Iron Vault and an expected Feast (DM SteveK) Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 8:33:42 AM
With the great majority of the Iron Adventurers choosing the Iron Vault to go into a new, unmapped room in the Basement, with the alarm going off in the Kitchen, and the password (that can be keyed in on any current IA hero) being "Shibboleth", the priest and mage get to work.
They already have the ingredients and tools required with them, and so in the space of a morning, the Iron Vault is complete. Firn'gaer turns out to have not only extensive Knowledge of Engineering, but building things is his secondary Profession. This makes adding the basement room quite simple, the entrance for the stairs being in the pantry. Then the Private Sanctum and Shaped Dimensional Lock to avoid prying divination spells and teleporting spies. Then the Symbols on the doorway. And then, the two link divine and arcane magics to create a pocket-dimension!
The retired heroes are exhausted, and spend the afternoon recovering before leaving before the evening meal.
Rash helps Bosk with his wardrobe choices. "Torm is an old aquaintance, very old. Strangely for a priest, he enjoys diversity, maybe that has something to do with Ma'ab... Anyways, any attire that best demonstrates your true character and is not mocking of the Faerie Queen should be just fine for Torm. For most others, looking clean and well dressed and groomed is an expectation in Hook City. It is another way for them to be condescending to everyone else." It is obvious Rash doesn't think highly of the city and is eager to return to her farming home with her husband and children. Rash takes her leave from the Iron Adventurers and Firn'gaer, staying the night in a small temple in NorthHook.
FIrn'gaer rests up and is present when Cyniq unveils her plan for drainage. "You forget two things missy", he tells the elven wizard. "First is that Knowledge of the concepts of engineering is not the same as practicing the Profession and being able to plan and build. Like being able to critique art and identifying symbolism, style, and artist, but not capable of painting anything more than stick figures. Your lines are all wrong for the water flow." The irascible gnome watches Cyniq to see if his words sink in. "And the second thing is what your friends here are hinting at; the people factor. What if Hook City likes MudTown the way it is? What if the people with power in MudTown like the way it is? You better find out before riding in like the cavalry to save the day."
For interviewing with a Hook City official, Firn'gaer has other advice. "Anything you tell them will become their business. You don't want them to know something, don't tell them. Tell them to shove off." The wizard seems to collect himself and grudgingly adds, "but in a nice way."
The gnome is about to leave, but turns back and opens the inside of his vest to reveal a pin denoting a Master Star Mage. He nods at Cyniq. "YOU have promise." He glances over at Bosk and stage-whispers; "HE reminds me too much of Peerimus. If ever YOU are around the SMG or find my Tower, I'll be happy to talk." Firn'gaer soon leaves and is last seen Overland Flight spelling towards the Hook City Star Mages Guild. ...........
The next day's interview with Sergeant Capon goes well enough. He doesn't insist on any answers, content to write down whatever the heroes wish to tell him. Well, except for Garrett. The little fellow is so full of questions that it nearly cracks the Sergeant's ramrod discipline, and Capon finally offers to only answer one question for every question Garrett answers.
Garrett learns that Sergeant Capon is of the Hook City Constabulary, duty with SouthHook Magistrate and liaison to the Iron Adventurers, and he has never left Hook City in his life. The halfling learns many more things about the constable, even so much as his favorite color and the name of his first pet, a Prariepig named 'Nibbles'.
Bosk's interview and counter-interview reveals that there hasn't been any strange occurances. "The most significant thing is the South Docks are once again open for business. The mages have opened a channel to the Ice Vein to the south, and shipwrights are experimenting with ships that can sail on the ice like the druidwood ships used to sail across the Sargrass."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 9:48:02 AM
As the group prepares for the feast, Garret walks about, munching on a carrot, watching everyone else get ready. He does nothing special to get ready, instead just wearing what he wears nearly all the time: a simple pair of worn pants with a rope belt.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 5:04:50 PM
Restlin puts on his good digs, but not his best. He does make sure his holy symbol is proudly displayed, and that he carries a slight scent of the sandalwood he's so fond of.
[ooc: Sorry for the short post. I'm having a day.]
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 6:25:20 PM
Sesha ponders her best clothing, and realizes she certainly doesn't have much. She knows very little of Maab, but has at least heard of the Immortal Power. She takes great care in washing her simple dress, made of tanned skins.
For a slight moment, she ponders purchasing something pretty, made of nice soft things, then quickly shakes the though. Her Life-Kin were already lost to her, now that she sought to know Little Spirit more. Even so, she pictured Kamali laughing at her in a fluffy silk dress and banished all thoughts of an expanded wardrobe.
She smiled. For now anyways.
She slips on her underskirts, then her Mithril Shirt. Then on comes the leather skirt and top. She brushes out her long white hair, then joins Garret and Restlin downstairs.
"You look commendable Mage-Priest, but I fear you may be under dressed compared to me and Garret."
She winks, then finds a place to sit and wait for the others.
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 9:43:53 PM
Caius polishes his mithral armor to a mirror shine before joining the feast. With exaggerated decorum he gingerly seats himself, scoots up to the table, and tucks a napkin into the collar of his jerkin. He holds a knife and fork upright in his fists and looks expectantly up and down the table. "Sure hope this meal isn't just fruits and veggies. I know some druids ain't too keen on eating meat."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 10:52:21 PM
In preparation for the feast Beriothian examines his druid robes. Most places a druid would find himself they would be out of place being so well kept, but this was Hook City. Taking his magical scarf in his hands, the druid focuses his thoughts on the robes and casts a prestidigitation spell on them. Instantly the robes look as pristine as the day he bought them, and even better they small as if an adventurer has never once tried them on. As the hour of the feast approaches the druid makes sure that his body meets the same high standards of cleanliness as his robe. He may be dressed simpler than others in Hook City tend to dress, but none could argue that he looks almost dashing in his vestments.
Well, I could do with a hearty meal, are we ready to head out?
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Wednesday July 24th, 2013 1:38:45 AM
Cyniq decides to table her ideas for a day or two. Though it's interesting to her that mudtown is deemed outside the legal system of hook city, but still under its jurisdiciton. Food for thought.
She does take some time to clean herself up and mend any minor issues with her clothing before meeting the otehrs. I'm ready.
DMSteve: "mudtown is deemed outside the legal system of hook city, but still under its jurisdiciton". very interesting! I actually don't think anyone has delved into this Catch22 before. It will make for some great role-play hooks, I'm thinking! :-)
Anrete AC:30/17/30 CMD:32 HP:121/121 DR:2 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 2:14:37 AM
James posting for Anrete:
As the days pass Anrete spends his days spends his days wandering around the chaotic city. Despite not fully understanding the strange chit money system he finds himself drawn to the numerous store fronts and admiring the gleaming swords and magical armors for sale. With items like that he would be unstoppable in battle.
As he returns to the tower Anrete watches as the others put on their nicest cloths in preparation for the feast. There is sure to be some excellent food tonight. he thinks to himself as he spits on his hands and washes some of the dirt from his face. Anrete ready!
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells Wednesday July 24th, 2013 3:17:07 AM
Bosk pauses in wonder when he hears that they were trying to create ships that could pass over ice like water. Do you have any idea how they are crafting those ships? My understanding is that the ships from the Sargrass from crated from wood of a druid tree that has the unique property of repelling the grass. Is there some similar tree like that in Ice Vein, or have they found a way to use magic to replicate that ability? The cleric's mind drifts to the idea of the possibility of the Sages Guild working on such magic and hopes that one day he will get the opportunity to join (it is currently not available to join in Hook City). Also, can you tell me how they are getting to the docks? Are they taking the ships out to see in Ice Vein and sailing them here, or is there a way to get the ships from the river to the docks? I know I was told the river through the city comes from Ice Vein and often wondered what would happen if a ship were to sail down it.[/b]
Bosk thanks FIrn'gaer and Rash for all their help and offers them plenty to eat and drink as the work as he admires their craftsmanship and admirable power. His only regret is that Rash seemed to take more to the witch than himself, but he chalks the reason behind this up to a connection with the Star Mages Guild and tries not to think about it. After they leave the cleric spends the rest of the day cleaning up and preparing for the feast. Taking Rash' advice he dresses in "true character" with his cleric's vestments worn proudly over his steelgrass armor.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Wednesday July 24th, 2013 8:26:44 AM
Restlin grins at Sesha's humor.
"Well, this is Queen Maab's temple we're talking about, so it's best just to dress in the manner to which you're accustomed. Say, I have a simple ruby pendant that would stand out nicely against your mithril if you're interested. It's one of the first pieces of jewelry I crafted, but I think the imperfections give it character."
Restlin casts a prestidigitation before they leave. Trying to be subtle, he gets good and close to Garet to make sure his odor is acceptable. If not, he'll prestidigitize it away...
The Temple of Ma'ab (DM SteveK) Wednesday July 24th, 2013 9:24:03 AM
Bosk is invited to come to the docks one day and see what the shipwrights and mages have been doing, yet he doesn't have time right now, he has to get ready for the Feast. Perhaps tomorrow?
