THC RP Forum

Location: Underdark, Cave outside the City of the Sky Elves Date: ?? WHo: THe Members of the Horizon Company, Beregar, Naerth, Probably Urlyn, MAybe Orco, Probably Orco, Definitely Orco Gathered around the campfire, Lucian magically floats some of the ingredients he had gathered from the queen over to Invidia as the famed Necrochef prepares the party a meal. While Lucian figured they could probably have just gotten rooms at the palace given the queen's favor of them, he felt that the cave had its own charms. Lucian patted the rock he was currently using as a pillow and felt nostalgiac as he wished he had cave rocks this soft to sleep on when he was starting out. Looking at the assembled group of individuals comprised of his close friends, coworkers, and acquaintances who he had promised himself he would talk to but never really got around to doing, Lucian realizes that there seems to be a semi awkward air and straightens himself out like a cat at a massage parlor (A weirdly recurring event he had encountered). Smacking his head on the surprisingly short part of the cave he had chosen to make his own, Lucian says to the others, "So we kinda got interrupted back when we first encountered each other. Anyone else want to use this chance to catch up?" Lucian turns to Mollin and with a genuine smile says, "I noticed you had some pretty good moves back in that scrap with the other drow. Pick up any new tricks lately?"

Location: Underdark, Cave outside the City of the Sky Elves Date: ?? WHo: THe Members of the Horizon Company, Beregar, Naerth, Probably Urlyn, MAybe Orco, Probably Orco, Definitely Orco "Wait," Invidia says slowly, "Why are we in a cave? There has to be a perfectly fine inn somewhere around here." He takes a look through his coinpurse and muses an idea over before getting to his feet. "Alright, that's it. I'm tired of eating like shit. We're going to go have a feast in town. Everyone's invited," he decides. "Those poor flying saps probably need something to cheer them up anyway." He marches out of the cave and back to the city, where he begins to prepare for a feast. (-100gp)  

Location: Underdark, Cave outside the City of the Sky Elves Date: ?? WHo: THe Members of the Horizon Company, Beregar, Naerth, Probably Urlyn, MAybe Orco, Probably Orco, Definitely Orco " Oh thank the gods" Lucian says as he picks up his sleeping rock and hurls it away. Lucian then helps the others tidy up and move their belongings over to an inn to recuperate. 

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company, Beregar, Naerth, Hopefully Urlyn, Of course Orco cause Orco is family and family doesn't get left behind.  Enter LUCIAN, DYSMAS, and NAERTH. Standing over the large banquet table is Invidia with sweat on his brow, sliding a large kidney pie on to the table. DYSMAS: ( Seeing the food leaps towards the table and start engorging himself on the food, eating with his hands with no plate. He speaks with a full mouth to INVIDIA.)                  I know we've just met, but I love you goddammit! INVIDIA :    (Says weakly as Dysmas devours the food.)                   We've met before! Save some for the... elves.                   MOLLIN: ( Though Mollin is hesitant to follow THC so quickly, the necrochef's work had not been forgotten in the few months that he had not been in the company. Mollin would find himself seated at finest feast he had ever seen in his previous lives. Pulling up a chair and gracefully seating himself. To INVIDIA.)                  Perhaps it may be early to assume, but it seems you may have outdone yourself, wizard.

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company, Beregar, Naerth, Hopefully Urlyn, Of course Orco cause Orco is family and family doesn't get left behind. Lucian and Orco help prep the table for everyone, magically arranging their silverware and floating over food to them, before sitting down to eat. Lucian realized it had been sometime since he had last had a meal of such quality, and found himself rather ravenous. Lucian looked over at T9 and felt bad that the Warforged wasn't able to enjoy such a treat. Turning his attention to everyone, Lucian stood up and says, " I want to thank everyone for another job well done. We might have been on a tight timeframe, but we managed to successfully save this city and gain a powerful artifact to help break the siege. I particularly want to toast our new friend Urlyn for striking the final blow on that multiarmed monsteosity and proving himself as fine a sharpshooter as I've seen in my travels. Not to mention the safe return of our old friends without whom this feast would not even be possible ," Lucian gestures over to Invidia ad he credits him for the feast and Beregar and Mollin as well, " we still have a harsh road ahead of us, but I am confident we can see it through." Lucian pauses for a bit, and then with a morose tone says, "Yet , I want to raise a toast to our dear friend Klektash who was tragically devoured before our eyes in the waters of the underdark.  We only knew him for a short time, but until my dying day I shall rue that we could not know him longer." Lucian raises his glass, and says, " To Klektash"

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company, Beregar, Naerth, Hopefully Urlyn, Of course Orco cause Orco is family and family doesn't get left behind. After the result of his and Ari's conversation  with Urlynn, Lucian turns his attention to Invidia and says, "You've really outdone yourself this time Invida. I thought ythose frozen treats you made when you left before were wonderful, but this meal is simply divine. Tell me, how have your travels treated you? Have you been well? Get any cool new powers or items." Lucian looks earnestly interested at Invidia and continues, "Tell me, is there anything on your mind?"

