Lunar: Magic Empire Session 20 Log ============================================================ Cast of Characters: Rune as "GM/Narrator, Par, the bush, Mileria, Elron, Bask, Boy/Leon, Trader A and B, Kargeth, Warlock, and Homair (the warlock in mud brown robes)" Seath as "Earendil" GORN as "Rein" Hahn as "Kadan" Aes as "Valina" Mia Ausa as "Geint" SOLaike as "Tarrant" Dyne as "Arzel" Ayeye as "Ayeye" ============================================================ GMRune: ------game on-------- GMRune: Par guides you all into a small study. GMRune: You see Lady Mileria sitting behind a bulky oaken desk. The desk is highly polished, and many papers and inkwells lie upon it. The lady herself seems very weary, likely from the amount of work she has been doing. Standing to either side of her are two men. GMRune: The one to her left is a tall elf with light brown hair. Although no longer "young" he is still in his prime and roughly the same age as Mileria herself. He is dressed in a long-sleeved night blue tunic and gray pants. To Mileria's right is a human male, roughly fifty years of age. He wears a black robe embroidered with many glyphs and sigils. Both men bear the snake and dagger symbol on silver pendants around their necks. Mileria looks up at your approach, relief flooding her face. Earendil: We were on our way to Vane when we got your message, Lady Mileria. Mileria: Ah, it is good to see you have arrived. I see now that I should not have doubted you. Valina looks at the pendants. Mileria: I really must thank you for coming. Earendil: What can we do though? Valina: Yea... we thought the lion's den was so close, we might as well stop for feeding time! Mileria smiles slightly. "Well, first I believe you should meet my compantions as they have a right to be here and know what's going on." Mileria gestures to the two men behind her. "Allow me to introduce you to Lord Elron, my husband," --she motions to the elf-- "and Lord Bask," --she gestures to the older man-- "who is the lead patron of House Magus. Normally Lord Bask resides in Killith, as do all heads of the warlock noble houses. However he has been allowed to leave so that House Magus may properly prepare for Emperor Kargeth's arrival. They both are here to make sure they know the state of affairs as they stand." Elron and Bask nod as Mileria introduces them. Rein bows deferently. Mileria: Anyway, Emperor Kargeth will be arriving here the day after tomorrow. Mileria: He wishes to tour Vane during the day and then attend a party of sorts here later in the evening. Geint: A party? Valina: Ohh great... are we invited? Bask: Yes, Emepror Kargeth wishes to be honored by our hosting a ball for him. Geint: =) Mileria: Indeed you are, Valina. You all are. Earendil: A bit arrogant, isn't he? Geint: I want to be honored with a ball..... why hasn't anyone ever done that for me... Valina: ohh... fun Elron: You don't know the half of it! Valina rolls her eyes cynically.. Earendil: Us, go to the party. Is that wise? Elron: Kargeth's ego doesn't stop at simple gala parties! Ayeye: No it's not wise. We should just get back to returning the staff. Geint: Well what else? Mileria: I know there is a danger. But since you are the only group of among us that is both capable of coming and going without warlock intervention AND are also capable of taking care of yourselves, I believe you can stand to learn a lot from attending. Geint: Go ahead. make me jelious... Rein: Wouldn't the warlocks recognize us? Earendil: Do you know if SHE will be there? Ayeye: I think you missed something, we are not able to come and go without warlock intervention. Geint: Yea, sure, Miss, but you aren't the little air- bunny look-alike here, are you? ....And BTW I do NOT look like an air bunny! Rein: I think you'd look stunning in a gown, Geint! Geint: =b Mileria lowers her gaze. "I don't know if Lady Elanor will be attending, but I believe you probably won't be recognized by the majority present. There's a chance Lord Gausuton will be attending, but I'm not entirely certain of that." Geint: Will you buy me one? =) Valina: Will Gauston be there... Valina: Hey Geint, you could disquise yourself as a hat! Geint: Well, what kind of hat? I have standards, you know... Mileria: Of course, if you are worried about being recognized, I suppose you could dress up in hooded robes and attend. Being that this IS a warlock gathering, that wouldn't be enirely unreasonable. Rein: Oh I don't want to do that... Valina: I don't know... Pinkish isn't good for me, but maybe for Kadan.. Arzel: The hooded robe thing isn't a problem for me and Tarrant. Ayeye crosses her arms defiantly. "Well I don't want to walk into the warlock's