Thus you and Xandra gets together in the courtyard. Grias works in the background, resting on Wood's back as the dog moves about on his command. He's seeing to refugees as others help out, an organized chaos all about.
"You wish to see the path that presents itself before you?" Xandra asks. "Wise."
"It hasn't failed me yet to seek advice on how to progress." Moore says. "Maybe I'll even learn that last secret on how to utilize the Words of Creation." A smile and a bit of a laugh.
"Still, though..." He frowns at the blood ruby as he tries to avoid holding it too close. "I want to do right by whoever or whatever had to be given to this thing."
"Then shall we go?" Xandra offers, looking upwards.
"Let's see where the path leads us." Moore agrees as he starts up!
You begin to fly up - and barely make it far at all until you see it. A familiar face lingers on a cliff, tossing stones down. Calley is there and looking right at you as you ascend.
Moore breathes in through his nose. "I'd ask if he has guardians keeping an eye on him, but none of them could probably actually keep up with him even if he did."
Against his better judgement, Moore flies over to greet him.
"I find it ironic that I spent a lot of time trying to track you down, only for you to show up all of a sudden in front of me." Moore says with a smile. "Xandra, this is Calley. Calley, Xandra."
"Hi," Calley says, giving Xandra a look before he tosses another stone down the cliff. "That base isn't as big as the other places I went. Is it nice inside?"
"It's still growing." Moore says with a small shrug. "It's cozy inside. You're welcome to stay there for a while if you'd like, as long as you promise to behave yourself."
"I'm just thinking," Calley says, looking down towards your fort below. "Would Mom have been happy if she if she was down there?"
Moore hmms for a moment. "Not to toot my own horn, but she and I did get along rather well. I think she'd like to be able to spend time being a regular person and not a hero."
"I did not know your mother, but anyone can find happiness in Celestia if they are willing to walk the path to it." Xandra speaks up.
Calley hums and throws another stone down. "Good for her," he finally says.
"We're about to go on a bit of an adventure of our own, would you like to join us?" Moore asks.
He glances over at Xandra with an apologetic smile.
Calley shakes his head, "No thanks. I don't think you'll find what you're looking for I'm in there."
"Fair enough. Like I said, you're welcome to stay here for as long you want." Moore says. "No pranks, though."
He smiles and glances upwards again. "I'm on the path to finding her, just so you know." with that said, he starts up!
On you fly and...
Any goal or just looking?
The only goal he has in mind right now is figuring out the blood ruby and Making It Right.
Gimme a d100.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 78, total 78[/blockquote]
Thus you rise to Venya, flying along and letting the cold mountain winds soothe you. It's nice like this, a peaceful flight as you search.
In time you come to a building atop a rocky crag - a small tower, squat and unremarkable. It seems almost abandoned, yet you can see a well tended field just besides it.
Man, one off, too.
Moore tilts his head and shrugs as he flies down to investigate, heading to the front of the tower to see if there's a door.
There is indeed a door.
Knock knock on the door, then!
A man's voice calls from within, "Coming, be a minute!"
Xandra glances at Moore, "Do you know this place?"
"Not in the slightest, no." Moore says.
"I already knew the answer, and yet I still wondered if you'd say otherwise," Xandra remarks with a slight smile.
"Do you?" Moore asks. "Sometimes I think your 'voice' tells you more than mine does."
Xandra smile goes as she waggles a finger, "Why Moore, I am a seer."
Moore gives her a sidelong glance. "Uh huh. I'm a little bit of one too, you know!"
Now starting to laugh, "So you are, but is that a hint of a bruised ego I see?"
He takes a breath. "There's a lot I still have to learn."
Further response is cut off by the door opening. A blue tinted humanoid with facial ridges and severe features is there, "Yes?" he asks, slowly.
"Hello, I'm sorry to be a bother." Moore says. "My name is Moore, this is Xandra. The Mountain, ah... ahem, I suppose I should say it guided us here today. I hope we're not intruding on your time too much."
Adjusting the collar of a sturdy brown tunic and then the belt of his pants, the man gives you a long look. He steps aside, inviting you in with nary a word.
"Thank you very much, Mister...?" Moore asks as he goes inside.
"Pactpeace." The blue man says, leading you within. The first floor is mostly one big kitchen, though you note a flight of stairs going down in the back. He points at chairs around a table, each chair mismatched and various sizes. Pots and pans hang on the wall, burnished copper bottoms a subtly mismatched array of different copper shades. From the roof, net-sacks of garlic, sausage, ham and other savory things hang. The entire room smells of it, garlic and meat intermixing to your nose.
The light of Chronias is pleasant in here, providing natural light as Pactpeace takes down several sausage links and grabs a pan, a gesture starting a fire in the hearth.
"Thank you for your hospitality," Xandra sits and bows her head a moment. "Blessed be he who provides aid and succor for those that travel, for nothing is certain away from the safety of home."
I know this is probably reaching, but wasn't Iris a blue-skinned humanoid too?
Go paste the description of her, would you?
he turns. Her face is pale porcelen, far more beautiful than a human's. It's flawless and her gaze is that of burning sunshine. A well spring of fear comes from seeing her, but her smile melts that.
blue, porcelain, same-o-same-o.
"Mister Pactpeace, yes, thank you for your hospitality. Do you get many guests?" Moore asks.
Geez, my eye and spellcheck missed a horrid typo there.
"Few," The blue skinned man says, focusing on his cooking. The meat begins to sizzle and brown under his gaze, a few motions causing it jostle about the pan. "Always with purpose."
Moore nods. "Other than cooking, do you mind if I ask what else you spend your time here? It may end up related to our own purpose."
"Remembering. Meditating. I am the last of my people," Pactpeace says, voice rough. "The sole survivor. I chose to always remember them and honor them."
Moore smiles and nods. "I have a friend who was the last of his people, too. He ended up finding a way to have them blessed by the Triune to cultivate their population again."
A nod to that, "No need. They are above." Pactpeace looks up. "We stilled the demons. I broke the Demon Pact. They all began the journey they should have always taken."
Moore glances at Xandra.
"Mister Pactpeace." Moore says as he watches. "I have something I'd like you to see -- call it a curiosity on my part, but I have a sinking suspicion you may be able to help us with something."
Xandra matches that glance and nods.
"Show me." Pactpeace brings the pan over, a gesture cooling it as he sits on the table. He takes a sausage with his bare hand and eats, and after a moment Xandra follows suit.
Moore withdraws the Blood Ruby!
Pactpeace gazes at the gem, "It is similar." He finally says, peering closely at it.
"I don't know how it was created, but we want to... well, I don't know if there's even a spirit or anything still left in it." He frowns. "Even still, we want to do what's right for whatever sacrifice was required for it."
"Take it to Life. Let it stay there. It will bring rebirth, rest." Pactpeace says slowly, before handing it back to you.
K:P for 90. Is that another name for the Positive Energy Plane or something, or is there a literal "Life" plane?
It's another name for the Positive Energy Plane.
Moore nods. "Thank you."
He WILL stay to enjoy the sausage, at least.
"If you ever have any need for someone for yourself, I have a base on Lunia." Moore says with a smile. "You're always welcome there."
The sausage is excellent, if a bit heavy on the garlic.
Pactpeace just gives you a look at that and goes back to eating.
Moore will leave it at that!
"Thank you for the hospitality." Moore says with a bow. "May your days be many and your happiness be eternal."
Another bow before he steps out with Xandra!
A quick Planar Tolerance on both himself and her and they're off!
So, I say that, but... I guess just anywhere in the Positive Energy Plane is fine. If there's an actual like... town or something there (I doubt that) he'd aim for that.
Once you're outside Xandra speaks up. "Did you know him at all, Moore?"
"Not that I recall, no." Moore admits. "I don't think I've met him before in my life."
"There are many stories here," Xandra says, looking back at the squat tower, "Stories we have nothing to do with, only glimpsed like the faraway moon on a cloudy night."
Moore nods. "Yet, it seems like even the most unrelated story can have some significance if one chooses to explore it."
