If You Tickle Us, Do We Not Laugh?
And for the sequel from Legaci: “If You Tickle Us, Do We Not Laugh?” New facts, History from the past, a timeline, and more on the current events at the Fortress:
Category: Towns
Topic: Ta’VaalorDate: 02/07/2017 05:07 PM CSTFrom: FORESTELFSubj: "If You Tickle Us Do We Not Laugh?" – Part II– Past – Today is Feastday, day 4 of the month Fashanos in the year 5117. It is 14:59 by the elven time standard. It is currently late afternoon.Vanlor, Lady Reetta, Aerengar, First Legionnaire Esana, Alex, Yaden, Branch Guardian Daenalan, Safain, Hevon, Neffeah, Omnirus, High Legionnaire Kakoon and Relic Hunter Legaci had been chopping trees of the Apple Orchard for the better part of the day before his attention turned towards the direction of the sun’s placement. Suddenly, one of the trees comes crashing down! He exhaled deeply, having stopped the hacking of his latest and soon to be victim’s of self preservation. “We should gather with other groupings of this region and sister-ship regions for a “Returning to Elanthia Day.” Returning to Elanthia what is now taken because of such tragic and recent affairs.” Legaci thought to himself before politely excusing himself from those assembled.
Sunset comes and the water lights up in a momentary blaze of gold and orange as Legaci steps from the final ferryboat leading into the western lands. The Order of the Sphere and Scythe were granting divination to the local denizens and recent affairs within his own elven homelands had kept him from the organization longer than originally expected. Legaci kept to himself, observing those which amassed within the local Bakery, where people shared tea. When the moment allowed and people which gathered already having heard their questions answered – regarding past, present or future Legaci cautiously states “I have but one question, one simple question for the cards.” There is an uncomfortable silence as several turn their gaze and attention towards him. “Will one fall and lose themselves to darkness to return the light?” he asks allowing another moment of silence to pass before Rovvigen responds.
Rovvigen cuts his deck of white cards several times, allowing Legaci to randomly select and touch a card with one finger. Slowly, Rovvigen flips the card over and places it carefully in view, face up. It is the card with the artwork of the ten of tarts upon it. Those gathered notice Rovvigen glance at the card for a moment, evidently deep in thought. A moment later, he nods and puts the card back into the deck. Speaking softly to Legaci, Rovvigen says, “You have pulled the ten of tarts. This represents death, overwhelming sorrow. Someone has paid dearly for their choices. We will pull another card for further guidance.”
Rovvigen cuts his deck of white cards several times, allows Legaci to select another card using only a finger. Just as before, he flips the card over and places it carefully in view, face up. It is the card with the artwork of nine gems upon it. He glances at the card for a moment longer than the previous ones, evidently deep in thought. A moment later, he nods and puts the card back into the deck. Speaking softly to Legaci, Rovvigen continues with, “You have pulled a nine of gems. This represents success but with a very narrow margin. They will return to the light, but not at level they were before. They will forever be in the grey area. Halfway redeemed but never fully.”
– Later that evening – It is 21:36 by the elven time standard. It is currently late evening.
Just outside the Annatto Gate the air grows stale and bitter as a twisted halfling lich comes into view of Squire Legionnaire Malinya, Eoghain, Lord Fornoxx, Squire Legionnaire Lyeraen, Grand Lord Mufassa, Mister Telum, Gellert, Orssus, Squire Legionnaire Valaero and Relic Hunter Legaci. A massive crimson deathworm is struck by a great conflagration, among other foul and unnatural undead beings summoned at the Will of one who’s heart must be as black as the tormented minions, yet again, sent to weaken the defenses and morale of Ta’Vaalor. Through the means of telepathy Squire Legionnaire Valaero inquires “Is His Majesty safe?”