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "You know," Invidia says slowly, "much has happened since we last met. I spent some time working as the head chef for Wumbar Frusk's new casino and was able to access some of his funds to begin some of my own philanthropic works. In fact, I started an orphanage on the Glittering Isles, training a new generation of adventurers and providing a safe haven for refugees. The war is still going on, after all, even without the other mind-numbing horrors we deal with." He places another forkful of food into his mouth, considers it, chewing, then washes it down with some wine. "About a month after," he says while separating another piece of meat from the steak, "I figured that the lack of reply from my parents didn't spell out good news and made some related inquiries. I found out that the Korthian necromancers had been driven into the Underdark. As my parents are retainers of one of the nobles, I figured that they would be fine. I spent my time doing some research on the imminent threat from Xoriat as well as work towards closing the gates that you all opened. At the time, I was with a group called the Guardians of the High Seas." He pauses to take another bite. "They had recently torn themselves apart through in-fighting and were...", Invidia pauses, "...emotionally compromised, to say the least. They squabbled, bickered, and worst of all, were ineffective." Invidia frowns as he remembers the troubled group. "Also they stole my airship." He looks to Lucian. "In any case, I took my leave quite soon after. That path held only death and destruction. I reached out to some of Theltar's order and prepared with them for some time before entering into the Underdark. Through an interesting ritual, I was granted the ability to see in the dark, as well as knowledge of some novel spells. My goals here were twofold: the first was to scout out the area culturally and geographically, and the second was to find the necromancers and ensure the safety of my parents. Those goal still hold, to be clear. Unfortunately, their outpost to the Underdark had been compromised. I arrived with nary a soul to be seen, though there were quite a few bodies." Invidia sips the wine. "I traveled with an adventuring group calling themselves Legion for past few weeks. Good folk trying to make their way in an unforgiving world. They seem to find themselves in all kinds of disasters, through no fault of their own. We bare witness to the summoning of Demogorgon, the Prince of Demons, and I was struck with a brief period of madness at the sight of the monstrosity. In fact, some of it still lays within me, stirring from time to time. Perhaps I should consult the restorative powers of priests soon. Regardless, we worked our way through the Underdark and, as of but a few nights ago, brought back the spirit of an elder god, Arduk. Quite fascinating," Invidia says, gesturing with his fork. "Anyway, that takes me to here. It's good to be back amongst familiar faces, though there is a daunting task ahead of us," he finishes. "I'd be happy to answer any other questions you have."

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lucian nods his head appropiately as Incidia recounts his tale of wonder and woe.Lucian has many questions arise fromhearing him speak as he elucidates on vague rumors he had heard in bars or from other adventurers. The oddly familiar name Wumbar Frusk, the fact that he had apparently met Theltar's strange organization that literally o one had ased him about despie them supplyong every worker and repeatedly coming up in their lives, the proliferation of demons and daelkyr, the death of the underdark necromancers, or the fact that Invifia somehow released an elder god into the world (Lucian wondered why nobody ever released a god of soft and pleasant things). Lucian wanted to get to the bottom of all these things, but first he decided to reasure Invidia by saying , "I am equally glad to have you back. You are one of the few people I've met whose reputation understates them. In regards to your parents, it may make youhappy to know that we have received some intelligence in regards to their potential location as we've been commissioned to establish diplomatic relations with a geoup of necromancers and other cabalists from the surface who have created a new outpost here. If you desire it, we can go investigate them relatively soon. My first concern is your safety however as your encounter with Demogorgon concerns me. What manner of madness did his gaze of insanity inflict upon you? Are you still able to quest effectively? What about your comrades in LEGION? Are they alright or should we set about seeking them to aid them. They seem like quite capable allies compared to those Guardians of The High Seas. From what you said, it seems they never got around to actuaally guarding anything ."