"All stories, all paths lead here in the end," Xandra says, "Save for those that choose oblivion over it. An important lesson to learn and recall. Now, shall we travel?"
Moore nods. "Let's."
A quick Planar Tolerance on both himself and her and they're off!
To be lazy, then:
So, I say that, but... I guess just anywhere in the Positive Energy Plane is fine. If there's an actual like... town or something there (I doubt that) he'd aim for that.
Done and done. Endless light and energy surround the two of you. Just a random point in an infinite plane, nothing but endless cascades of pure energy all around the both of you.
Moore will let go of the Blood Ruby and see if whatever it is is going to be an immediate reaction or one that might take some time.
Nothing at first. The Blood Ruby simply floats there. It doesn't fall but instead stays in place, glowing with the same radiance that engulfs the entire plane.
"Well, I'm not comfortable just leaving it here... but I'm also not sure how we'd ever find it again if I do." Moore says as he huffs.
"Well, there's no harm in waiting a bit, I suppose." He says after a while.
Let's give it an hour or so, knowing that this is likely not going to be an overnight process anyway -- but you never know!
Give me Perception and then a d100.
Take 10 for 70
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 78, total 78[/blockquote]
After about 40 minutes, you notice something. Tiny little cracks are starting to form on the Blood Ruby.
Again with the 78!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"Oh, hey, look at that." Moore says as he gestures at it. "I don't think it'll take much longer."
Let's keep waiting then!
"As foreseen," Xandra murmurs, "You acted with wisdom to wait and see."
Moore laughs. "It's easy to not be impatient when you're effectively immortal."
"Time's caress never touches us," Xandra agrees.
One more d100.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 6, total 6[/blockquote]
An hour passes as more and more cracks show on the Blood Ruby. When it finally happens, it's fast - a sharp CRACK as it shatters, ruby red dust raining down as the gemstone is no more.
Moore smiles and nods. He gives it another few minutes to analyze the magic and make sure, at least, the evil presence is gone.
Take 10 on Spellcraft for 74 to ensure it's more or less just getting neutralized.
It is.
Moore nods. "All right. That's another good deed for the day."
A tap on his chin. "Let's go see what we can do about that dagger. Any ideas?"
"This may be a case where we simply pay for it," Xandra says, "As we need good and righteous deeds for other objects to be improved."
Moore nods. "That's fine. We may as well find out what it'll cost."
A wave of his hand and they're off!
Aiming for Jovar, but if we're directed somewhere else then tat's fine too!
What precisely are you going to do at Jovar?
Find out a cost for ... I really have no idea what specifically Xandra wants to do. Does she want to just add 'holy' to the weapon?
Yes, paste the item stats?
Dagger of Korva: Dagger+4, keen. Functions as a staff of fire with 5 charges per day. Functions as a staff of frost with 5 charges per day.
Base is a +5 item plus the staff stuff. That's really hard to price, so we'll say it's a capped +10 nonepic weapon and could be pushed into epic for the normal price. Not at Jovar for pure GP, you'd need to go elsewhere for that. Jovar isn't concerned about mere money, after all.
Okay. We'll see what we end up with for funds after all is said and done and handle that then.
With that in mind, do we need to officially do anything IC with the weapons to donate them or can that be handled off screen?
It can be done offscreen. One question: They offered to give you something in return for it, is there any requests you'd like to make.
Hmmmm. Its fine to just push the goodwill towards the other projects Sunrise is working. I really can't think of anything else tat the group could use in terms of items, unless it's some upgrade to something they have as it is?
If the team has any suggestions, by all means.
That's fine, sure. Next move then?
I don't know that there's much else on the agenda right now except helping out the refugees.
I got some things to knock out. Gimme a d100, first of all.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 67, total 67[/blockquote]
COME ON, MAN!!!
Refugees take time. An entire day of working with them leaves you drained, tired. You yawn and flutter back towards your fortress. Outside of the twin golems you find Wood waiting, barking at you as you approach. On his back is a saddle.
"This isn't a very subtle invitation, but things here never are." Moore says. He pats his mouth to stifle a yawn. He moves over to sit down on the saddle!
It's comfy enough and Wood trots on in, taking you to your room. Grias is there, a plate of food on the table. Today it looks like a salad and honey, along with a tall glass of milk. "What a good day, but a hard day," Grias bobs in the air, "Now rest up, there's more Moore tomorrow."
"Is this your way of preventing me from getting overworked?" Moore asks. He flutters over to enjoy the food anyway. "Thank you, Grias. Have you had any correspondence from anyone?"
"Several, but they can wait until the morning," Grias declares, "You need your rest to be effective. I'm going to go make Cresiel rest after this as well, though at least Kaja doesn't need prompting."
Moore laughs a little bit as he digs into his meal. "You're the boss, Grias."
"Good, you're seeing common sense," Grias says, "No getting up to save people in the middle of the night or heal the sick. Others can handle it until you're rejuvenated. Got it?"
Wood curls up at your feet, watching your plate most attentively.
"Yes sir." Moore says. "One of these days, you'll have to tell me your story, Grias. Maybe tomorrow."
Moore will finish the salad and the milk as well as most of the honey and will offer the remaining honey down to his favorite dog.
Down the food goes, Wood gobbling it up. "Well then, I'll just-" Grias bobs in the air as your door opens.
Cresiel enters, "Moore," he says without preamble.
"Oh dear." Moore says as he turns to him. "What's going on? What is it?"
"No, no, no!" Grias flutters up, "You're supposed to be relaxing and resting!" The lantern archon flies back and forth around Cresiel's face. The solar does not even blink at this. "Go to your room and rest, right now! Go read a book, take a nap or pray! As long as it is restful! Do you understand me?!"
Throughout all of that Cresiel is utterly calm, saying in a level voice once he's done, "I came to talk to Moore and relax by having a conversation with a good friend."
"...oh." Grias stops midair and goes quiet, "Well. I'll just be over here, then," he says, flying over to the far side of the room.
"I admit, Grias, I thought something was wrong, too." Moore says with a chuckle.
"By all means, do you have a topic in mind, Cresiel?" He asks, as he stretches once and moves to sit on his bed.
"About how far we intend to advance forward," Cresiel says, "We took a good step today, but there's always more to do."
"There is." Moore says with a nod. "I need to send a message to Lady Seira to inform her of the steps Hell is taking to reinforce the Grand Sultan, if she does not already know. Tomorrow." A glance at Grias at that, then a smile.
"I think we can use this to our advantage against Shar. I'm sure not all the people who are doing her bidding do it willingly. It would not surprise me to learn of some connection between the slave trade and either sacrifices or just more labor for Sharran filth." Moore takes a breath, as if to cleanse his lungs of thinking further on the subject.
"I do wonder what would happen if we returned to that same place. Do you think they'd even expect it at this point?" A grin at that. "To answer your question... until the deed is done. I can't face the Grand Sultan, but Lady Seira certainly can, and we can make sure none of his adjutants ever make it to the fight in the grand scheme of things."
"Anything that can weaken her," Cresiel agrees solemnly. "Though I worry of Nasir and how he will attack us next time, for I do not feel he is the type to cease after one failure."
"We'll be prepared." Moore says. A smile -- a dangerous one, a determined one.
"I'm going to have one of those rings crafted for all of us. The next time they try and pull a shenanigan where they stop time, none of us will be affected." Moore's smile grows. "Imagine the look on their faces when their card gets turned over on top of them. In addition, I have the ability to stop teleporation magic for a mile radius. They're not going to be able to get away from us again."
Moore takes in a breath. "I know how to deal with his armor, too. If he can't hear a spell or doesn't know it's being cast, he can't do anything about it. How sad for him to have that sort of weakness, when facing a bard of my caliber." A laugh -- a cold one, as he shakes his head.
"Let Nasir come. Let him bring every denizen of Hell he wants to dredge up. We'll cut them all down and send them back to Nessus in a box." A scoff at that, before he takes another breath and seems to return to his normal self. "If we run into that awful woman again, I know how to deal with her, too. If their plan is to try and steal Aurora's tactics for taking us out, well, they'll see what Aurora's tactics can do."
