The Kings Return

The Kings kidnapping was done in the month of April, with the majority of the actual rescuing being done in the month of May. There were many players and participants in the plot of the King's Rescue.

The Journey Begins
At the dock area stands Bjorn Gunnarsen, the Captain of The Guard, he watches as the group of people start to arrive at the dock. He stands tall and proud, feet shoulder width apart and hands clasped behind his back as he waits for all to gather.

Talamean makes his way along the dock, more of a shadow than anything. His hood drawn over his head, only a few whisps of white hair revealed. He stops a few steps away from the Captain, nodding to him slightly.

Eochaid walks down the street towards the docks, gracefully stepping from one shadows spot to the next. Seeing the Guard Captain he walks over and with a nod states "One is here to help with the rescue of the King" he then finds a nearby wall to lean against while waiting for the others to appear.

Sascha makes his way through the crowd, a pair of warhorses following on their leads, and between them, a pair of... cats. Lapcats. Or was that 'Leopards'? Right, snow leopards... staying between the horses. The horses don't seem to mind it, either. Guess they're accustomed to the hunting cats.

The sky is a cloudy grey. Nothing casts a shadow, Nothing casts a shadow. thought that doesn't mean Demetria doesn't have places to hide. In fact the shadows are only a second rate place for her to play. The southwest wind is cold, and bites at the skin of the halfling as she steps through the rising mists with a reverent look upon her face. She has come to pay homage to the alter of death yet again. Though she is at odds with herself. An internal battle if this fight should really include the baptism of blood upon the snow. Her thoughts are marred with a sudden indifference as she catches sight of Eochaid. A smile dares to dance upon her lips. In this weather the less then perfect status of them can be seen by a thing white strip near the corner of her cheek. A mark. A badge of honor that symbolizes battles past Stepping forward to the side of Talamean, and then a glance to Sascha before a gentle bow is given to him. There is no question what this halfling is here for. Her figure shimmers lightly before settling in one place.

The sound of hooves fill the air as Trysta comes along. However, she isn't with her usual mount today--instead a pure white equine follows behind, timidly keeping near the woman as they go. "See? No one is staring," she says to her companion.

Amari hugs Alance as he departs and heads in a different direction. She pushes back her hood and her green eyes look around the area. She walks over to Talamean and Demetria and nods,"It is good to see familiar faces." she says softly. She looks up at Trysta's arrival and nods to the warrior woman.

Eochaid sees Demetria walk into the area, he turns to her and with a slight bow states "Lady Demetria, it is good to see you again. This One is here to help due to your words about the greatness of this King." He then pulls his cloak a little tighter to ward off the wind.

Talamean turns as a couple of others join him and smiles faintly, lowering his hood. "Hello Deme, Amari. It is good to see old friends again"

The big man stands tall and looks at the group that has shown up, he doesn't smile just nods his head in approval. The Captain of the Guard steps forward, his armor clanking a bit as he does this. Clearing his throat for a moment he looks to see if there are any others arriving and then gives a shrug "I thank you, The King will thank you for stepping up at such a time as this to help the royal family" the man seems a bit tired "I won't be joining your group tonight as we've gotten a report of some other strange goings on within the city. I wish you good luck and gods speed as you travel out to the Golden Glade area, we know that you must be very brave to be willing to go out into the forest at this time." he pauses to take a breath "We sent word up ahead to Stonesong asking them to give you food and drink when you get there." He starts to walk over to a heavy warhorse that had been tied to a tree not far away "Good luck" he says again. Familiar. Is that what they say Demetria is. Perhaps they are right. After all the Halfling woman has been around town a bit. At the title of Lady, Demetria smiles softly. "I am not a dame yet." She offers to Eochaid, "Demetria will do just nicely for a name." she offers to the man. Looking up at him for a moment she smiles again. this time, its as twisted as a lock of braided hair, "Your services are welcome." she offers simply and gives a glance to the captain of the Guard. "We will be fine." The halfling woman states. "I am sure Dulin will welcome us with Arms open."

Trysta just comes to a stop when she and her companion come close enough to the guard captain to hear what he has to say. The woman seems nonplussed.. though the equine still looks about nervously at all the people here. 'Good luck'? Hah. They'll need it if they find that stupid dragon again.

Sascha nods slowly, then looks around to the assembled adventurers. "Is there anyone here who lacks transportation?"

Eochaid gives another slight bow to Demetria in acknowledgement to her statement then stands checking his weapons to be sure they will come free to his hand easily then stands ready to start the trip to StoneSong. "One wonders how far away this Stonesong Sanctuary is, as One has not yet been out of the city?" he states to no one in particular. Looking over to Sascha he states "This One only has his feet for tranportation. Other transportation would be welcome.

A figure clad in dully gleaming plate comes marching down the port road, the wind shearing off the metallic armor as he strides forth towards the gathering of martial looking people. Shield he carries not but arms he bears, a large curved blade by his side that almost touches the ground,"I trust I am not too late?" Glyndwyr's deep voice rumbles out as he slows to a stop, looking stolid and unperturbable in his accoutrements

Talamean nods to the Captain then slips away to get his horse, returning in a few moments, perhaps the Horse wasn't far away. "I Am ready to go whenever"

Sascha offers a nod toward Glyndwyr, then to Eochaid as well, speaking so that his voice carries a bit. "Alright. Given the time, we'll likely have to pass the night at Stonesong. When we set out again, we'll make for Frostward... we can pick up horses for those who need them just outside of Frostward at the Dragon Ascendant."

The appearance of Glyndwyr brings the child out of Demetria. Her dark eyes light up to a polished Onyx and the twisted features of the creature of pain and death melt away to reveal the happy woman in her root core, "Brother." she states to the man of curved blades. "It is sad we should bear our arms for such this ordeal." she offers to Glyn, "But come." she offers to the group. "The hours draw late." she admits agreeing wish Sascha. "Lets go...The trek before us is long." Demetria states.

Salty sea air lays heavily on the wind blustering across the open dock. Freezing cold, bluegreen breaks against the docks on unforgiving waves. Some partial protection from the chill is provided by the crates stacked up along the end as they await their journey. Some will be hoisted by boom aboard the ships or placed on a cart to be taken away. A small stock yard is just at the end of the dock on the Port Road, but this end is kept clear. There's always one or two ships moored here while the ship is undergoing preparations for the next trip.

A magnificant view of the city built into the side of the fjord the most eye-catching feature from this perspective. Jagged black stone breaks through the pure white of the ice and snow and forms the base on which the small houses and shops are built. Streets twist and turn up the path of least resistance up towards the top, culminating in the black castle, Dimmuborgir, made from the rock of the fjord itself.

So the party has gathered and has started heading west along Port Road heading away from the city.

Eochaid walks along following those on horse back watching to be sure he does not step in something one of the horses left behind. As he walks his hand rests on the hilt of his rapier to keep it from bumping against his knee.

"Sister." A flash of white teeth is seen from Glyn's helm at Demetria's form of address as they begin making their way along the long western road,"And it would not do for me to leave you unprotected and unescorted. And, you know how I feel about the king. I would fain forgive myself were I not here." the cool air makes flesh cold and clammy as they amble along, the clink-clink of the belegrinar's mail constant as he marches with nary a complaint nor visible affect on him as he steels himself for the travails ahead with a stoic mien

Talamean rides along with the others, surveying the forests around him. He pauses periodically, riegning away from the group to just listen and watch.

Trysta is, unlike Eochaid, sitting on horseback at the moment. However, her equine companion seems to be constantly looking at all the adventurers gathered together and traveling down the road. Occasionally, either mount or rider seem to make a move that would almost make it seem like they're talking--but neither actually speaks out loud.

Sascha walks, for now, letting both horses have their heads as he ranges a little ahead. For now, the cats follow close behind, sticking to him like... well... dogs. Weird.

Amari leads her mount out of the city and once the party reaches the gate she climbs into the saddle. She pats the large stallion on the neck and looks around at those walking,"I have room for another if someone wishes to ride with me." She offers to each who is walking by making eye contact with them as she says this.

The snow leopards are given a glance by the halfling woman as Demetria steps closer to them and Its Glyn's words that make her smile. "Oh please. Your not here to protect me. You are here to protect those we go against. To give them a swift death and you know it." A warped glance is given up to Glyn, "Where is your woman." she offers to him, "I hope she is doing what we tumblefeet do best?" she asks simply. A hand moves out, to lightly touch the cats softly, "Such beautiful creatures." she whispers under her breathe.

Talamean nods to himself, speaking quietly to the others "So far the forest is undisturbed" He keeps moving off to one side of the group.

The cats don't seem to mind the attention... at least, not right now, but that might be because they're behaving in the city.

The sound of crashing waves on the distant rock below fills the air with a distant rumble. None of the spray reaches this high up the side of the fjord. Black crags of jutting rock peek out through the thick layer of recent snowfall, offering some measure of protection against avalanches. A constant gust of wind blows at a steady gale force.

The road has been carved out of the hard, black rock leading from the docks all the way to the higher elevation. It's path takes a diagonal journey first one way then the other, trying to cut down on the steepness, but at the same time, adds dangerous corners. To cut down on accidents, the road has ruts cut across the surface and filled in with imported salt and gravel. It gives some traction to the wagon wheels and horses that travel. Not many people travel on foot up this way.

Overhead birds fly and squawk a bit at the party of adventurers below as they walk up to the stonebridge that leads to deeper into the forest.

Sascha clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth once the group has left the city, and the cats, almost immediately, move off the road, vanishing into the rough terrain.

Eochaid pauses once he reaches the top of the bridge to look down at the view that it gives. He seems to admire the view for a moment then hurries down to catch up with the mounted adventurers infront of him.

Two dark eyes look up at the sky and Demetria too, Follows the way of the feline. Her little figure bounding off to the sides of the road quickly.

"Well I'm not sure if you and I agree on what Tumblefoots do best." a wry chuckle ensues forth to match Glyndwyr's smile,"And I cannot disagree with the swift death thi..." his rangercraft kicks in mid sentence as he squints and lifts his eyes into the sky,"We've been spotted." he states in a low flat tone, attunement to the natural world heightening his senses in some ways.

Sascha says "That... was a given. The question is, by whom?"

Trysta just remains atop her mount for now, not really seeming to be in a communicative mood today; which is nothing unusual. Infact she seems to be sort of spacing out while the group heads along.

Eochaid walks along the edge of the road, all the better to get out of the way if trouble comes. He smiles slightly as the Halfling woman seemingly disappears right in front of everyone, with the mention of being spotted he looks around and loosens his rapier once again in it's sheath.

Amari rides along and glances up at the birds,"I wish I knew a way to cover us from their sight." she says with a soft frown etching her features.

Talamean keeps alert, scanning the area around the group, pale eyes pausing here and there as if to decipher a spot of shadow or movement.

It is becoming a known fact that Demetria Erikit Hates birds. Ever since being stuck with in the foot of the Roc the woman has hidden as best as she can to keep from their pesky dull grasps. She continues her trek with the people, But instead of being in the middle of them. She remains in the brush, going from Hiding spot to hiding spot.

Sascha shakes his head, "Don't. Don't pay any attention to them, don't worry about them, don't act like you even know they're there." He doesn't turn around, but keeps talking, "After all, the more you don't act like normal travellers, the more they pay attention."

The road weaves its way slowly through the taiga. It is still wide and well-beaten here. To the south of the road, the ground falls away in a broken, rocky slope that only slowly gentles as it approaches the water. To the north and west, the land rises into a forested taiga, the road's serpentine path the only clear and easy route through.

Amari arches a brow,"I doubt that they are to be fooled by our descretion. Not to many 'normal travellers' would be out here on a dreary day like this for any reason other than saving the King." she states somewhat flatly. Her voice is low though so that if there are those around listening or watching they may not overhear.

Eochaid walks along sticking to the north side of the road where there is at least some cover he can dive for if needed he stops every now and then to look down the cliff towards the water and behind towards the city, after looking around he then starts walking again trying hard to keep up.

Sascha says "Merchants might... and their bodyguards. A grey day is no excuse to not see to business, after all."

Her silent foot steps pause and glance about. Looking around slowly as she continues on wards, Demetria doesn't hear...Or see anything a miss, Yet. Coming from the shadows again, she rejoins the group. "Nothing following yet." she whispers to the group.

Eochaid is walking a little slower now, his hand no longer on the hilt of the rapier is instead buryed with the other one inside his cloak holding it closed tightly as he shivers in the cold air. He is not used to this type of climate seeing as he came from a place where there is sun and grass and warmth all around. He still strives to keep up with the rest of the group and does try to keep watch behind for anything that may decide to follow.

Amari pulls her cloak more tightly about her as the temperature drops a bit and she rubs her arms. She murmurs a spell and a warm glow washes over her seeming to take off the chill. She looks down at Eochaid, "Why don't you ride along with me? The horse's body heat will help to warm you up a bit."

Trysta didn't seem to really be bothered by the cold right now. After all, she's had to put up with worse before. Honestly, she's starting to wonder just how long it'll be until something bad happens since peacefulness always precludes that stuff.

Demetria is moving alright until she notices Eochaid. A frown comes to her figure as she looks at him and then around a bit. "Eochaid...get up there." The halfling woman orders him. There is something in her tone that leaves...little to be questioned..

Sascha tugs his cloak closer, glancing back to make sure the horses are alright in this cold. "Not much longer on to Stonesong... we'll be able to warm up there."

Eochaid nods in thanks to Amari, and with a slight bow to Demetria, mounts behind the half elven woman "Many Thanks Lady, One was trying to keep up and not be a burden on anyone."

Talamean glances at the others not bothered at all by the cool temp's. Turning back he scans the forests carefully, keeping to one side of the group.

The trees are still light here, near the coast and the more inhabited areas of the fjordland. Snow and ice blanket the sparse terrain, concealing the ground and yet leaving everything bared to the eye. The trees here are slender and tall, branches reaching eagerly for the meager warmth of the sun. No moss or creepers dare to grow here, though some hardy shrubs eke out a living between the trees, and in their bowels, small animals survive as best they can. A road winds through the trees here, stretch back northeast, towards the Helgegard Pass, and south towards the main road.

The road continues to wind its way along the taiga. It is still wide and weather-beaten here, connecting the cities and villages of Sturmgaard. To the south of the road, the ground falls away in a broken, rocky slope that only slowly gentles as it approaches the water. All along the north side, the land rises into a forested taiga. The road's serpentine path slithers along in the safe margin between the two.

After walking for a few hours the group of adventurers notice that as they walk through the Taiga that it's getting darker now. The sun has lowered and the trees have been getting thicker blocking out what little sunlight is left. The temperature drops a bit as the sunlight disappears.

Demetria pulls her cloak about her tighter and frowns deeply at this. "Is everyone alright?" The halfling woman calls out to them. "Or do we need to stop?"

Talamean shakes his head, the low light not bothering him at the moment "I am fine, we aren't far from the 'song now."

Sascha nods, "We're almost to Stonesong. Better to shelter the night there."

Eochaid shakes his head, even though his shivering is almost enough to shake him right off the back of the poor horse he is now riding he refuses to allow himself be the cause for delay. "One believes he can make it to this Stonesong that has been mentioned."

Demetria nods simply at this. "Alright press on." she offers and presses on wards. Her words fall silent in the falling cold weather. Her eyes sharper across the snow as she is growing even more weary of people apposing this mission.

Trysta merely continues to follow after the others, for now, not really saying much or doing anything aside from keeping her attention on the road. On the other hand Aairii seems quite curious of the other travellers and watches them constantly while keeping pace.

Amari smiles gently,"Just wrap your arms around my waist. I'm sure my love will understand your position. I have another spell but it would only warm you for a few moments and then be gone. Perhaps Dulin can lend you a fur or two at Stonesong." she suggests to the man in back of her. She grows thoughtful and feels around in a pouch glancing at the contents as she rides along.

Amari says "I'm afraid that I don't even have a potion to aid you in keeping off the chill. I'm sorry. But at least your feet will be warmer up here rather than trudging through the snow.""

Eochaid nods in thanks to the Half-Elven woman hoping that the nod is noticed as he is too cold at the moment to really want to speak. He does however grip his arms around Amari's waist, hoping that the trip will not be too much longer.

This is a broad expanse of relatively level turf, nestled in between the arms of a low, semicircular longhouse. The area is sheltered from the elements by a large canvas tent, paneled in bright, cheerful colors and tied off securely to stakes that have been hammered deep into the ground. The sides of the tent stand open most of the time, giving free access and egress to and from the interior. On the far side of the tent, a simple entrance of wood and hide construction allows entry into the longhouse itself.

Within the tent, a sort of field cantina has been set up. To one side, a row of kegs stand ready to be tapped and savored, and on the other, long, low tables and benches provide a comfortable seating arrangement. A wooden bandstand sits at the end of the tables, and circular area near the center has been set aside for dancing, should the mood strike. Providing both light and warmth when necessary, a large firepit ringed with stones sits opposite the dancing circle, the light smoke from the wood escaping easily through vents in the top of the tent. At any hour of the day or night, there is likely to be some manner of beast cooking on the fire, and when those who can play are present, the music here often lasts almost until the morning's light.

As the group approaches the Sanctuary they see a somewhat familiar face to some of them. Siriel stands at the Revel's Ground at Stonesong. She smiles to them as she stands next to the fire outside a huge roast on a spit over the fire. "Come warm yourselves and help yourselves to some food and we have tea as well as ale" she welcomes them knowing that the trip is long to the sanctuary.

Eochaid slides stiffly down from the back of the horse and stumbles, totally out of character for his usual graceful walk, towards the fire. "Many thanks Lady for the warm welcome and offer of a fires warmth" he says to Siriel as he stumbles past her.

Apparently 'Ale' is the word that awakens a halfling into a run for the kegs. Maybe she has a little dwarf in her...and no not that way either. "Allleeeeee.' Demetria chants and moves to pauses and look back at everyone. "Is everyone okay?"

Talamean slips off his horse, waving to Siriel with a slight smile on his normally stoic face "Hello Siriel" He holds the reigns of his horse waiting for the others to enter the grounds.

Sascha nods to Siriel, and moves to warm himself by the fire, the horses moving on their own accord over near the hitching post.

Amari slides out of the saddle and looks around before leading her horse off to tend to it. She returns after she has taken care of the mount and draws near the fire also. I think our new friend here is in need of a few blankets of furs if you have the extra Siriel." she nods towards Eochaid as she speaks,"I fear he is chilled to the bone."

Talamean takes his cloak off and hangs it up by the door, staying as far from the fire as he can, finding a spot at a small table or something.

Siriel nods to them all, at Amari's request she sends one of the helpers that came out back inside for a blanket for Eochaid. "Please help yourselves, I'm here if you have any questions" she says to all and then turns and gives Talamean a smile "It's been awhile, how are you?" she asks him.

Breathing steadily his chest rising and falling the plate-armored belegrinar comes to a stop... such protections were never made for marching no matter how light the mithral material has made it,"I wonder... where is that stuffed red dragon that used to be here?" his eyes peer around for the stonesong ornament he has seen the times he has been here before,"Deme?" he says laconically

Trysta, meanwhile, goes to get down off her mount's back and then goes to start unstrapping the saddle. Aairii looks around at all the people and seems to be trying to keep track of them all.

Talamean smiles "I am fine Siri, how do you like it out here so far?"

Siriel nods "I love it out here, except there have been a few odd things lately out this way" her smile fades a bit but then she brings it back right quick "no problems on your journey I suppose" she says.

