The tension is palpable as you navigate the chilly limestone corridors of the Hall of the Elders, ascending the now-familiar staircase and crossing over the blue carpet which leads to the massive oaken table in the shape of a half-circle. 'Sindiira Torani, Speaker of the Town,' reads the steel placard set before your designated seat. Assuming your place, you double check the fastening of your gauntlets and await the arrival of the other members of the Council of Elders for this morning's meeting, shifting your armored weight uncomfortably. How the High Captain attends every meeting in full plate without fail is a mystery.It was established last night that an army of forces most nefarious marches on Everlund, House Delyl's own forces amongst them. While the possibility of petitioning neighboring cities for reinforcements was raised last night, the High Captain remained adamant that Everlund's army is sufficient to defend it from any threats that may arise. 'We can't run crying to to Alustriel every time the city is in danger,' he stated verbatim.One by one your peers shuffle in. Prompt to arrive is Sten, who has refused to abandon his armor, opting to drape a fur cloak over himself and consider the matter concluded. Likewise, the Priestess of Corellon attends in her ceremonial armor, foregoing protection from the cold entirely. Minutes later, Emitia arrives, favoring a coat of dark fur over a midnight green dress, as befits the season. The Keeper of the Bridgers assumes his place, wearing black padded armor over a wool shirt to retain his warmth.Predictably, the High Sorcerer arrives late, and has not altered a thing about his attire, arriving in the audacious marigold robes that befit him, his black gloves pulled securely over his hands. Taking his seat, he leans the chair back, resting his feet on the table and folding his arms, rocking to and fro. "Shall we get started?" He asks.
>>6439583The initial reports are reviewed. The enemy force is mostly composed of an orcish army, one that is suspiciously well-equipped, with a drow force composed predominantly of goblin slave-fighters attached. Where they are sourcing their substantial supplies is unknown, although that is not your immediate concern. As a former commander and Ilythiirra yourself, you take this time to offer your peers a primer on the Ilythiiri way of war. The default shape of battle adheres to the pattern of scout, ambush, skirmish, retreat, reorganize, repeat. Typically, small elite units will confuse, harass, break up, frighten, and pick off opposing forces until the enemy either withdraws or cannot maintain a meaningful battlefield presence. This is where the myriad of infamous poisons come into play - while you yourself favor heavier weapons, your people at large prefer to inflict superficial wounds with short blades and projectiles and let the alchemy do the difficult work.Less effectual against armored targets prepared to defend, but devastating against softer targets and those caught unawares. When it comes to foes in heavier armors, the poisoned crossbow bolt is the weapon of choice. A successful puncture can leave a human knight paralyzed or hallucinating.In the event that a set-piece battle or siege becomes necessary, the army formations are filled out with slave soldiers, typically goblins. These troops are meant to restrict the enemy's movement with pure volume whilst Ilythiiri units act as vanguards to break up opposing formations or attack flanks, and finish with pursuit.
>>6439586Were you to create a scenario where your people would perform especially poorly in battle, you suppose it would be a pitched battle in broad daylight against armored formations and shock cavalry. That is to say, the classic human option. Even with the support of a slave army, an Ilythiiri army oft has no alternative but retreat if the lines prove capable of holding. Consequently, your people have a complicated relationship with fortifications. While prolonged siege is antithetical to the Ilythiiri mindset, infiltrating walls and defensive infrastructure is possible, with many spells and devices dedicated to slipping through or navigating over walls and other such obstacles. This is most frequently done in darkness, either artificial or under the cover of night during a surface raid.There is also the orcish factor to consider. While the green sort are much more formidable in open war, the High Captain has repelled an orcish army successfully once before, and assures that his forces are sufficient to do so again. It merits mention that the orcs are the most ancient enemy of your people, and conflict with them precedes even the wars against the darthiir. Any coalition between House Delyl and the Thousand Scars would be fortunate to last the full duration of one battle, if it does not collapse during the middle. This will be doubly true if victory is not swift and certain.
