The beleaguered adventurers return to Shock's cave for respite and to check on the Song of Iluvatar and the Dischord.   Gwaelind is as calm as ever, but Delunaur is bound in chains on a seat of smooth rock.  It seems an Earth dragon shaped things for her.  Two stout columns of stone rise up and the chains are attached to them at a height just above Delunaur's head at standing height.  She sweats and her teeth are gritted as if she is in pain or fighting off something inside.

Behind her, on an earth-shaped table surrounded by enchanted rock-lights, lie the book Toben has been translating from and the one he had been copying into.

Klale takes a look at Delunaur. You are brave and strong of will, and you are exercising you ability to love and trust. And you are sweating. Here is water and a bit of salt. Take so your body may replenish itself.

Ano speaks with Gwaelind first in quiet tones. What do we know about what is happening to her?  What is it that is trying to corrupt her back to the life of a Discord.  We have learned of another power in play, something called The Other.

Ryland, in rare form, stands silently and awaits everyone's questions and answers.

Draugion stares at the scene in confused awe. He leans over to Ryland and whispers, "That chained up woman, what is happening to her? Is she being corrupted like that creature we fought earlier?"

As Toben enters the room, he bows his head slowly before speaking. "I do apologize for our lengthy departure. Things became much more complicated than expected, and I'm afraid we only managed to collect most of the items we need. We are at a loss as to where we can claim the tear referenced in the ritual, but we have the chalice, figurine, and blood."

He sighs heavily as he looks over at Delunaur in her distressed state. "I can tell her struggle grows harder with each passing moment. Her will is strong, but it won't last forever against Melkor's influence. Gwaelind, are there any possible leads we might be able to follow for the last component?"

Ryland leans in to a whisper back to Draugion. "She is the Dischord of Fire. A living embodiment of a celestial being. The man is the Song of Air. For every song, there is a dischord. You may be old enough to recall names like Gandalf. He, and they, are Maiar. Celestials in mortal form. And no, it isn't The Other that calls to her. It is Melkor. Chiefest of the dark ones. But Delunaur, she rebels against his will, and fights her nature as a dischord. That is why we were in the city of shadow and gloom. Toben deciphered ancient text that spoke of a ritual to free her. We are short an item though, and where to find it I cannot say".

Delunaur drinks, a sip at first, then more.  Some of the water immediately steams away at contact, but she does drink some.  When she is finished, she nods and looks somewhat better.

Gwaelind listens and watches.  When Toben arrives, he shrugs at the young scholar's question.  "I am at a loss to answer.  That you found the blood of the Ulari is, in itself, miraculous.  You must understand something of the Maiar.  We loose of ourselves when we manifest in this world.  Only the Valar are powerful enough to retain their full knowledge of being Ainur.  So while I am yet more powerful than most any mortal, I am still a finite being.

This Other that you speak of, I know aught of it.  If there was more to it, I might recall something.  Delunaur," as he says the name, he looks to her with longing and worry. "Delunar fights the corrupting bonds of Melkor.  Now away from Duath'gur's influence, we have had freedom to speak more openly.  Melkor was banished from this world by the combined might of the Valar and the Elves at the end of the First Mortal Age.  He was cast through the Door of Night into the Timeless Void."

Delunaur coughs.  "Th-  There is more.  Melkor is prophesied to find a way to break through the Door of Night and bring about Dagor Dagorath, the Battle of Battles.  Heed the words of the prophet as they were delivered to me by the whispers of my master:

When the world is old and the Powers have grown weary, Morgoth, the Black Foe of the World, seeing that the guard sleepeth, shall come back through the Door of the Night out of the Timeless Void; and all shall be darkness, for the sun he will turn to black, and the moon will no longer shed his light."

Speaking exhausts her and Delunaur hangs her head and seems winded.  She nods to Klale for more water.

Klale gives Her water. Ano, I think it's time to share Aashera's words  and actions, and so on.

Than I'm going to test the effect of singing.

The passage causes an expression if concern to form on Ryland's face. "Who or what rather is this "guard" that will fail to contain Melkor? Surely there must be a way to maintain his imprisonment, if he was able to be imprisoned in the first place".

"The Valar" is all Delunaur manages before flames wreathe her and her face turns into a nasty grimace.  It's as if the word 'Valar' drew something up in her connected to Melkor and all that evil and hatred bubbled to the surface.

Taking a chance and seeking peace, Klale being to put his heart and will into singing. No words, longing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kU8RwT8ODHA

[Couldn't find a good male singing this.]
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 03:20, Thu 06 Dec 2018.

As Toben listens to Klale sing, he looks over to Ano. "What is this about Aashera?"

It's hard to say if she is telling the truth or not but she said that this Other is the one corrupting all the beings.  She said that Melkor seeks to enter this world in order to prevent the Other from taking this world.  We wont know much more until we meet with her for the peace talks.
 Until then Delunaur should be our first priority

Toben thinks for a moment on Ano's words. "The implications there are both concerning and hopeful at the same time. We parted ways with Aashera quite some time ago, and there's no telling how her experiences might be influencing her decisions and motives now. If it's possible that she has lost her way and turned towards Melkor, then what if she is the key last piece of the ritual? What if Aashera's tear is what we need? We might need to confront her sooner than expected if we hope to free Delunaur of her bonds."

From what I can tell see seems to believe she is working some where in between what we see as good and evil.  The elder dragons seem to be of Melkor but she seems to work with them out of necessity

"The line between good and evil does tend to blur in those who feel they are doing the right thing. Convincing her of otherwise seems a tall order, considering her rise to power and position in it all. I don't get the impression Melkor would appoint someone to her stature lightly. Still though, far be it for me to speak on behalf of someone you all know. Perhaps a silver lining can be found in the clouds of the looming storm ahead".

As Klale begins to sing, Delunaur closes her eyes and slumps, seemingly in relief.  However, the nimbus of fire around her springs up and her lips slowly form a smile.  This smile is not one of joy or contentment.  It is a twisted thing full of contempt.  When her eyes open again, they blaze with an orange light.

Then she blinks and shakes her head.  The fire goes away and sweat beads everywhere.  "Please...stop."

Klale stops. A thought strikes him, and he takes out Hard Time and examines it. Just maybe some remnant of the last dragon is on it.

Toben walks over to Klale and places a hand on his shoulder. "It was worth a try, but it seems we are at a crossroads here. We can't ease her suffering without the last component and we haven't identified anyone that might qualify to supply the tear. We need to come up with other options."

"Let me calm her.  Rest from your trips.  Have a drink in town.  Sometimes not thinking about a thing gives you a fresh perspective."

Toben nods. "Yes, perhaps you're right. I'm sure we're all a bit weary from our travels. Let us know if there is anything you need in the interim. At the very least, I can go check on the forges."

The remembrance of the forges seems to bolster his mood a bit. He pays his respects to both Gwaelind and Delunaur before leaving.

"We'll figure this out" says Ryland, exiting with Toben.

Draugion follows behind Toben.

Klale apparently finds he's done an excellent job of sword-cleaning. He sheathes it and follows his companions with a troubled brow.

perhaps a bit of food would be good while we think on this puzzling situation Ano makes his way out with the others so Draugion what brings you to this place

Draugion glances at Ano. "That's a long story. To put it short, I have been asleep for almost a millennia, and awoke recently in what used to be an Elvin scout post in an area known as the 'Eklands.' I trekked towards where the Shire used to be, and eventually found myself among the company of Ryland and Toben. I have been following in this group since, because I am still not used to this different world." 

Back at the dwarven town, which they have started calling 'Dragon Forge', the five weary heroes find their way to the tavern.  It is rather empty this evening with only a few dwarves about speaking to one another in low tones.  At the bar, the one-eyed barista polishes a thick mug.  She nods a quick nod as the Men and Draugion enter.

In one corner, four dwarven warriors clank mugs and laugh at some joke.  Their helmets sit atop the handles of their weapons tilted against the table and occasionally bobble as the dwarves jostle the table with their merriment.

At the bar, a lone dwarf sings in a soft voice.  Unlike most of the others, he wears neither the armor of warriors or the apron and leather of forge workers.  Instead he wears a dingy blue duster and ocher-colored boots meant for long journeys in the wild.  A beat up old hat lays crumpled on the stool next to him.  His brown, frizzy beard is long and hangs below the stool but lacks the adornment of most dwarven men of that age.

Two dwarves in forge leathers - minus the aprons - huddle over their mugs and stare into the depths.  They speak no word and look positively glum.  One has fiery red hair, a long beard with many braids, beads, and metal bands.  Two faded black patches on his left forearm indicate scars from battles lost to the forge many decades ago.  The other is younger with straw-colored hair and a short beard.  His mustache hangs longer, and is well braided and adorned.  He looks like he has just been scolded.

Six more dwarves, probably miners or smiths, play some kind of dice game around the large circular table near the raised platform behind the central bar.  They laugh at the misfortunes of one of their number who takes it with good graces.

There is plenty of room at the bar and plenty of tables, though one of the heroes will have to pull a chair from somewhere else and sit at the end.  There is no music and all-in-all the tavern seems to be having a rather quiet night.  However, it is still rather early and more might arrive as time progresses.

Ryland tells the group he'll be with them shortly, and heads over to the bar and takes a seat next to the dwarf in traveling clothes. Taking note of what's in front of the dwarf, he orders two more, one for himself, and one for the traveler.

"You don't seem to carry the soot and coal fire smells of the area, Master dwarf. What word of the outside world do you bring?".

To his companion s who are withing whispering distance (not engaged in conversation), Klale says Maybe we can catch a cheater and reduce her or him to tears.

As Ryland approaches he hears the dwarf singing a tune.  It sounds vaguely familiar:


The voice is low and halting as if the singer is  broken up by the minor key haunting melody.

When Ryland asks his question the dwarf glances at him and mumbles, "the world is dark and has lost its songs."

Ryland sighs. "So it would appear. All the better reason for those of us with a voice to rekindle those fires then, don't you think?".

The old dwarf looks up at Ryland and gives him a slight smile and a nod.  "True enough, my friend.  Are you here to give us a song, young man?"

As Toben strolls in, he spots the pair of dwarves sitting by themselves. "Good evening, fellows. You two have the look of the forge about you. Mind if I sit with you a moment?"

