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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Nov 29, 2023 22:18:33 GMT -5
Leandros just so happened to actually be at the guild when information on Javian came into the guild. From what he understood Javian Daroe was already dangerous enough, so who knows what he will do when there is no other option. Plus the problem will be getting to him. Through a likely trapped hideout and other minions this wasn't going to be a walk in the park. If they weren't careful, then they'd be in tatters by the time they faced off against the boss. The room for error was going to be slim.
He sat in the stands of the training grounds as recruits practiced trying to think of who to bring with him. He wasn't honestly sure if Shaa would be the right choice. He was obviously one of the finest fighters that Charon had ever seen, but given the stakes he did not want anger to overtake him. Zarius would likely be invaluable with his skills with the underground, but the fellblood had been hard to contact as of late. Of those he knew in the guild, or would at least care about it, only the half-dwarf remained. How keen she would be to offer her assistance was unknown, but there was only one way to find out.
The recruits are left to Theo and Gilder as Leandros heads outside. The knight tightens his gauntlets as he walks towards the shore. After a moment his hair and cape are buffeted by the winds created by his new mount Haurach. The silver dragon glints off the sun, his scales like polished mirrors. It made sense the knight in shining armor would find a dragon that shined as well.
"Time for us to meet an old friend, Haurach. I hope you are ready to fly." A deep, but soft noise rumbles from the dragon's head as it dips his head to give Leandros the space to mount up and set up in the saddle.
It takes a bit of searching and talking to find Astrid's residence once they actually arrive in Dragon's Cradle. A heavy hand knocks on the door as his mind races to try and decide how to approach this topic if she even answers the door.
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Post by Lady Astrid Stormstone on Mar 1, 2024 23:26:19 GMT -5
It’s been a long time since Astrid has thought much about the Fighter’s Guild. The situation with Vikram happened a year ago, and while she spent a long time avoiding the guild altogether, she’s still be invested in the situation surrounding Athena – at least as much as she could be all things considered. A few months ago, Astrid joined Leni to take down one of the Clasp leaders in the Werewolf Woods, and after that, a bunch of other things started happening around Charon. She caught a glimpse of Shaa, enough to say hi but not much more, and fought alongside Leandros when Vulcadreaus exploded out of Mount Drakolt, and she’s even run into the lizardfolk Red who is also a member. None of them seemed to hold much of anything against her, and with that, Astrid’s anxiety around the situation relaxed. Sometimes Vikram’s last moments painfully cross her mind, and she finds herself wishing the swordsman hadn’t met such a fate at her and Leandros’ hands, but at this point, Astrid has largely accepted that reality. Vikram’s silver and gold scimitar sits on the wall of her workshop, reflecting daylight in a shimmer of sparkles while Astrid cleans up some of the remains of her most recent project. Various pieces, prototypes, and blueprints for a prosthetic cover up the center table of her workshop – something she spent days developing with Fish until they finally came up with something that not only perfectly balances strength, flexibility, and utility, but also works really well. Almost to the point that Astrid forgets her left arm isn’t real except for the lack of certain delicate feeling it doesn’t possess. Still, she and Fish did a great job working lightning magic, metal, and golemancy runes together to at least feign some of it. As Astrid lifts a crate to store on the shelf, she hears a knock on the door upstairs. “Charles, can ya get that?” she calls up as she hefts the crate and pushes it into its place. Charles, the clunky but obedient construct, clumsily walks over to the door and opens it. For a moment, his blank expression takes in the person at the door. “Greetings: Sir Leandros Aurthurian. Query: What can this unit do to assist?” “Who is it, Charles?” Astrid calls up the stairs. Charles turns away from the door, leaving it open, and walks over to the stairwell and says very matter-of-factly, “Mistress Astrid, report: Sir Leandros Aurthurian is present. Query: What would you have this unit do?”With a confused furrow on her brow, Astrid wonders aloud, “Leandros? What the heck is he doin’ here?” Then she calls, “I’m comin’!!” And before long, Astrid ascends the stairs into the foyer and sees Leandros in the open doorway. “Charles, ya left the door open! Lee! Hiya, come on in!” she says, waving him in. “Need anythin’ ta drink? How have ya been since... Whenever the last time I saw ya was?”In the backyard, a white drake has watched the descent of this silver drake with great suspicion and starts to creep up along the side of the house to investigate the other dragonoid in its territory.
