Thus the party walks out of Hope's Landing.
Emily's whistling to herself, steps light as she follows.
Ianvasah is silent, gaze upward more often than not. She lingers just past the gate, gaze fixed towards the light above.
"What're you mulling over, Ianvasah?"
"...I feel as if my entire life has been a mistake," she finally says. Her voice quivers, "And I can't look away from it."
"That's normal," Emily's at her side, taking her hand. "Celestia inspires introspection, especially the light above in those who haven't followed Celestia's path."
Alyssa glances up.
"Oh? I don't get that feeling at all. Why do you?"
"I don't know," Emily admits, "Not everyone has it happen."
"How should I know?" Ianvasah retorts, "All I know is that I feel like I could have done so much better with my life, that I've wasted it in my own foolishness."
Alyssa chuckles.
"Ianvasah, consider this: Had you done anything different in your life, it's likely you would not have ended up here, with us. Perhaps you led exactly the life you needed to, and made the choices you needed to. I think that for all that fate is a mixture of plan and chaos, the life that led you here was worth it."
Gimme Diplo here, relevant.
Diplo/Cunning Knowledge:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+65 : 8 + 65, total 73[/blockquote]
"I - yes," Ianvasah tears her gaze away, "Are we done here? Let us depart before I look back again."
"I am, unless either of you want to do anything else."
In that case, next move?
Back to Melwether if he's willing, I suppose.
"That's it," Professor Tinsal asks when you present him the blood soon after, "Who gave it?"
"An acquaintance from Celestia. Blood is a powerful reagent. To help convince her and relieve some of her concern, I've given her your name and the fact that you're in Queen Morwel's court. Anything we have that's excess, I will return to her for destruction."
"Tsk," A click of his tongue before adding, "Well, unavoidable then. Anything else to know about it?"
Alyssa raises an eyebrow.
"That sounds like you had other plans... But no, nothing else that I'm aware of."
A chuckle, "Such a reagent is not easy to get. I have many experiments, Alyssa. Why, I have enough to keep me busy if I need to."
"You'll not use this for any experiments but our task with Lord Melwether. I have given my word on this. However... I can speak to the donor for permission, though I imagine she'll want to meet you and have an idea of what you plan to use it for. If you can prepared a brief write up of those experiments, I can present it to her for you."
"Done and done and done," The Professor agrees, as Lord Melweather reads his book. "Now as for this, we'll see about comparing ratios and see how it mixes, and compare it to what we know of Melweather's blood, as well as to see further viability of copying this."
Alyssa nods and goes to help.
In that case, gimme Spellcraft and K:A, as well as K:P.
K:A/Bibliotheca:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+59 : 18 + 59, total 77[/blockquote]
K:P/Bibliotheca/Cunning Knowledge:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+81 : 14 + 81, total 95[/blockquote]
Spellcraft:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+56 : 12 + 56, total 68[/blockquote]
It takes time and effort, the two of you losing track of hours as you work. It's quiet here save for the turning of the page and the occasional shuffle of leaves and wood. That is, until...
"Professor, Professor!" A green haired courre pops out from the forest, calling, "There's someone here seeking knowledge about beating a curse from Baator."
The Professor looks up from his work, a single branch like fingers, holding the vial as the two of you observe a droplet of chaos and a droplet of law interact. "Busy. Have Branchy or Anodare deal with it. Make sure they don't find the way to me."
Alyssa blinks.
"Hmm... Moore was dealing with a curse too. I wonder if it was similar."
"Yes, Professor," The courre calls, dashing off.
"Doubtful, but what sort of curse was it?" The Professor asks as he studies, glancing away a moment.
"He had someone who was going to work on it, so we didn't go into detail on it. I had an idea for a counter to it, based off of the Tenacious Dispell spell. A bit of the spell to linger and enhance. In any case, what's our next step?"
"Well..."
And from there you make headway. It's not reproducing it in the body, but..."This should let you make a bowl to scry in many locations at once. A Bowl of Many Eyes, I'll call it," Professor Tinsel says, "If it's made right, it should help with the strain of seeing so much at once, as well."
"Hm. It's a step. I'm still far more interested in having the ability myself. I wonder... What do you think of some sort of... Binding agent? Perhaps something to make the transition from it easier?"
"Elaborate," Is the simple answer you get.
Lord Melweather keeps on reading in the meantime.
"Something... Neutrally aligned perhaps? Or something that is more mutable? There are spells that can mimic law and chaos... Maybe some sort of spell circle drawn with the elements.... Like the Magic Tattoo spell? Permanently grafted on, perhaps?"
"We can try that again later, but first I want to build this bowl," The Professor says, "It will provide more insights. I can manage most of the costs, but if you could fetch me just a few useful components, it would accelerate this along."
"Such as?"
"The eye of any creature who can see truly by their nature - such as an erinyes, a marilith or similar fiends. That will work fine, good or evil shouldn't matter here, and far better you take it from them than a celestial who has the same gift," Professor Tinsel says. "A small carving of an eye made from diamond and decorated with platinum accents. Finally, a few drops of Lord Melweather's blood. That one will be simple."
