Play by E-Mail Turns

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=80 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF" bgproperties="fixed" background="11200500dvldtc.gif"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FFCC66" FACE="Arial" ><B>The Soaring Blade</B></FONT><B>     |     </B><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="The Soaring Blade"><U><B>home</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id169.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Artaylium 3E"><U>Artaylium 3E</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id177.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="History"><U>History</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id123.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Aspects"><U>Aspects</U></A>   |   <B>Play by E-Mail Turns</B>   |   <A HREF="id86.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Llorkth"><U>Llorkth</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id144.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Artwork 1"><U>Artwork 1</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id21.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Artaylium Stenis"><U>Artaylium Stenis</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id122.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Magic Items"><U>Magic Items</U></A></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=210 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF" background="2f0d2c00dvldtc.gif"> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" height=400 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF"> <div> <B>Play by E-Mail Turns</B></div> <div>  This section of the Soaring Blade web-site is meant to allow the players to keep up with what has been happening with thier e-mails without having to search the Egroups database. I have compiled all e-mails from the list here.</div> <div>   <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0099FF" FACE="Arial" >I am working on highlighting the player's messages in blue</FONT>. The DM's messages will be in grey. </div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="527" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 19 ><NOBR><div> Current DM mail will be highlighted in yellow and placed in an outline. </div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div>   Note that this is a repost of all the avalible e-mails, not written as a story. Details may be a little choppy. Hopefully everything will be understandable. If you have any questions, please e-mail me!</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="24b6c5f0.jpg" border=0 width="108" height="95" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> <div> Startan approched Artaylium as the king looked out across his balcony at his great gardens. The old but powerful-looking human wore his usual serious face.</div> <div>   "My King, I know you have heard of the disaster that has befallen the church in Waterdeep. The church from our kingdom might be making a donation to hep rebuild the cathedral. The Aristocrats think that it migh be good diplomacy for the Crown to also make a donation."</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>General Startan Bladeprayer</B></I></div> <div>   "I for one say we have made our donation through the church."</div> <div> <I><B>Taymon Stormbreaker</B></I></div> <div>   "You gained much treasure in your last adventure; the Treasury is doing quite well. Giving a potion of the wealth on top of the donation of the church would gain the favor of Tyr, I am sure."</div> <div> <I><B>Lysara</B></I></div> <div>   "I see no visions about this action, my King."</div> <bR> <div>  </div> <div> <B>Treasury +4 (due to the Final War)</B></div> <div> <B>Feeling of Security +0</B></div> <div> <B>Justice +0</B></div> <div> <B>Traders +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (The Great Dragon) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (Tyr) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Food +0</B></div> <div> <B>Barbarians +0</B></div> <div> <B>Diplomacy</B></div> <div> <I><B>  Spire, Malakorth +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Earanath +0</B></I></div> <div>   <I><B>The Aristocrats +0</B></I></div> <bR> <div> Little hesitancy is given by Artaylium as he states his decision: </div> <div> Being that the predominant religion in Llorkth is that of Tyr, it would only seem fit that the Crown make a sound donation to the rebuilding of the Church of Tyr in Waterdeep. Artaylium states that the coffers have expanded due the recent adventure and the finances of the kingdom should not be affected by this donation. He believes that this act will be seen as favorable by Tyr and in return Tyr would continue to grant good fortune and protection to the kingdom and his people. Artaylium adds that each worker and artisan bear both the symbol of Tyr and Llorkth while in Waterdeep. This is done to send a message that Llorkth is a Just and prosperous kingdom and that it's influence is present throughout the realms. </div> <div> ----------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div>   Artaylium was proud of the message he was about to send to Waterdeep. He looked across his mighty gardens, basking in the beauty of his rose fields. His wife beside him, he knew Tyr would be proud.