Quest details: talesofcharon.proboards.com/post/36815/threadQuest Name: The Final Clasp Participants: Two or more Location: Moonglade (Shadewood) Post Requirements: 10 posts per person, 250 words per post Description: The time to confront Javian has come! His bandit headquarters has been discovered deep in the Shadewood and we believe Athena is being held captive there. This is what the guild has been working towards for more than a year! We need to assault the camp, remove obstacles, defeat Javian, and recover Athena!
The compound is a large series of wooden buildings and tents tucked deep into the forest, surrounded by wooden walls that are constantly guarded. Three bandits patrol the entirety of the camp, with Javian and Athena believed to be somewhere inside. The moment you make yourself known Javian is sure to poke his head out. In order to be successful and ensure the Clasp do not rise to power again, all bandits found at the camp are to be killed, including Javian.
Special Requirements: - Javian must die by the end of the topic, but how he does is up to you - Athena is recovered alive, but badly injured - The camp and all who live/work there must be disposed of
General Quest Reward: +2 Renown, +1 Mystical Archive Ticket
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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Mar 2, 2024 11:57:53 GMT -5
When the knight departs Haurach does eye the other drake with similar suspicion. She holds her head high and stands firm, not necessarily a challenge or threat but more just standing regal like Leandros. Haurach also aims to show respect for the other dragon by trying only to encroach as much as necessary to land and let Leandros off.
At the front door, Leandros is taken aback by the golem a moment. Advanced magics like this were not something he often saw, especially not used so casually as a butler. An interesting application of golemancy to be certain. When the door opens he is met with another interesting application of golemancy in Astrid's new arm though that might be harder to discuss right away.
"It's been some time since that incident with Vulcadreus, though it's been longer since we've properly met." He gently smiles and slips into the home, scooching around Charles.
A hand is raised declining the drink, "Unfortunately this isn't quite a social call, time is a bit pressing."
The knight reaches into a pouch at his hips to pull out a small sheaf of papers to hand over to Astrid. The letters detail the information they have on Javian and Athena. He is patient to give her time to read through everything and take the time to process it. This is a lot to drop on someone in his mind.
"I know things were not left in the best of terms, but I wasn't sure of anyone else with any ties to the guild I would trust this job with."
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Post by Lady Astrid Stormstone on Mar 14, 2024 14:15:57 GMT -5
“Aye, Vulcadreas feels like a lifetime ago at this point,” Astrid says with a jovial smile. “Glad ta see yer doin’ alright after all a’ that.” Glancing past him, she sees the drake in the yard watching Big Frizole behind the house. “Ah, I didn’t realize ya joined the WEF too! Them big drakes are nice ta have. Good companions too. Anyway, what’s up?”
Astrid starts toward the kitchen then stops when he says it’s not a social call. Her eyes cut to Charles, who’s standing aimlessly beside the open front door, and motions for him to close it then she focuses on the papers that Leandros hands over. Her brow furrows as she takes it and flips through it, surprisingly natural movements the Arcanatek Prosthetic as she does. If it were a bit thicker, it might seem like a pauldron and gauntlet, but without straps or buckles holding it to a cuirass, it’s evidently much more.
Her eyes dart through the pages, reading them as fast as she can, looking for keywords and phrases. Athena. Javian. This has to do with the Fighter’s Guild! Wait, but… “I ain’t part a’ the guild no more…” she says quietly, as if reminding them both of that fact. Granted, that hasn’t kept her from being involved with dealing with the Clasp. Astrid doesn’t enjoy leaving things unfinished, but this certainly seems like something that current members should deal with, shouldn’t they?
She looks up at Leandros with an unsure expression. “Are ya sure this is somethin’ ya want me ta help with? I… I s’pose I’ve kept up with a few folks, but… Well, I ain’t part a’ the guild… an’...” Her eyes drop to the papers in her hands. She’s willing to do this, but there’s another problem. Astrid looks over her shoulder deeper into the house. “I’m…still grounded.”
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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Mar 14, 2024 22:50:15 GMT -5
“I know you’re not but,” Leandros lets out a soft sigh. “I can’t think of many else to ask. Zarius has not answered my letters in some time and Shaa, well....I am worried he would tear the place down before we can get anything. I know he is one of the best fighters in Charon, but I fear what happens if he loses restraint.”
