Instead, Moore is taken within. Within the the fortress, to a room of free growing crystals. A rainbow of colors here, bright and with a light from within that reflects and refracts all about. You are simply lead here, along with but a single word: "Wait."
Moore dutifully does as he's asked!
You wait.
The colors of the crystals are an ever moving thing, ever changing. A beautiful rainbow of them.
Perception real quick.
Take 10 for 67.
Take 10 for 95 on K:P to identify the crystals if they're special.
If It'd be something under K: geology or whatever that one is it's be 10 for 75.
The crystals aren't special, merely beautiful.
You notice the light is a long but repeating pattern of colors. It isn't random, but instead repeating over about 70 seconds or so a loop.
He's not much of a color-ologist, but maybe there's some significance to the color pattern? Or maybe it's just a language that's spoken in colors, as opposed to words...?
Give me an Intelligence check in that case, you earned one.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+25 : 12 + 25, total 37[/blockquote]
It's patterned like a language. It feels like one to your senses as you study it more and more. Some sort of color-words?
For whatever it's worth, Moore does have Polyglot!
All he can do is continue the study... if it's a language, it's probably unique to Mineral. Maybe if he compares it to the languages he knows...
I'm aware and that does help.
You're studying it, working on it intensely when, "You understand." A soft voice beyond him, not projecting at all.
Moore is pulled from his study by the voice. He turns to greet and address whomever it is!
It's a younger man, no older than 18, if that. A teenager, soft voiced and mild. He looks plain, except for hair and eyes of woven crystal, glimmering in the air.
In that moment you feel it, the presence of the divine, an overwhelming sensation. Crystalle stands before you.
"I barely recognized you from last time, Lord Crystalle." Moore says, offering a deep bow.
"There is war," Crystalle goes on, "The stones sing of it and the gemstones lament it. How fares your own efforts?"
"I've made personal strides towards my own goals." Moore affirms. "We've had some hair-raising battles that we've come out of stronger than when we went in. How about yourself? I hope Mineral fared well."
"We fund and we are not impinged on it yet," Crystalle says, hair flowing as if in the wind. "But we are also used to those coming to steal from us."
Moore nods. "I imagine so. Is there anything I can offer you as aid?"
"Yes." Crystalle says, "You know many. I wish for you to pass this message to Syala of Sylica," A soft thump as a letter appears in your hand.
Moore smiles. "I would be honored." he says truthfully. Just like the riches of Mineral mean nothing to the denizens, a task like this means more to them than a layman.
"Is there anything else I can do for you or for Mineral?" He asks.
"In time," Crystalle says, "For now - go. There is time yet."
Another bow before Moore takes himself back to Hopes Landing!
Thus you return and...
Realm update will be after session. For the moment, any immediate todos?
Moore will Send to Syala to ask her to please come visit him in Hope's Landing at her earliest convenience.
Hello, Moore. Do you need my aid and council?
'I have a message for you from Crystalle of Mineral I have been asked to deliver personally.' He sends to her!
My avatar will be there within the hour.
Do you know what Crystalle wants?
'He did not specify. If I were to guess, I think it would be something along the lines of a step towards fostering a relationship.' Moore sends.
'We will await your arrival.'
Going to do anything or just wait for this?
Just wait. He has things but those can wait an hour
Soon enough Syala visits, meeting you in the courtyard. Her avatar is identical to her on a glance, "Moore," she says, "You've grown here."
"It seems to get a little bigger every time I look away." He admits. "It's good to see you, Lady Syala. I haven't had a chance to review any reports specifically about the battle with Imix, but I can imagine we prevailed that day with you and Sylvia's aid."
A partial deferential bow to her. "It isn't much, but please accept my thanks on behalf of Celestia." A smile as he offers the letter out. "One letter, as promised."
The letter is taken and opened, read in a moment. Syala's smiling now, "It's taken care of." Here she pauses, glances up. Cresiel is perched atop Hope's Landing - as is Villisa, going on about something or another, her voice isn't carrying well.
"Villisa's here?" Syala asks. "You're living in interesting times."
"I think she's trying to figure out what I've been able to do to make her son a little less rigid." Moore admits.
A laugh after that. "Though you're right, things keep happening, almost in response to all the other things going on." A nod after that. "I'm sure I've said it before, but you and yours are always welcome to come visit us here. I know I owe Lady Antenora a conversation on the Words of Creation."
Syala smiles and then chuckles, "Tell her you're feeling chaotic, I'm sure that'll encourage her to come visit sooner than later."
"I shouldn't tell her I'm an anarch, then, huh." Moore says. A smile and nod after that. "Don't hesitate to let me know if we can be of any assistance to you or your realm."
"I will. For now, good luck in the war," Syala says, turning to go. She pauses just as she does. "Aren't you engaged or going to be engaged with Queen Ilsenine?"
"It's a long story." Moore admits with a smile. "We each have our own lives for right now, but you have the right of it."
"Don't wait too long," Syala says, a hint of a smile blossoming on her face to match yours. "I didn't let Alicia get away once I had the chance." Then she goes, "Go start a family, I'll listen to any prayers you send me about it."
"One day." Moore promises her.
Okay, next move in the meantime?
Moore will use his Sending stone to try something.
'Hello, Medi. I'd like to speak to you, at your convenience.'
He is likely to not even get a reply, but he expects that his message will have gone through regardless.
Naturally, you get no reply at all.
He knows how to get ahold of him.
Moving on from that, he has some other things on his list to do, but it's been a rather long day already, so he may as well see how everything is going in the fort!
d100 real quick.
[18:25] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[18:25] <Penuche> Nephrite invokes Penuche's magic: < 96 > [d100=96]
Moore flutters up and sees what's going on. He can see that more military forces are camped out around Hope's Landing - mostly resting on a glance.
Beyond that he can see Cresiel and Villisa above, if he wishes to go see them. Alternately he can go check on the others or find Grias for a situational report.
He will let the celestial family be. If they need him, they'll ask for him.
It's time to check up on Grias -- and Melia, for that matter! She has a cloak to use now!
Grias is bobbing about doing this and that, "Oh, Moore! You're looking for Melia? She's back in and resting, if you're ready to hear her report."
"All right." He nods and is off to see her! It's been a while, so he's sure she has plenty.
Melia is back in her office, resting with her feet up. Her eyes are closed but she raises her hand in greeting as you come in.
"I hope your adventures have been less exciting than mine have." Moore says as he comes in to sit down. He does withdraw a cloak and puts it on Melia's desk.
Ahnvae: This black cloak grants a +15 competence bonus to Stealth checks. When worn at night and similar conditions of darkness, this bonus rises to +25 and grants several additional benefits. The wearer never leaves tracks or signs of his passing, as if affected by a pass without trace spell (CL20). The wearer is scentless and cannot be tracked by scent.
"A present to help you in your travels." He says.
