235.2 Alicia in Kelara

[Corwin]

[21:07] <Alicia> "Hello, Dweomerkeeper," Alicia smiles, closing the door behind her before going to seat herself. "It's good to see you, again."
[21:14] <Kotono> "I hear great things about you," With a little teasing smile, "Are they true?"
[21:15] <Alicia> "Oh, so word's already reached this far, has it?" Alicia just shakes her head as she stands up. "Well, I suppose it won't be such a surprise - let me dispel my disguise and you can see for yourself?" And with a word and a sweep of her hand, the transmutation is undone, restoring Alicia to her usual angelic glory.
[21:20] <Kotono> Taldeer looks Alicia over, "You have been blessed beyond compare," She whistles low, "I had not been familiar with that part of the transformation - I had thought 'wings of white' was poetic."
[21:23] <Alicia> "No, they're real," Alicia flexes them a moment before folding them up neatly behind her. "To be honest there are so many people with wings in Balmuria already that I don't even stand out, but it's better to disguise myself elsewhere." She looks down at the just vacated chair, "Have to make a few adjustments to my posture, but they're surprisingly easy to use."
[21:29] <Kotono> "You fit in with Antenora now." With that observation, "Perhaps I should see Balmuria soon. The news I continue to hear speaks of marvels, and Shankar's letters are always entertaining."
[21:30] <Alicia> "There's quite a lot of elves there, too," Alicia smiles as she sits down. "I'm sure you'd like it."
[21:32] <Kotono> "Elves, angels and winged creatures. Oh my." She looks down at her food and places it to the side of the table. "A living saint, right here. My, how you've grown in such a short time, Alicia."
[21:34] <Alicia> "I still think it's a bit odd for me to be a saint," Alicia shuffles uncomfortably. "I serve Mystra as best I can, but I'm as likely to swing a sword as cast a spell. I've actually started studying magical theory a lot more just so I can live up to expectations..."
[21:37] <Kotono> "Then live up to it. Mystra herself approves of your capabilities. Why doubt yourself then?" On that, "Do you doubt that you earned those wings?"
[21:40] <Alicia> "I'm fine with the wings, really," Alicia shakes her head. "This transformation simply makes me better suited to serve the Goddess. But that just makes me the same as any of her servants - being a Saint is a different responsibility, one I'm not fully comfortable with."
[21:44] <Kotono> "What parts of it bother you then?" Taldeer looks to Alicia's wings, "Go on."
[21:50] <Alicia> "It's the responsibility to be a leader of the faith," Alicia admits. "I try to set a good example as best I can, but we both know I'm not an exemplar of the church's teachings. A Saint of Mystra should be someone with a sublime understanding of magic, not some half knight half sorceress."
[21:51] <Kotono> "Maybe you're right, but it wasn't our choice to make." With a thoughtful look as she taps her lips, "Perhaps you'remeant to grow into it?"
[21:52] <Alicia> "Possibly," Alicia shrugs agreeably. "Anyway, that's part of why I'm here, to be honest - I had an idea to foster and develop magic, and I'll need your help."
[21:54] <Kotono> "Oh yes, to the point if yo uhave one. I wondered if this was purely social."
06[21:57] * Alicia nods. "It's to do with potions, actually. Even ten years ago when magic was a lot rarer, you could go into almost any church in the land and buy a healing potion or two. But now, even though magic has started growing greatly in strength, the kinds of potions that wizards and clerics can brew are exactly the same - there's more, to be sure, but the art hasn't really advanced."
[21:58] <Kotono> "Mmm-hmm," To that Taldeer nods, "There's only so many spells that can be made into potions, like more restricted wands."
[22:08] <Alicia> "But it wasn't always that way - and probably still isn't, on other planes," Alicia explains as she opens up her portable hole and takes out several vials and jars, laying them onto the table. "This one," she indicates it first, "We actually took from a devil. It bestows regeneration much like a troll enjoys - while under its effects you simply cannot be killed." "Wounds may be fatal when the duration ends, but while the magic lasts your wou
[22:08] <Alicia> "This one here," she taps the third, "We found in a forest sealed off by ancient elves to contain a powerful artifact. It will permanently and irrevocably change your form into another of the same general category - not just a polymorph, but a real and binding change. A goblin could drink this and turn into an elf, then live for hundreds of years."
[22:08] <Alicia> "This one was found in the same gnomish lab I mentioned, has been suffused with wild magic, and could have any number of random strange effects once drunk. And lastly, here," she taps the last clay jar,
[22:08] <Alicia> "This is holy water, but of a potency unrivalled by anything the church could produce. It actually came from the bathwater of several goddesses, so probably can't be duplicated, but if it could just imagine the uses!"
[22:17] <Kotono> Taldeer examines the vials. She leans in close to the holy water, tapping the jar. She sniffs at the wild magic one and studies the reincarnation potion. "If any of those could be it would be a boon. You seek to pursue this?"
[22:20] <Alicia> "Yes," Alicia nods, "I was thinking of establishing a college where spellcasters specialising in potion brewing can come together to share knowledge and study exotic concotions like these. If a concerted effort is made, maybe they could be - and not just these, but other potions using stronger magic as a base, there's no telling what could be discovered."
[22:24] <Kotono> "Mystra would be happy to see her art spread by that. Then, the big question: Why are you telling me this right now? You want our support?"
[22:26] <Alicia> "I've got no aptitude for crafting magic like that," Alicia admits, shaking her head. "I can provide funding and exotic potions for study when I find them, even transport to bring people from Balmuria who could aid in this, but I'm not qualified for teaching or research."
[22:29] <Kotono> "So...are you asking me to teach and run this?" Taldeer looks at Alicia long, "Such would be certainly within my purview as Dweomerkeeper."
[22:31] <Alicia> "I don't want to impose on you, Taldeer - although certainly I can think of few so qualified. But even if you don't have the time or inclination, you'd hopefully know someone in the church who did?" Alicia asks.
[22:31] <Kotono> "No, I'
[22:32] <Kotono> "No, I'll do it. How can I turn down a request by an angel of Mystra." Going to Alicia and gathering up the vials as she does, "Do you have any spare for a demonstration?"
[22:35] <Alicia> "The shape changing one is likely unique. The regeneration one is the second I've found, but I had to use the first to survive my battle with Agares," Alicia admits. "If you could avoid expending them until either more can be found or a way to duplicate them developed, I'd appreciate it."
[22:35] <Alicia> "As for the others..." she sets out two more pink lust potions, two more shifting wild potions, and two more clay jars of goddess bathwater. "I can also provide funding for any tools or infrastructure you'll need to set up - I took the liberty of bringing along some trade bars."

