July 4th is hot, windy and wet, as a storm blows up out of the south. After breakfast you head out into the city to find Dor, Niko and Edelle.
It is noontime before everyone meets up in the crowded streets of Atlantia.
Niko saunters over to the others with Edelle in hand.
"I think we have plans to go to Sandas. Lord Kadlian has received an urgent message and we are to leave at once from what I understand," Galil says.
"Ah, what's the hurry? We just got into town and we," indicating himself and Edelle, "have big plans for tonight!"
"Niko, Edelle and Dor, where are your mounts? We are teleporting back to Sandas."
"We need to get back to Sandas and talk to Ray Jay. Seems like what we are searching for may not be able to be found until Al and Equinox's group finds their item. I talked to Zanax last night and his information was very sketchy. So, we go back now and sort it out. You can celebrate in Sandas."
Dor is caught halfway between a grimace and a grin.
"Oh the pain but oh the reward. I'm in."
"How did Zanax get free?"
Kadlian shakes his head. "I do not really think he knows. He said something about that daemon working with two arch-mages. One was Ray Jay and he said another was someone named Malbar. I do not know who Malbar is."
Niko looks over to Rage. "Any chance you could give me a lift back here in two weeks? I need to pick something up..."
"For a price Ugarti, for a price," the mage says with a wicked grin.
"I expect to be back by then. The only reason would be that we are unable to teleport back."
You head back to the inn and gather your goods and chattels, before going down to the stables.
"Everyone ready?" Rage ask before teleporting the group (miniaturized) to Sandas.
"Ready to go," Dor replies.
Rage teleports the lot of you back to Sandas.
It is a hot summer morning in the Borderlands city. Rage eventually enlarges you, and you move post haste to Ray Jay's tower.
"I am sorry, but Master is away on business," says Ming, when he answers the door, all the time undressing Galil and Edelle with his eyes. "What brings you to Sandas again?"
Galil bows slightly at the waist at Ming's attention but waits to be introduced.
"I spoke with Zanax yesterday via his telepathy. He told us that the artifact that we seek cannot be found until Al and Equinox's party finds their artifact. We came back to get some clarification on that, status on how they are doing and get the Zanax/Occa/Vrith/Razmataz mess cleared up. Zanax was very sketchy on the details.
"So, if Ray Jay is away, can you fill us in, Ming?"
"Well, I can try," says Ming, inviting you into the kitchen. The cook makes tea.
"Thank you."
"I was in and out of the meeting, as you will understand, so I did not catch it all. Suffice to say that Ray Jay and Razamataz are working together, after a fashion, for the good of humanity; Zanax was freed from Vrith's prison and the daemon is himself imprisoned now; and Occa's party has travelled to Oerth with Lord Malbar to seek out one of the fabled Swords of Disco Dancing."
"Ray Jay and Razamatax are working together? I thought Razamataz was Occa's group arch-enemy!"
"He may be Occa's enemy but why should that involve Master?" asks Ming. "These are troubled times," he continues, "And one must take one's allies where one finds them. Master has become convinced that the only way to preserve human civilisation on Earth is through the restoration of Saltar...and Razamataz is the new Emperor's court mage."
"I thought Occa worked for Ray Jay."
Ming shakes his head.
"Hmm... Well, we never formally left Ray Jay's toolbox. Remember, last you and I spoke, we were heading for Strabath to use the library to help us locate one of the artifacts. Ray Jay asked us to find them. Al and Equinox's group opted to go North, so we went East."
Ming nods again.
"Toolbox? We're tools now?" the mage says.
"Weren't they chasing when Occa's lost his soul?"
"Could you rephrase that?" Ming asks, tugging at his right ear.
Kadlian clears his throat. "Sorry. I meant to ask about Occa's group chasing Razamataz when Occa lost his soul. At least, I thought that's what they were doing. It's surprising that they could put aside their animosity for that man. Then again, you say these are troubled times."
"Indeed," says Ming. "I believe that Occa lost his soul when they were chasing Vrith, in an attempt to rescue the soul of Salaam. I also believe that it was Razamataz who was behind the uprising of dragons and pirates that Valdar and Occa's group were battling earlier...though the true leader was someone else."
"Ah, that explains it."
"Oerth is where exactly?"
"That is a world located near the centre of the Milky Way."
"It's a separate world!? Hmmm..."
"There are many of them up there," Ming says with a dry smile.
Galil nods in agreement before realizing she has done so.
Kadlian chuckles. "So I have heard. I just thought Oerth was a place on this world. Zanax did not seem to realize it was another world."
"As for Al and Equinox, they left for the North months ago and we have not heard from them since."
"Is there any way of contacting him?"
"I imagine that Master could if he were willing to expend the magical energies."
"Do you know when you can expect Ray Jay back?"
"He comes and goes. Perhaps today. Perhaps in a few weeks."
"Well, we might as well wait for him to come back. Until the sword is found, we cannot locate the robe. And Ray Jay might have found out what city we should be looking for it."
"Will you be staying at the 'Dwarf?"
"What artifact are you seeking? It was my understanding that you no longer wished to be involved in Ray Jay's plots and so had moved to Strabath to do your own thing."
"I thought Ray Jay removed us from his/her service. I always enjoyed working for Ray Jay."
Kailar curiously looks the kitchen over for oddities.
"He did once, but that was reconciled," answers Ming.
"If someone should teleport while in the house, would they find themselves in that cage upstairs? I remember being in there once, but I can't remember what I did."