Sascha looks curious, "Odd? Like what?"

Talamean nods slowly "I have heard whispers of things going on out here, I'm afraid I haven't had the time I wished for to come out and check the forests and Taiga.

Amari goes over to the food table and prepares herself a plate. She seems to be accustomed to the place and knows her way around well enough. She takes some roasted meat and vegetables along with some bread and wine. Taking an extra goblet of wine over to Eochaid she offers it to him,"Here this will help warm you."

Eochaid huddles closer to the fire still shivering he holds the cloak tight and listens intently to the question Sascha asked and waits for the Elven womans reply. Looking up at the offered wine he gratefully takes it with a slight "Thank you" before taking a sip and, sitting shivering he waits for the fire's warmth to sink in.

Demetria slides up to the food and Hisses at the others. She piles her plate high as she eyes them. Taking it to the far side of a fire she settles in and starts to chow down.

Siriel nods "Some have had to be careful for that red dragon has been spotted again just the other day, as well as the Rocs that keep flying over head they've swooped a few times trying to grab an elven snack" she says with a small shake of her head.

Sascha hmmms quietly. "That's not promising. Is there any specific time of day they're usually about?"

Demetria perks up at the mention of those rutty things again and moves a bit closer to Sascha. "Yeah when is Elven Snack time..." she wonders.

Talamean nods slowly "Has anyone been able to find a set pattern of the flyovers?

Trysta and Aairii both watch Demetria when she hops up to get food and hisses at everyone. The two looks at each other before the equine asks, "Does she normally do that?" The woman nods and says, "Yup, she's rabid. Just make sure she doesn't bite you or it'll infect you as well." To this the unicorn looks at her companion, then Demetria, as if trying to ascertain whether this was true.

Demetria winks at the equine and Hisses a bit playfully. Yup...rabid halfling!

Glyndwyr laughs at the forest halfling and shakes his head with a faint smile as he begins unstrapping his helm... though that means his cloak hood gets raised up... though he doesn't exactly drop his guard as he draws nearer the fire,"Perhaps someone should seek out Dulin if she hasn't turned in for the night."

Siriel looks around as she realizes that more than just Talamean is listening "We've been trying to tell how many there are but it's been difficult, we think that there might be 6 of them, but they feed or hunt about 3 times a day, early morning, late at night and just after midday" she says to everyone listening.

Demetria looks at the group. "What do you say we get one of them." she offers to the masses. "Would be less to fight later." she points out.

Amari smirks a bit as she settles her self on one of the risers and begins to eat,"Shame we don't have a catapult to launch you at it Demetria. You could ride the thing to the ground or perhaps break it in and have a new mount." she says in a teasing way.

Demetria looks at Amari and winks. "Who the heck said I needed a catapault for that." she points out and giggles. "Just get me something that will allow me to fly, and I might just do it."

Eochaid looks around then over at the food laid out on the tables, since the shivering has finally slowed he gets up and heads over to gather a large heaping plate of food and then returns to his seat by the fire to eat quietly alternating every third bite with sip of wine, he stares into the fire apparently lost in thought but really just listening to those around him.

The unicorn's ears flick back when Demetria hisses at her. "It's alright, I was just teasing," says Trysta. Aairii looks up to the woman then and seems to relax but only for a moment. "Something wrong?" asks the human. "I feel something evil nearby..," is the equine's answer. "Evil?" Trysta reaches up, hand on her sword, but doesn't move to pull it yet.

Demetria looks at Trysta. "Something wrong?" she asks with a bit of a frown. Nodding to the sword'ed hand she frowns gently.

Siriel quirks a brow at the conversation between Trysta and the unicorn and looks around a bit concerned.

Sascha leans back, closing his eyes, "Evil's all over the place... when some shows up, wake me."

Eochaid pulls his cloak up around himself a little more and continues to eat, he glances over to the unicorn then takes a sip of the wine again before finishing off his plate.

Amari listens to the unicorn and Trysta talk,"So do we need to get on the defensive or just finish dinner?" she asks as she takes a bite of roasted meat.

Talamean sips his wine "Perhaps a quick scout around the area might help?"

Demetria puts her food down and nods. "Right." She offers and moves to disappear into...well..She does what she does best.

Eochaid finishes his meal then heads over to a cot as far away from everyone else as possible.

Demetria slides back into the lodge and shakes her head slowly. "Nothing out there." she offers after a bout an hours worth of work. she looks around slowly before shrugging. "Maybe it was something..over head or something."

Sascha opens one eye, looking around. "Doesn't this place have a bunch of wizards or clerics or something living here? They're probably a few evil ones..."

Siriel raises an unimpressed eyebrow at Sascha and shakes her head

The unicorn starts to move, meanwhile, seeming almost as if she's trying to figure out where the evil is that's making her uncomfortable. Trysta on the other hand just follows along, waiting to see if this turns up anything.

Demetria blinks and gives a glance around slowly before clearing her throat lightly, "If it is one of the Magic users. We need not bother them unless they attack first. We are here to rest before going to the king. Lets not forget that."

Eochaid rolls himself up in his cloak and seamingly falls asleep on the cot,

Trysta says, "C'mon Aairii, lets just get some rest." The equine looks back at her companion a little unassuredly, but, doesn't argue--and follows after. Apparently the woman got bored playing this game of hide-n-seek.

Siriel stands and looks around "Does anyone need anything else?" she asks looking to everyone.

Talamean shakes his head and speaks quietly "I'm fine Siri" He stands up "I'll do another quick check around the Song"

Siriel nods her head "Well if you are no longer in need of anything else I'm going to head home" she says and starts to walk away "if you need anything or should any troubles arise please just holler" she says and slips out to go home.

Glyndwyr seats himself by the fire... that is until Talamean decides to do the check around the outskirts of the Stonesong,"I'll come with you." he offers... well more states really,"T'would be best to move in pairs at the very least." the big man doesnt move to put his helm on once more, content to do the scout thing without any constricted lines of vision

Talamean comes back in a bit later "Nothing amiss, normal sounds" He heads for the spot he claimed earlier sitting back down.

Demetria looks around. "lets go to sleep...we can continue on tomorrow." she offers simply.

Sascha grunts quietly from where he's been trying to do just that.

Eochaid rolls over and continues to sleep

Amari murmurs something softly and tilts her head a little as she looks around the room with a look of concentration on her face. She stands and puts her plate away cleaning up after herself and moves over to speak with Glyndwyr,"May I speak with you for a moment?" she asks of him. Her voice is quiet as she speaks to the man quietly so as not to disturb the others.

Talamean rests as Elves never truly sleep, taking a spot by the doorway, his white bow resting on his lap.

Glyndwyr raises an eyebrow quereously at the Tulian priestess and dips his head in a nod once after some timer,"Certainly." he says in mild tones, cocking his head to the side as he listens to what the half-elven woman has to say.

Demetria clears her throat lightly. "I suggest we all get sleep." she offers to the group simply, "The King...is going to need us."

Amari then moves over to Talamean and checks on him. She looks to Demetria for a moment before settling in for the night."Indeed, we should be well rested. Do we need to set a guard tonight, or perhaps two?" she asks softly.

Trysta goes Zzz... Zzz.. from wherever she happens to be sleeping at the moment.

Glyndwyr turns his head at Demetria's interjection and nods solemnly,"Aye, for the king and Vintermor herself." and with that that big man begins to stand first watch, and should all go well devesting himself of his armor sections methodically.

Talamean nods to Amari and smiles his pale eyes scan the room "I will keep watch"

After a couple of hours of sleeping the adventurers hear what sounds like an eagle screech yet it sounds like it's right next your ear because it's so loud, and dies down again.

Sascha starts, coming halfway to his feet. "What in Sslira's bony armpits...?"

Eochaid wakes at the noise and lays in the same position listening to see if he can hear where it came from without giving away the fact that he is awake.

Talamean sits up looking around "Does anyone else feel that?" He kneels down to touch the ground "The ground is shaking"

Demetria jumps up suddenly and her daggers are out. "Holy Talvi's frosted Nut sack...." she shouts out suddenly. Looking around she looks at the others to see if they are waking up or not. "What the hell was that.."

Trysta is not a happy camper to say the least. "Whoever did that is about to get a foot up their ass."

Amari rises from her pallet and looks around the longhouse for the sourse of the sound. Her eyes appear startled and they search for the threat.

"TO ARMS...NOW." The halfling states and she moves to the door to toss it open. The inky darkness stares back at the group with in. There is that feeling of dread. of Death that has yet to claim its victim. It twines its way through the group encircling each as the halfling moves out side. "Death has come on golden wings." The halfling states to the group. "and it has given us an earth elemental." The woman starts to make her way out to the night air.

Eochaid rolls out of his cot landing on his feat with a cats grace standing he heads towards the shadows just outside the door drawing his rapier with his right hand and his mace in the left. He steps outside and tries to disappear.

Trysta goes to get up and grab her sword. Hopefully Aairii is mobile enough to keep the earth elemental from catching them. Speaking of which, the unicorn has since poked her head out. "What's going on..?" "Trouble," replies the woman as she motions for her companion to follow and then heads after Demetria.

Sascha is in motion, moving for the larger of the two horses as he calls out, "Hith! Dae! Stay hidden for now!"

Glyndwyr's head jerks around at the sound of the night rending at the hands of some beast,"Elemental, the bird is escaping!" Sear slides forth from its scabbard, twin elements running up and down its razored edge as he prepares to follow Mod's dictates to the full and meet battle with all the passion at his muster, activating his boots with a command word so as to spring into action at fullest efficacy.

Talamean's bow is up and ready, an arrow notched, stepping outside sprinting for a bit of cover, like a tree.

Amari begins to cast spells weaving them around her for protection and strength. She moves with the others once her spells are woven about her and her comrades.

Coming out of the Sanctuary the merry band of adventurers is faced with a wall of mud, ok so not quite a wall of mud but it is a huge 10 foot tall man that seems to be made of dirt and rocks and mud. Standing approximately 3o feet from the entrance to the Sanctuary. About 5 feet from the first is yet another man made of mud almost identical to the first one. Over head hundreds of feet is the source of the noise that woke everyone, a Roc can been seen flying away.

The earth elemental that was first seen upon coming out of the sanctuary moves towards the sanctuary, leaving only 10 feet from it to some of the adventurers.

Sascha whips out his longsword and slashes at one of the critters, drawing mud!... unfortunately... it's *mud*... it doesn't care.

Amari casts a spell on something in her gloved hand and then raises her other hand calling down Tuli's devine fires upon one of the earth elementals in front of the group. It is scorched but still standing and very much alive.

There is a beat, almost like a soft drum song on the wind and Demetria moves into battle. Moving into battle she takes three swipes at the creature. Two quick flicks of her left dagger and one of her right bring the creature unphased from the attack and Demetria shouts out. "Eochaid get your ass over here and flank with me."

Eochaid steps out of the shadows and moving into a flanking position across from Demetria he swings at the pile of dire and misses with both his rapier and his mace.

Standing before the earthen - well to be fair... mud- elemental Glyndwyr starts to perform the dance-like style of the belegrinar practitioners... his falchion seemingly flickering out further than it should as he spins and twirls, carving out large swathes of mud as the elemental tries to fend off the unpredictable attacks, sputtering flame and acid left in the wake of each impact.

Way, way too many people on the other one for Trysta to fit in and hit the creature. So, she elects to go stop the OTHER ONE from coming over and beating whoever hit it with a spell to a bloody pulp. Her sword carves a nice hole into its side while Aairii lunges, puncturing another hole into it with her horn.

The huge earth elemental that's being crowded by four people starts swinging it's huge arms about and slams into the man with the longsword hitting him so hard that he stumbles backwards.

Talamean slips out of his shadow and four arrows arc out from that spot, sinking into the one, leaving the Element standing but perhaps hurt.

The Earth Elemental that Trysta and Aairii went after isn't too pleased at being toasted and then poked with sharp objects and takes it out by slamming Trysta around a bit.

Sascha whistles as he sidesteps, tossing the crackling blade in his hand over the mudthingy to Eochaid. "Use this!" A moment later, he's off and running, blurring a little bit as he and the really, slightly *too* large warhorse he's got come together. Mounting, he unslings the long steel lance from its cradle and readies to charge...

Demetria steps to pick the creature again. Her daggers move in time with Eo's making sure to keep the core of the beast with in between her and the other creature. She moves quickly and swings her blades around, Three strikes two of them would be extra solid and she cries out. "Why can't you be a fucking KOBOLD."

Amari spreads her fingers and holds out her hands. Two beams of light spring forth focusing holy light towards each of the earth elementals. They both seem a bit scorched but neither of them fall. She stands there tall and unwavering at the light fades from her palms. Her golden Mithril armor making her look a bit like the holy warrior that she has become.

Glyndwyr continues upon his curved blade whirlwind slicing and dicing far faster than the mud construct is able to reform... and eventually it gives up, and slumps to the ground in a shapeless mass of rotting and slimy detrius. Whipping around the warrior follows the momentumn of one of his scything two-handed blows and ends up near the figure that Trysta assails.

Eochaid opens his hands dropping the weapons held to catch the sword that was thrown at him. Seeing the mudman in front of him killed he steps back into the shadows to move towards the other creature.

Ow ow ow. Trysta does the smart thing and swings at the creature even as Aairii goes to move away. Her aim misses the second swing though, but, the two of them are heading back to Amari with the human looking much worse for wear. "Remind me not to take one of them on alone next time," she coughs down to the unicorn.

Talamean stays in his shadow and again four arrows streak out, three striking #1, all sinking in with solidly.

As the woman and unicorn start to retreat the elemental notices the man coming into it's reach and lashes out at Glyndwyr just missing the man. Missing with two of the attacks and just grazes the man with another

Sascha charges forward, the lance stabbing again into the mudthing, keeping it pinned, keeping it busy...

Amari closes her eyes for a moment and a healing wave passes from her radiating out to help her injured friends. Her hand opens up again as she levels her eyes at the elements that Sascha is tangling with and that holy light springs from her palm once more. It envelopes the creature and it seems to bubble and then ooze into a blob of mud returning to the earth from whence it came.

Sascha dismounts, slowly... painfully. "Damed elementals.." and then begins looking for Eochaid.

Eochaid returns the Longsword to it's owner then returning to his own weapons he carefully picks them up one at a time and cleans them off and drys them before putting them back into their respective holders.

Sascha nods, sheathing his sword. "All in all, not a bad night's work, eh?"

Eochaid says "Thank you" to Sascha as he is cleaning off his weapons.

Amari peers around the sanctuary and looks for any other danger before turning back towards the longhouse to go back to bed."We should rest if we can." she says to the others.

Demetria frowns lightly and looks at Everyone. "Get the healers." she calls into Stone Song. We have Injured." she offers and moves to look around for anything else attacking

Sascha leads Mariah back to the hitching post and begins to check her over for any injuries, whispering quietly to her.

Talamean moves through the shadows, silent as he prowls, looking to make sure there aren't any other attackers about.

The one hit the elementals actually landed upon Glyn... thankfully they left him alone for the main part was almost wholly healed due to the clerical spell Amari cast behind him, leaving naught but a slight bruise and tenderness underneath the armor where it rang him like a bell,"Indeed, I laud the foolishness of those we see upon the morrow for not saving those constructs for the main assault." The burly man cricks his neck and looks over those about even as Talamean fades into the undergrowth and gives a wary look about himself (hampered as he is by the lack of light),"I think this means my watch is up... I'm getting out of this plate and am getting some rest before I am good for naught. Sleep well goodfolk." he disappears within the building to follow through on his statements

Eochaid finishes with his weapons then as if only now noticing he is back out doors begins to shiver again. He pulls his cloak tightly around him and heads back in to the cot he had been sleeping on.

Demetria comes back after not finding anything. She moves to Eochaid's side, "You alright." she whispers quietly to him.

Talamean comes back into view "All's clear" He nods to the others who suggest sleep "For those who need it, sleep is a good thing, I'll keep watch the rest of the night"

Eochaid nods to Demetria "Yes Lady, One is ok the creature did not even notice this One with all of you around, for that One is grateful" he heads over to sit on the edge of his cot trying to get warm again.

Demetria nods and lightly pats Eochaid, "You fought good...sleep." she states.

Eochaid lays down again pulling his cloak tightly around him he soon warms up and as soon as that happens he is dead to the world.

Sascha finishes tending to his horse, and staggers painfully back into the living commons, where he removes his gear, and begins to tend to his sword and armor.

The Next Day
After last nights disruption in the middle of the night the rest of the night went by smoothly, as everyone wakes and looks around. The first thing that's noticed is that Trysta and Aairii seem to be gone.

Sascha is, come morning, once more tending to the horses. Grooming, checking their hooves, getting them ready to travel... making sure the barding the heavier warhorse is snug, but not too tight... that sort of thing. That Trysta and her unicorn have vanished doesn't seem to warrant comment from him. At least, not before lunch.

Curled in the corner, admist her furs, and muttering something like, "Arvilli...the boys are crying...arvilli..." And then, she is turning over as if to go back to sleep. That is..until the brilliant halfling woman turns the wall with a THUD. "Ow..."

Eochaid wakes finally feeling warm (or as warm as he has felt since coming to this frozen land), he sits up on his cot then checks his rapier and Mace for any sign of damage from their drop into the packed snow outside. He finishes up with a soft cloth polish that seems to dull the weapons more than make them shine. He then gets up to go and scavenge some food from lasts night's leftovers and a mug of Ale then goes to sit by the fire to eat.

Talamean slips away into the forest "I will be around when needed, I'm going to scout some places"

Having had but short hours of sleep after the attack Glyndwyr seems closed mouthed this morning, dolefully beginning to gird his loins with metallic armor and shovel some hard tack and jerky into his mouth.

Sascha comes back in after seeing to the horses, and begins to make his own preparations to get moving, including breakfast. Eschewing the hard tack and travel rations favored by some, he instead avails himself of the santuary's hospitality with a large platter of eggs, winter berries, and salted pork, with a strong pot of tea.

Amari wakes with the morning light and sits by the fire. She prepares herself some breakfast and eats quietly. Her pack sits next to her and she wraps up a few of the not so parrishable items and tucks them away in her pack for later. She knows that Dulin doesn't mind

Demetria sits up slowly holding her head. "Please tell me." she starts out. "That we get to kill things today." Demetria offers quietly

Sascha shrugs, mumbling around a mouthful of eggs, "Wm gfft tb kvvv fnngs tmdfvv."

Demetria looks at Sascha and nods slowly. "Thank you." she states and moves to pick up some food for herself. "Now...tell me they won't be made of Mud so I can back stab them."

Coming in from the direction that the town would be in, is what seems like a large bird at first, and a dot below that, as though the bird was shadowing the dot. But as the animals approach, its more obvious that the bird is not, as nothing can be a bird that has a 20' wingspan with light blue feathers. And the dot is actually a man on a horse. The bird man just points in a direction, to the man down below, pointing to the camp. Dem should recognize the form of the bird at least.

Eochaid finishes off his first plate and mug of ale then returns to the food prep area again to refill knowing that he will need a lot of sustenance now to keep him warm on the next leg of the journey. He sits back down at the fire and continues to eat.

Demetria is about to get food. She is about to eat it when she notices the figures coming, "ITS ABOUT DAMN TIME." the halfling shouts up to the sky. "I NEED HALFLING SNUGGLES."

