TOTD Turn Five- Exile pt.5

After preparations are made and the band returns from upstairs, Thiel issues her challenge. Several moments pass in hushed silence, then without warning, eight globes of searingly bright light spring into existence. Screaming in sheer agony, people claw at their eyes and hoods, trying to blot out the pain. A female voice drifts across the room. "Hmm." The lights dim to a more tolerable level. Looking up with water streaming from teary eyes, and dots dancing across vision, people see the form of what one would guess to be an extremely beautiful human woman in the prime of her life. Reclining on an overstuffed sedan, she is garbed in a shimmering black dress slit clear to the hips on both sides, and nearly to her navel in the front. The sedan is held aloft by nothing, but there is a feeling that something is there. The woman smiles, her sky blue eyes twinkling. "That was most amusing. I must admit, though, I really need to improve on them. What do you think they could do if they could spray poison? Alcon, make a note of that. We must find a creature that sprays poison. You know, those creatures you created- have you ever thought about adding wings? Felmorie can help you with that. Cant you dear?" she says, looking to the side of the sedan where theres nothing but air. "So, you have broken into my tower, assaulted my guards, traipsed through my possessions, destroyed my belongings, and you dont even have the nerve& to knock?! I mean really!" She honestly seems disgusted by the thought. "You apprentices are just getting worse and worse each year. But if Tam thinks that he can destroy me from within, hes wrong. I have gotten stronger. No more mere enchanter am I. I dwell in his domain now. Yes, yes, you will do fine. You have such imaginations! But you need work." She turns her eyes on Jarkeena. "Well start by dissecting that one," she says nonchalantly.

Evilyn takes her position with back to the wall and both arms crossed. Either hidden hand is positioned over, but not touching, her loaded crossbow and swords. The warrior makes no movement other then recovering from the bright pain. Noting this womans control over the light sources, she mentally prepares to summon the cool darkness about her. Yet, she follows the Yathrinshees orders. Standing silent, her only occasional movement is to make eye contact with Chesir and then back to the woman.

After recovering her vision and witnessing the appearance of their adversary, Melrinthy moves into position behind her combat-mate, Zaltar, and awaits instructions from either the captain or the Yathrinshee.

Gareett keeps his hands in plain sight and slowly steps in front of Jarkeena, watching the priestess for signs of action.

Olerathiel notes that everyones so far obeying her orders, but then she frowns, bows to the woman, and turns around. Her hands flash in the silent language. She gives Chesir a suprisingly soft look. *Im afraid that there is no way we can gain vengeance upon her. Her lack of sanity is more than enough. I will do what I can to get your orcs returned, though, and hopefully theyre still alive and not changed too much yet.* She turns to the lady and bows again, speaking in drow, since thats how they were addressed. "Forgive us for our intrusion, Mistress, however before we crossed the sea to get here, you took one of our numbers servants. If you would be so kind, we would have them returned. But I must ask, how did you have those stones grant intelligence? Many of our numbers, as I said, are connected to the dark way, and would be much interested in learning this information as one so obviously highly skilled as you. This Tam person you speak of is surely a child compared to one of your vast talents," she says, hoping that they can get the orcs and leave.

Chesir is mildly and pleasantly surprised by Thiels reassurances, which puts him in a slightly better mood. When the human wizard appears, Chesir does his best to look as non-threatening as any armored drow with two longswords, a couple daggers, a big crossbow, and a whole lot of spears can look.

Vol listens intently at the strange womans words, wondering who the one referred to as Tam is. The woman was obviously very powerful, probably significantly more than the Drow Patrol could deal with. Vol was certain that the group would be lucky to escape the tower alive and indeed, the womans intentions seemed to involve using drow bodies as research tools. Mentally relaxing her stance to give the impression of casual indifference, Vol awaited the Yathrinshees answer.

The older drow turns around, again signing to the group. *Commander, I think we should stay here. There is the potential for us to learn much from her, even the warriors, judging from her skill in battle tactics and the weapons that some of you have already gained. She is totally insane, and I doubt she even realizes that we might have wanted to kill her. My suggestion is this- we stay here as long as it takes to heal naturally, and learn what she has to tell us. Then we part on good terms, with the assurances that we will come back and pay our "mistress" respect and learn more from her time to time. Think of the glory we could bring to the city and this patrol with one such as her backing us. In secret, of course, for we do not wish for others to tap into this valuable resource.* She gives a smile, one that softens her face immensely, making it truly radiant. *I feel most assured that she has our Dark Ladys protections, judging from what weve already seen. It would not be good if we turned down her offer of hospitality, I think, honored commander. But, I will leave the final decision to you, as is your right.* Its clear that its all she can do to run over and start probing this womans mind immediately, and shes actually trembling in what appears to be... excitement. ~Finally,~ she thinks. ~The chance to truly learn! I have waited all my life for a chance such as this. Kiaransalee, greatest of all goddesses, let it please be your will that we stay and learn.~

Melrinthy blinks at Thiels flattery of this woman Frankenstein, but remains silent, her Spectral Hand floating behind Zaltar, awaiting the combat she views as inevitable once the sorceress vivisects Jarkeena. It is not as though she has no faith in Thiels negotiating skills; the necromancer just believes that the adversarys insane curiosity will result in the drows deaths. Although, she was intrigued by the constructs, the secret of which would surely improve the position of House Deiz-lor...