The knight pulls a seat over to lower himself down into. This clearly wasn’t going to be a just pack up and leave conversation. He silently admonishes himself for thinking it would be that simple. It was a selfish thought to expect Astrid to recognize the threat and throw all caution to the wind.
Her admission of being grounded for a moment before remembering she is still young. Gods above, was this what having a daughter was like? On the one hand Astrid is industrious, strong, kind, and polite which are all good traits.....on the other she was a young child adventuring around the world. Focus on the task at hand Leandros.
“Grounded?....I understand. I could speak with your father if you would like, but I also understand if you wish to respect your parents wishes. I can’t force you into anything.” He taps his gauntleted hand against the table as he thinks. This wasn't going to be something they could just go and do it seems.
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Post by Lady Astrid Stormstone on Mar 15, 2024 15:59:53 GMT -5
Astrid does her best not to wince at the mention of Zarius’ name, and her eyes drop down to look at the papers in her hands again. It's obvious this is important and urgent. The guild has been looking for Athena since before Astrid joined. For them to finally have a lead and a location is huge, but shouldn't all the members being trying to pursue it?
Then again, everyone in the guild is probably scattered across Charon or are unavailable. It can be hard to get people to jump into action sometimes because of their circumstances, and she is no different. Maybe Astrid would be more willing to jump in and help with enthusiasm if she weren't grounded. She and Fish only just got the best version of the prosthetic made a couple of weeks ago, and while they subjected it to some pretty intense testing, nothing beats a test in the field. But on such a dangerous mission?
Well, it would be with Leandros, and the two of them work well together. Heck, they fought a god together and came out of that relatively unscathed. Being familiar with your partner on a dangerous mission is all the more critical to its success. That's why she and Blue rarely ever get scuffed up when they adventure together.
Astrid presses her tongue into her cheek while she considers. Maybe she could convince Cantio. She's been stuck at home for a long time (willingly, of course), and this is a perfect opportunity to get her feet soaked alongside someone she knows will help keep her safe. It isn't like she lost her arm to a fight or a monster. And she can come right back home.
Looking at Leandros, Astrid's face is painted with a more serious but confident expression. Something in her eyes looks eager. She wants to do this. She can do this. For Vikram. For Zarius.
“Let me go talk ta me da.”
It isn't terribly hard to find Cantio in the house. He tends to favor three places: the kitchen, the garden, and his room. Hearing the gentle sound of the violin drifting through the halls, Astrid goes to his room and takes a moment to appreciate the pleasant calm that his playing, unimpeded by the frightful stare of an audience, brings to the house. After a moment, she knocks on the door lightly.
“Da? Can I come in?”
The melody of Cantio's violin fades when Astrid knocks on the door. Beyond the threshold, Cantio laughs softly as if responding to someone unheard; a few footsteps beyond the door signal his approach, and before long, the fellblood opens his door with his violin tucked under an arm. "Of course you can." he agrees with a warm smile. He steps aside to let Astrid in; with the door open, it's easy to see Melodia sitting eloquently at the edge of the fellblood's bed, presumably listening to his playing. "Was someone at the door?" he remarks, peeking out over Astrid's head. "Is Cypress back?"
Astrid fidgets with her hands a little bit after knocking, cool metal curling together with flesh before the door opens and she looks up at him. "Aye, someone's here. N-No, it ain't Cypress." She feels her ears getting hot for a moment as she struggles not to feel embarrassed even though she knows she has no reason to be. Admittedly, she would be pretty happy to see Cypress again even though it's only been a few days since their last meeting. Stepping in, Astrid looks at Melodia who gives her a smile and a little wave.
"Should I go?" the specter asks, tilting her head.
Astrid shakes her head. "No, it's fine, 'specially if Da ain't embarrassed ta play fer ya." She shoots Cantio the slightest twitch of a smug smile before considering how to bring up the tough topic at hand.
The warmth that burns at Astrid's ears seems to transfer into their matching earrings; Cantio chuckles but doesn't press the topic of the Satyr any further after Astrid steps in after him. "Alright."
The fellblood closes the door after her, leaving it cracked, and turns to head back into the room after Astrid. Similarly, Astrid feels a pang of embarrassment through their earrings when she speaks to Melodia. "Melodia's a good audience." he finally states, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly while he plops onto the edge of the bed next to the specter. "So are you and Blue, but I know you've been busy, and Blue's been out."