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company As Invidia and Lucian conversed, Mollin found himself listening with half interest - the slew of information had been explained to him by the wizard during their three day boat ride. Instead, the noble blooded drow found himself looking over The Horizon Company with a different set of eyes.  In their travels, Naerth had spoken of the idea of tolerance. At first, Mollin scoffed at the idea - what drow would allow such lesser beings crawl under their feet, offering their pitiful ideals and backwards thinking to the majesty of the drow houses? However, Mollin had discovered wisdom in Naerth's teachings. Namely, it wasn't absolute tolerance Naerth suggested, but tolerance that allowed lessons to be drawn from such tolerance. This was only apparent in both Lucian and Invidia. The way the half-elf questioned, the way he listened intently, taking in all of the details of the unknown was intently curious and equally valuable to anyone he cared to speak to, in the way an old friend would address you, or the way. It made the receiving individual feel wanted, trusted, and above all, loyal to Lucian. The magic wielder's presence was intoxicating, but not overpowering, just like the wine that Mollin sipped from. Mollin couldn't help but give the slightest nods of respect towards the purple haired man. 'Where there was a fool, it seems that misplaced a natural leader. Someone who cares for his people.' The pinkish gaze of the monk fell upon Invidia. Even though he had spent time with the chef, Mollin couldn't place value upon the death-wielding wizard. Breathing in deeply, Mollin took another sip. 'But isn't that just a barrier?' The drow frowned at the thought of Invidia's practice. It was undeniable that the wizard was skilled in his art, both in magic and kitchen. Such talent and power was wielded carefully, thoughtfully. This Mollin could fully appreciate, in its art form and level of intelligence. 'But how can a man of such knowledge fall for such a foolish following of Arduk?' The frown deepened as he continued listening, pondering on death and its keepers.

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "It's good to hear that there's news of them. We should investigate as soon as we are done scavenging the remains of the Maker's Island," Invidia says in reply. "With regards to Demogorgon, I was frozen stiff for an unspecified period of time at the mere sight of his visage. I should be fine, but a holy restorative would be reassuring. My thoughts have been frenzied and more discontent lately, which troubles me."  He pauses in consideration. "Legion should be fine. They've the assistance of a good cleric. One of the Aasmir, as it were. And yes, the Guardians of the High Seas did not live up to their name. They were a fractious bunch." Invidia takes a few moments to swallow down some more food. "How about you, Lucian? How has the Horizon Company been since I last saw it?"  

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company, Beregar, Naerth, Hopefully Urlyn, Of course Orco cause Orco is family and family doesn't get left behind. Lucian is heartened to hear that Invidia is largely alright, and resolves to take him to visit the camp's medical facilities the first chance he gets in order to give him a once over. Lucian uses mage hand to move over a side dish towards Orco as he recounts the totality of events since the last time he met Invidia. Taking a thoughtful breath before he begins, Lucian goes, " Well.... last time we met was during the battle of Stone Rift, and much has happened since then." Lucian does a flourish towards the invisible Orco next to him, and says, " I ended up befriending Orco here who had been trying to kill me and he's been with us since. He's a great listener and enjoys writing up the events of our adventures so if you have any more questions or if I get the details wrong, then he would be the man to speak to." Lucian then furrows his brow, "It seems so long ago, but on our return trip from Stone Rift, we happened upon a most curious man named Geldrick. He was commanding, confident, and among the bravest men I've battled beside. He reacted faster with his polearm than certain monks I've met, and he could draw upon powers derived from his pact with an ancient weapon. He spoke to us of the legendary Tower of Shadows and hired us to take him to the top or die trying. Given our natural love of treasure and adventure, we happily joined, yet that tower would ultimately prove to be the key to unleashing the daelkyr. As it turned out, the place was a magnet for adventurers of all types, all with the same goal of reaching the top. Once there, we ended up meeting a cleric named Xilthana who...."    Lucian notably pauses when he says the cleric's name, and his typical light expression betrays a sense of grief before rapidly regaining his composure. Lucian continues without acknowleding this and says, "... who saved our lives multiple times and yet met a terrible end. We also met a gnome named Robben, dear sweet Robben, who perished before we even got to know him as well as Pup who you'll be overjoyed to meet I'm sure when we return to camp. During the course of our journey, we were forced to battle in death games between adventuring parties as the magic artifacts wielded by Geldrick and others in the tower compelled them towards battle in order to be allowed to reach the top as well as exploring unique rooms. This however was a trick by the tower to harvest souls in order to charge up energy. The place was used to seal away the daelkyr, but created the tower as a type of venus fly trap to lure in adventurers and empower itself. As we completed our tasks, Curak was killed in a battle with elementals, but we and multiple other adventuring groups including Team PTSD and the Iron Legion were granted access to a long forgotten city. There we battled guardians in order to be allowed a wish, a series of battles where we constantly on our toes that ultimately led to us to a sacred chamber. We learned that BUchanon was empowered by 10,000 different souls and that the ancient civilization was powered by a type of magic called Soul Magic, a school that was apparently far stronger than any necromancy. I believe you would be interested in investigating it, as I magic is practically a sixth sense for me and even I couldn't handle the stuff. It seems to be rather unique among magical types. After defeating the guardian in both of its incarnations, Geldrick wished for the revival of his men and everyone who had died, yet the supercharged tower of shadows used all of its energy to fulfill the wish, reviving Curak and Geldrick's men at the expense of unleashing the Daelkyr." Lucian leans his head into his hands and says ruefully, " If we had only known at the time...." Lucian then continues, " The unleashing of the daelkyr and weakening of the dimensional boundaries caused by the tower of shadows resulted in an actual wave of madness, and when we returned to the town we saw it besieged by a legion of the mad and damned as a powerful daelkyr awoke." Lucian grips harder, and the silverware in his hands begins to turn red and deform as he subconsciously channels flames in his anger , "and this was where Xilthana died, murdered by some madman driven insane by the daelkyr. Before we could avenge her, we, Team PTSD, and a motley assortment of other adventurers and the few non insane remnants of the town fought our way out and escaped while fleeing from the daelkyr, who seemed to be obsessed with Dysmas". Lucian nods towards Dysmas. "It was at that point that we recruited Ari, the only apprentice of Team PTSD's deceased wizard Tomas of the Cogs of Sharn." Lucian waves towards Ari, but sees she is distracted by Urlynn.   "We also learned of our role in unleashing the daelkyr and resolved to stop it through an alliance brought about by Dysmas' journey in another world, which as it turned out was a thing that happened. Unfortunately, that fell through and led to a massive trial as Dysmas revealed too much and was assigned Curak as a probation officer and...." Lucian pauses, and says to Dysmas, " Damnit, I forgot to assign you a new probation officer after Curak took leave of us. "  Lucian then turns to face Invidia, " Oh yeah, Curak took some time off apparently to help recover from his brief time being dead which I completely understand. Being dead is a very traumatic experience, and Post Traumatic Death Disorder is unfortunately rampant and undertreated in the adventuring community " Lucian shakes his head sadly. Taking a sip of wine, Lucian then goes on, and looks Invidia staight in the eyes as though to brace him for some real heavy shit. In as serious a tone as he can muster, Lucian says, " As we returned to the island however, time froze, and T9 emerged from a rift, a sliver in reality, and spoke to us in the frozen time. WE learned that he came from a future where a faction of the drow who utilized a combination of advanced technology and demonic magics had conquered the surface with an immortal army of what he called Warforged, the type of being that Buchanon is. In the original timeline, they had kidnapped Beregar and used him to create this army to get around their weakness to the sun, and murdered every single adventuring party and armyu in the world in one final stand in our army. " Lucian looks pointedly towards Urlynn, "However, this did not mean that all drow shared in this victory as the proliferation of the warforged army meant that most of the warrior drow or lower class members became obsolete. many were subjected to horrible combinations of demonic surgery and technologic alterations to instill subservience. T9 had been sent by the last resistance left, a coalition force led by Future Ari, in one last ditch effort to alter the timeline " "thanks to T9's warning, Veger's master going silent, and Beregar being presumed dead on the surface, we journeyed down here, battling a hag, rescuing a fae, and enabling a tragedy on the way. You'll be happy to hear that we've expanded THC as we're now an official guild and have recruited a new team of adventurers to take of things while we're down here. Now, we've hooked up with one of the main resistance groups and are going around recruiting allies and gaining resources. We've also learned that T9's trip through time, the daelkyr situation, and multiple other events is straining the barriers of our reality, and we need to eventually fix that " Lucian concludes by saying, " Though they may not have been aware of it, by their protection of Beregar, LEGION may have inadvertently saved the world above. We owe them a great deal of gratitude should we ever meet them down here. " "Also, I was a lawyer for a bit."

