~ The Dwarven Blockade: [Archive] [Home] [Previous Turn] [Next Turn] ~

Storm remains quiet during the trip, though his listens, interestedly, to the conversation. The only sound he makes, though, is a smile-accompanied snicker at the mention of the death of Gaven, as fond memories of chopping his well worn in long swords down on the mage.

Naeron watches the reunion and ensuing conversations with great interest. He feels a pang of sadness over the thought of Crayne's loss, still dealing in so many ways with his own losses, his father, his mentor, and his reclusive mother. He makes a quiet pact before the Five Gods of Rinder that he will search her out when this war is over.

In the meantime, he simply urges that Kalreth be brought along and that they seek audience on these events with the new Regent...

Crayne nods and then catches up with Uncle Karelth, saying, "It's good to see you again Uncle! You are my only family now and I value that highly. Perhaps on the journey ahead I can tell you about my exploits with the Rinder's Six and the threat of the upcoming war. However, in return you must tell me about Halen and all its goings on. How is Old Halbraden? And Melli?"

Karelth smiles as he pats his horse, looking from the mare to his nephew's face. "Yes, old Halbraden..." he muses, "last I heard he was doing just fine. Haven't seen him in a few months, though. And I imagine Melli is doing well. Of course, she was always a happy woman at heart..."

As the party journeys on towards their destination Crayne tells his Uncle about the events that he has gone through with Rinder's Six. He also lets him know about his development in the arcane laws of magic. Curious about his Uncle's skill Crayne asks Karelth whether he has developed at all since Crayne left, to which Karelth offers that he has done little to further his magical skills since Crayne left his care.

Crayne offers Karelth some spells and some money, but for the moment, Karelth refuses kindly. Also during the conversation Crayne asks him if he knows anything regarding why the dwarves are blocking the passes.

"I haven't heard anything other than that they have stopped all travel between Raimead and the rest of the kingdom," Karelth replies. "A darn annoyance, those dwarves...present company excepted, of course," he smiles to Storm.

Later as camp is made and dinner eaten, Emma replies to Karelth's questions regarding the Red Dragon School: "The School was new to me only a month or two ago, as well," Emma explains, "But in that time I've met two different kinds of Red Dragon mages. One of them, Dire Luthor, was framed by his fellow members in a Caerloon plot to weaken the morale and redirect the attention of our border troops. Rinder's Six helped to set the record straight and, in turn, he aided us tremendously in retaking Fort Dillend. His name has been cleared and I believe he is even now focusing his efforts on defending us in our time of need.

"The other," she says, obviously unhappy with her memories of this subject, "Was named Gaven, I believe. He, and others like him, are renegades from the school...and the same mages that attempted to frame Dire Luthor. Rinder's Six fought against Gaven at Fort Dillend and he was slain, but not before we learned of an alliance between his renegade friends and the Caerloon army that pours into our nation.

"So, Karelth," the priestess smiles warmly, "My views of the Red Dragon School are balanced upon the scales of Anhur, himself. They have equal parts of good and evil within them, I think. Ultimately, it's up to us to counter the weight that these renegades bring to bear upon our current situation. I would see them denounced and defeated, upon a field of battle, if necessary. I do not fear them, because I've faced them and won.

"But," she continues, "I do not hate them all either, because I see that at least one faction is capable of much good. And indeed, they can protect us from great dangers, as we have seen in the Battle for Dillend. I just pray that these wizards learn to exercise some lawful and just control of their members, lest they become a great danger instead."

"An interesting assessment," Karelth replies to Emma. "I can see I've experienced only the second group you've described! And how about you, Cyveiliog," he turns to the reclusive warrior, "where does that name come from?"

"Cyveiliog McKinely," Cy says slowly, drawing a breath, "is an ancient name. I recently discovered in a tome from Emma's library," he motions to the priestess, "that my ancestors were guards to the first King of Rinder, and Cyveiliog means 'strong guardian.' So you are correct, Karelth, in that it is a name of noble origin. The family name was once one of the great Cavaliers of Anhur, an ancient order now lost to our time. Though sometimes I wonder..." his voice trails off.

"What is it, Cy?" Canter asks, intrigued.

"Nothing," Cy says, looking to the dirt at his feet, "pipe dreams, really."

Sensing the awkward pause in the conversation, Crayne steps in to play the role of gracious host, addressing the question of the ring.

