(Lilloo)



On the hill the two groups converge; Salen and Karel; and the troop of Elves, and Theoderic, Aelasuria, Swift, Cirrus and the others who accompanied them.

Which includes Spica, the Unicorn.  The water sprite seems to know her, and executes a bow.

"It isn't necessary," Spica says.  "Have we met?"

"I don't think so," the sprite says.  "But we all know your father, and he knows all of us."

Of course he would, having lived in the Ardennes forest for centuries, a Unicorn learns a thing or two.

Theoderic introduces himself on behalf of the "two legged" folk here; Theoderic, son of Clovis, King of Belgica and the Eastern Franks.

Karel immediately relaxes upon seeing the Unicorn, though he does not approach. Instead, he turns his attentions to the man that has introduced himself as King Theoderic. With a flourishing bow he greets the newcomers, remaining standing.

"Good King Theoderic, what a pleasant surprise! Certainly better than shaggy horned beasts. A little bird told me you were headed up the Meuse to Mos Trajectum, so I had not expected to see men in this place.

Oh, please excuse me. Long have I been away from the lands of men. I am Karel, a wanderer of the wooden song, though today I serve Mosanna here at the Water Garden. What brings you along this detour and with such a fine entourage?"

Salen knows the group, and he facilitates the greetings, when he is through being hugged by his sister.  Salen's recent "friend", the healer Ayren, greets them as well.

"Aela, it hasn't been that long," Salen says as he frees himself.


Theoderic looks at Salen, and then at Karel... well, yes, they had been heading to Mos Trajectum...

"Mos Trajectum is north along the Meuse River," he says.  "It seems I am not going that way after all."

The Water Sprite approaches.  "My fault, I begged a favor.  You've helped us in the past, the story has been spread among us, up and down the ancient sisters."

"The ancient sisters?" Theoderic asks.

"The Rivers, sir, source of all life, and especially to us.  I had thought to ask a favor, as these adventurers were going.. more or less in the right direction.  A brief diversion.  Important.  You see, sir king, your enemy is our enemy, and they have infested the headwaters Mosanna draws her strength from, and in those headwaters, our sacred home, the Water Garden."

"Your home has Orc warriors in it?"  Theoderic asks.

"I would think we could remove Orcs," Lilloo says.  "But there are trolls, and a terrible she-troll who is a shamaness."

Aelasuria cheerfully hugs her brother glad to see him safe. She smiles at the water sprite as greetings are exchanged with Spica. Caressing her main and neck She looks to Theo and Karel as they exchange greetings. Her intelligent green eyes take in the details of Karel and his group.

"It's been long enough brother and I had reason to worry. The Huns have deliberately been placing traps for Elvish heroes. They like to lead us in when we try to save others. When we heard about you we decided to come this way."

She makes a graceful elvish gesture of greeting To Karel speaking softly to him.  "My name is Aelasuria Soulwater. This is Spica my Unicorn companion and Felicia is my elfin cat. Swift is our scout whom I am sure will show herself when she is ready. My husband here is a little rusty at introductions as I usually take the lead or he wouldn't have forgotten to introduce me." She lightly nudges him with a playful look in her eyes before taking his hand affectionately. "You need practice for holding court or did you leave me out of the introductions to protect me?" Her voice is lighthearted with just a hint of playful teasing before she turns her attention back to the assembled group.

In moments her expression becomes more serious at the mention of Mossana's headwaters being infested by trolls and a powerful Shamaness. "I will be happy to help. Mossana has lent us her aid more then once it's only right that we return the favor. Unless there is something else that we need to deal with Theo?" She asked to respect their equality rather then assume.

OOC: She's not going exclude Theo in the decision making as they are equals after all. If she doesn't think about his needs it wouldn't be fair. Though it's pretty clear she desires to help Mosanna and the water sprites.

"You needn't worry about me, Aela - those traps were for heroes, so there's almost no chance I would set them off. Besides, Ayren promised to bash anything that came near us, she's quite fierce that way."

Salen is as happy to see his sister - and her husband - as she is to see him, of course. Now everyone knows each other there is little more to discuss, but he turns to Karel anyway.

"We found Karel here sitting by a river, talking to a sprite and a cat. He was obviously very strange and looked quite the vagrant, so he fitted right in with our company. Now Aela, if you and Theo and company could come with us to the Water Garden and throw some more of those lightning bolts around, I'm sure we can clear this little problem up in no time."

Was there ever a time not to be flippant or humorous? Perhaps, but Salen tended to carry on regardless. Life was so much more fun that way.

Karel quietly speculates about Willinor and Felicia's relationship. Perhaps this was how our friend has become royal, though where did he wander off to? Elfin cats...

He makes an elegant bow and defers to Salen's knowledge of their company.

"It is an honor, milady. Mosanna would not change your course lightly."

Things seemed to be escalating quickly. How long had it been since he had last talked with mortals and yet here he was, standing in the company of a King and Queen, come to aid them in the liberation of the Water Garden. His wits and memories returned to him slowly, but entertaining elven royalty? This was beyond him. His songs, they never falter, but etiquette of this caliber? There was a distant memory of performing for a royal court in what seemed like many lives ago, though it was most assuredly human. Or was it?

With mixed feelings, Karel chose to quietly finger along his fiddle, filling the surroundings with a low ambience. As he chose not to bow or pluck the sounds were very weak, yet somehow just clear enough. He decided to stick with elven melodies for the time being, hoping he remembered them accurately.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:09, Wed 21 Aug 2013.

A fox that lead the one party changes form and becomes Swift. She smiles "You elves are not all that hard to follow. You should work on that." she laughs.

This was such an interesting group. She wondered what was next?

Liloo the water sprite finds a good, high vantage point with a view of the beloved Water Garden.

Salen and Karel have already seen it, from a slightly more distant point of view, but now they have a better look.

It is a patchwork of ponds in very regular shapes- rectangles, long and short, meeting and connecting and dividing.  Likewise, the squared off ponds create very straight, square islands, connected by little bridges.  A couple of small structures can be seen, and several gazebos.

Surrounding the whole, which is square in shape, is a hedge, a very thick, tall hedge.

"I see Dew Thorn," Spica says.  "Oft planted by the Elves to protect villages.  Where the Huns conquer, or try to, they destroy such things.  It is still here?"

"I told you, not Huns," Liloo says.  "A she troll.  Dark Spirits, which she has conjured.  She's taken control of the hedge, and it is our prison."

"Yet you escaped," Spica says.

"We caught the attention of an Owl, one night, and it was strong enough to carry me away.  The Owl did not survive, though.  They were watching, and struck it with some dark magic.  It did get me out, though.  I imagine the dark ones were in an ill mood over that."

Theoderic overhears.  "It also means, they expect a rescue," he says. "Of course, you'd go right to the Elves, tell them what happened."

He looks at Aelasuria.  Hadn't she been worried about traps set for heroes?

Then he looks back at the water sprite. "If Spica says you are honest, then you are honest.  But you might still be bait, and this still might be a trap." 

"mmm hmmm. Your brave and that's enough I think to get you in trouble." She looks amused for a few moments looking for Ayren. "Is that so? I would like to see her at one of our friendly competitions. So long as on one gets hurt of course!"

She listens to his story then Smiles at Karel warmly when he greets her. "Ahh there is Swift. Yes I will do my best Salen though I will have to be careful when I use them. We should all keep in mind I need a clear path for those lightning bolts. I think we are going to have to focus on the Shamaness she's likely the greatest threat. It would be nice to think we could sneak the prisoners free. It won't be that easy though Theo is right they are expecting someone to try a rescue. At the least they will be prepared and have set traps for anyone that might come."

She looks to Theo as well as the others. "The question is do we wish to attempt stealth? Perhaps to scout things out and perhaps get a surprise attack in? Swift could try that or I could try using invisibility and flight to see what I can learn. The alternative would be a bold attack unless someone has other idea's to suggest? I can of course attempt to dispel magic if the Shamaness has set any magical traps. OH Also Trolls I think have a keen sense of smell. I could be wrong but keep that in mind."

Theoderic looks at the hedgewall surrounding the distant Water Garden.

"We could be there in a few hours," he says.  Then he turns back to the sprite.

"Surely, there is a way in?  Why would you have a garden with no entrance?"

The sprite sighs.  "Several.  The rose arches, the places where the water comes in, and the water goes out.  But they are watched."

It is Theoderic's turn to sigh.  "You can get in and out," he says to Aelasuria. "With magic.  But the rest of us cannot."

"A hedge will let a Unicorn through, no matter how thick," Spica says.  "Unless... as you say, it is under the control of an evil spell."

"I don't know if I will be able to sneak in," Theoderic says.  "Unless we are lucky, or there is some other means, getting in and out, at least for me,  may mean fighting."

"Sneaking in would be ideal and would be fine for some of us, though our scent would likely give us away. Even if there were something pungent around to cover ourselves in, unless it was present in the Garden then any foreign smell might put the trolls on alert."

"Do you know how many trolls there are Liloo? If we were to get in unnoticed could we take out the guards without alerting the rest of them? We're going to have to fight them at some point no matter what in order to free the Water Garden, but I'd rather not give them the advantage, nor fall into a trap."

"If the She-troll controlls the hedge, then we cannot hope to fashion an entrance through it, for that will draw her attention anyway. It will have to be one of the archways, whether they are watched or no. What we will require are distractions, in whichever way we can fashion them - several false approaches at as many archways as we can, while we enter all together through just one. We need to combine our strength in order to force our way in, and then decide on the best course from there - undoubtedly with Liloo's help."

Salen looks to the sprite to see her reaction, then to everyone else to see how they are reacting to their prospects. He smiles at each, nods to Swift upon seeing her again, and then awaits the consensus.

Karel nods to Salen in agreement.

"Ah, now distractions, distractions I can do. I have picked up a few tricks in my time amongst the fey, and no mere parlor tricks, though I command little magic of my own. Music to enrapture the eyes and ears so they do not see those that sneak past, and quick legs and wits to escape afterwards, perhaps leading them into a trap of our own devising? Unfortunately, I can only maintain this hold with my music on one creature at a time."

Karel runs his fingers adeptly across the strings of his fiddle.

OOC: Karel also suggests making use of his fey-like abilities and attempting to Fascinate a guard with his music, drawing their attention and allowing others to possibly sneak by. This only works if it is only a single troll, otherwise the below strategy would be preferred.

"Liloo, you know them better than us, even if only slightly. If you appeared to them outside of the archway, would they pursue you, believing you to be an easy target? Could you convince them to do so? Or perhaps one of our own making enough noise to be noticed and feigning injury would garner their attention? If so, we may be able to lay an ambush of our own. Thoughts, anyone?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:40, Sun 25 Aug 2013.

Swift stood listing as the others talked, then she joined in. "Do you know if there is any water in there? I have some fay with me and they have allowed me to travel by water before. Or I can try to sneak in first, as a fox, I might be able to get in other ways that the rest of you might not be able too."

"Water we have in plenty," Liloo says to Swift.  "I am a Water Sprite, that is the Water Garden, water is one thing we have lots and lots of.  But see, there is where the Geul river flows into the Water Garden, and there is where it flows out.  They watch the entrances, because they do not want us to escape."

"They watch in case you escape," Theoderic muses, "but are they also watching for intruders?  As Karel asked, how many Trolls.  And you mentioned Dark Spirits... did you mean the trolls?"

"They are Old Trolls," the Sprite says. Spica the Unicorn reacts.  She knows what the Sprite means.

"Once upon a time," Spica explains, "Trolls were creatures of magic like Fey, and they could change form and take on aspects of nature, just like a Fey being.  They were more spirit than mortal, taking their substance from the world around them.  A Troll might be a boulder, or a great withered tree, or even a muddy pond.  Is that what you are talking about, Liloo?"

"Yes," the Sprite confirms.  "Trolls, like once they were.  Before they took Humanoid shapes forever.  Spirits."

"How many?" Theoderic asks.

"The She-Troll, and four others."

"That is not enough to keep a constant watch over all the entrances," Theoderic says.

"Perhaps we can try Misdirection and attack the trolls from the flank if we have to. For example the Trolls will likely give chase if we have someone like the water sprite deliberately get their attention and then flee. This of course is dangerous. However if they take the bait then it is we who can attack them from behind. Or perhaps from all sides allowing the individual playing bait to escape or turn and join the fight as they desire. While most of them has their attention on us a stealthy individual can attempt a rescue."

"Karel's ability to beguile someone with his magic might be best used on the shamaness if she shows to prevent her from casting though he should target whoever he feels is best at the moment combat is joined if that's what he wishes to do."

She found the thought of ancient trolls able to change form rather disturbing. "In that case most likely at least two of them are likely using their ability to shift in order to ambush anyone that tries to help. They might even try to take the form of a innocent fey. Is that beyond them Spica? I think my idea might still work trying to get them to reveal themselves in a effort to capture whoever our distraction is. Then we can hopefully strike effectively though I am perfectly happy to try to sneak in if that is everyones preference. Spica is very fast she might be a good distraction and they would expect a Unicorn to try to help, although our water sprite friend, karel, swift or even myself could also do it if we go with that."

"So maybe if someone causes a distraction at once entrance, I can sneak into another one. Now just how fast are these trolls?  I hope I can outrun them if I am seen.  I am good but if they have more sensitive senses, who knows, maybe they will sense me." She hoped her fay could help her get though.  If in involved water, she figured they should.

