ArcaneDesperado

Samaa paused for a moment. I have been with the village since I was hatched. I was advised that a group of divers found my egg at the bottom of the river one day when out fishing. The egg was brought back to the village and cared for. I imagine a few were disappointed when I hatched at was not an actual dragon, but what you see before you. She gave a half smile. Still, they raised me and took care of me. Though one such as myself even amongst the likes of the Genasi was always the odd on out. For a people that combine their souls with elementals, all the physical changes they go through... One such as myself is more the abnormality. Samaa shook her head a bit. It is home... But I would know nothing different to compare it to. This is the farthest I have been out and away from the village since I was born. So I dont know if I will go back. I have many things that I have not experienced. Things, places, people, I have not seen.

Doallyn McClare / Royal Tactician & Conjurer Male - Human Noble - Neutral Good Wizard (Conjurer) 1 / Duskblade 1 Initiative + 1 / Hit Points: 13 / Speed: 30ft Armor Class: 14 / Touch: 11 / Flat-Footed: 13 Will + 5 / Reflex +1 / Fortitude +3 Doallyn adjusted his stance again as he felt a wave of discomfort through his body. Doing his best to hide the grimace that washed over his expression. He glanced over as Skold went to speak with a guard before returning it back to Sarai as she spoke. I would wish to prevent any additional trauma to befall this house. I do not have all the details, but given current information I can not help but feel my grandfather's interaction may have spurred this attack. If his research may have caught the attention of this Evening Glory. And given his business dealings, they wished to end anyone that may have information related back to it. He squeezed Racanna's hand, his tone shifted from the more dignified and noble bearing for a moment. The mask of a patrician slipping, to reveal a nothing more than a man. Angry and wounded. It was not just a matter of them coming after him, but after Racanna. Of taking out house staffers. Innocents. I also now have a matter of personal honor to find these villains and return the favor tenfold upon them. The next words cut the air like blades. Swift. Painful. No Quarter. Doallyn caught himself a bit and cleared his throat, attempting to regain his poise. However given the situation, going after these wretches alone is not something I can hope to do. Nor is Racanna likely to be in a situation to assist me in a physical capacity for some time. Doallyn McClare Male Neutral Good Human Wizard, Init +1 HP: 13/13 Speed: 30 AC: 14 Touch: 11 / Flat-footed: 13 Fort +3 / Ref +1 / Will +5 Base Attack Bonus: +1 Abilities: Str 10, Dex 12, Con 12, Int 17, Wis 12, Cha 14 Spellbook Wizard Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 3 Message | Message | Open/Close 1st Level - 2 (1 + Intelligence Bonus Spell ) Spell Save DC: 10 + Spell Level + Intelligence Modifier (+3): Conjuration Spells +1 Summon Monster | Summoner Monster Duskblade Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 4 Detect Magic | Read Magic | Detect Magic | Read Magic 1st Level - 2 Blade of Blood | Resist Energy Spell Like Abilities: 6 (Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Flare, Ghost Sound, Read Magic)

Doallyn McClare / Royal Tactician & Conjurer Male - Human Noble - Neutral Good Wizard (Conjurer) 1 / Duskblade 1 Initiative + 1 / Hit Points: 13 / Speed: 30ft Armor Class: 14 / Touch: 11 / Flat-Footed: 13 Will + 5 / Reflex +1 / Fortitude +3 Doallyn had never met a Gnome before so perhaps the rather odd interjection into the conversation regarding Hospitality wasnt abnormal for Shade. Doallyn quirked an eyebrow slightly at the comment but otherwise didnt seem to pay it much heed. He however did nod in return to the introduction. His attention shifted back over to Varon that had asked about his grandfather. Doallyn could appreciate the man's ability to remain professional and nearly void of emotion in the situation. The rigid stance however left him a bit unsure. Aye Varon, They left myself able to walk, that will prove to be their first mistake once I find them. I will not be so sloppy. Doallyn cut a sly smile, the concept of retribution for the crimes that took place in this House, almost seemed to make the man stand taller and prouder. As for Myrddin, I have not been able to physical see him or speak with him. I can only go from the few random sendings that I received. They were not just the ramblings of an old man that had over indulged himself with pipeweed and Highlands whiskey. They were ravings and almost fearful at times. "The Eye is the Gate" he also kept repeating. I did not have the time to really ask the members of the house here on his state when he allegedly visited, as shortly into our arrival the attack happened. Now etiquette would find me rude to pressure her regarding the business arrangement as she goes into a mourning period. Doallyn McClare Male Neutral Good Human Wizard, Init +1 HP: 13/13 Speed: 30 AC: 14 Touch: 11 / Flat-footed: 13 Fort +3 / Ref +1 / Will +5 Base Attack Bonus: +1 Abilities: Str 10, Dex 12, Con 12, Int 17, Wis 12, Cha 14 Spellbook Wizard Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 3 Message | Message | Open/Close 1st Level - 2 (1 + Intelligence Bonus Spell ) Spell Save DC: 10 + Spell Level + Intelligence Modifier (+3): Conjuration Spells +1 Summon Monster | Summoner Monster Duskblade Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 4 Detect Magic | Read Magic | Detect Magic | Read Magic 1st Level - 2 Blade of Blood | Resist Energy Spell Like Abilities: 6 (Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Flare, Ghost Sound, Read Magic)