"Indeed." Cresiel says, "Do be careful of laughing like - !"
Cresiel blinks and looks up. He takes a long breath out and rises, "Excuse me, Moore."
"Your father?" Moore asks, looking concerned.
"Whatever it is, just don't go crossing the Bridge without letting me know first, all right?" A smile after that. Hopefully he'll find some humor in it too.
"Not my father. My mother has taken your invitation," Cresiel says, striding out of the room.
"Don't go cross the Bridge to get away from her, either!" Moore shouts after him.
A smile and a quiet laugh for himself before he flops back onto his bed.
He's done enough good deeds for one day, right? It's time for a nap.
Gimme a d100.
[20:34] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[20:34] <Penuche> Nephrite invokes Penuche's magic: < 97 > [d100=97]
Oh dear.
Aah. Several hours later you awaken, feeling much better. Your home is still standing, that has to be a good sign.
Moore yawns and sits up.
...How do you even keep track of time here? A question for another time.
He pulls himself up and changes his clothes to go out and see what's going on!
You stumble to the communal dining room, finding a few people there. Villisa is here, humming to herself as she sits right next to Kaja. Right next to him, an arm around him as she murmurs, "Open wide," she smiles, a forkful of beef brought up. The two are lost in their own world, smiling and together.
Jetina is also there, slowly eating a bowl of porridge and pointedly looking at anything but them.
I feel I need to clarify something before I line, do you mean Kaja or Cresiel?
I mean Kaja.
I suppose in hindsight it wouldn't actually change anything.
Moore blearily opens his mouth as if to say something, then simply flies over and sits down in front of Jetina.
"I'm not going to ask." Moore says, plainly. "How are you doing?"
"Don't," Jetina murmurs.
Kaja grins at Villisa, "Mmm," he says, "Almost as wonderful as you are, Villisa," he whispers back, the two sharing a long look.
"I'm doing alright," Jetina says, "I mostly slept the night away after prayer, let my mind unfocus. Dreams are good for that."
Moore nods. "We've still got work to do with the refugees, but I'm glad things are progressing well for them. Have you found any that magic doesn't seem to be helping?"
"Not yet," Jetina says, as Kaja and Villisa are lost in their own world some more. "Some things take time no matter what, though, including even realizing you're traumatized."
Moore nods. "If you need help, don't hesitate to ask. We can also petition other realms for help if we need to."
A smile as he reaches over to pat her hand. "You did a really great job in that battle, by the way."
"Thank you," Jetina flashes you a smile, then a pause.
"Oh, you're just wonderful, my little Kaja," Villisa says.
Jetina glances over and gets up, "But I'm going to get to my day's work now, thank you."
"Yes, I think that's a good idea." Moore agrees.
He's probably not going to be able to get out of here, but he's certainly going to try and go find Grias! Who is not here! And that is where he wants to be -- not here!
You hurry out. You find Grias in the courtyard, as Cresiel trains. Wooden dummies are battered around as he practices, the lantern archon watching along and magically picking up the dummies when they're knocked over.
"Grias, you mentioned there'd been some letters?" Moore asks as he flies up. "Or at least some sort of correspondence?"
Grias bobs on over, "Oh yes, we have some. Are you ready for them, Moore?"
"Yes." He says, straight away.
He leaves out the part where he wants to get his mind off of something.
Cresiel looks over, "You may want to avoid Kaja and my mother," he finally says as Grias starts to fly off.
"Too late for that!" Moore says as he follows his lantern archon friend.
"Don't want to know, either! Wisdom of Celestia says not to!"
"You are wise indeed," Cresiel calls back, "Mother is flighty. Give it time to pass."
Moore snaps a finger and points at Cresiel like 'you're right'.
"Grias, you may have more experience with this than I do -- what's the best way to get information to a deity?" Moore asks. "I have a few documents I'd like to pass on to Seira and I'm not sure if there's... mm, an easy enough way to do it. I guess I could pray to her, but that feels like cheating."
"I...don't really know," Grias bobs up and down in the air, turning faintly pink all over. "I don't have any cause to directly contact such august persons! But if you're expected, try a prayer and move on from there?"
"Maybe a visit over there wouldn't be the worst." A shake of his head. "Anyway, let's see these letters."
"Here," Grias says once you're in your study, "They're on your desk, read up."
Four letters are on your desk, as well as a wrapped scroll.
"I see why you wanted me to wait." Moore says.
The scroll is first!
The scroll is written in sloppy letters but reads the following:
27.
Hanna.
Hanna grounded me, help.
When you need a key in the future, the answer is that there is no key at all.
"You didn't need to tell me you wrote it, 27, I could've figured that part out." Moore says with a smile and a sigh. He puts the scroll off to the side. "I'll go visit you soon."
Moving on to the first of the four letters!
This one reads as follows.
Dear Moore
If you wish for me to help your cause, unravel the following mysteries without using magic to augment yourself. Please stop reading here and take several moments to remove any magical items you have and end any spell effects bolstering you. If this is not practical when you read this, come back to it for a time when it is. When you are ready, read the second sheet.
There's a second piece of paper to this letter, tucked away behind the first.
Moore pauses for a moment. "I wasn't really expecting to hear back from you..." He murmurs. He puts the letter down and moves on to the actual second letter for the time being.
This one reads as follows.
Beloved Moore
I write to hope that you are well and no harm has befallen you. In your chosen work I know danger rides with you as surely as lightning rides with Canderella. I do not write for any great purpose, only to express my affections to you.
Until we meet again.
"I do need to work on that mirror..." Moore muses. A small vacation to Lifasa wouldn't hurt after all of this.
He puts that letter off to the side and picks up the third.
The third letter reads as follows.
Moore, it's Adrian. I came on a magical flute I think you'd be interested in. If you're interested in studying and possibly buying it, get in contact with me by a sending or through Aurora.
The previous owner was a follower of Malar. Emphasis on was in all respects.
Well, now he has a real excuse to visit!
Onto the last letter.
Perception.
Take 10 for 70!
The last letter is empty - but your keen eyes can spot the slightest discoloration that suggests some sort of invisible ink has been applied.
Moore tries holding it up to a window to get some light on it.
If that doesn't work, uhh... he'll think of something!
The light of Chronias shines, revealing the letters.
Very good, Moore. You decoded my answers. Send the following message to Tannin: A blue eye tyrant awaits the green dragon.
I'll see you soon.
"Isn't that the oldest trick in the book, though...?" Moore says. A shake of his head as he gestures to focus for a moment.
Sending to Tannin 'A blue eye tyrant awaits the green dragon.'
'Got it,' Tannin says, 'Good work. She'll be along sooner than later.'
Moore nods.
He takes a breath -- he has to put the needs of many over himself, so... for now...
He'll take off all his magical booster equipment and dispel his own knowledge boosters and things per the letter before he picks up the second sheet of the first letter to read it.
It reads as follows.
There will be another letter with this. To read the works there, you will need to utter a password.
The first two letters are the end of celestials. I'm sure a wise man can understand what end I refer to and puzzle it out.
The third and fourth letters are two letters in reverse order. The first of that letter is the first letter of the newly risen mountain, one that mimics your own Mountain. The second of that letter is a letter that none of the Hebdomad share.
The last four are what is common for the powerful and rare for the least. It is the path and the road that winks and vanishes on a whim, yet always there for the mighty.
Those letters form the word that is the password. Good luck.
Riddles upon riddles, is it?
He takes out something to write with and makes some notes.
The first two letters have to be 'Ch' -- that's the only thing that makes sense for right now.
Hmm, a newly risen mountain? It must mean a divine plane of some nature...? He writes a note for that.
A letter none of the... so, Erathaol, Raziel, Zaphkiel... he lists the others in his mind... f? g? Hmm, there are several, actually... he writes that down too.
Hmmm.... common for the powerful and rare for the least? Life, maybe...? A few notes and ideas.