Location: Underdark Date: ?? WHo: Lucian, Veger, Mollin As he pulls them out of the room, Lucian pushes both Mollin and Veger out of there, looking absolutely furious. As the trio rush out of the room, Lucian makes sure to create several illusions of hiimself looking very angry to remind them and himself that he is angry. When they reach the 1 minute mark, Lucian dispels his banishment, and the sound of a golem pounding away at a door for all of eternity echoes through the halls.  Lucian cocks his left hand on his hips, holsters his wand, and says, "Veger, Veger... VEGER."  Lucian throws a sock at Veger, "BAD VEGER. For the love of the possible gods, stop endangering your life doing stupid shit. I'm literally the party idiot, and yet here I am calling you out. Godsdamn. Godsdamn. Veger." Lucian tosses another sock at Veger after Veger returns it to him.  Lucian tosses a sock at Mollin only to see him deflect the sock back at him reflexively. Lucian is both furious, but impressed at his monk skills, and says, "Mollin! Pay attention! You really could have died back there. Good reflexes,but they're worthless unless you actually use them! Honestly, what would you guys have done if I wasn't there?"

Location: Underdark Date: ?? Who: Lucian, Veger, Mollin Veger thinking maybe throwing a hammer at the suit of armor wasn't the best idea "Listen i understand it wasn't the smartest move, but you all were standing around and Silver Haired woman said that the plate armor was trapped with a magical aura around it, so i figured maybe it was just gonna explode, or what ever touched the armor would disintegrate once touched, but thank you Lucian for saving my life" Veger gives back each sock Lucian throws at him, and Veger has a slight smile thinking "I'm glad I have such good companions" then realizing that everyone was telepathically linked Veger kinda just looks around, to see who was paying attention

Location: Underdark, City of the Sky Elves, Dusty Feather Inn. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "Seems like I missed a lot," Invidia says, stunned.