Alance glances up at the birdman and nods, urging his charging warhorse onward, as he gets closer, his armor still shows signs of a major battle, there are spots with suspicious ochre colored stains. Pulling the snorting horse to a stop he walks it the rest of the way into the Stonesong, letting it cool before sliding off, leaning against it a bit.

Sascha just shakes his head at all of this, and continues eating.

Glyndwyr grunts at Demetria and nods, strapping a gorget on and slowly getting to his feet from his sitting position on the log rapping a gauntlet apon his breastplate and moving his arms experimentally to see if it fits. The broadchested man coughs and clears his throat, although he leaves his helm off for the time being and he overlays his weaponsbelt upon his frame,"When shall we sally?" his voice a little rough after waking as he asks the question

Sascha says "We make for Frostward, and the Dragon Ascendant, yes? Get everyone horses for the rest of the trip?"

Arvilli flies down, lets the wings flare, and then finally comes to a rest on the ground near the emcampment. He then yawns a little himself. The giant wings fold back into his cloak once more, becoming just a normal cloak. He then rubs his eyes and yawns once again. "See? Told you we would make it." He says back to the rider.

Eochaid finishes his meal walks over to the food prep area and does what he can about cleaning the dishes he used. he then goes back to sit by the fire entering an almost meditative trance, those watching may notice slight lip movements as he grips his mace with his left hand almost as if he was making peace with his Gods before leaving to face battle and possibly not return.

Amari 's ears perk up at the sound of folks coming into the camp."Has Arvilli come to join us Demetria?" she asks as she stands by the fire. She has her things gathered and she starts pulling on her equipment standing there by the fire.

Alance grins at Arvilli "Aye so we have" He leads his massive warhorse to the stables to get a quick brush down and get some grain. Returning shortly, limping a bit as he heads for the longhouse.

Demetria looks at Glyn, "Soon." She offers and runs to her husband before halfling pouncing him. "Mmm Hey hunny." she offers.

Amari hears a familliar voice and smiles causing her face to light up. Grabbing her pack she heads towards the door of the long house. Upon exiting she rushes to Alance and hugs him tightly, well as tightly as one can with two sets of mithril full plate between them."Alance! I was hopping that you might catch up to us before we left this morning. I was woried som roc or elemental might have attacked you along the road." she looks him over and frowns,"You look as if they have. What happend?"

Arvilli gives his wife a hug and then looks around. "So, whats the situation?" He then frowns a little. "This doesn't look like the area I scryed for the King and that blue gnome at."

Alance oofs a bit and hugs Amari "Careful love, still a bit tender here and there, the road itself was safe, we had to clear the Temples and Kauppa of Hellhounds and some form of Catdemon. Heather mentioned it was a Jirilith or something. They got through my armor a few times, fortunately we had Ellis, Mike and Tenian there"

Demetria mmms and nuzzles his neck slowly. "We aren't there yet." she offers to Arvilli, "Still working on our travels." she admits with a bit of a frown. "You here to help?" she offers and smiles gently to him.

Eochaid straightens abruptly then looking over at the reunions that are happening decides to settle by the fire until it is time to leave.

Arvilli smiles and then just pats her with an embarrassed smile. "Love, not in front of people..." He says, his face a little red. "Nah, I thought I would catch up with you so that I could get some exercise." He says with a wry smile. "Yes, I am here to help."

Amari looks a little worried,"How did Tuli's temple fair in the attack?" she asks with clear concern lighting her eyes. Were there many hurt or...killed?" she asks softly as she looks up into the eyes of her love.

Sascha finishes up breakfast, and collects his gear. Moving back out to the horses he proceeds to stow most of his equipment back onto the smaller of the two heavy warhorses, and takes the time to go over the straps and latches of his own armor as well.

When stepping outside it seems to be a grey overcast day, looking above, the clouds look dark and heavy as if snow might be in the forecast for today. There's a chill in the air that seems to sting the cheeks when the wind picks up.

Looking down around the ground it seems that there's nothing left of last night's visitors, not even a spot of mud. The forest around the Stonesong seems to be quietly active with the small animals scurrying about trying to find something to eat and quickly get back to their homes again to get warm again.

Alance hugs Amari gently "The temples themselves were untouched, the Kuappa was damaged in the fighting but most can be repaired" He looks down at her and pauses.

The trees are still light here, near the coast and the more inhabited areas of the fjordland. Snow and ice blanket the sparse terrain, concealing the ground and yet leaving everything bared to the eye. The trees here are slender and tall, branches reaching eagerly for the meager warmth of the sun. No moss or creepers dare to grow here, though some hardy shrubs eke out a living between the trees, and in their bowels, small anmials survive as best they can. A road winds through the trees here, stretch back northeast, towards the Helgegard Pass, and south towards the main road.

Amari closes her eyes at Alance's pause and nods,"Perhaps we can stop these attacks at their source. Do you need me to heal you love?" she asks as she looks him over.

Alance smiles and kisses Amari lightly "I stopped by the house but didn't have time to fully heal up"

Arvilli steps outs ide, and shudders. "I always forget how blasted cold it is out here." He then slips off one cape, and puts one another out of his bag.

Eochaid follows again behind all the mounted adventurers, being on foot he needs to be ever aware not only for ambuse brom above or behind but also for the /presents/ left behind the horses as they walk. He keeps his cloak tightly clasped shut hoping to keep some of the heat gained in the Sancturary trapped within, even so shortly after leaving he begins to shiver again.

After a couple of hours travel the wind seems to be getting colder as the adventurers trudge along. Small itty bitty little snowflakes have started falling, but it's hard to tell if it's snowing or if it's just snow being blown down from the trees.The forest is quite quiet as they move on, not that deadly silent quiet tho.

Arvilli keeps shivering as he gets to trample on. Right about now, he is wishing he actually figured out that mass endure elements. But its a waste to use up room for something that protects. His little face is turning white and his fingers and most of his body, is covered by deep furs that Dem made him a long time ago.

Alance smiles as he rides alongside Amari, perhaps half dozing in the saddle, catching up on rest. Earlier he cast a protective spell over him to keep warm.

Demetria moves up close to Arvilli and curls her arms around Arvilli tightly attempting to keep him warm. "You okay?" Demetria asks her mate quietly. "Remind me to get you some boots.' she states softly to him.

Sascha baps the injured Alance a few times with a wand.

Amari pauses long enough to cast a spell to ward off the cold on herself, Arvilli and Eochaid. "You would be wise to ride with one of us rather than walking." she says down towards Eochaid and anyone else who might be on foot.

Arvilli nods and then flezes his fingers. "One of these days, I will make a spell that radiates heat instead of just protecting from the elements, and melt all this stupid snow and not worry about the cold." He then rubs his little nose. Finally, after a few hours, the spell is cast and he flexes his fingers again. "Well thats a little better."

Eochaid nods at Amari's words but declines a ride with a "Thank you Lady, but One would prefer walking as long as One is not holding up the group. One has no great love of horses." He then continues to walk stopping for a moment or two every now and then to look dow the back trail trying to see if any follow.

Demetria chuckles quietly. "We will se what we can get you when we get back to town." she offers quietly.

Sascha shakes his head a bit as he mounts up, "That would be incredibly dangerous... melt too much ice, and the roads become treacherous bogs of mud, and rockslides begin..."

Alance shifts a bit in his saddle and nods to Sascha "Thank you, I still carried some wounds from yesterday it seems" He turns back to Amari "You weren't hurt were you love?"

Amari shakes her head,"No but we did have some visitors last night. Mud men, earth elementals I think." She says in reply."Do you need anymore healing?" she asks softly as she looks him over trying to see any wounds.

Arvilli just sighs and then turns to the person that spoke to him. "I would need to melt the snow in vast acres of land for any of that to heppen, and I am not talking about weather control. I am talking about a simple heat radiance spell. Nothing all that complicated. Even novices should be able to use it." He then looks to Dem and just shakes his head at her.

Amari uses a few charges from her wand of healing and smiles softly when she sees Alance nod in approval."Now that should help some."

Lost deep in thought, Demetria moves beside Arvilli as they make their trek. She lets the bigguns talk as she speaks with her husband. "When you scried, do you remember what you saw. Did you see anything that we would go against?" Demetria wonders. She reaches out lightly to take Arvilli's hand. A soft gesture compared to most that shows she not only is she listening but also requires his attention. "Some information is better then none, I got a report about...a three headed dog?" she asks Arvilli and frowns.

The snow seems to be getting heavier and the flakes getting bigger as the party moves onwards. As the morning wears onto midday rather than warming up the day seems to be getting colder.

The adventurers finally make it to Frostwards Trading Grounds and the Dragon Ascendant Ranch.

The trees fall away to one side of the track as it rises into highlands Sturmgaard country, the woods a wall of thick and tangled black to one side of you, the gulf and taiga a cloud-shrouded expanse of spotted white to the other, like the feathers of a winter owl. The sky is wide and lonely, the silence near total -- even when living things burst from the forest or you can hear the rumble of small avalanches nearby, there is a hush they cannot burst. In the distance, following the curve of the road back into the tree-wall, you can see little columns of smoke rising from the forest, accompanied by the bittersweet smell of dried grasses and juniper wood. Occasionally, from that direction, there will be the sharp sound of an axe striking wood, or a humankin voice raised in a shout. Winter-birds wing in small flights over the hidden village, just out of sight.

Sascha reins in his mount as the group nears Frostward, and looks over the assembled people, counting heads of those without horses...

Silk having been at frostward already stands beside the road not to far away from the party wrapped in firs from the outside. He is dressed in full battle gear it seems with a Mithral shirt on, Rapier at his side, a shield slung behind him, wicked looking arrows in his quiver, he walks towards the group as they approuch. "Was told I could meet you here, I'm here to help..." He says the firs he normally sells covering him like a blanket to keep out the cold. Hood comes up and around to keep his ears and face warm as he stands there walking towards the group slowly looking for a familar face.

Amari looks around the trading grounds tring to get a feel for the place,"Perhaps they have mounts that you all could ride. Even a decent dog and sled would be better than trudging through the snow. A good riding dog or sturdy pony would be a good companion too." She offers towards the 'walkers'.

Eochaid looks over the horse he receives as a loaner to get him to the king and back, after a brief check over he looks the horse in the eye and state "One will do ones best to get us back alive if you agree to do the same." He then climbs up in the saddle and awaits the groups moving on. He looks at the new elf a little suprised to see him here but remains silent.

Arvilli frowns and then looks to Amari for a second, just staring at her, like he is weighing some options and then shakes his head. "No, I don't really know how much to ride beasts. And I can't really control one. I would do better with my own devices." He almost means that literally, since he crafted the wings himself.

Alance smiles at Amari "Thank you love, that's all I needed" He sits a bit straighter in his saddle, pulling his sword out to finish cleaning the last bits of demon blood off of it.

Demetria looks around. "Alright then." Demetria offers to the group. "I suggest we get going back onwards to the Glade....Chances are they know we are coming." she points out.

Amari shrugs a little,"It seems a pitty to waste the use of such fine wings on the road. Especially when they would be so handy in battle. You are welcome to ride with me. I have no problems 'controlling' a horse. She pauses for a moment reining the horse in as she sits tall in her saddle to see if he wishes to join her.

Sascha nods slowly, "The question is... /who/ knows we're coming? I'd prefer to try to reason with these people, if we have the choice."

Silk grabs a horse looking over at Alance and Amari gives a nod. Gives a nod to those here as well those he knows which is all even nods to Eochaid a moment. He looks over at Demetria, "Chances are good if Dulin knew, if not they would pick us up by scrying perhaps... Unless someone is casting to prevent it, Ellis used to do it all the time to decern enemies." He looks over at Sascha, "I'm with you on that... Obviously, I really don't want to kill my kin but if I have to, I will to get the King back.."

Sascha quirks an eyebrow at Silk. "Dulin knew because we sheltered overnight at Stonesong last night. It would be hard to escape her notice, given that."

Alance shrugs a bit "I won't bargian with those who kidnapped the King they either give him back or pay the price of thier evil deed"

Arvilli snorts a little at that. "The plants and the animals will tell them we are coming. We can't depend on surprise to be an ally. Or the fact that we will probably be ambushed along the way. I have all ready scryed out the King's location, as well as that blue gnome that got captured too. And I doubt they will make reasonable demands."

Demetria blinks slowly between the group, "Lets just get under way." she offers to everyone. "Talk or not, matters not." she offers and looks at the group. "Don't worry about the King." she offers simply. "I got that angle handled you just get me close to him."

Amari frowns a bit,"I can't help but wonder if there is some deeper reason for this 'kidnapping'. I heard that the gnome had a message for the king and was sent away and not allowed to see him. After that the kind was kidnapped. It's strangly out of character for druids to act so agressively. I mean they love trees and stuff...it's just not like them." she nudges her horse forward and starts off even as she speaks.

Sascha shakes his head, turning his horse toward Frostward, "Oh, I don't intend to /bargain/ with them... I simply hope we have the chance to make them see reason. Kidnapping the King certainly won't /help/ whatever cause they're touting."

Silk shrugs he keeps quiet about the king, "Hmm I suppose you are right about that." He says to sascha he mounts up on his warhouse and then starts out without another word.

Alance nods to Amari "Though that is a bit extreme for those of the Glade, perhaps something has taken over the glade? It's happened before"

Eochaid sits stiffly upon his horse, quietly waiting to move on. He is concious of what is around him checking up and down the road leading to where the party rests. He keeps his hand on the hilt of his blade in the other he holds the reins of the horse tightly as if he is just waiting to fall off. "One would have to agree with the lad.. err Demetria in that whatever is a head of us only is getting more prepared for us to arrive the longer we sit here talking. One would be happy to rescue this King of yours and return back to the Inn One resides in and civilization." With that he settles back to wait and to try to remain balanced as his horse dances a few steps showing it is waiting to leave as well.

Arvilli just sighs, haven spoken his peace now. At least he isn't freezing now. He then looks around at all the landscape and frowns.

Demetria smiles behind Eochaid after seh climbs up. "Lets go..Quickly at least. Politics and analysis can wait until...after we count bodies."

Demetria stops and and looks up fore amoment and swallows. "Everyone...shut up." she orders in a bare whisper before pointing up wards to the clouds. "It...hasn't heard us yet."

Eochaid looks up and pales, he immediatly throws himself off of the horse and dives for cover under a neearby tree. He is heard to whisper "Goddess What is that thing!" as he stares into the sky.

Alance looks up when Deme points, squinting a bit, keeping his voice low "What do you see Deme?"

Arvilli sighs a little and then looks at them, and then just shrugs, not even bothering to look up. It seems he will walk from now on.

Sascha doesn't look up, but keeps his voice low and calm. "Which 'it'? The big 'it' with feathers, or the big 'it' that breathes fire?"

Amari tries to see what Demetria seems so interested in. But her half-elven eyes are no match for the Skalting. She listens to the forest in an effort to hear anything that might be amis.

Silk looks over at Sascha, "The big thing with feathers..." He mentions as he whispers and then takes cover under the trees slowly so not to be seen...

Amari looks up into the sky and whispers in a low voice,"Roc above us." she says softly

Demetria looks at Amari. She shakes her head softly, "I just said that." she mouths and rolls her eyes lightly. "We kill it or follow it...take your pick but I am going to scream in two minutes if no one has desided."

Sascha closes his eyes for a moment, then nudges the sides of his mount, continuing to move out toward Goldenglade. It seems he's almost willfully and pointedly ignoring the roc as he lets the horse begin to pick up speed.

Arvilli just sighs once more. "Yup, going to be one of those days." He then looks to Amari. "Looks like I will be taking that ride you offered from before.

Amari says "Follow."

Overhead a screeching can be heard as a bird swoops down from behind as another Roc swoops down and snatches Amari right out of her saddle, and narrowly missing grabbing Alance out of his saddle, and takes to the sky again.

Eochaid huddles a little closer to the tree and trys to hide himself further from the giant birds gone death from above. After seeing the bird snatch up Amari he wants nothing to do with them or their claws.

Amari 's scream is as much one of surprise as it is one of pain. Her eyes are wide as she is ripped away from her friends and indeed her saddle.

Sascha leans forward, spurring the warhorse to full speed, plowing on toward Goldenglade.

Arvilli sighs a little at the Roc snatching her. "Anyone got a plan? If not, I got one to get her loose. You all will have to kill it. I doubt I would be able to by myself."

Alance ducks away as the Roc tries to grab him. Spurring his warhorse into a full gallop he charges after the Roc which carries his beloved, sword and shield sliding into place.

As the first Roc flies over head still just flying along, the second Roc that swooped in and grabbed Amari gets just above the trees within seconds and stretches it's wings out and flies straight up into the air.

Pulling out two daggers, Demetria looks at Arvilli, "DO IT.." she shouts and tosses two of her daggers out. They strike the bird...she ..thinks.. but the thing doesn't even notice the halfling's attempt. "GET BACK HERE WITH THAT FAST FOOD." she shouts out

Silk tilts his head as he pulls out his Arrow launching a devistating attack on it. He tilts his head as he looks at the roc, and then sighs really didn't do any damage at all.

As the party goes crazy down below the Roc with the cleric tight in it's grasp continues to fly straight up, becoming a bit smaller as it goes. It's approximately 155 ft in the air now.

Arvilli nods and then activates his wings, pulling out the staff that Dem gave him, and then gets back a bit. Beating his own wings, the cloak launches him in the air, with him gritting his teeth the whole time.

Amari struggles within the large talon of the Roc. She seems to be trying to break free of it's grasp before it carries her away. Her grunting and straining can be heard for those who have such fine hearing.

Alance keeps his eyes on the Roc that carries Amari, using his knees to guide his horse.

Demetria looks at Eochaid, "On the horse NOW.." she offers and looks at Arvilli, "Good Luck Hun.." she offers out to her mate. "If we are lucky.." she offers to the group, "Amari just is gonna make sure the king is alive."

Arvilli nods and is trying to catch up to the 120' bird. He's trying to keep out an eye for the other one as to not swoop down and catch him by surprise, but his main goal is the one holding Amari.

Eochaid comes running out from under the tree and climbs up on his horse, he grabs the reigns in his left hand with a death grip and unsheaths his rapier. He looks up at the bird then at his rapier, he shrugs and get ready to flee towards Golden Glade or away depending on the the direction everyone else goes in.

Suddenly the Roc that has Amari in it's clutches stops and turns back towards the party of adventurers on the ground, using it's eagle like eyes it sees Sascha breaking for the Glade and throws the cleric at Sascha. Sascha noticing the falling cleric quickly moves himself and his horse out of the way just in time for the thud of the clerics body hitting the ground nearby.

Demetria snaps at the horse that she is on with Eochaid, "Get to the Glade, They can heal her..." She shouts to the Man. Of course as she says this..the little woman is holding on for dear life.

Amari's screams are the stuff of nightmares and are enough to curl the blood. What's more eerie perhaps is the bone cracking thud that brings an end to the scream. Her broken body lays at the point of impact, unmoving.

Alance is watching for just that very thing and is right there when Amari lands, dropping off his horse as it stops "AMARI!?" One hand drops to his beloved's body a fervent prayer is offered as he prays his hand glows blue, the color slowly covering Amari.

Silk pulls back with another arrow cocked he fires at the roc again easily hitting the monster his arrow however does very little damage to the Roc again... He shakes his head as he pulls another arrow.

The Rocs make loud screeching noises as birds are known to do, and if anyone stops and listens they realize, that noise is what woke them up last night while they were sleeping back at StoneSong.