Sergeant Capon also arrives as the group is on the verge of leaving. He excuses himself, saying his news is not time sensitive and if he may arrive at the noon hour tomorrow, he will conduct an information briefing for the heroes.
............
It is probably a good thing that the Iron Adventurers live so close to LaborTown that the less resplendent heroes are not too out of place. Restlin is happy to note that Garrett isn't noticable from too far away and that most people outside of the few block radius of Iron Square steer clear of the imposing group just by how they look! A minotaur, drow, 2 heavily armored humans, and the others, many of which are obviously priests or mages of one ilk or another. The curious halfling who bounces along from one scene to another like a happy puppy is almost normal! Restlin's biggest job is not ensuring Garrett doesn't offend anyone, but in keeping up with the small man!
Arriving at the Temple of Ma'ab with a trickle of other guests, acolytes show the heroes through a small stone section of temple that has frescoes of nature scenes, and a cunningly made brook-and-pool with lazy fat fish swimming along and accepting small pellets of food from those who seek Ma'abs favor. A cute little bridge spans the brook to a stone archway, and they discover that here is where the Temple really begins! Several acres of garden, partitioned out by natural hedges, groves of small trees, and rock formations spreads out before the Iron Adventures. Each area is a miniature terrain of a different type of nature; cultivated garden, forest, plain, swamp, desert... every type of terrain found in the Wold. Yes, there is even a snowscape!
The feast, they find, also ranges all about the Temple, with native foods of each terrain laid out on flat rocks or smooth wooden tables. Guests are free to wander and converse with the priests and guests as they move about, very free-form. Looking at the other guests, it appears Anrete, Sesha, and Cyniq needn't worry (not that Anrete does!), the great variety of guests in race, creed, clothing, and state of cleanliness makes our heroes seem normal.
Yet Beriothian knows that they should pay their respects to the High Priest first. With a small question to their guide, the Iron Adventurers are directed to a cool pool, willow trees dipping their branches among huge lily pads. On the shore are several priests and guests already along with the large tortoise Beri had met earlier, listening to music floating from among the trees and eating from a plethora of wooden trenchers. (Caius will be pleased to see that there is meat and highly fermented drink among the grains and vegetables offered.)
The tortoise speaks. "Greetings, Iron ... Adventurers. I ... am Torm. Welcome to the Temple of Ma'ab. Relax ... yourselves and enjoy the ... bounty that She naturally provides."
Wonder of wonders, the tortoise is the High Priest of Ma'ab!!!
(Hear Ye, Hear Ye!) (DM SteveK) Wednesday July 24th, 2013 9:45:55 AM
Hear ye! Hear ye!
A celebration for THE HEROES OF BLACKBIRD LAKE will be held in the GIGGLING GHOST TAVERN AND INN in THE FLOATING CITY beginning IMMEDIATELY. All HEROES OF THE WOLD are invited to attend and HONOR these elite adventurers and celebrate their lives and accomplishments.
All FOOD AND DRINK is on the house! Do not miss this SEMINAL EVENT!
All heroes can post simultaneously in the Giggling Ghost Board and Hook City.
To arrive in the Giggling Ghost, heroes walk through the magical fireplace. (Believe or Not, Jerry had this before Harry Potter.)
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Wednesday July 24th, 2013 10:16:00 AM
Restlin's heart races when he sees the snowscape. He's obviously heard of snow, but he's never had a chance to play in it. It takes all his will not to rush over like a hyperactive child.
Beri's right, though. They need to pay respects. He glaces sideways at Anrete, remembering his disappointment at not capturing a turtle to eat two days ago. He squats down to put himself on eye-level with Torm before speaking, "Mr. Torm-not-good-to-eat, it's a pleasure. I'm Restlin: wizard, priest of Wardd and bestower of his luck."
It suddenly hits Restlin that without Zeoll around, he may now be the most diplomatic of the Iron Adventurers. It's a scary thought. He decides against putting on airs; he tried that with Wardd once and it didn't work so well. He'll save it for the Hook City bureaucracy.
He stands up and gazes around in genuine wonder. "This is incredible. I'm sorry to cut our introduction short, but if I don't throw a snowball at someone soon I may burst." With that, Restlin tears off with a glance to Sesha that obviously says "hurry up and get over here."
Reaching the snow, he hurls himself into what he hopes is deep powder.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Wednesday July 24th, 2013 12:45:46 PM Greetings, and salutations. This Justicar is humbled at your invitation. If I may be of service, please do not hesitate to ask for Cyniq al"Lyz, recent addition to the Iron Adventurers. Cyniq nods her head in the respect due someone of such a position. With the formal greetings over, Cyniq smiles, nice spread you've put on. What's the occasion?
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Wednesday July 24th, 2013 12:47:28 PM
Outside the temple, Garret steps into the pond with the fish and starts to reach down to grab one of the fat fish before he notices the glares from the others in the group. He sheepishly steps out of the water and follow the group towards the main temple area.
As soon as the group sets foot inside the temple, Garret finds some food. He has a couple handfuls as they walk in and look around. Unlike Restlin, he is unable to resist the temptation and moves over to check out the snow. He sets some sort of fruit down on the ground and reaches out to touch the snow before he is called back to visit with Torm. He leaves the fruit and spots some cakes on another table and quickly gathers up a couple of those before heading in to Torm.
Garret misses the turtle on the first pass and steps into the water a bit to reach around and grab a leg of some meat before he turns back to the turtle. He says, mouth still partially full, "You are the high priest? Thank you so very much for inviting us here, I am glad to be here. You have a wonderful temple here and the food is excellent! There seems to be enough here even for Anrete. What is it like being a tortoise? Where did all this food come from?"
Anrete AC:30/17/30 CMD:32 HP:121/121 DR:2 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 3:40:22 PM
Anrete helps himself to the strange and exotic foods. You a turtle? Are you a wizard or a real turtle? Anrete doesn't normally like wizards unless they are wearing dress, but wizard in a shell nice too. There good food here. You want I get us some food?
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells d20=19 ; Wednesday July 24th, 2013 4:06:07 PM
Bosk looks around the temple, the wondrous sights bringing back memories of Zeoll's rooftop garden and he thinks about how much the wemic would have loved this building. As the guide leads the way to Torm the horned cleric tries his best to take in all the sights, including that of the talking tortise.
Thank you Torm. The gods did grace me with a silver tongue, but I wish to tell you how honored we were to receive you invitation. Peerimus spoke very highly of you, and hoped our paths might cross.
The cleric then follows Torm's suggestion, alternating between relaxing while sampling the amazing food and exploring the different habitats to learn what he can about the various landscapes.
Diplomacy = 16 (One of my highest ever diplomacy rolls!)
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] d20+7=19 ; d20+20=34 ; Wednesday July 24th, 2013 9:21:14 PM
Sesha blushes a little as Restlin offers her a piece of jewelry to wear. The only adornments she had ever wore were small totems or fetishes as necessary for her work with Kamali and the Ga'alin. Well, that and her current eye-patch. She accepts the necklace, and loosens her tanned jackets to let more of the mithril show, so that the ruby can sit against it as he suggested.
"Thank you!"
When it is time to go, she skips about next to Garret, darting back and forth between following the halfing and chatting merrily at Restlin.
When they arrive at the temple, Sesha is pleased with the surroundings. As the realization sets in that all terrains are likely present here, she tries her best to spot anywhere she might be able to escape underground, if even for a short while. She missed the cool darkness of It'lal from time to time, even if the city wasn't exactly fully underground anymore.
When introduced to the Tortoise-Priest, Sesha is instantly curious. Something about him reminds her of a thing she had heard some time ago.. perhaps when still just a toddler..a poem perhaps? She approaches Torm cautiously, then smiles at him as the most fleeting touch of Little Spirit urges her forward. She recites, when close enough for the Turtle to hear.
"See this wise one of enormous girth! On his shell he holds the earth. His thought is slow but always kind; He holds us all within his mind. On his back all vows are made; He sees the truth but mayn't aid. He loves the land and loves the sea, And even loves a child like me."
Sesha smiles again, then introduces herself.
"Hello Great Shellback. I am Sesha Cha'Kwaina, of the Ga'alin Barbarians and Blood-Kin to the Twilight Elves of It'lal. I am very pleased to meet such a spirit as yours, that seeps it's life and wisdom no matter what body it chooses."
Formal speech out of the way, the little Drow winks.
"I really like your Temple, Torm. Might there be a spot somewhere for those who are comfortable underground? There's nowhere in Hook City for someone to just get lost in the darkness. If I could, I would like to spend just a little time in such a spot before I leave. Thank you again for inviting us!
Sesha waves, then considers the food and weighs it against Restlins summons. Her mind made up, she skips into the snow, scoops up a ball, calls out to Restlin and launches it at the Mage-Priest as he looks her way.