The older one looks up and sees Toben.  "Master Ironsprings!  Of course, lad.  Please."  They make room for the scholar at the table.

Toben smiles warmly and takes a seat across the table from them. "Thank you. I couldn't help but notice you two looking a bit down. Is everything alright? Are the forges able to accommodate your mastery level of craftsmanship?"

Ano makes his way to the bar and asks for something to eat.  He is beginning to realize how little food and sleep he has had since this war started.  Perhaps it would be alright to take some time to fill himself.

Draugion approaches Ryland and the singing dwarf, finally taking some time to relax from his long trek.

Seeing that Ano is being sensible, Klale begins the task of feeding his body. After a couple of bites, he sits back, chuckles to himself, and says If eating is inevitable, relax and enjoy it.


Apologies in advance, and I discovered this to my surprise.

https://www.poemhunter.com/poe...inevitable-enjoy-it/ A translated poem.

Responding to the old dwarf, Ryland replies "For friends and the company of brethren dwarves, of course".

He scoots his stool away from the bar a few inches, and turns around letting his back rest against it as he sits his banjo across his lap. Winking at Draugion, he launches into a lively tune, tapping his foot loudly to keep time.

"Tell me ma when I go home
The boys won't leave the girls alone
They pull my hair, they stole my comb
But that's all right till I go home
She is handsome, she is pretty
She is the belle of Gondor city
She is a-courting one two three
Pray, would you tell me who is she

Albert Mooney says he loves her
All the boys are fighting for her
Knock at the door and they ring that bell
Oh my true love, are you well
Out she comes as white as snow
Rings on her fingers and bells on her toes
Old Jenny Murray says she will die
If she doesn't get the fella with the roving eye

Let the wind and the rain and the hail blow high
And the snow come a-tumbling from the sky
She's as nice as apple pie
And she'll get her own lad by and by
When she gets a lad of her own
She won't tell her ma till she comes home
Let them all come as they will
For it's Albert Mooney she loves still".

A good rendition of the song https://youtu.be/OguHnXcYiKU
This message was last edited by the player at 13:23, Wed 19 Dec 2018.

The older dwarven smith gives Toben a wan smile.  "Oh, aye, th' forges are magnificent wi' yer arcane upgrades. No, our faces reflect th' times.  News arrived from Moria tha' they are hard pressed t' fight back th' ever increasin' horde of Valaraukar.  Naught we can do 'ere, but we both ha' family there.  Young Karben 'ere is worried about 'is bonnie lass."

Karben nods and takes a long pull on the ale.

The old smith Pat's Toben's hand.  "Thankee kindly for yer concern, lad.  We'll drink an ale then get back t' doin' our part 'ere where we can do th' most good."

The four warriors clean their table and leave the dishes in the center neat and tidy for the server to pick up.  They leave happy and clasping one another on the shoulder.

Toben smiles back at the dwarven smiths and stands up. "Well then, I'll leave you both to it. Keep up the brilliant work and don't hesitate to find me if something comes up."

He turns and walks over to the bar where Ryland is singing another one of his ballads. He quietly gets the attention of the barkeep while standing on the other side of the old dwarf.

The oddly dressed dwarf looks over at Toben and smiles politely.  "You look troubled, young man."  His voice is merry, almost mischievous, but rich with kindness too.  It is also decidedly not with a dwarven accent.

Had Toben not just returned from hobbit territory, he could not have placed the man's speech.

Ano takes his small plate of food and a drink and makes his way over to Draugion. So what is it that has brought you all the way out to this side of the world?
To follow Toben and Ryland all this way after facing the darkness they have faced you must have some reason other then a death wish to be out here.

Klale troubled musings fail to deter him from eating and eating some more...it's been a long time since he was fully fed.

Draugion glances at Ano. "I'm not sure why I decided to follow Ryland and Toben all this way. Being introduced to this world after being asleep for a millennia is... surreal to say the least."
Draugion sighs. "After learning what happened, I believe that it might not be a wise decision to reveal to the world that some elves still exist."

Toben rotates his head toward the dwarf so that he's half facing him and half facing the barkeep. "Troubling times I'm afraid, friend. It's hard to keep one's chin up on the cusp of defeat. It's not over yet, however, and my friends and I will not give up. So..." he says with a pause. "There's that."

The young sage turns more towards the dwarf. "Where might you be hailing from?"

Ryland continues his playing.

"Oh, I have a place out in the country close to the Brandywine River.

You know, sometimes when your map doesn't show you the proper way forward, sometimes it helps to just press on anyway.
Someone makes a map, sometimes they aren't paying proper attention and get their details confused.  But they are blazing a trail for the first time.  Even if they succeeded, they may have forgotten the way when making the map back home.
Those that follow, then have to blaze the trail anew.

You seem a smart enough fellow.  No doubt you'll figure it out.  By the way, I didn't catch your name."

Toben smiles at the dwarf's words. "You speak as much wisdom as any other I've met, master Dwarf. Perhaps we are where we're meant to be. And my apologies as well, my name is Toben Ironsprings. Who do I have the pleasure of speaking with?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:30, Sun 13 Jan 2019.

The strange man chuckles.  "I'm not a Dwarf.  Around here they call me Forn.  Ironsprings, eh?  I was sorry to hear about that town.  A shame what happens when children get unruly."  He looks up at the bartender.  "My lady, would you mind another round?  And one of whatever the Men are having for them as well, on me."  He laid an odd silver coin on the bar which the one-eyed dwarven woman swiped up in a hurry.

She gave Toben a wary look before softening a bit and giving him a nod as if to say 'what'll ya have?'  Another dwarf, a young male, goes to Klale, Ano, and Ryland to tell them a drink has been paid for on their behalf.

The bartender sets a large mug of some frothy drink.  It has what looks to be a dash of cinnamon atop the foam and a syrupy-buttery aroma wafts in Toben's direction.  Forn sips at it, getting nary a bubble in his beard or mustache.

Toben lowers his head in a subtle bow. "That's very kind of you, Forn. Ironsprings was my home for a long time." He pauses for a moment in remembrance. "I'm afraid I'm all that's left of it."

He looks over to the barkeep. "A little something to take the edge off but not dull the wits, please. I feel we are still in dire need of them."

"What did you mean by unruly children?" he asks Forn.

Klale finished eating and looked around. Others were engaged, at home. His home...far away.

Abruptly he rose and walked out. Coming to a dwarven forge, he looked and mumbled Perhaps work will ease.... He set to work, first making nails. When he was too tired to do detail work, he beat out sheets. When he was too tired to do that, he spelled another working bellows. Finally, he stumbled in his fatigue. Two dwarves helped him stagger to a pallet and pressed water and a bit on him. He manged the swallows before his eyes close and he slept tightly curled up. They covered him with a blanket. It was long before his body straightened in normal sleep.

Ano looks interested in what Draugion says
so there are more elves still out there in the world?  Are they sleeping as well?

Forn just waves off the comment.  "Just a figure of speech.  The chaos of such a random act is like when children play."  He finishes off his drink and smiles a Toben.  "It's getting late.  'Bout time for this ancient body to get some rest.  Pleasure to meet you, Toben Ironsprings.  Safe travels, my young friend."  He stands, pays the barkeep with a couple of gold coins - well more than the drinks were worth - and grabs his hat to go.

Draugion's eyes widen upon hearing Ano's question.
"Now that you mention that, there could be more elves currently asleep, just like how I was."
Draugion looks intrigued by the thought.

Ryland wraps up his set, pays for a drink, and moves over a seat next to Toben. He doesn't say anything as he stares down into the full mug in front of him. After a few sips, he looks over at Toben. "I still don't know what to call today, be it defeat or partial victory".

Toben sighs and looks down at his drink. "It's not over yet. As long as there is time, there is still a chance. I think we may just need a new perspective. Something we haven't thought of yet."

Ryland tips his mug up and drains the contents. "Indeed. Though I haven't the foggiest where to begin. Never was much good with puzzles of the mind". He looks down at his empty mug, contemplating another. "I think I'm going to turn in for the night". He stands, and clasps a hand on Toben's shoulder before turning to the barkeep and arranging a room for the evening. Key in hand he makes his way off to his lodgings, an ever so slight wobble to his gait.

Ano smiles at Draugion I certainly hope that is the case.  as he sees Ryland leaving Ano gets up and says I think I'll walk out with you,  I could use some sleep

Toben nods and watches Ryland leave the bar area from the corner of his eye. He lays a couple of coins in the bar to cover his drink and starts to head for the exit. He passes by the table of warriors on the way out and gives them a bit of a salute out of respect.

Draugion follows behind Toben.

With a restful night of sleep, the five adventurers meet at the wagon outside the dwarven town.  It takes them to Shock's cave in swift fashion.  There they find the Dischord standing, teeth gritted, sweat pouring down her face and body.  Gwaelind stands back from her just beyond her reach at the end of the chains.

"I fear that her master's control will be complete today if we cannot free her.  Tell me you have found something.  My properties as one of the Maiar seems to prevent me from calculating an answer to this most dire of situations."  There is anguish and pleading buried deep in his voice, leaking out more in the words he uses then in the tone which is fiercely controlled for her sake.

With a very solemn and resolute look upon his face, Toben reassures Gwaelind. "We are going to do everything within our power to see that Delunaur comes out of this on the right side."

He walks slowly over to Gwaelind, places a hand on his shoulder, and asks in a low voice. "Do you trust in Eru? Implicitly?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:09, Thu 07 Feb 2019.

Ano steps up and addresses the group in a somber but loud voice.  I didn't want it to come to this, I didn't even want to bring it up but we are too close now.
What do we do if we can't save her.  Do we let a power like that exist and threaten  Gwaelind.  We are sworn to protect the songs, it means we may need to consider the unthinkable.

Klale was about to speak but holds his tongue when he hears Toben's question.

"I do."  Gwaelind says to Toben after a brief scowl at Ano.

Ryland winces at the scowl from Gwaelind. He's only seen it once before and it was enough for a time.

Toben smiles, hearing the answer he expected to get. "Then we must trust that if it is his will to bring Delunaur to the light, then he will provide the means to do so. I know that may not offer much comfort, but all of us" Toben gestures to the group that has congregated in the room. "Are here to help facilitate that."

