"Seira!"
Even after all these years sometimes it hits Seira. Sometimes Kascha's voice takes her back, to the Lost Eastlands and the ruin. To where she heard Kascha's voice for the first time, recorded ages ago and preserved in the ruins of a dead civilization. To when the Destroyer roamed and slaughtered any who sought to survive in that dead land.
Kascha runs up to you, carrying a load of books in her arms as you look up from the letter. A simple missive from Garl Glittergold, pleasant if not dreadfully important. More of a casual discussion of matters on Bytopia. With a thump Kascha drops those books on your desk as Elle follows, her own load of books carried and with several stacks of them following behind her of their own volition. Indeed, hundreds of books have sprouted legs and feet, a march of the written word that ends atop your desk. Towers of books so high that it blocks a direct view to either of them.
"There you are," Kascha declares, "Don't mind these, I found so many interesting books in what we took from Imix, I thought you'd appreciate copies of the interesting ones to read at your leisure. That's not why I'm here."
Elle waves a hand, the books splitting apart to give you a crack to see them through. "I'm along for the ride," Elle says, "Who says no to a phoenix on a mission of scholarly learning?"
"Shush," Kascha blushes warmly at that, "I wanted to talk to you about things, Seira, particularly 666. Do you have some time right now?"
Elle, behind Kascha, mouths, 'Say yes' slowly and obviously several times. 'Please say yes!'
Going on from there, Kascha continues, "I hope so, because there's so many interesting things going on right now!"
This particular bit of referenced loot is just background, to be clear. Interesting for sure but not mechanically relevant. In other words, nothing to worry yourself over in that regard.
"Sure, Elle and I've got the time. Get comfortable~" Seira responds, providing the pair with comfortable armchairs. Vayley, being a competent maid that anticipates her mistress's desires will surely provide refreshments at the right moment, too!
The two do so. Once ensconced and comfortable, Vayley brings refreshments.
"But oh," Kascha goes on once Vayley's gone. "I heard Alicia and Antenora went to 666. Have you heard yet, Seira?"
Meanwhile Elle just focuses on her drink.
"Yes, though not the details. I've been trying to focus on Fire."
"Oh! Yes!" Kascha clasps her hands together, "I just talked to a friend on Fire. I hear Imix has pulled back almost all of his agents and is focused inward. There's thoughts it may be a purge, and if he thinks someone betrayed him to allow you to sneak in?"
"Better them than us," Elle retorts, "Imix is weakened and distracted now. I doubt he'll have any role in the upcoming nastiness with the Grand Sultan. If he wants to go hunting for a mole, let him cannibalize his own forces."
"Oh yes, though I also heard efreets in Imix's service have been fleeing back to the City of Brass, but that's from before we even attacked Imix. Oh, but we're getting off on a tangent."
The way Kascha pauses, a deliberately thoughtful look on her face? It's beautiful and simple, unguarded completely. "But there is one aspect I want to know. However has the Crimson Firebrand gotten strong enough to challenge Kossuth himself?"
"Donald and I figured that part out," Elle explains, "From what we know, it has to be the Incarnation of Law." She waves a hand casually, "But again, it's a side show to your point, isn't it?"
This gets Kascha to blush, "Well yes," she admits, "But it's interesting! No one's every seriously challenged one of the elemental lords before. Kossuth treats him like a threat rather than something to be brushed aside." Kascha pulls out her book and starts to write, "If he's strong enough to oppose Kossuth directly, he has to be a mighty opponent. He'll surely draw people to his side, people who want to be allied with that great strength."
"More importantly," Elle speaks up, "We've gotten reports about how efreet fight when when's in the general area. As in miles." Elle states primly, "Well, Donald has but he hasn't put it all together yet. Any efreet gains impossible strength around him and becomes fast as a gale. I have a report that a reliable source says a single, normal efreet in that state could overcome a pit fiend or throne archon in melee combat."
"That's respectable," Seira admits, although if they were to face her it really wouldn't matter. Miles of pit fiends are just fodder, after all. "I'm honestly wondering why, though. Why now could be answered by sensing an opportunity, or even due to some ancient prophecy. But unless he's part of Shar's faction, why focus on Kossuth rather than on her?"