[Diplomacy: 34] [Snowball: Hit Touch AC 19?]
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 d20+1=18 ; d20+7=9 ; Wednesday July 24th, 2013 11:12:43 PM
Restlin effortlessly sidesteps the incoming snowball (defense roll: 17 +7 AC vs touch = AC 24). He hurls the one he had waiting for her in retaliation, but he's having too much fun to aim (at least that's what he tells himself).
He'll continue this frivolity until he's soaked through, then it's time to prestidigitize himself and Sesha dry before seeing what kind of warm spirits are available here.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Wednesday July 24th, 2013 11:18:47 PM
Arriving at the temple Beriothian locates Torm and bows. It is a pleasure to see you once again. It is always a pleasure to get away for the disconnected life we live in Hook City and return to the harmony of nature that thrives here. I hope you have been well since we last talked.
Beriothian smiles as Sesha mentions being comfortable underground. The IA had found themselves wandering beneath Hook City before. Once in the massive catacombs beneath the city, a dark and damp place where the former residents now reside, and once in the sewers, somehow far worse than a tunnel lined with dead people was. Neither would probably appear to Sesha... or any sane person for that matter. As the group starts to look around Beri joins those in the snow, taking the form of a large white bear.
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 d20+12=22 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 11:37:35 PM
Of course Caius is happy to see meat and drink! His face beams like a schoolboy tasting candy as he surveys the tables laden with food and beverage. He follows the group to introduce themselves to Torm the Tortoise. He gives a small bow. "I am Caius, Your Excellency. A swordsman. A darn good one, but just a swordsman." He follows Sesha to the snowbanks and quickly balls up several wintry projectiles. He lobs one at Restlin as well.
Ranged touch attack 22
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] d20+1=16 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 4:18:29 PM
Once the others join in the snow, Garret moves quickly to attempt to build a wall to protect himself from the flying white death (Craft: 16). If there is enough snow, he starts to build crenelations and a round tower at each end.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:17:42 PM
ooc: checking in
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:54:22 PM
Chicking in.
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Thursday July 25th, 2013 9:36:45 PM
ooc: Checking in.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Thursday July 25th, 2013 10:23:53 PM Reminds me of an old joke, in!
a minute later Cyniq says Out!
Another minute goes by, In!
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Thursday July 25th, 2013 11:13:22 PM
(check-a-roo)
News (DM SteveK) Friday July 26th, 2013 7:48:56 AM
ooc: pardons all, I was travelling yesterday and thought for sure I could post. :-( I was wrong.
.........
The impromptu snowball fight of Restlin builds quickly to where there is a dozen on each side, quickly building forts and rolling snowballs. The glittering, cold crystals sting the hands and face and laughter is in the air!
Sesha indeed is directed to a small area that looks like natural caverns. It is done in the feel of limestone caves as they were worn away by an underground stream. Similiar to places that Sesha remembers closer to the surface. While it is deep enough to have the eternal temperature of the caves, it does not have the cavernous majesty of the Deeps.
Torm himself seems pleased of the questions, comments, and activities of the Iron Adventurers. In his heavy pausing way, he talks and tells them that Torm is an Awakened Animal, given awareness by the Rise of the Fey King and so honors Eberyon for his chance gift. It is Ma'ab, however, who is nature in balance and harmony. From the well-tilled fields to a plague of locusts, from majestic mountain to -destructive volcano, life-giving oasis in the desert and life-taking flood, everyone lives in nature and Nature lives everywhere. Yes, even in a city of haughty stone and magic, they still need to eat, grow a flowerbed, breathe the air. Torm has been sent to keep the Temple and remind the citizens of Hook City of the necessity of balance with Nature.
The High Priest tells the Iron Adventurers that he is indeed a member of Peerimus' network, for they work to similar ends as allies. Torm also reveals that as early as the episode with the plague of zombies, Torm has been keeping an eye out on the Iron Adventurers and passing the information on, that the IA were potentially strong bastions of goodness in Hook City.
An elf sitting nearby has been holding himself together, and finally laughs at Torm. This elf proudly wears the symbol of Eberyon and is disheveled and wild-looking. "Master Torm, it is good that nature works together, but there is no way that it can work with civilization! A temporary peace is the best untamed nature can hope! And when the Noble Races feel to push themselves where they don't belong, then we must be prepared to fight back!"
A debate arises, with several guests weighing in for Ma'ab, and several more for Eberyon. An old half-orc even weighs in arguing that there would be no conflict between Nature and Civilization if all merely obeyed Ga'al. Then life would be easy.
Torm looks at the Iron Adventurers. "And you... what do you... say?"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Friday July 26th, 2013 8:24:48 AM
Restlin rolls his eyes. "This old argument again. Look, maybe civilization IS strong enough to conquer nature. Maybe it isn't and Hook City is destined for ruin. You know what isn't going to settle that argument? A bunch of opinionated busy bodies fussing about it.
"...and why are we fussing about it to begin with? So what if Hook City is just a temporary peace with nature? So what if a virgin forest is torn down and it's resources used to create new settlements? Things change. Deciding that 'this is the way things should be' is what makes people decide it's ok to start killing everyone who disagrees."
Anrete AC:30/17/30 CMD:32 HP:121/121 DR:2 d100=12 ; Friday July 26th, 2013 4:21:54 PM
ames posting for Anrete:
Anrete thinks about the question for a brief moment as he takes a large bite out of a leg of some unidentifiable animal. He was never one for philosophy, but he did like fighting. Fighting unpredictable. Usually biggest sword wins, sometimes smaller guy gets lucky. Sometimes small guy stronger than he looks. Surprises you. Anrete makes sure he always has big sword. Never assume other guy is dead. Things have a way of coming back when you think they are dead and done.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Friday July 26th, 2013 4:57:25 PM A storm brings lightning, and a forest burns to ashes. A seamstress plants a garden. Both are involved with the fundamental nature of existence. Which is worse? The miller that builds a mill to turn wheat into flour? Or the sudden flood that drowns hundreds of animals? Look at this temple, many types of nature are on display. Some have less 'life' than others, like the caves over there, or the snow that was so recently enjoyed by many of the guests. And yet, a town may have more life than these. For even that town has a life of its own. As such, civilization is merely one more style of nature that graces this planet. Cyniq walks over and collects a handful of snow, patting it into a ball she gently tosses it in the air, to say that one form of nature is more important than another. To say that one must be forcibly changed to another, is no different than willing this snowball to survive where ever.
She gently tosses the ball into another of the areas, the garden of the desert, it is against nature to state that snowball must be allowed to continue to exist where it is now. She watches as the snowball starts to melt. Just as that forest was burned to ashes, a plain of grass will grow in its place. New life, new terrain, change. All nature.
She looks over at the elf, your argument has no logical basis.
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Friday July 26th, 2013 4:58:15 PM
After being shown the caverns, she is content. She lingers a moment less than she would like, then returns to the party. She can always return here later. She finds the food tables and then...
Sesha sits cross-legged on an overturned and overgrown Pot-pot, considering the Turtle-Priests question. Earlier she had found an unguarded skin of wine, and now it was empty in her hands. While Cyniq explains, Sesha grumbles impatiently, flapping her fingers to emulate a yapping mouth. Her cheeks are rosy, and she smiles wide when Cyniq finishes, a dimple pushing her cheeks up into a shiny brown eye and pushing her eyepatch up slightly. She beams at Cyniq, clapping loudly.
"Cyniq is really smart, so she's probably right. But if you ask me, it doesn't matter, Turtle-Priest! As long as the gods are in the sky there will be life on the Wold! If nature wins, then every dead city-dwellers spirit will soar through Gargul, occupy a plant or animal, and come back into the Wold. If the cities take every forest and tame it, every creature and domesticate it... then those spirits will be reborn into the bodies of all the new city peoples babies. As long as nothing disrupts the flow of the Woldsblood, life will enrich the Wold. The rest of it.. the fighting...the killing...the magic...the kingdoms...the good...the evil... it all serves to enrich the spirit, which is the only thing that really matters, you know? As long as life is born, it doesn't matter what kind of world a spirit is born into, because it will accept that as it's life."
She sways a little, then lifts her wineskin, looking mournfully into it's empty pouch. She frowns, and starts to look around. There should be more somewhere. Anrete was probably hogging it all. Growling, she shakes her empty skin threateningly at the barbarian while he eats.
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells Friday July 26th, 2013 5:43:04 PM
Bosk ponders the question for a moment, not sure if there is actually an answer to such a question. No greatness or worth while thing ever came or was maintained with ease. It is how we adapt to to pressure and adversity that defines us and will effect the outcome. The horned cleric picks some food and drink off of a nearby table. Here we have eggs, carrots, and some coffee. How does each respond to pressure? What happens when you throw it in a pot of boiling water? The carrots become soft over time and are easily crushed. The egg becomes hard, more resistant. It shuts everything else out, becoming inflexible and once peeled will easily crack. But the coffee, he says as he takes a long sip the coffee changes the water. You must ask yourself, how are you going to allow yourself to be changed.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Friday July 26th, 2013 6:22:03 PM
Garret nods at Cyniq's argument. He adds, "Indeed, nature is all-powerful. But what Sesha is true as well -- the gods of the Wold will decide what will be and what will not be, no matter what civilized people nor nature desire."
