Rumors whisper in the taverns and streets throughout Thera. Who are these mysterious agents of the Eldritch Consortium, and what is their purpose?

The latest whipsers reveal the uncovering of an ancient dwarven artifact delivered from the fabric of time and space itself by the unlikely coupling of a paladin magistrate and a strange thief in a daft disguise.

It is said Destanin the Archmage himself aquired this artifact for a fair price from the bickering duo, delivering it to his associate Simshipple Fligliveryshins who, with the power of great earth magic, began a ritual to create an Island in the Sky.

Meanwhile, Imperial agents lurk near the Dairien Settlement, carefully guarding the shrouded form of Ssriel Llibani. Though Outlanders and a Fortress Warrior tried in vain to stop him, his sinister magics overtook the forest west of the settlement. A sundered obelisk and a waft of death and decay fell every tree in its wake, laying the foundation for a road clear to the Sea of Despair.

Now, Simshipple's Ritual has seen completion as well, and a Crystalline Island floats in the sky, held aloft by magic and the Eye of Nordiach. The road eases the transfer of supplies, and the Consortium prepares to begin the Underwater Excavation in the Sea of Despair with full force.

What will they uncover? What lurks beneath the sea that causes such interest and upheaval? The keen and the curious will stay tuned, and soon be apprised of what is to come.

Are players suppose to know all this kind of information IC? Like Cliant and Jeir helping the Eldritch, etc. Is this forum suppose to be a tale floating around Thera that the entire playerbase catches wind of and is common knowledge, or is this forum more for OOC enjoyment and we're suppose to find out such information for ourselves? I've been wondering this for a while, any response would be helpful.

You can know it IC if you choose. Though certainly you can roleplay ignorance as well.

I'd actually argue it makes *more* sense for most characters to know these largescale events (which would be the 'talk of the town' so to speak) than it does for your character to know most of the area/lore information many veterans do when they role up a character. NPCs are presumed to be ambiant, and your character is probably overhearing what is being said off-stage.

I'd say this also reflects a change in mentality in some of the imms. Quests in the past have a tendnacy to become sort of oriented towards one group of players that knows what's going on, and everyone else is clueless. We're trying to veer away from that, and allow new players to jump into quests as they proceed already having some background knowledge of what has been going on, rather than "Wait, the Consortium? Who's Destanin? There's a new giant WHAT floating around?"

I will also say we've been putting venues of in-game information that are not posted here.

The minutae of the log most characters wouldn't know, though you can safely know the main story, especially if your character is a hang-around-listening-to-bards type. I consented to post the log on Cliant's behalf because, while every nuance isn't public knowledge, it's fun and I thought it'd be a shame to limit the enjoyment of the side-story and humor of the interactions to just two players.

>I'd actually argue it makes *more* sense for most characters
>to know these largescale events (which would be the 'talk of
>the town' so to speak) than it does for your character to know
>most of the area/lore information many veterans do when they
>role up a character.

I agree 100%, and I very much appreciate it. There are quests that happened years ago that I *still* have nearly zero clue about other than maybe the end result. The problem with people dissapearing that have knowledge of the quest causing it to stagnate also should be at least partly alleviated by this.

' I agree 100%, and I very much appreciate it. '

The same here. I'd also like to make a request if I may; could logs similar to that of Jeir and Cliant be added to these pages, showing some of the finer details of 1) the Myshrai Ar'tinuilin mob enlisting the aid of the Fortress and (presumably) Lauraine and 2) some of the how and the why behind the Ssriel Llibani mob gaining the assistance of his Imperial 'guards'?

I was left with the impression that these three events all took place within the same 'phase' of this ongoing global quest, so I naturally began to wander (and hope) if it were possible to get these two remaining parts of the story as well.

"2) some of the how and the why behind the Ssriel Llibani mob gaining the assistance of his Imperial 'guards'?"

A ritual sending a swath of plant-withering necromancy clear across a forest is something that requires a great deal of concentration - and also something that was likely to stir the Ancients and attract the not-so-happy attention of the Outlanders. Ssriel knew he needed protection.

As for why the Imperials agreed to help him, well, razing through a forest to make room for a useful and camo-free road is enough to make most Imperials smile. That's at least one reason, anyways.

That was a lot of fun for me as Dhaezym.

Ah, marvelous background. But if possible, perhaps you could also make a log public of Ssriel bargaining with the Imperials, convincing them of his cause and subsequently having them follow and guard him as he worked his magic (both literally and figuratively), in a manner not unlike Destanin approaching the characters of Cliant and Jeir?

Pretty please?

Thanks to Cliant for providing the log of what turned out to be a 4-hour quest that almost entirely solved through roleplay. Jeir and Cliant both performed quite admirably in this quest, and I had a blast running it.

Since the log does not contain any secret information of future relevence to the unfolding events, nor does it reveal any personal knowledge of the characters involved, I've consented to its posting. A long but somewhat amusing read for those who enjoy this sort of thing.

The story of The Eye of Nordiach.

A statue of a radiant phoenix clutches the edge of a silver fountain.
A large human stands here confidently, dressed in the robes of a Master Order Mage.
Jeir is here.
A bright-eyed commoner is here, running his daily errands.

You see before you a handsome man, who stretches about six feet in
length. His hair is black as a raven's feathers, and is very well kept,
hanging about his shoulders at a uniform length. His skin is pale, and fairly smooth, though age and adventuring have given it a slight tan and a more distinguished look, you might expect he was extremely handsome in his
younger days. His eyes are blue, and almost seem to burn with passion,
but as you look upon his face as a whole, his expression is quite calm, and
you might expect he is very much in control of his emotions. He is not a
particularly large man, but there is strength in him, his shoulders are broad and he is somewhat barrel chested. His arms and legs are thick, and his hands seem big for one of his stature. You see a piece of fine blue silk sticking out of his armor near his neck.
Jeir, a male human, is in perfect health.
Jeir does not appear to be carrying any money.

You whisper 'Hard at work.'

Destanin the Archmage says 'Well, likely the only way one can aquire the Eye now is to bend the passage of time, and delve into the past.'

This burly man could almost pass for a warrior, standing well over six feet
with a heavily muscled physique. His thinning blond hair is combed
straight back and greased, with a thin silver circlet running through it
and resting on his ears. Despite his somewhat rugged look his eyes flare
with intelligence, and he looks very comfortable with the magical items and
powers at his disposal.
Destanin the Archmage is in perfect health.

Destanin the Archmage raises an eyebrow at you.

You whisper 'Ahh, forgive me, let me introduce myself.'

You step out of the shadows.
You bow before him.

Destanin the Archmage nods, an arcane glimmer in his eyes subsiding.

You say 'Cliant at your service.'

Destanin the Archmage says 'Perhaps we have our first volunteer?'

Jeir chuckles politely.

Jeir says 'I'm sure if you pay him off, he'll do anything you like.'

You chuckle at his joke.

Jeir says 'Thieves come cheap in these lands I hear.'

You say 'Reading my mind.'

Destanin the Archmage says dismissively 'There will be rewards.'

You say 'I am certain I am not against good pay.'

You rub your hands together in greedy anticipation.

You say 'Now what is going on?'

Destanin the Archmage says 'I seek to keep it small, perhaps three or four adventurers willing to travel through time and into the heart of the dwarven past to seek the Eye of Nordiach'

You pause to think.

You say 'I am not afraid of a little dirty work.'

Jeir says 'To the ancient times of Thera?'

You whisper 'What is this eye for?'

Destanin the Archmage says 'Whoa now, hopefully it won't be *too* dirty. The secrets of the Eye may be engraved in the hearts and minds of the dwarves of the past themselves. If you steal and stab your way into this, you may never get the answers we seek'

You whisper 'Ahh, well hmm I suppose I could do some talking too.'

Jeir says 'Yes, diplomacy is the way of things.'

Jeir nods wisely.

You tell Cliant 'I'm sure theres something to pinch..'

Destanin the Archmage says 'I know not what will be in store for you. I wouldn't be too hastey is all I can say.'

You whisper 'How impatient.. shouldn't we be?'

Jeir says 'No killing would be a good start, unless a defense of life must be made.'

You whisper 'Ah well you know, thats a little bit beyond my type of work anyway.'

Jeir says 'Or the victim's heart is dark.'

You whisper 'Scaring them aye! Whats this talk of victims?'

Destanin the Archmage says 'Good then. I will leave you two to it then. I will wait here in Voralian City for word of your return.'

You whisper 'Clients, call them clients its far more soothing.'

Jeir says 'I am to go with the thief?'

Jeir closes his eyes and hums for an instant.

Destanin the Archmage says to Jeir 'If you are willing!'

Destanin the Archmage says 'If not, perhaps Cliant can find other companions. I care not, so long as the job is done.'

<{521(100%) 100%} civilized outdoor standing 1 PM 4499tnl>
Jeir says 'He'll likely try to rob me first chance he gets.'

<{521(100%) 100%} civilized outdoor standing 1 PM 4499tnl>
Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Cliant holds out a well manacured hand.

Jeir regards you with a thoughtful gaze.

You whisper 'Oh come now!'

You whisper 'As If you had anything to steal in the first place.'