"I'd say he wants to get his house in order," Elle speculates, "With all of Fire in his grasp, he'd have far more weapons to use against Shar. The fact that Asmodeus supports him tells us that he's not for Shar. A Fire united under the Crimson Firebrand not only provides a powerful weapon against Shar, but it will benefit Hell for eons afterwards. Perhaps eternally."
"Therefore," Elle pauses to drink before going on, a smug smile on her face, "We have to beat him so that Kossuth can wield a united Fire against Shar when the time is right. But either way, the main goal is achieved, it's only a question of which side of law triumphs. It wouldn't be the first time those two worked that sort of angle. Even if one loses, the cause of Law itself and Creation's survival still wins."
"Maybe?" Kascha's quietly thoughtful, scribbling away, "A Kossuth who wins will not only be unquestioned, but even more dominant over Fire than usual. If he tells the entire plane to march, they'll march. Same with a new overlord if the Crimson Firebrand wins. If this was going to erupt before the end, perhaps they're manipulating it so that no matter how it goes, it won't impede their true goal?"
Then Kascha's eyes cross and she shakes her head, "Ah! Oh Seira, I start to do plots like this these days now, and it's still so complicated. Layers and layers of motivations. Compared to this, even 666 seems simple and concise! Oh, but speaking of that, I wanted to invite Antenora to join us since she went there and we can learn about it from her."
"You know she's always welcome!"
It's not long for Antenora to arrive. She wears opal radiance in the same way Syala wears light. Once she enters, "Can I ask your opinions on this?" she says, "I've thought of copying Syala's look for the occasional avatar appearance to show unity within Sylica as well as harmony. Does it work for me?"
Elle regards her seriously, standing up and walking around her. "You look like a giant blue star from the night sky."
Kascha giggles at that, "I don't know, I like it. There's something elegant about it, in the same way I feel elegant and simple when I'm in phoenix form and wreathed in fire. It's not like they make dresses for phoenixes. I think it works for you."
With a tsk, "Stick to the armor and stern glares. You're not half the Sharessian to pull off that look. More, opal blue has such a different impact and color profile than white. That sort of blue is so strong, it dominates everything."
"It's not so bad, though," Kascha smiles, "I've gone through hundreds of outfits and looks to try and find good ones for my avatar. It's fun. It's so hard to find the right one that isn't wrong in some way."
Antenora takes a seat at that, "Then Seira, what do you think?"
"I think we should wear clothes outside of special circumstances," Seira admits, before smiling herself. "Nice to have you over! Have you seen my new sword?"
She draws Razalim and presents it before Antenora, to better serve a distraction from that topic.
Antenora shifts, clad in her armor in an instant. "It's beautiful," she says, looking over the weapon, "I've heard the legends about it. How does it handle in battle, Seira?"
"It consumes all my enemies," Seira tells her. "That is the entire concept behind the blade, and apparently its previous owners allowed themselves to be consumed by it as well. Ah, as an aside, it's really effective against Fire natives! Even Imix was surprised!"
"Dangerous then," Antenora concludes, "Like a fire that burns everything it touches for fuel?"
There's a pause of a moment before, "You actually got that from what Seira said?" Elle asks, incredulously. "She only mentioned enemies."
"What fire touches fuel but doesn't consume it?" Antenora asks back, "It's well known the blade is cursed and look at what happens to its owners." As she stays close to the sword, inspecting it, "That's exactly why it's effective against Fire, I imagine."
Elle's expression is one of irritated discontent, but Kascha steps forward and smiles, "Well, I don't think you're wrong."
"It's not really cursed, it's just strong-willed and mono-focused. You've probably seen your share of people like that, but this is a sword that thinks like that!"
"Well, wield it carefully," Antenora says, before, "But you wanted to ask me about 666?"
"Oh! Yes, we did," Kascha gets her book ready, "I have some questions of course. Do you, Seira?"
"All in good time~" Seira grins at Kascha. "I'll let you lead."
I'd appreciate a quick recap there, if possible.
'For the record,' Antenora sends back to you, 'Is that why you shot me in the back when we first met? I do recall my lack of attire at the time.' Her mental voice isn't mad or accusatory, rather mildly amused, as if some jest she found pleasing.
