Liber is bright, restored and fresh. There are no immediate signs of the diabolical occupation. People dance in the streets, open celebration. Song greets you as you enter, joy overflowing.
Calleigh zips through the crowd at head-height, zig-zagging between people, orbiting around heads, and singing along with the people, or making up her own songs. Tryll floats above it all in mist form, so as not to cause alarm.
Okay, quick clarification on how you want to handle this. Are you looking for hands on of how they're doing, a GI check to get more or...?
Let's say we'll manifest Read Thoughts and do a bit of GI as well. Should get me pointed in the right direction, at least. I'm looking for someone in charge. Or someone who should be in charge. Or agents of Sylica.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+35 : 14 + 35, total 49[/blockquote]
Easy enough to find. You find Liber has several bralani eladrin war riders in it. These riders are called the Knights of Felis and ride celestial tigers. They guide the people and ensure a degree of control - as much as jubilant celebration is control.
The one you approach stands by the docks, watching sailors celebrate and drink on the surviving ships. His tiger paces about, prowling and with sharp, bright eyes on you as you approach. The bralani has wild, messy green hair and wears a breastplate, greaves, bracers and a light helmet. A layer of chain mail protects the places the heavier armor doesn't.
"Victory is sweet, little one," he greets Calleigh with a smile, "Though I don't know your name. Are you a messenger?"
"Hi hi hi hi!" Calleigh says, looping around in circles in front of the bralani, "I didn't expect to see other eladrin here! Dunno why. Well, wait. This is Elysium! Sorta! Nor Arborea! Is the Queen taking an interest here then? I'm with the Aurora! Hi!"
"Bluemar," The bralani replies to your introduction by stepping back and bowing, "Which Queen, that is the question? If you mean the Queen of all the Stars, not directly. If you mean the Queen of the Battlefield...well, we are here. We are seeing to the mortals here, guiding them in this hour of celebration so that it stays a celebration."
"OhhhOHHohohoh, Queen Morwell! Sorry! It's been a weird day. I'm Calleigh! This is Tryll!" she points at the large cloud of mist hovering over the group's heads, "Sorta. We came over to see if we could help out with government stuff. Actually it would make more sense if you were working with Sylica. Yeah! That makes more sense."
"All is revealed," Bluemar murmurs, his tiger coming up to him. He pats the great tiger's head, feline eyes of pure gold taking your measure. "The Queen of the Battlefield has commanded us to oversee Benfal in victory, we will do so. While the material world is mended, there are many wounded souls in need of succor. We will find them and provide it in them, and so that the people can know the name of their saviors."
"Wounded souls! That sounds bad! We've seen soul wounds before and they take a lot of work to fix!"
"M'lady," Bluemar bows to you, "Then put your heart at ease, because I speak in metaphor rather than in reality. The damage is real, but not of that kind. I speak of emotional pain and suffering under the cruel yoke of Baator."
Calleigh eyeballs the bralani for a moment at the m'lady thing. "I'm not a lady! I'm a courre! And that's good! Cuz pulling Lixer's stuff out of Rosa took way too long and she wasn't able to play while she was in bed and that was boooooooooooring! Emotional stuff is easy. Just tell 'em to be happy cuz it's over!"
"M'lady, you are a lady in my eyes," Bluemar smiles, "Emotional wounds are not so easily dispatched for ones who are not suckled on the nectar of primal righteousness, m'lady. It will take time to nurture them back, but it is a task we accept eagerly. For they have been pulled from the furnace and now it is time for them to be quenched in the cool waters of emotional healing."
"Uhhhh...huh. Right." Calleigh stares in confusion at the bralani, then a dawning look of revelation, followed closely by her bursting into fits of giggles.
"Yes," Bluemar smiles slightly, "Soon Benfal will be a honed blade, ready to wreck holy vengeance on those that oppressed it. From this Sylica will grow stronger, as new champions flock to her banner and those that pass fly to it. Just as your Lifasa has been a tremendous furnace from which superb steel has been forged through Aurora, so will Benfal be."
Calleigh valiantly attempts to hold it in. "Okay!" Snort. "Okay. Okay. I'm alright. Okay. Okay. So. Heh. What can we do to help?"
"M'lady, merely be yourself!" Bluemar gestures, "These are a people weaned on a generation of Hell. Your spirit is the perfect tonic for that, joy unbound and plentiful. They drink deeply from the wellspring of Elysium, yet they thirst for more."
Calleigh flits forward and leans in, a skeptical look on her tiny face, which is scant inches from Bluemar's left eye.
Bluemar raises his left eyebrow and waits.
"You're still talking weird."
"You're still a courre asking unusually perceptive questions for one of your station, m'lady," Bluemar retorts.
"And you're still a bralani talking stuffier than a tulani at high court!"
"Then we're both individualists who pass the test," Bluemar says seriously. "I believe we've proven we're sufficiently chaotic to one another."
"Yep! So whatcha know, Bluey?"
"What I told you," he says, "Alicia and Syala's servants sweep across Benfal to see to its rejuvenation and recovery. I am but one of many."
"Are you guys restoring the local governments too, then?"
"More akin to recreating them, since the old structures were rotted," Bluemar says.
"Well yeah. Devils. Gross. We could help!" Calleigh says.
"How do you intend to help?" Bluemar asks.
"Well I dunno. We don't know what's going on yet! But I know we can help! We've done it before!" Calleigh replies.
Congratulations! You had the 24000th post in post gaming, Yuth. As a bonus, choose one of Aurora's shops.
"Do you know the word and doctrine of the Queen of the Battlefield?" Bluemar asks.
Let's go with Earth's Bounty.
Also is there a roll for this?
K:R.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+27 : 5 + 27, total 32[/blockquote]
You did well enough to get a copy/paste from Alicia's divine writeup. Incoming.
Alicia Reynes
Queen of the Battlefield, The Righteous Avenger, Saint Alicia
Demigoddess
Symbol: Black queen chess piece viewed from above
Home Plane: Sylica
Alignment: Lawful Exalted
Portfolio: Magic, battle, justice, perseverance
Worshipers: Warriors, guards, spellswords, gishes, adventurers
Cleric Alignments: LG, NG, CG
Domains: War, Magic, Good
Favored Weapon: Bonds (Falchion)
Alicia Reynes is the patron of those who selflessly fight for the safety and happiness of others. She encourages those who venerate her name to endlessly strive to improve themselves, both in terms of their skills and the impact they have on the world. A wandering duelist constantly seeking perfection but spurning those perceived as weaker would receive no comfort from Alicia - in her ethos the purpose of might is to shield the weak, and power for its own sake is meaningless.
Like Mystra, Alicia sponsors the growth of magic, viewing it as a vital facet of the world, and also like Mystra she cautions against relying too much upon it. Not just in terms of broadening one's skills to handle all situations, but also to avoid using it as a crutch for mundane things that could be accomplished with the expenditure of a little more effort and ambition.
While Alicia does preach the virtues of honor and chivalry, and considers mercy to a defeated foe to be among the noblest of acts, she also places a particularly high value on tactics, which places her closer to Red Knight than to Tyr in terms of what she expects of her followers in battle. As she encourages her followers to broaden the scope of their knowledge, she likewise teaches them to seek every advantage that can be sought prior to battle. To her there is no shame in using subterfuge and distraction to ensure victory against a superior opponent.
The followers of Alicia favor utilitarian and rugged attire, as if ready to leap into action or go on a journey at any moment. Darker colors are favored for clothing, but for ceremonial functions black robes with a silver or bright blue trim are most common. Said robes never include hoods, as her clerics always ensure their faces are kept uncovered, partly a superstition based on Alicia never wearing a helm in battle, and partly to offset the usual implication given to such dark attire.
At present there is only one holy day dedicated to Alicia. August 7th is the Day of Ascension. It celebrates the day when Alicia rose into the heavens, marked by the Feast of the Risen and the renewal of vows to the Queen of the Battlefield.
History/Relationships
Alicia is a young and energetic deity, having only recently ascended after an eventful mortal life of both heroism and tragedy. The prime material she originates from was until very recently sealed away from the rest of reality in the aftermath of a cataclysmic war between the Gods and an ascendant self proclaimed 'God-King', becoming a living saint of Mystra as her world became more open to the planes, a title she is still sometimes known by despite her attempts to style herself in the manner of a queen since coming to rule over Sylica.
Having lived in a world where the Gods were nearly silent has colored Alicia's beliefs about the role of a deity, and while she keeps a close eye on her faithful she tries to avoid giving them overt displays of her strength, believing that her followers will flourish more by relying on their own will and intuition. This does not keep her from providing clandestine aid to encourage their growth, but she views such as most successful when no one is aware she intervened at all.
Not surprisingly, Alicia's foremost ally among the Gods is Mystra, although she has been trying to develop her own independent standing among the Gods without relying on Mystra's power or reputation. Empress Sulia, another young goddess, has taken on a role as something of a mentor to Alicia, and the two have become firm friends. Sharess has shown some interest in Alicia, who's consort and co-ruler of Sylica was once a divine servant of the Lady of Cats, but there is little in terms of formal ties. Rather than Gods, she counts her strongest allies among the Court of Stars and Celestial Hebdomad. Special mention of course goes to Seira Aryn, a mortal friend of Alicia's who ascended at the same time. The two continue working closely together, frequently combining their forces and visiting one another s' realms.