"Yes they would, and I remember how you found your way into that cage. You tried to enter the tower invisibly. Do not try that again," Ming answers, a trifle sharply.
Kailar smiles. "Ah yes. That is why. What if I turned invisible once inside, or if I tried to teleport outside of the house? What about dimensional door?"
"Why don't you try it and see?"
"That is not entirely true, Ming. Occa is our sponser and he asked us to go after the Robe of Saltar after it was decided that Al, Equinox and company would go after the Sword. So, we journeyed to Atlantia only to find out through Zanax that we need to wait for the Sword to be recovered, first. Or, that's what Zanax thought. He wasn't absolutely clear on that, either. Is there any way to get an update from Al's group?
Ming smiles.
"Zanax was not freed until part way through the proceedings, so he has a good reason to sound unclear. Razamataz did tell us, though, that the Sword needs to be found first, and then the way to the Robe will be revealed. What possessed Occa to think that the Robe was in Atlantia? He never confided this information to us."
"That was Hlarn's theory, not Occa's," puts in Wizbang.
"True. Last we spoke to Ray Jay, he had no better idea than Hlarn. So, would you know where it is hidden? Or any other likely candidates?"
Ming shakes his head and sips his tea.
Kadlian sighs.
Ming regards you, taking a mental inventory.
"And where is the doughty dwarf?" he asks at last, "And the ranger Sian? Logan, I know where he is."
"Hlarn, chose to stay behind at one point on our trek to Atlantia and help clear a ruined tower. Sian just disppeared one night with some of his followers. We have had our problems with direction and unity within our party."
Ming nods, then gazes at the cavalier appreciatively.
"But it looks like you have found a replacement."
"This is Galil, a recent addition to our party."
Ming gives her a friendly smile.
Galil smiles in return, apparently quite interested in everything Ming has to say.
"I don't view myself as a replacement for any other, but I am traveling with them and have a great interest in what occurs on this world, especially as it relates to Clarvis taking power with the intention to rule what once was Saltar."
"Indeed. Curiousity such as yours is to be cultivated, my lady."
"I indulge myself whenever I can," Galil replies. "Perhaps you can share what knowledge you have of recent events. I've heard little other than that Clarvis has now the staff and that my fellow travelers in some way had a hand in that. Long have I sought information about the early days of the Empire and the role of the Wizards in our own history."
"That would be Master's task then, rather than mine," says Ming. "He knows the Wizards better than I do. Even now, he is at their great libraries in Washtn doing his researching."
"I understand that Emperor Clarvis may have the Sceptre of the Dead that we recovered, but it's not clear how he got it. Do you know what happened? Last I knew, Vrith had it."
"Vrith did have it. He took it from Zanax, who I believe had stolen it from you. Vrith then sold it to Razamataz in exchange for his freedom. Razamataz then presented it to Clarvis, and was made court arch mage in return."
Kadlian snorts. "Musical hands. And Ray Jay has no issues with it in Clarvis' hands, correct?"
"Such is politics," the half elf answers, "Currently there are no hands more fit to hold it."
"Then I have no objections to him having it."
Rage laughs.
"And if you did? What then?" the mage says.
"And who could make such a determination?" Galil asks curiously.
"That is Master's."
"How goes the war with Mestom?"
"Mestom's invasion has stalled, though I do not think it was through any action by this side...though King Ormund and his generals would have you think otherwise. Both sides have dug in for a war of attrition."
"Have you any idea of why the invasion has stalled, if not by the efforts of Ormund?" Galil asks.
"We have more than an idea," replies Ming. "We have absolute knowledge. The backer for the actions of Mestom was none other than the Black Wizard Imrimil, ruler of the dark land of Nolthen. Last fall he sent tens of thousands of troops down the Mississippi River and across the Gulf of Mexico to support the leaders of Mestom in their plans for invasion. In fact, Razamataz suspects that Imrimil is actually the ruler of Mestom as well as Nolthen, now. All went well for a time. Mestom has successfully conquered most of Central Amrica, and their armies were advancing steadily into southern Nlad.
"But something else was happening, on the eastern border of his homeland, Nolthen. Just about a year ago a party of adventurers led by an elf named Farad left Castle Yuri with the task of escorting a dwarf prince back to his homeland in Kludar. The dwarf wanted to take the so-called scenic route, through Nolthen, so off they went, traveling slowly across that land. Apparently, as they neared the eastern border of that land Imrimil learned of them, and sent forces to capture them. Prince McTavish escaped to his homeland while the party was able to teleport out.
"What McTavish learned from his foray was that Nolthen was largely stripped of its armies. Now years ago Imrimil had invaded and conquered part of Kludar. Now was the perfect time for the dwarves to try and get it back. So, a few months ago, the dwarves attacked. They quickly reconquered their occupied lands and pressed on into East Nolthen. The last we heard, they were moving fast towards the shores of Lac Olith.
"So now, to protect his heartland, Imrimil has been forced to withdraw his armies from Central Amrica and bring them home. The next six months should prove to be interesting," Ming concludes.
Galil follows the conversation carefully, confused by the many names and events. She interrupts for clarification though, "You say that Ray Jay and Razamataz are working for the good of humanity? Is that limited to Man or does that include elves, halflings and others?" she asks.
"Ray Jay is working for the good of Humanity, mainly, because Humanity is what is most threatened at this time. This is the Home World of Man, after all. However, should Humanity be saved then the races allied with it will also be saved as well."
