono> "Mmmm." Morniel murmurs thoughtfully, "It may not predate you, but it may be that someone beat you down this deep," he observes, "If this barrier is resisting magic so stoutly, it may be that it's the work of a single isolated incident in any case, or something more primal."
[22:35] <Jaela> "If it's someone isolated, my money's on a dragon."
[22:36] <Afina> "I hope not," Afina replies, knowing violence can only result from encountering a dragon. "But better to have a look for ourselves and see."
[22:38] <Jaela> "This is a good point," Jaela muses. "What happens if it is someone sentient, but they're not immediately hostile to the local residents? We take a look around and leave?"
[22:40] <Afina> "As the King said, if it's a boon it is to be left to the dwarves, if it's a bane we're to eliminate it," Afina replies, it being as simple as that for her.
[22:42] <Kotono> "Well, let's get to it then," Tannin says, "We all ready?"
[22:42] <Jaela> "I'm for it."
[22:44] <Afina> Putting her empty water mug down, Afina takes flight. "Thanks for the water, Tinstom."

[Corwin]

[19:51] <Ko> With that, Tinstom  lads the party out and past the settlement. The path is generally a downward one, lit only by a few words of arcane power from the dwarf. Light clusters around his head, shedding lumenence to the path ahead. You pass various passages, empty places with minecarts and mining supplies neatly stacked. Deeper yet, coming down a long slope. Eventually you come to a larger chamber.
[19:51] <Ko> It's just a small ribbon of earth clinging to the wall, connecting two passages. But taking up the vast majority of the cavern is a huge lake. Its dark waters are still and impenetrable to your eyes, Tinstom looking to it as you pass. "That's the lake," he says.
[19:52] <Jaela> Detect Magic might be able to shed some light on their circumstances, and Jaela casts it before looking about.
[19:55] <Afina> "Has the lake been fully explored?" Afina asks in case it offers a backdoor to the barrier.
[19:55] <Ko> Jaela detects no magic beyond what is on her companions. "Detect Dweomers, was it?" Tinstom says, "The lake doesn't show any sign of magic." To Afina's question he nods, "A few times. It's deep but there isn't anything of interest that was found, last I heard."
[19:56] <Jaela> "Where's the barrier, compared to us now?"
[19:56] * Afina nods. It may be worth having a look at if the barrier stymies all their efforts, but not a first resort.
[19:58] <Ko> "A ways ahead and down," Tinstom's reply causes him to slow his steps a moment, "There's no direct physical connection to the barrier as far as we can tell, and it faces the wrong direction to head towards the lake. The opposite direction, as a matter of fact."
[19:59] * Jaela nods at him herself. "Huh. Did you try digging all around the barrier to see how wide it goes?"
[20:00] <Ko> Morniel goes to the lake's edge in the meanwhile, kneeling and scooping up a bit of the water. He tastes it before drying his hands off with a bit of cloth, "For that matter, have you tried tunneling in the direrction of the barrier from the lake?"
[20:01] <Ko> "Afraid not, ma'am," The dwarf shakes her head, "The local rock shows signs of not being able to support an extremely long dig-around. It extends to at least 100 feet to any direction. Had a big old argument about it a few years back, ended up ruling that out in favor of finding a way to breech the barrier. Thought is that if it's something valuable, don't want to risk it getting buried. "
[20:02] <Ko> "And," Going on, "This is pure theory here, but if I were making an impossible barrier, I'd make it in a sphere or square so that you can't just dig 'round in it in the first place. Any dwarf worth his stones would do that."
[20:02] <Jaela> "Makes sense, too," Jaela agrees. She follows Morniel's actions, but ends up scooping some of the water into a small container. If Morniel wanted to see how the water interacted with the barrier, they can certainly try that.
[20:03] <Jaela> "And yeah, I was just wondering how large it was."
[20:04] <Ko> "It does make sense," Tannin says, "If you're going to sneak around something, you go over or under or around it. Unless that's impossible, you have something that's vulnerable to being bypassed." Scratching at his chin a moment, "It's usually a good sign that the defender has a good mind on him if he does that."
[20:06] <Ko> Morniel rises, "Good mind or not, no barrier is undefeatable with the right angle of attack. Let's get to this barrier and find out what the angle needed is."