</div> <div>   "How many men will you be sending?" asked Dressa, Artaylium's weredragon queen. Her hair of silver and eyes that matched were never as beautiful as they were here in the gardens. Her voice, although calm and soothing, held a great power and literaly echoed as she spoke. All that had met her knew that there was something inhuman about her, but none had asked about her true nature in all the 25 years that llorkth had been under Artaylium's control. </div> <div>   "A few dozen, my wife. More than enough to help redesign and build the church once again." Artaylium took her hand. </div> <div>   As often he was, Artaylium was interrupted by Taymon Strombreaker, the man who brought the Soaring Blade together. "Artaylium, there are a group of dwarves here who wish to speak with you, as well as a few other men."</div> <div>   "Very well, tell them to meet me in the throne room." Artaylium kissed his bride's hand, then swept his cape behind him as he strode away to meet his unexpected guests.</div> <div> ----------------------------------------------</div> <div>   In the throne room, Artaylium was already seated as the dwarves, accompinied by a few humans, were led to meet him.</div> <div>   The oldest and obviously most brave dwarf sttod up, chest out. "King Artaylium Stenis-Dragonflame, ruler of Llorkth the Dragonrealm, Dragonmaster, member of the Soaring Blade, and friend to the dwarves, I am Yeroc Drowkiller, Son of Maroc Drowkiller, Leader of the dwarven people of Llorkth, forger of the Blades of Duran and slayer of Karaxantalianus the beholder. I come to speak to you of the orders that the carpenters have recieved to bear the symbol of Llorkth and of Tyr on our journey to Waterdeep."</div> <div>   "We have no reason not to wear the symbol of Llorkth on this travel, as it is a just and wise kingdom, and although ruled by eleves, they are elves of the highest quality, known for their prowess in battle as well as their heroism. However, we, as the families of dwarves that reside in Llorkth, as well as the capenter's guild, would ask the king to renounce the order to make us bear the symbol of a god that we do not worship as our own. Llorkth has always been a kingdom of freedom to worship as we see fit. Are we now forced to wear the badge of your god?"</div> <bR> <div> -----------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> "The church has agreed to accept donations from the crown, my lord." General Startan stated with professional seriousness. </div> <div> The King's accountant, Merior, approached the king, obviously a little nervous. Even after years of service, the mathmatician was obviously shaken by the king's presence. "M-my lord, the treasuries are filled with the gaind from your most, um, recent exploit, and I dare say we have enough to give the church in Waterdeep. However, having a filled coffer will make the people of Llorkth feel that their throne is a strong one. Um, surly you do not wish to send all of that treasure? Even a small amount of it would be more than others will offer." </div> <div> DM: Todd, you will have to decide on how much of the treasure of your +4 Coffer to send. For example, if you send 2 points, your coffers rating will fall to +2. Be warned that the expenditure will affect your kingdom in suprising ways! </div> <div> ---------------------------------------------------</div> <div> As with all lengthy projects, Artaylium understands that to build a chuch of Tyr in Waterdeep will be quite an undertaking. A temple of Tyr in a city of this size and religious following will more than likely be a grand and costly place of worship to establish indeed. Assuming that some of the materials to be used will be of high quality, Artaylium wishes to give a good sum of the newly acquired monies for this cause. No expense should be spared to build such a place to Tyr's liking. However, since there has been no mention at this time of total costs, time frames, and ability to gather the needed materials, Artaylium feels it neccessary to donate 1+ of the coffers. By this, he can determine with more confidence and support of his royal counsel as to the amount the next donation as well as subsequent donations should be. He hopes this will be seen as a move of not just initial support, but continued support throughout the building of the temple. </div> <div> ----------------------------------------------------</div> <div> Todd: It appears that I have been mislead by misinformation. I would not have had Artaylium suggest the Dwarves bear the badge of Tyr if I would have known they were not followers. I do wish for them to bear the symbol of Llorkth however. </div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> <B>Treasury +3 </B></div> <div> <B>  </B>Artaylium sent a donation to Waterdeep.