Plotlogs
A Feather In The Wind Sr Elias 250104
In the mystical forests of Rhagost, Juniper, Victoria, and Kah embarked on a perilous mission alongside Elias and his band of formidable Forged mercenaries. Their goal was the acquisition of the sacred Feather of Zephyrus, housed within a temple guarded by ancient warriors. The temple, a natural marvel blending divine and terrestrial craftsmanship, lay hidden, revealing itself to those truly seeking its wonders.
As the mercenaries prepared for the impending battle, revealing their tactical expertise and determination, Elias outlined the plan. A direct assault would forge a path for the trio to infiltrate the temple and secure the feather. The guardians, clad in bronze and forming disciplined phalanxes, displayed a resilience that harked back to times of legend. Yet, amidst the chaos of battle, the tranquil and ethereal beauty of the temple interior stood in stark contrast to the violence outside.
Within, the intricate puzzle of the compass awaited, a test of wit and understanding. Juniper, Victoria, and Kah, through cooperation and insight, successfully solved the riddle, unveiling a path to the artifact. However, a celestial guardian presented them with a final challenge, questioning their worthiness. Amidst assurances of their noble intent and acceptance of the weight of their quest, the feather was entrusted to them.
Yet their trial was far from over. As they reclaimed the material plane, the battle raged on. Kah, covered in protective ice by Elias, made a last stand, ensuring the safety of their retreat. Victoria, with quick reflexes, and Juniper, carrying the invaluable feather, worked in harmony to secure their escape.
Their return was fraught with the weariness of battle, yet filled with the sense of a hard-earned victory. Elias, kneeling, battered but unbeaten, commended their effort and success. The artifact secured, their mission completed, they faced the future, bonded by the trials they overcame and the profound implications of their success. This quest had been more than a mere retrieval; it was a testament to their resolve, courage, and unwavering commitment to a cause greater than themselves.
(A feather in the Wind(SRElias):SRElias)
[Fri Jan 3 2025]
On The forests of Rhagost
The forest is a vast expanse of towering trees that sway gently as though responding to an unseen breath. The air is cool and invigorating, carrying the faint scent of blooming flowers and fresh pine. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating dappled patterns of gold and green on the forest floor. The rustling of leaves and the occasional murmur of a stream create an ambient symphony that feels alive, as though the forest itself whispers ancient secrets. A temple is hidden within a glade that seems to appear only to those who truly seek it. Enclosed by a ring of ancient oaks, the clearing radiates a serene, otherworldly beauty. The temple is a marvel of natural and divine craftsmanship. Its walls are composed of pale stone etched with intricate carvings of swirling winds, birds in flight, and trees bending in a breeze. Ivy and moss grow along the walls, intertwining with the carvings as if nature itself embraces the structure.
It is night, about 75F(23C) degrees, and the sky is partly covered by thin white clouds. There is a waxing crescent moon.
"One of these days, I'll make someone tell me the weather," Victoria sighs, "before we leave."
From out of one dark forest and into another, Juniper and Elias step out of their path together into the comfortable temperatures of Rhagost at night. Waiting for the presence of her packmates to be felt as they arrive, Juniper offers then a warm smile of welcome and gratitude. "Thank you for agreeing to come, Kah. And of course you too, Vic," she mentions, flicking at a firefly that floats past her face and threatens to get stuck in her hair.
Twirling a dagger in her palm before placing it into a sheath, Victoria arrives amid a swirl of air, pausing her steps once she sees Juniper. "At least it's not snow," she shrugs a shoulder, then glances about herself for Kah.
Stepping through the shadows shortly after Victoria, Kah is already smiling when he hears Juniper and his head nods immediately. "If I'd known I would have planned on coming. Family first" he says to her with a serious nod before stepping to take a place by Victoria's side. He seems familiar with the forests here, having spent his share of time roaming through it no doubt as of late. "Give me what information is important here, I had little time to catch up on the dossier but I read some." His hair is swept back out of his face, and tied back. He's dressed in modern camoflauge clothing and bearing his usual arms and shield.
When the adventurers arrive within the northern forests of Rhagost, Elias in his tactical gear makes his way over to a group of roughly a dozen other mercenaries. Clad in matching black tactical uniforms made from high-performance, lightweight materials. Over these uniforms, they wear Kevlar armor for protection, which is often sleek and fitted. They each wear a prominent patch depicting the Sword of Damocles, symbolizing the ever-present risk and fate tied to their mercenary lives. This patch is located on their shoulders lending a foreboding visual element to their attire. For weaponry, each carries a mix of modern and medieval arms, rifles, swords, and axes are sheathed. Their look is both modern and fearsome, bridging the gap between tactical precision and primal, medieval brutality. The result is a unique combination of modern warrior and ancient fighter, a formidable appearance that demands respect on the battlefield. They stand prepared for battle, their rifles held in a low ready position. The dark haired man, ELias, called out to those that are gathered, "Ahead of us, we have a battle in which us, brothers and sisters will triumph. We will press on for glory, for wealth, but most importantly, for each other." This seems to rally the mercenaries present a good degree as he look like they are ready to depart. He looks to the others with a small smile, "There is a small army protecting the Temple in which we are going to need to pierce, it is going to be a fight. What we will do is create an opening and hold them off, giving you a chance to enter. Get in there, get the feather, and get out before they are sufficiently reinforced and we get overrun. I guess this one we are playing to our strong points, smash and grab."
With a glance to Juniper and Kah, Victoria smiles. "I'm fine with that sort of plan."
"Definitely our strong point," Juniper agrees with a knowing and affectionate smile to Elias before looking to the other two she has with her. "Especially without Ash darling's fancy flashy magic and such," she notes with a small tinge of regret. "Do we have a map of inside at all or are we going in blind? Or not even a map but... an idea of layout?"
Listening quietly, Kah nods his head once when he hears someone lay out the plan and he gives a wolfish grin. "Victoria is with me. Together we can handle the bulk of the main force" he says confidently. Even looking a little gaunt still, he speaks confidently and he stands at the ready, his spear resting easily in his grasp. "What has happened to Asteri?" Kah says to Juniper aside, his expression turning into a frown.
Listening quietly, Kah nods his head once when he hears Elias lay out the plan and he gives a wolfish grin. "Victoria is with me. Together we can handle the bulk of the main force" he says confidently. Even looking a little gaunt still, he speaks confidently and he stands at the ready, his spear resting easily in his grasp. "What has happened to Asteri?" Kah says to Juniper aside, his expression turning into a frown.
"They have just been a leaf in the breeze as of late," Juniper mentions to Kah with a small pull of her brows. "If you have seen them, then I am glad to hear it. But I have not since... well I think since we gave Vic her cake."
"We are in the Godrealms my friend. We stir up to much trouble and we might actually get angels appearing and other very otherworldly enemies. The servants of gods here are rarely as simple as Wildlings. What I will do is I am going to bring the men with me and we are going to work on creating a perimeter for you all to work. While the soldiers on the outside will create a challenge I am sure, the real challenge will be in the inside." Elias explains as he gestures back to the dozen or so Forged mercenaries before looking back to the Senior members of the Forged, "I trust all of you to get it done. I always work better outside anyway, where the sky is." He says he looks up towards the sky, clouds already starting to form overhead as he smiles, "As for the layout, I don't know it. These kind of Temples literally can change shape at the whims of their patron. The powers of Gods are hard to fathom, so lets hope we don't actually encounter whom the temple is dedicated too, Zephyrus. The feather, it is a sacred relic of his clergy, it is an actual feather off one of his wings."
With a frown, Kah nods again - he hadn't thought of that. He resettles himself. "Good point" he murmurs, before turning his eyes to scan toward the distance and around them now. "I know this name" he opines, though his brow furrows over his features as he struggles to recall from where or why.
Juniper appears weary of temples and gods and artefacts as Elias talks, but as ready and resigned to the contract as ever. "Alright, well, do you have a signal for us when it's to rush in or should we just use our fabulous wolf brains?" she asks her dark-haired partner, the one who is always somehow getting them into these predicaments. For the greater good, of course.