Doallyn McClare / Royal Tactician & Conjurer Male - Human Noble - Neutral Good Wizard (Conjurer) 1 / Duskblade 1 Initiative + 1 / Hit Points: 13 / Speed: 30ft Armor Class: 14 / Touch: 11 / Flat-Footed: 13 Will + 5 / Reflex +1 / Fortitude +3 Doallyn nodded a return to both the curtsy and the bow from Sarsi and Elektra. Racanna smiled lightly as Sarsi sat beside her and attempted to make some sort of conversation regarding the outfit. The inability to hold a dialogue was vexing the noble woman and it was clearly written all over her face amid the lacerations and other indicators of the conflict. There were a few hand motions between the fabric and at Sarsi's eyes, to give the implication to saying how well they went together. A best attempt that the noble woman could manage at this time. Her attention shifted back to Doallyn however as he continued a bit more on the events. She reached a hand up to the one on her shoulder and squeezed it lightly. The entire story is a bit long-winded. I will try and keep it as neatly trimmed down as possible. He breathed a bit before beginning. My grandfather Myrddin, who I mentioned, had gone missing a few months prior. He'd spoken to me as well via Sending spells, but most of those messages were confusing and bordering of a man losing his mind. Things involving crowns, gates, eyes. Much of it wild ramblings. I'd attempted to contact him back through similar means but was unsuccessful in getting a response. Racanna through utilizing several of her father's networks was able to track him down here. Neferkare hosting him. He was speaking with the master of the household here. Looking to make some sort of research deal. Doallyn paused for a moment before continuing. Having last heard of his location in Sandpyke here, I followed to try and find him. To figure out what was going on with his sudden irrational behavior. Find out if he needed some sort of help. Emissaries of Evening Glory arrived at roughly the same time. He shook his head a bit. I'm not very familiar with the group. Something preached about eternal love. There is undeath attached so I'm less inclined to listen. Needless to say, I would likely venture a guess of their involvement. The timing is too... convenient. Darkness covered much of what transpired. I wish I could provide more vivid details of the actually attack. The end result however was several of the Lady's kin slaughtered and well as numerous guards and at least a dozen house staff. Racanna and myself also nearly killed. Perhaps an added bonus to send two more houses into chaos by having their heirs killed. Doallyn frowned. My grandfather also having already disappeared into the wind once again before our arrival. Doallyn McClare Male Neutral Good Human Wizard, Init +1 HP: 13/13 Speed: 30 AC: 14 Touch: 11 / Flat-footed: 13 Fort +3 / Ref +1 / Will +5 Base Attack Bonus: +1 Abilities: Str 10, Dex 12, Con 12, Int 17, Wis 12, Cha 14 Spellbook Wizard Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 3 Message | Message | Open/Close 1st Level - 2 (1 + Intelligence Bonus Spell ) Spell Save DC: 10 + Spell Level + Intelligence Modifier (+3): Conjuration Spells +1 Summon Monster | Summoner Monster Duskblade Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 4 Detect Magic | Read Magic | Detect Magic | Read Magic 1st Level - 2 Blade of Blood | Resist Energy Spell Like Abilities: 6 (Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Flare, Ghost Sound, Read Magic)

Rackham looked up at the ship again, he listened to Dame's comment but didnt look at her directly. His tone changing again. Sad. Pained. She'd never give the order if there was a single member of the crew onboard alive and she could help it. She'd order everyone overboard and then drive the ship headlong into the volcano herself. He sighed slightly, shaking his head. His more carefree voice returning. As for Brackenreid. He's a very by the books, no-nonsense fellow. You should have him ready to drink a tavern dry in a day and a half there Crow if you just be yourself. He leaned towards her. First round in Freebourne is on me if you can make him crack early and catch him dipping into the officer's quarters rum.