Antenora sits and after a moment to refresh herself, begins her story.
"As you may know, we found out about 666 from Malcanthet and that curious trinket she had from it. Eventually we obtained knowledge of the Man of the Winds, and in doing that, found out more about 666 and how it was a living lie." Antenora pauses here a moment, "I believe you're familiar with that, Kascha?"
"I am," Kascha agrees, "Along with what the Man of the Winds said to Muirfinn, and it matches his message to us back then. You also know that I know that." With a little smile, "Did you forget?"
"Hardly." Antenora retorts, a less than impressed look that fades to a softer nod. "Any good story can do with setting the table for it. No, the Man of the Winds had a particular style of speaking as you said, Kascha. To cut a very long story short, we eventually consulted with Zaphkiel about 666. It's not a tool of the Incarnations. In his words..." A wave of her hand, a memory unfolded before the four of you.
QuoteMount Celestia, the waters of Lunia. Alicia, Antenora and Jessica stand there even as a fourth it felt by unseen presence: Zaphkiel.
You all did well to bring her here.
All of evil is ultimately negation and destruction, to rebel against what is right. Without good, evil cannot exist, but good does not need evil to exist. Where lies ultimate truth, the opposite must be the ultimate lies.
"It's all a trick," Alicia whispers ruefully.
I should have just asked you to begin with, but I don't like to be over-reliant. The 666th layer is no tool of the Incarnations, is it?
Your desire to stand on your own and learn is a credit to you. Should I feel the need to speak up for your sake, I will.
It is not, but it is closer than other things in Creation, just as Chronias is closer.
There are no glories there, no promises of a perfect eternity. All that lies there is hatred, loathing and the defeated acceptance of that sole keeper of the realm. He knows he's lost, hasn't he? He knows he made the wrong choice. All he can do is lie and try to desperately make what is wrong correct.
Even my counterpart knows that in his heart. The darkest evil is that which accepts darkness in place of the light and seeks to spread. Baator is the ultimate expression of his conclusion and his false Answer. You understood this anew when you spoke of the glories if even one in a thousand could be saved that would otherwise be damned.
Shall we slay him? It is bad enough we have to cooperate with evil that can at last recognize that we must stop Ao.
You may try, but know his power is extreme. He will fight you with every lie that has can make true. You very natures may change as you battle him, as his power alters reality. The Abyss itself will not take his death lightly, and will oppose your efforts. Demon princes will be birthed as you battle, new horrors created to destroy you, and the designs of the Abyss will strive to bring great evils to challenge you as you fight on.
Kascha writes feverishly as she watches and listens, "Ooooooh. I see now!"
"It's true, too. The Abyss itself resisted us. Horrors were birthed as we reached for 666 and in our second trip there." Antenora closes her eyes, "Newborn, larval demon lords. It may not be a tool of the Incarnations, but 666 is valuable to the Abyss."
A pause.
"In the end, the master of 666 resisted us. Warred with us and played with us until we reached deeper in, having fought past the nightmares." Antenora's expression becomes solemn. "We reached it. A False Celestial, a corpse larger than a world, a dead thing that produced smaller copies of itself like infection from a wound. Dead as the lies it champions. That place...do you remember the Apex of Prayer in Chronias, Seira? Where every prayer of the righteous could be heard? It was the opposite. I heard so many vile wishes, desires for darkness and destruction. A place where every evil intent in Creation sinks to. In that moment we competed against the master of 666 and held our own, and in that we triumphed enough to escape with what we desired."
Elle looks rather lost but listens to it while Kascha keeps on writing. "Oh, no one else can see this book," she sighs, "It's too sensitive. What a pity!"
"Alicia and I both advanced from this triumph." Antenora continues, "Our rejection of 666 was enough for Lord Zaphkiel to chide the master of 666 as well."
It had nothing to do with your hobbies, Seira responds to Antenora with a mental shake of her head. Donald was murdered by devils invading our world, which was vulnerable due to its long period of isolation. You were, at the time, a hostile devil up to no good on our Prime, and I had a duty to protect it. Since my style of combat closely resembled Jessica's at the time, shooting from ambush was in fact the proper way I fought and it remains a perfectly valid combat style. Ah, but I should've held back and trusted in Alicia that time, so that's why I believe after the fact that shooting you was wrong.