"The Trolls cannot appear as us," Liloo says.  "They can change their forms, but not easily.  They are what they are, the outside reflects the inside.  Mean.  Strong.  Hungry."

Spica tries to explain:  "He means, the trolls will can draw form and substance from nature, but their own evil hearts give them shape.  Those shapes are always frightening, because that is what a troll is, and wishes to be.  A troll cannot be merry like a Pixie, and so it could never take that shape.   That is why most trolls lost their original powers ages ago, and don’t take the forms of nature.  In the end they are what they are."

"What forms do they take here?" Theoderic asks.

"Rock, and tree, and water and mud."  Liloo says.

"One of each?" Theoderic asks.

The water sprite nods.  "That is how they have been."


A basic map of the Water Garden, what can be seen from a distance.  The creatures aren't on the map because they can't yet be seen.  The river (People from the West would call it a river, I'd call it a brook!) comes in at the south side and leaves at the north.

"Hmm so their innate evil and hatred will show through no matter what form they take. In that case I don't think they can truly hide from us. In this water garden of nature everything should be good and pure. Even if Spica doesn't sense them from a fair distance the Tree will look frightening and so would any rock. Although To be honest unless the mud and water looks vial for some reason it might be harder to see them for what they are. If they are trying to hide I think the water one and mud will be the most likely to be able to hide almost anywhere due to all the water."

"Liloo do you know where the water sprites are being held captive. Are they in a specific part of the water garden such as the cabin, the central gazebo or somewhere else. It makes sense that at least one troll will always be close to them to try to make sure they don't try anything. Remember Swift they might hold one troll in reserve so that the water sprites can't simply flee during the fighting. OK do we want someone to play bait or shall we all go in as one big fighting distraction? That might be best as any one individual might be overwhelmed if they care caught totally by surprise."

Aelasuria prepares for battle casting Mage armor to start though she holds off on other defensive magic that has a very short duration.  "I can summon a monster to fight for us and send it in just ahead of us. If we don't go with a different plan It could serve to draw them out and give us a chance to fight effectively. Though the Shamaness could really cause problems if she's not reigned in quickly."

Liloo shakes a slightly slippery looking head.

"Us and they, they and us, move about, it’s hard to tell who is where and when, so much.  The Water Garden is not such a big place.   Small, too small a place for anyone to stay put.  But the Troll-Chieftainess, she seems to like the central gazebo, in the middle.  Often she sits there, and has us entertain her."


"We need a breach in the hedge," Theoderic says, looking at heavy green thicket surrounding the water garden.  "And there are only a few.  The water, the arches...I think we should take one breach.  Whichever way we want to go in, we should all go together.  Concentrate our force.  But then, move quickly, because the troll will have magic.  If we... hmm..."

He pauses, squints...

"Could we make a breach?"

"You mean we should destroy part of the hedge?"  Spica asks.  She does not sound happy with that idea.  It's not the "unicorn" way of doing thing.  Liloo makes a sour face as well.

"The sacrifice of a part may make it easier to save the whole," Theoderic says.

"Is it required?" Liloo asks.

"It is a possibility," Theoderic says.  "If we can do it.  Maybe we cannot."

"I would leave the hedge, to be honest. I would not want to cause a breach that cannot easily be mended, for that would open up the Water Garden to more problems in the near future. No, I think we have to use misdirection, whether magical or no, and choose which archway we plan to enter through, all together. It will likely be very difficult, but what's new? I am always good for soaking up enemy attacks, so I shall happily wade into the thick of it!"

Salen is ever one to put on a brave/silly face, all the better to raise the spirits of his companions. At least, he thinks it raises their spirits...

"If you warriors are going to burst in, I can sneak in as a fox to look for the mage. Then I can try and take her out from behind. I can try and sniff her out, hopefully" she did wonder if she could smell out the trolls.

Karel draws his bow, careful not to draw it over the strings. His shortbow remains on his back, though a strap around his chest would catch the fiddle should he have need to draw the shortbow quickly.

"I agree, we should decide on an area and push forward together. There are a few of us it would seem that specialize in taking the enemy by surprise, so why not combine our two plans? Rush in and get the attention of the closest trolls as a distraction, while a few more stealthy individual are in place to come down on them hard. I wonder if these forms of theirs would be uneasy to exploit though..."

"All right if we are going to stay together then I suggest this. We will come in from the north. There is some cover from that direction so we might not be noticed right away. Once inside we get her attention and draw the trolls to us. Beware the tree near that entrance it could be a troll. If someone prefers a different entrance please let me know. I think the path directly south leaves the least water between us and the central gazebo and gives us two directions of retreat if we have to do so."

"Swift I wish you luck. The water sprites swim very well so a watery exit might be best for them. Please be aware I might use a a few lightningbolts so please try to keep that in mind as I will need line of sight to hit trolls with if given the chance. It looks like Salen and Theo will be our front line while stealthy types do their thing. I can go invisible which might give us a additional element of surprise."

She pauses looking at swift hopping that she will indeed pull things off if she's going "Hopefully swift you can lead them to safety while we fight the trolls. I would like to use my fireball but It's unlikely I can do so without doing a lot of damage to at least a small section of the water garden so I will make do with other spells unless I have to use it."

If they have a agreed plan she moves to make her way to the north entrance so they could go inside. Swift she would trust to be her stealthy self and do what she has to do.

Karel nods and moves to follow.

Swift grins "Oh, I was thinking more a back attack on the troll" she giggles. She turns into a fox and follows the others, trying to stay under cover as much as she can.

When they approach Aelasuria stays to the back letting the others give her cover so she isn't seen. "Theo I can fly and scout while invisible if you need me to do so. I won't cast it until I really need it since it's duration is limited. All right Swift I hope you manage to do that if there is need."

She will wait until the time is right preferring not to waste magic. She keeps a eye on things glancing at Spica. "Spica do you have any preference in how you will be involved in this encounter? The water sprites could climb on your back if you prefer to make a hasty escape with them. Alternatively you could be in the thick of things with the rest of us."

Spica elects to stay with the group, as does Liloo.

They all trek to the north side of the enclosing hedge, near the north side arch.

They get their unopposed and realize something- the hedge is a two way barrier.

”We cannot see in,” Theoderic says, “but they can’t see out.  Let’s get ready to rush them.”

They take up positions near the north side arch, while Aelasuria takes to the air overhead.

She sees the female troll in the center Gazebo.  The troll is sitting, but not on the floor.  The troll is sitting floating several feet above the floor, levitating in the air.  The water sprites are gathered nearby.  The troll seems to sense that there is something afoot, and then looks in Aelasuria’s direction.

The She-Troll speaks in a low, raspy, angry voice.  ”Tis an Elf spy, above us.  Unseen.  Tricky Elf, I will show it a trick.  Come out of the water, Geula.”

A large green troll comes out of the water, dragging a delicate, worried looking Nymph.  The Nymph is pushed in front of the floating female troll.

“If we have a spy, let us give it something to watch,” the Troll says.  “Let us see what fun we may have with a Nymph.  Let us see if our visitor has the stomach for the games we can imagine.”

"Ok Theo, everyone be ready to come in fast and strike hard. I have no idea what will happen once I go in there." She disappears flying into the water garden to see what precious information she could glean to make their rescue mission more effective.

Aelasuria had been afraid of that the troll seemed preternaturally aware of everything going on around her. She likely had some form of ability to see invisible or perhaps something else that had given her such detailed information. A simple alarm spell wouldn't have been enough to reveal her nature or the fact she was invisible. There was little time considering the threat the troll had uttered.

She decides hitting hard and fast was the only likely solution. Make the trolls more concerned with surviving or killing her then anything else. Flying closer to get in advantages striking distance She casts monster summoning  while on the way wanting it to appear as close to on top of them as possible so that it could act immediately. She orders the summoned creature. "Protect the nymph and water sprites slay the trolls."

She follows up with casting Silence on the Shamaness troll herself so that it would follow her wherever she went till it's duration ended. IF it worked it would severely limit what sort of magic she could cast. It would also keep her from giving orders to other trolls. Then prepares to use slaying magic on any troll foolish enough to actually lay a hand on a water sprite or nymph.

OOC: If Aelasuria can hear the trolls threat I imagine everyone else can as well. No point in giving away she's not alone.

Swift tries to slip in as a fox unseen and heads towards the female troll going the long way to her side so she can try and sneak up behind her. She tries to avoid getting too close to any of the other trolls.

"Ah well, in for a copper piece, in for a gold one..."

Salen charges through the archway sword in hand, heading along the western path, figuring that will bring him closer to the central gazebo in the quickest manner possible. Of course, there will be other trolls to engage along the way, but no-one said this would be easy.

Karel is shocked by how quickly everything begins playing out. He takes in a breathe and closes his eyes, focusing his thoughts and trying to process everything quickly. He runs inside after Salen and upon seeing a creature pop into existence he stops suddenly.

"Summoning magic..."

He takes up position with his fiddle and everything seems to slow around him as he places his bow upon the strings. Lush sounds fill the garden, washing over his allies in waves. At first it is the simple sounds of a violin, but one by one, additional strings begin to echo within. Before long his simple fiddling is a string quintet, a symphony. He then adds his voice, teasing at memories and pulling adrenaline and courage to the fore, his tones coursing through his allies with sudden strength and vigor.

"I waited patiently for Her Grace: and She inclined unto me, and heard my calling.

She brought me also out of the horrible pit, out of the mire and clay, and set my feet upon the rock, and ordered my goings.

And She hath put a new song in my mouth: even a thanksgiving unto Her Grace.

Many shall see it and fear: She returns with a renewed strength and her retribution is at hand!

Behold, the power of the Meuse!"

His song complete, the echoes ring forth and continue the flood of power as he holsters his bow and swings his fiddle to his back with its strap. He quickly pulls out a different bow, one meant for hunting prey, rather than hearts, and nocks an arrow while advancing on the trolls.

2. Swift moves as quickly and quietly as a Fox… there aren’t many good places to hide, but with so much going on, and Swift looking for the “long way around” it seems no one is paying attention to one fox.  The best concealed route goes through the cabin on the east side… assuming she can get through the cabin on the east side.  She runs up, and find that the Trolls aren’t too careful to shut and lock doors- she can get in.

A soft radiant light shines from her paw- the work of the “prismatic sprites”.  She can see… this must be the Trolls treasure trove.  There are boxes on tables, and weapons hanging on the walls.  A pair of finely made Elven swords, the hilts too small for the clumsy hands of Trolls to handle.

On the other flank, Salen, followed by Karel, try to cover as much ground as possible, but they find their way blocked by one of the trolls.  This is a Rock Troll- it looks like some half-finished, half carved work, that someone was too lazy to complete, and called it a troll. It has sharp, angular stone claws, and sharp protrusions of stone at random points along its body.

Aelasuria casts a “Summon Monster” sending a Celestial Giant Eagle into the fray to do what it can to harass the trolls and possibly rescue the nymph.

Theoderic and Liloo, followed by Spica the Unicorn, take the center path through the water garden.

”The paths do not connect,” Liloo observes.  “Can you swim?”

”I can jump,” Theoderic replies.

"I will be right behind you," Spica says.

The Troll female shoves the nymph into the claws of the tree-troll, and tells the troll to “make sure she causes no trouble”.  She sees the attackers, but is most concerned about the flying Elf.  As Aelasuria summons her eagle, the She-Troll raises her hairy arms and calls down the Plague Rain, a very small rain cloud.  The rain reaches Aelasuria, and Liloo too, and they both feel the dark magic of the Plague Rain- it brings sickness.

Liloo is mildy sickened, and feels weakened and a little off.  The water sprite coughs a few times.  Aelasuria feels much sicker- weak and nauseous and a little dizzy.  She still manages her Silence Spell, but she has the bad feeling it didn't "take" on the troll.  She still hears them.

Oh, splendid...

"The last time I came up against something with rocky protrusions sticking out of it, I took several great blows and almost lost half my ribs. Still, it's not like it's going to happen again, is it?"

Salen speaks to nobody in particular, but has a habit of speaking inanely and out loud in the midst of battle, though whether it's to distract the enemy or calm his own nerves, who knows? Either way he regards the...troll?...and hefts his blade.

"I'd love to hang around and chat, but speaking to rocks really isn't my thing."

And with that he lunged at the troll, swinging his sword.

Swift will leave the building for now as she tries to get behind the female troll or the one holding the nymph. She wonders what trouble the nymph could cause if she was free. she moves along as quickly and quietly as she can as she looks for any hidden enemies.

Swift cuts through the building and continues taking the long way around.

She now has a choice- she can keep going around, or try to make the jump at S-13 that would take her into the fight.  But, jumping might be a little obvious.  She might be seen.  If she does not wish to jump, she can run through the flower patch and keep going around.

Aelasuria’s silence spell does not seem to be working.

The She-troll’s rain falls… but there is a wind, from outside the garden, arriving suddenly.  It is a warm wind with a feel of spring air, and it blows the rain away from Aelasuria and the Water Sprite.

The She-Troll, obviously angered by this, uses her own magic to push the Plague Rain back, and further, sending it against the source of that annoying wind.

Theoderic can saw the blighted rain, and he has an idea that it had some baneful effect.   But the Water Sprite looks alright.  “Help Aelasuria if she needs it,” Theoderic tells Liloo.  “If she falls in the water, get her to safety.”