While Alicia opposes all evil, she does have several notable foes. First and foremost is Shar, whom Alicia maintains an almost legendary enmity with, having gone so far as to slay Malice, a servant deity of Shar's possessing similar power as Alicia. The origins of this particular enmity are not common knowledge, although it is known that in her mortal life Alicia did battle with Shar's most powerful servants on the world of her birth. While Hell in general is almost constantly in opposition to Alicia, she frequently becomes involved in Perdition's politics as various archdevils try to maneuver her to hinder their rivals. Among demons, Malcanthet the Queen of Succubi is her most notable enemy, although their hostility tends to play out on a lower key and Alicia has not yet openly responded to her provocations.
Dogma
Always strive to improve yourself. As powerful as you become, never forget there is always someone better to learn from or overcome. Share your strength with others, teach those who would learn and protect those who cannot. Seek to understand your enemies, for knowledge illuminates the way not only to victory, but may help turn foes into friends. Punish the guilty, but consider the potential for improvement in all beings. As you fight to preserve civilization, engage yourself with it to always be reminded of why you fight.
Clergy and Temples
Clerics of Alicia are charged with teaching and instructing others in the ways of just battle, and honoring the names of heroes by spreading tales of their deeds to bring heart and encouragement to the people. Typically her clergy minister to a wide area, forcing them to become wanderers by circumstance, and maintaining small open shrines throughout their 'parish' rather than being based at a single temple. On their travels they are expected to keep an eye out for those with the potential to become great warriors or mages, using their contacts with Alicia's faithful to arrange training and support so that new heroes are always encouraged to foster their talents.
So the Dogma portion is her doctrine?
Basically, though reading the whole thing helps frame it and provides useful context.
Am at work lack the time to do that. Sorry! Expect a reply sometime in 8-16 hours!
Unless you want to condense it.
Mmmm. Nah, this is going to be a factor in your thread, so it's best if you read it and understand it directly.
Also check loot, Eb made a post with who gets what moneywise? Tryll just make 180k.
"Yep!" Calleigh replies.
"Wonderful. Go spread it to the people," Bluemar says. "Speak to those ready to hear it and allow those celebrating to celebrate longer."
Real quick, is that a thing? Outsiders working for one god promoting another? Or is that sorta like working at Cid's Bakery and telling all the people on the street how great Annie's Bakery is?
That's a really good question.
It depends on the outsiders. Anything non good won't happen unless it's part of an allied group. For example, an outsider serving Gond promoting Oghma. Also stricter standards apply to paladins, clerics and other divine spellcasters, as they go above and beyond the call of normal outsider devotion.
Good outsiders are something of an exception. The forces of good generally work together, even when law and chaos divides them. You're generally supposed to be following and spreading the word of who you revere. However, it is permissible to spread word of other deities and forces your own patron approves of. For instance, you won't get smote if you spread word of Queen Morwel in Mount Celestia, though doing so without a good reason is gauche at best and likely to have a more powerful resident of the realm to drop in and ask you what you're doing and why.
In this case it's acceptable, as Alicia is in Morwel's good books over the saving the lost children of Androlynne. She (and Seira as well as others) were proclaimed eternal friends of the Court of Stars.
Ohhhh, yes, right. Forgot about that. Rock 'n roll.
"Hmmmm, okay. I can do that!"
Okay, next move then?
Random flight patterns across town shouting about how great Alicia is at full volume and basically being as adorably annoying as courrishly possible because Blue here really doesn't know who we are.
Awesome. Make another GI roll, +3 bonus.
<Serith> Mushroom_Cid roll for Serith < 42 > [d20=4]
You go about and do exactly that. Your general response is cheers and agreement, more than one drink offered to you. The mood is jubilant, no one is upset and everyone seems happy. From the children to the elderly, it is a celebration of freedom. Not even your annoying adorableness puts a dent in it, as everyone is simply too happy to be annoyed.
That's the norm until you pass through a well lit alley. Just a shortcut when suddenly light as brilliant as the sun shines behind you, illuminating everything in stark golden light.
"Ohh, is Lathander here?" Calleigh asks, looking about.
"No, but I'm flattered by the compliment," A woman's voice, strong. Commanding, inspiring. "I am known as Latha, Lathander created me once upon a time. I strive to live up to his example." Behind you stands an angel surrounded in the sun's radiance, difficult to look at. "I served as the sun that lit Benfal during the final battle. You are Calleigh and Tryll?"
"Oh hey! That's us! Were you the big sunny angel over Benfal during the fighting?"
"Yes," Latha says, "I am traveling Benfal to ensure that all is well. I heard about what you're doing here from Bluemar."
"Oh! Yeah, we're helping!" Calleigh nods. "Bluey is a bit stuffy but I think it's an act and I dunno if he thinks I'm smart or not because we offered to help with the local governments but instead he sent us to spread the good word so that's what we're doing!"
"Yes," Latha merely says to that, then after a moment, "Bluemar had the impression you were seeking information. If one of Aurora's forces seeks information, allow me to satisfy them."
"Weeeeelllll me and Tryll and Moore were talking with Morniel and Moore was all about trying to figure out what exactly happened and how Benfal slid into Elysium and Tryll had the brainwave that maybe we also need to look into the local governments of Benfal because most of the people here are mortals and they'll need some sort of stable government because they're mortals and they generally don't do well with anarchy and we volunteered to help so we came here and I talked to Bluey and instead of using our admittedly huge experience in uh everything he decided to make me a proselytizer which don't get me wrong I'm okay with but it's a poor use of talent in my opinion."
"Ah. Then what would be a good use of your talent?" Latha asks after all of that.
"Well, we've sort of done this before. Not on a planar scale, but definitely on a national scale. Liberating people from tyranny is our thing. It would be irresponsible of us to just leave after the fighting was over. Gotta make sure it doesn't happen again, right? I don't expect that to happen in Elysium, not without it getting squished fast, but still. Helping the mortals feel more comfortable with their new place in the planes is better than just leaving it. The celebrations and jubilation will end eventually, and I'll bet my wings that there's at least one group of people on this island-plane-thing that are working to set things up. We just wanted to help."
"Thank you for your aid," Latha smiles, "We anticipated this and are taking steps. Sylica will guide the people of Benfal towards a better tomorrow. We're working to find groups with plans and work with them...or deal with them if they harbor tyrannical urges."
"Ohh, so ou're looking to find people? We can do that too! We're good at finding, especially if you're looking for people who are thinking about a certain thing. Mind-reading." Calleigh wiggles her fingers at Latha.
"Yes, a moment please," Latha says, and after some consideration?
'Excuse me,' Latha sends to Tryll, 'I apologize, but I am not certain if you can speak.'
'I can't. I use telepathy, but I prefer Calleigh as my face, as you've seen. She's more relatable. And she loves to talk. Who am I to begrudge her? We are partners, after all. Did you have a question?'
'Yes.' Latha smiles a little bit, 'I wish to hear your motivations directly, rather than through her. Courre are blessed creatures, but they are often excitable.'
'Delightful, isn't she? We do enjoy the game, and most mortals never know the difference. It's a long-running prank, and it only occasionally backfires when some solar or another decides to smite me without asking first. I'm sure you understand. Sometimes you need to conceal who and what you are to get things done among the living. Yes. Anyway. How can I assist you? Oh, right, my motivations. Well. I'll spare you the excessively long story, and just say that we've dealt with tyrannical governments before, and have been involved in the removal of such and restoration of proper governments. We thought that we could assist.'
A pause.
'Or were you referring to my motivations in general?'
'No, you are correct. Your services are welcome, but you do not need to trouble yourselves. In truth...' Latha pauses one moment as she gazes into your eyes, 'This is Sylica's chance. Alicia and Syala intend to transform this world into a bastion for their faith. We have planned for this day and have measures ready to ensure tyranny never rises again. We shall govern them and instruct them for a time, until they are ready to stand on their own once more.'
'Ahh, I see. Well, if there is nothing to be done here by us, we can take our leave then. Many other things need attention, I'm sure.' Tryll replies.
'Yes. You have our thanks,' Latha says, 'If you are ever in Sylica, come visit me at my forges. It would be no trouble to make a weapon for Calleigh's self defense.'
"Yeah!" Calleigh shouts, butting in, "That would be neat!"
'...I may have forgotten to mention we share thoughts at most times, so she knows what you're saying. Yes. Apologies. We should go!'
"Decide what kind of weapon you want before coming over," Latha says aloud, then departs. "Be well, both of you."
Next move?
Let's head back, we can address the crying book. That was the first IC book bought.
You're in Vel's shop, browsing the books. It's unremarkable enough as you gather several. Yet as you do, you swear you hear something.
"...help..."
A tiny voice whispers.
"Huh?" Calleigh wonders.
By chance Sylvie's nearby, whistling and checking the books herself. Vel's at the front as he tends to be. Neither react to it.
"...help..." The voice begs again, coming somewhere nearby.
Calleigh zips up to Sylvie, looking around, "WHERE!?"
Listen check, Calleigh.
Sylvie turns and looks at you, "Where's what?"
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+24 : 6 + 24, total 30[/blockquote]
"I hear a voice asking for help!"
It's coming from a bookshelf - mostly full but with a few gaps. You're pretty sure that's where it's coming from, anyway.
"It's a book! Maybe!?" Calleigh begins pulling books from the shelf, tossing books onto the floor.
You remove the books - and it's not any of them. But as you do, you can hear it, coming from an empty space of the shelf.