[20:09] * Jaela gestures for Tinstom to lead on.
[20:10] <Ko> From there, the party is lead along. The passages are largely the same, traveling on and away from the lake. Eventually you come  to an end. An abrupt end. Instead of more hall, you can see purple-black. A barrier of purple black energy, or perhaps force. It shimmers to your light, revealing nothing beyond it. It's about 20 foot and bulging forward. "Here we are," Tinstom announces, going forward
[20:10] <Ko> to tap the barrier. Nothing happens, "It's not dangerous to touch, near as any of us can tell. You can feel it yourselves if you want, but it feels like solid metal or stone - hard."
[20:11] * Jaela takes the invitation, coming to knock upon the purple plane of energy.
[20:11] <Ko> No sound from the knocking, not at all. It's hard, like worked steel or heavy stone.
[20:12] <Ko> Jaela can see magic around the barrier.
[20:12] <Jaela> "Let's get started," Jaela muses, starting to cast.
[20:13] <Jaela> roll 1d20+25+15 spellcraft
[20:13] * Hatbot --> "Jaela rolls 1d20+25+15 spellcraft and gets 46." [1d20=6]
[20:14] <Afina> Casting greater heroism and detect magic, Afina has a look as well!
[20:14] <Afina> roll 1d20+30
[20:14] * Hatbot --> "Afina rolls 1d20+30 and gets 42." [1d20=12]
[20:19] <Afina> "It's password coded," Afina states after a moment. "Have any divinations been tried previously to discern what?"
[20:19] <Jaela> "So it wants to open, but we need to figure out how to make it do that?" Jaela voices, glancing at Afina for confirmation. "How about trying the water first and seeing for any shifts in the magic?"
[20:20] * Afina has no objection.
[20:20] * Jaela carefully pours some of the water from the lake she had taken with her for just such a purpose on a section of the barrier directly ahead of them.
[20:21] <Ko> "It needs a password? Better than we ever made sense of it," Tinstom admits as the water is poured on it! Nothing happens, magically or otherwise.
[20:25] <Afina> "To find a password we need better context," Afina looks around, but sadly not seeing any evidence of the peoples that placed this that could clue her into their mores. "Or 27 could just guess it."
[20:25] <Jaela> "27 does that," Jaela agrees. "Got one from him?"
[20:25] <Ko> "27?" Tannin turns his attention to Afina, "What did 27 do now?"
[20:25] <Afina> "Wait... perhaps he already has," the fairy smiles after a moment's thought. Placing her hand on the barrier, she states clearly, "Everlasting Mercy."
[20:29] <Ko> "W-" Crystal begins, but is cut off! As the words are spoken, the barrier shimmers a translucent white before fading! The wall retreats in all directions, lights springing up ahead! A path polished golden stones and gray fieldstone is ahead, going on for perhaps 100ft or so. At the end you see about a dozen stairs up. Atop it is an arch of silver, large enough for someone like Willim to get
[20:29] <Ko> through. It shines a metallic gray within, swirling into a center point dead in the middle.
[20:30] <Ko> "Moradin's beard!" Tinstom gapes, "You did it, just like that!" He stares, "T-truly, the heavens are mighty, to defeat the barrier that quickly!"
[20:30] <Jaela> "Seems like we're allowed entrance," Jaela says with a grin, stepping upon that path of polished gold and proceeding towards the arc.
[20:30] <Ko> "Or insane beasts," Crystal murmurs, checking her equipment briefly. "What's that ahead?"
[20:31] <Afina> "Yes, the heavens," Afina agrees dryly. "It looks pleasant so far, but lets make sure it's not dangerous before we report back," she states, fluttering up the stairs.
[20:32] <Ko> Right ahead of the party is the arch. It swirls metallic gray, a gentle spin towards the center, eternal. It ripples as you come close, the air around it making tiny little eddies. "A portal" Tannin half asks and half states, cocking his head to the side. His eyes flash the same metallic gray as the portal, "Can anyone divine where it goes?"
[20:33] <Ko> Tinstom follows with wide eyes, looking about and following.
[20:33] <Jaela> "Not the sort of magic I use," Jaela admits. "I could call someone and ask them to take a look for us, but it seems best to just step past it."
