Cliche I know, but have to start somewhere.

Miles from civilization, a tavern is built upon a dead end. Very few passersby come upon this place, and even less still leave the next day. Some come after weary travels, others receive the epiphany during midday's work, while others still wake up here. This is Death's domain and only the strong may freely enter and leave. But it is here, tonight, Lady Q's party assembles.



OOC: Anyone who rolls a skill check 25+ may create story. I'll post examples in the rules thread soon. DC 20 is to know something in which I will respond. Every 5 points you can add a minor detail. DC 40 you can add a major detail and DC 60 you can add anything you want.

Lady Quar'ssysn  is sitting a table in the far left side of the place so that she will have a perfect view of who enters and who leaves.  It is here where she would find it the most safest place for her to have a few people meet and hope that they will be able to help her in finding what she is looking for.

Making sure the few people inside keep a distance from her and making sure that the tables around her are also empty.

Dress in a very elegant tight fitting robe of deep blue and one can spot a few objects orbiting around her head.

On the table there is a large pitch filled with something and many goblets placed in the center.  In front of her is a glass filled with some dark red liquid.

"What a quaint name," Irena muses to herself as she enters the inn. "Doesn't speak too highly of its clientele, but any place where we can meet is a good one."

The glittering red fabric of her dress is neatly offset by her orange-red hair, and her long nails are painted a similar color. She doesn't seem girt for war, but around wizards, who knows? All the same, she has chosen not to look like she's ready for a fight because that would be an insult to the Lady.

She waves cheerily to Lady Quar'ssysn as she approaches (good luck getting her to pronounce that name!), paying almost no heed to the empty tables around them.

"Good evening!" Irena chirps. "Am I the first to arrive?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:42, Sun 01 Mar 2020.

A voice came from just behind Lady Quar'ssysn almost from the walls themselves "Perhaps, perhaps not."

Qudy al-Ma then materialized next to Lady Quar'ssysn and looking at Irena the Bright. He then commented offhandedly "What a dreadful place you've found Lady Quar'ssysn. The colors so drab and dreary. How does one live in a place like this. Perhaps that's why there are rumors few return from this place."

Qudy al-Ma's eyes sparkled and his multicolored thawb stood out with it's bright yellows, blues, greens and reds. Some might say it looked garish. A large smile was upon his face. "A pleasure to see you ladies. This Naga Crown you need found, what is it and what do you know about it?"

Irena blinks, but only for a moment. The smile never leaves her face as she favors Qudy al-Ma with a glance, though that does not last past his next few words.

"A Naga crown, you say..."

Irena purses her lips and presses a finger to them in thought.

"If you could give me some details, I believe I could scour the archives of the Acadamae for them. History is so terribly boring but those who do not learn from the past are condemned to repeat it, as the saying goes."

Lady Quar'ssysn took a sip from the glass before her when she noticed a familiar face entering into the tavern.  As the lady known as Irena the Bright, makes her way over to the table her eyes slightly looks to the side indicating a figure behind her.

"Good evening to you as well.

It would of been nice to have you here first Lady Irena, but I have been with a guest for sometime now. she smiled as Qudy steps out of the wall/shadows.

Turning slightly to Qudy "This place has its charms as well.  One must know where to find them. she gave him a slight smile as she extends her hand for them to take a seat.

"I would gladly explain more about the item but we do have a few more guests to be arriving.  Shall we give them a few more moments to arrive whilst we chat about what life has given us. she said in a soft but sweet alluring voice.

Lady Quar'ssysn was pretty sure Qudy al-Ma had entered from the ethereal plane. He looked about this place and shook his head saying in dismay "I suppose I don't get the tastes involved in this place. I don't believe I'd ever stay in such a place as this. We can wait til others arrive so that you don't have to repeat yourself."

Ash, an athletically built male with slightly dull skin tone and dark black hair, entered the commons to join the others.  His clothes, a vest, pants, robe, slippers, and satchel, were clearly made for or by warrior monks in dark shades of black, grey, and dull metals.  They were utilitarian but showed no signs of travel wear and tear.  He was impeccably groomed as well.  Clearly he took time and energy to look this good, almost too good.

As he approached any patrons near him naturally shifted to move away.  Their conversations and mannerisms changing to show signs of discomfort.  However, Ash didn't seem intimidating in his own mannerisms.  No he seemed a bit solemn, as if he'd lost something, and a bit content with his current situation.

When he reached the others, he diverted to a clear table just before getting too close.  Yet, you could feel the aura of fear upon him even if it didn't affect you personally.  Clearly the gesture was a respectful one, which was made obvious when he spoke up upon sitting.

"Lady Quar'ssysn, your call reached quite far indeed."  His voice was soft and held attention.  There was no sweetness to it, instead it was lacking a bit of life and was hard to place regionally.  "Greetings to each of you, I'm known as Ash."  The name was a simple one, much like the man before you.  However, people of your renown and experience could quickly put together that the name with the appearance and being invited meant this man was a bit of a legend.

It's said that a monk named Ash laid waste to the monestary where he was raised and terrorized a nearby warlord who hid behind thick walls and several armies.  But, legends have a way of being taken out of context and blown out of proportion.  This might be the man, but he was much smaller than the stories and songs.

Lady Quar'ssysn's eyes looked up at the man who just joined them "I was hoping that it would reach your ears.  One never knows what to expect when dealing with areas that alter the flow magic. she replied and there was a soft concerning tone in her voice as she spoke to him.

Extending her hand to the goblets and pitchers for all to drink and quince their thirst if they had any.

"I'm expecting a few more to arrive.  Before we can start a conversation about why I asked you here.

At the prospect of others arriving, Ash leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes.  Perhaps he was wary from the travel, or just bored.  However, neither was the truly the case.  No, he'd learned long ago that being around so many presented itself with challenges.  If it took time to rest when it presented itself then the risks greatly diminished.  Risks were something he knew all too well.  Unexpected turns were something he'd lived with most of his life.