So, I'm guessing he can try a K:P check for the first, a K:P check for the second and... I'm not sure, maybe a straight int check for the last one? Also, I'm assuming the Hebdomad we're using are Barachiel, Domiel, Erathaol, Pistis Sophia, Raziel, Sealtiel and Zaphkiel? Just confirming.
Correct on the names.
Make a general Int check for it all. This is pretty much a riddle to be poked at.
Here goes nothing! Hopefully not literally nothing!
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+11 : 1 + 11, total 12[/blockquote]
The dread 1 pixie has visited you. I'm so sorry.
Nothing's immediately coming to mind to help from breakthroughs, sadly.
It happens. Unfortunately it doesn't really give me a lot to go on from here.
Well, there's no sense in banging his head against the wall for right now. He collects his notes and keeps the letters all together to come back to later. Tomorrow's another day and with it comes clarity.
He'll know when he's working on it, after all, and he intends to keep his end of the bargain fair.
To be clear he's just going to try and tackle this once a day and see if it helps. If not he'll try doing it in different locations, etc. He will always remove his gear and such per the letter's request.
For right now, he redresses himself and heads out to meet everyone.
He's going to let everyone, except Kaja, know he's going to go visit Lifasa/Aurora. If anyone wants to join him they can.
Goals while he's there: Adrian and the flute, see if 27 wants to go on a trip (yes he's aware of there being issues with that), visit Illsenine.
Okay.
"I had best not," Cresiel says, "I would not wish to wound Lifasa so soon after seeing it intact. The best to take with you for that...is Kaja, or have someone from Aurora act as a guide and protector. Not that I suspect evil wills trike that blatantly at Lifasa now."
Moore breathes in through his nose.
"When I'm on Lifasa I'm actually relatively protected, so I wouldn't worry too much." Moore says, but he breathes in again.
"I'll go find Kaja." He says, shoulders sagging.
Off he goes!
Gimme a d100.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 63, total 63[/blockquote]
You find Kaja and Villisa sitting atop the roof, watching the ocean below and snuggling. They look the very image of interpersonal contentment.
"And then, I saw the next part of the hoard had a heap of gold nuggets thiiiissssss tall," Villisa drawls, raising her free hand up as tall as she is.
Moore takes a deep breath as he slowly floats in front of them.
The two only have eyes for one another, "Amazing," Kaja breathes, "What did you do with them?"
A deep breath.
Then another.
Sharress must really be into this.
"I'm sorry to interrupt." Moore says. "I'm going to Lifasa, and it's been insisted that I take someone who won't cause any wounds to the plane."
Kaja blinks and looks your way, "Ah. You need my services?"
"No, say it isn't so!" Villisa declares, voice heartbroken, "Don't worry my great dragon, I'll wait faithfully for you to return!"
Kaja turns to her, "I'll await our reunion eagerly, Villisa." He smiles, the two staring into each other's eyes. "I promise."
"..." Moore just reaches up to put a hand on his face.
"I'll make sure I return him safe and sound, Lady Villisa." Moore says with some resolute tone.
A wave of his hand and they're off! No, he isn't waiting for them to say which one will miss the other!!!
Greater Plane Shift to wherever Aurora is on Lifasa currently.
Aurora has indeed returned to Lifasa. It's on a sunny plain, Kaja sighing. "Oh Villisa," he murmurs quietly, shaking his head.
"I'll get you back soon." Moore assures him.
He certainly remembers how to go inside, and a quick question to Elena (and a hello, how are you doing, of course) can find Adrian.
Elena pops in, "Hi, Moore, hi new guy," she says, "Adrian's not here. He's at home with Misalea, do you know where it is?"
"Not a clue." Moore says. "I'm guessing it's somewhere on the plane?"
"Yes, just go have the gate make you a portal to it," Elena says, "It'll take you right to it."
"Can do. Could you do me a favor and see if someone can write up the needed materials for the sending orbs? I'd like to make some hand-held versions, if I could. There's no rush."
A smile and gesture to Mr. Mopeypants to follow him.
"Come on, perk up! You're in the fortress of Aurora! Look like you're impressed!" Moore says.
Kaja sighs at this, "So? It's not Villisa," he says, "Her twin fortresses alone are worth more than Aurora. They're just perfect."
"Right." Moore says simply.
WHAT DID SHE DO TO HIM?!
Calm, Moore. Calm. Peace. Serenity. Wisdom.
He will take one of the gate portals over to where Adrian is!
It's a house. A nice, multistory home, big and with a bigger yard. It's on a lane with several such houses. It's made of fieldstone and like a farmhouse, wood and stone with the paint being fresh.
Next door you see a familiar face. Elder Magi Tepen is in the yard, waving his hand as his grass is cut, adjusted and smoothed over. As you watch his lawn is trimmed, flowerbeds are turned and hedges are trimmed.
That is literally just cheating in every aspect!!
Moore gives Tepen a wave before he knocks politely on Adrian's door!
A wave back, a smile as you go by. Tepen leaves it at that for the moment as you knock.
"Coming!" Misalea's voice, the door soon open. She smiles widely, "Moore! Come in! Who's your friend?"
"This is Kaja. He's..." Moore shakes his head. "He's an ally of mine."
He smiles and will come inside!
"Charmed," Kaja looks up, a toothy smile.
Misalea returns that smile with a pleasant little laugh, "We have a lot to smile about, these days. Come in, come in."
It's a nice house. High roofs with support beams visible, all darkly stained wood and cozy shadows. The room you're taken to is a living room, filled with mementos and trophies of battle. Here Adrian sits by a window, a pleasant breeze rustling his hair as he kicks back, drowsing.
"Adrian," Misalea says, "Moore's here."
"I can imagine." Moore says with a bright smile. "You all deserve whatever rest and relaxation you choose to, though it sounds to me like -someone- here can't keep himself out of a little trouble."
"Hey, Moore," Adrian blinks and yawns, "No, Selune sent us after him. He was tormenting Selunes to create horrible beast-humanoid abominations. Utterly mad and savage, he had to be put down."
Misalea smiles, "I'll get all of you something to drink."
"That must've been serious if she sent you like that." Moore says. "Has Tepen taken up a new career as a lawncare advisor?"
"Serious enough," Adrian shakes his head as Kaja looks around, studying Gaelach, mounted over the fireplace. "She sent some mortals and they didn't make it, no sign of them or of their souls. So she sent us and we resolved it. He'd captured all of their souls, we freed them."
Moore nods. "I'm glad to hear it. If you're ever in any need, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Just because I'm not officially with Aurora doesn't mean I can't or don't want to help." A smile afterwards. "So do you think this guy made this flute or just acquired it from somewhere?"
"He acquired it," Adrian rises and stretches, "Hold on, I'll go get it. Make yourselves comfortable."
"Take your time." Moore says as he takes a seat!
Kaja can fend for himself.
Meow.
Kaja wanders to a seat, one by a table full of fresh fruit. He grabs a pear and takes a bit. "That's a hell of a sword," Kaja speaks up, "He's used it a lot, I can tell."
Is her spell broken?
"Oh, yeah." Moore says with a nod. "That's uh..." Moore taps his chin, then snaps once. "Gaelach." He nods. "It's funny, my first ever mission with Aurora was actually with Adrian. I was really nervous, if you can believe it."
"Everyone's new once," Kaja says, "If you survive, you're no longer new and you don't have an excuse." A sharp, toothy smile again, "How did it go?"
"I think they weren't expecting much out of me." Moore says with a laugh. "I think Adrian would've been fine without me. It gave me confidence, though, which built on itself."
At this moment Misalea returns, carrying a tray of drinks. "Milk for you," she says, "Ale for you," she gives it to Kaja, who chuckles but doesn't comment otherwise.
"What! I choose not to drink!" Moore shouts. "It isn't that unheard of."
A huff afterwards.
"Misalea, how have things been other than your most recent adventure?" Moore asks. "I don't know that I could ever settle down into such a picturesque lifestyle, I admit."
As Kaja laughs, Misalea clears her throat, "It's been lovely. We're talking about our incoming blessing," A hand goes to Misalea's stomach.