Vol listens to the Yathrinshees reply and communication with the Patrol Commander. As the Yathrinshee finishes speaking, the scarred woman quickly communicates to her also in the silent tongue. *Yathrinshee Thiel, I humbly submit to you that the sorceress does not wish for us to learn much from her. Rather, she wishes to learn from us via experiment with our dead bodies and minds. She has already intimated an inclination to eviscerate the young acolyte in search for Jarkeenas source of power. I fear staying here will neither serve Kiaransalee nor us as we will become the unwilling vassals of the owner of this tower*

Thiel glares at the acolyte. *At this point, Id like to do some experiments on her myself! Let us here what she has to say further, though. Wed have to find a time to discreetly slip away, though, for she is far more powerful than initially thought. It is possible that you all correct and I was wrong in my judgement. But dont forget- Kiaransalee guided us here, and She must have had a reason for that. Jarkeena, I _still_ want the wand, drained or not.* She holds her hand out.

Witnessing the exchange between Vol and Thiel, Melrinthy silently hopes that the adversary is not fluent in the silent language. The drow necromancer quickly signals to Thiel and Vol. *She had some books in our tongues. A sorcerer of her power may understand the silent language or use magic to do so, so I respectfully suggest, Yathrinshee, Deathmistress, that we guard out tongues.*

Vol nods at the womans astuteness as the group awaits the next actions of the mysterious human enchantress. As the tension mounts, the scarred woman wonders whether the party will be sharing Kiaransalees feast in the Halls of the Dead before too long.

Thiel nods at both Vol and Melrinthy. *Either way, were going to have to tread carefully. If we refuse her offer to stay as apprentices, she must get upset and kill us immediately. On the other hand, we have a great opportunity to learn, should we manage to keep her appeased. Shes insane enough that I think we can manage to keep her bluffed out of killing us. But mistress, you told us to do this, remember? and that sort of thing. You said she has books and such in our tongue? That means that she might have information we can bring back to the city that will tell us the weaknesses of the other drow cities. But if we leave, the things you took from upstairs must be returned, for I fear she will notice things missing from her _personal_ bedroom. Do I make myself understood? If we leave here, she will surely notice and track down whoever stole items from her, and will likely obliterate us all.* She looks to Zaltar, hoping that he will step in and say something to help her position. *Just think of the power and glory we would gain by staying here even a short time. Think of the new spells, undead and weapons we could gain,* she urges silently.

Though Qilteral is in plain sight, there are many bodies standing in front of her. She attempts to fade away into the background, slowly scrunching down and inching her way back onto the stairs. At least from there she will be able to live longer, or so she thinks.

As Thiel talks, the human necromancer looks around the room at the others and smiles. "Such eager students you are, gathering my spell books like that. Now take them upstairs to the workroom. We have much to do. And I fear those rituals are too strong for you lad, you best put them back and start with something easier," she says. Her sedan floats forward a bit. "The stones? Oh, that was the work of Harrod. He is a bit mad, though, so I fear you will have to read his notes. Even," she begins to talk in a strange language at this point for several minutes. After a bit, she resumes speaking in both drow and undercommon. "We must be getting upstairs to the lab though, the tower defenses will be activating soon and I wouldnt want any of you hurt. Your rooms can be found on the middle landing of each step." She starts to float up the stairs and looks back for a moment. "What is a orc?"

Zaltar looks up at the woman and growls. His hands flash in the silent tongue, *Either we leave now or stay. If we stay we will remain no longer then three weeks. I wish everyones opinion on this one.* He waits for the groups answers.

*I wish to stay, commander. If shes even prepared rooms for all of us, I believe that to be a good sign. There is just so much that can be learned and gained by staying, in my opinion, most honored companion. And she will de-activate the traps for us. I think three weeks would be a valuable time to spend here, and Jarkeena can even get a start on her lessons with Ember in the meantime.* The Yathrinshee keeps her speech simple, feeling that shes already covered her beliefs quite clearly.

*I do not see the threat that the others do, we are drow, we do not fear mages. I say we stay and take what information we want,* Gareett signs quickly to Zaltar, keeping his eyes on Thiel.

Chesir looks up when the mad wizard asks what orcs are. "They are a species of humanoid, milady. Taller than we drow, and more muscular. Especially the three we are missing. Our orcs were wearing chain mail and carrying spears and flails. Orcs often vary widely in appearance, but ours had olive green skin, flat noses, and rather pronounced canine teeth. I know a great deal about them if you are interested. My family raises them."

Looking at Zaltar and then Thiel, Chesir responds to his leaders question. "I am willing to stay here for a while. There might be much to gain." His eyes shift to the weapons alcove.