Please refresh my memory, exactly what is required for helping Delunaur?

Oh, and here, please drink. He offers a waterskin to her.

Toben turns back to refer to the translated tome of the ritual they acquired a while back. "The ritual itself requires four components, each used for a very specific purpose. A carving of hobbit make, which we have, is used during the ritual to represent the good in the world. The blood of an Ulari, which we have, is to be poured into a chalice of elfin make from the  1st age, which we also have. The last component, the tear shed from an evil being as they become good, is to be mixed with blood within the chalice. More steps continue from here, but the tear is what we currently lack."

The young man turns back to Gwaelind and attempts to reassure him. "I know hearing that is disheartening, but if you believe what we're doing is Eru's will, then we will not fail." He offers a smile, hoping to bring some sort of relief to the Maiar.

being...a living thing?

Toben nods. "I suppose that is the assumption made. Was there another possibility you had in mind?"

Well, I'm grasping at a straw, but an item could be inimical and somehow turned to good; and tear as in crying could be tear as in ripped. Come to think of it, my sword...I think the hilt was of Melkor when he had evil intentions, and I've put it to good use.

Toben thinks for a moment before responding. "Hmm, it's an interesting idea. Perhaps we're being too literal in some cases, but I think the tear does refer to an actual tear, a liquid. The context implies that the tear is to mix with the blood to produce a vapor of some kind."

Delunaur refuses the water and snaps at Klale until he pulls the water away.

Gwaelind comes up to Klale and takes the water from him if he allows.  Delunaur calms enough to allow him to give her the drink, which she gulps down.

"Whatever you are going to do, please do it soon.  She doesn't have much time."

As if to emphasize the point, Delunaur hisses at the Men and then gives Gwaelind a wicked smile.

Toben bows slightly. "Of course. I understand Gwaelind. If you don't mind, I need to prepare myself for what is to come. Would you be alright with me leaving the ritual components here with the book?"

Gwaelind simply smiles and says, "Of course."

Tobe walks over to the table and retrieves the various items from his pouch. He sets the chalice next to the book, then lays down a small white cloth beside it. On top of the cloth, he gentle sets the vial with the Ulari blood and places the carving next to it.

"I won't be gone long. Should anything need my attention, please feel free to communicate through Ferb." As if on cue, his furry little friend pops up out of seemingly nowhere and scurries over to Gwaelind.

Toben makes his way out of the room. Before he leaves, he hands each person a small empty vial made of glass. “Just in case.”
This message was last edited by the player at 00:05, Sun 10 Feb 2019.

As Toben wanders about, he will come into the main den of Shock's lair.  There the lightning dragon and Kairo'uonar are resting.  They seem to have become good friends.  Both dragons look up at Toben when he enters, but wait quietly for him to speak.  No doubt they see the concentration on his face.

Klale takes back the water and takes the glass and his leave.

He goes to the forge and explains matters to the dwarves, including his dream. Then he sets to work (with any dwarven help) on Hard Time's hilt...heating, hammering, squeezing...Trying whether a drop or more of liquid can be elicited. He has a high-heat receptacle ready.

Toben greets the two dragons with his typical smile. He stands there a moment, debating whether to say anything or just keep walking. Finally, he speaks. Perhaps an odd question, but he asks nonetheless. "Do dragons dream?"

Kairo'uonar visibly winces at the question.  Shock looks over at the green dragon at the same moment, then back to Toben.  With a sad countenance, she nods.  "Yes, Toben.  We dream very vivid dreams.  Why do you ask?"

"Dreams are funny things, aren't they? Some say they are windows looking into our deepest desires. Others say it's a way of processing all the things going on around us in a meaningful way. Fewer still, think it's a way for our subconscious to tell us something in times of need."

Toben looks down at the ground, wringing his hands. "I don't dream much. Or, at least, I rarely remember them. I can recall only a few times since the stars fell, and yet, my dreams last night took me back to that very night." He looks back over to Shock and Kairo. "With everything going on, it's difficult to understand what it might mean. What do you think? Are they just dreams, or are they something more?"

The dragons are silent for a few moments before Shock moves her head a little closer to Toben.  "Dreams can mean many things, but our perspective of them are perhaps different than humans.  Ryland Vance is a teller of stories.  He might know something of dreams.  Ano, too might know something of dreams as his order is fond of meditation.  They might be able to tell you what your dream means."

"You raise a good point. They may have some different perspectives, plus I may not be the only one experiencing this. Perhaps they've had similar dreams of late."

Toben scribbles a few things down in his journal before looking back up at the dragons. "Thank you. As always, you've been most helpful. I'll have to sync up with them later."

He exits the cave and continues collecting his thoughts.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:01, Sun 17 Feb 2019.

One of the dwarves who had listened to Klale tell about his dream comes up after the others have returned to work.  "Klale, I dunnae know what yer dream migh' mean.  We dwarves see th' world a bit different than Men.  Perhaps if ya told yer com0anions abou' it, they could help ya understand wha' it meant?  Just a thought."

Klale finds the hilt obdurate. The smith desists and slumps down on a bench, defeated, nearly in tears. He bends over clasping his face in his hands. It is then that he feels ah hand on his shoulder. He looks up to see a kindly, concerned face [Kullgullen?].

Klale listens and replies. "Thank you. He looks around. I don't know about
about how differently we think...something to discuss later...it there's to be a later. Anyway, good advice...thank you. Something to do."

Klale finds his companions and says "My effort is in vain. A dwarf [Kullgullen?] suggested I relate...I had a dream last night. It began....

"The forge is warm and comforting.  All around are the sounds of smiths working their trade.  I hear them. I can't see them, but that does not bother me right now.

"I discover that I stand in the midst of four sturdy tables.  On each table is a metal for me to forge my next masterwork piece.  Each metal is different, with different properties that I know intimately except for the last.

"Metal 1 - A simple metal, durable, reliable, and workable.  It takes patience to craft correctly, but once made, the item will last for a long time and is low maintenance.  Blades don't lose their edges as fast, armor doesn't shine well, but holds its shape under all but the most direct, powerful blows, and tools last a lifetime.

"Metal 2 - A dark metal, easy to craft and especially easy to inscribe glyphs or enchant.  This metal is good for making weapons and damage dealt by them is hard to heal.  However, the blades tend to dull quickly and if not maintained, the metal can warp.  It takes a lot of work to maintain items made from this metal and it has a hungry, not-quite-evil feel to it.

"Metal 3 - This metal shines on its own.  Items made from it never need polishing, and it holds enchantments and glyphs longer than other metals.  However, the metal is not as good for making blades as it is a beast to work, usually taking five times as long as normal metals, and edges tend to dull quickly.  It is however good at protecting as armor or making tools that hold enchantments, though eventually it needs to be reworked and the enchantments need to be renewed.

"Metal 4 - This metal has a red sheen to it as if it glows internally as if the forge fire hasn't left it.  I know nothing of this metal.

"I know I must choose one and forge something from it.  I must choose.

"I felt my thought free.

"I held my hands out to metal one: Safe, secure, solid...reminding me of hone. A picture forms of myself at the forge teaching my eldest son, a lad likely to outdo me in all things...to my joy.

"I turned to metal 2, which sang to me. Easy to work, easy to power, and..."slow to heal." But when the fighting is done, death should be dealt or healing delivered. I looked and seemed to see myself in a mirror, dark-girded, a force to fear, and seeking ever more ways to terrify. As if my striking hand had a will of its own, it reaches, reaches...and I shied with a shudder, panting like one who has pulled back a foot that was poised over an abyss.

"So I turned to metal 3, the honor-bright. And here I held up a hand to see a gleaming gauntlet holding a sword that brightens all around it. A champion I am, maybe even a King. But are kings the present need?

"And so I came to it, metal 4; it seemed the metal of Fire, of courage, of blood.

"I thought back. 'Attuned to Earth' Ceven said, yes but to fire too? And if not me, who? And something new is needed. Metal 1 is like Earth, and metal 3 like Air. And metal 2 reminded me of the land by the lake, alive but poisoned. And metal 2 called again to me, "You, even you, can work me, turn me toward the sun, do great things. And if it turn you to evil...why, that's easy! You can repent and cry...and there is your precious tear! Problem solved."

"I spoke aloud. "Someday I may don you, metal 3, and someday I may in peace work you, metal 1, and I may find someway to ennoble you, metal 2. But now, now is the time to attempt something...open a door to an unexplored room." I picked up metal 4, and the scene faded to the grey of forge smoke.  I then rested better than he has in a long time, and I feel quite well today...for what that's worth."

Returning to the present, Klale adds,"It worries me...I would have taken all four, fourfold power."

As Toben is returning, Ryland meets him halfway. "Any news or ideas?".

Toben spends the next hour or two mulling over the advice from the dragons and the occurrences of the strange dream he had the night before. It's not long before he finds himself near the chamber where Gwaelind and Delunuar have been fighting off the effects of Melkor's influence.

"You have a moment. I wanted to ask you a couple of things."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:53, Tue 26 Feb 2019.

"Of course. What is on your mind?".

Toben shakes his head for a moment in an attempt to sum things up as best he can. "Last night, I had the strangest dream. That in of itself should have made me bring it up sooner since I can really remember only a handful since this whole ordeal started, but this seemed different."

"I was back at home, in Iron Springs, the night the stars fell. As the buildings started to shake and the mountain began falling upon us, I found myself trying to escape. On the way out, there was a table with four scrolls sitting on it. I could tell they were meant for me, a parting gift from my village, but I only had time to grab one. Each scroll was unique in what it could teach. I had to choose between protection and survival, power, knowledge, and the unknown. As soon as I reached for one, I woke up."

"I tried for hours to figure out what it might mean. Maybe there was some hidden clue or message in it, but I have found myself..." Toben shrugs. "I don't know, what do you think?"

That sounds like a cousin to my dream. Which did you choose?

Ryland looks over at Klale, and then back to Toben. His expression is telltale of having a similar experience.

Toben's glance passes between both of them a couple of times before finally stopping on Klale. "Knowledge, of course. It is the source of power, should one seek it, shines a light upon the unknown, and goes hand in hand with protection and survival. I suppose it's a bit ironic too, as that is the very thing we need right now."