>>6439588After a brief discussion, you conclude that there are two ways of addressing the threat. The first is to allow the enemy to assail Everlund. Even with their advantages, walls are still walls, and Everlund is equipped with several additional defenses against siege. This would also permit you the time to prepare in advance for the attack. On the other hand, the opposition will no doubt attack nightly rather than daily, putting the humans of Everlund's army at a distinct visual disadvantage.There is also the option to intercept the enemy during their approach to Everlund. Initiating a battle in an open locale at the break of dawn will deny your foes many of their greatest assets, and neither the orcs nor your people have a particularly strong defensive tradition. This would also minimize damage to the city. Of course, this would mean foregoing Everlund's existing defenses, and a pitched battle is never pleasant nor easy.After some consideration, it is decided that...>We will make ready Everlund's defenses, and shatter their army with our resolve.>We will march upon our foes and take the offensive to them, spoiling their plans for attack.
>>6439588Previous Adventures: https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=Forgotten+Realms+Adventures The Rules™: https://pastebin.com/VRQHDHSr Abilities:https://pastebin.com/FaJABuJs
>>6439592>We will march upon our foes and take the offensive to them, spoiling their plans for attack.Let's get their asses
>>6439592>We will march upon our foes and take the offensive to them, spoiling their plans for attack.It's where our foes are weakest, and on our initiative.
>>6439592>We will march upon our foes and take the offensive to them, spoiling their plans for attack.The sooner we can inflict damage, the weaker the siege will be on our homes.
>>6439592>>We will make ready Everlund's defenses, and shatter their army with our resolve.
Vote closed. Looks like Phaere's plan to use Vierna and the Delyl army to soak up most of the casualties by attacking the walls won't be coming to fruition. But where there's a will...
"Atta girl. I'll tell my men to gear up now, and we'll be off tomorrow morning. They're all professionals, so no need to wait around for levies or worry about training," says Sten, agreeing with your assessment. He confidently places a cigarette in his mouth and rolls it to and fro idly. "I will join you in battle, Arael’Sha!" Exclaims Arara enthusiastically, resting her hand on the hilt of her sword eagerly. "It has been far too long since my steel has tasted the rancid blood of slaugh and dhaerow!" She pauses, glancing at you briefly as she steadily becomes cognizant of the meaning behind the words that left her mouth. "Er, the bad ones, that is." The priestess coughs."Twinkle, you're coming too," orders the High Captain sternly, preemptively refusing argument. The High Sorcerer's eyes bulge, threatening to evacuate his skull as he loses his balance, falling from the chair and colliding with the floor. A thud resounds throughout the council chamber as all eyes fall upon Lael. Clambering to his feet, he slams both of his palms onto the table in protest, although his flimsy physique is insufficient to cause much of an impact. "Are you daft? They might kill me! I'll die if I'm killed!" He says without the barest hint of irony. "You're the High Sorcerer, dammit! Yer job's not to sit on your ass and read books all day. You're supposed to be the most powerful elven mage in Everlund!" Shouts Sten, who bashes his mailed fist against the table, the collision loud enough to startle the half-breed, who immediately stands upright and folds his arms indignantly. "Fine, fine. I suppose that I'll have to carry you all to victory on my shoulders. I'll do it.""I'll fight," you affirm. Though none here know it, you've a most individual stake in the outcome of this battle.
>>6440129"That just leaves Master Cawley and I to maintain civic order in our heroes' absence!" States Emitia, her eyes burning with resolve. "Rest assured, we will see to it that the city continues operating and will remain prosperous for your triumphant return!" The Keeper of the Bridges nods, his visage as stony and unchanged as ever. Even in crisis, the man is miserly with words and difficult to read. He has always proven reliable and voted to assist the Eilistraeans, if nothing else."Looks like we got that settled. We'll be two days' march away from the city at most, so we can pack light and move fast without worryin' about supplies. We're leaving tomorrow morning at the break of dawn, so make sure you don't forget anything. Questions?" Asks the High Captain, clicking his tongue after a period of silence. "See you then."With today's council meeting adjourned, you are left to your own devices. Though you have the utmost confidence in your existing forces, as you depart from the Hall of the Elders and venture out into the rime-slick streets of the Bell Market, you are struck by an epiphany. You have campaigned and fought wars before, yes. But this is a matter most personal, and you cannot afford to risk defeat when you've gained so much after your flight from the Underdark. Mayhaps there are a few individuals capable of tipping the scales in your favor...Pick any whom you'd like to request join you in battle.>I hate to ask this of Amaranth, but I need him desperately right now. He may well decide this entire battle.>Luaue is ready for this. Now is the time for her to prove herself as the defender of our people against Lolth and our ancient enemies.>Though we have never agreed, there is no harm in asking Dulnur to offer his advice and guidance to the soldiers.>If only I could somehow find that burglar. He has aided me twice before, and his skills will prove useful.>What we have is enough. I cannot ask more from those around me.>[Write-in.]