Melia opens her eyes and yawns, "Been busy," she says, putting her feet down and taking the cloak. "Looks moody," she says, "What's it do?"
"Helps you hide better. If you have some ability to create dark conditions for yourself, it'll even hide your footsteps and things like that." Moore explains.
"So let's hear what's going on."
"Right," Melia puts the cloak away, "Thank you." A pause for that and then, "Any preference on where I start?"
"None, begin wherever." He says.
Refresh me on everything you wanted from this trip, make sure I have it all lined up? It's been a bit.
From The looks of it... she was checking with the owner of Syllens ring to see if they'd be amenable to trade for it, looking into the Silverbrow Consortiums issue of a missing dragon, and I think that's it barring war stuff.
"First of all, the war," Melia says, "Nothing new there - it's all rumors flying, how it's hitting business and how to keep yourself safe," Admitting as much as she goes on, "Brightwater's nervous though the bolder are seeking to turn profit from it. It's what you'd expect."
Moore nods. "I received a request some time ago from one of Auroras merchants to set up something here. It wouldn't surprise me if we get a bit more traction because if they." He nods. "Continue."
"The Silverbrow Consortium's a mess: They found Sisatar, but he's in a bad way," she says, keeping his voice down. "I don't know what happened but he needs more than normal healing magic. I hear they're trying to keep things going while they investigate that, and get back at whatever did that to him. My contact got awfully tight lipped when that came up."
"I will go there myself." Moore says. He nods to let her continue.
"Best play you have if you have any sort of lever with them," Melia agrees, "I mislike it. The business of dragons is seldom safe, let alone a group of dragons, and gem dragons are the most reclusive and least known of them all."
"Having gone through my own poison issue lately I can commiserate." He says. "I've been an ally to them before so they shouldn't turn me away."
"On a related note, I ran into Tannin, he was poking into the same thing," Melia remarks, idly running her fingers along the cloak. "Aurora's gotten enough wind of it to keep tabs, but from what Tannin says, they're too busy to do anything about it."
He nods. "That's no surprise."
"They're busy with those vampires," Melia says, "Anyway, I made contact and I have a deal in place. They want to meet you first, though. Couldn't get them to budge on it."
"Not a problem, I was going there anyway." A smile after that. "Have an address?"
It's given.
"Go on by whenever you're ready," Melia says, "It's rich, but what in Brightwater isn't?"
A shrug and a smile. "Anything else to report? If not, I really don't have anything pressing for you."
"One thing," Melia says, reaching into her pocket and taking out a pouch, "Catch."
A catch is made! Moore goes ahead and peeks!
Within is...oh, you know this. Fey-nip.
"Someone was trying to sell some, thought you'd want to know. Don't know how they got their hands on it." Melia says.
Moore makes a sour face.
"I hate this stuff." He says as he puts it back on her desk. "I'll investigate when time permits. You're free to investigate whatever suits you."
"I'll find something useful, come check in when I'm back," Melia says, and...
Anything else to do here?
No. however, Moore's first trip isn't going to be to a gem dragon, it's to a prismatic dragon.
He is going to go have a chat with Baleruk.
Sure. Any prep and taking anyone with you?
None needed, and no.
You arrive at Aurora in good time and good order. The fortress is bustling as always as you enter. No one intercepts you this time and you fly right into Balleruk's lair.
Here Baleruk is glaring at Adrian, who has his arms crossed. Despite Baleruk's face being right in his, Adrian doesn't even blink.
Moore will patiently wait to see whether Baleruk's pride overcomes his chaotic nature to blink first.
The two stay staring for long moments until Adrian at last shakes his head.
"Look," Adrian says slowly, "We're just visiting. We're on a mission, we don't have time to paint you."
"I'll take care of it." Moore says. "Baleruk and I need to chat anyway."
Adrian glances over, "Moore!" he calls, smiling. "How are you?"
Baleruk turns slowly as well, "Ah, I see," Baleruk says quietly, "AT LAST YOU HAVE...returned." The prismatic dragon's gaze is sharp and steady. "TO WHAT DO YOU HUMBLY BEG THE SERVICES OF THE MIGHTY BALERUK FOR?!"
A wave to Adrian. "Surviving." He says with a grin.
A turn to Baleruk. "49." Is all he says with a rather lopsided smile.
Adrian starts to speak.
It's then that Baleruk eyes you and then roars. He roars so loud that Adrian's cut off, that all becomes Baleruk's intense vocal fury. Winds buffet you from it, making you flutter wildly in the air.
Moore will patiently wait for him to get it out of his system.
Once done he will give an apologetic smile to Adrian. "I'll catch up with you, okay?" He turns his eyes back to Baleruk.
Adrian slowly takes ab reath, going up and flying off without further comment.
Once the roar is done, Baleruk leans in, eye taking up all you can see, peering at you intensely.
Moore clears his throat, "Glory the chosen maiden of the gate, glory is the seven fold one, glory the music of joy."
A smile afterwards, as he merely stands there.
Baleruk eyes you and finally says, whisper soft, "I seeeeee."
"It's a bit of a long story." Moore says. "I've been working on it since Benfal, but I finally cracked it. I wanted to come and talk to you about it and hear your side of things, from a perspective that I'd never be able to."
Baleruk eyes you and finally says, "You've grown greatly, Moore."
"It wouldn't be possible without the help of beings like you and places like Lifasa." Moore says. "But, I didn't come here to just impress you. I actually recall you and Sylvie having a conversation. I'd like to know what that was about."
Link me real quick?
http://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,103953.msg1090663.html#msg1090663
"Sylvie in particular?" Baleruk challenges right back.
"Yes." Moore says. "I know before she left, she was likely empowered by 21 in a way none of us could've realized. I'd like to understand if the conversation you had with her after Benfal was some portend of that. I'd also like to know if you had any other conversations like that with her."
A pause.
"I'm trying to find her." He says -- then shakes his head. "No, I WILL find her."
Baleruk eyes you quietly.
"You're still hoping to see her before the end, as she'd say it," he intones.
"I am an eternal optimist." Moore confirms.
In a deep, rumbling voice, "Then you'll see her before the end." Baleruk declares, voice like rolling boulders.
He nods. "Can you tell me anything else about any talks you had with her that might help?"
There's a silence, a long one. Baleruk eyes you all the while until he slowly hisses, "She does not think she will survive and believes it is too late to turn back for her. What she has seen in...21..." Baleruk's voice has a hint of displeasure, "Has lead her to becoming absorbed in it and resigned to her fate. That what she has to do is more important than herself, now. That her entire purpose in carrying 21 was to destroy the Child of Lifasa and prepare 21 for another bearer."
Baleruk flares a wing out, "BUT KNOW THIS EDICT BY THE MIGHTY BALERUK! KNOW THAT 21 STAYED WITH HER DUE TO QUARREL AND SHE HAS INHERITED THAT DESTINY!" The words rumble heavily throughout the lair, gold coins bouncing up from the ground and rattling when they land, a chorus of golden clatter.
