---

Many of the people present introduced themselves, but Marcus found no need to state his name out loud again. After all, others had already done the job for him. Sir Lakeltia, Marcus of the Grimjaws. Bartimeus snorted at the latter, but Marcus himself dismissed the gesture. The hammers were not usually referred to like that and his celestial companion was a touch more easily agitated about it than him. It would forget this matter soon enough anyway, given the man stepped forth to draw a card. To understand the item better, him and Ada claimed. And soon enough he would understand just how bad of an idea it had been.

Marcus snorted, looking down at the man over the bridge of his nose. He had no sympathy for the fool who had just invoked the untold power of an item he had been explicitly warned about. At least by their words they had learnt the lesson in it. While Bartimeus turned their head away to snort for themselves, Marcus opened his mouth to lecture the young fool, just in case he had not yet had enough: "You would not heed the meditated warnings of those experienced in matters such as these, instead trusting on your gut, a feeling which you had carried for but seconds. And here you pay for your mistake, laid bare before your companions. I hope you learnt your lesson, so that the sacrifice of your belongings has not been entirely in vain." Harsh words from the half-orc, but he well and truly detested impulsive decisions like that. They led to nowhere but trouble.

Soon they would be heading inside and the Paladin made the decision to finally get down from horseback. While Lonett said her own personal goodbyes to her mount, he placed his hand on the head of the Pegasus and closed his eyes. "Follow the Owlbear. No need to get too close, but try and find yourself a nice stable. We will move out soon, I am sure", he instructed the magical animal. Bartimeus bowed his head and began, as told to, following Divna. Marcus could only hope there would not be an issue, but his usual mount had always found a place here in the stables. Bartimeus had a wingspan far greater than the regular horse on the simple account of having one at all, but it should not prove to be a problem.

The words of the old cleric regarding Tyr possibly not knowing anything more confused Sir Lakeltia, the half-orc raising his eyebrow as the knowledge of his god was questioned. "You fear that the gods have spoken? I understand why your faith in the god you serve is greater than your faith in other gods, but I am not aware of anyone having communed with Tyr about this subject yet. If you know something I don't, please do share", he requested clarification from the old man. Truly, he had no clue how he thought Tyr would have already shared all there was he knew.

The Hall of Mavros was as full of splendour as he remembered from his earlier visits, but this time the hallways echoed with the sound of his armour. He looked around and noted that nobody else was dressed similarly to him, for they had chosen a lighter approach. An observation that should not matter much in the long run, but right now it made him quite aware of all the noise he was causing and had him attempt to quell it down somewhat by taking more careful steps. Especially in the library.

Upon meeting this 'Lawrence' that took care of the books, Marcus noted one of the group members aiming to research the same subject he was interested in and Lonett would soon find the paladin hovering over her shoulder. "Excuse me miss. May I join you in your research? It is a subject that should benefit our efforts directly, and I would rather group up than waste time going over the same details with everyone in different corners of the room", he made his intention clear and received an approving answer just as well. He had never been too big on books, but he could still be of assistance, looking for relevant chapters in books yet untouched while Lonett would do the main work of gathering the details from those snippets he picked out for her.

Their first subject of research, Orcus and their cults, was something Marcus had a special interest in not only due to their mission but his general loathing of the undead. This information could be used later in culling those of ill will towards the general populace, but by the sound of it that time would not be arriving upon them any time soon. The second subject of paladins of conquest on the other hand, that he had his own insights on. whether they were helpful or not remained for Lonett to decide, but when your tenets demanded you take down the families of the opposition as well, those that had not wronged a soul... one could only imagine how one of devotion, destined to protect, would disagree.

"You are seeking to change subject? Perhaps it would be a good time for me to seek communion with my god, then. I thank you for your company and aid in this research. It has been enlightening. At least now we have an idea of where we should be heading", Marcus excused himself and went out looking for those who might have already read of dragons and giants. Just in case they wanted to snag a question or two from Tyr while he was at it. After all, he had promised them so.


@JBRam2002@The Grey Dust@ihinka

Titan Bane watched as his companions were lead off to the library. He did not follow though. Having spent most of his life up to now hunting the biggest scariest things he could find, Titan Bane knew all the necessary information about fighting what he would be facing already, so he saw no reason to study further. And if something could be gained from study, those who were heading for the library would be better at finding it than him. Instead, Titan Bane headed for the keep's smiths using the light of their forges to guide him there. He had an Earstone of Communication, but with no ears to speak of, Titan Bane would need to have it installed onto the side of his face plate instead.

James reddened as Vale placed her hand on him, he had not quite got his cloths on yet. He turned his attention to the former duchess, still rather red in the face from hits sudden exposure, and nodded to Ada. "I will mi'lady. Though as we came up the mountain to your seat I noticed most of the shops were closing for the day. Is there one still open that you would recommend?"

Before Ada left for the library, she motioned a handmaiden over. "This is Celia. She can grant you access to our personal smiths and weavers. I am sure you will be able to find something of value with her help." As the rest of the party made their way towards the keep, a high elf made her way towards James and bowed in introduction.

"This way if you please, Mr. Greerson," she said, her voice welcoming and her smile warm. "Where would you like to go first? To find weapons and armor, or perhaps to find a place to cover your... um..." She glanced down at James with a shy smile and a slight blush. "I do know some fine weavers..."

James looked at the handmaiden as she spoke, slightly captivated by her appearance. When she blushed he realized he had not pulled up his breeches. He flushed a deeper shade of crimson as he pulled them up and laced them. "I-I erm.." He shook his head in frustration. "These cloths I have will suffice. Armor and weapons would be better. He paused for a second . "Unless you think I would be better off with a better set of cloths."

"As you wish," Celia replied before leading the way across the courtyard to a wooden building still alight by the flames of a kiln. The door was open, but Celia still knocked on the door jamb before entering. "Master Thesius, I have a customer for you, sent directly from the duchess."

"From the duchess, eh?" As James approached the building, he would notice the source of the deep, gravelly voice was not an elf, but a genasi. "Seems like I ain't got a choice. You can take yer pick from the arms and armor here, though someone of your build might not want the heavy stuff. Leatherworker would be better for ya. What's yer angle? looking for a light shortsword perhaps? Rapier? I have a few interesting blades on sale." The genasi wiped soot from his hand onto the apron he wore and extended it towards James. "Thesius Argos, at yer service, eh?"

" James Greerson. Studded leather armor is what I had previously, and I would like to take a look at the rapiers you have." James said as he took the genasi's hand shaking it firmly then starts to look at the rapiers.

"Aye, rapiers... rapiers..." The earthen genasi stepped behind a counter and started rummaging through the gear. "If you were sent by Duchess Ada, most likely yer lookin' fer something magic." He tossed a handful of blades on the counter before picking up one ornate rapier. "This is one of my finer pieces with the second level of enchantment on it from our resident artificer." He switched to another blade. "First level of enchantment here."

He set those aside and picked up a red-tinged blade, grinning as he swished it around. "This here was forged in a volcano in dragonborn country. One of my cousins, one of them fire genasi, he says it's a Flametongue blade. I just think it's damn nice." With a flick of his wrist, flames spouted from the blade briefly before sputtering out. "Well, ya gotta attune to it 'fore it lasts long enough to use. Then we got a similar thing, this one with acid but no light. Most of these are all the same price at 5500 gp. The lower enchantment one, that's just 600 gp. Whaddaya say?"

"Flames wouldn't do me much good, the acid one seems better. 5500gp though, I'm not quite sure I can do that. 4250 gold would suit me better. While ill sure I could find a blade like this anywhere I am here now and ready to buy. James put on his best smile. He knew 4250 was really low for such an item but he had to start somewhere.

> Persuasion Roll: 12

The genasi shook his head. "Sent by the duchess or not, I gotta still make a profit on this. Lost a good man while he was fighting that black dragon. I can drop the price by a hundred gold. 5400 gp, final offer."

James frowns some."A man lost while fighting a black dragon? How would you feel if I or another, such as the duchess, die while aiding the her in defense your home. I'll be going either north to fight a white dragon and ice giants or west to face the legions of the undead. Me wielding one of these blades could just save her life." He paused for a moment before going to another tactic. "Fine lets say I pay you your price, what do I saw to the orphans that help pay for food and shelter for when I have not the gold to send to them?"

"You will have to tell them what you always tell them when you buy a magic item, I suppose," the genasi replied with a shrug. "As far as I know, white dragons don't care about whether it's acid or not, and neither do undead. The duchess has never asked me to give someone goods for a loss, or else she knows I wouldn't keep my business here. 5400 gold. Does that work for you?"