"Congratulations." Moore says with a grin. "You'll have to ask Tepen to create some adventures for them, since I fear there won't be any classical necromancers or imps around hiding in caves plotting to attack the nearby villages even when they do grow up."
Misalea smiles wider as Adrian returns. He has the flute in hand, made of solid, shiny silvery metal and decorated with red highlights. "Here," Adrian says, "We don't know where he got it from, it wasn't from any of the surviving prisoners or those who fell serving Selune."
A quick analysis could tell him where it's from, but he may as well figure out what it does!
Take 10 on Spellcraft for... 74 + the Lifasa bonus is... 81.
The flute is the following.
Mercurian Flute
This flute grants a +10 competence bonus on Perform checks used by playing the flute. When the flute is used for Perform checks, the user can use the Song of Cleansing Light feat.
Song of Cleansing Light [Bardic, Exalted]
Prerequisite: Bardic music, turn undead.
Benefit: As a standard action, you may expend one use of your bardic music ability and one use of your turn undead ability to grant your allies within 60ft bonus damage against undead. They deal an extra 2d6 points of damage on weapon damage rolls, including natural weapons. This damage rises by 1d6 to 3d6 when you reach level 10, as well as by 1d6 to 4d6 when you reach level 20. This effect lasts for as long as you play and for 5 rounds thereafter.
"Ah... I can see why you brought me." Moore says with a chuckle. "So, would you like a gold amount for it or something else?"
"Gold or something useful for the home, a magical item," Adrian says, as he sits anew, Misalea hurrying off.
Moore rubs his chin.
"I don't think we've picked up anything that would be suitable for a home, unless you wanted some art pieces to make it look nicer." Moore says. "We did recently beat up on some efreet, but none of that stuff would be of much interest to you, I think. Gold it is, then." Moore nods.
"How much do you have?" Adrian asks, "I'll give you a reasonable discount if you're broke, we all miss Afina's forging."
Moore lets out a snort at that as he reaches up to cover his mouth with a follow up cough.
"I haven't liquidated our most recent assets into gold yet." Moore says with a grin. "If I were to take a guess, I'd say all things told there's about 100,000 gold in weapons and things. Is 50,000 fair?" Moore asks.
I think you're missing a 0 or have a misplaced comma in 100,00.
"That's fine," Adrian says, "Do you have the money now?"
I did, should've been 100,000.
"I do, I try and keep a bit on me for these sorts of situations." Moore explains.
Go paste the item and post the expense in the same loot post.
done and done
Once that's all sorted out, "Not only do we need gear, we need reserve gear," Adrian admits, "I don't think Lifasa is in any danger in the few centuries as the planars would think of it, but I fully intend to have a reserve of useful magical items in case I'm wrong."
Misalea comes back in at this point, taking a seat next to Adrian. "Better prepared in case Hell finds a way to strike back."
Moore nods. "I understand. I'd be happy to sell arms and armors we happen across directly to Aurora at some sort of discount, if you think that's a feasible thing to arrange. I have no doubt that there are times where I may reach out to ask for a resource or something else, so it really makes more sense than my just selling everything to Brightwater or something like that."
"I'll keep you in mind for that," Adrian agrees, and from there...
Do you have anything else to do here?
Let's actually just go sell the rest of the stuff we have to Aurora to get it out of the way, unless you'd rather we avoid that. Either way, I'd like to get the stuff sold if just to have it said and done. If you need it posted in here I can do that.
We do also want to ask about the magic behind the Sending Orbs, but I have to wonder if it'd be cheaper to just engineer them ourselves. Either way we can at least get a baseline cost.
That's fine on both counts. Go ahead and calc up what an item that can cast sending at will is real quick and post it here?
Looks like it'd be:
4 (using Cleric casting, Sorc/Wiz is 5), 7 (level, 10th for Wizard if needed) * 2000 (use activated, unlimited) = 56000? I think that's right.
I imagine the instant part of it would be an important consideration, though.
Yes. For the sake of this I'd just round it to 60k.
Okay. We can just work on those on our end then, since I think the actual orbs in Aurora ended up being more expensive!
That was multiple, multiple orbs with some added functionality. Next move?
Let's officially sell the stuff to get the moolah.
Loot, we'll sort it out there.
Once that's done, now what?
He'll go visit Illsenine and the new court! Kaja is welcome to come if he'd like, otherwise he can stay at Aurora.,
Kaja knows his duty. He's coming along. But...
"How long a visit will this be," Kaja asks as you conclude your buying and selling. He closes his eyes and softly sighs, "I miss her so much already."
"It won't be much longer. I'm here to see the love of my life." Moore says with a smile. "So indulge me a little longer?"
"Ah, I understand your sweet suffering," Kaja says, "Though..." he hesitates a moment, then shakes his head. "Never mind."
"Come now, don't I deserve the truth after everything else?" Moore asks with a smile.
"It's nothing, just a mistaken assumption," Kaja says, "Let it go, it's nothing but wind beneath a dragon's wings."
"She's just a friend of mine." Moore says, as if that answers the question.
He'll teleport them to ... uhh... I forget what it's called! Wherever Ilsenine's court is. Surely he would know!
[21:58] <Nephrite> roll 1d100 teleport
[21:58] <Penuche> Nephrite invokes Penuche's magic: < 56 > [d100=56]
Kaja blinks and begins to say something, but the teleport cuts him off.
You appear in a room. A room with a stone perch atop a fountain, waters flowing freely. The walls are wood and tree branches, the roof a forest canopy come low. A slide that is pixie sized is here for a fun time down, or one can simply fly. This is one of Ilsenine's teleportation destination rooms in her palace.
Kaja, on a perch not meant for someone as big as he is, wobbles about, arms flailing.
> roll 1d20+46 acrobatics
<Penuche> Kotono invokes Penuche's magic: < 63 > [d20=17]
With a graceful leaps Kaja flips into the air, landing in a smooth crouch on the ground, avoiding a tumble into the fountain.
"Haha, sorry, I forgot about that." Moore admits. "This way."
Moore will lead him further along!
Going straight for Ilsenine?
Yeah, no reason not to.
Gimme a d100.
[22:27] <Nephrite> roll 1d100
[22:27] <Penuche> Nephrite invokes Penuche's magic: < 50 > [d100=50]
Throughout the palace, you get bows and respectful looks. Moore walks amid the fey of Lifasa once more. As you walk the halls you are smoothly intercepted, Lady Skye at your side.
"Her Majesty will see you, Moore. This way."
He raises a hand in greeting to all those familiar, and even those not familiar.
"Lady Skye, it's good to see you again. Kaja, this is Lady Skye, she's been at the Queen's side for... goodness knows how long and was always a staunch ally of her and Aurora." Moore says.
Lady Skye returns Kaja's nod with one of her own then focuses on you. "There comes both joyous and grim news,' Lady Skye continues. "Have you heard of Crystal's impeding blessings?"
"I have." Moore responds. He'll let her extrapolate, because there could be all sorts of things going on with that!
"Excellent," Lady Skye says, "While Jaela and others have continued crusading, Afina has been wandering - until recently. Are you aware of the situation?"
"I'm aware of some of it, including Gathgorian." Moore says with a frown.
"Then you understand why Afina crusades again," Lady Skye says, simply. "We all wish her well in this battle." You travel along an elegant hall of tree walls and canopy roof, statues of famous figures here. The warriors of Aurora, including yourself, are all shown here in ungiving stone, good likenesses of all of you.
Moore nods. "Yes. We all have to get stronger." He says. A grin over at the statues.
You are lead beyond into a room. A room full of rose bushes, sunlight coming through gaps in the canopy. Here a pile of soft, silken pillows is where Ilsenine is, lying at rest and eyes closed. Nearby a satyr strums a harp, soothing and restful music as Ilsenine rests.
Lady Skye comes forward and in a soft voice, "My Queen," she murmurs.
Moore patiently waits!
There's no need to rush anything at this point.