>>6440132>I hate to ask this of Amaranth, but I need him desperately right now. He may well decide this entire battle.>Luaue is ready for this. Now is the time for her to prove herself as the defender of our people against Lolth and our ancient enemies.Ask around our own home first.>If only I could somehow find that burglar. He has aided me twice before, and his skills will prove useful.This one would be very good for countering the leadership. The last thing the Ilythiiri will expect is for we humies to out-play then at their own game!>I wonder where that displacer beast is, and if she could be tempted with the flesh of the enemy...
>>6440132>I hate to ask this of Amaranth, but I need him desperately right now. He may well decide this entire battle.>Luaue is ready for this. Now is the time for her to prove herself as the defender of our people against Lolth and our ancient enemies.I'll bet Jez's favorite sword that Ilanis is going to run off and join in the fight without our knowledge.Also, talk with Amaranth and everyone else about our idea about using the Dreaming Dragon's magic crystal light show as a means to trap or disable the drow forces. Heck, if the orcs have low light vision, they could be effected too. Just gotta talk to... (sigh) Dulnur, about hiring a bunch of adventurers to "kidnap" us to "negotiate" with the opposing forces, offering them sacrifices for Lolth to leave our town alone, and to do the trade at the stupid elf winery just to rub salt in the wound. Just gotta make sure that Jez, Luaue, and Arara get tied up in ropes that would be easy to break out of, and are equipped with magic blindsight potions or blindfolds beforehand.>Though we have never agreed, there is no harm in asking Dulnur to offer his advice and guidance to the soldiers.Convince him by offering up the creation of a dwarven district, for all the future Dwarves inevitably migrating to retake the old fort the Eilistraeans were holed up in. Say it's a way that the (elven) People will honor their oath with the Dwarves, as made long ago, and as thanks for it's protection of the Eilistraeans.With that much pomp and historical precedence behind it, he'd have a hard time not to consider it.>If only I could somehow find that burglar. He has aided me twice before, and his skills will prove useful.Oh, and to get our burglar ally to send a note to the commanders about said deal, made after we feign being routed, of course.
>>6440386We, meaning our army, not Jez by herself. Derp.
I'll start working on this now, though I'll leave the vote open a while longer for any surprise picks or suggestions. >>6440381Inviting Malar's eyes to witness the battle, are we?>>6440386>Heck, if the orcs have low light vision, they could be effected too. That's right, orcs are also sensitive to sunlight, although not nearly to the degree that drow are. The so-called forces of darkness prefer to operate at night specifically because their physiology is adapted to low-light conditions.
>>6440482I just thought of something... it's not an actual suggestion, but I just remembered the whole Zzar wine wrestling tournament, and how Jez mentioned it's like being covered in an ooze...>We give an additional mission to the thief, this one to find Xelthryn and convince him to betray our sisters with the payment of free Zzar wine for life and a spot in next year's wrestling tournament, or a job as a wine wrestling coach. Alternativly, us asking him to promise us never to enter the contest, for the sake of Everlund's comfort, sanity, and sanitation.
Vote closed.