Destanin the Archmage says to Jeir 'Though, perhaps an honest man with him would be a good thing.'

Jeir says 'I was about to say the same thing.'

Cliant wrings his hands absently.

You whisper 'Ah I suppose, though I really don't need that kind of..'

Jeir says 'I will go, to make sure no mistakes are made, and order is upheld.'

You tell Cliant 'And I go to insure sir stiff neck here doesn't botch things with the dwarves.

You whisper 'Might we pick up some ale on the way?'

Destanin the Archmage lets out a small chortle of amusement.

Jeir says 'Absolutely not.'

You whisper 'I find it always softens even the stoniest of hearts.'

Jeir says 'There will be no drinking if I am to lead this expedition.'

Jeir crosses his arms across his chest.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Good luck to you, gentlemen. I need to find Simshipple and see how the ritual preparations are coming along.'

Destanin the Archmage gallantly tips his hat.

You whisper 'Oh that will bristle a beard or two.'

Destanin the Archmage leaves east.

Jeir scratches his head with a confused look upon his face.

You whisper 'Well, huh.'

You whisper 'Eye of Nordiach huh?'

Jeir says 'Exactly where are we supposed to go then?'

You whisper 'The past I imagine.'

'Theres a castle there now collapsed.'

Jeir says 'Good a place as any to start.'

So we start upon our grand adventure
Upon arriving at the grand gates

Jeir leaves east.
You follow Jeir east.
At the Torchlit Gates

west]
(Glowing) Flaming torches rest in tall stands to either side of the gate.
Jeir is here.

You yell 'Anyone seen an eye of Nordiach around here?'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

No matter how hard you try, the massive stone gates do not even budge.

Jeir says 'Keep your voice down.'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

You whisper 'Oh these dwarves are a fair enough bunch.'

You whisper 'Though we really should have brought some ale.'

Jeir says 'We come as diplomats, not beggars.'

Jeir says 'Have some decency.'

You hear the sound of dwarven guards readying themselves in response to the sound of yelling.

Jeir says 'Why, so you could get drunk and stumble off.'

You attempt to hide.

You whisper 'Nah, I don't usually drink myself.'

You whisper 'But I know what a dwarf likes.'

You whisper 'And thats good cold ale.'

Jeir says 'I suppose they open the gates only in the morning.'

You whisper 'They might open sooner, be ready though they may take our entrance.. a little poorly.'

You whisper 'Dwarves are a bit jumpy sometimes.'

Jeir says 'Keep your blades down then.'

Jeir stops using the silver longsword "Vampire Slayer".

You stop using a blacksmith's forge hammer.

Jeir says 'And keep your hands in your pockets.'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

You whisper 'I make no promises, but I shall try.'

The two massive stone doors open on silent hinges.

You say 'Who do you want to talk to first?'

Jeir says 'I suppose their king.'

You beckon for Jeir to follow.

Jeir says 'If they have one.'

Jeir now follows you.

You say 'I'll take you that way then.'

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to a royal dwarven guard.

You say 'Greetings, we seek entrance to the kings chambers.'

A royal dwarven guard grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

A royal dwarven guard says 'What for?'

Jeir says 'We are emissaries sent by Destanin, we come seeking knowledge of an ancient artifact.'

You say 'I am a representive of the good sir Destanin.'


A royal dwarven guard says 'Emissaries of who?'

Jeir says 'Destanin.'

You tell Jeir 'You know they have no idea who he is.'

You chuckle at his joke.

Jeir says 'A founder of the Eldritch Consortium.'

A royal dwarven guard says 'And who the bloody 'ell is that?'

A royal dwarven guard says 'The what?'

A royal dwarven guard says 'Yer talkin' daft nonsense.'

You say 'Ah forgive my friend sir,'

Jeir says 'We are in fact from the future of these lands.'

You frown at what he did.

Jeir eyes you with disgust and grunts indignantly.

You tell Jeir 'Allow me to do the talking hm?'

smile dwarf
You smile at him.

You say 'Now, as I was saying.'

Jeir rolls his eyes at you.

A royal dwarven guard says 'Bah! The future! All thems people who come through the void ya mean?'

You say 'We are here on a quest of sorts seeking information that only the royalty of dwarvin kind would know.'

You nod agreeably at a royal dwarven guard.

You say 'Ahh, yes that thing..'

A royal dwarven guard says 'The kind that mostly comes here to make sure us guards earn our money? Hmph.'

Jeir steps back and watches Cliant with a smirk on his face.

You say 'Oh no! Not at all.'

'We are here as friends to the dwarven empire.

A royal dwarven guard says 'Well, if you wantin' to know something about artifiacts, I nae sure the King is the one to ask.'

A royal dwarven guard peers around himself intently.

You say 'Oh?'

A royal dwarven guard whispers 'Sort of daft in the head, 'e is.'

You say 'Ahh, well thats a .. misfortune.'

A royal dwarven guard says 'Now, the High Priest, 'e's bound to know something about that, if any dwarf is.'

High Priest Derthlin At the Altar

Cliant peers down the hall and up the hall.

You say 'Well thank you very much sir.'

You say 'Here allow me to repay you for your time, and effort.'

You give a royal dwarven guard 5 gold.

A royal dwarven guard has left you beaming with joy.

A royal dwarven guard comes to attention and gives you a crisp salute.

You tell Jeir 'Any idea where this altar is?'

We wander the dwarven halls for a bit till I find the High Priest

(Translucent) (White Aura) A dwarven priest in resplendent robes prays before the altar.

At the Altar
A large stone altar is bathed in a ray of light.
(Translucent) (White Aura) A dwarven priest in resplendent robes prays before the altar.

Gray silken robes bearing the symbol of hammer and anvil in golden thread
seem to bath the dwarven figure in a soft halo of light. Hands reverently
placed on the stone altar, the dwarven priest looks to the arched ceiling,
to the ray of light shining through its smooth surface. Tears streak down
his sorrowful visage, running into his neatly groomed white beard. His
softly spoken words die inches past his lips, eventually falling into
silence.
High Priest Derthlin is in perfect health.
High Priest Derthlin does not appear to be carrying any money.

High Priest Derthlin is using:
<worn around neck> a golden hammer and anvil pendant
<worn about body> (Glowing) gold embroidered gray silk robes
<wielded> (Glowing) a ceremonial mace

You bow before him.

Jeir says 'Well, that worked out well.'

You say 'Greetings good sir!'

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to High Priest Derthlin.

High Priest Derthlin raises an eyebrow.

You say 'I am Cliant and this is my friend Jeir.'

Jeir says 'Jeir Govanion, of the Voralian Order and the Blood Tribunal, at your service.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'I see. And what brings a couple of ragtag human-types to this temple? Come to enlighten yerselves?'

Jeir says 'Ragtag?'

Jeir says 'Please good longbeard, do not lump me in with him.'

You say 'We do not wish to waste much of your time good sir, we come seeking information of a Eye of Nordiach.'

High Priest Derthlin grumbles something under his beard.

High Priest Derthlin says 'Well, company ye keep, an' all that.'

Cliant frowns slightly.

Jeir says 'I am simply here to make sure he doesn't steal anything.'

You glare icily at him.

Jeir says 'But yes, we are interested in any information on such an object you might be able to offer.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'The Eye of Nordiach? What blasted kind of half-breed tall-leg comes in here askin' about that. Nae can be good news, if ye ask me.'

You whisper 'Half-breed!'

High Priest Derthlin folds his arms severely and grunts under his beard.
Jeir chuckles politely.

Cliant compresses his face into a scowl briefly.

You say 'Now good sir, I do not come here bringing insults.'

You say 'I am a business man, and I have heard dwarves have a keen eye for business.'

You say 'So let us work something out shall we?

You tell Jeir 'Told you ale was a good idea.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'Ye be thinkin' the Eye be for sale?'

High Priest Derthlin laughs heartily.

Jeir tells you 'Ale is never a good idea.'

You say 'Hardly sir.'

High Priest Derthlin falls to the ground and rolls around laughing hysterically.

You say 'Hardly.'

Seeing the humorous events before him, High Priest Derthlin chortles loudly.

Jeir tells you 'So eloquent.

You say 'We do not wish to keep it, merely study it.'

You tell Jeir 'Right?'

High Priest Derthlin says 'What in all of the blasted mines in existance for, lad?'

You say to High Priest Derthlin 'Ahh I am merely this fellows business associate, you'd have to ask him.'

You point at Jeir.

Jeir grumbles and growls. You wonder what's wrong...

You tell Jeir 'Better think fast.'

Jeir says 'You are not my associate of any kind.'

Jeir says to High Priest Derthlin 'I apologize for the thief, I suppose he is my responsibility.'

Jeir steps forward.

You tell Jeir 'This will not work if you continue to contridict me, dwarves are not easy to gain the trust of.'

High Priest Derthlin scoffs under his beard.

Jeir tells you 'So quit lying to them.'

Jeir says 'We come here as emissaries, to gain knowledge of this artifact, the Eye of Nordiach.'

Cliant folds his thin hands into his armpits and plants himself on the ground with a somewhat annoyed look on his face.