[20:33] <Jaela> roll 1d20+25+15
[20:33] * Hatbot --> "Jaela rolls 1d20+25+15 and gets 46." [1d20=6]
[20:37] <Afina> "Going through makes the most sense," Afina agrees, fluttering on through the arch.
[20:38] <Jaela> Bolstered by Fortunate Fate, Jaela is just a step behind.
[20:40] <Ko> Tannin follows, as does Crystal. Morniel hesitates a moment as the others vanish, but what he says next is lost as Jaela steps through the portal. For a moment there is a sense of heaviness, of earth and stone entombing you deep in the cool bowels of the earth...! And then, light. There's plenty of light here. You stand in a cavern, 10ft wide and 10ft tall. A passage continues ahead, coming to
[20:40] <Ko> stairs leading up and what looks to be up through a hole. Brighter light comes from that hole. Behind you, you see nothing - save for Morniel appearing a moment later out of thin air.
[20:40] <Jaela> "What was it?" Jaela asks Morniel. "Sorry, didn't catch it."
[20:42] <Jaela> roll 1d20+22
[20:42] <Ko> "Nothing important," he says, "Ensuring that knowledge of this comes out even if something unfortunate happens to us."
[20:42] * Hatbot --> "Jaela rolls 1d20+22 and gets 32." [1d20=10]
[20:42] <Jaela> "It would need to be pretty damn unfortunate," Jaela mutters. "Duke of Hell unfortunate."
[20:43] <Ko> "Pride comes before the fall," Morniel retorts as he begins to walk along.
[20:44] <Ko> Tannin snorts himself, but doesn't add into that particular conversation.
[20:44] <Afina> "Only one way to go is up, anyway," Afina comments, advancing onwards.
[20:44] <Jaela> "It's not pride," Jaela responds, walking alongside Morniel. "I've got planar travel, and I'm not alone. So do you and Tannin, yeah? So we can run away unless it's someone hardcore enough to wipe us in a flash."
[20:45] <Ko> Crystal flutters ahead in the air, "No matter what, we won't find anything out staying here," she agrees, flying up with Afina. Meanwhile Morniel shakes his head, "Assuming we aren't already in the lair of a powerful creature, one that may very well be dimensionally sealed, based on the power of the barrier surrounding this portal. One that may indeed be powerful and dangerous."
[20:46] <Jaela> "Password was everlasting mercy," Jaela says with a shrug, following the pixies out. "You got to take some things on faith, I figure."
[20:47] <Ko> Up the stairs and out the hole the party goes! THe sky above you is clear and purple. A purple that is beautifully intense to look at, a purple to define purples. Around you are rolling hills - one supposes, anyway. You only get a glance. 20ft away from the hole, in each of the cardinal directions, is a stone statue. A huge statue of a dwarf with its fists balled up, each one facing the hole.
[20:50] <Afina> "I feel like this is something the dwarves should be exploring for themselves," Afina comments, "Like it was made for them, not for us."
[20:50] * Jaela nods. "Judging from the statues, I'd have to say yeah. Want to try going back and telling them?"
[20:51] <Ko> "You may be correct," Morniel says, "If this is meant for the dwarves, it's not our place to overcome their own trials to this degree."
[20:52] <Afina> "If it was something hazardous to their kingdom it would have appeared by now. Lets return?"
[20:52] <Jaela> "On three, then," Jaela speaks up, preparing to take them to the Aurora's courtyard for a midway plane shift. "One, two--" And unless someone interrupts her, she invokes her magic.
[20:54] <Ko> Jaela chants her magic! ...and nothing happens. Morniel looks about and visibly suppresses a sign, "Tyr's maimed hand," he murmurs.
[20:55] <Afina> "We can go back the way we came?" Afina suggests, doubling back now.
[20:56] <Ko> On going back down, the party returns...to the empty space where they appeared. No sign of another portal leading back.
[20:57] <Jaela> "Huh."
[20:57] * Afina shakes her head wearily. "If that's how it is to be, lets complete whatever challenges were meant for the dwarves."
[20:58] <Ko> "We have little choice," Crystal agrees, flying back out.
[20:58] <Jaela> "A sec, then." Jaela wards herself against the elements, and then boosts her speed. It only takes a few seconds, all in all, and then she heads out once more.
[20:59] <Ko> Heading back out, the party sees the same things as before. With more time to look about you can see that the rolling hills stretch in all directions. No immediate sign of any particular way to go.