"You are some of the most intelligent people I know, I trust you will figure things out easily enough. Lets start heading out and get in there before we are noticed. While we are a small strike force, we have enough of us together armed to the teeth, we will get noticed before long." Elias starts moving off heading towards the north, "Once the fighting starts and you see a clear path, get inside the Temple. Ideally if things go smoothly, you guys can get in and out before reinforcements arrive." The Forged Fortune mercenaries with Elias leading them, clad in their black tactical uniforms, approach with precision, advancing in staggered formations. The sound of their boots is muffled as they maneuver tactically, rifles raised and scanning for threats. Occasionally, one of them breaks formation to get a better vantage, while others keep watch, rifles at the ready. As the Forged first catch sight of the several dozens of the guardians of the temple, they halt in their tracks, a sudden shift from their previously stealthy movements. Spread out in loose formation, each mercenary instinctively finds cover or crouches low, rifles raised as they observe the scene unfolding ahead. The Temple Guardians look like figures from an ancient epic. Equipped with bronze cuirasses, greaves, and Corinthian-style helmets adorned with horsehair crests, they radiate a fierce, timeless strength. Things start to get intense as the Forged mercenaries unleash controlled bursts of rifle fire upon the Guardians, dropping several of them, but with amazing discipline, the Guardians form up into a formation even though under fire. Shields held high, they form tight phalanxes, bracing against gunfire with disciplined fortitude. In their hands are spears and xiphos, well-suited for close combat. The warriors move with coordinated steps, the rhythm of their feet steady despite the impact of bullets ricocheting off their shields and armor. Some in the front line are forced to crouch down, holding their shields higher, while those behind them brace against the weight of the assault. The clang of bullets striking bronze is nearly deafening, punctuated by the sharp, disciplined crack of gunfire from the Forgeds rifles. Several more of the Guardians slump down as they are strung with the zipping projectiles. Occasionally, a Forged member breaks cover to reload or reposition, supported by their squadmates suppressive fire. They move with practiced efficiency, ducking in and out of cover while maintaining a steady line of fire, trying to pick off warriors who stray too far from the protection of the phalanx. As the warriors press forward, some of the mercenaries exchange their rifles for sidearms, ready to transition to melee weapons at a moments notice, while others find their gloved hands resting on the hilts of their swords or axes. The clash of eras becomes ever more imminent as the Temple Guardians draw closer, deflecting the final volleys with their shields and preparing for the brutal close-quarters combat they excel in. Elias raises his hands skyward, and the air around them grows dense, humming with electric charge. Dark clouds spiral overhead as the temperature plunges, frost begins to creep along the ground, crystals forming in an expanding ring around the stormcaller. A sharp crack sounds as a bolt of lightning splits the sky, its light reflecting in their gray-blue gaze and casting an eerie glow over the advancing Temple Guardians. In a surge of power, the Elias channels this energy downward, sending forks of lightning crashing into the phalanx formation. Some Guardians raise their shields to deflect the blast, but the intense bolts tear through their defenses, searing the ground beneath them and forcing them to break rank. Where the lightning strikes, a chilling gust follows, streams of ice coil around the warriors, slowing their movements as frost coats their armor and shields. Some stumble, their limbs stiffening under the biting cold. With this opening, the Forged charges in with a roar with swords or axes in hand to engage in combat, Elias turns calling out to the adventurers, "This is your opening! Go!" And it becomes apparent, another phalanx is starting to maneuver on the field in the distance, the clock is ticking.
Coming to the ready, Kah seems to find the sight of the field as it unfolds like something out of memory. His breath catches, and his face lights up as if he's come home of a sort. With a frenzied smile that glows with the thrill of battle-high, his face turns toward Victoria with a nod and his teeth flash viciously. "Climb onto me." He waits for Victoria to do just that (figuring she will) and he'll crouch and tense his legs. Blue eyes watch the bolts of lightning flash down and stab into the ranks of soldiers to send them scattering, and as the words from Elias come crying out, he gives a mighty LEAP with all of his strength. Not for the formations already struck and in disarray but into the tightest cluster left on the field that isn't the new Phalanx marching in from the distance! Landing with a thundering crash, Kah will lean himself back, chest puffed out as he gives a rumbling roar of sound in battle-cry. Victoria and his allies will have little notice for the sound carries across the battlefield like a wave that crashes into the ears with deafening force. Then he's laying waste about him in all directions with his spear, gleaming silver shield at the forefront. To these soldiers, even in this land they may know of the Argyraspides. Making the entrance, now he'll work to hold the opening for the rest of his companions rushing in as he draws the bulk of the attention to himself and Victoria at his side.
A smart decision, and Victoria looks to Juniper first, tapping her fingers briefly on her bow before securing it and electing for a dagger instead. She hooks an arm about Kah's shoulders, nodding to him as he lifts her. The jump still gives a mild effect of a startle, and her eyes widen as she attempts to hang on. "I don't like the cold, but I'll never get tired of seeing people freezing," she says with a glance back toward someone.
A smart decision, and Victoria looks to Juniper first, tapping her fingers briefly on her bow before securing it and electing for a dagger instead. She hooks an arm about Kah's shoulders, nodding to him as he lifts her. The jump still gives a mild effect of a startle, and her eyes widen as she attempts to hang on. "I don't like the cold, but I'll never get tired of seeing people freezing," she says with a glance back toward Elias.
It would mean having to break attention away from the epic happening between Forged mercenaries and the temple guardians while a particular stormcaller steps into his powers and shows off - but Juniper isn't new, and a lot is riding on this going as smoothly as possible. And so, with a gesture made to her packmates in acknowledgement of their intent, this she-wolf, skilled in moving about the forests in quiet, slinky ways, would use her speed rather than any super jumping of flying abilities in these forests to fall in. Not too far behind while Kah lays waste and gets some of that bloodlust in his system, Juniper would offer cover fire for allies until she finds herself in the fray alongside her fellow senior Forged members. "I'm here!" she shouts to make Victoria and Kah aware before she's making for slipping into the entrance that the large man has provided safe enough passage to - the main event.
Juniper apologizes for that blip.
With a leap through the air, Kah smashes into the several of the stray temple warriors, sending them to the ground. Others move on the advancing Forged adventurers just as Kah cries out, causing one of them to even drop their own spear, which makes them easy prey for the ancient wolf. One of the warriors takes advantage of this to attempt to put a spear into Kah's back, but there is Victoria, ready for a fight and quickly outmaneuvers with spear wielding guardian with her quick knife work, easily finding a joint in the warriors armor, sending in the poison. Juniper, moving up beyond the leaping warriors, provides covering fire, picking off a few as she advances. Elias, fighting off in the distance with the other Forged mercenaries seem to be holding their own for now, but not without their own injuries. Time is ticking. Towering trees stood sentinel, their leaves rustling softly in the breeze, guarding the secrets of the temple. The air was cool and fragrant, filled with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers that flourished in the shadows. The sound of a cascading waterfall echoed in the distance, a gentle melody that guided the seeker closer. Following the sound, they navigated the overgrown trail, their heart racing with anticipation. As they drew nearer, the rushing water parted the thick foliage, revealing the entrancea pair of heavy wooden doors, worn and weathered, entwined with vines and moss, as if nature itself had claimed the sacred space. The temple emerged from the forest, a stunning sight that seemed to rise organically from the earth. Its faade was crafted from local stone, each block carefully shaped by artisans long forgotten. Intricate carvings of swirling winds and ethereal leaf motifs danced across the surface, blending seamlessly with the surrounding greenery. This artistry allowed the temple to fade into the landscape, a hidden gem among the trees.
Stepping through the door, the seeker was enveloped in a world unlike any they had known. Sunlight filtered through large, arched windows, casting a warm glow upon the polished stone floor. Dust motes twinkled in the air, swirling gracefully like the very winds that inspired this sanctuary. Each window was a masterpiece, adorned with stained glass that depicted the four winds. The chamber is circular, dimly lit by flickering torch sconces that cast warm, shifting shadows over the stone walls. On the doorwall there is an ornate mural of a Greek-like scene with a winged man flying through the sky. These walls are etched with swirling, vine-like patterns, forming abstract shapes that hint at wind currents. As the compass attunes to each wind of the four cardinal directions. At the center of the chamber, a circular stone pedestal holds the four crystal vials, each resting in its own small, bowl-like depression. A blue, red, yellow, and green vial. Around this pedestal, intricate designs inlaid with metals and gemstones catch the light from the compass, creating an effect like rippling water or rustling leaves, as though the floor itself were alive and connected to the four winds. The large compass is roughly thirty inches in diameter with an antique brass casing delicately engraved with swirling patterns reminiscent of gusts and currents. The compass face is a deep midnight blue, flecked with tiny, silvery specks that resemble stars or wind-blown sparks. Instead of the traditional cardinal points, the compasss face displays unique symbols representing each of the four winds and has a slot in which it seems like a vial would go into.
Next to the compass, there is a poem:
dawn's first chill, where shadows lie, someone North wind stirs with an icy sigh. someone whisper of frost, of winters reign, someone mountain peaks and frozen plain."
middays warmth begins to bloom, someone South wind hums a heated tune. someone fires touch and deserts breath, someone scorches paths through life and death."
morning light, where golden glows, someone East wind rises, soft and slow. someone breeze of hope, of birth anew, someone skies of brighter blue."
dusk descends, in twilights rest, someone West wind moves with gentle zest. someone oceans waves and forests green, someone carries dreams of things unseen."
dawn to dusk these winds align, someone path shall open, clear, divine."