Galil bows slightly to Ming.
"Of course," she replies softly, an inscrutable look crossing her face before she once again resumes her attentiveness. A thought occurs to her suddenly, "Just how is Humanity threatened most at this time?"
"Ray Jay thinks the increasing incursions of humanoids out of the North is a great threat," answers Ming, "As well as the rise of barbarism in lands like Mestom. Now we know that Imrimil is behind that threat."
"Can you say what vision Ray Jay and Razmataz have for humanity? By that I mean, how do they know what is the proper course?"
"Master has not revealed his vision to me. I do not know if he has one. He may well be following the hand of his patron, Odin. As for Razamataz, I doubt if any vision that he has extends much beyond his own self interest."
Galil smiles, "Self-interest is something that can be understood. The will of Odin is a much more difficult puzzle."
"Hmmm... It is a shame that the King cannot be convinced to allow wizards on the Nlad side of the conflict. Or get assistance from the dwarves and elves. The Mestom invasion could be rolled back with additional assistance."
Ming nods in agreement.
"It is Ormund's actions...or rather his lack of them...that has forced Master to seek other allies in his battle against evil."
"And he sought out Razamataz?"
"I believe they met by accident in Washtn."
"And what of the Mage's Council? What manner of things do they whisper into the ears of King Ormund? Is it not their job to advise? Does anyone know what motivates that Council?" Galil asks.
"In theory it is," the half elf replies, "But he is not obligated to listen to their advice. As for motivations, what do you mean?"
Galil nods. "Yes, that is true. It would be helpful to know if King Ormund is simply ignoring them or if they have not given good council. As to their motivations, I am wondering, if indeed they are failing to give wise council, what their purpose or interest is. Do they have a specific mission? To further the interests of the Mages? To control the King? Some agenda we may be unaware of?"
"You would have to ask Master about that."
"Anyone else or is that privileged information?"
"None that I am aware of, but Master does not confide everything in me. He does have numerous other allies, but they typically do not have the ear of the ruler of the most powerful land on the continent. There is Valdar, of course, Magda of Casablanca, and McTavish, heir to the throne of Kludar, to name some. He also has some powerful adventurers on his side as well. There is Yuri, Jo-owrn and Leslie...Kadlian, why the sudden glazed look on your face?"
Kadlian clears his throat. "Nothing, Ming, nothing. Thought I was hearing from Zanax again, but apparently not."
Concerning McTavish, Kadlian says, "That is the last we heard as well. We were not in Atlantia long enough to pick up the latest news, but so far Imrimil's forces have not been able to stop the dwarves. There was also talk about Clarvis sending them help, but we have not heard if that was just rhetoric. We did hear that Clarvis has announced that he is going to reclaim all the Empire's territories at the peak of the Empire. That would seem to include Nlad."
"That appears to be true."
"Does the King know of this? Would he want to fight a battle on two fronts?"
"I do not know if he knows."
Concerning Imrimil's retreat, Kadlian says, "Yes, on our way to Atlantia, we saw him bringing him armies by boat. Think of the damage that could be caused if those ships were to be sunk at sea."
Ming nods in agreement.
"So, if Imrimil was behind all of this, does that explain the blocking of teleportation and scrying? Does this Wizard have that kind of power?"
"He is one of the most powerful of their kind. I think there are only a few greater than he."
"I wonder what happens if he has to be challenged directly..."
Galil nods. "And who are the few greater than he?"
"I am not sure. Master would know. The heads of the Good, Neutral and Evil orders, perhaps?"
"Orders of the Wizards you mean? Who remain locked in their towers?" Galil asks. "From what little I've learned, humans were only tools of these wizards as well. The War of the Stones was inconclusive amongst the Wizards, though it did enable the Old Gods to return here." Galil sighs softly, plucking at her gloved fingers as she recalls the tales she learned from her elders. She looks up once more. "Elves have helped humanity, as they have helped us. I wonder what powers lie in the old towers of Saltar? Perhaps there is more likelihood of help from that quarter than from the Wizards."
"Perhaps. There are enough of them about."
"At least 6 that I've heard of," Galil replies.
"I wonder what Umboth and Hlarn found?" says Edelle suddenly.
"What do you mean, my dear?" asks Ming.
Galil turns to Edelle as well, her eyes alight with curiosity.
"They went to clear the Tower of Golgar," she explains, as Ming gives her another appraising glance. "Isn't that one of the old towers?"
"It certainly is."
"Who are Umboth and Hlarn? May we speak with them?" Galil asks, a note of eagerness lifting her voice now.
"Or perhaps the Wizards are once more at work, though without our knowledge? If Immiril is active, they can't help but notice and react perhaps," Galil concludes.
"Perhaps..."
Concerning the humanoid incursions out of the north, Kadlian asks, "Further north than the Black Keep?"
"Much further north. You may not be aware of this, Kadlian, but in the far north enormous glaciers are covering the lands and slowly moving south every year. The lands they are covering are lands occupied by humanoids, giants and their ilk; the greatest of them being Urguth. As they lose their land these creatures are being forced south."
"What is an Urguth? And when do they start being a danger to Nlad?"
Ming looks at Kadlian in surprise.
"Are the elves of Aldacan now so insular that you do not even know of Urguth, the kingdom of the orcs?"
Galil nods again, a thoughtful expression on her face. "It is not the first such cycle of this world according to records, but one we must now face."
"As far as I know, this is the first time such a thing has happened."