[21:00] <Afina> "I'll fly up to better see our surroundings," Afina offers, before ascending upwards.
[21:00] <Jaela> Since they're sticking around, Jaela looks about for any signs of magic.
[21:00] <Jaela> roll 1d20+25
[21:00] * Hatbot --> "Jaela rolls 1d20+25 and gets 34." [1d20=9]
[21:02] <Jaela> "No need to worry about the challenge preserving for the dwarves, at least, from how it seems," Jaela muses.
[21:43] <Ko> Flying up, Afina gets a better look. The rolling hills go on a ways, but far ahead? You can see a valley with many more statues like the four below you, surrounding a rather simple stone cottage.
[21:45] <Afina> Back down Afina goes! "That way," she points, "There's more statues and a house."
[21:46] <Jaela> With a goal in mind, Jaela nods at Afina and starts heading towards the house.
[21:54] <Ko> roll 1d100
[21:54] * Hatbot --> "Ko rolls 1d100 and gets 57." [1d100=57]
[21:56] <Ko> It's a trip of a few hours across the hills. It's an unremarkable trip until you come to the cottage. It's plain-wrought and quiet, uninteresting on the outside.
[21:59] <Jaela> "Huh." Jaela approaches the cottage and knocks on the door, first thing. "Hello? Anyone there?"
[22:03] <Ko> "Eh?" The voice is strangely inhuman, emotionless. It comes from within the cottage. It only takes a moment for the door to be opened! Ahead of you is a dwarf...sort of. The body except for the chest and head is that of a dwarf, but made of what looks to be stone. The chest is flesh, throbbing every few seconds with heartbeat. The head is not a head, but a glass jar. The jar is full of clear
[22:03] <Ko> fluid, a brain floating within. The voice comes from the jar, despite there being no sign of a mouth. "Well, this is a surprise. I was expecting dwarves and a lot of noise."
[22:03] <Ko> Morniel stops and clears his throat, "Good day," he greets without missing a step.
[22:04] <Jaela> "Yeah, sorry." Jaela rubs the back of her head in embarrassment. "I'm usually lots louder. Jaela." She offers her free hand to their host. "Nice to meet'cha!"
[22:04] * Afina cocks her head and looks at the... thing. Probably not an avenue she wants to pursue with her golem research, all told. "We opened the barrier on behalf of the dwarves as part of a bargain, although after confirming it wasn't dangerous we didn't intend much more than that."
[22:06] <Ko> "Mad Miller," He takes Jaela's hand and shakes it, metal warm like flesh. "How'd you get here? Oh!" Nodding a bit, "Dammit all, figures. Instead of toughening up and manning up, they get someone else to do it!" Sighing deeply, "Dwarves these days are barely any better than babies crying for Mommy's teat. Come in, come in." He steps aside, "Welcome to the demiplane of Xin."
[22:07] <Afina> "Was this meant to be a test of merit for them?" Afina asks, fluttering inside at the invitation.
[22:07] <Jaela> "Happens," Jaela accepts, all too happy to accept the invitation.
[22:07] <Jaela> *agrees
[22:08] <Ko> Crystal matches Afina's look, holding her tongue. Tannin meanwhile follows inside, as you get your reply. "Close enough. I figure whomever is a good enough wizard to tear down the barrier or find the old password would be good enough to tear up those golems out there and around here. Once he did that, I'd finally have an apprentence worth an agate."
[22:08] <Jaela> roll 1d20+18+15 do I know XIN?
[22:08] * Hatbot --> "Jaela rolls 1d20+18+15 do I know XIN? and gets 39." [1d20=6]
[22:08] <Ko> Within is a simple, clean cottage. Nothing at all unusual - bed, fire, bookshelf, dresser, bearskin rugs. It's entirely rustic.
[22:08] <Afina> "And you've been waiting how long for that?" Afina asks cautiously.
[22:09] <Jaela> "Speaking of, and no offense and all, but apprentice for what? Making stone golems?"
[22:09] <Ko> Shrugging, "Let's see," Pausing a moment, "Carry the 3, add in the time for the wars..." Trailing off quietly, "About 20,000 years or so? Give or take a few lifetimes?"
[22:11] <Afina> "It must be nice to be easily entertained," Afina opines... not really sure if she's serious or not, and it shows in how her tone grows faintly confused at the end.