You tell Jeir 'Considering I know only where we needed to go and what we wanted, I think I'm doing well!'

Jeir tells you 'I know about as much as you.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'And why should I be givin' ye knowledge of such a thing?'

Your keen intellect cues you in a reminder that your charisma is not quite what it naturally is. Hmm.

You say 'Ahh forgive me good sir, my appearence is less than appealing to the eye.'

High Priest Derthlin raises an eyebrow.

'Too much street work you understand,

High Priest Derthlin says 'What do I bloody care what ye look like?'

You say 'Well forgive my tongue then sir.'

You stop using a runed demon's skull.

Jeir says 'I seek the knowledge of this artifact, so that I might better discern the intentions of those whom I represent on this foray into your kingdom.'

You say 'I must beg your forgiveness for interrupting your valuble time.'

Jeir closes his eyes and hums for an instant.

Derthlin's features suddenly soften.

You say 'We would like to know what we can do for you good sir.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'Well, nae anything you can do for me, but I do be curious why outsiders really want to know about the Eye'

Jeir says 'We come through the void.'

Jeir says 'There are events shaping this world, in our time, that concern the Eye.'

You say to Jeir 'Actually sir.'

High Priest Derthlin raises an eyebrow at Jeir's weird actions.

You say 'I would say all of time.'

Jeir nods at you in agreement.

Jeir says 'Aye, all of time, for Lord Athansoros has been awoken.'

High Priest Derthlin says to you 'And these events nae be for ill, I trust. I nae sense the taint of evil on either o'you.'

You say 'No sir, I do condone such things.'

You say 'Nor do I suspect my allie here.'

You give Jeir a crooked smile.


Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

High Priest Derthlin says 'Awoken? Athansoros is asleep? Er.. bah. Never could make sense of what the void-folk say'

You tell Jeir 'He knows nothing of the dwarf, that knowledge is lost yet.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'But anyways, truth be told, we nae know much of the Eye of Nordiach either, save what the Ancestors might choose to reveal'

Jeir tells you 'I doubt a High Priest would not know his ancient story.'

You tell Jeir 'Attempt not to mention such things, it will only complicate matters.'

You say 'Ancestors sir?'

High Priest Derthlin says 'An' I suppose there be no harm in tellin ye that much. The Ancestors will reveal it to you if you be worthy if ye know how to ask.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'Aye, one who sits upon the Throne of Delar-Tor can hear the words of the Ancestors. Iffin' they have something to say, and if one be wise enough to hear 'e,'

You say 'Your king sir?'

Jeir tells you 'Ahh, that would explain why the guards think him mad.'

You tell Jeir 'Aye, quite so.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'My King! Har! Oh, well, all respect to His Majesty, but eh, nae say he's much on the wisdom'

Jeir tells you 'Perhaps not.'

You tell Jeir 'I think you get to sit on the throne first.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'I cannot sit on the throne, for one can beseech the Ancestors only once in a lifetime. I've already done my bit.'

You nod agreeably at High Priest Derthlin.

Jeir tells you 'Aye.'

High Priest Derthlin says 'But, maybe iffin' ye ask him, he'll let ye... well unlikely, but maybe.'

You nod agreeably at High Priest Derthlin.

You say 'We thank you greatly for your words.'

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to High Priest Derthlin.

You say 'Good day good sir.'

You bow before him.

High Priest Derthlin says 'Good luck to ye lads. '

Cliant The Narrow Corridor
Jeir The Narrow Corridor

You say 'Ok.'

You say 'Let us have our story straight, so we don't confuse the poor fellow.'

Jeir says 'No swindling or double-dealing.'

You shake your head.

Jeir says 'We tell the exact truth.'

You say 'No of course not.'

You say 'So what shall we say then?'

You say 'We seek the Eye of Nordiach because of events in our times, that could effect his?'

Jeir says 'We tell him of the events, and what he does not know, we will fill him in.'

You say 'What if he truely is addled?'


You whisper 'I might have to distract him.'


What's bothering you?


Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.


Jeir says 'Like I said, hands in your pockets.'

You sigh.

You open a small gilded door.

<{521(100%) 99%} civilized indoor standing 5 AM 4499tnl>
e
The Councilroom

west]
A grizzled dwarf glares at the young dwarven king.
A young dwarf argues with his growling general.
A robed dwarf whispers to the young king.
A robed dwarf tries to calm the old warrior.
Jeir has arrived.

A jewel encrusted crown of shining mithril rests atop the head of a
young dwarf dressed in splendid robes of red and gold silk. Jewels
glisten from the many rings upon his fingers, and gold shines from around
his neck. He speaks to a grizzled warrior across the table, telling him
there is no threat in the mine so large that it requires the miners to
stop working. While he speaks he continually looks down to admire the
precious stones set into his rings, each time the other dwarf's expression
getting grimmer.
King Talenor is in perfect health.
King Talenor does not appear to be carrying any money.

King Talenor is using:
<worn on finger> a golden signet ring
<worn on head> a jewel encrusted mithril crown

Jeir says 'Greetings King Talenor, I am Jeir Govanion, and this is Cliant.'

You say 'Good king Talenor, I pray you are well this eve!'

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'Will you ask the peasant rabble what it is they seek with Us?'

General Forbrin rolls his eyes slightly.

Jeir says 'Peasant rabble.'

You tell Jeir 'You deal with the General please.. me and such types rarely get along well.'

You bow before him.

You say 'Greetings good sir, and a good day to you.'

General Forbrin says 'His Majesty King Talenor wishes to know why you seek audience.'

Jeir tells you 'I shall, peasant rabble, the nerve.'

King Talenor polishes his crown, quite pleased with himself.

You tell Jeir 'I do not think the king is daft, I think greed fills him.'

King Talenor says to a jewel encrusted mithril crown 'Ye be my best friend. Tis good to be King, ae.'

Jeir says to General Forbrin 'We are travelers from the void, come as humble emissaries to the great and noble King Talenor.'

General Forbrin says 'Ah, yes.. I daresay the High Priest sent word ye'd be coming.'

Jeir says 'A noble and pious dwarf the High Priest.'

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'Ask the rabble to skip the pleasantries and tell Us what it is they want. We have important affairs to attend to, aye.'

You tell Jeir 'Tell him why we are here.'

You tell Jeir 'Be straightforward.'

General Forbrin rolls his eyes slightly.

Jeir takes a calming deep breath.

General Forbrin says 'His Majesty wishes ye to press urgent with speakin' yer business.'

Jeir says to General Forbrin 'We come seeking ancient wisdom.'

Cliant chimes in rather softly.

You say 'To sit on his Majesties throne to converse with the ancients wisdom, good sir.'

King Talenor suddenly peers away from his crown and widens his eyes in disbelief.

General Forbrin winces in agony.

Jeir places his hand on his face.

You tell Jeir 'I thought that might be a bad idea.'

King Talenor says 'Our Throne? Our THRONE?! YOU DARE TO ASK TO SIT ON OUR THRONE?!'

Jeir steps forward.

You tell Jeir 'Salvage it, before I open my mouth again.'

Jeir says to King Talenor 'We seek your ancient wisdom great and noble lord.'

You tell Jeir 'Wisdom will not do the trick, kind words, appease him.'

You tell Jeir 'Assure him.'

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'The rabble is not worth addressing me directly.'

General Forbrin sighs.

Jeir steps back and bows low, looking to the General.

You tell Jeir 'Should have just stolen a brief seat on the throne.'

Jeir eyes you with disgust and grunts indignantly.

General Forbrin says to King Talenor 'With all due respect, yer Majesty, the High Priest did say that iffin' these two came all the way from the void, it may behoove us to let them plea to the Ancestors.'

King Talenor holds up a hand.

Jeir watches the king intently.

Cliant wrings his hands silently, a worried look on his normally handsome face.

Jeir tells you 'Stand still, and straight.'

King Talenor says 'We *know* what the High Priest said, General. We are not deaf. But regardless of the importance of t'matter, I'd spit on my own father's grave before I'd let one not of dwarven blood sit on Our new, majestic throne.'

You tell Jeir 'New?'

Jeir says 'This throne is new?'

You whisper to General Forbrin 'I am sorry to cause you so much grief good sir, perhaps there is something we can do to make this amends, and make this easier on yourself.'

Jeir glares icily at you, you feel cold to your bones.

General Forbrin says 'The throne is a very.. precious project of His Majesty. Many dwarves have sweated and strained themselves to build it.. but nae matter much, for to speak with the Ancestors, is more the spirit than the ore that built it'

You tell Jeir 'Apologizing.'

You say 'Indeed, dwarven work is said to be truely majestic, travelers come from beyond the void from all around to marvel at it.'

<{521(100%) 100%} civilized indoor standing 3 AM 4499tnl>
Your deft thievish skills allow you to whisper to Forbrin unnoticed, but he seems less confident about responding in front of the king. You notice a slight nod in acknowledgement.

You say 'Well Jeir, let us leave these good fellows alone.'

Jeir says to you 'A moment.'

General Forbrin says to you 'I'd be thinkin' if you know of a fine dwarven ally who might come to sit on the Throne.. His Majesty might be willing?'

Forbrin gives you a slight wink.

