Session 4-2! The trials begin! Watch out, Saul and Darius!

[Anastasia]

<Saul> "Eyes front, Darius," mutters Saul, looking distinctly uncomfortable, and feeling somewhat strange amongst.. well, elves who acted like elves.
* Darius grunts and glances at Saul with a slight glare before going back to eating.
> "Child," Speaking with a careful, kindly flow, looking to Seryf mainly and ignoring both the maiden waiting obdiently at the door as well as her admirerer, "We shall hear of the legend of Corela, then we shall discuss the matter at hand. For now, I offer our hospitality, as taught to us by Corela. Please, rest your travel weary bodies and slake your hungers."
* Saul picks at his food, eyes focusing far too much on the table and plate.
* Hotaru-chan is now known as Seryf
* Seryf smiles and nods, shifting back to her food. "Indeed, our thanks, elder," Seryf murmurs, letting silence take over.
> The meal is light and etherial, more like eating flavored, soft airs than real food. Yet it fills the hunger in your stomachs as well as bread and ale would, and thus a short period of time passes. Perhaps only ten minutes, but at last - a fair young elf, hair as blonde as the sun's blessings. A baby blue robe is worn, a cunningly and intracate lute held. A bow to his elder, then speaking in slow and awkward Common, "Travelers, you wish to hear the minstrel of Corela?"
> Travelers, you wish to hear the minstrel of Corela?"
<Elaine> 'Hello!' Elaine thinks to herself, admiring the fair-looking minstrel. Nodding, she mutters, "Uhuh..."
<SirGavin> "Yes, we would." Gavin added in.
> His slender, long fingers brush across the strings of his harp, sounds like the voice of a Goddess drawn forth. "Then listen to the tale handed down since the Sealing of the Trolls. Listen well, travelers, and enjoy my song." Closing his eye and letting his hand and mouth work, song comes forth. It is sweet song tempered with heart breakingly poignant music, stirring feelings inside your soul. (More)
> *Lute
> So a song is began - you have a lingering difficulty remembering the exact words, as if the song is too precious to be contained exactly in the memories of those that hear it. Yet the story told is clear. Corela, an Elven Maiden and warrioress, protector of her land and the animals there, fought a great insurgence of trolls. A vailant battle fought by this colony, yet the slain rose again and again. Trolls are horrible creatures of magic and darkness, able to heal even grevious wounds. (More)
>  Trolls are horrible creatures of magic and darkness, able to heal even grevious wounds. (More)
> The elves that fell bravely were not so blessed, and slowly the warriors of this elven town were massacred. Day after day the trollish horde was fought, and more bloodshed occured. Alone, the elves could not triumph. Yet Corela would not accept this and traveled out, to find allies and friends. Trials she underwent in the world outside - befriending a secluded mage, battling foes and gathering allies. In her quest she gathered two items in particular. (More)
> In her quest she gathered two items in particular. (More)
> A blade, blessed of Yunnus, high Goddess of the Solar Temple. A weapon that would sear and burn away the flesh of even a troll, given to her after she ascended the highest dwarven mountain. A gauntlet of fine elven mesh, surrounded by raw force - wielded as a blade of force or a shield of energy, capable of stopping even the strongest force. (More(
> With these and her allies, she came back and batteld the horde of trolls. With the blessing of the Gods and the support of her friends, the trolls were defeated one by one - but some would not die and kept coming. Realising that even the highest bravery would not stop them, Corela cast aside even her life, lying her body at the base of the holy tree this town is built by, sealing the trolls inside.
> Finishing at last, the song going and revealing what it will. Bowing once to his audience, "I thank you for listening," his common, flawless while singing, is slow and hesitant now.
* SirGavin claps for the bard. "Quite a voice."
* Elaine claps with a smile. "That was a beautiful tale, sir minstrel," she offers. "Your talent with the lute is a wonder and I must agree with Sir Gavin as well."
* Darius follows Gavin's lead, slightly hesitantly.
* Saul seems lost in thought, not responding.