trap!" Rein: That sounds like sort of a macabre party... Mileria: I can arrange for any sort of clothing you need for the ball, as you should be well dressed for the occasion. Earendil: I supposed I could wears a robe and hood, I have done so before. Geint: I want a hood and robe! Earendil: Geint, I think a flying robe would attract even more attention than a flying cat Mileria looks at Ayeye. "I can understand that. But it will be hard for myself, Elron, or Bask to do any prying on our own since we are the hosts of the party." Geint: =( Valina has always had a desire to dress up one day in her life... Geint: Uhhh...... don't the humans need an escort for these kinds of gatherings? ;) Earendil: Hmm . . . it has been awhile since I was in a formal knight's attire. Rein: Geint, you'd better make sure Kadan stays out of trouble.... Ayeye: I don't see how we could do any better, unless you want us out of the way. Earendil gives Geint the evil eye for her remark. Geint snickers. Mileria: Also, Elron has managed to recruite a couple warlocks from other houses who are interested in helping us. Lady Jera of House Flysse and Lord Dayis of House Protectoriate will be joining our efforts and will also be present at the ball. Earendil: Can they be trusted? Elron: I believe so. I didn't approach them about our efforts until I was certain they sympathized with the commoners independant of us. Geint: Hey! I could say that I was a warlock turned into this shape! =D Par: Um... are you sure that would work, Geint? Geint: .....I could ALSO wear a robe! Geint: I won't fly!! I'll stay at the dessert table the whole time! Earendil: You know Geint, if we turned you into stone again, you'd make the perfect centerpiece for the table. Geint: >=( Valina giggles. Geint: Heyyy!! Geint: That WASN'T funny! Earendil: We could put flowers on your head, and circle you with pieces of fruit. Mileria: Well, would you be interested in attending? From what information Par's given me, your quest to find the staff near Lentol deadwalled. Valina: Ohh Geint, I'm sure you'd make a cute centerpiece. Rein nods and sighs. Geint: But I wanna watch the party!! I've never been to one! Arzel: I wouldn't mind attending. Valina: I'll attend. Earendil: We might as well. Ayeye: I'm not interested. We would be trapped by too many warlocks. Geint: I'll be a really short warlock... you'll see! Elron: Perhaps if one of you with the hoods let the flying thing sit in your hood next to you... Geint: Then they'd look funny. =b Arzel looks at Geint. Earendil: Geint can sit in one of the plants by the corner. Arzel: In my robe? I don't think so...I'm allergic to cat. :P Mileria: That will not entirely be true, Ayeye, as a lot of the warlocks present will also be of House Magus. Geint: I'm not a cat so you don't have to worry! Valina thinks... what color would I look best in? Rein: This seems like a great opportunity. Rein: Anyway, Ayeye, wouldn' it be fun? Ayeye: I do not think being captured by warlocks is fun. Par smiles slightly. "If you've ever wanted to hobnob with high society, this is your chance." Arzel: If geint REALLY wants to she can hide in my hood :P Earendil: Lady Mileria, while you are taking care of our , um . . attire, we would like to browse your shops again. Geint: No......I wanna go on my own!! Geint: I don't need your help! Geint: ...I could! I mean..... uhh... I could be...a..... Arzel: Okay okay Geint, don't rip my head off. Mileria nods. "That can be arranged." Geint: You can hide my wings, can't you? Mileria: But it's late. And the shops are no longer open. Perhaps you would like to spend the night and shop in the morning? Earendil turns to Geint with an angry face. "Geint, you either go hidden or not at all. The fact of the matter is that a flying cat would raise too many questions." Geint: I'd pretend to be someone's pet! Geint: =( Valina: Mileria something umm kinda cute for me please :) Mileria smiles gently to Valina. "I'll see what I can do." Arzel: Put Geint on a leash! Valina: Thank you. Geint: I'd rather that, Arzel! Rein: Is the party tomorrow? Earendil turns his head back to Mileria. "That would be fine." Arzel: It can be aranged Geint. :P Bask: I'm not certain if having the baby dragon on a leash is a wise idea. Some of the elder warlocks know what form a young dragon takes. Geint: As I said, you could hide my wings! Mileria: No, Rein. The party is the day after tomorrow, so you will have a little time to prepare. Arzel: Okay, Geint on a leash is out. Rein: Oh, ok. Par turns to the party. "I suppose if there are no further questions for the lady, I'll guide you to your rooms." Geint: But...but.... I don't want to hide in Arzel's clothes! Earendil: Geint, end of discussion! Rein: Don't worry, Geint, we'll figure something out. Geint: Ok....And don't get so mad at me, Earendil! Geint: How would YOU like it if people were making you hide in some guy's clothes? HMM? Geint: I'll do it! OK? Earendil: It would have to be a very large man. Par leads the party out of the study with a glance from Mileria. Arzel grins at Ear. Tarrant tosses a piece of food in his hood. Valina: Thanks! Par closes the door behind him and the group of you see the silver-haired elf boy from earlier just outside the door. The boy looks up at you curiously. Arzel looks at the boy. Geint: Uhh... hi. Par smiles at the boy. "Hi, Leon. I think your parents are done inside." Valina looks at the boy... Leon looks up at the group, his expression blank. He then opens the door and passes inside. Valina looks at Leon... "Hi!" Par sighs and turns back to the group. "You'll have to excuse him. Leon's a very quiet child." Rein watches the strange boy pass Valina: Well... so was I. Valina: But that's another story. Geint: I wasn't! =D ...Oh well. He seems nice enough... Par gestures for you to follow him and he leads you down a flight of stairs to the guest bedrooms you had used earlier. Earendil: The quiet one's have the most to say. Par: I'll see you guys in the morning. Tarrant: Later Par. Valina: Goodnight, Par. Earendil: Goodnight. Par leaves you all so that you can go to sleep. Arzel: Night all. Arzel looks for somewhere to sleep. Valina gets in her room and goes to bed... GMRune: The night passes, and you dream... Valina has nightmares... again. GMRune: A dark shadow rises up, twisting and bending its. There is someone among you who is not not of Lunar, not of this world! Valina hasn't dreamed for a long time. and she misses it... GMRune: This shadow seperates itself from its owner, multiplying in its haste to be awakened... GMRune: You suddenly see the other party members around you, seeming confused, yet posessing the same vision as you do. Valina: umm... Arzel looks around confused like. Geint: ??? GMRune: The four shadows' eyes gleam in the darkness of your minds and attack! Rein pinches himself. GMRune: ------round 1------- GMRune: Rein doesn't feel anything. He's still asleep! Valina sits up... and grabs her sword. GMRune: target: 4 shadows Valina: What is going on? Geint: I dunno.... GMRune: You notice Kadan is not in the dream with you. However Par is. GMRune: Ayeye defends herself! Valina: It seems as if... all of the sudden my dreams became better... and these shadows appear.. Geint: Uuuhhhhhh.......... I dunno...... all I know is that I don't dream like I used to! GMRune: Geint whirls into a dive, slashing through the row of shadows! Geint: Yaahaa! Earendil: Just act like this is a normal battle everyone. Ayeye: I...It's the warlocks! We have to get out of this place! GMRune: 60 damage to each! Geint: How, ayeye? Geint: Do you see 'EXIT' signs here? GMRune: Earendil uses Wide Slash and carves a hole through the shadows! Ayeye: I don't know, but we can't stick around for the party. They're after us! GMRune: 51 damage to each! GMRune: Rein uses Middle Thrust on Shadow #1! GMRune: 16 damage! GMRune: Valina sings, bombarding Shadow #1 with high frequency songs! Geint: Dammit.... this dream would end a lot faster with Kadan with us......... GMRune: 39 damage! Valina: La.... GMRune: Par hurls a shaft of ice at shadow #1! GMRune: 69 damage! Tarrant hopes that he will remember this dream whenever he wakes up... GMRune: Arzel casts Flame Sweep as Tarrant calls out the words to Spore Pop! Burnt Offering is cast as heaps of ashes scorch the shadows! GMRune: 168 damage to each! Arzel: Who hoo! Combo! GMRune: Shadow #1 is history! Geint: Wow... weird dream... I never had a drem before where everybody in it ALSO thought they were dreaming! Geint: WOW! GMRune: Shadow #2 attacks Geint! GMRune: 5 damage GMRune: Shadow #3 attacks Earendil! GMRune: 7 damage GMRune: Shadow #4 attacks Valina! GMRune: 8 damage GMRune: ----round 2----- Geint makes anime faces at the shadows. GMRune: Ayeye continues avoiding the shadows. GMRune: Geint casts Flame Arrow at Shadow #2! GMRune: 45 damage! GMRune: Earendil casts Quickcut on Shadow #2! GMRune: 61 damage! GMRune: Shadow #2 falls! GMRune: Rein thwaps his staff into the midrift of shadow #3! Earendil: Hmmpf, if only the real world was just as easy. GMRune: 19 damage! GMRune: Valina hurls a shaft of wind at shadow #3! Rein Rein flails away, disoriented GMRune: 41 damage! GMRune: Shadow #3 falls! GMRune: Arzel casts Flame Sweep! GMRune: 61 damage! GMRune: Shadow #4 falls! GMRune: -----victory------- Valina: I wonder what that was all about... Valina: And am I still dreaming? GMRune: The Party earns 26 XP, 17 MEXP, and 0 S. GMRune: After you defeat the shadows, their essence seems to slink away. GMRune: Your companions in the dream begin to fade away from you, and you sense that the shadow has returned to its original owner. GMRune: It is now morning and you awake. GMRune: All hp and mp is restored in full. Earendil wakes up in a cold sweat. Valina awakes... in a cold sweat. Arzel wakes up with a start. Tarrant is still sleeping. Rein jumps out of bed, startled. Valina gets up... and gets dressed... The bush rustles and yawns. Earendil gets up, washes his face to wipe the remnants of the dream away, and puts on his armor. Par is found knocking on your doors shortly thereafter. Arzel prepares all his stuff. Par: Hey guys! Are you awake? Valina: No... Rein: Gimme a sec... Arzel: Awake as I'll ever be. Earendil opens up his door and walks out still looking a bit groggy. Arzel walks out to stand near Par. Valina walks out, hair still a tangled mess... Par: You guys don't look too good. Did you have a bad night too? Arzel: You could say that again. Rein emerges, tying his belt around his waist. Earendil: I had the weirdest dream, but I can't seem to remember it very well. Valina gets out her wind comb and combs her hair... Ayeye: Yes, let's get out of here. Par nods. "Well, I believe you guys can go shopping now. And then after that some breakfast?" Geint: GgGgggggg.....g...... Valina: Umm.. ok. Rein: Oh boy... Geint flies in. Earendil: Yes, I think Valina and I are in the mood for some new armor. Tarrant: Mmm...I am starving.. Kadan wakes up, groggy, as if he hasn't even been present for the past two hours. Geint: Me too, Tarrant! =D Valina: Yea... Ayeye: I just want to leave. Arzel: I need some new armor too. Par leads the group back towards the House Magus shops. Kadan wonders if he's entitled to any shopping. GMRune: Once again you see the small chamber where the three traders were. However there are only two here now. Par: There's been a recent rush of buying, so you won't find the selection today as complete as it was the last time you were here. GMRune: There's an armory trader and an items trader. Earendil walks up to the armory trader. Arzel follows Ear. Valina: Well, as long I can get some armor... GMRune: The trader shows you his inventory. Thunder Axe (***) +28 AP 56 S Great Bow (**) +22 AP 44 S Panther Claws (**) +23 AP, +10 Hit%, +1 Att 68 S Steel Staff (**) +20 AP, +4 Wis 48 S Splintmail (**) +15 DP 45 S Bronze Shield (**) +6 DP, +3 Dodge% 27 S Iron Shield (***) +8 DP, +4 Dodge% 36 S Bunny Stockings (Bunny) +7 DP, +3 Dodge% 30 S Headband (**) +7 DP 21 S Iron Helm (***) +9 DP 27 S Arzel: Can I buy some splintmail? Geint: Umm... I still have to sell this... Earendil asks the trader, "How much will you give me for this halberd and these sets of silverwear?" Kadan: Seems we each get about 75 silver coins. Valina thinks... should I get some splintmail, which is 1/3 my body weight. Trader A: I'll give you 55 S Earendil: Okay! Earendil: I am going to go on a shopping spree with this hehe... Kadan nudges the trader. "How much for this Battle Axe and Wooden Shield, old man?" Earendil: And I'd like to buy a splintmail, a bronze shield and a headband. Tarrant sees nothing in his class, and looks around the rest of the shop. Trader A looks to Earendil. "Please wait until I'm done with this other guy here." He gestures to Kadan. Arzel gets in line behind Ear. Earendil gives the evil eye to Kadan. Trader A: I'll give you 17 S for them. Kadan slaps his Battle Axe and Wood Shield down on the counter. "Trade these in for the Thunder Axe and Iron Shield, please." Valina is thinking... but nothing seems to fit her GMRune: Kadan gets Thunder Axe and Iron Shield. Kadan does the "new equipment" boogie. Valina looks at the splintmail. Earendil seeing that Kadan is done, looks back at the trader Trader A: How may I help you? Earendil: I'll trade in this leather armor, leather shield and bandanna for a splintmail, bronze shield, and headband Arzel: My turn? Valina sits in the corner... waiting to move onward. Tarrant sits down next to Valina. Arzel: Could I trade in my magician's robe for some splintmail? Earendil dons his new equipment The trader looks at Arzel. "Are you sure you're strong enough to carry that?" Arzel: I'm not as weak as I look! Kadan swoops his new axe around in the air, practicing some blows while trailing a fading gold light and sharp hissing sounds as he slices through the air. The trader shrugs. "All right." Geint: Ok.. I want to sell my useless attire taking up space. GMRune: Geint sells her old Thick Fur! Kadan eyes the bunny equipment with interest. "You know... that just might fit..." Geint: I'll take the... *shudder* bunny stockings. GMRune: Geint gets Bunny Stockings. Geint: And the panther claws, please. =b Valina: Ohh Geint, they're cute ;) Geint: Thank you. =D Maybe they aren't so bad. GMRune: Geint also gets Panther Claws. Earendil tries to stifle a laugh as he sees Geint, but fails. Geint sticks her tounge out at Earendil and makes a cute, but bratty, face. GMRune: Geint's Steel Claws sold for 5 S. Valina looks... Valina: Ummm gee, what can I get? Rein: Okay.. Valina: Excuse me... but you wouldn't hapen to have some splintmail 1/2 way in the making? I think that would be the only thing that would fit. Rein: I'll trade in my oak staff and halberd Trader A: I think we have one in your size, ma'am. Failing that, we can always cast a shrink spell to make it smaller! Rein: And get a steel staff. Rein: Oh, and trade in my bandanna for a headband. Valina: Ohh... would you please! GMRune: Rein's stuff sells for 38 S. GMRune: Rein gets a headband and Valina gets splintmail. Valina: Oh, and I dont think I'll need this leather armor anymore. Rein: Do I get my steel staff? GMRune: Rein gets a steel staff and Valina sells her leather armor. Valina tries on the petite mail... Trader A: That everyone? Ayeye: No, I want to sell this leather armor. Valina: And I think I'll get a bronze shield too. GMRune: Ayeye sells her old leather armor and Valina buys a bronze shield. Tarrant: You wouldn't happen to have something for me would you? Maybe in the back room? Valina: I would get a headband, but I like my green circlet to much to part with now. Trader A: Let's see if I have anything for the mage. Rein: I look cool, with my new headband... be careful or I might start breakdancing. The trader digs around. Trader A: I have a dark robe [+10 DP, +5MgE] for 45 S. Tarrant: I will take it. GMRune: Tarrant gets Dark Robe. Earendil saunters over to Trader B, "What kind of wares do you carry?" Ayeye looks around nervously, "Can we go now?" Trader B: Not much, I'm afraid. I pretty much just carry various herbs. GMRune: Herb heals 20 HP 5 S GMRune: Jasmine heals 60 HP 45 S Kadan: Hmm... Earendil: I'll take a Jasmine and a herb. GMRune: Earendil buys a Jasmine and an Herb. Valina: I'll take 5 herbs please! Kadan: I will let you people decide on some purchases, but if you cannot think of anything to buy, I will take some. Kadan will have 5 herbs as well, if nobody objects. GMRune: Valina gets 5 herbs. GMRune: Kadan gets 5 herbs Valina: Thank you. Kadan does the "just got some herbs" boogie. Arzel thinks Kadan boogies too much. Trader B: Anything else? GMRune: Tar's robe sells for 3 S. Par grins. "Okay, I think you guys look broke enough now. If you're done, I suppose we can get something to eat and spend the rest of the day getting your guys outfitted for the ball tomorrow night." Valina: All right! Kadan blinks at Par. "Outfitted for the what...?" Par: The ball. Rein: Food! Rein holds his hand out for a high five. Geint: I WOULD high five you.... Geint: But I don't have any hands. =b Par takes the party out of the shop and leads you off to grab something to eat. Rein hits one of Geint's paws. Geint: =) GMRune: The rest of the day passes quickly. GMRune: With Par and Mileria's help, the group of you are quickly outfitted in the garb of well to do warlocks, although admittedly of lower rank than most. Ayeye: I will wear no such thing. Kadan skulks away from the outfits. Kadan: I'm with you, Ayeye. Let's go get some street clothes. Ayeye: I'm not going to be caught between that many warlocks. Par sighs. Valina excitedly tries on gowns for the ball. Arzel slips the warlock outfit on, not really caring. Par: Well, I suppose if you don't want to go... you can stay in the lower levels of the Spire. Rein thinks he looks cool. GMRune: Veils or hoods are provided for those who want them. Arzel looks at Tarrant. Geint: So...what am I doing. Geint: =| Kadan blinks. "Wow. I didn't know we could do that. Ayeye, shall we stay down here? I've never been much for... celebration." Valina: Ohh, and a veil. Earendil puts on his cape and hood. Valina puts leaves in her hair..and covers it wit a veil. Ayeye: As long as it keeps us away from the warlocks. They're going to need someone to save them after the warlocks make their move. Kadan: Right. It's not safe for us all to be in one place. We'll keep an eye on you from down here, alright? Par: Well, okay. You two can stay on the second floor. Just stay out of site once the guests arrive. Arzel slips his own hood over his head. Kadan nods. "Ayeye, we're pretty good at staying out of sight, no?" GMRune: Time passes yet again. Ayeye tries to remember sneaking around with the party. "No." Earendil: Well