"Um..." Astrid starts, not sure exactly how to say it. Just be blunt. Putting her hands at her sides, she looks at Cantio seriously. "Da, can I be ungrounded now?"
When Astrid starts to fumble her words, Cantio blinks and looks at her; his expression flickers into one of realization— one that processes that whoever is at the door is requesting Astrid for something that could be dangerous— and that Astrid wants to go. Threads of dread, anxiety, and guilt tighten around his chest at the thought, but Cantio closes his eyes and takes a deep breath to keep himself from speaking or acting on impulse.
His tail flicks back and forth nervously on the bed, before curling around Melodia's spectral form as if seeking some kind of grounding support. He blinks his eyes back open, gazing briefly at Astrid's prosthetic, before looking back at her. "Before I answer, could you tell me who's at the door, and what you'd be doing?"
Melodia looks between the Fellblood and the half-dwarf with concern in her eyes. She folds her hands in her lap, though when she notices Cantio's tail curling around her, one hand moves to wistfully brush her fingers against the fur.
Astrid feels every individual pang of worry Cantio suffers through their earrings, and a wash of guilt threatens to sink her for even asking. But this couldn't last forever. The time at home has been wildly productive and enjoyable, but she's already getting stir-crazy.
Finally, Astrid speaks again. "It's Leandros," she says. "He said they've got a lead on where the leader a' the Fighter's Guild is finally, an' he asked me ta help get her back. He'll talk with ya if ya want. I didn't say yes yet 'cause... ya know... grounded, but... I can help. I know I can. An' I trust him. He's real strong. He an' I fought Vulcadreaus together. An' a dragon. I ain't ever gotten hurt when we work together-" Her face twists in pain thinking about their first meeting in Vikram's final moments.
She recovers quickly, meeting Cantio's eyes with confidence. "If stuff gets too hairy, I'll leave. No matter what, I'll come right back home. I promise."
Cantio knew this would come around sooner rather than later.
He does his best to remain neutral while Astrid explains, but his brows still furrow in concern while she does. He sees the way her nose wrinkles when she cuts off in explaining Leandros.
He’s been there to hold her when she finally told him about being there when a friend was killed; he’s seen her come home in shambles, carried by a near-stranger to their doorstep; and finally, saw her walk through the door, missing an arm, after trying to make something wrong in the world right again.
Cantio’s seen her at her weakest but he’s seen her at her strongest, too. He knows how important adventuring is to her; and he sees the decisions she makes.
He sees how big her gap-toothed smile gets when she’s telling an exciting story over the dinner table; and he sees all of her passion for helping those affected by the dragon that rose in the Ash Lands that found refuge in Dragon’s Cradle after the incidents. He’s seen her swing her hammer and use her magic; and he’s watched her tinker and create and practice with the prosthetic she made.
It works astoundingly.
Cantio is so, so proud of all she’s accomplished; and he knows that she’s helping to make Charon a better place through her efforts; but gods, does it terrify him all the same. All things considered, she’s his daughter, and she’s still a kid.
Cantio meets Astrid’s eyes for a long moment, and then he blinks; he looks sidelong at Melodia, before lowering his gaze to his hands. He squeezes his palms together before reaching out to Astrid with one hand— and should she take it, Cantio pulls her into a tight hug. “If things get too dangerous, please come right home,” he agrees weakly.
If she has to go, and if this is what she’s called to do, he wants her to know he’ll be here for her exciting stories just as much as he’ll be here for those times when there are tears.
The whirlwind of emotions Cantio goes through while Astrid explains what she wants to do makes her nervous. Part of her expects him to say no, and she’ll respect that, but the other part of her knows that they both know she can’t stay here forever. Then she feels him relent in some small way, and she lets him pull her in for a tight hug. Astrid leans into the embrace, putting her arms around his neck and hugging him with all her might without crushing him. It doesn’t feel final like this would be the last hug ever; instead, it feels certain and reassuring. But it also feels grateful and excited. Astrid is ready to get back out there, and there’s no better way than with someone she trusts.
Cantio takes a breath and squeezes Astrid once more before releasing her, “I’d like to see you two out before you leave so I can meet Leandros. When everything’s done, please contact me or Melodia, okay? And if any of your plans change, let me know, please?”