The two Rocs seem to meet up with two more further in the distance and then seem to disappear from sight. Possibly landed, can't say for sure as they disappear into the treeline.

Sascha dodges the hurled missile and continues thundering toward Goldenglade, glancing back and up to see if the birds are still trying to stop him.

Arvilli comes flying back down and then shrugs a little to the rest of them. "Sorry, but I did have a plan." He then moves to let the wings fold back into the cloak.

Eochaid Spurs the horse onward towards Golden Glade obeying the little Halfling woman's order, driving the horse hard and fast he narrowly misses the prone form of Amari and the man kneeling by her. He shouts a 'sorry' as he goes by but is really just trying to stay on the horse as it thunders along.

Sascha pulls up again once he sees the rocs have flown off, and begins circling back toward the others.

Amari's breathing and her eyes flutter open even as the horse hooves flutter by,"I hate falling." she says softly. She is still badly wounded but is at least concious. She tries to sit up but groans in pain."It would seem that I still.." cough "I still need some healing my love." she speaks to Alance.

Alance nods and digs out a potion from his belt "Here drink this Mari" He glances up taking note where the others are at the moment.

Sascha slows again as he returns to the point of impact of the roc's +2 Cleric (thrown). "We should keep moving... ride with someone who can heal, priestess... they *may* come back."

Silk just moves out from under the tree he was at putting his bow on his back he follows the group where he goes....

Demetria looks over her shoulder, "Come on.." she calls to the group. "Before they come back and pick up someone else." she calls back to them

Arvilli nods and then carries his staff with him as he walks along. Sighing quietly. "Well, its an adventure, right? It should be fun and full of danger." He then smiles slightly.

Eochaid pulls back on the horses reins to slow it, no point in turning around since they should be coming this way and will catch up soon enough.

Clop clop clop. Aairii is moving rather quickly to catch up with the group. "I knew I should've put those on before so you could get used to them ahead of time," sighs Trysta from her back. "It's alright, I'm getting used to them now," replies the equine. What /are/ they talking about? Probably whatever has the unicorn floating about half a foot off the ground as she chases the others.

Amari slips her arm around Alance's neck,"Help me up and we can heal on the ride. I have a wand we can use."

Alance scoops Amari up and gently places her on Frostwind who wickers at her softly. Mounting the warhorse behind her "Ok let's go"

Sascha nods, looking back over the group again and noting Trysta catching up, then turns to resume the trip...

As you approach GoldenGlade you stop just outside the gate to inside the druidic village, for there's not really a viable way in at the moment. There seems to be a wall of strange vines winding together and all around each other, standing about 25 ft tall. The wall from what can be seen is going around the entire druid village.

Arvilli frowns and then looks up at the 25 foot wall of thorns and vines. "Well, I am sure that they don't want visitors." He says once they approach the wall. "Should we knock?"

Demetria frowns slightly at this, "Holy...Fuck." Demetria offers simply. "We should have brought a Torch." she pauses. "Or Tenian." she admits with a bit of a frown.

Silk looks over at Demetria, "We could climb over it ..." He shrugs as he looks over at Deme and then looks over at everyone else, "Well I can..." He sighs as he looks at the wall.

Trysta comes to a stop--or rather Aairii does. ".. Well this is going to make it rather hard to get inside," sighs the woman.

Eochaid pulls up hard on the reigns fighting to stop the horse, once it is stopped he looks up at the growth ahead. "One thought that there was a road to this Golden Glade that One was told about. This doesn't seem like new growth to be that high."

Sascha hrms quietly, and dismounts. "Well... let's get ready to cut it down."

Alance glances at Amari "Stay on Frostwind till you are healing love, ok?" He dismounts, drawing his sword, nodding in agreement with Sascha "If we can yes"

Amari motions to Eochaid,"Come let me enchant your blade after I heal myself." She casts a final healing spell upon herself and seems much better. She gingerly slides off the horse's back eying the dense growth ahead,"I have only one spell to help one move freely if the plants should take hold of us."

Second Wave Of Rescuers
Esperanza regains whatever senses she needs after bypassing all that walking. Of course, she's a little dizzy due to the spell. She puts her hand to her head once the 'world' stops spinning, "Blue Blazes in all of Hells, I'm not sure which is worse." She takes a moment, "Freezing my ass off, or having it spun off only so it can freeze."

Tanikas hangs on to the haft of her halberd for deal life as the world spins around here. Looking as if she might be a little sick, her skin flushes to a whiter shade. However, she recovers nicely, spitting on the ground as she straightens herself up. "All the worst parts of drinking too much ale, and none of the fun parts." She says, looking around for the others. "Everyone make it?" She asks, taking a tentative step to turn around and examine the area.

With the blue light flash Heather and says as she is use to the spell "I warned you all that will be a doozy." she then looks at the stone song and to the sun "ok we need to go to the north east." she waits until every one gets there balance.

Nikarn leans heavily against a tree, and on the hilt of his Axe. Not much seems to shake the man, but if ever he did seem shaken, its now. His face is pale and ashen, his eyes seem to stare at nothing. The transport here was nothing he'd ever experienced before, and judging by the way he clutches at the trunk of the tree, as if he expects it to happen again. When Tanika's voice reaches him, though, he releases the tree, and plants his feet firmly, hefting the axe to his shoulder, pretending that he is fine.

Esperanza has to uncross her eyes and then looks around, "You know, I don't see a sign that says 'northeast this way', so I'll just follow all of you." She grins a little, adding a melodious bit of a giggle to her voice, "Though, I hope all that spinning doesn't impede your sense of direction, or we might wind up going in circles." She then blinks, as if the realization of that sentence may indeed more than she can bear. "Someone NOT dizzy lead the way."

Heather looks to the party "ok I am no tracker but I been to the glade a few times before."

Tanikas looks to Nikarn, notices that he seems to be fine and shoots him a quick smile. She seems to have recovered fairly well, as she tosses her halberd straight up just a bit and catches the haft of it again easily and walks up to Heather, "Lead the way, Heather. If you see anything, holler back at us." She says, and smiles brightly at her.

Nikarn waits silently, striding up to stand beside Tanikas. His eyes scan the treeline, glinting with sharp focus. Apparently the affects of travelling have worn off completely.

The trees are still light here, near the coast and the more inhabited areas of the fjordland. Snow and ice blanket the sparse terrain, concealing the ground and yet leaving everything bared to the eye. The trees here are slender and tall, branches reaching eagerly for the meager warmth of the sun. No moss or creepers dare to grow here, though some hardy shrubs eke out a living between the trees, and in their bowels, small animals survive as best they can. A road winds through the trees here, stretch back northeast, towards the Helgegard Pass, and south towards the main road.

After a few hours of walking through the forest you realize that it's really getting quite cold outside.

Heather seems to show a lot of adventuring skill as she seems to be walking on top of the snow leaveing no tracks and does not seem to be effected by the cold at all. "Is every one doing ok?" she asks the group.

Esperanza is clinging onto her cloak like there's no tomorrow. Having been through one too many bitch sessions where she complains about the cold, this girl got smart and put on some warm clothes. "I'd be doing better if I was at some warm Inn, under the sheets with a beefcake of man." Oh, now for being quiet in the snow? Oh hello no. Clomp, clomp, snap, as the out of sorts woman does her best simply to navigate the foreign terrain.

Tanikas toughs it out through the snow, occasionally kicking the snow from her boots. However, as they travel it becomes more and more apparent that the cold is affecting her badly. She is shaking visibly, having not taken the chance to put on some heavier gear. Still, she maintains her composure and her strong outward appearance, still as bright and strong as usual, just with a pronounced chattering of the jaw and shivering.

Nikarn walks quietly beside Tanikas. He may not be light of foot, but he seems to walk as easily through the snow as if on the clear road, unaffected by the cold as he seems unaffected by all things. Occasionally, he tests the edge of his axe with a thumb, his sharp eyes scanning the tree line for danger or unwanted observers. His attention occasionally turns to the woman beside him, perhaps a look of worry threatening to break his stony demeanor, but he has no cloak to lend her, and so affects not to notice.

Heather noticing Tanikas lips are blue "bloody hell, yew should of told me woman." she half scolds Tanikas while touching her arm giving a prayer in celestial that sends a blue aura over the giantest body that gives her a warm feeling."

The trees begin to grow thicker here as the forested taiga deepens. Snow and ice blanket the ground in hardpacked permafrost that allows very little underbrush. The trees here are thick, sturdy furs and pines, and grow straight and true, leaving very little sunlight to filter through the needles.

The adventurers trek further into the forest towards goldenglade, in the cold morning, thoughts of battle ring through their minds or maybe just a warm fire would be nice right about now.

Heather points to her shoes "Just for 3000 gold you can have a pair like these, there whats keeping me warm, and walking on top of the snow."

Nikarn comes to a stop. He pauses a moment and listens, scanning the area. Only a moment though. Something is setting him on edge, and he can't seem to figure out what. He glances at the others, but says nothing.

Tanikas seems much, much better now that she doesn't have to worry so much about the cold. She trudges through the snow with ease, kicking snow out in front of herself as she moves. She uses the long wooden haft of her halberd as a heavy walking stick, the blade of which wobbles in the air a few feet above her head. She seems in good spirits, despite the long walk. One might think she's done this once or twice before.

Esperanza rolls her eyes at Heather, "Sweetheart, I'd be spending several weeks on my back trying to come up with that kind of coinage." She continues to navigate the terrain. She tugs on her cloak some more, still keeping herself warm while imagining being near an open fire.

Esperanza squeals with delight, "Smoke?!" She claps and starts to move in that direction, "Oh thank god! A warm fire! I can strip out of these clunky clothes and armor and get into something a little more comfortable!"

Tanikas looks where Heather points, her curvy smile fading to a more stoic hard line. It seems fire doesn't mean the same thing to Esperanza as it does to Tani. "Fire is not always good." She says, and looks to Heather and Nikarn. "Don't be in such a hurry to relax just yet. There could be work to do." She explains. Nikarn, for all his looking about, doesn't seem to notice anything. Until, of course, Heather points out the smoke. He stops, watching Esperanza change direction, but he waits to see. No need to venture into strange camps too quickly.

Heather looks to Esper "no stripping we wont be there for long and it may not be our friends." said as she goes on to the next area.

Meanwhile Back At The First Party's Camp
The trees of the deepest taiga begin to naturally thin out here, allowing a multitude of specimens to rise in every cardinal direction and still have the room necessary to grow and thrive. A slight alteration in elevation seems to have been the catalyst for making passage through the area more hospitable, although the usual difficulties inherent to traveling through the untamed wilderness still plague travelers. Mundane vegetation has created a healthy underbrush sheltered by the dark green canopies of oaks and pines. Every aspect of the area seems to form its own link in the local ecosystem.

A faint dirt path gradually manifests roughly an hour north of the aforementioned tree line, becoming more definite as it weaves between the mighty trees and progresses to its intended destination. What appears to be an even clearer area lingers upon the horizon and, beyond that, a great canyon of volcanic rock casts its shadow upon everything spread out before its vertically gaping maw. This is truly an area untouched by the reckless expansion of civilized mankind. A large wooden sign has been staked prominently alongside the path for all to see.

The sun ascends high into the sky, blanketing the taiga with the brilliant illumination that is daylight. Spring has fulfilled the promise of new life that always comes with its turn in the cycle of the seasons. On occasion, birds leave their nests and fly about, and animals previously confined to their dens rise and open their eyes to the invigorated world around them.

Eochaid wakes up and walks around the fire stretching out muscles that have become stiff due to the unaccustomed sleeping accomodations. He gathers up his gear and settles down by the fire waiting for the rest of the group to awake and get ready to go onward, as he sits he chews on some journey food with a resigned look of disgust.

Sascha sits on the tumbled surface of a nearby large rock, gazing thoughtfully at the wall of vines. The cats, being cats, have found themselves comfortably warm spots near the fire to curl up.

Demetria looks at the leopards. "So..." she offers to the group and gives a glance about the room. "We really should, get into there." she admits. "Before problems...become larger."

The belegrinar... despite wearing plate seems to move around in it with relative adroitness and was out scouting earlier, using his woodscraft to avoid natural hazards whilst exploring the environ. Nevertheless he must have returned at one point in the night for the burly man is wrapped up in his bedroll, his scabbard within to shield it from the cold though his armor is in a pile beside the sleeping place. Soon enough though the dawning light and the glare off the snow causes him to fidget and then come to wakefullnes, and then to besir from his place going through his customary silent routine for preparation for the day.

Eochaid pulls a whet stone out of his pack and begins to sharpen first his raiper then one after another each of his daggers. As he works the steady sound of stone on steel begins to put him in to a trance like state where he is able to mentally prepare for the days events to come and he also is seen to have his lips moving in a silent prayer to his gods readying hims self to die and arrive on their doorstep today.

Sascha looks up at the rasping scrape of metal and stone, watching Eo for a moment before his frown settles in, a notch deeper, and he turns to resume his thinking.

Demetria sighs and stands. "Enough fucking about." She states as she stands. "We need to either Parley or we need to attack, but we are sitting here doing nothing." Demetria remarks and moves to slide a bit closer to the vines.

"So, shall we?" After eating a rather utilitarian meal -if it can be said as such- Glyndwyr tightens the fastening on his weapons belt and pats everything down in a satisfied matter... nodding to himself once he is sure, and drawing sear as the combination of fire and acid runs down its length,"Clearing the way." he says briefly as he goes to take a swipe along a swathe of the plantlife.

Sascha nods, "I know. I think we should parley first, but I'm not quite sure what tact to take.." He looks over toward the others, then gives the cats a puzzled look as their heads rise, looking back in the direction toward the city. As the others arrive, he is sitting on a large rock, a little distant from the central campfire where everyone is gathered... before them all is a large, imposing, seemingly impassable wall of vines.

Arvilli is still sleeping, and has his head tucked up under the blanket. Of course, there is the mufflers to his ears so that people's actions won't bother him either.

And Then They Meet
As you approach GoldenGlade you stop just outside the gate to inside the druidic village, for there's not really a viable way in at the moment. There seems to be a wall of strange vines winding together and all around each other, standing about 25 ft tall. The wall from what can be seen is going around the entire druid village.

Tanikas walks into the camp, following Heather. She approaches alongside Nikarn, looking like she could be related to him, judging by their likeness. As she gets closer to the camp, one could notice her stern, worried look. She doesn't seem cold at all, simply concerned about something. When she finally sees that the camp is not on fire or destroyed, she allows a bright, cheerful smile to Nikarn, and looks to Esperanza, "Looks like you will get that fire after all." She gives her a kind smile.

Heather comes walking in the area with three others, she seems to have her serous act going now "Hello all." Said as she she looks to the vine wall "So is that is stopping us from going on?" Asking the group as a whole

Demetria moves to lightly touch Arvilli's sleeping bag." Hey hun.." she mutters. "Time to get up." Demetria rubs her forehead. "We don't have alot of time." she points out and gives a glare to Heather. "We are going to Parley with them, We need to be diplomatic about this." she states firmly.

Trysta is just sitting atop Aiirii, her companion, who happens to be a unicorn. The two of them are staring at the wall of vines in front of the group. "Cutting through this would probably take all day and night. If we're lucky," says the human. "Lucky being the key word..," replies the equine. A sight in shining armor.. well silvered at least, Glyndwyr has a burning blade held forth in his hands and is preparing to swing through the wall of vines,"Parley?" he pauses, the word said in a dubious tone,"I'm sure we can come to some sort of agreement... like leaving Vintermor for the return of our king."

There is a steady Rasping sound as Eochaid continues to sharpen his daggers, he still seems to be in a trance like state except for a slight twitch of an eyebrow as more people arrive. Finishing off the last dagger he puts the whet stone away and looks up at the new arrivals from beside the fire.

Sascha stretches, as best as one can in heavy plate, and moves to collect his kit, slinging it onto the back of his horse's saddle. "Everyone awake, then?"

Arvilli grumbles and then rubs his eyes at his wife's poking. "Leave me alone...I don't wanna go to the flether's now..." He then rolls back over, mumbling like he is half-asleep. Nikarn looks at Tanikas smiling face as he come striding up. What thoughts lay behind his cold, grim face are hard to tell, but perhaps it is less grim than usual, if only for a moment. When he looks about, his face is hard as stone, though perhaps stone is a little softer. Resting lightly over his shoulder, a great battle axe waits, though not the only weapon he carries on his person. He doesn't seem at ease, and he recognizes none of those they come to meet. He comes to a stop next to Tanikas, and waits quietly, feet firmly planted.

Silk scratches the back of his head, "Ya," He then looks over at the rest a moment and leaves it at that.

Heather shakes her head "Diplomacy is fine but I can tell you that they don't want that. if they did they would of done so the next day when having the king."

Demetria chuckles softly and kisses Arvilli's cheek. "Alright, How about going to kill some bad druids that stole the king and Shadowhawk..." she pauses. "Or possibly just killed Shadow out right." Demetria turns to Heather. "That might be so. but I have still been charged with attempting all things with in reason before attacking." She offers simply.

Tanikas looks to Demetria, nodding. "I am glad that we are attempting to bring our King home peacefully. There need not be undue deaths, even if those who hold our King have taken many lives. If there is anyone that must be slain, they will let us know in no uncertain terms." She says to Demetria, looking pleased that the whole situation hasn't erupted into outright violence. Looking to Nikarn, she offers another bright smile, "Come with me, and I will introduce you." She holds her hand out for him to take so she can lead him around the camp, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Nikarn's eyes hood slightly, and he takes a step forward. His axe comes down from his shoulder, and he begins looking around the glade, an intense fire in his eyes. Something is set him off, the usually statuesque figure gripping and regripping the haft of his axe. Occasionally he closes his eyes a moment as if sensing something, and then looks about again.

Sascha swings himself up, into the saddle, giving a sharp whistle, "Hith, Dae..." The two snow leopards fall in on either side of the massive Stormwatch mare as the armored warrior walks her to just in front of the wall of vines, on the normal approach to Goldenglade. Rising slightly in his stirrups, he calls out in a loud voice, "HAIL, Goldenglade! My name is Aleksandyr Grigori Mikhail Dzintar, Thorn of the Mithril Rose and Royal Steward of Vintermor, charged by King Meric Thorvald to seek ways to maintain good relations between the crown and the druids of this land. If there is anyone within who prefers good faith and good neighbors to needless and wasteful bloodshed, I would ask that you come and have words with us... or allow us in to have speech with you, in good faith, and peace."

Trysta and Aairii? They're just sort of waiting for the others to decide what they're going to do. And likely communicating again. Unicorns do have that freaky always-on telepathy thing.

Demetria looks at Sascha and raises an eyebrow slowly. "Well its about Bloody time you stopped being a horse breeder." she remarks playfully to the man. She moves to step up beside the man and places her hands on her daggers.

Arvilli yawns and then finally sits up, noticing when she removed the blanket to kiss his cheek. He then squints at the bright light and mumbles something vile. His hair is sticking up in different directions. He then looks around, and sees everyone else has arisen, with some more faces in camp, especially Heathers. "OH, well, guess you don't need me after all." He takes off his mufflers and winces at the booming voice of Sascha. "Well, guess I get to stay behind if I want to memorize any spells...not to mention breakfast."

Silk watches with a tilt of his head on top of his horse. He stays to the side trying to watch for others that might be sneaking up he remains silent.

Heather summons her spear and shield from her magic gloves as Sascha is trying to get the attention from others.