Rackham rubbed his temple slightly, as Midas was already in the air and the platform too far away for him to thump the dwarf over the head. Bloody dwarf... He looked back to Xio with a reassuring smile. The ship is secured inside the barracks here. This is the safest location in all of Tarsis outside of the palace itself. We are not currently transporting anything of military significance. By the time we are assigned with anything upon reaching Freebourne, yourself, boss, and all your fellow Black Sheep will have disembarked. There is no concern regarding the ship and its... security measures. They are a failsafe. And require either the keyword from two of three commanding members of the crew. Being Sophia, myself, or Petty Officer Brackenreid. The other options is the arcane connection recognizes the death of those parties, and goes into auto destruct. None of those scenarios should be a issue.

Called a self-destruct protocol, there lass. We get boarded the three primary commands have the ability to trigger the whole ship to detonate. Pirates try to take the hold, the whole ship, their ship, and anyone in the blast radius.. He stuck his finger to the side of his mouth and made a pop sound. Midas chuckled. We aint runnin' any special ops though on the way to Freeborne, so aint gotta worry about that none. He set some blocks behind the wheels of the van to make sure it didnt roll, and went to the controls to work the lift to levitate back into the air. It strained a little at the weight as first until Midas pulled another lever and the jade crystal started to glow a bit brighter. With a satisfying hiss of steam the lift rose into the ground without effort and towards the waiting cargo hold door.

Doallyn McClare / Royal Tactician & Conjurer Male - Human Noble - Neutral Good Wizard (Conjurer) 1 / Duskblade 1 Initiative + 1 / Hit Points: 13 / Speed: 30ft Armor Class: 14 / Touch: 11 / Flat-Footed: 13 Will + 5 / Reflex +1 / Fortitude +3 Doallyn met Skold's handshake instead with a clasp at the forearm in greeting. Skold. Well met. I can't say I am much of a religious man myself. But I am familiar enough with the Gods to know Heironeous by name. I would imagine a man that fights in his name is a good one to have by their side right now with the treachery afoot. Racanna would take the offered hand as well in turn, though her voice was strained and raw. She placed a hand on her throat, despite it. A stubbornness in her eyes and determination that she would not allow the injury to keep her from responding to a degree as was proper of her station. Halò Racanna winced from the strain. Doallyn paused and looked at her with a bit of sadness. Moving around he stood behind her and placed a hand on her shoulder before looking back to Skold and addressed his question. Tis' not my house to give all the information of what befell within its walls. However as one of the near victims that happened to be here at the time, I also feel that I can not avoid it. He paused for a moment, seeming to weigh the words on how to best approach the topic. There was an attack... Doallyn trailed off. Still replaying the events his mind. Doallyn McClare Male Neutral Good Human Wizard, Init +1 HP: 13/13 Speed: 30 AC: 14 Touch: 11 / Flat-footed: 13 Fort +3 / Ref +1 / Will +5 Base Attack Bonus: +1 Abilities: Str 10, Dex 12, Con 12, Int 17, Wis 12, Cha 14 Spellbook Wizard Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 3 Message | Message | Open/Close 1st Level - 2 (1 + Intelligence Bonus Spell ) Spell Save DC: 10 + Spell Level + Intelligence Modifier (+3): Conjuration Spells +1 Summon Monster | Summoner Monster Duskblade Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 4 Detect Magic | Read Magic | Detect Magic | Read Magic 1st Level - 2 Blade of Blood | Resist Energy Spell Like Abilities: 6 (Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Flare, Ghost Sound, Read Magic)

