Lunar: Magic Empire Session 8 Log ============================================================ Cast of Characters: Rune as "GM/Narrator, Par, the bush, Elanor, Gausuton, Dragon/Canth" 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-------- Kadan scratches his head, looking plenty confused. GMRune: Last time Earendil had just recovered his lost sister Elanor... GMRune: She apparently has no memory of what's happened in her past, or they've been replaced.... GMRune: Elanor doesn't remember Earendil, only that she must return to the warlock known as Gausuton... GMRune: Elanor lies huddled on the ground, her tears slowly drying, but she still hiccups as if in agony. Par looks carefully at Earendil and then back at his younger sister. Earendil stares silently at his sister Valina is still by Earendil... Earendil: I . . . I can't leave her here, I have to take her somewhere where I can help her. Rein kneels near Elanor, looking suitably concerned Elanor shudders and gradually brings herself to a sitting position, brushing back her tousled blond hair. Valina is slightly confused... Kadan stands away from the congregation, not wanting to interfere. Elanor: Gausuton... I have to get to him... Earendil: Rein, you're a priest, can you do anything? Geint: But Earendil needs you way more then he ever could!! Valina: Gausuton... that murderer... why? Earendil: Gausuton will pay . . . and so will Kargeth. Rein places his hand on Earendil's shoulder. Valina: ... Geint: Tell me.....if you weren't in some way magically messed up, tell me. Why by your own free will would you follow that maniac?? Elanor: ...the blue gem... shining so brightly... Rein: It's up to you now... her demons are inside. Elanor doesn't seem to be hearing anything any of you are saying. Valina: Blue gem? Tarrant: What blue gem? Kadan eyes Elanor strangely and holds his stomach. Elanor stand up, her trembling ended. Earendil: She never had a blue gem. Geint: Jeeze!! Now she's gone loonier than we started with!! Elanor: I must go to the blue dragon's cave. Arzel: Wha?!? Geint's ears perk up. Valina: Humm... Earendil looks at Geint with disdain. Tarrant: You're far too weak to go there. Geint: Why would you wanna do that? GMRune: She begins walking to the north in a trance-like state. Geint: She better not be hurting any dragons!!! Earendil: Elanor, Wait! GMRune: Although she stumbles occasionally, her gaze never wavers. Geint: We have to stop her!! Who knows what she'd do in this condition!! Par looks blankly after Elanor. Geint: What!? Are we gonna go with her or what? Geint looks at the rest of the group. Elanor turns back to the party, vaguely acknowledging them. Earendil: I have to go with her, maybe where she is going can help her. Rein: You can't trust her judgement in this condition! Geint: Well I won't let her harm any dragons!! Valina: humm... Geint: I'm going too! Geint flies with Earendil. Earendil: She's in no condition to harm any dragons GMRune: Her voice becomes warm, and almost normal. "You're seeking a pendant Gausuton stole, right?" Kadan holds his chin and thinks. "No, we're getting too sidetracked as it is. Staying with this cursed girl will only entangle us in her web of evil magic." Elanor: Follow me. Valina: I'll go too... she is in more condition to harm herself! GMRune: She staggers off. Geint: Hmm...? Why is she---- Tarrant: Well.. I guess there is no choice. Geint: This is totally weirding me out here!!! Rein stands still, looking torn. Earendil: Kadan, you say something like that again and I'll hack your legs off Par looks perturbed, and waits for Earendil's decision. Earendil: I'm going, I have to. Kadan raises his brow. "Earendil, please understand that I know what a sister means more than anyone in the world. However, we must make the best decision for the whole." Earendil: And what would you have me do, leave her? Valina stands, silently. Par: Well, if we're going to follow her we'd better get going. Valina: Kadan, I dont want her to get killed! Rein runs up to Elanor. Ayeye: We must protect her! Kadan looks frustrated. "Earendil, what will happen if we follow her? We must assume she is leading us into danger." Rein: What did you say about a pendant? Earendil starts following Elanor, "I don't care, I am going whether you are going or not." Tarrant: Where else are we going to go? Ayeye runs after Earendil. Elanor: Gausuton wanted me to get a certain girl from you. Valina: I'm going too! Arzel follows Earendil. Earendil: I ask none of you to come with me, but if you wish to help, I would greatly appreciate it. Elanor: She had a pendant... But he needs her too... Arzel: I have nothing better to do. Ayeye: I'm with you all the way! Arzel: Exploring ruins is always fun. Valina: ... oh no... Rein steps back, shocked. Geint flies along while speaking. "Well, even if she doesn't harm the dragon! It's Earendil's sister! And we have to help her out!" Geint: I like ruins... Valina is in a little shock. Elanor looks to the north, her gaze distant as you travel along. She seems to be getting stronger as you continue on your journey. Ayeye: Look on the bright side, it couldn't be much worse than walking into the warlock capital of the world. Valina stays back away, knowing that Elanor is after her. Geint: Well, I think I'll know the way....... Earendil puts his hand on Elanor's shoulder, "Why the cave of the Blue Dragon?" Elanor rubs her head and grimaces as if she has a headache, but says nothing. Geint: You OK, girl? Elanor: I remember... *something* about Gausuton and the pendant needing to be taken to the cave... Valina: ... Elanor: And I must return to him... Or my family will suffer... Kadan: I don't understand why Gausuton should be a concern of ours. The staff is all that matters. Earendil wants to speak up, but knows it will be to no avail. Geint: Epp....any other living relatives, Earendil? =b Valina: Kadan... he has my pendant and he is after me! Par: But the tome is key to the staff and we need the pendant to open the tome to learn about the stick! Earendil: Geint, I don't know. Ayeye: But, maybe we can find The One Who Is, or The One Who Will Be there. Valina: And me... Geint looks sadly at Earendil. Kadan: Well, Valina, I suppose you do have a point there. This pendant is apparently of some consequence according to those writings Liana had. Valina nods. Earendil: Besides, walking into the Imperial capital is almost a sure death anyway Valina: And if Gausuton is in the cave... with my pendant... Geint: Big trouble, huh? GMRune: The plains terrain sweeps out to the east as you travel, while the mountains remain to the west... Time passes and you begin to hear gurgling sounds like that of a great river to the north. Kadan: People, we need to assess what is within our power here. If Elanor is Gausuton's puppet, then we should have nothing to do with it. She is surely leading us into a trap. Valina: ... Ayeye: Only if Gauston could have known we would win. Valina: We will win. Elanor looks curiously at the group. Ayeye: No, the battle with his mercenaries. Earendil: Kadan, walking into this trap can't be any worse than walking into Killith. GMRune: Her eyes run from Valina to Kadan, and to Earendil, as if trying to remember you all. Valina still stays away back... Par: If the pendant is actually outside of Killith, that certainly would be a lot safer than going inside. Tarrant: I agree. Rein runs a hand through his hair and wait patiently, staff firmly planted on the ground Valina whispers, "She is after me, but she doesn't know it... " Geint sadly looks at Earendil and Elanor.... Kadan: Well, it just isn't good sense to be marching inside like we're conquering the place. If we are indeed going to brave this, it needs to be well-planned. Rein stares off into space intently, mind occupied. Elanor grips her bow tightly, and continue striding forward. Earendil: Besides, who knows, the warlocks could be putting the Blue Dragon in some kind of danger. Geint: And I CAN'T let that happen!! Geint: I mean---uh....we can't.... we wouldn't! Kadan looks at Eleanor, then at the ground, giving a heavy sigh. "I still don't understand how some of you can keep your faith in magic, even after seeing what it does to the human mind." Earendil: Geint, you have an unnerving fascination with dragons. Geint: Well....I travel! Ayeye: I thought the only thing bunnies thought about was carrots. Kadan: Right! Par shakes his head at Kadan with amusement, but is used to such displays by now. Geint: I'm um... Geint: Smarter than the average air-bunny! Par chuckles. GMRune: The river comes into view, a raging torrent of water crashing through a deep trench in the landscape. Kadan: Let's take a look at what our total experience with magic has been on this trip: We've had our movements tracked, a girl brainwashed, and our dimension threatened. I think we should look at what forces we embrace here. Valina: Kadan, we must stop these forces... GMRune: Across the frothing water is the entrance to what appears to be a large cave. Tarrant: Well now the trouble of getting across. Geint: This is it! Geint: Well..um.... GMRune: Various forms of shubbery are dotted around the earth a few feet from the riverbanks. Geint: We could make a bridge out of Wood..... Earendil: That would take forever. Ayeye: Anyone learn that teleport spell yet? Valina looks at the river... Geint: Well, this isn't a problem for me..... I can fly. ;) Earendil: A simple float spell would do Tarrant: Well I think I might be able to make a vine bridge.. I don't know. Kadan: Yes, I suppose the air bunny won't have a problem here. Par: Too bad Geint isn't any bigger... :) Ayeye: Yeah, I suppose, but I want to teleport! Geint examines how deep the watter around is. Valina: What about the wyburns... not too far away... Rein makes a face. "Wyburns.. behhh" Par frowns. Kadan: Wyburns respond to a hefty blade as well as anything else. Valina: There has to be a way to cross this river... Par: Perhaps if we thought to take them earlier. But we'll have to walk quite a ways back to get them now... Par: I don't suppose someone has water magic... Geint: Grrrrrr!! So...CAN you make a vine bridge from your plant magic? Earendil: Par, ice? Geint: Wait! Yeaa! something that freezes! Par: I think my ice will just get swept away. The water's moving too fast. Valina looks at the river... Earendil: Perhaps Elanor will know what to do. Elanor is just standing at the bank, staring across. Kadan: I heard of people actually making bridges out of wood and timber. I don't understand why you're all bickering over ineffective magics. GMRune: Valina notices there appears to be a fjord submerged beneath the water. Geint: *mainly to herself* Funny. I never knew how HUMANS got across....I wonder... Kadan: Earendil, it appears that Elanor can't go any further without assistance. She should be safe now... Valina: Hummm.... GMRune: It's about three feet below the water. Geint: What do you see, Val? Valina: Look there ... Geint flies over. Earendil: What is it? Geint: Whatizit?? Whatizit?!?! GMRune: You all see a path of rocks, barely visible about three feet below the surface of the water. Valina points out the fjord under the water... Geint: Hey! You guys could hop over that! Earendil: Hmm, there must be some way to raise them. Geint: Yea... Geint: Hmm... GMRune: The current is moving quickly, but it looks like there's a *chance* you guys can make it across. Rein knows how to swim... Kadan is not impressed with the power of the current. Tarrant: I wonder if there are Piranas? Ayeye is worried. Geint: Hey! Earendil! Kadan: Piranhas respond to a hefty blade as well as anything else. Geint: Help Val across! Maybe you could carry her! Earendil: What Geint? Ayeye: I don't know, it looks really