> Bowing to the gathered heros, "I thank you again." With a nod from the elder, he departs out without further words, smiling at the praise and departing. Once he is gone:
> "The story of the tale of so long ago, preserved as best it can be by even those that time does not ravage strongly at all." So the elven elder annouces as he departs.
> *as the minstrel departs
<SirGavin> "So...  there are trolls still alive behind the seal?" Gavin asked.
> "In a state, I believe so. While weakened by centuries of isolation and no challengers in a fair time, I believe from what I have gathered over my life that they are a part of the trial." Slowly looking to all of them, "The Ordeal of Ascention is said to be a test of mind, body and soul before the spirit of Corela as she waits to give her gird and heritage to a worthy successor."
<Seryf> "And what does her heritage entail, do you suppose, elder?" Seryf asks quietly, refocusing on the roomng after having apparently zoned out.
* SirGavin ponders briefly those words.
> "It is said that the one that reaches the end of the trial shall find that out fully - part of what we know is of the weapon and gauntlet she left behind. Her legacy - a warrior and protector of those that must be protected. Much like a human champion, a paladin or knight.":
<SirGavin> "I suppose part of it would be wiping out the remaining trolls, so that when the seal is removed, the village isn't attacked by what's left behind?"
<Saul> "Could it be you, Seryf?" mumbles Saul, then speaking up a bit louder- "I presume this ordeal is undertaken by a single warrior, or whatnot?"
* Darius looks at Saul then eyes Seryf...
> "That may be so." Agreement to Gavin, innocent and honest, then, "I ask of you, child of the elven race - did Corela stand alone, in spirit?"
<SirGavin> "The bard spoke of her allies."
<Seryf> "Hardly," Seryf murmurs, smiling a little. "She had the elven people behind her, her own friends, and her lover with her," she answers, shaking her head. "I hardly think I count for some of the job description, though," she adds with a small smile.
<SirGavin> "So I presume that the trials are not fully meant to be done alone?"
<Saul> "Allies in spirit, allies in form.." muses Saul.
> Nodding to all as they speak, "Indeed. Decide on this matter, and when the time comes, enter the trial alone or with those you wish to bring. It is up to whomever wishes to challenge the trial." Rising finally, back rubbed after, "Is there one here that wishes to take the Ordeal?"
<Darius> "I guess I'll help, if anyone needs it.."
* Elaine nods. "Same here. Saul? What's your opinion on the Ordeal then?" she asks, turning to look at her occassional mentor.
<Seryf> "Is it a choice offered at the end of the ordeal?" Seryf asks, looking to the elder.
> Serith looks up from the side of Darius, quiet yet there to support her master, perhaps?
<Saul> "You 'guess you'll help'?" snaps Saul, looking at Darius for a moment. "If it's an ordeal before spirit then.. ugh, never mind. Elaine, this sort of thing.. these oaths and geases of ancient times are strong. If we are to go through with this ordeal, then.. it would be best to make sure we know exactly what we stand for, in relation to it."
<Saul> "It's not like exploring a cave and finding some gold. It's something that could impact us in more ways than we can think."
> "Perhaps so..." Beginning but stopping, frowning, "Child, I ask that you not raise your voice in this place. This is a grave matter, but I wish not to see open discord amoung friends. If you must argue, I shall adjourn and rest while you discuss the matters you have."
<Saul> "I apologize," mutters Saul, slumping back in his chair.
> Taking a breath after, "You are correct, however, this is not an errand to be taken lightly. In light of this - spend the night. Rooms shall be prepared, and discuss this amongst yourself."
<SirGavin> "Thank you for your kindness," Gavin responded.
> "If there are no more questions, I shall depart to do as I have said." Looking to all, "Spend time here for now - there will be no disturbances if you wish to debate your course of action."
<Seryf> "Thank you," Seryf agrees, frowning slightly as she settles back in her chair, glancing at Saul. "We shall speak to you in the morning then, elder," she adds, smiling at the older man.
> "If that is your wish, children." A respectful nod to them, cane leaned on as he begins to head away. Off he goes, outside and leaving the party to talk freely amongst themselves.