"I'll keep it in mind while I travel."
"Bring those to me and it will be made," he agrees, and...
Anything else to do here?
Nope. Diamond and stuff will be easy enough to find: Brightwater.
Next move then?
Brightwater for the stuff unless someone in the Order has something they need.
Sure thing. Give me a Diplomacy check for GI. Going with anyone?
Diplo/GI:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+43 : 7 + 43, total 50[/blockquote]
Eh, whoever wants to go.
Emily and Ianvasah again.
Which item are you aiming for first?
Hardest to find first. The eye I think?
You end up in small corner shop on the outskirts of Brightwater. It's small and rather cramped, aisles just big enough to stumble down. Shelves are stacked higher than even Hanna is tall, stacked with strange and curious things. Jarred things, skulls, stacked piles of glass and metal, rods on rods on rods and more. So much more as you meander, as an old man's voice calls, "Prices as marked! 10% off if you buy three qualifying items!"
Alyssa raises an eyebrow.
"Attractive offer. What items qualify?"
"Anything expensive!" Is the call back, "Now what are you shopping for?"
"The eye of an Erinyes or a Marilith. Something with natural true sight."
"Fourth aisle, underneath the pickled intellect devourer!" Is the call you get. "Price is as marked!"
"Thank you," Emily calls back, while Ianvasah goes in that general direction, eyeing the shelves.
Alyssa does as well, though she meanders a bit, looking for anything interesting.
Perception and K:A.
K:A/Bibliotheca:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+68 : 16 + 68, total 84[/blockquote]
Perception/Cunning Knowledge:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+66 : 13 + 66, total 79[/blockquote]
You spy the following noteworthy things.
Essence of Dryad: 400 gold.
Regrets of a Frozen Troll: 900 gold.
Rosenwort: 1,000 gold.
Blood of a Sky Dragon: 1,400 gold.
Tears of a Marut: 2,200 gold.
Eye of an Erinyes: 2,500 gold.
Heart of the Vampire: 3,000 gold.
Uh, what do any of those besides the eye do/are for?
Essence of a Dryad is useful in the creation of magical items related to wood.
The regrets you aren't sure - that's an odd one to be sure, but it sounds rare and useful.
Rosenwort is an uncommon herb used in some healing potions. Useful and there's enough there for several dozen potions.
Dragon blood of any kind is useful all sorts of things.
Tears of a Marut are notedly useful in spells related to law as well as creating items related to protection from chaos. They also have some utility in magic related to natural death.
Eye of an Erinyes is obvious.
Heart of the Vampire useful for any sort of blood magic.
Well, I've only got 2700gp except if I sell the statue from Seira and the silver dagger I got... What's the Nicker's Fancy worth? I don't think you ever put a value on it:
Nicker's Fancy: Cold iron dagger+5, wounding and ghost touch. When the wielder deals damage with this weapon, they can choose to do minimum damage with it, treating all dice rolled as being a 1 (including extra damage dice, such as sneak attack). If they do, the damage ignores damage reduction except for damage reduction that cannot be bypassed or unique types of damage reduction, such as the damage reduction possessed by many abominations.
For the sake of keeping that in loot so I can find it later, post about that in there?
Alyssa gathers up the following:
Essence of Dryad: 400 gold.
Regrets of a Frozen Troll: 900 gold.
Blood of a Sky Dragon: 1,400 gold.
Eye of an Erinyes: 2,500 gold.
Heart of the Vampire: 3,000 gold.
As she gathers things into her arms and continues to meander her way around the shop, she turns to the others, "Anything interesting to you two?"
"The Dryad Essence is useful," Ianvasah says, "Good choice."
Emily shakes her head, "I prefer minerals and gemstones for this manner of thing. Gold as well. It may be the dragon in me." A faint smile at that, "Auntie Antenora gave me an opal as a birthday present one year and I so enjoyed the colors of it, and it went so well with the ruby Mom gave me before that."
"Well, we're looking for the diamond and platinum next, so that should tickle your fancy. Speaking of your relatives, have you done any research into your debt?"
Emily freezes at that, "...well...everything's been so busy that...I...no, I haven't." She admits it slowly, hanging her head.
"Well, think on finding a diviner here that might be able to help."
"I...I'll go do that. You keep shopping," Emily says quickly, parting away. "We'll meet up later!"
"We need the diamond first."
But alas, Emily's already hurried off. Ianvasah frowns, "Yet, Waukeen has not directly taken action against her for it."
"'Auntie' Waukeen. I doubt Waukeen has an real hopes of getting a replacement. I think it's more an object lesson and something to hang over her head. She'll be satisfied when she gets the value of it, I think. In any case, her hunt for lost relics might lead us to other relics that will be useful or valuable."
Alyssa winks at Ianvasah as she heads to the counter to pay. While also continuing to look for anything else interesting, of course.