"I just need you to do this for me. Only one this one time, please," you plead. It is mid-morning in Amaranth's study, the tyrant sun's light filtering through the pristine windows coated with a layer of frost as dull white rays. With your hands clasped, you incline your back toward the magician, hoping against hope that he'll lend you his power. You would never doubt him, not after everything, although the possibility of rejection has caused a knot to manifest in your gullet. The old Jezyrene would never even dare to consider asking, but you are her no longer.Amaranth, who had been basking in his overlarge chair mere minutes previously while enjoying his morning tea, rises and sets his porcelain cup by the on the window sill. The magician sighs, a long sigh languidly eking its way out from the depths of his lungs, until all of the air has escaped them. He inhales sharply, pursing his lips while pacing to and fro, the exasperation evident on his face. "I retired from adventuring only to be foisted into politics. I left politics only to be called to war."Pivoting toward you, he scrutinizes your features, delicately caressing your face before using the tip of his finger to lift your head. "I suppose there is simply nothing to be done about it. Please allow me the time to memorize my spells and retrieve a handful or my more potent implements. Hopefully we can get this adventure concluded by the tenday's end and spend some time indoors," he says. "I was hoping that we could observe the Demiplane of-"Seizing him mid-sentence, you roughly plant your lips against his cheek, sucking with enough force to leave a mark before releasing him. He runs his fingers along his face, his mouth agape, taken aback by the gesture. "We will do everything you wish and more, vallabha. Now, I have an idea to win this. Ilanis, she has crystals, and the lights blinded me. I was thinking-""Ah, you can leave everything to me. I have learned a handful of good evocations that work exceptionally well against creatures from the Underdark in my time. This would not be the first time that I have fought orcs or my dark cousins," he recalls, his tone bitter. "Although, I wish the previous time were the last. Now, where did I leave my Ring of Telekinesis...?"
>>6442323"This is so lame! What do you mean that I won't get to go?!" Protests Ilanis. It is midday. You sit at a circular table in the Dreaming Dragon, together with your students. With training postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, you have taken the time to explain the situation to them and commanded that Luaue accompany you. "This is no game, girl," you warn, turning your attention to Luaue. "This is about our gods and our people. Luaue is the priestess of Eilistraee, and it is her duty to protect the Ilythiiri.""I live here too! I'm gonna defend Everlund! Put me in, coach! I'm your girl!" Argues the Lathalas, vigorously slapping her palms against the table's surface. "You will remain here," you affirm, allowing no argument. The girl indignantly folds her arms, sinking into her chair. "Ugh, fine, whatever MOM," she huffs.Luaue clears her throat. "I- I'll certainly try my-""You will certainly win," you cut her off, correcting her before she can err."I'll certainly win! Although Ilanis does have the right to defend Everlund too, does she not? This is her city, her friends and loved ones, and her tavern. It is only natural for her to want to protect it," says the priestess. You shake your head, refusing to change your decision. "No. Now tell the Eilistraeans that you are leaving and get ready. We leave tomorrow in the morning.""I will. I am the protector of our people, and I will show our foes the worth of every lesson that I've learned."
>>6442324"Yae'd best look elsewhere, grayback. Not happening, not now, not e'er. Get ye gone, drow. 'Tis bad enough that that yaer little murkers are in the streets now, living off the earnings of right-living folk. Yae've got the stones ta come here and ask fer more, er maybe yae're just barmy." The atmosphere of the Stag at Bay is hostile, to say the least. Even at this hour during the late noon, when it is just the two of you, it is apparent that you are not welcome in this establishment.The dwarf who once occupied your current office sits in a booth, pipe in hand and features as craggy as when you first met. Blowing a ring of smoke in your direction, the two of you glare at one another with mutual disdain. "I ask for this city and its people," you say. This statement is more truth than untruth. "I can offer-""Bah. Got nothing left ta give the city. And yae've got nothing ta offer besides. My time's at its end. Can hear Valkauna's steps louder ever day. Now leave me be!" Throwing your arms up in resignation, you are more than happy to oblige, storming out into the winter cold. It was worth a try.