"...help...almost...gone..." The voice is growing quieter by the moment, farther away.
Calleigh looks at the empty space on the shelf shelf!
Meanwhile, Tryll manifests True Seeing.
Tryll can see the faintest outline of a book there, growing dimmer by the second.
Calleigh grabs the fading book!
You grab the book. You feel a little faint as it becomes more solid, a cry of relief.
Calleigh takes 20 damage.
It's a plain enough book, brown covered and worn. A voice comes from it. "Thank you, I was almost gone. Can you hear me now?"
Calleigh shivers, "Ugh, weird! Hi! You're a book!" Meanwhile, books begin to rise from the floor and slot themselves back into the shelves as Tryll cleans up with telekinesis.
Vel comes over as Sylvie stays back and watches, "That'll be a thousand gold for that book," he says gruffly, then marches off.
Meanwhile, the book says, "Please understand, I'm trapped in this book. A vampire defeated me and bound my soul into one his spellbooks."
A bulging pouch of gold struggles itself out of Calleigh's bag and floats over to Vel.
"How do we get you out!? And who are you?!" Calleigh shakes the book. She turns to Sylvie with wide, adorable eyes, "Vampires are stuffing souls into books now!?"
"I wouldn't put it past them," Sylvie says coolly, as meanwhile Vel takes the gold and begins to count it.
"My name is Patar," The voice says, "I don't know. I was a warrior, not a wizard."
"Well how do we get you out of the book then?"
"I don't know. Ask a wizard, perhaps?" Patar says. "Are there any that you know of?"
"Ahaha, we have lots." Calleigh replies. Meanwhile, Tryll examines the book with Detect Psionics.
The book radiates strong magic.
Make Psicraft.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+42 : 7 + 42, total 49[/blockquote]
The book looks like a fancy soul gem, like one created by trap the soul. However, if it doesn't get life energy every so often, it'll begin to unravel and fade away. What's worse is that it will condemn the soul within to an eternal half-life of ghostliness, unable to escape or pass on.
On the upside, it should be possible to undo with a wish or similar magic, or epic magic designed to deal with souls.
"We can fix this! We have the technology! Or Gytha does. Soul stuff! And enough holy power to kill a bajillion vampires!"
"Please then, I'll be forever in your debt," Patar says, voice pleading.
Calleigh throws the book into the air and zips off, where Tryll catches it. An aside to Sylvie, "Would you like to join us for the blasphemies of soul science?"
Sylvie shrugs, "Why not? I don't have anything else pressing."
Next move?
Let's go to Gytha and see if he has a spare body to stuff a soul into. If this guy is just a soul.
You find Gytha is tucked away into the library. Books float around him, pages turning as he studies. He seems lost in it.
"Gytha! Gytha Gytha Gytha Gytha! We have a soul gem guy!" Calleigh shouts in the silence of the library.
Gytha turns - and is covered by a whirl of red robes. Sage Vul'lath strides forward, a disapproving scowl on his face. "Ahem," he says softly. "Calleigh, this is a library."
"Oh yeah, look at the books! But that's not important right now! We've got a book with a soul stuffed into it by VAMPIRE WIZARDS!"
"If you do not cease and desist," Sage Vul'lath says, "Silence will be imposed on the library for the sake of everyone else's studies." His voice is cool and getting colder, "Tryll, control your familiar."
Calleigh pouts adorably at Vul'lath.
Vul'lath does not seem impressed, but the silence is enough for him to whirl and walk away.
Once gone, Gytha speaks into your minds. 'Tryll, it may be best if we converse like this. Can you explain the situation?'
'Calleigh has found a book containing the soul of a self-professed warrior. According to the man, he was placed within the book by a vampire wizard. We need to determine if he is friendly, and if so we would wish to return him to a mortal body.'
"Sorry about Vul'lath," Sylvie whispers to Calleigh, "He gets crabby when someone interrupts his concentration. Mastering the secrets of Creation isn't easy."
Meanwhile Gytha considers, "Yes...yes, yes, I could. An intact, created soul is far easier to manage. What was his original race?'
Calleigh points at the book, whispering, "Hey! Hey you! Bookie! What race were you!? Reveal your secrets!"
"Half elven" Patar says, "Short black hair, a scraggly beard, slender."
'A half-elf. Short hair, bearded and slender. At least he's not a devil.'
'It can be done,' Gytha sends back.
'Shall we then? The man is on a short time line.'
Ready to skip along then?
Yes pls
From here you go back to Gytha's laboratory. The book is placed down and studied intently, 'I see. It can be done, but it will strain the book. Someone will have to hold it and feed it life energy during the transfer,' Gytha announces.
'How long will it take?'
'A few hours. The drain will be steady,' Gytha warns.
Calleigh has a wand of healing. Tryll holds the book. 'We stand ready, then.'
Who will volunteer for that? That's what I need to know.
Well, Tryll is holding the book. Is that not sufficient? Is there some sort of ritual? Tattoo? Do we need to dance naked in the moonlight first?
Note that Tryll is always naked, so he's ready to go if that's the case.
I meant for the lifedraining part of it.
Sorry, I thought that would be obvious with the description supplied. It will be Tryll.
It was, but it's one of those situations where it needs to be explicit. What's Tryll's hit points and Constitution score?
21
The ritual begins - a long, slow drain. As it begins Tryll can feel it - a gradual weariness, sleepiness coming on him. It's like his energy is being slowly drained even as he does nothing.
'Speak up if it is too much,' Gytha says, 'The ritual is delicate.'
'I am fine for now.'
Okay, let's get this moving. Fort save.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+13 : 3 + 13, total 16[/blockquote]
Ugh! Ten minutes in and the drain is notable. You feel yourself growing rather faint, but you endure.
> roll 1d4 con damage
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 2 > [d4=2]
Chance to act or simply keep on keeping on, Tryll.
Calleigh blinks, then zips off. Tryll does not outwardly react.
Calleigh has gone to find someone with a wand of Restoration, or someone who can cast it.
Any preferences on who?
Preferably not a devil, and someone who can breathe water.
I'd be more worried if you could find a devil in Aurora, save for the dungeons.
To your surprise, you find Mirajane waiting just outside of the laboratory.
"You need a healer," she says, not a question at all, merely a statement of fact.
"Yep! Tryll and Gytha are trying to same a soul trapped in a book by a vampire and the book is eating Tryll! Wanna help?"
"Yes," Mirajane says, "Take me to them."
Calleigh heads back to the group, Mirajane in tow.
Mirajane immediately kneels next to Tryll, then pauses. "...are you solid enough to be touched," she asks, a note of concern in her voice.
"He's permanently incorporeal. Can't turn it off. That's bad, right?"
"Mass Heal will do. It's crushing an ant with a boulder, but it'll do," Mirajane bows her head and prays, as Tryll feels much better.
Con damage reversed.
"Thanks! Wanna hang out and watch? We might need your help again."
Mirajane nods.
From here's simple - Mirajane restores you as needed. The ritual goes on - until suddenly the book breaks apart. At the same time Gytha chants, a body coming from the darkness. A half elven body with black hair, stocky and well built, but almost hairless. A flash of light goes into the body and it immediately stirs.
"A success," Gytha announces, "On all counts."
'And good riddance to a vampire's raving's.' Tryll replies.
Calleigh claps, "I always wanted my own half-elf!"
The half elf rises, rubbing his head. "At last," he says, falling back and laughing. "I'm free!"
"And beardless!" Calleigh nods.
The half elf rubs his chin, "So I am." He laughs and laughs, grinning all the while.
Once he's done, he sits up. "What can I do to repay you?"
"Well, how long were you trapped in the book? And who exactly were you before you were stuffed in there?" Calleigh asks.
"Patar Goldbrook," The half elf answers, "Of House Goldbrook, if only by blood. I don't know how long I've been in there," Patar replies. "Time got fuzzy."
"Right! Okay, what plane are you from?" Calleigh nods.
"The world." He stands up and rolls his neck, "I think it's called the Prime Material."
"Yeah, there's lots of those. You don't know which one, huh?"
"There's more than one?" Patar says, "Damn and blast. Well, all isn't lost. There's a fellow who owes me a lot of money and I know he's not from my plane."
"What's his name? If he's still around, we can probably find him." Calleigh offers.
"Fantase," Patar slowly starts to walk, stretching his newfound muscles, "Blue skinned, called himself a mer...something."
"A mercane?"
"That's it," Patar agrees, perking up, "Mercane, that's the name of their race."
"Yep, we've got one or two of those, too. We can take you to Filbrez, maybe he knows this guy." Calleigh nods.
"If we can get in touch with him, I can reward you properly," Patar says. "Then I can get back on with my life."
"That's great! If he's still around, I mean. Remember that you've been locked in a book for who knows how long. A LOT of time might have passed." Calleigh points out sensibly.
"If. Better than not trying," Patar says.
Next move, Tryll?
LEt's wrap this up. To Filbrez, and then Tepen for a Sending.
> roll 1d100 Luck check
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 88 > [d100=88]
"Fantase?" Filbrez says behind the counter of his shop, "No, I've never heard of him."
"Bummer!" Calleigh says. "Let's try a Sending with Tepen!"
Okay, cool. What's the Sending going to be? Remember, 25 word limit.
Whatever Pete the Half-Elf Castaway wants to say to the guy, I guess?