</div> <div> <B>Feeling of Security +0</B></div> <div> <B>Justice - . 2</B></div> <div> <B>  </B>Although there was no real harm done, the dwarves and the carpenter's guild had their egos bruised for a moment before the king revoked his decision to make the carpenters wear the badge of Tyr.</div> <div> <B>Traders +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (The Great Dragon) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (Tyr)   + . 2</B></div> <div> <B>  </B>Tyr certainly sees that the King's choice to send a smaller amount at several diffrent times was wise, but he is a god of justice, not a god of wisdom. A greater donation would have seen more of an increase in favor.</div> <div> <B>Food +0</B></div> <div> <B>Barbarians +0</B></div> <div> <B>Diplomacy</B></div> <div> <I><B>  Spire, Malakorth +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Earanath +0</B></I></div> <div>   <I><B>The Aristocrats +1</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>    </B></I>The Aristocrats favor the donation. It wasn't so much that it stung the kingdom, took nothing from thier own coffers, and made them look good in the process.</div> <bR> <div> Startan approaches:</div> <div> "My King, there is a message for you from Corshel Lander of Landergale."</div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> "My kingdom has decreed to respect it's own boundaries and to go no further</div> <div> unless otherwise agreed upon by the surrounding establishments with whom we</div> <div> are in good standing. This decree most certainly includes the Druids, who</div> <div> would have a great influence upon my decision to annex more land if needed,</div> <div> but as it stands, it is not the intentions of Llorkth to expand nor use</div> <div> another's resources. Our boundaries are well defined and these men should be</div> <div> aware of their trespasses. I do not find it odd that the Druids spoke to you</div> <div> first about this, for your ties with them are far stronger. However, tell</div> <div> them I will not turn a deaf ear to their requests. They may seek me out</div> <div> themselves if they so wish. I will have this matter looked into immediately,</div> <div> and I will let you know what news comes forth as soon as it arrives."</div> <div> Artaylium pauses, then adds, "It's been good to see you again old friend. We</div> <div> shall talk again soon enough."</div> <bR> <div> "It appears, Magnus, that your search has benefitted both of us to some</div> <div> degree." Taking the book of Llorkth, Artaylium says, "I hope what you found</div> <div> concerning the witches proves to be useful. I have no doubt that you will</div> <div> ready yourself with all that you can attain before making contact, but to go</div> <div> at such a task alone will be of some risk. I can speak of only one more</div> <div> place to aid you: the libraries of Shalamar. And as of this book, my</div> <div> interest in it grows already. Maybe it will tell the history of Llorkth and</div> <div> of the surrounding lands. I am pleased to have it."</div> <bR> <div> "...and Magnus, do not feel you must make use of the shadows in this place.</div> <div> You are welcome here."</div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> Due to the situation, I am adding Loudwater and The Druids to Llorkth's Diplomacy ratings.</div> <bR> <div>   The royal forrester approached Artaylium. He wore a serious face, seemingly not troubled by being called before the king. Artaylium knew better; with his ring, he sensed that the man was fearful of the king and wished to simply come out of the meeting without being imprisoned. His greatest desire was to just have things go on as they were before this whole meeting took place. </div> <div>  From his thron, Artaylium spoke. "Do you know why you have been called before me?"</div> <div>   "Yes, my Lord. It is due to the cutting that Loudwater and Llorkth have begun past our kingdom's boarders."</div> <div>   Artaylium paused. Loudwater was also cutting in the High Forest. "Please explain to me why you have gone across our kingdom's reach to cut wood from the High Forest."</div> <div>   "My Lord, the normal cutting wood in our land has become home to Frost Barbarians. Although we do not think they are great in number, they have killed two cutters. I decided that it would be safer to cut to the north. We did send scouts into the wood, and the area is unclaimed territory."</div> <div>   <I>Unclaimed by humans</I>, Artaylium thought. The land is not part of Landergale, and it was much easier to reach by the kingdom of Llorkth. The forester had made a fair decision based on what he was aware of.