Celia nudged James lightly and whispered in his ear. "Master Thesius is a bit stubborn when it comes to prices, but he is our best smith. I'd suggest taking his price or asking about a different blade." The genasi crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow as he waited for a response.

"I'll take it." James mutters with some bitterness. "What do you have by the means of studded leather armor and hand crossbows?" He says now wanting to get this over with.

"Our leatherworker has gone home, but I can get into his shop and conduct business," Thesius replied. "As for crossbows, we don't have many of the hand variety. Most elves prefer longbows, you see. But we do have a couple mundane ones, maybe one or two magical ones." He handed the rapier to James, as well as a belt and sheathe. "The sheathe is lined to protect you from the blade's acid, but I still suggest deactivating it before you sheathe it. Black Dragon acid is potent."

> Corrosive Rapier - Acts like Flametongue, except acid damage and does not shed light.

"I will remember to do that. Mundane are fine for now unless you can give me good deal on a magic one." James took the belt and sheath, put it on and slid the rapier into it's place.

Thesius picked up a mundane hand crossbow and one that was ornately carved, then set both of them on the counter. "Since you already bought one item from me, I'd be willing to give you a bit of a discount. This hand crossbow imbues a small amount of poison to each bolt as you fire it. Pretty decent for firing from behind cover, but you'll want to switch to that rapier up close."

> Poisoned Hand Crossbow - on each hit, deals an additional 1d4 poison damage to target.

"How much for this one?" James asks as he runs his hand over the ornate carvings on the nonmundane one. "I figured it would be good for fairly close, at least until I need the rapier."

"Eh... considering you just bought that rapier... 350 gold. That's a steal, ya know." The genasi began to pull a bolt case down, filling it with crossbow bolts. "I'll even toss in twenty bolts, but you'll have to pay for anything more than that. Do we have a deal?"

"That will do as I'm sure this can a good 500 if not more. Now about that armor."

"Money first," the genasi proclaimed. "The leatherworker is in the next shop over." Once he received his payment, he put back the unpurchased gear and led James out of the shop, locking it behind them. "He probably doesn't want me selling anything spectacular while he's not here, but studded leather should be about 45 gold, if I remember." He then unlocked the door to the leatherworker's shop and ushered James inside.

James followed the smith out after handing over the coins agreed upon. "I doubt I could afford anything to spectacular." He muttered quietly. He was still needing to replace his bag of holding. "Would happen to know where I might acquire a bag of holding, or perhaps a cloak of the elvenkind?" He asked openly to both the handmaiden and the smith.

Thesius shrugged in response, but Celia spoke up. "The weaver I mentioned may be able to help. Both of those seem like things she would be pretty good at. Should I take you there after we have finished?"

As Celia asked her question, Thesius had already found a set of studded leather armor that seemed to fit someone of James's size. "You might need to talk to the leatherworker in the morning if you need alterations, but this should do in a pinch. Mundane armor should be upgraded as soon as you can, though. Don't want a simple Rust Monster eating it out and making it useless. 45 gold?"

"45 works, I also plan to get it upgraded as soon as I can." He hands the gold over now ready to be off and find a new bag of holding. He takes the armor, and turns Celia. "Shall we be off to the weaver?"

Celia nodded, and led the way out of the main portcullis of the Keep, much to Thesius's relief. As they walked, she jabbered about the architectural features of the elven city, pointing out the spires and columns of the various buildings. Here towards the crest of the mountain, all of the buildings seemed grandiose, although none of them were taller than the wall surrounding the main courtyard.

After a few minutes of walking, Celia halted in front of a door and knocked on it. "Bella?" she called out, and the sound of footsteps could be heard from within. The wooden window slats opened for a moment before closing again, and seconds later, the door was unlocked and opened, revealing a dark-haired elf wearing a light vest that seemed appropriate for evening wear.

"Celia, do you know what time it is?" she asked with mild annoyance. "I closed up shop an hour ago."

"I know," Celia replied, gesturing towards James. "I have a request from Duchess Ada to fulfill, and you're the only one I would trust with this task. James, please tell Bella what you were looking for."

"A new bag of holding and a cloak of the Elvenkind. Though if you have any other wares you wish to sell I would be interested. I do apologize for the inconvenience, it was a stroke of misfortune that has us calling at this hour. If there is something I can do for you I will do it if I can." James said honestly.

Bella waved James into the house and stepped behind a curtain that separated the public area from her residence. A plate of half-eaten food was clearly visible on the table, as well as a an untouched plate on a nearby counter. "I'll only be a minute!" Bella called out from the other side of the curtain as she could be heard rummaging about. "Cloaks of Elvenkind... Such a misnomer. It's not as if all elves walk around with magical cloaks, after all. Why not Cloak of the Rogue or Cloak of Hiding?"

After a moment, she stepped out from behind the curtain carrying a Bag of Holding and the cloak. "I can sell you both of these for 900 gold, I believe, as long as you let Celia come home soon." She smiled at James's guide who blushed slightly in response. "As for other wares, I have a handful of robes and a cape or two." She pulled a robe out of the Bag of Holding that seemed to be covered in myriad patchwork items haphazardly strewn about the robe, followed by a billowing cape that smelled faintly of brimstone and looked to be smoldering ever so slightly. "I can add one of these in for another 500 gold, if you're interested."

James smiles a little before he starts to feel bad for taking up the handmaiden's time. "Celia do you have anything other business after helping me? If not I can find my way back to the castle and you can remain here at home."

Celia chuckled a little in response. "Lady Ada would have my head if I didn't see you safely back to the castle, and I have a few minor things to finish up there. Don't you worry about me."

"Oh, please do worry about her," Bella interjected. "No one else is going to. The duchess works my poor Celia to the bone every night. Makes a girl jealous, you know."

"I doubt someone may cause me issue in my way back and I was considering heading to a tavern on my way back. I'm sure you don't want to go to one of those. I can also speak with Lady Ada about you finishing up your duties on the morrow, or mayhaps I might be able to preform them for you."

Celia and Bella exchanged a glance before the handmaiden sighed reluctantly. "I suppose it couldn't hurt that much," Celia conceded. "Have you decided on a purchase yet?" The elf's voice sounded noticeably happier, despite maintaining her same reserved posture.

James smiled slightly at her response now feeling a bit better about her circumstance. "Yes I have. While I would like to buy more I will have to refrain from it, so for now I'll take the bag the robe and the cloak of Mountebank. I may come back for the cloak of the Elvenkind." He said as he started to pull his coin out to pay.

Bella waited as he counted out the 1400 gold, then thanked him. "Feel free to stop by again another time," she said. "Preferably when the sun is sill shining. Might have better wares then." With that, she collected the unpurchased cloak and handed James the other items.

> Obtained Bag of Holding, Cape of the Mountebank, Robe of Useful Items.

"I will. Have a good evening madam Bella and Celia." James heads to the door, puts the robe in the bag of holding, and puts the cloak on. "I have just one last request, where is the closest tavern?"

"Go left out the door, take your first right, then follow your ears," Celia replied with a smile. "You can't miss it. Unless you're deaf, but you probably aren't..."

"The Devil Frog's Vengeance is its name," Bella spoke up, interrupting Celia's tangent. "It's a bit rough, but I'm sure you can handle it. If you're looking for a quieter place, there's a nice pub up in the courtyard. Used to be a meetinghouse, but it stopped being used a few decades back."

James smiled at the women. Thank you again. May the smiling lady bless you. He turned toward the door leaving an extra 50 gold behind for them to find later. After exiting the building he looked for thieves cant markings. Not seeing any he quickly took a dagger leaving a mark signifying the shop is not a place to rob. He placed the dagger back in it's place and started to walk to the Devil Frog's Vengence.

Just before he arrived he took out the alabaster mask from his long lost parents. It was carved in the shape of a foxes head, painted red and black. He looked at it for a few moments before slipping it his bag. Aside from bei ng a memento of his parents he had used it during a few burglary jobs to help mask his appearence. It might be of some use here in the future. He stepped into the tavern to take in the scene before heading to the bar to get a drink.

@JBRam2002

Late afternoon turned to evening as the travelers delved into their research, poring over dusty tomes and cracked leatherbacks. The group collectively had enough experience and understanding to realize that research would provide much-needed answers, and answers they received. Hidden away in the dark recesses of the Mavrosian library were texts about many things and rumors about many others. Perhaps traveling to cities that carried more specific stories might yield more specific answers, but at the end of four hours, many of the more broad questions had been answered.