Hopping down to the ground in a smooth motion, Victoria pushes hair behind her ear and frowns, staring momentarily to the mural before whipping her head to regard the basin. Wordless, she glances to her companions and lifts a shoulder.
Next to the compass, there is a poem:
"In dawn's first chill, where shadows lie, someone he North wind stirs with an icy sigh.
A whisper of frost, of winters reign,
Of mountain peaks and frozen plain."
"As middays warmth begins to bloom,
The South wind hums a heated tune.
With fires touch and deserts breath,
It scorches paths through life and death."
"At morning light, where golden glows,
The East wind rises, soft and slow.
A breeze of hope, of birth anew,
Bringing skies of brighter blue."
"As dusk descends, in twilights rest,
The West wind moves with gentle zest.
With oceans waves and forests green,
It carries dreams of things unseen."
"When dawn to dusk these winds align,
It's almost like Juniper was expecting more resistance inside, but instead, they are met with peace. Beauty even. She uncoils herself from a defensive and ready to spring position close to the ground and stands, trying to take in everything that they have found here in the moment to breathe, but knowing - from the clashes outside, that time is still limited. Her eyes fall over the mural, the patterns of wind currents, the compass and the vials. She steps closer, reading the words given next to the compass with furrowed brow and keen intent.
"North blue, red south, yellow east and green west?" Victoria asks, murmuring almost to herself as Juniper steps forward. "Or..." she pauses, re-reading the poem.
Making their way into the temple proper, Kah blinks slowly as he takes in the sight of the place, and giant tribute to the God that finds succor here in prayer and worship. Intent blue eyes study the compass face for a time before his frame turns toward the entrance and the hallways they travelled to bring them here. He stands himself at the ready, now eyes watching for any new danger or threat that my arise while the others put their sharp minds to good use, here. "Puzzles" he mutters, but his mind works behind his neutral expression. "The missing vial - is it something we possess or something we must find?" He doesn't see the poem for himself of course, unless someone chooses to read it aloud. He keeps a silent vigil in the meantime.
[OOC] The poem is an object you can view in the room since the pose failed.
"Perhaps set in a certain order," Victoria chews her lip, sheathing her daggers.
Once he's had time to read the poem, Kah blinks slowly as he chews it over in his mind. "Winter, Summer, Spring and Fall. This is the order the poem provides, from dawn's first chill to the descending of dusk." He nods his head once, turning his eyes to the vials. "But how do we align them?"
"We have four vials and four compass directions," Juniper notes distractedly, reading it over with her lips moving silently along with the words and she keeps looking back and forth. "Do we not just... plunk them in?" she asks then, somewhat indelicately, swiping her finger into the slots of the compass.
"In the correct colors and orders, I assume," Victoria says carefully. "Or we drink them, but that seems odd."
"I wouldn't try that" Kah says of drinking the liquids but he nods. "Perhaps the empty slot is for placing them in? In any sense, I think we have an order to try. Winter first, then SUmmer. Then Spring, and Fall." He turns to look at the colored vials, his eyes and instincts still scanning through the room never quite trusting a place like this. "Be ready for anything, the moment we touch anything" he murmurs, re-hefting the weight of his shield to resettle it on his arm.
While the adventurers ponder over what the puzzle actually means, the sounds of what sounds like a grenade goes off in the distance and the continued ringing of automatic fire. While this is still in the distance, it is obvious the fighting outside is still pretty fierce. Luckily for everyone, the Forged tend to be experienced mercenaries and delaying is something they can do quite well, just not forever. As for the compass itself, it does seem to just have slots in it that the vials seem like they would fit into. This however doesn't make that automatically the right thing to do in this scenario, but it does seem like the most obvious choice.
"Wouldn't Winter be followed by Spring, then Summer though?" Victoria wonders before lifting her head to glance over her shoulder. "Or I mean, we can just..plunk them."
Kah says "The poem does not list them in traditional order, no."
Victoria says "Tricky poetry."
As for the Poem, the writing seems to be in the language that the reader is most fluent in, so it might not be the same for everyone.
"Well, unless it's tricking us, it seems fairly straight forward in terms of direction and colour. The way of the poem is-" Trailing off as Kah provides the answer Juniper nods in her agreement. "Our best bet is to... align it as it suggests."
Kah gives Juniper a nod, "You're the leader, boss." He flashes her a wolfish grin, "Make it happen. We are ready."
"If we can agree on which point is North, that is," Juniper adds with another glance at the compass with its unique symbols.
"If we're reading it like a compass," Victoria starts, then pauses. "We can guess, or we can use ours to see which direction is where?" she shrugs, seemingly out of ideas.
Juniper is going to make her best guess based on her compass in her pocket.
Juniper gestures to Victoria. "You ready? Want to try and do this together as quickly as possible? You take two and I take the other two?"
Victoria nods to Juniper. "You've got it."
Kah gives a nod and a gesture, "Quick is good. The fighting draws closer. Soon it will be in the halls."
While the bone compass that many of Haven carry with them to locate gates, which usually just free spins when a gate is not near, somehow it actually operates differently here. It does seem to align with the cardinal directions in what one would assume them to be. There must be magic at work in here or perhaps a gate is near.
The crackling of lightning and thunder can be heard outside and the gunfire does seem to be getting closer and there is crying out faintly that sounds like Elias calling out orders. What exactly is being said is lost in the chaos of the battle outside.
"I'll set North and East," Juniper suggests, moving to pick up the vials of blue and yellow. "I'll set North, then you can set South," she instructs carefully. "Like the poem states." She nods with her chin next. "Then I'll place East and you West. Got it? Red then Green for you. Blue then Yellow for me." It sounds simple, and yet ridiculously complicated at the same time, but reaching around the compass over each other doesn't make sense either. And then, hoping that nothing is booby-trapped, or at least not immediately so, Juniper waits for Victoria to be ready before plucking the vials off the center display and hovers them in place over the compass points.
Nodding once, Victoria steps forward and grasps one vial in each hand, drawing a thoughtful glance over the compass and moving into place.
Juniper wastes no time in placing down the northern blue vial, then waiting for Vic to place hers in South. Quickly, and in fluid harmony, the two women place the 4 vials down into their slots - plink, plink, plink, plink. Taking turns, one after the other.
Victoria places the last vial and takes a half step back, narrowing her eyes.
The sounds of gunshots can be heard from just outside of the entrance now, it seems like the fighting has pushed right up to the outside of the structure. The call "Covering fire!" and a "Halt their advances! We got this!" While it sounds like the fighting is heavy outside, it doesn't sound like it is completely out of control yet. The first vial goes into the slot, The Northern Wind, the blue vial. When it hits the slot, the vial begins to glow as if it can barely contain the energies within. Cold air whirls out of it, freezing the northern quarter of the compass, causing a wind to swirl within the center of the compass. This doesn't appear to be a trap, but the intended purpose. Next the Yellow vial is placed in the South Wind. A similar response, but instead this time it is fiery heat and hot, dry winds of the desert. Next falls the Eastern Wind, the blue vial. This one just glows brightly, almost blinding, but the light starts swirling about and focuses in the center of the compass. The last one, the West wind, begins growing darker, until there is nothing but blackness in that quarter. All four winds swirl about and then vanish along with the vials. To the northern wall, it starts to glow brighter and brighter until it becomes obvious that it is some kind of gateway, but what is beyond it can not be seen beyond the light. Is it a trap? Is it where you are meant to go, it is unclear.
There isn't much choice aside from the gateway. The fighting outside is all for an artefact that isn't in hand yet. And a somewhat worried glance is fed to the entrance where the shouts and gunshots can be heard. "I'm going to go in," Juniper states decidedly to the other two, but it's clear she's not ordering them through also if they do not so wish.
"You mean we're going to go in," Victoria grins at the blonde. Turning her head to Kah, she gives a softer smile. "Right?"
Turning as he keeps himself focused on the sounds of fighting, Kah is blinking then he's nodding at Victoria with a sharp gesture and a return of her smile, "Yes. Let's go" he says, gesturing for them to fall in with Juniper. Unless one of them must stay on this side, he'll seek to follow suit with the other two women and provide vanguard support.
"No sense in turning back now!" Kah says with the sound of excitement over his shoulder to Juniper.