“I will, I promise, Da,” Astrid says, nodding against him and holding him in the hug for just a little longer before she finally steps back and looks between him and Melodia. “I’ve got some healin’ stuff, me armor’s doin’ better than ever with the stuff I put together with Melodia, an’ I’ve got the phoenix feather an’ Elsewhere Juice fer emergencies. I’ll take Big Frizole with me, an’ I might take Buttfellow too. Won’t nothin’ bad happen. We can handle it.”
Once again, she gives Cantio a confident smile. Maybe she couldn’t tell him exactly who she gave her arm up for, but she’s gotten stronger and more equipped since the last time her life was truly in danger. She’ll be more careful because this mission is going to prove that she can handle herself and come home safe. This mission is her opportunity to help quell some of Cantio’s worries. It might not be all of them, but that’s the most impossible task anyone could try to accomplish.
Melodia gives Astrid a smile, though pained. Like Cantio, she doesn’t enjoy seeing someone so young put themselves in danger as often as she does, but Melodia has seen Astrid in the field plenty. She’s seen the growth firsthand, and she knows that confidence is not unfounded. The ethereal elf places a hand over one of Cantio’s and offers him a reassuring though solemn smile as if to say that things will be okay.
Cantio smiles weakly when Astrid reassures Melodia and him; she has her healing stuff, her armor’s been improved, and she has what she needs for emergencies. “I know you can.” He agrees, his smile soft despite Astrid’s confidence; he knows that she’ll do her best. Some of her biggest companions will be going with her, and she’ll have her friend, Leandros; and still, Cantio can’t help but worry.
As the days turn to months though, he’s come to understand that he’ll never really stop worrying about her when she’s gone, but that’s not something she needs to carry around with her. Cantio glances sidelong at Melodia, his smile both apologetic and grateful for her presence and reassurance.
Settling into the strange atmosphere of relief and anxiety, Astrid looks over at the door. “Come on, come meet Leandros! He’s real swell guy.” Then she grabs Cantio’s hand and pulls him downstairs to the kitchen where the absolute unit of a knight sits at the table awaiting the results of the conversation.
“Heya, Lee! This is me da, Cantio,” Astrid says, motioning to the Fellblood then she motions to the elven specter following them. “An’ that’s Melodia.”
Cantio blinks a few times before he offers Leandros a lopsided smile and dips his head in greeting. “Ah… it’s nice to meet you.”
Astrid looks over at Leandros and grins wide. “Da says I can join ya, but with some stipulations, like if stuff goes bad, I gotta get outta there quick like. An’ I gotta keep him privy ta any plan changes. Ya know, stuff that’ll help keep him from worryin’ best we can.”
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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Mar 17, 2024 16:52:40 GMT -5
Leandros does his best not to listen in to the conversation and respect the privacy of the two. In the soft quiet of the room his mind wanders to the future and how he would handle a situation like this with his own daughter. Though admittedly he hopes he never actually have to talk about something like this. In his ideal world, his daughter wouldn’t need to go out and fight or at the very least do so at such a young age.
The world seems far away from that idealism though. As much as it pains him he did have to reckon with the fact that these tough conversations are unavoidable. With luck, maybe his daughter won’t want to adventure. This would certainly keep her safer, but he had yet to hear of an Aurthurian born that didn’t feel the pull of adventure.
Soon enough, Astrid’s voice comes down the stairs and his mind is pulled from the thoughts. He stands to his full height, fixing the fit of his gauntlets and how his cape falls for a moment. The fur of the mantle is brushed quickly before he sees the fellblood.
“The honor is mine Mister Cantio, Lady Melodia.” He offers a handshake, careful not to make it too firm. “You’ve raised a fine young woman. You have my word I will keep her safe. If it helps ease your mind I am practiced in some healing magic and my wife is always certain I never leave home without healing potions.”
He pauses to give Cantio a moment to respond before continuing, “I cannot lie in saying this will be easy, the man is a dangerous criminal and keeps similar company, but he has likely never faced fighters like myself nor Astrid. If things do turn south, we have the advantage of drakes to leave with haste.”
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Post by Lady Astrid Stormstone on Mar 17, 2024 22:28:29 GMT -5
Cantio offers his hand to Leandros and smiles lopsidedly; it's clear by the way his brows are furrowed that he's conflicted about the meeting. He shakes his head slightly at his compliment, golden eyes falling to Astrid briefly, before looking back at Leandros with a sheepish chuckle.
A parental pride lingers in his chest all the same.