Squire Legionnaire Pereus among others ensure the well-being and security of His Majesty King Qalinor of Vaalor, before several calls for aid were requested for the Drake. The Drake was a defense well constructed which allows even the most inexperienced of persons to play critical assistance to those on the front-lines – despite however strong they believed themselves to those battling on the front line. Throughout the weeks which had passed the Drake had proven, time and time again for the people of Ta’Vaalor along with any which call it home or profit from it in some regard, a tactical blessing.
Those outside the Annatto Gate feel the ground shake violently and hear something move from deep underneath their feet. Squire Legionnaire Nihrvanah, a Patron of the Displaced, rushes through the gates yet not before swiftly debriefing those holding the gate. “Squire Legionnaire Nihrvanah reports the road is clear. I am currently leading at Annatto.” Legaci reports to all which can hear. Another using telepathic means to communicate called Verryn inquired “Do you all need any help?” to which Legaci responded with “As I believe I’ve heard, more support to the Drakes. They’ve assisted greatly in this evenings defenses.”
High Legionnaire Kakoon reports to the masses “Both Vathor and Abyran’an have been dispatched along Fearling Pass.” as a cold wind blows carrying a raspy voice, around those safeguarding the Annatto Gate, “Are you so certain in your arrogance? It cost your compatriots dearly last night…” There is surreal sense of confidence, a tickle, which radiated within Legaci’s mind. Not for himself, no, but from a fiend which would not or could not show their face.
“I believe you have reason to stand behind your shadows. Until then, we’ll merely face your minions.” Legaci confronts the raspy shadowed voice with. Only those at the gates of Annatto hear the taunts yet all safeguarding it confront the shrouded and shadowed one through the means of telepathy, alerting those which could reinforce.
Imagestar says, “Baiting.” before shaking her head.
“Practice the Arts of Old, meet with that you claim you will bring to ruin. Allow them to see this “so-called” face of despair and doom.” Legaci mildly taunts attempting to rouse this unknown being into an emotion state. “If I get them emotional, they will make a mistake. And that mistake is all we’ll need to progress more than we have.” he thinks to himself.
An enumerable amount spectral elementalist point their skeletal finger at Squire Legionnaire Valaero and others which causes a storm of gas clouds to form. Those which are not engaged in battle are forced to a binding like state and a voice whispers to one among them. A voice only Legaci hears coming from a woman which spoke, “Do you remember me, Legaci.” A massive column of flame roars across the bridge, from the Drake, consuming enraged undead maguses just entering into the grey. Overcome by the waves of evil emanating from the undead magus, Legaci’s arms fall slack at his side and he finds himself unable to move. The woman says, “You have no reason to fear me, Legaci.”
Mercies asks, in thoughts “Where is the King?” as the normally slightly narrowed eyed Cavalier widen them. He had inquired if the others had heard the voice, the woman’s voice but none had. Time and confrontation with the undead continued as did Squire Legionnaire Valaero’s comforting words of discardment toward the dismay whatever idea’s the woman could have spoken, suggested or bewitched. Shortly afterward it barely became a second thought after High Legionnaire Kakoon reported to all that King Qalinor was holding the line at Amaranth Gate and secured.
Qalinor communicated “Fearling Pass is clear.” and upon hearing his Grace’s voice Legaci’s heart became uplifted yet the woman’s voice seemed to echo within his mind. His mind traveled to the moment in which the original specter, a haunted shadow and tainted reflection of a woman, captured. The wail, the plead of release while being absorbed into the Sphere, now lost to his people. He had never agreed to the method in which that shade captured but with a visiting Aelotio, Scholar speaking so strongly for the crude methodology – democracy triumphed. Something he voiced and reluctantly agreed with, as Tiope voiced so strongly against it.
Reports from all of the gates continued to pour through means of telepathy and soon before long Legaci’s mind was returned to actuality from memory as a focused thought from Squire Legionnaire Valaero reached him asking “Have the attacks stopped brother?”