[Corwin]

[20:10] <Kokokokokoko> ------
03[20:10] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[20:10] <Kokokokokoko> <Alicia> "I don't want to impose on you, Taldeer - although certainly I can think of few so qualified. But even if you don't have the time or inclination, you'd hopefully know someone in the church who did?" Alicia asks.
[20:10] <Kokokokokoko> > "No, I'
[20:10] <Kokokokokoko> > "No, I'll do it. How can I turn down a request by an angel of Mystra." Going to Alicia and gathering up the vials as she does, "Do you have any spare for a demonstration?"
[20:10] <Kokokokokoko> <Alicia> "The shape changing one is likely unique. The regeneration one is the second I've found, but I had to use the first to survive my battle with Agares," Alicia admits. "If you could avoid expending them until either more can be found or a way to duplicate them developed, I'd appreciate it."
[20:10] <Kokokokokoko> <Alicia> "As for the others..." she sets out two more pink lust potions, two more shifting wild potions, and two more clay jars of goddess bathwater. "I can also provide funding for any tools or infrastructure you'll need to set up - I took the liberty of bringing along some trade bars."
[20:12] <Kokokokokoko> "Excellent. There is always a need for funding. Tithes are rising, but of course magic can be expensive." Taldeer's smile is kind, "How much do you have?"
[20:15] <Alicia> "I've brought twenty thousand gold pieces worth," Alicia replies with a smile of her own. "Going through that gnome laboratory and then defeating that pit fiend archmage brought in a lot of wealth - if more is needed I can hopefully arrange it, and if you need help locating exotic ingredients I'm likewise able to help. Since I'm not skilled at the actual brewing this is the least I can do."
[20:16] <Kokokokokoko> "That's more than enough seed money. Enough so that I can go afar to hire better talent," Thinking now as she examines the various bottles, "Yes, it should do entirely."
[20:18] <Alicia> "I'm glad," Alicia beams. "I have the bars with me in this wondrous nondimensional storage a friend of mine in Balmuria made," she shows off the portable hole which looks like a shimmering jet black handkerchief while folded up as it is. "Since they're heavy, is there anywhere you want me to put them?"
[20:18] <Kokokokokoko> "Just on the floor is fine. I'll call some acolytes to help with them," Gesturing to it, "A portable hole?
[20:18] <Kokokokokoko> "
[20:21] <Alicia> "It's an incredible device," Alicia enthuses as she unfolds it and reaches in to withdraw the gold, piling the bars up besides the table one by one. "I actually bought it originally to use in my plan to liberate souls from the Halls of the Vanquished in Stygia."
[20:21] <Alicia> "It worked as I'd hoped, but I hadn't prepared for all eventualities so the raid wasn't as successful as I'd like. That aside it does make carrying bulky objects around far more managable."
[20:23] <Kokokokokoko> As precious gold is stacked up, brick by brick, "It's the same principal as a bag of holding. It's extremely useful for anyone who does what you do. Far better than carrying a mere backpack and using your muscles to bear the burdens."
[20:30] <Alicia> "Even with that, there's no way I could fit all of this in a backpack even if I was strong enough to actually lift it," Alicia agrees, indicating the large stack of gold bars stamped with the seal of the United Baronies.
[20:38] <Kokokokokoko> "Wonderful. I'll begin immediately," Now rising, "Is there other business, Alicia?"
[20:41] <Alicia> "That's about all I had for you, to be honest," Alicia admits. "I was thinking of spending some time seeing how Kelara's recovered from that rebellion over the next few days, and my mother wants to show me off at some society function or another in three or four days she mentioned," the last is said with a faint grimace.
[20:42] <Kokokokokoko> Coming forward to clasp Alicia's shoulder, "Mystra will give you strength to endure the terrible boredom."
06[20:43] * Alicia laughs. "I'll keep that in mind, Dweomerkeeper, thank you."
[20:46] <Kokokokokoko> OOC: Ready to skip alon ga bit now?
[20:47] <Alicia> OOC: yep
[20:52] <Kokokokokoko> Alicia returns home. She gets her measurements taken again without incident. You have a little time before dinner, with Jessica taking Alicia aside to privacy in Alicia's old room. "Sister," she asks, "You haven't told them yet about...you know? Your transformation?"
[20:57] <Alicia> "No," Alicia shakes her head, indeed back in her disguise to appear human. "Hasn't really been a good moment for it. Besides, I don't really want to distract them further - this is supposed to be about you and Roald, after all," she smiles gamely.
[20:58] <Kokokokokoko> "Yes, well..." Rubbing her arm and looking down, "I made a joke about you flying without thinking about it. It was obvious they didn't know, though they thought I meant with finger waggling. Still...you are giong to tell them, right? It seems wrong not to. What if Mystra comes to take you to Dweomerheart tomorrow?"
[21:02] <Alicia> "I've been flying for years," Alicia waves that off. "Anyway, does it really matter? I mean, it doesn't really change who I am, and I don't think there's any chance of me being confined to Dweomerheart in the near future unless I go and get myself killed... anyway," she shakes her head, focusing on the matter at hand,
[21:02] <Alicia> "I'll tell them, but I'll do it when it won't cause such a distraction. Marie's bad enough for that."
[21:03] <Kokokokokoko> That gets Jessica to really smile, "Yes, she lightens the mood so well. She even makes Mother smile."
06[21:05] * Alicia shrugs, "Well it's fine if you don't mind playing second fiddle to a fairy," she allows.
[21:06] <Kokokokokoko> "Hahahahhaa. Rose has been wanting to get her own Marie. She says it would give her so much status." Smiling now, "It's terrible of me, but I feel good in the fact that I'm certain she couldn't get one even if she tried."
Session Close: Mon Jul 13 21:06:28 2009

Session Start: Mon Jul 13 21:06:28 2009
Session Ident: #dunes
02[21:06] * Disconnected
02[21:06] * Attempting to rejoin channel #dunes
03[21:06] * Rejoined channel #dunes
03[21:06] * Topic is '????>Reckgar>Neet'
03[21:06] * Set by Pirate_Ko on Sat Jul 11 16:43:07
03[21:06] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Seira
06[21:08] * Alicia chuckles a little herself. "I'll feel sorry for her if Marie sends her off on a wild goose chase, but until then she could stand to learn a little humility."
[21:09] <Kokokokokoko> "Oh yes. A wild snape hunt." Snapping her fingers, "Isn't that the name of it? I read about it, it's a prank where you send a city dweller into the woods to search for an animal, but it doesn't exist."
[21:11] <Alicia> "That's the one," Alicia grins. "Of course, Rose probably has servants she'd send to do it for her... ah, well, nevermind her," she puts the matter aside. "How are mother and father taking to Roald? And vice versa?"