Qilterals eyes flair up with the anticipation of progressing as a mage. Her hands flash, *Where else do we have to go? Here we can increase in power and then place a dagger in the hags back, then WE rule this castle.*

Gareett hands a scroll to Thiel and signs, *These are diagrams of Orcs from her bookcase upstairs.*

Melrinthy nods in assent after hearing the Yathrinshees decision. She speaks aloud in drow, "Aye, I am sure that we can learn much from this magus, in the art of creation and animation of lessers." As she speaks, she signals to Thiel, being as unobtrusive as possible. *But we had best watch our backs Yathrinshee, lest we become more animated guardians ourselves. I feel that we shall gain no knowledge here without a price.*

Signing carefully Evilyn answers, *And what of her desire to eviscerate Jarkeena? Aside from that minor detail, I shall stay.* With Qils enthusiastic suggestion at betrayal against the towers current sorceress, Evilyn nods slightly in an approving expression.

Moving towards Zaltar, so to be out of sight of the rest of those present Slaveriin hands move in the silent language. *I submit to your decision but I do not think it is wise to stay here one moment more than necessary.* Taking one more look at the mad sorceress he quickly finishes. *There is no gain for our houses or our city by dying here.*

Vol listens in on the groups views on staying within the tower counting only one nay, that of the warrior Slaveriin, although several have expressed trepidation and worry. Waiting finally to speak, the scarred woman addresses both the Patrol Commander and the Yathrinshee. *This human represents both great opportunity and great threat. She is immensely powerful and also mentally unstable; she has the key to great power and also the ability to destroy us all. She is obviously her for her own intentions and I fear it will be difficult to deter her in achieving her objectives once we go down her path on her terms- she will play with us as toys until she has tired of us. BUT we were told by the Council not to return to our beloved city unless we paid for our return with great glory, power and riches and it is obvious that this human has what we need.*

*It will be difficult to ascertain the time to leave if she even allows us to; she has not told us what price we must pay for becoming her apprentices/ experiments. I serve none save my Unholy Queen. I do nothing, save defend her clergy and her peoples. The life of Jarkeena Andar-ros is not a price I would be willing to pay for greater enlightenment, and the attitude that we will be eventually able to take from her what we want is dangerous. We will not be able to do that even if our power was multiplied many fold; if we even tried it she would slaughter us as we do the feeble ogglin we war against. BUT I ask again what is the PRICE we would have to pay?*

*Therefore my council is this- let the Yathrinshee ask this power what she would have of us in RETURN, what task(s) she would require of us. Staying here would benefit the Yathrinshee and the mages because of the learning they would undoubtedly gain, yet the warriors gain little. If she requires of us tasks to be completed, then let myself and the other warriors attempt these tasks, paying in time and effort for the time spent by the Yathrinshee and the others who would stay and learn. Then if anything should happen to those who stay within the tower, at least there would be the possibility of the warriors return to free those entrapped. Furthermore, I have one final suggestion- if you consider my council wise, then Jarkeena Andar-ros should come with the warrior group. Staying here longer for her will be deadly as this power has a morbid fascination of her. She can begin her studies with the Giants of Fire who will be accompanying us and be out of the immediate danger of becoming the humans first experiment with the Drow bodies. So, what say you dread Yathrinshee and honored Patrol Commander?*

When everyone voices their opinion on staying or leaving, Zaltar holds up his hand. "Enough, I have made my choice. We will remain here on the island for no more then three weeks, Jarkeena along with Vol will also learn from this woman, but Jarkeena will spend half her time with Ember as well." With that, the group splits, some heading upstairs and others down

As the group accepts the offer and separate, the band of spellcasters begin their studies in earnest. After the first day, it is quickly discovered that the wizardress needs neither sleep nor food, but at the end of each work-day, waiting in peoples appointed rooms (which are shared by the individual teams of partnered drow) platters of fresh food and decanters of chilled wine await.

In the time that passes, the group gets to know the woman better. Its learned that she originally hailed from the far-off land of Thay, and was what she deemed the Zulkir of Enchantment until her downfall at the hands of Szass Tam, ruler of necromancy. She was subsequently chased over much of the surface above, and ended up here, where she took up the study of necromancy and began to prolong her life-span past that of a normal human.

Between the youth-giving magic and her fear of Tam, her sanity was slowly eroded. In the years that passed, she took on drow apprentices to aid her in her war. However, each time the subjects of Tam or her former students are broached by the patrol members, she grows quiet. She seems an apt teacher, when her sanity holds true, and begins instructing the group in various magics. But as Thiel quickly finds, the woman changes subjects almost constantly. And to her growing irritation, getting her back on track is near impossible. So along with Melrinthy and the old notes of Herod, they stumble through the process of creating the gemstones and placing them in the undead.

Gareett soon discovers that his attempts to wander are thwarted by invisible guardians that allow him only to travel where the mistress permits. Evilyn quickly discards the stolen wands as useless after several failed, and one near disastrous, attempts to use them, likewise discovering that finding the command words to activate them properly is near impossible.

While at the tower, after learning how to put in the stones that impart intelligence, Thiel approaches Chesir and Slaveriin. "I would request that the two of you please train my undead in the ways of war, now that they have intelligence. Should you accept this, I will order them to obey your commands in these arts." She smiles at the two of them, not wickedly, but actually softly, somewhat kindly.