[22:11] <Ko> "Oh sure, golem making is part of it. Someone who will appreciate an eternal body." Gesturing, "Make yourselves comfortable." After a moment several stone chairs appear, rising out of the floor and forming. "Got tired of getting old, so I figured out how to combine flesh and golems. The problem is, you can only do the art once on yourself."
[22:12] <Afina> "It's much better than becoming undead," Afina agrees, "But... do we have to see your brain?"
[22:12] <Jaela> "Huh." She's been saying it a lot that day, Jaela muses. "Yeah, I figure it's an easy illusion to hide it, right?"
[22:13] <Ko> "You pass the time. Magical theory's always good," Mad Miller replies, "Well, young pixie," With a note of distinct annoyance and offense in his voice, "I'll have you know I have a beautiful brain. Look at it, 20,000 years of magical research has gone into toning those folds and gray matter!"
[22:14] * Jaela grins. "So did we ever tell you what we did? We're on a Crusade to fight devils. In it to free our world, but why stop there? All sorts of strange and crazy powerful people are there with us."
[22:14] <Afina> "It's certainly impressive," Afina freely admits. "Most would have gone mad or forgotten a huge amount. But a face is nicer to look at... most of the time."
[22:16] <Ko> "Of course it is, and besides. I added some metal to inside of my brain. It's actually just a vessel for my spirit now, anyway. So it doesn't forget or weaken with time." Gesturing about, "Sounds better than the dwarves have been lately. What sort of crazy and powerful people?"
[22:16] <Jaela> "We have a prismatic dragon."
[22:18] <Afina> "We have some interesting golems, too, made by Medi - I don't know if you've heard of him, he might be before your time," Afina offers. "I'm trying to learn how to make golems myself to aid in the Crusade."
[22:18] <Ko> "Insane badger slaadi, a prismatic dragon, ancient vampires, a fey queen, celestial diplomats, ancient artifacts," Listing off things, "Now that I think about it, Aurora's good at attracting odd folk, isn't it?"
[22:19] <Jaela> "Those ancient artifacts are people, too!"
[22:19] <Ko> "That does sound interest-Medi!" Grinning, "I read one of his books on golemology! Oh, he's an amazing son of a bitch!" Rubbing his hands together, "A prismatic dragon too!? Artifacts?" Rubbing his hands together, "Do you think anyone there would like to become a half-golem?"
[22:19] <Jaela> "We're all about the diverse heritage, so sure why not?"
[22:20] <Afina> "I don't know, but... we could ask?" Afina looks at the others for help.
[22:22] <Ko> "Well well. Get me someone who's game and I'll bite. Hell, if you can provide lots of high grade iron, stone, brass, stained glass, dragonflesh, flesh or clay I can use that type in particular," Going on from that, "Any volunteers?"
[22:22] <Ko> Morniel clears his throat, "I'm afraid I'll have to pass. I twould be sacreligious of me to desecrate the form Lord Tyr bestowed on me. No offense."
[22:23] <Ko> Crystal shakes her head, "I'm a fey, not a golem."
[22:23] <Ko> Tannin hums, "Y'know, what are the practical effects of it in the first place?" Tannin speaks up.
[22:25] <Ko> "Oh, increased strength, durability and various other factors depending on the type. The downsides are minimal - at worst you'll lose some of your intellect and personality, and at worst you may lose all biological functions, but that just means you'll live forever!" Pausing to look about, "I assure you that the benefits outweigh the costs."
[22:26] <Jaela> "You mentioned 'at worst' twice," Jaela deadpans.
[22:27] <Ko> "I assure you that it's worth it," Going on right from that, "Why ,you'll be even better in combat if you're a warrior! Of course it's not recommended for sorcerers and wizards, but they can jus tlearn it themselves anyway."
[22:28] <Jaela> "Sorry. It might be fun and I've gotten mutilated enough, but my charming personality is something I gotta keep. Lady Angharradh said so. Sorry again." She frowns. "But yeah, I figure if you really want a badass apprentice, you could make a pitch. S'long as you detail all the risks and downsides upfront, I figure you'd find some great guy."
[22:29] <Afina> "Just planning to build them, rather not be one," Afina shakes her head. "Also I'm immortal anyway."