Legaci quietly whispers to Valaero, “It feels like it Brother. I do not believe it took too kindly to my own taunts.” Time passed and chaos for another evening disembarked into order. An Order sounded to the population and all which stood among the living gathered to the King’s Court.
– Ta’Vaalor, King’s Court. – It is currently late evening.
Qalinor put a burnished vaalorn longblade with a golden wyvern pommel in his crimson silk scabbard as a cold wind blows carrying a raspy voice, “I remember the last time a Vaalorian King left the safety of his Keep. It did not end so well as tonight…”
Ancellya softly says, “Sounded much like a threat to me.” towards the raspy voice. Either most dismiss the taunts or merely do not hear it because of the roar of the crowd. Legaci’s mind returns to the past, to the moment of the shades first appearance within the tainted lands know to his people as the Bog.
Qalinor says, “Thank you all for aiding in the defense of the Fortress once again.” as those amassing continue with bows, salutes and varying signs of respect. Those of the Crimson Legion move into Bandon formation as High Legionnaire Kakoon collects a debriefing from First Legionnaire Esana.
Speaking to Esana, Kakoon asks, “First Legionnaire Esana, you and a few others took a forward party into Old Ta’Faedryl during the assault. Did you learn anything while there?
First Legionnaire Esana reports, “We were the first to encounter the Ithzir champions which later came against the fortress.” a brief pause occurs before she continues with “We engaged them while in the Old Ta’Faendryl, and they seem to be stronger than the Ithzir Seers.” Qalinor nods slowly, keenly listening to the First Legionnaire as most of the crowd soon begins to settle.
Speaking to Esana, Kakoon asks, “Who were the ones who had gone with you?” Shortly after being questioned the First Legionnaire continues to Kakoon with, “I took with me Squires Nihrvanah and Pereus.” The High Legionnaire’s attention turns towards to two squires which participated within the recon assignment. The crowd settles more and soon even a pin can be heard.
Speaking to Pereus, Kakoon asks, “Any signs of demon activity in your patrol?” and without a moments pausing the Squire replies to the High Legionnaire with, “None that we noticed.” Upon hearing the response the High Legionnaire turns to the other Squire asking her, “Did Vengeance make his presence known while you were there?” to which she responded back with a simple “No, sir.”
Pereus says, “Aurach had joined us while we there as well.” He soon continues with, “He had some ideas, we checked the Basillica specifically but no signs.” Kakoon asks, “Is Blade Aurach here in the Court?” but before Pereus can answer another speaks aloud.
Gellert says, “I believe he’s elsewhere for the moment.
“
Speaking to Kakoon, Dergoatean says, “Aurach expressed frustration at not having received an invitation to the excursion.”Gellert says, “He definitely fought though.”
Myasarie softly says, “So did many of the Hand of the Arkati fight well this day.”
Speaking in Elven, Arshwikk says, “They gave him no information to go on.”
Speaking to Dergoatean, Qalinor says, “Though the Blade’s aid is welcome, he is not a member of the Crimson Legion and should not expect to be included in Legion matters.” Kakoon adds, “The excursion was a direct order given from an officer. I’m afraid Aurach does not fall under the chain of command. We were not volunteering on this excursion, we were ordered.” while Esana concludes with, “I was specifically commanded by the Lord Legionnaire Commander Cyik. That is the only reason I did not seek Blade Aurach out.”
Dergoatean directs his attention towards the High Legionnaire before saying, “I merely mean to explain why you might not find him here for a debriefing tonight.” As the statement ends he redirects his attention to King Qalinor, almost pleadingly explaining “King, I hope you understand, I do not intend to place fault upon anyone here, least of all you.”
Speaking to Dergoatean, Qalinor says, “That is his right. I wish only to clarify the way our military works.” maintaining his fiercely regal demeanor he continues with “I took no offense at your statement.”
