Surraruthru sits back on his hoard the next day, thinking. He needs money. Money, money, money. So much to do, so much debt.
"Hi," Elena pops in, dressed up in a set of fancy robes and carrying a staff, "Baleruk's making noise about you, I think he desires your presence."
Surraruthru raises an eye ridge. "Is that so? He's barely acknowledged me since I've arrived. Well, I suppose I shall make my way there at my convenience. I'm not his dog to answer at his beck and call."
Saying so, Surraruthru meanders his way across Aurora to Baleruk, making a stop at the cafeteria.
How long are you taking?
Eh, not really too long. Just a casual pace. Not hurrying, but not going out of my way to delay either.
> roll 1d100
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 97 > [d100=97]
Oh boy.
You reach the courtyard. Here you find Baleruk flying in circles around Aurora, and as you come out, "SURRARUTHRU!" Baleruk bellows, "Come forth, it is a matter of TREASURE!"
Surraruthru sighs and sits down in the courtyard. "Yes, yes, I'm here Baleruk. What's this about treasure?"
Baleruk lands, glittering with all the colors of the rainbow. He leans in, giant dragon head overshadowing you as he comes in close, unblinking eye gazing at you. "That there is TREASURE to be found, riches to take back to the HOARD!"
"Oh? Where at? I've been busy trying to get as much done as fast as possible so I'd have more time to hunt for treasure and power. I still have to go with Balyss to Selune's gate, but if treasure is involved... I'll certainly move on it as soon as I can."
"I desire to molt gemstones," Baleruk declares, "But I need something to do that. You will retrieve this and I will give you some of the gemstones for your service."
Surraruthru raises an eye ridge.
"... Molt gemstones... An interesting idea. Though it seems a bit more convoluted than needed. Why not just acquire a powerful enough elemental as a servant to simply produce them?"
Baleruk rumbles like an earthquake, "An elemental? AN ELEMENTAL?!?! An elemental's sheer power will quail before the perfect PRISMATIC BEAUTY of my PERFECT GEMSTONES!" Baleruk roars, the wind of it enough to push you back. "IT IS LIKE COMPARING SCANT GOLD DUST FROM THE BOTTOM OF A PROSPECTOR'S BAG TO A VAULT FULL OF GOLD INGOTS! THERE IS NO COMPARISON!"
"There's also gem dragons. Couldn't you just find a gem dragon as a mate? Or are you trying to expand your 'glorious' being into the psionic realms as well? And how many gem scales would I be getting out of this?"
Baleruk stares at you long and hard, "Are you implying a gem dragon's scales would REMOTELY compare to mine?"
"I'm implying there are other ways to accomplish this, and asking how much I'm going to get out of this. Why not do all three? Molting all year. Blech. Terrible idea. The itchiness and rubbing all the time, no thank you. Having an elemental, or group of elementals, to do it for you and a mate who can as well is much better. Molt when you wish, sure, but having others to stand above for the same thing with less inconvenience would be much better, I think."
Baleruk watches you all the while, "You do not understand the magnificence of my scales," Baleruk pouts, accuses.
"I understand it fine. Mine are a little similar and if they were gemstones, they'd be magnificent. I'm just asking you to remember the last time you molted. What part of it did you enjoy *at all.* Get your gemstone scales if you want them, sure. But just remember molting."
"IT IS A SMALL PRICE TO PAY FOR WEALTH WORTHY OF ONE SUCH AS I!" Baleruk booms, "Go! Obtain what I need!"
"I note that you've yet to tell me what that is or where it is. Or how much I'll be getting from this. Are we talking a lump sum or monthly installments?"
Baleruk glowers, "I need essence of the rainbow," Baleruk says, "Seek it at Limbo, by using powerful prismatic magic again and again."
"Limbo. You want me to go to limbo. To get rainbows."
Surraruthru narrows his eyes at Baleruk.
"Does this have something to do with Renbuu's visit? I heard him bellowing across all of Aurora and calling for you."
Baleruk's eyes narrow. "I do not wish to comment on that," he says, rather shortly.
Surraruthru continues staring at Baleruk.
"... Then I suppose you don't mind if I get Afina to help me and we stop in to ask Renbuu to help us locate this rainbow for you. After all, he'd be the best and fastest way to find it."
"...very well," Baleruk says, "As long as you get it, I will permit it."
Surraruthru chuckles.
"Oh, this is rich. I assume this has to do with whatever this color thing I've heard about is?" At this, Surraruthru gains a far-away and contemplating look...
"Though, hmm... I suppose if you take a color to be an implicit representation of a universal concept, and seeing as how knowledge of a thing gives the power of it... Could color be... assimilated the way Afina assimilates elements? But then... The slaads represent colors? Envoys a different understanding of the universe, based on interpreting colors... Hmm.. What would a color's truename be? Something that encompasses all the concepts that color rules and binds..."
Surraruthru's eyes refocus on Baleruk and sharpen. "What would the true name of a rainbow be? Or a prismatic representation of it. I wonder if the shorthand combination of that and dragon would be something related to a certain dragon in Aurora."
"Hmph, I already know the true name of rainbows," Baleruk preens, brushing a claw along his scales.
"Then you have enough already. Instead of chasing things to appease others, you should be a dragon. Conquer and rule, Baleruk. Take ownership of the prismatic and create something new. Something more. Unless this.. gemling scale is in the pursuit of that, I've little interest beyond the gold, and it will have to be substantial to offset the idea of helping another dragon gain a better hoard than I."
Surraruthru begins looking disinterested. "Just as I wished to gain the power of a True Dragon, you should wish to gain the power of... whatever you wish to be affiliated with. I designed a ritual to do battle with the dragon the heart came from and I ripped his power from him and made it my own. Do you own the rainbows, Baleruk, or do you just know them? Or will create something new?"
"It is not sufficient for this, and my business is IN CREATING RAINBOWS," Baleruk bellows, "Let GEMSTONES BE CREATED FROM ME! GO! GO GATHER WHAT I NEED!"
Then Baleruk eyes you anew, "Or are you insufficient to the task?
Surraruthru openly laughs.
"So taunts the one asking for help to avoid Renbuu. I won't agree to help you until you've offered payment. A vague promise of gemstone scales is neither a number nor enticing enough for me to expend effort to, potentially, expand your hoard exponentially. Until we settle on sufficient payment, all I'll offer is to help you make a spell based on the truename of rainbows, then make it a living spell. That should be a sufficiently amusing headache for everyone else."
"...25% of them, in value," Baleruk says, eye still looming over you.
"40%. I'm the one who has to deal with Slaads while you sit your scaly butt comfortably on gold. And you get to avoid Renbuu. That's worth at least 10% on its own. I should ask for more considering I know I can't even imagine the migraine I'm going to have from how many slaad are going to be attracted to the prismatic magic. Considering I've never met Renbuu, a new dragon showing up and dumping prismatic magic might garner his interest. That's something that even you want to avoid. Apparently."
"Very well. I will GENEROUSLY ALLOW YOU to have 40% So says BALERUK!" The prismatic dragon bellows, echoing across the courtyard.
Now that you have a moment, you see the two of you have gotten quite the crowd of onlookers, mostly various soldiers.
Surraruthru snorts.
"That generosity isn't enough to keep me from telling Renbuu you're contracting out your quest for rainbows for money."
Surraruthru gets a nasty, toothy grin. "Yet."
"Then leave," Baleruk declares, "Turn away easy money for your hoard for your pride." He rears up, "I WILL WATCH FROM ABOVE AS YOU RUE THAT MISTAKE!"
"Oh, I'll run the little errand. Easy treasure is easy treasure. I might even introduce something new to Renbuu. I wonder if..."
Surraruthru stops and stares at Baleruk. "Oh, that's it, isn't it. Why slaad are so hard to understand. They speak in chaos and color don't they? What do the mortals call that.. Seeing sound and tasting color. They speak that way, don't they? With concept of chaos unifying it... Does it change their sentence structure? I might have some fun with this. I may just try to garner a favor with Renbuu from it. And what wonderful pranks I could do with that."
Surraruthru turns and starts heading towards the library. Research must be done before testing on 27.
Okay then, what's the plan?
That was mostly Surraruthru just messing with Baleruk, but I'll put some effort into it before I leave. I figure some research on truenames and then try to combine it with a spell that induces Synesthesia. I'm not sure about the chaos part, but I guess something with that, too, trying to have it feed off the Chaotic part of my Chaotic Good alignment. After that, I'll check to see if anyone wants to go with me or if I can get 27 to help me deal with Limbo.
You go into the library and gather books for your task. You set them down and perch on a chair. As you do, you look up, only to see a horse sized 27 clinging to the ceiling, staring down at you intensely, gaze narrowed.
"Oh what? Don't tell me you don't want me to create a slaad-language spell now? Or is it that I agreed to help Baleruk?"