You pause to think.

You nod at General Forbrin.

You say 'I do infact have a cousin good sir.'

Jeir scratches his head with a confused look upon his face.

You say 'Allow me to fetch him, we left him at the gates with our things.'

You bow before him.

Jeir says 'You have a cousin...'

Jeir snorts at you.

Jeir says 'I said no lying.'

You say 'Ahh, well, lying and tact are different things.'

Jeir says 'You lied.'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Cliant pulls out his small knife and frowns at his lengthy brown hair.
Jeir says 'Now hold here a moment.'

You say 'Ahh the sacrifices we make.'

Jeir says 'Don't.'

You raise your eyebrow at Jeir.
You say 'Your going to get a dwarf?'

You say 'Its either that or I pose as one.'

You say 'I'm about the right height.'

Jeir looks at you.

Cliant peers up and down the hall.

Jeir says 'A bit skinny.'

You say 'Well I've got this stuff,'

You hold up a cowhide knapsack and nod.

You say 'I'll just stuff it under my tunic'

Jeir says 'Just stay put.'

You say 'Time good sir, time!'

You say 'The good General can only extend us so much help.'

You say 'Trust me, even if its just this once?'

Jeir says 'What are you thinking?'

Cliant smiles, quite disarmingly.

You say 'I am the dwarf cousin of , well me.'

You say 'They seek dwarvish blood.'

You say 'I'm sure the king will be too busy peering at his crown and things.'

Jeir says 'It will never work, and I will not be party to such a deception.'

You say 'To care much about what I look like so long as I'm short and hairy.'

Cliant coughs, and attempts to lower his voice.

You say gruffly 'This low enough?'

Jeir says 'No.'

Jeir looks at you.

You mutter quietly to yourself.

Cliant begins stuffing random things from his knapsack into his rather nicely fitting tunic.

Jeir says 'Not to mention your ears point and you don't have a beard.'

Cliant sticks out his "gut" a moment.

You say 'The beard I can fix.'

You say 'Now would be a good time to have a helmet.'

A grotesque but sturdy helmet has been made from this foul, evil skull.
Two long horns spiral out, both covered in glistening golden runes of
purification. The pale white bone has had a great deal of care put into
the purification of it. The teeth of the foul demon remain intact and
hang in front of the lower face, providing protection. Two sharp black
fangs on each side of the gruesome mask stand in stark contrast to the
pale whiteness of the other bone. Blunted on the end with bright silver,
this is truly an impressive feat of craftsmanship, and merely having the
skull is a sign of battle prowess.

You say 'A little ugly, but I guess the dwarves won't notice.'

Cliant cuts at his pony tail and takes a piece of leather and straps it to his face rather poorly.

Jeir mutters into his hand.

Cliant hunches over a little, and speaks as deeply as he can.

You say gruffly 'Har! Now we be ready!'

You say gruffly 'Har! Now we be ready!'

Cliant hobbles to the east, then turns back to Jeir.

Jeir says 'Hmm, forgot he was a villager, probably better if he didn't come anyway...'

You say 'Hrm, now what be the story about me?'

You chuckle politely.

You say 'Left to guard the goods?'

You nod wisely.


Jeir says 'This will never work.'

You wave your hand at Jeir, dismissing him.

You wear a runed demon's skull on your head.

You say 'Better than nothing.'

Cliant hobbles off to the east again.

Jeir says to you 'Don't even think about it.'


Cliant admires the King Talenor.

<{521(100%) 99%} civilized indoor standing 3 PM 4499tnl>
'Kinsman!
You say 'Kinsman!'

General Forbrin bites his lip, stiffling a laugh under his beard.

You say 'I been sent by me distant friend Cliant,'

Jeir tells you 'You are going to get someone killed.'

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'Ask the she-dwarf what it wants.'

Cliant flaunts her rather ample girth, eyeing the king.

You say 'I heard it said, that the Throne of me Kin holds great wisdom!'

King Talenor polishes his crown, admiring it lovingly.


You say 'Nar I not be much on wisdom, so I coul' be usin whatever little bits me can find.'


You grovel before him.

You say 'Be askin me kin, yar just a bit yah?'

General Forbrin is now laughing hysterically into his hand, trying in vain to muffle his guffaws.

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'Is that a strange smell? Get the she-dwarf out of here. Tell her fine, just to make the High Priest happy. Just get her out of here.'

You whisper to General Forbrin 'I thank you good sir.'

You say 'King!'

You motion toward Jeir and point to the west.

General Forbrin says 'Aye ye heard his Majesty. Off with ye.. 'lass'.'

Seeing the humorous events before him, General Forbrin chortles loudly.

Cliant looks at the throne longingly.

Smoothly carved from a massive piece of stone, torchlight glistens off of the
many priceless jewels embedded into its surface, seeming to surround the
throne in a multi-colored halo of light. Any who sat in the cushioned seat would be dwarfed by its sheer size, likely looking utterly ridiculous.


Jeir says 'Unbelievable...'

You say 'Beautiful..'


You say 'I'd love to have this thing in my own home..'

You say 'Though I suppose they'd miss it eh?'

Jeir says 'Not the throne.'

Jeir says 'And aye, I'm sure they'd miss it.'

You sigh.

Cliant runs a hand down the arm, and moves slowly to sit in it.

<{521(100%) 100%} civilized indoor standing 11 PM 4499tnl>
Jeir says 'Well then, sit.'

<{521(100%) 100%} civilized indoor standing 11 PM 4499tnl>
Jeir says 'She-dwarf.'


You say 'Quite kingly I suppose.'


You grunt in his direction.

You say 'You'd best keep that under your hat!'

You poke him in the ribs.


Jeir says 'Or what?'

Cliant plops in the throne, without a second thought.

Jeir says 'I cannot tell a lie.'


You grin evilly at him.

The throne seems to tremble expectantly, waiting for a soul of great wisdom to be seated in it...

Cliant sits.

Crickets chirp in response.

You say 'Guess I'm not terribly wise.'
You stop using a Morning-Star named "VainGlory".

Jeir tells you 'Go close the door.'

Suddenly, the weight in the room seems to change.

You close a small gilded door.

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

You say 'Ah, wait! I think its coming!'


Cliant trembles expectantly.

The thief gets a glean of increased wisdom in his eyes as he jumbles around his possessions. Strange.

Thunderous earth makes the whole throne room boom.

Jeir looks around cautiously.

Cliant sits suddenly erect and his eyes shoot with an inhuman gleam.
You say 'What?! What in the Nine Hells is this supposed to be, calling Us into the this.. person?!'

Jeir raises an eyebrow.

Jeir says 'What person, and...what?'

You say coarsely 'Why do you summon us, mortal? What is it ye seek that you would put this half-bearded ninny in the Sacred Place of the Dwarven Kings?'

Jeir bows, throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist.

Cliant curls his lips into a snarl reminiscent of a dwarf.

Jeir says 'We coming seeking the endless knowledge of the ancients.'

Jeir says 'We seeking knowledge of the Eye of Nordiach, first of the dwarves.'

You say coarsely 'We are older than the earth! We speak for all the Dwarves who have come before, and all who will Come in the future! What would we have to give this half-breed drow with hair strapped to his face? '

Cliant gasps a moment, and manages to give Jeir a rather curdling look before he is again galvanized by an unseen force.

Jeir says 'You have knowledge, great wisdom, of which is he obviously in need.'

Cliant throws back his head and lets out a boom of a laugh that sounds like a hundred dwarven voices.

Jeir grimaces painfully at the thought.

Cliant gasps again and manages to say,

Jeir raises an eyebrow.

You say 'If I may, we seek the wisdom of the Eye of Nordiach your wisdom Lords.'

You say coarsely 'Ye know nothing of why ye seek the Eye of Nordiach, mortal! Nothing! Yet we do, which is the only reason we will answer this insult of a communion.'

You say 'Hey now! Thats my head too!'

Cliant struggles a moment, before going stiff and staring at Jeir, the snarl returning to his face.

You say coarsely 'Shaddup, hairless ninny! Ye have no respect.'

Jeir grumbles and growls. You wonder what's wrong...

You say coarsely 'The Eye of Nordiach has been hewn in two. One rests in the crown of the king, and the other in the mines below!'

Jeir says 'Why has it been hewn in two?'

You say coarsely 'Find these and a smith who will know of how to bind the two together, and the Eye shall be reborn.'

You say 'If I may ask, ancients, who holds the other half in the mines?'

You say coarsely 'Didn't we tell ya to shattup, ninny?'

Cliant punches himself coarsely in the face, and lets out a gruff laugh of amusement.

You whimper pitifully.

Jeir tries to hide a snicker.

Jeir says 'He'll never learn.'

You say coarsely 'It be hidden there. Just look. Now stop yer communin' with us before we get mad.'

Jeir bows, throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist.

The booming fades away as the glint in the thief's eyes returns to some sense of normalcy.

Jeir says 'I apologize profusely for the actions of this thief.'

Cliant clenchs his head in agony a moment.

You say 'Gah, dwarf minds!'

Jeir eyes you with disgust and grunts indignantly.

Jeir says 'I told you not to meddle.'