As you step through the opening door, high above, an arched ceiling is painted in shades of pale blue and silver, creating the illusion of dawn light filtering through faint clouds. The walls are adorned with intricate frescoes of wind spirits, swirling and dancing along currents of painted air. In the center of the room, atop a polished stone pedestal which on it, encased within a clear, ethereal sphere that seems almost like a solidified gust of wind, shimmering and pulsing faintly as though breathing. The feather itself glows with a soft, iridescent light, shifting colors as if it captures every hue of the sky,from the cool blues of a morning breeze to the fiery oranges of sunset. Near it stands a vigilant being of grace and power, with ethereal wings shimmering with the hues of the morning sky. His armor gleams with a soft iridescence, resembling the delicate sheen of feathers, while his piercing eyes seem to look straight through to the heart of each adventurer. In one hand, he holds a slender staff, the end shaped like a swirling gust of wind. As the adventurers approach, the guardians expression shifts between stern curiosity and ancient wisdom. His voice, low and resonant like a wind stirring and fills the chamber, "Why" he asks, each word carrying the weight of ages, "do you believe you are worthy to bear the Feather of Zephyrus?" His question is as much a challenge as it is an invitation to prove their intentions. The guardians eyes hold them in a silent test of character, seeking answers that reflect courage, humility, and true understanding.
"I am not" Kah says simply, hearing the words of the Guardian when they come. It's self-awareness at least - humility at the very least is something he's left far behind and long before now. "But I come at the behest of someone I believe is. It is for their cause I come." Resting the butt of his spear on the ground, Kah is careful here in this place however not to show any signs of aggression by nature of his movements or motions. Envoys of the Gods can be fickle and mysterious, and Kah knows this well. He grows quiet, waiting for his companions to make their peace, or their case.
"Great Guardian," Juniper speaks up, stepping forward from the other two to put herself on display as Elias's emissary here on this mission. A little respect in greeting couldn't hurt. "We seek to wield the feather in our efforts to change the wheel of fate. To save our world from annihilation and possibly... the others all connected to it through the Gates." She nods to Kah's response in collaboration. "He is my partner in love and life and I believe in his vision. In his ability to do this."
"And I would, and do, put my life on the line for this belief," Juniper adds in an almost quiet afterthought.
"I would too," Victoria finally speaks up. "Put my life on the line." She nods to Juniper, stepping beside her. "If there's anyone worthy, it's Elias."
There is no sounds of battle from outside... Where outside actually is is hard to even tell at this point as the nature of this room almost feels like being outside but it is heavily doused in magic, so much so it likely makes all the wolves here feel like their skin is crawling, since it is so heavy, it can be felt in the air even by those that do not harness magic. As for the divine being, it looks upon Kah first, his golden eyes studying the ancient wolf, "You bear the sins of Sirinia upon you. You are not worthy and your touch would tarnish the feather." He declares in judgment as his gaze seems to piece Kah's being. However, when he looks upon Juniper and Victoria, the angelic man's visage seems to soften to a degree. It is still cold and judgmental, but there is no hate there, "The task to pierce the veil and see what the seerers cannot see. To stop a believed destruction, not only of your world, but all the worlds. This task is worthy." And the feather floats from where it sits over to his hand where he offers it out to Juniper and Victoria, but his hand never comes in contact with it as it keeps floating, "If you do anything that shall tarnish its divinity, wrath from which your world has not seen in a thousand years shall rain down upon you all. I do not say this as a threat, but as a warning of things that may come if you do not respect the honor this is."
Juniper hesitates, watching that feather float closer to them and looking at her own hands, feeling somehow unclean in this place where her senses are muddled by suffocating magic. "Guardian," she asks in the tone of a student to master. "How do we keep it safe until we can deliver it to the Stormcaller?" She doesn't ask about beyond this point, as it is clear her faith in Elias's knowledge on this point is deeply rooted.
"In accepting this, you are accepting the honor and burden that comes with that honor." The angelic guardian declares like it is obvious to it and with that should be obvious to everyone else too, "It is a piece of Zephyrus, albeit a small piece of him, but a piece none the less. There will always be those that seek to claim it. If the unworthy touch it, I will know. Fires shall fall from the heavens and destruction shall be complete. It shall cleanse the unclean and in turn, cleanse the feather."
With only reverence, Kah simply nods his head at the Guardian in silence. He doesn't offer apology for the taint that sets on him but he doesn't deny or begrudge the judgement that comes. He stands stoic, and his smile comes small but genuine as he hears the spirit offer more positive tidings to Juniper and Victoria. "I accept this honor, unworthy as I am. I will guard them, and they will protect it." No humility indeed, but his head does bow in respect to the being without hesitation and his eyes turn protectively toward Juniper and Victoria, now.
"Very well. I'll be doing all the touching then," Juniper responds with a resignation and quick acceptance of her 'fate' in this manner. "The burden is mine, and let the fire take me if I fail." Though, it would seem, this burden is /not/ just hers as Kah and Victoria stand with her in protection and solidarity. A family unit in so many ways than just one.
"The Family, and The Pack - never have to carry burdens alone" Kah reminds Juniper with quiet warmth. "Not as long as I live."
Victoria's normally cheeky remark goes silenced in favor of a grin to Juniper. "Not yours alone by a long shot."
As soon as Juniper touches the feather and takes it into her possession, Juniper can feel a warmth that spreads through her body, it is something that is unlike anything she has ever felt. It gives her an energetic, youthful feel that perhaps only demigods know, but the spark of divinity is clearly in the relic. The room they are standing vanishes shortly after she touches the feather and so is the guardian. They find themselves back in a familiar room, the room with the compass, but now there is smoke drifting lazily through the room and echoing gunshots. The Forged mercenaries have taken up fighting positions in the room, firing shots at Hoplites that enter. Bodies liter the room and there are wounded Forged as well. There is still sounds of fighting from the outside. Bursting through the entrance with several remaining Forged mercenaries, is a bloodied Elias. Whether the blood is his or someone else's, it is likely a combination of the both. Still barking out orders, he calls out, "Secure the entrance as we prepare to path out of here, we aren't leaving anyone behind." And then the dark haired man's attention turns to the others, "Were you able to find the feather? We are running out of time. They have the Temple surrounded."
"It's secure!" Juniper responds in a shout quickly to someone, her eyes finding him in the chaos easily like the red thread of fate that binds them leads her to him. Indeed, she is slipping the feather within her uniform, keeping it on her body where she will know its presence.
"It's secure!" Juniper responds in a shout quickly to Elias, her eyes finding him in the chaos easily like the red thread of fate that binds them leads her to him. Indeed, she is slipping the feather within her uniform, keeping it on her body where she will know its presence.
Seeing the visions of battle come back into focus, Kah jumps into action once more. When Elias shows himself, and the injured fighters that come trailing in after him? The bronzed man is hustling for the entryway. He's dragging anyone who's downed backward and out of the way before settling himself into the entrance proper. His frame and size while not large enough to fill the whole thing in such a place as this - should be enough to provide a deterrent when those Hoplites come marching down the corridor and see something like one of their own standing in their way. He sets his shield and notches his spear into the small, circular grove that sits on the upper inside round like a cup for his lance. Blade gleaming in torchlight amongst the smoke, Kah stands at the ready his blue eyes and white hair hovering just over the lip of his shield while he prepares to hold off the ingress. "Somebody get started, then! I can hold many here for a time, but not forever!"
Juniper does just that, concentrating on being the carrier for the artefact instead of fighting, she begins the work of opening a path for them all.
Glancing over to Victoria, Kah grins and his stance shifts enough to make room for her beside him, and inside the protection of his shield. "Come. Together we can hold them as long as we need. Forever" he says, feeling extra confident with her by his side.
"Vic, touch Kah's shoulder and work on pathing. Everyone else, grab someone wounded and help them path out of here." Elias calls out as magic starts to swirl around him, causing the air to take on a bitter coldness around him, harnessing it towards Kah and layers of protective ice start to form on the large Egyptian man. Probably not the most comfortable for the wolf, but it does provide a good deal of protection. Several of the mercenaries work on pathing out or assisting others as they start vanishing off into the dark forest, Elias calling out, "Alright, lets get out of here."
"Forever would get blood on my boots," Victoria snickers, drawing a dagger into one palm and moving next to Kah. "I can always use shoes though." One hand reaches upward, clasping Kah's shoulder beneath the sharp tips of her nails. "June, when you're ready let us know."
Holding off, waiting for those that put their lives on the line to see their mission successful, Juniper works to keep that pathway open for the last of the members before she reaches out her hand when the last of them pop away into their own paths that hey apparently have made. "Ready, Vic!" she calls.
With a yank to Kah's shoulder, Victoria whirls on a heel, with the intent to beeline to Juniper and the pathway while it's possible.
With Juniper preparing the pathing for everyone as Elias is barking orders, she is the first to finish and pulls everyone with her, escaping with the feather and finding themselves near the gate leading back to Earth. A much safer location where everyone can regroup and recover. Elias at this point falls to a knee, taking slow, measured breaths before stating, "Good job everyone... Well done..."