27 falls silently, shrinking down to roughly cat size. He lands soundlessly on the table, paces and curls up atop your books. He says not a word, as if using your study materials as a bed.
Surraruthru pulls the books out from under him and starts on it.
27's heart-sword lashes out, pushing the book back as you try and take it.
Surraruthru locks eyes with 27.
"Either help or leave, but if you use a weapon like that against me again then I will respond viciously. Do not mistake my tolerance. Do not make me find Hanna."
"Go. If you desire treasure, help Baleruk. Your time is growing limited," 27 says, getting up.
Surraruthru eyes 27 as he leaves, then sighs.
"Slaad. They can't even let me avoid dealing with them for a few hours. Elena, may I have a moment?"
"Hi," Elena appears, dressed up in a tunic and hose bark brown, with little leafy bits of jewelry on. "What do you need, Surru?"
"Is anyone around that's... decently able to deal with slaad? I need to go to limbo, and quickly apparently."
"27?" Elena suggests, "If you can get him to help out."
Surraruthru winces.
"I suppose, but he seems to like me. And that worries me. If I take him, I should probably try to get Hanna to go to help keep him in line."
Elena giggles at that, "Sure, go tell Hanna that."
Surraruthru nods. "Where is she currently at? And how's Balyss doing?"
"Hanna's training and Balyss is resting, she's doing fine," Elena replies.
Surrauthru nods. "Thank you."
He turns to go and find Hanna.
It's easy enough to find Hanna. Once you pull her away from training, "So, you want me to go with you and 27 to Limbo for Baleruk?" Hanna asks, arms crossed. "Do I have the right of this?"
"Mostly. Baleruk wants to molt gems in whatever attempt he's cooked up to satisfy Renbuu. He wants the essence of a rainbow and says I need to repeatedly cast prismatic magic. In limbo that's going to attract all kinds of headaches. I want to try and use 27 to screen some of that, but he's a problem of his own, and from what I can tell, you're about the only one who can get any kind of reins on him."
"This sounds like a horrible idea from top to bottom, and quite frankly anyone with a functioning brain should flee from it," Hanna says, not even missing a breath. "Which is why I'm going, so that no one dies from this imminent fiasco."
"I'm fully aware. I gave Baleruk multiple better ideas than this and he just got... pouty. He even claims to already know the true name of rainbows, so locating the essence of one should be a simple matter for him. I think he's just trying to avoid Renbuu. I even told him to just go find a gem dragon for a mate or something. Since this is going to be an unmitigated disaster from the start, do you have suggestions on who else to try and bring?"
"You want to drag more people into this fiasco?" Hanna asks, challenges really.
"Only enough to help get everyone out alive. And preferably sane."
"Then keep it lean," Hanna says, "If the three of us can't manage it, we gate in reinforcements," Hanna's voice is firm. "Mirajane and Arrel would both be useful if we need them for that. Adrian if we need a warrior, or Cresiel if we need a hybrid."
Surraruthru nods.
"Then we'll inform them of it, at the very least, so they can be ready in case."
Any other prep then?
Need to redo my spells so I have prismatic stuff ready.
Post when ready, then.
Spells updated, let's do this.
Cool. Throwing up a standard weave?
Yep.Tapestry:
Elemental Body (fire) CL 28, 28 hour durationYou have the benefits of the attune form spell with respect to the appropriate element. If you choose a water body, for example, you can breathe normally on waterdominant planes.
You are immune to poison, sleep, paralysis, and stunning, and are not subject to extra damage from critical hits or flanking. You gain darkvision out to 60 feet.
Your creature type remains unchanged, so you are unaffected by spells that target elementals, but you gain the air, earth, fire, or water subtype depending on the elemental substance you chose.
Fire: Fire immunity, burn (those you hit in melee and those who attack you with natural weapons must make a Reflex save or catch fire, with a save DC equal to that of a fire elemental of the same size).
Grants you a +10 armor bonus to armor class and damage reduction 10/magic.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Strength.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Intelligence.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Dexterity.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Constitution.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Charisma.
You gain a +15 insight bonus to all knowledge checks and may make knowledge checks untrained. This knowledge extends to knowledge of your own life. You you have perfect recall of your own memories for the duration of the spell. Effects that change your memories, such as modify memory or mindrape, are suppressed for the duration of the spell. You gain the ability to read and speak all languages during this time, as if affected by a comprehend languages and tongues spell. Finally, you may instantly absorb the information of any written material you touch, as if by a scholar's touch spell. For the duration of the spell, you have perfect recall of the material read in this manner.
+1 luck bonus on attack rolls.
+2 competence bonus on attack rolls.
Grants complete protection agianst: acid, cold, electricity, sonic
Self:
Epic Mage Armor CL 28, 24 hour durationAn invisible but tangible field of force surrounds the subject of epic mage armor, providing a +20 armor bonus to Armor Class. Unlike mundane armor, epic mage armor entails no armor check penalty, arcane spell failure chance, or speed reduction. Because epic mage armor is made of force, incorporeal creatures can't bypass it the way they do normal armor.
This spell grants you a powerful sixth sense in relation to yourself. Once during the spell's duration, you may choose to use its effect. This spell grants you an insight bonus equal to your caster level (maximum +25) on any single attack roll, opposed ability or skill check, or saving throw. Alternatively, you can apply the insight bonus to your AC against a single attack (even if flat-footed). Activating the effect doesn't take an action; you can even activate it on another character's turn if needed. You must choose to use the moment of prescience before you make the roll it is to modify. Once used, the spell ends.
Hanna meets you carrying a small sized 27, who looks entirely too content. "Alright," Hanna says, "Let's get this going."
Surraruthru nods and uses plane shift to move them to Limbo.
> roll 1d100
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=46 ]{46}
You appear in Limbo. Rolling green clouds of steam and gas pass above, as below you a forest slowly melts into water. The air is thick and sweet with cooking sugar, sweetness burning slowly. A gentle breeze blows.
Surraruthru turns to 27.
"Is this a good enough place to try this, or are there areas more apt to attract rainbows?"
Surraruthru pauses to consider the ridiculousness of attracting rainbows.
"Try here," 27 says and then whimpers. "Hide me, Hanna. Rainbows scare me."
Hanna sighs and puts her hand over 27's eyes. In a flat voice, "No rainbows will get you here, 27."
Surraruthru begins casting!
Since Renbuu seems to like symphonies of color, we'll start with an intro and work towards a crescendo.
Prismatic Aura, CL 28, 28 rounds.
I'll be targeting myself instead of the Tapestry.
> roll 1d100
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 --> [ 1d100=58 ]{58}
The rainbow aura surrounds you as the air around you becomes a dark purple. The wind dies out and the melting forest begins to reform into larval sacks, white and sticky things surrounding dozens of tiny lumps.
27 firmly does not look out from behind Hanna's hand, while the planetar has a calm, long suffering look on her face. Ever so faint, "Lady Gwyn, grand me patience and temperance. I know these are not my virtues, so strengthen me and guide me so that I may learn from your example." Just loud enough to carry, a prayer a touch louder than desired.
Surraruthru follows it up with a brace of Prismatic Sprays!
Casting two Sprays in rapid succession here.
> roll 1d100+5
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100+5 --> [ 1d100=59 ]{64}
> roll 1d100+10
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100+10 --> [ 1d100=73 ]{83}
Prismatic sprays gush out from you, turning the air a glittering array of colors. 27 burrows his face into Hanna's hand, while she watches on, "Nothing yet, I think it needs more," she says, "Keep going, I don't see any problems yet."
Surraruthru continues to cast!
Prismatic Spray followed by Prismatic Deluge!
> roll 1d100+15
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100+15 --> [ 1d100=25 ]{40}
> roll 1d100+20
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100+20 --> [ 1d100=44 ]{64}
Make a Spellcraft check with a +6 bonus.
> roll 1d20+57+6 Spellcraft
<Kobot> Iddy rolled 1d20+57+6 Spellcraft --> [ 1d20=7 ]{70}
You can feel it as you cast, some sort of gathering, a sensation of energies changing and focusing. As you cast, you feel it grow stronger, your prismatic spray and deluge sparkling in the chaos of Limbo. It's getting stronger each spell you cast, too.
"Well, here goes nothing, this is my last Prismatic spell that I have ready, but I can feel it happening."
Surraruthru begins casting again, focusing on the feeling, hoping to be able to be fast enough to catch it.
Prismatic Aura again.
> roll 1d100+25
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100+25 --> [ 1d100=90 ]{115}
> roll 1d100+25 subtabling
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100+25 subtabling --> [ 1d100=32 ]{57}
Prismatic aura is cast again - there! Ahead of you, as Limbo writhes and contorts, you see a tiny, gleaming thing. A crystal of many colors, forming in the wake of your prismatic power.
Surraruthru darts towards as fast as he can, not letting Limbo swallow it up again if he can help it!
Dex check.