The old man at the counter is hairy - a massive beard to his stomach, wild long hair just as long and two bright purple eyes staring at you. "Good choices, good choices," he says, as...
Post the expenses in loot. That does get the 10% discount, so factor that in.
I'll math it up at home.
"Would you happen to be able to point me to a good gem merchant?"
"Mabarne," Is the answer you get, "On Dividends Paid Avenue. Tell him Cen sent you."
Alyssa nods.
"Thank you... I don't suppose you have a stock of the really good stuff hidden in the back, do you?"
Alyssa smiles at him and gives her hip a bounce to jingle her money pouch.
Ianvasah's expression turns darker as she watches the man watch you. "Well..." he says slowly, "What are you in the market for?"
"Nothing terribly specific. Maybe something from a creature that has a balance of law and chaos in it? Beyond that, let's see what catches my fancy?"
"I got something special," he says, "Stay here, I'll be right back."
Alyssa glances at Ianvasah and pokes her in the ribs.
"What's the dark face for?"
"He reminds me of someone," Ianvasah scowls, "Someone extraordinarily unpleasant."
"Oh? Perhaps a brother. Do you have a name to go with this distaste?"
"Yaford," Ianvasah says, as the old man comes back. He carries a silk-covered object out in both hands, "Now this is worth some money," he declares.
Alyssa looks at the bundle and motions him to open it.
"Color me green and eager!"
Within, on a cushion, rests a vial of bright purple liquid.
"The essence of the greatest of radiance elementals." Is the answer you get.
I have no idea what that is.
Have a weekend bonus post of me asking for an K:P check so I can write it out at leisure.
K:P/Bibliotheca/Cunning Knowledge:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+81 : 18 + 81, total 99[/blockquote]
Radiance Quasi-Elementals are the elementals of the Quasi Elemental Plane of Radiance. They're so bright they blind those around them. Otherwise they're fairly standard elementals, following the typical structure of other elementals.
"Certainly interesting... What's your price?"
"12,000 gold coins, standard," The old man says.
"And the ten percent on three or more purchases?"
She holds up the other items with grin.
"...fine," he says, "I can do that for you. You have good taste in magical things."
Alyssa smiles beatifically at the man and hands over 10,800gp.
"Thank you, dear Yaford!"
Post this purchase in loot as well.
Already did.
Purchases made, "Come again any time," The old wizard declares with a smile, counting the money. "I'm open every day except Magark Day."
Did he notice the name thing? It was on purpose.
He noticed your money, let's put it that way.
"Thank you!"
She turns to leave and head to the gem seller.
Ianvasah follows and as you go out, "What is NOT for sale in this place, Alyssa? They sell the light of the elements themselves!"
"Ianvasah, something you'll have to learn traveling the planes: Everything is allowed somewhere. It's all well and good to rage against things on principle, but never burn a bridge you don't have to. You dislike this business of selling this essence? Think what I can do with this in our fight. An item that dispels all forms of darkness, perhaps. Or one that reveals hidden things. Or an ability to inflict damage to anything connected to the negative energies. Yes, it's distasteful, but at the end of the battle, who wins and who loses is determined by preparation and foresight."
Alyssa wonders if anyone else ever feels like a lecturing professor to everyone they know...
"No, you misunderstand," Ianvasah says, "I do not resent it," Shaking her head then meeting your eyes, "I marvel at it the more I see it, the more it surprises me."
"I thought druids had a distaste for the trappings of civilization? I'm glad you're not falling into the trap of rejecting something useful on principle. And since you're marvelling at it, let's find something for you to buy."
"...yes, but how can I not marvel at this?" Ianvasah admits, "I may have distaste for much of it, but I am not blind."
Alyssa holds up the Radiance essence.
"I'm glad you saw the light. Now! What are you interested in buying?"
"Something...perfect," Ianvasah finally says, and quieter, "What is perfection?"
"In my opinion... death... or stagnation. The lack of anything to improve on. But that's my opinion.. Practically... Something that does exactly what it's supposed to. In the simplest terms... I'd consider something... Primordial. Something that exists naturally in nature, unchanging and unflinching in its purpose. Fire is the great consumer, no? It can change a bit here and there, magma, sacred, and so on, but what it is, at the core, fits exactly what it's meant to, to perfection.
But you have to decide what it means to you, and what can represent it. You seem rather taken with dragons; what's the core existence of a dragon? Maybe... The will to simply be what you are, and force everything to acknowledge that will and bend to it?"
A considerable pause at this as you stand just outside of the shop, "So...what do I buy that represents that?" she finally asks aloud, frowning. "What manner of nymph speak is that?"
"Is that what it means to you? My interpretation might not fit best for you. If you still think you want to follow my definition, then consider what represents willpower to you. An immovable mountain? Maybe indomitable will of nature to rise after destruction? Or maybe there's a story or legend of a warrior or druid who stood against something and met it without bending or compromise? Think on what comes to mind when you imagine will. Your first intuition on it will usually be the right step.