Stepping backward, Kah follows the touch from Victoria, keeping his shield in between himself and the others and the potential enemies as they come. "On the move!" He bellows, until the lot of them are finally enveloped within the shadowy confines of the Path.
As the mercenaries prepared for the impending battle, revealing their tactical expertise and determination, Elias outlined the plan. A direct assault would forge a path for the trio to infiltrate the temple and secure the feather. The guardians, clad in bronze and forming disciplined phalanxes, displayed a resilience that harked back to times of legend. Yet, amidst the chaos of battle, the tranquil and ethereal beauty of the temple interior stood in stark contrast to the violence outside.
Within, the intricate puzzle of the compass awaited, a test of wit and understanding. Juniper, Victoria, and Kah, through cooperation and insight, successfully solved the riddle, unveiling a path to the artifact. However, a celestial guardian presented them with a final challenge, questioning their worthiness. Amidst assurances of their noble intent and acceptance of the weight of their quest, the feather was entrusted to them.
Yet their trial was far from over. As they reclaimed the material plane, the battle raged on. Kah, covered in protective ice by Elias, made a last stand, ensuring the safety of their retreat. Victoria, with quick reflexes, and Juniper, carrying the invaluable feather, worked in harmony to secure their escape.
Their return was fraught with the weariness of battle, yet filled with the sense of a hard-earned victory. Elias, kneeling, battered but unbeaten, commended their effort and success. The artifact secured, their mission completed, they faced the future, bonded by the trials they overcame and the profound implications of their success. This quest had been more than a mere retrieval; it was a testament to their resolve, courage, and unwavering commitment to a cause greater than themselves.
(A feather in the Wind(SRElias):SRElias)
[Fri Jan 3 2025]
On The forests of Rhagost
The forest is a vast expanse of towering trees that sway gently as though responding to an unseen breath. The air is cool and invigorating, carrying the faint scent of blooming flowers and fresh pine. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating dappled patterns of gold and green on the forest floor. The rustling of leaves and the occasional murmur of a stream create an ambient symphony that feels alive, as though the forest itself whispers ancient secrets. A temple is hidden within a glade that seems to appear only to those who truly seek it. Enclosed by a ring of ancient oaks, the clearing radiates a serene, otherworldly beauty. The temple is a marvel of natural and divine craftsmanship. Its walls are composed of pale stone etched with intricate carvings of swirling winds, birds in flight, and trees bending in a breeze. Ivy and moss grow along the walls, intertwining with the carvings as if nature itself embraces the structure.
It is night, about 75F(23C) degrees, and the sky is partly covered by thin white clouds. There is a waxing crescent moon.
"One of these days, I'll make someone tell me the weather," Victoria sighs, "before we leave."
From out of one dark forest and into another, Juniper and Elias step out of their path together into the comfortable temperatures of Rhagost at night. Waiting for the presence of her packmates to be felt as they arrive, Juniper offers then a warm smile of welcome and gratitude. "Thank you for agreeing to come, Kah. And of course you too, Vic," she mentions, flicking at a firefly that floats past her face and threatens to get stuck in her hair.
Twirling a dagger in her palm before placing it into a sheath, Victoria arrives amid a swirl of air, pausing her steps once she sees Juniper. "At least it's not snow," she shrugs a shoulder, then glances about herself for Kah.
Stepping through the shadows shortly after Victoria, Kah is already smiling when he hears Juniper and his head nods immediately. "If I'd known I would have planned on coming. Family first" he says to her with a serious nod before stepping to take a place by Victoria's side. He seems familiar with the forests here, having spent his share of time roaming through it no doubt as of late. "Give me what information is important here, I had little time to catch up on the dossier but I read some." His hair is swept back out of his face, and tied back. He's dressed in modern camoflauge clothing and bearing his usual arms and shield.
When the adventurers arrive within the northern forests of Rhagost, Elias in his tactical gear makes his way over to a group of roughly a dozen other mercenaries. Clad in matching black tactical uniforms made from high-performance, lightweight materials. Over these uniforms, they wear Kevlar armor for protection, which is often sleek and fitted. They each wear a prominent patch depicting the Sword of Damocles, symbolizing the ever-present risk and fate tied to their mercenary lives. This patch is located on their shoulders lending a foreboding visual element to their attire. For weaponry, each carries a mix of modern and medieval arms, rifles, swords, and axes are sheathed. Their look is both modern and fearsome, bridging the gap between tactical precision and primal, medieval brutality. The result is a unique combination of modern warrior and ancient fighter, a formidable appearance that demands respect on the battlefield. They stand prepared for battle, their rifles held in a low ready position. The dark haired man, ELias, called out to those that are gathered, "Ahead of us, we have a battle in which us, brothers and sisters will triumph. We will press on for glory, for wealth, but most importantly, for each other." This seems to rally the mercenaries present a good degree as he look like they are ready to depart. He looks to the others with a small smile, "There is a small army protecting the Temple in which we are going to need to pierce, it is going to be a fight. What we will do is create an opening and hold them off, giving you a chance to enter. Get in there, get the feather, and get out before they are sufficiently reinforced and we get overrun. I guess this one we are playing to our strong points, smash and grab."
With a glance to Juniper and Kah, Victoria smiles. "I'm fine with that sort of plan."
"Definitely our strong point," Juniper agrees with a knowing and affectionate smile to Elias before looking to the other two she has with her. "Especially without Ash darling's fancy flashy magic and such," she notes with a small tinge of regret. "Do we have a map of inside at all or are we going in blind? Or not even a map but... an idea of layout?"
Listening quietly, Kah nods his head once when he hears someone lay out the plan and he gives a wolfish grin. "Victoria is with me. Together we can handle the bulk of the main force" he says confidently. Even looking a little gaunt still, he speaks confidently and he stands at the ready, his spear resting easily in his grasp. "What has happened to Asteri?" Kah says to Juniper aside, his expression turning into a frown.
Listening quietly, Kah nods his head once when he hears Elias lay out the plan and he gives a wolfish grin. "Victoria is with me. Together we can handle the bulk of the main force" he says confidently. Even looking a little gaunt still, he speaks confidently and he stands at the ready, his spear resting easily in his grasp. "What has happened to Asteri?" Kah says to Juniper aside, his expression turning into a frown.
"They have just been a leaf in the breeze as of late," Juniper mentions to Kah with a small pull of her brows. "If you have seen them, then I am glad to hear it. But I have not since... well I think since we gave Vic her cake."
"We are in the Godrealms my friend. We stir up to much trouble and we might actually get angels appearing and other very otherworldly enemies. The servants of gods here are rarely as simple as Wildlings. What I will do is I am going to bring the men with me and we are going to work on creating a perimeter for you all to work. While the soldiers on the outside will create a challenge I am sure, the real challenge will be in the inside." Elias explains as he gestures back to the dozen or so Forged mercenaries before looking back to the Senior members of the Forged, "I trust all of you to get it done. I always work better outside anyway, where the sky is." He says he looks up towards the sky, clouds already starting to form overhead as he smiles, "As for the layout, I don't know it. These kind of Temples literally can change shape at the whims of their patron. The powers of Gods are hard to fathom, so lets hope we don't actually encounter whom the temple is dedicated too, Zephyrus. The feather, it is a sacred relic of his clergy, it is an actual feather off one of his wings."
With a frown, Kah nods again - he hadn't thought of that. He resettles himself. "Good point" he murmurs, before turning his eyes to scan toward the distance and around them now. "I know this name" he opines, though his brow furrows over his features as he struggles to recall from where or why.
Juniper appears weary of temples and gods and artefacts as Elias talks, but as ready and resigned to the contract as ever. "Alright, well, do you have a signal for us when it's to rush in or should we just use our fabulous wolf brains?" she asks her dark-haired partner, the one who is always somehow getting them into these predicaments. For the greater good, of course.