With his eyes closed, and looking to be in quite a comfortable position, he offered a single question.  "I'm curious how many you expect to arrive.  If you don't mind me asking."  His breathing slowed then and, to any untrained eye, one would believe he was merely a corpse that had passed comfortably in his sleep in that very spot.

"I do hope they arrive in a timely fashion. Who all have you invited to this place?" says as he paces back and forth. "It's so rude to be late for an appointment. You're letter came as I was plotting to take the crown jewels. This sounded more fun so I came. Now that I'm here this place is really drab and depressing. I do hope we can move on from it to business soon."

She was about to reply to Ash's question when Qudy started to speak as if he was nervous about something.  His pacing didn't help the matter and she knew that no one never show up in a timely manner, there is always someone who is late.

Turning to Ash as he assumed his resting position "I have sent out eight request for assistance but I didn't believe that everyone would reply or show up.  I will give a few more moments before speaking more. she said in a soft tone.  Then she waved over the serving girl and placed orders to have the food brought out so that those that had a empty belly could be filled and it would allow more time for those that don't have the means of magical transportation to arrive.

Being an Elf did give her many years to think on things and not to rush into this half hazard...

Having just arrived after the cryptic invitation from Lady Q, Kane found himself on the edge of the world it seemed.  This was one place he had yet to travel to and so another place marked off his very shortlist.

As he came into the tavern he noticed Lady Q right away and gave her a nod as they locked eyes.  Kane then scanned the rest of the room noticing 2 other males and another female.  Sorry if you have been waiting for me.  Sometimes the road is indeed long and winding.  Kane said in a strong but steady voice, as he looked to Lady Q.

My name is Sebastian Kane, you all may call me Kane.  Kane said as he came to the table and took a seat near Lady Q.  Am I the last he asked her a little softer.

Kane had his goldish looking full-plate and gear on as if he was ready for a battle at any moment.  The full-plate didn't look like it was heavy at all.  In a bright red scabbard made of fine leather, one could see an exquisitely made hilt with the image of the sun on its pommel.

Qudy turned to see the new fellow who had introduced himself. His voice sounded vaguely familiar. This was a good fellow, very polite and Qudy moved up and offered his hand "It's a pleasure to meet you Sebastian Kane, I am Qudy al-Ma from Qadira. I think we've met before, might of been a decade or two ago I can't remember for sure but I'm sure our paths have crossed at some point even as they have crossed Lady Quar'ssysn's in the past."

Ash listened without moving understanding that the connections between those gathered were more than simple.  Again, not overly surprising.  However, as he sat quietly he started to notice other things, as he often did while he meditated.

The first was a scent.  It was a bit sweet with a distinctive undertone.  He could visualize the slightly red ichor that would taste like salted chestnuts but was thick like molasses.  Some thought it to be a poor man's poison.  But, Ash knew it to be very potent and often hid other poisons or diseases because of it's obvious nature.

The second was a sound.  The cough was brief and barely audible, but it was there just on the edge of his ability to hear.  He knew that sound and it's melodic vibrato.  It belonged to a young boy he saw singing in a tavern long ago.  But what had brought that lad to death's door?

The third was a feeling, now for Ash feelings weren't something to be trifled with as they had saved him many times and sealed the fates of so many more over the years.  This feeling though was like a dull ache deep within him.  Something was calling to him, and it was near by.  It reminded him of a curse he was able to survive before he entered the nightmare realms.  He'd mistaken a token found on a corpse for something of value to be sold, yet it was something so dear to that corpse in life that a part of it was still tethered and nearly pulled Ash from his mortal coil.

Ash opened one eye, barely moving and took stock of the room once more.  Nothing on the surface had changed.  The dead were dying and the living were joining them soon enough.  However, the place was making it hard for him to pinpoint these things he was noticing.  So he closed his eye once more and continued his meditation.  He knew he could pay more attention and uncover what were these distractions...but why?  What would he have to gain in such frivolity?

Then Ash wondered silently to himself a question that might have more relevance to the situation at hand...Who or What would run such an establishment and allow powers such as those being gathered by Lady Quar'ssysn to join together without so much as a request for payment?  He knew if it was his realm that they were gathering in the toll would have been commensurate with the powers in attendance.

As the party talks and gives introduction, a hole in space and time opens like a dark wound in the fabric of reality itself. A teleport spell, sending something dark...twisted. As soon as it opens, it closes back again, leaving a few newcomers to the party. For those not able to see beyond the dark veil, middle aged man with a pixie on his shoulder stands before you.

For those who can truly see and behold a lich in all his horror, a cold fire of passion burns as the tiny blue flames of his eyes gaze over all of you. No pixie, but an Imp, that looks like a tiny succubus sits smiling on his shoulder.

“Greetings. My name is Moto and this is my...faithful servant, Zara.” He moves over to one of the chairs by Lady Quar'ssysn. "You seek me out, great lady of elven kind?...What is asked...and what is offered?”
This message was last edited by the player at 08:06, Mon 02 Mar 2020.

Irena nods to all the newcomers. What varied company the Lady kept!

Lady Quar'ssysn looked over the table and it seemed that an Unseen Servant was moving around the table moving goblets to those that wanted one and a plate.  After placing the goblet the pitchers started to float over to the guest and pouring either Ale or Wine to the guest liking.

She waited patiently for others to show up but when Kane walked into the inn it seemed that her face lighten up some and she was pleased to know that she was able to count on him arriving and hoping that he will take lead of this mission.  It was something she knew he was best at.

Then her head turned slightly to the right as she could sense the opening of a familiar spell.  Stepping from it was none other than Moto.  She nodded her head to him as he moved over to take a seat next to her.  She even smiled at his question.  Typical of his kind.  But it is he who will give the most information to the missions success.