</div> <div>   The forester continued. "I did not know you would take offense, my Lord, but the other forests in our kingdom are too hard to reach. The militia has been unable to find the barbarians in the west wood. My men are afraid to cut there or in the east wood due to the great desert. There are many reports of Phaerimm being seen in that area. It has been said a powerful priest was killed in those woods. Winter approaches and we need good strong wood to keep families warm and to trade with other kingdoms. A loss of that timer would mean a huge loss in the trade, and what shall we do for firewood? Shall we have to travel great distances to gain our lumber, or shall we have soilders sent with us to cut wood? Where shall we cut?"</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>General Startan Bladeprayer</B></I></div> <div>   "An excellent idea. We could send men with the foresters into the wood each day to protect them from the barbarians. They could cut as usual."</div> <div> <I><B>Taymon Stormbreaker</B></I></div> <div>   "If you don't mind, Artaylium, I will travel to Loudwater and try to explain the situation. I'm sure they will understand.."</div> <div> <I><B>Lysara</B></I></div> <div>   "In my visons I see a great white wolf ready to strike."</div> <div>  </div> <div> <B>Treasury +3 </B></div> <div> <B>Feeling of Security +0</B></div> <div> <B>Justice - . 2</B></div> <div> <B>Traders +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (The Great Dragon) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (Tyr)   + . 2</B></div> <div> <B>Food +0</B></div> <div> <B>Barbarians +0</B></div> <div> <B>Diplomacy</B></div> <div> <I><B>  Spire, Malakorth +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Earanath +0</B></I></div> <div>   <I><B>The Aristocrats +1</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Loudwater +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  The Druids +0</B></I></div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> Artaylium would keep in mind that the royal forrester used his best judgement, but the cutting in the High Forrest must stop immediately- at least for now. Artaylium knew he would have to make his decisions on the assumption that the frost barbarians were there to stay for the winter. The idea proposed by Startan was plausable, except for the fact that if the barbarians were to see armed men in the area they might see this as an act of aggression. Artaylium knows that Llorkth doesn't need to start a war with the barbarians especially with winter fast approaching. This undoubtedly would give them an advantage due to their seemingly resistance to cold not to mention a war in that area would most assuredly mean no cutting at all would take place in the area. However, even the barbarians themselves should place limits on their territory. He states that scouts will be sent into the surrounding area to observe for any activity. Based on reports from the scouts, their borders could be determined and cutting would resume a safe distance away. The scouts would then make periodic ventures into the woods to see if the barbarians were expanding their territory. If so, modifications would be made. Artaylium thought, "If only Kendal were here he tell me of these barbarians and their ways." In the mean time, Artaylium will also consider the land near the great desert for he knows that although the Phaerimm are powerful creatures capable of almost anything, they are limited to the desert. A small patch of woods clear of the sands could help Llorkth get through a few winters. Artaylium will call the meeting to an end. Now he would go to his private chambers to the magical orb to summon Corshel. On the way, he tells Lysara, "Let us hope this keeps <B>'</B>the great white wolf<B>'</B> at bay." </div> <div> "Corshel, I have commanded the cutting in the High Forrest be stopped. Tell the Druids my men will leave the area and that we will attempt to cut elsewhere. And may I ask a favor of you? Can you find out if the Druids are willing to offer any information about the Frost Barbarians for I feel they might have insight on their intentions." </div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------</div> <div>   Dressa placed a hand on the shoulder of her husband, seeing he was anxious to hear from his scouts. It had been over a day and a half, and still no word. She smiled. The decisions he had made in the last few days were good, and she had a feeling that everything would be all right now as far as Llorkth cutting into The High Forest. She watched as Careasonna, her beautiful daughter, played with the other aristocratic children in the royal rose garden. One of them fell, and Dressa went to see if he was all right.