<SirGavin> "Mmm...So we're facing some mystic trial alongside a bunch of trolls?"
<Saul> "'Some mystric trial.' 'A bunch of trolls.' Honestly," mutters Saul.
> Serith growls softly at this, audible just to Darius, sitting at his side and looking at the noisy humans.
* SirGavin eyes Saul. "Okay, what's your take on it."
> *Humans and elves
<Seryf> "Seems like it...as well as the offer of something I don't find very much with my internal nature, unless Elaine would like to take this up," Seryf laughs, glancing at her fellow.
<Elaine> "Not just trolls. Remember, the bard said that the slain rose again and again..." Elaine points out.
<Saul> "It's.. ugh, I know you don't mean anything wrong by saying it.. I just don't want to see any of you take this *lightly*," says Saul.
<Elaine> "I'm not taking it lightly!" Elaine replies in annoyance. "I just don't know whether it's something to go through or not. That's why I asked for your opinion, I do trust your judgement...when it doesn't involve dragons and spellbooks anyhow."
<Seryf> "Hardly, Saul," Seryf shakes her head. "If we were, you think we'd be talking about it right now?" she prods, shrugging.
<Saul> "Maybe. Maybe not," replies Saul, glancing back. "One way or the other.. don't take this path unless you could believe strongly in the same things this.. hero did."
* Elaine pauses. "Then Gavin's probably the best bet of us if one of us were to take it. Justice is a calling for him, after all."
<SirGavin> "I'd be surprised though, if not under the enchantments, was a binding for elvish blood."
<Seryf> "However, the requirement is for elven blo..." Seryf just shakes her head as Gavin jumps it first.
<Elaine> "Oh, that's true," Elaine admits, not having considered that.
<SirGavin> "Anyhow...  The best we can do is prepare.  Does anyone truly want to turn around and simply leave?"
<Saul> "Remember that the test is one of spirit as much as anything," notes Saul. "Look at us, as a group, and not as individuals. Two elves, two half-elves, and a human. We could, at least, pretend that between us, we can emulate this hero.. but I leave the choice to all of you."
<Darius> "I'm not sure we should trust that old man so easily."
<Darius> "He's doing something to Serith while he's around. I'm not sure what, and don't know how to stop it.."
* SirGavin sighs. "That was a question. Who wants to turn around? I see no real reason to. We know we're walking into danger but we have multiple separate accounts to indicate it has treasure that'd make it worth it."
<Seryf> "Animal empathy," Seryf shrugs a little. "It's a ranger talent...that I have very little of, but enough to have made friends with Serith in the first place. He isn't interfereing with her decision making, is he?"
* SirGavin is now known as Mister_Boot
<Darius> "Yes, he is. It's more than empathy. She stops... Thinking, sort of. All she can focus on is haze of feeling good when he's around."
* Mister_Boot is now known as SirGavin
* Seryf just shakes her head at Gavin, tapping the table. "I...am tempted to see this to the end, and make a choice there. If nothing else, with the goodwill of this village, we may lose little for experience and thought."
<Elaine> "So the elder's sorta like catnip to Serith, Darius?" Elaine asks curiously at how Darius describes the effect the elder has on the big feline.
<Saul> "Where mystic ordeals and ancient legends are concerned, I wouldn't count on making your choice after the ordeal has ended," notes Saul. "But, if you wish to go, then we'd best rest."
<SirGavin> "What about ye Saul?"
<Darius> "Not quite... Normally, Serith can talk to me.. When he's around she can barely form solid thoughts. Whatever he's doing, if he's around and we get attacked, I'm not sure she'd be able to make herself do anything other than lay around."
<Saul> "I will go, Gavin. If only to, as usual, keep you all in one piece. I'm allied to all of you, if not whatever else the ordeal stands for."
<Darius> "I'll go, but I don't trust that elder. I ain't got too many friends, and I'm not about to let you all run off and get slaughtered."
<Darius> "Besides.. Serith would make life hell if I let her pack break apart and die.."