Then back in that same hissing whisper, "That once she saw Cantasa Alexandria it was the point of no return for her. She saw a perfect being without sin and could not turn away from a seraph. I believe she is destined to the fate of most heroes in the end: martyrdom, but there will be no paradise or eternal reward for her. Not with 21."
Moore nods along, then he smiles as he flies up to be face to eye with Baleruk, standing there within the large dragon's eye vision, looming.
"I will bring her hope she doesn't even realize she still has." Moore says, quietly. Then, "THIS I SWEAR TO THE PRISMATIC DRAGON!"
Baleruk bares his teeth at that, not that you can see it from this position. "You can and you will. I still have use for her."
"Good." Moore says. "By the way, you probably noticed, but the crime has been erased from Jaela and the others."
"As it should," Baleruk declares, "NATURALLY, FOR IT WAS THE WILL OF BALERUK!" Rearing back, Baleruk declares that loudly before, "NOW GO! GO FORTH AND ENACT MY WILL ON CREATION!"
A simple wave before he heads out, borrowing one of Aurora's gates to go to Brightwater!
He is going to go to Silverbrow first.
Sure, quick 1d100.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 24, total 24[/blockquote]
This is uneventful. On arriving you find the same array of beautiful women as last time, awaiting you to approach and do what you will.
Moore flies up and asks for Ruby!
Easy enough.
There's no cake today. Instead it's a pudding that's just as good. As you enjoy that and wait, "Moore," Ruby greets you crisply, "How can I help you today?"
"I'm here to offer help if I can for the matter you're dealing with." Moore says, simply and plainly.
Ruby smiles rather thinly, "I'm afraid you'll need to be more specific."
Moore reaches into his pocket to use his Sending Stone to Ruby!
'Sisitar.'
Sisatar. Just a reminder since it's a tough name to spell.
"The situation is in hand," Ruby says without missing a beat, "But your support is appreciated."
Thank you.
Moore takes 10 on 82 for Sense Motive. Is this gem dragon pride or is everything actually ok?
She's exceptionally good, but you can tell everything is not okay. Not okay. Big not okay.
'I appreciate what you're doing.' Moore sends. 'But please don't let pride keep you from getting him help. Please, let me help.'
Okay, let me see the dreaded pixie diplomacy check.
Once I'm behind this safety wall.
Okay, go for it.
Take 10 for 108 :)
Ruby's expression stays composed, but she nods. "If you insist, we'll not turn down the aid of Celestia for this." Ruby turns and walks, "Follow."
Moore follows along! "Thank you, Ruby." He says quietly.
A brisk nod. "Mister Sisatar is not in good health," Ruby explains. "Though he has been brought back to us."
Well, there's no way they'd be fooled as to it not being the real Sisatar...
"I recently got over a curse by Orcus, myself." Moore says. "So I may have some insights into what may work."
"You may be helpful, in that case," Ruby says evenly, "But before you see him, you must be examined."
Moore just nods. "Whatever you need to do."
You are taken to a small antechamber, where Ruby promptly with draws a wand from...huh. She just made you want to forget very hard, but she pulled it from nowhere and it materialized. Smooth too, you'd never have even noticed otherwise.
The wand is waved over you several times, a wand of solid steel with clear diamonds embedded into it roughly - as if somehow seared in with flame.
Take 10 for Spellcraft for 83, can I tell what it's going?
It looks to be some sort of analysis tool - it shouldn't penetrate your defenses, at least.
Moore simply lets her do what she wants to do, then!
Several moments pass until she merely vanishes that wand - another thing to forget, but not - and pulls another one out. This one scans and she smiles after a moment. Not a word is spoken, but her focus is on you. Then the wand is gone and she begins walking. After a beat, "This way," she turns back a moment, "Apologies for that moment, I believe you momentarily lost yourself in your own thoughts."
"It wouldn't do if I lie to you." Moore says honestly. "I have a knack for remembering things. I'm glad I passed your test, though."
Ruby doesn't blink, "My, you are more talented than we originally assessed," Ruby says frankly, yet her face remains calm. "We expect that information not to be shared. We take Mister Sisatar's security seriously. Very seriously."
"I can only give you my word, which I think is worth enough." Moore responds.
"A word is rich coin until it becomes worthless lead," Ruby retorts without any real emotion, but turns and starts to lead you along. A moment's pause, "This is somewhat...grotesque. Prepare yourself.
"I understand." Moore says.
Thus you step within the next room.
It is vast and within it is a chained dragon.
A dragon screaming, scales gone. Flesh and muscles are revealed, constantly being eaten away into nothingness. Yet he slowly regenerates against the tide. Patches of bone appear constantly as flesh dies and dissolves, only to be restored in a never ending dance. The dragon thrashes, a constant flood of blood from his injuries, hitting the floor and flowing towards and down drains.
Only the chains keep the dragon in place, hundreds of them, holding the great wyrm back. The dragon screams yet no noise comes, no noise from that or his thrashing, unnatural quiet the only companion here instead.
"He's ever so slowly losing ground," Ruby's voice is tight, controlled. "We can't even ease his pain, this spell refuses that."
Moore takes a moment -- this could have what he could have suffered himself, if he was more unlucky.
"Have you petitioned anyone yet for aid?" He asks. He knows the answer, but he will ask nonetheless.
"Several skilled healers, who have not had any success yet," Ruby says, voice tense, "It is not our policy to petition the divine save in times of the greatest emergency - and never for Mister Sisatar, by his own orders."
"I'm not willing to let his pride be his downfall." Moore says. "You're familiar with Eblis, right?"
Since she said spell, Moore is going to take 10 on Spellcraft for... 97 to analyze this.
He would also like to find out the caster of it by using the epic skill usage.
An apt Spellcraft result.
The spell is a self reinforcing consumption. It preys on Sisatar's magic and magical nature, fueling itself and bonding to it, making it impossible to remove by normal means. What's worse is that it's essentially a disease in magical form, a hybrid more potent than the sum of its parts. You don't think dispel magic will work, you can't dispel someone's very magical nature, can you? Antimagic might suppress it, but it would also suppress his regeneration: In this condition, he'd die instantly.
The caster was Ulamos.
Go ahead and make K:P on that to cut out the middle man.
Take 10 for 105.
You've only heard the name once - a whisper in a darkened tavern, from a shaking loremaster who mentioned it as a daemon that supported and serve the new Oinoloth, the Adversary.
A new daemon, an old one with a new name, or merely one never known: Who can say with the yugoloths?
Theoretically, with what Moore knows (and has experienced) what does he think would happen if he was anti-magiced on Ysgard?
In theory, and assuming this disease isn't even nastier than you know now, he would die and then be reborn with the dawn. In theory.
The problem would be getting him all the way there...