An answer to Sascha? A large 25 ft tall wall of vines, say - nothing. As for someone coming to talk to the group, no one is seen coming to the wall or heard either.

Sascha simply waits, for now. Who knows, maybe the druids are all related to Arvilli, and they oversleep.

Demetria looks at Sascha for a moment. "Ours was the first move..." she remarks and gives a glance at Arvilli, "Every man helps." she remarks to him simply.

Eochaid stands from the fire and drifts over towards Demetria and Sascha, his hand on his blade. As he quietly moves towards them he is aware of all around him, "It seems they don't want to talk or fight, but just hide behind their walls" he says in a low tone once he nears them.

Nikarn frowns slightly. His eyes remain open, and he scans the faces around him. The huge man seems slightly chagrined, though he sets the head of the axe down in the snow, resting a hand on the end of the haft. Whatever set him on edge seems to still have him upset, but he seems to have accepted it, though he peers anxiously about.

Sascha says "Patience..." His bearing, even, seems a bit different than it's been along the trip. Less... concerned, really. About anything. "Either they, or we, will blink first. Everything after will be determined by that loss of resolve."

Heather nods as she is ready to wait "I would rather do this peacefully then kill others but I highly doubt they want peace, something about this does not seem right or planed out right."

As the party waits the road leading to the Golden Glade village seems to be quiet still.

Arvilli snorts to Demetria. "Thats what you said when we hunting the skulls. It turned out I was a liability." He then sighs and begins flipping through his spell book. "What would be good to memorize?"

Demetria looks at Sascha. She moves to lean over to the woman and whisper something quietly to him. "Things that fight well with Nature..." she states to Arvilli. She looks back at Sascha again waiting for a reply.

Sascha nods slightly to Deme, but otherwise does not move.

Tanikas looks around a little, furrowing her brow, "Do you think they can hear us?" She asks, looking to the wall, and then looking to Nikarn. She simply looks at his face, and then toward the Glade again, "What has got you spooked, Nik?" She asks.

Nikarn sighs, his eyes finally fixing somewhere amongst the party. "Nothing to fret over... yet, anyway." He smiles at her, and then strides up to the wall of vines. He studies the plants for a moment, and then looks over his shoulders at the others around. "What say we try to remove these the old fashioned way?" He hefts his axe, meaningfully, but gives his companions a chance to stop him before he starts into it.

Sascha says "Not yet. They have a hostage. The chances that you can cut down that wall, and we can get in there and find him... in less time than it takes them to cut his throat... let's just say they're very, very small." He glances down toward the cats, "Go. See if anyone's home, boys," sending the leopards scrambling to climb the vines.

Demetria slips into the shadows and watches for a bit. She is unseen by most, As this is ...what she does.

Nikarn drops the axe down, and watches the big cats. "Does this wall surround the entire place, or is there a way around it?" He glances about at the faces once more. "Or should we see about climbing as well?"

Arvilli looks to where Dem disappears and sighs. "Well, thats a lot of help. Maybe I will just guess like I normally do." He then starts the LONG process of committing spells to memory.

Heather looks to Nikarn "I have a good feeling this place is well guarded, I don't sense any magic in the vines so they got other traps waiting for us."

Sascha watches as the leopards leap up to climb the wall... and are attacked by it! Hithlum avoids the first vine, but Daegol is not so lucky, being quickly grabbed and constricted. "Dammit!" The ranger begins to move forward, whistling for the cats to return as he moves to try to get Dae loose.

Demetria lets out a scream as she jumps back. "Its...Alive.." she calls out, just enough time for one of the Snow leopards to get caught. "GO BACK.." she orders to the other animal rather loudly. A dagger comes free as she moves to help free the other Snow leopard.

Heather gets a bit shocked "Damnit Assassin vines don't use fire on them." said as she moves in to help sascha out.

Trysta says, ".. Well this is going to take longer than I thought. Where's Ellis when we need someone to blow a hole in something?" Aairii raises her ears as the vines come alive and reflexively takes a few steps backwards from them.

A bunch of vines come out at the people rushing to aid the cat who is being squeezed by another of the walls long vines. Missing all the adventurers.

Demetria dodges deftly of the vines. Her dagger is out and she moves quickly with an utterance of her words activating the frost of one dagger. "I think we have our answer."

Nikarn leaps as vines shoot passed him, swinging his axe at the vines... and for some reason, the entire thing seemed to move out of his way. He grunts with surprise, without having even scratched the plant.

Demetria is probably pissing off a druid some where. But her daggers move fast, flying through the air as the halfling works them with a bit of skill. Her target is not for the vine on the cat, Rather for the vines attacking the people slicing through them as she goes. Three hits with in six seconds send bits of the vine flying every where before Demetria steps back.

Being near the wall of vines in the first place Glyndwyr smiles, he knew he didn't trust the wall in the first place... which is why he had Sear out initially, and had been waiting for such a thing and he goes to work... despite Heather's words his flaming spitting falchion will have to do. And using his extraordinary reach he lays to MacDuff and becomes as sything dance of death, the blade hissing through the air coupled with the pulpy thunks as metal meets fibre and gives way... leaving the beast free from its captivity.

Sascha sees multiple large blades descending, and so concentrates mostly on avoiding getting himself dead, using one of his wands to heal Dae just a bit as the cat comes free.

Heather looks to Sascha "Let me heal them please." said pulling out her own wand.

Demetria slides away from th wall slowly, "Its alive..and mean." She states to the group. "Arvilli...Learn a fire ball.' she offers to her husband. "Might be able to blast our way in."

Sascha shakes his head a bit, "Your stronger spells might be needed for the King..."

Heather looks to Demi "No they are Assassin vines they are very strong against fire. Me and Alance fought them once." She looks to Sascha again "Thats what my wand is here for."

Arvilli then looks up from his book for a moment, and then frowns. "I can get by the wall, easily. However, I can't take anyone with me. Unless they have a dimensional anchor placed. Which I sort of doubt, unless it continuous. However, a mere fireball isn't getting through that anyway."

Noting that the current round of battle against the living wall is over Eochaid returns to the fire to get warm. He listens to the talk around him but since living plants are out of his experience has little to comment.

Trysta just got out her bow in time for everyone to retreat. Well, that was anti-climatic. Smart, but anti-climatic. "Well, /now/ what?" she says out loud.

Sascha leads the cats and horse to a safe distance from the wall. "Well. I certainly can't fault them for not wanting to come out near /that/... but we'll have to cut it down once our wizard is ready to move." Nikarn stands far back from the wall, and puts his axe away. "What if we had a way 'Over' the vines?" He begins wandering amongst the tall trees, especially those that are much taller than the wall. "What if we fell a tree on top of it, and used the tree to get over?"

Demetria looks at Nikarn, "I think that was our answer for Parley." She offers to Sascha. She pauses and looks around for a moment. "What does teleport with out error do..Just one person or a group of people." Demetria asks the masses.

Sascha says "Depends on how powerful the caster is." He looks toward Nik then, "We might be able to... but at the same time, cutting down trees here will probably just piss them off, and they've still got that hostage." Frowning, he scratches lightly at his chin. "Hmmmm."

Demetria looks at Sascha and moves to pull off her pack before digging out a scroll case with a seal that only a few people might recognize. Demetria pauses and looks at Sascha, "Tenian.." She states simply and has a soft...wicked smile on her face. "I only have One to use." She states simply.

Heather sighs "You can not teleport here they have protection up. Think I would of walked here if I couldn't just teleport here."

Sascha says "What about a wall of stone? Anyone able to conjure one of those up and just crush the damned thing?"

Heather nods "I can do that or cast blade barrier or a wall of stone like you said."

"Well, I am willing to cut my way though... methinks it would take some time however." Glyndwyrs wry smile can be seen from within his open-faced helm, still holding his blade out but not in a readied martial pose though he raises an eyebrow at Demetria as she pulls an item free from a pack

Demetria wiggles the Scroll lightly. "Well." she offers simply, "We have this..Or we can have heather Cast her Knife hoodoo and let it cut through the vines for us. But right now, we are wasting valuble time that allows them to slowly inch a knife closer to the Kings throat."

Sascha shakes his head to Demetria, "We're letting your husband memorize his magic."

Arvilli still studies his book and then looks up for a moment. "Sounds like you all have everything under control. I will catch up in the meantime. If, indeed, it works."

Heather says "I can also cast a spell called divine storm, it will make a spining blade I can control some what."

Sascha nods slowly, "Alright. Whichever spell you think will cut this wall down faster... do it."

While the adventurers sit around trying to figure out how they're going to get past the wall of vines. Overhead a loud screech is heard as one of the giant Rocs soars by looking as if it just landed up the road into the glade. The birds are still amazingly huge with their 120' wing spans.

Demetria slides the scroll case back into her pack, She blinks at the sight of the Roc before muttering quietly to those present. "I swear this to you on the blood of children...One day...I will ride a bird like that."

Eochaid looks around at everyone talking the pulls out two of his daggers "I say we just cut through instead of sitting around talking, really its just a bunch of vines." He then starts to walk slowly towards the vines.

Sascha says "Maybe today." Sascha says "Agreed. Heather?"

Heather nods to Sascha "I believe blade barrier is the fastest way should I do it now?"

Sascha nods. "If you please."

Nikarn watches as the roc flies over head. Why would it fly there? By the sounds of it, Sascha and Demetria were planning to see what it is about. Nikarn hefts his axe, and peers into the woods surrounding them, in the direction of the Roc. Something about that lone Roc made him feel very on edge.

Eochaid pauses his walk when he hears that Heather is going to try something to get rid of the vines.

Heather speaks in a strong voice in celestial that sends watery looking blades up from the ground that easily opens up a door way for us as she stops the spell a little bit sooner then normally would last. "It won't stay this way for long lets move fast."

Eochaid sees the wall of whirling blades he looks for a moment in appreciation of the rampant destruction, he then turns back to the warmth of the fire since it looks like we will be here for a while waiting on spell memorization.

After the spell is finished there is a hole in the wall of vines that is 10 feet high by 10 feet wide through the 4 foot thick wall of vines. The blades finally disappear after 2 and half hours of whirring against the vines.

Sascha nods to himself, finishing off the trail bar he'd been eating, and leads his animals through the hole. "Let's move out..."

Arvilli is more than finished after the hour, and then finally stands up. He then puts his spellbook away. Then he waits for another hour and a half. "Couldn't you just have dismissed the spell?" He then shrugs and sighs. "Well, thats one I wasted my time on...."

Sascha leads Mariah through, Hith and Dae close in behind as the ranger passes down the center of the short tunnel to emerge without hesitation on the other side, and looks around some if he can.

Heather follows threw with the others hoping that others will get past with no problem.

Demetria moves to follow after Sascha. Her daggers are out again, attempting to stay away enough that she is able to Flank things as needed.

Trysta follows after Demetria and Sascha, holding onto her sword as she passes through. Aairii seems a little nervous passing through such a small area but nonetheless keeps up.

Eochaid waits for a moment following Nikarn he then then walks briskly through the wall his daggers out ready for something to happen.

Nikarn hefts his axe and starts through the short tunnel. Its only two steps, but they seem the longest two steps of his life as he sees the vines quiver around him. With a growl, he leaps through into the light on the other side, axe raised and ready for the first thing that jumps out at him.

Bowing as Trysta and Demetria walk past him into the opening they just made... well more a bending of his legs... armor can leave one so inflexible can't it? Glyndwyr De Danan of Sturmgaard deigns to follow suit, by following Sascha and the ladies within,"It appears we were knocking when nobody was home." He delivers in dry tones, feeling somewhat disconnected because of the unusual passage they have made and using humor to cover it.

Arvilli finally goes in last, not in the least bit unnerved by either the vine wall or the hole in it. But he seems resigned. "Whatever awaits, I am sure it doesn't beat being dead for three months. Unless its longer, of course."

Though they are surrounded in every direction by obstacles, the residents of Goldenglade have settled in such a way that they coexist here without needing to destroy. The large clearing which spreads out here seems to spill from the mouth of this area's dominant feature, a box canyon. An unusual amount of vegetation lends hints of truth to prior indications of this being a haven for druids and other followers of nature, though none of it is unnatural for the climate or region. Towering walls of volcanic rock rise to the north and parallel each other, this being the only apparent means of gaining entry to the canyon short of magic.

The village itself is nothing more than a collection of humble wooden structures situated in or around the immediate area. A pair of communal lodges dominate the eastern side of the clearing, while two more inhabit the west. Another lodge, set apart from the others and slightly larger, is situated directly to the left of the canyon's mouth. The center of the clearing seems to be the focal point of Goldenglade, for it is there that one can find a fire pit. A nearby well provides the life-giving sustenance of water to these frontier settlers.

After going through the wall you all come out unscathed, apparently the vines were too damaged to try to go after the bunch of adventurers. Now on the other side is a vast area, trees sparsely here and there as the path to the Goldenglade village lays ahead, you can just see the village up ahead (about half a mile). There doesn't seem to be too much activity up ahead that you can see yet.

Sascha nods slowly, "Alright... let's try this again, shall we?" Shaking his head and muttering to himself something along the lines of, 'Where the hell is Mirra? Diplomacy is her bag', he leads the animals, and presumably the party, onward toward Goldenglade.

Demetria looks at Sascha and opens her mouth before...closing it again, "No clue." Demetria offers as she glances around slowly attempting to see anything out of place.

Eochaid walks along behind the group as he is in no real hurry to find out what is waiting for them. "Who's Mirra?" He states simply as he doesn't know of a Mirra that came with to rescue the king.

Trysta, meanwhile, goes to look around before turning her attention towards the distant settlement. "Well at least they hopefully didn't hear us messing around out here."

Nikarn walks with the rest. He looks about, but doesn't seem to notice anything of importance. He holds the axe at the ready, though, as if he expects anything to happen now that they've crossed through the wall of vines.

Heather follows Sascha still her serious pay attention to what is going on but a empty village upsets her as she is hoping to spot what is going on for a possible ambush but none is seen.

Demetria growls and takes a step back. "Incoming..." she offers to the group. "We haven't gone unnoticed."

Arvilli just looks around, oblivious, of course. He knows next to nothing about nature. He then yawns and moves to scratch his nose. "Wha?" He just looks confused and then looks around, not seeing anything.

Sascha moves to mount up, "Where, Demetria?"

Demetria Motions to the ground. "Below and ahead." The halfling states. Her daggers are gripped a bit tighter as she looks to the others for some confirmation on this one.

Nikarn suddenly stops in his tracks. A few short strides brings him off the path and beside the cover of a tree trunk. His face is unreadable, as always, and he says nothing to the others, but he stares about expectantly, waiting... for something.

Heather weapon is ready for what ever is going to come up

Trysta didn't notice anything since she's sitting on Aairii who likewise didn't seem to notice anything since she doesn't touch the ground. "I think we should move off to the side of the road," suggests the human. Her companion doesn't waste any time in moving aside.

"Hmmm?" Glyndwyr's head jerks up at Demetria's warning, his gaze having drifted to the ground in front of him the further they walked along, his hands drifting to his right side, where the scabbard and hilt of Sear await,"Time to negotiate already?" the burly man queries.

Eochaid quickly sheaths his daggers again and draws his rapier and mace when he hears Demetria's words. "Are you referring to the Mud men, La.. Demetria?"

Meanwhile, How's Our Captives?
It seems that the feel around Golden Glade has changed a bit, seems the ones that are there seem to have gone onto their own high alert, everyone is on edge and definitely armed.

ShadowHawk has a chair pushed up against the wall and is jumping up and down on it trying to see through the shutters to find out what is going on outside.

Mirra stirs by her place near Meric, where she has stayed most of her time here. Standing up she moves to the shutters trying to see through. In a hoarse whisper she states quietly, "What is going on?"

ShadowHawk shakes his head "I don't know I can't see well enough to tell."

Keelin leans against the door "Apparently a rescue party is nearby" she offers with a shrug.

ShadowHawk sticks his tongue out at Keelin "You should know since you're the one that dragged me here." He then goes back to trying to see out the window.

Mirra nods her head once as she moves back to Meric, "If the Gods are willing." Her voice sounding more like a prayer than a statement. She folds her legs back under her as she retakes her spot. Her weary emerald eyes moving to the door from time to time.

Keelin looks to Mirra her elven ears picking up the prayer like statement "If whos Gods are willing?" she asks the woman.

Mirra shrugs her slim shoulders. Her voice thin with weariness, "All of them of course." She sighs softly as she waits for some sort on onslaught.

"And if they're willing to what exactly?" Keelin asks a bit curious as to what the woman wishes the gods to be willing to do.

With a frown and a shake of her head Mirra lets loose a slow exhale. Her voice continues to be soft with a hint of steal, "Do we nae all wish to be rescued? I pray to my Gods as you do to yours. Tis nae enough when we all want the same?"

Keelin chuckles wryly "You assume I want to be rescued, for was it not you that I brought here?" She says to the little blue gnome, then realizes that he's not paying attention "You however I didn't" she says back to Mirra.

Mirra shrugs her shoulders, "Tis quite true. Yet did you bring the King here?"

Keelin looks to the sleeping man "No, but I would be one of the ones who did I guess" she says quietly.

Mirra's voice barely a whisper as she asks the simple question, "Why?"

ShadowHawk gives Keelin a dirty glare "Yes you brought me here, against my will I'd like to add, for no other reason it seems but to sit and be bored to tears." He then gives up trying to look out the shuttered window and sits in the chair with a pout like a small child who has been told no.

Keelin quirks her eyebrow causing her scarred face to contort a bit "And why do you think I should tell you about any of this" she points to the king "you're not his queen, nor are you anyone of any importance." She snickers.

Mirra smiles slightly, "I am his Knight. Important or nae, tis who I am."

ShadowHawk starts to smile "I must be really important then since you've kept me here so long."

Keelin snorts slightly at that "so?" she says not caring. Then comes a small knock on the door and someone says something to Keelin, she looks over her shoulder to the three and then nods to the other. Upon opening the door further three well built muscular men come in and pick up the sleeping king, who wakes and starts flailing a bit as they carry him from the lodge. Keelin walks out behind them and locks the door on her way out.

Mirra jumps to her feet and tries to follow the King. Having the door shut and locked behind her she bangs on the door. A look for defeat and failure crosses her face.

ShadowHawk watches Keelin leave and the Human woman then trying the door. "I wouldn't bother they always lock it after they leave. Same goes for the shutters and any other possible way in or out."

Mirra sits down hard against the door with a nod of her head, "She spoke true..." She buries her head in her hands, "I tis a terrible knight to let tis happen... I am nae anyone special, nae a matter what others tell me..." She seems to have lost her will to fight temporarily at least.

ShadowHawk looks at the human woman, "Hey brighten up they've never taken him from this room before like that so maybe help is here, or maybe they've decided to try torture, but I doubt that its the torture since they didn't torture me any... well except for locking me in here with nothing to do..." His voice dies off as he starts to think.

Mirra shakes her head slightly. Yet her voice gains some strength, "If there t'was only a way to get out of here. I could nae live with myself if they started to torture him."

ShadowHawk puts on a big grin "I'm sure they're not torturing him, really if they wanted to do so they would have weeks ago. Instead they just left him here with me." (granted being trapped with a bored gnome may have been torture enough)

ShadowHawk starts to pace back and forth, at one end of his trip he climbs up on the chair by the window and jumps up trying to see out the shutters, he then turns and jumps off the chair to walk over to the bed and jump on it a couple time before returning to the chair, repeating the cycle.