You snort derisively at Jeir.

A bolt comes down out of the heavens and smites you!

You say 'You would still be trying to find a dwarf it it wasn't for me.'

Jeir says 'I nearly had one when you went barging into the throne room.'

You say 'Well now we have a new worry.'

Jeir says 'Well then, do you know anything of these mines?'

You say 'Who's going to talk the king out of his crown.'

Jeir says 'That could be a problem.'

Jeir says 'Let us worry about the other piece first.'

You say 'I know they are quite large.'

You say 'Should we go find this mage fellow?'

Jeir wields the silver longsword "Vampire Slayer".

Jeir says 'No, let us go into the mines.

The Base of the Stairs
The wide curve of stairs carved into the mountain heart end in a chamber
similar to a cavern. The walls and ceiling remain rough and jagged, only
the floor showing an effort to make a smooth surface. While the chamber is
well-lit by torches, they no longer are held by sleek mithril sconces, rather
they sputter in the grasp of crude wrought iron rings fastened to the walls
by large spikes. Dirt-covered dwarves carrying mining picks or pushing carts
come and go from the low tunnels that lead off in the four cardinal directions,
casting wary looks over their shoulders. Those with carts laden with raw ore
are all heading into the tunnel to the west.


Jeir the human is here.

You say 'East is danger.'


Jeir pauses, a thoughtful look on his face.


Cliant The Base of the Stairs
Jeir The Base of the Stairs

You say 'Pick a direction.'

Jeir says 'Then east it is.'

You sigh.

A Tunnel in the Mines
In the dim dancing light of sputtering torches, the rough walls of the
tunnel are alive with dancing shadows, the bright reflection of the barely
visible veins of raw ore shining like a beacon. Dwarven miners work wearily
at the hard brown stones, loosening large chunks of ore for those manning
the many carts to load. The normally gruff and boisterous nature of the
miners seems somehow subdued, many casting nervous glances down the dim
tunnels. The mine comes to an abrupt end to the south.


A pile of dusty debris is here on the floor.
Jeir has arrived.

Jeir looks down, and brushes away some dust.

You say 'That looks odd.'

A thick stone slab is revealed as the dust is brushed away.

Jeir says 'Yes, odd indeed.'

A thick, dusty slab is hidden here under the ore and debris.

The slab is revealed to be one massive piece, with only a thin bevel around the edges.

Four smaller indentations dip around the center of the altar's bowl, each
carved with a stem and leaves that wind away into the rim of the bowl, where
all four meet in a tangle of vines. At the center of each indentation is
carved a script sigil.

Four smaller indentations dip around the center of the altar's bowl, each
carved with a stem and leaves that wind away into the rim of the bowl, where
all four meet in a tangle of vines. At the center of each indentation is
carved a script sigil.

The sigil for each of the daughters of Baal is carved in elaborate script:
P . T . A . Y

l sigil
It seems to be a dwarven symbol.

Jeir says 'Happen to have a broom?'

You shake your head.

You say 'Hmm, help me lift it?'

Jeir says 'Baal....'

Jeir says 'P.'

Cliant digs his small hands under the edges of the slab, trying to find some sort of leverage.

Jeir says 'T.'

You say 'Yes, treasure it must stand for.'

Jeir says 'A.'

Jeir says 'Y.'

Jeir scratches his head with a confused look upon his face.

You say 'Do you see the altar?'

Jeir says 'Treasure?'

You nod wisely.

You say 'Think we should keep bumbling?'

Cliant A Tunnel in the Mines
Jeir A Tunnel in the Mines

You say 'I'm sure theres more down here.'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Jeir says 'I suppose looking around more can't hurt.'

A Junction in the Mines
In the dim dancing light of sputtering torches, the rough walls of the
tunnel are alive with dancing shadows, the bright reflection of the barely
visible veins of raw ore shine like a beacon. Dwarven miners are strangely
absent from the area, instead heavily armored guards surround what appears
to be a makeshift command post, intently looking over large crude maps and
reports. Heads turn to look down the tunnel to the north often, a look of
pain crossing their faces before quickly looking away again.


Jeir the human is here.
(Invis) (Solid) An ancient dwarf in blue robes listens while studying the map.
Speaking softly, an armored dwarf makes small marks on a large map.
A dwarven guard peers intently into the shadows of the tunnel.
A dwarven guard peers intently into the shadows of the tunnel.

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to Archmage Julenmar.

You say to Captain Balmin 'Greetings good sir.'

Long snow white hair and beard flows from the ancient dwarf, obscuring
the upper half of his iridescent blue robes. What can be seen of the robes
bears strange runes stitched in a shimmering silvery thread, an almost
imperceptible glow emanating from them. He stands silent and still, listening
intently to an armored dwarf while looking over a large map. Brilliant blue
eyes look up and meet the speaker's, and there is no doubt that neither are
hopeful.
Archmage Julenmar is in perfect health.
Archmage Julenmar does not appear to be carrying any money.

Archmage Julenmar is using:
<worn about body> (Glowing) silver embroidered blue silk robes
<held> (Glowing) a thin mithril wand

You nod agreeably at Archmage Julenmar.

Captain Balmin grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to Captain Balmin.

You say to Captain Balmin 'We are seeking something down here.'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Strange seeing the likes of you down here in the mines.'

You tell Jeir 'Talk then, if you must.'

You say 'We are here looking for half of a stone, the Eye of Nordiach good sir.'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Hmph. If you are lookin' for more jewels and gems for Talenor's precious throne, we're already on it.'

Jeir says 'No, we are not emissaries of Talenor.'

You say to Archmage Julenmar 'All the stones in his crown came from down here?'

Jeir tells you 'He is an Archmage, like Destanin, I am sure they know eachother.'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Aye, that they did.. er..'

You tell Jeir 'Possibly.'

You tell Jeir 'Mention it if you think it helps.'

You say 'Perhaps you can aid us?'

Archmage Julenmar squints as he peels away a strange of hair from the thief's
face.

Archmage Julenmar has left you beaming with joy.

Jeir says to Archmage Julenmar 'Do you know the name Destanin?'

Jeir says 'And please, ignore the thief, he has aspirations of becoming a she-dwarf.'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Ye all daft. And no, I nae heard of any Destanin.'

You say to Archmage Julenmar 'Of course not! He's the daft one, making me dress up as a dwarf and all.'

Archmage Julenmar raises an eyebrow.

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Archmage Julenmar says 'I'm sure I nae even want to know.'

Jeir says 'You study a map there, what do you search for?'

You say to Archmage Julenmar 'Now good sir, might you have noticed a particular gem?'

rchmage Julenmar says 'Particular gem? All we see all day are gems. The only one maybe more notable than the rest'd be a large sparkley diamond that was. His Majest put it in his crown front and center, he did.'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Strange, that gem.'
You say 'How so, if we may inquire?'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Was buried all by itself in a big sarcophagus or somesuch thing, but no bones were in there. Not a thing like it in the rest of the mines we've found'

Jeir says 'Were there sigils on it?'

You tell Jeir 'That gem, have you considered it might be dangerous?'

You tell Cliant 'Or extremely valuable!'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Aye, a dwarven rune. Why, ye find another one?'

Jeir tells you 'I have, the place we were just at was evil.'

Jeir says 'We found an empty altar of sorts.'

<{521(100%) 100%} civilized indoor standing 9 PM 4469tnl>
Archmage Julenmar utters the words, 'gpuzre ay zabrahp'.

<{521(100%) 100%} civilized indoor standing 10 PM 4469tnl>
'With the symbols of Baal etched into it.
You say 'With the symbols of Baal etched into it.'

Jeir nods at you in agreement.

Archmage Julenmar says 'Who? I nae know anything about that. But sounds similar to what we found with the King's diamond.'

You say 'Hmm, nothing bad happened when you removed it?'

You say to Archmage Julenmar 'Perhaps you could show us the other altar? Or even accompany us to the one we found?'

You say 'It is quite curious..'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Show it to ya? Ha! Nae but dust and smithereens left of it now.'

You say 'Ahh, yes the tunnels collapsing.'

You say 'Did you do anything to it? Or find anything else odd about it?'

Archmage Julenmar says to you 'Well our strongest dwarf warriors could nae lift it. I think it'd take giants to move the thing, if it could be moved at all'

You say 'How did you open it then?'

Archmage Julenmar says 'I had to call me brother in to cast a new spell he was studying. Stoneshatter he called it. Nae ever seen a thing like it'

You say 'Where could we find this brother?'

You say 'Or perhaps you happen to have a scroll of the spell handy?'

Archmage Julenmar says 'Well, my brother done got married. Be dumb drunk and hoisting up his bride 'bout now. But he did say somethin' interesting'

Archmage Julenmar says 'He did nae know the spell before he cast it.. t'was all just theory you see. Theory! Theory about affinities and elemental paths and somesuch nonsense. I nae know. I'm just an old-school invoker'

Archmage Julenmar winks suggestively.

Archmage Julenmar says 'But somethin' about the symbol put it all together for him.. said it completed the theory.. he read it, cast the spell, and KAPLOWIE!'

Archmage Julenmar says 'The whole a thing shattered to pieces.'