Lawrence kept busy by retrieving books and replacing the discarded articles, as well as pointing out where specific sections of the library were. By the end of four hours, tge group had only begun to tap into the wealth of knowledge contained in the library, but fatigue was beginning to set in. Duke Vicente, having finished his required duties for the day, poked his head into the library. "My friends and fellows, I have a meal prepared for you all in the Great Hall. It is a feast fit for heroes, and I pray it shall invigorate your minds and bodies. A respite may be helpful, and you can share the information you have gathered."

The invitation seemed to be a wise suggestion, and although any could choose to refuse it, turning down such a feast might not be the best idea. All who accepted the invitation could then follow Duke Vicente to where he had held court, and the long Great Hall now held a table of the finest foods from many cultures. From dwarven ale to elven lambas, anything the travelers could desire was waiting for them. "Please, enjoy, and share with us your findings," the Duke requested, pulling up a chair at the head of the table.

Lonett worked shoulder to shoulder with Sir Marcus pouring over dusty books and ancient tomes. One in particular proved to be quite the treasure trove in terms of useful information. That is once Lonett and Marcus managed to get it open with the help of Lady Ada. If their hostess had not provided them with her expertise, who knew if the ancient book would have allowed them to peek inside it's pages. As it stood, they found quite a bit on the history of the Ghoul Empire and its rulers with the passage of time. They'd also managed to discern a location where apparently a large number of undead gathered. A specific location would be needed for the casters within the group to gather further intel with remote viewing spells.

Lonett sighed and closed the ancient tome. "I believe we gathered some very useful information on the army of undead and the Ghoul Emperor. Maybe we should try researching the other matter of importance?" The monster huntress gazed at her research companion.

"You are seeking to change subject? Perhaps it would be a good time for me to seek communion with my god, then. I thank you for your company and aid in this research. It has been enlightening. At least now we have an idea of where we should be heading". The paladin said in lieu of answer and excused himself.

Lonett felt a bit unsetteled with the half-orc's attention directed solely at her. By force of habit she fidgeted a bit in her chair, but managed to stop herself from breaking eye contact. "Yes, and I thank you for the help and company as well. We did good work and any insight Tyr could bestow upon us on the current predicament would be most appreciated." Lonett managed to mutter before Marcus left.

Not long after the paladin had left, his plate armor clanging in the quiet of the great library, the Duke came in to invite the heroes to dinner. Lonett looked puzzled outside a window and realized evening had come while she had been busy with research. Well. It wouldn't hurt to eat. And it would be rude to decline our hosts' offer. Lonett thought. She was always self-conscious not to violate any social etiquette, since she was usually terrible at it living on the road most of the time with only Divna to keep her company.

She stood up, stretched the stiffness of being seated for hours on end out of her body and announced her acceptance of the dinner invitation with as much social grace as she could muster. Which was not much at all. She seated herself at the table and waited for all the others to gather around. The Duke was offering the heroes to unwind for a bit from all that reading and share what they'd discovered so far. Lonett looked around and when no one made a move to be the first to talk, sighed, cleared her throat, and began speaking softly, yet quite audibly.

"As I'm sure we all would agree, Valkyr's messenger left us with almost nothing to go on, but some vague information. Just the bare minimum from which to start an investigation." Lonett examined the faces of all who had gathered around the dinner table. "I'm sure each and every one of us has their own field of... experience... shall we say. And when I heard about a Ghoul Emperor, something in my memory stirred. As such it was the direction I needed to pursue a vain of research within Your Grace's library." The aasimar looked at the Duke and wondered where was Lady Ada. Apparently during her hours spent reading books the now former Duchess had gone off to somewhere. "With the messenger mentioning an army of undead I naturally began my research with anything that might connect to Orcus, the Demon Lord of the undead. But I didn't find any information about Orcus cults within the area specified by our celestial messenger."

As more and more eyes fell upon her, Lonett felt quite uncomfortable and took a sip of her water to calm her nerves a bit and proceed with her exposition. "Still even without any tangible evidence of Orcus' involvement, I had this nagging feeling that his influence was connected somehow to this matter. And there was also the stirring of a memory of a legend about four great followers of Orcus who received tainted immortality. I decided to follow that lead. And I stumbled onto a very interesting ancient tome which I was able to open with the help of Lady Ada. What I found inside the book was a treasure trove of information for sure. But it was also deeply disturbing. The tome detailed the beginnings of a Ghoul Empire, it's rise and consequent prosperity over the years. According to the book the heart of this vile empire lies deep underneath the ruins of the Gardens of Carnessa, which is also a place purported to be the home of an Orcus cult."

Another sip of water, another clearing of the throat and Lonett continued. "I don't believe in coincidences so there must be a connection between Orcus and the beginnings of this Ghoul Empire. I just haven't managed to find it yet. I do not wish to bore you with the particulars of this matter over dinner, but suffice to say that the existence of a strong underground empire of ghouls is indeed a threat not to be taken lightly. And if this is the Ghoul Emperor who's amassing undead armies to the West, then we should prepare ourselves well and depart post haste. I did manage to discover the name of a location that reports an amassing of undead if any of the casters in the group have means of remote viewing. It is a place called Caelmarth."

@JBRam2002@Hekazu

Dinner was Served.

A grand hall from around the corner, once more under the gaze of the elvish lords of yore. For long was the planting of the library, and longer the harvesting, with baskets filled with information carried upon their necks. It was only it were so easy to digest the volumes piled atop Kethan's desk working at a leisurely pace. Such books were treasured things, and Lawrence did his best, but a sheet of paper was quickly filled with annotations regarding the condition of the Mavros' collection. Half the penned calligraphy was written as notes of the old cleric's findings, while the other half were recommendations on repairs to be made to some of the shabbier volumes. Folded pages, nibbled-corners, worn-down bindings, and faded ink & illustrations in dire need of retouching. Preen through his spectacles to see just beyond his nose for whatever scrap and tidbit of information could be gleaned as the wax wanes and hours pass without much realization. Lost in the sorted piles of books at his desk, several editions of compendiums of bestiaries and field reports on the Northern Mountains including a traveller's guide to Mavros & Vael Turog. And curious of all perhaps a colouring book belonging to Ada of which was reflected in Kethan's notes as Young Lady Mavros did not stay within the lines as she colored. NB color selection, use of warm tones for frost giants. But as the Duke invited them as gracious host to sup, Kethan's attention peered up from the latest cartography spread to accompany the Duke and Others to dine as proper guests.

There in the master's chambers, they gathered for the feast. There arranged before them, a feast for the hungry eyes, and meal for the weary soul. A hero's feast, with exotic dishes pulled from around the lands as fine and hearty for the well-traveled and well-cultured fellow. Froth and bubbles of Dwarven ale from the undermountains in pewter tankards touched by the very same artisans no doubt. Darkwood a basket of Elven lembas, the sylvan silver-leaves blossoming open to reveal the baked bread. Roast suckling pig charred whole on silver platter, adorned with skewers of beef and mutton doused liberally in spices. Golden quail sauted with a rainbow of vegetables served with a bath of veloute supreme. Strong farmer's goat cheese, pungently paired with the upliftingly mesmeric Gnomish goodberries. Lightly friend Lakefish filets battered with Halfing honey mead, and aromatic bowls of jasmine rice and boar-belly. Oh how many more courses of such extravagance was there as the company took their seats with the duke and dinner began rather silently as everyone took his or her share of the meal. Kethan himself only took a bowl of lentil soup, a simple dish commonly found but alas never quite as savored more at his advanced age. If a man was willing to trade all that he had and would have for a single bowl, who would dare insult lentil soup, sweetest of delicacies?

"Caelmarth. I see. Well done, Miss Lonett of Caernath. I Trust your instincts. I am not yet prepared to scry tonight, as the hour is late, and I'm afraid I don't have the stamina of my youth. However we do have that orb with Miss Ann'leah... Who appears to be my senior if I recall her jest..." Anything you like Miss, if you think me quite the young man, but dare I request you not call me late to dinner. The irony of the earlier line in response to the ancient elf's inquisition to Kethan's name. A bit of wit for wit returned in kind,
keeps the mind sharp and heart light, but quickly turned into a solemn regard as Kethan gave his name to the elf. "Sir Lakeltia, I believe you were assisting Miss Lonett of Caernath, did you by chance ask His Divine Justice of Caelmarth? If there is a circle there or within close travel, I can teleport us there with knowledge of the appropriate sigils. Else, I fear we may be required to take the long journey there."

A bit of a pause for an old man to sip his quaff of dwarven ale from his personal tankard, one carved with a rather stern face bearing a somewhat similar resemblance to the drinker. It was no time to be be caught drunk on their asses, as this very night there could very well be a dragon or army of giants at their front door. And all this feasting and eating in excess was a terrible binge to indulge the sensorium. A good night's rest would be a blessing for the old man, but vigilance was still needed, not as far as to purify all the food and drink suspecting Lord Mavros had tainted the meal, but enough to know that not all poisons were designed by nature to be foul.