"I have an idea that might work, but I don't know how to accomplish it." Moore says. "It... also wouldn't cause us to violate Sisatar's wishes, technically. But before I even suggest it, a moment, please."
He uses his sending stone to send a message to The World Serpent.
'World Serpent, I hope you can forgive me for sending this message to you, I do this out of urgency. I would ask for your aid again for a noble cause, if you would be willing to hear my request.'
There is no reply to your sending.
If he wants his help he's going to have to find him again, then...
A breath in and out. Fine.
"When I was cursed by Orcus, the ultimate thing that saved me was having The World Serpent breathe his poison on my body and soul. I died, but it also sheared the curse away." Moore explains. "I think the same idea would work with Sisatar. The problem, of course, is that he'd have to make his way there, which he's in no condition to do."
A shake of his head. "I could petition the World Serpent, which... I think would work, as if you have a noble cause and are a noble warrior, there's no reason for him to deny it."
But... is there another way? Maybe some way to weaken the disease?
Hmm... ...wait.
"Wait a minute. Just completely nullifying his magic would kill him, but... what if instead we approached this from a different angle? The disease itself works off of Sisatar's magic... what if we simply try and weaken that somehow, to the point where we can remove the disease? It should be easy enough to keep him healed through that process." Moore explains.
A pause, a consideration, "If so," Ruby says slowly, "Then perhaps energy drain, if applied properly..." she says, eyes focused on Sisatar now.
"Is it all right if I bring my allies to help with this?" Moore asks. "I have no objections to you performing the same tests on them as you did me, but I know a talented healer and the help of another would help with this, I think."
"Alright," Ruby says after a moment's consideration. "Go back out and to the end of the hall."
Moore will follow her instructions!
This door leads you to a stairway and the lobby, letting you leave and...
Plan?
Get Cresiel and Jetina (unless Xandra wants to come too) and let's see what some Miracles / strong healing can do in conjunction with Ruby's Energy Drain plan.
Sure. Any prep needed?
No prep, but Moore will be using bard music to help with this. Hopefully Sisatar can be affected by all of that!
Thus the three of you return and are escorted right back to Ruby, just outside the room where Sisatar suffers.
"A solar and a noted healer," Ruby says coolly, handshakes offered and given. "We have been considering your idea, and it is the best idea we've had yet. We've focused on overcoming the condition directly and been unable to overpower it.
"If it's like Moore said, it's ingenious. Horrible but ingenious," Jetina offers back. With a gentle frown as she considers, "A disease like that should be incredibly lethal, how is Sisatar surviving and healing himself?"
"Mister Sisatar is capable of automatic and speedy bodily regeneration," Ruby explains, "As well as other measures I was not aware he had."
"I think the best way to approach this is this: I will bolster Sisatar with my songs. Cresiel and Jetina, you bolster him with some magic to begin with, then focus on healing him. In tandem with Ruby's idea for energy drain spells... I think we can help Sisatar by weakening his magic but still letting him heal, which may lessen his pain. Once the disease is weak enough, I think if we use something like an anti magic effect, it will go away." Moore explains.
theres obviously spells and other effects here give I will outline as needed.
Go ahead and outline, please, this matters since I need to know details.
Outline is as such:
Cresiel keeps up Valiant Fury (or Mass if he can) on Sisatar to give him extra HP and better fortvsaves.
Jetina Celestial Valors for extra stuff too (I will calculate)
Moore uses songs.
Moore will alternate using Healing Hymn and his other songs if this ends up taking a while.
Mechanically, Sisatar would get the following various bonuses:
+16 to all saves (4 sacred, 12 morale)
Temp HP (I'll have to roll this separate)
+6 to con (if using mass Valiant Fury) and +4 if not
And then the benefits of Healing Hymn for the raw healing the others will provide.
[blockquote]Rolled 8d10 : 6, 8, 3, 10, 10, 2, 3, 3, total 45[/blockquote]
Sisatar would gain this HP plus whatever 8x his con modifier is for more HP.
"Be ready," Ruby agrees, "If we weaken enough, to dispel or end the disease by whatever means possible. Are you ready?"
Moore nods. "Save the Miracles for when we need one." He says to the others.
> roll 1d20+28
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 43 > [d20=15]
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 46 > [d20=8]
> roll 1d20 touch AC so 1 or bust check
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 12 > [d20=12]
> roll 2d4
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 5 > [d4=3,2]
A snap of Ruby's fingers, a black ray striking Sisatar - but nothing happens.
"Ah, Mister Sisatar's defenses are powerful even now," Ruby muses, before casting another spell silently, then snapping her fingers again. This time the purple ray hits the wyrm dead on, visibly wilting it, weakening it as you sing. Healing flows into him, not seeming to have much affect as Ruby studies a moment. "Not enough, he's still far too vigorous."
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 44 > [d20=6]
> roll 1d20+28
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 36 > [d20=8]
> OOC: Wrong value, +10 for 46.
> roll 1d20 touch AC
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 12 > [d20=12]
> roll 2d4
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 4 > [d4=2,2]
Another ray strikes after another failure, further weakening Sisatar. Ah hah! You can see both the healing and the rotting is slowing down, both starting to have a notable slow down.
"Sisatar, we're here to help you! Let Ruby's magic weaken you and we will get you out of this!" Moore shouts, hoping above all else in this plan.
"Keep at it, all of you!" He encourages.
"Go!" Jetina says, "We don't have unlimited magic, so go!"
Ruby nods, "Nor do I! Don't resist, Mister Sisatar! If you can hear me, don't resist!"
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 41 > [d20=3]
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 57 > [d20=19]
> roll 1d20 touch AC
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 19 > [d20=19]
> roll 2d4
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 6 > [d4=3,3]
Sisatar is visibly sagging now as Ruby calls, "Now! Jetina, try to remove it."
Jetina nods and focuses, then....
> roll 1d20+38 (+4 absolute healing)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 42 > [d20=4]
> roll 1d20+38 (+4 absolute healing)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 39 > [d20=1]
"Not yet," Jetina calls, "Again!"
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 40 > [d20=2]
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 48 > [d20=10]
> roll 1d20 touch AC
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 13 > [d20=13]
> roll 1d4 down to enervations
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 1 > [d4=1]
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 39 > [d20=1]
> roll 1d20+38
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 51 > [d20=13]
> roll 1d20 touch AC
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 13 > [d20=13]
> roll 1d4 down to enervations
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 2 > [d4=2]
More rays from Ruby, Sisatar going limp as he slowly heals and rots, while Jetina says, "Moore, can you boost me at all?"
"Yes, I've got you!" Moore says, his voice ringing with power.
Jetina will get +2 to CL since Moore's using his harp here.