Chesir shrugs agreement, somewhat surprised at this second show of support from Thiel. "I will do what I can, Yathrinshee. If all goes well here at the tower, we might be able to equip them with magic weapons. We will command a fearsome force, especially if we somehow manage to bring my orcs along."

With a brief smile, Slaveriin nods. "I am willing to instruct them as best I can, it would be interesting to see how intelligent these undead have become and how well they will take to tactics."

While at the tower Slaveriin spends much of his time honing his fighting skills against all those who have the time hoping to learn any new tactics that may come in handy in their mission.

After Thiels request is made he attempts to train the undead as much as possible, individually and in groups, testing their limits, reflexes and speed.

During her time, Evilyn has bustled to and fro. Her early cycles have been spent with the tips of her blades touching the other fighters as the exchange blows, honing her skills. While not nearly as strong as her male counterparts, Evilyns swords strength lies in her grace and proficiency.

Over the weeks, she seeks interest in learning familiarity with the halberd of Zaltar and the spears of Chesir. "We should know each others weapons. Such understanding would allow us to fight with one another in mind. We should drill and set a strategy against singular foes and numerous opponents. We should also take this time to lay a battle strategy in certain contingencies."

The ShaurakHai soldier continues to spar with the other warriors, telling Evilyn all he can about spear-fighting when she asks. "Truth be told, Evilyn, I tend to use my longswords more often. I only use the spears as missile weapons or for fighting in formation. Since Im the only one with spears now, the possibility of a spear formation is more or less out of the question. My personal plan of battle is to start with my light crossbow from a distance, then charge while hurling spears, and finally close with my longswords. The hand crossbow and dagger are strictly weapons of last resort."

"I agree, the fighters should lay out some tactics together. You, Zaltar, Slaveriin, Carafnir, Vol, and I will have to discuss this together soon, perhaps including Ember if the giant is to continue with us."

Evilyn then begins renewing her training with the lizard riding, practicing almost religiously.

Near the second week, the group splits off into various other tasks. Gareett assists in summoning demons, while Melrinthy aids in making new constructs. Its in this time that Katrina, as she has come to be known, reveals what shes done to Chesirs orcs. One sports from the waist down the body of a giant lizard, while another has an additional pair of arms and a scorpions tail. The last one has amazing regenerative powers, which she shows by slicing the creature in two, and then allowing it to pull itself back together. On the bright side, the warrior finds the orcs are still completely loyal to him.

In the last week, Katrina reveals that the rod, which she had taken from Jarkeena before the acolyte could give it to Thiel, is indeed charged, but that she requires half the power in making a new creation. The warrior Carafnir spends a great deal at the humans side, offering counsel, or simply staring with her into her many scrying globes at far-away places.

Glistening with a sheen of sweat, Evilyns late cycle routine is with her nose buried in the crazed necromancers books. Not focusing so much upon the art of undeath as the others, she seeks to round out the patrols ability with spells from other areas of influence.

The three weeks period passed slowly for the scarred woman, each bringing different challenges to the drow group as they attempt to accumulate knowledge and greater power. Luckily, it seemed that the strange human was indeed insane and Vol could only praise Kiaransalee that the enchantress had forgotten her pledge to eviscerate Jarkeena in her quest for greater power. As time went by, Vol thought deeply about the groups next objective- Orehammer, home of the deep gnomes.

The svirfneblin were one of the drows ancestral enemies since beyond time and the Deathmistress eagerly awaited the confrontation- she practiced regularly with the warriors, keeping her martial skills to a fine edge; also some time was allocated to magical research and learning. Vol realized that any encounter with the deep gnomes would be furious, intense and deadly. The Underdark could only have one dominant race and Volgath would do her utmost to ensure that the Velddrinnsshar drow would be the victors. Also, success against the gnomes would almost ensure a glorious return back to the City and added to the potential booty gained to that of the increased trade links with the Fire Giants and the knowledge gained from the mighty sorceress. The pieces of the jigsaw puzzle would soon be coming together for the groups return. Vol smiled to herself. Yes the opportunity would soon arise for the exiled Patrols return to the City of their birth. The time when Vol would challenge Vinna Netmar for falsely accusing the Patrol to cover her Houses own shame; the offense against the City (and hence the Unholy Queen) would be revenged- Netmar would be exposed for the traitors they were!

On the last day, as the group breaks and prepares to leave, a dark pall has fallen over their hostess, for she doesnt even acknowledge they exist. Thiel deduces this is the work of Kiaransalee. Carafnir holds up the rod and a pair of silver arm bands. He explains, in a somewhat sorrowful voice, that before this newest ailment occurred, she recharged the wand and crafted the bands for the two giants that would shrink them to ogre size to better negotiate the smaller passages.

Descending the tower and climbing in the boat, where the various steeds, slaves and undead have been secured, the giants push off and begin to row to the far side. Shalla explains that it will be another two to three weeks to reach it, but that in itself is just a guess, as no giant has ever gone to the far side.