> roll 1d20+9 Dex
<Kobot> Iddy rolled 1d20+9 Dex --> [ 1d20=5 ]{14}
You dart forward and grab the crystal. At the same time, a hand appears from nothingness - a white, clawed hand. A ribbit from nowhere follows, as you just barely snatch the crystal before it does. Got it!
Surraruthru circles back around to Hanna, avoiding the hand but watching it.
"Which avatar of insanity do you think that was?"
Hanna shakes her head and offers her hand out, the other holding 27. "Let's just get out of here before more than a hand comes through."
"Yes. I have something else to do here, but I'll deal with it on my own without exposing you to it."
Surraruthru begins casting again!
Plane Shift: Aurora.
Safe!
As you step into Aurora, 27 takes one look at that crystal, leaps up and flies right off and away. Hanna just takes a breath out, "That could have gone so much worse."
"Indeed. I feel my next task there will be significantly worse. In any case, I suppose I should get this to Baleruk. He's offering a portion of treasure for the task, so I suppose in all fairness I should offer you some of it."
"Send me some when it's done," Hanna agrees. "Good luck with Baleruk, do you need company?"
Surraruthru shrugs.
"Only if you want to come. It shouldn't be a big deal. How much of a cut do you want?"
"Whatever you have is fine," Hanna says, "It was only 5 minutes of work."
Surraruthru nods and heads towards Baleruk.
Baleruk awaits in his lair, sitting on his pile of coins. He watches you intently as you enter, "Do you have it?" he asks in a low voice.
"Yes, I do. One of your little avatars of insanity stuck his arm through reality to try and steal it, though."
Surraruthru reaches into his haversack and produces the crystal.
Baleruk peers at the crystal, "That is it. Well done, Surraruthru, give it to me," Baleruk commands.
Surraruthru tosses it over.
"Though it pains me, I have to admit I've been somewhat inspired by your idea."
Baleruk snatches it with one claw. He merely looks at you, "Of course you have been inspired. You have seen the GREAT BALERUK!"
Surraruthru chuckles.
"I'll watch how you do this. And also to get my cut."
Baleruk eyes you, but finally says, "VERY WELL! I SHALL ALLOW THIS!" he bellows, "Now STAND BACK AND BASK IN MY PRISMATIC GLORY!"
Surraruthru sits down and waits.
> roll 1d100 higher the better
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d100 higher the better --> [ 1d100=62 ]{62}
Baleruk holds the crystal and his scales begin to glow. Brighter and brighter and brighter yet, until the tinkle of gemstones is heard. They shed from his scales, hunks of them becoming glittering, beautiful gemstones of various colors. A rain of them, like a dog shaking off water from its coat. Dozens and dozens cascade down, landing all around Baleruk.
Surraruthru studies it, trying to learn the way of it.
Spellcraft.
> roll 1d20+57 Spellcraft
<Kobot> Iddy rolled 1d20+57 Spellcraft --> [ 1d20=14 ]{71}
The scales seem to be drawing in magical energy, storing it directly and shedding it. You don't understand a lot of it - it's some sort of internal process - but you get quite a bit. It has a lot of potential, you think, with the proper magic and study, to be adapted to various forms.
Surraruthru continues to study it as it happens, to figure out if it can be learned from studying the scales or if he needs to continue to observe it happening.
You're pretty sure you'd need to see it happening again to get more, but you have a good chunk to work with as it is.
"Interesting. I may need to see that again, but I got a good bit of what I need. Now, my cut? I need to give Hanna hers as well."
Refresh me on what your cut was?
40%
Cool, how do your loot:?
1. A full list of every gem and price. Takes the longest.
2. A summary of most of the gems and a list of the notable ones. Takes a middling amount of time.
3. A summary of all the gems and a total. It's the quickest.
3 is fine. I don't really need specifics.
Okay. That's mostly if you just want the money rather than any hoard nabs from it. Okay with that?
Yeah. My first priority is to repay debts so gold is fine.
Lootpostery.
Next move?
Balyss? That and/or researching the slaad translation spell and the chaos crystals. I think Yuth wanted in on that.
You find Balyss lying in her room, a wet cloth on her forehead and her eyes closed. Stille hovers over her, glancing as you come in. He puts a finger to his lips and comes to you, murmuring, "Outside to talk, please."
Surraruthru follows him outside.
"Balyss is under orders to rest," Stille says once outside, "She's overdone it. What do you need, Surraruthru?"
"Simply to check in. Selune had a task for me, but Balyss implied that it was supremely urgent. I just got back from Limbo with Hanna and was checking in to see if she was up to it. Since she is not, I will move to the next thing I have to do. Please let me know when she's up and about."
Stille nods and then says, "What task was it?"
"Gates of Selune. Some sort of test."
"Please wait here," Stille instructs, going in and closing the door behind him. He emerges a minute later, "Come in," he invites.
Surraruthru enters sedately.
Balyss is sitting up, drinking a glass of water. She gives you a look, "Surraruthru," her voice is weary, almost creaky. "You've been busy."
"No time to waste, after all. You're doing... better. You seem to have gotten over the unconsciousness, at least. Should you not take a trip to, say, Elysium or Ysgard for some rest and healing?"
"It's not that kind of injury," Balyss says, "Mortal bodies aren't meant for this." She closes her eyes, almost seeming to fall asleep again. "That business in the Gates of the Moon, wasn't it?"
"Indeed. Though, if your body is the issue, why not simply improve it? I'd suggest becoming a dragon, but I'm biased."
Balyss smiles wanly, "Don't worry about that. Selune will provide."
"It was my impression that gods preferred those who take initiative, but it is your existence. Do what you will with it. In any case, yes, the Gates of the Moon, I believe."
"I'd like you to take me there," Balyss says, struggling to rise. "Will you, Surraruthru?"
"Absolutely not," Stille says right away, "Dear Balyss, you're going to collapse ten feet away from this bed."
"Simple solution. Floating disk. An easy enough spell to use. With my strength, I can take her and the bed. And a nurse. And a nurse's assistant. And an assistant for the assistant. It'll be simple enough."
"That's not the point," Stille says, arms crossed.
"Hang the orders, this comes from a higher power," Balyss says, slowly swinging her legs over, blanket falling away. She is nude, seemingly uncaring of it as Stille blushes and quickly looks away. "Selune's will shall be done in this, as in all things." Slowly Balyss manages to smile, "Stille...just get me some clothes, and we knew this day would come. It's just earlier now."
"Let's stick with the floating disk spell, shall we? While Selune's will is all fine and good, there's no need to push your luck. Throw on a robe or something and get back to bed."
Stille quickly gets Balyss a robe, which she puts on slowly. "I'll walk," Balyss stands slowly, as meanwhile there's a knocking on the door.
Surraruthru turns to the door.
"You do realize I can get Kascha and Hanna in here to nag you back into bed, correct?"
"Come in," Stille says, and then he adds, "Sister..." he begins, as Gisfal comes in.
"Elena tells me you're getting up and going, in spite of orders to rest," he says. "What's going on here?"
"I came to check on her since I have an invitation from Selune. She insists on getting up and going on her own, though I offered to both wait and use a floating disk. I also suggested she overcome her mortal body, as she so put it, by helping her become a dragon."
"I have to go to the Gates of the Moon," Balyss says, "This isn't negotiable, Selune calls me."
"Out of the question," Gisfal says automatically, "We need you in functional shape, Balyss. Not one step away from collapsing for days at a time."
There is a moment, a flash of silver from Balyss's eyes. No words are said, but Gisfal finally stands aside. "You can wait five minutes, I'll be back," he says, walking right out.
"Well, that solves that, I suppose. And explains what's going on. Sort of. Why exactly does Selune want me for this? I know Seira has close ties to her, but I'd think Kascha was more suitable to this sort of thing than I."
Balyss sags back, sitting on her bed. "You're the right person in the right place here, I think. I've pushed myself so hard to help Aurora in these days, and no mortal is meant to have contact such as this for this long. Your timing was right, perhaps that was why you were told of this path, to come here this day and on this hour to escort me. When I would accept it, because I can't let Hell win because I was too weak. When I'd accept it with all my heart, because the alternative is unthinkable."
With a heavy sigh, Stille comes forward and hugs Balyss. "I always knew you'd beat me to this, dear sister," he says, "Yet so soon, because of Hell's machinations requiring so much of you? I cannot help but grieve."
That gets a tired sounding laugh from Balyss, resting against her brother. "I wouldn't do it yet, except it is Selune's will." Then she sighs, "Damn it, now I really have no excuse to not play herder on Sylvie all the time. Still, with how fast I've grown, so long as I did not die in battle, I knew this could be my fate. Like Alicia and Seira, vanishing from Balmuria to higher planes. Not so highly exalted as those two, but..."
"All is mystery until revealed in the light of the moon," Stille murmurs, "From the Silver Gospel, verse 18, line 3. Then from where moonlight shines, the path is illuminated." This gets him to smile, rather bittersweet. "Dear Balyss, you can bond with Ebony over it. She's beautiful and graceful, you can learn much from her."