Ilsenine slowly sits up, yawns and stretches, "Good afternoon, Lady Sk-" She blinks, pauses and smiles, "Moore!" A loud cry, then a pause. "Moore," she says, cooler, gathering herself. "Welcome home."
Kaja keeps in position in the back, not disturbing or interrupting the moment.
Moore gives a short wave.
"I had business with Aurora and decided I'd been selfish enough for a while." Moore says quietly. "Your Majesty, this is Kaja, one of my comrades in Celestia. Kaja, this is Queen Ilsenine of the Lifasan Court." Moore explains.
"Charmed," Kaja says, staying back.
Queen Ilsenine merely gives Kaja a gracious look before she says, "Come here, there's so much to tell you," Queen Ilsenine says, patting the pillows next to her.
Moore laughs quietly. "You can wait outside, if you want, Kaja." Moore says as he flies over to take a seat.
"There's quite a bit to tell you about myself -- so why don't you go first?" He says.
Kaja hurriedly takes that chance, Lady Skye going with him.
"Crystal's doing well, though she's currently away on court business," Queen Ilsenine says, "She's doing what she can before she gets too gravid."
Moore nods. "Lady Skye mentioned some grim news, is there anything going on besides what's transpired with Gathgorian?"
"That is enough grim news," Ilsenine says, "Jaela and Aurora hunt the First Vampire, perhaps to set things right with the specter of Annalise in Jaela's memories. Afina hunts and prepares to face Gathgorian. We have peace, yet we have war and crusades further ahead." The pixie queen rests against you, a gentle hug.
Moore smiles and gives her a comforting hug.
"You're welcome to visit any time you'd like, you know." Moore says. "Though I'm working on a solution so we can talk more regularly and in person. How are you doing, truthfully?"
"I miss many of Aurora. I miss Aurora itself. I miss Afina. I miss you," Queen Ilsenine says, "There is much good and much happiness to take up my days, but I am also aware of what I wish was still here."
Moore chuckles. "There's something to be said about there is no hunter without a hunted. Has Titania said much in the recent times?" Moore asks. "It feels like most deities have been taking a more active role in things where I've been."
"On the evening after hearing of Afina's new crusade, she instructed me to aid Afina as she needs," Ilsenine says, "But otherwise, no."
Moore nods. "Interesting times we live in. My current campaign has me focusing on Shar. We've performed some operations against Efreet holdings just for the sake of making some statements and stirring up hornet nests." He explains.
"I apparently have drawn the ire of the Grand Sultan." A shrug. "I can't stand the idea of slavery."
"Good. Let the slavers crumble," Queen Ilsenine agrees, a soft sight as she rests on you. "Be careful."
A smile and a reassuring hug. "I'd say not to worry, but we both know that won't happen. But don't hesitate to let me know if there's anything you need help with. I might be working with Celestia, but that doesn't mean I'm going to turn into a solar just yet."
"I think I'd like a song and some poetry," Queen Ilsenine says, "Would you serenade me, Moore?"
"Who am I to refuse a Queen?" Moore says with a grin.
He'll skip all the magical augmentation since she's well aware of what he can do with it and stick with just his natural skills and his equipment, which is... Take 10 + 34 + 13 + 13 + 4 + 15 + 10 = 99 anyway, jeez! That's Perform (Oratory).
I'm no good with love songs, so just... pretend it's really good and extremely sappy.
Like this the two of you spend time together and...
Anything else you want to do here?
Nah, it was mostly just a news-swap if there was anything pressing and a good-will 'hey I really shouldn't ignore my royal girlfriend forever'.
We can return whenever.
Fantastical. Next move?
There's nothing really else on the agenda. He's probably just going to go back home to puzzle out his riddle and maybe do some wandering if he gets some inspiration for it.
He does have a few other things he wants to approach RE: getting stronger but those can wait for a little bit.
Okay, for the moment, how are you planning ot work on the riddle? Just work on it yourself, OOC or going to do anything IC about it?
Purely from an IC perspective -- it's just something that he has to sit and spend some time focusing on and jotting ideas down until he thinks of a piece that fits.
It's okay for him to do it on and off as other things happen, though, so you're not held up with exciting IC bits of "and so he works on the riddle some more!!!"
Sure. OOC, do you need to work on it, Neph, or have you solved it/not working on it?
I don't think I can solve it on my own, I admit wholeheartedly. I can work on it but am pretty much even if I stare at it for a while I'll still get stuck.
Alrighty then.
On your return to the fortress, you find Grias bouncing about wildly. He's stuck in a small metal birdcage, bouncing around and trying to squeeze out in vain. The cage is hung on a wooden pole in the ground. "Moore, Moore!" he cries on your entrance, "This harridan of a woman is here!"
"...Grias, how are you even stuck in there?" Moore asks. "I didn't think lantern archons even worked like that..." He flies over to open the door to the cage.
"Who's here?" He asks. "Oh, I think I know."
The woman wears a red cloak with a matching hood. She wears leather armor beneath it and boots, striding forward with daggers on her belt and strapped to her armor. "I had a cage warded against teleportation, just for this sort of contingency," she snatches the cage back once you've freed Grias, "It's good to meet you."
Meanwhile, Kaja draws his blade and stalks forward, "Really?"
Moore laughs quietly as he flies forward with a hand extended. "Tannin spoke very highly of you, but you have me at a bit of a disadvantage, which is probably how you like it! Nonetheless, I'm Moore, this is Kaja. Ah... try not to put this one in a cage." Moore says with an apologetic smile to Grias.
"I say not to! I say not!" Grias flutters all around the woman's hooded head.
The woman has pretty if shadowed features, hood up. Brown hair can be glimpsed. She takes your hand and shakes it, "I'll see if you can figure out my name. You did solve my riddle as it is."
"Letting your reputation precede you?" Moore asks with a smile.
All right, let's play that game. K:P (if appropriate?) for who this woman might be, knowing the fact that she apparently likes red (which I think is probably her motif) and is a psionic of some nature! I'm guessing her code terms to Tannin may be a clue too.
Anyway, K:P for 110 if that's the appropriate check. If not let me know. Though that may not actually give me her real name, but we'll see.
Gimme K:Local. It's one you don't have, so use the default for bardic knack's setup.
In that case, it's 92.
What you know doesn't narrow it down much - but you recall one tavern story. Melia Redcloak, a stealthy person of strange powers and preparations. A spy, an information broker, a strong mind.
Moore smiles and nods. "I admit curiosity, is your last name really the garb you wear, or did you change it to match?"
"My Momma and Da both had the name," A hand on her hip, "It's common where I'm from, since old King Elles knighted all his Redcloaks before he died. Pretty good, though, you're smart and well informed. This should be a treat." Licking her lips and smiling, "So what is it you need done here? Tannin was cagey about it."
"Hmm." Moore gestures for Melia to follow him. "Let's discuss this over something to eat and I'll explain. How much do you know about me before I bore you with details?"
"Duke Moore of Celestia, formerly of Aurora and current servant of Erathaol. Further details don't exist, near as I can find out. You're a bard, a performer and a gifted holy man as well. You're in a relationship with a pixie queen on Lifasa and I'm pretty sure you were recently upset over something." Melia lists that all off as she walks along.
Go ahead and lead here where you wish to, it's your fortress.
Moore laughs a bit as he takes Melia to his fortress' meeting room and offers her a seat.
He takes a seat opposite of her and clears his throat. "You're already well informed, but I'm going to give you a piece of information that I hope will... hmm. I think it'll put some things into perspective."
He takes a breath at this. "You're familiar with the Incarnations, yes? Well, Io has been missing for some countless years. He is no longer missing, in some regards, though he is in hiding."
A moment to let that settle in.
"I think there are many divine groups trying to find him right now, as may not surprise you. That isn't really what my mission is about, but it's part of it. My group's current goal is to weaken and hopefully have a hand in eventually destroying her, but that's... down the road. I'm not much of an infiltration specialist or information broker -- that's where you come in. I need to be kept up to date on the goings-on of... well, a lot of things. My understanding is that is your area of expertise."