Sitting in the boat and watching the insane sorceress tower fade into the distance, Melrinthy suppresses a shudder. Acting as an apprentice to a woman of vast, nay unfathomable magical abilities whom also happened to be mad was a nerve-wracking experience, even for one who placed little value on life. ~Well, any life except her own, or a drow of superior caste,~ she thought morbidly. Although between the womans rantings, she did learn a few things about necrobiology and the reanimation of dead tissue that was certain to benefit the drow community, and hopefully herself and Diez-lor in the process. However, she reminded herself that such knowledge had a price, thinking briefly of Seth and that male who had perished before they reached the tower.

"Where to now, Yathrinshee, Commander?" the necromancer asks, wrapping her purple robes denoting her status as a sorceress around her for warmth.

Olerathiel shrugs, looking at Zaltar for confirmation. The time in the tower did her good- shes much more relaxed, and seems to be almost... friendly.

Zaltar grows extremely agitated at the thought of being in the boat for this length of time. When Melrinthy questions where they are heading to next, he shoots her a withering look and snaps out, "Orehammer."

After receiving a withering look from Zaltar regarding her question about their destination, Melrinthy shrugs. "I apologize, my combat-mate. What is our mission in Orehammer? Just to determine the numbers and strength of the svirfneblin? Or to achieve a specific goal? Understand, Zaltar, I am not questioning anyones authority; I merely wish to select what enchantments may benefit our patrol."

Once the boat is underway Gareett gathers the attention of the other mages. "Please inform me of what new spells or magical abilities you have obtained in the last few weeks. Also, Jarkeena, to what degree have your powers matured? One note for the future, if we come across any magical items, that are not clerical in origin, I expect that they will be brought to my attention instead of someone trying to figure out what they do on their own. Forget not that I was placed with all of you in my charge, be you mage, mage-fighter, or mage-priestess. In the future I would appreciate the respect of being consulted prior to any attempts to identify, or experiment with items, or decide tactics for a spell battle. I thank each of you for your assistance in continuing to make this patrol a success. Ember, I will also need to know what spells and abilities you possess other than your obvious overwhelming strength and size."

Carafnir slips forward and places a hand gently on her shoulder, he leans in close to whisper in her ear. "The commander is a man of action, long periods of inactivity agitate him, I fear. The past three weeks have taken their toll on him and I fear that idea of another three in this boat are making him worst, so tread carefully. Perhaps we should move to the back and talk amongst our selves, I have long desired to be alone with you...and talk."

Ember had been mostly quiet during the time that the patrol had known him, preferring either to keep to himself or speak casually to his sister in the Fire Giant tongue. When addressed, the giant responded promptly and respectfully, and generally to the best of his ability. He spoke in mostly subdued tones, and he seldom even made eye contact with the drow, especially those in authority.

Unlike so many of his fellows, Embers way clearly was not the way of bluster and threat and intimidation. He took his training of Jarkeena very seriously, and was a very patient teacher (even if the drow woman might not always be the most patient of pupils). He never took offense at anything Jarkeena said, and he treated her with great respect. He was generous in his praise, but if she ever became frustrated with her lessons, and took that frustration out on Ember by rebuking or abusing him, the giant would merely avert his gaze and mumble, "Im sorry. Perhaps we should continue our lessons at a later time." He would then depart, if allowed, leaving the woman alone with her anger. By all appearances, the giant was quite conflict-averse.

During the time at the tower when he was not training with Jarkeena, Ember expressed great interest in learning from the human enchantress. Although she knew little about fire, the most important of all types of spells, the womans sheer mastery of other matters magical was astounding, and Ember was determined to learn from her to the extent he was able. He showed next to no interest in weapons training or sparring, and only participated in such activities to the extent that Zaltar ordered it. Indeed, the only weapons Ember seemed to carry were several daggers and a bag full of boulders. Whenever there was a distinction made between "spellcasters" and "warriors", Ember identified with the spellcasters.

The fire giant looked down towards the ground as he responded to Gareett. "I know how to Affect Normal Fires and cloak people in Armor, although that spell doesnt do me much good since my skin is tougher than that naturally. I can also cast Dancing Fire and Fire Burst, and of course I can detect and read magic. From the second circle of power, I can cast Agannazzars Scorcher, Flaming Sphere and Pyrotechnics."

He grows a bit more animated and excited when he says, "And I am on the verge of learning how to cast the glorious Fireball spell!" He subsides again, though, when he adds, "But at the moment, that power is unfortunately beyond me."

The fire giant concludes with, "I typically carry a mixture of first circle spells, but my second circle spells are generally a pair of Scorchers and a Pyrotechnics."

As the meeting of mages is called Zaltar motions for Slaveriin and Chesir to join him in the prow. "I have need of the council of warriors. When we reach the passages of Orehammer I fear we will face a running battle and I want to be as prepared for it as possible, so let us plan. I would like to hear your suggestions on how best to proceed."

Chesir listens to Zaltars announcement and his invitation for ideas. "I am not sure of the distance or time involved with this mission, commander, so my apologies if this seems ignorant. If we intend to camp any time along this passage, we will of course have to trap the camp. Since were going to no doubt be pursued, I suggest we leave as many armed traps as we can in our campsites and along the way."