"But as for me, should you pit the forces of nature against what we are calling civilization, I do believe that nature will win. Oh, people may have short-term victories, but in the end, what happens to every civilization and building? Nature takes over in the end. I believe if the greatest kings of this Wold were to attempt to destroy any aspect of nature, that they would utterly and completely fail, most certainly in the long term."
"And nature is usually much nicer to look at than most kings."
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Friday July 26th, 2013 11:47:27 PM
Caius listens, furrowing his eyebrows. "I reckon you're caught in what my Pa used to call a 'false binary.' There is no division between man and nature, civilization and the wild. What most call 'civilization' is just what man-the-animal builds to master his environment. Man's walls are no different than a beaver's dam, his homes no different than a bird's nest, and his roads no different than an ant's tunnels. Just 'cuz it's on a grander scale of size and complexity don't make it fundamentally different. Nature and civilization cannot balance, since they are the same darn thing. You could say man damages nature with his building and harvesting, but man can do hardly a thing that compares to the locust or the army ant. Heck, what is man compared to a dragon or a frost worm? Just like wolves that eat too many deer and starve in winter, man will be balanced because he is part of nature, not against nature."
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Saturday July 27th, 2013 4:58:08 PM
Restlin cocks his head as Caius speaks. "Yea...that's what I was trying to say. You managed to say it remarkably better than I did, though."
Then he surreptitiously passes another full wineskin to Sesha, mostly to see what happens next.
Contests (This is Monday Post) (DM SteveK) Sunday July 28th, 2013 9:19:38 AM
It is hard to say what Torm is thinking, for the tortoise's social cues and physical ability to smile or frown is limited, but he sounds amused. "Very deep thinking from all sides: nature is better, civilization is better, neither is better because both are the same, neither matters because the Woldsblood is most important, and even the argument doesn't matter because it is a false argument."
The elf laughs at Caius. "You are soft in the head Soldier. That argument may work on some imaginary world where there is no magic, but we live in the Wold. There is magic that doesn't work in cities, and the tidal wave or an army of locusts is preferable to the deliberate marring of the Wold by the Noble Races. One is part of nature, it happens because it is the nature of the beast or water to do so. The other COULD be aligned, but most often forces the natural paths out to have another, foreign pattern. You can't tell me that Hook City weather is supposed to be perfect all the time. The weather goes somewhere!. You can't tell me that you are not willing to fight for what you know is right. And that is why Eberyon is more powerful than Ma'ab, because he's rousing Nature from its passivity."
More arguments quickly form around the circle, aligning for Ma'ab, or for Eberyon. There are a couple of standouts, like the cleric of Ga'al who says his diety is the best. Torm allows it to go on for a while before calling for the others to listen.
"This is a feast of joy, not of anger, but let us have a friendly contest to decide just for this one night who may have the laurels; a wrestling match, a debate, and a skill demonstration. 2 of 3 wins." Because it IS supposed to be friendly, and no one seems to want to offend the old tortoise, guests begin aligning for Ma'ab or Eberyon or another side.
It looks like the Iron Adventurers can individually choose any number of sides or sit and watch.
.......................
PCs can involve themselves in only one of the three contests. In the next Post, please indicate what team (if any) the hero is on and which contest they will enter.
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Sunday July 28th, 2013 11:08:41 AM The elf laughs at Caius. "You are soft in the head Soldier. That argument...
Caius shrugs. "That's an interesting argument you've got there, Stephanie. I would probably agree with you if my god were the biggest absent father in existence. But hey, it's not like he's overcompensating for his personal failures or anything. Good luck with that."
At the mention of contests, Caius finishes his drink and steps forward. "Competition is good for the mind and body. After all, that's how nature picks its favorites. Is there a side for those of the druidic persuasion?"
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells Sunday July 28th, 2013 8:53:03 PM
ooc: What do you mean by a skill demonstration?
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Sunday July 28th, 2013 10:58:57 PM We are always up for a friendly challenge. I have always loved wrestling and will likely participate in this competition, but I am curious as to what this skill demonstration would be.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Monday July 29th, 2013 8:10:20 AM
...and with that, Caius officially becomes one of Restlin's favorite people. The wizard himself is in no mood for a debate and is certainly no wrestler. He does have a skill or two up his sleeves, however. He will sit in the "this argument is silly" section and prepare.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Monday July 29th, 2013 12:17:22 PM
Garret nods and replies, "I do have a bit of skill in acrobatics and jumping, should that be allowed. And I shall stand with the side that says nature is superior."
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Monday July 29th, 2013 12:18:34 PM
Cyniq smiles at Torm's response and nods in respect. My allegiance and viewpoint requires that I remain neutral, I shall stand on the side. I leave the wrestling for those with a greater penchant for exercising the body. I too would like to know more about these skill demonstrations. Though I have some experience with lively discussions of marginally necessary topics.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Monday July 29th, 2013 9:39:42 PM
ooc: checking in
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Monday July 29th, 2013 11:35:02 PM
ooc: checking in
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Tuesday July 30th, 2013 12:08:50 AM
Thanks to quick intervention by Restlin, Anrete is spared the embarrassment of a physical thrashing from the small witch. She listens intently as Torm announces competition, then cackles happily.
"Ooh ho ho ho!"
With a fluid motion she slips off of Pot-pot then kicks the cauldron right side up. She raises her wine skin in the air after taking a hearty pull.
"Hey Turtle-Priest, if the teams are soundly pro-Ma'ab or pro-Ebyron, then I enter on the side of team apathy!"
She snaps her fingers and her cauldron shrinks. She scoops it up and she plops it on a table.
---IF---
There is a competition for any skill we choose, Sesha will begin preparing for a diplomacy or bluff based challenge. Alternatively, she would enter anything that involves alchemy.
If not!
She dumps her wineskin into the now tiny Pot-pot, uses him to chill it, and drinks happily, slurping from the cauldron while cheering for her comrades.
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells Tuesday July 30th, 2013 2:17:01 AM
The horned cleric has to think for a moment. He struggles with the decision before him, wanting to support Gargul, but realizing that he cannot possibly win three events on his own when he can only enter one. I place my faith in Gargul, the god of balance, of life and of death. However between Ma'ab and Eberyon I would place my faith in Ma'ab. She has earned my respect in separating the domain of the Gods of the Wold from the domain of the Gods of Testing and thereby maintain a delicate balance. Worried he might offend the followers of Eberyon he adds, I do acknowledge that Eberyon is likely stronger than Ma'ab, but he seems more restrained with his power since his vow to reform. I get the feeling he is in contemplation or changing his nature in some way, but such contemplation and of Eberyon is for much more learned men than myself.
Bosk will take part in the skill portion if it is open to stealth or intimidation, if not he will wrestle
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Tuesday July 30th, 2013 1:06:04 PM
Garret stands and stretches his small arms and legs, bending them in ways that do not seem possible to most...
Anrete AC:30/17/30 CMD:32 HP:121/121 DR:2 Tuesday July 30th, 2013 4:49:52 PM
James posting for Anrete:
Anrete helps himself to some more food, feeling it is a waste of time to bicker about what the gods mat or may not blah blah blah. However he is more than happy to watch others rub each others faces in the mud as they fight about such things and picks a good seat to watch the entertainment.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Tuesday July 30th, 2013 6:01:41 PM
Cyniq starts twirling a curl of hair around her finger.
Contests (This is Tuseday Post) (DM SteveK) Tuesday July 30th, 2013 8:56:05 PM
Torm gives more information.
a. Wrestling match. A successful Grapple, no breaking the hold, and the next round a Successful Pin is the winner.
b. While that is going on, the debate is happening. Three rounds of Diplomacy or Intimidate checks, highest total score wins. (Circumstance bonus' possible based on arguments)
c. Skill demonstration is to use any skill to show the superiority. Each person gets one attempt to demonstrate a skill. (May get a circumstance bonus for good role-playing the demonstration.)
................
ooc: everyone, I am back from vacation. Thank you for your patience! :-)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Tuesday July 30th, 2013 9:25:31 PM This sounds like fun, but I have to ask... can the druids here pick there form of choice?
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 d20+14=24 ; Tuesday July 30th, 2013 9:53:54 PM
Restlin pats the ground next to him, indicating to Sesha the now claimed stomping grounds of team apathy.
When the skills demonstration gets under way, Restlin leaps to his feet.
"Ok folks, I know I'm pretty scrawny compared to most of my companions...ok, most people...but that doesn't mean I've neglected my physique. Here's something most of ya'll never knew I could do."