And consider that simply discovering what defines that for you might be the journey of a lifetime. It might endlessly be just over the horizon. But never attaining it doesn't make the journey any less worth it, or what you accomplish on the way worth less, or the wisdom you gain any less valuable."
Ianvasah says, "Then we will go where anyone goes where they need to think." After a beat, "There are taverns here, aren't there?"
Alyssa chuckles.
"Perfection is beer, eh? How about we get the last of what we need first. To the gem store."
The shop in question is glassy and with fine stonework, unsullied and seemingly flawlessly clean. Within are row after row of gemstones and jewelry, all on display in glass cases. A single woman is here watching the shop, a few customers browsing.
Alyssa approaches the woman.
"Hello! I was referred here by another shop owner and told to ask for Mabarne."
The woman looks up - all pleasant curves, royal purple clothes cut stylishly and a ready smile. "You're speaking to her. What do you need?"
"Cen said to say he sent us. We're looking for something specific: a diamond with platinum accents."
Ianvasah frowns and...
What languages do you speak?
Languages: Common, Draconic, Celestial, Abyssal, Elven, Sylvan, Halfling, Infernal, Dwarven, Aquan, Auran, Ignan, Terran.
That said, Bibliotheca is active, which specifies that it gives the ability to speak/read all languages.
"Sibling?" Ianvasah asks in a strange language you don't know offhand, but you understand thanks to your magic.
"...?" A curious look from Mabarne, "What was that?"
Ianvasah shakes her head, "Nothing, mistaken identity. You are not of my kind."
"I'm a bit confused, to be honest. Cen told us you were a him?"
With a rich laugh, "Aaah." Lowering her voice, "It's no great secret. Many find it harder to resist a beautiful woman's alluring smiles than a man's smooth words. I make more money as a woman, and it is easily done with magic."
"Perhaps I was not as mistaken as I thought," Ianvasah admits, "That is an enlightened attitude for a...?"
"Mutt," Mabarne waves her hand, "Some elf, a splash of celestial, a hint of cansin, mix in some sahuagin - a mutt of the planes. We are all equal once magic becomes ours." A casual wave of her hand, a colorful array of lights and sparks coming from her fingers - a simple cantrip. The lights and sparks slowly fizzle away after, a pretty show if nothing else. "What is skin but another set of clothes we wear?" A shift, becoming a tall man - well over seven feet tall, looming with black hair. He now wears a rich noble's outfit with cape and hose, ears pointed like an elf and eyes strange, a thin film of webbing over them.
"Do you prefer this form?"
A blink, and before you is a dour dwarf, clad in mail and arms crossed. "Or something grumpier and more concerned about the bones of the earth?"
Another shift, this time a rather plain looking man. "Or the inoffensive and meek special?"
"My preference is truth. Though a good adventure leading to it isn't amiss either."
Clapping his hands together, "Or something close enough - but did you come here to discuss magical ethics or to do business?"
"Diamonds and platinum, yes."
"Any in particular," Is the question you get right back.
"One that is, or can be, made into a representation of an eye, and decorated with platinum accents."
"How big?" Is the answer you get back after that.
"A small one. Not tiny, but not overly large."
Tinsel didn't give any guidance other than 'small'.
"I don't have anything like that, but I can have it by the end of the day," Is the response you get, "5,000 gold."
"Hmm... Ianvasah, are you interested in anything here?"
"Nothing today," Ianvasah says, "Jewelry can wait another day."
"Hmm... 5,000 is a little high considering it's not a significant sized diamond... But the speed and custom... How about 4,800?"
"5,000 is a pittance," Mabarne retorts, shifting back to the female form you first saw him in. "I'm only doing it at that price because you were sent here."
Alyssa gives her a wry smile.
"Can't ever hurt to try. I'll be back by the end of the day."
Okay, anything else to do here or good to move along?
Nothin', really. Ianvasah wanted to go into a tavern.
Gimme a quick d100.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 1, total 1[/blockquote]
It's a nice tavern and you have a few drinks. As you come out, "HALT!" Gold clad warriors with sword swords and splint armor block the way, faces hidden by narow, plumed helmets. Behind them are a bevy of ghaele eladrin, at the ready. At the head of this is a bald man in cloth of gold clothing, striding forward with a sure walk. "I am Highgold Premar," he announces, walking with a strong step forward, "Alyssa Songsteel, you are under arrest for suspicion of theft and fraud."
"... I've been in Brightwater for less than a day and only in two shops and this tavern. While I have no problem with cooperating with the local garrison, I believe my goodwill and cooperation should at least be returned in kind. What have I supposedly stolen, and who have I defrauded, Highgold Premar?"
"Then we can solve this easily," The Highgold declares, "Are you willing to submit to truth-testing magic under conditions that will negate any defenses against them? If you are innocent, then someone has impersonated you."