<Elaine> "I'm pretty much in the same position as them, I'll go because you're friends...well that, and the adventure of it, but you know me," Elaine comments with a grin.
<Seryf> "I'd wondered if she thought that way," Seryf murmurs, glancing at the giant feline. "So in the end, the cat will hunt us down and drag us back to the den by the scruff of our necks?" she teases a little. "I also think, Saul, that a benevolent trial would not in itself hold a lacking of the spirit against us, so long as we were not evil."
<Saul> "You'd think, wouldn't you," muses Saul.
<Darius> "Well.. I wouldn't put it past her, Seryf.."
<SirGavin> "Are we going because we believe we can win or because of friends going?"
> Serith looks up, rising up and putting her forepaws on the table. Done this way, she's quite the tall and intimadating beast. She looks to all of them, the full weight of a predator seen to them.
<Saul> "We're going because.. what *is* she doing?" asks Saul, glancing at Darius.
<Darius> "She's getting annoyed with you all."
<Saul> "Does she have something to say?" says Saul, sarcastically.
<Seryf> "Both?" Seryf suggests to Gavin. "And just a little bit of honest greed," she admits, blinking suddenly, and focusing on the big cat. "Why?" she asks Darius.
* Darius focuses on Serith..
<Darius> "She's getting annoyed because we're arguing."
<Darius> "Basically, if we keep in-fighting, *she'll* do something about it.."
* Darius eyes the cat cautiously..
> Serith leans off the table, going back onto all fours and lying down, curling up at the side of Darius after that.
<SirGavin> "I sense a massive amount of helpfulness in that action." Gavin rolled his eyes.  "Anyhow, let's get to our rooms.  Seryf seems set on this and I believe we should be able to do it."
<Saul> "Arguing? I think we're going," says Saul, sighing. "But.. sleep, yes. I shall see you all tomorrow." At that, Saul turns and leaves the room.
<Elaine> "Is any of us keeping watch tonight? Since Serith has expressed concern over our host?" Elaine asks.
* Darius stands up and pats Serith.
* Seryf shrugs, standing a bit. "Saul and I can switch off, we don't need as much sleep," she offers, glancing at Saul for agreement.
<Darius> "I'll take a watch shift, too."
<Saul> "There's no need," says Saul. "Unless you want to double up."
> Thus the party rests. A night of soft beds and warm refreshment in the morning, the team gathering in the same meeting hall again. The elder is there, having sent summons. Looking to the rested and refreshed warriors, "HAve you decided yet on your course?"
<SirGavin> "We shall face the trials."  Gavin answered.
> "So it shall be." Nodding once and rising, leaning on his came. "Follow, then, and I shall take you to the seal."
* SirGavin leads the party after him.
* Saul follows after Gavin, still somewhat apprehensive.
> So the party heads out - into the village, past the houses. Past houses and treehouses, and trees that function as dwellings. Ahead they go, a great tree looming. As tall as the sky, broader than a castle, given a radius with nothing but perfect flowers and grass growing around it. So you head to this serene place, a feeling permeating your bodies of rest, of serenity.
<Elaine> "Huh...I was expecting a creepy cave or some such," Elaine mutters under her breath, while admiring the scene ahead.
<Seryf> "In an elven township? Hardly, Elaine. I guess I really should take all of you home some day..." Seryf hums.
* Darius glances over at Seryf at her words and begins to fidget a little.
* Saul glances at Seryf, then seems to walk more slowly, shaking his head a little.
> "If you wish for caves and dank rock, I suggest you head to the northwestern mountains of the dwarves," The elder's observation is light, going to the center of the vast trunk and placing his hand on it. "Tell me, travelers. Tell me of the name of the one that will be the leader to take the Ordeal."
* SirGavin glances at Seryf?
* Seryf smiles at Gavin, hands resting on the hilts of her swords as she steps forward. "I will be, elder."
> "Then come to me. Place your hand over mine on the tree - and come with her, friends of Seryf."
* SirGavin does so, placing his hand over the elders.
* Darius follows along, keeping an eye on the elder.