If I have to come up with it, Calleigh will compose the following: HEY FANTASE WE HAVE YOUR BUDDY PATAR COME TO THE AURORA FOR PICK UP ASAP ALSO BRING SNACKS PLEASE
"Ahem," Patar clears his throat. "My sending is this: Fantase, this is Patar Goldbrook. You owe me money that I need to collect. Please response as soon as possible."
Tepen nods and casts. Soon enough he frowns, "I have a response. Ahem." He clears his throat, "Help, in prison in Brightwater. Unable to afford bail. Please help."
"Send him another! How much is bail!"
Tepen merely sighs and casts again. "Ahem, his reply is: 10,000 gold and he's being held in Saint Rich's Golden Correctory."
"Great Googly Grognak!" Calleigh cries, clearly aghast.
Patar groans, "He's in jail and his bail is astronomical. What did he do?" A facepalm follows, both hands.
"Ask him what he did!" Calleigh eggs Tepen on.
"If you wish to talk to him that much, go to Brightwater," Elder Magi Tepen says, "Sendings are not meant for this sort of communication."
"Aww. Let's go to Brightwater then." Calleigh pouts.
Going with just the two of you and Patar?
Unless anyone else wants to go, yeah.
Fantastic. How are you going to find your destination?
We go to Brightwater and ask for the place. I'ms sure someone knows it.
Okay, let's begin with a GI check.
Taking 10 for 45.
Saint Rich's Golden Correctory turns out to be deep in Brightwater. The building is opulent and yet several guards stand at the only door within. Patar follows, eyes wide, wider and widest as he goes along.
The guards wear full plate armor and face concealing helmets, stepping forward as you approach. 'Entrance is restricted, good citizens. Explain yourself."
"Well, I guess someone this guy," Calleigh points at Patar, "knows is in here. Izzis a jail then?"
"Good sirs, we would like to see one of your inmates," The half elf smiles pleasantly, "Is that possible?"
> roll 1d20+15 Half elves tend to be decent at diplomacy
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 22 > [d20=7]
"What is the prisoner's name?" The guard asks.
"Fantasy? Fantase. Something."
"Visitation is 100 gold for 1 hour," the guard says, "Payable up front."
"Kay." Calleigh says courrishly.
Patar clears his throat, "I am currently...short on funds," he admits.
"Ohhhhh, yeah. You were a book. We can cover it!" Calleigh says, handing over gold coins.
Post the expense in loot.
Posted.
You're lead into a plain, barren room of semi-worked stone. Only a few wooden chairs are here and a rickety table. A guard by the door says, "The entire groups are dimensionally locked. If spellcasting is detected or supernaturally powers manifested, an antimagic field will be deployed over the room. Attempting to help prisoners escape is a violation of Brightwater law, and as an officially licensed private jailer, you are liable for immediate arrest and detention pending trial."
Tryll is silent. Calleigh shrugs. "Whatever you say, guy. Where's the mercane?"
"He's coming," The guard says, jerking a thumb in there. "Get in."
Calleigh flits forward, Tryll following, "Ohh, fancy! Very cave-chic. We spent a lot of time in caves, recently! We helped kick the devils out of Benfal! What's your name, mister guard? Is it Mr. Guard? That would be funny!"
"My name is-" The guard is cut off as he steps back. The prsioner is brought in and the door closed behind him.
Fantase is a slender mercane in sack-cloth, looking about with a tired gaze, "Oh, oh, is my miserable fortune reversing itself?" he asks. "You came! ...aaand who are you?"
"I'm Calleigh," Calleigh points at her face, "This is Tryll," Calleigh points at the air around her, "And this is Patar. The guy behind the door is called Mister Guard. What did you do to end up in here?"
"Yes, you owe me a great deal of money," Patar says, arms crossed.
"Patar...my gold, you're alive? It's been years!" Fantase gapes, "My friend, my visitors, I would love to give you that money, but I am in a situation. Perhaps you could help if I tell you about it?
"Well, we did ask."
"Oh, thank you. Listen to my story of woe," Fantase sighs, a hand to his forehead, "Oh, my investments were at one time blooming, blossoming as the sweet spring flowers do in the radiance of the sunshine, each gold coin a wonderful blossom that could be spent to secure five more, as flower sprout seeds-"
"Get to the point," Patar cuts in, "You still haven't cut down the flowery speech?"
"Hmph. Some mortals just don't appreciate finely crafted conversations. Fine." With a glower and a grumble, "I had some bad luck and lost a majority of my investments, while the rest were endangered. So I cashed out, gathered my capital and secured the money. I took some stock I had to Brightwater to sell, but somehow some contraband was in there. Of course, you know that certain types of contraband are targeted by oracles in the service of Waukeen's church, so I found myself arrested minutes into Brightwater."
A long, drawn out sigh here, "So here I am. My merchandise is confiscated pending trial, and all my money is securely off plane, so I can't touch a copper of it. I would normally call on the Consortium to cover my bail, but I may have offended some people by cashing out my investments and caused them to lose a lot of money. People who have the authority to make my status in the Consortium lower than dirt."
"So!" Fantase says, cheering up, "I've love to get you your money back, but right now I literally can't. Now, if my bail gets paid, I'll be glad to help all of you and get you your money back. Of course we'll have to do it the hard way since I don't trust banks - I swear, dragons have the right idea. You can lose up to an entire percent of your money in bank fees! No sir! Not for me. Now I have an astral vault - it's a twist on the old extra dimensional storage space. It only opens up if you have the key....which may have been confiscated along with my merchandise. But all is not lost! Since it's an astral vault, I can reach it from the astral with the right tricks. I'll be glad to take you there and pay you off personally if I can get out, as well as pay you back for the bail."
SSSEEEEENNNNNSSSE MOTIVE![blockquote]Rolled 1d20+12 : 20 + 12, total 32[/blockquote][blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 9 + 7, total 16[/blockquote]
Which is which?
Sorry. Top is Tryll, bottom Calleigh.
Both are fairly sure he's on the level. He seems earnest and forthright.
"What kinda contraband are we talking about here anyway?" Calleigh asks.
"Love's loss, it's an alchemical compound made by someone killing someone they love. As you can imagine, the authorities here do not approve of it." Fantase clears his throat, "One of my business deals must have included that in error, and I had not caught the error. A regrettable situation for all concerned."
An K:N or K:R check can be made on that.
K:R
<Serith> Arcane_Haberdashery roll for Serith < 39 > [d20=11]
You recall a scrap of lore that mentions Love's Loss is tied to Shar's church, as they pioneered the creation of it.
"Ohhh, that's Shar stuff. Bad juju!" Calleigh says. "No wonder they flipped out about it. You're lucky they didn't just chop your noggin off right then and there!"
"Yes, yes. They seemed to believe me that it wasn't mine and it was some sort of horrible mistake." Fantase says, "Otherwise I'd have suffered a harsher penalty." The mercane wrings his hands and shivers, "That solar incinerated the poison with a glance. No thanks."
After a long breath, "So what do you say?"
"Wait, if they realized it was an honest mistake, why didn't they let you go? Did you do something else?"
"Weeeelllllll, I still did bring that in and the solar wasn't happy about that. Even if I most likely have a good defense, I still did get caught red handed." Fantase says, "Look," his voice drops to exasperation, "The incarnation of primal Good didn't fry me like an egg. I count that as a win already."
Calleigh scratches her head. "But it's a solar. They're big on the law and stuff. Right? If he knew you were on the level, he should have let you go. Probably. That sounds right in my head. But! We're wasting time that could be better spent not sitting in a visitation room with decor inspired by torture chambers! We can pay your bail if you're able to pay us back!"
"Deal!" Fantase says, offering his hand.
Patar, arms crossed and listening to it, "I hope this isn't a scheme. If it is..." He slams a fist into his palm, "We'll have words, merchant. I still remember Lorinmen."
"Aaah, hahahaha," Fantase waves that off, "Ancient history and misunderstandings. Now let's go make all of you quite materially satisfied! Do you happen to be able to portal to the Astral or will we need to pay for that?"
"We'll need to pay for it, probably. Or we can go back to the Aurora and get a Gate from there. Actually, that's a good idea. You guys need gear, in case we get jumped by giths! Or astral dreadnaughts! Or illithids! Or wandering cosmic horrors!" Calleigh suggests.
"Or get some help," Patar suggests. "I've been some time since I've fought, so I'm out of practice."
"Yes, yes, the same as well. Mercane don't fight, that's what bodyguards are for. I can manage a few fireballs if have time to prepare." Fantase says.
"Let's go recruit help then!"
Onward noble steed, to Aurora!
Who are you looking to recruit here?
Anyone who wants to come I suppose. Preferable 1-2 people. At least one caster and a melee. Rosa and Moonlight are always preferred, Dana is welcome, and I have no preference on casters.
Rosa will bite on the first. For the second, what sort of caster?
Let's bring Mei this time, just to shake things up.
Rosa and Mei then? Okay. Another post coming, need to set up spoiler blocks.
You get Rosa and Mei easily enough. Mei comes forward and nods firmly, while Rosa merely gives you a disinterested glance.
"We're wasting time," Rosa says curtly, "Let's go."