"It is? The first time in what time period though? I recall my own elders speaking of a time of some shift in forces, 'magnetic' they called it and ice came to cover many lands that were previously most temperate. From what I recall, it was ages and ages ago, many ages of elves and man," Galil explains, frowning now as she tries to recollect lessons she paid scant attention to.
"There have been no such ages of ice in all of the recorded histories that I have seen."
"Perhaps it was something else they meant or it is not recorded in all histories," Galil replies.
"As populations grow, there is more opportunity for discord when nature forces such events upon us."
"As far as the barbarism in Mestom, would that not work to Nlad's advantage if the armies of Mestom have to turn their attentions to internal problems?"
"You misunderstand. Mestom itself is the barbarian land. They have always been such. Surely the elves keep records of their wars with Mestom?"
"Oh, I know about the various incursions by Mestom. But, I thought this time around, we were not calling them barbarians. I mean, their armies have been pretty cunning. And the ones we met and fought were pretty powerful. I thought you meant an internal problem to Mestom. Imploding from within would be a great boon to us."
"They are still a race of Lesser Men...barbarians."
Galil nods, "Ever and ever again we are forced to deal with Mestom in some way. Always have we allied with other powers to repel them. Perhaps it is time to rid the world of this recurring menace."
"Perhaps...if the strength can be found."
Galil nods, "Strength and wisdom are in sorely short supply it would seem. Perhaps we should go and ask the remaining Good Wizards?"
"I believe that Master has already tried that...without success."
Galil chuckles, though it is not a sound of mirth upon her lips. "I am not surprised."
Kailar casts a detect magic spell and continues to poke around the kitchen.
"Kailar, I know you are curious, but I would appreciate it if you did not annoy our host."
"I'll do my best."
The cook swats him with a wooden spoon.
"Ouch! I wasn't gonna touch anything. Honest."
"What do the teacups do?"
"If you wash my dishes I'll tell you!" she snaps.
Kailar shrugs and starts washing some dishes.
Finishing your tea, you wait for Kailar to get done with the dishes. There are a lot of them, and by the time he is finished he has a nice case of dishpan hands.
"The teacups sing!" she snaps at the gnome, and then chivvies you all out of her kitchen.
Kadlian leads you through the streets of Sandas to Occa's house.
The house looks much the same as it did when you were last here in the spring. However, the property behind it - which had previously been a large crater as you recall - is now being redeveloped. You see scores of dwarves working over there, excavating and clearing away rock and debris, while wagons pulled by straining horses pull up almost continuously, loaded down with enormous blocks of stone, which are then unloaded.
Going to the door of Occa's house, Kadlian knocks.
After a few moments you hear shuffling footsteps, and the door opens a crack.
Igor, the hunch-backed doorman, peers out at you with his glass eye.
"Yes?" he hisses, "And who are you?"
"Good day, Igor. I am Kadlian Lun'Folard. Is Occa or anyone else from his group in residence?"
"Oh, yes!" he replies with a wheeze, "Salaam and Logan and Jesse are here!"
"Would you please let me know we are here?"
"Certainly, sir!"
Igor pauses, then announces, "Mister Kadlian, you are here!"
He pauses again.
"Is there anything else, sir?"
Kadlian smiles sarcastically and resists the urge to slap Igor upside the head. "Yes, please let Salaam and Logan know that we are here.
"And you must recognize Niko, right? He was a member of Occa's group a while back."
"Oh yes! Hello Captain!"
"G'day, mate!" Niko responds with a nod of his head.
"And this is Edelle." nodding his head toward her. "Edelle, this is Igor. He keeps Occa's place in ship shape!"
You suddenly notice that Edelle is not present.
Kailar also spots someone peering out through the slightly parted curtains of a nearby window. It looks like Occa. Suddenly the face is gone.
"What happened to Edelle?"
"I don't know for sure, but if I had to hazard a guess I would say that she was with Ming."
"With Ming?" Galil asks, perplexed by this bit of news. "Why would she be with Ming?"
"Because Ming likes to bed anything that is female. And Edelle seems to be somewhat promiscuous. Which, eventually, is going to lead to some problems if every male in this group takes a turn with her."
Galil gives Lord Kadlian a knowing smile. "I see."
"What about us females? You mean only you men get to have the fun?" Rage says indignantly.
Malvis looks over at rage, smiles, and interjects, "I think he was referring only to the slightly limited group of men that did, or are, or will be having fun with Edelle. Not all men."
Rage nods, "We going to this tower of Galgar? I say we leave a note with Ming to have RayJay contact us with the spell of cell-phone use. Our number is 1-800-Herosforfire."
Galil smiles curiously. "What does Heros for fire stand for?"
"Well, the other cool numbers were taken. Like Hero4hire, Heroneeded, etc. I thought heroforfire would be a good one, since I love fire spells..." the mage replies.
"Fire spells? Those are quite useful in dangerous situations, and may come in handy when we reach Golgar." Galil says, obviously pleased that the party wishes to go there.
"Big ones, the ones that go boom," the woman says. "So we going to Galador? Come one bossman? Please... I'll do anything..."
Kadlian shrugs. "Going on her past preferences, I would assume so. But, I have not spoken to Edelle about her sexual preferences. If you desire a relationship with her, that is something you will have to talk to Edelle about."
"Yes, dad," Rage says, sticking her pierced tongue out at the elf.