The chaotic sounds around Legaci indicate that the power of the law and justice in this region have fallen to disorder and mayhem! Before able to return to his senses by seeking shelter elsewhere, the world freezes over his sight. “Do you remember me, Legaci.” the woman asked of him “You have no reason to fear me, Legaci.” she beseeches him. Likely undead nonsense, an attempt to distract. What did make sense was hearing the voice of his King. Legaci had missed a small portion of the discussion yet felt it important to his own investigations. When his senses returned the King was in explanation.
Qalinor says, “The prisoner taken at the Ravelin some years ago was executed at the personal command of King Tyrnian by Lord Legionnaire Commander Tiope.” Legaci, among others listen carefully to Qalinor as he continues in remark with, “The orb has gone missing.” Squire Legionnaire Valaero turns an inquisitive ear toward King Qalinor as he seemingly concludes with, “It is no longer within the vaults of the Keep.” As the words of the King fall Mercies raises an eyebrow in Qalinor’s direction.
Krystalena says, “Now that’s an interesting turn of events.” as Kakoon points at a Faendryl known as Crime, ruining his hiding place.
Speaking to Qalinor, Lyeraen says, “So, what’s the play with this orb? Sounds like that is our crossroad ‘ere.”
Qalinor says, “I welcome reports from ANYONE who notices anything unusual that may pertain to the missing orb.”
Speaking melodically in Elven to Qalinor, Valaero says, “Indeed, Sire. And the very person who executed the prisoner was none other than the Betrayer. Who also was linked with demonism.” Qalinor nods at Valaero.
Speaking to Valaero, Qalinor says, “Tiope insisted that she carried out her acts to protect the fortress, that King Tyrnian had gone “mad.” Turning towards Arshwikk, Qalinor says, “The Crown thanks you, and the Hand of the Arkati for their aid this evening.” Qalinor then asks, “I must send a missive to the Mirror. Would one who resides in Illistim send a missive informing her of the Champions existence?”
Speaking in Elven, Arshwikk says, “I can do this.”
Qalinor says, “I leave it to the residents of Ta’Illistim to decide who will send the missive.”
Cigger says, “If we could activate the orb to be some sort of scrying device we might see who has it.”
Legaci reflects back to Alavard, the Aelotio Scholar who in part became indirectly responsible for his father’s death nearly a decade ago. Speaking to Cigger, he says, “The Aelotio Scholar had it originally within a scepter.” Gellert nods to Legaci as Legaci continues with “..allowing the Orb to harness power.” What other had forgotten was the orb itself powered from an very powerful undead being within which could not be defeated at the time. It was not so much the Orb the threat but the being within it.
Speaking melodically in Elven to Legaci, Valaero asks, “You speak of Alavard brother?”
A awkward moment of pause takes place before Legaci moves to answer Valaero with, “I don’t mention “His” or the “Traitor’s” name, but yes.” There is a pause which lasts only a second or two though a mild tone of bitterness heard in Legaci’s voice, surfaces. Not towards his Brother in Arms, but towards Alavard. To Valaero, Legaci continues with, “But yes, Him.”
Cigger nods slowly to to Legaci before saying, “Perhaps the scepter could be a key to the connection.”
With regret Legaci counters Cigger with “It was destroyed when the Scholar perished in Faendryl embrace.”
Sharlese asks, “Did they find the orb then?” she pauses in mild confusion before continuing with, “Or whatever they were seeking.”
Qalinor says, “If you will all excuse me. I have reports to pour over regarding activities at the gates I did not defend.”
The crowd, those which had defended, protected, guarded and those which stood their ground upon the battlefield finally left the courts. When the King himself eventually made his way to the Keep Legaci took to the Shrine he had become too accustomed too, as of late. Hundreds upon hundreds of scrolls, blanketed the cavalier and yet again he found himself sharing the good company of Mercies. He handed over to her a parchment dating back to the events in question. Her eyes studied the parchment with profound curiosities.