Mirra is not much better, she does not pace instead she looks defeated. She turns around and starts to look at the door with interest

ShadowHawk continues his pacing obviously having fun jumping on the furniture this goes on for a good ten to fifteen minutes before he gets bored again and sits down again and starts twiddling his thumbs counting each rotation.

Mirra watches Shadow in her frustration unable to have fun here

Suddenly the door opens and Keelin appears again, laughing her ass off, the sound musical and beautiful, so not matching her outward appearance at all. She steps in and relocks the door behind her. The King? No where to be found.

ShadowHawk turns the chair towards the wall and pulling out his dagger starts digging at the wood thinking that maybe he can carve a peep hole out and see whats going on. When Keelin enters he jumps and hides the dagger then looks up at her innocently, kicking his legs back and forth.

Mirra jumps up as the door opens. She wheels around, "What has happened? Where is my King?" She demands.

Keelin laughing still "Your king?" she says and then "Yes I suppose yours and yours alone, 'specially on those cold winter nights" she says with a wink to Mirra.

ShadowHawk was hoping that the Elven womans reappearance would have also brought food and drink but since she is just laughing he stands up and walks over to put his ear against the door hoping to hear what was so funny, hearing nothing he looks up "What's so funny Keelin?" he asks then tugs on her tunic "umm Keelin, when are we going to be fed?"

Mirra frowns and glares at the woman, "Where tis he?" She ignores the others statements

Keelin looks down at the gnome "Soon little one, since it seems your fellow city goers won't be here for days" she starts laughing again. She looks at Mirra with a look of amusement "I thought we covered the importance of you and your questions already" and turns to leave again locking the door.

Mirra kicks the door hard, "I swear by the Gods..." Her voice fades leaving the rest unheard

ShadowHawk looks over at the human woman's statement with a bit of a smile then returns to his chair and dagger carving the wall.

Mirra glances over at the dagger, "What tis your relationship with them?"

ShadowHawk looks up from his chore "Um, well I was out hunting and decided to come this way to see if I could find the king. She stepped out of a tree and told me I was going to have to come with her, I tried to run but she turned into a big mean doggy and caught me. Then I was dragged into here to keep the king company I think."

Mirra nods her head once, "Have you ever tried to escape?"

ShadowHawk nods "But the door is always locked and the air hole for the fire is too small for me to get out, and the shutters won't even open so here I am stuck with you instead of the king."

Mirra nods her head slightly, "I feel the same about being stuck here with you..." She shakes her head slightly.

ShadowHawk returns to his digging at the wall "They have treated us well though, it's not like we were tortured or starved. Granted I would have liked some meat for dinner instead of the Elven food but I didn't go hungry."

Mirra nods slightly as she looks the other over, "True enough. Yet we are nae allowed to leave tis room. Or know nae. And if you ask..."

ShadowHawk shakes his head "you can bang on that door for the rest of the day asking to get out and they don't open it, and Keelin told me I was not allowed out, so I guess we are not allowed to leave."

Mirra frowns, "And you just do everything Keelin tells you to do?"

Keelin comes back in through the door, two others with her, they stand on either side of the door weapons trained onto Mirra and Shadow as another comes in with a large tray of food. Berries, elven cakes, winter vegetables and just to be different a roast of mutton, after setting it on the table in Goldenroots lodge the men all depart and lock the door behind them.

ShadowHawk glares at the human woman "She could easily kill me, I will do what I am told, at least I'm not moping around giving up on life because the king was taken out of the room" he jumps again and hides the dagger as Keelin comes back in.

Mirra does not move as the armed men come in. She knows better than to try something against those that are armed when she is not. She glares at the gnome but says nothing, standing very still during the whole process.

ShadowHawk jumps up from the chair and runs over to sit at the table, having little people furniture here was a great thing. then digs into the mutton, cakes and berries. "fank you" he says around a mouthful of mutton.

ShadowHawk finishes eating everything that was brought then waddles over to the bed and falls over into it.

And Now Back To Our Heros
Suddenly everyone is quite aware that the ground is quaking all around them as the earth is actually moving and piling itself into huge mounds before they start forming large nay huge shapes. The earth piles up it that of four huge (30ft tall) humanoids made of earth and mud. They stand up approximately 50 ft away from the band of merry adventurers. They're approximately 15 to 20 ft away from each other.

Sascha moves Mariah off to the side of the road as well, moving nearer to the trees... "Oh, bloody hell, not these again."

Heather not wanting to rush in just yet holds her symbol and says a prayer that sends a blue aura to guide your hands

Demetria moves closer to the group her daggers are out and ready for the battle ahead. "We are going to need some spell slingers." She calls out to the group behind her.

And second off the mark is the indubably quick and proficient Glyndwyr, surging across the intervening space once he has recognized that you cannot converse with such things -at least not in his experience- he manages to get barely within range and slams a mighty attack into the midriff of one of the mud-men followed by an opportunistic second from his haste-aided actions... not quite as efficatious but nontheless telling... the thing rocking visibly.

Trysta ends up spurring Aairii on and, though the unicorn seems hesitant, they take off towards one of the elementals. The human pulls out her sword on the way there and goes to swing.. and nearly falls off when the weapon bounces right off the creature. One of the huge men made of earth takes a couple of steps towards the group of adventurers, awfully slow and meandering a bit.

Another of the Earth Elementals decides to step forward as well, approaching the group and coming about 20 feet closer to them. Nikarn watches as the mounds of dirt pile up, and steps from behind the trees. He doesn't run at the elementals, though it is obvious he means to fight them with his axe. Instead, he takes long strides towards them. Not hesitantly, all be it is obvious that he means to approach the creatures with as much caution as possible.

The earth elemental didn't take to kindly to being jabbed and stabbed by Glyn and decides to repay the man with a couple of damaging slams about his body, knocking him onto his butt.

Arvilli looks at the mud men coming up out of the ground. He's seen this before, twice. He then yawns a little at it. Looking back towards the hedge for a moment, to see if anything is coming that way. At Dem's words. he blinks, and then looks around, and sees no other spell slingers other than himself and Heather. So he turns his head to her. "She must mean you."

Eochaid moves backwards away from the oncoming elementals as he moves he sheaths his rapier and puts his mace away. After moving 20 feet back he pulls out his bow and makes ready to shoot next round.

Sascha sets his heels to Mariah's flanks, his lance coming to bear as the great horse thunders forward, driving right past the elemental that Trysta's greatsword bounced off of. His lance, on the other hand, does *not* bounce, gouging a small chunk out of the creature's side as it plunges in and is ripped through. Continuing on, he check his charge and wheels, next to Trysta, holding the lance out to her, "Use this."

The earth elemental that Trysta and Sascha have charged and attacked while going by didn't really notice Trysta and Aairii too much but definitely noticed Sascha as a piece of it's side goes flying. It turns about facing the two on the horses and starts towards the two.

Heather looks at Arvilli "Now I know why I love your race so much you all tend to be funny." She smiles only a short bit as she points to one of the elementals and starts to glow a very eerie black. That aura slides off Heathers finger flying at it leaving a small pile of dirt.

Demetria swings into action quickly. Her daggers fly and there are three hits as she screams out in fury at the creature. It doesn't fall instead it...stays up.

Taking the offered weapon Trysta goes to line it up with the oncoming monster and then spurns Aairii into moving again. She hits the elemental dead on and knocks an even larger chunk out of it than Sascha did. ".. I like this," she mentions outloud. "I'm.. getting a little.. *huff*.. tired here," says the unicorn.

The Earth Elemental that Demetria went after decides that the halfling woman is annoying and starts swinging at the woman but because she's so small it can't connect with the small woman.

Glyndwyr and 'his' elemental are having a brute slugging match, bruises and swathes of organic material flying about in equal measure.

Nikarn walks up right beside one of the elementals, the one thats chasing Demi, actually, and swings his battleaxe. Just as the axe head is about to make contact, though, Nikarns foot slides on the loose dirt, sending the mighty blow sailing right past the Elemental.

Brawling back and forth now is what the earth elemental and Glyn are doing they're just exchanging blows. The brave or possibly not too bright for wrestling with the elemental, Glyndwyr gets smacked a couple more times by the Elemental.

Arvilli frowns and then turns to Heather. "Oh yes, all Skalting are comedians with the capacity to make you laugh. And of course, we all like to sneak around and steal things while we are at it. And jolly...let's not forget jolly." He then snorts. "And all humans smell too." He then looks back to Demetria, and just watches for now.

Eochaid pulls back on his bow string aiming high the arrow flies out and just clears the shoulder of the elemental that is attacking Demetria. He aimed high to avoid hitting Demi or Nikarn but it was a little too high.

Sascha's sword flashes out as he makes another pass on the elemental he and Trysta have been victimizing. Another deep gash opens on the creature, but still it doesn't fall, and in the same moment, he's on his way past the big bastard and wheeling around, about where he began the fight.

After getting swiped at twice by the adventurers on horseback the Earth Elemental seems to be coming apart in pieces as the chip away at him. It turns once more to see where Trysta went as she really hurt him alot. Again taking a few steps towards her.

Heather seeing Glyn is in deep trouble she move very fast to just to get to him. not able to cast a healing spell on him yet.

Demetria swings her daggers again and again, attempting to bring the foe to the ground as quickly as possible. She lets out a growl.

Trysta seems to notice that now the elemental thing is after her. "Great. Well, lets see if we can't curb its desire," she says as Aairii once again charges towards the creature. As the woman holds out her weapon once more it slams home into the earthy tower of pain and causes it to fall.

Felling his foe with a final blow Glyndwyr let out a wordless battlecry of victory, raising his voice to the heavens to extoll Mod's blessings. Once this exulation of primal bloodlust and victory is over he surveys the field of battle... and comes to the aid of his sister in law.... crashing into the side of Demetria's elemental with a thunderous impact

The last standing earth elemental leans forward and with a twisting motion holds out it's muddy arm and makes a sweeping motion with it's arm slamming Demi, Nikarn and Glyndwyr before standing back up straight again.

Nikarn is smashed, literally, by the elemental. But, struggling up, he swings the axe with what strength remains in him... to no avail. He has no strength left, and the axe falls nowhere near its target.

Eochaid shoots yet another arrow over the elemental, this is why he never uses his bow.

Arvilli just watches now that the chaos is dying down with only one elemental left. He just leans on his staff and then looks out towards the direction that they came from. "Well, this is just the warm up, sad to say. Its just gets harder from here on in."

Sascha's mount rears, screaming challenge to the last elemental as it fights the air, and then charges forward, the Royal Steward's longsword flashing out once again. Though the elemental doesn't fall, Sascha does not continue on past, but rather looks like he's trying to goad it into attacking him.

At the moment we have one earth elemental left, Nikarn, Demetria, Glyndwyr and now Sascha have gathered around it and have been attacking it. Approximately 30 feet from the elemental is Arvilli and Eochaid who didn't advance on any of the elementals. Heather is standing where Glyndwyr originally was with the his first Earth Elemental and Trysta and her unicorn are about 75 feet from where the clump who are attacking the last Earth Elemental, where she just disposed the one she was battling.

Heather sighs as Glyn moves off but grabs hold of her holy symbol as there is a extremely bright blue glow from her body as she is focusing a lot on Demi, Glyn and Nik as the glow shoots out and heals them fully. A soft growl of being a little dizzy from that massive spell "I am still not use to that."

Feeling like a desperate punch-drunk boxer under the impact of wet slimy fists with a core of rock Glyndwyr sees Demetria get slammed aside with as much disrepect,"Don't you bloody -dare- by all the hatred that the lower planes have!" The belegrinar yells and goes into a frenzy of slicing and dicing, carving the piece of dirt that is unworthy to grace his Blade of Mod like so much turkey at thanksgiving.... the behemoth figure collapsing into a pile of sludge unable to withstand the brutal damage inflicted upon it.

Demetria slowly comes, well back to her senses as she is healed. "Fucking things." She remarks and sighs, "That hurt."

Trysta wasn't hurt too badly but nevertheless healing is still good. "Well, that was rather annoying. I hate to see what happens when we get closer." Meanwhile Aairii says, "Erm.. could you..," before the human goes to slide off, apparently knowing what it was her companion was going to say.

Sascha turns again, Mariah's head held high as her rider guides her further on toward the village. "Walls of murderous vines... elementals... both /could/ be unthinking, automatic defenses. But these druids begin to /test/ my patience and understanding."

Eochaid shoulders his bow and heads over to the group, he keeps one hand on the hilt of his rapier as he moves watchful for any other creatures coming. "One would hope that they have run out of these mud men" he says as he arrives.

Nikarn, on his knees, holds himself up on the haft of his axe. Even as the elemental falls, he does nothing but sit there, whispered prayers to Mod heavy on his lips. He seems prepared for the inevitable, but even as the axe falls from his hands, the glow of Heather's spell takes him up... Rising with new strength, Nikarn takes up his axe and raises it to the sun, saying, "By the Light of Mod, may I walk in His glory, and by the grace of Valtameri do I live to repay what has been granted me."

Arvilli snorts a little at that. "The mud men are summoned beings. They appeared in the city. These were just summons. However, I can't dispel them. The druid or ranger summoning them is too powerful for me."

Heather slipping off her belt she walks right up to Nikarn and hands it to him "you earned this Nikarn and when you find a better one promise to me that you will give it to some one else." She is offering a belt that is a bit wide in the front kinda like a lifting belt.

Nikarn looks at the offered belt. "This is a great gift... and the healing you have given me. I apologize for any wrongs I may have done you..." He takes the belt. "I will take it in honor of you, and give it as you say." He bows before her.

Heather shrugs "I been called worse in my life." She jokes showing she cares not for what words others give.

Trysta follows the others on foot, for now, allowing Aairii a chance to relax some without the weight of her rider on her back. "I really want to find out who's been making all these things that get in our way so I can kick him in the crotch so hard his jewels shatter."

How's The Captives Again?
Mirra is calmly in the corner. Her knees tucked under her chin. Her emerald eyes staring straight ahead unseeing. Her expression stern with a locked jaw.

Keelin just leans against the door, and watches the little gnomish man sleep away.

Mirra does not seem to notice either of the gnome, elf or her surroundings. Her eyes move slightly with her thoughts.

Mirra jumps up to her feet in one fluid action. Her eyes alert as she takes in the room.

Suddenly there's some hollering going on nearby, tho you can't make out whats being said.

Mirra moves toward the door without thought. Her hands out in front of her as if prepared for something.

Keelin just looks at ya figuring you won't do anything to hurt her as she's not tried to hurt you.

Mirra looks at the elf evenly. Her voice full of authority, "Tis comes a time when you know your side tis loosing. Listen to that, tis bad for your side. Let us out and on our own." Her voice is calm and even, "Nae a one will know that you let us out. And you will nae have to worry about us if you have to be concern for your skin. I know you like me, nae and I you. But tis time for us to work together or separate before one of us gets hurt."

Keelin quirks an eyebrow at you "Oh really, you don't like me? and I was so just beginning to like you" she says with a smile.

Mirra smirks slightly as she voice turn sickening sweet, "Now, now dearheart, tis honored I am. But there tis nae a reason for us to lie to each other." She glances at the door, Her voice turning stern once more, "Let me out. Let me have my gear and nae any harm will come to you. For me in any least."

Keelin chuckles wryly "Yeah I'm just going to hand you your weapons and gear and let you out. Hmmm let me think about that....uh no" She says with a little sigh.

Mirra sighs softly, "Well one can nae say that I did nae try the nice way..."

Not liking the way that sounded and not really in the mood to sit here and discuss with you the finer points of using magic Keelin lays a hand on Mirra's arm, suddenly Mirra's body feels so cold as a cloud of negativity fills her body and she can feel her body slowly starting to die, only she didn't die completely, she's left on the floor hurt as hell.

Mirra screams in loud hysterical pain. Her screams echoing around her as she falls into a heap on the floor. Her hair falling around her face as she groans.

With effort she glares at the elf, "Black magic..." She then falls completely on the floor breathing heavy. Her eyes closed but she is conscious, just weak. But the groans that she can not suppress, hurting bad.

Keelin sighs heavily "I really didn't want to do that" she says with a heavy heart it sounds like "and frankly if everything turns out alright then I'll heal you before I have too go" she says sounding sincere.

Mirra's eye flutter slightly as she gives the barest nod of aknowledgement. Her voice is a hoarse whisper that is strained with pain, "And if it does nae?"

Keelin shrugs "Then I'll be dead and won't be able to help anyone" she says quietly.

ShadowHawk wakes up and streatches looking around hazily for the source of the sound that woke him up. Seeing the source is the human woman screaming and Keelin standing above her he tries to jump out of bed to help the human and gets tied up in his blankets and falls on the floor with a thump. Looking up he states "Whats going on? Why did you hurt her?"

Mirra does not move. Her voice soft as she tries to control herself, "Tis true enough." Inspite of herself she mutters softly, "Tal...I just..." She then falls silent then, like it hurts to much to speak.

ShadowHawk walks slowly over to Mirra, looking at Keelin warily, "Is there anything I can do to help?" He asks Mirra quietly his hands twitching as if he wishes he had the power to return the favor of hurt to the Elven woman, but knowing he can't he does nothing.

Mirra does not move her eyes closed. The paleness on her face shows that most likely even breathing hurts. She says softly in a pain filled voice, "If I do nae make it, let my lil Danny know...my son... I loved him." She must really feel like she is dying, "Taladan...tis my heart..." She whispers softly. She takes in a breath as tears stream down her face from the pain, "...tell him that..."

ShadowHawk wipes a tear from his eyes after hearing such heartfelt words and promises himself he will remember them, he looks at the human with a grave look on his face "I will let them know, although I will need to search him out in town since I do not know him."

Mirra lays still for a long moment only breathing. It is hard to tell if she has lost consciousness or not. Finally her lips part as she whispers, "Tools of the Trade or my place..." Another long pause, "House of Lore..."

ShadowHawk moves over to the table and gets a mug of water then returns to the human womans side, offering the mug he states "Here take a drink it might help. I will head straight to the Tools of the Trade and look for him as soon as I get out. But you will make it through and be able to return and tell them yourself." The last said with more conviction then anything else he has said since being trapped in this lodge.

Mirra manages to swallow one swallow of the water before laying heavily back down on the floor. She does not move once more.

ShadowHawk stands again and places himself in between the human woman and the door, in his mind at least anyone coming in to harm her will have to run him over first... and since he hasn't been run over by elves yet he thinks it may be a new fun experience like being thrown by a dragon.

Mirra rests now, her last strength gone. Her eyes closed as she breaths heavily and painfully.

Keelin stays quiet before slipping out and locking the door again.

Back The Merry Band Of Rescuers
After finally cutting a hole through the wall of vines the merry band of adventurers came across 5 huge Earth Elementals and as midday breaks, the last Earth Elemental falls in a massive muddy ooze. The tired crew looks about from their spot in the middle of the pathway to GoldenGlade.

Demetria looks around slowly, "Be on Guard." She remarks quietly, Her little hands gripping on her daggers tightly attempting to keep herself steady.

Heather looks to the group "Damn how much more will they send at us?" Nikarn checks himself over after the battle. Though his wounds are healed by Heather's spell, he seems disgruntled at the fact that his armour is decorated with new dents and etchings. Not one to linger on the past, though, he turns his attention to the road.

Trysta seems content now that the last elemental is gone and goes to put her sword back in place for now. Aairii shakes her mane out a little and says, "I hope we don't run into anymore surprises like that." "Me either," agrees the human.