Kadan, Ayeye can stay out of sight, but you're kind of hard not to notice. GMRune: It is decided that Kadan and Ayeye will remain in the guest rooms while the others travel up to the Star Chamber to attend the festivities. GMRune: The group of you stay hidden at Lord Bask's request throughout most of the next day, while he and the other members of the house escort Emperor Kargeth around Vane. Rein grins goofily at the party, in their uncharacteristic finery. Kadan attempts to melt into the shadows. GMRune: As the sun sets, lights flare up at the top of the Cystal Spire, heralding the return of Emperor Kargeth's tour. Earendil: Oh joy, Kargeth is coming. GMRune: The group that plans on going to the ball is summoned to a chamber on the fourth floor. There you see Par and four of his young warlock friends waiting. Geint: *whisper* Should I hide NOW? Arzel shrugs. Par: You might want to now. Kargeth shall be arriving soon. And I need to give you guys the final pieces to complete your disguises. Rein raises an eyebrow Par slips the bracer with his warlock symbol off his arm and holds it up in front of the party. Par: You all will need one of these to make sure that you are mistaken for another warlock. My friends and I have volunteered to let you borrow ours. We all have been acting as liasons between House Magus and the various branches of the rebellion. So it's best we do not attend the party in any case. And because of the threat Lady Elanor made against my name, I don't think it's a good idea for me to attend under any circumstance. Valina takes a matching mask.. GMRune: Par's friends remove similar bracers from their arms and offer them to the party. Arzel takes Par's bracer. Rein accepts one and tries it on.. it's a bit loose... Valina: Thank you... Par: Please take them. That way you can be mistaken for members of House Magus. Arzel slips it on his arm. Geint: You look cute Valina! =D Doesn't everyone think she looks cute? =) Earendil puts on one of the bracers. Kadan waits patiently on the second floor. Earendil: Geint, you are cute, Earendil: But Valina is beautiful in that outfit Valina: Why thank you! Par nods to the group. Arzel smiles at Val. Geint: =) Valina feels pretty. Par: I think you can find your way up to the Star Chamber on your own. It's on the top floor you can't miss it. Hurry up there, and good luck! Geint: Thanks, Par! Par: Take care of our symbols too. Remember, a warlock is only allowed to have one. We can't afford to loose ours. Earendil: Wish us luck. Arzel: Gonna hide now Geint? Rein nods. Rein: Let's go! Geint hides in Arzel's hood. Arzel arranges his hood so Geint can't be seen. GMRune: The party climbs up the stairs and reaches the Star Chamber. Your adrenaline rushes as you realize how many warlocks there are likely to be there! GMRune: The breadth of the Star Chamber is packed with warlocks. Some of them, obvious the higher ups of their society, are wearing various forms of stylish shoulder armor. Others have disdained the use of robes altogether and wear fancy dresses or lavish tunics. GMRune: Tables are piled high with exotic food and drinks, many of which you've never seen the like. Whatever you've been served in House Magus before doesn't hold a candle to what you see before you now. Lord Bask has spared no expense in seeing that Emperor Kargeth and his escort are well fed and comfortable. Valina: This is amazing... I've never seen such a lavish party! Earendil: *whispering* Even the banquets at Shelladon were not so lavish. Arzel: Look at all that food :P I wonder if Tarrant can cook that good... Rein turns Arzel's hood towards the food so Geint can see. Geint: O_O Geint: *Hey Arzel....you wouldn't mind checking that out.....* Arzel: I can do that Rein :P GMRune: You can see more colors of glowing warlock symbols than you've ever seen before. There's gold, silver, green, red, purple, orange... The multitude goes on and on... Rein: Oops... sorry. Valina is amazed... and starts wandering around. Arzel: *whispering to the rest of the group* Geint wants to head over to the food... I'll come back when she's done. Earendil follows Valina. Geint: =) *Thanks arzel!* Arzel wanders over to one of the food tables. Rein: Is there music? There must be. Valina wanders amongst the Warlocks... Arzel looks over the food. "What do you want Geint?" GMRune: Music is playing, and a few of the younger warlocks are dancing while waiting for Kargeth to show. GMRune: Geint sees hour d'oeuvres and wine punch, dainty slices of meat, carrot sticks... Rein goes to watch the musicians. Earendil looks over to Valina and asks, "Would you like to dance?" Geint: *uhh... that white stuff looks interesting.