A piece of raw flesh was floating over to Zara in hope that it would appease it.

Taking a sip from her glass she stood up and looked at each that have arrived so far.

"I would like to thank all that was able to answer my request.  I know it was very vague but for certain reasoning.

With the help of our trusted companion Qudy, she looked over to him "He was able to help me locate an Artifact that I been seeking.  she paused for a moment and looked mostly at Moto and Irena when she said the next words. "It is the Naga Crown.  Allowing that to sink in for those that might know if its existence.

"We also discovered that it is in the possession of a Lich Lord. slightly giving Moto a glance before continuing. "Also he has in his party, a corrupt Silver Dragon that I thought was dead.  But now discovered that it is alive... well Un-alive.

Looking over the group to see their reactions so far.

The wizard Balen faded to visibility sitting crosslegged on a disk of force that floated up above head level, his hand already holding a goblet full of wine that he slowly sipped.

Multiple stones floated and flit about his head, and he sat with a staff of blackened wood with a flickering ruby cap rested on his lap.

"To what end Quar? What does the crown hold for you? Why this particular item?" he asked as he looked at her and the others.

"I'm all for ridding the world of another lich lord and their undead dragon pets," he said with a wink at Moto. "Just want to know why you're gathering so much might to go after the Naga Crown."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:22, Tue 03 Mar 2020.

She looked at Balen for a moment she was about to say something but then she looked away.

"This item was once part of my ancestors trove, before the cataclysm known as Earthfall. was all she could say as she turned slightly form Balen.

This land here is corrupted by a Vampire Lord and with the destruction of his minions then these lands and the people may live again without fear.

"Well that's a noble cause. Freedom is as noble as goodness." Qudy says "No greater cause can a man perform than to lay down his life for another. No gem or no amount of gold can be as rewarding as freeing a people oppressed."

He pauses a moment then continues "I'm in, equal share of the treasure to cover any expenses of course. I hope everyone is ready to face the undead. Lich's are noted for raising the undead. We'll probably have to face from the lowest skeleton to the greatest terrors. We must not let our hearts falter though. Evil wins when good men do nothing."

Ash, still motionless like a corpse, stirred at Qudy's words.  "I'm not sure you believe that Qudy.  But, that's besides the point.  We all have reasons to aid Lady Quar'ssysn.  If some are doing it for spoils then they are better for it.  She knows exactly why she called for my aid and I am here.  I need no convincing."  He moved to sit up and turned towards the others gathered.  "I'm quite certain that none of us could singularly avail a Lich Lord and it's pet Dracolich from their possession of an Artifact.  Such a task warrants calling in favors no matter how old or forgotten they may be."

The one who even the dead and near-dead feared shrugged.  The gesture was small but noticeable.  "I suspect someone has an idea already partially, or fully, crafted as to how we shall attempt such a feat.  But, Lady Q., does our target have any idea you seek to liberate the Artifact?"  It was the first and most important question Ash knew needed to be asked.

Looking to Ash "I don't believe he does.  I have myself protected from any scrying or location spells. she smiled "The gift of Mink Blank.

Then she looked over to Qudy "Was you able to keep your discovery of the item to yourself? she asked seeing that it was him who located the Crown.

Qudy shrugs "I think so, I mean I have my ring that protects my mind. So I don't think anyone read my thoughts or anything if that's what you mean. Still I didn't put everyone to the sword that I talked to for information. Any of them could just as easily tell if they found the reward worthwhile to do so. I mean informants tend to stop informing if word gets out you are whacking them."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:15, Tue 03 Mar 2020.

When Qudy had said he thought he knew him from a decade or two ago it didn't surprise him.  Kane was a traveler and got around to many places.Qudy, please refresh my memory.  Where would it have been that we met?  I don't dispute your claim it's just that I have met so many people in my travels.

---

When Lady Q had begun to speak about what they were all gathered for Kane wasn't really interested in the lost artifact so much as what it was that had the item.  A Lich Lord was certainly no small task.  Nor was a vampire lord for that matter. Let's not forget about an undead silver.  The poor thing must be in torment and would need to be released to return to Bahamut. Though undead was one of those things that Kane had been known to battle in his time.  The battle against the skeletal hordes of the west was a memorable one in his recent past.

When Lady Q spoke directly to him Kane smiled slightly, she knew his one weakness as surely as he did.  Yes, I will gladly take the lead Lady Q.   Kane turned to everyone then and said, Any and all ideas or thoughts on how to do things will be appreciated.  I am not a reckless leader and listen to those under my lead.  Speaking of that might we get better acquainted with each other and what abilities we bring to the table.  It will benefit me to know what everyone is capable of so I know best how to utilize your talents.

Irena listens patiently to everyone, nodding thoughtfully at each point and at each newcomer. It is only when Sebastian Kane suggests that they identify their talents that Irena inally breaks

"What I can do, hm. Well,  I founded the campus of High Energy Magic in the Arcanamirium' College of Evocation. Considering we are dealing with potent magical beings , and a corrupt silver dragon at that, I believe my repertoire of arcane lore would be quite useful against it. That said, if we're dealing with the undead, it might be prudent to involve members of a...religious leaning. After all, they possess a variety of abilities in addition to their own potent magic..."

"Okay, it was your people's crown, ten thousand years ago. Just wondering why now are you seeking it? What is the catalyst for going after it now and not before?" he replied as he held up a hand.

"Don't get me wrong. I'm all for removing these undead and their hold on a land, especially for a share of the treasure. It's a noble cause and probably worth doing even without the crown as a goal. I'm just curious what returning it means for you after all this time apart from your family. We can talk later if you prefer."

He looked at Sebastian Kane for a moment before he replied, "Kane was it? I shape raw magic to do my bidding. And punch things. I have studied much lore in my time, and there are few who master the skies like I."