That gets Balyss to laugh, shoving Stille away. "You ass," she says, smiling. "Nice backhanded compliment, almost the right amount of cattiness."
Surraruthru rolls his eyes a bit.
"Mortals. You're becoming something more, not ending. You might not be coming back to Aurora immediately, but I highly doubt Selune will permanently remove her single greatest source of influence here. She'll probably just have to keep you to make sure you're well-versed enough in whatever form you're going to get to be useful during the last battle. Again, I highly advocate a dragon. Perhaps some variation of a Silver, as annoying as they can be. Silver scales infused with, and reflecting, moonlight everywhere you go would look marvelous. Perhaps that's why Selune wants a dragon with you for this."
Surraruthru gives a toothy grin.
Balyss sighs, "I'm not turning into a dragon, Surru. I think." She adds that last bit rather hesitantly, "Then again, it wouldn't be the strangest command Selune has given me."
"You should, though. Give it a try. In any case, what else do you need or want to be done before we leave?"
"Merely be ready for whatever will happen there," Balyss says. "Are you ready?"
"I expended a number of spells in Limbo, but I should be good unless you expect a fair amount of combat."
Do you have any other prep to do OOC, besides any applicable arch visits?
Well, I've expended all of my Tapestry spells for the day, so I can't give them to Balyss unless we rest. Other than that concern,
unless someone else wants to come, like Kascha or someone else, I don't think so. Balyss has been pretty scarce on the details of what is supposed to go on here. I mean, I've inferred that I'm supposed to help her ascend/transform, but that's really it, so I'm not sure how to prepare for it.
Okay then. If you wanna ask Kascha or someone, feel free. That's in your court to invite people.
Well, Kascha was expressing concern for her, so I suppose her. Stille? Though he's more an admin general than a deployment one,
I think?
That's highly relative when you're talking about a 26th level character, anyway.
"I'm ready, too," Stille adds in, casually. "Dear sister, you're not going without me."
Balyss merely nods, dressed and waiting on Gisfal.
"Elena, could you let Kascha know and see if she would like to come as well?"
Turning to Balyss, "She'll be interested and having the embodiment of rebirth with you couldn't hurt."
Elena pops in, gives you a quick nod and vanishes.
Meanwhile Gisfal returns, "You're free to go," he says to Balyss.
Surraruthru begins chanting, summoning a Floating Disk under the center of Balyss' bed, lifting it to follow with him.
Floating Disk, CL 24, duration 24 hours.
Carrying capacity 2400 pounds.
From there finding Kascha is easy. She's in your hoard, tidying things up and humming to herself. She turns, "Oh, Surraru-why are you carrying Balyss like that?" she frowns, turning and walking over to you.
> roll 1d20+8
<Rei-chan> Kotono rolled : 1d20+8 --> [ 1d20=3 ]{11}
Only to step on a loose coin or three, slip, stumble and flip herself end over end. She lands on the disk with a thud, right next to Balyss and then rolling off of it to hit the ground. "Owwwww...." Kascha moans.
"Because she's exhausted her mortal form and moving is difficult for her. For you as well, it seems. It appears that Selune's request for my presence at the Gates of the Moon was to escort Balyss there so she can... ascend or whatever it is Selunites do. I personally suggested some sort of Silver Dragon off-shoot. Something that reflects the light of the Moon in their scales. I think that would suit Selune's aesthetics. In any case, I thought you might want to come as well. If she's to be reborn, having friends and a Phoenix nearby certainly wouldn't hurt."
"Here," Stille comes over and helps Kascha up, while Balyss half groans and half laughs.
Rubbing her shoulder, Kascha rights herself and says, "Oh. Then of course I'll go with you, since that's what you wanted to ask me?"
"It is. Can you think of anyone else to join us?"
"Well," Kascha says, "That's four of us now, and that's a good size. Do we need more for this, since Aurora needs reserves if something happens."
Surraruthru shrugs.
"I was thinking more about people who are close to Balyss. I'm curious to see how I fit into this; if it's just a matter of ease or purpose. If there's no one else Balyss wants present or thinks will help the transformation happen more easily, we can go with just us."
"In that case, Sylvie," Balyss says, speaking up. "She's my friend, she should be there."
"Elena? Can you ask Sylvie to meet us for a trip to the Gates of the Moon?"
"Aye-aye," Elena pops in, waves and pops out.
Any more prep or ready to go?
None that I know of.
The four of you find Sylvie waiting at the gate. She gives Balyss a look, a long pause. Sylvie frowns, almost starts to open her mouth, but finally just falls in step behind all of you.
"Well, I have no idea where the Gates of the Moon are at. Are you able to Plane Shift us there or Gate us there?"
"Aurora's gates can handle it," Balyss says, "Just take us there with them."
Surraruthru takes everyone to the gates!
Through the gate you go, into a grassy meadow. It is night, the stars sparkling in the sky and the full moon shining bright. To the left side and on the horizon, you can see a beach of sorts, a dark ocean lapping against it. Ahead you can see further meadows, the elevation slowly and steadily rising higher and higher up.
"Where to?"
"Ahead and up," Balyss sits up a bit, pointing. "Walk or fly, just go up and keep fairly close to the ground."
Surraruthru begins meandering up, keeping pace with the others.
"We'll be heading up towards the moon," Stille says, "I suggest keeping your eyes on it when you can, but never for too long at once."
"Why's that?" Kascha asks, as Sylvie peers up briefly and then continues her pace on.
"Why, Selune offers mysteries that can drive the most ordered mind to madness, should it strike them wrong." Stille says, "The moon is a guardian and protector, but it is still a righteous thing far beyond you or I." He gestures upwards at the moon, "All Selune gives she gives out of kindness, yet do not mistake kindness for being tame."
"I doubt between all of us we have much chance of getting lost here. Though I do wonder how her mysteries would react to my chaotic and celestial nature... I suspect Seira would not be happy if I tested it, though."
"It's not even a question of that. It's a question of good sense and respect," Stille says, "Selune has aided many times in our quest."
"I'm fully aware and thankful for it. But I didn't gain the arcane power I have, or my status as a true dragon, without insatiable curiosity. And more than a bit of greed."
"Many have lusted over the power of the moon," Balyss speaks up, "There is even a spell named after that. Yet look to the moon with reverence and awe. Those that do will be rich as a king, while those who look with greed shall face ruin."
"... How much greed is the cut-off point?"
Surraruthru gives Balyss a toothy grin.
"I'm fully dedicated to Seira in any case. At least until I attain my own god-hood."
Balyss laughs at that, which turns into a dry cough. Sylvie comes forward, patting her back.
"You okay?" Sylvie asks.
"Yeah, I will be," Balyss says, "Just have to keep going."
"So, I wonder how exactly my Tapestry will play into this... Allow the ritual to draw essence from all of us into you, perhaps? Or spread the strain of it between everyone to make your transformation easier? Hmm... I wonder... Could I pump enough draconic power into it to affect the outcome..."
Surraruthru muses as he keeps going, occasionally checking the moon's position.
"I still think a dragon with the light of the moon coming from your scales would be an excellent look for you."
Sylvie glances at you, "How do you know you're going to be a part of this ritual. If Selune's doing it, I hardly think she needs your help."
"Sylvie," Balyss chides lightly, "You're right, but don't say it like that. The male ego is fragile." A weak little laugh follows, "Oh no, the womenfolk don't need me. Nooooooo, my purpose in life is gone."
As Sylvie and Balyss laugh a bit, Stille clears his throat. "That being as it may, it may not be a question of Selune's need, but her choices. Or perhaps you were simply meant to escort her for reasons inscrutable to any but the Moonmaiden herself."
"I don't recall ever suggesting Selune is the one who needs help. She's not the one bed ridden, is she?"
"Touche," Stille says, "Yet I doubt this is dear Balyss's deeds to do, do you?"
"She's likely to play a large part, if nothing else. It seems to me she's here to ascend or whatever it is Seluneites do, and we're to either help or be witness. I could easily be wrong, or it could simply be that she's here to do that while I was summoned for another reason entirely."
"We'll find out. Have faith, boys," Balyss says, before lying back on the disc as you fly along.
Duration on your spell?
The Floating Disk? 24 hours.
On the party flies, up and up and up and up. Further up, always seeming to find more despite the horizon ahead being flat, in defiance of any logic. Higher the meadows wind, becoming slowly rocky and higher up, reaching towards the moon above. In the moonlight as you walk...
Every new moon promises a full moon.
Every full moon promises a new moon.
As the lunar cycle moves forever, so shall those who revere me.
Fear not, for all shall come in the proper time.
Know that the Duke of Destiny's machinations shall not be rewarded.
Let what the chains of law bind be freed under the moonlight.
"I hear..." Balyss murmurs.