>>6442325You trudge through the layers of snow accumulated throughout the day, asking after 'a half-man thief' and 'a halfling burglar,' with no success, accosting every pedestrian you encounter for hours. Though you know next to nothing about him, he has come to your aid twice now, and his skill as a larcenist is indisputable. He even managed to pilfer from the Tenpenny Estate when the previous Master of Guilds still inhabited it, as you understand.Just as you prepare to abandon the search, you feel the light sting of a pebble knocking against the back of your temple. Surveying your surroundings for the origin of the projectile, you find yourself looking down at the cloaked profile of the burglar, familiar although obscured behind his hood. Succinctly, you explain your circumstances, and what you need of him, prepared to offer monetary reward in exchange for his talents."You be askin' quite a lot, luv. Twice as much considerin' that you're all pig-like these days," he says. Does he mean to imply that you have gained weight? "And it's gallows for me if I'm caught besides. I'm gonna need the whole caravan if I'm to be riskin' my neck for you. How's it gonna be?""Caravan?" You ask, unfamiliar with his vernacular."Blunt. Darby. Money, lots of it. This be a transaction, and you be askin' me to steal from an army. I'm gonna need the payment up-front, no fun, no amusement. Won't accept earnest neither. You'll get your money's worth. Deal?""Fine. How much did you want?"
>>6442326You dress down, donning your robe and retiring to your room for the evening. Amaranth has busied himself with memorizing his spells and assembling his arsenal of magical devices, meaning that you will be by your lonesome tonight. Seating yourself in front of the imported vanity gifted to you by your favorite magician, you stare idly at the silver mirror before you.Yet it is not your image reflected back at you. Sitting opposite to you on the other side of the argent surface is a statuesque woman with elegant features. Possessing impossibly long lustrous hair with a sheen that gives the impression of fire flowing down from her form and ruby-red lips to match, she is clad only in a white silk gown of daring transparency that shows enough to display yet conceals enough to invite speculation.She looks over you, her irises like two immaculately cut garnets raking over your form, before smiling coyly. You blink, reaching your hand out to place a finger on the mirror's cool surface, a gesture that she mimics. Wringing your hands anxiously, she leans forward, placing her hands on the mirrored image of the vanity on the other side.
>>6442327"There is no need to be afraid, dear. You are perfect exactly as you are," she says, her voice husky and low, with a delightful inflection that reminds of sweetened wine. "I merely wished to meet the first dark elf to appreciate the ideals of love and beauty. Many have loved, and even more still have been beautiful. Yet you are the first to appreciate the wonders of the heart and senses in their full splendor," she clarifies."Sune?" You ask clumsily, breaking out into a sweat as you find yourself unable to tear your vision away from her bewitching gaze. You had met Malar previously, and his presence was overwhelming. The figure before you likewise exerts a similar power, although she inspires a different feeling entirely. Your heart pounds against your chest, leaving you feeling both excited and inadequate."Hmm hmm. Sune. It is a pleasure to meet you face-to-face, Jezyrene. It will not be long before you set out to face one of the most defining challenges of your life. I want you assured that I love you dearly, and will watch over you every step of the way."You nod, "Oh, don't be so unfamiliar, darling. Your wear the mark of my favor well," she says. Instinctively, you intuit that she is referring to your hair, the definitive sign of your affiliation with the goddess. "Seldom do I intervene in the realm of mortals, but I promise that I am your greatest advocate. Surely there is something you would like to say? Or ask?">[Write-in.]We haven't forgotten Alantha, though it is not her time yet.
>>6442328>"You are love in all it's forms, obviously... are the feelings and the worry I have for the well being of Ilanis and Luaue one of their forms? Am I doing right by them in this way?">"And of Emitia? I know of her story, but has she ever felt familial love? Would she even accept it from me after what she's been through?">"...Do you think Lolth ever had that love? Once, before I knew her?">"Thank you. For so, so much."Basically I'm asking:Are we doing parenting right by our adopted daughters, despite us never really feeling familial love?Would Sune and Emitia be okay if we offered to be the parent she never had?And the last one is going to be specific... I'm imagining it's like said in the way of a little kid asking a relative what their parent or older sibling was like before they had the stroke, or another traumatic brain injury that altered their personality. A person they've never met, one that used to be in the body of the family member they now know.
>>6442382I like it! Which is good. I missed the vote, alas.
>>6442981You're in luck, I have only just started on the update, so I'll take any input for a while longer.The final battle of the quest opens after this and all that's left after are a few decisions about the conclusion, so now's the perfect time to add any last thoughts.
>>6442995The only thing i can think to ask beyond that is if there is any love in our sisters hearts. Can either be saved?