Kadlian nods. "Which is her choice. But, for the rest of you, understand what is going on? Niko, you are currently the center of her affections, but remember how quickly she switched from Logan to you and do not ever assume that it will not happen to you. I do not want anyone getting mad because she has changed partners. That is her choice."
Niko shrugs. "Her choice...just wanted to make sure we didn't leave her behind...that's all."
Kadlian nods. "Good man. I see you have more sense that Logan did."
"That's not saying much," adds Kailar.
Igor slams the door, and you hear him shuffling away.
Galil raises her brows in surprise. "Perhaps the invitation is no longer valid?"
"Perhaps. But, Niko should be able to get in. After all, he had a room in there not too long ago."
"Yeah, but Niko's a pirate, and who knows what that means," says the mage. "Perhaps were he to sing a pirate song, that would cheer everyone up. I remember a Pirate Feathersword used to sing some great tunes."
"True. 'Captain's Magic Buttons' is one of my favorites. I would not mind hearing that."
"Well then, let's find a bard who can sing, or a pirate, and drink the night away, for tomorrow we go adventuring," the mage says, linking arms with Kadlian and Malvis. "We're off to see the wizard, the wonderful wizard of Oz."
She begins to sing.
"I wonder if I could get in?" Kailar scratches his chin and looks up toward the upper floors.
"I was, at one point Occa's apprentice, of sorts. He was training me, at least, and I had access to his spell books. However, if Logan is here, this might not be the best time to come visit, lest he seek to rejoin the group," Rage says.
"I do not think that is likely to occur, Rage. He was quite unhappy with us."
"By the way, I thought I saw Occa looking out of a window upstairs. Is he supposed to be away?"
"Yes, he is. Keep your guard up. There was someone in Occa's body a while back although Zanax seemed to think that was taken care of."
"Niko, when and if Igor answers the door, see if you cannot get us inside without forcing the issue."
After a few moments the door opens and Igor ushers you in, leading you to the dining area.
Jesse, Salaam and Logan are just finishing lunch when Igor ushers in Kailar, Windul, Nuanna, Vastelle, Malvis, Dor, Kadlian, Rage, Niko, Wizbang and a female elf. Also present is a man who looks suspiciously like Occa.
"Oh, you guys. Well, come on in anyway," Occa says.
Salaam sits and eats, ignoring the newcomers; ideas and thoughts of Thoth's temple are occupying him at the moment.
"Oh no," Logan mumbles under his breath.
"Welcome, Kad, what's news?" he asks. "Niko, what's up, my brother?"
"Thank you...Occa?" Kadlian says.
"Sort of. You can call me Cannon Fodder or CF for short."
"Cannon Fodder. You are the simulcralum, correct? I believe we have met before."
"Correct."
Galil raises a brow and waits silently.
"Hello Logan. We made it to Atlantia to find out from Zanax that we cannot find the Robe until the others find the Sword. Salaam, would you have a way to find out if they found the Sword?"
"I expect they would come back with it if they had."
Galil listens intently, her eyes moving slowly around the room with curiosity.
She sees a bound up man sitting in a corner.
Salaam, done musing about the temple, barely hears Kadlian's question.
"I have heard nothing," he replies. "I cannot contact them, perhaps Cannon Fodder can with Occa's crystal ball. Once the temple to Thoth is completed, I could use its font as a crystal ball, but not before."
"Well, the crystal ball will show them, but will not be able to tell us where they are or if they have completed their mission. Would you be able to commune with Thoth?"
"Yes, I can," he says. "Give me a list of questions and I will ask his aid."
"Which came first, the chicken or the egg?" Rage says, smiling at the cleric. "How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? Why is the sky blue and the grass green? If life is a bowl of cherries, why I am always surrounded by pits? If a hen and a half can lay an egg and a half in a day and a half, how many pancakes does it take to shingle a doghouse?"
"Your comments are unamusing, mage," Salaam says to her in a cold tone.
"It's true... it's true. Cleric's don't have a sense of humor," the woman says with glee. "Good thing you have a sense of humor Galil...there are too many stuffy people in the world."
"Well, as far as I know, those that went with Al and Equinox were not powerful enough to teleport. So, depending on how far north they had to go, it might be quite a while for them to return. Cannon Fodder, do you know who went north with them?"
"Everyone went including Occa."
Kadlian looks confused. "I thought Occa went to Oerth after a dancing sword. Why do you say he went north with Al and Equinox?"
Niko shrugs and takes a seat. Grabbing a cup, he pours himself some brandy from a wineskin before answering Logan's question. "Not much...it looks like we were on a wild goose chase...just back for a day or two to get some more information from Ray Jay."
"Then what from there? I am bored off my ass here!" Logan says with a shrug of his shoulders.
"Now there is a colorful expression," the mage says.
"Unclear where we go from here, but maybe to that Tower where Umboth, Hlarn and the orcs are."
"If you do go, I promise to be a good boy, as I would rather be on the road then bored to tears here. Plus I could use some serious tutoring and if Rage would have me back, I am seriously ready to commit myself!" he offers.
Rage strokes her chin.
"An interesting choice of words. You seek to commit yourself?" the mage says, frowning.
"Yes, I have seen here that magic is my life and Ray Jay is not interested in students at this time, so I need to hone my craft with the guidance of one who is more experienced," he says to her with a nod, actually sounding sincere.
She ponders for a moment.
"I could use another notetaker. That would be good, yes." she says, looking at Malvis. "I will take you back, you mutt, you. Come 'ere and give Rage a big hug and a kiss."