Sylvie puts a hand on Balyss's shoulder, "I hear," she adds, ever so softly, staring up at the moon.
Like that the mood breaks, as you find yourselves atop a mountain. Here the full moon shines, large and lustrous, taking up most of the sky. It looks so close that you feel you could touch it if you reach up.
"Chains of law... So something born of Chaos will be freed..."
Surraruthru tries to run through his mental log of various lore for anything resembling that.
K:A, K:P and K:N checks. K:R too.
> roll 1d20+58+15 K:A Serith
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 92 > [d20=19]
> roll 1d20+57+15 K:P Serith
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 80 > [d20=8]
> roll 1d20+57+15 K:N Serith
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 90 > [d20=18]
> roll 1d20+11+15 K:R Serith
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 44 > [d20=18]
It's just too vague, unfortunately. You can think of lots of things it may mean, could mean or possibly refer to. You'd need more than that.
"There's a lot in there that could be references to things, but it's too vague. What do you think the next step is, Balyss? Meditation and prayer again?"
"Here I fly up," Balyss says, "Alone."
"Yes. Selune presents herself to you, it is time to go meet her," Stille looks up at the full moon.
"You have this," Sylvie says, helping Balyss up and giving her a quick, bonecrushing hug. "Don't make me fly up there after you."
Kascha steps back, standing next to Surraruthru. "I'm guessing she may become a Shard of Selune?" she ventures softly. "Or do you still think she'll become a silver dragon?"
"I hope she does. A dragon whose scales eternally shine and reflect the moon's light everywhere she goes sounds fascinating, doesn't it? And Aurora seems to attract unusual dragons. Seems fitting to me. I'm sure Seira would agree."
"The question is if Selune does," Balyss glances up once more.
Going to just wait or...?
Yeah. I mean unless I can influence things but I doubt that.
Balyss flies up and towards the moon, soon vanishing from sight.
Stille looks up long after she's gone, perhaps in silent prayer.
"Stille," Kascha speaks up, "Is it normal for your family to ascend? If I recall, your father's a full celestial?"
"Mm." Stille looks away from the moon, "Well, we always knew it was a possibility. We were only born as aasimar, despite having a celestial parent, but that's a quirk of his bloodline. With how powerful we've gotten, we knew we would likely never die a mortal death, should battle not claim our lives. Yet to see it happening, is it not a wondrous thing?"
"You should be proud of whatever power and position she attains. She'll only stop being your sister if you allow it, I think."
"Of course," Stille says, turning his gaze back up.
Sylvie stands a bit away, quietly waiting and with her head bowed.
Ready to move on?
I can't think of anything to do here if Selune's only thing for me was to bring Balyss here.
Time passes. Perhaps a half hour? An hour? Somewhere in that range.
"Look!" Kascha points up, "I see something coming from the moon!"
Surraruthru looks up with hope of a new dragon!
Balyss flies down on angel wings - which she already had. She looks exactly the same, even as she lands gracefully. "I'm back," she says.
"...and?" Kascha tilts her head slightly. "Was it not what we thought and instead some sort of invigoration, or a simple change like Sylvie?"
Surraruthru inspects her.
"Full celestial? Your lack of dragonism is disappointing to me, I admit, but at least you seem to have retained your sense of self."
"Just the change," Balyss says. "And something private that I'd rather not speak about. I should be able to channel Selune's voice much more freely in the future. Also, I have something for you and Kascha, a gift from above."
"Oh? Well, Selune has my thanks, regardless of whatever it is. Gifts from Gods are rare."
"Once, a wyrm wizard gave this to Selune as thanks for her protection," Balyss says, withdrawing a thick, leather bound tome dyed dark blue. "I think both of you will benefit from it. Here."
Surraruthru eyes it greedily but fights the impulse to take it.
"... It should go to Kascha. From wyrm wizard to wyrm wizard. I have no fear of her denying me access to it."
"Thank you, Surraruthru," Kascha says, "We'll read it together when we're back." The book is taken.
"Congratulations," Stille comes up, "Is all well?"
"Yeah, it is," Balyss says, glancing over at Sylvie, who nods back to her.
"Then on to other things, unless Selune has something else for us?"
Next move? Studying the book IC is a valid option, FYI.
There's the book, the Slaad translation spell, getting a crystallized piece of Limbo/Chaos, the Golem, researching the Infinity Oozes, and integrating the hydras. I'm not entirely sure on the time frame here and which can be accomplished the fastest. I know the Golem is going to take something like 10 days? Not sure when that's going to start and what I can get done before that.
That's going on in the background by and large.
Book's probably the quickest, you'd think.
Well, I'm thinking it'd probably be a really good idea to have the translation spell finished before I go back to Limbo, so how about this...
1) Book
2) Translation Spell
3) Limbo/Chaos Crystal
4/5) Infinity Oozes
And then the hydras in free/extra time? Sound time efficient to you?
Sure, it's your rodeo.
Kascha joins you in your lair, bringing the book with her. She sits on the floor and opens it, "How fast do you read?"
I honestly don't know how to quantify that in D&D mechanics.
"For now, extremely fast. I have the Bibliotheca Arcana spell working at the moment. I cast it this morning before I left on Baleruk's little 'errand.' Have you seen him since?"
"I haven't, he's probably in his lair," Kascha says, opening the book.
Don't worry about it, just idle questioning.
"He now has gemstone scales. He likes molting them. When I asked if it was because of Renbuu's visit, he refused to answer."
"Oh, he probably just has scale envy," Kascha giggles, as...
Going to study the book then?
"It'll get worse. I have a plan for my own scales."
Pretty much. Study study.
Int check.
> roll 1d20+9+2 Int Check
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 14 > [d20=3]
> roll 1d20+11 Kascha
<Serith> Kotono roll for Serith < 13 > [d20=2]
It's an enjoyable read but challenging. There's lore in here, but you're pretty sure it's going to take time and effort to extract it and gain any benefits.
Well, I'd keep at it until there's a time change or whatever to work on the translation spell.
"This is very interesting... I think it's going to require a lot of time, however. There's a few things I need to take care of. I need to get that translation spell finished. If I can do it, we may be able to get a lot more use out of the slaad. It's also the first step in my plans for my scales."
Refresh me on the translation spell?
Quote from: Iron Dragoon on September 22, 2017, 11:58:10 PM
That was mostly Surraruthru just messing with Baleruk, but I'll put some effort into it before I leave. I figure some research on truenames and then try to combine it with a spell that induces Synesthesia. I'm not sure about the chaos part, but I guess something with that, too, trying to have it feed off the Chaotic part of my Chaotic Good alignment. After that, I'll check to see if anyone wants to go with me or if I can get 27 to help me deal with Limbo.
Okay, cool. First of all, write up a spell that does what you want and we'll work with there. Being a bit vague or indistinct is fine, this is feeling it out and what you want to try and accomplish.
See post here for proposed spell: http://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,101729.msg1103462.html#msg1103462
So basically the spell makes you bugfuck nuts so you can communicate to fellow beings that are also bugfuck nuts?
Basically. It uses the common thread of chaos to make you see the world the same way. You communicate with the slaad and then suppress or cancel the spell or whatever so you can talk normally to others. Or whatever way you think is best.
Okay. Are you actually going to test the spell at all?
I was figuring I'd try it with 27 since he's the only Slaad around.
Finding 27 isn't that hard. He's curled up on Hanna's bed, about the size of her and stirs as you enter. He peers at you but makes no other motion.
Go ahead and cast the spell if you're going to.
Surraruthru casts the translation spell, waiting for the effects to settle in and if there are any side effects.
You cast the spell.
Orange worlds split apart, as rumbling panthers stalk oregano fields. 27 watches you. You hunger for the sweet clammy stuffed bowl granularizations. Oh my king, how fares the west and the defense? Nay, says Horane, for pumpkins are the best choice.
27 yawns.
"Hello 27. I'm testing a new spell."
"AGREED."
You too feel the urge for hydrotherapy. Nine in the hand is worth 27. A purple capsule underwear key collage. There is a distinct lack of edible things here, to your growing horror. You will starve.
"I'm hungry. Odd. I need to converse more to see how well it's working. What's your thing with Hanna?"
Hungry. Hungry. Hungry Hungry. Hanna. Hungry. Hungry. Hungry. Hanna. Hungry. Hungry. Hanna. Hungry. Hanna. Hanna. Hungry. Hanna. Hanna. Hanna. Hungry. Hanna. Hanna. Hanna. Hanna.
You wonder why you aren't in the cafeteria, since the guide told you to go there.
Surraruthru looks annoyed at the feeling. "Let's move this to the cafeteria."
Food.
You awaken in the cafeteria, reality right again. The spell's worn off and you look down at the remnants of quite the meal. You're pleasantly full, 27 sitting opposite you and watching you.
"Not as successful as I hoped. Too much Chaos?"
Surraruthru tries to identify what went wrong with it.
From your memories, the spell work is fine.