"I would also request that Qilteral and I assist with the rearguard. My cleric/mage partner and I could help leave a path of deadly traps behind us. My orcs will be invaluable. What better defenders? Klav can regenerate. Hell be perfect to stand beside we drow, absorbing a hideous amount of punishment instead of us. Gorlle has a giant lizard body. If nothing else, hell be a swift messenger, but he could attack from the walls and ceiling, casting spears. In a large cavern, he could rain spears from a higher elevation while remaining completely out of range of our enemies bows. Finally, Grashkin has extra arms and a scorpion tail. Id like to give him all the flails we can spare. And his tail will provides us with an excellent source of poison, should we ever desire anything more potent than our sleep darts. In addition, I believe Qilteral had a couple orcs that she could use in battle."

"I took as many weapons from Katrinas armory as I could. May I distribute the flails and spears to me orcs? And what about the swords, maces, and axes?"

Qilteral follows confused...and lost...trying to figure out what she has done over the last three weeks beside pray to her goddess several times a day and continuing the rituals. What magic has she learned? Has she gotten stronger in anyway? These questions echo in her mind.

As she boards the boat she looks at the rest of the group. "So, who is taking care of the witch? She may have trained us, but we dare not leave such a powerful HUMAN alive...and in a threatening position to our home." Again, Qilteral positions herself by Chesir.

Melrinthy visibly starts upon hearing Gareetts orders that all magi clear their activities through him, but her expression softens at Carafnirs gesture. "Why certainly, Carafnir. Why dont we move to the prow and talk." she replies, with one eyebrow raised. ~Ill leave it to Evilyn to put that arrogant male in his place. Still~, she thought as she eyed Gareett carefully, ~he did risk himself to protect Jarkeena in that sorceress tower.~ Melrinthy let her musings trail off as she turned her attention to Carafnir and permitted the warrior to escort her to the front of the boat.

Zaltars eyes grow to mere slits and a growl rumbles up his throat. He takes two quick steps and lashes out with the butt of his halberd, catching the woman in her midsection. With a shriek, Qilteral plummets backwards into the icy water of the sea. "I will not repeat myself again. We are leaving her alone. But if you wish her dead, you know where her island is." With that, he returns to his position at the prow, and his conversations.

Qilteral levitates herself up out of the water. "HOW DARE YOU ASSULT A CLERIC OF KIARANSALEE! I DONT CARE WHAT HOUSE YOU ARE! YOU ARE STILL A PATHETIC AND WEAK MALE!" she shrieks, throwing daggers at the commander.

"By Kiaransalee!" Melrinthy curses. "Carafnir, help Qilteral!" she cries, her delicate hands momentarily caressing the warriors chest. Melrinthy herself grabs hold of one of Chesirs spears and reaches it out towards Qilteral before the boat leaves the cleric/mage behind in its wake. As the necromanver does so, she steels herself for the inevitable conflict between the patrol leader and the priestesses, for Zaltar had struck one of Kiaransalees own!

With a practiced snap of the wrist, Evilyn lets her hand flash from her hip. In an instant, cradled at its extended length is a rather mundane, but functional, hand crossbow. Lining her eye, check, armored arm, looking over the rasp and down the quarrels length, Evilyn aims for Zaltars chest. In time with her breathing and without thought Evilyn exhales, counts her heart beats, and slowly squeezes the catch setting the quarrel in motion.

Ember regards the escalating conflict with apparent alarm, and he immediately stops rowing. He attempts to distribute his ample weight so that the loss of a passenger and the violent, sudden moves associated with combat would not capsize the vessel. His eyes shoot immediately towards Jarkeena...perhaps for guidance? Aside from that, Ember takes no independent action.

Chesir shouts, "Treachery!" when he sees Qilteral throw her first few daggers. He and his new-and-improved orcs prepare to defend their leader. ~Pathetic and weak males. She sounds like a Lolth worshipper. If she survives this betrayal, Ill have to keep an eye on her.~

"Yathrinshee, restrain your underling before this ends in death!" Chesir has his light crossbow up, and his orcs are ready to cast magic spears at Qilteral and anyone else who wants to commit treason.

Thiel shakes her head imperceptibly at Vol, telling her to stay out of this. She stays seated, however, trying not to keep the boat from flipping over. An icy glare fills her eyes as she looks at Qilteral and Evilyn. "The two of you act no better than Lolth worshippers with your lust for power and glory. The woman was favored by Kiaransalee- I felt the Dark Ladys touch while in the tower, something neither of you will every feel, for you have shamed yourselves in mine, and hers, eyes. You continually argued with the commanders decisions, clearly seeking power that the Dark Lady, through the commander, did not see fit to give you. You disgrace your commander, your patrol, and most importantly, your goddess," she hisses. "The right for vengeance is the commanders. If he orders me to kill you for your treason, I will, but as I said, the right is his, and I will obey the commander." Her words have an eerie tone to them- sad, perhaps, because she knows that a member of the clergy is about to die, as well as someone she had wished to understand better, but radiant as well, for she knows that her goddesss portfolio of vengeance would soon be exacted... Her hand strays to her enchanted mace as she awaits Zaltars command, knowing full well the darts and daggers will never reach him. As she remembers what shes learned about Zaltars secret ally, her lips curl into a sneer directed at the two foolish ones, even though they are female.