* Seryf does as instructed, placing her hand on the tree over the elder's.
* Elaine follows in the action as well.
* Saul puts his hand on last.
> So the party does so, the tree shines with a moment of captures sunlight. This dazzles the party, blinding them for a moment! When it is passed, they are no longer outside - in a small chamber of pure wood ten feet high and thirty feet wide. The elder is gone, only everyone plus Serith. Ahead there is a raised dais of wood, a small set of stairs leading up to it. Softly, a female voice speaks, "Those that wish to become Ascendant - come. Stand on the dais with your friends, Seryf."
> This voice is a ghostly whisper, kind and soft, yet instructive.
> Light comes from everywhere and no where -no darkness here, yet no light. You can see well enough, even Gavin. Dim but visible, nothing hidden by the ravage of darkness.
* Seryf steps forward, since it seems she'll be marching lead this time around! Up the stairs to the dais Seryf goes, wondering almost if the others are following behind her.
* Saul follows slowly, taking in all the room around him.
* Darius keeps an eye on the surroundings and speaks to Serith for a moment.
* Elaine keeps her eyes and ears open for danger and daggers at the ready as she follows after the others.
> OOC - LIstening check, Elaine.
> OOC -Se.
* SirGavin follows as well, standing right near Seryf towards the front.
> OOC - Sec
* Misukibot (dunefar@ip24-253-133-211.hr.hr.cox.net) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +oq Misukibot Misukibot
<Elaine> roll d100
<Misukibot> Elaine rolled d100 --> [ 1d100=85 ]{85}
> The room is smooth wood, nothing else of note here. Nothing is heard but the sound of your footsteps. Serith comes ahead, to the side of Seryf as they head up. At the top of the dais is simply nothing, as the PCs all reach there. But they only see this a moment, as the world winks, and...OOC - Congratulations! You've just been split up for the moment and flung to Gods only know where! On the plus side, it's twosomes that you'll find out in the OOC room and we'll be knocking these out today and as the week goes on.
> On the plus side, it's twosomes that you'll find out in the OOC room and we'll be knocking these out today and as the week goes on.
* Darius is now known as Iddy-Shower
* Iddy-Shower is now known as Darius
> Mmm. When Darius and Saul recover awareness, they are lying in a grassy meadow. No trees about, only high rolling hills. Serith is not by Darius's side, nor are any of your other friends.
* Seryf is now known as Hotaru-chan
* Saul slowly picks himself up, glancing at Darius to make sure he's allright. "Where.. how.. hmm."
* Elaine is now known as Merc
* Darius stumbles to his feet and looks around slightly panicked.
<Darius> roll 1d20-1
<Misukibot> Darius rolled 1d20-1 --> [ 1d20=16 ]{15}
<Darius> "What's going on? Where's Serith?"
<Saul> "No idea," muses Saul. "We all appear to have been seperated.." He takes a longer look around the field.
* Darius grinds his teeth.
<Darius> "We've got to find them.."
> The hills are reasonably rolling and high ones, you can't see much without going atop the next. It's at least sunny and warm, the weather perfect.
<Saul> "Good luck," points out Saul. "If they're nearby, we will, but we could be anywhere." He starts to head towards one of the higher hills in order to get a better look around.
* Darius takes off at a steady lope for the top of the hill.
* Darius looks up at the sky and the surrounding land, trying to get his bearings.
> roll 1d6
<Misukibot> Dungeon_Ana rolled 1d6 --> [ 1d6=6 ]{6}
> OOC - Wisdom check +1, Iddy.
<Darius> roll 1d20+1
<Misukibot> Darius rolled 1d20+1 --> [ 1d20=15 ]{16}
> It takes Darius the entire trip up the hill to get a grip on his bearings, but he's really not sure. Ahead are a few more lighter hills, a dirt road ahead cutting through them.
* Saul heads down to follow the road, curious as to when the actual ordeal starts.
> As you head down, you can see something ahead, coming over a far hill now on this road. A horse drawn wagon, two horses and a canvas covered wagon driven by a scruffy looking man.