Lady Quar'ssysn looked at Balen "And was you always the master of the skies.  I believe that is something you discovered over the last few years. she thought that was the best answer for his question.

Qudy wasn't exactly sure when they had met, as a half janni he had a long life span even as some of the others. Long enough that generations of humans had risen and fallen. "Perhaps it was when we fought that ghost king who was protecting a mountain." he suggests.

Ash shrugged, ”I am a warrior monk. I carry a bow.  Oh and in my spare time I help Lady Q. with this quest to retrieve her family’s property because I owed her a favor and she’s called it in.”  His words were simplistic for sure. Many gathered already knew he was one of the nightmare kingdom even if they all weren’t aware he ruled a portion of it.  But his skill with the bow was quite renown so there was little reason to explain.

Moto sits and thinks over the words of Lady Quar'ssysn, dodging and weaving as the web. Zara looks over to her master, before rejecting the meat offered. “You have asked us to help you gain the Naga Crown...but what have you truly offered us?.....I admire your desire for power, it is the only truth in this world. Yet some of us are not flies to be caught in a web of words....You require the Naga Crown....I require first pick of the Lich Lord's treasures, an even share of the prize divided up for all members here once the job is done. Also, your oath upon the Nage Crown, a magical pact agreement to not use the crown or your forces against any of us, ever....Would you agree to these terms?” The lich was in full negotiation mode, but needed firm ground before agreeing to anything.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:07, Wed 04 Mar 2020.

Lady Quar'ssysn looked to Moto and shook her head "Your last request is a double sword.  For if you was to attack my people I would be helpless in defending them.  Also, if ever in need of aid, when I have the crown I wouldn't be able to use it to help any of you. she replied.

"I have no problem with you request on first item and of course all treasure will be shared.

Kane thought about the Ghost King that Qudy spoke of, he certainly was there but he still didn't know Qudy but he did know he was a wizard, or at least he thought he remembered. As Kane had listened to the others talk he held close to their words and the meaning both of them and behind them.

Balen was a wizard, and Ash an archer, if he remembered correctly, Qudy too was a wizard.  That left a few that hadn't answered his question yet.  Well, now that you all have the reward settled, I am still waiting for what you bring to the table so I know how best to deploy or defend.

Qudy's eyes sparkle and he suggests "Perhaps a game of chance to decide who gets first pick of the treasure. I just so happen to have a set of dice on me. As for such an oath I can see why the Lady might pause at such an oath. While none of us may have ill intent now there is no telling what the future might hold and it would nullify the quest as a whole if she swore not to use it to defend against each of us should the need arise."

"Oh, just add the words 'in unprovoked aggression' to the part of the oath swearing not to use it and your forces against us. Then you should be fine to use the crown against any of us in defense or to aid us in future battles should the need arise." Balen said gruffly.

"I like the idea of that oath, and I like the idea of equal shares of anything we plunder from the forces we'll be facing, but I don't like the idea of someone claiming first pick of things without anyone knowing what things there are to pick from the Lich Lord's aggregated treasures."

"If we're to agree to someone getting first pick of all the Lich Lord's treasures, then you need to give something up in return. Maybe if someone were to be granted first pick of treasures, you don't get an even share of the rest of the wealth. The cost you pay for picking first perhaps?"

"Wonderful points, we are not shy flowers who've never undertaken something significant before."  Ash's grave voice, nearly devoid of emotion, remarked to no particular person.  "So, since we are not all minions being put to task, we establish some ground rules and agree to them.  The beings we are talking about will likely have hordes of trinkets and coppers for whomever wants them.  Equal portions should be the easiest to agree to without immediate incident."

He stood then and shifted to a seat that was more facing the group than perpendicular to them.  "So, let's agree for one moment that we are all undertaking this task.  Let's also agree that we will all be alive to see spoils at the end of this task.  Then, we can simply agree to terms.  Either we are being paid to take part or we are expecting payment for taking part.  If we are being paid then terms are with Lady Q.  If we are expecting payment then again, terms are with Lady Q.  If she is abdicating the decision regarding terms because she only wishes to retrieve the item in question, then she can state such.  I have not heard that from her."  He motioned and took a sip from a glass offered by the unseen servant.  "Now, as previously stated, we are all quite competent and I am sure hold some power.  So, the current operating understanding is that if Lady Q. abdicates the terms that we will all agree to split spoils equally, otherwise we will have to be concerned about each other breaching the faith of this agreement to try and retain greater wealth.  That would undermine our goal.  I don't intend to stand for such at this early hour."  He paused and it was clear that his words were not a threat but were only a statement of fact.  "Thus, we can all agree on simple terms either outlined by Lady Q. or merely equal share of spoils."  It was clear that Ash was not a simple bowyer ... perhaps lawyer was more apt.

"Next, to Mr. Kane's question about understanding each of us."  He looked to Kane with a somewhat blank stare, "I believe your question was in good faith and with positive intent.  However, I've survived far longer than most by not just opening up to any new person I meet.  So, I think your question will not be answered in full by anyone here.  Please know that we are here because Lady Q. felt we were powerful enough to aid her against some truly powerful foes."  He gestures then to each person gathered, "I've gathered some small understanding of each being's approach just by how they have arrived, the items they wear, and the things they've chosen to hide.  I'm sure you have as well."

Ash took another sip, "So, I don't wish to overstay my welcome."  He looked to Lady Q.  "Lady, as I see it we need to know where the item in question is being kept.  We need to know as much about that location as possible.  We need to know as much as possible about the ones you've mentioned and their minions.  Then, we can formulate a plan to retrieve the item."  He let those words hang a moment.  "Where do we stand on these questions so far?"

There was a sterner look upon her face when Moto and Balen tried to make some bond upon her to not use the Crown. "I have heard your wise words and took them all in consideration. she paused and looked at the two that was trying to make such a oath upon her. "That is not acceptable. then she stole around the table "If anyone else has any issues like out two Arcane casters please speak up now so that it can be dealt with before the mission starts.