>>6442981Thanks, anon! I like what you suggested as well, kinda forgot about our sisters and whether we should forgive or forget them. Although I do have an idea on what to say if we do capture Vierna...
>>6442995QM?
>>6446811Update tonight.I'll be fully transparent and say that while I have an idea of the options and set-piece I'll present, writing and leading that to a conclusion that I think is GOOD has not been easy given that we'll be tying things up and I have felt a bit stuck.
>>6447542It happens to us all, but you've seen us through this far and I have faith in your ability to execute the ending.
"You are love. You know love. What I give to Ilanis, and Luaue - is that love? Do I love them like a parent should?" You ask reluctantly, uncertain of how to engage with your goddess. "My mother was no good," you add, implying that you may be unfit to act as a surrogate. With a knowing smile, she leans toward you conspiratorially, vanquishing your concerns instantaneously. "My Jezyrene, do not over-complicate things for yourself. A love that can be qualified is no love in the truest sense. There are a plethora of pretty words to identify what one loves about another, and plenty still to describe the acts of love one can perform. Yet love's essence? Mere vocabulary cannot capture it. No two loves are alike, and only the heart knows when it is true. Your love is true, is it not?""It is," you answer intuitively. It is what you feel, at least. "And... Emitia? I want to look after her too. She deserves more than what she was given." Sune does not answer immediately. Instead, the goddess shuts her eyes and rests her elbows on the mirror-vanity, placing her chin on her hands. Humming pensively, she purses her lips. "It is true. My darling child Emitia has lived a life most unjust. Those meant to help her flourish instead chose to use her up and cast her aside. But you have done more for her than any, and are more a mother to her than her own flesh and blood. I know that she would be elated were you to invite her into your family."
>>6447656"I can give her the strength she needs," you affirm. Where once you thought that maternal influence exclusively took the forms of command and punishment, today you are able to reimagine yourself imparting your accrued wisdom to the girl, teaching her to stand on her own and defend herself. This is how it ought to be, you realize. How unfortunate it is that you can only appreciate the truth now, after your youth is long gone."I mean to ask about my sisters..." you begin, your lexicon insufficient to properly convey the nature of your question. "You mean to ask if they can be redeemed?" Inquires Sune on your behalf. "After turning away from Lolth, you wonder now if you might convince them to do the same, if only they had the knowledge that you now possess. It is wonderful thing, to love one's siblings. But I know their hearts, and there is no chance for love in your elder sister's.""What about Phaere?" You ask. Despite her malevolent designs, she has helped you before on several occasions. It would not be uncharitable to say that she has saved your life a handful of times, although you have never thanked her properly."The heart of your younger sister is heavy with despondency. It is rich with color and light, and creativity. Yet it was stifled. She has lived so long in a world where there is no place for such things that she can recall them no longer," explains the goddess, shaking her head with disapproval. "Had only she the chance, I do believe that her heart may be swayed. As can a great many of your kin, should you desire it strongly enough."
>>6447657If it could be done... you had always had low expectations of Vierna, though Phaere may yet live. "What about Lolth?" You ask impulsively, hoping that Lady Firehair might clarify something that you have pondered now and again in recent days. "Has she loved? Can she?"The fire of Sune's eyes and hair dims ever-so-slightly as she leans back, folding her hands and resting them on the other end of the mirror-vanity. She looks you directly in the eye, her inflection sober. "Once, perhaps, when Lolth was known as Araushnee. But Araushnee is no more, and in her place is a creature whose heart lies fallow, never to see true love blossom from it." The Princess of Passion reaches her hands through the mirror, grasping yours. A comforting warmth radiates from her skin, alleviating your worries. "Now rest your head, darling. Love conquers all, and I want my finest elven warrior to demonstrate the power of the heart and senses. I will not be the only deity observing your battle from afar, hmmhmm."Planting a kiss on your hand which sets you ablaze with a passion for all that you have come to adore anew, she withdraws, her image in the mirror taking on the mundane appearance of your reflection once more.