* Darius glances at Saul and sets an arrow to nock.
* Saul signals to Darius to stay at the top of the hill, before moving to approach the wagoner.
> So the wagon approaches, horses being called to stop as Saul approaches. "Woah!" The driver is a scruffy dwarf, you can see now - sitting ruined perception of height. A dirty red beard shot with grey, plain clothes and a short short jangling at his side. "Hail there, travel'er." He calls, hearty voiced and strong.
<Saul> "Greetings," replies Saul, in common. "I do't suppose you'd be able to, um, tell me where I am? I seem to have gotten lost," he adds, looking kinda sheepish.
> "Done prancin' round your woods, eh," Grinning ear to ear, "You're close to Flenceburg. Need a lift, do ya?"
<Saul> "Hmm.. I should be fine to walk," replies Saul, musing. "How far is Flenceburg?"
> "'bout twenty miles, give or take one or two." Shrugging idly, "Friend of yours over there - don't mind the company, with the trolls on the road lately, don't ya know?"
<Saul> "Trolls, eh? In that case, I'd be glad to take a life," says Saul, nodding, and waving at Darius to come down.
* Darius puts the arrow back in his quiver as he trots down and slides the bow back over his shoulder.
<Saul> OOC: *lift. @_@
* Darius stops short of the wagon and bows to the Dwarf.
<Darius> "Greetings, sir."
> "'nother elfy," Snorting and scooting, "Careful - damn wands 'splode if you go pokin' them. Takin' a shipment to the Flenceburg Magic Academy, ya know. Stupid mages need 'em to help fight off the trolls swarmin' 'round."
* Darius swings up into the wagon.
<Darius> "Aye, wands are more trouble'n they're worth.."
<Saul> "Like you'd know," snorts Saul. "But... that's odd. Didn't they give you a guard or the like?" asks Saul, curiously. "I'd say.. a wagon of wands is a pretty big contribution and shouldn't be.. well.."
> "Yer lookin' at 'im. Was the guard, one of four of 'em. Truthfully, 'appy to run across some more people, those damn trolls are vicious bastards." Frowning a moment in memory and mourning, "All the King's troops are fighin' up north and are most of the wizards, so we gotta try to get these to Flenceburg."
* SirGavin is now known as Drac-haircut
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<Saul> "Well. I happen to be a mage," notes Saul, dryly, "If we are attacked, I presume you won't mind me using some of your stock."
* Darius looks at Saul..
<Darius> "Aye, I'll draw blade too.
<Darius> "
> "You kiddin'?" Frowning darker, scooting to the end, "'ta be honest, rather not hafta worry 'bout that. Lose me hide and lose my pay if they aren't up ta snuff, you know. Orders from the King!"
<Saul> "I think he'll be more upset if you die and lose the shipment," notes Saul.
> "Hopin' it won't come down to it, ya understand. Yah!" Giving the horses a shake, they start at a trot. "Ain't wanint' to be disobeyin' a direct order from King Alard! Like me head where it is, ya know?"
> Nodding to Darius a moment later, "Glad ta se eone of you elfys knows how ta use a real weapon."
<Darius> "Bah. Half-Elf. Can't see someone like him swinging a sword, can ya?"
* Darius smirks at Saul.
> "True enough, by the Valkyries!" Laughing in an uproarish fashion, amused vastly, "True enough!"
* Saul shakes his head, amused.
> So the trip begins - your dwarf makes good and loud company, going on and this and that, nothing inparticular. Seems that trolls are indeed rasing trouble - at about the five mile mark, amid vast hills, "The bastards said to be from one of the dark Gods, ya know. That's what all the clerics are sayin' when they aren't mendin's heads an makin' auguries right now."
<Saul> "It's not impossible," ventures Saul, shrugging.
* Darius glances over to one of the hills.
> "Mebbe," Considering that, "If it is, why ain't the nice god sendin' angels or spirits or anything?"
<Darius> "I think I saw something.. A glint.."
<Saul> "Why risk angels when mortals will do?" snorts Saul, adding another strike against Orial.. before turning to look where Darius is.