It was a shocker to her that the two who would place such an oath/bond upon her was the ones that practice the Arcane.  She gave a slight smile as she looked at the rest of her guest.

"Yes Ash I the item is upon the Lich's head from what I was told.  If Qudy information was correct then they are no more than 10 miles away from here in a abandon temple hidden in the side of the mountain. she paused "I believe there will be a lot of underground traveling so those that are not blessed to see in the dark may need aid in this matter.

Giving a slight sad expression "I can not tell you much about him but I do know more about the corrupted dragon.  Seraphim was its name when it was alive.  I don't know if it changed when it took on a new form of Undead life. pausing for a moment "It was I who defeated her when she was mortal and thought her to be dead.  This is all a surprise to know that she has been keeping safe with a Lich Lord.

Qudy asks "I do hope you have something to aid vision, I have no real way to see in darkness. I possess neither an elf's low light vision nor a dwarf's darkvision. It will be very hard to find the traps if I'm unable to use my vision."

A woman walk forth, slowly and deliberately, towards the table. She is without a doubt the most beautiful creature anyone has seen. She is filled with life and looks different for each individual that gazes upon her. But regardless of looks, she is dressed in the same cloth for all. Gothic attire, skin white as snow, and hair black as night. She is Death, and her visage is based on the beliefs of one's culture. To Lady Q she is the First Drow, to the humans an angel, Balen sees the first Fae, Qudy sees a mixture of entities but entities as one... To the Lich she is no she but an IT with no sex and he feels overwhelming aura of good and evil.... IT is still the most beautiful thing Moto has ever seen. Although, everyone present has seen her or IT before...She is Endless and hasn't aged a day in every aspect since anyone's first encounter with her.

"My favorite customers. Ooooooh, how I've longed for the day when my scissors cut your threads and I finally, and lovingly, take you where you are destined to go after life." She smiles childishly, but with the charm of a Madam. "What dangerous affairs do you happen upon this time?" She asks playfully. Her faces lightens and her smile more sinister..."Wait, don't tell me! I'll guess." She claps gleefully. "You're going to go do something stupid for something not worth one's life? That's it isn't it? I love guessing games..." She snaps her fingers and everyone's favorite drink and food appears before them. "On the house..."

OOC: No skill checks or magic will work on Death. Any result will just be whatever the players want to know but not necessarily true. For who in the world has actual viable knowledge on Death? Nobody. And all present know as much. But she will talk to ANYONE about almost ANYTHING. Unless sacred/profane laws prevent her from doing so.

Lady Quar'ssysn don't say a word yet but looks at the newest being who walked up to the table and started running her mouth on stuff that don't concern her.

"Why have you left your Domains to come to the Material world?  Surely you have other threads to manage.

In reply to Lady Quar'ssysn (msg # 40):

Death just smiles. "I do. I manage them all at once for I am EVERYWHERE!" she lifts her arms for added effect, "and nowhere." She says the last two words with somber as she lowers her arms. "However, just like the servants of the Silver City and the slaves of Dis, I always show up personally for the souls of the Special."

When Kane saw the Angel walk through the door he could immediately sense that she was something altogether different and not joining the group assembled.  When she began talking it was confirmed of course.  Kane had seen her before, not in this form but another, long ago, and he knew then as he does now that what they were about to undertake was something that each and every one of them may not return from in the same manner as they left.

It was okay for Kane though for he had walked along this path many times before and he was getting old.  When his favorite food and drink appeared before him Kane smiled and took up the goblet of white liquor.  Raising it up into the air he said, To death and the game of cheating it.  May we play the game well.

Ash looked upon the face of death, "Been a while, and it will be a while longer I suspect."  He then posed the question he needed answering, "So, are you interested in telling me anything about the Lich Lord that wears the Naga Crown and has an undead cohort silver dragon?  I do hope that is enough information so you know who I'm talking about."  When in his home domain he appreciated such frank questions and he was hopeful that Death would be so kind as to offer a response.

A goblet of gold, encrusted with diamonds, appears in her hand. She toasts with Sebastian Kane and drinks.




She smiles at Ash, "I would be happy to answer if Lady Quar'ssysn allows it. For I would hate to take away her moment." She looks, lovingly, to Lady Q.

Moto returned the stern look with indifference. “I can agree to not have first pick. We can negotiate who takes what, if and when that happens. We can have even shares...yet, I will not hand someone a weapon of great power, to have it then be used against me. Balen's suggestion to add 'in unprovoked aggression' should be enough. If you will not swear to that, your motives are clear. We are at an impasse....If you will not swear, we have nothing further to discuss.”  In a way, Moto almost preferred leaving without an agreement. He was now free and unbound, as he could negotiate with this group or the Lich Lord down the road. He would have to keep an eye on them and see how things turned out.

Moto stood up and was about to leave then Death came wanting. The one thing he feared most, so badly that he tore his soul out and hid it away. The rest of the group faded in importance as Moto gazed at Death in awe. He almost wished to ask about his wife and her soul. Would he ever see her again? Deep in his empty, rotted heart he knew the answer. Giving Death a nod of respect, Moto slowly walked towards the door, not wishing to teleport in Death's presence.

Lady Quar'ssysn thought it was a risk to invite a Lich to the circle for the hunt but she also knew that he would have the most to tell about best to defeat a Lich Lord,  But risk are taken sometimes and they do pay off but it seemed that this one wasn't one of them.  Moto was a Power Hungry Lich and now he knew her course of action and was he going to be a risk to share what they plan to the Lich Lord.  Her eyes looked him up and down as he turned to leave.  She wasn't going to stop him but she had ways of watching him.