[21:11] <Kokokokokoko> "Father and Roald went off to talk. They seem to like each other, they were talking about growing grapes. Roald had asked me for a book about wine making before we came."
[21:13] <Alicia> "Good thinking," Alicia smiles approvingly. "It helps if they can find a common interest."
[21:18] <Kokokokokoko> "Yes, and it should make dinner go better." Taking a breath now, a hard one, "If we can make it through dinner, I think we'll be fine until the big event Mother's planning."
[21:21] <Alicia> "Yes, I suppose we shouldn't begrudge her, since it is nice to do something as a family together," Alicia allows. "I probably won't be around much between tomorrow and the event, since I want to see how life is in the villages since that rebellion ended. Think you and Roald can manage with just Marie and the family for company?"
[21:22] <Kokokokokoko> "Oh, certainly," Smiling warmly to that, "I think Rose got the idea I wasn't Beth anymore. She's been acting more human as the day's gone on."
[21:25] <Alicia> "She never actually met Beth, so all she'll have to go on would be what she's heard from Charles," Alicia reasons. "I'd hope she'll give you a fair shake when she sees that her preconceptions are unfounded."
[21:36] <Kokokokokoko> "Yes. We can prove it." Jessica breathes out, "I'm going to go get cleaned up for dinner now. Make sure Marie knows to be on good behavior?"
[21:37] <Alicia> "I'll remind her," Alicia chuckles, patting her sister on the arm as they go their seperate ways.
[21:38] <Kokokokokoko> OOC: Hop along again?
[21:39] <Alicia> OOC: yep
[21:45] <Kokokokokoko> Alicia has time to prepare for dinner. Jessica knocks and comes into Alicia's room when the time is here. She's changed into a formal, rich black gown. She wears jewelry, her hair done up into a bun. Black gloves up to her elbows, made of sleek silk. Make up touches up her face. "Are you ready?" she asks, cheeks tinted with artificial blush. "How do I look? Mother said I look smashing and regal."
[21:51] <Alicia> Fortunately Marie warned her of the expectations and Alicia was able to grab a purple velvet dress from out of her portable hole (it has something for every occassion!) and is dressed up nicely with a minimum of jewellery, her hair worn down and slightly teased.
[21:51] <Alicia> Even with her disguise her radiant celestial nature shines through enough to obviate the need for makeup, which saves her another annoying chore. "You look lovely," she approves, "Roald will be thrilled!"
[21:51] <Alicia> "He's a lucky guy!" Marie seconds, hovering by Alicia's shoulder and decked out in her neat little maid uniform with cute little frills and a prim white apron.
[21:52] <Kokokokokoko> "Thanks," Blushing warmly all over, no makeup trick this time, "Let's go, sister?" Offering her arm out, "Roald and Father are getting prepared."
06[21:54] * Alicia agreeably links arms with Jessica and heads out towards the dining room, Marie fluttering along behind them and playing the part of a good little fairy-maid.
[21:59] <Kokokokokoko> Down you go! The dining room is lit with bright candles, a glass chandalier hanging above. The long, old wood table sits with a white table cloth. Fine silver and porcelin plates are being arrainged by the servants. Father and Roald are already there, talking away. Mother sits as well, t hough your brother and his wife aren't to be seen.
[22:00] <Alicia> Marie looks a little bit disappointed that her performance may be for naught, looking to see if there are place settings for the youngest Reynes and his wife. Alicia pays it little mind, going to take an empty seat so long as there's room for Jessica and Roald to sit together.
[22:02] <Kokokokokoko> There is. "Oh, Alicia, B-Jessica." Beatrice smiles to them, "Sit. We'll begin as soon as Rose and Charles join us."
06[22:04] * Alicia nods to her mother, before addressing Arthur, "Hello, father, I never got to see you earlier in the day. How are things?" she asks, making small talk while Marie offers her help to the servants. If she can befriend them she'll surely get some good gossip about the family!
[22:15] <Kokokokokoko> The servants smile and accept Marie as she goes. "Oh, it's excellent. Dinner should begin shortly...and oh, you look nice, Alicia, Jessica." Beatrice looks both of them over, "Alicia, you look absolutely divine tonight."
[22:17] <Alicia> "Oh, this old thing?" Alicia blushes modestly as she smoothes out her dress. "You're looking well yourself, mother."
[22:21] <Kokokokokoko> "Why thank you," As Beatrice purrs along, Charles is lead along by Rose. Rose wears an opulet red dress, a long hem following. She wears strings and strings of pearls and diamonds. Charles just wears normal male finery. "Ah, excellent! Let's begin with the appetizers." As little things are served about, Marie helping deposite them, Rose watches her along. "She's so very well trained," she speaks aloud, "Alicia, you absoultely must tell m
[22:21] <Kokokokokoko> "She's so very well trained," she speaks aloud, "Alicia, you absoultely must tell me where to get one of her kind."
[22:25] <Alicia> "She actually just appeared on my doorstep one day," Alicia replies with perfect sincerity.
[22:26] <Alicia> "I'm actually from Dweomerheart, but my kind are more common in Arborea," Marie pipes up. "If you're a good person and you're lucky you might even turn into a cute fairy just like me!" she concludes with a grin.
[22:26] <Kokokokokoko> "Oh, was she an outcast or a poor fairy?" With a suddenly narrowed look at Marie, "You aren't of terr-Dweomerheart?" She blinks at that, "I've never heard of..." A longer pause and stop there, "Oh wait, that's the realm that the Mystrians talk about?"
[22:28] <Alicia> "That's right," Alicia nods seriously as Marie preens in midair. "Marielle is the honoured spirit of one of Mystra's devoted servants."
[22:29] <Kokokokokoko> "Spirit? Like a ghost?" With a curious look at Marie now, Rose bites down on her lip, "How curious indeed."
[22:29] <Kokokokokoko> "She's not of this world," Jessica speaks up, "You can't just go and buy a Marie. You have to earn one. Look at the life Alicia's lead. If you want one..."
03[22:29] * Kokokokokoko is now known as Kotono
[22:30] <Alicia> "Ghosts are troubled spirits that can't leave their mortal lives behind when they die," Marie shakes her head. "I passed on quite peacefully, though, and got to have fun in the afterlife until I was given the job of helping Alicia with her work here."
[22:32] <Kotono> "Mph." With a long look, "I neve rput much stock in all the talk of clerics." As Rose goes to work on her food, Alicia' sfather clear shis throat, "Roald, why don't you tell us something about yourself to start things?"