"You are some of the most intelligent people I know, I trust you will figure things out easily enough. Lets start heading out and get in there before we are noticed. While we are a small strike force, we have enough of us together armed to the teeth, we will get noticed before long." Elias starts moving off heading towards the north, "Once the fighting starts and you see a clear path, get inside the Temple. Ideally if things go smoothly, you guys can get in and out before reinforcements arrive." The Forged Fortune mercenaries with Elias leading them, clad in their black tactical uniforms, approach with precision, advancing in staggered formations. The sound of their boots is muffled as they maneuver tactically, rifles raised and scanning for threats. Occasionally, one of them breaks formation to get a better vantage, while others keep watch, rifles at the ready. As the Forged first catch sight of the several dozens of the guardians of the temple, they halt in their tracks, a sudden shift from their previously stealthy movements. Spread out in loose formation, each mercenary instinctively finds cover or crouches low, rifles raised as they observe the scene unfolding ahead. The Temple Guardians look like figures from an ancient epic. Equipped with bronze cuirasses, greaves, and Corinthian-style helmets adorned with horsehair crests, they radiate a fierce, timeless strength. Things start to get intense as the Forged mercenaries unleash controlled bursts of rifle fire upon the Guardians, dropping several of them, but with amazing discipline, the Guardians form up into a formation even though under fire. Shields held high, they form tight phalanxes, bracing against gunfire with disciplined fortitude. In their hands are spears and xiphos, well-suited for close combat. The warriors move with coordinated steps, the rhythm of their feet steady despite the impact of bullets ricocheting off their shields and armor. Some in the front line are forced to crouch down, holding their shields higher, while those behind them brace against the weight of the assault. The clang of bullets striking bronze is nearly deafening, punctuated by the sharp, disciplined crack of gunfire from the Forgeds rifles. Several more of the Guardians slump down as they are strung with the zipping projectiles. Occasionally, a Forged member breaks cover to reload or reposition, supported by their squadmates suppressive fire. They move with practiced efficiency, ducking in and out of cover while maintaining a steady line of fire, trying to pick off warriors who stray too far from the protection of the phalanx. As the warriors press forward, some of the mercenaries exchange their rifles for sidearms, ready to transition to melee weapons at a moments notice, while others find their gloved hands resting on the hilts of their swords or axes. The clash of eras becomes ever more imminent as the Temple Guardians draw closer, deflecting the final volleys with their shields and preparing for the brutal close-quarters combat they excel in. Elias raises his hands skyward, and the air around them grows dense, humming with electric charge. Dark clouds spiral overhead as the temperature plunges, frost begins to creep along the ground, crystals forming in an expanding ring around the stormcaller. A sharp crack sounds as a bolt of lightning splits the sky, its light reflecting in their gray-blue gaze and casting an eerie glow over the advancing Temple Guardians. In a surge of power, the Elias channels this energy downward, sending forks of lightning crashing into the phalanx formation. Some Guardians raise their shields to deflect the blast, but the intense bolts tear through their defenses, searing the ground beneath them and forcing them to break rank. Where the lightning strikes, a chilling gust follows, streams of ice coil around the warriors, slowing their movements as frost coats their armor and shields. Some stumble, their limbs stiffening under the biting cold. With this opening, the Forged charges in with a roar with swords or axes in hand to engage in combat, Elias turns calling out to the adventurers, "This is your opening! Go!" And it becomes apparent, another phalanx is starting to maneuver on the field in the distance, the clock is ticking.
Coming to the ready, Kah seems to find the sight of the field as it unfolds like something out of memory. His breath catches, and his face lights up as if he's come home of a sort. With a frenzied smile that glows with the thrill of battle-high, his face turns toward Victoria with a nod and his teeth flash viciously. "Climb onto me." He waits for Victoria to do just that (figuring she will) and he'll crouch and tense his legs. Blue eyes watch the bolts of lightning flash down and stab into the ranks of soldiers to send them scattering, and as the words from Elias come crying out, he gives a mighty LEAP with all of his strength. Not for the formations already struck and in disarray but into the tightest cluster left on the field that isn't the new Phalanx marching in from the distance! Landing with a thundering crash, Kah will lean himself back, chest puffed out as he gives a rumbling roar of sound in battle-cry. Victoria and his allies will have little notice for the sound carries across the battlefield like a wave that crashes into the ears with deafening force. Then he's laying waste about him in all directions with his spear, gleaming silver shield at the forefront. To these soldiers, even in this land they may know of the Argyraspides. Making the entrance, now he'll work to hold the opening for the rest of his companions rushing in as he draws the bulk of the attention to himself and Victoria at his side.
A smart decision, and Victoria looks to Juniper first, tapping her fingers briefly on her bow before securing it and electing for a dagger instead. She hooks an arm about Kah's shoulders, nodding to him as he lifts her. The jump still gives a mild effect of a startle, and her eyes widen as she attempts to hang on. "I don't like the cold, but I'll never get tired of seeing people freezing," she says with a glance back toward someone.
A smart decision, and Victoria looks to Juniper first, tapping her fingers briefly on her bow before securing it and electing for a dagger instead. She hooks an arm about Kah's shoulders, nodding to him as he lifts her. The jump still gives a mild effect of a startle, and her eyes widen as she attempts to hang on. "I don't like the cold, but I'll never get tired of seeing people freezing," she says with a glance back toward Elias.
It would mean having to break attention away from the epic happening between Forged mercenaries and the temple guardians while a particular stormcaller steps into his powers and shows off - but Juniper isn't new, and a lot is riding on this going as smoothly as possible. And so, with a gesture made to her packmates in acknowledgement of their intent, this she-wolf, skilled in moving about the forests in quiet, slinky ways, would use her speed rather than any super jumping of flying abilities in these forests to fall in. Not too far behind while Kah lays waste and gets some of that bloodlust in his system, Juniper would offer cover fire for allies until she finds herself in the fray alongside her fellow senior Forged members. "I'm here!" she shouts to make Victoria and Kah aware before she's making for slipping into the entrance that the large man has provided safe enough passage to - the main event.
Juniper apologizes for that blip.
With a leap through the air, Kah smashes into the several of the stray temple warriors, sending them to the ground. Others move on the advancing Forged adventurers just as Kah cries out, causing one of them to even drop their own spear, which makes them easy prey for the ancient wolf. One of the warriors takes advantage of this to attempt to put a spear into Kah's back, but there is Victoria, ready for a fight and quickly outmaneuvers with spear wielding guardian with her quick knife work, easily finding a joint in the warriors armor, sending in the poison. Juniper, moving up beyond the leaping warriors, provides covering fire, picking off a few as she advances. Elias, fighting off in the distance with the other Forged mercenaries seem to be holding their own for now, but not without their own injuries. Time is ticking. Towering trees stood sentinel, their leaves rustling softly in the breeze, guarding the secrets of the temple. The air was cool and fragrant, filled with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers that flourished in the shadows. The sound of a cascading waterfall echoed in the distance, a gentle melody that guided the seeker closer. Following the sound, they navigated the overgrown trail, their heart racing with anticipation. As they drew nearer, the rushing water parted the thick foliage, revealing the entrancea pair of heavy wooden doors, worn and weathered, entwined with vines and moss, as if nature itself had claimed the sacred space. The temple emerged from the forest, a stunning sight that seemed to rise organically from the earth. Its faade was crafted from local stone, each block carefully shaped by artisans long forgotten. Intricate carvings of swirling winds and ethereal leaf motifs danced across the surface, blending seamlessly with the surrounding greenery. This artistry allowed the temple to fade into the landscape, a hidden gem among the trees.
Stepping through the door, the seeker was enveloped in a world unlike any they had known. Sunlight filtered through large, arched windows, casting a warm glow upon the polished stone floor. Dust motes twinkled in the air, swirling gracefully like the very winds that inspired this sanctuary. Each window was a masterpiece, adorned with stained glass that depicted the four winds. The chamber is circular, dimly lit by flickering torch sconces that cast warm, shifting shadows over the stone walls. On the doorwall there is an ornate mural of a Greek-like scene with a winged man flying through the sky. These walls are etched with swirling, vine-like patterns, forming abstract shapes that hint at wind currents. As the compass attunes to each wind of the four cardinal directions. At the center of the chamber, a circular stone pedestal holds the four crystal vials, each resting in its own small, bowl-like depression. A blue, red, yellow, and green vial. Around this pedestal, intricate designs inlaid with metals and gemstones catch the light from the compass, creating an effect like rippling water or rustling leaves, as though the floor itself were alive and connected to the four winds. The large compass is roughly thirty inches in diameter with an antique brass casing delicately engraved with swirling patterns reminiscent of gusts and currents. The compass face is a deep midnight blue, flecked with tiny, silvery specks that resemble stars or wind-blown sparks. Instead of the traditional cardinal points, the compasss face displays unique symbols representing each of the four winds and has a slot in which it seems like a vial would go into.
Next to the compass, there is a poem:
dawn's first chill, where shadows lie, someone North wind stirs with an icy sigh. someone whisper of frost, of winters reign, someone mountain peaks and frozen plain."
middays warmth begins to bloom, someone South wind hums a heated tune. someone fires touch and deserts breath, someone scorches paths through life and death."
morning light, where golden glows, someone East wind rises, soft and slow. someone breeze of hope, of birth anew, someone skies of brighter blue."
dusk descends, in twilights rest, someone West wind moves with gentle zest. someone oceans waves and forests green, someone carries dreams of things unseen."
dawn to dusk these winds align, someone path shall open, clear, divine."