"Actually, I don't know what an Incarnation is," Melia says, "I didn't follow half of that, so walk me through that again?"
"Oh." Moore smiles and laughs quietly. "I'm sorry. The Incarnations are three individuals who created Creation, including the gods themselves. For countless years, Ao was the only one who existed. It was thought that the others had left Creation entirely. Ao was the one who would grant people divinity, also, which... was a problem, is my understanding."
I'll admit I'm a little rusty on if they stand for anything specific here, or if there are other details specific to him that I'm leaving out.
"Io I know, and that's not Ao, right?" Melia says, "Io's a dragon deity who did vanish a long time ago. Regardless, I'll get some information on it. So you need a spymaster?"
"Yes." Moore says. "I don't expect you to fight with us unless you'd like to. I mean, someone at your skill level is obviously talented anyway, but I want to make sure you understand that I trust you know where to apply yourself and don't need me dragging you into outrageous fights against the forces of Hell. Well, unless you want to, I guess."
"I'll pass on the combating," Melia says, "Okay, so what is it I need to know?"
"We're currently engaged against Shar, primarily, but as you know, Hell and their agents are out in force as well." Moore says. "Right this second we're working against the Grand Sultan and efreet, so that's where I'd really like your attention focused. I have some documents I took from a raid we succeeded in at Salty Pier, but I imagine a great deal of the information is out of date by now. So, if word gets anywhere that you're aiding us, you'll have Sharrans, Hellish agents and Efreet coming after you, just to name a few. I imagine Tiamat's cronies probably don't like us either at this point."
He drums his fingers on the table for a moment. "What I need most are targets of opportunity, either locations or people specifically. Our group works best as a strike force to quickly get in and get out -- we're not built for long-term sieges right now. We're also not struggling for resources, but could always use more. I suppose..."
He leans back and continues think. "If I were to put it in order of priority... Lucrative locations to attack, isolated individuals to either capture or kill, people to add to our cause. I think that's what I'd say for right now. I can't be everywhere, so I don't know what already exists out there. If you need funding for anything, you have it, no questions asked. I implicitly trust Tannin and if you're who he sent, then I implicitly trust you as well."
He reaches over the table and offers a hand. "Is this a cause you can agree to aiding?"
A long whistle as Melia sits down, chair turned around so that she can rest her chin on the backrest. "You've been busy. Got a few questions before committing. I understand Hell and the efreet, they're basically cousins. Why Shar, though? You got enemies enough with those two without adding that bitch to it."
"She's making inroads to try and increase her power." Moore says. "There's something called the Prophecy of Primus that some believe in -- basically, Shar manages to win and turn the entire of Creation into the deepest darkness." A shake of his head.
"Whether you believe in it or not, it's a worthy cause to fight back against her and her awful followers." Moore says, firmly.
"Secondly," Melia says after a nod, "You and your crew are all about the hit and run, the daring raid. How do you deal when the enemy reverses that? It's bound to happen."
"Generally, if they've gotten themselves into a very defensible position, we use our abilities to smash through it quickly to get to our goal." Moore explains. "It's happened a few times that we've had to defend a position because of the fortifications there or something of that nature. I've also recently come into control a handy tool that can prevent teleportation for a mile out when I need to use it." He adds.
"If you're asking what happens if they attack us here? Well..." He takes a breath. "I honestly had never considered anyone would be dumb enough to try it. But you're right, it could happen. That's a matter that I'll have to address."
"Third," Melia goes on, a slight nod to your words, "What sort of pay and reward structure are we looking at? In detail."
"We currently have an agreement that all the funds are pooled for one resource for everyone to use." Moore explains. "Obviously, if you provide us information on a lucrative target and we recover items or gold from there, you're entitled to a share of it. If you'd like to specify what that share is before you agree to anything, I can work with that. Can I ask what you've normally done in the past?"
"20% commission for any leads that lead to treasure, or an equal share if I end up directly participating," Melia says, "Tannin says the plunder structure on Aurora mostly works because of the forges there, but I'd prefer solid gold regardless."
"As long as you can accept a magical item that's worth that same amount, I see no issues with that." Moore says. "For things that end up with no way to really price them, we'll work something out. Is that fair?"
"Fair," Melia says, "Finally, who are your superiors here?"
"The only person I'm responsible for reporting to is Erathaol. Other than that, I'm in charge of this fortress and the people in it. You can consider everyone here my advisors, if you'd like." Moore says.
"High up in the chain? Good." Melia says, "You have a spymaster."
"It's part of my charm, I guess." Moore says with a small chuckle. "If you have any questions, concerns or otherwise, let me know."
He offers his hand across the table again.
This time it is taken, shaken vigorously. "So go around and introduce me," Melia says, "I'd like to get to know everyone face to face."
"Hah!" Moore grins at that. "You already met Grias."
A gesture for her to follow and out he goes to find the others to introduce her!
You find Jetina and Cresiel first, out with the refugees, seeing to them. They're busy commanding and fixing issues, at least on a glance. No sign of Kaja (and Villisa, honestly).
"That's Cresiel." Moore points him out first as they head in his direction. "That's Jetina. Cresiel and I met in Aurora and he was my first official ally of my new station here in Celestia. He's... well, you know, he's softening up a bit. He's still a solar, of course, but he actually makes jokes every now and again. I'd say he's about... hmm... 70% a fighter with 30% casting magic to back it up. He's a defensive fighter. Jetina is primarily the person who keeps us all in one piece, she's very adept with healing magic."
Melia watches them, leaning forward a bit and a cattish smile on her face, "Oh, I see. Yes, I think they'll do. They'll do well if Kaja lives up to his own reputation."
"He certainly has so far." Moore says. "Should I even ask what's on your mind?"
"You shouldn't,' Melia smiles just a bit, "Nothing at all." Whistling she turns to you and says, "So Kaja next?"
A smile at that. "I'll trust you on that, then." He clears his throat to the question of Kaja. "He's... indisposed right now." Moore shakes his head. "Don't worry about him for right now. Let's go find Xandra, and then I can introduce you to the folks that keep this place running when we're out gallivanting."
Off they go!
Avoiding that one like the plague, huh?
Xandra is found basking in the light of Chronias, sitting atop a nearby cliff with her gaze upward. Melia looks at her as the two of you approach, taking her in. "Interesting."
"She's an interesting one. She's helped me a lot try and learn a few more things about the world." Moore says. "I'm still learning a lot from her. She's primarily a spellcaster with arcane and some divine magic, but she can swing a sword like nobody's business."
That same cattish smile returns, "Even more interesting," she eyes Xandra. "I see, I see. She'll do, too."
Moore takes in a breath as he rolls his eyes playfully. "Let me show you the rest."
From here, he'll introduce Melia to all the "normal" folks and the people we rescued from slavery.
As you go about and do this, meeting around? Melia hums, "That just leaves you," she concludes, "What about you binds all of them to you?"
Moore taps his chin at that. "We have a tangible bond." Moore says. "Either because of gods or something else, we've all been brought together for one cause and are helping each other. If you were to ask them all what about me keeps them here, they'd all give different answers... so... I think it's because I serve as their hope and their belief in the possibility that we can all change Creation."
"Hmph." A little nod at that, "Alright, I'm going to go set up my area here. Come by in a day or two."
"Sorry, I can be pretty boring!" Moore admits. "Let me know if you need anything."
If there's nothing else that interrupts him (there's always something that interrupts him) he'll go back to his puzzle.
Sure. Going to do anything with it or just mill time working on it?
He'll focus solely on the 'letter that the Hebdomad don't share' part if he can. There are multiple letter (obviously) but maybe in Celestial there's a letter that fits?
Gimme an int check.
no whammy no whammy no whammy STOP
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+11 : 5 + 11, total 16[/blockquote]
Congratulations on your new rug.
You work on it and come to a simple conclusion: There's more than one letter than none of the Hebdomad do not have. Therefore, you likely need to solve the other parts first.
Moore writes all the letters down that they don't share for the time being.