He looks at the maze-like arrangement of walkways across the Water Garden.  There.. not the way he was going, but the way the fox is going… that is the way to the troll.  A path long enough to build up speed for a jump.  He cuts to the east, following the path Swift took, telling Spica to go the other way and help the others.

Spica arrives to join Karel and Salen, and together they wound the troll, driving it back.

His song still pounding in his ears, Karel switches to his long sword having seen the nearby troll advancing. It felt strange to wield a blade once more, though invigorating. He tumbles around to the rear, trying carefully to avoid sharp rock appendages aimed his way. Keeping the troll distracted on two fronts, Karel aims for opportunistic areas, though he is not quite sure where the vital organs of a rocky troll might reside.

His initial levity gone, Salen is all athletic grace and swordplay as he takes on the troll, apparently lost in the cold concentration of battle. He continues his attack, knowing that time is likely of the essence - there are sprites and a Garden to rescue, and his sister and her husband (The King!) are all putting their lives on the line.

Still, even now an amusing thought strikes him, as they cut the troll.

"Look! A chip off the old block!"

Wind was likely the action of a sylph or of course any being that had that sort of magic at it's finger tips. grimacing as she feels rather ill and concerned that her silence spell didn't take. After all it had been her best bet to cripple the shamaness which likely was by far their most dangerous opponent.

Briefly she tries to spot Spica as she had a feeling she would need magical healing soon enough. Seeing that the troll could make the plague rain move was a disturbing thought. It meant she might be able to make it follow her. Leading it to anyone else wasn't something she wanted to do. Taking cover under the Gazebo would bring her within reach of at least two trolls not a good idea if they could use those claws effectively. Then again maybe she wouldn't want to have the plague rain come down on herself and her tree troll friend.

Pulling out her wand she flies to P 11 in a effort to escape the rain While attempting a dispel magic to put a end to the plague rain. If possible she will follow up unleashing a blue hued lightning bolt on the Shamaness partly to test her defenses.

Swift continues to sneak though the flower beds, so she can get into a position behind the trolls. She looks at what she would have to jump across and doesn't want to take the chance at being seen before she can plant her sword in one of the trolls.

Swift sneaks through flowerbeds... the long way around.

She is not the only one being sneaky.  The Trolls have a tricky one of their own, and she sees it.  It is a muddy, oozy form, but recognizably humanoid, and it is flowing along the channel near her.  Mostly submerged in the water, it is all but invisible, but with her eyes, ears, and very keen nose so close to the ground in Fox form, Swift sees it.

It appears to be ignoring Swift, who is, after all, a Fox.  It is heading for the Nixies.

Theoderic has the opening he's been waiting for.  The She-Troll is dealing with something magical, he's not sure what it is, but her attention is away.  He runs down the walkway and covers the water gap in a leap... and he is now right in the middle of Trolls, she trolls, Nymph, and Nixies.  And one Celestial Giant Eagle, fighting some kind of odd troll-thing.

Spica, Salen, and Karel press against the Rock Troll.  It is a strong creature, but the nature of the battlefield works against it.  It is not very graceful, and as it whirls around to deal with Karel, maneuvering around it, it stumbles and lands in the water.  It doesn’t look happy and immediately starts working its way out.

Aelasuria gets her second wind, but still feels very ill.  She uses Dispel Magic against the female troll’s spell  and destroys it. 

Aelasuria is about to follow through with a Lightening Bolt, but then... Theoderic is right there.  She sees the face of the female troll.. and it seems Elf and Troll are about to hurl spells at each other.

Liloo the Nixie tears through the water towards his fellow Nixies, shouting at them.  “This is our moment!  Do something!  We must do whatever we can!”

OOC: I didn't think it would be possible to jump the gap in metal armor, otherwise I'd have done it myself! Oh well. Here's hoping Theo survives until we get there. :D

A slash, a swipe, a crushing blow against a stony knee - Salen worked the lumbering troll as best he could, using his smaller size and greater speed as best he could. His sword flicked this way and that, and with Karel and Spica providing similar distractions from different directions they soon had the troll in far more of a tangle than it could have anticipated. Time to press on.

"Quick! Let us join Theo, with all haste. We can deal with this vile creature later, but we must aid the sprites now!"

Salen races around to the central area, as fast as his legs will take him.

"Agreed. The shamaness is the true threat!"

Karel scans the sky briefly for the poison rain. Afterwards he keeps his eyes front, lest he should slip along the path and fall into the water as he sprinted towards the central area.

She hesitates pulling her wand back not wanting to hit Theo with the magic. Keeping a Eye on the battlefield she remains alert for other trolls. So far they had the stone troll, the tree troll and the shamaness. There is at least one other troll out there maybe two they had to worry about.

Instead for now she attacks with Magic missile to press the Shamaness as hard as possible. Flying in closer she will land casting Mirror image if the opportunity presents itself. The idea to cause frustration and confusion in hopes of keeping the trolls busy and distracted.

PM

The Celestial Eagle tears into the "pet" thing defending it's mistress, killing it.  The female troll spell caster is enraged by this, and instead of attacking Aelasuria, destroys the summoned Eagle with bolts of greenish force.

This gives Aelasuria more than enough opportunity to blast the troll witch with magic missiles... but it will take more than that to bring the creature down.  The Troll witch turns back to face Aelasuria after dealing with the eagle, but now, there are multiple Aelasurias as the Mirror Image spell kicks in.

Meanwhile, Liloo inspires the Nixies to attack, to help out Theoderic, who is attacking a troll who looks part plant.  The plant-troll kicks aside the Nymph to lunge into battle.

On the other side, Karel and Salen, along with Spica, leave behind a wounded Rock Troll, which struggles to get up out of the water.  There are times when being made of 800 pounds of rock works against you.

Swift continues on her long, circuitous route.  She sees a forth troll!  This one looks like it is made of mud, and is a little slow to join the battle.  Apparently it was asleep in the southwest gazebo, and now, with great slopping sounds from its footsteps, it stomps out to join the battle.  The other troll she spotted, in the water, moves to attack the Nixies.



This message was last edited by the GM at 16:25, Sat 14 Sept 2013.

Just before swift slips into the water to swim to the other side, she ask the fae to light up the troll in the water so hopefully the Nixies will see it. She then tries to swim over to the other island. It has taken her long to get around then she thought.

Salen continues his path around to the central platform and now he can join Theoderic and co in fighting the head troll (or what he hopes is the head troll, but it looks that way). He comes running silently so that he might gain something resembling a surprise attack.

Karel quickly sheathes his sword and pulls his bow and arrows, hiding himself in the large bushes nearby. Calm yourself, he thinks. Feel this place, as if you have always known it. Breathe in the scent of the flowers and water, make them your strength. Strike true!

He nocks an arrow and looses it at the shamaness. Another. As many as he can, he shoots while pinpointing her vital organs. He hoped it would be prove fruitful with the shamaness distracted to the east with the many copies of Aelasuria.

If she can Aelasuria takes aim on the water troll giving it a taste of lightning. That might persuade it to leave the sprites be or at least let them know it's coming. She would also warn them of the danger. "Water sprites Behind you." This of course will only happen if and when she see's the troll.

If not she Decides to use grease on the rock troll once it's in range. With any luck it would slide into the water and be kept occupied for a while unable to help in the battle. In due time she gives the shamaness another taste of magical missiles determined to keep her busy in the hopes of giving Salen, karel and Spica a free shot at her back. Though they might arrive well before she can do that.

Swift has completed a very long circuitous scurrying tour of the Water Garden.  Her little paws have taken her all the way around to Troll Witch’s Gazebo.  The Troll Witch is aware that she has opponents in all directions, now, but still, she igores Swift.  Just a Fox, how bad could it be?

Swift’s incorporeal Fey allies send a glowing rainbow of light to surround the Water Troll, and the, not entirely sure which troll Swift meant, they send another to outline the Mud Troll.  Unexpexctedly, it slows the ponderous mud-troll, as it pauses to wonder what is going on.

The glowing Water Troll seizes one of the Nixies.  It is not quite sure what to do from here.  Its favorite attack is to drag something underwater and drown it.  Dim witted though it may be, it knows that will not work on a Nixie.  So it just uses the Nixie as a club, smashing the unfortunate fey against the ground.

The other Nixies turn to help it.  They are desperate, but they are not very strong.

Spica turns suddenly, to hold off approaching trolls.  “They are trapping us!” the Unicorn says.

Salen joins in with Theoderic’s attack.  Now being hit from both sides, the “Tree Troll” slashes around with great woody arms and legs, one arm sprouting giant thorns, making it seem like a mace.  It manages to injure both Theoderic and Salen, but not severely.  Then it gets tripped up by the Nymph.  The two warriors are able to seize the momentary advantage, and the creature collapses.

Aelasuria finally has an opening, and sends a Lightening Bolt at the Troll Witch.

The Troll Witch has some ancient, strange spells at her disposal and one of them is entitled “Feel my pain!”.  It’s not well known among “civilized” folk- a wizard is generally near allies and protectors.  But for a spell caster that simply does not care… the spell shunts some of the damage the caster receives to anyone nearby.  Theoderic, the Nymph, Salen all feel a shock from Aelasuria’s attack… and if there was any life left to the Troll recently slain by Salen and Theoderic, there isn’t anymore, because it takes a shock from the attack as well.

Able to send half the damage from the bolt away from her, the Troll Witch survives the lightening bolt… but it is also wounded by an arrow from Karel.

Swift finally gets close to the Troll Witch, while the Troll Witch is watching Aelasuria fly past to “Grease” the rock troll.  The Troll Witch is clearly hurting, but is eager for the chance to hurt a pretty Elf.

"If you really want to hurt a pretty elf I'm sorry, but you'll have to make do with me rather than my sister. I'm sorry, gentlemanly etiquette, and all that."

Salen turns away from the downed troll and proceeds to assail the Witch, swinging his sword in menacing fashion. He doesn't mind drawing the attacks so others can land more telling attacks.

With the attention of the witch troll busy, she turns to her human form and tries to stab the troll in the back. She stays quiet as she does it. If nothing else, it will draw her attention to her to allow someone else to get her on the other side.

(ooc-1:40, Today: Swift rolled 23 using 1d20+8. Short sw.
21:40, Today: Swift rolled 5 using 1d6+2. dam.
21:41, Today: Swift rolled 9 using 3d6. backstab.

Accustomed to firing with allies in melee, no, preferring it, Karel takes full advantage of the distraction and continues to volley arrows at the troll's exposed vitals. His song still rings in his ears, causing him to focus intently and fire with extreme precision. He hoped to cut the leadership before the other trolls caught up to them, occasionally glancing backwards to take notice of their approach.

Aelasuria cries out in pain shocked by the unexpected feedback of magic. She was taken aback that it seemed to have injured just about anyone else in the immediate area as well. Aelasuria realizes she's just seen some new form of magic she has never seen before. using her skills she tries to determine if there is any further threat from that particular spell the witch troll had cast.

Hearing Spica call out that they are being surrounded she considers using web to slow yet another troll down. Though it's probably to late as Spica has already spun around to delay it's approach. There was also the concern of the mud troll as she looks horrified that it's using a water sprite as a club on whatever happens to be nearby. The question was could she persuade it that it had better things to do then attack the sprites.

Aelasuria unleashes magical missiles at the Mud Troll trying to get it's attention. She would have to hope that The others would bring the witch troll down and that Spica would be fine at least for now. Although she will keep in mind the possibility of using web if it will prove effective and the sprites are safe. "Hey stupid Mud troll!" It wasn't much of a insult even if it's true the troll is dim witted. Still it might get angry and come at her which would buy the sprites a little time.

The Troll-Witch stomps about, reacting to the threats around her, and calls her three remaining minions in to defend her, and they converge.  Or at least, they try.
Frustrated, the Troll-Witch considers hurling another spell.

But Swift has arrived, and the Prismatic Fey told her, once, their magic aura is a powerful defense against magical attacks.  The Troll Witch sends a charge of flickering energy into her fingers.  When she tries to claw at the oncoming Swift, though, the energy in one hand fades and dies.

With her other great clawed hand she scoops up the Nymph, hoping for a hostage.  The Nymph cries out and slumps down, and as Karel’s arrow hits the Troll-With, she is dropped back to the floor.  The Nymph drags herself out of the way, looking exhausted, and frightened, but also, relieved, because help is here and it looks like the help is winning.  And they’ve brought a Unicorn.  Or perhaps the Unicorn brought them.  There is no better way of saying “we’re the good guys!” than to bring a Unicorn, because a Unicorn will never be selfish or cruel, and every creature in the forest knows it.

The Rock Troll’s approach has been slowed by the Grease Spell.  It knows already that these paths can be tricky for the large, heavy, and clumsy.  Bit it makes steady progress.

Aelasuria’s Magic Missiles hit the Mud Troll- bits of slimy mud splatter as the creature is wounded.  Spica’s horn hits too- but the Mud Troll seems resistant to physical damage.  Or at least, when pierced, it muddy body flows back to seal the wound, almost instantly.  The Unicorn is frustrated.  How can she fight a creature like this?  And if it is not stopped…

“Karel, behind you!”  Spica warns, as the Mud Troll presses forwards.