From experience, when people joke about such matters, there sometimes are unresolved issues, so the best she can do is respond properly and calmly but not defensively. And so she does, and then settles to review the recorded memory.
"Mmm, I must say I'm glad that advanced. I consulted a talented numerologist I know about the nonsense Windman talked about, and asked Sylvie to take a glance as well, but in the end that was the extent of attention I could devote to 666. So you went to that creepy place and triumphed... but what does it mean, Antenora? 666's master is rebuked by Zaphkiel, and that's the proper state of affairs? Or are you going to mount a follow up expedition? And what of Malcanthet's toy, is it still working as it was before?"
Antenora doesn't sound mad and just slightly nods at you before she continus.
"It means that when ever lie, every malediction in Creation stood against us?" Antenora says, "Alicia and I resisted. That all the hatred in Creation was not enough to make us succumb. That in the end, what is good and what is true is stronger than that."
Kascha writes away before, nose almost in her book entirely, close to it as she scribbles, "Do you think we may have trouble out of him in the future, before this is all done?"
"I think it comes down to the False Celestial, the master of that place. To it every lie will become true and every truth will become a lie. We angered it greatly in our triumph, and in the end all it wanted us to do was leave it. Powerful as it is, it is piteous. It is pathetic." Antenora declares, every word emphasized there. "It had to confront that when it saw us. It couldn't twist the truths that we were into lies that it wanted. One day I would like to confront it, but not as we are now. We aren't even close to strong enough to challenge it. For now we leave it be. I only worry that we may be forced to confront it in the last battles."
After that and a moment, "As far as I know, Malcanthet's toy still works. Distasteful but that's a relatively minor part of this business."
"It's quite belated, but it appears that congratulations are in order for you and Alicia," Seira muses. "Please relay them for me once you're back home? That said, it appears that we don't need to intervene in 666 at present, Kascha. Perhaps it would be best to focus on a different Evil to correct in Creation?"
Glancing between the phoenix and Antenora, Seira adds, "We might even collaborate again, if it's something a bit out of our individual reach."
"I'd be happy to," Antenora agrees at that as Kascha writes away. "Do you have anything in mind?"
Meanwhile Kascha finishes her notes and closes her book. "Just be clear, 666 is best kept unknown?"
"Absolutely." No hesitation from Antenora, "Colke learned of it and traveled to it, and gained sorrows great and overflowing. Alicia and I are the exceptions. Let the knowledge of 666 stay in your minds and away from others."
"When in doubt, choose to mess with Shar! Elle, did Donald say anything about our investigation into her proxies?"
"No, we've been tied up with finishing the fallout of Imix," Elle says.
"Alas. Anything open on your end, Antenora? I know you've been working hard on that front while we were slacking."
"Yes," Antenora smiles, "We captured Zylvelyn."
After a moment Elle clears her throat, "I don't have encyclopedic knowledge of Sharrans," she confesses, "Details."
"One of the Shadows and a proxy of Shar," Antenora elaborates, "Marie and I captured her on Ice. She is now in Mystra's custody and will be no threat to anyone."
"Any chance you have actionable intel on others?"
"We got some information on the others," Antenora admits, "I'd be happy to share it with you."
"Sounds like a good chance for a bit of cultural exchange, too, if you or Jessica are free for it."
"I am," Antenora answers.
Ready for info dumping? It'll mostly be just in one post.
Yes
"First is Asani. She's been on a Prime called Gallayn. From what we know she likely provoked a bloody civil war in a large kingdom there. She may or may not be pregnant, there was some information along those lines but it's unconfirmed." Antenora begins, "We're of the opinion that part's probably false, but who can say for certain? Ebony reminded us of the Child of Lifasa and that evil will even pervert the miracle of life and birth."
As Kascha writes Elle listens, "It seems odd for most Sharrans to have children. It doesn't fit the dogma."