fast... Rein: I think the last one across should stand aways downstream with a branch, to fish out anyone who falls GMRune: The underwater path is about two feet wide. Tarrant: Kinda hard to kill 100 piranhas with a sword... Geint: Don't worry!! Geint: I'll fry any pirannas that get ya! Tarrant: Anyways whose first? Earendil: Let me help Elanor across. Geint shoots a small flame as an example. Ayeye: I don't know...I looks to fast... Rein: Is someone gonna stay back as catcher? Geint: Well... I can't.... Rein: Maybe Kadan should do it.. Kadan flips out his small axe and runs his finger up the blade gently, checking for imperfections. Earendil: Why don't we get rope for everybody to hold? Earendil: And tie it to something over here? Geint: Hmm.... but then we'd ALL fall in! Ayeye: Yes! That's a great idea! Geint: I mean... YOU'd all fall in. Geint: Well. Geint: Maybe now that I think of it... Ayeye: The air bunny can carry it across and tie it to something. Ayeye looks at Geint. "On second thought..." Geint: Ok.... *mummble* You'll see yet I'm no air bunny *mumble* Earendil: Hey Par, you wouldn't happen to have any of the special elven rope would you? Geint flies around overhead. Tarrant makes a vine come out of the ground and attached one end to Kadan and the other to himself.."If I stumble, Kadan, you got me Par blinks and checks through his sack of stuff. Par: Well... let's see... GMRune: Tarrant's vine looks nice and sturdy... somewhat... Ayeye: I hope the bush didn't eat it earlier. Rein: If just one of us could make it to the other side, and hold the rope taut, it'd be a piece of cake for everyone else The bush looks offended. Earendil: We could tie it at both sides Geint: Yea! Geint: And I could carry it! The bush hops out of Ayeye's backpack and looks at Tarrant's vine. Kadan looks less than sensitive about the feelings of the bush. Ayeye: Awww, isn't that cute, I'm sorry. Tarrant: Kadan I hope you don't mind. GMRune: It opens its mouth, ready to take a bite out of the vine. Ayeye grabs the bush, quickly. Par stops looking for a rope. Ayeye: No eating the props. The bush looks inquiringly at Ayeye. Tarrant: Hey you, bush... Stop please. Par: So who's going across first? Or is Geint going to tie it for us? Ayeye: We'll find some food across the river. Geint grins. Par: Although I wonder just how a bunny can tie things with a pair of paws... Geint: I'm there! The bush pants happily. Geint: I can manage, Par. Ayeye looks more worried now. Geint: I've done many things in my lifetime. Rein: Just tie the rope to her, have her wedge herself in between some rocks, and we're in good shape! Par gives Geint a smile. Geint narrows her eyes at Rein. Kadan begins to question the strategies of the others. Rein grins back. Arzel: Then we could have a _slightly_ longer Geint Earendil: I will go first as the guinea pig. Geint then eyes Arzel. Arzel smiles. Elanor looks at Earendil for a moment, and then back across the river. Arzel: I'm sorry Geint. I'm just kidding. Earendil: But somebody has to help Elanor. Geint: Ehe..... you'll see how I kid when I jokingly burn the rope while you two are headed accross! Par picks up one end of the vine and offers it to Geint. Kadan: We have to depend on each other here; let's not start burning bridges. Arzel: And how I'll jokingly light you on fire or just drain your health Geint: Ok.....gimmie. Geint takes the rope. The bush gives Kadan a funny look. Geint: Light ME on fire! Wow that is irony...... Geint flies across. Arzel: Hair burns well Geint: *from across the river* WHERE DO I TIE IT?? GMRune: There are plenty of shrubs on the other side of the river. Rein: Rock crevice! Rock crevice! Tarrant: Just tie it tight Geint ties it around a thick bush. Par ties the other end of the vine to another shrub on his side of the river. Par: Okay? WHo's first? Par: There's only enough room to go one at a time. Arzel: I'll go first to get it over with. Kadan offers Ayeye to go first. Geint grins as she puts her paws on the ropes. Earendil: No let me, I brought us here, I should go first. Arzel: The less waiting the better. Geint: HehehehEhHeHeHEeheh----JOKING. Don't look at me like that!! Ayeye: I'll go, I have to get the bush across anyway. GMRune: Whoever is going first, please step out on to the fjord. Ayeye grabs the rope while holding the bush above water. Arzel: I'll go next GMRune: Ayeye enters the chilling water of the river... Rein slings his staff across his back with a flourish and stands ready. GMRune: Amazingly, she makes it through without a hitch. Rein: I got thirds. Earendil goes by Elanor and tries to get her to come to the makeshift bridge. Arzel: My turn. Ayeye: It's not too bad. Arzel goes off to to fjord Kadan tries to catch Ayeye's attention in hopes of getting some recognition for his polite gesture. GMRune: Arzel nearly slips off the fjord! But he catches himself just in time and makes it across. Earendil: I will go next, then Elanor can follow me. Arzel smiles happy with himself. Elanor nods vaguely. Valina: Well... I dont think I will going to get any help... Valina will be up to her chest in water! Geint: Kadan will carry you! Earendil: Kadan can carry you across. Par: Rein? I think you said you wanted to go third. Rein: Yup, I'm ready. Rein strides out into the water, grimacing as he feels the cold water. GMRune: Rein steps out into the water... Kadan: I'm carrying who?! GMRune: And about halfway through, the current's strong undertow pulls his legs out from under him! Earendil: Oh shit! GMRune: He manages to snatch the rope at the last second though... Rein: Whaaaa!!! Valina: Kadan, would you be willing to give me a piggy- back ride? Geint: REEIINN!! Geint: *WHEW!