</div> <div>   Artaylium had not told her that her son was the villian behind the capture of Careasonna and the near-death of the Soaring Blade.It would be so much for her to handle. Dressa was a strong person, but Artaylium did not know of she was that strong. He could still barely beleive that his own flesh and blood had been so corrupted by the Red Wizards. Careasonna never knew Malicor was really Dinian Dragonflame. Artaylium wondered if he should ever tell her.</div> <div>   What if there was a chance that Dinian could be brought back to the side of Tyr? What if he came back before then...</div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------</div> <div>   Artaylium watched as Dressa went to see if the human boy was not injured, as he sensed Bladeprayer coming to greet him. "Any news Startan?"</div> <div>   "Yes, my Lord, the scouts, led by Kinias, have detirmined that there is a boundry after all. The barbarians seem to be centered around the area of the Old Broken Hills, which seems to be some sort of religious place to them. As long as we do not venture near that area, I think that cutting will not be dangerous. The scouts purposely tested the barbarians in single numbers, and those that were near the area were simply intimidated more than attacked, and those outside the area were not attacked at all."</div> <div> <I><B>General Startan Bladeprayer</B></I></div> <div>   "Do not take my meaning as to say that these barbarians are a peaceful people; they have already killed two men and we have battled  with them in the past. I'd just as well take a force of rangers into the wood and cut them down."."</div> <div> <I><B>Taymon Stormbreaker</B></I></div> <div>   "Loudwater at first was going to refuse to stop cutting, but once the news of the boundries came in, they will begin cutting in the usual spots again. However, they will do so with a light guard."</div> <div> <I><B>Lysara</B></I></div> <div>   "My lord, I see that the great wolf has relaxed, although it is still tense. It rests upon a snowy hill and waits for the moon to change."</div> <div>  </div> <div> <B>Treasury +3 </B></div> <div> <B>Feeling of Security +0</B></div> <div> <B>Justice   - . 5</B></div> <div> <B>  </B>The barbarians killed two men and have gone unpunished, causing - . 3 to be subtracted from the Justice score. In the big scheme of things, the death of two mean may not seem like a lot, and their deaths do not register as high here as they do in other Aspects.</div> <div> <B>Traders +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (The Great Dragon) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (Tyr)   - 1. 8</B></div> <div> <B>  </B>Tyr is not happy about the barbarian people going unpunished, and Llorkth loses 2 points of Favor from that god.</div> <div> <B>Food +0</B></div> <div> <B>Barbarians - .  5</B></div> <div>   The barbarians are agitated at the new activity in the wood, but do not take it as a sign of hostility, Artaylium thinks</div> <div> <B>Diplomacy</B></div> <div> <I><B>  Spire, Malakorth +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Earanath +0</B></I></div> <div>   <I><B>The Aristocrats +2</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>    </B></I><I>The good decisions by the king in the last few days have a positive effect on this relationship</I></div> <div> <I><B>  Loudwater +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  The Druids +2</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>    </B></I><I>The druids are pleased that there was such a quick and positive response</I></div> <div> <I>------------------------------</I></div> <div> Artaylium responds to General Startan's comment: </div> <div> "General, I understand your feelings toward the barbarians. Bear in mind, however, that they see a part of these woods as sacred ground. Religious motivations are the most powerful kind. It is in this kingdom's best interest not to invoke a religious war of any kind. Our borders have not been threatened , and we now have the means once again to draw from the region's resources. For now, we should let peace stand." </div> <div> Artaylium then turns his attention to the children playing in the garden and remembers when he once heard the same innocent laughter from his own son. </div> <div> ------------------------------</div> <div>   Artaylium sat in his audience chambers dealing with the day to day affairs, which consisted mostly of reports that everything was normal. It had been a few days since the discussion with Landergale about the cutting in the forests, and there had been no reports of new barbarian activity - at least not yet. </div> <div>   Suddenly, the doors of the chamber were thrown open, and a lone figure entered. His desires were hard to see with the ring of truth unveiling - the man was angered and highly aggitated. </div> <div>   At first, Artaylium did not realize who it was before him, until the man began to change. The guise of a human disappeared to revel the fangs, tail and wings of a dragon. then the creature grew to it's true form, Earanath the Great Gold Wyrm. His claws were sabres, his fangs small swords. His hide was like the armor of  magical full plate, and his magic was as powerful as any of the Soaring Blade. Even with his experience and magic, Aratylium would not want to battle this beast.