With that, the wizard runs and leaps up onto a nearby tree trunk. Kicking off with one foot, he launches himself to an adjacent one. He repeats until he reaches the lowest sturdy branch available. He lands on said branch and runs along it until it starts to get a bit bouncy. He then hops and lands hard on the branch before using it as a spring board to launch himself into the air. He twists his body around as he flips head over feet before landing...hopefully upright.
***
Acrobatics: 24 (+13 skill, +1 luck - let me know if I lose the point or gain another, please)
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 d20+16=33 d20+19=37 Tuesday July 30th, 2013 11:34:57 PM "I will wrestle and... well, I guess hollerin' at you like you're a new recruit would work for the skill challenge. I've been told I've got a 'flair for the dramatic' when it comes to chewin'-out people."
Caius approaches the line and waits to wrestle his opponent. He grapples with gusto, putting all of his considerable strength into the contest.
Grapple check 33
When the times comes for the skill challenge, Caius folds his hands behind his back, stands ramrod straight. "Atten-TION! Recruits, I am Color Sergeant Caius, your immediate superior in this happy family we call the Mailed Fist. Congratulations on making the best decision of your lives so far." He begins pacing a line as he faces an imaginary line of recruits. "It is my duty and honor to hone each of you into a fine blade of death, destruction, and discipline. If any of you boys have ever worked a smithy, you know that means that my job is to hammer your lazy, insolent, good-for-nothing bones into somethin' resemblin' a useful soldier. Some of you may have former service in a militia or town guard, but that is not goin' to hold a candle to what we have in store for you."
He turns to address the imaginary line. "By the time I am finished with you, you will be an engine of destruction to bring fear to the hearts of decent folk. Your mouths will speak with fire and your eyes will be filled with lightnin'. You will be death, and you will stalk the land as awful harbingers of war."
He takes a step forward, leaning in close and lowering his voice to a terrible whisper. "But if you fail me... if you show cowardice on the field of battle, dereliction of duty, abandonment of your post, disloyalty to your brothers, subversion of the goals and contracts of the Mailed Fist... I will come down on you like the fist of an angry god. There will be no where you can run or hide to escape me. I will hunt you, I will find you, and I will cut open your belly and peel your skin over your head like a shirt."
He leans back and smiles. "But I'm makin' sure that ain't gonna happen. Welcome to the Mailed Fist, brothers. It's time to get to work."
Intimidate check 37
Bosk d20+6=14 ; d20+17=31 ; Wednesday July 31st, 2013 1:27:22 AM
When Restlin is done Bosk applauds loudly before taking place in the center of the tree filled hall. That was very impressive. As our young wizard demonstrated, the Iron adventurer's are full of surprises and not all is as it might seem. I am Gargul's Grim Avenger and I stand out where ever I go. Tall enough to see over most any crowd, sword the size of a man so my enemy may see his death coming, and my Lord's unblinking eye clearly visible my forehead that all may see and know his power. However, to my enemies there is one sight that is even more terrifying... The horned cleric reaches one of his massive hands into his bag of holdings and withdraws a large blanket and holds it up in front of him for all to see, flipping it over a couple of times so the audience can see both sides before letting it rest in front of him hiding the blond taur from the audience's view for a few seconds. Then, with a flick of his wrist he twirls the blanket about like a matador enticing a bull and lets go. The blanket falls to the floor and the cleric is gone. Without a sound the 9'6", 1,400 pound taur simply vanished. More disturbing, his disappearance was due to roguish stealth as opposed to an indivisibility spell. Even the most perceptive of audience members, should they have managed to track his movements, would have been impressed at the way the mountain sized cleric melded with the shadows, slipping partially into the shadow realm (SU) as he hid behind the blanket and then how he slipped silently into the shade of a near by tree as he twirled the blanket in the opposite direction.
Skill Check --------------------------------- Stealth Check to hide = 31 (Concentration Check for Darkwalk (grants concealment so stealth skill can be used) = 14, success) ooc: Bosk has placed his shield in his BOH for this demonstration.
If for some reason this is not allowed, let me know and I will switch it to an intimidate check (similar modifier)
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] d20+29=43 ; Wednesday July 31st, 2013 11:16:15 AM
Sesha watches the others, cheering for the Iron Adventurers as they show why they are superior specimens of hero when compared to the average priest of Maab or Eberyon.
Figuring she would help Restlin champion the cause of "This is silly, neither is superior.", she gets up and starts moving throughout the tables. She picks up natural ingredients, a few fruits (bitter and sweet), some more wines, and a few leafy greens.
She snaps her fingers, and Pot-pot grows, from tiny to large. She speaks, loud enough to be heard, while standing atop a table in order to stirring her creation with her broom, cursing at the iron kettle and smacking it for perceived slights.
"Nature can't work with civilization eh? If it came down to it, Nature would get obliterateded? People would disappear? Silly ninnies! The "natrul order" of things is only as balanced as the power struggle between the champions of each cause! The directshun of our world is without doubt shaped by the heroic forces that propel it for good or evil, sochiety or nature, and law and chaos. But moshtly, by the spirits that empower those heroic bodies!
Consider this competishun. If I declares myself the Goddess-Queen of Alcohols and was declaring myself to be the superior power in the Wold with power over man and nature.. then winning because of my skills makes it true? Was that Caius right because he could scare the soul out of you? Or Restlin because he's apparently the first Magic-Monkey-Priest in the Wold?"
She dips her finger into her cauldron and tastes, then spits it out quickly before giving a cheeky smile to the onlookers. She snaps her fingers and her cauldron shrinks again. She hops off the table and grabs a head of lettuce. Then carefully pours a greenish liquid from her cauldron on top of it. The lettuce fizzes wildly before melting. She holds up the cauldron, swaying a little on her feet.
"Anyone wanna take a ship? It's made outta natural stuff... but in the hands of a person so inclined it just destroyed the nature it came from. Although created by a person, I doubt if someone drank this they'd like the results, so they aren't immune to the whims of this angry goddess either! Well, except maybe Bosk. He's really big and eats poison for breakfast, but that's not the point! The spirit of a hero so inclined is what drives the natural order in this world...not a silly declaration that nature or people will outlast the other."
Spent, she plods back over to Restlin and plops on the ground. In her own little world, she takes a swig from her cauldron, then spits it out and flees for the tables to get the taste out of her mouth.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] d20+50=63 ; d20+20=38 ; Wednesday July 31st, 2013 12:23:18 PM
Garret watches as Restlin climbs and runs around the tree. He nods and says, "Not bad. Not bad at all. Now if you would allow me, I'll show you how it's really done."
He stretches one more time and looks up at a branch in the tree that is over ten feet high. He points to it and shakes his head. He moves around to find a taller tree and finds one with a branch as high as he can. He finds one that is at least two stories high. He smiles and nods as he points to that branch. He squats down, stretches his legs a couple times, then waves with his small hand. A moment later, he squats one more time and with incredible energy, he springs straight up into the air, shooting up higher than even the branch and coming to rest standing on the high branch. He leans against the trunk and winks to Restlin. He then jumps straight up into the air and falls back to the ground, bouncing and kicking against the tree trunk as he falls back, landing once again on his feet. He walks back to Restlin and sits down. He whispers in a loud voice, "I can teach you that if you want."
When Caius moves forward to being wrestling, Garret claps and cheers.
As Bosk explains his trick and disappears, Garret elbows Restlin and points, "Hey, he's right over there." (Perception: 38). "Can you see him?"
When Sesha makes pot-pot grow, Garret says, "I never get tired of seeing that. That's just neat, isn't it?" When Sesha offers the liquid, Garret starts to get up, but then she explains about how nasty the liquid is. He watches carefully as Sesha tastes the liquid and then runs away. When she returns, Garret says, "I was going to taste it. Why didn't you make something that tasted good? I would like that a lot more."
OOC: Hopefully he can find something that high! Acrobatics check for high jump: 67. Yes, really. Crazy, huh? That should put him almost 17 feet straight up.
Contests and the Caravan (DM SteveK) d20+16=35 ; d20+16=33 ; d20+20=29 ; d20+25=40 ; Wednesday July 31st, 2013 4:12:47 PM
"The ... contest is silly, little...witch", responds Torm to Sesha, "but that is .... because it is all in fun. There... is no winner, only who ... can crow for tonight."
"No, young soldier", Torm cautions Caius, "You may... enter only ... one event. This way one strong... hero may not take... all the contests."
Caius wrestles with a stout dwarf who bears a tattoo of Eberyon's symbol. The hefty bearded one breaks Caius' grip and throws him to the ground, but only after a long fight. At the end, the dwarf extends a hand. "Master Torval at your service." There are other wrestling matches (Beriothian notes that the druids are all wrestling in natural form and not using WildShape), but Master Torval eventually is able to take the Wrestling match for the side of Eberyon.