06[22:34] * Alicia is content to relax and let the parents get to know their new son in law. Hopefully Marie will be less of a show-stealer now that Rose seems to have lost interest.

[Corwin]

[19:48] <Kotono> <Alicia> "She actually just appeared on my doorstep one day," Alicia replies with perfect sincerity.
[19:48] <Kotono> <Alicia> "I'm actually from Dweomerheart, but my kind are more common in Arborea," Marie pipes up. "If you're a good person and you're lucky you might even turn into a cute fairy just like me!" she concludes with a grin.
[19:48] <Kotono> > "Oh, was she an outcast or a poor fairy?" With a suddenly narrowed look at Marie, "You aren't of terr-Dweomerheart?" She blinks at that, "I've never heard of..." A longer pause and stop there, "Oh wait, that's the realm that the Mystrians talk about?"
[19:48] <Kotono> <Alicia> "That's right," Alicia nods seriously as Marie preens in midair. "Marielle is the honoured spirit of one of Mystra's devoted servants."
[19:48] <Kotono> > "Spirit? Like a ghost?" With a curious look at Marie now, Rose bites down on her lip, "How curious indeed."
[19:48] <Kotono> > "She's not of this world," Jessica speaks up, "You can't just go and buy a Marie. You have to earn one. Look at the life Alicia's lead. If you want one..."
[19:48] <Kotono> * Kokokokokoko is now known as Kotono
[19:48] <Kotono> <Alicia> "Ghosts are troubled spirits that can't leave their mortal lives behind when they die," Marie shakes her head. "I passed on quite peacefully, though, and got to have fun in the afterlife until I was given the job of helping Alicia with her work here."
[19:49] <Kotono> > "Mph." With a long look, "I neve rput much stock in all the talk of clerics." As Rose goes to work on her food, Alicia' sfather clear shis throat, "Roald, why don't you tell us something about yourself to start things?"
[19:49] <Kotono> * Alicia is content to relax and let the parents get to know their new son in law. Hopefully Marie will be less of a show-stealer now that Rose seems to have lost interest.
[19:50] <Kotono> "Well, I help run my family bakery in Balmuria. We're becoming very successful and are looking to expand." He pauses to eat a moment, "There's a constant influx of travelers and immigrants these days, so we're always doing slammed busy business from dawn to closing."
[19:51] <Kotono> "You don't hear of bakers getting rich often," Alicia's mother considers, "Do you make good money?"
[19:52] <Kotono> "O-oh yes, we do," After taking a bite of food, "We have some special elven styled recipies as well. My dad was an adventurer, and further, with all the different travelers we have constant chances to pick up new ideas."
[19:53] <Kotono> "Good," Arthur sips a glass of wine, "As long as you can take good care of Jessica."
[19:54] <Kotono> "Of course. I've been saving up money for a good wedding, and also for a home our own. We're looking at Valandia as well and..." He takes a moment to drink some wine himself, "Money won't be a concern."
[19:54] <Alicia> "It's the best bakery in Balmuria, you can ask anyone in town," Alicia seconds. "So, have you two thought much about where you'll be going when you set up on your own?" she asks of her sister and her betrothed.
[19:55] <Kotono> "Well, there is Valandia," Jessica goes on, "Or maybe Victoria, or maybe we stay in Balmuria." She smiles a little bit and even blushes, "I don't want to go too far away, sis."
[19:56] <Alicia> "Well, wherever you go I can always visit easily enough," Alicia reassures. Personally she doesn't much like Valandia but isn't about to prejudice them. "So don't worry about that."
[19:58] <Kotono> Servants and Marie come, taking away the first course. Soup and salad is next. After a brief pause as people sample away, "It's so strange when you just show up from halfway across the world," Beatrice murmurs, "Why, I remember when you left to cross the desert years ago. Now it's barely a moment's work."
[19:58] <Kotono> "It makes visiting far easier," Alicia's brother drones on.
[19:59] <Kotono> "You're so lucky," Arthur chuckles, "When the weather gets ghastly here, you can just go someplace with far more tolerable conditions."
[20:05] <Alicia> "It took a long time to advance my magic to such a degree. When I first started such spells were things of legend, now they're becoming almost commonplace," Alicia smiles a little.
[20:05] <Alicia> "Admittedly I wasn't walking in a straight line the whole time, but it took me years to reach the other side of the desert the first time. Now I can go from the frozen mountains at the edge of the elven kingdoms to the realms on the other side of the jungle in a matter of moments."
[20:07] <Kotono> "It's quite the honor to have a witch in the family," Droning on, Alicia's brother eats his soup. "Why, the peasants believe that just saying the name of a witch can get you cursed."
[20:08] <Kotono> "Nonsense," Roald laughs to that, "There's mages enough in Balmuria and you can call them by name all you like. There's even angels in Balmuria and heavenly spirits. None of them are like that."
[20:09] <Kotono> "They aren't. Anything that would do that is something the Crimson Guard would fight." Smiling now, Jessica finishes her soup. "Dear, why don't you tell us some of the stories about Balmuria?"
[20:10] <Alicia> "I don't think anyone does really think that," Alicia expresses lightly, not wanting to rebuke her brother too harshly and spoil dinner. "It sounds more like the sort of silly stories spread to make the less fortunate seem foolish and pitiable."
[20:11] <Kotono> "Hmmm..." Putting down his salad fork to think, "How about the day when the Carnival came to down and a flying ship flew over Balmuria?"
[20:11] <Kotono> "Really? The peasants are sooo gullible," Rose laughs. "A flying ship? Truly?"
[20:13] <Kotono> "Oh yes. It will filled with creatures called...um...Gith...something. Alicia, do you remember?" Roald looks to her, "The name escapes me."
06[20:14] * Alicia makes a mental note not to scold Marie too harshly if she chooses to play any tricks on Rose. "Yes, it was crewed by the Githyanki. They have the build of humans, but sallow greenish-yellow skin and pointed ears much like elves. Their reputation is not a kind one, so we were quite worried when they appeared."
[20:17] <Kotono> "Oh yes. While that was going on, a mystical Carnival came to town. Oh, the things I heard about there..." With a growing blush as he remembers, "Metal things called clockwork that lived. Griffons and hippogriff stables. Beings of fire that spoke in words of smoke and magma. Exotic foods from beyond our world."
[20:18] <Alicia> "The food was delicious," Alicia seconds. "Incredibly expensive, mind you. I had a celestial peach and it was one of the most sublime tastes I've experienced."
[20:19] <Kotono> "I went. It was....spectacular," A wide smile goes on Jessica's face, "It really was. You were so lucky to have that, Alicia. You could always get more, though." With a wistful sigh, "Later, Alicia tooks us all to Dweomerheart. Oh, what I saw there..." Her eyes close, "Even now, when I think of it, I want to go back so badly and never leave.'