"For those heading North, I caution both the cold, and the danger. I advise visiting the old city of Vael Turog. It is a bastion for travelers with many folk adapted to the cold. Pick up some warm clothes and supplies there, Prepare yourselves for coming to Winter. And more so, local knowledge, there are isolated reports of powerful giants in the far north mountains. I suspect these paragons of giantkin are ones capable of taming dragons. Given the amount of information on these giants..."

Kethan's silence said more than his words ever could. Looking at Lord Mavros brother, acknowledge the dangers his sister may face with a nod.

---

Before Marcus got his hands on any of the people who had researched the other threat they were facing, he encountered the Duke once again. The invitation to the feast would be well received: Now that he was no longer absorbed in his task, Marcus did feel the pang of hunger in his gut. And if something was for certain, they should not rise against the threat in anything but their full power, something starving oneself would definitely deny from them. The great hall had been prepared with but the most notable of foods of all the cultures, a sight that caused a slight twitch at the corner of the paladin's mouth, briefly revealing one of his more orcish teeth before it was hidden behind his lips once again. With all that had been spent on this, just how many less well off folk could have been fed? But now was not the time to think of such things.

He looked around for a second to see if there would be any servants whose services he could ask for getting him out of his metal shell. After all, it would be horribly disrespectful to sit in the table of a trusted ally covered in several layers of steel, as if expecting a knife to be embedded into his back at any moment. And with the evening approaching apart from this feast and the communion with Tyr himself there was nothing in particular planned, so it would need to happen in any case. And if the gods had foreseen an attack on this very city, surely they would have mentioned such a thing? No, as far as he knew they would ride out tomorrow. A night's rest would take place before that. "Excuse me, Duke Vicente", he said after a second, content at the amount of servants that seemed to be around. He could request the aid of one without causing much of a fuss, "but I would like to request a helping hand in changing to a more reasonable set of clothing. Full plate would be just disrespectful to your hospitality."

To nobody's surprise, the paladin was provided with the helping hand or two he had requested and they would move away as quietly as they could. In but five minutes, the half-orc was already back, now dressed in the vestments of Tyr. Wherever he went, he was a representative of his religion as well as his self. To his luck, nobody had started any speeches while he had been gone so instead of waiting at the door he could simply slip into his seat and see how the situation would develop. He had helped himself to some duck and several side dishes as well as a cup of mild wine when Lonett decided to share their collective findings. Marcus mostly nodded along, not finding much need to interject at any point.

After Kethan had shared his thanks for the insights provided by their research, Marcus raised his right hand before his mouth and let out a gentle cough. He had been ready to speak either way, but now that he was addressed directly there was no doubt who had to be next in line. "Let me begin by addressing the question of my communion with my god. At this moment, that has yet to take place. I had decided to consult the ones heading North just as well, see if there was anything they would like confirmed or denied. With us gathered here, I cannot think of a more ample opportunity to hear out those queries, but naturally I must reserve at least a question to confirm whether Caelmarth is where our band should be heading or not. Though I doubt such insight would prove to be false, being sure of the verdict is the basis of sound judgement." His voice was even, the oration flawless. His history as a public speaker showed, though with the matters being as clear as they were, no false confidence was needed.

On the other hand, he had noted that Lonett was not even nearly as confident as him. He let his gaze diverge into her direction momentarily, but it remained there for but a second. He cut a piece of the duck and held the meat in his fork before his mouth, turning it around for a bit as he thought. "As for circles of teleportation, I cannot say I would have heard of such a rumour. Additional research to the possibility could be considered for the morning, or for those of us who enjoy a nocturnal cycle of life perhaps already after this meal. I do not count myself among those, however. However, as far as I remember, the Seat of Mavros is the closest settlement to said ruin. If I am not wrong in that, anything we find would have a very real chance of serving as a den of monsters these days, or worse yet, broken." A grim outlook, but the most realistic from his point of view. He placed the fork into his mouth and began chewing on the meat.

Now, who would be the next in turn to speak? Those gathered here were much fewer than he had suspected. The absence of the former Duchess was not as much of a surprise to him, the nobility had things to do, but the other heroes of the realm being missing piqued his interest. There should be nothing that would hold them from arriving. Perhaps they were still on their way? That would mean a reiteration of the conversation later, but that he could easily deal with. Surely nobody had been foolish enough to consider desertion!

James sipped at his ale as he listened to conversations a few locals were having near the bar. Much was rather mundane and failed to have much use to James, how crops were doing, the procession of heros earlier today, and how local trade was.

What did catch his attention was a man and a woman guessing at why the heros are here. James ordered two more ales and approached their table. After talking with them and giving them each an ale, he learned bot of giants to the north but the southwest. The news from the north was adventurers being commissioned for a vaguely worded quest in Vael Turag. Some folks went to check it out but have not returned, so it supposedly a dangerous quest. After learning that, James figured that was about all he would get this night and returned to the castle.

Upon his arrival to the castle, James inquired about where the others were. He was told by one of the guards that some have already gathered in the great hall. James stepped into the hall, his cloak smoldering and smelling of brimstone and his new rapier in it sheath on his belt, just as Marcus finished speaking about something being broken. He quickly noted that there were only a few of the others here and the Duke.

"Discussing your finding in the library?" James inquired as he took a seat near the middle of the table. He looked over the course. It was opulent, almost excessively so in James eyes. He grabbed some bread and a few cuts of beef and a tankard of the dwarven ale. "Hopeful you were able to find some information on our does to the North and the West. I know the folk around here don't have much to say about giants and dragons to the north. Just a vaguely worded quest in Vael Turag that a few people have gone to check out but have not returned." He said rather indirectly while dipping the bread in some of the beef drippings.

A frayed-looking young man had approached Ellenara after her offer of local reconnaissance. It seemed by the confidence in his own stature that he believed himself to be some sort of rake. Ellenara gave a smile like she held back a chuckle at the attempt. "Aww," she replied, leaning over slightly until her height was brought down to his, "That's adorable." A slender index extended, stretching forward toward the man and bouncing lightly off of his nose. Standing straight, she continued in a more genuine and gentle tone, "You can hold off on the wooing, child. I'm just an old elf from the Harrowgrove."

Vincent was taken aback by the actions of the Elven woman before him. He was not used to people treating him as she just did and at first this frustrated and embarrassed him. The temperature rising around him a few degrees before he calmed down and realized that the gesture was not meant to offend.
"In any regard, I would still love to accompany you if you would have me." He said dialing back the previous behavior.

As the Seeker and the Sorcerer conversed, Ada stepped forward, book in hand. "If you wouldn't mind, I would like to accompany you. I found some information that may help guide our search, and the people may be more inclined to speak to their former duchess." She then smiled coyly at Ellenara's suggestion. "I may know of some more... interesting pubs as well. I was not always cooped up in the keep, after all."

Rocking forward on her toes, gaining a half inch of height, Elle clapped in bright, brief celebration. "Wondrous!" she exclaimed, "We'll head out swiftly, then." Ellenara seemed oddly boisterous, stepping between the two elven archers and past them. As she walked toward the door, she said, "Which means you can show him to the Adventurers' Guild while I enjoy the air!" Then, in mid-step, her form seemed to fade and blur, her hair diffusing into a visible, grey mist that started to freely billow behind her. The misty composition scattered forward throughout her body before her foot had touched ground, until there was no foot left where then only fog remained. This thick, flowing air bore the vague resemblance to her. Looking back to the others, her face was seemingly cheered by the free feeling she was experiencing in this form. She spoke some word of encouragement in a voice so breathy and light that its consonants didn't form into their Common language. Then, the misty elf surged forward in a swift movement, almost vanishing through the library door and onward beyond the Seat.

"Ah..." Ada replied, somewhat surprised at the sudden shift. "I suppose the word 'accompany' means something different to wood elves?" The duchess knew that the Seeker was a Druid of the Moon, but had expected a form that would carry them all together. From her Bag of Holding, she withdrew a small broom and seated herself on it. "I assume you are able to fly, Vincent?" she asked. "Otherwise, this may be a longer walk than I anticipated, and I am not sure how the Guild will react to being assaulted by an elemental form after sunset. Likely not well."

Vincent Grinned reaching into his pack and pulling out a small bronze statuette of a griffon.
"I most certainly do have a way to fly but I will have to walk outside to use it as I am unaware of how large it will be." He said smiling brightly walking toward the door having forgotten all about the Wood Elf that had taken off. Once outside he set the Griffon on the ground and activated it the statuette grew into a full sized griffon before their eyes and screeched before kneeling so he could mount it. Looking back toward Ada he grinned and jumped up onto the griffon.