On the other side of the battle...
Theoderic looks up at the sound of Aelasuria’s cry.  His first instinct tells him he must get to her.  But he can’t, and he can’t get to the Troll Witch.  Between Kalen’s arrows, and the more direct attack by Salen and Swift, it’s too busy there.  And they have it well in hand, it seems.  With a flash of rainbow light, Swift’s weapon hits the Troll Witch.  The creature staggers, and breaths hoarsely.  She is having trouble with so many skilled opponents at once.  So Theoderic helps out the Nixies, attacking the water troll.

The Water Troll finally has an air breathing opponent.  It lunges at Theoderic, and pulls him in… but the water is not that deep at this point.  His feet touch bottom only about four feet down.  He can still fight.  And he is joined by the Nixies, who swarm around, keeping the Water Troll from pulling Theoderic’s head under.

At the entrance to the Water Garden, heads peak in.  Cirrus, Ayren, and a pair of Elves are there, and they want to see what’s happening.  One of the Elves sends an arrow flying across the garden, hitting the Rock Troll squarely.  But the Elven arrow merely breaks against the creature’s skin.

Hard to tell if you're even close to winning against these abominable creatures, thinks Salen to himself in mid-fight, best to just keep swinging. And so he does, for all he is worth. Swift and her Prismatic Fey are proving most useful once again, and perhaps - perhaps - they are gaining the upper hand. He kept on swinging his sword at the Witch, relentlessly.

Swift just grins "OK fat one, lets see what you look like inside" she says as she stabs at the troll witch again.

(ooc- Today: Swift rolled 30 using 1d20+10. Short sw. Yay, natural 20
Today: Swift rolled 8 using 1d6+4. damage )

Seeing that the a witch troll is slow but sure being overwhelmed she thought Swift and the others had her well in hand. "Don't use magic on the Witch troll if you can help it she's got a spell up that will reflect a fair portion of the damage back on all who are around her." granted she was probably one of the few that used pure magic here still why take a chance?

As the battle has drawn on she's started to use up a good portion of her battle magic. She still had a few tricks left. She wanted to help Theo not liking him having to fight a water troll in the water one bit. Then there was the problem that Spica could end up facing two trolls alone which was far to dangerous for her she thought. The rock troll was already hurt from facing Spica, Karel and Salen earlier. Perhaps she could even the odds a little.

Flying behind the troll and a bit above it at H-12 she warns Spica just in case. "Spica step back now!" Then unleashes a lovely purple hued lightning bolt that hopefully would strike two trolls. With any luck perhaps one of them would drop. The thought was to send it towards the chest and shoulder level of the taller trolls for added safety. As well as in front of Spica as she has no intention of hitting her friend!

She also considers trying something unusual if the rock troll is still up. If she uses tensors floating disk under one of the rock trolls feet as it is coming down. Just maybe she can yank it forward and up causing the troll to slide violently forward along the grease and into the troll Spica was fighting. As heavy as it is both would hopefully go down in a tangle of limbs and it might hurt. A moot point of course if it's to late or the rock troll crumbles. She keeps half a eye on Theo in case he needs her help.

Karel heeds Spica's warning and brandishes his blade once more. He could not possibly stand aside sniping while a unicorn, and one he barely knew at that, defended him. He lunges into battle, dancing around the trolls as best as he could.

OOC: If Aelasuria's attack took down the rock troll, Karel would attack the other in similar fashion.

Moving towards the already wounded rock troll, Karel feints left and comes down hard on the troll's exposed side, hoping the dim-witted fool fell for the trick.

00:01, Today: Karel rolled 27 using 1d20+10. feint.

"Spica, pull back, but only slightly. We have to keep from being boxed in until the shamaness is out of commission!"

Karel continues to scan the sky for any more signs of poison rain. If we get pushed together and the witch conjures something like that again, we're done for.

Swift's attack is fierce, and accompanied by a dazzling rainbow burst of light.  Along with Aelasuria's lightning bolt, quite a light show in the water garden.  If they weren't fighting for their lives, the Nixies would be sitting back among the water lilies saying "Ooooooh!".

Swift disembowels the Troll Witch, even as the Troll Witch struggles to claw her.  Yes, they smell worse on the inside than the do on the outside.  Swift is scratched up, but the Troll Witch is finished.

Spica backs up in a hurry.  It is normally not an easy thing for a hoofed creature to do, but Unicorns have an uncanny agility.  Just to be sure, she keeps her horn pointed at the Mud Troll.  Spica was dismayed at how quickly the Mud Troll healed itself from puncture wounds, but Unicorns do not have a wide choice of weapons.  The Rock Troll was already injured by Karel and Salen.  The Lightning Bolt finishes it off, and pieces of rocky troll hide fly apart.

There is a lot of splashing in the water, as the Water Troll fights with Theoderic and the Nixies.  It cannot drown the Nixies, but it tries to pull Theoderic underwater.  He gets unexpected help- the Nymph, battered and bruised, syill has some power, and fills the water around him with life sustaining airy bubbles.  A moment later, Theoderic and the Nixies turn the tide, beating back the Water Troll.

The Mud troll is struck by lightning, and by Karel, but it is still alive.  It slaps at both of them, and hits both, giving strong, stinging slaps, and as Karel learns a moment later... sticky slaps.  The Mud Troll is trying to pull him into its chest!

Her lush silky red hair flows out behind her while flying from one point to another. Coming to a halt her red hair briefly frames her face before it falls back to her delicate elfin shoulders. Sheathing her wand Aelasuria takes a deep breath this was a fairly intense battle. Not like a army as that was on a whole different level. Still the combat was especially fierce for those caught up in the Melee. She was grateful that none of her companions had fallen.It was a relief to see that the Nymph seemed to be all right if a bit battered and bruised. Salen, Theo, swift as well as herself all had their injuries. A good rest and perhaps a healer would be nice after the dust settles.

Karel seemed to need a bit of help as she didn't like what the mud troll seemed to have in mind. The problem was she had precious little magic left that would hurt it. She could try to bake it with fire the only problem was that would probably get Karel too. Hardly a desired outcome. Freezing it might work too although that magic wasn't as reliable as she would like. "The mud troll seems to be very resistant to piercing weapons. Do the best you can I am not sure what will work on it best."

Magical missiles she felt would be ineffective against the mud troll. Instead she uses them on the water troll in hopes of taking it down and freeing Theo from the aquatic struggle. After that things would get interesting. Melee wasn't her specialty unfortunately though she was starting to run low on options.

Swift strikes deeply at the troll even as she is clawed. She shivers as the claws strike her and then almost throws up when she smells the foul smell of the inside of the troll. As the troll falls she steps back, trying to get out of the way.

She looks around to see if she is needed anywhere else even though she is shaken from the clawing the overwhelming smell.

The Witch down and her innards splayed all over the ground - Salen thanks his hardy constituion for keeping his breakfast down - it is time to pick another foe. There are many against the Mud Troll, and poor Theo is performing quite the flapping duck impersonation down in the water, so perhaps it would be better to aid the King. Salen moves to the water's edge and uses his sword against the Watery Troll.

Karel pulls hard, twisting his sword around with his wrist and hoping that he could at least make it more difficult to hold onto him.

"No way...erf...that I'm giving in to a pile of mud!"

He was growing weary and his adrenaline fading. Even so, he continues to pull with all his strength. Spotting the water nearby he makes that his goal, edging in that direction in hopes that the water might loosen the sticky grasp of the mud troll.

The body of the Witch Troll slumps on the floor.  In life, it was a gruesome thing of warty skin the color of old pickles.   In death it is even worse.  Swift makes sure it’s dead before looking around… Trolls can be tricky about that.

Meanwhike, Aelasuria has turned her attention to one of the two remaining Trolls, the “Water Troll”.  It doesn’t really seem to be made of water, but rather, a fluid ooze that under the right light can look like muddy water.  Theoderic is busy chopping off parts of it with his sword, and then  Salen arrives to help, hitting it from the other side.  It’s hard to gauge success.  The nature of the Troll’s body allows it to reform itself each physical hit, but as it is hit again and again it seems to have more and more trouble doing that.  Finally, it looks as if it has forgotten one of its arms… and then Aelasuria’s magic missile attack takes its toll.

The Water Troll too, is defeated, and a tired Theoderic pulls himself out of the water, to be swarmed over by Nixies and Nymph, grateful for help and worried that he is injured.  He reassures them that he is wet, tired, but otherwise fine, and redirects them to the last troll.

The Mud Troll.

Dull witted as they are, Trolls know when things are going badly.  The Mud Troll is wounded by Karel, and gives him a hard muddy fling towards the ground, letting go and trying to flee.

Spica hits the Mud Troll from behind.  Like the water troll, it heals quickly, but also seems to be tiring out and losing the ability to do so.  Hurting, the Troll tries to escape.

"Ah, not so fast, you mobile rockery! Your friends felt compelled to stay and enjoy the party to the end - I insist you do likewise!"

Salen jumps aboard the merry-go-round once more, and this time moves from the water's edge and across to the mud troll, slipping between the slopped heap that is Karel...

"Brown is the new black? Who knew?!"

...and Spica, and bringing his trusty sword to bear on the Mud Troll. He joins in the last Troll-bashing, thrusting and slashing and cutting this way and that. The more the merrier.

Swift takes a deep breath as she stands near the troll with her sword in her hand. She might need to jump into the water again just to get the foul smell off of her.

Bruised and battered, Karel dares not engage in melee once more.

"No. You will not escape to return for the nixies. You will pay for your deeds in this garden, today!"

Nocking an arrow in his shortbow rapidly, he sends it flying at the mud troll, then kneels to catch his breath.

Aelasuria Pulls her long sword a slender blade meant for a elf. She is prepared to cast spells still as it is a last resort. Flying down to Theo She rests one hand on his cheek for a moment smiling at him as her silky red hair blows in the wind. She was very grateful that he is all right. "Thank you for helping Theo. It was very brave of all of you. Let's finish this Theo."

She moves in unison with Theo prepared to enter the fight at his side. Keeping a eye on things she trusted the others to bring the mud troll down. However if opportunity presents and it's needed she would attack it herself. her hand drops to her wand gauging what is going on and trying to decide if it was safe to try.

The Mud troll is both outnumbered and trapped... but the nature of the Water Garden limits the number who can attack a foe at once.  The "islands" of the garden are narrow and lack any kind of railing along the side.  And with the mud on the ground, it can be slippery.

Salen are behind the troll, although Salen's weapon seems better suited to the troll.  Spica seems disturbed.  A Unicorn's horn is a renowned magical weapon able to pierce the scales of a Dragon.  The idea that something as loathsome as this troll is simply able to flow back together after being punctured... not good.  Spica drops back to let Theoderic join the battle.

And then Spica sees Aelasuria.

"You look pale!" the Unicorn says.  Being an Elf, Aelasuria is normally pale, so what the Unicorn meant...

Aelasuria is still ill from the Plague Rain spell.

The Nixies quickly retrieve their weapons from the Gazebo where the Troll witch impounded them, hoping to create a "second front".

But there is no need.  Both swords slice at the Mud Troll, and while pointy weapons don't seem to bother it much, bladed weapons, which slice off parts and send glops of quivering muddy troll flesh to the floor, are very effective.

Very quickly the last Troll is no more.

 From the entrance, Cirrus, Ayren the Elven Healer, and the two Elf warriors enter the garden, looking about for more signs of trouble.

Aelasuria grimaces slightly looking rather ill once the battle is over. After all she no longer needed to keep up a strong front for Theo. Whom she didn't want worrying more about her then winning the battle against the wicked trolls. "I don't feel well at all Spica. I think it's the magic the Troll witch cast early on in the battle. That rain was truly horrible. I think I might have a fever."

She lightly leans on Spica for support speaking softly. "Are you all right spica? Those trolls were rather unpleasent weren't they? Theo I hope your fine too. Most of us were injured in one way or another during that battle. I think Karel could really use some help. Someone should heal the poor nymph as well. She came to Theo's aid despite being badly hurt." She notes that he has gone to his knees with a look of concern.

She waves weakly to Cirrus as well glad to see their young charge is all right. "Thank you Cirrus for helping with that wind. That was you wasn't it?" Well it could have been someone else though she had a feeling it had been Cirrus. Sheathing her sword Aelasuria rests her hand on her wand just in case. "I am pretty sure we got all of them. Still we should be careful. Be wary of any treasure you might find the troll witch might have put some nasty magic in place as a trap."

Swift looks around and wonders out loud. "So, should we burn all the trolls? I don't want them coming back or anything. I figure we want to make sure they are destroyed. I want to make sure we got everything evil here."

Karel breathes heavily and nurses his shoulder while walking over to Liloo and the other sprites. He places his hand on Liloo's shoulder.

"It is good you are well, friend. And you as well, Nixies! You are free, as is this garden. Is there further purification that we must do to cleanse the taint from this site? I would play a tune for rejoicing but...perhaps later."

As his sword hacks great pieces off the troll and sends it to it's doom Salen inwardly exults, but his face shows no emotion. It is only a moment or three later that he visibly relaxes and returns to something like his normal demeanour. Then he quickly turns about to check that everyone - Theo, Aela, Swift, Karel, Spica, the Nixies, etc - is alive and well. And if not well, then at least alive.

Turning to the gate he can see Ayren and the others arrive through the gate, and he waves.

"Ayren! We could use your skills over here! We have taken some hard blows, and Aelasuria is struck with some troll plague - anything you can do?"

He will check with the Nixies later, but for now he heads into the cabins and huts that the Trolls were using, to check for anything - or anyone - left there.