Hopping down to the ground in a smooth motion, Victoria pushes hair behind her ear and frowns, staring momentarily to the mural before whipping her head to regard the basin. Wordless, she glances to her companions and lifts a shoulder.
Next to the compass, there is a poem:
"In dawn's first chill, where shadows lie, someone he North wind stirs with an icy sigh.
A whisper of frost, of winters reign,
Of mountain peaks and frozen plain."
"As middays warmth begins to bloom,
The South wind hums a heated tune.
With fires touch and deserts breath,
It scorches paths through life and death."
"At morning light, where golden glows,
The East wind rises, soft and slow.
A breeze of hope, of birth anew,
Bringing skies of brighter blue."
"As dusk descends, in twilights rest,
The West wind moves with gentle zest.
With oceans waves and forests green,
It carries dreams of things unseen."
"When dawn to dusk these winds align,
It's almost like Juniper was expecting more resistance inside, but instead, they are met with peace. Beauty even. She uncoils herself from a defensive and ready to spring position close to the ground and stands, trying to take in everything that they have found here in the moment to breathe, but knowing - from the clashes outside, that time is still limited. Her eyes fall over the mural, the patterns of wind currents, the compass and the vials. She steps closer, reading the words given next to the compass with furrowed brow and keen intent.
"North blue, red south, yellow east and green west?" Victoria asks, murmuring almost to herself as Juniper steps forward. "Or..." she pauses, re-reading the poem.
Making their way into the temple proper, Kah blinks slowly as he takes in the sight of the place, and giant tribute to the God that finds succor here in prayer and worship. Intent blue eyes study the compass face for a time before his frame turns toward the entrance and the hallways they travelled to bring them here. He stands himself at the ready, now eyes watching for any new danger or threat that my arise while the others put their sharp minds to good use, here. "Puzzles" he mutters, but his mind works behind his neutral expression. "The missing vial - is it something we possess or something we must find?" He doesn't see the poem for himself of course, unless someone chooses to read it aloud. He keeps a silent vigil in the meantime.
[OOC] The poem is an object you can view in the room since the pose failed.
"Perhaps set in a certain order," Victoria chews her lip, sheathing her daggers.
Once he's had time to read the poem, Kah blinks slowly as he chews it over in his mind. "Winter, Summer, Spring and Fall. This is the order the poem provides, from dawn's first chill to the descending of dusk." He nods his head once, turning his eyes to the vials. "But how do we align them?"
"We have four vials and four compass directions," Juniper notes distractedly, reading it over with her lips moving silently along with the words and she keeps looking back and forth. "Do we not just... plunk them in?" she asks then, somewhat indelicately, swiping her finger into the slots of the compass.
"In the correct colors and orders, I assume," Victoria says carefully. "Or we drink them, but that seems odd."
"I wouldn't try that" Kah says of drinking the liquids but he nods. "Perhaps the empty slot is for placing them in? In any sense, I think we have an order to try. Winter first, then SUmmer. Then Spring, and Fall." He turns to look at the colored vials, his eyes and instincts still scanning through the room never quite trusting a place like this. "Be ready for anything, the moment we touch anything" he murmurs, re-hefting the weight of his shield to resettle it on his arm.
While the adventurers ponder over what the puzzle actually means, the sounds of what sounds like a grenade goes off in the distance and the continued ringing of automatic fire. While this is still in the distance, it is obvious the fighting outside is still pretty fierce. Luckily for everyone, the Forged tend to be experienced mercenaries and delaying is something they can do quite well, just not forever. As for the compass itself, it does seem to just have slots in it that the vials seem like they would fit into. This however doesn't make that automatically the right thing to do in this scenario, but it does seem like the most obvious choice.
"Wouldn't Winter be followed by Spring, then Summer though?" Victoria wonders before lifting her head to glance over her shoulder. "Or I mean, we can just..plunk them."
Kah says "The poem does not list them in traditional order, no."
Victoria says "Tricky poetry."
As for the Poem, the writing seems to be in the language that the reader is most fluent in, so it might not be the same for everyone.
"Well, unless it's tricking us, it seems fairly straight forward in terms of direction and colour. The way of the poem is-" Trailing off as Kah provides the answer Juniper nods in her agreement. "Our best bet is to... align it as it suggests."
Kah gives Juniper a nod, "You're the leader, boss." He flashes her a wolfish grin, "Make it happen. We are ready."
"If we can agree on which point is North, that is," Juniper adds with another glance at the compass with its unique symbols.
"If we're reading it like a compass," Victoria starts, then pauses. "We can guess, or we can use ours to see which direction is where?" she shrugs, seemingly out of ideas.
Juniper is going to make her best guess based on her compass in her pocket.
Juniper gestures to Victoria. "You ready? Want to try and do this together as quickly as possible? You take two and I take the other two?"
Victoria nods to Juniper. "You've got it."
Kah gives a nod and a gesture, "Quick is good. The fighting draws closer. Soon it will be in the halls."
While the bone compass that many of Haven carry with them to locate gates, which usually just free spins when a gate is not near, somehow it actually operates differently here. It does seem to align with the cardinal directions in what one would assume them to be. There must be magic at work in here or perhaps a gate is near.
The crackling of lightning and thunder can be heard outside and the gunfire does seem to be getting closer and there is crying out faintly that sounds like Elias calling out orders. What exactly is being said is lost in the chaos of the battle outside.
"I'll set North and East," Juniper suggests, moving to pick up the vials of blue and yellow. "I'll set North, then you can set South," she instructs carefully. "Like the poem states." She nods with her chin next. "Then I'll place East and you West. Got it? Red then Green for you. Blue then Yellow for me." It sounds simple, and yet ridiculously complicated at the same time, but reaching around the compass over each other doesn't make sense either. And then, hoping that nothing is booby-trapped, or at least not immediately so, Juniper waits for Victoria to be ready before plucking the vials off the center display and hovers them in place over the compass points.
Nodding once, Victoria steps forward and grasps one vial in each hand, drawing a thoughtful glance over the compass and moving into place.
Juniper wastes no time in placing down the northern blue vial, then waiting for Vic to place hers in South. Quickly, and in fluid harmony, the two women place the 4 vials down into their slots - plink, plink, plink, plink. Taking turns, one after the other.
Victoria places the last vial and takes a half step back, narrowing her eyes.
The sounds of gunshots can be heard from just outside of the entrance now, it seems like the fighting has pushed right up to the outside of the structure. The call "Covering fire!" and a "Halt their advances! We got this!" While it sounds like the fighting is heavy outside, it doesn't sound like it is completely out of control yet. The first vial goes into the slot, The Northern Wind, the blue vial. When it hits the slot, the vial begins to glow as if it can barely contain the energies within. Cold air whirls out of it, freezing the northern quarter of the compass, causing a wind to swirl within the center of the compass. This doesn't appear to be a trap, but the intended purpose. Next the Yellow vial is placed in the South Wind. A similar response, but instead this time it is fiery heat and hot, dry winds of the desert. Next falls the Eastern Wind, the blue vial. This one just glows brightly, almost blinding, but the light starts swirling about and focuses in the center of the compass. The last one, the West wind, begins growing darker, until there is nothing but blackness in that quarter. All four winds swirl about and then vanish along with the vials. To the northern wall, it starts to glow brighter and brighter until it becomes obvious that it is some kind of gateway, but what is beyond it can not be seen beyond the light. Is it a trap? Is it where you are meant to go, it is unclear.
There isn't much choice aside from the gateway. The fighting outside is all for an artefact that isn't in hand yet. And a somewhat worried glance is fed to the entrance where the shouts and gunshots can be heard. "I'm going to go in," Juniper states decidedly to the other two, but it's clear she's not ordering them through also if they do not so wish.
"You mean we're going to go in," Victoria grins at the blonde. Turning her head to Kah, she gives a softer smile. "Right?"
Turning as he keeps himself focused on the sounds of fighting, Kah is blinking then he's nodding at Victoria with a sharp gesture and a return of her smile, "Yes. Let's go" he says, gesturing for them to fall in with Juniper. Unless one of them must stay on this side, he'll seek to follow suit with the other two women and provide vanguard support.
"No sense in turning back now!" Kah says with the sound of excitement over his shoulder to Juniper.