Qilteral halts her second volley of daggers and glares DOWN onto Thiel. "Does not Kiaransalee wish her followers to increase in power and rule those around us? Why would a HUMAN be favored by our most powerful goddess? Why do you show weakness now? Siding with a male that strikes out at HIS OWN CLERICS! HE struck at me upon a simple statement! I brought NO threat to him. I did NOT challenge his orders. I have NOT challenged his orders. I may have not agreed with them...but I did as...suggested. Now you are allowing him to attack me? May the light take you both! I ask you this then...Why do you treason against Kiaransalee? Why do you side with a male...who OPENLY attacks Kiaransalee than one of her own? After all, an attack on one of OUR goddess followers is like an attack upon Her."

Jarkeena casually looks around the boat wondering how many of its passengers can actually swim, shrugs to herself, and moves to the back of the boat to avoid the fight that is sure to come in the next few minutes.

Embers eyes widened even further upon hearing Qilterals tirade. It was strange, how these Drow argued theology. It seemed a clear truth to Ember that the gods were beyond mortal ken, and their ways were often mysterious to the point of utter opacity. So questions such as, "Why would Kiaransalee favor a human" seemed rather pointless to Ember; either she did, or she did not.

~Come to think of it, ALL theological debate can probably be categorized in the same fashion,~ thought Ember. ~Anyway, none of it really matters here.~

In truth, what really mattered here was the interpretation of the RANKING theologian, and that appeared to be the one known as Thiel. And accusing such a one of treason against her goddess hardly seemed to be the wisest course of action, especially in light of Thiels rather ominous statement only moments before. If any acolyte had challenged the shaman Belcor so, he surely would have thrashed the whelp soundly. Belcor probably would have let the acolyte live, but then these Drow seemed even more ruthless and bloodthirsty than the Children of Fire. He thought back on poor, innocent Brand, melted to nothing despite being able to withstand the hottest lava.

Then he reflected for a moment. ~Actually, Brand was a foul bully who used to beat you when you were young, and you never liked him one whit. Strange, how death at the hands of an outlander makes a body more noble and sympathetic. Hes a more likable martyr than he ever was as a person.~

His older sister had defended him against Brand, as she had with all of the others. Ember was smaller than most of the Children of Fire (although still much, much larger and stronger than any human or demi-human), smaller and weaker than even his sister. But he was smart, and clever, and he eventually discovered that he had the Gift. He supposed that made up for his other, more physical shortcomings.

Still, it would have been nice to have been able to thrash Brand a time or two in his youth.

~And now hes dead. Ah well, at least you still live on. You and Shalla both.~ He shot a sidelong glance at his sister, to see if she remained safe. It was only then that Ember realized that he had first looked in on his new charge, even before his own sister, and for that he felt a bit ashamed.

He quickly forgave himself, though, because Jarkeena was his student, and more importantly, she was so strongly Gifted that she had managed to immolate one of the Children of Fire. One of the Children of Fire! And that was no mean feat.

He shook his head, and shook himself out of his reverie. Still endeavoring to maintain the balance of the boat, Ember continued to regard the proceedings with apprehensive interest.

As the first set of daggers fly from Qilteral, Slaveriin draws his wickedly notched longsword, and settles into a fighting stance beside Zaltar. Keeping his eyes on the rest of those in the boat for any other sources of threat, with a quick glance at the commander for guidance.

As people explode into action on the boat and Evilyn fires her crossbow, she realizes her mistake, most of the warriors plus Melrinthy stand between her and him. Her bolt strikes Carafnir in the chest causing him to stumble backwards, likewise Qilterals dagger strikes Chesir and bounces into the water harmlessly. Zaltar growls again and barks out something in a unknown language. Carafnir reaches into his pouch and tosses the small statue down while calling out to his new pet. In moments the tell-tale black mist rises up and forms into the crouching dog Onyx. Meanwhile Jarkeena and Gareett remain towards the back of the boat with the giants, keeping quiet.

Zaltar raises his own hand crossbow and levels it at Qilteral, "You are a fool, both of you. You forget why we are here, here where my word is law. There is no high priestess to run to, no one to protect you. We are here not because of our last commanders words but because we crossed the wrong people in the city and they want us dead, you have just made that easier for them. Already we have lost two of our numbers and now we will lose two more, I will not let you or anyone stand in my way of bringing this group back to the city in full honor." He pauses for a moment. "I care not who the dark goddess favors or does not favor, that is not my place. My place is to lead this group as I see fit. I am not a giving man by nature or a patient one." He looks to the others. "Kill them both."

Assuming her conversation with Carafnir will have to be postponed, Melrinthy hesitates, looking to Thiel and Vol to see whether they obey Zaltars command to slay Qilteral and Evilyn for their attack on the commander. She levitates above Qilteral, in order to get out of the line of fire and readies her Magic Missile spell.