[spoiler]
Rosa
HP: 343+15/343
Spells Active: Mind Blank (CL15), Fortunate Fate (CL13), Planar Tolerance (CL7), Greater Mage Armor (CL5), Heroes Feast (CL20)
Bonuses: +1 morale attacks and will saves, immunity to fear and poison
Negative Conditions:
Resources Used:
Name
HP: 472/472
Spells Active: Mind Blank (CL15), Fortunate Fate (CL13), Planar Tolerance (CL7), Greater Mage Armor (CL5), Heroes Feast (CL20)
Bonuses: +1 morale attacks and will saves, immunity to fear and poison
Negative Conditions:
Resources Used:
"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold up! Nope! Uh-uh! We're not going anywhere with that frowny face!" Calleigh points at Rosa, "You're never frowny! What gives!?"
"Aurora," Rosa says crisply, "There are so many things to be done and improved. There are inefficiencies and errors everywhere. How can a crusade begin when there are so many things wrong? It's unacceptable."
Mei frowns herself and shakes her head, promptly going up to Rosa and smacking her across the face. She puts her hands on her hips and glares, waggling a finger.
"Yeah! What she didn't say! This isn't you! You sound all...lawful!" Calleigh makes a face.
> roll 1d20+30 Rosa (+2 enchantment)
<Rei-chan> Space_Cat rolled : 1d20+30 Rosa (+2 enchantment) --> [ 1d20=8 ]{38}
Rosa rubs her cheek and scowls, "See? Inefficiency," Rosa says shortly, "When I give an order, obey it. Your insubordination costs lives and undermines morale."
Tryll suspects alignment shenanigans and manifests Detect Psionics to see what's going on here.
Psicraft to try to figure out what's affecting her. [blockquote]Rolled 1d20+42 : 15 + 42, total 57[/blockquote]
There's an overwhelming aura of enchantment messing with her. It seems to be directing her in more lawful directions. It's coming from her new ring you think, though looking at that doesn't provide any more illumination.
'There is a strong lawful enchantment emanating from her new ring.' Tryll shares with Calleigh and Mei, 'It appears to be pushing her toward a lawful extreme. There may be an evil twist to it as well, even solars are not so rude. We would be both wise and kind to remove the ring from her person.'
Mei darts forward and goes right for Rosa's hand.
> roll 1d20+32 vs 66 since can't be flatfooted needs a 20
<Rei-chan> Space_Cat rolled : 1d20+32 vs 66 since can't be flatfooted needs a 20 --> [ 1d20=19 ]{51}
Rosa brings up her shield and pushes Mei away, "What do you think you're doing?" she snaps.
Manifesting Retrieve, Twinned & Suppressed.
Cost: 17 PP
Will Save: 27, note that Rosa is the one who must fail the save, not the object. Basically, I'm fishing for a 1 since she'll beat it every other time.
No outward show that a power was manifested.
If successful, the ring will vanish from Rosa's hand and appear in Tryll's possession.
Make 2 Will saves, yo.
> roll 1d20 1 fishing first save
<Serith> Space_Cat roll for Serith < 15 > [d20=15]
> roll 1d20 1 fishing second save
<Serith> Space_Cat roll for Serith < 11 > [d20=11]
Rosa snarls, face twisting into something ugly. "You don't understand! Aurora's deviance has to be stopped. So much waste. It would all be better if you did exactly as I said."
"Elena!" Calleigh yells.
Elena pops in, both of her. "Yikes!" They say at the same time, "Hold her down and stall her, we'll get help!" Then they vanish.
Rosa growls, "I'm telling you, all of this is wrong. Just submit and know your place!"
"Don't be evil, Rosa! It's not a good look for you!" Calleigh shouts as Tryll tries again.
Manifesting Retrieve, Twinned & Suppressed.
Cost: 17 PP
Will Save: 27
No outward show that a power was manifested.
Make 2 Will saves, please.
> roll 1d20 1 fishin'
<Serith> Space_Cat roll for Serith < 19 > [d20=19]
> roll 1d20 1 fishin'
<Serith> Space_Cat roll for Serith < 4 > [d20=4]
No good. At the same time Mei leaps forward, trying to tackle Rosa down.
> roll 1d20 Mei needs a 20
<Serith> Space_Cat roll for Serith < 5 > [d20=5]
A shield-bashing backhand knocks Mei back, "You impudent, ungrateful...!" Rosa snaps, "You need to do what's good for you and submit! Submit, damn you!"
"Whoa! Nobody hits Mei!" She waves a crystalline wand at Rosa and with a shout of "Messy Time!" a large glob of writhing sticky tentacles launches out of it and straight at Rosa.
Ranged touch for Entangled.
That's a dorje of Entangling Ectoplasm.
<Serith> Arcane_Haberdashery roll for Serith < 47 > [d20=17]
"Guh!" Rosa is entangled, not fast enough to stop getting caught. "Cancel this spell immediately!"
"Sure! Just as soon as you take the ring off!"
With Rosa all entangled, Mei marches over and pulls the ring right off.
The moment it's off, Mei yelps and drops the ring, shaking her hand. At the same time, Rosa slumps and moans.
The ectoplasm is dismissed, and the ring is carefully scooped away from the group with a handy clod of dirt and stone via telekinesis. "You ok, Rosa?" Calleigh flits over.
Meanwhile, Balyss comes jogging up, along with Cresiel and Arrel. They immediately grab the dazed Rosa and pin her, tearing off her rings.
"Woah, woah, Tryll beat you to it," she says, as Balyss starts on Rosa's armor straps.
"I'm...ah!" Rosa cries, "Stop, stop! I'm back in my right mind!"
"Uhmmm..." Calleigh looks at Balyss strangely. "The ring is over there. We just got it off of her."
"Oh." Balyss blushes and stops, patting Rosa's back. "Sorry."
"I'm fine now," Rosa says, "My apologies, but that ring is insidious."
"Is it evil? It sounded like it was making you evil. Or really mean." Calleigh helpfully supplies, now hugging the side of Rosa's head.
Meanwhile, in the background?
"Are your friends always like this?" Fantase asks.
"...They're all archmages I think," Patar replies, "Archmages are always a little bit off."
Meanwhile, Rosa rubs the free side of her head. "No, I was seeing the flaws. The flaws in how I fought first and how I could overcome them in one burst. Then flaws in other things. How to make others fear me so they'll do my bidding, because I know better."
"That sounds evil." Calleigh says knowingly.
"Diabolical," Cresiel says, eyes on the ring. "It is clear it holds secrets we were not able to discern. We must study it further."
"You okay to keep going?" Calleigh asks Rosa.
"I'm fine now," Rosa says, "We have a mission, we must achieve it."
"Yay!" Calleigh flits away from Rosa's head and points at the new guys, "You heard the lady! Let's go!"
Heading out to the Astral now? Any prep or ready to go now?
Calleigh and Tryll are set. We'll get there however is immediately available to us.
Soon enough all of you are at the Silver Sea. Fantase closes his eyes, "Yes...yes...we fly that way," he points to the party's left and begins to fly. "Follow my lead, don't lose sight of me."
"Okay!" Tryll and Calleigh keep pace. "So mister mercane, what do you normally trade?"
"That's a great question!" Fantase claps his hands together, "More like what I don't trade. Well, I started out in account management, so in a sense I started with gold. The right gold here at the right time and you have a lot more gold than when you started. It's really something of an art. But in due time I got enough capital to start - fruits from various planes, a steady and low profit enterprise. It's where many mercane cut their teeth with their first trading operations. The risk and reward are both marginal, and so long as you know the right spells, you don't have to worry about anything spoiling right away."
Fantase pauses to waggle a finger, "Now it depends, but most planes have a market for that sort of thing. I stuck to a fairly steady route from Mechanus to Arcadia, then Arcadia to Celestia, then back. Repeat as needed. You see, Mechanus directly controls the price of every good sold there, as well as having strict quality inspections. So you know exactly what you're getting, which is good for Arcadia, since they make lots of food. You have to know exactly what you're getting to get anywhere there, usually by importing interesting fruits not native to Arcadia. You can't gamble with Arcadia, since if you're wrong, you end up selling nothing."
"On the other hand, once you sell stock in Arcadia, restock and then count your profit, you're in good shape to head onto Celestia. Celestia doesn't grow as much food as Arcadia, so the market for produce is good. Especially on Lunia, which is all beach, ocean and rock. Sure, it's good for seafood and picking up some fish for the trip back, but fruit's scarce. Not even coconuts, palm trees don't grow on Celestia's beaches. More's the pity if you ask me. Anyway, so you sell there and it's no risk. I've never met a dishonest archon, and while other trades there may try offering you more, you can trust the archons. Which means it's another safe place to purchase from."
A pause to take a breath, "So you stock up on two things - fish and any precious metals or gems you can buy from the archons. See, Celestia's not much for farming, but the mining's much more robust. The prices are always fairly good there, so get whatever you can afford. At first it'll be barely anything since you're probably starting with little capital if you're running this route. Later on you'll want to aim for about a 40/60 split between fish and precious metals or gems. So anyway, you stock up there and take the fish to Arcadia. You'll need to put a bit of elbow grease into it, but you can sell the fish for a tiny profit. You're really just covering expenses with the fish and maybe picking up a few choice bits, anything you know that's a good sale in Mechanus. Pay attention and you'll get a good grasp for that in a few trips."
"Then," Fantase continues, "You take all of that. Mechanus produces a lot of metal, but almost all of it goes into the Inevitables and other constructs. So the price for metal is fairly high, since not much makes it to civilian use. Same with gems as well. Sell those and whatever else and you should have turned a profit. A good profit margin, after expenses and incidentals, is about 10%. You won't break the bank with this, but I've never heard of anyone losing money on this route barring exceptional circumstances. It is tedious and the lowest of ranks to trade at, but it's a good place to start. With enough time and effort, anyone with a pulse can make money that way. Or without a pulse, for the awakened golems amid us."