</div> <div>   "How DARE you insult us in this manner Stenis?! Did you not think we would discover your secret? How long has your mage had an undead dragon as his servant? Shall I summon up your dead as my own slaves as well? Three days ago I flew past the mage's tower and saw what I thought to be a new dragon in your territory. I came to him today to discuss our boundries, and I find this! What do you say for yourself?!"</div> <div>   The dragon's true form had done it's work to the guard. They each took several steps back, obviously in total awe of this creature who now filled the room like a giant golden god.</div> <bR> <div> ----------------------------------------------</div> <div> ----------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> "In due time, Corshel. My kingdom is under the same strains as yours</div> <div> concerning allainces with those of a different origin. We must gain</div> <div> substance to our pledge to join as neighboring kingdoms. Timing and</div> <div> forethought will allow for such an allegiance, but for now , I agree that</div> <div> your people need to be settled upon any new-found ties with Everlund."</div> <div> "And as for the Druids, thank you for your hand in this matter. I hope this</div> <div> will allow the channels of communication to be opened."</div> <bR> <bR> <div> The sudden emergence of this creature would have taken Artaylium aback, but his dealings with dragonkind throughout the years left such unabashed displays of bravado expected. He knew full well why the great beast had made such an agressive entrance: challenge the authority of the Dragon Master, and ensure no interference from anyone that may be present. Civility was hardly a characteristic displayed amongst the dragons, lawful or not, if they should decide any act against them personally or their own kind was unjust. Earanath's shape-shifting and powerful choice of words had indeed served their purpose. Artaylium's ring of truthful unveiling conveyed that the guards as well as other members of the royal court felt they were in no position to intervene. He knew the dragon, although angered, would take pride in holding such a "captive" audience. </div> <div> Artayium's first thought was to deal with this matter in a kingly fashion, but something inside him began to change. His frame of mind shifted. In an instant, he was consumed with what seemed to be an otherworldly essence. He was no longer Artaylium the king, but Artaylium the Dragon Master. </div> <div> He leaned forward, his eyes narrowing, "<I>Stand down, Earanath. I command it!", </I>his voice growling out the words as he spoke in the dragon's own tongue. "<I>You dare interrupt the affairs of my court in this manner! And such harsh accusations from one such as yourself! I would have hoped you to show more respect." </I></div> <div> Artaylium quickly stood to his feet, his face showing a stern expession as he met eyes with the royal court allowing them to see he was in control of the situation. <I>"Come, Earanath! This throne room is no place for us to hold counsel." </I>He would make his way through the castle to an exit that led to the royal gardens. Just beyond this lay his destination: The Hall of the Dragonlords.</div> <div> ------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div>   The dragon stood for a moment, it's great head swinging to meet Artaylium's gaze. His Ring of Truth Unveiling could not penetrate the Great Wyrm's impressive willpower, not that the gigantic beast even knew that the king wore it, Aratylium guessed.</div> <div>   </div> <div> DM; rolls Charisma check -10 (agressive, angered creature). Roll successful. </div> <bR> <div>   Taking a deep breath, Earanath began to change shape once again, taking the form of the human he had entered as. "Very well, Dragonmaster, I will talk about this matter further."</div> <div> ----------------------------------------------------------</div> <div>   In the royal gardens, Artaylium stood with the guised dragon. </div> <div>   "I am the only dragon in the area that knows of this blasphemy, King Dragonflame," Earanath growled. "although I suspect that it will not be long before Spire and Malakorth discover the undead dragon as well. They will not be as calm as I have been about the subject, I can guarantee. Whatever the reason for it, I must demand that you remove this foul thing from your kingdom." The dragon moved his hand gracefully over a rose on one of the many bushes in the garden, then turned to Artaylium, meeting his gaze with narrowed eyes. "Your kingdom is one of beauty. I would hate to see it harmed."