> roll 1d20+40 (+4 absolute healing)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 48 > [d20=8]
> roll 1d20+40 (+4 absolute healing)
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 60 > [d20=20]
"RAZIEL!" Jetina calls, holy symbol glowing with fire. "Banish this evil!" Her voice echos as flames engulf the wyrm. Yet they do not burn it, instead green smoke rises from the wyrm's form. It dissolves in the air, leaving the scent of rot, death and shit thick in the room. Yet Sisatar at last ceases to struggle as his body no longer tears itself apart.
Moore lets out a breath he'd been internally holding this whole time.
"I... think we did it." He says. "Sisatar, can you hear us?"
He's likely incredibly weakened by all of this, certainly Moore has the same experience...
Sisatar is limp and no longer dissolving, unmoving as Ruby rushes to him, "Mister Sisatar," she calls, kneeling by his head, transforming. A purple dragon with red tinting, like amethysts stained with the red glow of sunrise, protectively curls around him. In draconic she continues, "We'll see to your injuries, Mister Sisatar. You're safe now."
The Consortium can handle things from here; they'll assuredly he contacted when he's back on his feet.
Moore makes a "lets go" gesture to give them some time alone as he heads out.
Assuming they don't get stopped, Moore will visit The Person with Syllens Ring. Cresiel and Jetina can come if they want to.
"I'm staying for now," Jetina says, "In case it's not an easy recovery." She walks over and Ruby gives her a glare - pure territorial menace, but slowly relents.
"Stay, then," she says.
Cresiel merely follows you as requested.
"Send for me if you need me." Moore says before he's off to this mansion of opulence!
d100 real quick.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 52, total 52[/blockquote]
The manor is as rich and opulent as you'd imagine, down one of the finer streets of Waukeen's quarter of Brightwater. A vast estate and greenery surrounds it, Cresiel taking it in with a faint but notable frown. Golden gates block the path to the manor, you notice, though that means little to ones with wings.
Moore will approach the gate anyway out of respect for etiquette! Perhaps they just open anyway.
They do, opening right up for you.
Cresiel finally speaks aloud, "Monuments to vanity," he murmurs to you.
"I don't think you need to worry about any servants of Mammon." Moore says with a smile to Cresiel. "I understand what you mean, but I think it's just the way of things here."
"It doesn't mean it's right," Cresiel says firmly as you head past the gates.
"This place really bristles you." Moore says with a laugh. "I'll work on that." He flies up to knock on the door to the mansion!
The door opens slowly, revealing...a short, squat goblin, rotund. He's dressed in finery and has a seemingly eternal scowl as he eyes both of you. Clearing his throat quickly on seeing Cresiel, "Yes?"
"Hello." Moore says. "My name is Duke Moore of Celestia. I believe I'm expected."
He offers a bow of introduction.
The goblin inclines his head forward, "Come in."
You are lead through a palatial manor, decorated with all kinds of wealth. Showy wealth, massive wealth. It's not piles of gold and jewels everywhere like a dragon, but it's close. You're taken to a sitting room clad in amber and gold, shining bright as the goblin gestures at a table in the corner. There is a drink set and snacks, "What will you have?" he asks, brusquely.
Moore holds up a hand and shakes his head.
"I'm fine, but I appreciate the offer." Moore says with a smile.
"Really? The master had it prepared for you," The goblin says, "It's the finest tea from the warm shores of Arborea. The finger cakes are made our chef as well, one of the best in Brightwater." He frowns, "You two look like you could use a good meal." he slaps the side of his considerable gut, wobbling back and forth.
Moore lets out a laugh. "I truly appreciate the offer."
Take 10 on Sense Motive for 67, is there anything more to this offer?
The butler seems nervous beneath his facade.
Moore smiles and reaches into his pocket as if he's considering something.
'Cresiel, he's nervous about something. I think this is some sort of trap, or something else is going on.'
"Well, I suppose it'd be rude to turn down such an offer. I'll have one of the drinks, please." He says.
Cresiel smiles slightly. "Likewise," he says.
The butler goes and pours two cups of tea, waddling on over and presenting them to the two of you.
"You're not having any?" Moore asks. "Please, it'd be rude of us to partake without a host doing so as well."
A truly diplomatic smile follows after that.
Diplo, just for giggles.
Take 10 for 105. :)
"Ah...it's not my place to," The goblin says quickly, "That is, it's not proper and..."
Cresiel meanwhile takes his tea, though he doesn't drink any, gaze on the goblin all the while.
"You know that this is probably the oldest trick in the book, right?" Moore asks. "So, let's not waste any more time. What is this about?"
> roll 1d20 1 check
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 4 > [d20=4]
The goblin stares...and drops the remaining cup, turning to run.
It doesn't work, Cresiel moving at exactly the same time, picking him up with one hand by the front of his shirt. He gazes deep into the goblin's eyes, holding up to be eye to eye with him. The butler's legs dangle and kick back and forth, but to no avail.
Cresiel intimidates, not even a natural 1 matters since the goblin can't pass the check with a 20.
"Aaah....." An incoherent murmur that becomes a terrified squeal.
"If I do not her a satisfactory answer in the next three seconds, you and everyone in this manor will be arrested pending a full investigation." Cresiel intones, "What. Is. Going. On?"
"You really should tell him." Moore says, swirling his tea. "We both know Vel Custos."
"Who?" The goblin manages to say blankly, before Cresiel hefts him up higher.
"Let me put it another way," Cresiel says, "My mother is close enough to Sune that she thought it would be cute if I called her Auntie Suney as a child."
The goblin's color drains even more at those words, "It's the bounty," he blurts out, "Tons of golds! Tons!"
That would've worked way better on Celestia, Moore.
"Are you and your master in on this?" Moore asks. "Or is it just you?"
"J-just me!" The goblin shakes, "All that gold! I could have my own manor with that money!"
"Well, you get marks for trying." Moore says as he swirls the tea. "Not much else, I'm afraid."
He flies out of the room and raises his voice. "Hello! This is Moore! We need to arrest your butler!"
If the person who owns the home is home, well, surely they'll hear him.
To your shout, a pair of women hurry from a nearby hall. One is a human, pretty and easy on the eyes. The other is a short humanoid, hurrying along at a good clip, a bit roundish but otherwise normal. Both are dressed as maids, "Sir, sir, what's going on?" The human calls.
"Hello!" Moore greets them. "My name is Moore. Duke Moore of Celestia. I am here to speak to the master of the house about a matter, but it seems your colleague..." he gestures towards the goblin. "Wanted to take a bounty currently on my head. If you test the tea and cakes he put out, I imagine they have some sort of sleeping agent in them... or something like that."
Cresiel holds the goblin up all the while, "I'll fetch someone right away," The short humanoid says, hurrying off, the human following.
Moore will wait!
The goblin whimpers, "C-can we...work something out?" he asks, "I have go.gu...guh..."
Cresiel's stare silences him, not a word needed.
Hopefully, without a word, his hand manages to pull out a small pouch that jangles as he shakes it, managing to look both terrified and faintly hopeful at once.