Logan puts his arms around her and hugs her tight, planting a wet kiss on her lips.
Rage proceeds to reach up and give Logan a noogie.
"Well, here we are again. Tell me everything since you have left. Did you get a spell book?" she says, "Malvis, you too, do you have another spell book? So you can copy more spells. Also what reagents might you need?
"Oh, yeah, Galil, meet Logan, he's a warrior/mage, and a nice guy, once you get past his rough spot. He's got promise," she says, smiling. "However, Malvis, you know Malvis, right? He can do some great tricks, and is very quick with his hands. He's really good."
Malvis blushes a deep crimson as Rage squeezes his hands and gives him compliments.
"Malvis, an Illusionist, at your service," he stammers as he bows to all.
Cannon Fodder laughs at all the dialog. "You guys are funny!"
Cannon Fodder then proceeds to flirt with any of the women present who are attractive.
Kadlian gives Rage a glare, but stays quiet.
Logan changes his tune.
"No spellbook and what's up with you and the illusionist? I want to learn full time, not have your time divided between me and some two rate ghost catcher!" Logan replies as he withdraws from Rage's hug.
"Temper, temper, Logan," Rage says, "You should know that I cannot teach Malvis, as I am not devoted to the single pursuit of illusion. To teach, you will have my undivided attention, as long as I have yours. Beyond that is none of your business."
"So do you have any real questions or are you wasting my time?" Salaam inquires of Kadlian.
"Logan, I will have a chat with Ray Jay and see if he would be willing to tutor you as it seems this is not a good bunch to deal with," he says, giving a cold look to Rage, not liking her at all.
Rage looks at the cleric and sticks out her tongue.
"Listen here Mister Stick in the Mud, don't get all high fluting on us, or else I might be forced to get medieval on your backside. Then again, as a cleric, you might like that, you're into that self-abuse and flagellation, right?"
Rage glares at Salaam, and makes all sorts of weird faces at him.
"Careful of your tongue, woman," he warns Rage. "I am not a violent man, but do not mock my beliefs or you will experience the true wrath of the righteous of Thoth."
Rage shakes her head.
"Lighten up, will you? I have yet to mock your beliefs, since I don't even know, nor do I care what they are. However, if you're going to attempt to pull that macho crap with me, you've got another thing coming," she says, and deliberately walks away. "Kad, I'm outta here. I'll be in the Guild when you are ready to leave. Leave me a message there when you're done with the righteous one."
"Okay, Rage. Have fun!"
"Mmm," Logan muses when he hears Salaam's offer. "Why didn't you tell me that last month, cleric?"
"Good," Salaam says as Rage leaves, and then answers Logan, "Why don't you ask next time instead of assume, Logan? And while you study under Ray Jay, if he will have you, I will be needing a head of security for my temple. If you are interested, I would like to employ you !"
Logan shakes his head and says, "I can stick around and think about it!"
Regarding Salaam's offer of a commune, Kadlian says, "Thank you, Salaam."
"Have Al and Equinox recovered the Sword of Saltar?
"Is the Robe of Saltar located in Atlantia?
Kadlian turns to the rest of the group. "Can anyone think of any other serious questions that can help with our quest?"
"Will an artifact related to the Acutraments of power be found in the Tower of Galgar?" Galil offers, not quite clear on what kinds of questions the cleric might be able to ask.
"Or perhaps 'Will the Tower of Galgar yield information regarding it's powers of old?'" Galil adds.
Cannon Fodder says, "How about this one...'Is it possible to change a simulacrum into a fully living entity with a soul?'?"
"What about that disco dancing sword?" Niko asks.
"That was something else."
"Oh, yeah...and while we're on talking about these artifact thingies...what should we be doing with them? I mean, are we just going to hand them over to Clarvis, too?"
"Well, I can ask if we should hand them to Clarvis, but I would rather ask Ray Jay that question. I do not know Thoth at all, so we do not know where he stands on this issue."
"Salaam, for my third and fourth questions:"
"Once recovered, should the Sword of Saltar be given to Clarvis, Emperor of Saltar?"
"Once recovered, should the Robe of Saltar be given to Clarvis, Emperor of Saltar?"
Holy symbol in hand, Salaam finds a seat and intones, "Great Thoth, please answer these questions to help those who need it!"
He asks:
"Have Al and Equinox recovered the Sword of Saltar?"
The mighty voice of Thoth answers, "NO."
"Is the Robe of Saltar located in Atlantia?"
"NO."
"Did our group find the disco dancing sword?"
"NO."
"Once recovered, should the Sword of Saltar be given to Clarvis, Emperor of Saltar?"
"NO."
"Once recovered, should the Robe of Saltar be given to Clarvis, Emperor of Saltar?"
"NO."
"Is it possible to change a simulacrum into a fully living entity with a soul?"
Cannon Fodder says, "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
He crosses his fingers as he awaits the reply.
"YES."
"Will an artifact related to the Acutraments of power be found in the Tower of Golgar?"
"NO."
"Will the Tower of Golgar yield information regarding it's powers of old?"
"YES."
The elf sees the woman and approaches, "haven't seen you around, who are you?" he asks. "I am Logan Obi Wan, mage/fighter extraordinaire!"
"I am Galil-Gadith Amadriewen, most recently of Dorian," she replies.
"Well met, lady," he says as he extends his right hand. If she takes it, he flips her hand and kisses it softly on the back of it.
"What brings you in with this crew?" he inquires.