</div> <div>   </div> <div> -------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> Artaylium was relieved that the great wyrm had come to him with his concerns. Earanth could have easily decided otherwise, and by his own right, would have committed no wrong in doing so. However, the dragons Spire and Malakorth would be more apt to carry out their own means in settling the score for what they believed to be a blasphemous act. These solitary creatures often took it upon themselves to serve as judge, jury, and executioner. Therefore Earanath's words, although softly spoken, carried a deadly warning. </div> <div> As they continued towards the Hall, Artaylium was confident a resolution could be made, but the timing in which it was done would be paramount. With Magnus gone, and it unforeseen when he should return, Artaylium would need the aid of the gold dragon to see the problem to an end. The safety and well-being of both Llorkth and Magnus' estate were at risk. </div> <div> ------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> DM: Please continue the current turn. How do you expect to use the gold dragon to help?</div> <bR> <div> While they walked through the royal gardens, a gentle breeze lifted the scents of exotic flowers. Their smell permeated the air. Artaylium closed his eyes briefly and took in a deep breath. This helped to cool his mind. </div> <div> With Earanath in humanoid form not far behind, Artaylium took notice of the dragon's inherent stealth. Only when the wind shifted could he barely hear even a footstep. "<I>How quietly he moves.", </I>Artaylium thought. "<I>And he does so with no effort." </I>But he could feel the dragon's gaze at his back. What was Earanath thinking? Would the great wrym be willing to help resolve the matter before it developed into a crisis? Or would the dragon see it solely as Artaylium's responsibility? The answers were moments away. </div> <div> The walk had allowed them both enough time to manage their tempers and prepare themselves for what was to be a serious discussion needing a quick but wise solution. They now faced two large marble stone doors. It was the entrance to the great Hall. </div> <bR> <div> Artaylium sat in his throne, looking over his great hall. He smiled as the last visitor left his kingdom. It had been a good day.</div> <div>   Recently, Artaylium had been through a great adventure with his friend, the king of Trimalon Kingdom to the east. Suron and Inamsu had also been there. The adventure was nearly the death of the three, but they had survived, seen the birth of a god, and rescued Artaylium's son, Dinian, from the curse that had been placed upon him by Fzoul. </div> <div>   Things in the kingdom were as he had left them. The people were happy, although nervous due to barbarians that made their home in the forrests of the south. The desert was still creeping from the east toward his kingdom. Magnus was still gone to Rashamen.</div> <div>   Earanath had gone to "take care" of Magnus' undead dragon. Artaylium had left him the task as he had hurried to Trimalon Kingdom. He wondered how he would explain the destruction of the beast to the dark mage, and what his response would be.</div> <div>   After things had died down quite a bit, Artaylium traveled toward his room, but was met by Startan Bladeprayer, his general. </div> <div>   "Your highness, I have some, disturbing news, and a problem that we are not sure how to handle. It seems that a bard has come into town some four or five weeks ago, and we just discovered that he has been creating poems and songs that make the king and his officials here look to be, well, fools. The poem speaks badly of most of us, and they speak of theives that steal behind our backs and how silly elves that, um, dress as humans are. That sort of thing."</div> <div>   "The problem is, the bard is very, very popular among the people. Sort of a hero. If we arrest him or punish him in some way, I feel that we might hurt our standing with our people, which has been bruised by the forresters' deaths. After all, he is just singing songs. However, he is also making the kingdom a laughing stock!"</div> <div>   "What do you wish done about this bard, my king?"</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>General Startan Bladeprayer</B></I></div> <div>   "My suggestion is to arrest the man and punish him for insulting the king with imprisonment for a time."</div> <div> <I><B>Taymon Stormbreaker</B></I></div> <div>   "What harm could the bard really do Artaylium? Let him sing his silly songs. It will pass as he moves on."</div> <div> <I><B>Lysara</B></I></div> <div>   "Bards move on my king, but their songs stay on the lips of those who have heard them."</div> <bR> <div> <B>Treasury +3 </B></div> <div> <B>Feeling of Security +0</B></div> <div> <B>Justice   - . 5</B></div> <div> <B>Traders +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (The Great Dragon) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (Tyr)   - 1. 