"That's all Astrid's efforts I couldn't take credit for. I'm very proud of her," he chuckles as he draws his hand back to rub the back of his neck anxiously. He listens to Leandros' reassurances and warnings about what they'll be getting into. He doesn't like it— of course he doesn't, especially not right now— but he nods. "I appreciate your transparency... I trust Astrid and her abilities, and I'm glad that she has somebody that she can trust going along with her."
His shoulders rise and fall with a breath. "But... you know... don't hesitate to return if you feel like things are getting bad out there, yeah?" He smiles sheepishly at Leandros, before glancing at Astrid with a weak smile. "Melodia and I will be here waiting for you, regardless."
Melodia, of course, being a specter, cannot shake Leandros’ hand, but she reaches out to touch it as some acknowledgement, inclining her head toward him. Around her, her hair floats freely, as if the knight were looking at someone underwater. “Thank you, Leandros,” she says. “We’ll worry regardless, but Astrid can always call on me to help you both. Being a spirit has its advantages in some ways.” A melancholic smile paints her face as she finishes speaking. Melodia will always help how she can, but lacking a physical body has its own drawbacks. It’s been difficult to watch Astrid struggle during her time at home before a friend came to help her make progress on the prosthetic. Like Cantio, Melodia is proud of Astrid, but she has seen firsthand what the girl does in the field. She’s confident in her abilities, she knows what she can do, but that makes her worry all the more. The least she can do is be optimistic and reassure Cantio.
Astrid turns and looks at her two parental figures, an odd and unofficial couple. Two people from very different walks, two different times, that became a part of her life in completely different ways. They’re two people who care about her deeply, and she can see that in their faces. She promised she’ll always come home, and she means it. She knows what it’s like to be waiting without an answer, and she’ll do everything she can to make sure that she doesn’t do that to them. Astrid steps forward and gives Cantio a tight hug.
“Thanks, Da,” she says, burying her face into him. “We’ll be back safe an’ sound. Promise. I got ta come back ta ya, an’ Lee’s gotta go back ta his family too. We got too much ta lose fer ya ta lose us.”
When Astrid steps forwards, Cantio crouches down and opens his arms to pull her into a hug. "I know," he admits, sighing as he rests his cheek against the top of Astrid's head. "You always keep your promises."
He squeezes her tight, chuckling warmly as Astrid continues to assure him that they've both got too much to lose not to come back. "I know. Be careful and stay safe; remember to bring your talking head with you, and call Melodia if you need her." With one last squeeze and a kiss to the top of her head, he releases Astrid so she can do whatever she might have left to do to get ready. "I'll see you when you get back."
If only the embrace could last forever, but Leandros came here with urgency. The two of them need to act fast before Javian moves his forces to make any information the guild may have useless. Astrid squeezes Cantio tight before rushing off to get ready. Then, with a final goodbye, she and Leandros mount their drakes and take off for the camp.
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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Mar 18, 2024 21:33:50 GMT -5
"I can only hope my own child is half the person Astrid is and myself to give them half the guidance you've given her." He nods with a smile before stepping back to let them finish their goodbyes.
It was a conflict to not rush her out the door, but also they both knew the time crunch they were under. Javian wasn't an idiot so he could find out he's been compromised any moment if he hasn't already. Moving a prisoner was never easy and the bandit was probably just as likely to kill her as he was to keep her alive.
When it was time to go, Leandros just gives another nod of assurance to the couple. No point in once again talking about how dangerous it would be, but don't worry Astrid will be just fine. As they step outside, Haurach is suddenly on full attention for the knight.
The silver scaled dragon stands tall before bowing its head for a small pat to its jowls, "Astrid this is Haurach, if you're worried about Byrr don't be." He smiles a bit, "He gets to live a comfortable life eating hay and not having to carry me around.
The knight heads to the saddle and swings himself up and in with ease. In just a few flaps they are airborne, waiting a moment for Astrid to join him and get on the way.
It takes a long time to get to the Shadewood, but boy do dragons cut down on travel time. Flying high above the trees, the clearing where the bandits have set up camp becomes pretty obvious. The Clasp have really dug themselves into this area, it is no normal bandit hangout. Walls, multiple buildings, regular guards, these folks were going to be trouble with or without dragons.
"Well, how should we handle this? I'm wary against strafing with the dragons as we can't know where Athena is being kept. Plus they are going to spot us well before we get in to range."