So let me ask the question this way -- is this something you'd LIKE me to try and solve OOC and have it be organically solved IC? I ask because the rules around this particular riddle are very specific, so it feels to me like it's more... mm... "fair"? To have it just be 'hey he puzzles this out himself and so on.'
The other thing is there are clearly other rules around this (to give an example, the last clue says 'the last four letters are blahblahblah' -- but what if the word there isn't four letters? Is it ONLY four letters? I don't want to bog you down with a hundred questions like that.
I'm okay if this takes some IC time to solve -- obviously he'd like to get it done sooner rather than later, but realistically, sometimes with riddles you have to get up and come back.
It's largely meant to be puzzled out OOC.
And yeah about riddles. Sometimes you need distance and time to get anywhere on one.
Okay.
I have some notes but I'm not sure how to convey them for the purposes of this.
Toss them out OOC here for me and we'll talk about that, then.
The first two letters are the end of celestials. I'm sure a wise man can understand what end I refer to and puzzle it out.
-This feels like it has to be "Chronias," because nothing else makes sense. So 'Ch'
The third and fourth letters are two letters in reverse order. The first of that letter is the first letter of the newly risen mountain, one that mimics your own Mountain. The second of that letter is a letter that none of the Hebdomad share.
-This is probably Sylica? I doubt 'The Cauldron' would count as a name.
-This one has multiple letters, so... we'll come back to it.
The last four are what is common for the powerful and rare for the least. It is the path and the road that winks and vanishes on a whim, yet always there for the mighty.
-I'm not sure here. If it's supposed to actually -be- four letters, it makes sense that it's 'gold'.
With that in mind, the word so far is 'Ch _ s gold' which doesn't really make a lot of sense, unless the password itself is some weird 'magic' word.
Okay, I can translate that into IC progress if you like.
Please.
Moore works on the riddle. He feels as if he's made headway, but it's still hard going and could be a false lead. Finding something that fits is the trick, as nothing comes to mind that would make a reasonable term for ch_gold.
As you work Xandra comes in, "Moore," she greets, "You still labor at that?"
"Oh, Xandra." Moore puts his pen down to nod to her. "It's something I... mm. I need to do without my normal tricks. It's hard, but I think I'll get it once I spend some more time with it."
"Perseverance is a virtue," Xandra says, coming in and taking a seat. "But so is honesty. Have you considered telling Melia what happened?"
Moore tilts his head. "Tell her about what, exactly?"
"About the fact that you haven't solved her riddle?" Xandra asks, cocking her head slightly. "That is what this is about, is it not?"
Moore blinks, then laughs. "No, this isn't about her riddle. Remember the person I left that letter for some time ago? I think it's from them."
"Ah, I see," Xandra says, "In that case, have you made much progress?"
"Some, here and there." Moore says. "But I think It's a matter of getting something I'm 100% sure of as a starting point, then working from there... but I may be focusing too much on what I think I've got right. So I may need to try and... ah, what's the word... relaxing?"
"You should. In the meantime, may I see your work?" Xandra asks, "A second set of eyes can see what the first cannot."
"Ah... it's not that I don't want to." Moore says. "But if I don't solve it on my own, then it... mm. How about this -- I think it's fine if you just confirm something that I feel is right, and that will give me a foundation to work from." He smiles at that. Technically speaking there wasn't anything in the letter about people helping, just magic... so this is still within the boundaries of something acceptable, right?
"One of the riddles here is, to paraphrase, 'the end of celestials.' To me, the answer that immediately comes to my mind is Chronias. That's where all celestials eventually want to go -- and thus, is their end."
"Certainly correct from a proper point of view. But would any eladrin agree with you?" Xandra says after some consideration, "Are you certain your writer is an archon or another resident of Celestia and thus would think the same way?"
"They're definitely not." Moore says. "So... in that regard, hmm... I see, I've been looking at it from the wrong perspective indeed. I think I know where to focus some attention, then. Thank you, Xandra."
"Riddles are dastardly things, a matter of direction and anticipation," Xandra concurs, "Is there anything else I can help with?"
"Just make sure I don't spend too much time on this." Moore says with a smile. "I want to get it done, but not at the expense of my other duties."
"I shall," Xandra promises, "Everything in the right time and right place."
Moore laughs and nods. "I doubt the voice is going to help me with this, but you never know. Make sure Kaja doesn't leave with Villisa too, all right?"
Xandra laughs at that, a warm sound that seems to chase any chill out of the room and brings joy to you. "I suspect Villisa's infatuations will pass as the summer breeze passes. I will keep an eye on them, just in case. I don't think we could endure if they eloped and made it permanent."
"We'd have to mount a rescue mission for certain." Moore affirms.
"I'll make sure we don't come to that," Xandra agrees, and...
Next move?
I'd say just keep poking at the riddle, but I'm pretty stumped on the whole thing OOC, so, whatever is fine.
Gimme a d100.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d100 : 67, total 67[/blockquote]
As you, Wood comes into your room. He sits right next to you, panting and watching you intensely.
Moore turns his attention over!
"You're a lot more than just a dog, aren't you?" Moore asks. "It's fine, you don't have to answer that." He scratches behind Wood's ear.
"Woof!" Is Wood's eloquent reply as you pet him. He curls up at your feet, lying down for a nap.
Moore chuckles as he turns his attention back to his notes.
"Is it literal? ...Is the 'end of celestials' just... 'ls'? ...Hmm... Is the final word even just a word? Or is it just...hmmm..." He murmurs to himself as he taps his foot.
Wood whines softly as you turn back to your work.
Moore lets out a melodramatic huff as he puts his work down for now.
"Do you want to go for a walk, or do you want to just nap for now?" Moore asks.
Wood nudges your hand with his head and then trots to the door.
"All right, let's go for a walk then." Moore relinquishes as he gets up to go for some walkies!
Family interruption, back now.
You head out. As you follow Wood through the halls, he pauses and sniffs the ground, then whimpers softly.
Moore flies over to lean down and take a look! His sense of smell isn't that good, but perhaps there's something obvious!
Oh, why not? Perception.
Take 10 for 67.
It's a floor. A well cleaned stone floor, no sign of anything or scent of much of anything.
Wood whimpers nonetheless. "Miss you..." A soft voice murmurs sadly, one you swear comes from Wood.
Moore glances over at Wood, then at the floor. "Where is it coming from?"
Wood sniffs the ground again, then intently looks to the end of the hall, a door leading outside there.
"Come on." Moore says as he goes to open the door!
It opens to the edge of the courtyard, nothing too unusual there.
Wood looks up towards the light above and whimpers sadly.
"Is that where she is?" Moore asks quietly.
Another whimper. Be strong, Wood. Your master loves you.
Moore smiles and gives him a good petting. "Don't worry. I'll make sure you see each other again when it's time."
Wood pants again at that petting, as...
Okay, refresh me on your plans to help out with the Seira end of anti slavery efforts.
I believe our role is to be a safehouse and to help ferry them around as needed. I think we're also to act as a strike team against anywhere while she's Doing Her Thing.
I do also need to dedicate some time to officially sending her the information I got from Calley.
Go ahead and compose that message in that case, we'll start with that.
Okay.
Lady Seira,
Enclosed in this letter are copies of the research I've done on Calley's 'blueprints'. We had some idea that it was a ritual, but I believe it leads to the location of 21, or is in at least part of finding it. I think, somehow or another, Sylvie imparted this knowledge to him, though somehow or another he doesn't truly understand what it is.
In what I've found, there are are apparently 777 pieces to this ritual, of which so far I have located 1.
I will keep you appraised if there are any further pieces of information I happen across, but thought this information would be of some use to you and Sylica.
He'll make duplicates of all his work so far along with it and put it all together. He probably ought to just go deliver it himself so as to avoid any problems with the delivery.
Okay, I'll toss you over there then. Locking this thread.
Oh, and is anyone going with you?
Did you catch my second post there, Neph? Want to make sure it isn't an oopsie sorta situation.
I did not, thanks for catching that.
He'd bring Cresiel with him.
Done, locking thread.