"I am, provided two things: you answer my questions about the accusations leveled against me, and I retain the ability to ask you to... reword certain questions, if I deem the direct answers to them to be dangerous to others. When, and if, I do so, I will explain why I desire it so. I'm the leader of an order of mages and I know many things that if revealed in the wrong manner might put others in danger, for example."
"That's not unreasonable," The Highgold agrees, as Ianvasah says back, eyes roaming. "Two hours ago, you were seen stealing over 60,000 gold coins from Sunrise Loan and Banking, and escaped through means suspected to be time stop or similar magic."
"I'm capable of that spell, yes. I haven't cast it at all today, however, and the number of times I've been to Brightwater is limited. I don't know where this Sunrise Loan and Banking is."
A hand is held up, "Come with us to somewhere more private and we will see to these questions."
"Very well. I have another companion that's out doing some research. Emily Aryn. Please send someone to find and inform her of the situation."
A quick cough, "Lady Aryn is not a suspect in this. It would be improper to think otherwise." Clearing his throat after, the Highgold turns and begins to lead you along.
"I didn't presume to indicate she was. However, she is here with us, and will be concerned for us. Wouldn't it be better to let her know before she... takes it into her own hands to find us?"
"It will be taken care of, of course," The Highgold says quickly, "Lady Aryn will not be left wondering."
Ianvasah follows, hints of a smile starting to show on her face. "I hope Lady Aryn isn't left wondering or annoyed."
"I'm quite sure she'll be annoyed. And loudly proclaiming the accusations to be absurd, but in the end... The fastest way to get past this is through. Hopefully Mabarne will still be open when we're finished, I'm sure he'd hate to lose a sale."
Clearing his throat at that as a guard follows all around the two of you, street traffic parting before you, 'I'm sure this will be a quick and equitable solution, then."
"Thank you, sir. I look forward to coming through this issue with nothing but good things to say about your professionalism, thoroughness, and expedience."
At this, the pace picks up, quickly getting you into a tree lined, marble temple. You're escorted to a room within, "This room will prevent lying and help suppress any protections against this you would have in place," he says, the room plain save for a single wood chair. "Sit down there, please," he says. It's just you, Ianvasah and Highgold Premar.
"Thank you. Would you be so kind as to provide Ianvasah with a chair as well?"
A curt nod follows. A quick call out gets a second chair to the side, where Ianvasah sits.
"Now," The Highgold produces a bracelet of polished steel, "Put this on your forearm."
Alyssa raises an eyebrow.
"Might I inspect it, first? If the room prevents lying, or reduces the chances of it, I assume this amplifies it or gives some visual indicator of it, but I'm a bit suspicious of this whole situation and would like to check for... Hidden functions."
The look you get is stony and neutral, "Of course," he says after a moment, "By all means do so."
Alyssa begins casting!
Calling on spellpool to use my level 7 empty slot for Greater Arcane Sight. CL32. 32 minute duration.
The bracelet ensures that you speak only the truth. It does not, however, force you to speak if you'd rather stay silent.
Alyssa snaps the bracer on with a nod.
"No offense or insinuation meant, but this whole situation smells of a set up and makes me suspicious. I might even think it was meant to separate us from Emily, but she can take care of herself and you've sent someone to find her."
"Lady Aryn would never be in danger in Brightwater," The Highgold says quickly, "Have you stolen, taken or otherwise participated in the crimes you are accused of today?"
"Not in any way."
"Thank you. Do you know of anything related to this, or have any reason to suspect why this is being done?" he asks next.
"No to the first. The second has so many possibilities that any answer I give, either way, could be a lie. It could be happenstance; someone picked my face out of the crowd. It could be to defraud me. It could be to sour my reputation. It could be an oblique strike at Emily. Or a dozen other things that I haven't thought of."
The Highgold comes over and takes the bracelet off. "You're free to go with our apologies," he says, a slight scowl on his face. "Impersonation of another while committing a crime is a crime unto itself."
"Highgold, if I might ask an indulgence? When you find this person,I would like to be informed. And perhaps have something of a say in their punishment."
"We will inform you," The Highgold says, "Anything for a friend of Lady Aryn."
Ianvasah's smile is like that of a cat who got the canary. "That is kind of you. We look forward to hearing about results, and I'm sure Lady Aryn does as well. If Alyssa can be copied, what's to stop them from copying her good friend Emily Aryn?"
"Or a Highgold? Or even Emily herself?"
"Exactly," The Highgold says, leading you out. "You can assure Lady Aryn this will be dealt with."
"I appreciate the care and courtesy you shown in dealing with this. It speaks highly of the discipline of your organization."
Alyssa removes the bracer and hands it back, ready to leave.
Thus you are allowed to leave. Once out Ianvasah smiles, "Well, Emily's name carries weight here."
"Auntie Waukeen. I'll have to apologise for using it, but it let us cut through the unpleasantness and turned it from an interrogation into a a quick question."
"Still worth it," Ianvasah agrees, "Had they realized what I was, that may have been even less pleasant. Not all are as sophisticated as Mabarne."