"Of course. You have a griffon," Ada muttered to herself before giving a nonchalant shrug. "Either way, we should catch up with our elemental friend before she gets too far ahead. After that cloud!" With a whispered command word, her broom leapt into the sky as Ada whizzed after the elemental, knowing that she was likely the slowest of the three.

The flight was not a long one, as there were many shortcuts that could be taken when one did not need to follow the intentionally winding roads up the mountainside. Towards the lowest reaches of the city near the first gate, a fairly sizable building continued to shed light even as the sun passed below the mountains to the west, engulfing the foothills in shadow. Although the journey was only a couple of minutes long, the Seeker had a chance to arrive ahead of the others and peek in the windows to see a large meeting house with benches and tables lining the floor and torches burning with continual flame filling the sconces on the walls. Although the Adventurers' Guild was not a tavern, per se, there were still plenty of flagons of ale being tossed around, and a hearty spirit of camaraderie and rivalry filled the conversations. The people were made up mostly of elves, but nearly every civilized race was well-represented.

Elle's body felt alight with a rush of movement as she swiftly meandered about town. Keeping to a low hover above the ground, she felt her body involuntarily wanting to giggle as she swept through the night air. Her form danced automatically in the chill breeze, for few to see as she darted about fluidly between dimly lit roads and alleyways. As she always did when assuming this magical shape, she felt the need to enjoy herself, to be free in her movement. Just the feeling of the wind catching her misty self caused a primordial glee to to surround her. Even as she looked back and saw her ally upon the back of a chimeric eagle tearing through the night sky, she chuckled to herself and moved on swiftly as if challenged into a race she couldn't easily lose.

And, of course, she didn't. Having arrived to the Guild, she found herself alone besides the pedestrians heading to their homes. Her body surged upward along an alley's shadow, spilling over the building's upper edge in a fluid movement that quickly reconstituted herself into the vague shape of a cyclonic woman. The shape, once fully formed, made a motion of a step. The mist quickly fell away where Ellenara, in the flesh, completed her step from the Seat. She gave a long huff, as if relieving her lungs of the elemental air that had just constituted her entire form. A relative calm came over her as she returned to her natural state, always so sensitive to the primal emotions of these elements. It wasn't a long wait for the others, but she spent it looking over the townsfolk in silence, crossed legs hanging over the edge of the roof she sat upon.

Vincent found himself exhilarated by the flight. He found he rather enjoyed the feeling of freedom and weightlessness it brought on. They flew for a short while and found the Wood Elf woman sitting on a roof. Vincent landed and pet the griffon mount having become attached enough to try and think of a name for the inanimate creature given life before canceling the magic placed on it and returning it to his pack.

"Well, that was a wonderful feeling." He began, looking to the Wood Elf. "I imagine you enjoyed the trip as well?" he added with a genuine smile.

Instead of landing on the roof like the other two, Ada dropped to the street in front of the Guild's door and stowed her broom in the sack she carried. "We may wish to begin our search for answers before the supper hour ends," she called up to the pair, wondering exactly how Vincent planned to get down from the roof without hurting himself. "We should look for someone who has had a mission up north. Perhaps some goblin or troll hunters."

The others had arrived in short order. While Elle had no issue with waiting, it was true that time pressed as long as threat still loomed. To keep things appropriately concise, she stood upon the ledge at their arrival and moved toward Vincent. "What's not to enjoy?" she replied, reaching out to take him by the wrist. Her grip felt strange, like his arm was becoming smothered in pressure, but this strangeness became apparent as her form faded again into a living gust. She ebbed backward toward the roof's edge, pulling him along with her. With a chuckle she pulled him off solid footing, dangling in the air.

But, rather than toy with him she lowered her graceful hover to the ground beside Ada and set him gently on his feet. Showing her familiarity with this technique, she quickly shifted out of her form much like an extension of her natural movement. Finally, without very much adieu, she stepped forward to pull the door open and invite Ada and Vincent inside with a gesture of her hand.

Inside was a raucous gathering of might, a true party of heroes. Drinks flowed joyously, tales were shared liberally, and confidence radiated off of the myriad of capable muscle stocked within what might otherwise resemble an alehouse. Elle had seen establishments like this in remote, dangerous regions of the land, and felt subtly that she had come home. But she came for business, and upon stepping through the doorway she searched for signs of authority among even those that carried themselves with authority.

One did, in fact, stand out among the others. A woman among the tables stood studiously and assertively, clutching a clipboard and assigning warriors with work. Charcoal hair adorned her oddly chromatic flesh and parted around distinctive horns jutting from her skull. She bore a mischievous smirk that showed she was impish in more ways than one. A heavily-plated knight stood before her, discussing some matters of adventuring work. Elle weaved her way through the people, attuning her keen ears to their conversation before any sort of interruption.

Vincent felt himself lowered to the ground and while he had loved the feeling of flight this felt foreign to him but he resisted every muscle in his body screaming at him to not trust someone pulling him off a roof. As his feet his the ground he sighed with relief and looked over the establishment with a fairly scrutinizing eye.
"Well where to begin am I right?"

"The Guildmaster, I would assume," Ada replied as she followed Ellenara through the crowds. On either side, mead-wielding warriors touted their accomplishments with loud cheers from those about them. A handful of clerics that shared a deity prayed in one corner next to the firelight, and a few bards strummed instruments and sang songs of their battles. None were singing about giants, and although a handful were claiming magnificent feats of derring do defeating dragons, it didn't take a druid to sense out the massive piles of bullshit. In fact, the majority of fighters in this guild were lower level goons that would be more of a liability in a fight against a dragon than an aid.

There were, of course, a handful of more-established members of the guild, and those generally kept to themselves, avoiding the low-ranked adventurers and their tall tales. To these individuals, adventuring was serious business, a job to not be taken lightly. The knight was one such member, chatting to the Guildmaster tiefling in hushed tones that subsided as the trio approached. The knight lifted up his visor and looked at the party, revealing himself to be a human with a somewhat frustrated glare. "Can I help you?" the tiefling asked with a smile before noticing Ada. The smile faltered slightly, replaced by a look of concern. "Is... is something wrong?"

When the others had yet to step up, Ellenara took her place. Slinking past a few more patrons, she put herself in talking distance with the presumed headmistress; though she remained close enough to the elvish Lady to be associated. "Nothing's the matter," she reassured, "we're merely here for local information. You see, we're about to embark on an expedition to the northern ranges and wanted to be aware of threats and where they lie. Especially those of mountainous giants and icy dragons. We've heard rumours of such beasts, and we're to disturb or eradicate them."

Vincent simply stood back and watched the duo work and smiled. he admired confidence more than anything and both seemed to have a lion's share. As the conversation turned to the conflicts at hand Vincent stepped up and smiled as charmingly as he could to the headmistress.
"Oh but rest assured we are all perfectly capable of handling the threats as there is also the threat of the Ghouls amassing that we are also humbly taking care of." He said grinning calmly.

The soothing comments seemed to calm the Guildmaster who nodded to Ellenara's request. "Well, regretfully, we have no information about these rumors. Perhaps if you went to Vael Turog to the north, you might gain more information." She was about to wave them on when the knight stepped forward, peering at the trio through his visor.

"Actually, I have heard of such threats. I just came from the North myself," he spoke up. "Giants and dragons are not my specialty, but I heard of no fewer than five adventuring parties that answered such a notice. None returned. If I can remember correctly... the area was described as a crag a few hundred furlongs south of the city. I'm sorry that I have little more information than that."

Ada stepped forward, a smile on her face. "Perhaps you have more information than you realize. Do you know how strong these parties were? Elite fighters with years of experience, or perhaps newcomers looking for a quick reward?"

"Well, one of the parties was new to the Guild. Their equipment looked pretty mundane. I told them not to chance it, but they didn't listen. Something about a quest for glory." The knight lowered his head for a moment, as if for a moment of silence. "However, the others were much stronger. Organized parties with clerics and wizards, paladins or barbarians. Everyone had enchanted gear, were planning their attacks out carefully. But none returned, and I can only assume the worst."

"Thank you for your time," Ada replied. With a nod of thanks, she led the group away from the Guildmaster. The rest of the evening was spent trying to gather more information about this dragon and its associate giants. This resulted in somewhat of a pub crawl as the trio explored the various taverns of the city, looking for any additional information. Eventually, they came across a weary-looking monk deep in his cups who greeted their initial inquiries with mumbles and drunken phrases. After a bit more persuasion from the sorcerer, the monk sobered up enough to tell them a bit more information.