They look over the carnage.  There are the dead Trolls.. and one of the Nixies was beat so badly by a Troll that he is close to death.  Spica gives this poor creature the priority of her healing horn, as Ayren arrives to take care of the others.  Swift arranges for the burning of Trolls- which is very difficult, as a few of them are quite wet.  Trolls have figured out their weakness to fire, and more and more, they prefer to live around water, the more, the better.

And Aelasuria is sick.  Worried, Theoderic puts his arm around her.

“Can you do anything for her?” Theoderic asks the Unicorn.

“We can cast away any poison or impurity, and heal wounded flesh, but we cannot cure sickness,” Spica says.

Aelasuria is not the only one.  Cirrus has the same ailment.  Only, when she sneezes, the breeze can be felt 50 feet away, and the leaves in the trees rustle.

But Ayren Stargem, an experienced healer, is on the case.

“It is not a simple illness, but a plague brought by dark magic,” Ayren says.  “And it can be spread like any plague.”  She looks at Theoderic, with his arm protectively around Aelasuria.  He does nothing.  Ayren gives a small “move away” gesture.  But he’d rather not move, at the moment.

“I can make a broth, and that, with my magic, should drive it away overnight,” Ayren says.  “But they must both rest.  Is there a good place?”

The Nixies volunteer their cabin, which Salen goes to check out.


Aside from the four dead Trolls and the Troll Witch, there is a fifth creature, of a kind no one has seen before, not even Spica.  It’s the thing that fought Aelasuria’s Celestial Eagle.  It looks somewhat like an enormous rat, with skin like a Troll, large enough to be over four feet tall when it say on its haunches.

“What is it?” Theoderic asks the Nixies, figuring they might know.

“The Troll Witch’s Pet,” says one of the Nixies, Glibby.  “It would go out sometimes, finding things.  She has more.  I think they are out.”

“Will they come back?”

“I don’t know.”

Salen checks the main cabin.  Swift and Theoderic ran through it before, but had not time to stop and examine.  There are four large nests of straw here, much too big for a bird.   Big enough for one of those “pets”.

And there are some other furnishings here.  Beds, a table, a mirror.  A large brass rack for cloaks and coats.

He finds some things in a closet:

A suit of finely made scale and leather armor, with lots of beadwork.  It seems Elven.
A polished but simply made staff of ash wood, with metal caps on the ends.

A small bag with some coins and a few gems.  The coins are “Red Gold”, a Copper-Gold alloy that, according to what they know of these things, was produced in Lucimburic because they needed some coins in between Gold and Copper, and Silver is taboo for them.

Looking at Theo Aelasuria smiles warmly at him with a appreciative look at his protective concern. "Its all right Theo. Ayren is right it's best if you don't get sick as well. We will need you to watch over us while we rest and recover. You can bring us food, protect us from danger and of course keep us company. Why don't you help the wounded gather in a safe place. Then you can lead the others in setting up proper defenses if we are stuck here. If all else fails I can cast my secure hut spell."

She gives Cirrus a sympathetic look knowing how she feels right now. "I regret that you also were hit by that nasty magic Cirrus. Thank you very much for helping with your wind."

"We should give all the wounded shelter and a place to rest as well. Though the nymph likely will prefer her natural home be that the river, grassy field or  other place of her choice." She watches Salen bravely going ahead to check out the cabin. "Brother you should have your wounds treated as well if your hurt."

Seeing the unnatural rodent she was at a loss as to what it might be. "Do you think it's from another plane? We should assume that they will and that they will attack. Hopefully they are not particularly intelligent or magical." Aelasuria covers her mouth as she coughs feeling a bit dizzy.

As much as she would like to help the wounded that need assitance moving Aelasuria stays away. Being sick she hardly wanted to make matters worse. Instead she takes Cirrus's hand walking into the cabin since it appears to be safe for now. "We should rest cirrus. Hot soup and a bed is probably best short of Ayren's magic."

"These...rat-like things..." Salen asks of Glibby, the Nixie. "Is there a particular archway through which they enter and leave the Garden? Or did you see which one they last left by? I will take up watch next to whichever one you say.

And there are some items in the cabins. If we cannot find owners for them, then there is a suit or armor in there I would wish to lay claim to - providing it is better than my own."

Salen assures Aelasuria that he is fine, then pats Ayren on the shoulder as he passes - he is sure she is well, but best left to her work at this time. Although...

"Do you need anything right now? I can fetch things - within reason - before I take up position, if you say the word."

Ayren looks at Theoderic.  “You are also very wet,” the Elven healer says.  This is true.  He is, in fact, soaked, and part of a large water lily plant is draped over one shoulder.   The Nixies and the Nymph didn’t say anything, they thought he looked quite stylish like that.

There are many here, because  Nymphs love water lilies.  They always have.  (This is why, in the real world, the scientific name for Water Lilies is Nymphaeaceae. )

Theoderic nods to the overwhelming logic, and Ayren goes about setting up her “field clinic”.  She needs little help from Salen and the others, other than getting a fire started.

”I’ve never been sick in years,” Cirrus says as she follows Aelasuria.  “This is terrible.”

The Nixies, the Nymph, and the Unicorn begin the task of cleaning up.  Spica seems to have an uncanny knack for this, but then, most Unicorns do.  Where they walk, their hooves never so much as crush the tiniest, frailest plant.  And where they linger, everything seems a little healthier, and more beautiful.  Already some of the water lilies seem a little bigger and brighter than they just were.

Salen looks at the armor he found.

Knowing a little bit of wizardry, and being an Elf with many years of experience with these things, Salen can tell that not only is the armor better than his own, it is magical.  And not just in the “enhanced” way- it has some potent spells woven into it.  He’s not sure yet what they are, but the feel of the armor is possibly a hint: not slippery but smooth and slick, and it has a strange tendency to slide out from his fingers when he tries to grasp it.

Swift works on burning the trolls. She would have preferred to drag them out of the garden but that is beyond her. She finds the best spot she can to do the burning and just piles what fuel she can get on the of the trolls.

After helping build the fire and tidy a few things up, Salen returns to an investigation of the armor. And this is no ordinary suit, this is seriously enhanced armor, very rare. In face, he is initially unsure as to what he might do with it, especially when it is so...evasive.

"What is the worst that could happen? Apart from the obvious, of course..." he says, to himself. "But what if those...rat-things return? Better be prepared."

And with that he removes his trusty old armor and dons the new, however much he has to fiddle and fumble and manouver it to get it on.

"This may come in useful the next time I'm home in Geneva, when debt collectors and old girlfriends come a-calling."

He glances to Ayren, just in case she has looked up from her administrations, and smiles.

"Just kidding."

"Give me a little time I might be able to identify the magical items and perhaps shed some light on the nature of the rat things. I don't feel well, even so I think I can still be useful."

Looking pale, drawn and not at all well Aelasuria struggles to examine the rat thing. Then turns her attention to identifying the magical items Salen had found. However she is briefly at least distracted from this by Theo's condition. "Theo Ayren is right you need to change into a dry set of clothing. If you have caught a chill warm up by a fire. We should all rest as well as soon as we can. Still I want to take a moment to see if I can help with this even if I have to do it from a bed."

She gives Cirrus a sympathetic look gently giving her a hug. "I regret that your feeling ill Cirrus. Let's hope that it passes quickly." Then to Salen when she sees what her brother is up to! "Salen please don't put that on. If it's cursed your going to have a very hard time till we find a way to remove it. However if he's determined she's in no shape to stop him.

If salen permits she looks over the armor casting a spell if it's needed in order to identify it. Next is the staff which is of particular interest as it could be clerical which meant healing. If it was wizardly in nature it would still prove useful. Then looking at the coins. <blue> "I think these are electrum. I wonder if one of the were folk passed through here recently."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:14, Tue 08 Oct 2013.

Karel smiles tiredly. "We have done great good here today. We are blessed with the company of friends, and ones capable of soothing this malady."

He turns to Aelasuria and the others wrought with this rapid onset of illness. "I feel your pain, and only wish it were mine to bear in your place. Thank Her Grace that aid has arrived with such alacrity."

Feeling rather worn out himself, Karels rests in the shallow water near the gazebo, leaning up against it. He leaves his fiddle stowed and instead conjures himself a lute, feeling it more fitting at this time. Leaving the others to take in the surroundings he relies on what he is best at. Sinking against the gazebo Karel lays amidst water and land comfortably, strumming a tune to alleviate the adrenaline and rush of battle. He hoped to help comfort the wounded and ill, including himself, and perhaps to soothe the spirit of the Meuse as well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SGUo2GI19M

It is hard to get the trolls to burn, since they are not very flammable and the party is not well equipped with flammable substances- and also, it’s wet around here- but with some effort, they get the trolls burned.  The Nixies, Nymph and Unicorn stay as far as possible from the pyre.  They cannot stand the odor of burning troll.

Instead, very quickly, all of the Nixies and Geula the Nymph gather around Karel.  The music attracts them.  They have not heard music in a long time, and it fills a deep void.   Karel has a captive audience.

While recovering from Troll Witch Plague, and slurping some soup, Aelasuria does her best to figure out the Troll Rats and the nature of the items Salen found.

The spell on the armor Salen recovered seems straightforward enough, and is given away by its physical manifestation- the slick surface of the armor.  The magic of the armor enables him to resist being grabbed, grappled, entangled, or otherwise physically held.  It might also be interesting to slide down a hill wearing the armor.  (+5 to resist any of those things)

The staff, according to her knowledge and identification, is called the Staff of Traveling.  In addition to boosting one’s speed, it allows one to travel longer without resting, carry a heavier burden while traveling, and gives a bonus to balance checks.  And, it is a magic weapon as well.  A handy thing to travel around with.

The coins can be identified quite easily by Swift, who is a native of Lucimburic.  As she knows well (and the others recall), all of Lucimburic has a strong taboo against silver.  Some say it is because silver is sacred to Arduinna, who is both moon and forest goddess, and the moon is silver, and that is why Lycanthropes can be harmed by silver.  But whatever the case, it’s only natural that a nation of Lycanthropes might dislike silver.  So, they alloyed copper and gold to produce an intermediate coinage.  The result was an exceptionally lustrous and shiny bronze colored coin worth a quarter of a gold piece.  The party now has 360 of them.

Looking to Karel Aelasuria nods with a smile despite being ill. "Thank you Karel." While working she listens to the music in the background. She liked having a bard with them music was something she loved and it was nice to have it even when they were traveling. Which was one of the reasons she missed the bard from Lucimburic. Cirrus was in no condition to sing right now either. Though she could be wrong it depended on how the illness worked in each of them.

She was rather surprised by the armor speaking softly to her brother. "It really is a strange set of armor. I have never seen anything like it Salen. It appears to be some sort of cross between free movement and a grease spell. If someone attempts to grapple with you they will find you incredibly slippery giving you the advantage. I think spells like entangle, web and perhaps even slow might not work on you. You  resistance to those sort of things are greatly enhanced. Be careful though if you fall down you might slide about wildly and that can be dangerous if there is a cliff or stairs nearby."

When she looks over the staff Aelasuria perks up a little with a touch of excitement. "Oh this one is useful. It's a staff of Traveling. You would walk, or ride faster, travel longer without resting, carry greater weight then you normally could, and enhances your sense of balance. Your a lot less likely to trip and I assume if you had to do something dangerous like walk a narrow branch, or edge your way along a narrow cliff ledge you would be less likely to fall. Finally it's a magic weapon so it will hit and harm monsters that require such enchantments to hit. It's perfect for someone that needs to get from one place to another quickly. For example Cirrus as a messenger could benefit from it. Though it's true anyone in our group could also benefit from it greatly. If I run out of spells a magical staff is better then my mundane one. I think the staff is best suited for Cirrus with the possible exception of combat if she isn't trained with a staff."

Pausing she continues with a touch of interest. "Is anyone wishing to claim the staff aside from Cirrus whom I think could use it well or myself? Theo What do you wish to do with the Coins? Unless it's going to the treasury to fund the war against the Huns and help people I would suggest a even split with the exception of anyone who got a magical item."

Swift gets the trolls burning as much as she can. She wishes she could drag in some more wood or had some oil.

She helps where she can and does let everyone know about the coins. She does admit, she prefer not to handle silver.

Theoderic is not far from Aelasuria.  He is outside the little cabin- Ayren has forbidden him (and the others) from entering the “sick ward” this evening.  But he stays close, in case Aelasuria needs something.  He agrees with awarding the staff to Cirrus.

Cirrus gives a little sneeze, which sounds delicate and ladylike and yet has the force of a noticeable gust of wind throughout the little cabin being used as “sick ward”.

“Thank you,” Cirrus says.  She is very happy about the staff.  It is more than just a magic tool for her.  It is a sign that her role is being taken seriously, and not just as a way to appease a silly girl.

“And the coins,” Theoderic says, “are no great treasure, but we shall put them to good use.  Sooner or later, I have no doubt.  The gems, we should use for some wise investment.  I have no doubt that we will have a need for that as well.”

Meanwhile, after being entertained by Karel for a while, the Nymph requests that he keep playing, while she tells a tale.  She doesn’t sing a song, it’s simply, she wants the sound while she speaks.  The Nymph's voice is like a song itself, and she could rival Cirrus's, if she wished to sing.  But she doesn't.  She talks.