Calliegh's attention is surprisingly rapt, nodding at the appropriate times. "Uh-huh. Yep. That all makes sense."
"Now once you build up a good nest egg, you can try more profitable but riskier routes. In this case I decided to get into Blood War supply. Are you familiar with the economics there?" Fantase asks, as Rosa both of you a sidelong look.
"Uhhhhm...that's the eternal war between demons and devils, right?" Calleigh looks confused. "Why would you want to help either of them?"
"There's good money in it, and there's also a generally unspoken interest in ensuring neither side is triumphant." Fantase says, "Of course, you need bodyguards and experience to navigate it properly."
"But they're evil!"
Fantase strokes his chin, "So they are. Tell me, what would you do if the Abyss won and send those countless demon armies towards Arborea? Likewise, what would you do if the devils won and put those elite legions on the offensive instead of the defensive?"
"Well, we'd have to fight, of course! Don't think that just because I'm a courre doesn't mean I can't fight!" Calleigh shakes a tiny finger in the mercane's face.
"Yes yes, and how many of you tiny little courre would be slaughtered?" Fantase says, sounding unimpressed. "Would you rather have devils and demons beating each other up or coming after all of you?"
"So you're trying to say that selling weapons and stuff to demons and devils makes you a good guy? Mister Fantase, I don't think you understand the meaning of the word." Calleigh looks skeptical.
"It's a balancing act. Officially, the Consortium favors neither side. Unofficially, we favor whomever is losing at the time," Fantase says, "The Blood War is intensely profitable, plus if it ends, all that profit potential is gone. Moreover, they'd go and raise trouble somewhere, disrupting other trade routes. The Mercane do all of Creation a favor by this policy," Fantase says, voice lofty.
"Sounds pretty evil."
"Clearly you lack the intellectual gravitas to properly appreciate this," Fantase says, "I'll have to reserve my insights for firre and tulani instead."
"Says the man who couldn't keep track of his stock enough to keep from getting arrested in Brightwater." Calleigh blithely points out.
"Hmph," Fantase says, not dignifying that with a reply.
Good to move along?
Calleigh looks smug.
Yup.
> roll 1d100 Astral randoms Rei
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d100 Astral randoms Rei --> [ 1d100=77 ]{77}
It's going to matter here, so what formation are you going in?
Oh gosh I dunno, I just figured we were a clump of people headed through the astral.
Okay then. I'll assume Fantase is in front since he's leading this little trip.
Fantase leads your party along for a time. How long you can't tell here, until Fantase calls. "We're almost there," he says, "We'll have your money in no time."
"Great!" Calleigh says from Rosa's shoulder.
With that you go just a tad ahead - and on the horizon Fantase points, "That should be it ah-ah-!"
You can see it ahead, a vast beast. A circular head and vast body, larger than a typical fortress. A strange thing with a maw with far too many teeth in it. Many horns line its huge face, with a single green eye peering ahead.
K:P?
Go for it.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+28 : 9 + 28, total 37[/blockquote]
It's an astral dreadnought. A bigger than usual one, really big and really full of sharp, courre eating teeth.
As you reflect on that, Rosa asks aloud, "What in the name of Arborea is that?"
"That...that....that's where my money is!" Fantase wails. "How? What? WHY?!"
Patar stays back from the beast, as its attention slowly turns towards the party.
I can provide basic details if you need them, if you aren't familiar with how they work.
"That's an astral dreadnaught! It's a real healthy one, too!" Calleigh chirps, "It's probably been eating your evil devil demon gold, Mister Mercane."
"No...no! You have to get it out of there! My money!" Fantase wails, "My moneeeeyyyyyyyy!"
Mei frowns at the entire thing and points. The beast is well away from you, but it's starting to approach rather rapidly.
"You could ask nicely!" Calleigh points at the approaching giant horrid monstrosity, "I'm sure it's reasonable."
They'll reaches out to the beast with a telepathic, 'Parley?'
Tryll and Calleigh are readying actions! No being caught flat footed here!
What's the range on your telepathy?
100 feet
It's more than 100ft away. Going to try and close the distance?
I know I didn't note the distance except vaguely, so no penalty or loss of initiative for this.
We can wait. It's coming to us.
The beast is speeding up, 500ft away. Rosa draws her blade, "Is it hostile?" she asks tersely.
Fantase and Patar wisely gets back while Mei takes the front with Rosa.
"Dunno. Maybe we should ask." Calleigh wonders. "It's too far away unless we use powers to get real loud, and then I think we'd be asking everything within half a mile."
"Well, we need to do something. It might be hungry," Rosa says tightly.
"We could feed the evil mercane to it." Calleigh suggests.
"What? NO!" Fantase scowls, "You aren't serious?...are you?"
"Nah!" Calleigh laughs, "Not even if you were a devil-worshiper! Well, maybe. But! You're not. Right!?"
"No!" The mercane stares, as meanwhile the beast comes closer. Suddenly within 300ft all your abilities simply...cease. The magic of your gear goes silent!
You are now within an antimagic field effect. Unfortunately the creature does not seem friendly. Roll init y'all.
Oh dear I didn't know they did that.
Calleigh blinks. "Well that's not good!"
Readied actions.
What are your readied actions then?
Haha they're all powers and activated psionic items.
How unfortunate. Let's go to init then.
fukken gimme the whole statblock for this fucker
Your check wasn't that high, but you did get some relevant info.
An Astral Dreadnought is a silent hunter of the Astral Plane. Despite not needing to eat, it nonetheless hunts and devours creatures on the Astral Plane. As an outsider, it has darkvision.
An Astral Dreadnought is feared for its cone of antimagic, which extends from its center eye 150ft ahead of it. It can turn the eye in any direction to move the cone as it sees fit. Interestingly, as you're 300ft away, this suggests this is an advanced specimen with greater powers than normal.
The Dreadnought is more than happy to swallow foes whole. This naturally leads to be consumed and digested, which is rather unpleasant for all concerned.
Oh thank god it's a cone. That really solves a lot of problems, actually.
<Horphant_Underwaxer> roll 1d20+6-1 Tryll
<Serith> Horphant_Underwaxer roll for Serith < 18 > [d20=13]
<Horphant_Underwaxer> roll 1d20+7-3 Calleigh
<Serith> Horphant_Underwaxer roll for Serith < 17 > [d20=13]
> roll 1d20+12 Mei
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 31 > [d20=19]
> roll 1d20+7 Rosa
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 18 > [d20=11]
> roll 1d20+3 Fantase
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 22 > [d20=19]
> roll 1d20+4 Patar
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 22 > [d20=18]
> roll 1d20+8 AD
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 14 > [d20=6]
Mei (31) > Fantase = Patar (22) > Rosa = Tryll (18) > Calleigh (17) > Astral Dreadnought (14)
Mei makes a show of rolling up her robe's sleeves and advances on the dreadnought, coming to within 100ft of it, dead ahead. She gestures at it, beckoning for it to come forth at her.
Fantase turns and retreats to the side, while Patar hurries to the other side.
Rosa and Tryll.
Rosa goes first, then Tryll and Calleigh will act together. Sync Tryll's Init with Calleigh's, please.
Rosa flies to the side on consideration, getting out of the way of this thing for the moment, or perhaps setting up a flank.
Done. Init is:
Mei (31) > Fantase = Patar (22) > Rosa (18) > Tryll = Calleigh (17) > Astral Dreadnought (14)
Go you two.
Calleigh and Tryll head in the direct opposite direction, hoping to flank as well, or at least get out of the cone.
How far do each of you move? Remember Astral movement is a factor here along with automatic quickening.
Remind me how Intelligence influences travel speed? 10 ft per point of intelligence?
Correct.
Calleigh is at 160 ft. Tryll is double that at 320 ft. Due to the nature of this combat and the unlikelihood of Calleigh immediately attracting the beast's attention over Mei or Rosa, Tryll will speed ahead and use his move action to attempt to escape the affecting cone.
Calleigh doesn't escape the antimagic, but Tryll is able to with all of his movement speed.
Go ahead.
Current distance to monster from Tryll?
300ft away, it's so huge that moving to the side doesn't meaningfully impact that. There's a lot of dreadnought to go around.
That'll do.
Manifesting Tornado Blast, Twinned & Augmented
Augmentation: 4 PP spent to increase secondary damage by 4d6, DCs increased by 2.
Notes: Initial damage has no save. Secondary damage allows for Reflex DC 32 to halve. Regardless of whether the save is made, all creatures in the area find themselves hurled about and facing a random new direction 1d4*10 feet from their prior location. Secondary damage and effects apply even if initial attack misses.
Ranged touch! SCREWED IT UP[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+21 : 5 + 21, total 26[/blockquote][blockquote]Rolled 1d20+21 : 10 + 21, total 31[/blockquote]
Calleigh
HP: 221
Spells Active: Inertial Armor
Bonuses:
Negative Conditions:
Resources Used: 27 PP
Default Aurora boosts
Mind Blank (CL15), Fortunate Fate (CL13), Planar Tolerance (CL7), Greater Mage Armor (CL5), Heroes Feast (CL20)
Calleigh
HP: 110 hp
Spells Active: Inertial Armor
Bonuses:
Negative Conditions:
Resources Used:
Default Aurora boosts
Mind Blank (CL15), Fortunate Fate (CL13), Planar Tolerance (CL7), Greater Mage Armor (CL5), Heroes Feast (CL20)
Psicrystal
HP: 110
Spells Active: Inertial Armor
Bonuses:
Negative Conditions:
Resources Used:
Default Aurora boosts
Mind Blank (CL15), Fortunate Fate (CL13), Planar Tolerance (CL7), Greater Mage Armor (CL5), Heroes Feast (CL20)
Both hit. Make a caster level check if it allows SR/PR, otherwise go to damage.