"Indeed I will have a go at the ring! It is curious to me that an ocean wave be etched into the side it." For a moment Crayne ponders the matter with a raised finger to the mouth. With his knowledge of heraldry Crayne looks to identify the emblem. Perhaps a priestly sect of water might have created the ring. Unlikely, Crayne knew, but at the moment there was little to go on and anything was possible, he had come to realise.

Crayne then has a go at identifying the item, for his guess was that the ring be imbued with magic of some sort. Crayne stands back and waves his arms through the air and shouts an ancient magical language to which his Uncle first taught him. He focusses his eyes on the small object in his hand, observing the image as the spell takes effect. Indeed, the ring did radiate a magical aura, and blue was its color. Yet Crayne could do little more than note that fact. Still, it was confirmation that the ring was more than just a simple ornament.

Incidentally, Crayne also takes a quick glance over Karelth to see if he possesses anything else that is magical. But that look shows nothing but the dark outline of his uncle, revealing nothing else of magical aura.

Storm takes only a small interest of the ring, a little wary of it when the group mentions that it might be powerful magic. Storm stares a crinkled brow at the ring as it is shown around, ever adhering to the dwarven uneasiness around magic that isn't in weapons or armor.

"Hmm," Crayne begins. "It is certainly of magical origin. And it radiates a color I haven't observed before, which indicates it employs a sort of magic I've not before encountered. But beyond that, I cannot say. Any ideas from your stores of knowledge, Emma?"

Emma waits until Crayne offers his assessment, curious as to how much the Highbrow can discern about the ring. She knows that Crayne has certainly been growing in his magery skills, but all of this is new to her. Finally, after he finishes responding to his uncle, she offers a suggestion.

"The symbol on the ring is of an ocean wave, is it not?" she asks, "Perhaps it has power of some kind over the element of water? We are near the ocean now. This might be an ideal time to test its abilities...

"It must certainly be a powerful item for two Red Dragon mages to seek it out," the priestess says, "And we might ask ourselves why they'd come back for it now, after leaving it in your uncle's possession unchecked for all these years. I'm wondering if it might not have something to do with the current state of affairs?"

The priestess taps her chin in thought, then adds, "I think that they either require the ring because it gives them something they don't already have which they need to complete their plans...or, the ring provides a power that can be used to counteract their existing plans and they're searching for it once more to ensure that Rinder cannot put it to use in this time of uncertainty.

"Regardless," Emma offers, "If the symbol inscribed upon the ring truly does imply mastery of the elements of water, it could definitely promise a way for us to counter the fire-magic that we've seen them put to use at Fort Dillend, as well as in your uncle's home. Unlocking the secrets to this ring might aid us in ways that we can't possibly understand right now."

Emma puts one hand on Crayne's shoulder, demonstrating her confidence in him. "You've grown much in the short time that I've known you, Highbrow. And your uncle too seems to recognize that. Of all of us within Rinder's Six, you stand the best chance to unravel this mystery. And once you have done so, I pray that you will wisely employ it to do the right things. Don't be tempted by the same false promise of power that has stolen away these renegades..."

Crayne looks at the priestess, "Your words speaks wisely Lady Emma and I value your assistance! What Karelth has in his hand could be of the upmost importance to the outcome of kingdom I believe. I'm guessing that the Red Dragon mages were a little unlucky to run into my Uncle. If this ring is as powerful as you say then the mages have acted irresponsibly and we must take every advantage. Perhaps the ring provides some sort of protection to the holder. Perhaps that is why the mages weren't more ruthless in finding it. I don't know! We can only ponder at the moment. There is a spell however, that would aid us a great deal and it is named identify. It is of second echelon level - still an apprentice spell in my mind. But if I could get hold of the spell then I could tell you a lot more!"

Crayne looks over to Karelth, "Karelth is old Halbredan still about in Halen?" Crayne turns to Emma: "He was my other teacher you know!" He then looks back to Karelth, "Perhaps he could help us out somewhat! For isn't Halen just a short detour from our route to the Northern Pass?"

"Hmmmm...a short detour, perhaps," Emma agrees, "But, I'm not certain it would be wise to delay our investigation into the Dwarven blockade for an excursion to Halen. For now, the ring is safe enough. Unraveling its mystery can wait. Sir Nigel has set before us a more important problem and I think it would be best for us to resolve it first. Then, once we are finished, we can focus our attention upon the ring and return to Halen, if possible."