"If all three of us had a similar vision last night, then Ano must have undoubtedly had one as well. We should find him and see if we can make sense of this. Is he still inside with Gwaelind?"

Let's. Klale, asuming the others do too, hies.

"Yes, Ano is there". Ryland follows behind the other two to retrieve their comrade.

Toben enters the room where Delunaur hangs loosely by a tenuous thread. He walks over to Ano and quietly asks. "Do you have a few moments. Some interesting things have come to light that I think you might be able to help talk through."

Of course Toben.  Any distraction would be welcome,  I have been thinking on a strange dream I had last night and I hadn't been able to shake the feeling that I'm missing something.

Toben smiles as Ano confirms his suspicions. "We've all had similar experiences."

Briefly, Toben shares his dream with the others, now that they're all gathered together. "What about the rest of you?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:31, Tue 05 Mar 2019.

Klale recounts his dream

"I dreamt of the moments before a big performance. I had four pieces of music laid out before me. Four that I'm familiar with. I recall being compelled to choose one, as a finale. I settled on The Kingsman's Lament. It's a song that is a tragedy of sorts at the end. I recall wanting to catch my audience off guard with the way it finishes.. Though, I awoke before anything beyond deciding the music could happen".

"Interesting. What other choices were you giving in your dream? It seems like these could be linked, so no detail is too small."

I was given the choice of four doors in my dream.  There was a white door, a black door, a red door I could see the shapes of people through,  and a multi colored door.  I almost opened the red door but I ultimately chose to open the white door.  I never saw what was beyond it.

Klalel says I slept well after, and I feel...quite fit...today. How about you?

Draugion pitches in, remembering his dream.
"Though I only meditated, I did experience a dream akin to everyone else's. I was in the Grey Havens once more, and the elves were departing Middle Earth from ships. I  boarded the ship containing Cirdan's people, and I awoke not knowing what occurs next."

"It's as I said. I knew I had a performance to play, and had to select a finale. Though, thinking harder on it.. One was a war ballad, up beat and full of bravado. The second, which is the one I spoke of, was a tragedy. The third, was a love ballad, told from an outsiders perspective. The last one, was dark. It was about a man who struggled to survive in this world. He ultimately gives in to the darkness before being slain by someone like him. In my dream, I couldn't see any sort of correlation between the four. I personally know all four, and each has its own particular flare for the right audience".

"One thing I think is clear, this can't possibly be a coincidence. Four very distinct choices put into a context that's very personal to each of us, but how does it relate to now? Is there a common thread between the choices? Or is it the subconscious choice we made that is the key?"

Toben looks at each person gathered here hoping to prompt more discussion and ideas.

"Perhaps the theme behind each choice is the link? Physical trials, loss, love, and death would be mine, if I'm interpreting this correctly". Ryland thinks for a moment with a hand on his chin. "Hmm. Come to think of it, mine almost seem like cycles of life. Though I could just be grasping at straws here".

"Hmm, possibly. A couple of my choices align with some of those themes too. As I said before, mine were loosely tied to protection, power, knowledge and the unknown. Specifically though, the scrolls in my dream focused on healing and sustenance in extreme environments - life or protection. A devastating attack spell that actually pulls some of the casters life force - power, death, or destruction oriented. A type of fortune telling or clairvoyancy spell that could foresee all possible outcomes for the next 24 hours at the expense of completely draining the caster for the next 12 hours - knowledge, perhaps physical trial? Finally, the sealed scroll that promised great benefits with extreme drawbacks or side effects - possibilities of the unknown."

Klale ponders. More-or-less, I think my choices were mundane, reliable satisfaction; power, death-dealing, evil; honor, protection, parade-like show; faith in an unknown, courage, life-or-death fire. Anyway, I'm comfortable with my choice of the unknown one.

But does any of this get us closer to finding the tear so desperately needed?

Delunaur suddenly thrashes against her restraints and the room grows significantly hotter.

Gwaelind stands and approaches.  The flames from Delunaur singe his clothes and hair, but he doesn't seem to notice.  He holds her head in his hands and puts his forhead to hers.  There is the distinct sound of flesh sizzling as smoke rises from between their heads.  It works.  Delunaur slowly cools and stops thrashing, though it takes a long time.

Once she has settled again, Gwaelind pulls her into a fierce hug and speaks over her shoulder to the group.  His forehead has third degree burns and the rest of his face first yet his voice is calm.  "If I may?  I see the common thread throughout your dreams."

A grateful Klale says Please. My thought falls short; perhaps my act can help.

Toben bows his head respectfully. “Of course.”

Draugion silently nods and waits for Gwaelind's response in anticipation.

"Choice."  He says simply then looks at Delunaur.  Already the burn marks were receding from his skin leaving smooth, unblemished skin behind.

Ryland stares blankly, watching the burn vanish from Gwaelind's forehead. "Well, yes. We all had a choice to make, but the waters are still as clear as mud. If solving Delunaur's plight was as simple as her having a choice, we wouldn't have had to bravely and valiantly trek across the country, risking life and limb through peril and shadow. Unless you have a villainous cretin tucked in your robe pockets that we can offer the choice of a change of heart with a healthy dash of weeping, this whole venture still feels like folly, Master Gwaelind".

Toben stands there for a moment as if waiting for more than just a single word answer. He looks over at Delunuar, then to Ryland, and then over to the rest of his compatriots. "You're right, we all had a choice to make. There is a lot of power in choice, isn't there?"

He young safe paces back and forth for a moment, like a man of law deliberating his next few statements. "Has anyone here ever stumbled on a revelation or discovery so great that is defied expectations. The results, so grand, that they needed to be captured by a process in order to replicate the effect. What do you do? Retrace your steps? Write down every little detail, no matter how trivial, in order to duplicate it?"

Toben walks over to the ritual book, picks it up, and holds it for all the see. "I imagine whoever discovered this ritual might have had a similar experience. There may still be very clear steps and gestures and incantations to provoke the proper magic, but what if the real ingredient here is choice? Her choice to break free from the malignant grasp that Melkor has placed on her and to follow a different path."

He sets the book back down and picks up the chalice. "Maybe a tear is necessary to pull off the overall effect, but at the end of the day isn't it really just the tear of someone who is now good at heart? That could be any one of us", he says motioning towards the entire party.

"Maybe I'm totally wrong here, but this is what we have, and I've made my choice. I choose to help Delunuar, for better or worse."

Gwaelind smiles and stands up.

Delunaur nods at him and even gives Toben and the others a weak smile.

Gwelind stands back so as not to interfere with the ritual with his Ainur spirit.  "Thank you.  Thank you all."

Ano moves to stand beside Toben You are right my friend, I know I have shown my doubts about our ability to succeed,  but I am tired of loosing people.  I stand with you and choose to help.

Klale ponders. Two things I wonder about...the dragon who surrendered and asked for safe conduct in exchange for information...perhaps I should have accepted. And the sick dragon...it turned, I think, from evil to good and was crying. I didn't think.... Sorry. That is past, I'll do what I can now though I know not what.

Toben attempts to reassure Klale. "You did what you thought was best, as I'm sure you will do your best here today." He looks back at Delunaur's waning will.

"We should begin preparing for the ritual. Is everyone ready?"

"As ready as we'll get. What do you need us to do?".

Klale says Thank you. You're right; "What-ifsa' about the past are useless save when it helps us hink about behavior later. I'm at the ready.

Toben gets enough nods and gestures of readiness to proceed with his thoughts. "I think we're going to have our work cut out for us, and I believe we all have very important jobs to do here. I'll be honest though, I really don't know what to expect, so we'll need to be prepared for just about anything. I think it makes the most sense for me to lead the ritual, so that's where my focus will be."

He looks at each party member as he sets out loose expectations of the upcoming ritual.

"Ano, Draugion, the amount of faith required to pull something like this off will likely be intense. Ano, your connection to the spiritual world will be key, same with Draugion's connection to nature. Together, I think it will create a great harmony."

"Klale, no one here can match your strength, so we may need that should Delunaur need to be restrained if things get ugly. Plus, you're fireproof, so that'll help" he adds with a smile.

"Ryland, something that really stuck out to me regarding the ritual was that one of the key factors was maintaining a strong sense of goodwill, joy, and hope. Perhaps some mood music, if you will, to keep spirits up."

Toben gives everyone a moment to digest everything before heading back to the table where the ritual book is laying. He pulls an empty glass vial from his pouch and looks over to Delunaur and then to Gwaelind. "Shall we begin?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:29, Wed 13 Mar 2019.

Delunaur whips her head back and forth as if fighting off something, or perhaps, fighting to keep something inside.  After a moment she reasserts control.  Sweat pours down her face and drips from her ash-colored skin and matted hair.  The later hangs in thick ropes.

She looks up at Toben and nods once.

Gwaelind kept his eyes on Delunaur the entire episode.  Once she had regained herself, he smiles his encouragement.  "If you please."

Toben smiles and says, "Very well."

He unstoppers the vial and addresses the group. "While it may seem completely superfluous, we should probably leave nothing to chance. For those who wish to contribute a tear to the ritual, please do so."

He clutches the close to his chest and focuses his thoughts. It would be easy to dwell on the vast number of sorrows the group has seen over the many, many months, instead, he centers on memories that are near and dear to him. A child's love for parents he'd never see again. The support of a community that gave everything to raise an orphaned child. The hope of a future where there was no need for such heroism.

A small tear rolls down Toben's cheek. He scoops it up quickly in the vial before it can fall and hand it to the next person.

Klale thinks of a certain incident (adult: 1 and done) from his youth while blinking his eyes furiously, hoping to produce a tear.

Ano closes his eyes for a moment making sure to focus.  Bringing up his emotions was something he trained hard not to do.  He focused on all the people they have lost, those he could not save until he is able to scoop a tear into the vial.

Klale tries and tries and keeps on trying; but, the harder he tries, the dryer his eyeballs are. His despair over his failure produces tears, and he contributes one.

Ryland thinks back on his mother, her sacrifices for him, and the hard knocks lifestyle of his father once she was gone. How he never truly deserved her, and how he feels he deserves every rough day he's ever experienced.

It doesn't take much for the bard to produce a tear into the vial, before shaking his head a few times and launching in to jovial tune that would make even the hardest of hearts dance a jig.