[20:22] <Kotono> "Hmmmm..." Arthur works away on his salad, "That's...oh yes, it's called an Upper Plane? The Heavens themselves? Alicia." He looks to his daughter again, "Once again I have trouble believing your stories and deeds, but..."
[20:22] <Alicia> "Marie says we never even got to see the best places," Alicia shakes her head, smiling fondly. "Still, as appealing as the afterlife may be, it's not a place mortals should dwell. There's plenty of time for it once you've lived life to the fullest."
[20:23] <Kotono> "Well then, did you see your child and husband, then?" Charles goes on now, "Surely they were there? Oh, how is dying then? It seems to be so miserable."
[20:24] <Kotono> "Brother," A split second later, Jessica clears her through, "Nevermind that. Roald, you were talking about the Githyanki?"
06[20:24] * Alicia sets her utensils down with a clatter, piercing Charles with the mother of all glares. Her mouth starts to open, but she defers at Jessica's insistence, snapping it shut once more.
[20:25] <Kotono> "S...sorry," Arthur looks away, "I thought it was just happiness and light and...I'll shut up," he murmurs. "Sorry sister."
[20:26] <Kotono> Roald clears his throat deeply, "As I was saying..." As he begins to tell the tale of that day, Jessica leans to Alicia and pats her hand.
06[20:26] * Alicia takes a deep breath, smiling briefly to her sister to show that she's calm now.
[20:31] <Kotono> Soon the soup and salad is gone. The main course comes, vegetables and a whole roast pig. As this is divided up and the meal begins in earnest, "So," Jessica is all smiles now, "You all hav emet Antenora here before? Have you met any other of our friends?"
[20:32] <Alicia> "Seira stopped by the other day, after that business with Esthan," Alicia volunteers. "Business I'm pleased to say has been fully resolved."
[20:34] <Kotono> "Good. Yes, she should be returning soon, actually," considering that as she finishes a glass of wine, "Perhaps she will come and see you here." Beatrice get her glass freshened by Marie, "Oh yes, it would be such a lovely gala then."
[20:38] <Alicia> "If you like I could ask her?" Alicia offers, smiling briefly at her familiar as she dutifully plays maid.
[20:45] <Kotono> "Please." Beatrice smiles to Alicia.
[20:46] <Kotono> "This is very good," Roald speaks up as he eats, "The wine is superb, too."
[20:47] <Alicia> "I'll stop by Balmuria tomorrow and ask her," Alicia nods. "And yes, the cooks have outdone themselves," she agrees politely with Roald.
[20:49] <Kotono> "Oh yes." As the meal goes on, settling into pleasant chatter, desert comes. Rumcake and fruit. Beatrice is chatting with a lively air with everyone, while your fathe ris more restrained. Roald is laughign and smiling, Jessica as well. Charles is quiet, while Rose is a bit aloof, but chatting as well. "So Alicia," Arthur speaks to her, "Why don't you tell us a story now?"
[20:51] <Kotono> "Oh sister, tell her one of your better battle stories or adventures," Jessica works down another glass of wine, "They're always great."
[20:53] <Alicia> "Well, I suppose personal experience makes for a more vivid tale," Alicia agrees, thinking for a moment. "Oh, I know, I'll tell you about Neve," she smiles. "This is actually a story I've made sure to spread quite far, especially in Pallanth, but you'll all be getting the unabridged story."
[20:55] <Kotono> "Go on," Jessica encourages, getting aonther glass of wine and working on it. She giggles, "Oh, I remember this one."
[20:58] <Alicia> "It starts in the frozen mountains at the far North of Pallanth, thousands of miles to the East. There, across endless plains of frost-rimed tundra do great peaks of rock and ice stab into the sky, as if to claw the very face of Selune as she passes above," she begins with an appropriately dramatic flair.
[20:58] <Alicia> "In the tundra do hardy goblin tribes and solitary elf hunters eke out a barren existence, but the mountains themselves are fearful and void of life. The lonely wind that howls in the forgotten valleys between sheer cliffs screams of pain and death, bidding all who would approach to turn back while they yet have the chance..."
[21:00] <Kotono> The group listens, except for Alicia's father. He gets Marie' sattention, gesturing her to come on over. "Good start," Roald murmurs, "I heard of those mountains from Jessica."
[21:03] <Alicia> Marie dilligently flutters over towards Arthur, pausing near his head so he can whisper whatever he wants of her.
[21:03] <Alicia> "The death that stalks these titanic shards of broken rock is not mere dramatic fancy, however. It is very real - for a curse was lain upon these mountains, condemning any who would walk between them or climb above them to a lingering and painful death that would consume them without ever offering a foe to face," Alicia's voice becomes drawn, hushed as she lures her audience in.
[21:03] <Alicia> "But that was far from the worst of it..."
[21:06] <Kotono> Beatrice leans forward, "Oh yes, a good tale is just the thing...the curse of undeath?" Meanwhile Arthur offers Marie his glass, "You're from far realms above us? Try this? Surely our vintage can't compare to the Heavens, but hopefully it's still good."
[21:09] <Alicia> "Oooh, thanks!" Marie whispers. "Alicia doesn't keep much wine in the house, so I'd love to!" She then leans in to take a tiny coure-sized sip.
[21:09] <Alicia> "What is worse than death? You have it right mother, the curse of undeath; the subjugation of the spirit - a body that would fall into ruin in these shadowy lands would merely rise up again after a time, a nightmarish marionette of frozen dessicated flesh,
[21:09] <Alicia> their soul consigned to an eternity of anguish as their re-animated cadaver makes its lonely patrol of the last place they ever saw in life."
[21:09] <Alicia> "Alas, such a terrible realm could not be left alone as one would desire. For you see, the curse hungered!" She pauses for dramatic effect. "Starved of life to snuff out in the lifeless mountains at the far end of the world, it crept forward in search of new victims. Across the tundra it slithered, unseen but felt in the bones of all. Inch by inch. Day by day."
[21:14] <Kotono> As Rose gasps, "How terrifying! A snow covered death lik ea nightmare!" Beatrice gasps as well, "Oh, how terrible!"
[21:14] <Kotono> Marie finds the wine is a good vintage, strong too. "Help yourself. Alicia never had the taste...despite growing up with it," Arthur pats the tabletop.
[21:22] <Alicia> "I prefer mine a little bit sweeter, but it's good," Marie enthuses quietly, not wanting to distract Alicia. It's almost cute how she's trying so hard to build up suspense.