Not only was there a white dragon of extreme power, but the giants that guarded it were elites of their ilk, led by a giant unlike anything the monk had ever seen. "One by one... my friends fell. Our cleric Balthas the Wise was the last to fall. He told me to run, and so I did. The giant's name was... Hraesvelgr, if I recall correctly." The monk then waved away the party as he staggered to his feet, heading towards the stairs to the rooms above the tavern.

The evening continued on, Ada seemingly drinking a bit more than what was to be expected from a noblewoman. Perhaps she drank more than she intended herself. In any case, she was thoroughly sauced as they left the final tavern, heading back up the long trek towards the Duke's keep. The Duchess staggered forward with the assistance of the others, mumbling about how awesome she thought they were, and eventually, they found themselves at the doors to the keep.

---

Vale quickly finished the book she was reading. There was an invitation to join everyone for dinner, though that mattered little to the halfling. She would join up, but no sense keeping herself from finishing this last book. There wasn't that much left anyway. The rest of the party had left the room by the time she closed the book. She wasn't far behind, but she wasn't in any rush. As long as they didn't start with dessert first, that is. Happily she skipped along, eyeing the comfortable decor as she searched for the feast.

It wasn't that hard to find, though it seemed she wasn't going to be the latest one. Rather than sitting down immediately, Vale circled the table eyeing the meal that was prepared. It looked wonderful. It almost made her mouth water, but there wasn't anything out that truly interested her; opting not to grab any of the food laid out. Finding an open vacant seat, she hopped in her now claimed chair and began humming to herself. Shame that her dress wasn't made yet. It would've looked lovely at a dinner like this. "Well then. Sorry I'm late, though it doesn't seem like I missed too much. Just finishing looking at some of the books. Anyone find anything on the giants up north? If not, is fine; I plan on studying the night away if our host would be so permitting. I can also round out searching for topics any of us might needed extra time on. Oh, and do tell me if you visit the gardens of Carnessa. I found a book, written in one of those infernal languages of course; but it looked like the most beautiful places. Much better than the forest I lived in for most of my life."

Janine Fawkes
Scrapmouse

Scrapmouse was generally bored by the small talk that Ava and the others participated in, but the magic items that Ava produced certainly caught her attention. An earstone of communication was good. An orb of mind reading? Damn, too bad she had a lot of stuff attuned to her already. And the deck of illu--wait, that wasn't a deck of illusions! That was a Deck of Many Things! Was that Lady Ava dumb or crazy?! Before she could warn the group, one of them decided to draw a card and he lost all of his items and clothes. The tinkerer gnome couldn't help but hold her stomach and point at him as she laughed and fell to the ground.

It was only after she calmed down that she warned the other heroes, "Guys, that ain't a Deck of Illusions. That's a Deck of Many Things! You'd have to be really desperate to draw from there! There's more cards that'll bring a Fate worse than Death than there are Good cards in there," She didn't know whether anyone heard her, but she continued to the library regardless.

The first hour was spent tinkering, if anything to keep her mind of the potential future of a Battle Royale. Her tinkering produced another little Firestarter. She lost the last one she had, and who knows? Maybe she can use it to make future explosives explode in the near future? Hehe.

The second and third hours were spent studying on Dragons and Giants, considering she was going to go there. Maybe she'll read up on the undead too, just in case? That'll be a topic for later. But regardless, she studied up and learned at least the basics. While she read and adjusted her goggles, Sparky laid nearby, acting like a normal cat, waiting patiently for its master to finish or move. Despite how crazy and twitchy Scrapmouse seemed on the outside, her quiet and diligent studying came to the surface. Sometimes muttering could be heard under her breath as she committed the important facts to memory.

Her head snapped upwards and she lifted her goggles up when Vincente poked his head in, and let everyone know that there was a feast. Sparky mimicked her reaction by lifting his head and gazing towards Vincent. The gnome cheered "Haha! Heck yeah! I'm starving!" Pass out on a free meal? Who would be crazy enough to do that? Besides she needed to share her findings and start planning a strategy.

She made her way to where the feast was and she grabbed her own plate of food. She listened carefully to what everyone else had to offer in regards to information. A circle of teleportation from the cleric, and the half-orc can ask his god for anything in regards to anything needing to be affirmed or denied. The bard clearly asked around, only to end up with little to no information.

After everyone seemed to finish sharing their information, she spoke up, her shrill voice showing excitement and eccentricity,

"Alright! I've got a lot of information to share wit' ya! I did some digging on Dragons and Giants in general. Can't go in assuming we know everythin' already! The information I found may be useful for any strategies! So, listen up!"

After taking another bite of bread and swallowing she continued,

"The Dragon is a white dragon, which means that it's a cold based dragon. Yesyesyes, I know. Obvious! OBVIOUS! But-But--! This is good! White dragons, see, are not very smart. Very bestial! But still dangerous, especially if it's an ancient. Unfortunately, there's no real weaknesses to exploit. They do not have a weakness to fire, no they do not!"

A gulp of water to wet her throat to keep the information coming,

"The Dragon is strongest in their lair, and they know it! It's a bad, bad, bad idea to fight them in their lair. WORST IDEA EVER! ...But probably unavoidable. Trying to lure the dragon out might not work! But if we have to fight in the lair, we can use fire to melt stuff in there, and lessen the dragon's strength,"

Another gulp of water,

"Now giants...There are many different kinds! But despite their differences, they see each other as kin. They have their own caste system called the Ordning! Each giant has a social rank and knows who is superior or inferior to it. The place in the Ordning is determined by analyzing a different combination of skills or qualities. Excelling in these skills or qualities is the purpose of a giant's life. The races of giants follow this system. The highest at the Caste are the Storm Giants. Then there's the Cloud giants, Fire giants, Frost Giants, Stone Giants, Hill Giants, and then the giant kin like...ogres, fomorians, and ettins. If a giant were to disrespect or betray a giant of another type, is just considered rude, not evil."

Downed the entire goblet of water,

"So, in conclusion..."

She raised her fingers and counted as she spoke,

"One: We may be dealing with Storm Giants if they've somehow got an Ancient White Dragon to join forces with them.
Two: Best way to beat the dragon is to lure it out of the lair, but...it's not dumb enough to be simply lured out.
Three: Can't turn the giants against each other.
And Four...!"

She paused and then commented

"We're in for one heckuva fight! We need to get a strategy started!"

She then mumbled to herself "I wonder if there are any previous accounts of dragons and giants working together...?"

"I suppose I can. Hrasvelger was his name you said? I'll go look into it here in a moment." James takes a gulp of the ale savorying the dark amber brew. "Anything else I should look for?"

He noted that it seemed that these two had had plenty to drink as well. He also noticed that Vincent and Titans Bane had yet to walk in. "It seems we are still missing two of our party. Has anyone seen them recently?

---

The former duchess had a difficult time not only walking, but forming any coherent thought. This wood elf lady that helped her along certainly was a boon, but Ada was a duchess! She could stand in her own two... nope. Maybe she had just a little too much to drink after all.

Even in her inebriated state, she could see the fumes coming off her brother. He probably was pretty angry that Ada would go get herself into such a state, but the Seeker seemed trustworthy from her research. Mostly. At least nothing bad had happened. That duke needed to learn to let go once in a while and relax. Of course, Ada had been just as uptight as him for several years now.

Oh great, the duke was speaking now. Something about "blah blah, she's not normally like this, blah blah." She didn't need Vicente to apologize for her. She was finally free: a normal citizen of Mavros. To think that a mere decade earlier, she would have killed to be the ruler of the city, but now she was almost relieved to be rid of the responsibility. Almost.

After the duke was finished talking, Ada pulled herself to her feet, steadying the swaying room with a hand on the magical table before her. "Thanks, Vinnie," she began, definitely not slurring in the least. "We prolly oughta get some sleep 'fore the giants come. Or whaddever." Another scoff from her brother. What did she ever do to him? Oh... right.

"The staff'll get yer rooms set and stuff," Ada continued, waving in the general direction of one of the maids who seemed to have a concerned and bewildered look on her face. "We can talk about more stuff later... and stuff. Tomorrow." With an unnecessary flourish, Ada pushed away from the table, nearly collapsing before a half-elf girl caught her, helping her down the hall. Ada could be heard lauding the maid for always being a good friend as she was led away, to the disapproving sighs of the Duke of Mavros.

"Well, that certainly wasn't an embarrassment," Vicente muttered. "As Ada mentioned, rooms have been set aside for each of you. I suggest retiring sooner rather than later, as it is already quite late. If you need anything, someone will be posted outside your door to answer your beck and call." As Vicente stood, the table before the party began to shrink, finally condensing into a dull grey sphere, as if it were a burnt-out gemstone, which the Duke collected. "Please have a pleasant evening."