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island Date: ?? Who: THC "You should... not do things like that," Invidia says telepathically to Veger.

Location: Isle of the Maker, 1st (?) Level Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning (?) Who: Lucian focused; Members of THC Mollin said nothing under the tirade of Lucian, who watched as the hero of the hour pelted Veger with his stolen socks. In return, Veger only returned them and gave out a pleasant thought. Pink eyes watched the scene unfold, unable to resist the feeling of comradary warming the edges of his soul. Lucian was more worried than angry, Veger was privately appreciating the company around him, and, "We wouldn't have done anything, Lucian. Not really." Mollin responded quietly. "I am not as skilled as I should be."  The drow wearily leaned against the metallic wall and slid to the ground with a muffled groan.

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company, Old man Inniswell mollin hears the crotchety voice of an old and half forgotten Warlock echo throughout his head as it says,   " You should keep the socks that albino ass whippersnapper is tossing at you. Nothing more valuable than socks. 'cept gold I suppose. and Platinum more than gold honestly ..  'course, I was always partial to knick knacks me self. " Old Man Inniswell laughs as he thinks of that before getting semi serious, " Please be careful there sonny,  I can't stand to watch you get hurt when these old imaginary bones can't even help you. I know you're dealing with a lot, but please hang in there for now. For the time being, these folk seem like decent folk save for that Theltar fella, though I 'magine a man like that has got to be dealing with his own demons. I might be quiet sometimes, but I promise I'm here and I'm rooting for you. Whatever decisions you make, whatever circumstances you encounter, just know that this old coot has hope in you, Mollin, and that'll never change. " 

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company No true words would be spoken as a familiar voice echoed through his (and the company's) head, only flashes of feeling and emotion. Being mildly irritated, injecting pangs of regret, and then a wave of genuine understanding and acceptance washed over Mollin's psyche (and possibly those in the company, mentally linked to the drow's mind). Inniswell, a voice that the drow had not truly head in a long while, spoke more clearly that he could have. 'That may have been the nicest thing you've...' The monk physically waved away the thought, the weak gesture unable to hide the emotion of true appreciation for the cranky old man. Speaking though a suddenly scratchy voice, Mollin coughed once, attempting to compose himself as he explained himself. "It's ah... It's a long story."  A flashed mental image would briefly appear, showing Inniswell's face wrapped in a dark space, an emotion of overwhelming dread passing through Mollin's psyche before refocusing to the present moment. Inhaling deeply once, chest pulling upward and exhaling into a shaky sigh, "Thank you for your swift actions, Lucian."

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lucian rubs the back of his head and sighs, "No worries buddy, just remember the second most importa t rule for adventurers: Always be ready to bounce. First is always buy rope." Lucian looks back to the pounding on the door and says, "Let''s all catch up to the others then"

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lucian hums a bit as he walks along before saying, "I wonder what Geldrick is up to in the Mournlands?"

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Invidia frowned thoughtfully. "That sounds like a segue to something, but I'm not sure what exactly you're referri-" GELDRICK'S MOURNLANDS CREW 2: ELECTRIC MOURNLAND BOOGALOO COMING SOON TO THEATERS NEAR YOU

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lucian pauses for a bit as Invidia trails off in the middle of his sentence before continuing, and says, " No, not really. I mean, there could be something exciting happening elsewhere " Lucians suggests with a sigh as they travel inside a dissapearing island riddled with advanced technology and robots of all kinds. Lucian continues, " I've just been somewhat worried about Geldrick. He was still alive when we last saw him, but the mournlands are bound to be taking a pretty hefty toll on him. Still, if anyone can handle it is that guy. I literally saw the fellow smash 20 skeletons in six seconds which is a frankly absurd amount of skeletons. A surplus of skeletons. " Lucian laughs, " In all honesty , that encounter would have ended pretty early if Xi had just used Turn Undead. " Turning to look directly at Invidia, Lucian says with a wink and a smile, " If only we could find a cleric here " Lucian pauses and then says, " If only we could find a cleric here. "  After waiting a moment to see if one shows up, Lucian stuffs his hands in his peacoat, and continues, " You would be surprised how often that works.. ."

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "When I try to will people into being, I often pretend as if I'm physically impacted by the sheer will necessary to do so," Invidia offers. "A little histrionics never hurt. Or we could try and put ourselves in a situation where we would need the divine healing or crushing blows of a god-touched individual." He pauses before continuing, "It's very possible that things are delayed down here in the Underdark. Nothing else seems to make sense here either." 