Toben collects the vial once everyone is done and places it on the table. "Thank you all for your contribution. Now, we may begin."

He picks up the hobbit made carving and holds it aloft for everyone to see. "A figure made from the hands of a hobbit. A symbol of all things good in this world. An ideal to focus upon during this transition." The last sentence he says looking at Delunuar, advice if you will.

Toben walks over and places the carving in the Maiar's hand.

The fiery woman looks at the figurine made of wood incredulously.  However, when Toben places it in her hand, she clutches it tight and it does not burn.

The young mage exhales lightly, relieved that at least the first step in the ritual going to plan. He walks back to the table and picks up the chalice in one hand and holds it up in the same fashion. "An ancient chalice of elfin make. Pure in its craftsmanship. So much so, that its very make can withstand the tainted blood of even the vilest creature, the Ulari."

Toben places the chalice back down on the table and carefully picks up the vial of Ulari blood. He unstoppers it and pours the contents into the cup. A faint sizzle can be heard as each drop connects with the metal.

As the blood settles in the chalice, he picks up the vial of tears. "Tears shed from men good of heart. Men, blessed by Eru with the gift of choice. The power to choose to follow down the path that leads to Iluvatar." His eyes are fixed on Delunuar as he speaks.

Before he pours the tears into the chalice, he looks over to Klale and gives him a nod, as if to tell him to ready himself should the Maiar begin to struggle. "The vapor, produced by the tears, will draw Melkor's influence from her. I ask that those present, call out to Eru Iluvatar. Use your words as a beacon to guide Eru to her and purify her soul so that it may be fit to join with him in the light."

Toben walks over to Delunuar and adds the tears to the chalice one drop at a time. "The tears of a sage, a minstrel, a warrior, and a devoted spiritual leader." With each drop, wisps of green vapor begin to billow out of the chalice. More and more begins to waft up toward Delunaur at the mixture intensifies. He holds the chalice up close enough to her face so that she may easily breathe in the vapor.

Ryland takes the first call. "Eru Iluvatar, song of light and shepard of souls, creator of all and beacon of hope, I call to you now, begging forgiveness and mercy on this woman. Guide her to your radiance, and away from those who would see her held low in the clutches of the wicked. We ask that you deliver her from this cruel fate of involuntary servitude to the darkness"

Klale, the second. Eru, please give heed to Delunaur, her fortitude and love, and to Gwaelind likewise. Few could have endured such pressure for so long as they. Now let this burden be lifted from her so she may make free choices and both receive their just reward...loving togetherness.

Draugion continues, the third. "Eru Iluvatar, please save this woman and cleanse her soul, remove the weight from her shoulders and allow her to rise up from the shadows. Guide her into your blessed light."

Ano takes a seat near the others, legs crossed, eyes closed, and his fists presser together.  Eru, world creator.
 We may this life before you, please guide us in our attempt to save this discord and bring her to your light.

As the prayers ascend, one by one, Delunaur grows ever more violent.  There is a strain to the dragon-forged chains that bind her.  Dragons, after all, are mortals and no match for one of the Ainur at full power.

Delunaur's visage changes, growing ridged and grotesque.  She begins to spit and utter vile curses at Toben and the others as each submits their prayer.  "RRRAAARGGHHHH!!!  You cannot have this one!  She is MINE!"  The voice echoes partly with Delunar's sultry alto and partly with a deeper, malevolent tone that grates the nerves as it scrapes across the ear drums.

Delunaur appears about to break the chains using her heat to reduce their integrity.

The writhing and cursing only invigorates Toben as it reveals that the ritual is proving effective. "It's working. Don't let up!", he relays back to the others.

He does his best to dodge any limbs intent on striking the chalice while trying to keep the vapor aimed at her face. "Klale, I don't know if those bonds are going to hold. You're going to need to channel all the strength of the earth's blessing and try to restrain her while the vapor does its job."

Ryland ups the tempo of his music, as if to be in tune with the higher stakes and to hopefully spur Klale on.

Ryland uses inspire competence on Klale. +2 to STR checks. 2 minute duration so long as Ryland is playing

Klale exclaims Eru! We beseech You! He then grips Delunaur's shoulders from behind. Delunaur! Be free! Gwaelind loves You! You love Him! Love! Love! Love!

Ano stands his face close to Delunaur's as Klale restrains her.  He places hands on either side of her face and speaks loud and clear MELKOR, she is no longer for you.  Her choice is made and Eru accepts her, let go.

Deep, malevolent laughter booms through the dragon's cave.  Delunaur shrugs free of Klale's grip on her shoulders, though it seems with considerably more effort than she first thought to use.  Her eyes burst into intense orbs of red flame that leak out and poor down her cheeks like running lava.  The laughter continues as the flames spread all over her body.

The heat is so intense, those who stand near save for Klale are in danger of being burned severely.

Oddly, the carving and the vapor do not appear to be affected by the fire.

Klale takes hold again and repeats his pleas.

Toben continues to hold the chalice up to Delunaur as the waves of heat wash over him. With each successive increase in heat, his physical fortitude begins to waver. His skin becomes more and more red, the hair on his knuckles begin to singe, and the smell of burnt hair starts to form around him.

His only recourse is magic. He holds his breath, and with his free hand, begins to summon forth bits of earth to aid him. Small layers of clay begin to form around his free hand, almost like a glove, but made out of a ceramic-like material. As the last piece folds into place, he raises his hand in the air and the glove slides off and continues levitating towards the chalice. The disembodied ceramic hand wraps its fingers around the base of the chalice just as Toben release his own and staggers backward, gasping for breath.

Toben puts a little more distance between himself and Delunaur to escape the heat while the earthen mage hand keeps the chalice close enough to remain effective. The ceramic plates of the hand begin to glow red as the heat climbs higher and higher.

"Remember Delunuar, this is your choice. Not his."

Toben casts Mage Hand (Earth) modified by Silent Spell.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:49, Wed 20 Mar 2019.

Klale's muscles bulge as he restrains the Maia.  The flames engulf him, but he is not consumed.  What sweat forms on his brow is from his own exertion, not from the heat.

The Malevolent laughter rings again but seems to recede a bit.  When Delunaur speaks again, it is only her voice.  "I cannot do this.  He is too strong."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:00, Thu 21 Mar 2019.

A voice from the entrance to the cavern speaks softly in reply.  "Nonsense.  You struggle because you dont believe you have the choice the others have spoken of.  The evidence to the contrary is all around you."

Delunaur looks up at the strangely dressed figure.  It is the odd man from the bar, Forn.  Behind him is a rather large red dragon cradling a large baby boy.  Delunaur shakes her head.  "Melkor is too strong."

Forn laughs with laughter from the belly, full of mirth and joy.  "Melkor!  HA!  Melkor was cast out.  He has no power in Arda.  You've been deceived by your brethren.

Empavausan-hugi, Dúath'gûr, let your sister be.  I see through your tricks, Emp.  Your binding power is broken, Dischord of Earth.  These men have shown her the way of light.  The Hobbit carving is unburned as was foretold.  The blood of one turned from pure evil mixed with the tears of champions has broken your spell.

Be gone from her.  Delunaur has chosen Eru Iluvatar."

When Forn says the last name, a blast of radiant energy emanates from Delunaur.  The flames draw into her, red and angry, but swiftly absorbed.  They burst forth again in golden fire.

The fire transforms Delunaur.  Her hair turns from ashen white to golden.  Her skin from charcoal grey to a glowing light tan.  The red flame of her eyes intensifies to crystal blue.  Even her clothes become something new.  Instead of the harsh dark leathers she wears a shimmering white dress, an array of fire drop gems adorning her collar, sleeves, and waist.

The red dragon chuckles at the display.  "Show off."

From the dark ceiling above, a malevolent voice echoes in whispers.  "This isn't over, Bombadil.  The Son of Iluvatar has interfered.  There will be a balancing of the scales."  A rumbling of the ground follows then - not one, but two presences depart.

Gwaelind rushes to embrace Delunaur as Klale steps back.  The blacksmith's fierce grip long abandoned since the transformation.  Gwaelind kisses her lips, her cheeks, her head, the holds her at arm length to look into her eyes.

Delunaur smiles happily back at him.

Gwaelind turns to the one called Forn.  "Tom!  So good to see you!  You  broke their hold!"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:04, Thu 21 Mar 2019.

As the Lady Flamewind is coming into her own self, Klale—breathing deep through his mouth—lets go and slumps to one knee. He fumbles for his waterskin.

Tom chuckles merrily.  "I didn't do a thing, my boy, except put the correct name to the bullies messing with your gal.  Truth be told, Melkor ain't too happy with them boys.  He's changing his tune a little these days but Duathgur and Empy are still trying to be thugs.

As my daddy always says, 'Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against itself falls'.

The true heroes are these men and even their elfin friend here to an extent.  They brought together all the stuff that sage was told to write down.  He got a little creative with they why's and the wheretofores, but at least he got enough of it to do what needed to be done."

Tom/Forn looks at Delunaur who is beaming.  "Ultimately the real power lay with Delunaur all along.  Eru designed the world to be a soul forge.  Every soul He made has the capacity for free will.  Even the Ainur.  That's why Melkor could rebel as he did in the first place that started all this conflict.  Those Ainur who left with Melkor chose to.  But they should realize, as long as there is life, there is choice.  It's hard once the choice for evil has been made, to choose good again.  Delunaur has been choosing good for a long time now.  Saving little Daven over there and giving him to Naurel was one of those choices.

Loving Gwaelind, though, that's the most powerful one, the first choice she made in favor of the light.  Nothing more powerful than that."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:06, Thu 21 Mar 2019.

Toben scrambles over to Klale to help the giant of a man right himself and fetch his water. "Well done, friend", he whispers in a low voice.