* Rein: Urk! Kadan nonchalantly looks up and down Valina, sizing her up. "I suppose you are light enough. I need to watch my lower back stress, you know." Valina: oh.. GMRune: Earendil is next. Earendil: Well, here goes nothing. Rein pulls himself across the rest of the way, thouroughly soaked. Valina: Thanks Kadan! Rein sits on the far bank, wringing out his shirt. GMRune: Earendil is yanked free of the rope by the current! GMRune: He tries to grab the rope again but misses horribly! Geint: Earendil!!!!! Geint: Oh no!!! Arzel: Tarrant time for that vine! Earendil: blubber...blubber...HELP! Geint: Help him!! Somebody!!! GMRune: Earendil is being carried downstream by the rapids! Valina: Oh no... Geint flies downstream, following him as he is pulled along. Tarrant whips up another vine. Earendil tries fervently to grab onto some of the rocks. GMRune: Tarrant's vine snags Earendil's ankle before he gets too far. Rein stands at the bank, watching worriedly. Ayeye runs along the coast after Earendil. GMRune: While that prevents him from going downstream, he's now stuck in the middle o the river. Tarrant: Phewww that was close. Geint: YAY! Ayeye: Pull him back! Geint: Earendil!! Hold on!! Earendil: blub .. .blub I . . . hate . . . water! Geint floats over Earendil. GMRune: Earendil will have to be pulled ashore from Tarrant's side of the bank. Rein lends.. umm... moral support. Yeah. Ayeye: Tarrent, it's your vine, pull him back! Tarrant: It maybe my vine but I'm kinda a weakling Par grabs the vine and motions for Kadan to help him. Par: C'mon. Let's drag this guy out... Kadan assists Par. GMRune: Earendil takes 2 damage from all the bashing through the rocks an th currents he suffred through. GMRune: But he's back on shore now. Par grins. Earendil: pfffht, thank . . . you. Par: Care to try again? Or should someone else go? Tarrant: Let me go.. But I am a clutz. Kadan: Nothing is gained by giving up. Get over there, Earendil! Earendil: Kadan, . . . be my guest. Earendil: Oh fine, I will try again. GMRune: Is Tarrant or Earendil going first? Earendil: I shall. Valina: Good luck! GMRune: Earendil steps out into the river again. Rein: Hey Geint, I don't suppose that breath of yours could help me dry off. GMRune: Earendil barely makes it across, almost falling off again, but he manages to scramble ashore. GMRune: Elanor goes next. GMRune: She makes it across with little trouble. Tarrant: Ya showoff... GMRune: Kadan, Valina, Tarrant, and Par are still on the southern bank. Earendil: Well, she always did like the water. Elanor waits patiently for the next person to come out. Valina is thinking... 'Can I make it alone?' Tarrant walks up to the river. Rein: Piggyback! Rein: Valina, I mean. GMRune: Tarrant splashes in... Kadan looks around at the weaker people on the southern shore. "Are my services still needed?" GMRune: And starts splashing downstream shortly thereafter as he got pulled free of the rope... Valina: I still think that is the best bet... (I hope!) Par: Valina might need it. Earendil: Oh no! Valina: For now... Par: Tarrant! Valina: Yea.. Tarrant splashes around. Ayeye: Oh great, again... GMRune: Tarrant is being carried downstream, into rocks and through the eddies and rapids. Tarrant is bitten by a trout. *ouch* Earendil rushes over to Elanor, "Please you must help him, can you remember any of your water magic?" Elanor looks at Earendil... Elanor: Water magic...? I knew water... magic? Elanor furrows her brow and tries to recall... Tarrant: Glug.. Glug... HELP ME! Glug... Earendil: Yes, you must remember, the river by Shelladon was a second home to you! Geint: Tarr!! Elanor turns to Tarrant and points at the water. GMRune: She utters the words to a spell, and Tarrant is shot out of the water and on to the northern shore. Geint follows Tarr downstream. GMRune: A rather rough landing, and other than the 2 damage from being in the river, he's okay. Geint: Yay! Kadan sighs. Tarrant: Whoaaa...*Thump* Earendil: Yes! Elanor, I knew you could do it. Elanor: You're... welcome. Rein: Ouch! Tarrant struggles to his feet and rings himself off. Rein: He's still got to make it, though. Par steps out on to the fjord next. Par slips, but holds on to the rope and makes it across. GMRune: Kadan and Valina remain. Valina: Shall we? Par: C'mon you two! Kadan: Might as well. Ayeye: Kadan, show them hows its really done! Kadan smiles at Ayeye. Valina hops on Kadan's back... softly. Kadan: Now don't fall off. I don't want to be responsible for any shattered maidens. GMRune: Kadan easily makes it across for the both of them. :) Earendil yells, "Hurry along then." Ayeye smiles back. Valina smiles. Valina: Yea! Valina: Thank you, Kadan. Rein greets them as they reach the other side. Valina jumps off his back. Geint: o O (Well, Kadan is strong enough to carry Valina...Earendil would have had both of them fall in....I'll save my plans for another time...Heh heh heh... ) Par grins. Rein: Wouldn't that have been ridiculous, if we hadn't made it across a river? Geint suddenly has an evil grin on her face. Earendil: Well everybody, to the cave? Elanor: Yes, please. Valina: Let's go then... GMRune: The party enters the cave. Geint: Ok!! To the Blue Dragon's cave! Rein is right behind Geint. Kadan looks around the cavern warily. Kadan: Stop. Geint flies around as though she had been there before.... Earendil: What? Kadan: We shouldn't proceed any further without a plan. GMRune: The narrow cavern has a purplish-blue tint to it, and you can see traces of water trickling down from the ceiling all around you. Kadan: Let's establish some recon and find out what we're up against. We need to approach this correctly. Tarrant: Plan flan who needs one... Rein salutes sharply. Kadan: Tarrant, you've probably made what you have with your life using that philosophy. GMRune: A sharp wind is blowing through the recesses of the cave. Geint: How can you make a plan for a dark cave? "OK. IF WE GO THIS WAY, AND WE SEE A MONSTER, WE FIGHT IT. " Valina: Sounds good. Geint: "IF WE TAKE THIS SIDE, AND WE SHOULDN'T