>>6447658The biting cold of Deepwinter seeps through your winter cloak and into your bones as you march through the snow-draped landscape of the Silver Marches. For some time you had wondered what precisely was 'silver' about the once-green landscape, although you are now acutely aware of the truth. The layers of white shimmer in the cruel sun on a cloudless day such as this one, lending the land an argent sheen that obstructs your vision at certain angles. It is fortunate that you will not be campaigning through the entire season, for half your number would assuredly perish from the temperature alone, although the humans do not seem to mind so much.The High Captain's assurance about the quality of his army proved correct. An army of a little over a thousand equipped in quality winter gear braves the weather undaunted, with some few hundred equipped with lighter armor dispersed ahead of you to scout, many darthiiri and Arara among them. With the High Captain insisting that he travel at the fore to receive reports from the scouts immediately and the wagons hauling a generous mass of provisions behind, you find yourself at the center of the formation with Lael, Luaue, and Amaranth. Luaue has acclimated nicely to the armor you have purchased for her, and though her weapon remains in its scabbard, you can feel the power radiating out from it. Likewise, Amaranth has equipped himself seriously for the ordeal to come. He wears an odd ring on each digit, and has donned an azure cloak that leaves a trail of starry motes that fade and appear anew as he moves. In his right hand is an iron staff engraved with blazing violet runes which causes your spine to tingle when you draw too close. Lael, by contrast, looks the same as ever - too confident, this one.
>>6447659As the day comes to a close and the evening sun gilds the silvery land, the army makes camp for the night. The current projection is that you will be encountering the enemy army the day after tomorrow. Sten insisted that your forces maintain a slower pace than what is ordinarily expected from a campaign, both to conserve your strength and ensure that you are able to meet your foes at dawn, or at the least late morning. With little to do for the time being, you are left to your own devices. This is a fine time to have a chat with those traveling alongside you, or you can retire early should you like.You may select as many as two.>I very much want to talk with Amaranth right now.>I need to check in with Luaue and ensure that she is well.>Against my better judgement, I will talk with Lael.>What better time to speak with Arara than while we march for victory?>I should speak with Sten, to evaluate the strategic situation again.>Upon consideration, I would like to retire to my tent early tonight.
>>6447660>I very much want to talk with Amaranth right now.>I need to check in with Luaue and ensure that she is well.
>>6447660>I very much want to talk with Amaranth right now."Honey, is it alright if we adopt another twenty year old girl?">I need to check in with Luaue and ensure that she is well.Might as well admit we might be dealing with our sisters to her.>Against my better judgement, I will talk with Lael."If you see a Ilithiri who looks sort of like me casting magic and with... 'honking boobers'... that's my little sister. Try not to kill her, please, otherwise I can't schedule your date."
>>6447718Just had one more thought...>What better time to speak with Arara than while we march for victory?"Pretty sure my sisters are here. I'm going to fight my little sister, to see if she can give up underground life. If you're going to go after my big sister, be careful, stay away from her staff, and kill her if you need to.""Also, you're the best rival I've ever had that I don't want to kill. Tease and annoy, sure, not kill."
>>6447660>I need to check in with Luaue and ensure that she is well.>What better time to speak with Arara than while we march for victory?I am grateful for the help of the males, but war is women's work.
Vote closed.We've only seen them use a few of their tricks. But who do YOU think is the better magician between Lael and Phaere?
>>6447966Probably Lael, as much as I hate to admit it. Our boy wouldn't have relinquished his position to a half-baked apprentice.
>>6447718>You may select as many as two.I appear to be an idiot.Just the first two, please.
Amaranth has requisitioned a tent all for himself. Though now a civilian and council member no longer, his status as an archmage and seasoned adventurer have made him a valuable asset to Everlund's army, one worth appeasing. Predictably, the humble exterior of the simple wedge tent's undyed canvas belies the spacious interior more appropriate for a magician of his caliber. Warm despite the exterior chill, the wooden flooring serves as a barrier against the wet earth mere paces outside. Furnished with a bed, an overlarge round table, and an oak lectern, the interior is gently illuminated by heatless flames suspended in midair which seem to burn perpetually. Focused intensely on his book of spells, he flips through each page one by one, reciting the contents in that old magician language that is opaque to the uninitiated."Do you think we will win?" You ask idly, seating yourself on the bed and crossing your legs. He finishes a full minute's recitation before tearing his eyes away from the page to face you, his expression thoughtful. "We do have the stronger coalition," he says, pacing to and fro as he deliberates his answer further. "I have the feeling that our enemies have overplayed their hand, as the humans say at times. Or perhaps that was always the intention from the very beginning."