Doallyn McClare / Royal Tactician & Conjurer Male - Human Noble - Neutral Good Wizard (Conjurer) 1 / Duskblade 1 Initiative + 1 / Hit Points: 13 / Speed: 30ft Armor Class: 14 / Touch: 11 / Flat-Footed: 13 Will + 5 / Reflex +1 / Fortitude +3 The heavy sound of military boots echoed the man's arrival from the hallway far before he actually entered the room. Years of training and learning to march had instilled a certain level of discipline. The movements were steady and confident, to the point where only the most observant could note the slight error to his gait from the nagging injury. His attire showed a black military officer uniform, though it was devoid of any ranking insignia at the time. Cleaned and pressed, like any good solider should be we presenting themselves, even more so when it came with a noble barring to impress upon it. A black leather military trench coat completed the officer regimentals. The duster coat serving to hide partly the components pouch that hung on one hip, and the the decorative pommel of the officer's sword peeking itself ever so slightly into view from underneath on the other side. His face barely into his early twenties etched with a level of maturity and discipline beyond his age. A few more recent minor lacerations and bruises however indicated a recent fight of some nature that could not be hidden by uniform and other clothing. His hair was short and neatly cut black, though his face showed a few days growth of having not shaved. His eyes were a emerald green, though something about them seemed to indicated something more wild underneath. Following him was a woman, of roughly equal age. Her footsteps in comparison would almost make you question if she was actually there. Light and nimble, seeming to indicate a certain degree of covertness. It as well showed an implication of injury, be it far greater than the man ahead of her. The lady's attire was less militaristic, through still showed a level of function. More akin to traveler's clothes, the quality of the garments certainly implicated the noble background. Though the black pants with multiple belts and pouches and leather top seemed more that she might attempt to climb into a secondary story window to rob the place than be presented as a noble. Her long black hair flowed down to about the mid of her back. Violet hued eyes seemed to swim with a certain arcane energy. She also had several smaller cuts on her hands that were visible and a few across her face. A scarf that seemed completely out of place was wrapped around her neck and throat. The man moved forward first and presented his hand toward Varon. As the man spoke his accent was thick from the Highlands. Varon is it? Aye? You will forgive tha' lack o' proper announcement for me'self or my fiancé. Things.... There was a bit of hesitation in his voice on how to approach the topic. Things have been a wee bit hectic as o' late. Given tha' lack o' staffing I would guess I am doing me' own introductions. So you'll forgive me a bit. He chuckled lightly in a mild attempt at levity. Mostly for himself, as the others werent likely aware of recent events. He stood back up tall, a light twitch as the pain shot through his lower half, but he soldiered on. I am Doallyn McClare, of House McClare, Son of the Grand General Reginald McClare of his Majesties' Royal Army, Grandson to Archmage Myrddin McClare, former seat on the King's Small Council, as Master of the Arcane. He turned and offered a hand to the woman, who stepped forward, taking it. She attempted to smile, though it was obvious she was uncomfortable. Not from the concept of introductions, but from the pure concept of being up and mobile. Doallyn was masking his pain and injuries far better than she. Doallyn kissed her hand trying to offer her some degree of emotional support. This vision of beauty is my betrothed. Racanna Enhasa, of House Enhasa. Daughter to Johnathan Enhasa, Master of Whispers to the King's Small Council. She attempted to speak, but quickly put her hands to her throat and shook her head that it wouldn't be happening. He looked over the group of them with a look of apology, before helping Racanna over to a empty seat to sit. He then turned his attention back over them as a whole. I see that they were already able to provide ye' with some refreshments. The lady o' the house may still be a bit, given recent activities. What can the two of us look to assist ye' with in tha' meantime? Doallyn McClare Male Neutral Good Human Wizard, Init +1 HP: 13/13 Speed: 30 AC: 14 Touch: 11 / Flat-footed: 13 Fort +3 / Ref +1 / Will +5 Base Attack Bonus: +1 Abilities: Str 10, Dex 12, Con 12, Int 17, Wis 12, Cha 14 Spellbook Wizard Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 3 Message | Message | Open/Close 1st Level - 2 (1 + Intelligence Bonus Spell ) Spell Save DC: 10 + Spell Level + Intelligence Modifier (+3): Conjuration Spells +1 Summon Monster | Summoner Monster Duskblade Spells Per Day: Cantrips - 4 Detect Magic | Read Magic | Detect Magic | Read Magic 1st Level - 2 Blade of Blood | Resist Energy Spell Like Abilities: 6 (Dancing Lights, Detect Magic, Flare, Ghost Sound, Read Magic)

City of Otari The Windy Pig The group had made their way back from the hidden temple underneath the city. There was at least a means to keep it hidden away to a degree. Though getting access would still potentially become difficult. The Fishery was set to seal up one access point. And the black market group that resided in the city was potentially going to be utilizing the secondary entry. Walking in a cave that was being guarded by thieves might not be keen to just let them pass through without question. Khevlar had been silent for a good part of the time in the temple and the walk back. Kokuten could sense his presence, though the "death" of Galadriel was clearly affecting him deeply. Johnny was also unnaturally quiet. The elemental having violated him and the general experience in the temple were something he was mostly trying to forget. This time proving a bit more difficult without the spell that wiped his memory the first trip in. He was nursing his second pint, having downed the first one rather quickly. The rest of the group found themselves in the back corner table away from the crowd. A discussion to plan their next course of action.