As you step through the opening door, high above, an arched ceiling is painted in shades of pale blue and silver, creating the illusion of dawn light filtering through faint clouds. The walls are adorned with intricate frescoes of wind spirits, swirling and dancing along currents of painted air. In the center of the room, atop a polished stone pedestal which on it, encased within a clear, ethereal sphere that seems almost like a solidified gust of wind, shimmering and pulsing faintly as though breathing. The feather itself glows with a soft, iridescent light, shifting colors as if it captures every hue of the sky,from the cool blues of a morning breeze to the fiery oranges of sunset. Near it stands a vigilant being of grace and power, with ethereal wings shimmering with the hues of the morning sky. His armor gleams with a soft iridescence, resembling the delicate sheen of feathers, while his piercing eyes seem to look straight through to the heart of each adventurer. In one hand, he holds a slender staff, the end shaped like a swirling gust of wind. As the adventurers approach, the guardians expression shifts between stern curiosity and ancient wisdom. His voice, low and resonant like a wind stirring and fills the chamber, "Why" he asks, each word carrying the weight of ages, "do you believe you are worthy to bear the Feather of Zephyrus?" His question is as much a challenge as it is an invitation to prove their intentions. The guardians eyes hold them in a silent test of character, seeking answers that reflect courage, humility, and true understanding.
"I am not" Kah says simply, hearing the words of the Guardian when they come. It's self-awareness at least - humility at the very least is something he's left far behind and long before now. "But I come at the behest of someone I believe is. It is for their cause I come." Resting the butt of his spear on the ground, Kah is careful here in this place however not to show any signs of aggression by nature of his movements or motions. Envoys of the Gods can be fickle and mysterious, and Kah knows this well. He grows quiet, waiting for his companions to make their peace, or their case.
"Great Guardian," Juniper speaks up, stepping forward from the other two to put herself on display as Elias's emissary here on this mission. A little respect in greeting couldn't hurt. "We seek to wield the feather in our efforts to change the wheel of fate. To save our world from annihilation and possibly... the others all connected to it through the Gates." She nods to Kah's response in collaboration. "He is my partner in love and life and I believe in his vision. In his ability to do this."
"And I would, and do, put my life on the line for this belief," Juniper adds in an almost quiet afterthought.
"I would too," Victoria finally speaks up. "Put my life on the line." She nods to Juniper, stepping beside her. "If there's anyone worthy, it's Elias."
There is no sounds of battle from outside... Where outside actually is is hard to even tell at this point as the nature of this room almost feels like being outside but it is heavily doused in magic, so much so it likely makes all the wolves here feel like their skin is crawling, since it is so heavy, it can be felt in the air even by those that do not harness magic. As for the divine being, it looks upon Kah first, his golden eyes studying the ancient wolf, "You bear the sins of Sirinia upon you. You are not worthy and your touch would tarnish the feather." He declares in judgment as his gaze seems to piece Kah's being. However, when he looks upon Juniper and Victoria, the angelic man's visage seems to soften to a degree. It is still cold and judgmental, but there is no hate there, "The task to pierce the veil and see what the seerers cannot see. To stop a believed destruction, not only of your world, but all the worlds. This task is worthy." And the feather floats from where it sits over to his hand where he offers it out to Juniper and Victoria, but his hand never comes in contact with it as it keeps floating, "If you do anything that shall tarnish its divinity, wrath from which your world has not seen in a thousand years shall rain down upon you all. I do not say this as a threat, but as a warning of things that may come if you do not respect the honor this is."
Juniper hesitates, watching that feather float closer to them and looking at her own hands, feeling somehow unclean in this place where her senses are muddled by suffocating magic. "Guardian," she asks in the tone of a student to master. "How do we keep it safe until we can deliver it to the Stormcaller?" She doesn't ask about beyond this point, as it is clear her faith in Elias's knowledge on this point is deeply rooted.
"In accepting this, you are accepting the honor and burden that comes with that honor." The angelic guardian declares like it is obvious to it and with that should be obvious to everyone else too, "It is a piece of Zephyrus, albeit a small piece of him, but a piece none the less. There will always be those that seek to claim it. If the unworthy touch it, I will know. Fires shall fall from the heavens and destruction shall be complete. It shall cleanse the unclean and in turn, cleanse the feather."
With only reverence, Kah simply nods his head at the Guardian in silence. He doesn't offer apology for the taint that sets on him but he doesn't deny or begrudge the judgement that comes. He stands stoic, and his smile comes small but genuine as he hears the spirit offer more positive tidings to Juniper and Victoria. "I accept this honor, unworthy as I am. I will guard them, and they will protect it." No humility indeed, but his head does bow in respect to the being without hesitation and his eyes turn protectively toward Juniper and Victoria, now.
"Very well. I'll be doing all the touching then," Juniper responds with a resignation and quick acceptance of her 'fate' in this manner. "The burden is mine, and let the fire take me if I fail." Though, it would seem, this burden is /not/ just hers as Kah and Victoria stand with her in protection and solidarity. A family unit in so many ways than just one.
"The Family, and The Pack - never have to carry burdens alone" Kah reminds Juniper with quiet warmth. "Not as long as I live."
Victoria's normally cheeky remark goes silenced in favor of a grin to Juniper. "Not yours alone by a long shot."
As soon as Juniper touches the feather and takes it into her possession, Juniper can feel a warmth that spreads through her body, it is something that is unlike anything she has ever felt. It gives her an energetic, youthful feel that perhaps only demigods know, but the spark of divinity is clearly in the relic. The room they are standing vanishes shortly after she touches the feather and so is the guardian. They find themselves back in a familiar room, the room with the compass, but now there is smoke drifting lazily through the room and echoing gunshots. The Forged mercenaries have taken up fighting positions in the room, firing shots at Hoplites that enter. Bodies liter the room and there are wounded Forged as well. There is still sounds of fighting from the outside. Bursting through the entrance with several remaining Forged mercenaries, is a bloodied Elias. Whether the blood is his or someone else's, it is likely a combination of the both. Still barking out orders, he calls out, "Secure the entrance as we prepare to path out of here, we aren't leaving anyone behind." And then the dark haired man's attention turns to the others, "Were you able to find the feather? We are running out of time. They have the Temple surrounded."
"It's secure!" Juniper responds in a shout quickly to someone, her eyes finding him in the chaos easily like the red thread of fate that binds them leads her to him. Indeed, she is slipping the feather within her uniform, keeping it on her body where she will know its presence.
"It's secure!" Juniper responds in a shout quickly to Elias, her eyes finding him in the chaos easily like the red thread of fate that binds them leads her to him. Indeed, she is slipping the feather within her uniform, keeping it on her body where she will know its presence.
Seeing the visions of battle come back into focus, Kah jumps into action once more. When Elias shows himself, and the injured fighters that come trailing in after him? The bronzed man is hustling for the entryway. He's dragging anyone who's downed backward and out of the way before settling himself into the entrance proper. His frame and size while not large enough to fill the whole thing in such a place as this - should be enough to provide a deterrent when those Hoplites come marching down the corridor and see something like one of their own standing in their way. He sets his shield and notches his spear into the small, circular grove that sits on the upper inside round like a cup for his lance. Blade gleaming in torchlight amongst the smoke, Kah stands at the ready his blue eyes and white hair hovering just over the lip of his shield while he prepares to hold off the ingress. "Somebody get started, then! I can hold many here for a time, but not forever!"
Juniper does just that, concentrating on being the carrier for the artefact instead of fighting, she begins the work of opening a path for them all.
Glancing over to Victoria, Kah grins and his stance shifts enough to make room for her beside him, and inside the protection of his shield. "Come. Together we can hold them as long as we need. Forever" he says, feeling extra confident with her by his side.
"Vic, touch Kah's shoulder and work on pathing. Everyone else, grab someone wounded and help them path out of here." Elias calls out as magic starts to swirl around him, causing the air to take on a bitter coldness around him, harnessing it towards Kah and layers of protective ice start to form on the large Egyptian man. Probably not the most comfortable for the wolf, but it does provide a good deal of protection. Several of the mercenaries work on pathing out or assisting others as they start vanishing off into the dark forest, Elias calling out, "Alright, lets get out of here."
"Forever would get blood on my boots," Victoria snickers, drawing a dagger into one palm and moving next to Kah. "I can always use shoes though." One hand reaches upward, clasping Kah's shoulder beneath the sharp tips of her nails. "June, when you're ready let us know."
Holding off, waiting for those that put their lives on the line to see their mission successful, Juniper works to keep that pathway open for the last of the members before she reaches out her hand when the last of them pop away into their own paths that hey apparently have made. "Ready, Vic!" she calls.
With a yank to Kah's shoulder, Victoria whirls on a heel, with the intent to beeline to Juniper and the pathway while it's possible.
With Juniper preparing the pathing for everyone as Elias is barking orders, she is the first to finish and pulls everyone with her, escaping with the feather and finding themselves near the gate leading back to Earth. A much safer location where everyone can regroup and recover. Elias at this point falls to a knee, taking slow, measured breaths before stating, "Good job everyone... Well done..."
Stepping backward, Kah follows the touch from Victoria, keeping his shield in between himself and the others and the potential enemies as they come. "On the move!" He bellows, until the lot of them are finally enveloped within the shadowy confines of the Path.