>>6448753"What do you mean?" You ask, repositioning yourself such that your entire body faces his direction. "Ah... seer talk. Pay me no mind," he says, trying to end the line of questioning. "Tell me," you insist, slinking toward him and resting your hands on his shoulders, giving him a suggestive look that forces him to capitulate."I merely have a sense that there is a substantial disparity between the capabilities of our opponents and their execution. I have no evidence of this, of course. Only an impression." You stare into his eyes, nodding along attentively. Intuiting that you haven't the slightest as to what he's just said, he rephrases for clarity. "I feel like they could be more clever than they are being. Still, we should be ready for the possibility that they have something bigger concealed."He isn't necessarily wrong. Phaere can keep the same elaborate scheme developing for decades, although she almost exclusively plays to play, not to win. Vierna is the more straightforward one, and the one more willing disregard practical considerations to pursue her ambitions. Malar did allude to her being willing to give everything to best you, provided you understood him correctly. Is she truly so petty that she would toss everything aside just to get back at you for humiliating her once?"D'anthe, there is something that I want to do after we have won," you start, pulling him close enough to feel the warmth of his skin. "I have been thinking about bringing someone into our family..."
>>6448754Rather than camp with the army, Luaue has ventured into the woods nearby, rehearsing the sword dance that you have performed with her countless times during your instruction with practiced ease. The Nelgetha gleams with the radiance of the crescent moon, humming softly as it slices through the surrounding dark. You observe her for several minutes, leaning against a tree for support as she traces sinuous motions with her blade, unaware of your presence. Only when she concludes the flawless routine does she notice you from the corner of her eye, nearly jumping in place until she comes to recognize you seconds later. "S-Sindiira. Don't sneak up on me like that," she says, her profile reflexively minimizing itself.You chuckle, a rare laugh from you that has grown more common in recent days. "Stand tall, girl. You wield your weapon as a true Ilythiiri warrior. Let me train you for twenty more years, and you will be deadly enough to become a qu'el'saruk."The girl beams, rushing to embrace you. Before you can ward her away, she has already captured you in her arms, her constriction threatening to suffocate you. For once, you reciprocate, returning her affection and wrapping your arms around her. It feels right.
>>6448755As the night deepens, the first watch shift assumes their posts while the majority of the army retires for the night. You briefly have a strategy meeting with the other key figures to determine your roles for the inevitable confrontation, affording you the choice of how to participate in this battle. You are most comfortable in the vanguard. It is how you are accustomed to fighting and will put you at the very forefront of the conflict, as well as where the Orb Alur style is at its most effective - engaging multiple opponents and breaking up groups and formations for your allies to pick off. Oddly, Amaranth has volunteered to stand at the front. A prepared magician can be difficult to kill, yet his willingness to be in melee distance is a testament to his confidence and experience.The option is also available to join Sten in the cavalry. While you yourself have no horse, one of his men will be able to ferry you such that you can contribute to flanking, shock, and pursuit. It would be rather dramatic, and assuredly where you could be the most disruptive, even if it would involve delaying your entry into the battle.Last, you can join the rearguard. The least exciting place in the formation, you nevertheless understand as a commander that it is among the most important. As your force has the better defense and superior shock, the best chance that your enemy has of defeating you is encirclement or ambush. Moreover, Arara and the fabled darthiiri marksmen will be in the center of the formation, making defending the rear doubly imperative. As such, both Luaue and Lael will be at the back to ensure the safety of the center and shore up any gaps should it come to it.After some consideration, it is decided that you will be joining...>The vanguard.>The cavalry.>The rearguard.
>>6448757>The vanguard.Wouldn’t have it any other way.
>>6448757>>The vanguard
>>6448757>The CavalryOur guy fucking loves horses.
>>6448757>The cavalry.
>>6448757>The cavalry.So we can counter any tricks and ride in o the rescue