"Yes, though that does beg the question... Did they copy me because of your associations."
Ianvasah frowns, "I doubt it, unless they know more about me than I'd expect. I've not openly advertised what I am here."
"Well, in any case, outside of doing an investigation ourselves, let's just go back and wait for Emily until the jewel is ready."
Good to skip ahead to that, then?
Sure.
Go post the expense to loot.
Soon enough you are presented exactly what you want, "There," Mabarne says, in female form again. "Thank you for the business."
Alyssa inspects it.
"Thank you very much for the expedience. It's a great help to me to have this so soon."
"I'll be glad to do something like this anytime, as long as you're gold's good."
Next move?
Emily.
Having a dumb moment. Elaborate?
She went off by herself. Need to find her.
Finding Emily's a snap. She comes up to you not long after you start, waving, "Alyssa," she calls, trotting over at a job. "Did you get everything?"
"I did. And a bit more. Apparently someone impersonates me to rob a bank."
Emily's smile drops into open confusion as she stares, "What? Why? Why would someone do that?!"
"Greed, likely. The local Garrison is investigating, so we'll find out when they do. It's cleared up for now, though I had to mention you to expedite things. I apologise for that."
"Oh." Emily says, then shakes her head. "It's nothing. Are you ready to go back now or were you going to investigate who impersonated you?"
"I don't think the Garrison would like us running around under foot. Unless it happens again, I'll leave it to them."
"They're good at stopping problems," Emily says, "I'm sure they have it under control."
Next move then?
Back and burn time until we can do the Melwether thing. Not sure how much time that is.
A few days if you have anything else you've been needing to do.
Permenency stuff. Give me a sec to figure out priority.
Sure. Post when you're good.
Alright... Arcane Sight, Epic Mage Armor (just barely meet the CL requirement for this), Blindsight, Tremorsense, Telepathic Bond, Magic Aura (on gear), Create Magic Tattoo(s). How many days we looking at here so I can kinda figure out which ones I wanna do first.
The casting time of permanency is 24 hours, so 24 hours per spell. Epic mage armor is not eligible under the following clause:
Things that should be epic magic items. For the sake of style and balance I'd rather not. For example, permanent superior resistance. Style choice.
Did I ever rule on Create Magic Tattoo?
The others look fine and fairly standard.
No idea on Create Magic Tattoo. You have in the rules that generally it's for stuff that's long duration, and it's 1 hour/CL.
I asked about Epic Mage Armor because you listed Mage Armor as an example, so I figured the higher end versions would fall under the same idea.
If you want to think on Create Magic Tattoo, then I can just put that off for now.
I guess the main ones I want are: Arcane Sight, Blindsight, Tremorsense, and Telepathic Bond. The Magic Aura on gear will take 1 day per piece of gear, so that's a whole time sink in itself that I'll deal with another time.
Okay, so that's the order you want them in, to be clear?
Yeah.
Check nagging real quick.
Blindsight and Tremorsense then.
Done and done. Update your sheet.
Next move?
Melweather's thing.
Thus you return to the Professor.
"Did you get everything?" he asks right off.
"Yep!"
Alyssa lays everything out for him.
"Great, I'll have it done as soon as I can," he says, "This will take some time, so come back later."
"I'm interested in the process, so please keep notes."
Okay, this is gonna take a little time to make the item. What's your next goal in the meantime?
Umm... I guess check in with the Order and find that assassin/spymaster I asked Shaundakul about.
That was gonna roll into you moving on over there - is that happening soon?
Unless there's anything I need to do with the Order first? I mean... I suppose I can extend an offer to my family to come with, but I'm not sure that's really going to be what they want?
Edit: What about the shocker lizard thing?
You can if you want.
Same with the shocker lizard thing, you can do that now or do it post move. It's up to you there.
Eh, I might as well ask them. I'll do some preliminary inquiries about the shocker lizards.
Okay, let's handle the lizards first.
What are preliminary inquiries? Go ahead and lay things out.
I didn't really start anything out. I think I asked Jarem to look into a trainer that could provide trained Shocker Lizards, but nothing more than that.
Jarem's busy coordinating this and that with the move, but is pulled aside for you.
"The shocker lizards? Yeah, I got someone who can do it," he says, "I thought we went over this."
"What? I like them. They're cute. I might not use them for battle... unless.. Hmm... Enlarge Person... I wonder if I could get them large enough for mounts... Anyway, I still have nagging ideas about experiments with them. Since we're not staying on the islands, we don't have to worry about them spreading out of control."
"I can make it happen," Jarem says, "I'll pull some favors, I'm calling in markers as it is anyway." He makes the slightest face at it, "Well, easy come, easy go."
Alyssa stops Jarem.
"Stop that. Don't do that. We're in this together, but favors... Those are rare. I'd rather spend money that we can replenish with effort than personal favors that can't. Don't burn your cards on my passing fancies, Jarem."
Smiling at that - a real, big smile, "Yeah. Got the message, clear as a siren's song."