---

All who was present for the entire duration of the feast and consumed food from it are under the effect of the Heroes' Feast spell: "A creature that partakes of the feast gains several benefits. The creature is cured of all Diseases and poison, becomes immune to poison and being Frightened, and makes all Wisdom saving throws with advantage. Its hit point maximum also increases by 2d10, and it gains the same number of hit points. These benefits last for 24 hours." The HP increase is 6 for everyone.

I will allow a week for people to post their nighttime activities / conversations or to pass on a post. Once everyone has posted or passed (or a week has gone by), we will move on. If you do not post, I will assume you went straight to bed.

As people were led by servants to their respective rooms for the night Lonett inquired of her own designated guide where she might find the castle stables as she wanted to visit with Divna first, before retiring for the night. Divna was already poking her owlbear head out of the farthest, most remote stall in the stables having sensed the approach of her partner, and the moment Lonett came into range a sharp beak clonked her on the head.

"Ow, Gods!" The ranger rubbed her head vigorously. "I'm sorry, okay. I know I said it wouldn't take long, but you know how it is when libraries need to be perused." Lonett scratched Divna's neck to placate the irate beast of an animal. The hulking owlbear grunted in acceptance and in a rare gesture of affection, one that would not be displayed never ever in public, she rubbed her head against Lonett. "I know, ol' girl." The monster huntress buried her head in Divna's soft feather-fur. "We'll be together on the road tomorrow morning. Sleep now. Rest. We have a challenging foe to face soon enough." Lonett stepped back and peered into Divna's yellow eyes. They shone with fierce readiness.

---

After checking up on Divna Lonett was led to her room and left on her own. The guest room was lush and luxurious compared to what she was used to. As a frequent traveler, she generally camped out in the woods, in valleys, mountains, caves. Occasionally she would be invited into the modest house of a villager. This, to her this was overindulgence if anything else. She could never live like this, high up in a stone tower of sorts, away from the earth and the land. Away from nature and its denizens. She flashed back on her childhood, spent among the trees, hunting, exploring and literally frolicking with her sister. At the memory of Nanett a dark cloud descended upon the ranger. Her expression sobered, her hands clenched into fists. Lonett dumped her equipment near the bed and sat down burying her face in her hands. Maybe this new quest would bring her a step closer to tracking down Yeenoghu and justice for her sister. There was something about this whole Ghoul Empire thing that just felt off, regardless of the fact that an Empire of ghouls was already horrifying enough. No, there was something more subtle, a string that could be pulled to uncover the treasure. But that one string was beyond elusive.

For now all she could do was rest and get ready for the task ahead of her. Destroying evil was always a boon for her especially when it was this high level. Because it meant a lot of innocent casualties if not thwarted. She rummaged through her bag of holding for her woodcarver tools and that piece of driftwood she'd picked during her travels. It would be perfect for what she had in mind. She'd seen the sigil on enough places around the castle for the short time she was here and knew it to be the symbol of house Mavros. She set her cloak on the floor and got to work. Before long a regal wolf's head appeared in the wood framed by a banner. Lonett spent a good two hours working on the carving until she was satisfied with the final result. It was one of her best pieces yet. Fitting, as she planned to offer it as a gift to Duke Vincente for the hospitality and for the opportunity to help people by defeating evil.

With the carving finished Lonett set it aside and cleaned up after herself. She took off her scale mail, but put her cloak back on and lay on the soft bed in her clothes, taking care to remove her boots. She was asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.

She was immediately transported to that fateful night when her life had changed forever. When she wasn't yet strong enough to help her people, her sister, or even herself. When the best she was capable of was barely enough to keep the skin on her bones. And yet she'd fought tooth and nail, demonstrating if nothing else strength of character, refusing to give up. To bow down. To accept defeat and had instead lifted herself up and elevated herself into this champion for the weak and defenseless. Lonett observed her life as if from the outside. All the years studying, training, traveling, broadening her horizons. Discovering new ways to fight, to track, to gain information. Growing and maturing. And as she observed herself from above, she realized she was not alone. Someone else was also watching her with intent eyes.

"Yes, child!" A voice boomed in her head. "You have been watched. I have observed your life's journey. And I have been pleased. You possess strength indeed. Both of will and of body. No one can deny your bravery and valor. You may not seek renown but you do have it amongst the most innocent of all audiences - the children. Yes. Kord is pleased. I shall walk beside you child. From here onwards, should you need my help call upon my name and pray upon my symbol." Lonett watched dismayed as a sigil etched itself upon her shield.

The ranger woke up with a start. She was in the soft bad, in the luxurious guest room of the castle of the Twin Dukes. And sure enough, there, in the center of her shield glowed the sigil of Kord, the storm god and lord of battle. Lonett lay back in bed, her head filled with questions and her heart full of excited palpitation. What could all this mean? She wondered as sleep once again took her.

As everyone filtered out of the hall, James made his way to the library to try to find done information of the giant Hrasvelger. After an hour of searching James only turned up a tale of a giant that could shapeshift into an eagle that defends it's home at the edge of the world. This giant did have the same name but where the group was heading want anywhere near the edge of the world. The writing also seemed to be in that of fairy tales.

James shook his head in dismissal as he put the manuscript back. It wasn't necessarily what he was searching for but all he found. He followed the person tasked to aide him to the room that was being provided by the Duke. It was beyond what James had expected and what he even really cared for. He examined the feather bed, it was softer than any other bed he had ever had. To soft really. He looked around the room and found a spot high on a tall dresser just to the opposite of the bed.

Before going to sleep he tested the rapier for a bit and spoke the command word, findar. Acid dripped from the blade for a second before James muttered the word again and sheathed the blade. He then placed a few pillows under the blanket on the bed to make it look like he was there, then climbed onto of the dresser, leaned against the wall, moved his bag of holding into his left arm, and drew the rapier and slowly fell to sleep.

His dreams consisted of little, though there was a flash back to the day when he left his sister, half-sister really, behind at a temple of Ilmater. It was the hardest choice he had made in his life but also probably the best. He had done it so she could at least have a better life than the one they were living at the time. Their mother had died which left James to provide for himself and his sister. He had taken to stealing food when begging wasn't yielding enough. He had always made sure she had plenty to eat, even of it ment he didn't have much.

However times started to grow leaner and made it more difficult to acquire enough food, which is what led him to take her to the temple of the broken god. He visited from time to time and made sure to not speak of his thieving exploits. He had least contact with her about ten years ago when she had set out as a cleric of Ilmater to aide those in suffering as part of a pilgrimage. Maybe he would see her again on his adventure here, probably not but one could hope couldn't he.

---

Marcus had to admit this feast carried with itself surprises, especially the status of the resigned Duchess as she returned. Now, the Paladin was one to not judge people without reason, but the state the woman returned in was hardly befitting of a hero she would need to be tomorrow. His hand reflexively sought out the prayer beads under his vestments and his fingers curled into a ball around them. It would be a shame if he would have to invoke their magic of Greater Restoration to have Ada capable of fighting the next day, but he could see that the former Duchess had already chosen her course of action for the night as she, perhaps overly comradely, headed off with a servant. Though perhaps sometimes it only did good for those 'beneath' one to hear how their work was appreciated.

As for others in this table, Marcus only nodded along as the fresher arrivals spoke their pieces. Despite his refined dining, he cared very little how others did it. He had grown up where there was little and with the common folk. His current status did not mean he would have grown to despise them, quite on the contrary. He was to be their sword and shield when need be, but merely their voice if he at all could. Change needed come from those who deemed themselves better than them, but when one's life was threatened it was only natural to bring out the force to protect.

Eventually everyone would begin heading away, but not before Marcus had had the chance to chat with both Lonett and Scrapmouse, the latter of which he met on one knee, closer to the floor. It was a sign of respect from the half-orc, but it would be left for the gnome to determine whether she would rather declare such obvious attention to her height as an offence. Nonetheless, he received two questions he should ask from Tyr, of the Ghoul Emperor and of the lair of the White Dragon. He had one or two of his own, however, and as the Ghoul Emperor's connection to Orcus had been all but confirmed, he decided it might not be among the most pressing of three things to ask. It could always be spared for another night.

In his room, the Paladin of Justice dug out an ornamental set of scales, where the middle was depicted as a warhammer in imitation of Tyr's holy symbol. He placed a stick of incense in each of the modified scale cups and placed his hands on the table under them, closing his eyes. He began muttering a prayer to Tyr's name, letting the magic flow through him and the scales alike. The powerful aura of the god of Justice arrived into his presence soon after, signing the time to ask his questions. This was the last time to second guess oneself, which it wouldn't be the first time if he did. Were the questions he would ask really the correct ones? Some needed to be left unasked for the more pressing ones to be assured to receive. It was times such as these he really hoped his mind was not partially that of an orc. With a heavy swallow and a parting of his suddenly dry lips, he got over the oppressive feeling and began.