Restlin (Acrobatics), Sesha (Brewing), Bosk (Stealth), and Garrett (Acrobatics) are all very impressive in the Skills contest. Others try, from tracking impossible trails to a learned dialog on the beings who live in the Woldian Space to a feat of riding by a halfling druid on her pet leopard. Yet none even come close to Sesha's elixir let alone Garrett's tremendous jump. After the halfling leaves people in the area stunned, Torm drolly suggests that Garrett has won without any more attempts.
None of the Iron Adventurers take part in the Debate, and eventually a spendid oration by a young human cleric gives the prize to Ma'ab. The heroes are able to listen in and learn that Nature in harmony with Civilization is agreed upon by both sides. Yet while Ma'ab's devotees see that cultivated nature is still nature as it should be, Eberyon's followers chafe at the restrictions put upon nature when civilization is ascendant. They also learn more about the nature of the Woldian Nature and that VERY few agree with the extremely radical idea that nature and civilization are the same. (ooc: that is a very Real World modernistic view and will not be shared by 99.9% of people in the Wold)
Nature in the Wold, far from being dormant and neutral as most worlds are, is in fact semi -- aware and filled with either good or evil magic. Most forests, deserts, swamps, farmlands, plains, mountains, lakes, towns and even cities have an alignment tendency toward good or evil. A few locations even show traits inherent with law or chaos. A farm, cultivated for many years by good-natured halflings, may slowly become a force for good, giving the heart rest and the soul relief from the daily stresses of life. This goodness may eventually grow further, affecting the surrounding area, slowly influencing the plant life there to grow strong and pure. Likewise, a sun-baked desert could be influenced by evil -- desecrated by the land's ruler who summoned outsiders to defeat his enemies, fighting battle after bloody battle, murdering innocents and torturing captives in the blistering heat of the day -- until these acts begin to affect the desert itself. Those regions that have been tamed and tended regularly, year after year -- farmlands, orchards, vineyards, gardens, cities, towns; their underlying nature will tend to be lawful. Not so the wilder places: jungles deep forests tangled with riotous growth, islands and reefs pounded by constant storms, the shifting landscape of deep desert dunes, and volcanic areas prone to violent and erratic disturbance. These places are aligned with chaos. In a similar manner, druids are strongly aligned either with good or evil, and just as often, with law or chaos. While it is possible to strive for neutrality, most druids find this task neither rewarding nor attainable; good and evil, law and chaos, will engage in a constant struggle for supremacy.
At the end of the contests, Torm calls them a DRAW. He hopes that everyone has had a great time, and that the feast will be a good sign that the Revival Caravan will be successful. Torm tells the Iron Adventurers that he is sending a Revival Caravan to promote Ma'ab to the safeholds and small villages of Gateway Downs (where they would be best received). The caravan is well guarded, has clerics and Awakened Animals to help, and a magic item to help along the way; Ma'abs Cauldron.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Wednesday July 31st, 2013 6:11:33 PM Nice party, thanks for the invite.
hey now! I wanted to go into the debate! Was preparing a wonderful dissertation on Pantheon is better than Ebryon and Maab!
DMSteveK sorry. :-( my posting time is all messed up from my vacation.
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Wednesday July 31st, 2013 6:14:49 PM
"Ma'abs Cauldron?"
Sesha is immediately interested. She pops to her feet too fast, then falls back to her rump.
"Can I see it?"
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Wednesday July 31st, 2013 7:51:50 PM "Aww, nuts." Caius rises from the wrestling match and holds out a hand to the burly dwarf. "Good match, dwarf. It'll be your turn to lose next time, eh?"
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Wednesday July 31st, 2013 10:36:53 PM Wonderful job everyone. Now lets get back to enjoying the marvolous feast are grand host has provided!
ooc: yeah, I was waiting for an answer before wrestling as an 8 legged squid or a giant gorilla :)
DMsteveK: I posted that all of the other druids were wrestling in their natural forms, and assumed that Beri didn't want to do that.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Thursday August 1st, 2013 6:24:13 AM
Friendly ribbing aside, Restlin is astounded at Garrett's feat. "Buddy, that was incredible. The best acrobat won that round."
Restlin goes back to the party, keeping an eye on Sesha to ensure she doesn't drink herself sick.
Ma'ab's Cauldron (DM SteveK) Thursday August 1st, 2013 8:40:30 AM
Caius gets a dusty smile from Master Torvald in return. "Touch and go, Master Cauis, touch and go. I've never wrestled a finer being of the Noble Race. Care for a Mountainhome? It is the finest ale on the Continent!"
At Sesha's exuberant request, Torm nods, and two acolytes show whichever of the Iron Adventurers that want to go to the grounds where the Revival Caravan is preparing to go. After a little conversation with the Caravan Master, the acolytes take the heroes to an ornate travel waggon painted in pastoral scenes and covered in little paintings and statues of pixies, sprites, grigs, and fauns. A clever lever opens the waggons roof and doors, and there the group can see the Cauldron.
It is large, black, and glows silver in the dim light. The Caravan Master proudly tells the heroes that it was blessed by Ma'ab herself to be fertile, able to heal and feed a great many people every day. Bathing in the Cauldron even washes away all manner of ills. "We shall use it as a demonstration of Ma'ab's Blessing among the freeholders of the Gateway Downs, and we are sure to get more reverence to the Mother." A small inquiry verifies that only Ma'ab believers are part of the Caravan, and the roster is set.
For those that don't go see the Cauldron, Torm speaks of the network. Torm is a part of a network of nature-oriented people, and Peerimus is also in that network. They are able to communicate and talk from time to time. Yes, Torm has told Peerimus about the Iron Adventurers, the first time was when they were asking about the Bell Tattoo and Heranmar.
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Thursday August 1st, 2013 10:32:55 AM
Sesha lifts the tiny Pot-pot up near her mouth and whispers.
"See that? And you said there's no honor in being a Cauldron. Just look what you could become!The symbol of goodwill for a god even... no more complaining from you, soup pot."
She is lightly sobered by the sight, and a little sad that she won't get a chance to see it in action.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Thursday August 1st, 2013 4:05:11 PM
When Caius rises, defeated, Garret says, "Nice try. But never underestimate us little folk. We can be quite a surprise."
After the contests, Garret smiles and bows to Torm, then quickly heads back to find some more food. He says through a partially full mouth to Restlin, "Oh, thank you kind sir." He leans in and whispers, "There was a wee bit of magic mixed in there, I have to admit." He winks and continues eating.
Garret laughs out loud when Sesha starts nearly drooling over the thought of the Cauldron of a god. He tells her, "I bet you could really cook up some good things, and maybe some not so good things, in something like that, huh?" He goes with her to see the cauldron, mostly to watch her reaction to the massive creation. He smiles widely when she talks to her own pot.
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells d20+4=6 ; Thursday August 1st, 2013 6:42:38 PM
Bosk's ears perk up when he hears Master Torvald mention the Mountainhome ale. [b]The finest ale on the Continent you say, where is it from? I am relatively new to the Southern Continent and am always looking for a good beer or ale. The other week I tried some Rockhome Ale from Gateway Downs. it was delicious. You all must have some different hops than we have up north.
ooc: I am not the most familiar with Ma'ab's history. Can you let me know if there is anything about Ma'ab or the Cauldron that I (Bosk) should be aware of as far as conflicts between her and Gargul are concerned. I just want to make sure I don't piss Gargul off before heading out on an adventure (knowledge Religion = 6...I hope that check is not needed and any relevant info is considered common knowledge to a Grim).
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Thursday August 1st, 2013 7:20:57 PM
Beri smiles as Bosk's eyes light up, sharing his large friends joy of brewing. Indeed this is an excellent ale. By sheer coincidence, I believe there is a far off land where today is IPA day. It is a day where beer aficionados celebrate the craft by drinking a brew just bursting with the strongest hops you can imagine.
It is a tough decision for the druid indeed, seeing the cauldron blessed by his patron deity or stay and learn more about the network he recently joined. In the end he chooses to stay and listen to Torm, feeling he has more to gain from listening to the druid's wisdom.
ooc: Yup, it's IPA day in the US.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Thursday August 1st, 2013 8:38:15 PM
Restlin decides to go off and have a good time...this is a party after all.
***
Busy day, no time to post in length...
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Thursday August 1st, 2013 11:39:18 PM
Cyniq wanders about listening to the various conversations and studying the different gardens.
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Thursday August 1st, 2013 11:54:32 PM
Caius smiles in appreciation. "I would never turn down a drink! Well, there was this one time I tried bloodgrog. It was sold by a hobgoblin merchant from Bonetown in a hole in the wall in Dirt City. And I do mean that it was a hole in the wall. Nasty stuff. Made my pee turn brown. But anythin' else is fair game!"