"It varies, and I doubt Shar would stop a pregnancy from happening. The heartbreak of stillbirth or miscarriage is far sharper," Antenora's tone is openly offended now, "Don't forget that our enemy is a monster." A pause to clear her throat. "Ahem. There's also unconfirmed reports she was seen in Grumbar's court. Relatedly, Moore may be involved, as he has some business in that court."
"Does Moore know about her or have any intention to capture her?"
"Moore is aware you'd have to contact him on that for more," Antenora says, "We're all juggling a great many things."
"In that case, Kascha, please be sure to contact him and ask for how it's going. If he intends to go after her and needs help, we'll provide it. And if he's not doing anything about her, we'll step in."
Nodding to herself, Seira returns her attention to Antenora. "This was the first. And after her?"
Today in small transitory posts to move things while Cor's asleep and I don't want to waste game time on it.
"Now?" Kascha asks, "I can message him right now if you like."
Seira nods her agreement to Kascha, listening to Antenora in the meantime.
"Next is Ryn, who came across Gathgorian in Gathgorian's hunt for a divine seed." Antenora doesn't smile, but she doesn't look the least bit troubled. "Gathgorian won and captured him. He's no longer a threat."
"Oh. Well, it's not a bad thing," Kascha says a little sadly, "At least he's pulling his end of it. But oh, I so hate to see devils succeed like that!" Her wings droop and she looks down a bit, a soft sigh.
"I know," Antenora reaches out and gently pats Kascha's head, which perks her up. "There's no sin in joy that a monster has been stopped, even if another monster is the one who did it. While after this we will rue whatever strength Gathgorian obtains, until that time let us be grateful for another ally."
"It's still better than demons," Kascha agrees as well, "At least the devils will keep their word."
"No matter how vile, even if they try and twist it within the bounds of that," Antenora sits back now, "Gathgorian personally confirmed the capture when asked."
"Did he lie, by any chance?" Elle asks at this point. "Like how fishermen always exaggerate their catches?"
"No," Antenora disagrees, "To what end? It would be a silly lie, a meaningless one. Sooner or later the truth would come out. Gathgorian's direct, like a storm. It's not his style. That and his master likely has no desire for a meaningless argument with Zaphkiel over such matters."
"And it's still a better fate for Ryn than what Shar would provide," Seira mutters. "Right. Next on the list?"
"The last was Zylvelyn, who Marie and I took care of," Antenora finishes. "In other words, we've made progress against them."
Seira blinks. "I was sure there were more!"
"Well," Antenora smiles a little bit, "When you k eep succeeding, you thin the numbers down."
"Well then, let's first see how Moore's doing with the one we know," Seira voices, gesturing at Kascha to contact him. It was a bit of a surprise, but she returns Anternora's smile, accepting her point.
"Ah. I already did," Kascha clears her throat. "He's not planning to move there anytime soon, and we're welcome to. I get the impression he's occupied otherwise."
"Okay. We'll move into Asani," Seira decides. "Elle, pass on to Donald that I want to see what he might turn up on top of what Antenora graciously shared with us?"
"I will," Elle promises, as meanwhile Kascha gets up.
"Now let me show you some of what we found," She offers Antenora as...
Anything to add here or good to move along? If so, you said you had something to do semi IC?
Correct! Let's show Kascha the dragon eggs.
"Oh! Dragon eggs!" Kascha cries as she rushes into the room, "So many of them, too. Are they alive?" she asks, turning back to you as they all sit and...
Go ahead and describe a bit if you want since it's your realm.
"They definitely are," Seira affirms, having arranged the eggs in a private garden of her palace. "It seems that they were in a sort of suspended animation and forgotten by Imix, so we're going to help them be born and introduce them to the resident Reds. Prismatics, now, I suppose?"
"More dragons," Kascha hurries from egg to egg, checking each one. "Oh, we'll need some gold around for the hatching of course, it wouldn't do for a dragon to wake up without some gold to see or nibble on. Can you imagine that, Seira? There will be so many, it'll be such a large brood that they'll all have lots of socialization, more than most dragons. That should do them good."