* Valina begins to loose herself (mentally) amongst the warlocks... Arzel picks up some of the weird food and hands it to Geint. Geint: *And also get some of that fish over there....whatever kind it is...it smells great!* Arzel gets himself a glass of wine punch, and hands a peice of fish to Geint. Rein wanders around near the musicians... Earendil sees the look in Valina's face after he asks his question, and tries to escort her back to a wall Geint gobbles it up and tries not to get anything on Arzel. ;) Valina: Huh? oh... Valina: Sure! Arzel: Where to now Geint? Earendil: Maybe it will keep your mind off the warlocks. Valina: Yea. Arzel sips his drink Geint: *I don't care. I'm on YOUR shoulder.* Earendil escorts Valina over to the dancing group. Valina dances... GMRune: A sudden hush falls over the crowd as a pair of trumpets are blown. The warlocks clear away from the entrance as black-symboled mages pass through the orifice, heralding the arrival of their emperor. Earendil ceases dancing and looks over to the group. Rein stops with everyone else to watch the lord of evil. Rein: :) Geint: *Euuhh oh...* Valina continues dancing... GMRune: Lord Kargeth himself enters the room. He is dour of face, with eyes more intense than the sun and a look as hard as stone. He appears to be quite hale, and uncommonly strong for a man in early middle age. Long dark hair flows over the top of his midnight armor. The aura of magic around him is so great you can feel it no matter where you are in the room. Earendil: *whispering* Valina, don't draw too much attention. Valina: Umm.. Valina: Oh... Arzel tries to keep a fair distance away from Kargeth GMRune: He glances around the room for a moment before continuing his way in on long, powerful strides. Geint silently giggles at Valina and Earendil, but not loud enough for anyone but Arzel to hear. GMRune: Shortly thereafter, the room returns to its previous level of noise, although no one even attempts idle chit chat with the emperor. Valina watches Kargeth. and steps back, and runs into a Warlock behind her! Valina: umm... sorry Warlock: Hey, watch it! Geint: *ack.... oh boy.... this is starting to not be funny...* Kargeth's eyes rove in Valina's direction at the warlock's outburst, and the warlock quickly scuttles away. Valina looks at the Warlock... Arzel tries to find Rein or Tarrant. Earendil begins thinking, uh oh. Kargeth's attention changes, and looks towards Lord Bask. Kargeth strides over to the head of House Magus and begins to talk with him in low careful tones. Earendil: *whispering* Valina, let's discreetly move over to the food table. Rein moves out towards Ear and Val, wanting to see what's going on (he can't really tell). Arzel tries to stay near the rest of the group. GMRune: You see Lady Mileria in the crowd, talking with one of House Nissa's warlocks. Leon is standing next to her, looking quite uncomfortable. Geint can't help but be with the rest of the group. ;) Arzel looks around the room idlely, not really finding anything to interesting. Geint: *awww.... poor kid. * Valina looks over at Leon. Rein looks at the people around him, looking for anything interesting. GMRune: You hear an anxious voice of protest near the entryway and see Elron is trying to prevent someone from entering. Valina: o_O Arzel looks at the entryway, trying to see who is trying to get in. Geint: *??* Elron: Excuse me.... Lord Gausuton, I'm afraid it's not a good idea for you to come in yet... Elron: We have matters we have to discuss first. Rein tries to move in the direction of the action Geint: **ack!!!** Valina shudders! Earendil suddenly perks up at the name Gausuton. Elron: The emperor just arrived. ::pause:: Yes, I know. But there's something else we have to take care of first. Valina: *whispering* Don't let him find me... Earendil, PLEASE.." Earendil: *whispering* Get behind me, I'm tall enough to hide you. Valina gets closer to Earendil, trying not to look. Elron's voice quiets down, and it seem that Gausuton is listening to whatever it is he's saying. Arzel tries to act inconspicuous and walks over near the food table near the entrance. Elron darts over near you guys a little later. Elron: *whispering* I got Gausuton to stay away, but I'm not certain for how long or if he believed me. Rein: Hmm... Arzel: *quietly* Good job. Earendil: *If he comes back, he'll recognize Valina for sure, and maybe myself.* Elron: I hope so. From what I know of your aventures he's after you guys. Rein drifts back towards the dance floor Kargeth finishes speaking with Lord Bask and gestures for Lady Mileria to comes over to him. Her face pales noticeably as she comes. Rein comes back. Leon breaks away from her and runs over to Elron. Elron mutters a curse under his breath. Valina: *ohh... please please please... protect me!