Galil smiles as Logan kisses the back of her hand. "I am ever in search of knowledge, knowledge of all things in my work for my Patron Forseti."
"A true shame I will not be joining you, but I can help you with your search for knowledge this evening," he says with a wide grin. "How would you like to go out for dinner?"
"Have you any information that I seek? You claimed no knowledge of the Tower of Golgar and it is that which I currently seek," Galil replies.
"Well, the big cleric here is finding out and I thought I would entertain you this evening as I am well versed on many topics of lore," he says with a smile. "At dinner, you can tell me about what you seek and I will see what I can do to help." He smiles. "Deal?"
"Hey, what is with the prisoner?"
Kadlian recalls him as being the man you battled and captured down in Vrith's lair.
At this time Igor shuffles back into the dining room.
"Masters," he says with a cough to Salaam, Logan, Cannon Fodder and Jesse, "There is someone at the door! I think it is a cleric trying to peddle us his god!"
"Which god is that, Igor?"
"He has a hammer hanging around his neck!"
"That would be Thor, right?" asks Kadlian to no one in particular.
"I'll check it out, Galil, care to join me?" Logan asks as he moves towards the door.
Malvis, who has been doing a slow burn, speaks to him.
Malvis stares thoughtfully at Logan a moment, then answers slowly. "While I have never heard of the phrase 'two rate ghost catcher', I gather you mean to somehow disparage my profession and abilities. I assure you, good sir, it would not be wise for anyone to underestimate the abilities of someone they obviously know so little about. Such presumptions could prove very costly, in the end."
Malvis allows a trace of a smile to show for an instant, then his face is blank.
"You threatenin' me, pee wee?" Logan asks, pausing, his right hand twitching near his sword pommel.
"Oh, assuredly not," says Malvis slowly, "Simply reminding everyone of the obvious."
Malvis' hands have dropped to his sides, within easy reach of several wands stuck through his belt. "But I'm sure there are some who might miss the obvious."
"Why don't you run after your mistress, lap dog, or I will jam some of those wands where the sun don't shine!" Logan growls.
Niko sighs and looks for Igor to bring him some food.
Cannon Fodder laughs. "Don't be an ass, Logan. Malvis here is giving you some good advice."
"Logan, the only one threatening anyone is you. Draw that sword and I will encourage Rage to turn you into a newt."
"You have not changed in the least, despite your assertions otherwise. You insult people and then get upset when people correct your misstatements. If you are looking for a fight, Logan, I will accommodate you. But, you will not like the results."
"Wasn't talking to you, holy boy! Why don't you follow Rage out?" he offers to Kad's group.
Jesse, the bard speaks.
"Logan, your rudeness is uncalled for," she says, "We all, in our own way are working towards the same goals. If you do not get alone with these folks, that is your choice, but your rudeness is inexcusable."
"Hey, I was insulted first, by Rage, then Malvis, and then Kadlian," he replies. "Just because I speak straight and don't hold back, I am told I am rude, sorry, but that is not the case. Because Rage got offended that I insinuated that she and the illusionist were bumpin' uglies doesn't give her reason to call me names, and then when I reply in kind, Malvis and Kadlian start with their tough talk, so lecture them, not me!"
"No, you like to pick on those not as capable as you. You at least have enough intelligence not to insult those that could bloody your nose."
"As far as leaving goes, we will do so when we are ready, not at your order."
Sir climbs out of Kailar's pack, and jumps onto the lap of the trussed up man. From that vantage point he regards the lot of you.
"Oh shit," Logan mutters as he sees the cat.
Kadlian grins, knowing the effect that Sir will have on Logan.
Cannon Fodder says, "All are welcome in this house except those that Occa and I say are not. If you guys don't get along, avoid each other. There will be NO fighting under this roof and all are welcome. Except evil folks, of course."
"No, we will not fight in here, Cannon Fodder. That would be rude."
"What about wrestling or boxing?" Dor asks. "That's fighting too, but for sport not for killing. Is that OK?"
"You are joking, correct?" Cannon Fodder asks. "Training is fine. Practice is fine. Trying to kill each other is not fine."
Cannon Fodder turns to Kadlian and says, "Since you and Rage run this group, please feel free to stay as long as you wish. Rest, eat, train and leave as you wish. We are all joined by a larger quest and you are welcome here."
"That is very generous of you and I thank you for the offer."
Galil watches the exchange, clearly puzzled by the interactions, and changes her stance ever so slightly so that she is prepared for action if need be.
Kadlian looks in Jesse's direction and smiles. "Jesse! How are you? Why are you not with your husband on Oerth?"
"I am well, and starting my school here," the bard says. "Life on the road can be hard, especially for one expecting."
Kadlian glides across the room and lifts Jesse up into a hug and he twirls her around before setting her down. "Congratulations! That is wonderful!"
The half-elf grins.
"It is indeed," she says, "So you and your group have to do what you can to protect the world for my child. Just like his father is. And I will write ballads of your exploits as well."
Kadlian frowns. "You know we will do our best, but the array of forces against Nlad are pretty impressive. Have you thought about a secondary place to stay? Perhaps with Lord Valdar in Dorian? If Mestom does come this way, you should have another place that is safe."
"You are a gallant soul, Kadlian." Jesse says, "I have yet to worry about that, and hope that we would have a bit of warning first, but I will examine the possibilities."
Logan heads to the door.
"Anything else?" Salaam asks, then his eyes light up.
Kadlian shakes his head and looks at the others.