Feasting Night (DM SteveK) Friday August 2nd, 2013 11:57:28 AM
Sesha and Garrett see Ma'ab's Cauldron, but both seem more interested in Pot-Pot. :-)
Bosk, Beri, and Caius enjoy the toothy taste of the Mountainhome. Master Torvald laughs goodnaturedly, "Aye, the Rockhome is a fine brew, but the Mountainhome.. ah! that's the stuff! Brewed in Turak Nor, the home of the Dwarves. Near every brew here called '-home' are dwarf brewers who are trying to recreate the real stuff." He waits for the inevitable question of where is Turak Nor and the burly dwarf sighs. "Since the last Great Migration? Nobody knows! Turak Nor was mustering for a war with Dre Moria (the land of the elves) when the lands all got turned around. I suppose the Powers separated the two lands about as far as they can to stop that war. That's what brought the Great Migration about, you know."
Bosk also wonders about Gargul and thinks about any conflicts his god has with the Power of Ma'ab. He can't think of any, and in fact can come up with several similarities. From a hatred of undead to preserving the natural order (Ma'ab with Nature and Gargul with Life), the two immortals seem to often be on the same side.
Cyniq wanders the feast, sure she had a great argument for Panthenon to be greater than either Nature-oriented diety. Ah well, it is a great party anyways.
....................
The feast eventually winds down and the Iron Adventurers must bid their good nights.
Early the next morning, Sergeant Capon is at the doorstep with still more news, this time, not so good. Magister Alistair is ill. Clerics are on hand, but it appears that old age is finally catching up to the old man. He is bedridden and is not expected to live much longer. There is no cure for old age.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Friday August 2nd, 2013 7:08:33 PM
As the Sergeant approaches the door, Garret spots him from his window. Instead of heading down the stairs, Garret actually hops right out the window, bounces along the wall, and lands on the ground in a roll as the Sergeant knocks on the door. As he heads in to deliver his news, Garret again peppers him with questions: "How long has Mister Alistair been ill? Is it something that others can catch? Have you been ill recently? How many clerics are seeing to him? How do you know Mister Alistair?"
He quickly bobs into the kitchen to see if there is any food about as Capon answers any of the questions.
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Friday August 2nd, 2013 11:57:26 PM
Caius leans over to one of the 'old' Iron Adventurers. "What's a magister and how important is he?"
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Saturday August 3rd, 2013 2:02:00 PM
Sesha also doesn't exactly understand the full scope of the situation. She sits, where she was waiting on either Anrete or Bosk for breakfast, drumming her fingers lightly on Pot-pot. She pokes Beri, with a questioning look on her face.
"Was this a friend of yours?"
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Saturday August 3rd, 2013 10:32:03 PM
Restlin is genuinely saddened by this news. "Yes, Alistair was our person on the inside of Hook City bureaucracy. He's the reason our tower was decorated, and probably the reason we're not all still sitting in a Hook City jail after the loogie incident. He was also a friend who cared about this city a great deal. Hook City will not be the same without him."
He turns to his friends who've been around a while. "I'd like to go see him. Bosk, is there some sort of last rite you could provide?"
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Sunday August 4th, 2013 1:26:48 PM I will accompany you, if company you'd like. Cyniq looks at her new and not as new companions, I would show my respects to someone of such rank.
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Sunday August 4th, 2013 10:20:29 PM
A frown grows on the druids face at the news that their friend is on his death bed. At least Alistair has lived a full life, but that does little to comfort him.The Wold seems to have thrown a dark shadow over all who have ever been friends with an Iron Adventurer. It almost seems it's an act of evil for an Iron Adventurer to befriend someone.
Thank you Sergeant for delivering this news to us in person. We shall go pay our respects to this great man at once.
Magister Alistair (DM SteveK) Monday August 5th, 2013 8:40:18 AM
The Iron Adventurers soon reconcile what an "Alistair" is, and go to pay their respects. Magister Alistair is not in the offices of course, but in a well-appointed Townhouse nearby in SouthHook. A sober servant shows the heroes in at once, familiar with the schedules of Protector groups, and recognizing Bosk and Restlin. Beriothian has changed considerably since their last visit, and the others are brand new to the city. Yet it seems that the status of the Iron Adventurers have preceded their arrival.
The bedroom is ornate, almost baroque, with white walls and gilded borders, pillars, and crown molding. A fresco of an slyvan night covers the ceiling. The furniture is also rich, a set of carved, dark hardwoods polished by scented oils until it gleams and the linen is bleached white, crisp, with a hint of lavender. Around the bedchamber, there must be a dozen people; servants, clerics, acolytes, sages, and a couple obvious Hook Guard. Yes, Magistrate Alistair is an important man.
A cleric of Alemi stops the Iron Adventurers before they are halfway to the bed. "The Magistrate is comfortable and may have visitors for a short time. He mentioned that you were expected, how he knew I do not know." The cleric's words go down to a whisper. "He has moments of lucidity, but many have told me he is acting different than usual. Every detection spell has been used, he is under no influence than that of too many years." Pausing for any questions, the cleric allows the group to approach the bed.
Magister Alistair is frail and visibly old, laying half-propped by downy pillows. His eyes open as the heroes approach and he smiles. "Young heroes, so good of you to come."
Anrete AC:30/17/30 CMD:32 HP:121/121 DR:2 Monday August 5th, 2013 10:08:50 AM
"Hail, Alistair-magister-lying-on-the-bed! Ye is looking decent for ye age! Anrete bids Alistair-magister good morning! So how can young-Anrete-hero help Alistair-magister?"
Anrete grins as he offers a strange looking fruit he picked up along the way to the townhouse.
------------------------------ OOC: Thanks James! I really like the bit about the wizard in a shell! Lol!
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Monday August 5th, 2013 10:38:36 AM
Garret goes with the others and wanders about on the way to the magister. Once there, he does calm down and is quiet and respectful once they enter. He does not know the people here, nor their customs, so he remains in the background as the others speak with him.
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Monday August 5th, 2013 1:42:38 PM
Restlin smiles at the magistrate. To call him a colleague would insult Alistar's skill with magic, but Restlin has always felt a kinship with the man. He made Hook City, with all it's laws and bureaucracy, seem just a little bit human.
The thought that Capon will be their only real connection to the Hook City powers-that-be suddenly strikes Restlin. It is not a pleasant thought.
"Wardd's blessing upon you, Magistrate." His words are formal, but his tone is soft and familiar. He feels a bit helpless, but decides to just accept his limitations and enjoy what may be the last time they get to speak with him. "Can we do anything to make you more comfortable? Sesha here brews a mean potion. We just need to make sure she's not too hung-over first..."
Restlin will have a seat if one's available. Something about standing around Alistair's deathbed seems a little morbid. He also figures Bosk will have more appropriate words to say than himself.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying d20+21=34 ; d20+22=40 ; d20+20=40 ; Monday August 5th, 2013 3:22:49 PM
Sweeping the cowl of her hood back, Cyniq shook out her tresses and moved to stand against a wall as her companions paid their respects to their friend.
She'd seen it a few times, and new that should would see it many more times before her own elder years would begin, centuries from now. Humans were so short lived, and yet they accomplished so much in the few years they often had.
She takes the time to study each of those in attendance. Which ones are here for personal gain, which are here honestly? That one? She seems agitated, but she looks like a handmaid. Those two look like typical lackeys, worried their breadbasket is dying. Hmm, he's out of place... Cyniq has had years to practice keeping her face straight as she watches people, especially humans.
Surreptitiously, she rubs her face as she whispers, my eyes do signify, let magic identify. Cyniq scans the room again, checking for auras.
Bluff 34 to cast detect magic; spellcraft 40 for auras, and know:arcana 40 for the spell
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells Monday August 5th, 2013 7:21:22 PM
As Bosk enters the room his eyes fall upon Alistair, and the cleric instantly realizes how close to death the Magistrate is. He cannot help but to recall the groups history with the aged wizard and wonders what "unusual" could possibly mean for a man such as this. On one of their first encounters the magistrate caught the groups rogue spying on him and managed to convince the soon to become Iron Adventurers that he was working for their enemy and planned to blow them all up. Another time the group was on trial before him after saving the city and an over zealous member spit in the courts general direction. The Magistrate seemed very entertained by the incident just before sentencing the group to the first imprisonment the city had seen decades. There were also uncountable occasions when he acted as a father figure towards the group. Guiding them, offering them advice, and even taking in Grendel (one of the former Iron Adventurer's) to study under him. At other times he showed unbelievable ignorance for a man of his experience and stature, such as the time he tried to use some bizarre spell invoking the name of numerous other gods to call upon Gargul to seek an audience in an act the offended the god so much the group was sucked into the Land of Rest to explain themselves in person the the god of life and death. Fortunately Gargul did not hold Alistair's actions against the Iron Adventurers.
It is good to see you again, especially outside of a court room. I hope all is going well and that Grendel and the orphaned witch from the Sargrass you took in have been behaving themselves and that their studies are going well. How are you doing? Is there anything we can do to put your mind or your spirit at ease?
Actions ---------------- Deathwatch on Alistair (Always Active) :
You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct). Deathwatch sees through any spell or ability that allows creatures to feign death.