Geula tells a tale…

“Long ago,  Mosanna and Belenus did befriend each other in the pools of Aquae Grannis.  Of that union fifteen nymphs were born, daughters of gods.    Nine remain now.   There came Humans who called Belenus by a new name, Apollo, and seeking to honor Apollo, they built a great temple over Aquae Grannis so that humankind could come and revere him.  Only then did they learn that in honoring our father they besmirched our mother, who would have wanted the pools kept.

“In apology, in the human fashion, did they build us this place, and it was to be a home and refuge for us, and also a marker, for no Human would claim the water in sight of the Water Garden, or upstream of it.  It was made to be a place of beauty where we could gather, because at times our father would come to sing and play his lyre for us.  Apollo is the god of music, and the clouds themselves stop to hear when sings and plays.  Gifts humankind brought here to honor us, and knowing how we loved our father’s music, fine instruments were among them.

“All our things were taken away, because the Troll Witch  wanted to see us sad.  Most things were taken far from here.  There are some she hid here, to show us on occasion and tease us and command us.  Those we will find and they will be ours again.  But others were taken away, as tribute to those she called her allies.  I ask you, if you should our lyre, it is set with ivory and pearls, and it carries some of the gift of Apollo, since he played it once, and such is the might of the God of Music that when he plays an instrument, he has forever left his will upon it.  Such is its enchantment that the musician can place protective magic over listeners.  It is a trophy, now, kept by the Huns in Juliacum.”

A watch is kept for the Troll-Rat things but they do not return.

“They know,” Liloo says.  “Somehow they know.  They know their mistress is dead, and they will carry the word to other masters.”

Every now and then Aelasuria coughs glad for the music outside. Generally being sick is a unpleasant experience. Though one anyone who isn't exceptionally hardy gets used to over their life time. Occasionally coughing she delicately sneezes though without cirrus's amazing effect. "OH it seems you have come into your own with your wind powers cirrus. I wonder if someday you will reclaim your ability to fly."

In due time she hears the story of the nymph rather impressed that the god of music himself had graced this place with his presence. "OH now that would truly have been a wonder to hear that music and that singing just once. With any luck we will recover such a treasure it is truly wasted on evil and orcs. Theo we might have to send out word calling for some to come here and help to guard the water garden. Divine places must be protected since the Hun's seem so preoccupied with destroying or despoiling them in one way or another. I would not want to be the Hun Emperor some gods are not forgiving, vengeful and have long memories. It is not unheard of for divine punishment to be handed down particularly with certain pantheons."

She of course is happy to have a healthy bowl of soup and keeps a eye on cirrus to make certain she gets her fair share of good food. She asks for warmed cloths to place on their heads if they need it. As well as the wiping away of sweat should fevers cause them to perspire. Eventually her eyes drift closed and she actually sleeps a deep healing sleep that hopefully would help her recover. Usually she didn't as elves did things a bit differently.

Eventually Salen manages to get his new armor under control and puts it on. It might take some time to become familiar with, but it is scale armor just like his old set, so shouldn't be that difficult.

When it become clear that the rat-things are never coming back he returns to the central camp, to help with the troll burnning, cloths and soup for the wounded and the ill, and to tidy up and clear the waters and help wherever he is needed. He is pretty much unscathed from all the events and reasonably fresh, to he has energy to spend where others do not.

Later he stands at ease and listens as the Nymph Geula tells her tale, while Karel plays his music in the background. An instrument played by Apollo himself? Salen would very much like to see that, perhaps even play it himself - only for a short time, of course, for it would have to be brought back here.

"I hear Juliacum is lovely this time of year," he says, brightly.

Karel listens in awe, never missing a beat. "That is quite a tale, no wonder I find myself drawn to her so. Is this what you spoke of, Liloo? I could not imagine such a thing."

He continues to play idly, speaking intermittently until the others are ready to rest.

"What is our path now, Liloo? What does she say. I fear I cannot hear her today. Do you hear, Geula?"

"Juliacum is not lovely now," Geula says, hearing Salen.  Nymphs do not get sarcasm. "It is, like so much else, in the hands of Orcs.  A prison they have there, worse than this one, and horrible things are done.  At times, they have take us there.. we do not remember, but horrible, horrible.  We know, because we know, and when we come back we are so weak, like all our strength has left us."

"Geula, they have done enough by freeing us, if you tempt them, they will go on to Juliacum, and then we would be responsible if they do not return," Liloo says.

"It is too late to unsay it," Theoderic says.  "It has been said.  We will move on to Aquae Grannis in the morning, and then, north to Juliacum."

They settle in for a night, with watches posted for the Troll Rat things.  The Nixies help.

Ayren tends her two patients through the night, and during the night, the sickness subsides, beaten down at last by Elven medicine and magic.

Swift settles down and eats. She looks around as they make camp. She also turns into her fox form and checks out the garden for any rates. While on guard, she also does it as a fox and walks around, checking for any enemies. She then sleeps as a fox, curling up near the fire to stay warm.

Morning comes, and Cirrus and Aelasuria feel like their normal selves again.

The Nixies and the Nymph have already made great progress in restoring the beauty of their garden, with the help of Spica.  The flowers look brighter and healthier, and the water looks cleaner.  There is a long way to go, and there is the stench of burned troll in the air.

In the morning Aelasuria stretches lithely feeing much better. She smiles at Ayren speaking softly to her. "Thank you very much for your care. I feel much better and it's obvious that Cirrus feels better as well. Cirrus the water garden is a magical and safe place. If you feel the need to bathe this is probably the place to do it. The plague rain was rather unpleasant."

Aelasuria asks for privacy warning others what she has in mind. If privacy is granted she enjoys the waters of the water garden for at least half a hour swimming as much as bathing. She did love to swim after all! Once clean, changed and feeling herself again Aelasuria begins to make breakfast. recruiting Cirrus to help if she's inclined to do so. She didn't know where swift is at the moment or she would ask her to help too. After all who knows what secrets of cooking that a were-fox might have!  "Let's make pancakes if we have the ingredients and fire is allowed here. I know we have meet... Cirrus do you know if Theo packed any chicken or pheasant eggs?"

Needless to say the smell of cooking food likely soon permeates the air. Possibly ham, bacon, eggs, or pancakes depending on what they have available in their food stores. "Theo!, Salen, Karel, Swift the food is almost ready! Is anyone hungry? Spica I have a few apples for you if you want them!"

If people were in a hurry to move on she would be ready to go right after breakfast. If not she is happy to socilize with the nymphs, water sprites and other inhabitants of the water garden.

The Nixies are fascinated by the concept of cooked breakfast.  They are not afraid of fire... not more than anyone ought to be, at least.  They don't light fires themselves, because they are almost always very wet.  Like all Fey their diets are peculiar and they seem capable of drawing their nourishment directly from the natural world, but food is fun.  Cooking it, though.. that is unique.  The do what they can to add to the meal:  they gather plants from the banks of the Geul brook, nearby.  Fiddlehead Ferns are in season, and the Nixies secure many of them.

Ayren checks out her patients, making sure they are well enough.  Then she checks on the others.

"She looks healthier than you do," she says to Theoderic.  "You should have gotten more sleep.  There was nothing you could do, no reason to stay outside the cabin."

Spica tries the apples, and decides, she like very colorful ones best.  But she will also eat delicate Fiddleheads, and of course, flowers.  Although.. not here.  At least, not until the garden is fully restored, then perhaps some can be spared.

Liloo tries a pancake.

"You are traveling to Aquae Grannis today?"  the Nixie asks.

"That is the plan," Theoderic says.

"It is best to take the valley of Selza.  She is the youngest of the sisters."

"The sisters?"  Theoderic asks.

"The Nymphs.  Selzer is the water, Selza the Nymph." Liloo explains.  "Trapped, this place on one end, Aquae Grannis on the other, and too afraid to do anything.  She will be happy to know what has happened.  I would go with you, to see Selza and bring her the news, and also, to see Aquae Grannis again.  I will help if I can, we owe it."

"Are there dangers we should be aware of?"  Theoderic asks.

"Yes.  The Giant of Aquae Grannis goes hunting, sometimes.  And sometimes, a Dragon watches the valley of the Selzer.  The Selzer... east from here, we will make for the gap in the hill line.  Sometimes, not always, not even most times, there is the Dragon.  A Dragon with scales black like coal, and with spines like the quills of a great hedgehog.  The Enemy knows Aquae Grannis is a prize, and this Dragon was enticed.. or goaded.. or perhaps bribed.. into guarding Aquae Granni’s western flank from the Elves.  It might know, now, if one of the Troll Rats went to it.  Nihomus, it is named, and it has guarded with skill and fury.  But Nihomus has a singular weakness, a liking for lurid and scandalous tales.  But nothing twice-told, that is the problem the Elves have.  Their culture, as it is, does not produce enough scandal to keep the Dragon entertained.  If you face Nihomus, it will not grant you passage, but it may grant you escape in return for lurid gossip, or it may be distracted enough to give you advantage."

”But the Selzer, will bring you close to Aquae Grannis, almost upon it.  There are other ways, but they are over hill and rough land, and I do not know them.  My folk are always close to water."

Aelasuria lets Ayren do what needs to be done not wanting to make things difficult for their healer. She was happy to help in any way that she could. Only to glad to hear that they were given a clean bill of health. Looking at Theo she takes a moment to groom his hair unless he objects as well as tend to his clothing so that his appearance is as good as it can be. "Ayren is right Theo it's very important for you to get your rest. So many people look up to you and need you. Being king isn't a easy thing of that I am sure. Perhaps you should take a nap while you can I will wake you when it's time to ride out. Though if you insist I can't stop you from pushing yourself."

At breakfast she enjoys the company of the Nixies happy to share food with them. She takes a few moments to share food with Theo as well sharing a bit of this and a bit of that affectionately. "Make sure you eat well. It should help offset the lack of sleep. I would like to help Selza if we can. It seems not all dragons are sitting this one out. Theo I think if we can defeat the dragon Nihomus it will open up a opportunity for the elvish people to help us strike at Aqua Grannis."

"Do we know anyone that is particular good at Scandalous tales? I certainly am not above taking a tactical advantage to defeat evil. Why do I have a feeling that woman who was at our wedding would have known at least one. I think she might have been well suited to distract the dragon giving us a opportunity to strike." She blushes a bit remembering her proposal almost immediately after their first meeting.

Thinking about it she continues softly.  "Dragons do not like to be seperated from their hoard. It might also go a long way to help your financial position Theo. It also I think have a significant impact on moral. Good for our allied forces and bad for the Huns if they know a dragon has fallen. The giant is also something to worry about. However one problem at a time unless you have a plan that might involve it. I am fine with sneaking past if you feel that is the wisest course of action. Thank you Liloo fro helping us." She waits to see what Theo and the others think about deliberately taking Nihomus on. Nibbling on a pancake she also sips on some fruit juice if they have any.

Spica recommends not bothering a Dragon… unless they have to.

”But if it has been a problem for the Elves, Spica?”  Theoderic asks.

”Then it is for the Elves to say what must be done.  Dragons are like Unicorns.  And Griffons, and Nymphs, and other creatures of magic and legend.  There is a… well, a respect, between us.  They are rare, and part of the wonder of the world, and shouldn’t be lightly slaughtered.”

”Well, we are passing its way.  So we’ve been warned.  If it approaches us, I have no reason not to defend against it.  The Nixies here would expect us to, that is why Liloo shared Nihomus’s weakness.  Scandalous tales.”

”No Unicorn would ever have one,” Spica says.

”And nor would Aelasuria, and I will not spread gossip of myself… but we do have a good singer and teller of tales, it seems.  Karel.”

The Nixies and the Nymph join in.  “Yes,” says a Nixie.  “He’s quite good.  He may have a scandalous tale for Nihomus.”

The soft voice of the Nymph adds:  “And if not… if there is time… how soon are you leaving?”

The Nixies give the Nymph a collective embarrassed look.

”What?” Geula asks.  “Time to tell him a story, I meant.”

"I think we should try to get past Nihomus without incident, but we should be ready all the same," Theoderic decides.

On the other side of the garden, Cirrus practices swinging and twirling her new staff.

She nods accepting what they had to say on the matter. "I understand I certainly wouldn't want to see spica fall. If the dragon attacks us we will do what is needed. I agree we shouldn't fight a dragon lightly. If we can pass without incident then let's try to do so. If all else fails Karel can try spinning a Scandalous tail so that we can escape hopefully in the direction we wish to go instead of back the way we came. It would be nice to persuade the dragon to stop helping the Huns."

Looking thoughtful she continues softly. "Not that I think this is likely, however if it happens and we do end up talking with the dragon. That and we learn that it's being forced to fight we might be able to help. Of course if we don't run across it on our trip that won't come up."

She blushes slightly at the nymphs offer. "I imagine there is time to share a tale with Karel. I am willing to stay as long as Theo is comfortable resting and recuperating here. That or we can leave right after the story if your all ready to go now. I will go spend a little time with Cirrus to give you privacy. Spica would you like to come with me?"

She walks over to Cirrus smiling with a look of approval and appreciation for her diligent practice. "Very well done Cirrus! If you like I can give you some basic instruction with a staff. Though a master will be needed if you want advanced techniques." Her tone is gentle and encouraging hopping that cirrus enjoys it enough to truly master it. One day that staff might save her or others lives.

Karel smiles and laughs to himself, blushing for a moment.