You say 'Well we thank you kind sir.'

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to Archmage Julenmar.

Archmage Julenmar says 'Aye, no problem lads.'

Cliant tips his head and his mangled hair flops into his face a moment.

A Tunnel in the Mines
In the dim dancing light of sputtering torches, the rough walls of the
tunnel are alive with dancing shadows, the bright reflection of the barely
visible veins of raw ore shining like a beacon. Dwarven miners work wearily
at the hard brown stones, loosening large chunks of ore for those manning
the many carts to load. The normally gruff and boisterous nature of the
miners seems somehow subdued, many casting nervous glances down the dim
tunnels. The mine comes to an abrupt end to the south.


A pile of dusty debris is here on the floor.
Jeir has arrived.

With your newfound knowledge from the archmage, and your knowledge of scrolls.. yes.. you think you see it now.

You say 'Aye, I think, I think I can make sense of this.'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Jeir says 'Tunnels and dwarven runes.'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

You say 'This little squiggle means stone, and this one, hmm.'

It does seem to be some sort of primitive stoneshatter script, similar to what you'd see on scrolls... might be a bit unpredictable though.

You say 'Hmm, well I suppose I could read the words aloud.'

You say 'But that last little rune.. that might be a little unpleasant.'

Jeir says 'I just see symbols.'

You nod agreeably at Jeir.

You say 'Its all about magic my friend!'

Cliant pats you roughly on the back.

Jeir says 'Suppose so.'

You say 'Now, let us begin the this, clearly this will lead to something.'

You say 'Might cover your ears.'

Jeir says 'Go on.'

Cliant begins reciting the words aloud, his voice trembling ever so slightly with excitement.

Suddenly, the stone begins to tremble violently.

Jeir steps back two steps, his sword and shield up.

Cliant continues reading the words at a quicker pace, sweat breaking out on his forhead.

The walls start crackling with energy.

KA-BOOM!

An enourmous explosion purges the room!

Cliant coughs loudly, now quite covered in a fine dust.

You say 'Hmm, well once all this damned dust clears.'

You say 'We might see something.'

Jeir gets a chunk of ancient earth.

Jeir says 'Like this?'

Jeir says 'Seems to be a diamond.'

Jeir says 'Rather light.'

You say 'Hold it close to you.'

You say 'We must now find this smith and get that other stone.'

Cliant brushes his face off compeletly.

You say 'A moment.'

Jeir dusts himself off and straightens his hair.

Jeir adjusts a gleaming diamond circlet, trying to make it more comfortable.

Jeir closes his eyes and hums for an instant.

Cliant pulls another strip of leather out of his tunic, and puts his hair up in a rather scraggly looking pony tail.

Cliant shakes some of the dust from his boots and absently sweeps it under the fine rug at his feet.

You say 'Ah then.'

You say 'We ready?'

Jeir says 'We are.'

The Councilroom

west]
A grizzled dwarf glares at the young dwarven king.
A young dwarf argues with his growling general.
A robed dwarf whispers to the young king.
A robed dwarf tries to calm the old warrior.
Jeir has arrived.

bow general
You bow before him.

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to King Talenor.

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to General Forbrin.

You say 'Greetings again King! I pray you enjoyed my cousins company?'

Jeir mutters something quietly to himself.

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'Tell the peasant that his cousin is a most uncomley girl. Her beard is much too thin.'

General Forbrin sighs.

You whisper to General Forbrin 'Good sir, we have found the first half of what we sought, the rest sits upon your good Kings head'

You whisper to General Forbrin 'We think it may be a object of Evil. Marked with the symbols of Baal.'

General Forbrin gives you a brief nod of acknowledgement.

King Talenor momentarily looks into his crown and then spots a reflection of the diamond, turning around.

General Forbrin peers intently at King Talenor

General Forbrin grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Jeir says 'Does something catch your eye noble King Talenor?'.

King Talenor says to Jeir 'Oh! That is a beautiful diamond! Have you brought it as an offering to the Greatest o' Dwarven Kings?'

Jeir says to King Talenor 'It is a kingly gift indeed.'

Jeir gets a sparkling diamond from the Bracelet of Charms.

Jeir gets a sparkling diamond from the Bracelet of Charms.

King Talenor claps his thick hands together in delight.

Jeir says 'I need only a very small favor from you king.'

Jeir says 'Looking at your crown, I see you have a diamond, there in the center, but it is a bit....'

Jeir says 'Well, it is not quite as fine as these three.'

King Talenor clutches at his crown possessively.

Jeir says 'Looks more like a chunk of earth, than a fine diamond.'

King Talenor gasps in astonishment.

Jeir says 'Perhaps...'

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'Tell the PEASANT not to insult our GLORIOUS GEMS!!!'

Jeir says 'Perhaps I might trade you these three, fine, sparkling diamonds.'

Cliant steps smoothly inbetween Jeir and the King.

You say 'Forgive my friend good King Talenor.'

Jeir tells you 'Wait.'

Jeir says 'King, I do not mean to insult your crown, the finest in all of Thera to be sure.'

You nod agreeably at Jeir.

Jeir says 'I think only, that a King so noble as yourself, should have THREE of the finest diamonds in the land.'

Jeir says 'Instead of just one singular diamond.'

You tell Jeir 'Hah, almost as good as a salesmen as myself.'

King Talenor sits down and thinks deeply.

King Talenor says 'Oh! I know! How about FOUR?'


Jeir tells you 'My father was a diplomat amongst merchants in his day, I leaned a thing or two.'


Jeir tells you 'Happen to have another diamond on you?'

You say 'Ahh good king, a fourth diamond? Or the forth gem being a ruby set in the puriest of adamantite?'

You get a large ruby strung on a thin adamantite chain from a cowhide knapsack.

Jeir says 'A smith could easily extract it, what a fine centerpiece it would make.'

King Talenor peers at you intently.

Cliant pulls the rather large ruby with great care from his bag, allowing the light to catch and set the room afire briefly with its ruby glow.

Jeir says 'Three sparkling diamonds, and a large ruby, your already astonishing crown would be talked about for all the ages of Thera.'

King Talenor blinks a few times.

l ruby
A large blood-red ruby has been fused seamlessly onto a thin adamantite
chain. The ruby is multi-faceted, scattering any light that hits it in a
myriad of directions. The chain is solid, with no links or clasps, but is
supple and strong.

A large ruby strung on a thin adamantite chain is a treasure, made of adamantite, and weighs 2 pounds 7 ounces.

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'Don't you think I could just have all the gems, General?'

General Forbrin blinks a few times.

You nod agreeably at King Talenor.

You say 'That is what we propose lord.'

King Talenor says 'Ah yes, I keep my gems, and take yours as a gift then?'

You tell Jeir 'Better think fast!'

Jeir says to King Talenor 'Yes, the gems will be yours king, in return for the chunk of earth that now sits in the center of the crown.'

You nod agreeably at Jeir.

King Talenor says 'THERE HE GOES AGAIN INSULTING MY MAGNIFICENT DIAMOND!'

Jeir says to King Talenor 'I only do it to save you face king.'

King Talenor puts his fingers on a magnificent sparkling diamond in the center of his crown, twists it, and removes it carefully.

King Talenor says to General Forbrin 'You see? This is why I lock it in my chest every night! Everyone covets my diamond! EVERYONE!'

Jeir says 'You are the greatest king in all the lands, you would not want the peasantry in the frontier settlment snickering about the king who lost four of the finest jewels in all the land because he coveted a chunk of ancient earth.'

l king
A jewel encrusted crown of shining mithril rests atop the head of a
young dwarf dressed in splendid robes of red and gold silk. Jewels
glisten from the many rings upon his fingers, and gold shines from around
his neck. He speaks to a grizzled warrior across the table, telling him
there is no threat in the mine so large that it requires the miners to
stop working. While he speaks he continually looks down to admire the
precious stones set into his rings, each time the other dwarf's expression
getting grimmer.
King Talenor is in perfect health.
King Talenor does not appear to be carrying any money.

King Talenor is using:
<worn on finger> a golden signet ring
<worn on head> a jewel encrusted mithril crown

You peek at the inventory:
a magnificent sparkling diamond

King Talenor puts the diamond in his pocket, glaring warily.

Cliant frowns briefly at himself.

You tell Jeir 'I could.. aqquire it..'

Jeir tells you 'No.'

King Talenor says 'Stop looking at my diamond!'

Jeir shrugs indifferently.

Jeir puts a sparkling diamond in the Bracelet of Charms.

Jeir says 'Then I suppose these fine diamonds will have to go to another customer.'

You tell Jeir 'But, this could be our only chance..'

Jeir says 'Perhaps the elves in Eregion will give me a fair price for them.'

You nod agreeably at Jeir.

Jeir puts a sparkling diamond in the Bracelet of Charms.

King Talenor says 'You are trying to trick Us! The peasant knows his diamonds are inferior.'

You say 'A fine crown this will make ruby and all.'

You put a large ruby strung on a thin adamantite chain in a cowhide knapsack.

Jeir says 'No trickery king, my father was a diplomat that dealt much with merchants.'