"Great job to everyone, in fact. The fewer agents of Melkor to contend with, the better."

~~~

As the remainder of the scene unfolds Toben's eyes dart back and forth between all the familiar and new people in the room.

"So many questions...", he thinks to himself. He looks as though he might positively burst with the wealth of new information standing in front of him.

Tom, who was previously presumed to have been Forn, seems to be overflowing with information so Toben focuses his attention on him first. "What about Basarshakath? You mentioned Duathgur and Empy, but we had quite a run in with him when trying to secure Nessa. I seriously doubt we were able to take him out of the equation."

Ryland ceases his playing, breathing an audible sigh of relief before flexing his fingers a few times.

Tom shrugs.  "Oh, I'm sure he's around.  Probably flexing in front of the nearest mirror he can find."

Klale, with any needed help, drinks deeply. He's able to stand up and say Thanks.

Toben pats Klale on the shoulder and gives him a nod of acceptance. He walks over to the large red dragon holding the baby, he looks up into its large draconian eyes. "Naurel? Song of Fire, I presume? You have done a great service protecting this baby. Mairen will be overjoyed. The more good will we can spread about the stars, the better."

Delunaur's new found radiance is only rivaled by how quickly she is now recovering from the strain Melkor's influence. Toben's eyes shift between the two Maiar for a moment, then asks "So, there can be more than one Song of Fire? Or has she become something different?"

Draugion breathes a sigh of relief, and approaches Ryland. "Now that Delunaur has been freed, where do we go from here?"

The red dragon-maia chuckles in a deep, booming voice.  "I can answer both questions.  No, there is only one Song of Fire.  Delunaur's discordant refrain has been brought back into harmony with the whole Song of Creation, but her...duty assigned by the rebel, Melkor is over.  She will do whatever she chooses, which I suspect has something to do with Gwaelind.  It will take her some time to recover her full strength, perhaps even long enough for all this to be over."

Naurel lowers the baby down to Delunar, a not insignificant showing trust.  Delunaur holds the child gently as it coos up at her sleepily.

"As for next, we need to go to the great desert in the south.  My sister, Lanthir, needs help before the Vile'ek take her."

"What about the escalating tension amongst the dragons here? We can't just stir up a hornet's nest and leave them to clean it up. Aashera is expecting a meeting in the very near future."

"I think that the elder dragons are more defeated than you realize.  They want to meet with you.  Aashera finally has them under her control enough to get that out of them.  That means you've dealt them a serious blow.  If she can convince the elder dragons to break with Melkor, to become independent again, then there won't be any conflict within the Heath any more.  Pauric made mistake offering a descendant of Elessar Telcontar up to the dragons.  She is too smart, too powerful in spirit and had already begun to turn them when you four showed up.  Since then, you've made her job far easier."

The great dragon laughs in that booming laughter.  "Aashera Elend has advised against going against you from the start.  Every time they didn't listen, they lost.  A war of attrition is not one they can win.  So now, when she cautions patience, they are more prone to hear her.  I doubt your meeting will last too long.  I pray that it won't.  Lanthir cannot hold out against the Vile'ek Nil'for'aks for long, even in her frozen state."

Toben's jaw drops at the revelation Naurel so casually mentions. "Did you just say that Aashera is descendant of the king of Gondor?"

The Dragon-Maia nods absently, paying more attention to Delunaur playing with the baby.

"That, " Toben takes a moment to digest the information and compose himself, "actually explains a lot."

He looks over at Deluaur and smiles as he watches what looks like a natural maternal instinct when she plays with Daven. "Has anyone sent word to Mairen regarding her son?"

Ryland leans over to Draugion, speaking quietly so as to not interrupt the others. "I haven't the foggiest, but anywhere other than this heath is fine by me". As Naurel mentions the desert and her sister, Ryland looks back over at Draugion. He shrugs,and then sighs through a smile. "I suppose there are worse places, as we've seen"

Once Toben asks about Mairen, Ryland replies "She was with your shadowy friend, Ourn, right? From the looks of that fellow, I'd say he wont be reachable unless he chooses to. Though, being from Therion, if you're going to send a runner.. well, flyer I suppose, I'd say that's a good place start. At least, that's where I would send one in any case". Ryland looks to Naurel. "Will you be accompanying us to the meeting with the elder dragons? I think we'd all breath a little easier with you there".

"Wouldn't miss it.  I have another Dragon Master, newly trained, to deliver anyway.  I'll pick him up on the way."  His eyes twinkle with mischievous merriment.

Toben thinks for a moment. "Actually, I think I might be able to handle the message back to Therion on Daven's well being. I'll just need some chalk and a large flat stone. Should be easy enough to find around here. We can take care of that before we leave for the desert in search of Lanthir, but it sounds like we need to finish up this meeting with Aashera first."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:35, Sun 31 Mar 2019.

Klale is recovered, standing there trying to figure things out.

Supplies are easily found for Toben to send the message.

"The child, Daven, cannot go to the desert with you.  He will be safe here in the cave of Shochraos'altiui.  Will you allow Gwaelind and me to care for him until his mother can safely claim him?"  They are the first words spoken to the Men since her transformation.

Ano nods to Delunaur I can't imagine hI'm being safer with anyone else.
Will you two try to connect with thr other Maiar

Klale takes his leave and returns to the forge and to those swarves who enjoy working with him. There He crafts two Glyphs of protection, one for his armor ans one for the dragon-imaged shield.

 \|/
  |
  |

To make the Protection Glyph requires silica-smeared hide put in fire but wetted and sprinkled with water so it stays whole. Then the glypher works the hide into the glyph shape taps it onto the object so it becomes with the object but not into it. Finally, the glypher rubs the object while breathing onto it until it becomes a transparent tracery, seen but allowing all beneath to be seen.

When Klale is done and thanked the dwarves who assisted, one says. You are gaining proficiency. May the day come when you will be able to accomplish the more complicated glyphs.

"We will connect with Ceven and Nestael and any of the others who are free while Naurel journey's with you into the desert.  We must begin work pushing back the forces of Duath'gur and the other Dischords.  They will be weakened now, without Delunaur."  He smiles at his beloved.  "This will anger them and they will attempt retribution.  May your journey be swift and successful.  Lanthir is not just the Song of Water, she is as much a shield against evil as Ceven.  Water is purifying and we need that more now than ever with the arrival of the Vile'ek."

Klale offers fragment of thought. Desert. Means little or no water. We'll need water. How to take it or obtain it...?

Toben nobs his head in contemplation. "Yes, the Song of Water does seem crucial for our cause. I'm aware of at least four Dischords, now three with Delunaur's transformation. Are there any others we haven't accounted for yet?"

"You know of Duath'gur, Dischord of Earth and Empavausan-hugi, Dischord of the Mind.  You mentioned Basarshakath, Dischord of Body so I take it you know of him as well.  There are two others to consider.  Dischord of Wind and Dischord of Water.  I do not know their whereabouts, but Raeg'alagos, Dischord of Wind is what you would call an Assassin.  Rae is vile, rotten to the core, but she is a master of disguise and deceit.

Firn'Ninui, Dischord of Water, is a master manipulator.  Many times she will sit in the background like the Emp and control things from the shadows.  However, she will control through whatever means she deems most efficient whereas the Emp will just take over the minds.  Firn is beautiful, but fluid.  Some take this to be vapid, but she is anything but.  Like Rae, she is a shape shifter, but the shifts of her mind are reality.  She believes what she is saying and at that moment is the person she appears to be.  The shifts come when the situation requires a different guise to accomplish her overall goals.  Duath'gur has figured out how to manipulate these guises to his whim and easily controls Firn, who loves him.

Rae and Bas are a thing from time to time, but both are vain and self-centered, so their relationship is purely physical.  Nothing to work with really to turn them against one another.  They fight all the time anyway.  Can't stand each other on the emotional or mental level because the other doesn't see each as number one in importance in the relationship."

She pauses, thinking, then shrugs as if not sure what else Toben and the others want to know.

Toben raises an eyebrow. "Sounds like these two could basically be anywhere or anyone. How can we tell if we encounter either Rae or Firn? Are there any means, magical or otherwise, that might be able to see past whatever guises they might be using?"

"Yes.  They are weaker against their counterpart elements.  Rae doesn't like Earth-based things like stone and metal.  She uses bone weapons made from her victims and won't wear metal.  Firn doesn't like excessive temperatures.  The two of them get along very well, so you may find them working together."

"Those are very good details to keep an eye out for. So we could potentially be looking for two females, possibly traveling together? Or do they sometimes masquerade around as the opposite gender?"

Delunaur smirks.  "We...they would not deign to do such a thing."  She nestles against Gwaelind to take even the mild sting from her words.  Gwaelind just chuckles and the baby coos.

Ryland folds his arms, and wide grin spreading across his face. "Not one, but two femme fatales?". He looks around, unfolding his arms and raising both hands in a carefree manner. "The fight may as well already be over. If Duath'gur can wrap one around his finger, I can have both eating out of my palm within a day. This will be just like the time I ran off with a blacksmith's twin daughters.. sans the angry mob, rigged trial, and spending a weekend in the stockades of course". He trails off, mumbling to himself "Still can't stand the smell of tomatoes.."

Toben stifles a laugh. "Good to see Delunuar didn't break your spirit, Ryland."

He rolls his eyes and looks back over at Delunuar. "Thank you, you've given us a lot to keep in mind. Any other personality quirks or something that might help identify Firn? From how you speak of her, she seems to be quite the chameleon."

Delunaur shakes her head in the negative just before the baby draws her attention.

The red dragon shifts, a turn to leave.  "Come.  This meeting with the elder dragons will happen soon.  Then we should be off to the desert."

Toben nods. "Of course. Before we go, I have one last thing to do. I'd like to send word back to our tower in Therion's region regarding the child, Daven. They can hopefully get word to Mairen. I pray that they receive the message and will be granted safe passage back here to be reunited."

Provided that Toben can find a large flat stone somewhere in the cave system, he will cast Stone Messenger to send word back to the tower.

Preparations for the meeting are made for the next evening.  Naurel leaves to retrieve this other young Dragon Master he spoke of, giving his word that he would be waiting for them at dawn.

The four Men and Draugion gather at the Copper Nugget to discuss their next steps with the meeting.  For the moment, the younger dragons are left out on purpose.  Voices are kept low, too, so that the Gonhirrim do not overhear.  Their loyalty is likely toward the dragons more than these visitors, Men and an Elf.

Before much is said, even before food is brought for dinner, Kairo arrives in human form and comes over to the table.  "I...feel as though I'm an outsider here.  I do not know these dragons, though Shock and I are growing close enough.  I wish," he looks toward the door with longing.  "I wish to join you in your adventures beyond the Heath."