HAVE---- --" Geint: "WE GO BACK." Kadan smirks at the air bunny. "You're mocking me, aren't you?" Geint: Wow!!!!! Such geinous!! Earendil: Let's follow Elanor, we already know it's a trap. Might as well go all the way. Elanor looks blankly at Earendil, and then looks back into the cave. Geint: Well, where are we going to, anyways? If it's the lair I know where that is...... Rein runs a hand along the walls Elanor: The lair. Yes, of the blue... Valina: That sounds like the place to be Geint. Ayeye: How would an air bunny know something like that? Geint: Well...Like I said..... Geint: I travel! Earendil: I am beginning to think that Geint isn't telling us everything. Valina: What is the blue dragon's name, Geint? Par shrugs. "She's just our talking flying air bunny. Does she need to be any more than that?" Kadan: I don't have a very good feeling about this. This all feels very eerie. Ayeye: Well, I guess we don't have much choice, but following the air bunny sounds dangerous. Geint: Well.....anyone else have any better idea than me?? Geint: Trust me! Geint: I'm not an air bunny....but if I told you what I was you'd all laugh at me! Valina is willingly following Geint... Ayeye: That make me feel MUCH better. Earendil: Fine, since the rest of us don't know our way around, might as well follow Geint who claims to know Geint takes the head of the party temporarily. Par lights a torch so everyone can see where they're going. Geint: Who's with me? Ayeye follows close behind. GMRune: Elanor and Par are following Geint. Kadan: I have a thing against following the advice of small, aviary rodents. Earendil goes by Elanor and walks with her. Rein is right behind. Par: Lead on, lil' buny! Geint: But Kadan!! I know this place like the back of my hand! I've had to go here many times! Ayeye: Do we have any other choice? Ayeye: I don't like it either. GMRune: The party follows Geint farther into the cave. Kadan grumbles. GMRune: The air becomes colder, although more humid as you progress. Geint smiles and flies forward, noticing every rock and smiling at its familiarness. Geint: Uhu....uhu......... Earendil: It's quiet, too quiet. Geint darts around. "This is a dragon's cave! Course it's quiet!" Geint darts left and right and the party continues to follow. GMRune: As you get deeper into the cave, you see carvings of times long past etched into the walls. GMRune: These stone reliefs seem to be of Althena, leading her people against some sort of army... Earendil: The army thing again. GMRune: Four heros stand before her glowing figure, drawing back a horde of demons... Kadan eyes every surface of the cavern suspiciously. GMRune: The art style is different from the one in the Urdian Temple though... Valina looks at the beautiful artwork... GMRune: This carving is far newer... Ayeye examines it closely. GMRune: And the glowing figure is definately Althena, while the girl in the Urdian carving was obscured. Rein bows his head before the image of the goddess Valina looks at the goddess... Geint smiles as she examines the pictures. Tarrant stares at the wall trying to make sense of it all. Geint flies around looking at every scrap. Kadan does not seem quite as intrigued by the images. Earendil: The Goddess Althena and the Four Heroes, I heard this somewhere before. Geint: Heh. GMRune: Suddenly, Arzel's pouch begins to hum... GMRune: The carvings begin to glow with a soft blue light... Arzel: Oh, no. Ayeye looks toward Arzel, and back to the carvings. Arzel: No more statues please. Geint: hmm...? Canth?? Izat you? Earendil: Oh dear. Geint looks all around. GMRune: The demons of the carvings begin to shift positions, coming out of relief and into three-dimenional form... GMRune: They seem sluggish though, as if another power is fighting them... Earendil: Who's canth? Geint: Nevermind...You'll see... Tarrant: Not the statue thing again... Great, just great! Geint: I think we have some trouble right now!! GMRune: Four stone shaps of gangly, winged demons slip from the walls and block the party's path! Ayeye: Argh, we have got to get rid of that pendant! Rein looks hesitantly at Valina. Elanor raises her bow... Kadan: Grr... Valina: Oh.. no.. Kadan: I knew this was a mistake... GMRune: ---round 1---- Earendil: Here we go again. Arzel: I hate this pendant. GMRune: target: 4 lesser stone beasts (all in front row) Geint: but they were-----GrrRrrr!! Par: Uh... Geint? Was this supposed to happen? Geint: I don't know!! Canth just had some artist to draw these to decorate his cave! Geint: I didn't think anything'd happen with them! GMRune: Ayeye blurs forward and claws at Beast#4! Ayeye equips the claws dramatically, "Get ready to die!" GMRune: 27 damage! Earendil draws his sword and twirls it a few times. GMRune: Kadan attacks beast #1! Kadan skids out of the way of Ayeye's attack. Kadan: Alright! I knew you had it in you, girl! GMRune: attack 1: 20 damage! GMRune: attack 2: 23 damage! Kadan rips his axe from the demon. "Of course, some have it more than others." GMRune: Valina sings out a high-pitched tune at beast#1. GMRune: The beast shudders, taking 22 damage! Geint: yay!! These guys'll be down in no time!! ...Too bad. Now Ca--The blue dragon'll have to hire another artist to draw some beasts! =b" GMRune: Geint lines herself up, and dives on through the enemy rank, slashing as she goes! Geint: YYYAAAAAHAAAA! GMRune: 17 damage to each! GMRune: Beast#1 bites the big one! Rein: I love this air bunny dive-bomber move. Valina laughs! Geint: Air bunny....hee hee.... I hope Canth'll set all of you straight... GMRune: Earendil surrounds himself in blue light... GMRune: Dodge% increased by 23. GMRune: Elanor aims her bow at beast #2. GMRune: The arrow strikes the beast in the leg for 10 damage! GMRune: Rein hangs around in the back. GMRune: Arzel casts a bolt of flame at beast #2! GMRune: 23 damage! GMRune: Par swipes at