"Should we seek the Ghoul Empire from Caelmarth?" he asked. Soon after he could feel the gentle touch of metal on top of his left hand, the scales having bowed to the side of 'Yes'. Their research had yielded fruit, it seemed. The half-orc almost smiled. Where there was a lead, there was a way. But there were still things to be asked.

The next question had taken some mulling over. Was it really of that much importance? Could he really skip asking the others for this? But if something was clear, it was the fact that Tyr's grace would not follow those on the expedition to the North. If they wanted their answers, the time was now. Finally he would let loose the question, before another wave of doubt would come over him: "Is it feasible to seek to collapse the lair of the dragon in the North?" A long second passed. Then another. Three more would go by. Finally he realised that no answer was forthcoming. Tyr could not answer. He bit his upper lip and cut his losses, moving on to the third question.

"Should those journeying to North seek Vael Turog?" he used his last remaining inquiry. And once again he could feel the touch of metal on his left hand. This time, however, it would linger. A foreign sensation crept into his mind. There was a want of knowledge. And that was what those journeying should experience. If not for the divine's presence, Marcus might not have understood. But now he knew what that was about. It was at Vael Turog where the others would find more answers than he could provide to them now. And then scale shot up from its lowered position and the feeling of divine presence faded, leaving the half-orc alone in his room.

He packed away the scales and got rid of the topmost layer of his clothing, climbing to bed. It would take a long time before he could really relax and settle down for the night and until then it would be staring at the ceiling and wondering just where the world was going. But wherever that was, he would be there as the shield of the little people.

---

Following dinner, Vale had just about enough scouring through books as she wanted. But still her curiosity remained. Just what kind of books were worthy of a royal? A trip back to the library, and a smile to the bookkeeper; she began her interest in the books. One by one, she took a book off the shelf; taking note of the name and general size of the work before putting it back as she found it. Moving on to the next one, and the next, and the next.... Somewhere at the start, she could've sworn she noticed the bookkeeper glaring at her. What reason this could've been, she had no idea. She was granted access to the books, so she shrugged it off. Nothing ever happened of it, so she assumed whatever the keeper's problem was, they were able to get over it. A lot of the books she had remembered pulling out from her actual studies, opting not to bother pulling those out. Of course, while she did end up looking at every single book; most of her knowledge of what the library contained were just fleeting thoughts. Nothing of interest ever did jump out at her, other than her favorite garden travelers guide.

A couple of hours had passed, and she had run out of things to do. Normally at night, she would be in the forest with the nocturnals. Though she didn't dare leave the keep while she remained a guest. She did, however, bring her latest stitching work with her. A small project already almost finished, but given her quick summon; she had little time to grab or start anything else. She found a nice place in the middle of the library to work. Stitching away at her little project; finishing the trim and testing it's quality. It was nothing to compare to lady Marvos' attire, but she was quite proud of it. A little work on her hair, and she'd figure herself to be quite ravishing. Maybe she'd treat the party to her new look come morning. Though, going off to fight a dragon and some giants in it wouldn't be ideal.

It was still extremely early in the morning by the time she finished her dress. Still plenty of time to waste away. She figured she might as well get cleaned up for the day's activity. Heading into the bath house to relax. It was no spring at the base of the mountains, but it felt good all the same. A coy little smirk inched across her face, using her psychic powers to allow her to breath water for a good period of time. The she submerged herself, not coming back up to the surface and watching the door; waiting for another to enter. Of course, the sun hadn't risen yet. And as she waited for a time that never came; hours went by. The bath house still and quiet as she waited at the bottom.

It was a bit disappointing, to be honest, but she eventually left. Gathering her things and opting not to put on her new dress as she made her way back to the library. The sun was ready to rise and with it the party's task at hand.

"Lady Mavros, that is no way for a noble lady to conduct herself!" A stern and almost growling voice rang out across the dining table. Far more fatherly than the Duke, the sharp lash of a disappointed paternal figure rebuking a child having snuck off late at night only to return in a state of total inebriation. "Abdicated or not, I expect you of all people to take the defense of Mavros with the appropriate amount of gravity required. Now off to bed with you, I'll see to preparing tonight for the morning. I thank you for the dinner Lord Mavros, now to rest these old bones." One last swing of mead from his tankard of sobriety, and a final spoonful of lentil soup. A simple man with his meals, needing no luxury nor great amount at his senior appetite, Kethan ate his fill of the Hero's Feast, fortifying himself for the adventure to come tomorrow. They have set their destinations, as all the information pooled created each team's destination. Though as the old cleric dipped his hands in the washing bowls and waved off the servants waiting to take the wizened one's to his chambers, Kethan took a side venture into the garden to walk in the mountain air. Eyes cast up into the night, pondering the stars and heavens for answers as to why. This cataclysm could be easily solved by the powers above if it were an ordinary invasion, and yet...

"Ah, Miss Lonett of Caernath... Rest well." Kethan nodded as he passed the monster slayer on his way to the Stables. He knew not the codes for their destinations, they get changed every few years, and it has been sometime since Kethan traveled outside his library. That and Kethan's memory was beginning to decay. The ravages of time and the function of age, and while Ada may forget her foolishness tonight by the morrow, Kethan found himself losing his recollections. The magical band around his head kept his mind decent enough, yet it was merely a crutch, one that he needed more than the symbolic cane he used on his evening stroll into the stables. Giving the owlbear a cautionary look before walking slowly down the corridor to find an emptied stable. There was a good chance they would venture there by foot. Or rather in this case by whatever mechanism of travel they had. Many among them had a fine steed, but Kethan took the long scenic route, stopping by to enjoy the local favourites and recall his days. Alas nothing was quite like the memory of itself nowadays. The times have chanaged, a decade ago the younger Ada would never be so crass as to publicly intoxicate herself. Perhaps Kethan had misplaced his trust in the ancient elf to keep his 'niece' from trouble, especially with that troublemaker... Jamie was it? The one from this morning that looked shifty, yes he would need to keep a close eye on him, although Jamie wasn't the rascal's name... Was it?

"Good Evening, Zaphkiel." The cleric of Ioun tapped his staff against the ground. Once, twice, and finally a third time before the celestial light bathed him. From the light, the spirit summoned, named by the Elder to be called forth from the heavens. A spirit taking the form of a white winged horse, an old friend Zaphkiel, one of Ioun's own. "We have a long journey tomorrow, Caelmarth, rest well old friend. The most powerful spell a mortal could cast, bending reality in nearly anyways Kethan pleased, although this time merely summoning forth a trusted steed to undertake the journey to Caelmarth with. The swift wings of his celestial mount would take Kethan there faster, although the others would have to find their own rides most likely. With his preparations complete, and a good bit of walking done to keep his joints loose and limber to keep up with the youth, Kethan finally entered his chambers, a comfort of bed and luxury. To refuse such down was to reject the bowl of lentils, thus such finery provided found itself carrying the weight of a sleeping old man. Uttering his prayers in the night in preparation to purge the undead alongside great heroes of legend.

Oh and something to cure Ada's possible hangover.

Janine Fawkes
Scrapmouse

Scrapmouse stopped chewing on her food for a moment when the Duchess came in drunk as a skunk. As Scrapmouse watched and listened to the duchess, she was silent, until she bursted out guffawing and laughing (after she swallowed of course). She was holding her sides with her gloved hands and tears started to pool at the edges of her eyes as the Duchess staggered out with the help of her assistants. Her laughter was probably at the same volume of Kethan's scolding. After Vincent apologized, Scrapmouse waved at him saying "Oh relax! That was hilarious! Besides, it's normal for someone to want to loosen up, especially with the missions coming up. Nobody's perfect,"

She then gave the half-orc her ideas regarding the dragon's cave. After the paladin left, Scrapmouse finished her part of the Heroes' Feast before it disappeared into nothing more than a dull, worthless, gem. Scrapmouse grinned as her little tinkerer brain recognized the spell. Of course that wasn't a normal feast. She then headed to the library. It was kind of late, and she was tired. She may love studying, but she knew that it would be wise to get a full rest. Tomorrow was going to be a busy day. Plus she was thinking of possibly getting to the library early in the morning tomorrow and find that book on giant and dragon relations.

But first, she needed to get Sparky.

She headed back to the library and commanded Sparky to follow her to her room. Like she was just going to leave Sparky out in the open for someone to try and steal or break Sparky apart.