Kane wasn't quite sure what the man who was about to leave was talking about, so Kane just asked, as he was never known for his tact.  You, might I ask why anyone of us would use any item against you?  Is there a reason why one of us would use any item against you?  Kane called to the back of the man while not moving nor advancing or showing any aggression towards the man about to leave.

Lady Quar'ssysn looked at Death and she had no idea what she was scheming in her wicked mind.  Looking to Ash then to Death "If you are able to appease ones questions, you are not bond by my creed. she gave Death a wicked smile.  She was an Elf and her lifespan was much longer and Death would be waiting a long time for hers.

She gives a curtsy. The smile fades from her face, the tavern trembles and she disappears. The lighting flickered but restored to its rightful state with the space of breath. Within the the single beat of the heart she returns. The smile is once again upon her face. "Sorry for the interruption. Something important came up. However, I've returned." She curtsy's again. "Now then, I take it you held your meeting in my tavern for lost souls to prevent any sort of spying? Well then, let me assure you nothing can spy on you in here." She sits upon a throne that appears, too elegant for a mortal monarch. "Yes, so you are after Seraphim, the Silver Dragon? Once proud and noble now she rots in Ithslyndr's castle. I believe she is more powerful than before. Ithslyndr is backed by a powerful Monarch. Whom, I cannot say. Not that I don't know, I simply cannot say. The Monarch is......out of this world..." She takes another sip from her goblet and her legs flutter about.

Lady Quar'ssysn knows best not to make any sudden deals with Death for she can always contort it to her liking. Something her people had to discover the hard way.

"Well this is interesting to discover.  The inn is in your Domain but also within your Domain resides this Lich Lord and his pet.  And you allow it to be. she smiled.  "I'm sure your scissors and the threads of all the minions they been creating have dulled the tips.

Looking her directly "What is it you want? No games for I don't have the time to play with you right now.

Balen had toasted along with Death and Kane when it was proposed.

He nodded his head at her as if seeing an old friend, "m'lady."

It was more respect than that he'd shown to Lady Q even when he arrived, though still curt and less than Death deserved.

"It has been a long time since we last met. I hope all that I've done and prepared for that eventuality will mean that it is still a long time yet beyond this before we meet for the final time." he said with a smile.

He turned to Lady Quar'ssysn, "I don't care too much about the oath, though I'm unsure why you're so set against it. It is at the end of the day, not a binding magical contract, just simple words. My suggestion was just trying to give language that would satisfy Moto's request and yet also give you free rein to use the crown and your forces against anyone in defense of yourself and your realm."

"Qudy, if you need aid seeing in the darkness, I can help you with that. Do you sleep? There will be some time where the enchantment won't help you."

Balen sat still on his floating disk of force, the stones that circled his head faded from view, anyone with the ability to see things invisible could still see them though, so they were not gone, merely invisble.

Ash laughed at Moto’s posturing. It was soft with a bit of gravel in it. Not something overly boisterous.

She looked at Balen "My words have meaning and honor.

Moto paused at Kane's question. "I would ask why you are not worried about betrayal. Let the fools laugh as they may. As to the great lady of elven kind, I know your words hold weight, which is why I asked for them. The fact you won't, even when asking us for help speaks volumes."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:24, Thu 05 Mar 2020.

"I know they have meaning and honor, which is why Moto is asking for them." Balen replied. "They're still just words"

"Look, I'm not your enemy here. I think the oath is a healthy thing that we would all respect because your words have meaning and honor. But I'm not planning to walk out the door if you don't give one."

He looked at the others, "for my part, I vow that I won't use anything that may come into my possession from this endeavor against any of you in acts of preemptive or unsolicited aggression."

"See? Easy. I'd like to move past this and see what we can do as a group to learn more of our enemy before we engage hi... it. I don't have much in the way of divinations prepare today though I could potentially help with that tomorrow to a degree."

Qudy had listened back and forth to the banter, and posturing. It was somewhat amusing to him that these people were posturing. He himself didn't like oaths, they were limiting and in his travels the majority of people only kept oaths so long as it benefited them. There were exceptions for example Paladins and the like, but the average individual no matter of what make or deposition typically only kept oaths as long as it benefited them. Thus oaths were mostly meaningless.

He though thought he'd have some amusement with the others assembled "Should not the others also take oaths not to act against her or the others gathered here now and in the future as well?"

Her eyes fall upon Moto “I do want to thank you for your good will in showing up on such short notice. I do hope that the sensitive information shares here will remain that and not be shared with any. taking a glance at all present There is a lot of lives placed in my care

In reply to Lady Quar'ssysn (msg # 57):

Moto look dispassionately at the elven lady before walking out. Once out he teleported home.

OOC: I would like to hang out on my own thread for a little bit if possible. If not, I guess I'm out. I wish all of you luck with the adventure. My character should not have to agree to an unfair arrangment just to advance the story. Nor should he. That said I would like to stick around in my own little thread for a while. GM, just let me know over PM. Cheers everyone. Good roleplay.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 00:53, Fri 06 Mar 2020.

Qudy looks as Moto teleports away.

"Well I guess he didn't want to give an oath such as he suggested. I mean oaths are only as good as the person who takes them. So what is our plan folks. We still have this crown to find. I guess everyone else is in. Hopefully Moto changes his mind later as the Lady thought his talents were needed, hopefully in time for that part. I do have low light vision through an item and I have a ioun stone long burned out but with continual flame on it that should help with lighting" he says after Moto disappears.

Balen had looked briefly at Moto's form as it ported away and shrugged his shoulders. He nodded at Qudy's comment but didn't make one of his own.

"Light gives you away," Balen replied. "I can let you see in the dark like a dwarf or other creature accustomed to dark caves for many hours a day. No color though, so if that is an issue with your trap finding and such, then you should keep your lights handy."

"As to our plan, I would ask what information do we have on this Lich's lair or stronghold? Have we captured any of his servants to find a layout of the location or locations? Has any effort been made to use arcane or prying eyes or such divinations to spy out the locale? Or Scrying of any level?"