Muhuhahaha no SR/PR!
Initial damage![blockquote]Rolled 8d6 : 2, 6, 4, 5, 3, 5, 2, 5, total 32[/blockquote][blockquote]Rolled 8d6 : 2, 2, 4, 3, 4, 6, 3, 4, total 28[/blockquote]
Secondary damage![blockquote]Rolled 20d6 : 2, 3, 5, 5, 4, 6, 5, 6, 5, 3, 5, 4, 2, 3, 3, 2, 5, 2, 4, 5, total 79[/blockquote][blockquote]Rolled 20d6 : 3, 4, 5, 3, 5, 2, 1, 5, 6, 1, 3, 1, 4, 6, 5, 6, 5, 3, 4, 5, total 77[/blockquote]
Calleigh elects to spend her entire round taking a double move action, escaping the field to join Tryll.
Also![blockquote]Rolled 1d4 : 2, total 2[/blockquote] Multiply that by 10! He moves that many feet and now faces a random direction! Kn owing this is the Astral, he could eisily be cacing any direction on X, Y, or Z axes.
Your tornadoes slam into the great creature - so large that you just barely move it, the winds battering it to little visible effect. However, it's turned away from the party now, thankfully.
Mei (31) > Fantase = Patar (22) > Rosa (18) > Tryll = Calleigh (17) > Astral Dreadnought (14)
Just in time for it to turn around and fly towards Tryll with silent intensity. Antimagic comes over him once more as the beast closes 300ft like it's nothing, parting the Silver Sea to come right on you.
Any immediates or anything?
If it turns off its antimagic cone AND casts a SR/PR spell, yes! If not, no.
That was a bit of a stupid question in retrospect, yes.
> roll 1d20+50 vs Tryll's AC of ???
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 51 > [d20=1]
Yet the beast charges with hunger instead of skill, giving Tryll the chance to flit back and away from being swallowed like a crumb. The beast's teeth are huge this close up, like greatswords.
Mei (31) > Fantase = Patar (22) > Rosa (18) > Tryll = Calleigh (17) > Astral Dreadnought (14)
Mei holds position with a frown, before forming her eldritch powers into a glaive and charging the rear of the dreadnought. Its tail lashes out as she does, psychic winds buffering all of you in the aftermath.
> roll 1d20+50 vs tail AoO vs Mei's AC of 49
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 58 > [d20=8]
> roll 6d8+40
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 68 > [d8=1,6,6,7,5,3]
> roll 1d20+39 Mei Fort
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 51 > [d20=12]
Mei is hit hard by the tail, right in the chest. At the same time she raises her glaive up, slashing into the beast's flesh.
> roll 1d20 touch AC vs a creature this big, we all know it's 1 or hit
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 17 > [d20=17]
> roll 1d20+24
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 28 > [d20=4]
But the glaive sparks out when it touches the dreadnought, leaving Mei knocked back for no gain.
Fantase and Patar continue to get well away from this, retreating flat out.
Rosa's up, she'll hold one second for you two. Go.
[spoiler]
Rosa
HP: 343+15/343
Spells Active: Mind Blank (CL15), Fortunate Fate (CL13), Planar Tolerance (CL7), Greater Mage Armor (CL5), Heroes Feast (CL20)
Bonuses: +1 morale attacks and will saves, immunity to fear and poison
Negative Conditions:
Resources Used:
Mei
HP: 415/472
Spells Active: Mind Blank (CL15), Fortunate Fate (CL13), Planar Tolerance (CL7), Greater Mage Armor (CL5), Heroes Feast (CL20)
Bonuses: +1 morale attacks and will saves, immunity to fear and poison
Negative Conditions:
Resources Used:
Hm. Time to gamble.
Seeing that the dreadnought wants very much to eat him, Tryll will oblige! Tryll takes a five foot step forward, then keeps going, phasing straight through the thing's face and into its neck!
There will be more to my action, depending on how things go. I'll pause here to let you react if there's anything due to happen.
It's easy. Even easier than it should be - once you pass into its neck, you feel a tremendous suction pulling at you. Erratically, sometimes working and sometimes not, but nonetheless tugging at you.
> roll 1d100 51+ is a problem
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 87 > [d100=87]
Bad luck. Strength check.
Oh look at that I don't have a strength score.
Can I substitute my Int score since we're on the astral?
Yeah, that's fine, something needs to sub and since that's what's moving you here, that's reasonable.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+11 : 10 + 11, total 21[/blockquote]
Gaaah! You're sucked in - past acid that at least can't hurt you and in. You're now deep within the beast - a vast space larger than you can see, pulsing walls of purple. In here amid pools of stomach acid is debris - rocks, bodies, mostly intact trees and even a few stone buildings. They're littered about within.
Finish your turn, Yuth.
'I appear to have entered the belly of the beast. Can anyone out there hear me?' Tryll sends to Calleigh, Rosa, & Mei.
No response.
Go ahead and free act for the moment.
Oh you're doing the demiplane thing. How delightful.
Tryll investigates! He blasts one of the walls with a Disintegrate! For science!
Fort DC 27 if the wall gets one.
No saved rolled. It has Steadfast Determination and a Fort save modifier of at least +26, so it cannot fail the save.
No good - the wall of flesh resists.
HAHA IT STILL TAKES DAMAGEbut not that much[blockquote]Rolled 5d6 : 2, 1, 5, 4, 1, total 13[/blockquote]
If this guy does not surrender or die before my next turn, he's going to have an extremely bad day. I'm inside of him and he can't dodge me. He's effectively flat-footed to all of my attacks, because I'm essentially invisible to him. So he doesn't get a reflex save.
Go ahead and go for it.
I get another turn?
Yes. At the moment you're completely removed from the main combat. Should that change I'll reintegrate you in.
Manifesting Energy Barrage, Twinned & Augmented
PP Cost: 27
Reflex 29 halves
Fire damage.
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 31 > [d6=4,5,2,6,6,5,3]
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 20 > [d6=1,3,4,6,2,1,3]
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 24 > [d6=4,3,1,5,2,5,4]
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 24 > [d6=6,3,3,2,3,6,1]
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 25 > [d6=4,5,1,6,6,2,1]
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 27 > [d6=2,2,5,6,4,6,2]
The blasts of fire scorch through the flesh of the dreadnought, burning a chunk out of the wall. It endures, a large scorched party, but it's still up and you didn't break out or through.
Meanwhile, the entire beast shakes. Acid splashes and sloshes about below you.
Ohhhh that made it mad! Detect Psionics going up!
Spellcraft.
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 48 > [d20=6]
Things I want to know: Can I breach it? Is there a weak point? If so, will it explode? If not, I will kill dudebro here and harvest his gut for treasure.
Make another K:P check. The innards of an astral dreadnought are unique and rare enough to warrant a second check.
Taking 10 for 38.
There's faint magic here - just the byproducts of what the dreadnought is more than anything else. You aren't sure about weakpoints, but it is just flesh, so enough force should tear it apart.
When in doubt, apply more damage!
Stygian Bolt, Twinned & Augmented
PP Cost: 25
Reflex save halves. Oh look, he can't. HAR.
He takes the following negative levels:
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 5 > [d4=1,3,1]
<Serith> Jubilant_Successor roll for Serith < 8 > [d4=2,3,3]
The entire beast's body turns gray from the inside out, weakening and paling. The creature shakes again before going still, no more disruptions.
Go ahead, act.
Right. Carapace preserved. Delightful. Tryll searches the area. Calleigh will know he's fine anyway. The familiar bond is still intact.
As noted there, a bunch of debris about as well as a few intact buildings. You could search it over in passing, which would be quick and most prone to failure. You could take some time and do it right, which is better but takes longer. Finally, you could really take your time and dig into searching it.
Might as well give the place a thorough sacking.
Cool. What's your take 20 total for search?
Alas, it's not a skill I possess. 31.
Oh yes, forgot to ask. Are you tallying everything or only valuables?
Valuables and magical items. DM is up, reminder. I'll pop True Seeing as well, just in case.
You find the following before being interrupted:
A coin pouch with 49 gold coins, 142 silver and 491 copper.
A gold ring.
A small bag with several uncut gemstones.
A somewhat damaged but intact dagger+2.
You barely get into it before light floods in. A hole in the side of the beast is carved open, "Tryll?" Rosa's voice, "Are you in here?" The silvery glow of the Astral flows in as Mei flies in, followed by Rosa.
'Yes! Be careful with the carapace! Very valuable, you know. Come on in, but mind the acid. How did things go?' Tryll asks, still sorting through abandoned stones and stacking things neatly.
"We overcame it. A powerful beast, but not one as powerful as us," Rosa says, as Mei does a general sweep, checking for threats. Rosa flies in your direction, "Fantase believes his vault is within, one of those buildings," Rosa grimaces, "The stench in here is remarkable."