27 just gives you a long look.
"So, what do you think?"
Not entirely sure where to go from here. You said the spell was fine but there was a black out and 27's speech wasn't much more understandable .
27 looks at you gravely. "The problem isn't understanding," he finally says, "But understanding what is understood when you understand the spell."
"So I need to figure out intent, not the spoken word, and a way to have that converted for retention after the spell ends.. That means a mix of reading emotion and thought..."
27 merely watches you at this, "Can anyone know another?" he asks quietly.
"Not entirely, but I'm not trying to learn true names. For conversation, it should be enough, no?"
27 nods gravely.
"So, how do I stop the blackouts... Or was that a one-time adjustment thing..."
"Adapt. Adjust. Perfect," 27 says.
Surraruthru considers how to improve the spell to prevent the blackouts and loss of control.
K:A.
> roll 1d20+58+15 K:A
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 91 > [d20=18]
Some sort of filter or aid may help, but you'd have to experiment on the spell some more.
Surraruthru considers what kind of filter would help...
No idea on that.
Something to help the bugfuck part not make you bugfuck nuts.
Like what? I really have no idea what could do that.
An abjuration to help keep your sane mind would help, you'd think, but would need to be incredibly skillful so as not to ruin the point of the spell. Tricky, but probably possible with your level of arcane magic.
Sounds like worth a try.
Cool, whip that up real quick.
Please see updated spell here: http://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,101729.msg1103625.html#msg1103625
Looks good. Next move?
Testing again?
Sure. Where are you testing it?
With 27 again. This time with Kascha or someone watching to take notes and stuff.
Once again it's Hanna's room. 27 is there, perched on the bed. Kascha stands to the side, quill and book out, "I'm ready, Surru. Good luck!"
Surraruthru nods and casts the spell, letting it settle on him.
"Second version, 27. Hopefully, I've fixed the blackouts."
27 turns to you and utters one word. "Hello."
At the same time you hear the following, compressed down and translated through you in a split second.
"I see you have come far, Surraruthru, but yet you reach for more and more. Your greed is typically eminent in the draconic mind, yet you do not hunger for food, so I don't find it entirely understandable. This scares me. So many things scare me, like Tannin. Right now I am seeing 931,583 futures of varying potentiality from approximately 1 in 1.0042 odds of occurring to 1 in 4,584,572,024 odds of occurring. I'm still hungry. Are you hungry? You should be hungry. Please, go eat from the place that has no limit to the food it can make. That is a good place, but people that scare me go there. Be careful of Hanna, we do not have the sunshine to properly rebuild her if something happens right now. I am still hungry. I wonder if Ithea is hungry? I believe Ithea is hungry. I should go visit Ithea and have a meal with her."
"I hunger for power like you seem to hunger for food. Though I'm not sure what the source of your unending hunger is. Is it innate to all Slaad like the hunger for power is to Dragons? Why is Hanna so important? If you can see chance through chaos, can you see why she's so important? By sunlight do you mean Goldenfire?"
27 gives you a long look and says, "Hanna." Which translates to, "Hanna."
"Indeed, Hanna. But why Hanna?"
"Hanna."
This time you hear, "Sunshine happiness spring fresh bread warmth fireplace axes smiles summertime sweet water candy."
"So it's just because you like her? If you're worried about her, you should get some more sunshine just in case."
27 gets up, paces around you and sits before you, looking up at you without saying a word.
"Well... This translation spell is working, but not perfectly it seems. I'm getting a more solid idea of what you're saying, but it seems to miss things. Ideas?"
"Hmmmm..." Kascha says, scribbling away. "How so?"
"He's making references to things that aren't fully translating, I think. Or at least, aren't translating the nuance. Like the thing with Hanna and sunlight."
"That is a problem, but that assumes slaad meaning is stable and coherent," Kascha says. "The spell may be working just fine."
"Perhaps. Would you like to try it and find out first hand?"
"Please," Kascha says.
Surraruthru casts it on Kascha!
Kascha nods, and says, "Hello?" to 27.
27 turns to her and says, "I agree."
This gets Kascha to blink and look to you, "You weren't kidding!"
"It's a little strange, yes. The general idea is there, but it still doesn't make things completely coherent. Not sure how to adjust for it..."
"It's possible it's not coherent?" Kascha says, "If I say grumbling flutterplates, it's not going to make sense in any language, no matter how you translate it."
"I was hoping the part of the spell that reads intent would overcome that... It's possible that it's as good as it's going to get, but it still grates a little that it's not entirely clear."
"Well, it's progress," Kascha says, "We can refine it over time if it's not adequate as it is, too."
"Indeed. Hopefully it's good enough to deal with whoever we come across in Limbo. For now, I think I'll look into those oozes and crystalized chaos."
Going to spend the remaining time of the day researching into the Infinity Oozes doubling ability and the chaos crystal. The next day will be off to find the chaos crystal. Chaos crystal first.
Gimme a quick K:A check.
> roll 1d20+58+15 K:A/Bib
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 79 > [d20=6]
Oh yes, refresh me on the chaos crystal real quick and why you're looking for it?
Looking for crystalized chaos so I can do something similar to what Baleruk did. Turn my scales into crystalized chaos scales. I dunno what benefit you'll give me from it, but it sounds awesome, and if I can do the Epic Weaving using them, profitable.
Okay.
You can tell offhand that you'll need more than a day or two to really get into the mysteries of the infinite slime bottles, at least.
Surraruthru decides to look into how to find, or crystallize, a chaos gem.
K:A and K:P.
K:A+bibliotheca
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+73 : 10 + 73, total 83[/blockquote]
K:P+bibliotheca
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+72 : 15 + 72, total 87[/blockquote]
It depends on what you means as a chaos gem. The exact term and powers vary, as do most things with primordial chaos. Generally, most assume you mean a chaos diamond, though other variants along those lines exist, as well as odder things yet.
A chaos diamond is made as a normal magical item - and you recall 27 has produced them before.
Otherwise it depends what precisely you want out of the chaos gem.
Alrighty. I'll go with the Chaos Diamond. Plan is to do basically what Baleruk did and use it to turn my scales into Chaos Diamonds. Preferably with the abilities of it transferring if possible.
Going to go to Limbo and try and find one then, or got another plan?
Simple solutions first, I suppose. Ask 27 since you said he occasionally vomits them up, but if not that route then probably a bit of research on how/where to find one then Limbo.
> roll 1d100 luck check basically
<Rei-chan> Sunshine_Ko rolled : 1d100 luck check basically --> [ 1d100=23 ]{23}
You find 27 sitting on your hoard, waiting for you, watching you as you come in.
Go ahead.
Is the translation spell still running, or would it have expired? 10min/level would be 280 minutes.
Still going.
"Hello 27. Though I can't say I enjoy seeing you on my hoard, I was looking for you. I would like to ask a favor."
27 watches you silently, perhaps waiting for you to speak more.
"I would like to ask for a Chaos Diamond. Baleruk recently changed his scales to a variety of gems using that crystalized rainbow we got. I'd like to do the same with the Chaos Diamond. I know you don't like rainbows, so I thought this might be a good way to balance it out a bit."
27 eyes you and finally says one thing. "Hanna."
Which you get the following. "Hanna is sunshine and light. I would like Hanna here, and with food. Good food like Jaela's food, but not Jaela's food. Because I'm still worried about Jaela, because there's more battles to go before the moment."
Surraruthru closes his eyes and sighs.
"Elena, could you please ask Hanna to come here with some of Jaela's favorite foods."
Elena pops in, dressed up in a body costume that looks like 27. "Sure!" she says, vanishing a moment later.
Surraruthru waits.
"What types of battles do you see? Anything specific?"
27 just looks at you and finally speaks.
"The battles for the soul of Lifasa. Aurora has to win and has to stop both Taelfagn and Gathgorian. One to end a nightmare and the other to prevent a new one."
You get the exact same thing from your spell.
"Anything we're missing in our preperations?"
"You." 27 says, plainly.
"What do you mean? Was I supposed to do something specific?"
"You don't survive to it," 27 says mournfully.
"What is it that you see killing me?"
"A dragon," 27 says, "A big red dragon. Please don't go out tomorrow."
"Tomorrow? Only tomorrow? Does this dragon have a name? I can have some of the diviners look into it."
27 shakes his head. "Just stay here tomorrow," he says, as your spell returns the exact same thing.
Surraruthru looks a little suspicious.
"Do you know the reason I would be leaving Aurora tomorrow? If there's a compelling reason for it, I might not be able to resist if I don't know about it ahead of time. Especially if the reason involves Seira, since she's a red dragon and the one I follow."
"Just stay here tomorrow," 27 says blandly. "It can happen in many ways. Not all enemies are the true threat."
"Hm. I'll do my best to find something to research here, then. What about the Chaos Diamond? That ritual will take time to complete correctly."
Charisma check.