You whisper to General Forbrin 'Do you wish me to remove the Diamond from his possession? I think it may return him to his sanity.'

Jeir says 'I know when I am not getting a fair price.'

Jeir examines the last sparkling diamond, catching it in the torchlight.

King Talenor says 'We were not born yesterday! And this boorish man speaks of my diamond being like a chunk of earth!'

General Forbrin peers around himself intently.

Jeir says 'Ahh, a fine jewel, perhaps I should just donate it to the peasantry, they could use it I am sure.'

Jeir puts a sparkling diamond in the Bracelet of Charms.

Jeir says to King Talenor 'I'm sorry king, what were you saying?'

General Forbrin whispers to you 'He still be my king, but I'll be givin ye a few seconds to run.'

steal diamond king
You step out of the shadows.
Oops.
King Talenor yells 'Cliant couldn't rob his way out of a paper bag!'
From the west, two armored dwarves charge to the aid of their king!
You dodge a royal guard's cleave.
You parry a royal guard's cleave.
You dodge a royal guard's cleave.
A royal guard's cleave DISMEMBERS you!
You can't see a thing!
Someone's kicked dirt scratches you.
You dodge someone's cleave.
You twist yourself around someone's cleave.
You dodge someone's punch.
Someone is in perfect health.

You parry a royal guard's cleave.
A royal guard's cleave MASSACRES you!
You have been KILLED!!

(Immortal Note: While Cliant was returning as a ghost, Talenor rummaged through
his corpse for jewels. Jeir also gave Talenor one of the regular diamonds as a
sort of 'apology')

King Talenor says 'Thank you for this, peasant. We appreciate your gift.'

King Talenor wears a large ruby strung on a thin adamantite chain around his neck.

You nod agreeably at King Talenor.

You say 'Of course, my intention at first king.'

Jeir mutters something quietly to himself.

You say 'I had no intent of touching your diamond, I wished to leave the gift in silence to you.'

King Talenor says 'I suppose it will look nice in our crown after all.'

You say 'A private gift of course.'

You nod agreeably at King Talenor.

You say 'Beautiful, especially as the center peice.'

King Talenor says to Jeir 'Oh and I do not need your diamond, human. I rather prefer mine'

King Talenor absentmindedly inserts the plain sparkling diamond into his crown, and smiles.

King Talenor says 'Here, take yours back.'


King Talenor gives a magnificent sparkling diamond to Jeir.

Cliant brushes himself off.
Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to King Talenor.

You nod agreeably at King Talenor.

Jeir says to King Talenor 'You are most gracious king.'

You say 'Aye, we shall good King.'

You bow before him.

A jewel encrusted crown of shining mithril rests atop the head of a
young dwarf dressed in splendid robes of red and gold silk. Jewels
glisten from the many rings upon his fingers, and gold shines from around
his neck. He speaks to a grizzled warrior across the table, telling him
there is no threat in the mine so large that it requires the miners to
stop working. While he speaks he continually looks down to admire the
precious stones set into his rings, each time the other dwarf's expression
getting grimmer.
King Talenor is in perfect health.

King Talenor is using:
<worn on finger> a golden signet ring
<worn around neck> a large ruby strung on a thin adamantite chain
<worn on head> a jewel encrusted mithril crown

You peek at the inventory:
a sparkling diamond

Jeir sighs.

Jeir tells you 'I suppose we shall, it is for the greater good.'

Jeir says 'We take leave of you King, and thank you for your kindness.'

You say 'Again king Talenor it was excellent meeting you.'

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to King Talenor.

The Smithy
The ring of hammer on metal sounds throughout the chamber as smiths shape
the molded metal into final shapes. Ornamental objects such as chalices and
large platters are created here, stacks of finished items awaiting the last
touches in one corner, while ones that are to be melted down and reformed
lie in another stack. Dwarven apprentices take the crafted items north to
the next station where the final touches to the objects are done.


Jeir is here.
An apprentice aids the smiths in their tasks.
An apprentice aids the smiths in their tasks.
A dwarven smith hammers away at his anvil.

You whisper to Jeir 'You think this is the best they have to offer?'

You peer intently at a dwarven smith.

A dwarven smith grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

You say 'We are seeking a skilled smithy, you seem to be knee deep in work, but we wish your skilled hands for a truely magnificent project.'

A dwarven smith raises an eyebrow.

A dwarven smith says 'Do I be lookin' like a magnificent smith to ye?'

You give a dwarven smith a crooked smile.

Jeir looks at a dwarven apprentice.

You say 'You seem like the kind of dwarf who knows his work.'

A dwarven smith says 'Well, I do at that.'

A dwarven smith puffs out his chest.

You say 'And I understand that dwarves are the greatest smiths by default.'

A dwarven smith says 'True, that.'

You say 'Unriveled, especially the elves, they can't even compare if they tried for centuries!'

Jeir says 'You are the master smith here, yes?'

A dwarven smith says 'Master smith of making standard issue garb, yah. Why nae you cut out all the flattery and jus' tell me waht ye want?'

Jeir tells you 'Aye, perhaps this is not the one we seek.'

Jeir tells you 'Perhaps one in our own time.'

You say to a dwarven smith 'We seek a master gemsmith.'

A dwarven smith says 'Fer what?'

You say 'For a halved gem.'

You say 'We wish it whole agian.'

You say 'Show the good sir the gem!'

You tell Jeir 'Don't hand it over or anything.'

You feel your body start to regain its material form.

Jeir holds out a magnificent sparkling diamond in his hand.

A dwarven smith peers around himself intently.

You say 'The other half as well?'

Jeir puts the magnificent stone away and draws out a chunk of ancient earth, holding it out for all to see.

A dwarven smith says 'Whatever it is, nae matter. You cannae fuse a DIAMOND to anything with anythin' short of dragon's breath!'

A dwarven smith grumbles and growls. You wonder what's wrong...

A dwarven smith says 'Bloody fools.'

You say 'Well there must be a smith, or someone.'

You tell Jeir 'Hmm I suppose he isn't of much help.'

A dwarven smith says 'What do you bloody want to make of that thing? A mud-diamond?'

A dwarven smith says 'Yer both daft if ye ask me.'

You say to a dwarven smith 'Well thanks for your help anyway.'

The Great Square of the Phoenix
This magnificent square is covered by a huge arch. A shining steel pillar
rises up from each of the four corners where the avenues meet, curving
gradually into a peak far above your head. A massive effigy of a phoenix
perches on the top of the peak, facing to the north where it looks out
over nearly the entire city. Beneath the arch, in the center of the
intersection is a decorative marble fountain, with a spray of water
shooting several feet into the air before landing in the basin below.
The great avenues extend from the square in all four cardinal directions.


A statue of a radiant phoenix clutches the edge of a silver fountain.
Jeir is here.
A bright-eyed commoner is here, running his daily errands.
A drunken sailor staggers about, trying to maintain his balance.

Destanin the Archmage has arrived.

nod Archmage
You nod at Destanin the Archmage.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Ah, look who the cat dragged in. Back so soon?'

Cliant shakes more dust out of his clothing.

Jeir says 'We have returned.'

You say 'Aye, dragged is a good word.'

Destanin the Archmage says 'And? Do you have the Eye?'

You say to Destanin the Archmage 'We do and we don't.'

Jeir says 'We have two chunks of diamond.'

Destanin the Archmage raises an eyebrow.

Jeir closes his eyes and hums for an instant.

Jeir says 'It was apparently hewn in two.'

You whisper 'A master smith is needed.'

Jeir says 'We suspect we have both halves.'

Destanin the Archmage says 'Ahh.. Gamberdine said it might be. The void only goes back so far into the past.'

Jeir wipes water from his face.

You whisper 'Is there a way to fix it?'

Destanin the Archmage says 'Usually, magical gems are fused with dragon breath of various kinds.'

Jeir says 'I see.'

You chuckle politely.

Destanin the Archmage says 'But.. you two are looking a bit ragged..'

You whisper 'I'm sure Jeir is up for more!'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Destanin the Archmage says 'If it's too much, I'm certain I can have someone else do it.'

You whisper 'What will be needed?'

Destanin the Archmage says 'After all, waltzing into dragon's lairs and back in time in the same day, is a lot to ask.'

Destanin the Archmage winks suggestively.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Well, if you are up for it, it should be rather simple'

Jeir raises an eyebrow.

(continued in Part II)

Destanin the Archmage says 'After all, waltzing into dragon's lairs and back in time in the same day, is a lot to ask.'

Destanin the Archmage winks suggestively.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Well, if you are up for it, it should be rather simple'

Jeir raises an eyebrow.

Destanin the Archmage says 'If you hold the two halves together, agitate a dragon and.. well, wait for it to breathe'

Destanin the Archmage says 'I didn't say it would be painless.. just simple.'

You whisper 'Any old dragon will do?'

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

Cliant crosses his fingers, obviously praying to whatever gods thieves pray to.

Destanin the Archmage says 'I think fire or acid, maybe lightning.. would trigger a fusion reaction'

Destanin the Archmage says 'I think certain breaths, such as ice, wouldn't suffice'

You say to Jeir 'I know of a few such dragons that would fit that description.'

Jeir says 'Aye, I know a few as well.'