Samaa mildly shrugged. I figured some cooked food would be better than dried travel rations. It's warm enough that we shouldn't need a fire in the evening, though it would likely keep the wildlife away. It could draw the attention of other more intelligent species in the jungle. The Judow however are likely gone for awhile, and we made good travel time. They are on foot. It is unlikely they would reach us by the time we would be traveling again. I will not lie, the idea of a few hours of good rest would not be unwelcome after all the spells today. She sat the little water elemental' container down and let it out to bubble around and down to the river. We can probably get about half a days travel tomorrow before we start to get to far from its nest and it starts to fight me to turn around. At that point we will need to set down and make the rest of the trip on foot.

Rackham smiled lightly. Of course you will be able to have access to your van and any other cargo you bring onboard. We have no reason to try and restrict you from your own personal belongings. Midas glanced over seeing Rex Fine bit of work ya got there, missy. Had a cousin, working on somethin' similar. Bird though rather than beast. Dreadful time trying to compensate the weight to actually allow it to fly. Might turn the silly thing into an ostrich he said, then he could ride it too. Midas snorted a laugh.

The black ichor like blood of the mephit and Devin's red crimson mixed and twisted. The blood contract sealed and for an instant, the black blood trailed up around Devin's wrist and flashed like a manacle. The same with the red around Quagmire's. Then they both faded. <<By Oblimo's will>> The mephit grinned a toothy grin, and opened its hand for the wand.

Rackham side glanced at Dame. Oh, I still am the funniest and cutest. But that doesn't mean romance is dead. It seemed like for a moment he was going to say something else, when he looked back as a large metal platform floated down from the ship, and one of the side hatches along the hull shifted and slid open. The platform had two similar turbines attached to it akin to the ship, on a much smaller scale. It also pulsed with what looked like a jade crystal battery afixed in one of the engines. The platform was large enough for Moxi to drive her steam wagon on and still a bit of extra space. A Dwarf man stood next to the control system Aye, Chief. Cargo area is cleared out for whatever ya got here. The Dwarf paused. The Captain... what just happen...Ya really think it be best to be... Rackham cut the man off. Load on the vehicle first, Midas. Get it secure. Then we can focus on the horse. Rackham paused again, noting his snappy tone. Better her to be focused on being mad at me than other things right now. Midas shook his head. Aye, sir. Have it your way. He finally glanced back over at Xio since the exchange with Sophia. I would imagine he's trained with you being its rider. Though this might be a new experience for it. If you think the transport here might spook him, we can look into levitation or another means to get him onboard.

As the whole group had got to the pier area, Rackham looked up at the ship and shouted. Ahoy! Midas! I need to load some cargo for the trip to Freebourne! The response was heard from somewhere on the ship, though the source of it couldnt be seen. AYE Sir! Before anyone else on the ship could respond a figure moved to the starboard side to look down at the group. It was a woman, and she wore a pristine white naval uniform. Despite the uniform her curves were clearly visible. Her hair was a short cut blonde, and even from the distance, her piercing blue eyes could be seen shining down. Sophia Gillian. Her voice despite the annoyed tone had a degree of education and upper class to it. Rackham! What by the damned Planes of Gehenna are you doing? Where have you been? Rackham flashed a smile, shifting and extending his arms towards the group. My Captain! I come bearing gifts! Sellswords! Freshly minted and guaranteed effective. A gift to present to your father as part of my bride-price! A token to ease his troubles in Freebourne and this dreaded pirate scourge! As Rackham has finished talking the group would notice every single sailor and engineer on the ship had stopped doing their work and was watching the exchange. Sophia had turned about three shades of red as Rackham was speaking. It was hard to tell though if it was blushing or anger from a distance. After a moment though she noticed everyone watching and then shot an icy stare towards Rackham. Her hands gripped the guard rail to where it looked like she might crack the wood. I....I.... I should have your ass court martialed. I dont have the time for this nonsense. Load your...bloody cargo. She turned and disappeared out of sight. The echoing sound of a door slamming could be heard. Rackham stood slightly for a moment or two after the sound of the slamming door. He finally spoke again. Well, that went well. He looked back up to the ship MIDAS!! Get me that platform! The ships crew quickly started working again.