'Really? I hadn't noticed. I've been stripping the place slowly. It really is quite remarkable. The size of this beast! Where's Calleigh?'
"Outside. She's fine," Rosa says, "Keeping an eye on Fantase too."
'Excellent. Let's strip the place, then. I've found a few minor treasures, but judging by the size of this beast, I'm assuming we'll find more here than just Fantase's repository.'
'Additionally, the carapace of the beast may be valuable. Even if for nothing other than taxidermy purposes. It is rather fearsome.'
Make an K:P about that, Tryll.
Taking 10 for 38
Yes, the beast has some value if treated properly, especially the eye of such an advanced specimen.
'Mmm. Yes. I do believe we should bring the entire carcass back with us.' Tryll says decisively. 'It would give us time to strip it at our leisure, especially is Fantase is certain his cache is within.'
Okay then, how are you going to get something his huge back to Aurora?
Combined effort? Also, summons to pull it.
It's big enough to swallow buildings. What are you gonna summon to drag that?
Well, if we can get a Gate opened right here, we can just winch it through the gate and into the Aurora. If not, we'll either need to go get someone to open the Gate, or I'll need to summon a continuous stream of gargantuan astral constructs.
Okay then. Ready to move along a bit and get into loot?
Yes please! Also, next item on the docket is the Lost Chalice book.
Okay, loot post incoming in a bit.
Does your loot haul change any immediate plans?
Nothing instantly pressing. I need to get the Lost Chalice thing out of the way ASAP.
Okay, paste the Lost Chalice stuff into here so we're on the same page? It's been a bit.
QuoteRight. Incidentally, it's Abyssal, not Demonic. Anyway.
The Lost Chalice
The book talks about the Knights of the Chalice, an organization dedicated to recovering a lost holy chalice from Hell. The details on it are sketchy and lost to history, but it's believed to have been owned by Tyr and lost ages before his fall. That is not true. The truth has been obscured.
Most of the book is straightforward and factual. The Knights of the Chalice currently believe the Lost Chalice resides somewhere in Dis. Several expeditions have been mounted to recover it, but as of now, all have failed. Nevertheless, they keep trying. In the meantime, they are a solid group of holy warriors who oppose fiends in all forms. They are heroes, champions and the righteous, with fiendslaying techniques and powerful magic. All to save me. You who can read beyond reading and listen beyond listening, hear my voice.
The group is spread across countless Prime Material worlds, a recurring group allied to the Triad and various groups tied to Mount Celestia. While they have not recovered the Lost Chalice, they have without a doubt done a great deal of good. The Knights strive to improve and to one day recover what was lost. As such, they are often opposed by the servants of Hell and the servants of Dispater in particular. I reside a prisoner in Dis. Free me so I can speak to my father. Free me for a better world. Free me, you of noble heart, because it is the right thing to do.
You sit down and read another of your books.
Messages within messages. A truth hidden behind the truth. Tiny little fragments, a command written seven times, each time with more intensity.
Free me. Free me from Dis. Free me for a better world.
That's ominous! And possibly awful! Tryll heads for Morniel, who will probably know more!
You go.
For a moment, you see her. A figure, six wings of light woven with iron gray. Faraway and beseeching, a whisper carried on the wind. "Find me...free me....noble soul..."
Then the moment passes, leaving you momentarily dizzied within Aurora's halls.
Tryll would be bumping into the walls if he were physically capable, but he's not! Calleigh cheerfully does it for him, spinning and knocking over non-breakables as they go.
"Hey!" Elena appears, clad in an apron and dress, "Are you trying to make more work for people? Stop moving if you're dizzy!"
"But it's fuuuuuuuuuuun!" Calleigh retorts as Tryll makes his way past.
Elena's cry of annoyance is but a memory as you find Morniel. He is in his quarters, reading and working on paperwork. "Come in," he calls, giving you a chance to see this before he puts his quill down.
"We found the Lost Chalice!" Calleigh grins, pointing to the book Tryll is floating in mid-air.
Morniel's expression is calm as he says, "I do not see it," he says, "Have you hidden it away again?"
Calleigh falters, then rallies, "Uhm, no? We bought a book about the Lost Chalice and it had a hidden message!"
Apologies for the delay, there was a rules pile up over in Jaela and Afina's thread. Took some time to hash out.
"May I please see it?" Morniel asks.
I figured it was something. I just exercised my F5 key for a while.
"Here ya go!" The book is passed over to Morniel.
You may want to take a look, as it'll impact most everyone in some manner. A more complete post about it will be in nagging tonight or tomorrow.
The book is taken and read. Morniel reads several pages before he murmurs, "Remarkable."
"Yep! Also, an angel appeared earlier to us and was all like," and with the magic of Silent Image and Control Sound, the vision from earlier in the hall is reproduced to perfection.
Morniel clears his throat. "There are things that those of the throne and tome are informed of that others are not." Morniel says, "The truth of the Lost Chalice is one of them. As you read, the Knights of the Chalice are a real group, but many do not know that there is no chalice at all. No, the prize is the daughter of Torm, hidden away within Dispater's Iron Tower."
A soft thunk as Morniel closes the book, "I had not known that she or others had taken such measures. Held in Dis, her power is completely restrained, or so close to it as to make no difference, as far as I knew."
"So when do we rescue her?" Calleigh asks.
"When you can rescue her from under Dispater's nose," Morniel says, "If you can, do so with all my blessings. But you must understand she has not been held for a passing briefness, but for a long time. Many others have tried to rescue her or penetrate Dispater's redoubt. None have succeeded."
"Hmm," Calleigh ponders, "Dispater is a real big tyrant guy in Baator, right?"
"He's the Lord of the Second, a devil-god," Morniel says, "His Iron Tower is one of the most impressive defenses in Creation. Further, Dis is a planar trading hub."
"And a bunch of people have tried to break into it in the past, without any luck?"
"Many," Morniel says, "None have succeeded and only a bare few have ever returned from the attempt."
"Yeah, sounds like a hard place to break into and then escape from." Calleigh nods, "We should try to steal it."
"Steal the Iron Tower?" Morniel raises an eyebrow.
"Sure! Why not? Has anyone tried it? I'll bet not! Everybody is so obsessed with getting inside of the place that I'll but nobody has tried to just steal it and crack it open somewhere else!"
"Child," Morniel's voice is gentle, "The Iron Tower is huge, as well as Dispater's personal domain. One does not simply steal such a thing."
"Well not all of it, no. Just the important bits! He's a crazy devil guy who probably thinks big stuffed up thoughts about himself! He built a giant tower! You just know that he's got her locked up at the top, probably past stairs only he can climb or maybe they turn you into a moose or something. He probably has every protection ever made to make sure nobody can get up there, but! I'll betcha nobody thought to prevent someone from stealing the whole room! Who would do that? Who would think of it!? I'll tell you who! Courreses! I bet he's got none of those!"
"That is...a thought. Tryll," Morniel clears his throat, expression perfectly polite. "What do you think of this?"
'It's insane, ridiculous, and outright improbable. However, it's not a bad idea.' Calleigh looks smug. 'From the mouths of babes, and all. Dispater is said to have issues with paranoia, so attacking him directly and attempting to storm the tower is, well, the height of foolishness. The pun is sorely unavoidable. While accessing the Chalice from within the tower may be a prohibitively daunting task, we may be able to excise a portion of the tower with sufficient planning and power. This would take a large amount of planning and would need to be a well-kept secret.'
"The trick would be managing it and the hows," Morniel says. "So...how?"
'The how could be anything from focused disintegrations to antimagic fields and rust monsters. The trick would be to make sure he doesn't respond instantly and shut us down. We'd have to do something clever, something to divide his attention. Something like, say, move the Blood War to Dis.'
'That...could perhaps be viable if we sweep past Bel one day and defeat the many and myriad diabolical counter plans," Morniel admits, "Though I am not optimistic."
'Pessimism is not a trait that I would expect from you, Morniel.' Tryll replies mildly.
"The Lost Chalice would not still be lost if the Triad had anything to say about it," Morniel explains, "Nor Celestia or the Triad's allies. If you can truly succeed then I will pray for your victory, but please do not throw yourselves away lightly. Too many souls have sought the Lost Chalice and are now permanent guests of Dispater."
'Well of course we wouldn't do it lightly. Something like this would require a large amount of planning, and a not-insignificant amount of sacrifice. I believe it to be possible, though. Distracting Dispater would be key.'
"Then I wish you well," Morniel says, "The Lost Chalice must be recovered. She is not a plaything for Dispater to toy with."
"Course not!" Calleigh cries, "We gotta rescue her! It would be a good thing and a huge boost for courreses everywhere!"
"I wish you good luck then," Morniel says, "Though I ask you not to spread knowledge of the Lost Chalice lightly. The Triad has chosen secrecy in this matter, please respect that."
"Ohhhh, okay." Calleigh nod-nods.
Okay then, next move now that this conversation is dying down, unless you have something else to ask him. If you do, ignore this and do that.
Nope, he's not being immediately helpful so let's move on.
Cool, next move?
Let's go see if Latha wants to make that thing for Calleigh yet.
Off to a Sylica field trip? Okay. Going alone or taking anyone with?
Iddy wanted to do a thing involving a book dungeon, and he appears to be local at the moment. Tryll and Calleigh will seek out Surru.
Okay, I'll insert you into Iddy's thread shortly. This thread is locked.
This may take a few since Iddy's at work right now.