"It has been long since I have walked the lands of men, though some things one does not easily forget. However, it would not hurt to venture prepared. I'm not sure I am up to the task of dragon slaying, though dragon entertaining? Perhaps, perhaps. Still, I would hear your tale first, Geula. It would be foolish to enter a clash of wills unprepared when reinforcements lie at our fingertips."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:49, Thu 17 Oct 2013.

As Geula moves around the Water Garden, it becomes clear why it was built with the peculiar design it has.  She is a Nymph.  A water spirit.  Moving through the water comes to her more naturally than moving across land, and she moves to Karel’s side by… not so much swimming as effortlessly flowing through the water.

Theoderic decides to help Aelasuria with the post-breakfast cleanup.  He has no idea of what Geula intends to tell Karel, but he knows his wife is easily embarrassed by these kinds of things.  So being next to her, he can distract her from the Nymph’s story telling.

Geula’s emerges from the water near Karel, dripping from head to toe… a perfectly normal state of affairs for Nymphs’ and Nixies.  She considers the stories she knows that might be suitable.

“There is the story of Hylas, the young and handsome and very illegitimate son of Hercules, who was taken by not one but a group of Nymphs, who conspired to share Hylas between them.”

“It is a good one,” Liloo says.  “But don’t you think too well known?  It is classical, after all.”

“Most of the memories of a Nymph are classical.”  Geula says.  “Hmm… “

“It can be an old tale, just one less known,” Liloo suggests.

“Well, there was a time when Apollo still came to the waters at Aquae Grannis.  The Elves did not know much of this strange god, but there was an Elf woman who had heard that he was beautiful to see, and played the most wonderful music, so she went to find it… but Apollo.. who was called Belenus then by the people of the region, did not want to be interrupted even by Elves, so he cast a simple Misdirection and she went instead to a place close by here, and there came upon a Celtic shepherd with his sheep and his pipes.  Well, the shepherd, being a disciple of Belenus was skilled with the pipes, and the woman approached the music, and she saw how masterfully the shepherd’s lips played across the pipes, and she thought.. or perhaps merely hoped...that it was an avatar of Apollo, in disguise.”

Shortly thereafter came the parts Theoderic had prepared to distract Aelasuria through.

"Goodness gracious," Cirrus said, momentarily setting down the staff and listening intently.

Smiling at Theo Aelasuria was clearly happy to have his help cleaning up. She chats with him off and on about whatever topic comes to mind while they work. Between them and whoever else might help it didn't take long to have things tidy once more. She actually perks up at the word classical as she enjoyed classical stories. Being a long lived race and a elf she was well read, enjoyed music and storytelling quite a bit.

Scandalous or not hearing a tale that involved the great Hercules even if indirectly caught her attention. Her mother was a priestess of love so she had heard stories that involved love. She just tended to blush a good bit more then her mother did. She speaks softly to Theo. "I like Classical stories. Hercules, Perseus the son of Zeus, and there is one where a man is kept away from home at see for twenty or more years by Poseidon because he angered the gods. Geaula if you have any stories about Hercules himself I would like to hear them if there is time."

Happily she talks with Theo enjoying his company. She would talk about her home a bit since he hadn't been there as much as she had been in his. Also she asks him about horses since he obviously knows them well. She also talks about his grandmother recommending that they visit her sometime soon if they could. After all she knew how much his grandmother would love to see him and his mother again. It was important for family to spend time together. Then Cirrus reaction rivets her attention with a look of concern. She wanted to cover Cirrus's ears then reminds herself that Cirrus is a adult albeit a inexperianced one and would likely resent being pulled away. "Theo should we interfere? She has become a adult hasn't she while we traveled these past several seasons. She's also much older then she looks it's just sylphs tend to forget and magic has made her like a elf or human."

“I know we have taken responsibility for her,” Theoderic says.  “She is like family... almost like having a daughter, maybe.  But she is an adult, or becoming one... or should be one.. how do we really know, with her, we don't even know her real age?  How can I tell her what she can and can't see and hear?  I can protect her from physical harm, but I cannot repress her own curiosity.”


Let loose to tell her story, the Nymph sets out the tale of the two lovers on the banks of her stream, and the troubles and complications that eventually resulted.  Geula is a Nymph, and passion comes naturally to them, and so Geula narrates through severely blush-inducing parts with ease.  She also has a Nymph's natural charisma.  She doesn't have Karel's training, but she can hold an audience.

Enjoying the attention, Geula picks up the tale of Hylas again, just because she does not wish to leave anyone hanging.  To her, though, Hylas abandoning his father, the Argonauts, and his quest for the Nymphs is a happy ending.

(Note that in the movie, Hylas is killed.  That was not in the original myth!  So by comparison, the mythical fate for Hylas- kidnapped by amorous Nymphs- is definitely a happier fate than the movie fate.)


Telling tales, the Nymph holds the attention of everyone listening.  It may be more time than Theoderic wished to spend, but on the other hand, he's not the only one that could use a little time to relax.

Karel listens intently, laughing occasionally, but taking note of the subtler details. Turns of phrase, and things that could be improved with concepts the nymphs were unfamiliar with, these would help to liven up an already lurid tale.

He continues to play in the background, choosing to fade in and out as the cues of the story demand. When it comes time to leave he is content and prepared. Who knew that being called to action would be so, well, entertaining?

 Story time is at last over.  Geula could go on, but Theoderic has a “we must be going” look, and he and Aelasuria have completely cleaned up breakfast.

”I hope you succeed,” the Nymph says.

”I will help them”, Liloo says. “I brought them this far.  It is only right.  One of us must help them.”

”Are you sure you can help us?”  Spica asks.

”At the very least, I know the way,” Liloo says.

The day is a little chillier, than the one before, with a slightly damp feel to it.. and the smell of spring in the forest.  Although the land in their direction of travel is still not rugged,  there is a gradual change here as the northern plains slowly rise into the Elven lands to the south.  Low, gentle rolling hills, covered with forest.

They keep their eyes open, watching for any sign of a Dragon, but so far, there are none.

But Ayren notices something.  There are markings carefully cut into some of the trees.  Elves have been here. Not too recently.  From the extent to which the marks have faded as the tree healed, within a few months.

Salen is far removed from being a prude, or even close to it, so he takes a comfortable spot and listens intently to Geula weaves her tale. He is most entertained, and applauds her when she is done.

"Bravo! A most enjoyable tale, and much to my liking! Why it compares with the tale of the Weaver's Daughter, and the Lost Virgin of Uppsala, and the Temptress of Rome, and...well, perhaps another time."

Salen looks to Theoderic and Aelasuria, and nods - it is time to go. He gives the Nymph and company his fond farewells, ensures everyone is ready for the road (and that Ayren is fine and has all she needs), and takes his leave alongside them.

Chill is nothing new to a resident of Geneva, and the dampness Salen can live with. He has a soldier's endurance, even though he has served with Winged Cavalry, and he has long found exercise invigorating - perhaps another reason he eschewed the family tradition of studying magic for so long. A long walk through forested hills is quite his thing, dragons or no. But...markings on trees?

"These markings, Ayren - what do they signify? Simply that some of us have passed here in recent times, or do they serve another purpose?"

The Ardennes Elves and the Alps Elves are both Elves, but they have diverged in the centuries.  It’s something deeper than “Elves who wear green” (The Ardennes) and “Elves who wear white” (The Alps.)  The Ardennes Elves have forest lore their mountain cousins do not.

“The markings are guidance for other Elves,” Ayren says.  “Elves on patrols.  Where to find good trails, the ways home, good hiding places.  Notes about the enemy... so it was war, not hunting.  It means patrols have come this far, during the winter.  We had heard that while we fought in the west, our king and queen conducted a campaign in the north.  It must have come close to Aquae Grannis.  Maybe reached it.”

"It may explain the shortage of Dragon thus far," Spica says.  "In their own way they can be shy beasts, retiring to their lairs when there is too much attention.  Time is on their side, perhaps the Dragon here intended to wait out the war."

It is afternoon, in the valley of the Selzer.   It may have seemed a slow, indulgent way to do things…  Aelasuria’s proper breakfast, and the long story telling session.  Not that there was a long way to go- Aquae Grannis is a mere half a day’s journey to the east.  But leaving so late ensured a late day arrival.

Perhaps, though, that’s not such a bad thing.  With their slow progress, they've allowed those behind them to catch up.

Spica notes that they are being followed… and very fortunately, it is by a large group of Centaurs, and a few Human travelers- one of whom is evidently Scolo the wizard.

Swift just listened to most of want was going on. She just went along with everything and was waiting to see where to go next. With the markings discussed, she looks them over to learn what she could.

After hearing Ayren's summation of the meaning of the signs, Salen nods.

"That is what I thought - the signs and markings may be different, but the ideas and principles are the same. But, it is good that war was waged here, in our cause, and the absence of Dragons can never be a bad thing."

Elves of all kinds are not known for impatience, and the day's dawdling suits them very well. When Spica informs them that they are being followed by Centaurs and the wizard Scolo, Salen calls a halt.

"Whether we are about to take on Dragons or not, we would do well to have Scolo in our company. One can never have too many wizards."

Arriving from Belgica with muddy hooves and fetlocks, Eadoin's quite in his element.  In spite of his homesickness for family, the young Centaur is in grand spirits.  It's spring, after all, and there are new young of every kind, from birds to fawns, to cubs and kits and  kids.  All the growing things are in need of blessing and Eadoin's positively ebullient.

It's in this mood he meets those he knows and those he does not.  He's not Babette the Werebear, but he's alike in his open willingness to hug anyone who looks to him to be in need of one.  At nearly seven feet of height and nearly half a ton, he's not nearly so large as his older relations, but he's larger than even the most robust of human folk.  Still, he's mindful of others' more delicate nature.

He greets Salen warmly, tail whisking and looking impish the while.  Around Theoderic, he's respectful.  With Aelasuria, he's yet somewhat in awe, still tongue-tied and a little sheepish.  He's grown more inches yet, all knees and elbows, still a long and gangly colt whose frame promises enormity to match that of his uncle Corax.  In a new development, he sports a fine and downy coat of fuzz the color of newly polished copper on his chin and upper lip.

He offers introductions all around, where necessary.  "Hello!  Hello, all!  It's fine to see you all again!"

Hello, greetings, peace and all that wonders! Who who. We've been having a very nice walk!

And it's so much nicer to meet you!

Shouts Scolo with enthusiasm as they approach.

You know he says to Melissa I'm thinking we should leave a gift for the Minotaurs, being that they kindly leftist unmolested ...

He looks at Eadoin, if you were a sentient, suspicious person from an agrarian society of large herding herbivores, what do you think someone could leave in your territory as a nice gesture?

Scolo starts thinking about how he would write out an alchemical recipe for fertilizer that can be used to make explosives.

Theoderic welcomes Scolo, Eadoin, and Melissa back.  And the rest of the Centaurs as well, and explains that they are within a few hours now of Aquae Grannis.

Cirrus gives Eadoin a happy greeting as well.  They both have Lutetia Parisiorum roots, although they didn't know each other well back there.  Both have changed, a lot, since then.  Cirrus though still pale, thin, and fragile looking, seems much more adult than Eadoin remembers her.


After the reunion, and the exchange of greetings and recent events, Theoderic keeps the now quite enlarged group moving eastwards towards Aquae Grannis.  The Centaurs travel in a large cluster, often seeming to orbit the rest of the group and often ranging well ahead, as they still have tracks to follow.

Theoderic assumes the tracks belong to Heolstor's band, and expects to find them before reaching Aquae Grannis.   But as the day goes on, they get nearer to the old Roman temple town, and the tracks keep going, and no sign of the horsemen.   No sign of the Dragon they had been warned about, either.

They are within sight of the town when the tracks change direction.  Here, Heolstor and his band went to some high ground, to observe the town.  A group of Centaurs heads up, deciding to do the same.

And what they see is unexpected.  Heolstor has been here... and took the town. There can be no other explanation, for those are humans, not Orcs, standing watch.

And they ride out to meet the Centaurs.

(If Eadoin is with the Centaurs that went ahead to the hill, he can go directly to a different thread, The Belgica Road in March, and meet Brennus.  Everyone else will be meeting up soon.)

"What ho, Eadoin, and well met my friend! It has been a while indeed, has it not? Good to see you looking so...hirsute?"

And hail, Scolo and Melissa! So good of you to join our merry band. I hear one can't get into Aquae Grannis in groups of less than sixty. New legislation, apparently..."

Good company is always welcome in Salen's eyes, wherever one may be or whatever one may be doing, and the continuance of their journey will now pass more swiftly.

However, the sight of humans on watch, and riding out to meet them, is as unexpected as it is welcome. Still no Dragons to be seen either. The Elf stands his ground now, waiting to meet the riders, wondering what tales or news - or worse - they bear.

"Well, this will be interesting."

Karel is comforted by the signs of the passing elves. Indeed, for all his airs, he had no wish to face a dragon. Still, should his gifts be called upon in their time of need, he would not hesitate to fascinate, intrigue, and distract.

Upon seeing the group heading towards them Karel tenses, though relaxes a bit when he realizes his companion's familiarity with the group. Still yet, upon seeing the human travelers he becomes even more on edge and a little withdrawn, though he tries no to show it. He merely plucks away at his lute in the corner, waiting for things to settle and all the while keeping eyes and ears peeled for suspicious behavior, of both dragons and men.

Salen, Theoderic and Aelasuria follow Eadoin, heading into a new thread, Aquae Grannis.