"I don't think you're a bad person." Moore says with a small but sad smile. "But you should hold onto that for the sake of your legal defense."
At this the goblin slumps.
Soon enough another person enters. A tall man, close to 7 feet tall. Slender as a reed, wearing a fine cloak and finery fit for a nobleman. No sigil is visible however, nor any signet ring. His face is youthful, and on taking one look at the scene, sighs. "How much?" he asks aloud, brushing back a bit of silvery hair, kept long and a few locks falling over his brow.
"L-last I heard, the bounty was up to 250,000 gold coins, on d-demand, sir." The goblin replies.
"You damn fool," The nobleman says and exhales loudly. "Well, if you aren't exiled or executed, you'll still have a job when you get out of prison. I promised your father that much. Now," Turning to you, "Cresiel - we haven't met, but I've met your mother. So you must be Moore," his attention turns to you.
"I think it actually is 300,000 now." Moore says helpfully.
He flies over to offer a hand out. "You have the right of it. Duke Moore of Celestia. It's a pleasure to meet you. If there's anything I can do to prevent his execution, please let me know."
A handshake as he says, "If you're willing to overlook this? He's a greedy, stupid fool - but I promised his father I'd see he ends up with a better life than most goblins."
"One of Celestia's greatest strengths is the power of forgiveness." Moore says. "I would be willing to overlook it; as long as this is the last time I hear of this sort of problem."
"The last!" The goblin agrees quickly. Cresiel glares at him, marches out and puts him down.
The goblin bows deeply to all of you and waddles off as fast as his legs will take him.
"The other aspect of forgiveness is repentance." Moore says. "I will trust you to take care of that." He clears his throat. "Now, shall we move on to other matters as well as your introduction?"
"Your agent contacted one of mine," The nobleman says, "Do you even know my name?" he asks.
"It hadn't come up yet." Moore says.
"Rados," Is the name he gives, offering his hand to you. "I've heard of you by reputation with Aurora. Remarkable stories, if they're true."
Cresiel meanwhile stays on watch, gaze vigilant.
Moore shakes his hand. "I'm sure some of them are exaggerated, but the core idea behind them is true. Do you mind if I ask you how you came upon the ring to begin with? I mean, I can guess, but I'm curious."
"Buying treasure from adventurers," Rados admits, "Sometimes you get unique things like that, and it makes a good collection piece."
Moore nods. "So, if we were to get down to brass tacks, I'm guessing you probably don't want to trade pure gold for it. Would that be correct?"
"I do not," he agrees, "I have enough of that."
Moore taps his chin. "I have an idea." He says as he produces a helmet.
Dusk's Requiem
This helmet functions as a ring of defense+5. Additionally, when worn by a duskblade, they gain a +2 bonus to the save DCs of their duskblade spells and deal an extra point of damage per die. For example, a shocking grasp that does 5d6 points of damage would deal 5d6+5 damage with this helmet.
Rados takes out a monocle and studies the helmet carefully, slowly pacing around it as he does. "A remarkable piece of equipment. Do you know the provenance of it?"
"I have not tried something like Legend Lore on it." Moore says. "We did retrieve it from a high-ranking soldier of Shar, however."
"That can be done myself," Rados agrees, gingerly lifting it up, inspecting it. "Likely battle plunder taken by Sharrans and taken by you in turn. Most remarkable items change hands multiple times."
"We come across all manner of things in our travels." Moore agrees. "I'd be happy to set up more regular trades with you for anything we have no use of that we don't end up destroyed for various reasons."
Replying because I think I am a victim of "no light up" time.
You must have been.
"A fine deal," Rados offers you his hand again, "Are we in agreement? Soon....that will make a lovely companion piece to that armor set that's missing a helmet," he muses."
Moore smiles and offers a shake of his hand! "Of course. You're welcome to send an agent to Hope's Landing if you find anything you believe may of interest. I will do the same."
Another handshake and with that...
Soon enough it is presented to you. A black box, made of what looks to be darkened wood and engraved with the faces of dryads. It is well done, the work of a skilled hand at the least. Perhaps an elven work, you suppose.
"Here, the Ring of Syllen. I understand you're collecting a set? What do they all do?" Rados asks.
"I'm not sure yet." Moore admits. "This is actually only the second one, but now that they're close together, perhaps I'll get an idea. Let's see here..."
He takes a moment to inspect the ring and see what effect it has being with the pair of bracers!
To be clear this is a detect magic blah blah blah spellcrafting.
Loot.
"Well, House Amoseth will be happy to do more business with you," he says, whistling low. "I like that helmet, it's a fine piece for any collection. Almost as good as the Embrace of the Petrified Succubus."
"Ah... they do get stronger when you use them." Moore smiles. "Syllen sure was an interesting person."
He blinks and looks up. "I confess curiosity to ehar about that particular piece, for all that I doubt I could see myself wearing it!"
Cresiel raises an eyebrow but does not comment.
"Oh, it's the best piece for a daring conversation and to break up monotony," Rados explains, "You see, a succubus was once petrified when she was, ahem, doing business. Her soul was later removed and a statue was left behind, and the statue enchanted. You can have the statue open up and engulf you, and you gain the body of the succubus, including the ability to take on different forms. The curiosity of it is that not only was the the succubus enjoying relations, she had more than usual for a woman, which is rather front and center. I understand magic is some times used for that."
A pause to clear his throat, "The reactions are always golden. The work of Stamoslah Wickbeck, a particularly unusual sorcerer and cleric of Tempus."
"It sounds like a shock piece meant to inspire obscene reactions," Cresiel's voice is flat. "Little more than a tasteless gimmick."
To this Rados smiles, "You're exactly right, and that's what makes it splendid. It's a wondrous treasure that's both powerful and utterly obscene. It fulfills both roles and defies expectations. I've never failed to have a strong, remarkable reaction to it."
Moore has a bit of a smile on his face.
"It's a conversation piece, if nothing else." Moore says. "Well, Sir Rados, I thank you very much for your time. I do hope we have a chance to speak again." A smile after that.
One more handshake and...
Heading home now?
Indeed. Nothing on his agenda in the short term.
Thus you return back. Xandra awaits you and says, "Lady Sanzha has visited and left behind the book you sought," she says in greeting.
Just a few upkeep things, but I can put this in nagging if you want:
Seira would've probably also sent the knowledge on Calley's notes she got from Oghma to Moore.
These two items would've been traded to Sanzha since Seira had expressed interest in them:
Nevaeaf: This ring grants the wearer damage reduction 5/-, or damage reduction 10/- if they are of the blood of the Daoin. Unlike normal types of item granted damage reduction, those with the blood of Daoin can stack this damage reduction with a permanent impenetrable damage reduction.
Kormault: A pair of black iron bracers, these turn the wearer's unarmed attacks or natural weapons into +8 keen and valorous weapons. The wearer's unarmed strikes and natural weapons also count as adamantine and epic to overcome damage reduction.