"Indeed our mission is of great importance and I acknowledge that. Nevertheless, this ring I feel could be of great value to us in in the upcoming struggle. I think it crucial that we identify what Karelth is carrying as soon as possible. For if we are to have Red Dragon mages on our tail then I want to know as soon as possible. Not only will it give us the knowledge of what they are actually after, it may provide us with a method of attack or defense. I'm not sure what I prefer a group of highly skilled mages or a bunch of discontented dwarfs!"

Storm growls in response, a smile on his face all the while. Hannibal also smiles at the exchange.

Emma listens to Crayne and nods, although she still frowns a little bit. "Crayne, I think you're being a bit too paranoid right now," she says, "I know we've had our brushes with the Red Dragon mages in the past, but they've never really sought us out directly. We've just happened to get in the way of their plans, and although I realize that could mean they might seek revenge upon us in the near future, I doubt very much that the incident with your uncle and his ring has anything to do with Rinder's Six. So, I don't think we're being tailed by them. We've simply stumbled across another of their schemes and have the lucky opportunity to thwart them again as long as we keep the ring with us and don't let it fall into their hands."

Crayne smiles, "Perhaps you know me too well Lady Emma! I see your words make sense! Though I will take some precautions as I'm sure the Red Dragon mages will not give up their search for this ring!"

"I think we can work to unravel this mystery while we accomplish Sir Nigel's mission," Emma explains, "There is no rush for us to uncover the mages' plot since we already hold the key...or in this case, the ring. And, sure, I recognize that the ring could certainly provide us with another form of attack or defense...but that's only a possibility. The one thing that we do know is that the Dwarves have blockaded the mountain passes and stopped the flow of adamantine once more. That is the problem that needs to be resolved as soon as possible...not the mystery of what this ring might do. Besides, as long as we keep it with us, we'll be depriving the mages of whatever attack or defense it might provide and that should be good enough to thwart their plans until we've dealt with the Dwarven blockade."

The priestess pauses for a moment, reflecting on some fleeting thought. Then, she says, "Crayne, why not test the ring now while we're beside the sea? That, at least, won't take very long and doesn't require us to deviate from our path. And, we just might discover some of its properties on our own, without this identification spell or your friend in Halen."

She looks to Karelth and asks, "Have you ever worn the item before? If not, perhaps we should try it on and see if anything unusual happens. I'd be willing to give it a try if everyone will stand ready to come to my aid in the event that something bad comes out of it..."

"Acutally, no," Karelth says, cocking his head to the side. "I have never worn the ring. I, too, have heard of magical items being cursed and the like, and besides, it didn't appear it would fit my oversized fingers!" He smiles to Emma and Hannibal, who lets out a chuckle.

Crayne looks a little wary as Emma continues, "I don't think we should dabble in things we know nothing about. For there have been many tales where mages have been blown up or cursed by items that they have put on just through a whim. No, I think we should find out more about this ring before we even consider putting it on. Besides I like you Emma, priestess of Anhur and I will not let go through with something that involves such great risk. After so much that we've gone through it would be such a waste! No! Let us be patient! I will seek out old Halbraden! You can come with me if you wish or I'll catch you up."

"If you prefer," Emma says, "I'll not experiment with the ring, then. You are certainly more knowledgeable about the dangers with such a thing than I will ever be...and I bow to your wishes. T'was only a suggestion.

"But, Crayne," the priestess says softly, "I would prefer it if you came with us to the Northern Pass before seeking out Halbraden. Your skill as a negotiator has increased ten-fold since I met you, and you bring a different mindset to the problem that the Dwarves represent than the rest of us possess. Also, Dwarves have a tendency to distrust magic and those who use it, I think."

"Your compliments serve to embarrass me Lady Emma!" Crayne says as he lowers his head to the floor. Karelth smiles proudly.

Emma then looks to Storm as if to verify the fact. Nodding, she continues, "There may be times during the negotiations with the Dwarves when we'll need an element of magic to put them off balance. I would rather have you demonstrate such abilities than try to exercise Anhur's power in such a way. I think we need you there, Crayne...from the beginning."

"Indeed! Who am I to argue with a priestess of Anhur?!" Crayne says as he concedes to her clever persuasion.

She reaches out a hand and touches his shoulder. "Believe me," she says softly, "I understand the fascination with solving a puzzle and unraveling a mystery. You and I are quite alike, I think. I used to rush about the library in Seden from tome to tome with eager anticipation as I uncovered the mysterious words and meanings behind the Scrolls of Anhur. This ring no doubt calls to you the same way those books did to me. But, it can wait. Trust me, Crayne. After we meet with the Dwarves and resolve that problem, I'll accompany you to seek out Halbraden if you like, and protect you from any Red Dragon mages that might cross our trail. But, please, promise me that you'll see to your duty as a member of Rinder's Six and accept the responsibility of the mission that Nigel has set for us."