[22:32] <Ko> "Mmmm-mmmm," Pacing back and forth, "Well, it could be worse. The first models had a tendency to become homicidally insane and evil, but I ironed out that flaw. Tell me, do you think anyone in your group would be interested?"
[22:33] <Jaela> "There's this guy who's all about punching shit, so maybe he'll go for it?" And there's Dana, who Jaela hopes won't go for it.
[22:33] <Afina> "We can put the word around and bring any volunteers by, along with preferred materials," Afina suggests. "There might be volunteers from the local dwarves as well?"
[22:34] <Jaela> "Or you could come for a visit," Jaela adds with a shrug. "Whichever you'd like."
[22:40] <Ko> "Mmm, hmm, hmm," Still pacing, "Tell you what, compromise. Find me a fine subject who'll go through it it and I'll agree. Your place sounds like fun."
[22:41] <Jaela> "Well, we know how to get here. But how do we actually go back to the Aurora?" Jaela asks. "This place is dimensionally locked or somesuch."
[22:42] <Afina> "We'll need to tell King Rihel what we've found and see to taking on the elf prisoners first," Afina also puts in so they have their priorities right. He's been waiting a while, a few more days is no drama.
[22:42] <Kotono> "It doesn't connect to any other realm except through the portals, that's why," Explaining that with a wave of his hand, he goes to his dresser. He takes out a little stone key, tossing it to Jaela, "This'll get you and your friends out if you break it."
[22:44] <Jaela> "We'll do that," Jaela responds to Afina, catching the key. "So, to be clear. We can come in again, but if a dwarf tries to they have to fight through the golems?"
[22:44] <Kotono> "That's right. They're keyed to attack dwarves," he replies.
[22:45] <Kotono> Morniel suddenly exhales and smiles a little bit, but says nothing.
[22:45] <Afina> "We'll make sure to let them know," Afina nods gravely.
[22:45] <Jaela> "Thanks." Jaela nods at him. "We've done our part for the King, so let's get back?"
[22:47] <Kotono> Snapping the key causes the party to rush forward. It's the sensation of a few seconds, then you stand before the portal once more. Tinstom stands nearby, immediately coming to attention, "Well, what's in there?" he asks right away.
[22:48] <Jaela> "Perhaps we should tell the details to His Majesty first?" Jaela suggests. "What's past is a harsh trial for your kind, if they're up for it."
[22:49] * Afina imagines how many stairs must be climbed to get to the top of the slide-tunnels...
[22:49] <Kotono> "...I see," He nods, "Will you be needing transport to Gliterrock?"
[22:49] <Jaela> "I can take us there in a flash," Jaela responds, shaking her head. "Want to come along?"
[22:52] <Kotono> "O-of course!" He replies quickly, "I'd sooner give up my magic than miss this!"
[22:54] <Jaela> "Great. Tannin, can you come separate with the tent? We can bring the prisoners back with it instead of returning in groups." Even as she speaks, Jaela thinks at the entrance to Aurora's courtyard and shifts them across. After receiving an answer, she would do it again to take their group back to Glitterrock, a short distance outside the palace.
[22:57] <Kotono> Teleportation and talking take some time, but soon  you are freshened up and before the court once more. His Majesty speaks, "Tell of your efforts below. Have they been triumphant?"
[22:57] <Afina> As before, Afina lets Jaela do the talking!
[22:59] <Jaela> "The barrier is no more, Your Majesty," Jaela respectfully responds. "What lies past it is a gateway to the demiplane of Xin. Should a dwarf set foot on it, they would have no way back. A monumental task would await them, of fighting through enormous golems of rock all the way towards their creator for the privelege of becoming his apprentice in the art of golem-making. Has the situation been resolved to your satisfaction, Majesty?"
[23:01] <Kotono> "Truly!" HIs MAjesty marvels a moment, "Far from the expected weal or woe held within. Very well, you have done what was asked swiftly and with distinguished skill. Come tomorrow the official treaty will be ready for signing, and th eprisoners will be handed over to you."
[23:02] * Jaela bows, feeling elated at finally being close enough to fulfil one promise long overdue.
[23:04] <Kotono> As the rest of the party bows...