And one more thing, Moore would've asked someone to mention to her about the awful shitty place Foggard's become if any of them would be willing to look into it and help fix it.
"Oh, wonderful!" Moore says.
Sure, make the relevant notes in the relevant topics, Moore.
"It awaits you when you are ready," Xandra says, "Be it now or later."
Then Xandra glances at Cresiel and comes forward, "Are you unwell?"
"I've found our recent trip exasperating," Cresiel admits bluntly, "An attempted kidnapping, unneeded displays of wealth and a petrified succubus were too much."
"We can't be sure he was going to kidnap me." Moore says with a cheery smile. "It was an eventful trip." Moore says to Xandra. "He's right, though, it was a little much."
Moore will look at the collected notes from his realm update first, then add the Seira stuff to Calley's notes.
After that, he'll look into the other Syllen's stuff.
Finally, we'll move onto the book.
Okay, first of all K:P, K:A and Spellcraft.
Take 10 for ...
106 on K:P and K:A, and 86 on Spellcraft.
Ahah! The new research from your realm works bear fruit. It's worth 5 more, and...
Total now?
245.
Awesome. Next, what did Seira bring for you for the notes?
good question. It's whatever knowledge she got from Oghma. I can try and log dive if you need me to.
Please.
http://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,104248.msg1137352.html#msg1137352 here you go.
As you begin to look over those notes, there's a knock on your room's door. "Moore?" Xandra calls. "May I enter?"
"Please, come in!" He calls, setting the notes aside.
Xandra enters, "Ah, studying?" Xandra asks, taking in your notes.
"Yes, it seems Oghma personally aided Seira, so I'm looking to see what got added." He offers a smile. "What can I do for you?"
"A moment to reflect," Xandra asks, "If you can spare it."
"By all means." Moore says.
Xandra takes your hand and leads you to the window. "Look up."
Moore does so!
The moment you look up, radiance explodes out.
An overwhelming sense of joy, of rightness.
A sense that a long lost wrong has been at last righted.
When your eyes clear, Chronias is yet brighter, so bright it seems to take up the entire sky now. "Events move decisively towards us," Xandra says, "From our defeat of Learner and victories in support of Zaaman Rul, to the Grand Sultan and Imix being stymied. To a foe being removed from the board entirely - Eblis will no longer trouble us or interfere in Fire. Without any doubt, we have all withstood the blaze and may stand when it is burnt out."
Moore smiles and turns to Xandra. "A day brimming with hope." A blink. "Actually, speaking of... I encountered something recently and would like to see if my hunch is correct. Do you hold any anathemic knowledge? If so, would you try and share it with me? I'm curious if I've fully overcome the matter."
Sorry to interrupt you there, but leading in to this is worth interrupting for.
"A day brimming with hope," she agrees, "We have dealt a crushing blow to the slavers of Fire, Moore." Her smile is as bright as Chronias as...!
You feel the connection with Xandra, blossoming stronger between you.
Node update, go read.
Done.
Moore smiles. "He approves of us bringing that hope, I see."
He chuckles a bit. "Anyway... back to my earlier question, if you're willing to share." A beaming smile follows.
Xandra holds up her hand in answer. "Look carefully, Moore," she says, "At my ring finger."
Moore blinks, but he does so!
It hurts to look at. Light. Sheer, overwhelming light, nigh blinding.
Moore winces. Even so, he's going to be stubborn and see if he can focus... the same as he did before when he tried with Cantasa Alexandria!
Charisma check.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+45 : 7 + 45, total 52[/blockquote]
A snap, a shudder. You can see it now - a ring of pure light, the tiniest mote of it encased in seven layers of platinum and gold. That mere mote is enough to make the ring glow with this light.
"I have been given many tasks," Xandra explains, "So many that when I first heard them, I wept and despaired I would not be strong enough. No one could be," she confesses, a finger going to caress the ring. "I was told not to fear, to be not afraid. That this ring would protect me always, a gift for the duty I undertook."
Moore nods and smiles. "I never noticed it before. Is that light from Zaphkiel himself?"
"It's from above," Xandra looks upward, "That's all I've ever needed to know about it. Be it from Zaphkiel or something else, it matters little in the end. Nothing wicked could produce such a thing."
A smile and nod. "I understand. I'm glad you're able to find some way to get help with your tasks."
"I endure until the end," Xandra replies, "I shouldn't keep you from this anymore. You still have to find her."
"Keep an eye on things for me, this may take a bit." Moore says.
"I will," Xandra says and...
Tucking into that now?
Yar.
Give me the same round of checks as last time.
106 on K:P and K:A, and 101 on Spellcraft.
There's useful knowledge here indeed - you plumb it out and research it, soon enough getting more to add.
25 more, where's that put you?
245+25 = 270.
Moore takes in a breath as he puts a piece of paper down.
"I don't know where you're hiding, but just hold out a little longer, Sylvie." Moore says as he looks out his window.
Thus you look out the wind as...
Next move?
There is nothing specifically on his agenda, so he will turn to The Book.
For general reference, give me an Int check. It took Seira awhile to work all this out, bear in mind, it isn't quick.
[22:07] <Nephrite> roll 1d20+25
[22:07] <Kobot> Nephrite rolled 1d20+25 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{31}
It's complex, you can tell that much. You won't finish this anytime soon, you'll need to put some serious time into it.
He has no choice but to at least take time as he can to read it!
He will take breaks and such because, well, he has to! But other than that and anything coming up, this will be his focus.
Obviously, if they hear from Jetina or Sisatar and Sisatar wants to talk to them or anything, he'll make the trip for that.
It's not long until Grias knocks and pops in, "Moore, Jetina's back," he bobs in the air, "You need to go out and see this."
Moore will pocket the book and go out to see!
In the courtyard you find Jetina. A covered wagon follows her, good and stout horses leading it along. "Moore," Jetina calls, as you see Kaja's also there, peeking in the back of the wagon.
Moore just blinks and tilts his head and he looks to Jetina, as if she has all the answers.
Is this how Sisatar travels? He -was- rather secretive...
Jetina clears her throat and waits a moment.
"Bahamut's teeth," Kaja calls, "Come over here, Moore. There's half of a horde in here!"
Moore will fly over and take a look himself!
Alyssa casts a simple Sending to Moore, 'Lord Moore, would you be able arrange a time for another lesson?'
'Hi Alyssa! I'd be happy to. Whenever is convenient for you is fine.' Is the reply.
Alyssa responds, 'Certainly! How about now?'
Inside it's bigger than it should be. Within are heaps of silver coins, silver ingots, mithral ingots, mithral coins, nuggets of silver and mithral: the point is that it's loaded with shiny, silvery metal and wealth.
"The treasure, the wagon and the horses are from Sisatar," Jetina says, "A thank you gift."