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Post by Lady Astrid Stormstone on Mar 20, 2024 12:46:48 GMT -5
“Good ta meet ya, Haurach,” Astrid says, offering the drake a wave. She then pats her own drake on the leg as she introduces him. “This is Big Frizole.” The white drake stares at Haurach for a long minute as if establishing some kind of kinship or rivalry before snorting in satisfaction. The silver one has respected his space. He will accept their companionship.
Being grounded hasn’t mean that Astrid couldn’t go outside, but the feeling of the wind in her hair and against her face is refreshing. She breathes in deep the humid Dragon’s Cradle air as they fly, really appreciating the first taste of true, guilt free freedom once again. Typically, she would cover great distances by simply teleporting around Charon, but flight feels good. It feels right. Even if they need to get to their destination urgently, they can do so quickly on drakes the size of dragons.
Once they arrive near enough the camp, Astrid is surprised to see such an intense, defensive structure. It’s like a regular prison. The easiest thing to do would be to just raze everything, but Leandros is right about Athena. Who knows where she is? Astrid looks over at Leandros. “I can send Melodia inside ta scout thin’s out fer us. She won’t be seen then can tell us where Athena is, then we can sneak inside. Or go in with dragon’s blazin’. Might help us cut down on how many folks we need ta fight, an’ she can see if Javian is around too.”
“Oh, also…” Astrid digs into her bag and pulls out a pair of carved stone figures with arms interlocked, which she twists to pull them apart and tosses one to Leandros.[1] “That’ll let us teleport ta each other once each. Ya don't even have ta see the other person. Ya know, in case we’re in a sticky situation or need ta help each other.”
1. Blink Buddies - can teleport to the position of the other half
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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Mar 21, 2024 7:40:53 GMT -5
Leandros tucks the figure into a hip pocket to safely store it, "We shouldn't separate too much, but this will help, who knows how this will go....if Melodia can help scout that would save time."
The knight pulls back on the reins a bit to slow Haurach down to almost just hover in midair so they can strategize. This was definitely going to be complicated for the both of them. Finding out where Athena is will eliminate some of the guess work, but there's still a lot of obstacles in their way.
"Getting over the walls will thankfully be easier, but I imagine he has a number of traps already set up...there is also his lieutenants to worry about."
Javian himself would be a problem, but he'd called back virtually everyone he could for this job. He wasn't going to give up easily which meant neither would his underlings. On top of that, there wasn't too much information on who he called back other than they were equally capable fighters. As always no job was ever going to be easy, there always had to be some big complication.
"When the fighting does begin, try to stay as near me as possible....I've been learning a bit more about healing magic with my wife and I think I've made some progress....plus I did promise your Father."
For the time being, he will hold position until Melodia comes back with information. Once they have that they can easily swoop in and take out the people on the walls. A quick breath attack could help prevent them from setting off any alarms, but big dragons breathing stuff will catch someone's attention.
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Post by Lady Astrid Stormstone on Mar 27, 2024 16:36:35 GMT -5
“Right, well… if we can just break in ta where Athena is bein’ held an’ fight Javian without all the goons outside, that’ll be easiest, won’t it?” Astrid wonders while manifesting the magic to summon Melodia.[1] Then again, having open space would probably be better for both her and Leandros, but a halberd aimed down a hall couldn’t be too bad either. If need be, they can always just break down some walls. The only problem is that the dossier specifically said everyone needs to be killed, so that’s going to be its own challenge. These guys are strong, which means they’ll probably take a few hits from whatever she and Lee can throw at them.
When Melodia appears, she looks around at the situation. Seeing the compound, concern crosses her face, but Leandros looks more concerned than Astrid when she looks between the adventurers. Astrid quickly explains that they need her to go find Athena, doing her best to describe the woman. Raiding this place would be pointless if Athena isn’t inside. Melodia nods with understanding then disappears to go exploring.
After a while, Melodia manifests between Lee and Astrid again and gives them a breakdown of everything she’s seen. Athena is held in one of the sturdier buildings in the center. The camp is only populated by four well-armed and armored individuals, one of which matches the description of Javian. He is inside the same building as where Athena is being held, guarding her specifically. From her description, he is concerningly well-armed with unusual equipment and will likely be the toughest of the bunch, which of course Astrid and Leandros expect, but Melodia would still like them to be cautious.