beast #2 with his dagger! GMRune: 4 damage! GMRune: Beast #2 attacks Kadan! GMRune: It nicks his arm for 1 damage! GMRune: Beast #3 attacks Ayeye! Kadan does not acknowledge the hit. GMRune: It strikes her in the leg for 12 damage! Kadan winces at seeing Ayeye injured. Ayeye: Arrrrrrggggggghhhh! GMRune: Beast #4 attacks Earendil! Geint: These are some leathal cartoons! GMRune: Earendil leaps nimbly out of the way! GMRune: Tarrant calls down a bolt of lightning on to beast #4! GMRune: 38 damage! GMRune: Beast #4 screams and melts away into the floor. GMRune: ----round 2---- Ayeye points to the beast that attacked her, "That one is mine!" Kadan: Ayeye, use that long-ranged attack! I shall protect you! GMRune: Ayeye blurs and rakes her claws at beast #3! GMRune: 27 damage! Kadan notices the slash marks on the beast. "Good..." GMRune: Kadan marshals Ayeye into the back row with his Formation skill. :) Kadan: Now they can't get to you... Ayeye is extremely annoyed by being moved. GMRune: Valina utters the words to a spell, slashing a blade of air across beast #2! Kadan turns red and is covered by a comically oversized anime sweat drop. GMRune: 17 damage! Kadan: Ayeye, you'll thank me when you don't get mauled this round. GMRune: Geint whirls herself into a dive and claws through the remaining two stone beasts! Ayeye: No, I won't. I promise that. Rein prepares a healing spell near the fuming Ayeye. Geint: YAAAHHHHAAAAA!!!! *spin* *spin* GMRune: 16 damage to each! GMRune: beast #2 shrieks and collapses. Tarrant: Geint you're an animal Geint: Well DUH. Geint: Yes! GMRune: Rein casts Heal Litany on Ayeye. GMRune: Ayeye regains 12 hp. Rein: All better GMRune: Earendil fastcuts the last beast. GMRune: 16 damage! GMRune: It dies! GMRune: -----victory!---- Tarrant: Yeah Ayeye: I told you. Geint: Yay! Valina: No problemn! GMRune: The party gains a total of 40 XP 10 MEXP and 0 S. Kadan spins around and does an obligatory disco dance to symbolize victory. Earendil: Piece o' cake Ayeye: I wanted to kill it. Geint: Now we can keep on our way to see Canth! GMRune: The humming in Arzel's pouch subsides. Rein glances from the carving of Althena to Val. Kadan eyes Ayeye strangely. "Fierce piece of work, aren't you?" GMRune: The party continues further into the moist cave... Rein: You know, in this light... Earendil: Geint, I want to meet this canth, just so I can see who you like so much. Rein: They almost look alike Valina: Huh? Ayeye: He hurt me, I wanted revenge. Par looks inquiringly at Valina and back at the carvings... Earendil: Revenge is a dish best served cold. Valina: Kinda... I suppose... Ayeye: Well then, I would have had to arrange that. Rein: Well.. maybe it's nothing. Geint: Uh oh......I sense Canth is in trouble!! Valina: Who would have thought... Geint looks around nervously. Valina: Oh! Geint: C'mon!! Geint: Fast! Valina follows. GMRune: The party hustles after Geint. Earendil runs after Geint. Rein's attention snaps back quickly ot the matters at hand. Geint flies ahead of the group quickly....almost too quickly to catch up to. Geint: Come on!! Valina runs like the wind. GMRune: As the party goes further into the cave, you hear a loud bellowing and a harsh human voice talking back. Rein sprints down the corridor, blue sash trailing out behind him Geint: Oh no...... Geint: *shouting* CANTH!!!!!! Earendil: Shhh, what's that? Gausuton: Give us the gem! You have no use for it you old wyrm! Earendil: Geint, be quiet! Rein skids to a stop. Geint uneasily tries to calm down. The dragon bellows wordlessly some more. Kadan digs his feet into the ground and looks ahead cautiously. Valina whispers "Oh no!!! This time he WON'T take me!" Dragon: You can't use that pendant... You've lost the girl... Earendil: *whispering* Gausuton . . . Rein, worried, steps towards Valina. Gausuton: Hmph. That's what you think... Valina: *whispering* Oh no... Gausuton: I *let* her escape. After all, what better way to find the resistance bases? Earendil looks at Elanor. Valina steps back, nervously. Gausuton: Magic has gone a long way since you dragons have last interfered with our lives. Ayeye let's out a sigh of relief. Gausuton: Give me the gem... Then we may complete the pendant... Gausuton: You'll make it a LOT easier on yourself. Kadan: It certainly has... Valina: *whisper* Oh no... I don't like this... Geint: *whisper* Canth wouldn't just give him it.... It may lead to Canth being........ Geint sadly and desperately continues to listen. GMRune: The party hears hissing sounds, like acid. GMRune: And the dragon shrieks again. Geint: Huh? What's---- Valina is scared half to death! Gausuton: It's no use! Your magic won't work on us! You're too old, too weak! Geint: Oh noo!! He can't!! Canth is our mentor!! He just can't!! Par: Umm... Should we go...? Earendil: Oh no, the dragon . . . Geint: He's gonna get Canth!!! Valina: No... Geint jumps to the air. "We have to help him!!!!" Gausuton: If you won't cooperate, we can simply kill you, you know. With time you know we'll find the gem on our own. Earendil: How can we fight somebody who can hurt one of the four dragons? Tarrant: We must try. Dragon: (brokenly) No... You won't... Geint: Yea! Canth is the oldest and wisest of us! Elanor tightens the grip on her bow and steps towards the dragon's lair. Geint: Errr... GMRune: The opening is only yards away. Geint: The dragons 'course... Valina: ... vengence... don't let it... go to.. your he...ad Kadan: Earendil. Watch her. Earendil: Elanor, wait Valina: Must remain calm... Elanor looks back coldly at Earendil and continues on her path. Geint despratly flies ahead. "I can't just listen to this." Valina breaths slowly... Earendil tries to restrain Elanor. Kadan skulks in the shadows. Elanor struggles, trying to get free of Earendil. Arzel: I'm not going to sit back and let one of the 4 dragons get killed. Elanor: Let... me... GO! Elanor: We've got to get in there! GMRune: She tries dragging Earendil in after her... GMRune: Unfortunately, she isn't *quite* that strong... Earendil: Why to help Gausuton or to save the dragon? Kadan whispers, "I highly suggest not entering that chamber!" Par: But... Geint crazily zooms ahead towards the lair. Valina: The Dragon... needs our help! Gausuton is a cold blooded killer! GMRune: Gausuton's speech pauses, as does the dragon's. Geint: Ca---canth! GMRune: Then a low muttering begins. Ayeye whispers, "What can we do against Gausuton, we had a hard enough time with his minions." Kadan: Ayeye has a point. Elanor suddenly elbows Earendil in the gut and breaks free of him. GMRune: She dashes towards the dragon's lair and runs inside. Earendil: Oof Valina: What about Geint... Valina: Oh no! Geint comes in as Elenor does. Kadan looks as if he is most certainly not going to pursue. GMRune: Geint and Elanor are inside now. Valina: I hope I'm not next! Earendil: Elanor! Earendil goes after her. Gausuton: So you've returned, Elanor? Tarrant: We wait out here.. Earendil: (to the others) stay here Elanor: Yes, my lord. The ones you've requested are right outside! Valina wants to fight Gausuton, but she doesn't want to die! Ayeye shrugs, "Well, the game is up, I guess we have no choice now." Geint eyes Gausuton and Elanor. "Neither of you will hurt Canth!! I won't let you!!" GMRune: Those of you inside can see Gausuton has three mercenaries with him who are helping him hold down the blue dragon. Earendil: Nooo! Elanor . . . Valina: Oh... no... Elanor glares coldly at Earendil. Elanor: You've always been so weak, brother. Elanor: You had potential. It's a pity you wasted it on the rebellion. Earendil looks coldly at Gausuton and in a low voice says, "What have you done to her?" Arzel: (to the rest of the group) We've got to help! Earendil: Elanor, what are you saying? Elanor: You should have stuck with your magic, Earendil. You would have gone far. Elanor glances at Gausuton who nods approvingly. Kadan watches Ayeye carefully while listening from outside. Earendil: How can you say that, after what our parents taught us. Elanor: Once I destroy you I will be made a full member of House Banshee! Geint: Ha! STRENGTH. A group of mercenaries and a wizard helping you harrass a dragon!! OoOoo...geez.... Ayeye gets combat ready. Rein stands firm behind Ear. Valina: Must... stay... relaxed... Elanor: I will be accepted into the warlock social class. Never again will I worry about the weak nor being one of them! Earendil: No . . . Valina prepares. Kadan seems torn between his own self- preservation and the chance to dispatch a warlock. Elanor: You have a chance too Earendil... GMRune: She smiles maliciously. Elanor: Or have you not told your friends? Earendil: Don't say it. Elanor: That you are the SON of a warlock! Earendil hangs his head in shame. Kadan turns peers wide-eyed at Earendil. Valina: ... oh... no.. Arzel starts inching closer...so if a battle breaks out he can help. Elanor: You see, brother, the magic and the will to rule runs within us... Tarrant: Oh my. Earendil: Yes, it is true, my mother . . . she was from House Magus Elanor: You need only take it... Rein slaps Ear on the shoulder "C'mon, you're here aren't you, you know where you stand." Kadan becomes very disturbed, and isn't sure who to become more sickened with. Par nods, neither in approval or anger, just in acknowledgement. Valina: *whisper* please... Arzel: It's not ones heritage that counts...it's what's in the soul. Earendil: Why Elanor, didn't you listen to mom, about how she escaped from Killith? Elanor: So, Earendil. What shall it be? Will you fight with me, or against? Ayeye looks at Kadan expression and then lowers her head. Valina: Oh... my Elanor: Mother was a fool! She left all she had to become an outcast! Rein: I KNOW you're not evil, Earendil! Earendil: I, I can't. Earendil: I won't leave what I know is true. GMRune: At Gausuton's signal, the mercenaries leave the weakened dragon to stand near Elanor. Kadan slowly creeps up to the chamber. Elanor: Then die. GMRune: -----round 1------ Earendil: Wait, tell me one thing, Where is mother? GMRune: target: 3 mercenies (front row) Elanor (back row) Kadan: Earendil, you are cursed with a wicked heritage and place in this world, but prove now that your cause to the collapse of the empire is true. Elanor: Dead! Like you will be soon! Rein: Alright, I knew you'd come through! Ayeye enters the chamber, "No, he's with us now." Kadan nods approvingly to Ayeye. GMRune: As the battle begins, the blue dragon's eyes begin to light up... GMRune: He gathers himself into a crouch and lunges at Gausuton! Gausuton blinks in surprise and begins his own battle with the enraged dragon! GMRune: Ayeye attacks the first merc. GMRune: attack 1: 1 damage GMRune: attack 2: 1 damage Elanor: Feel the power of the heavens! GMRune: She casts a spell and a midnight barrier surrounds her! GMRune: Kadan attacks merc #1. GMRune: attack 1: 28 damage GMRune: attack 2: 30 damage Earendil: No...true star magic. Rein lets out a yell as he charges to the front. He's a bit too excited, perhaps... Kadan leaps back from the soldier. "Oh yeah. That's the stuff." GMRune: Valina comes out of hiding, and takes her place in the front row. GMRune: Geint spirals down and zooms through the front row! Geint: EAT THIS DRAGON SLAYERS!!! GMRune: 7 damage to each! Valina: ... GMRune: Earendil's form blurs and he slashes through the either first row. Geint: Hey! Canth! You OK? =I GMRune: 17 damage to each! GMRune: Merc #1 screams and collapses! Geint: You guys are goin' down! Valina: ... GMRune: Merc #2 attacks Valina Kadan glares at Earendil. "Umm... I softened him up for you!" GMRune: attack 1: 11 damage GMRune: attack 2: 10 damage Earendil 's eyes stare forward at Elanor GMRune: Merc #3 attacks Earendil. GMRune: attack 