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Monday August 5th, 2013 8:04:36 PM
Embarrassed, Sesha takes a small step back from Restlin, who she had been following since they arrived at Alistairs place. She briefly searches her feelings, pondering how best to proceed. Children were usually dimly aware of death, perhaps saddened by a loved ones passing but immune to the finality of it. Sesha was the opposite. She was aware of the fleeting stillness before a spirit sought a brand new life, full of opportunity.
She whispers to Restlin, when he sits.
"Imagine Restlin, what sort of life he will lead after this one? Where he will be reborn and to what body? Sure a part of him will remain imprinted in an afterlife..but his spirit gets to start anew!"
She wasn't sure if that was comforting or not, so she plops down near him and puts her small hand in his and gives him a dimply smile. She whispers again.
"I wonder what one of Little Spirits priests would have done? What might they have said? What color do you think they wore?"
She sighs and kicks her feet, thinking about how fun the party was and how sad this day is. She might try and sneak away to the caverns for awhile, if the chance was there. "And besides... I wasn't drinking that much. I was just tasting it.."
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Monday August 5th, 2013 10:14:37 PM
The druid looks down and his friend, a mere shadow of the indomitable force he used to be. He watches the wizard looking for signs of recognition, hoping they have found him in a lucid state. It's been too long my friend, we've found ourselves on a journey far longer than any of us locals have been on before... and picked up a few friends along the way. We heard you wanted to see us and came straight here.
Magister Alistair (DM SteveK) Monday August 5th, 2013 11:22:31 PM
ooc: (sorry, going on job interview in another city and so Tuesday post is early.)
Cyniq assumes she knows what the people in the room are thinking, but without really concerning herself with sensing motives, she isn't completely sure. The two guards bristle as the Justicar weaves her hands in a classic spell, but the cleric-in-charge waves them back, recognizing the Detect Magic. There is a LOT of magic in this room, from the Unseen Servant to the chamber pot with a Portalble Hole. There are so many auras that it is difficult to see them all. What is certain, is there is no magic aura on Alistair himself. (ooc: Highlight to display spoiler: { I appreciate your wanting to augment the story, but as a Player, the only character you can create actions, emotions, and thoughts is your own PC. Assumptions are fine, but creating the motivations of others around the PCs is taking the responsibility from the DM. If Cyniq wants to have a hunch, she needs to roll Sense Motive checks.}) (ooc2: Highlight to display spoiler: {Bluff skill write-up doesn't say anything about secretly casting a spell. Cyniq would have to cast as a Still and Silent spell to do it without notice.})
Bosk checks with his Death Ward eyes, and sees the Magistrate is fighting off death.
Alistair wheezes, an old man's laughter. "Asked for you? I didn't ask for you, but I am happy to see you here. Of all my recent projects, you have turned out the best. I don't think you need me anymore." He stops for a moment, as if suddenly falling asleep, but then his eyes wake again. "The others are fine, I entrusted Grendel and Isomere to another friend who is continuing their education. As for you, you don't need my help anymore. You are strong enough to work through Hook City on your own. Sergeant Capon is a good soul for all that he has a stick wedged up his backside. He reports to Inspector Auslander, and they will not steer you wrong."
The eyes pierce the room and Alistair speaks again. "There's no conspiracy this time, Iron Adventurers, life is full of meetings and partings, that is the way of it." Again, he seems to suddenly go to sleep, and this time he begins snoring.
The cleric comes forward. "Please, gentles, he should rest."
CaiusHP 146 - AC 23/12/21 - F+12/R+7/W+5 - CMD 28 Monday August 5th, 2013 11:54:55 PM
Caius remains quiet and respectful in the background, not entirely certain of the importance of this man to his new companions. Just keep quiet, Caius. Don't do nothin' to insult their Grandpa-guy.
Anrete AC:30/17/30 CMD:32 HP:121/121 DR:2 Tuesday August 6th, 2013 9:33:04 AM
Anrete shrugs as the magister falls back to sleep.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Tuesday August 6th, 2013 10:09:13 AM
Garret starts to ask a question, "Is...?" but then realizes the solemnity of the occasion and quiets down, following the others out of the room.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Tuesday August 6th, 2013 1:11:05 PM
Cyniq follows the others out.
They were her thoughts, and it was just fluff since Cyniq doesn't know anyone here anyway. Didn't roll sense motive because I didn't care. Was also careful to not label beyond gender who she was thinking about. In other words, her personal assumptions made without ascertaining any facts.
It was worth a shot on the bluff. Rules are extremely vague in exactly what kind of somatic and verbal components are required "these are not the droids you are looking for" or a tiny wave of the finger to have a chance cube land on blue. Do the words need to be shouted, can they be whispered, do they need to be said in draconic? If I decide that magic missile uses a hand with thumb up, fore finger pointing, other fingers curled and the verbal component is 'pew-pew' does my arm have to be extended straight out, held at my side, or crossed over one shoulder?
DMSteveK: just fluff and her own thoughts? Cool. No problems now that we both know it is all in Cyniq's mind. :-)
For spells, Pathfinder Magic Chapter says: Verbal (V): A verbal component is a spoken incantation. To provide a verbal component, you must be able to speak in a strong voice.
Somatic (S): A somatic component is a measured and precise movement of the hand. You must have at least one hand free to provide a somatic component.
So, to cast a verbal spell, a caster must speak strongly. A caster must speak a precise incantation (an exact sequence and words and cadence) which has to be so exact that there is no other possibility other than a spell occurring. Therefore, anyone within 10 feet has a Perception DC 0 to notice someone casting a spell. (Silent Spell removes this aural perception)
To cast a spell with movements, one hand must be free and perform an exact, measured, and precise movement of the hand. Therefore, anyone within 10 feet has a Perception DC 0 to notice someone casting a spell. (Still Spell removes this visual perception)
Beriothian (Will)-- AC:23/16/16 HP: 85/85 CMD = 23 (HASTE) Tuesday August 6th, 2013 5:44:47 PM
When they are outside the room Beri addresses the cleric. At least it looks at peace. How long do you think he still has? And do you know who is now educating Grendel?
ooc: In Hook City magical words are always shouted, especially if there are enemies nearby we need to be stealthy around
Restlin (Carl) -- AC: +8/+7/+6 CMD: 21 HP: 82/82 (Spells) Luck Points: 2 Tuesday August 6th, 2013 6:47:14 PM
ooc: Beri is right on the money. We also like to cast calm emotions very aggressively with predictable results. I miss Cayzle, but don't tell him I said that.
Restlin is glad Alistair is comfortable. He responds to Sesha as they leave. "I don't feel sad for him. Heck, in this line of work we'll be lucky to reach his age...or at least I will. I will miss him, though.
"Can you ask questions like that to Little Spirit, or does it tend to answer in riddles? I don't speak with many spirits myself."
He simply smiles at her last comments. "I'm not one to judge. You're twice my age and I didn't waste any time finding something to drink."
Restlin does his best to hurry everyone out of this place. There is absolutely no fun to be had here...
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 146/73 | CMD 14] [See Invisibility] Tuesday August 6th, 2013 7:52:43 PM
"She rarely answers. She guides from time to time, reminding me of things. Like when I met Cyniq. She as the first surface elf I ever encountered. Little Spirit was quick to remind me of my part of our deal...Deny healing to none who need it and ask. Cyniq and another wizard had just taken a beating from a tainted elemental. She needed the help and asked. After all the terrible things I had read in It'lal about the history of the two races...well...the Ga'alin part of me raged against healing the ancestral enemy of my Blood-kin."
She thinks a bit more, then finishes.
"Not that the dark elves of It'lal still harbor any conflict. But the way I was brought up ancestral enemies are never forgiven. I had to remove another little piece of my Life-kin to appease both Little-Spirit and my Blood-kin, who would have been very angry about a conflict on my quest to secure access to Bryn Baraz's mithril for It'lal."
Sesha steals a glance at Cyniq. She should do something with the other elf, but she wasn't really sure how to bridge that gap. She felt similarly towards Beriothian. It wasn't she was at odds with the Druid, but wasn't sure what common grounds they tread.
Bosk AC: 28/13/25 CMD:22 HP 78 of 78 Spells Wednesday August 7th, 2013 12:28:30 AM
Bosk nods in understanding. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for the magistrate, and let him know that I will be praying for his spirit's safe journey and favorable judgement.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:93/93 Ki:12/12 CMD: 29] Wednesday August 7th, 2013 10:28:35 AM
After the exit, Garret walks back to the Iron Adventurers house rather quietly.
Cyniq al'Lyz AC 18{22}/16{20}/14{18} -- CMD 19 -- HP 60/60 Spells Active: Detect Scrying Wednesday August 7th, 2013 12:26:39 PM
Cyniq nods her head in acknowledgement of Sesha's statement. With her concentration focused on maintaining her spell, Cyniq takes the time to study her companions as well, working to identify the types of magical equipment they carry.
During the walk back to the Iron Tower, she continues to scan the people around town.
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