This message was last updated by the player at 22:40, Fri 19 Apr 2019.

Toben thinks for a moment before speaking. He almost says something, but then their meals arrive and decides to hold back. "Welcome, it's good to see you again, friend."

Once the tavern helper goes back to the kitchen to fetch someone else's meal, he speaks more openly. "I won't lie, having someone of your nature traveling with us would be a welcome boon and distinctly advantageous. However, wouldn't leaving only extend the gap between you and your brothers and sisters here?"

You'd be welcome. Then Klale smiles grimly. Advantures? More aptly, undertaking...in all three meanings.

Kairo gives thought to the words spoken by both men, then gives them a slow smile.  "Indeed, it would in the context of your lifetimes.  Yet, I am a dragon.  I have yet a thousand lifetimes in the reckoning of Men to come to know my brethren."

His face grows more serious.  "These are troublesome times and I cannot sit idle while others work so hard and so relentlessly to save us all.  What I have heard of this Other, these...Vile'ek, stirs a great fear within me.  Not for myself, but for the land and the life that lives here.  There is something so repugnant about it that I would risk temporary alliance with the mere darkness that is the ancient foe.  If the Dischords can destroy the Vile'ek with their songs, perhaps we will need their strength when we go against the Vile'ek who are not just transformed Ardaians."

"You spoke of another dragon that your traveled with for a time.  A Kornari?  So this will not be a new thing for you.  I am very young for my kind, but I would like to grow through adversity as the ancient dragons before Morgoth came and corrupted us.  I also wish to know more about the Dragon Bloodsworn.  There are only three here in the Heath.  Yet they know little of the history of their kind and one presses forward with the Elder Dragons attempting something that Shock believes invaluable.  The other Free Dragons are dubious and worry that her efforts will ultimately turn her against us."

He sits back as a mug of ale is brought for him.  It's purple glow and magenta froth indicate is not something even a dwarf dare drink.  Kairo takes a respectable drink and wipes the froth from his upper lip.  "That is why you meet here, is it not?  To speak of the reasons behind the contention between the young and old dragons.  While I have been recovering here, getting to know my kin, I have also been learning what I can.  The Dragon Bloodsworn are the key to the Heath.  They can unite the dragons if done right."

"They are the reason, I think, for the conflict now."

"I've heard this saying more times than I can recall. 'United we stand, divided we fall.' I believe that is more true now than ever. If we plan to accomplish anything, we need a united front. That includes us. What sort of plan is there to make sure this meeting goes well?"

A question Toben poses to all present.

It might not. I'll have a question or two for Aashera...keeping them to myself...wonder if she's enchanted?...then maybe I'll have a good idea how matters are.

"Easy", Ryland responds to Toben. "You let me do the talking of course".

"That", Toben raises an eyebrow, "is probably one of the most frightening things I've had to ponder today."

His brow furrows a bit. "Not that I don't trust your ability to hold a conversation, but we know Aashera. She won't be swayed by a silver tongue nor lavish compliments. I've seen what she does to men she believes to be getting fresh with her."

"Again, speaking as both a dragon and something of an outsider, I imagine the best thing would be to keep your cool, reason through what's going on, and then just lay out the consequences of the most likely paths.  As I ponder more on it, there seems to be something else going on.  Maybe there is someone in the shadows manipulating both sides?"

The most important thing we need to do is to focus on fostering a peace between the dragons.  if we can achieve that them I feel we will all be working together.

Toben nods. "I agree with both of you. As long as we present a united front, I think we'll be ok. We'll want to make sure both sides agree to an alliance before exploring the possibility of external forces manipulating both sides."

The small group disbands and heads to bed.  Klale, at some point, forges the glyphs he had in mind.  Then the Men, a small contingent of dwarves, and five young dragons head off for the meeting.  Shock, Lucifariel, and Ys'shathas go, but Kairo stays behind.  The other two are Windfang and Starsong.  The former because of his witness against the Vile'ek and the latter because song dragons might be of significant might against them.

At the appointed time, five elder dragons and two humans arrive.  Aashera Elend is one.  The other is a masked man who does not deign to remove it which keeps his identity hidden.

[Roll Perception or Spot DC 21 to potentially recognize the other dragon master.]

The dragons are the death, eldritch, two war, and a storm dragon.  The same five Ano and Klale met when they discovered Aasha was a dragon master.

Klale has no clue.

Toben scans over the attendees of the meeting. He nods in recognition when his eyes fall upon Aashera. As a sign of good faith, he begins moving forward, hands in plain view.

"At the risk of sounding brisk, I'd like to get to the point.  The elder dragons are accused of attacking the younger without provocation.  The younger are the actual aggressors, though they were tricked into it by the Song of Fire, Naurel.  The elder have sustained heavy losses in their number, precious wisdom and power that could have been used against the Vile'ek.  They are willing to forgive, to completely renounce all claims of vengeance, in order to unite to fight this new threat, this Other that seeks to consume the world."

Toben looks back over his shoulder at Naurel and then back at Aashera. "Sadly, a few of us weren't here at the time the fighting broke out, but in the interest of time, it's best to avoid finger pointing. What's done is done, and can't be taken back."

The young man continues. "A couple of companions and I, " he says gesturing to Ryland and Windfang, "were on a mission of sorts to the Grey Havens where we encountered numerous types of these Vile'ek. It's a miracle we managed to get out of there alive as the entire region was overrun by the kind, but we did learn a thing or two about them."

Toben smiles politely as Aashera. "I'm curious, what have you and yours learned about the Vile'ek and this entity they call the 'Other'."

Naurel gives Toben a sly smile but says nothing.  He has paced back and forth since arriving, but does not go near the elder dragons and does not assume an aggressive stance.

Several of the elder dragons do not look happy at Aashera's pronouncement, but they do not argue.

It is the death dragon that speaks, it's otherworldly voice almost lost in the open air.  He seems unconcerned, detached even from any anger at the recent conflict or its abrupt end.  "We have sssent out our ssservants to ssscour Middle Earth.  Few have returned with any newsss of the Other - the Vile'ek.  One or two have returned with the infection and had to be dessstroyed.  You sssaw what happened to our brother.

After the lossssss of many ssservants, we have concluded that there are only two placesss in the world where this infection existsss.  Mithlond and the Sssshrine of Morinehtar in the middle of the Cassstormyr Desssert to the sssouth."

Toben ponders for a moment. "What happened to your friend? Did the infection seem to manifest in a grey, leathery texture upon the skin and inexplicable deformations of the body?"

"Yessss."

The other elder dragons nod.

Toben sighs heavily. "I am truly sorry for your loss. Had we been able to return sooner, we might have been able to save him. I know that may sound hard to believe, but that brings me to one of the things we discovered while in the Grey Havens. This infection, as you call it, seems to be one of both body and mind. Once touched, it fills the target with utter despair, draining it all hope until it finally succumbs. Once the will is broken, it has free reign to take over the body and transform it into an unrecognizable abomination. You seem to have witnessed only the early stages of the transformation, and as terrible as that may seem, it is reversible."

He pauses a moment to let the information sink in for Aashera and the elder dragons before continuing. "That should give us hope, but not dilute the fact that this presence is strong. It has no bias and is unrelenting. Witnessed with our own eyes, it has the power to convert the smallest of hobbits, men, elves, an elder dragon, and even a mighty balrog. We even encountered, what may possibly be, the source of the blight there. It called itself Orushand, and collectively they have a weakness. They react violently to harsh dissonant sounds. It seems to cause them great pain. However, upbeat and harmonious music has a very different effect. It cured them."

Toben looks over to Ryland. "Perhaps you would like to explain, in better details than I can provide, what we observed."

At Toben's words, Aashera turns to the dragons who look at each other, nodding.  However, they wait for Ryland to add to Toben's story before speaking.

Ryland nods. "I believe you summed up the ordeal well. The creatures had a severe aversion to what I presume to be cheer of any sort... As if to say they were beings of pure spite and mysery, though I hypothesize that as Toben the Elder Dragons have alluded to; they aren't inherently that way themselves, but rather through this being known as the Other. Ultimately, I believe that it will not be sword and sorcery that slays this foe, but something intangible. A positive and courageous spirit, one that through the powers of raw emotion counters that black cloud that skirts the borders of these lands".

Toben mods matter of factly at Ryland’s synopsis. “Were your agents able to describe how wide spread this malaise was near the shrine you mentioned? From what we saw in the Grey Haven’s, the whole place was enveloped in the gloom. Evidence has shown that anything and anyone is susceptible and going back there without a solid plan would likely yield the same results as you already described.”

"The shrine is small and our agent only flew over so as not to become tainted inadvertently.  The Other...the Vile'ek," the dragon tastes the new word and continues on, "were few and small around the shrine.  Perhaps former animals of the desert if they tend to keep the size of their victims.  I am unsure how to consider these things, separate from what they used to be and an aggressor, or somehow a different aspect.  Either way, the shrine is only the top of a larger, buried system of ruins.  No doubt, the ruins are filled with larger, more dangerous creatures."

"Well that at the very least narrows down one conundrum, the location that is. Would it be too forward of me to ask for transport somewhere near the shrine for myself and my compatriots? Not too close of course, the last thing we would want is to place others in harm's way while carrying out our duty".

There is a heavy woosh of wings and an increase in the warmth of the air.  "You have transport.  I would not trust these minions of Morgoth as far as you could throw them."  Naurel lands behind the younger dragons in a gallop before circling around to the group.  On his back is a human dressed in armor similar to Aashera and the other Dragon Master, except that this armor is the same red color as Naurel's scales.

As Naurel lands, the elder dragons draw up into combat ready stances, teeth bared.

Except for Kul'vaenurix, who blinks slowly but makes no other acknowledgments that the Song of Fire has arrived.