[21:22] <Alicia> "Indeed," Alicia nods sollemnly. "So it was that the matter came to the attention of the Crimson Guard. And so it was that Seira and myself braved cold that would freeze the tears to your eyes even as despair and death sapped at your will. Penetrating deep into the range, we saw evidence of its previous victims..."
[21:22] <Alicia> "A noble silver dragon, turned demented and maddened such that its mind could only perceive death as the be all and end all of existence, until it had to be put out of its misery lest it bring slaughter on the wing to elven villages of the arctic forest hundreds of miles away."
[21:22] <Alicia> "The tattered remnants of a warcamp once manned by a tribe of mighty frost giants, now only home to their raging spirits and corpses buried deep in the earth, condemned to struggle vainly at their bonds for all eternity as the vile animating force urges them to wander to its inscrutable whims, a sign of their comrade's brave but ultimately futile effort to end this ancient evil."
[21:22] <Alicia> "These things we saw, and a hundred other nameless shades and horrors, as we made our way to the heart of evil..."
02[21:32] * Alicia (WinNT@user-5af28bec.tcl124.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (scifi-classics.dejatoons.net batcave.dejatoons.net)
02[21:32] * NeremWorld (~AriD@pool-173-74-28-57.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (scifi-classics.dejatoons.net sebben.dejatoons.net)
03[21:33] * NeremWorld (~AriD@pool-173-74-28-57.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) has joined #dunes
03[21:37] * Alicia (WinNT@user-5af28bec.tcl124.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
03[21:37] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Alicia Alicia
[21:39] <Kotono> At this point everyone is growing enthralled, listening well to the dreadful story. "Go on," Jessica breathes out, "Keep telling us more." Rose has dropped her fork, listening intently. Only Charles seems somewhat not enthralled, looking down at his plate.
[21:49] <Alicia> "The source of the curse was a terrible weapon, sealed away in ancient times by its creators who surely lamented ever having a hand in bringing it into existence, but powerless to undo what they had wrought. With her greater arcane skill, Seira set to work on repairing the fraying wards,"
[21:49] <Alicia> "while I stood vigil through the dark days, Lathander's light unable to even penetrate the gloom this close to the source. But as we worked, occassionally defending ourselves from the bitter attacks of tormented shadows that roamed this charnel land, we found it seeping into ourselves."
[21:49] <Alicia> "With each day that passed, rashes and lesions would develop on our skin, terrifying testament to the slow corruption of our bodies as we were exposed to such raw death." She pauses again, collecting her breath. "Then, one day we were interrupted, not by the howling of insane spirits, or the clashing of desecrated bones, but by a song..."
[21:49] <Alicia> "It was a beautiful melody, yet one that made the heart ache with sadness." She bows her head, "The two of us were overcome by the sheer pain and loneliness that flowed forth in the wordless melody. As the source of it approached, we paid little heed to its stuttering gait, or the drawn and torn flesh we saw mostly concealed beneath the tattered fur cloak she wore."
[21:49] <Alicia> "She spoke to us of her loneliness and despair, and as our own emotions had been so deftly plucked by her song, we commiserated, sharing in the melancholy mood. Perhaps she would have bade us to relax and surrender to the inevitable, or perhaps she merely sought to lower our guard before attacking, we'll never know thanks to the fateful decision that was made."
[21:50] <Kotono> "What happened then? Tell us!" Jessica prompts, as the others nod quickly.
[21:50] <Kotono> Arthur chuckles and drinks his wine, "You always knew how to tell a goods tory, Alicia."
06[21:57] * Alicia gives her father a brief smile and goes on. "As the terrible aura of undeath slowly wore at our bodies, I had been frequently thinking of my recent visit to the Heroic Realms of Ysgard; a place where fallen warriors can battle for all eternity, the vivacious life inherent in the plane itself mending all wounds,
[21:57] <Alicia> "and even restoring to life those who are slain in the ever-present battles that take place there. So, despairing and desiring to be away to somewhere that might have a chance at lifting our sorry state, I used my magic to transport all three of us to that glorious place."
[21:57] <Alicia> She smiles and shakes her head, "Our undead companion was initially stricken as the vile necromantic energies that animated her were undone, but after her rotten and frozen corpse had crumbled to dust, a miracle occured - in a flurry of snowflakes and the fresh chill of a verdant mountain wind, her body was restored!"
[21:57] <Alicia> "Where the pallid zombie-like creature had fallen, she was now restored to life as a beautiful maiden. Still, her cold-blue skin and glacial-white hair proved testament to her inhuman nature as she collected herself, chest rising and falling with its first breaths in over a hundred years..."
[22:00] <Kotono> "How lovely," rose murmurs, "I can never remember a story that has a good outcome like that. The undead never get better."
06[22:02] * Alicia waggles a finger. "The story isn't done yet, sister in law," she smirks knowingly. "For, our fair frosty maiden was no innocent damsel in distress. As she regained her wits, it soon became clear that she was no less than a cold-hearted Queen of Winter's Wrath, a fey spirit who even in life desired naught more than to waylay unlucky travellers and freeze them to death in Auril's cold grip."
[22:05] <Kotono> Beatrice gasps at that, "Oh my, the Ice Queen?"
[22:10] <Alicia> "Indeed," Alicia nods. "Even a being of such power as she was overcome by the curse on those mountains. However, for all her power, she had placed herself into our debt as we had restored her to life. And so, I demanded of her a boon to balance the scales. Such matters are taken very seriously, even by such a capricious fey as she."
[22:10] <Alicia> "In exchange for her life, she would swear upon the frost that she holds so dear, that any who brave her mountains and can say her name would be offered succor and protection. Instead of bringing freezing death and pain, she would shelter and guide her would-be victims.
[22:10] <Alicia> She takes a deep breath as she reaches her conclusion. "And that is why the name of Neve the Ice Queen is now spoken of in this tale by bards from the deserts of the Fiefdoms to the tale-tellers of the goblin tribes, and all those inbetween."
[22:14] <Kotono> "Wonderful story," Jessica says, "It's true. Neve is spoken of all over thanks to the Crimson Guard.
[22:14] <Kotono> "
[22:14] <Kotono> "Oh my. I haven't heard that story yet, but it was a good one," Alicia's mother gushes, finishing her cake. "It's all true?"
[22:17] <Alicia> "Every bit of it," Alicia nods, smiling. "I rather enjoyed telling it, actually."
[22:17] <Alicia> "You should've become a bard!" Marie catcalls.
[22:17] <Kotono> Arthur claps, "Truly. You would be known as Alicia the Magnificent if you had been."
[22:18] <Kotono> Jessica giggles a tthat, "Oh, Marie would love that while Antenora would be agahst. Quite literally, Mother and Father. Would you beileve they argue over law and chaos and how important it is?"