Qil'teral summons her globe of darkness ON the boat while she levitates herself closer to the ceiling. From there she sends a silent prayer out. "Oh mighty and all powerful Kiaransalee. You have heard it yourself. He denounces your law, your way of life, he denounces YOU! He has threatened my life, as well as yours, and now is attempting to take it before I can spread your glory and destruction to its fullest. I beg of you...aid me in some way. Dont let me perish to the hands of this...this...rothe dung. Allow me to bring down your punishment upon him."

With a quick nod at Zaltar, Slaveriin advances quickly on Evilyn with the wickedly notched longsword acquired from humans tower, giving Evilyn as little time to react as possible. With all his strength he launches a viscous attack on her for defying the patrol commander.

Gareett moves to interpose himself between the fighters and the priestess. He stands with empty hands before him facing Zaltar. "If I may speak before further action is taken." Gareett waits a moment and then continues to speak to the commander, "You have spoken true, our lives are at your command. As a commander it is your responsibility to see our safe and glorious return to the city, if it is discovered that you ordered the death of a priestess for the simple insult of questioning your command, then your job will be that much the harder. I suggest that you think of another punishment, one that would not have the possibility of dividing loyalties between us. If however, it is a death that you feel you need, then I offer mine own life for that of the priestess. Know this, that I am not able to sit by and watch harm come to one Kiaransalees chosen, and I will regrettably have to attempt to stop anyone from doing such a thing." As he finishes speaking Gareett kneels down to one knee and bows his head to Zaltar.

Evilyn prepares to defend herself against those approaching, letting her crossbow fall and drawing her enchanted blade. Not turning to face Olerathiel she yells to her, "I have no slight against the commander nor do I have any care for the human, I only sought to protect a faithful of our Lady. I believed the will and loyalty to Kiaransalee is greater then the any loyalty to mortal. If I am to die for that, then it be done by your hands, Yathrinshee, and let our goddess decide my fate."

Evilyn tries to put her back to the boats edge, with her blades kept at a defensive position, not wishing to cause any more disruption, but fearing it is too late.

Thiel rises, pulling out her mace. She stops the attacking Slaveriin. "She accepts her fate, she deserves to die as she requests. Kill Qilteral, I will not soil my weapon with her blood. But first," she looks at Qilteral. "Our goddess is unlike any other. She gladly embraces _all_ who follow the dark path. Did you not notice how long this woman has lived? And how skilled she was? You cannot feel Kiaransalees touch as I do because only those who walk the Dark Path and live can feel any motion by her Goddess. I have spent many more years in service to the Dark Lady than you can begin to imagine, any of you. Kiaransalee appreciates order, to some degree. You have brought complete chaos down upon this group. You say you never argued, yet you sit here arguing with one who ranks above you in the clergy, not to mention the commander. There is no other way-Kiaransalee will give you her final judgement this evening." She walks over to Evilyn, and caresses her cheek softly. "I will not take long," she says softly, almost tenderly. "But you did attack the commander when he had the right of decision, as Kiaransalee willed. Tonight you will dine with her, and perhaps there you will find the divine forgiveness and be allowed to serve at our Mothers side in death." Her mace raises, then falls, swiftly. A tear, perhaps, sparkles in her eye for a moment, then is gone. She looks at Zaltar. "Your will, by Kiaransalees grace, has been done. Let us be gone from this treacherous place."

With Thiel before her Evilyn asks, "Spare me. I had to choose in a moment the safety of a priestess over the commander. It is as I was taught. Kiaransalee, Velddrinnsshar, House, then Patrol. I am in the right for my actions and I would defend any priestess again against any enemy foreign and domestic, by Kiaransalees will."

Evilyn stands proud with both swords lowered accepting her fate, but wishing none the less for a second chance.

Qilteral rants to the Yathrinshee, "That is where you lie to yourself and YOUR lack of faith shows. The almighty Kiaransalee is VERY chaotic. Her realm of existence is in the Abyss! Even our own clergy is taught not to follow order, rather what our mother teaches! Without chaos, nothing would change are get better. All I simply implied is what are we to do with the lady. I have spent the last three weeks performing rituals and duties to our Mother, I am sure I would have been aware of ANY kind of favoritism to that human. The fact still stands: Our....leader....attacked my w/o cause. An attack on the clergy, an attack on YOU, and an attack on Kiaransalee. You heard him denounce Her yourself! If you embrace this then YOU are turning on Kiaransalee."

She levitates a little hire, preparing her escape..."The attack was done by him. Not me. I simply asked a question? How am I to be sentenced to death when HE ATTACKED ME! Over a simple question."

As the blood red mace rises up and starts to fall at the young woman it simply stops in the air and no amount of forcing moves it. The face on the mace twists up into a sneer and a female voice resembling that of Thiel issues from its mouth. "You are all so funny, is this what the children of Matron Alithra have become? No wonder you were kicked from the city. The dark goddess should have turned her back on you long ago, only she knows why she has not." A sound like tearing papers issues from the mace. "Either way she has spoken and I will not strike down this woman. Her place is here for now and any who change that will deal with me." With that the voice falls silent and moves back to the Yathrinshees side.