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lucian says, "Yeah, I mean, it's not like we'll find a cleric of say the sun just wandering around niles underground in a hidden island base guarded by robots and traps that only appears every so often."  shaking his head from side to side, Lucian says, "if we did find a cleric, they'll probably worship some death spider god or something like that." Lucian looks up at the walls ricocheting with electrical energy, and with another note of disdain says, "Spiders... " Lucian turns to Mollin and says, "Did you or Naerth ever have a pet spider? They seem to be pretty common down here in the underdark."

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "Lucian!" Invidia scolds lightly as the sorcerer speaks, "Now you've done it. We're going to stumble upon one of the two quite soon. You really shouldn't tempt the multiverse like that." He sighs before continuing, "Well, I'll be glad to have one or the other to speak with. I need to figure out some way to moderate my connection to Arduk going forward. Can't have elder gods claiming disciples willy-nilly. It's just not right."

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Mollin's attention would be grabbed by Lucian, but Invidia's comment redirected the pink gaze to the wizard, "And yet, It seems to have claimed you rather easily." The harsh gaze softened ever so slightly as the sentiment continued, "But you're right. Having the elder god claim followers at a rapid pace could be dangerous - we need to be able to watch it. Not all who fall under its influence will have the sense to be as cautious as you." The drow would watch the wizard for a moment, giving him an up down before redirecting his gaze back to the purple haired sorcerer.  "And no, Lucian. I did not have a pet spider, as they are considered the holy creature of Lolth. And I hate--" The drow's sharp voice would trail off, though an irritated grimace. "...Though I did have a bintok."

Location: Underdark,Maker's Island Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "Eh," Invidia waves the monk off, "It claimed it claimed me. That is a far cry from forming a tangible bond." "Besides," he sniffs, "I don't need some deity to access magic. I've learned to access the arcane on my own." He wiggled his fingers.

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "I've seen souls being used as weapons, demons battling dragons, dead men walking and the whole shebang" Dysmas muttered while peering around the next corner scanning for more machines . "But an Elder God?" He turned to look at Invidia his eyebrows arched in incredulity. "How does one manage to meet an Elder God ?"

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "Well," Invidia replies while stretching, "we stumbled across a former ritual chamber and rebuilt a foci that was meant for communication. If I had to speculate, I'd say that our actions triggered some sort of metaphysical response that called it forth from wherever it was resting on the astral or ethereal plane." "The 'Elder' moniker is more curious than frightening, I would say. Archaeological research done by members of the various arcane schools have shown that former deities from before several thousand years ago exhibit interesting tendencies and lay claim to subtle parts of what we might imagine to be a traditional godly portfolio. There's been some speculation on why exactly these former deities still have claim over certain powers, but all are in agreement that they do. Arduk, for instance, claims dominion solely over the threshold between life and death." He pauses, thinking back. "This is the same barrier between death and undeath as well. Anyway, from discussion with these primary sources, as well as analysis of their residual powers, we've been able to gather much information about the civilizations preceding the establishment of this one. The historical value in awakening a deity is quite clear. Also, for the roguishly inclined, I've heard of some who are willing to pay immense amounts for access to these spiritual foci. Apparently, it's much easier wrestling away divine energy away from a god when they've been cut off from their followers for the last ten thousand odd years." "I'll stop there for the sake of time," Invidia says.

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lulcian interjects, "I once dated a great old ones warlock back when I was a freelance adventurer. After we broke up, she cursed me to vomit eyeless squids for a month. miss those little guys. " Lucian wipes away a tear as he remembers the fun time he had with the horrible nightmare squids from another dimension, and says with a smile, "R eally, all you have to do is have low standards or adventure long enough and you're bound to run into all kinds of crazy shit.  I pretty much spent the entire first year and a half of my journey learning the tricks of the trade and questing in pursuit of a warlock patron. I met demons, demons, more demons, dear god so many demons, and the occasional weirdo.  Because of all that I eventually my patron, who as it turns out is a really cool dude! Really lucked out there." Lucian then turns to Mollin and says, "So what is a Bintok by the way? Are they nice?""

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Invidia stares at Lucian for a moment before an errant thought enters his mind. "Wait, eyeless squids? Was her name Hecate, by any chance? About yea-high," he says, gesturing, "and with turquoise hair?" 

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lucian snaps his fingers and with an easy smile says, "Yeah! How do you know her? She's one of the few people I've been with who haven't thrown me threw a second story window at one point!"

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "I knew she was older than she said she was," Invidia mutters quietly to himself. Then, louder, "I, uhh, don't know her. At all." As Lucian prepares to respond, Invidia spins around with frenzied eyes and a finger held high. "AT ALL!"