Jeir pauses, a thoughtful look on his face.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Well then! I'll just visit the magic shop while you too take care of that.'

Destanin the Archmage chuckles politely.

With nothing better to say, you grunt something vague.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Try to stay in one piece'

Destanin the Archmage winks suggestively.

Destanin the Archmage leaves east.

You whisper 'Lets do this then.'

You whisper 'Anything in particular you have in mind? Dragonwise?'

Jeir says 'The black dragon breathes acid, aye?'

You whisper 'Aye.'

You whisper 'Barovia?'

Jeir shakes his head.

Jeir says 'Err.'

Jeir says 'The midnight dragon.'

You whisper 'Aye it does.'

Jeir nods.

Jeir says 'Then that is the one I suggest.'

You whisper 'I am with you.'

We head off to Eryn Galen

A Dark Passageway

]
( 5) An moonstone-studded leather shield gleams here.
( 6) A set of moonstone-studded leather sleeves gleams here.
( 2) A moonstone-studded leather breastplate gleams here.
( 2) An moonstone sword gleams here.
A wooden tray laden with drinks lies here.
Jeir has arrived.

People near you:
Cliant A Dark Passageway
Jeir A Dark Passageway

You hold some bone lock picks in your hands.

This lock is beyond your comprehension.

Jeir grunts something incomprehensible, not amused by his circumstances.

You say 'No such luck with the door.'

Jeir says 'Don't.'

You whisper 'Well how do you intend to get in?'

Jeir says 'Have any potions that make you walk through walls?'

You shake your head.

Jeir pauses, a thoughtful look on his face.

You whisper 'There is another dragon.'

You chuckle politely.

You whisper 'But it will likely spell our deaths.'

Jeir says to an elite dungeon guard 'Greetings there guard, do you know who keeps the key to the midnight dragon's lair?'

An elite dungeon guard says 'I prefer to simply not mess with dragons, thank you.'

Jeir gets a steel key.

You shake your head in his direction.

You whisper 'Not the right key...'

You whisper 'As I said, I know of a key..'

You whisper 'Er, dragon.'

You whisper 'Perhaps you know where the guard went that usually does know about dragons?'

You raise your eyebrow at an elite dungeon guard.

Jeir says to an elite dungeon guard 'If you know of a key, I will destroy that dragon for you.'

Jeir says 'Then he will not be your problem.'

An elite dungeon guard says 'Many have destroyed the dragon, but a new one always comes to claim its lair.'

You whisper 'Sounds like a real problem.'

You whisper 'They don't intend to help us.'

You whisper 'Do you wish to dally here or find another dragon

Jeir says 'No, I don't suppose they do.'

Jeir says 'Perhaps if we step into the forest, the guard with the key will return, perhaps we can persuade him.'

You shake your head in his direction.

You whisper 'Unlikely.'

You whisper 'There is the red-gold dragon.'

You whisper 'But you must fight off his guard.'

You whisper 'And slay his disguise.'

Jeir says 'Where is that one?'

Gaeas Glimmergem seems to be ignoring you.

You whisper 'Glimmergem..'

Jeir shakes his head.

You whisper 'I assure you, he is quite an evil dragon.'

You whisper 'But if you wish to fall for his disguise.'

Jeir pauses, a thoughtful look on his face.

This room is full of small piles of jewelry and gemstones. It is quite a
sight, but you know you cannot touch any of it. Two guards, very large for
elves, hulk at the entrance to the west. The collector of these treasures
indicates that he is always looking for more pieces to add to his hoard.
Something about this elf disturbs you.


Jeir is here.
A lithe wood-elf warden is here, vigilently patrolling the passageways.
A large, hulking guard stands here, eyeing you distrustfully.
A large, hulking guard stands here, eyeing you distrustfully.
(White Aura) A short wood-elf is here, festooned in many elaborate garments and jewels.

You whisper 'Entirely up to you.'

You whisper 'I likely won't be doing much fighting if I can help it.'

You lower your head, looking rather sheepish.

Jeir says to a hulking guard 'Step aside.'

You say to Jeir 'Payed to well.'

Jeir says 'I will find the truth of this.'

Jeir stretches out his hand towards the heavens.
Jeir utters a word of divine power!
Jeir gets a wild look in his eyes!

You shake your head in his direction.

Jeir sighs.

You say 'His disguise is complete.'

Jeir says 'So it seems.'

You say 'This is a magical form, it will crumple to physical blows.'

Jeir looks at Gaeas Glimmergem.

Gaeas Glimmergem says 'You make some bold accusations!'

Gaeas Glimmergem glints his eyes greedily.

You tell Jeir 'Hold the gem close.'

With a thoughtful look on his face, Jeir scrutinizes Gaeas Glimmergem.

Gaeas Glimmergem says 'How about you deposit those gems in the treasury here, hmm?'

You tell Jeir 'This one covets treasure above all things, that is why he is here.'

You whisper 'I think not sir.'

Jeir says 'No, I think we will keep them.'

Gaeas Glimmergem says 'I'll keep them quite.. safe.'

Jeir says 'I will be the one to keep them safe, not you.'

You whisper 'These gems are for a greater purpose, not to added to your private horde.'

Jeir says 'I see the greed in your eyes.'

Jeir says 'And I begin to trust the word of this thief.'

Jeir grumbles and growls. You wonder what's wrong...

Jeir has left you beaming with joy.

Jeir says 'I can't believe I just said that....'

You whisper 'So, we leave then?'

You whisper 'Gem and all right?'

Gaeas Glimmergem lifts a magnificent sparkling diamond to his nose and inhales deeply.

Jeir says 'Return them at once.'

You say to Jeir 'I told you, evil magic.'

Jeir says 'Or face the wrath of the light.'

Gaeas Glimmergem grins evilly.

You tell Cliant 'Somehow I know I'm going to regret shutting that door.'

As the treasure collector falls to the floor, a dragon appears to take his place!
You hear Gaeas Glimmergem's death cry.
Jeir sacrifices the burnt corpse of Gaeas Glimmergem to the gods.
The red-gold dragon closes a sturdy wooden door.
The red-gold dragon locks a sturdy wooden door.

With no discernable source, a magnificent deluge of flame erupts around the red-gold dragon.
The red-gold dragon's flaming breath flares out in a wide arc, incinerating the surroundings and setting them aflame!
A nearby building catches fire!
The red-gold dragon's blast of flame DISMEMBERS Jeir!
A hulking guard is covered with bleeding wounds.

A white-gold light suddenly flares from the treasury.

(Glowing) A very strange pulsing gem made of diamond and earth is here.

You get the Eye of Nordiach.

Jeir says 'Let me see it.'

You hold up the Eye of Nordiach and nod.

Jeir nods.

What's bothering you?

You give the Eye of Nordiach to Jeir.

We return to Voralion

Destanin the Archmage has arrived.

Jeir says 'As do I.'

You smile at him.

Throwing his arms out and twirling his hands at the wrist, Jeir bows to Destanin the Archmage.

Destanin the Archmage claps once and rubs his hands together in anticipation.

Jeir closes his eyes and hums for an instant.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Well?'

Cliant shakes some of the charred bits from his hair, a unpleasant smell waifting off him.

You whisper 'We succeeded.'

Jeir says 'We have it, what will become of it?'

Destanin the Archmage says 'As I said, it will be used in a ritual to power the levitation of an island which will serve as a base of operations for the excavation

You whisper 'I however am more concerned with my payment, than its purpose.'

Jeir looks very seriously at Destanin.

Someone looks at Destanin the Archmage.

Destanin the Archmage says 'I'm a man of my word, good thief, a man of my word. '

Destanin the Archmage says 'Let's see it then.'

You poke him in the ribs.

Jeir says to Destanin the Archmage 'If evil comes of this, or chaos, then mark these words as my oath, I will hold you responsible, and you will feel the wrath of the light, is that understood?'

Destanin the Archmage says 'I, sir, am an Order Mage. And not evil.'

Jeir says 'No, but you have collaborators.'

You poke him in the ribs.

Jeir says 'That is my oath.'

Jeir gives the Eye of Nordiach to Destanin the Archmage.

You whisper 'Don't be so stiffed necked.'

<{442(84%) 99%} civilized outdoor standing 10 PM 16262tnl>
whe
People near you:
(PK) Cliant The Great Square of the Phoenix
Jeir The Great Square of the Phoenix

Destanin the Archmage says 'I am in control, I assure you.'

Jeir closes his eyes and hums for an instant.

Jeir eyes you with disgust and grunts indignantly.

Destanin the Archmage holds the Eye of Nordiach up to the light, examining it carefully.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Yes, yes..'

Cliant continues to eye the stone with a odd hunger as Destanin handles it.

Destanin the Archmage smiles.

Destanin the Archmage says 'Amazing. Simply amazing.'

You whisper 'Ah, truely then?'

Destanin the Archmage slides the Eye of Nordiach into a velvet, rune-embroidered pouch made just the right size. This he affixes to a belt beneath his robes.

What's bothering you?

Destanin the Archmage says 'I must thank you both for your assistance to the Consortium, and as promised, payment'

We get payed well and then the island was born!