Crayne smiles as he listens to Emma continue. His grin widens as she talks about providing protection against the Red Dragon mages for he does not doubt that she would. "You have buttered me up well Lady Emma and I will conceed to your argument! I will delay my venture to Halen!" Crayne says with a smile. "Besides which why would I want to depart from such pleasant company!"

Crayne smiles as he looks about Rinders Six. He sees Storm picking at his teeth, Hannibal with a look of anger on his face that has remained since entering Seden, Canter the newly transformed warrior, his Uncle Karelth, Naeron the latest addition to Rinders Six, the recluse Cy and lastly his eyes turn back to Emma - a woman who he was yet to understand, but was growing closer too by the day.

"Indeed! Why would I?" he mutters.

With first light travel continues. Canter announces soon after setting off for the day that they should arrive at the pass by mid morning. Indeed, the mountaintops of the Raimeads loom on the horizon, and the terrian begins to become more hilly. The gentle slopes still run toward the sea, though the road seems to take a slight turn inland as it approaches the small city in the shadow of the mountains, tucked away between the mountain chain and the great Northern Sea.

"Ahh, Conoran," Karelth says as the view of the small city widens on the horizon under the morning sun. "It has been years..."

"You've been here, then?" Canter asks.

"Yes, a long time ago. An ancient city, one of the first in the kingdom, and one of the first ports. Though today the metropolises of Seden and the brilliant cities of Raimead overshadow it, Conoran always had a classical appeal..."

Karelth's educated words seem lost on the leatherman's son, but Canter smiles nonetheless.

"Too bad, then, that we haven't time to stop by," Cy says, almost mockingly? (it's hard to tell). His eyes are focussed on the mountains ahead. He leads the group, and in an hour or so they have just passed the city, leaving it's southern gate behind them and approaching the mountains ahead.

The peak nearest the sea seems to rise directly up from the water, leaving little room for more than the road between the masses of earth and water. The view is majestic, and Hannibal is wide-eyed as he looks up at the tall peak above. His eyes roam the grey, granite face, inspecting all the cracks and planteaus. "Amazing," he whispers.

"Aye," Storm says with a smile, his spirits seeming to be liften just in the presence of the mountains, "it's me home."

Just then there is a high pitched streaking sound as an arrow whizzes by Canter and lands in the road just beyond him. Canter yanks on the reins of his horse, coming around. He eyes Storm, a look of concern on his face. Reaching for his crossbow and a quarrel, he calls to his dwarven friend. "Some homecoming..."

Another arrow then hits the road near Karelth's horse with a thud.

"Where are they coming from?" Crayne calls out, frantic.

"There!" Hannibal calls, pointing to a plateau in the distance. It's about sixty yards away and perhaps twenty yards straight up the mountain face. No actual people (human, dwarven, or otherwise) are visible, but Hannibal sounds confident.

"We must find cover!" Cy calls out, assuming a commanding tone. His eyes quickly scan the scene. "Follow me!" He spurs his horse with his heel, riding directly toward the near vertical face of the mountain just below where Hannibal had been pointing.

"Come on!" Emma instructs, looking to Crayne and Karelth to make sure they know where to go. 'A wise choice,' she thinks to herself, 'if we're lucky, we can get close enough that they can't fire down upon us. That'll force them from their perch and make them give up their advantage. If we're not...' she shakes her head, choosing to focus first on the plan.

Soon the horses are in a full gallop and the party is collected right next to the rock-side of the mountain. Arrows are raining down from above, but none land within fifteen feet of the cliff-side. The cliff seems to run in a gentle curve, as if tracing a gigantic circle at the base of the mountain in dimensions only a giant or god could comprehend. Yet the effect was that as one rode around, the cliff curved. There were also other rock formations which, it appeared, could be climbed (without animals) given the proper time and skill.

Suddenly a voice booms down from above in gruff, hoarse tones. The sound is unintelligable to some, but Cy immediately recognizes it. He listens carefully, Emma watching him all the while. Then he looks to Storm, who seems reluctant to translate.

So Cy does it for him. "They say they are the Dwarven Warhammer Brigade and will not allow us to pass. If we turn back, they say, they will not fire. But should we attempt to continue, they will attack and accept only surrender."

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