[22:19] <Alicia> "It is!" Marie protests. "They're two of the fundamental underpinnings of existence!"
[22:19] <Kotono> "Law and Chaos? How strange," Rose sniffs, "Why argue over obtuse things? But no matter, that was a good story.'
[22:22] <Kotono> "Marie's right, and for them, it's very serious," Jessica drains the last of her wine, blushing merrily now. "Oh, the stories. They're just...so strange and funny sometimes. Sandcastles..." That sends Jessica into another fit of giggles.
[22:22] <Kotono> Roald even cracks a smile, "Dear, why don't I help you to bed? I think you've had plenty of wine for the evening."
[22:23] <Alicia> "It's funny, actually," Alicia reflects, "Because the rebellion in Kelara was fundamentally about that as well. David identified himself as an agent of chaos and change, hoping to tear down the stagnant order... of course, it can manifest on a smaller and more personal scale just as easily, like some people are creatures of habit while others are whimsical and hard to predict..."
[22:23] <Alicia> She then shrugs a little at Jessica's outburst. "You had to be there."
[22:24] <Kotono> "Sandcastles?" Now Alicia's father shakes his head, as Roald helps Jessica away, who stumbles a bit. "Sandcastles? I don't understand in the least."
[22:24] <Kotono> "Saaaandcastles," Jessica laughs as she goes off. "Ask them about it sometime!"
[22:25] <Alicia> "Antenora said that it's better to build a sandcastle with a plan, so you know exactly how it's going to turn out," Marie explains, her tone indicating what she thinks of *that*. "I pointed out how that just makes the endeavour futile, since you won't get surprised or learn anything new. She didn't get it at all..."
[22:25] <Alicia> "Goodnight, Jessica, Roald," Alicia waves off her sister and prospective brother in law as they depart.
[22:26] <Kotono> "Ah, I see." Finishing his own glass of wine, "A story for another night. I think I'm going to retire early as well. Beatrice?"
[22:26] <Kotono> "How strange...why plan a sandcastle," Beatrice murmurs, "I'm going to stay up awhile."
[22:28] <Alicia> "That's what I said!" Marie agrees as Alicia bids her father goodnight and stands up.
[22:28] <Alicia> "Charles, would you care to show me those paintings of yours again?" she asks nicely, wanting to get him alone without being blunt about it.
[22:29] <Kotono> "Oh, yes," Charles stands up, "This way, Alicia."
[22:30] <Alicia> While Marie hopefully keeps the other two ladies entertained, Alicia wanders off with her little brother. "Hard to believe she's Beth with how she acts, isn't it?" she begins conversationally as they start down the hallway.
[22:31] <Kotono> "Yes...it really is." Charles says after a heavy pause in the air, "...sorry, Alicia." He goes along, leading the way and with his back to Alicia. "I spoke poorly."
[22:35] <Alicia> "I forgive you," Alicia accepts the apology with grace. "That's part of why I wanted to talk to you, really - do we have a problem, Charles? When I first found Beth in Balmuria I handled things poorly, and you know he she was... by the time we settled things she lost her memory right after. I'd rather not see things deteriorate like that with my little brother, as well..."
[22:40] <Kotono> "...we're okay." Charles says at last, "..Rose resents you, but...it's her feelings, not mine."
[22:44] <Alicia> "I've never gotten much in the way of warm feelings from her," Alicia admits. "I can live with that. But you're family, and that means something..." Deciding a little physical demonstration couldn't hurt, she grabs Charles in a hug, "Sorry I took so long to come back," she murmurs as she holds him.
[22:46] <Kotono> The hug is held, "It's..." Charles is hesitant, "It's good to have you home." Holding her tighter, "I've heard some of the stories from the bards. It's really true...it really is. I can scarcely believe it...until I remember how you looked after it happened."
[22:48] <Alicia> "Trouble just seems to find me," Alicia agrees as they embrace. "You know not all stories end as happily as the one I just told in there."
[22:49] <Kotono> "Yes. I remember that." After another little pause, "Is Balmuria like they say?"
[22:52] <Alicia> "I don't know what they say, but the people are friendly, the weather is warm and mild, it's close to mountains and sea and forest... I'm happy there," she concludes with a smile as she parts, still holding his arms. "If you like I could even take you to visit sometime - it'd be a lot quicker than crossing the desert."
[22:53] <Kotono> "I may. Father's teaching me more and more about the business and taking me to do my own business and meet people. He's getting older, sister."
[22:55] <Alicia> "He is," Alicia takes a deep breath, looking around at the walls and ceiling around them. "And then all this will belong to you. You might even inherit a title if mother's efforts pay off. Think you can handle it?"
[22:55] <Kotono> "I can try." He says to that, "Knight General. You beat us all to it."
[23:02] <Alicia> "That I did," Alicia smiles crookedly. "Doesn't let me sit on the council and won't pass on to any heirs assuming I ever produce more, though. I suspect mother would prefer something more dynastic."
[23:09] <Kotono> "Heh." With a little smile to that, "One day. Let's go to those paintings now?"
[23:10] <Alicia> "Lets," Alicia agrees. It was only a pretense, but she can always spare time for art.
[23:13] <Kotono> OOC: Skip along? you wanted to check out Kelara outside of Kelara?
[23:15] <Alicia> OOC: yeah, I'll travel around the villages incognito to see how morale is over the next few days. And a brief teleport to Balmuria to invite Seira to the ball.
[23:15] <Kotono> OOC: Okay, how deep do you wanna ge tinto that? We can Rp it out fully, some, or you can just resolve it with gather info checks. Your preference.
[23:16] <Alicia> OOC: I'd like to RP seeing Jessie again, but gather info is fine for the rest

[Corwin]

[19:43] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC: You were going to go catch up with Jessie?
[19:44] <Alicia> OOC: that'd be swell
[19:45] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC: Going to be altered?
[19:46] <Alicia> OOC: Non-angelic but otherwise looking like regular Alicia. Although I won't be wearing armour or have any visible weapons besides the staff of Idun.
[19:48] <Tiny_Ko_Army> ---------
[19:56] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Heading back into Kelara's quiet reaches and to Whitewall. It's  arare sunny, chilly day in Kelara as she walks in. Alicia gets a few looks as she heads for the bed and breakfast, looking for Jessy. She finds her sitting at a table there, eating sandwiches and porridge for lunch.
06[19:58] * Alicia pokes her head in and after spotting her young friend she meanders over to her table. "Hello, Jessy," she offers a smile. "I was back in Kelara and thought I'd check in - you don't mind?"