Cha check.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+9 : 16 + 9, total 25[/blockquote]
27 coughs violently and suddenly a great big diamond is hacked up at you!
Reflex save.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 20 + 7, total 27[/blockquote]
Your reflex save is only +7? It's a 20 either way so irrelevant.
You nimbly catch the diamond with both claws. It's a diamond about the size of a fist, perfectly polished and smooth.
Yep. My AC comes from natural armor and magic.
"Thank you. Hopefully this will work well and I'll have impressive scales soon."
Next move?
Research and set up for the scale transformation.
K:A check real quick.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+73 : 13 + 73, total 86[/blockquote]
The project has potential, but unlike Baleruk, you are not a minion of pure chaos or divine. Working this out is going to require a custom ritual and some effort.
You could probably enlist Tepen and the rest of the library group to help speed it up.
You could perhaps get Baleruk to help and speed it up.
You could try some other source of relevant knowledge to help. The choice is yours.
Could I use the ritual I used with the dragon heart as framework or is it totally different?
A few points would be relevant, but overall no. Think a small but appreciable bonus rather than a framework.
Alrighty... This will be unpleasant, but we'll try Baleruk first. As loathe as Surraruthru is to admit it, this is an idea he's had for a while and Baleruk beat him to it, but in doing so he solidified the idea for him. So credit where its due.
I'm trying to let the celestial nature lead this.
You find Baleruk and 27 in Baleruk's hoard. The two are simply staring at each other, unblinking and not a word exchanged between them.
"Do you find him as much of an irritant as I do?"
"Leave," Baleruk booms, 27 skittering away and fleeing at top speed.
Once 27 is gone, Baleruk focuses on you, head coming forward to loom over you, shadowing you into prismatic darkness. "I smell a chaos diamond."
"Indeed. 27 was kind enough to vomit one up in exchange for a promise not to leave Aurora tomorrow. Something about a Red Dragon being my death."
"He dares? HE DARES?!" Baleruk bellows, wings flaring out, "UNACCEPTABLE!" Rearing up to his full prismatic glory, "I demand an explanation for this immediately, and how you plan to use this chaos diamond!"
"Calm down, Baleruk. Not only did I come here, but I was forthcoming about it. Why is it such a big deal that he gave me one?"
Baleruk slowly sits back down, "Tell me your plans, then."
"The errand you sent me on inspired me to finish an idea I've had for a little while. I'm that doesn't surprise you. My plan is to transform my own scales using the Chaos Diamond. I've gotten the good portion of myself represented with my half-celestial. I figure it's time to represent the Chaos in myself as well."
"Laudable," Baleruk rumbles. "Yes, of course. Look on my prismatic majesty and mimic it, as best you can. I accept this."
Also, I think you mean good, not food, Iddy.
Yes I did. Corrected. Phone again.
Surraruthru does just that, inspecting the magic in the scales and questioning Baleruk on how to accomplish the same.
Diplo check since Baleruk.
> roll 1d20+39 Diplo
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 50 > [d20=11]
This goes welle nough, granting you a great deal of insight.
K:A again, this time with a +20 bonus.
> roll 1d20+58+15+20 K:A/Biblica
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 108 > [d20=15]
You make more headway, but it's still not doable soon. You need more, more help, more knowledge or some other edge, you think.
Ball's in your court here, if you wanna pursue the library crew or something else you come up with to help. Be creative.
"Baleruk, what do you think of letting me use one of your scales as a catalyst? Your power is more malleable than mine and the structure is already there. It won't be an exact copy of the spell structure, but with a little effort I think I can adjust the energy for it."
Baleruk eyes you, head coming in so that is huge eye takes up your entire field of vision, almost touching you.
No reply, just staring at you dead on and...
React how you please.
"If you're trying to see deceit or something, let me remind you: Half-Celestial. If you're trying to intimidate me, I'm a Grand Weaver. If you want me to poke you in the eye, just say so."
"Very well," Baleruk finally says, "So it shall be!" He rears back and roars, "Mark this day, for this is the day I have given you a blessing like none other!"
"I'm sure your memory is long enough for us all. Thank you for helping me."
Surraruthru begins the work.
K:A again, this time a +40 bonus instead of +20.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+113 : 20 + 113, total 133[/blockquote]
It takes you the rest of the day, but you draw up a ritual you can use. Probably tomorrow though, since it's late now and you don't have the time for it.
Working out feats of magic that would take a mortal creature years or more to figure out and compress into a ritual in one day is hard work, after all.
Anything else you want to get done this day?
Not anything specific. If there's time I guess I can visit the hydras.
Okay, which ones?
The Fires are newest, so them first. Need to work on having the two types become friends.
Your approach is going ot matter, to elaborate that and also note that right now, only some of them are awakened, since that's a side project for you over the next few days.
Sorta the same basic way. I need to figure out their personalities first, though I probably won't try to integrate them with the Cryohydras until they're all awakened. I'll probably show up with food again and then just work on making them comfortable and loyal.
Thus you go. The fiery retreat for Simmer and her burning friends has been expanded as much as possible, the hydras taking up much of it. Besides a few elementals, the only one here is simmer. She's sitting in waist deep lava, upper body free. She seems apathetic of her own nudity, glancing at you as you come in, otherwise basking in the heat.
Go ahead and set your approach up.
"Hello Simmer. How are the new residents doing?"
"Hungrily," Simmer gives you a look, "They're eating tons of charred meat, whenever the fire elementals bring it in."
"Not surprising. They're still transitioning away from the raw instinct to eat since food isn't always a sure thing. They'll be like that for a while until they get used to this place. The Cryohydras were the same with fish."
"Yeah. Oh, and they're terrified of me. One started sniffing me so I made a display that I'm not prey," Simmer says it offhandedly, "The ones who aren't awakened yet picked it up between that and coaching from the ones that are."
"Well, if you want them to be friendly that's sort of your responsibility. I can try to make headway with them if you want, but it's mainly up to you. Kascha seems to enjoy spending time with the Cryohydras."
"I'll wait until they're all intelligent," Simmer says, "But thanks."
Surraruthru nods and begins to approach the Pyrohydras.
The pyrohydras look up, the animalistic ones sated and watching. One intelligent one takes the lead, heads focusing on you. "Surraruthru," he says in careful Ignan, speaking your name with care.
Surraruthru thinks to himself that it's a good thing that Bibliotheca Arcana is still running if Ignan is their language.
"Hello. I've come to see how you're all doing and adjusting, and if you've picked names yet."
"I am First Ember," The pyrohydra introduces himself, heads swaying like crackling flame in a fireplace. "Not all have chosen yet."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, First Ember. I assume you're the voice of the group?"
"Of the pack," First Ember agrees. "We eat here without hunting. Food without limit."
Surraruthru grins and chuckles.
"Yes, I thought you'd enjoy that from your reaction to the meat I brought before. A few people have noticed. You can rest assured that as long as you're here, the food will be available, so don't feel like you need to hoard it and gorge on it. You can relax on that part; hunting is something for outside of Aurora."
"Good," First Ember says, heads stopping now, eyeing you.
"I assume you have questions. Likely many. Please ask them."
"How do you get food without hunting," First Ember asks right away.
"Through magic. I could explain the basic theories of it, but it's fairly complex as a subject and I think you should learn more about the world in general before going into that. Essentially, however, it works by using energy to create it."
"Energy is magic?" First Ember asks, "What is energy?"
"Again, a rather complex subject... Tell you what. Gather the others so I can explain it to everyone."
Surraruthru settles in to explain the fundamentals of magic and answer questions.
Just magic 101 here?
Basically. Teaching them the same as I did the Cryohydras. Magic and the basics of living as an intelligent being.
What was the check you used for teaching the other hydras?
Uh, I think it wound up being a Cha or Diplo check because I didn't have prof: teaching or something.
Roll Diplo then.
> roll 1d20+39 Diplo
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 51 > [d20=12]
This goes well enough, it's rough but you're able to muddle through alright. At least they're willing to listen, bloated on good meat. Simmer lingers as well, tossing in the occasional comment when it doesn't spook them too much.
When you're done and the hydras reflect, "Not too bad," Simmer says, "Lots of diplomacy, but they're learning like a new fire right now, just burning up."
"I'm not especially trained as a teacher, so the best thing I know how to do is present it and justify the point or idea. But thank you. I may look into teaching techniques."
"Yeah. We need more teachers," Simmer says, "Not everyone understands fire naturally, as horrible as that is for them."
"Sounds like you should make a spell for that. If I can make a spell to translate Slaad, fire shouldn't be too difficult for you."
Simmer smiles, little flames dancing along her lips. "Oh, you can. There's rituals to make a creature permanently part of fire. The problem is that I've heard creatures temporarily exposed to it find it horrifying or overwhelming. They don't truly appreciate fire, not like we can."
"I'm sure there's a way to isolate that. I did it with the chaos after I blacked out the first time. In any case, if you're interested I can help. After I catch up on my other projects, at least."