Moore shakes his head. "We didn't do it to be rewarded, but..." A smile afterwards. "He would angry if we turned it down. Were you given any other instructions?"
'Yes, now is fine!' Is the reply.
"Just to use it how we want," Jetina says, "Those will do well."
Alyssa gathers those who want to go and heads over!
Moore is waiting at the front archway for Alyssa when she comes over!
"Hello again. I hope you've been keeping yourself busy?" He asks.
"A few things here and there. A battle. Stole a bank. The usual. How about yourself?"
"Lots of skirmishes. Captured an elder vampire." A smile and a shrug after that. "The usual indeed. So, do you have anything specific you'd like to focus on, or are you looking for general lessons again?"
"Well, I'm utterly new at this, so for now, I'll just follow the guidance of my teacher."
Moore nods. "All right. We'll have Xandra help again, then. She's still teaching me, after all."
Alyssa nods and smiles, "Thank you. Oh, if you're ever looking for a lark, I've found a group of Earth Elementals that emulate'fleshy ones.'"
"Oh! I've heard of them but never really investigated." Moore says. "Huh... I wonder if there are any celestial elementals besides Drena... hm." A shake of his head. "But that's great. Have you found yourself a base of operations?"
Alyssa nods, "Shaundakul has lent me a demi-plane. We're building a city."
Let me know when you two are good to be moved along, I'm just letting y'all chat until then.
I'm good whenever Neph is.
Yar.
Thus the two of you plus Xandra gather and, "Any questions before we begin?"
If one of you could dig up a link to last time for everyone's reference, it would be appreciated.
http://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,104245.msg1138029.html#msg1138029
Thanks.
"Above all, be careful," Xandra warns, "Moore, will you use the flute again?"
Moore takes it out and nods.
Alyssa readies herself...
Give me an Int check, a Wis check and a Cha check, Alyssa. Good luck.
Int:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+10 : 14 + 10, total 24[/blockquote]
Wis:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 5 + 3, total 8[/blockquote]
Cha:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 7 + 3, total 10[/blockquote]
It's hard work, progressing carefully. You don't feel like you're making progress right off - it's just...hard, you suppose.
"Well, perseverance is the path to success. A short break before continuing?"
"It's one of those things you have to kind of chip away at." Moore explains. "I know that doesn't exactly help, though."
"Perseverance is the key," Xandra agrees, "We can continue when you're ready."
Alyssa stretches a bit, taking a drink.
"This place is truly beautiful. I hope to make my home as close to as pretty as here as I can."
"You could do far worse," Xandra agrees, as Chronias shines brightly above. "Though that light isn't something you can produce elsewhere, Alyssa."
"Who said reproduce. I want to match it, in my own way."
Moore smiles. "Strength of your own perseverance, huh?"
"You aim high," Xandra says, "But do you really think you can match Chronias?"
"Are the experiences of a journey worthless if you never reach your destination? Regardless of success, there's much value in the effort."
At that the conversation lulls and...
Trying again?
Sure.
Gimme the same rolls again.
Int/Mind of Dragon Princess:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+12 : 2 + 12, total 14[/blockquote]
Wis:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 11 + 3, total 14[/blockquote]
Cha:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 20 + 3, total 23[/blockquote]
Give me a Will save.
Will/Cunning Insight:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+35 : 5 + 35, total 40[/blockquote]
> roll 2d8 con damage
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 2d8 con damage --> [ 2d8=6 ]{6}
This bypasses any immunity you have.
Pain. You work and it hurts, even as something snaps into place. A movement, a few words of it lining up for you, the presentation as well. Somehow the combination of Moore's flute and your own efforts produce something, even as you feel tremendously ill, drained, exhausted.
"Enough," Xandra's voice cuts in, "The Words are no trivial thing, and you walk a tightrope with them. How is your progress?"
Alyssa shakes herself, taking a moment to cast a spell to help herself.
Vigorous Circle, CL 23, 23 Rounds.
"Ah.. It.. Something happened... Some sort of backlash, I think, but I made progress. Something... moved. Into place. I have understanding of a few more words, I think, and the presentation of them."
Con damage, not hit point damage, Iddy. Just so you're aware.
"To speak the words wrongly is death," Xandra explains, "The only mercy you have is Moore and Zaphkiel's aid, and whatever talent you have. That may well shield you from some risk, but not all."
Moore stops as well to look at Alyssa. "I know that look, that tired and fatigued exhaustion."
Yeah, it mostly an RP response.
Alyssa nods, "Growth always brings danger. First the labyrinth, then my new power, and now our fight against Shar. I'm prepared for it."
She warily lifts her arm up, "I have steel in me, by nature and by name, and only through fire and hammering can it be made strong. But yes, that... Took significantly more out of me than before. The spell I cast helped, but didn't fully restore me. I haven't prepared a spell for that; I wasn't anticipating this sort of response. I'll be more prepared in the future."
"We can get you rest and food in Hope's Landing," Xandra offers, rising now.
"Yes, let's take a break here." Moore says. "I wouldn't want to have to explain to anyone why you passed out." A small smile after that.
Alyssa laughs, "At our level of power, passing out isn't a real concern. But yes, some food would be good, I think. I'm sure you have someone capable of Lesser Restoration? One or two of those should set me right. I could do it myself, if I had prepared them."
Okay, going to rest and...?
Up to Neph. I have telepathic bond with the others so if they need something they'll let me know. I'm up for trying again.
Moore is happy to help once Alyssa is rested, or other things stop them!
Food and healing help, though Alyssa doesn't feel quite right still. Still faintly drained and empty, even after it, as they return back. "Are you ready to continue?" Xandra asks.
Alyssa nods. "Please."
Going to flute again, Moore?
Yes.
Then gimme an int and wis check, Iddy.
Int/MotDP:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+12 : 13 + 12, total 25[/blockquote]
Wis:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 19 + 3, total 22[/blockquote]
It's hard work - but at this time nothing seems to go worse, even if your improvements are minimal this time. No horrible pain or failures.
But you feel jammed as well, like you're circling a point but not quite getting it. Some mental vocabulary, some application of the the theory you're missing.
"It feels like I'm missing something... Some point... That's holding me back."
Xandra looks to Moore, "How often did you feel that way, Moore?"
"Well, any time I ever felt like I had reached a block, I usually came here, actually." Moore says. "So, if you feel like you're missing something really basic... well, and if Shaundakul wouldn't mind, I might suggest you wander around Celestia a bit."
Alyssa laughs outright, "You should meet him and ask what his opinion on wandering. I'll take you up on the suggestion."
"Then go wander in safety," Xandra agrees, "On this I think we all agree on."
Alyssa nods, "I look forward to seeing more of your little slice of the heavens."
Plan here then, you two?
Random wandering, relying on faith like normal for me. I'll return to Moore when I feel like I had a break through.
Moore has a wagon to investigate.
Okay, new thread time for both of you. Locking this one.