"None of us have survived this long going into a situation blind... at least I would think."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:14, Fri 06 Mar 2020.

Turning to Balen "I must admit that he has wards up to prevent that from happening or maybe its his powerful Monarch that placed them there but they are powerful. she added.  "The mission is very dangerous for I have not been able to take one of his minions. she paused and looked Balen in the eyes "I have heard that a Lich Lord is capable of seeing through the eyes of his minions.  Now if I took one I surely wouldn't want him to know who I am or where I'm attacking from.

With Moto having left the talk returned to what information was available on this Lich Lord they were supposed to recover the crown from.  Balen asked some good questions, but Lady Q had shot them down with no answers that would help. So, if we don't have information, we need to get it.

Kane looked around the room and his eyes fell on Ash, Ash, based off what you have been talking about you seem well suited to do a scouting mission.  If you need any spellcasting aid to help you I am certain someone here is more than capable of providing it.  What do you think?

"The Lich Lord's servants and minions are likely undead. As such I do not think they'd be coming forth with useful information should we capture one." Qudy points out.

"The Lich Lord is probably a powerful spellcaster in their own right. Thus they may have at their disposal methods to remove any magic used. I'd assume any being powerful enough to be a Lich probably has permanent detect magic and such sensory enhancements." Qudy tells the others pausing a moment to gauge reaction.

"I might could slip in but it is not wise to send one. Magical items with single use of teleport or similar spells that would enable quick escape might be helpful." he suggests.

Balen nodded with a grunt, "If we can get within a mile of the castle and lands of Kelazon's Hold, I can send my eyes in to scout. There are no wards that I know of aside from a dispelling screen or some such that would be counter to them. I can send them in the dark and they should be safe from both view and attack that way." (OOC: Greater Prying Eyes)

"Free willed undead can be made to talk with the right application of holy powers and other threats to their existence," he added to Qudy.

"I have no doubt it is a powerful spellcaster, the transition to lichdom requires such. You could go ask Moto if you have questions on that. Like... some others though, he may be a divine servant rather than an arcanist in its own right."

He looked to Death, "what do you know Lady? We're planning to send you some other souls who have long evaded your grasp. If you have information about the lich's abilities or defenses it would be helpful."

"I don't have the power to travel to Moto's tower from here, well not in any expedite way. I suppose tying to get within a mile as you suggest is the best way. Might be fun to see you send your eyes, a bit  gross but interesting." Qudy responds.

Death smiles sweetly, "I don't want anything. It is not built into my functionality. I'm simply bored and talking to you."



Death sips from her goblet. "He is one with his land. He'll know when you cross his boundary at a specific point. He won't know what you are or what you can do, just that you are there. So there will be a partial element of surprise for you. His defenses are the army hidden in with the people. You won't know the undead from the regular humans going about their daily lives. You may possibly remember who the vampires are if you familiarize yourself with their faces, as they only come out at night. Obviously. I can't tell you more. Sacred laws forbid me from doing so."

When Death was so kind to share information to the question appose to her by Balen she smiled at her as this was already information that Lady Quar'ssysn had already acquired but if it was something to help the others in understanding what or who they are about to go up against then so shall it be.

Not wanting to be in the Domain belong to Death too long she was hoping that the group would want to continue their conversation elsewhere.

"Hmph," Balen said at Death's reply. "Well, it seems unless we go there we're not going to get any good information on this place. I wonder... as a Lich if we don't find his phylactery, he will just reform and either once again take over the land, or come after each of us individually after the fact. Are there any clues where that might be hidden or will we chance to luck that it is somewhere within this realm?"

"I guess you'll have to pray to Lady Luck that it all works out." Death replies.

Kane had forgotten all about a phylactery for the Lich Lord.  That could pose a problem for them all if they didn't find it and destroy it as well.  You are quite right Balen.  If we don't locate the phylactery there will be big problems later.  Balen, send your eyes ahead and see what you can.  In the meantime, we can make our way to Kelazon's Hold.  If anyone has a way to detect undead I suggest having it active.  If we can root out the vampires in the city first that could give us an upper hand in keeping our secret further.

What say you Lady Q?  Kane asked finally and ready to leave this domain of death herself.

It seems that there will be two phylactery needed to be discovered.  The Lich Lord and the Dracolich if only they were able to get more information on them it would help but once they are defeated and a part of their bodies is within grasp that could help in location with the right spell.

Looking to Kane "This is a dangerous mission I have asked for your help and I hope that we are successful in it.  The discovery of the corrupted silver dragon is new news and it took me by surprise. she said calmly.

"I will check for a good spell to keep active, it should help in detecting the Undeads.

Qudy looking at the others discussing their spells has a suggestion "What about a spell that makes one invisible to undead. Relatively low level spell, would that not aid our efforts?"

Moto enters into the traven once more, holding a piece of parchment with ink and ink-pen. “A phylactery can be anything and anywhere, but likely something of great importance to the Lich, when he was of the living. The phylactery houses a Lich's soul and binds them. To make a phylactery one must be able to craft magical items of great power. The destruction of many magic items itself is also needed to make a fine arcane dust to mix with silver, then you can begin making the silver infused runes on the phylactery. These runes are of immortality, undeath, binding and your mortal name. Doing this hides your soul from death evermore, or until the phylactery is destroyed.”

“Once the phylactery made, a would-be lich must sacrifice a soul to the phylactery to prime it. This soul must be a powerful one or one of specific meaning to the lich, as in a family member, or so on. Then the would-be lich must make a potion of lichdom, mixed with poison, which takes seven nights to cook, to be competed on a moonless night. The mage then drinks the mixture and dies, to then raise again,having gained lichdom apotheosis.”

“What if the Naga crown is the Lich Lord's phylactery?”