"I think we should also teach them certain values from the very start," Seira voices, gazing out at the dragon eggs. "You know the cultural aversion to using tools to improve performance in battle, as well as arrogance in certain matters coupled to ignorance in others that together make proper integration into mortal societies all but impossible. The older dragons might say it's not draconic... but am I not a dragon goddess favored by Io? We are going to try for a new draconic path to greatness by borrowing all that is good about the education and child-rearing of other races!"
A side eye, "Do you have something in mind in particular, Seira?" Kascha asks, "It's at least somewhat instinct as well, so you'll have to cope with that."
"Io told me to lead by example, so that's how we'll appeal our dragon path to the kids. Magic items are convenient, after all. We'll start with toys and get them used to their presence, but not for anything you actually need in order to live properly. Entertainment, educational aids, that sort of thing is what we'll use to introduce them. On the part of socialization, maybe we can try competitions? Dragons are not inherently all powerful, and dragon kids even more so. We have plenty of strong elementals who could compare favorably to them from a young age, so let's have them learn to cooperate when they need to by first learning of each other's strength. Then, by the time they hear conventional wisdom about how dragons and elementals rank, it would be trumped by their own experiences!"
Seira gives a wry grin at Kascha, then, adding, "Well, that's if things go remotely according to expectations. But spontaneity is also fun, and we've often improvised in the past and made things work out, so as long as we try our best they should grow up great kids~"
"Oh, I'm sure they'll turn out well if we put in the effort," Kascha says, "Children do. Usually." A thought, "Well and if any have deeper problems we can help."
"Right?" Seira asks with a grin. "And you'll be helping. In fact, you'll be in charge of this~!"
"Me?" Kascha asks, "Well, I don't mind, but I am busy so could you ask me first next time? But then again..." she looks back at the eggs and smiles, "Well, dragons are fun and Surru would have good advice, too."
"It's not something you're being saddled with or anything, but I thought you'd want a new project given that your 666 research came to an end for now, and it's a priceless opportunity for your study of dragonkind," Seira voices. "A reward, really."
"Oh." A blush from Kascha before b rightly, "Thank you, Seira!"
"And speaking of being busy, once you get one or two more avatars, you should be able to find more time for your projects and for proper relaxation, too! How's your progress doing there?"
"Well..." Kascha begins.
Are you good with that there or do you have anything from Kascha you wanna address while you have her expoing.
I'm good, though I did wonder whether her goal was completed. Since she brought it up and since there's nothing else to do there now, I'm curious about it.
As for next, I want to deal with the soul gems with Ranbar.
That wasn't updated? Huh.
Odd oversight, let's fix that.
After some talk, "And afterwards I can work on codifying more of what we know about 666 now for our private lore," Kascha continues, "Even if most of it merely to stay away from it."
"If you need help, Avatar Five is bored~"
It's that moment you feel it, Kascha's words lost to you. Your connection to Kascha glows bright, a resonation between the two of you.
Node update, go read.
Seira's got the feeling that Kascha would enjoy the new task set before her!
Read it.
"Oh!" Kascha gasps, "Another advancement. Good!" Her smile widens, "We'll just have to keep going then, Seira."
"That we do! But before that, I think we need to take care of another matter, so would you be so kind as to pick up Ranbar and Sanzha and come to secure treasure vault 517?"
That's easy enough to set up and...
Okay, what's your plan here, huh?!
"You might've noticed," Seira tells Ranbar, "that I prioritised getting the most powerful captives secured first, while in Imix's realm, and then I took care to pick up the rest on our way out after our victory. I think the reason for the triage is obvious, but now we're getting to the best part of all this! We're going to free the trapped souls, while also offering those who strayed mercy and guidance if they choose to atone. And since you're on the verge of growing into your powers properly, I would like you to take the lead while the rest of us help you from the sidelines."
"I'd be happy to," Ranbar accepts this, "I accept your offer, Seira."
"There's a few I want to deal with personally," Sanzha cuts in here, "Privately."
"I have no problem with that," Ranbar yields, "Take those you want to deal with yourself."
I actually saw a few who would work well with you, Sanzha, but I'm curious whether you're thinking of the same ones. Who caught your eye? Seira asks her privately, even as she smiles at Ranbar to proceed.
It hasn't been long since she'd done this with Amaryl, and the principle is the same. Guide her where needed, but let Ranbar take the lead. Her divine instincts should do the heavy lifting quite easily!