Leaning forward on the saddle, Astrid ponders how to tackle things. She wants to respect Cantio’s wishes and be as careful as possible, but sometimes you just need to jump into action. “I could drop Buttfellow ta distract one a’ the goons while you an’ I focus on the other ones. Or we could use a potion ta be completely silent an’ sneak up on ‘em. What do ya think? Otherwise, I ain’t bothered by ridin’ the drakes in breath blazin’ an' just cause a bunch a' chaos with Replicants an' whatnot.”
1. Call Ghost
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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Apr 1, 2024 11:55:11 GMT -5
"I admit I am not the best with stealth, but it might be the better option here...We could mix the plans a bit." He pauses to think through his plan. "If we return to the ground and let our drakes create the chaos it should be easier to slip inside. We take the reins off so it seems like they are just wanderers who decided this was their spot...we could sneak in among the chaos. I am not worried those on the walls have the skills to harm either of them."
Admittedly he didn't like the subtrefuge and sneaking around, but it was hard to deny its use here. If they charge in, they risk Athena's life but if they can create just enough confusion it can buy them the time they need.
They likely couldn't avoid fighting until Javian which would be ideal, but he wouldn't count on his body guards to be so easily tricked nor avoided. If Astrid is good with this plan, then Leandros is ready to move.
The worst part about saving hostages is it is a race against the clock, but you never know how much time you have. They had to be decisive and they had to act fast. Athena couldn't afford for them to hem and haw over the right exact perfect plan.
Assuming they are agreed on the plan, Leandros will descend with Haurach. They land about a mile out and in the woods to cover their entrance as much as possible.
"When you are ready...we go. We make straight for the center building and hope we make it there before the fog of war clears from their minds."
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Post by Lady Astrid Stormstone on Apr 3, 2024 19:08:26 GMT -5
“Alright,” Astrid agrees. The drakes have the ability to harden their scales to prevent a couple of wounds, and if she and Leandros move quickly, neither drake will come to any harm that can’t be healed with what little magic the two of them have. Following Haurach on Big Frizole, Astrid lands beside them and starts quickly removing Big Frizole’s saddle. The drake shakes his scales and loose skin out to readjust himself, his teeth gnashing silently as he licks his lips once freed of the bridle.
“Okay, Frizole, the two a’ ya are gonna make a distraction. Maybe try ta find yerself a snack while yer at it. These guys ain’t good folks, so… I’ll just not think about it too much.” Giving the drake a pat on the leg, Astrid turns to Leandros and finds somewhere to stow their saddles and reins safely until later. Then she looks into the woods toward the camp and steels her nerves.
This is the first big fight in a long time, the first one since losing her arm, but she and Fish tested the crap out of this thing, so she’s confident it won’t break. It’ll give her extra magic if she needs it, and she has a feeling tossing out Scern’s spell and a couple of other debilitating ones are going to be extremely necessary here. If she takes away Javian’s abilities with his blade, even if only temporarily, with Space Jam, she and Leandros can really do a number on Javian.
“Let’s go,” Astrid says firmly, hurrying into the woods toward the camp.
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Post by Leandros Aurthurian on Apr 4, 2024 19:53:46 GMT -5
"Do not put yourself at any more risk than necessary. In and out, wait in the woods and I will call for you once its done." He and Haurach share a nod before the dragon takes of into the air.
Haurach spreads her wings wide and roars into the air as she takes off towards the encampment. For now, she will take the front as her cold breath is a lot less destructive, but it can weaken things for Big Frizole to do the real damage. The drake cuts through the air on the way to the encampment.
A bit of nervousness has taken hold of the men at the walls hearing the cry. City guard or bandit guard didn't seem to matter, not many people were ready to face a dragon when it happened. The fear became all too real as the small dots in the sky became bigger....and bigger.....and oh dear Solaria it is an actual dragon. Arrows fly limply towards them as shaky arms make it hard to aim. Haurach tucks her wings to slip through the cloud of arrows.
Near the ground, she strafes about the camp and breathes out coating the earth in an icy sheen. Some are frozen in place on the wall, others entirely encased. She banks to circle back around and give Big Frizole a chance to make their move.
"Sounds like they are doing well, should we head out? They should be circling back for a second attack by the time we get there." He had no tricks or spells to overcome Javian's abilities, but he had a few things to simply overpower the man if the time comes.
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