Question #9: "Are those who seek the sword of Saltar closer to it than our friends?"
He does not get an answer.
Question #10: "Are those who seek the robe of Saltar closer to it than our friends?"
Again, no answer.
"Mmm," he says, rubbing his chin.
Galil waits until Salamm is finished speaking. "Can you ask another question?"
"If so, perhaps we should ask what might be obvious -- Should the Robe and the Sword be given into the keeping of Thor?"
She explains to Lord Kadlian, "Thor, in fact each of the gods, including Forseti, would have different designs concerning who here should have power. Perhaps they also fear that such power as the three items together would be too much for one such as Clavis." Galil sighs, trying to think of better questions to ask.
"Should the Robe and Sword be given to a human?"
"Should one being wield the Robe, the Sword and the Staff?"
"Should the Robe be destroyed?"
"Should the Sword be destroyed?"
"Is Ray Jay to be trusted?"
Galil shrugs apologetically to the rest of the party as she suggests the last question.
"Should the Robe and the Sword be given into the keeping of Thor?"
"NO."
Question #12: "Should the Robe and Sword be given to a human?"
"NO."
Question #13: "Should one being wield the Robe, the Sword and the Staff?"
"NO."
Cannon fodder says, "Can you ask...'Will a wish give a simulacrum a soul?'"
Salaam asks.
"YES."
"Cannon Fodder, that is wonderful. Are you capable of casting a wish?"
"It is indeed good news. No, I am not capable of that yet, but will be one day. I do know where a place is that I can get a wish or Occa may be kind enough to give me one. We will see."
"Would Ray Jay cast a wish on your behalf?"
"I don't know. Maybe. Worth asking about anyway. Are you off to see Ray Jay?"
Kadlian shakes his head. "We just came from Ray Jay's tower and he was not there. Ming does not know when to expect him."
"Oh well. That is too bad."
He smiles as he thinks.
"There is a fountain that will give an anti-wish. I know of it, but cannot get there. At some point, I will get there. Or maybe Occa..." he says.
"So, what are your next plans?"
Cannon Fodder says, "Oh, we better make sure who is at the door isn't an enemy. I would hate for the house to be destroyed while we are gone."
Cannon Fodder leaves to check on Logan and the priest.
After a few minutes Cannon Fodder and Logan return. With them is a young man in clerical garb.
Niko sighs at Logan.
"I thought you were going to get rid of him..?"
Cannon Fodder replies, "Why would we do that? The more the merrier! Time to party! Igor is getting the drinks."
Niko shrugs and takes another swig of brandy. Wiping his mouth on his sleeve, he belches and says to the cleric, "The name's Niko...and who might you be?"
The red-haired youth says, "My name is Ragnar, I'm kind of new to the whole Cleric thing. The High Priest told me to get out and convert some people to Thor. This looked like a big house, so I thought I would drop by."
Kadlian chuckles. "Priest of Thor, meet a high priest of Thoth. Salaam, think you can convert him to your faith?"
Salaam bursts into song.
"Young man, there's no need to feel down.
I said, young man, Pick yourself off the ground,
I said, young man, 'cause you're in a new town
There's no need to be unhappy
Young man, there's a place you can go
I said, young man
When you're short on your dough
You can stay there and I'm sure
You will find many ways to have a good time,
Its fun to stay at the Temple of Thoth
It's fun to stay at the Temple of Thoth,
We have everything for young man to enjoy!"
he sings with a smile to the priest of Thor.
"You can have a good meal
You can get yourself clean
There's no need to feel down
Pick yourself off the ground"
"Young man, young man, Are you list'ning to me?
Young man, young man, What do you want to be?
Young man, are you listening to me?
I said, young man What do you want to be?
I said, young man What do you want to be?
I said, young man You can make real your dreams
But you're got the know this one thing
No man does it all by himself I said, young man
Put your faith in Thoth
And just go there to the Temple of Thoth
I'm sure we can help you today!" he sings with religious fervor.
Cannon Fodders says, "I want to go! That sounds fun! Yeah!"
He continues to dance around the room till the drinks arrive.
"Well met, High Priest of Thoth. I am admittedly ignorant of your Patron God and while I would be open to learning of him and his motives, I am not interested in being converted. Thor is a just and powerful God and I am happy to serve him."
After a bit Jeeves the butler arrives with a tray of drinks, accompanied by an attractive maid with hors d'oeuvres.
You party the afternoon away, eating, drinking and being merry. Cannon Fodder chases the serving wenches around, and so do Niko and Logan. A splendid time is had by all.
Rage leaves the gathering, headed for the door.
As the party draws to a close, Cannon Fodder comes into the drawing room and takes Kadlian aside.
After a few words they leave the room.
A short time later Cannon Fodder returns.
Kadlian is not with him.
Niko eyes Cannon Fodder. "Where'd Kad go?"
"He is attending to Rage. He said he was sorry he couldn't rejoin, but will update you tomorrow morning."
"Attending Rage? Tomorrow morning?" Galil asks, her voice betraying her puzzlement and concern. "Then I should pay my respects to my Patron Forseti and find a place to sleep for the night." she continues quietly, obviously a bit ill at ease at the thought of partying all night.
Cannon Fodder nods. "Igor will show you to a room."
Niko shrugs and replies, "OK."
He then resumes drinking and partying.
Cannon Fodder joins in the partying for a while till he chases another maid out of the room.
Everyone but the stodgy elf party all night.
Time passes.