Alyssa squints at him suspiciously.
"I swear I'll drag you naked through the front yard of the Red Knight's castle and hang you by your ankles from the gate if I find out otherwise. You know I can do it."
Still smiling, "Alyssa, breathe. You don't have to be suspicious of everything. Especially not me. I'm all in this, as insane as what lies before us is."
Alyssa snorts.
"I'm not suspicious of you. Your loyalty is unquestionable. But I don't doubt for a second that you wouldn't burn yourself up for this, and that's not what I want. Life will continue after this, and you'll be building your own... whatever you decide. Keep your pockets full enough for that, too."
"You kidding?" Jarem's smile returns, and in a lower voice, "We pull this off...well, I won't need favors to get what I want." Reaching out and laying a hand on your shoulder, "You could stand to lighten up a little bit. Being a leader doesn't mean never showing weakness to those you're close to."
Alyssa raises an eyebrow and smirks.
"That's only if you have weaknesses in the first place. More seriously, I understand. I'd hate to wind up with Madala's attitude. My projects have been a good outlet. My weapon has turned out fantastically, and the work with Professor Tinsel is almost finished."
"Good." A soft squeeze of your shoulder before Jarem lets go. "I'll work something in with the lizards to get moving as we get ready for this."
"Jarem, think of it, though. A pack of Elemental Shocker Lizards. They'd be absolute chaos on a battlefield. And if they could infiltrate a structure..."
"I have nightmares that begin with that," Jarem banters back with an easy smile, "Anyway, we'll see if you can work it out, but I really am busy."
"If you need help, let me know. I'm mostly idle at the moment."
"Yes, you can help me by..."
Okay, anything else to knock out?
Just stopping by the family at some point.
It's easy enough to drop by the family and...
Go ahead and set yourself up there.
"Hello! I was hoping to find you all here!"
Father stands up and says, "We're here, Alyssa. What is it?"
"I've decided to leave for a time. I brought you all here and uprooted you, so I thought I'd offer to continue the trend. Would you like to go with me?"
"We had a long talk about this," Mother says, demurring after that.
"We will. Family stays together," Father agrees, "Not only when it's easy."
Alyssa smiles at them.
"Thank you. But you do have places here, and I will be back. If you come with me, it won't be easy, and I'll have to rely on you for at least a few things."
"We're with you," Father insists, "I'm not ready to retire yet."
Alyssa nods.
"And Alihana?"
"Ahem," Alihana clears her throat, "I was trying not to ruin the moment, Father said it all."
Alyssa considers.
"Alihana, I once asked you what you wanted to do. Before I take you with me, I want an answer for that. What do you want to learn, to do?"
With a moment's beat before a smile, Alihana says, "Be the sister of someone famous?" A hand is on her hip, "I'm heading for spinsterhood as it is, but at least that lets me do it comfortably."
"No. I will not allow it."
Alyssa walks up and takes her hands.
"You aren't just the sister. You are you. Don't give up on anything because you're trying to compare yourself to me. You can and will find your place if you want to come with me. Whatever you have interest in, even if you have a hundred ideas, we will try every single one until you're happy."
That smiles sours right away, "It was a joke, you idiot," she snaps, eyes blazing. "If you can learn magic," she tosses her hair back, "Anyone can!"
Alyssa gets a knowing smirk.
"Then you won't have an issue with my personal tutoring. I expect you to have all the books for the entry level magical calculations, circles, and arcane languages copies for personal use before we leave."
"I will." Alihana agrees, "You can wait and see on that."
Alyssa grins mischievously.
"I can't wait to cause chaos with both of casting spells."
That gets Mother to sigh, as Father smiles fondly and...
Okay, anything else to do pre move?
Not that I can link of, beyond picking up whatever from Tinsel.
That'll take longer unless you want to wait on the move for that. Up to you.
Doesn't really matter, I guess. Might as well just move.
And thus, it's time to say goodbye.
Your family is there, carrying bags on over, packing all their cherished possessions together for the trip. Father lugs most of them, while Mother and Alihana follow along.
Lorathana's possessions float along at her side, a few tightly packed bags and sacks of them. She carries a brown and white kitten along with her.
Delaize is waiting quietly, nothing visibly carried, his hands resting inside his pockets.
Jarem's commanding various soldiers and aids from the Red Knight, as well as you note, a handful of apprentices and journeyman members of the Guild.
Emily's waiting nearby for you, ready and smiling.
Ianvasah awaits as you all gather outside, moving to intercept you. "Are you ready?"
"All of you... Thank you for.... So many things. I was so looking forward to changing... Everything for the Order. What we're doing after here will change even more. There's nothing to do at this point point but to get to work."
Lorathana clears her throat, "We'll be back one day," she promises. "This isn't forever."
Emily smiles at that, "I want to see more of the Prime - of the Primes. I'm holding you to that, Alyssa."
Jarem steps forward, "Had a few volunteers who wouldn't take no for an answer."