8</B></div> <div> <B>Food +0</B></div> <div> <B>Barbarians - .  5</B></div> <div> <B>Diplomacy</B></div> <div> <I><B>  Spire, Malakorth +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Earanath +0</B></I></div> <div>   <I><B>The Aristocrats +2</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Loudwater +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  The Druids +2</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</B></I></div> <div> Artaylium's spirit had been lifted with the return of his only son, Dinian. If news such as this had made its way to the throne during darker days, his judgement might have been different, but Artaylium chose otherwise. A slight smile moved across his lips as he considered his words. He shifted in his throne to a more comfortable posture, and began to speak, "Gentlemen, it is true that a clever melody can stay on the mind more so than the droning words of the aristocracy, but understand this," the smile widening across his face, "for our people to laugh at this governing body means they themselves feel a sense of freedom, peace, and security. They do not feel confined to express their words or emotions toward the kingdom. Their spirits are high and their confidence in us is strong. What if our people remained silent? What if their reactions to his songs spurred anger and public outcries of contempt? This bard has given us better insight to the general liveliness of our people. He has done no wrong so far, and in time, as all bards do, he will move on." </div> <div> Artaylium did not see this bard as any kind of threat to the sovereignty of his kingdom, but his curiosity had been hightened. He asked that Lysara meld with the next gathering crowd that was to pay audience to the new musician and bring back word of his songs and poems.</div> <div> <B>Treasury +3 </B></div> <div> <B>Feeling of Security +0</B></div> <div> <B>Justice   - . 5</B></div> <div> <B>Traders +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (The Great Dragon) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (Tyr)   - 1. 8</B></div> <div> <B>Food +0</B></div> <div> <B>Barbarians - .  5</B></div> <div> <B>Diplomacy</B></div> <div> <I><B>  Spire, Malakorth +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Earanath +0</B></I></div> <div>   <I><B>The Aristocrats +2</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Loudwater +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  The Druids +2</B></I></div> <bR> <div>   There is no apparent result of the bard's songs. However, only the future will tell if anything will come of his mischevious activities.</div> <div> ------------------------------------------------------</div> <div>   </div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="517" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 660 WIDTH="505"><div> For now, all is calm in the kingdom of Llorkth (gasp!). There are of course minor diffrences between the people of the land, and the occasional crime, but nothing suitable for the king to handle. Artaylium spends several days simply being with his family.</div> <div>   Aratylium has the opportunity here to increase his diplomatic relations, or to engage in any activity he feels would be of interest. I would like to hear what the elven king would do when his kingdom was not so busy. </div> <div> ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> There are some changes to the kingdom's ratings in light of the recent judgement of an elderly man for not paying his taxes. The man was banished from the kingdom.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Treasury +3 </B></div> <div> <B>Feeling of Security +0</B></div> <div> <B>Justice   - 4</B></div> <div> <B>  </B>The common man feels that the kingdom was in the wrong for banishing a man who barely owed any taxes at all in the first place and was not being protected. Fighting has increased in the kingdom, and a guard was hit with rocks from cityfolk who cried "banishers!". The attackers escaped capture.</div> <div> <B>Traders +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (The Great Dragon) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Favor (Tyr)   - 1. 7</B></div> <div> <B>  </B>The church lost more favor than the kingdom, but the sensitive clerics can still see the omens that Tyr has frowned.</div> <div> <B>Food +0</B></div> <div> <B>Barbarians - .  5</B></div> <div> <B>Diplomacy</B></div> <div> <I><B>  Spire, Malakorth +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  Earanath +0</B></I></div> <div>   <I><B>The Aristocrats +5</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  </B></I>  The higher class see this as a good thing. The people know by example that taxes must be paid.</div> <div> <I><B>  Loudwater +0</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  The Druids +2</B></I></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>