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company With an earnest chuckle, Lucian nods his head and says, "Makes sense, I knew her for a solid few months and by the end of it she hadn't told me much about herself. S he tried to convince me that she was actually 1,000,000 years old when we first met, and was actually just stuck ina time loop. Then  the next time, she tried to convince me she was just an illithid in disguise, and then another time she gave me a feather fall scroll and pushed me off a tall building to freak me out. One time she convinced me that I had greatly offended a god, and it was just a big lizard with a fancy crown that she eventualy set loose in the wild.  that's just kinda the way she was. " Lucian pauses, and then says, " Hey Invidia, do you think I should have spoken up about that lizard in retrospect? it was pretty big, and I am not sure if that lizard understands the burden of leadership. I'm worried it might be too much for him ."

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "Well," Invidia replies cautiously, "assuming I knew this person, which I don't, I would say that the lizard will be alright, as long as it doesn't come into contact again with this person who I hypothetically know ever again. Frankly, this person sounds very irresponsible and should never have been given tenure at the Korthian Academy. Furthermore, this person really shouldn't be 'personally mentoring' students because all she does is force them to stare into the abyss until the abyss blinks." He pauses, then mutters, "She said it 'built character'." "Anyway," the wizard continues loudly, "this is all hypothetical and certainly not reflective of any person I know. That would be absurd."

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company Lucian fiddles with a button on his peacoat, and says," She always did like abysses and abyss related things. Also blinking. She did that a lot. Sometimes she made herself more eyes just she could blink more. " Lucian turns to Invidia and earnestly says in such a fashion that is unknown if he is joking, " It's a shame you don't know her though, I really thought you did for a bit there what with all the references to her many identifying traits, " with a self satsified nod, " Lucian turns to everyone and asks, " By the by, how old are all of you? I've come to realize that I have no clue. I know that I'm probably 27, but what about the rest of you ?" Location: Unknown Date: Countless years after the events of the campaign Who: Lucian, Other Person Tossing and Turning, Lucian springs up out of bed covered in sweat, the rain on the window laying a steady percussive beat. The person laying beside him curses him out in a largely grumbled and barely coherent tone, but does not bother to wake having long ago become desensitized to the man's neverending eccentricities and overdramatic actions. Gripping  the sheets together, Lucian looks out the window at the night sky, and shudders. Worn from the many hard years of adventuring, he stumbles a bit when leaving the bed, his trained grace having long ago left him as his injuries continued to accumulate. He maintains a steady walk, calling upon just a hint of his magical prowess to light his way, and stares out the window for some time with the look of a broken man. Quietly, Lucian presses his hand to the cold glass and says, " Gods, I hope that big lizard is okay."

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company "I agree, we should not talk about Profess- this hypothetical person I don't know," Invidia hurriedly corrects.  He scratches his head, happy to move on to another topic. "I am but a few months past the age of 18. Truth be told, my birthdate was only a few weeks before those cultists captured Theltar and I."

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: The Members of the Horizon Company " No way! Eighteen?" Dysmas sputtered with incredulity. "No offense but I sort'a thought you were a middle aged man." He stepped away from the corner he was peering around and leaned in slightly.  "What with y'er dry humor and the robes and magic. Maybe its me but I always thought that wizards were old men with white beards and long flowing robes." 

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: Alauriel Ari looks over to Lucian, catching the end of his remark about wizards being old men. She smiles and laughs quietly to herself, reaching up to stroke the beard the wild surges had gave her...only to be reminded that Theltar had previously cut it off. Her smile fades into a frown as she sheds a single tear, feeling a growing sense of emptiness inside her. She had had it for only but a few hours, and yet the now lack of a beard bothered her a surprising amount. She lets out a meek sigh of disappointment and pulls out her grimoire, hoping to distract herself from the pain.

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: Alauriel, Lucian  Seeing Ari move to stroke her fake beard and cry when she touches nothing, Lucian says to her, " Ari, if you miss your old fake beard, why not make a fake one with Prestidigitation? Although since you would have to keep making one every 6 seconds, we could also try polymorphing Dysmas into a Yak, shaving him, then turning his wool into a fake beard. What do you say? Want to turn Dysmas into a Ya k?" Lucian points repeatedly at Dysmas with a big smile as he offers to turn the rogue into a Yak. As he points, Lucian also turns to Dysmas, and says, " By the by, while 18 is pretty young, I'm not too surprised. Most famous adventurers start young unless they are pushed out by circumstance. For example, I started when I was 20 and I'm pretty sure Ari is like pretty young or something? Like 15? 19? I dunno "

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: Alauriel Ari turns to Lucian, still wearing a frown on her face. "N-no dear, it's fine...it wouldn't really be mine if we did that..." She sighs sadly. "Thank you though.."

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: Alauriel Lucian looks sadly to Dysmas, still not turned into a goat, and says, "Well, if that's your decision. I don't think I could muster up the mana to cast a 4th level spell again anyway until our next long rest" Lucian says, "Plus, you still got your fancy wizard hat at least!"