* Geint makes a teenie little cat-sized burp. Valina tries to act natural. GMRune: A small bit of flame shoots out of Geint's mouth, striking Arzel's hood! Valina ends up drawing more attention to herself. Earendil: *Valina, try getting something to eat, or we can go back to the dance floor* Valina: *Yea... let's get away from the door.. let's dance* Rein realizes he hasn't gorged himself yet. Rein and moves to rectify the situation. Valina puts her arm around Earendil, as they walk toward the dance floor. Arzel franticly tries to put out his hood. Leon and Elron look at Arzel curiously, as do the other warlocks. Earendil suddenly smells smoke and turns around. Valina: *Not again... I will never be locked in that little room again!* Arzel: *Get down farther Geint...* Earendil: *Valina, what was that?* Geint: *OK!! ACK!! SORRY!! * Rein listens to the conversations around him. Geint gets a bit lower. Arzel keeps trying to pat out the hood. GMRune: You hear a voice call out a spell and Arzel's hood is put out. GMRune: Water falls all over him. Arzel shivers as the water hits him. GMRune: The voice seemed quite familiar, although you cannot see the speaker. Arzel looks around for the caster. Valina tries not to think about it and keeps dancing. Geint: *oh boy..... who knew warlock food was this lethal... * Rein stops in mid food-stuff to watch Arzel get drenched. Earendil does his best to keep his feet from stepping on Valina's. GMRune: You catch a glimpse of blond hair just as you notice Lord Gausuton had at one point entered the Star Chamber. Rein looks around for any unescorted females his age... Earendil suddenly feels that SHE is in the room. Valina: *Umm Earendil... dont trip over me!* GMRune: A slinky-looking warlock dressed in mud brown robes catches your eye as he slowly weaves his way towards Emperor Kargeth. Somehow this mundane looking man seems familiar; you must have seen him somewhere before... He is not the voice that saved Arzel though. Arzel thinks he should go find a new robe. Arzel looks at the robes. Arzel: Who...? Rein stares after the figure, scanning his memory. Earendil tries his best to keep dancing and ignore her. Valina dances, trying NOT to trip on her gown! GMRune: He whispers something to Lord Kargeth, and the emperor's eyes widen ever so slightly. They turn to gaze intently upon you and he frowns. Arzel curses under his breath. The lesser warlock scuffles back a couple of steps, looking up to Emperor Kargeth as if for approval. He leans forward as if to add something else. Arzel: *Is that Garreth?* Rein starts to think that maybe we've worn out our welcome, and moves calmly for an exit. Kargeth: WHAT?! Geint: *Arzel....you aren't too mad at me....I didn't mean it! Oh geez...what a mess I''ve made!* Arzel also starts to move calmly toward the door... Earendil who was beginning to enjoy dancing, looks up at the commotion. Valina trips on her gown and falls to the ground as Kargeth speaks. Valina: Aghh.. Arzel: *I am mad, but I can supress anger...it shall be okay Geint...* Earendil falls with her as she bumps into him Geint: =( Arzel: *if kargeth doesn't kill us first* Valina: *ohh great...* GMRune: The party careens to a halt around you and the brown-robed warlock points as accusatory finger at the party. He speaks loud enough for everyone in the room to hear him. "I recognize those people over there. I even know the names of some of them! Their friend named Kadan introduced them to me. They're part of the rebels! And look at whose symbols they're wearing!" Valina: *oh no... * Arzel: *oh shit, we're in deep trouble* Earendil: * uh oh * The warlock lowers his voice to a menacing tone. "House Magus is in league with the rebellion." Warlock: They are not worthy of the Empire! House Erde shall take their place! Geint: *Wait...Who did he introduce us to?* Earendil: * How could Kadan betray us again? * Valina is laying on the ground... starting to cry from fear... Arzel: *We'll point fingers later... if we survive* Rein keeps moving for the door. GMRune: Before you can say a word in your defense the crowd of warlocks turns to face you. Someone steps beside by you and you see it is Lord Elron. His face is grim, and his hand rests on the sword at his side. Geint: *I don't think it was totally Kadan....But who is that guy?* Leon cowers as Lady Mileria runs over to him. Earendil helps Valina up. Lord Bask tries calling people to order and to make his way towards Kargeth. But the emperor is already surrounding himself in an aura darker than anything you're ever seen. GMRune: --------end session-------