Ryland throws up his hands, spreading them wide as if to ward off both the elder and younger dragons. "Come now, the time for strife is not at hand! We face a common enemy, one that would delight in our infighting. We make ourselves weaker if we cannot overcome prejudices and spite. This is the very core of what Orushand is. Pure hatred for the all the living". He pauses only long enough to ensure he has the floor. "Yes, many lives were lost in a senseless battle against one another. Both sides have struck at the other. By this time, there is no aggressor and victim. Both have most precious blood on their hands. And for a mere man to see the pointlessness of this feud, what does that say for the state of dragonkind in these trying times? Lay down your will and temperament for battle, if only for a moment, and be willing to instead extend an oaken branch of kinship, one that is ancient, and strong and true. The nations of men have squabbled as petty children for years, and we are not better for it. We are weakened, frail. The vies for power come at too great a cost, for what king would rule over a kingdom of only himself after he has spent the lives of his people? Hear my words, dragons, men, elves and dwarves alike. Do not play the fool and wear a veil of pride. No creature here can survive what is to come, not without the full aid of his fellows".
This message was last edited by the player at 22:28, Mon 20 May 2019.

"Well said, sir.  Furthermore, Aashera commands the elder dragons as does Pauric.  They cannot overcome the will of a Dragon Master."  The young man on Naurel's back slides down and approaches Ryland.  His armor is similar to Aashera's except it is red like the scales of the Song of Fire.  When he removes his helmet, he revealed that he is none other than Aashera's traveling companion, Cace Craab.

The young man of Pauric's army in Towerton has grown.  He strides now in confidence and his body moves with the ease and grace of a practiced warrior.  He smiles at Klale, Ano, and Toben.  "It is good to see you again, my friends."

Toben looks over at the new dragon master on the scene. "Cace?" Then suddenly, his words hit him. He looks over at the dragon master still masked.

"Pauric", he states flatly.

"Looks like the band is all back together again." He pauses for a moment as the memory of Phineas punches him in the throat just as he finishes the sentence. "Mostly."

The other Dragon Master removes his helmet.  Pauric gives Toben a nod and a smirk, but says nothing.

"We would not risssk our livesss at thisss juncture to take you near the Other, anyway.  Not unlessssss the Massster'sss commanded it, which I have faith that they will not."  Both Aashera and Pauric nod at this.  "If it isss your will to addressssss thisss threat head-on, you will do it without our aid.  You are better equipped for it than we."

Toben's blinks once before a slight look of confusion appears on his face. "Aashera, by your own words, you wished to unite our forces to fight against this new threat. There has been no commitment to any sort of plan yet, head-on or otherwise, but how do you propose an alliance if you are unwilling to face it? We are all at risk, and we all have much to lose. Both sides need to be bought in equally."

"The death dragon is correct.  We will not be able to go to the shrine.  All that would result in would be adding the elder dragons - or their Vile'ek versions - to the forces of this Orushand.  Our efforts will be tri-fold.

First, we will cease all hostilities toward the younger dragons.  This is contingent upon their agreement and active non-aggression as well.

Second, we will spread out across Middle Earth and bring to heel all rogue forces of Morgoth.  Our goal in this will not only remove the conflict your forces face and allow them to focus their own resources toward the Vile'ek, but we can redirect these rogue forces to actually support places like Therion's duchy.  Our first stop will be Moria.

Finally, we will need to meet with the remaining Dischords to work out how our might and resources can best help face this threat.  The elder dragons are powerful entities that the Dischords do not dismiss.  They will realize that alone, they seek to conquer a world that will soon be overrun by the Other and then they will become enslaved as well.  The Dischords have the power to destroy the Vile'ek and may prove to be the weapon Arda needs to destroy Orushand, or at least remove its manifestation in this world."

Klale is puzzled. "...rogue forces of Morgoth...."? There is Melkor and Morgoth, and what does "rogue forces" mean? Also, didnn't somebody suggest we take action with a definite target?

Aashera looks at Klale quizzically, then addresses the fighter's questions.  "Morgoth is Melkor.  Two names for the same being...different dependent on what part of history you are speaking about.  The rogue forces are those not under the control of the Dischords, hordes of orcs and goblins left to run without direction for a thousand years.  They know only destruction, rapine, and theft."

She looks back to Toben.  "A clear target for those who can do something significant about it would be the shrine."

"Already decided that, girl.  Didn't need your help or permission.  They're here to get all buddy buddy with you so you don't hurt their friends any more while they tackle the shrine." Naurel paces back and forth, sparks of fire escaping from his mouth at certain points, almost as if to add emphasis.

The war dragon rises, its various spines and scales rising as if responding to a threat.  But Aashera glares at it and it backs down.  "Naurel, you are the one who instigated all of this.  It was you who incited the young to attack the elder after hundreds of years of peace.
 Gassclagon and Terrrakrad ambushed the Eldritch Dragon, Nelfuria and slew her.  Before Pauric or I could intervene, three young dragons had been slain in retaliation.  The elder dragons are not at fault here."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:05, Fri 24 May 2019.

Toben raises his hands in a defensive position. "Let's not forget why we're here. We need to move past these transgressions and focus on the bigger problem. Naurel, would you be so kind as to meet with Gwaelind and his companion to gain their counsel in this matter? I believe your influence may be better spent there than here at the moment."

Giving a sideways glance in the direction of one of the younger dragons, Ryland furrows his brow and folds his arms. He maintains eye contact, wanting it to see him looking directly at it and the face he makes.

I think it would be best if we stuck to our original purpose and continued to look for the stars.  They will be important for the up coming battles.

Klale sits down and waits for the group to figure out what to do. I don't understand about the dischords, unless we want help them as was done with Delunar. Ano is correct in saying our original, well, overall purpose was to find and help the starts. Funny as I think on it...we mere men doing that.

Toben looks over at Klale and Ano. "We will head south, toward the great desert."

He then looks back over to Aashera and the elder dragons. "I believe we can convince the younger dragons to quiet their hostilities as well, and address your first point. Cace ought to be able to ensure that. As to your second point, any effort to reign in the rogue valaraukar will be a boon in many regards. However, I have no idea how you'd convince Therion, and those like him, to accept support of that nature after the recent attacks upon his castle. And to your last point, I wish you luck. Our experiences with the Dischords haven't been the friendliest of encounters, but we'll be rallying the Songs as well."

Naurel harrumphs, but takes the hint.  With a hot blast of air from his wings, he launches into the air and heads East.  Cace remains behind.

Then we'll want plenty of water. Perhaps metal jugs can be made; I'l check with the dwarves. What will we use for travel in the desert? OUr feet are slow; horses will need food and water.

Perhaps Aashera's words would best be spoken in secret, away from the elder dragons.  That she said them in their hearing demonstrated the confidence she had in her command over them.  Even Pauric seemed to defer to her.

"Toben, Klale, Ano...the elder dragons have long been servants of Morgoth.  I am not.  I am my own master.  We did not travel together long, a few days really, but I am the same person you knew then.  The same woman that loves my grandfather.  I ask that you trust me.  It is a weighty thing that I ask, but these times call for us to take drastic steps.  As long as I live, the dragons will do as I ask.  We will draw the wild Valaraukar to the Withered Heath.  They will leave the lands of men alone.  You have my word."

[Sense Motive checks all.]

I think at this point we need to take whatever aid we can. Then to Toben he says Perhaps we could give her some token or information that would appeal to Therion.  He trusts us, we just need a way to pass that trust on.
 

20:36, Today: Ano rolled 12 using 1d20+11.  Sense motive check.

"I believe your intentions here are true, Aashera, and you have my trust. Is your intention to keep the wild Valaraukar in the Heath indefinitely, or do you expect to deploy them elsewhere once they've all congregated there?"

Toben looks over to Klale. "To answer your question about travel, I think Naurel has nominated himself and possibly some of the younger dragons to act as transport, but to your point, water is a concern we may need to think through."

17:32, Mon 27 May: Toben Ironsprings rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  Sense motive check.

09:44, Today: Klale Tsolo rolled 11 using 1d20.  Sense Motive Check.

Aashera nods.  "We will gather them here away from the realms of men until the Dischords can be convinced of the need to join forces with you.  Then, our hordes may be strong enough to overwhelm and destroy the Vile'ek in Mithlond and take back that portion of Arda."

Toben furrows his brow a bit, giving off a note of concern in Aashera's plan. "When you say 'destroy the Vile'ek', do you mean to kill them or convert them? Something we all need to remember is that these Vile'ek were once men, women, children, even elves. Reverting them back to their true form could actually be more advantageous than just killing them off."

Aashera has a pained look in her expression for a moment, then returns to her more stoic look.  "I understand that, Toben, but when the Vile'ek are spreading faster and faster, we may not have time to save them all.  If it comes down to destroying those already lost to the Vile'ek or risking all that are left becoming them, what would you choose?  For now, we will ring the Vile'ek lands to the west and only prevent them from spreading however we may.  However, if attrition begins to wear on us during that action, we may have to press forward while we still hold an advantage."

She looks back at the elder dragons, particularly the Death Dragon.  "You said they have a Balrog among their number.  Only an elder dragon is equal to a Balrog, and perhaps not the Vile'ek version.  We cannot afford great risks for only limited gain.  If the Balrog comes into play, we will destroy it and how ever many other Vile'ek we must to accomplish that goal."

"While I concur with Toben on trying to minimize harm to innocents caught up in this mess, I don't think anyone here - myself especially - will mind if there's one less balrog traipsing the countryside. There are some key elements and fundamentals we need to establish here, and I think we'd all be open to options on how to facilitate them. First and foremost, while we have a plan forming here, some form of lasting mutual assurance from one another would be welcomed. Secondly, a way to keep in contact should the need arise would greatly increase our strengths for accomplishing what I'm gathering is now a mutual objective".

Toben smiles and looks over at Ryland. "Very well said, friend. All I hope for is that a concerted effort is made to convert as many as possible for taking more aggressive measures, and I have no love for the Balrog. We got lucky the first time we encountered it."

Aashera gives Ryland a puzzled look.  "I'm not sure how we would stay in communication.  Elder dragons have a little magic, mostly beholden to their nature, but nothing like what you are speaking of.  And neither Pauric nor I have magic of our own.  How would we do such a thing?"

Pauric sneers.  "What kind of assurance would you even accept from us, heroes?"

Klale tries to clear the confused look. So there's you, Melkor, some dragons some Maia, and us...more-or-les the good guys. Anybody else? If not, could there be anybody else? I"m thinking we need a larger meeting than just us. Pauric, trust is in short supply, but whatever, it's better to be nice and to work together.

"I propose a trade. One of yours, for one of ours. It will have to be someone who wouldn't be expected to overpower a group. And I dare say that neither side should want to lose a soul or consider an ally as expendable".

"Oh, I definitely volunteer for that."