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: 18th of Rhaan, Morning. Who: Lucian focused, THC It was a this moment that Mollin piped up, "A bintok looks something like this..." Before the monk, a crude  picture had been drawn in the dust, depicting a small creature chasing a fleeing Invidia. Anyone looking at the drow could have sworn they saw a wry grin forming as his hand rose to stroke his chin, continuing to speak, "Flau'Migk was my bintok's name. She was a good pet - at least until a jealous fellow student killed her to spite me." As the stroking hand lowered, a thin frown replaced the face's previous expression. "But this is ancient history - almost a hundred years ago."  If any one showed a sign of surprise, Mollin would catch himself for mentioning the passing of a century so casually, commenting, "I always forget - humans are such a fleeting race. This past century have come and gone so quickly that I hardly think about it... Though I suppose..." Mollin's voice would drift off, lost in thought.

Location: Maker's Island Date: Unknown Who: Lucian Drenched in his blood, Lucian sleeps for about 7 hours, tossing and turning repeatedly until he gets comfortable on his stomach. Luciam uses his natural healing magic from his warlock pact as well his draconic constitution to recover from his injuries such as receiving exactly 72 punches to the face, being thrown down some stairs, being set on fire, and being hit by an ice knife. Resting and recovering, Lucian unknowingly allows himself to smile at resolving a situation without bloodshed.

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: ??? Who: THC "Ever been to Korth?", Invidia asks Cyprus while scratching at his recently-healed wounds.

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: ??? Who: THC Cyprus looks up from his work, running a hand through his hair. "Korth? Gods, that...that would have been a long time ago. My guild and I worked out of Passage and Lake Galifar in Thrane, so Karrnath wasn't a frequent sight from our base of operations." The cleric's eyes scan the dim entryway before them. Half a century... would Passage even resemble  the city he'd grown to love? The whole affair feels like a riptide to him, and he doesn't know where this new current will take him. Despite the tumult, however, he offers the young man, Invidia, a smile. "We did  take a longer voyage down the Scions Sound, though. Never a stop for Korth, but our assignment in Thaliost held a close correspondence across the Sound." He smiles at the fond memory. "Why do you ask?"

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: ??? Who: THC "Just trying to make conversation," Invidia replies. "I don't remember it too clearly, but I stayed in Passage with the rest of Lord Ossis' entourage before the war started. I was kidnapped and taken to an underground lair in the Whisper Woods, up north near Askelios. Got out alive with some others, including Theltar over there." He smirks at the memory. "In happier memories, I traveled with an adventuring companion to Askelios some time back. He was a monk who was reclaiming a weapon that had been passed on in his family for some generations. One of the pieces was hidden in the Starpeaks, so we all had a grand old time helping him recover it." Invidia takes a swig of water before retrieving a pen and parchment from his rucksack. "I'm also fairly well-known in the village. Did some cooking for them in the time we spent there. Anyway, enough about me. Tell me about yourself and your travels. Might as well memorialize the world you left behind."

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: ??? Who: THC Cyprus shakes his head, trying to wrap his mind around the idea. "I suppose there's solace to be found in all of this if the geography is how I remember it. I'm sorry for your trouble in Thrane. The Whisper Woods are no place to be around alone," He glances at the darker form of Theltar at the mention. "though the company you keep seems able-bodied and quick to act in the best of times."  The mention of the Starpeaks and other familiar places brings a sigh of relief from his lips, and Cyprus leans back against the wall, recalling his guild's adventures of their own. "I suppose, did you ever hear how the Lightning Rail was constructed so efficiently? In the more dangerous areas of the country, they called adventuring guilds like my own to defend the workers as they infused the rails and erected the lodestones. The process took a toll on them, I'd imagine, but these artificers and miners...." He laughs aloud. "I've never heard work shanties sung with more gusto. Have you heard the traditional songs from Cyre? Those men...I swear, they were born to songbirds instead of mothers."

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: ??? Who: THC Dysmas was seated by the fire, drinking in the warmth as his companions spoke and it dawned on him that he was less talkative than he once was. He should rectify that.  " So uh..." he gulped, and realized he had nothing to talk about. The act of meeting new people in such short periods of time with the understanding that anyone of them may leave or perish in a moment had drained him of initiative to talk. Then he realised the two were staring at him.  " .. Lightning rails right? Crazy things aren't they. Bet your mind was blown away at the sight of one of those eh?" He offered with a plaintive smile.

Location: Underdark, Maker's Island. Date: ??? Who: THC Cyprus looks to the new speaker, the one called Dysmas. With so many names to pick up at once, the cleric resigns to try his best with the memory.  "When I was above, news from the five nations stated that work had just been completed. They were a marvel of modern arcana and technology, though," He laughs in spite of himself. "Dol Arrah knows I lack the mind for it myself. They still stand, don't they? I should think that fast travel would be essential to get to captitals like Fairhaven from Cyre of someplace further."