"It may be fun once we free Lifasa. Everyone else is going to be busy celebrating," Simmer's lips twitch upwards.
"Quite. I'll be busy with the tree and grove as well."
Speaking of the tree, did I finish that? I feel like I did, but I can't remember for sure.
Check, it's your project. I'm guessing you didn't keep notes?
Nope! Also I didn't finish. I have to go back to the cauldron for the bigger crystal. It was 3 days wait on day 88, so it should be ready.
Okay. Going alone or taking anyone?
Doesn't this roll into the day that 27 said not to leave? If so, I'll instead spend the day doing the scale thing.
Just going to work on that more then? Go ahead and describe the action you're taking.
Well, you said I worked out the ritual. Also since it's a new day, I'll rebuff. I'm not sure if there's anyone around who wants the buffs, NPC or otherwise.Tapestry:
Elemental Body (fire) CL 28, 28 hour durationYou have the benefits of the attune form spell with respect to the appropriate element. If you choose a water body, for example, you can breathe normally on waterdominant planes.
You are immune to poison, sleep, paralysis, and stunning, and are not subject to extra damage from critical hits or flanking. You gain darkvision out to 60 feet.
Your creature type remains unchanged, so you are unaffected by spells that target elementals, but you gain the air, earth, fire, or water subtype depending on the elemental substance you chose.
Fire: Fire immunity, burn (those you hit in melee and those who attack you with natural weapons must make a Reflex save or catch fire, with a save DC equal to that of a fire elemental of the same size).
Grants you a +10 armor bonus to armor class and damage reduction 10/magic.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Strength.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Intelligence.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Dexterity.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Constitution.
The target of this spell gains a +4 insight bonus to Charisma.
+1 luck bonus on attack rolls.
+2 competence bonus on attack rolls.
Grants complete protection agianst: acid, cold, electricity, sonic
Self:
Epic Mage Armor CL 28, 24 hour durationAn invisible but tangible field of force surrounds the subject of epic mage armor, providing a +20 armor bonus to Armor Class. Unlike mundane armor, epic mage armor entails no armor check penalty, arcane spell failure chance, or speed reduction. Because epic mage armor is made of force, incorporeal creatures can't bypass it the way they do normal armor.
This spell grants you a powerful sixth sense in relation to yourself. Once during the spell's duration, you may choose to use its effect. This spell grants you an insight bonus equal to your caster level (maximum +25) on any single attack roll, opposed ability or skill check, or saving throw. Alternatively, you can apply the insight bonus to your AC against a single attack (even if flat-footed). Activating the effect doesn't take an action; you can even activate it on another character's turn if needed. You must choose to use the moment of prescience before you make the roll it is to modify. Once used, the spell ends.
You gain a +15 insight bonus to all knowledge checks and may make knowledge checks untrained. This knowledge extends to knowledge of your own life. You you have perfect recall of your own memories for the duration of the spell. Effects that change your memories, such as modify memory or mindrape, are suppressed for the duration of the spell. You gain the ability to read and speak all languages during this time, as if affected by a comprehend languages and tongues spell. Finally, you may instantly absorb the information of any written material you touch, as if by a scholar's touch spell. For the duration of the spell, you have perfect recall of the material read in this manner.
Surraruthru sits down to refine the ritual as much as he can before he actually works it, drawing it out as he goes.
"Elena, could you have Tepen and Kascha meet me here? I'd like to get their eyes on this before I attempt it."
"Sure," Elena pops in to say, "Anything else while I'm at it?"
"I'm open to suggestions. With your awareness of everything in Aurora I'm sure you've seen talents in people that might be helpful."
"Well, if you need more mystical analysis, I'd suggest Sylvie. She's really good at it," Elena says, tapping her finger on her chin.
Surraruthru nods.
"Her as well then. Thank you, Elena."
Okay, you want them to all go over it and idiot proof it, basically?
Essentially. Any suggestions for improvement are fully welcome as well. My goal is to retain as much of the Chaos Diamond abilities and hardness/DR/whatever it translates to as possible.
K:A check and Spellcraft.
> roll 1d20+58+15 K:A
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 83 > [d20=10]
> roll 1d20+57+15 Spellcraft
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 73 > [d20=1]
The others will all be taking 10.
A few hours pass as the three look over it. It's Tepen who speaks up first when it's all done. "Surraruthru," he begins, "You've cobbled and compressed this ritual down to something you can do in a few hours rather than decades of effort," he begins evenly. "There's a certain amount of inherent risk to that."
"Which means it might go wrong anyway," Sylvie pipes up, "He might also be calling you an idiot in the most polite way possible."
"Ahem!" Tepen clears his throat, then goes on, getting a smile from Sylvie. "In essence, yes. Do be careful. I concede that our needs and pressures dictate such a ritual, but do not take it lightly. Baleruk's support will doubtless help, many rules cease to matter with divinity of any stripe."
"So I've not overlooked anything that you can see. I know all the danger involved, but I've done what I can to mitigate it. Outside of Baleruk helping to bend the rules, so to speak, do you see anything that can be done to improve the odds?"
"On this study, no," Tepen says, "Sylvie, Kascha?"
Kascha shakes her head, "I'm estimating about an 80% chance of success, roughly."
"Somewhere around there," Sylvie replies, wavering a hand back and forth. "It could be a little higher, a little lower, but I think it's within 5 percentage points. Hope Tymora finds you and not Beshaba."
"Hmm... 80% is about as high as I can expect, yes. I am a bit loathe to have Baleruk's help with this. The gods know he'll never be silent about it... But it is what it is, I suppose... Though... What do you think about doing this in the Cauldron?"
"It might help and I think Seira would appreciate it," Kascha says, "But aren't you staying here today?"
"I am, but I have multiple projects. I can shelf this for a day. Or spend the day refining it. I still have to start the research into the Infinity Oozes. There's still the Pyrohydras, as well."
Speaking of the Hydras, since it seems like I'm going to be doing a lot of teaching, are you okay with me shifting some skill points around into Profession: Teacher or something?
"Your choice," Sylvie says, sitting back a bit. "Time's getting tight, so choose."
"Infinity Ooze, then the hydras at the end of the day. I'll head to get the Crystal tomorrow if you're free to take me Sylvie, and then set up the ritual for the scales and tree tomorrow."
Speaking of the Hydras, since it seems like I'm going to be doing a lot of teaching, are you okay with me shifting some skill points around into Profession: Teacher or something?
Normally I would be, but this is really short notice for skill retraining due to ongoing time pressure. However, you've set this up so I'll consider it. How many points would you want to move?
15 total, probably. I'm not sure how 15 in Teaching would stack against 39 in Diplomacy, though.
10 from Calligraphy
3 from Decipher Script
2 from Hide.
I'd allow it. Going to make the change?
Sure. We can keep posting, but I'll edit real quick and toss a note in the DM Nagging thread.
Cool. Do so. After that, where were you on the ooze?
Nowhere. Hadn't started yet. Plan was to try to isolate the mechanism that allows them to copy perfectly and try to simulate or transplant it into another creature. This is some Isle of Dr. Merau stuff I think, and I'd like to do it as humanely as possible, but I'm also not sure exactly where to start. Something with magically observing the splitting on the magical and biological level?
Make K:A.
Take 10 for 83.
You make a little more progress. It's incredibly complex and difficult, more as you get deeper and deeper into studying it. The hours pass by with you making headway, but no concrete benefits yet.
Surraruthru continues to put his nose to the grinder, so to speak, and work at it. Study and experimentation are the bread and butter of Wizards.
This'll go into the evening and pretty much eat up the day. Okay with that?
That's the plan. Burn the day and accomplish as much as I can.
Make a second check then.
Figures.
> roll 1d20+58+15 K:A
<Serith> Iddy roll for Serith < 74 > [d20=1]
It's evening. You've made some more headway - the work is absolutely marvelous, surely the labors of an archmage of vast power and knowledge. Most notably, you can't find any flaws in it. It's a perfect, endless equivalent exchange. Some sort of flawless loop that will never end, an infinite loop if you will.
Surraruthru yawns and gathers his notes packing them away.
"Elena, would you invite Kascha, Tepen, and Sylvie to join me for a meal? I'd like to have them go over what I've done so far and get their input."
The slime stuff to be clear?
Yeah
Over dinner - a nice one as compensation - the three look at it. It's Kascha who speaks up first, "I think this is right, and it sounds like the lore I read about them," she says, "I heard an archmage of a particular spell tradition made these and found a way to tap into the infinity of the planes."
"Excellent, then my work can continue after my tasks tomorrow. With luck and hard work, we may be able to integrate this into some of our units or spells."
That it for the day then or do you have more?
I don't really think there's much time left. If there is, I'd just spend it teaching the hydras.
Let me pause you for now, moving things along for the set up.
Alrighty.
Locking this as prep for Gar--Malleos.