Moto then put the parchment on the table. “I would like it agreed that when the job is done, we will be allowed to leave in peace, once we have collect even shares. I would also like my old...friend, Balen agree to return my magical items to my tower, if my body is destroyed in this adventure. Zara will also need safe passage.”
This message was last edited by the player at 21:41, Thu 12 Mar 2020.

Lady Quar'ssysn was intrigued that Moto returned and gave his wisdom on the creation of a Lich.  "Don't a phylactery needs to be an item that can hold the soul?  The Crown was not made for holding such a thing. she replied to Moto's question about the crown.

"It is good to see that you returned.  And there will be peace now and afterwards as it should be. she looked at Zara "Of course you familiar will be protected if something happens to you.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:44, Thu 12 Mar 2020.

Ash looked to Lady Q. to see her response to Moto's contractual request.  He intended to ignore it, because he held none in attendance with ill regard.  But, to the question of Lich Phylacteries...that was another matter.

"There is little chance that this Lich has his Phylactery on his head.  No, I wouldn't expect that in the least."  Ash had heard enough stories and interacted with enough undead hunters to know this much to be more than just conjecture.

"I'm not knowledgeable about a lot of topics, but I've got a keen eye.  I'm confident that I'll be able to pick out the living from the not-so-living.  I'm aware of an item that hides it's wearer from intelligent and non-intelligent undead alike.  I'm aware of an item that allows it's wearer to remotely view any known location.  But I do not have access to either of these, nor do I have a specific location where we could procure them quickly."

Ash shrugged motioned as if to say, so when and where do we head next?

Balen's eyes hardened for just a moment when Moto trailed back into the tavern.

"Yes, you would know must of the process to lichdom wouldn't you...?" he said with a sigh.

He looked at the others briefly and gave a slight incline of his head. "I will do as you have requested should you fall in this endeavor. If it is within my power to do so. If you do the same for me. Should Zara survive your death, I will see her safely home."

"My eyes have to be released within the bounds of Kelazon's Hold if I'm to learn anything. Their maximum range is 1 mile."

Just as Kane was preparing to leave the place, Moto came striding back through the door.  It was unexpected to see him again but as Moto began to speak about the makings of a lich, Kane stopped what he was doing and listened intently.  He had known a bit about the process but of course, didn't know it down to this detail at all.  When Moto was finished Kane had a question.  What if we were able to destroy the phylactery first?  Would we still need to destroy the lich or would it destroy the lich as well, or in the least weaken it to make it easier to defeat?  Of course, finding its phylactery will be like finding a needle in a haystack.  I can only assume that it would be either hidden very well or guarded very well or both even.

Once he got a response from someone knowledgable on the subject Kane continued as he walked to the parchment to sign, Anyways, as I was saying to the others we should get going anyways.  We can talk along the road or if you wizard types know where the hold is perhaps we can teleport just outside the borders and make our way in conventionally.

“Destroying the phylactery doesn't destroy a Lich, but only makes it possible to destroy a Lich. With a phylactery intact, we simply reform by the phylactery. Because the destruction of the phylactery means the possibility of eternal death...we, my kind, normally keep the phylactery in a hidden, well-guarded location. It could be at a cave on the ocean floor, guarded by a demon or minor god or even on a different plane of existence."

"If we do destroy the Lich lord's phylactery, he will be well aware of the loss and I would think exercise extreme caution to avoid being destroyed....this next part is very important...No lich, as I know, can create a second phylactery. The process of creating a phylactery is as unique an event cosmologically as the birth of an individual. Becoming a lich is like being born into undead and darkness, and cannot occur a second time...unless by some kind of act of divine intervention.”

"The Lich most likely has the phylactery hidden in some place. There will be most likely magical protections and traps to protect it. If we were able to research the Lich, his history and lore it might be possible to determine a likely location for his phylactery but I seriously doubt he'd keep it on his person." Qudy adds.

"I see nothing wrong with a statement that we let each other leave in peace when this is all done." Qudy says.

"Well... if we've nothing else that can be determined here. I suppose we should be going? Does anyone need or want to change the spells that you have prepared before we try to storm a lich lord's keep? Anything else to prepare before we try ourselves against Quar's foe for that crown?" Balen asked the gathered group of power.

Ash nodded, "Well, I believe we might be able to focus our efforts on retrieval of the crown and not be overly concerned with putting the lord or his cohort to final death at this time.  If he is unwise enough to try and retaliate then he will reap the rewards of his poor choice.  So, I agree we should head to his domain and see what kind of welcome is put forth.  If we have the lady on our side then we will be able to surveil the denizens of his lands and perhaps grow our knowledge before we are forced to act.  It is just a thought.  I will aid where and when needed, regardless of the plans, or lack thereof..."  Ash then thought a few moments about his own abilities and if he would have to make any alterations before they departed...nope.  He was ready when the rest of them were ready.

"Well let's get moving" Qudy says as his eyes seem to flash "The wind, the fire, the waves and the earth are never still this long. It is against my nature. You Wizards tend to overthink problems to much. Besides whose to say Death hasn't already warned him, after all this is her domain, and he has over his lifetime sent many to her."

Ash had probably sent more to the gray lady than this lord of the undead...but why argue the point.  Qudy had the tempo of the situation in hand.  It was time to make their next move.  "So, shall we all transport ourselves individually and meet up or does someone want to take point on our transportation?"

Kane wasn't a wizard or someone with the ability to teleport so he asked, I would need to be ported if that is what we are planning.

She looked at Death "How does one return back to the material Realm.

Death curtsies, "My Lady, you simply walk out the way you came. You all have such will to be able to do so. Once outside, you'll be back where you came from. And then you can journey to where you want to go. But if you need me, I'll be there to call on. For I am everywhere, and nowhere."

With the meeting done, everyone walks out. Upon doing so, they are back on the prime and turning around the tavern is gone.