"And you'd better not go yet," Madala's voice as you turn and see her. She is followed by Ule and the other regents, advancing. "Regent Alyssa Songsteel. Your term has been tumultuous, but none of us can say that it has been boring. As a sign of our respect, we present you this." A pair of iron gauntlets are produced. They are solid and strong things, engraved with images of a familiar island sunrise - one you've seen every morning from your balcony here.
Alyssa casts a quick Detect Magic and inspects them.
"Madala, for all that we've butted heads... You've always had my respect and trust. How could I do anything but like someone as headstrong as me? I have no doubt you'll herd everything in the right direction. I do have one last task for you, though."
"Oh?" Madala asks, "What is it?" She cracks a smile at that, "It had better be good."
"Even if I know they don't mean any damage, end the spying in the Regent's Council. The only loyalty they should have is to the Order, and to our new nation. I also expect you to come up with an amazing name for the nation."
A slight nod at that, "I'll do it, Alyssa." Is the answer you get, "Use the gauntlets well, too."
"Oh... I have a few tricks I've practiced that no one's seen yet. These are almost perfect for them. I'm going to enjoy using them. Thank you for the gift. I'll find a way to be in touch safely."
"Good luck," Madala bids, "May your paths be long and without end, but always with a warm inn awaiting you."
"May the gods praise you with enough respite to not kill the other regents in frustration."
Alyssa grins at her and turns to go, slipping on the gauntlets.
Thus a portal is opened and you step through.
Ahead of you is fair grasslands, open and wide. The sun is bright here and shines down on you. Dozens of paths can be seen, all winding towards an octagonal building, three stories tall and one connected thing with a courtyard beyond. Inside of that courtyard is a taller tower, about ten stories tall. All the paths to it lead to entrances, a dotting of stables and similar buildings to the sides.
Alyssa selects a path at random and heads towards the tower!
"It's nice," Emily says as she falls in step with you, Alihana's cry of, "Look at that," as you enter.
As you walk, "This school, tower and place is yours, Alyssa," Your dream companion is heard, though not seen. "Use it wisely."
"Thank you."
To the others, "Let's explore and see what's what. I call dibs on the best rooms."
You find it appears to be a magical school and supporting buildings, or at least the octagon is. It's quite spacious and with quartering for all types, The stables, kitchens and supporting buildings all look to be in order, well made and unremarkable for what they are.
Yet when you reach the tower itself, exploring and ready to head within? You have a sudden feeling you should go in alone and that someone is waiting for you there.
Alyssa motions the others to stop.
"I think... I'm supposed to go alone. Look over the rest of the grounds. I'll find you all when I'm done."
She strides forward at that.
Emily starts to say something but then smiles, stepping back. Jarem does the same as you step forward and inside. The first room is a simple entryway, the second a den. Here a gray-bearded old man sits, his traveling clothes dusty as he rests by the fire, feet up on a low table. A tankard of ale is in his hand, drank deeply from. In that instant you know, you feel - a sense of being home, as if something hidden and lost is now visible to you. A overwhelming sense of rightness, a sense of place and belonging that is just...right. As it should be, as it always has been and always should be.
"Alyssa," Shaundakul greets, raising his mug of ale in salute. "The path comes to a rest here, at least for a little time. Join me and rest your feet."
Alyssa sits next to him, enjoying the fire and... Rest.
"I can still feel it. Pulling at me. But rest... I needed it."
"That feeling's normal here. Your soul knows where it's meant to go once your mortal life is done," Shaundakul says, "It knows it stands at the end of the path it's walked since you came to be." A drink of his ale as a mug appears before you. "I don't know why Io chose you and why Shar hates you, but you are one of mine. You'll have safety here and a chance to grow further."
"Shar hates everything, I think. But thank you for a home. You said my mortal life is over, but I don't feel any different. I haven't done anything wrong to my family by bringing them here, have I?"
"You misheard. I said once your mortal life is done," Shaudakul says, "You're still breathing." Another drink, "No, they're your family. I expected you to come with friends, servants and family."
Alyssa chuckles.
"No, no servants. Friends and family, so far. What's the next step? I asked about an assassin and spymaster, since Shar likes to employ them herself."
"He's waiting for you upstairs," Is the answer you get, "Don't let his appearance fool you - he's extremely intelligent."
"I was just a common blacksmith's daughter. I won't underestimate him."
"Good, because he's an orc," Shaundakul says, "A great big brute of an orc."
Alyssa chuckles.
"No more eclectic than a doppelganger, a child of two gods, and an almost-was king. What's his name?"
"Bastian," Is the answer you get. "Go on and meet him, he'll tell you more."
"Thank you, Shaundakul. I really do like being here."
Alyssa gets up and goes to meet this Orc.
Thus you go upstairs and...
Okay, I'm going to pause you for leveling up here. We'll start with Bastian first thing after leveling as well as unpacking and then getting to some adventures.
Congratulations.
Woot. I'll get it done before Wednesday.
Probably Thursday since Wednesday is new computer day, but yeah.