[23:07] <Kotono> The next morning brings a grand ceremony at the taken tent of General Galleros.  His Majesty and his court travel down to the tent. Behind them are dozens, dozens and more dozens of female elves, marching together with hands and legs manacled. Approaching the tent where the party awaits just outside, HIs Majesty produces a scroll. "Sign this," he says, "And it will be done."
[23:08] <Afina> Disliking the sight, Afina comforts herself that the manacles will soon be off.
[23:09] * Jaela accepts the scroll into her hands and scans it, before giving Morniel a quick glance. The diplomat would be best able to spot anything untowards in the document, and she waits for his sign.
[23:10] <Kotono> Morniel reads it - slowly, going over each line. At the end he nods, "Everything is as expected. As long as we fulfill our end of it and keep the Graceful Blow warriors away from this world, there will be no problems."
[23:11] <Jaela> "Thank you," Jaela says, and adds her signature to the document.
[23:11] <Afina> Jaela signs for all of them, there is nothing for Afina to do here.
[23:13] <Kotono> Once signed, the dwarven guards step forward, unshackling the elves. Long looks are given by all, but they advance. One in particular, scarlet red hair and a lithe body that wears the old, tattered tunic and pants like royal finery. "I am Mirima, the leader of the disgraced and defeated members of our art." She bows deeply, "Thank you, our uknown saviors."
[23:14] <Afina> "Elrisa, the master of the Graceful Blow fell for our cause," Afina tells them honestly, for the dwarves to hear as well. "For her sacrifice, a debt is owed to all she called sister."
[23:15] <Jaela> "If you want to join our cause like she did, we'll welcome you with open arms," Jaela adds, nodding at Mirima. "But if you want to live a quiet life from now, we will make sure you get the chance."
[23:16] <Kotono> A look of sharp pain crosses Mirima's face, "...that she survived the war and..." she sighs, but looks up without tears. "The dwarves told us of the conditions. We are warriors without a home or a war to fight. We discussed it, and we would be honored for a place to call our own in your army."
[23:18] <Afina> "The Graceful Blow will survive. It is what she would have wanted - come," Afina gestures for the elves to follow her to their mode of conveyance.
[23:18] <Afina> "I am Afina Petalwisp," she also introduces herself so they know what to call her.
[23:18] <Kotono> "Thank you, Afina," Mirima replies as the rest enter in, "Are there any other survivors of the Graceful Blow?"
[23:19] <Jaela> "Misaelae and the rest of Elrisa's students remain with us," Jaela responds, before introducing herself as well however belatedly.
[23:20] <Kotono> "It's been...too long," Mirima says, "They speak that you appeared out of thin air. Can you use this magic to take us to them?"
[23:21] <Afina> "If you come with us to our tent, it will carry all of us to Aurora," Afina reassures them as she goes.
[23:21] <Jaela> Once the released elves are within, Jaela ensures that no dwarves would get caught up in the effect, gives those outside the tent a nod and then calls upon that magic to transfer them all back home.
[23:23] <Kotono> From there, it is a simple shift to Aurora. On coming out the former captives look about, until, "Look!" One calls and points at Elrisa's tower. Several members of the Graceful Blow are outside - and for a moment there is nothing, before shouts and calls erupt out. The two groups rush to each other, teary embraces and even a few kisses exchanged. Tannin watches it with a smile, while Morniel
[23:23] <Kotono> does the same. "A fine effort for us, was it not?"
[23:23] <Jaela> "Worth every moment and then some," Jaela affirms quietly.
[23:25] <Kotono> "Without any doubt in my heart," Crystal murmurs, "My heat is lightened."
[23:25] <Afina> "A shame we won't ever help them retake their own world," Afina admits quietly. "But some things aren't meant to be."
[23:26] <Kotono> "What happened to the elves in their world is tragic for them, but..." Tannin shrugs, "It's a mortal affair. Wars have winners and losers. Not much you can do about that, and the dwarves seemed like decent folk."
[23:26] <Jaela> "Goals shift," Jaela muses. "If they ever want to reclaim their place in it, or the lands they used to hold, there are other ways than fighting to do it."
[23:27] <Kotono> "Perhaps," Crystal's reply is distracted as she watches, "They'll have time to figure out what their new place is."
[23:27] * Afina nods, accepting that. "Lets give them a little while before we worry about their places here. In the meantime, will we see if anyone wants Mad Miller's offer?"