Cirrus, often eager to meet new people, holds back.  The frail, pale sylph-girl ooks at Karel.  She was as taken by his song and story as any of the others were, and now...

"What is bothering you?" she asks, standing beside him with a look of concerned interest.

Spica holds back as well, but not out of any fear.  Unicorns are simply naturally shy- especially around the works of civilization, towns and cities, which makes them uneasy.  Spica hasn't made the same adjustments Marisol did, but then, neither has she had to, for the sake of her friends.   She watches alongside the others.

Oh uhm ... Hello
Says the tall wizard to the friendly and gregarious elf.

Joining the larger force the wizard begins to think about other things he drifts away in his head not really knowing what this is all about or why he is here ... Perhaps to fill out a quota, like the elf says? Hmmm.

Karel's gaze drifts from the men, remaining towards the back of the procession towards Aquae Grannis. He smiles at Cirrus, plucking a light and jaunty melody.

"Nothing, my lady. The lands and waters move in but ripples, yet we have recently made waves. Our destination will be one such as well, so I keep watch for signs of trouble that may have followed in our wake. Some things are more dangerous than others."

Karel keeps a close watch on the surroundings while continuing to idly play, choosing to move through etudes in the folk stylings of nixies and nymphs before moving on to the few elven studies he recalled.

Never has Cirrus been a ‘My Lady’ before and it brings a bit of pride to her face.

”I am a musician too,” she says with even more pride.  "Where did you learn?"

* * * * * * *

Talking to Scolo, Melissa watches Cirrus from afar.  “She’s from Lutetia Parisiorum.  Like me.  I even saw her perform, she was a child prodigy at the Opera House there.  An amazing voice for a child, like an angel would have.. I assume.. I never heard an angel sing.  And if she stayed, she would have had a miserable life.  The Emperor treated them strangely, protecting them and favoring them one day, abusing them the next.  And a few of the Blackguards had their privileges… if she hadn’t left, she’d have been a Blackguard’s plaything, sooner or later.  But it’s magic, with Cirrus.  So I’ve heard.  No, she wouldn’t have lasted there much longer. Not this girl, anyway.  She would be very different, with them.

”It’s a strange thing, don’t you think?  So much of what we become is all about our circumstances.  I could be born to a farm wife, and never see any of this.”

* * * * *

Spica nods towards up ahead, where the two sides' representatives have met.

"It does not seem an unfriendly meeting," the Unicorn says.  "Just cautious.  Like so many are, these days.  If there is one curse the Huns have laid upon us we cannot remove it is that.  That little bit of fear that makes us all cautious.  So much has been taken away."

She nods slightly at Theo's words knowing he is right. What they needed was the hope that Cirrus would trust in them enough to come to them when she needed help or advice. Such wisdom would be a blessing and some did come to their elders some had to learn other ways. Aelasuria blushes a good bit during the story though she is able to appreciate it for it's value and as a classical tale.

Turning her attention to Cirrus she speaks to her softly with a gentle expression. She hadn't forgotten how much she liked the attention performing at the concert had gotten her. Which could be dangerous for someone who hadn't the experience to deal with that attention. "Cirrus I hope that you know if you ever need help or have questions that you can come to Theo or I as we will always be there for you. Perhaps even better his mother or Mine as they have wisdom and experience that can prove invaluable to you. Some mistakes can carry a painful and lasting price. Hylas's story didn't have a bad ending though more then a few stories do.  OH and Spica can also be very helpful in determining someones true character if your ever in doubt about someone. Don't hesitate to ask for her help Cirrus. However I think I have gone on long enough so I will stop now."

She gives her brother a slight smile as he gives his approval and shows that he's enjoyed his fair share of stories. "I am guessing you heard these stories while serving in the winged Cavalry brother?"

She was distracted of course when the talk turns to dragons. A interesting topic to be sure for anyone she thought. "I never thought of a dragon as shy Spica it's a very interesting thought. Majestic, incredibly powerful, confident, some would say arrogant because of that inherent power. Generally wise, very intelligent in most cases, fierce and many things though as I said I never considered shy. I like the thought though!"

Later when the others catch up to them Aelasuria agree's whole heartedly with Salen. With Eadoin she gives him a gentle affectionate hug. He towers over her of course and she has the more delicate build of the elves so she appreciates that he doesn't crush her in a bear hug. Slipping back she briefly takes his strong hands smiling up at him. "Look at you Eadoin! You have grown even more since the last time I have seen you. You even have the beginnings of a beard. I trust that apple blossom is doing well. I regret that you couldn't stay with her longer the last time we were all able to visit. It's wonderful to see you too! What news do you have to share. Theo, I and the rest of us had a rather unpleasant encounter with some ancient trolls at the water garden."

"One of the was a shamaness with awful and dark magic. We had to fight them though as the water sprites, nymphs and other fey there needed our help desperately. As you can see though while we were all hurt we did win the battle and all are still here. She had some sort of plague magic that made me as well as Cirrus rather ill. Cirrus was quite heroic helping me by trying to blow the plague clouds and their rain away with her winds. I am proud of her and Theo was quite gallant as well. If not wise he insisted on trying to keep me company while I was getting better. Even though it would have been better if he had kept his distance. Speaking of the water garden maybe you should visit it someday. A druids touch is something I think they could appreciate there. Karel acquitted himself well in battle with the trolls and he has bardic magic. Salen of course always has been and always will be my brother. If I complement him to much it will go to his head." She briefly teases her brother playfully knowing his proven himself time and again to be a brave knight.

She takes a moment to hug Theo Standing close to him while giving him a affectionate look. Then slips back with a smile. "You have already met my brother Salen and I think Karel here as well. Though to be safe it never hurts to do introductions. Karel this is Scolo a rather interesting wizard that joined us a while back. He's a bit of a specialist when it comes to dealing with the Hun's Iron soldiers. Swift is our scout and I forget if you have met her Scolo."

Taking a moment she takes Scolo's hands giving him a warm smile. "It's good to see you to Scolo. I am glad to see that your still doing well. Hello Melissa!" Briefly she gives Melissa a hug. She was after all reformed and doing good things against the Huns. plus she was looking after Scolo which further enhanced her opinion of Melissa regardless of what she might have done in the past. "I trust you have done your best Melissa to keep Scolo out of trouble? I still haven't forgotten how brave he is going right after the enemy in a battle. Honestly wizards like us generally need to hide behind big heavily armored people like Theo and my brother Salen more often then not." Her voice was lighthearted and slightly teasing as she looks over at Scolo.

She doubted he would ever be one to hide in the background. Plus the proof of his capable ability to take care of himself or just plain luck was in the fact he was still standing here today. "Regardless of anything else Scolo your a very brave man. I hope your village is doing well. Theo and I certainly haven't forgotten about them or you."

She pauses with a look of concern. "What Minotars? How close are they Scolo? Were there many of them?" She hopped that they wouldn't have to fight a large group of Minotars. Though from what she could tell so far Scolo didn't think badly of them.

Despite everything she of course takes time to meet the centaurs greeting them all warmly. They were after all neighbors now. Since Theo had done his best to provide them land near his home.

Seeing cirrus with Karel she smiles slightly. After all she had suggested the possibility of bardic training. Even if she didn't have a interest in being a bard his knowledge of music, singing and instruments should be a good common interest to both of them. She did miss the lynx bard from Lucimburic. Wondering how she might be doing she could only hope that their friend was doing well.

"There were Minotaurs," Melissa explains, staying close by Scolo.  "The Centaurs noticed the tracks, and we followed them.  And they were following...  not you..  Other tracks.  Horses."

"Yes," Liloo the water sprite agrees.  "There were men on Horses.  But I did not see Minotaurs following them."

"The Minotaurs broke off the pursuit," Melissa says.  "They went into hiding, at a hilltop fort."

"Falcon Hill," Liloo says.  "It must be.  An old and haunted fort.  Built up on a rocky point above my valley and another, and full of old tunnels within."

"You know of this place?" Melissa asks.

"Not much," Liloo says.  "Rocky place, up high, caves.. and you see I am a water creature.  I do not climb high dry places.  But even from the waters you can see the old fort up there."

"If it is a watch tower, the Huns will have a way of signalling," Melissa says.  "No doubt, whoever is in charge now knows there has been an invasion."

They are interrupted by Phiraz the Centaur.

"All is well at Aquae Grannis," the Centaur says.  Liloo's face lights up in joy.

"King Theoderic bids we come along and find shelter in the town," the Centaur continues.

"Bless the sacred water!" Liloo says.  On his big floppy feet, he runs ahead.

Hmmmm? Oh my dear, you are ever so much niceness all at once. Scolo tells Aelasuria upon meeting. Regarding the Shaman and the dark magic he actually shows some interest...

Dark Magic? something new yes yes? a plague yuck, how escatinglin - any scroll or book left was there on the scene?

He pulls a face slightly when the Queen asks if Melissa is keeping him out of trouble but giggles at the flattery.

New Mestanon? Yes, have you had any new news on them? Someone went looking right? Or are we going there next?

Oh the Minotaurs yes .... hmmmm a present .... I suppose they might like some special grain but .... I haven't any ,,,

Scolo uses his magic to pull stones from all around in to a nice man sized pyramid and he writes a note on his parchment and leaves it on top -

Dear Minotaurs,

It is refreshing, to pass along your land unannounced in a small group and be completely unmolested. Thank you - though your people and mine often share enmity, I feel I would like to leave a small gift - a token of thanks.

Keep this, and one day I will settle somewhere in Belgica - if you or your kin wish to say hello - I will be a kind host.

May your grass always be green and your field wide soft and flat

Oh, and I wouldn't bet on the Huns for this war ... just saying you can do better.

Scolo the Wizard

This message was last edited by the player at 03:39, Tue 05 Nov 2013.

To Melissa Scolo nods thoughtfully in discussion on Cirrus.

Hmmmm, yes - She sang in Lucimburic -  I wont forget ....

then they talk about the Minotaurs, oh but everyone is so sure the creatures are with the Huns, well, they probably are but what of it - the Huns won't last forever, no it is the way of orcs to overexpand and collapse. but minotaurs will be a herd for many generations... we will be neighbors one way or another.


And so they will know and be expecting attack - we can still surprise them. gather your force and go around them...they will wait and wait in defensible areas until,
He mimicks an orc:
what? Boris says they've gone 7 miles that way! NO NO NO its not fair lets get them, theyre scared!

and they will chase us down, and we can be ready....hmmmm?

Of course a frontal attack could be simpler ...

Karel smiles openly, letting all tension leave him as Liloo charges forward with glee at the notion of a free Aquae Grannis.

"Studied? Hrmm, I cannot recall. Please, I do not jest, it is only that I remember very little from those times. I learned from a handsome man, quite spry for an elderly gentleman, though all I can recall are my ideas and thoughts of him, not actual images. His voice will always ring in my ears, however.

I have long been lost to the world of men. I am of the fey now, as they have taken me and restored my broken mind and heart. I know not whence the myriad of songs came to me, but they are a comfort, and a boon. They are who I am distilled into the purest form. Forgive me, I would not trouble you with such notions, though I thought it would be rude to brush off your question.

Perhaps we can perform together, in celebration of the liberation of Aquae Grannis, tonight? Come, let us see what has transpired here."

Cirrus is amazed at Karel’s story and listens to every word.. .some of the things he mentions obviously resonate.

“Then we are the same but opposite,” Cirrus says.  “I am a born Fey, I did not know it before, but I have learned.  I am at least in part a spirit of the air.  A Sylph.  But at an early age, maybe even just after birth, I was left to the world of Humans, and hidden away in a Human city, Lutetia Parisiorum.  And if there was any place in the world more Human and less Fey than that I have not seen it, because it swarms with more people than you can ever count.

“I was adopted into a home, and I was exposed to music at an early age because my new parents were patrons of the opera there, and found good tutors for me.  I excelled, and I was still a little girl when I began performing professionally.  What a strange thing.. when I was little,  I remember singing the part of a Fairy, because I was small but I could sing clearly.  And no one suspected, not even me!  But things became worse after the Huns took over.  My adoptive family vanished, no one ever told me what happened.  But there were Brownies, and they were looking after orphaned children and a few others who had no where else to go, and I joined them, and we lived for years in a secret home in the back of some townhouses close to the great opera house.  And I still performed.”

She shows him her lyre, and plays some notes, demonstrating the way she can shape sound with magic, intuitively.

“I didn’t know until an adult Sylph taught me.  We are air spirits.  Sound is a vibration in the air.  We are bonded to the air around us, and it does what we want… and so, so does the sound.  I’ve learned so much this past year.  And yes, of course, I would perform with you in Aquae Grannis!”

Karel is enthralled by Cirrus' story, sensing a kindred spirit in her.

"What games the fates play. Fortunately for us, we are alive and well. It takes all kinds to make a world, right? I feel for you, my lady. Humans can be cruel and vindictive, it is a rare sight for such in the world of the Fey. Their boundaries can be strange and foreign, however, even to myself who has lived amongst them many years."

He looks around momentarily, noticing that most of the others have proceeded.

"Ah, I suppose we should catch up. I do not know what awaits us, though I am sure we will not find it on the outskirts!"

OOC: I'm guessing that I can move ahead into the Aquae Grannis thread?
This message was last edited by the player at 20:42, Tue 12 Nov 2013.

Yes indeed.