Year History 5109 Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: Following the tragic events in Ta’Vaalor, King Tyrnian comes forth to issue a proclamation to the city. He states that the city of Vaalor needs to shape up, and has urged loyal citizens of the city to join the Army Reserve. He stated that plans are afoot to dramatically increase the size of the Army Reserve, and that their duties will include patrolling the town, and that support structures will be built to enable them to do this. The King has also rushed through implementation of a new permit system to keep track of citizens entering the city, in order to prevent further attacks on the city. Vaalorian elves having full citizenship within Ta’Vaalor. Finally, the King decree’s that elves of other bloodlines, as well as sylvankind shall enjoy partial citizenship, while all others will be denied. Changes are afoot in Ta’Vaalor, and many are wondering how far the King will go to ensure its safety. As an additional measure to heighten security around the fortress, town mages have been tasked to set up magical wards in all areas inside the gates of Ta’Vaalor to prevent inbound teleportation. As a result, magical rings, familiar gates, and other direct teleportation devices are directed outside one of the town’s four gates. Spirit Guide will deposits casters and their parties outside one of these gates or in the Ravelin. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: After the recent destruction of the city of Ta’Vaalor, military presence among the ruined streets of the city has increased tenfold. Paranoia is said to be rife among military and civilian citizens alike. The Court of King Tyrnian has yet to comment on the recent disaster, and the King himself has not been seen since the recent events. It has been rumored that he may have fled the city. Constable Corath hel’Saeari Vaalor has stated, “The hordes are defeated, and we will continue to patrol the streets of the city with great vigilance while we await news from the King.” Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: Terrible news reached far and wide, from the fortress city of Ta’Vaalor as reports confirm that the statue of King Tyrnian, given by aelotoi scholar Alvarad was, in fact, a trap. News suggests that the trusted scholar Alvarad used unknown magic to release hordes of undead upon the city. The damage done by the horde has been immeasurable. The brave and valiant citizens of Ta’Vaalor defeat the hordes, and the statue of King Tyrnian destroyed by the pride of Ta’Vaalor, martial weapons. Confirmed reports also indicate the death of the scholar, who had remained protected from attacks until the statue had been destroyed. Despite the victory over the hordes, the destruction left in its wake has left the city almost unsalvageable. There is an eerie silence about the city, as citizens mourn their dead, and the loss of their city. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: Volunteers and family members continue to search for Junior Lieutenant Ruaera, missing now for over a week. The promised official investigation into her disappearance goes under way, and a variety of rumors and theories circulate around the fortress. Chief among these is the report that court mages detected traces of magical residue in Ruaera’s private residence. Military liaison Corath hel’Saeari Vaalor has announced that an official search party will be formed this Day of the Huntress, the 14th day of Phoenatos. Interested citizens met in Tyrnian Court at half passed the ninth hour of tonis where they were divided into groups and assigned to specific sections of the city and outlying areas. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: Word from Ta’Vaalor indicates that Junior Lieutenant Ruaera has been absent from duty for several days, and has not been seen at all during this time. Ruaera was recently reprimanded for raising suspicions about the integrity of the honored aelotoi scholar Alvarad. When asked to comment, military liaison Corath hel’Saeari Vaalor said, “We are unsure if Ruaera has absconded of her own accord. Citizens can be assured that the safety of Ta’Vaalor, its soldiers and citizens is paramount, and we shall conduct a thorough investigation into the recent disappearance.” The family of Ruaera insists that she would not abandon her duty to the city, regardless of circumstance. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: In a surprise announcement by the King’s Royal Council, Victory Court is renamed in honor of King Tyrnian Vaalor and the newly delivered statue gifted by the scholar Alvarad. The newly named Tyrnian Court is christened in a small ceremony. Several Ta’Vaalor locals have voiced moderate discontent over the change to the long-standing courtyard. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: Amid celebrations, rumors and suspicions are rife in the city of Ta’Vaalor. While Ta’Vaalor gives thanks to the aelotoi scholar Alvarad, several rumors have reached the gates of the city, and beyond, regarding the true integrity of Alvarad. In particular, trusted Junior Lieutenant Ruaera has expressed her mistrust of Alvarad and claims that several others are in agreement that the scholar is not what he seems. The senior military of Ta’Vaalor have, of course, branded the rumors and suspicions as “idle gossip” and “ludicrous claims grounded in little evidence.” Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: The Court of King Tyrnian announces that King Tyrnian himself wishes to honor the aelotoi scholar Alvarad for his valiant efforts to defend the city of Ta’Vaalor. The Court bestow the honorary title of “Guardian of House Vaalor” upon Alvarad. Alvarad has expressed his extreme gratitude and pledges continued dedication to the safety of Ta’Vaalor and its citizens. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: The latest reports from the city of Ta’Vaalor suggest that the aelotoi scholar Alvarad has headed up a huge effort to find the solution to the frequent attacks on the city recently. Corath hel’Saeari Vaalor has confirmed that a large hoard of undead have been slaughtered, and rather oddly, the apparition that has been plaguing the town was sucked into a gem and destroyed. Military leaders of Ta’Vaalor are said to be heaving a sigh of relief as the city returns to its peaceful state. Rumors persist that King Tyrnian will honor the scholar in some way for his bravery and defense of the city. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: Announcement of a Health and Goodwill Tax in Ta’Vaalor caused a minor riot near the Amaranth Gate in the late hours of the day. The tax measure comes in the wake of a number of other tariffs levied as part of a beautification project for the martial city. City officials led by High Constable Corath hel’Saeari Vaalor quelled the disturbance. The Health and Goodwill Tax has been levied against the Empath Guild and its suppliers, and early projections see it raising the price of medicinal herbs in Ta’Vaalor to untenable levels by the end of the current budgetary year. Elven Nations, Ta’Vaalor: News of the current troubles in Ta’Vaalor has crossed the Dragonspine and is reaching far and wide. Latest reports claim that an Aelotoi scholar has arrived to assist, claiming to have the knowledge and power to solve the current undead problem. Military Liaison Corath hel’Saeari Vaalor has confirmed that the Vaalorian Army is happy to accept the offered assistance and is confident that Scholar Alvarad is dedicated to the safety of Ta’Vaalor and its citizens.
OOC Statement: There are many moments which take place that I can not be a witness too, despite a desire to enjoy all the parts or different views of a storytelling. Please understand this is only one perception, collected from a series of event, with this character. Despite those which may not have been mentioned in the actual IC post, these were a few of the other people which played a part of this moment. Moments to which I believe can lead to other Never Ending Role Playing Stories.
Acknowlegdgments:
<< Jiarine, Conquerer of Reim Crime, Windye, Kynthelig, Cigger, Master Githros, Kellye, Squire Legionnaire Gellert, Lord Balradrung, Lady Mercies, Squire Legionnaire Krystalena,Ondreian, Conquerer of Reim Myasarie, Conquerer of Reim Arshwikk, Larktrill, Tsianna, Kuthar, Squire Legionnaire Malinya, Grand Lord Bypin, Jandria, Branch Guardian Daenalan, Ancellya, First Legionnaire Esana, Squire Legionnaire Nihrvanah, Squire Legionnaire Menos, Zarston, King Qalinor, Squire Legionnaire Pereus, High Legionnaire Kakoon, Conquerer of Reim Whirlin, Commander Roblar, Squire Legionnaire Lyeraen, Orssus, Squire Legionnaire Valaero, Froggai, Malees, Sharlese, Caynia, Lord Aeolis. >
Relic Hunter to His Majesty King Qalinor Vaalor,
the Sovereign Commander of the Crimson Legion
A Guardian of Elanthia
Lord Ty’Soru, Legaci