[19:59] <Tiny_Ko_Army> She double blinks at it, "Alicia. You did come back after dealing with that uprising, after all."
[20:02] <Alicia> "I meant what I said," Alicia returns, deciding to take a seat. "What I'm curious about now is whether it was worth my while to start with. Certainly, people in the city seem happier, but they weren't the ones dissatisified with the old order..." She clasps her hands and leans on the table towards the younger woman, "So, how are things around here?"
[20:03] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Jessy takes a long slug back from her drink. "Eh." She scratches at her arm, "There's a lot of talk and some action." She shrugs then, "You hear fancy, nices tuff from the city these days and there's been some concessions."
[20:04] <Alicia> "I suggested a few, myself," Alicia nods thoughtfully. "Anything that's made much difference?"
[20:07] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "We've seen more patrols and more protection about. Not that it would be hard to have more." Jessy almost laughs there, "They've been talking about expanding and repairing the roads, too."
[20:12] <Alicia> "Hopefully the talk will turn into action...  what do you think personally, though?" Alicia asks, more interested in her individual perspective. "I mean, you were one of the ones fighting against the old order - how do you feel about the direction things are headed in, now?"
[20:13] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "It's the right first steps. Will it go past that? Hell if I know," she finishes off her drink, "Hell, Knight-General," In sweet, mocking tones, "You could go run and ask dear Lord Roth yourself, couldn't you? For all we know they're gonna change their minds halfway. Just 'cause they're doing the right thing now doesn't mean they'll do it forever."
[20:17] <Alicia> "Yes, and turnips could grow out of our bottoms tomorrow," Alicia returns dryly. "Lord Roth would surely just tell me everything's fine and ask that I leave policy to the Council. And I'm happy to do just that, so long as they govern properly."
[20:27] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Hehheheheheeee." Laughing to that and raising her empty glass, "Cheers to that." She then looks into Alicia's eyes, "What do you think?"
[20:36] <Alicia> "Kelara's never been the nicest country in the world," Alicia replies bluntly. "Improving it really shouldn't take much. It's improving it meaningfully that's the trick... I have a few other ideas of my own that might help things along here and there, but I'm only one woman."
[20:36] <Alicia> She smirks lopsidedly, "I'll say this, though, what you've told me comes out better than the low expectations I'd set when I walked in the door."
[20:39] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Heh. Here's to that," she says, "Be it David or by another, let this realm improve?"
[20:41] <Alicia> "It would be nice if I could walk into a city in the Fiefdoms and not have them look at me with pity when I tell them where I'm from, yes," Alicia chuckles amusedly. "I'm in the area for a few more days, so I'll probably wander around the other villages and see how things are elsewhere... political drama aside, how are things in your life, Jessy?"
[20:44] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Well enough. There were those arguments you saw, but...they've mostly gotten over it." Jessy shrugs. "Mom's calming down. Life goes on, another winter's ahead. Hopefully a long, dull winter without bandits or trouble."
[20:46] <Alicia> "If nothing else, snow is better than rain?" Alicia offers, though her smile is marred briefly as she considers the Winterwight that remains to be dealt with...
[20:48] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Yes...Alicia? Something wrong? You just looked like you had gas pains in your stomach." Jessy frowns.
[20:49] <Alicia> "Just mentioning winter reminded me of something else I have to deal with, out in the jungle," Alicia shakes her head. "Never a dull moment, I'm afraid."
[20:51] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "The jungle?!" Jessy's eyes widen, "You're going off into that deathtrap?"
[20:53] <Alicia> "I've been there before," Alicia reassures. "There's a creature in there born of Auril's blood and Shar's hate, currently bound but who knows for how long? Some friends of mine with deeper connections to the land have had worrying dreams of a dire winter to come, which I think has a connection to that being."
[20:55] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d20+2
06[20:55] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d20+2 and gets 15." [1d20=13]
[20:55] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Brr. Good fortune to you then." After a pause, "Auril...Auril...Goddess of...Ice?"
[20:58] <Alicia> "That's her. It's an interesting story, actually - in the dawn of creation, when the world was yet young, Shar sought to dominate and absorb the newborn goddess of merciless cold."
[20:58] <Alicia> "Their battle was great, and of the blood spilled by the Frostmaiden from the Nightsister's attacks, undead monstrosities called Winterwights were born. One of those is the creature I speak of," Alicia explains happily enough.
[21:01] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "It's like a legend," Jessy  marvels. "A terrible creature born of those terrible beings."
[21:04] <Alicia> "What's interesting - and perhaps frightening - is that Mystra herself was born in a similar manner when Selune tore off a piece of herself and hurled it at Shar in a desperate attack - from where their mingled essences merged after coring through Shar in a terrible wound, the Goddess of Magic herself was born," Alicia goes on. "So the Winterwight is not a foe I look forward to facing."
[21:08] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Shivering over at that, "...Careful, Alicia. I remember a bard's tale about a hero who bit off more than they could chew."
[21:10] <Alicia> "It's a common enough tale... and reality," Alicia reflects. "Nonetheless, the damage if that thing got loose would be nothing short of catastrophic - someone has to do something."
[21:10] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Yes. Well, if a harsh winter comes..." Jessy shivers again.
[21:13] <Alicia> "Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you," Alicia looks a bit embarrassed. "My friends and I are very strong, though, and we've overcome formidable foes before. We even have a few tricks specifically built for hurting such beings, and I'm going to go looking for another before seeking battle."
[21:16] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Good luck," Jessy says, disbelief in her voice. "May the bards sing of your tales after."
02[21:16] * Harriet (~carthrat@c122-107-246-130.eburwd9.vic.optusnet.com.au) Quit (Ping timeout)
[21:18] <Alicia> "Thanks," Alicia inclines her head. "I'll make sure to stop by afterwards to let you know how things went so you're not left wondering, if you like?" she then offers.
[21:18] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Yes, I think I'd like that," Jessy says, "Let me know that you didn't die."
[21:20] <Tiny_Ko_Army> OOC: Hop along then? Go ahead and roll gather info for the rest of your gathering needs.
[21:21] <Alicia> roll 1d20+18 (heroism) how's life in Kelara these days?
06[21:21] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+18 (heroism) how's life in Kelara these days? and gets 37." [1d20=19]
[21:22] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The general buzz Alicia gets is that things are slowly improving. The roads are being better kept, more soldiers are about, that manner of things. There's a lot of skepticism to go with it, though.
06[21:25] * Alicia is satisfied.
[21:26] <Tiny_Ko_Army> roll 1d100
06[21:26] * Hatbot --> "Tiny_Ko_Army rolls 1d100 and gets 63." [1d100=63]