1: 4 damage GMRune: attack 2: 7 damage Valina is weaken by the attack! Elanor meets Earendil's gaze with a cold one of her own. GMRune: Rein sweeps his staff out in a low swing at Merc #2. GMRune: 4 damage! GMRune: Arzel throws a bolt of flame at merc #2! GMRune: 10 damage! GMRune: Par glances dubiously at Elanor and aims a shard of ice at merc #2. GMRune: 21 damage! GMRune: Tarrant calls down a bolt of lightning! GMRune: It fries merc #2 to a crisp! GMRune: 24 damage! GMRune: ------round 2------ Rein hops back from the crispy merc. Kadan twirls his axe around. "Well, it seems I might as well put myself to good use." Elanor looks distasefully at the two corpses. "Hmph. Weaklings." Ayeye looks to Elanor. GMRune: Ayeye claws at merc 3 GMRune: attack 1: 1 damage GMRune: attack 2: 1 damage Elanor: Try this on for size! Elanor: Shooting stars of the heavens! I call on you to smite my foes! GMRune: The air above her changes to a blue light and shooting stars streak from the light, crashing against the entire first row! Kadan folds his arms over his face and braces for impact. GMRune: Ayeye is hit for 5 damage. Ayeye: It didn't fit. GMRune: Kadan is hit for 19 damage! GMRune: Valina is hit for 10 damage! GMRune: Geint is hit for 12 damage! Valina falls to the ground... ouch... GMRune: Earendil is hit for 13 damage! GMRune: Rein is hit for 13 damage! Rein grits his teeth. GMRune: Kadan attacks merc #3! GMRune: attack 1: 31 damage GMRune: attack 2: 37 damage! GMRune: The merc falls. GMRune: Elanor is now considered the front row. GMRune: Valina moves into the back row. Kadan pins the mercenary's throat beneath his boot and yanks his axe out, wiping it on the floor. "Punk." GMRune: Geint claws at Elanor! GMRune: attack 1: 11 damage! GMRune: attack 2: 13 damage! Elanor shrieks at the flying bunny, trying to bat it away from her! GMRune: Earendil uses an herb on himself. GMRune: Earendil gains 20 hp. Geint: Don't-cap-on-earendil! Geint: *claw* *claw* GMRune: Rein casts Heal Litany. GMRune: Valina gains 24 hp! Valina stands... GMRune: Arzel attacks Elanor! Earendil: I . . . can't attack her, I just can't. Valina: Thank you!!! GMRune: attack 1: 1 damage! GMRune: attack 2: 1 damage! Arzel: I'm so cool! GMRune: Par holds his spell, choosing not to attack. GMRune: Tarrant blasts Elanor with his thunder spell. GMRune: But the lightning bolt is reflected off her shield. Kadan glances back at Earendil and Par. "Pull yourselves together! She's murdering us!" Par: But if she's being brainwashed... GMRune: ---round 3------ Geint: But what, Par? Earendil: That shield, maybe I can try to bring it down, but I don't know Kadan notices the scattering sparks from Tarrant's attack. "Once again magic fails us. We need to discover an alternative attack." GMRune: Ayeye attacks. GMRune: attack 1: 1 daamge Ayeye: She must be stopped! GMRune: attack 2: 1 damage Elanor glances at the hapless group before her... GMRune: Elanor casts Warning, and is surrounded in a blue light! GMRune: Dodge% is increased by 36. Kadan wonders what Elanor is casting, then looks up at the big blue banner at the top of the screen, warning all combatants of a forthcoming magic spell. GMRune: Kadan uses an herb on himself. GMRune: Kadan gains 20 hp. GMRune: Valina uses a starlight on Rein. GMRune: Rein gains 20 mp. Rein: Yay! Valina: Anytime... GMRune: Geint claws at Elanor Geint: Oh yea! The starlights! Geint: Raaarararararaaa! *claw* *claw* GMRune: attack 1: misses GMRune: attack 2: misses Elanor: Let's see you hit me now, you stupid rabbit! Geint was so hyper she totaly missed!! =b. GMRune: Earendil casts Warning. GMRune: Dodge% increased by 24. GMRune: Rein casts Heal Litany on himself. GMRune: Rein gains 20 hp. Rein: Ahh, yes, better GMRune: Arzel attacks Elanor! GMRune: attack 1: 1 damage Earendil: We can't defeat her, she has grown too strong GMRune: attack 2 is a criticial! 10 damage! GMRune: Par slices at Elanor. GMRune: 1 damage! GMRune: Tarrant whacks at Elanor with his cane! Kadan: Step aside. It's time to do some real damage. GMRune: He misses! GMRune: ------round 4------- Valina: Come on Kadan! GMRune: Ayeye attacks. GMRune: attack 1 is a critical! 7 damage! GMRune: attack 2: 1 damage Elanor looks severly weakened... GMRune: She gestures, and a wall of thunder rains down on everyone in the front row. Earendil: Elanor. . . . GMRune: Ayeye takes 1 damage! GMRune: Kadan takes 6 damage! GMRune: Geint takes 9 damage! GMRune: Earendil takes 10 damage! GMRune: Rein takes 10 damage! GMRune: Kadan attacks Elanor! GMRune: attack 1 catches her in the shoulder, felling her. GMRune: 15 damage! Elanor lies motionless on the ground... Rein shakes off the hit. "Must... heal... help.. friends...." GMRune: -----victory :~(------ Kadan immediately turns his gaze to Earendil. "I'm so... so... sorry..." Earendil: Elanor no, by Althena, no. Earendil kneels down by Elanor. GMRune: A sudden blast of energy attracts all your eyes. Valina: Oh no... Geint looks to the energy. GMRune: Gausuton is blown back by the blue dragon. GMRune: The warlock drops something before gathering himself to his feet... Gausuton notices Elanor's defend, and through garbled speech utters the words to a spell... Geint: Yea!! Go Canth! Earendil: (to Elanor) You, you couldn't have done this. They did this to you, I will avenge you. Valina watches him... Gausuton: Elanor! Return to us! Return to the Empire! GMRune: A sphere of darkness surrounds the girl, levitating her towards Gausuton. Valina: Earendil, now he has killed your sister, and my family! Lets get him! GMRune: He glares at the party. Gausuton: Don't worry, you poor outcast of a mage. Your sister will live... Gausuton: But for our purposes alone! Gausuton: And now, I'm afraid I must bid you farewell... Valina looks at Gausuton... GMRune: Gausuton and Elanor disppear in a sulphurous green cloud. GMRune: -----end session----