Sascha rolls his shoulders as he turns Mariah back toward the distant grove. "So far, all of this could simply have been defenses set in place against /any/ intrusion. But I believe these druids do begin to test my patience." Nudging the mare into motion, he presses onward, keeping alert.

Tanikas takes a moment to look around, paying attention to her surroundings. Finally, she jogs up next to Nikarn, looking over at him with a mixture of an easy smile and a concerned grimace. She doesn't say anything just yet, simply gripping her Claw firmly and keeping pace with the big armored fellow beside.

Heather looks to Trysta as she pulls out her wand "Trysta please come here for healing please." She walks over to meet half way.

Amari stands near Trysta and Aairii,"After this is over you should come by the shop Trysta. I'm sure Alance would love to talk about your new friend there." She says in an effort to keep things lighthearted. Her green eyes look about in search of any other foe.

"Negotiation complete." Glyndwyr says blithely, breathing heavily with Sear held in his hands still recovering from the shock of his wounds... and the subsequent healing coming just as fast,"Lets not slow down and give the momentum to the foe." Whether that is applicably in this case is academic, but the burly armor clad man seems set on continuing with the rush of adrenaline that battle causes flowing through his veins

As you all look about you see that as you were fighting the Earth Elementals a pack of wolves seems to have come upon you. They're all walking fairly close together, the ones in the in the front seem a bit smaller then the ones in the back. They seem to have gotten to within 300 feet of the group.

Demetria nods in agreement to Glyn, "Yes but we don't need to wander into danger." She pauses at the sight in front of her. "Damn nation." She offers and looks at the others. "There.." she motions to the wolves. "Go to Arms...." she commands.

Heather shakes her head "They are walking I have a feeling they might be some druids to talk."

Tanikas gestures to where Demetria points, pointing her halberd in that direction. "Look," She says to Nikarn, and scowls a little. "Wolves."

Nikarn turns his attention from the road a moment, as Tanikas comes to stand beside him. His face is unreadable as ever, but he gives the slightest of nods to her. Hefting his battleaxe, he turns his attention back to what lays ahead, and the wolves.

Amari says "It doesn't look like we'll have to go any further to find our next bettle.""

Sascha pulls the mare to a halt. "Ladies and gentlemen... we have an issue."

Sascha quietly invokes his own limited training in natural magics, then rides just a little bit closer... to about 200' from the front ranks, before calling out, "I know you understand me... I know some of you would no matter what. We would like to speak with the druids of this place.... please. Further deaths can still be avoided."

Amari's gloved hand glows slightly and her sword appears in it. She speaks a soft word and her boots shimmer a little as she shifts from foot to foot. Her hood is back and her red hair waves in the wind.

Heather stands ready letting Sascha to do all the talking but weapons are ready.

Demetria holds herself to her place. She moves a bit closer, slowly, "This is going to really hurt." She offers to the group. "There are eight wolves." She tells the group, "Look to be dire.....and they have three heads each. Like some unholy union of hydra and wolf."

The Wolves don't move, at least not forward, they do fan out a little bit. They remain quiet standing still at 300 ft away. They just seem to be standing there as if waiting.

Trysta says, "Oh great, here we go again," when the wolves appear. Aairii twitches her ears a little and looks at the animals as they start to fan out.

Setting himself before the majority of the group and the incoming pack Glyndwyr braces himself,"Ready......" the quiet tension in his voice unmistakable as he nods at Demetria's statement,"I dinnae know what they are but..." he lets out a long exhalation of breath that frosts in the Vintermoran air.

Nikarn stands quietly. When the wolves fan out, he sets his feet, but doesn't yet raise his axe. He seems to be picking out which wolves are looking at him, and as a master would stare his dog down, so does Nikarn stare down the wolves. "Bad dog," he rumbles under his breath, what should be a whisper, still easily audible to those around him.

Amari's eyes widen and she holds up a hand,"Stop. Do not attack Elain or his followers." she says earnestly. "Wait and let us see if they wish to speak. These are no normal wolves."

Heather eyes grow wide "Bloody hell." She takes a look to Amari. "You think this is what I think it is." She seems a bit scared a bit.

Tanikas bites her bottom lip just a bit, bracing herself as she brings her halberd to bear on the pack. Her hands are gripped on the weapon so firmly that the knuckles on her hands pop quietly. She sniffs a little, waiting for the word. Her eyes go wide at the conversation around her, looking as if her morale is plummeting just a bit as those more powerful than herself are seeming to struggle. She steps sideways, toward Nikarn a bit more, "It will be an honor to die beside you, in the service of our King." She mutters to him, and looks toward the wolves again.

Demetria frowns at this, "Great Skogen.." she whispers and moves to head forward also. Her daggers are put away as she moves closer towards Sascha. "Great Elain.." she calls out to him, "You are the god of nature, I Plead with you, As a mother of two of your children. Parley with us...Let us settle this Diplomatically So no more blood shed might happen."

Sascha takes a deep breath at this news, watching the wolves cautiously. Finally, he dismounts, hooking his sword and shield onto the saddlehorn of his warhorse, and turns to watch the wolves, still waiting.

Heather sighs "We might want to talk slyvan to them, just in case for safe sake."

Nikarn slides his axe under his arm, and walks up to stand just behind Sascha. He still glares at the wolves, god or not, though his face is as cold and emotionless as ever. No, he doesn't trust them hardly as far as he could throw them.

The distance between the group and Wolves, has a few trees along the roadway and some brush. The wolves still stand stalk still just watching the group, not making any movements towards the party. One of the smaller of the wolves bares its teeth at Nikarn and then almost sounds like it's laughing, but hard to tell at 200 ft away.

Tanikas follows the queue of the group, coming up next to Nikarn and the others, letting her halberd fall back onto her shoulder. She doesn't seem to trust or distrust the animals either way, simply waiting for the inevitable. Looking between her leaders, and the wolves, she seems to be trying to figure out exactly what is going on.

Sascha watches the wolves carefully, gaze moving from one to the next slowly, including the one that... snickers... at Nikarn, as the ranger weighs his options.

Demetria lowers her voice to Sascha quietly, "I can go a head...sneak up and attepmt to get flanking if not get to the king himself. But if I go alone...I run the risk of meeting Skogen again."

Heather shakes her head "Remember gods can't get involved directly in mortal affairs."

Amari's sword disappears into her palm and she moves forward slowly with her open palms bared. "We mean you no disrespect. We are here searching for our beloved King. If you could direct us to him we would be very grateful. We don't wish to disturb your land or harm those who follow Elain." She says this respectfully towards the wolves and then bows her head as a sign of respect.

Heather looks around "Damn we come in peace and they wont let it go." She grips on her weapon hard waiting for something to come at them

Sascha says "Really? Would /you/ like to be the one to tell that to a god?" He looks down to Deme and shakes his head, "No. We're not sneaking around anymore."

Turning back to whistle for the cats, he removes his gauntlets, affixing them to his belt, and slips the smoke-colored spectacles from his eyes. "If something happens to me... let it." At that, he gives the cats a gestured command, and they sit down just in front of the horse, watching as the professional idiot does something that should definitely /not/ be attempted by amateur idiots: He starts walking toward the wolves, pausing as he feels the ground beginning a shake again. "Be ready... " Yeah, great timing, Sascha..."

Demetria looks at Sascha. "Damnit." Demetria states as Sascha starts to remove things. "No good comes from this...." and she is right. The professional idiot might live, but Demi is just a week shy of her exam to be a professional idiot...and there fore...dead-able.

Upon seeing the big cats a couple of the wolves growl deeply. Which must be kinda loud too since they're so far away.

Suddenly a tree limb comes out of nowhere and blocks Sascha's path, at first it looks as tho it fell from the tree til you all notice that the tree seems to be bent way over and putting it's huge branch out like a big arm to stop the man.

Heather says "Oh bloody hell a Treant."

Trysta continues to be totally unaware of what everyone is spouting off. However, Aairii is very aware of who they talk about--she's a unicorn and, you know, a resident of the forest--which causes the equine to quickly show respect towards Elain and his companions. Unfortunately for her rider this involves a bow that sends her skidding off. "AWK!" *THUD*

Demetria is about to step forward to the tree when she hears Trysta's thud, "What the..." she looks back at the woman, "Trysta...you alright." she asks.

Heather looks towards the tree branch "Please mighty one let us pass, we dont want to cause any more harm around here." said as she is standing next to Sascha. She appears to be speaking in Sylvan

Sascha looks up toward the tree, frowning a little. "Please... I only wish to speak with them. I give you my word, on my oath of service to Kukka and Kunnia, I mean no harm to any that does not seek my death."

The treant that Sascha is speaking too suddenly steps out of the ground, as well does two others up ahead, between the group of adventurers and the pack of wolves. The treant stands again without saying, but steps closer to the group.

Nikarn shakes his head, and steps forward a pace, hefting his axe. "Let us pass, or I'll try my hand at being a lumberjack. As for you wolves, speak up or move on. If all you're going to do is stand there and gawk at us, then you're not worth all this bowing and drivelling everyone seems to think they should be giving you," his bassy voice carries easily over the creaking of timber. "We're going to find the King, and we're not stopping on accounts of any of you." He takes a deliberate step forward, and then another... continuing forward slowly; and by the looks of him, he's just a freight train getting started on a non-stop course.

Demetria watches Nikarn and hmmms, "Well that was a good waste of a Paladin." She offers and looks at the others. "Ideas?"

The treant closest the group takes a swat at Nikarn as he starts walking towards it, but seems to have misjudged it's reach as it just misses him.

Amari mutters and closes her eyes for a moment,"We could shoot him in the butt to show them we disagree with his lack of respect." She offers to Demetria.

Tanikas gestures a holy symbol over her heart, those in the know would recognize Mod's symbol. Looking to the sky, she follows after Nikarn, keeping pace with him. Save for instead of an axe, she carries her mean-looking halberd. It seems that they are going to die side-by-side, if they are going to die.

Sascha groans, starting to back up, "You know... they'll /still/ have a much easier time killing the king than we'll have stopping them right now."

With a roar, Nikarn bounds forward, raising his axe and charging the treant that just swung at him. "For Mod and the Light!" His war cry sounds out loudly over the glade, his axe glinting in the afternoon light.

Demetria sighs at Amari, "No just...remember to grab a finger so we can call him back from the land of the dead." She points out and pulls out her daggers before running after Nikarn.

Demetria moves quickly and attacks, but not the tree's oh know. Her daggers are turned and the flats of them are brought suddenly and sharply against Nikarn. Who would have thought to see this coming, "Stand DOWN." she orders sharply to the Paladin, "They have the king and one dagger will slit his throat if we do this with out a tactic."

Nikarn is surprised enough, he drops his axe to catch himself with his hands. He didn't even see the halfling, his attention being high on the treant. Sitting in the middle of the road, he seems a bit stunned, and doesn't even think to pick himself up off the ground.

Sascha swears as he sees Nik drop, and quickly moves to interpose himself between the paladin and any large, heavy, perhaps wooden things coming in to squish him.

Trysta goes to get up off the ground, meanwhile, and just in time to see a running Nik fall over. "..." Aairii blinks as well, not seeming to know what to think.

Tanikas stops in mid-stride, looking over at her paladinical friend, she furrows her brow quickly and then looks to Demetria. Falling back a little, she goes to one knee near Nikarn, disregarding the danger of it all. "Rise, Nikarn." She says to him quietly, presenting a hand to him as she stands, intending to help him up.

Amari watches the events unfold and moves forward,"We can not keep the less patient ones at bay forever. If you kill us more will come." she nods towards Tanikas and Nikarn. She speaks to the tree and the wolves."This can become a place of great bloodshed and death or we can learn to cooperate. Do you have a grievance you need to share with us? We will listen if you wish to speak but we can not stand here all day while someone steals our beloved King away." She has moved up to the tree by now and stands with the others.

Demetria looks up at the Tree's, "He is not a risk.." Demetria shouts, "We have come to Parley.." She shouts out, "And I will parley, Or Humble any one that would stand in the way of it. We have come here to talk and you have attacked us. WE have come here to seek a peaceful end to this and you have killed the innocents in the town. We have enough grounds to attack and burn this place to the ground yet we have come to talk. My patience is wearing thin." She shouts out.

Heather sighs and says "To make things simpler I say we vote one to speak to them, and I vote for Sascha. If we all keep talking to them nothing will get done." The one that always tries to keep her patience seems to be slipping a bit.

Sascha shakes his head, "This begins to border on madness." He looks up at the treant again, features settling into his customary frown. "I am continuing forward. I am a servant of the goddess of peace, Kukka, your patron, through the Mithril Rose. The King himself has charged me with seeking peaceful resolutions to problems such as this. I am unarmed, as you have seen. And now, I am going to discharge my duties to my king, and your goddess. You will have to kill me to stop me." And with that, he begins to walk forward again, moving to walk around the treant as one would a tree.

During Demetria's little pep talk and everyones focus on the group it seems that suddenly the pack of wolves have disappeared.

Demetria looks at the group before she puts her daggers away. "Alright then." She offers and moves to step behind Sascha, "Care for company or do you wish to do this alone steward?" She wonders to the knight.

Heather eyes start to crackle a bright blue as she is taking a few moments to search out the area of a magical presence while she slowly follows Sascha.

Sascha shrugs. "At this point, Demetria, that is your decision... and theirs." And he continues to walk on.

Amari follows Demetria around the Treant with careful measured steps. She motions for Glyndwyr and the others to follow them. "It would seem that we are to talk this thing out." She says softly as she walks along carefully steping over sticks and around stones.

Tanikas swallows softly, looking down at Nikarn, "Stand, Nikarn. The way has been found." She says, her hand still held out to him, unwaveringly. Her voice is low and calm. She looks to the others, but will not leave just yet. It seems she must wait there until the Paladin stands.

Nikarn seems to come to his senses, taking Tanika's hand and picking his axe up. He seems about to say something, a look of anger on his face, but stops and closes his mouth, thinking better of it. He gives Tanikas a questioning look, and then shakes his head. "We will see what action is right," he mutters, and plants his feet, where he sets his axe head on the ground and folds his hands upon the end of the haft. His face, if it is possible, is even more cold and ungiving. Anger seethes and flashes behind his eyes.

Demetria pulls out a wand and mutters a word before clunking Nikarn on the head with it. "Heal." She commands. Though it if it means follow her...OR actually get healed...who knows at this time.

Glynwyr nods at Amari and grunts incommunicatively, seemingly ill at ease with the party cohesion, "Want me to do that?" he says as an aside to Demetria, "Keep a look out for the right time to fight, when it will make a difference. Mod is my patron also." He offers to Nikarn, giving him a grudging nod of support.

Heather is following Sascha magically keeping a eye out.

Tanikas looks to the group, "We should follow." She says, and gives him a bright smile. "We will solve this, and they need our help. More now than ever." She almost pleads, looking to the group again. She gestures for him to move, and she will follow.

As the group moves onward without their weapons drawn in a hostile fashion the treants don't lash out at them at all.

Nikarn shakes his head. What thoughts pass behind those icy eyes may never be told, but it seems he is intent on waiting.

Sascha continues onward toward Goldenglade itself, whistling for Mariah and the cats to follow.

Tanikas looks as if there is a great inner turmoil going on behind her eyes. Looking to the group, who are following their duty to save the King. Her duty as well. Then back to Nikarn, whom she seems to have some kind of loyalty to as well. To the group, and then to Nikarn. She repeats this several more times, looking as if she may bolt after them. She doesn't say anything, simply looking to the Paladin.

As the group moves onward without their weapons drawn in a hostile fashion the treants don't lash out at them at all. The treant that took a swing at Nikarn just stands there as if it's staring at the paladin. After a moment passes, and the group goes by unscathed, Nikarn lets out a great sigh. Swinging his axe onto his shoulder, he trudges after them, his head bowed. It seems the paladin's pride is hurt, far more than his body.

Amari continues walking with the others. She leaves her longsword stored in her gloved hand and seems thoughtful as she walks along. She glances back at Nikarn and Tanikas and motions for them to follow. "You shouldn't fall to far behind." She calls to them.

Heather keeps following with her spear in her glove of storing.

Trysta just continues to follow after the others, not really looking at anything as it were.

Tanikas smiles a little to herself, what about is anyone's guess. She follows after Nikarn, catching up to him and placing a hand on his shoulder and giving him another of her brightest smiles. Still, she says nothing about it. There need nothing be said. "We are coming!" She calls out, with one hand cupped over her mouth.

Sascha picks up the pace a bit, less cautiously now as he strides forward with purposeful confidence toward the village, calling out once more, "Hail, Goldenglade druids! We would like to speak with you..."

Heather stops for a second "I sense magic behind us about 150 feet."

As Sascha's cats come up from behind there's a growling that can be heard from behind the group. At the cats it would seem.

Demetria follows after the group and looks at the Paladin, "Buck up." She offers to him, "If I didn't like you, I would have killed you." She offers to him, "You got the tickle treatment." She states and stops beside Sascha. She turns to look at the Cats and for the growling.

Sascha disregards the growling. Cats and dogs, you know how it is. Instead, he stays focused on Goldenglade.

From behind a couple of the trees it seems that a few of the wolves decided they wanted to have lunch as they make their ways to the big cats, looks as tho there's only four of the 3 headed wolves now.

The cats, moving up just ahead of the massive warhorse, continue to do as they've been trained, responding to the ranger's summons.

Nikarn doesn't seem to listen, but at the call he stops, looking around. Not far passed the treants as he is, he doesn't have far to go to help if he likes. His face brightens, as it seems he might yet get his battle. "I told you wolves to move on," he shouts. His voice sounds pleased indeed as he raises his axe and begins moving towards the wolves, though he doesn't charge them.

Tanikas lowers her head a little, readying her halberd down a little. She continues to push forward into the village, along with the others.

Two of the 3 headed Dire Wolves jump forward and start tearing apart one of Sascha's cats the six heads turning the cat into a bloody mess. A third wolf leaps forward and pounces right onto the other cat and starts biting and ripping at the cats throat killing in it mere seconds with all of it's heads. A grisly scene indeed.

Sascha stops in his tracks as he hears the attack. Turning, he pulls his gauntlets back on as he draws a wand from his belt with his shield-hand and begins walking toward the warhorse that's now coming toward him at a gallop. "Deme... go get the king."

Demetria looks at Sascha and nods as she looks around attempting to figure out...Where the king is, "yeah ..." she offers and moves to the shadows quickly.

Trysta turns around as she hears the noise erupt. ".. Aairii, no offense, but I think your god has a bad sense of humor." At this the equine blinks, frowning, and turns as well to look back at the mess.

Nikarn stops as Tanikas keeps going, as though he isn't sure what it is he wants to do. Sascha's pets are dying, but Nikarn knows the dogs were just acting out of instinct, as much instinct as god-kin have. The animals, by the looks of it, are already dead, and seeing the look on Sascha's face, Nikarn may not want to be near what is coming. His frown deepening, he turns, and catches up to Tanikas. "I cannot save them, now," he says as he walks beside her.

Heather doesn't know who to help right now but will do what Sascha is going to do.

Sascha begins to move at a more accelerated pace, gesturing toward the wolves with the wand... to what effect is still to be seen. Swinging up into the saddle, he yanks his blade from its sheath. "You have done violence on those who offered none... and I swear now, you will /all/ die by my hand. And so help me, if your three headed cowardly bitch of a god is here, then he can die with the rest of you."

Tanikas looks over at Nikarn, and swallows as she hears Sascha's words. "It seems we have a fight on our hands." She says simply, and offers him a smile. This one is weak and frought with anger. "I am prepared to meet Mod." She says to Nikarn. Setting her halberd forward, she gives a grimace and looks around for enemies.

At Sascha's words Eochaid's stance drops low into a streetfighting pose and he draws his rapier and light mace getting ready for the worst to happen.

Glyndwyr slows at the warning, tilting his head inquisitivly he hmmms? and raises the haft of his blade, a naked display of martial prowess... then the sounds of animal savagery begin,"Go ahead... I'll help hold them off... Trysta, keep them safe." he says turning around and setting his blade, "Rearguard action it is."

As the group treks along the pathway headed nearer the village it's quite obvious that none of the Rocs are around any longer. But where is everyone the place should be crawling with monsters or druids or something else besides wolves attacking cats. Eochaid crouches down and follows the group at a steady pace weapons out and at the ready trying to stay hidden as best he can while still keeping up with Demetria and the rest of the group without even a backward glance spared for the two staying behind.

Arvilli keeps jogging along, trying to keep up with the longer legged people. He is starting to breathe heavy at the running and then looks back with a frown. He turns his head back to his wife's back and follows.

Upon reaching the village, Nikarn looks about. The largest building, the Lodge, catches his attention, and swinging his axe onto his shoulder, he ventures to the door and peers inside.

Suddenly a flaming sphere comes rolling out from somewhere behind the wooden cottage, bouncing near the search party but not at anyone specifically, in its wake it leaves a trail of flames.

Tanikas follows up behind Nikarn, her halberd at the ready. Looking over when the flaming sphere bursts into the area, "We've got magic, Nikarn." She says, placing a hand on his back, "I think they may need help."

The flaming sphere that just went rolling by seemed to split the group apart on it's own, the flames still licking the ground as the ball goes rolling off. On one side Tanikas, Nikarn, Heather are close to the lodge. Demetria, Eochaid, Trsyta (Aairii), Amari and Arvilli are closest to the small Wooden cottage. And of course the two heroic men Sascha and Glyndwyr are off battling wolves.

Demetria mutters as she looks for the origin of the fire ball, her daggers are out waiting for the sight of the spell caster. "Arvilli,' she shouts out, "Burn this place to the ground."

Trysta, meanwhile, goes to pull out her sword when the fire lands nearby. "I should've known this wasn't going to be easy," she mutters.

Eochaid dives to the side to be missed by the fire ball that went rolling by, he hits the snow and with a roll is back on his feet weapons ready. He responds to Demetria's yell with "One would think it would be best not burning the buildings as the king could be in one."

Amari moves to the side of the ball of flames and follows Demetria and Arvilli. She hasn't drawn her sword from her palm yet but her boots ensure that she moves very quickly. So she isn't harmed by the woman's attack.

Arvilli frowns at the Flaming sphere rolling by. "Interesting. It seems to be...where did it come from? Its a low level spell." He then casts a spell of his own, giving himself the sight to see magical auras. But still spots nothing. "He or she is beyond the range of my spell."

Nikarn looks over his shoulder, at the furrow of burning ground. Not particularly surprised that something like this happened, considering what has already occurred, Nikarn steps into the cottage to take a better look around.

Heather raises her hand at the ball of flame as she says "Very stupid Druid you will burn what you protect." With that said it goes out.

Sascha sets to immediately, charging the nearest of the wolves and dealing it a powerful stroke with his longsword. As the creature bleeds, he continues on past to set up for another charge.

The warrior of Mod lays to, joining Sasha in his assault upon the wolves. His bladework is methodical, efficient... and ultimately deadly... once twice thrice Sear lands, flares of flame and gouting acid come to life and brings the tri-headed wolf to a stop... the beast collapsing

Keelin takes one step out from behind the cottage and upon seeing the group of people shifts her eyes from side to side a bit, heaves a sigh and suddenly a column of spinning fire comes down, she tries to position it in such that it won't hurt that much but apparently the divine had another idea. She sighs as she sees a couple fall.

Eochaid gets hit by the pillar of flame and for a moment there is a very lifelike image of Eochaid made of ash which then falls to the ground like grey snowfall.

Trysta is quite crispy. And she isn't happy, either. Grabbing the lance that Sascha gave her the woman warrior goes to turn to Aairii who, thanks to some healing, is now back up. "Time for us to go pincushion us a bitch," the human tells her companion before climbing aboard. Moments later the two of them are already closed in on Keelin.

Demetria slides back into the shadows and taps herself with the wand. That hurt...and after seeing Arvilli falling, Demetria Erikit....is pissed.

After the two flame strikes coming down so close to the poor little cottage let's hope that the king's not in there since it's now on fire.

When Tanikas and Nikarn open up the lodge to go inside they see, a human woman curled up on the floor and a small blue gnomish man inside.

Amari lifts her hands even as she is terribly burned from the column of flames. She lets out a cry but it dies on the heals of her spell being cast. A holy healing light radiates from her and each of you, that isn't dead feels some of the pain leave you. She then calls down her own holy fires upon their attacker and watches to see if they may have the same effect.

Mirra lays in a heap on the floor of the cottage. Her eyes closed as she breaths in obvious pain. Tears have recently fallen down her cheeks and do again from time to time like a dripping leak from her closed eye lids. She does not move or acknowledge anyone or anything that is happening around her. Almost as if it takes all her energy just to have her heart beat and air to flow in and out of her lungs.

Keelin sees the column of flames coming down upon her and she jumps back out of the way but still feels the burn of the fires.

ShadowHawk sees the door open and with a whisper and a twitch of his hand a gnomish hooked hammer appears in his hands. Holding it ready he give a menacing (for him anyway) glare and shouts "You'll have to go through me to get to her!" As he stands protectively in between the door and the human woman.

Nikarn steps inside, and looks about. A blue gnome is inside, and a woman lying on the floor. "Whats this about?," Nikarn asks, as he walks into the room, his axe glinting in the dim light. He doesn't wait for the gnome to reply as he approaches. "Is she in need of healing?" He doesn't stop to think that the gnome might be his enemy.

Heather eyes goes wide as she rushes in seeing that Mirra is very close to death. She says "Shadow get out of the way." Said as she gets past him not caring if Shadow hits her. She gets on one knees and says a very strong tone "Goddess please heal the dame so we can bring her to safety."

Sascha wheels, and charges again, blade striking the untangled wolf once, twice... and then it's dead, so it can't possibly be three times a lady. As the wolf dies, the ranger begins looking for another victim.

Slicing dicing... this is where a warrior of Mod should be, in the... chill of Vintermoran battle Glyndwyr though seems passionless as he dissects the three-headed animal in return for his own aggression though natural it might be.

The only dire wolf left is the one that seems to be struggling from a spell that Sascha threw at it, it's struggling hard to try to get free snarling and snapping at Sascha with it's three heads.

From behind the cottage Keelin casts wall of fire, extending it from the cottage to the lodge in a straight line, blocking off everyone from her.

Eochaid lays on the snow slowly bleeding to death, his charred remains twitching like a dead frog with pins in it attached to electrical pulses. Twitch twitch, stop, twitch twitch, stop and so forth. He knows now that trying to rescue the king was a bad idea but the thought of reward would have him trying again.

Demetria slides into the cottage and looks around quickly. Looking for the king, "Fuckity fuck." She mutters under her breathe before looking for a way out the back..if she can.

Arvilli lays on the ground, not dying, as he is not bleeding out, he is just unconscious. His mage spell still on, making his eyelids glow blue. However, he doesn't seem to move.

Mirra's color comes back to her face as her strength returns. She looks around confused, obviously quickly trying to adjust from death's door to full life. She stands up gracefully as ever. In a firm voice she tells the others, "They separated us from the King earlier... We need to find him." Even though this was not what she was saying when she thought she was dying it is the first statement that she utters after coming back to life.

ShadowHawk lowers his weapon and moves out of the way so Heather can get to Mirra, "Yay Rescue has arrived, Told you that you'd get out ok!" He says to the human Lady. He then gets a grave look on his face looking up to the rescuers he says "You're too late they took the king a couple of hours ago and left us here."

Amari's spells take effect again. She sends her healing energies to her friends and they also wash over her as well. She then calls down another column of fire to engulf Keelin. Keelin seems to be hurt this time more so than last.

Nikarn nods at what Shadowhawk. He seems slightly disgruntled, but slides his axe away and stands quiet. It seems that the stern man's thoughts will be kept to himself on the matter.

Heather looks out a window and says something in celestial bringing down a column of flame on Keelin but only wings her as she some how sees it coming.

Sascha begins hacking at the last wolf, going so far as to dismount in order to chop at it two-handed...

And between the two of them, Glyndwyr and Sasha turn the three headed wolf into a strip fry meal (not that anyone would) the beast unable to avoid the flurry of slices that abound upon it being bound in place... thus it pays for his nature.

With both the lodge and the cottage on fire and crackling, Keelin looks around as she knows that she's the target of everyones anger and hatred, she shakes her head a little bit as she looks at the forest in front of her as compared to the fire and anger behind her, she opts at this point to change into a snow leopard and makes a run for it into the forest.

Eochaid slowly gets to his feet, as he does so he coughs a few times with a small cloud of ash being expelled each time he coughs finishing he turns his head and spits out a wad of greyish phlegm. He then bends and picks up his weapons and looks around for Demetria.

Arvilli then picks himself up, and doesn't bother with the druid, as he picks himself up. "I know where he is. I scryed for his location a while back. Its the grove." He then moves towards the grove with a purposeful stride.

Demetria slides out of the cabin and moves to hit herself with her wand again.

Heather gives Mira and Shadow a smile as she hides her anger of missing the King. "Rest up you two I will keep looking for him." With that said she leaves the place fast to go and look at the least building full speed.

ShadowHawk goes running out of the lodge and seeing that the cottage door is open with Demetria coming out turns toward the Grove. "The King must be at the grove if he wasn't in the cottage!" He yells and heads that way hammer in hand.

Amari nods and follows Shadow even as she heals herself and Trysta.

Sascha mounts back up, turning to look for more victims, "WHERE ARE YOU? COME OUT AND FACE ME, YOU AND YOUR ENTIRE PACK OF LITTLE BITCH-WHELPS..."

Trysta is extremely crispy. Aairii is even worse and is currently down once again. The woman goes to crawl over towards her companion and digs into a pouch on the equines side, removing a vial that she then opens and goes to pour down the disabled's throat.

Heather is following the little one until she passes him up for being taller and the magic boots.

Demetria sighs as she uses another charge and mutters before just reaching in her pack to pull out a potion. Demetria feels more of the wounds close as she sighs, "Alright." she offers to the group, "Arvilli..You okay?" She asks and moves over to offer him a potion. "Lets find the king."

Arvilli isn't there, he's entering the Grove.

Eochaid stumbles into a jog following the others to the 'Grove' that they mentioned. He must follow as he has no idea where it is and is really not at home out of a cities walls.

Demetria looks around and runs after her husband ala Captain Jack Sparrow Flair

Sascha begins to take the horse back through the trees, bloody sword in hand, looking for the pack of wolves.

As you enter the Grove you look over to the gnome sized throne in the clearing and there sits King Meric, well more like slumped in the chair, seems there might be a few empty bottles of elvenwine at his feet and a half full one in his hand, he's passed out cold and his clothes seem rumpled and frankly he smells like a brewery mixed with some bad body odour.

ShadowHawk runs in and stops short upon seeing the king, he then pouts after seeing the bottles. "He could have at least shared, really we've had nothing but water for weeks and he didn't save any for me..." He continues to mutter under his breath for a few moments.

Amari blinks at the sight of the king in such a state, "My Lord King?" She says softly as she approaches him.

Heather notices the king drunk but wants him to be with his wits as she casts the drunks worse spell. "Sire you are safe?" Said on one knee after the spell is cast with her head bowed down.

The Halfling wizard comes in...sees the King...he's drunk...and then just turns...and walks away. Swearing. "Come, risking our lives for him. And he's not even my king. And do you think he will thank us at all? No.....not in the least. This is twice now...TWICE, and that idiot just drinks..." He swearing goes into Hafling.

Demetria rushes forward, "SHIT..." She moves to pick up one of the bottles and sniffs it before moving to check for a pulse. "Your highness..." she starts out, "We gotta get him out of here." She states and look...the little woman moves to pick him up. Screw formality!

Eochaid comes into the Grove and after seeing the king simply states "One thought he was a good King and came to his rescue only to find he had gone on a drinking binge and couldn't find his way home." With that he spits out some more phlegm and finds a place to sit until the journey home begins.

Sascha rides out of the trees and into the grove, still scowling darkly as he sees the King's state. Thrusting his sword deep into the soil, he moves to go and pick the King up off of Deme, growling toward Eo, "Speak ill of this man again, and I will have your head on a pike."

Amari shakes her head gently,"I have never seen him so...This is not how our good King Meric acts." She says in defense of the king.

Demetria is ....suddenly trapped under the king. "Little help." She whines out to to the group. "Please..."

Heather leans down to help Demi out.

Trysta and Aairii are coming in way last since the latter is still quite wounded. Upon finding the King drunken the human opens her mouth to say, "Maybe you could..," before Heather goes and does what she had in mind. ".. Never mind."

Eochaid walks over to the king and with little effort picks him up off of Demetria and holds him carefully "Lady One would like to know where you want one to put this King of yours," he states.

Sascha says "Do you still have that scroll, Demi?"

Heather says "What scroll?"

King Meric opens his eyes and looks around looking still a bit blurry in the eyes, and so very very tired, and he seems to have passed out again. As he's picked up by Eochaid.

Demetria pulls out the scrolls from her back pack, "Your highness. A gift from Magnus Tenian of the Mimmisbrunnur." She offers it to him, "Damn it someone keep him awake.." She pauses and pulls out her wand of cure wounds before attempting to tap the King on the head with it.

Arvilli looks at the rest of them, and then just stands there...looking puzzled. He then is about to shout, or scream. Just to see if anyone even looks in his direction. He then sighs. He turns and begins to head back towards the city, stuffing his hands in his pockets.

ShadowHawk waves at Arvilli "Bye Arvilli, I'm sure we'll catch up soon" he yells with a big grin.

Sascha starts to look... a little irritable. "Demi, if you /have/ the scroll, use it. Get him to the temples, right away."

Heather says "Demi let me use the scroll, I can use mages scrolls."

Amari frowns a little,"Perhaps we should take him back to my shop. I can put him right with a potion and some herbs. Perhaps a spell or something..." She says offers. "We could notify the guard so they can post a sentry at the doors if needs be.

Eochaid looks around at all the talk about where the king should go then simply states "One would think we should start back towards the city first and once everyone is there decide where to take him. One would have to consider it was a few days travel to get here and your King should be sober and aware long before that time is up."

Demetria moves to hand Heather one of the scrolls, "NO.." Demetria states, "I was ordered to send him to a specific spot its in the scroll. No Other places." Demetria states. "You might not care about my orders but I do."

Amari shrugs a little, "I had no knowledge of your orders Demetria. Perhaps we should leave this place and then try again?" She offers as she looks around at the burning buildings.

There's a soft *crump* in the air, and Tenian appears, apparently having heard Demetria's comment. "Indeed. His Majesty's safety is paramount. What seems to be the delay in getting him out of here?"

"How..." Demetria looks around and then back at Tenian, "Just found him sir." She points out, "Lets get him out of here and back where he belongs." Demi offers. "I am sorry to report....attempts at diplomacy failed...horribly."

Heather says "Tenian there is a anchor here stopping all teleportation." Said as her eyes are glowing bright blue with energy.

Tenian hrms. "Didn't seem to stop me from arriving. Where is it?"

Heather says "I just started to sense it I will find its source soon."

Everyone can smell the aroma of wood burning as the wind changes and starts blowing smoke towards the grove. It seems the buildings at GoldenGlade won't make it after the rescue party came through.

ShadowHawk claps his hands and looks at the new man that just popped into exsistance out of thin air "Ooo can I do that to?" He asks with a big smile.

Sascha turns to look toward the burning smell, and nods. "Good... let it all burn... wipe this blight from the land."

Demetria looks at Sascha and whispers to Tenian, "His Cats died..." She nods slowly. "Come on if we get him out of here, we can use the scroll, and just...stop worrying about this shite."

Eochaid looks to the man that has just arrived, then to Demetria "Lady, what would you like this One to do with your King? Shall we start walking back to the city?"

Trysta has since removed the saddle on Aairii's back, something she seems quite grateful for actually, while everyone else is busy doing talky-talky.

Tenian shakes his head. "We can go. Now. there's no field preventing it. Tenian says "I prepared a spell for this." Tenian murmurs a bit and a gold circle appears on the ground, he nods and says; "Everybody, please step into the circle. I was only able to get in here when I appeared, I've been trying for hours. Please. Go quickly."

Amari nods to Tenian,"Our thanks Master Tenian." she says softly as she moves closer for the teleportation spell to encompas her as well.

Heather happily does as told.

Eochaid walks over to step into the circle still carrying the king.

Demetria moves to slide closer to Tenian's circle and then in it. "Thank you Tenian..." she offers.

Tenian nods. "I just wish I'd been able to do more."

Trysta goes to pick up the saddle she removed from Aairii and follows after the others, then, waiting for her companion to enter first before going to step in herself.

ShadowHawk jumps up and down with glee as he runs over to the circle. He is heard to say "I get to go PoP!"

Sascha does not move toward the circle. "Tenian... I will come visit you in a few days. When I do, I will need you to open a gateway to Wyldhome."

Tenian nods to Sascha; "Anything I can do to help, Sascha, you know that. If you wish a companion on your sojourn, I will go."

Sascha shakes his head, "I go alone.. to kill a god." With that, he turns his horse away, and begins moving back toward the hole in the wall.

Tenian winceas at Sascha's words. "I.. as you will."

As you step through the portal, you find that there are men and women in the King's livery waiting for you. They promptly move the king onto a litter and wisk him away. Healing, food, and drink are provided for all.

Tenian steps aside and has a quiet word with one of the clerics in attendance, who nods.

Trysta says, "Come on Aairii, you really need a bath," as she starts to lead the unicorn along. "You're one to talk," is the equine's reply as the two go.

Demetria moves to follow Tenian, the scrolls from her pack and offers it out to Tenian, "Your scrolls." She states quietly. "I am going to go home...get some ale..."

Tenian nods. "I'll want to talk to you later, Deme, and get details."

Heather takes a small amount of food only to be polite but when all is done she teleports home.

Demetria Looks at Tenian, "I will be around for your questions sir." She offers simply.

ShadowHawk looks around in awe then as if just noticing that he wasn't trapped any more looks towards the door. He starts to walk that way then turns to say "Tell King Meric that I enjoyed talking to him and wouldn't mind doing it again as long as it does not mean being trapped in a lodge for weeks with him, but my sister is probably worried so I need to go now." With that he heads out of the throne room.

Eochaid helps himself to some food and drink, then walks over to Demetria and Tenian "Lady, Sir, One is lodged at the Silvertine Inn and can be contacted there. If there is no need for this One to remain here, One would like to go back to the Inn for a bath and bed." He then gives a little bow to Demetria and turning on his heal walks out to return home.

Demetria nods and lightly pats Eochaid's arm, "One is dimissed with my thanks for your aide." She offers to him, "Bathe and rest well."

Tenian nods to Eochaid. "My thanks for your assistance."