Okay, so just to be clear before I line a bunch, it's basically the Ranbar show unless she makes a big mistake?
Correct! I want to see that she's on the right path, and if our successes were enough to gain a DvR update this could be where hers happens~
Personal ones. There's a few that I'd prefer to handle by myself. Old history.
Ranbar meanwhile steps forward, ready. "I'm ready when you are, Seira. Is there anything I need to know before I do this?"
At the same time Lady Sanzha draws a few to herself and puts them aside, seemingly content to wait on those and watch Ranbar work.
Seira leaves it at that with Sanzha, providing her with the privacy she desires and focusing entirely on Ranbar. "Show them who you are, show them how far you've come and offer them the same chance. A hand to lift them up over any mountain, but they are the ones who should grasp it. And freedom to those who wish otherwise, because the freedom to choose is one of the most important things in Creation."
Give me a Charisma check to support Ranbar here real quick. You can't really fail this check, it's more for something DM side.
19:11 <Corwin> roll 1d20+21
19:11 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+21 --> [ 1d20=14 ]{35}
Ranbar begins to work. Gems begin to break and souls fly around her. One soul and then two, three and four, five and six, seven. More and more of the gemstones begin to spontaneously crack. Rain falls as water fills the room, vast numbers of Fire's opposite freed. A storm of souls a dozen strong, then a hundred, then thousands, then more than you can easily count.
More and more and more and more. A storm that Lady Sanzha stands amid untouched, as the gems she claimed simply vanish to elsewhere.
Ranbar laughs - a beautiful, pure sound. A laugh that fills the water as she works, souls gathering. Some fly free after a moment of her attention, off to where they were always meant to go. Others linger by her, like tiny will o' wisps that orbit her body.
You can feel a pressure in the room, a growing power around Ranbar.
It's time, Seira is certain of it! Unlike that time with Amaryl where she guided prayers to her wife, however, Seira directs a prayer of her own to Ranbar. Just one amongst many, taking care not to overwhelm the building powers but rather join it organically....
It's a burst. A burst of awakening and power amid the sea of souls. Ranbar is more now, a presence that slams against you as it expands rapidly.
Then there was another. Well done.
Ranbar gains divine rank 1. I'll work this out this evening.
Thank you for your kind welcome, Seira responds to Zaphkiel, and envelops Ranbar in a warm hug!
Ranbar returns it even as the souls fly out everywhere, more and more done by the moment. Quietly Sanzha smiles, as...
My own advancement is not so flashy, but I will not be idle.
Perhaps it could be, Seira responds to Sanzha. We shouldn't take away from Ranbar's moment, but there was something I wanted to handle together with you.
"We're very happy to have you step all the way up, Ranbar," Seira tells her with a smile of her own, already making preparations for a fresh festival to hold at the Cauldron.
Ranbar's smile is radiant. Nothing else needs to say as more join you, the matter sorted.
Some time later, Sanzha pulls you aside. "You were saying?" she asks plainly.
Seira reaches into a tear of space that appears at her command, retrieving a molten sphere from a secure vault. "This cursed ioun stone. Not cursed in the literal sense, but I cannot see it as anything but given what it is. Let's break it together, Sanzha."
Ioun Stone, Molten Steel Sphere
An ioun stone made of hundreds of melted ioun stones and other objects of power. It grants a +5 bonus to attack rolls. However, to use the stone and gain its benefits, a new user must sacrifice 500 hit dice of creatures with the water subtype to the stone. The souls of the creatures are absorbed by the stone and can only be freed by the destruction of it.
Lady Sanzha studies the boiling, roiling sphere of metal. "What a miserable thing," She agrees, "Will mundane means do it or will we need more expansive measures?"
"I feel that Water and Fire joining together will end it, so let's try that first?"
Okay then, go ahead and describe what you're trying.
That artifact was made with the power of Fire forcibly subjugating Water, and an imbalance exists in said distribution of power, manifested as a twisted version of quality versus quantity. It is an artifact, if a minor one... but Seira is the Goddess of Fire. And her friend, Sanzha, is one of Water. Here, in their divine realm that symbolizes balance and coexistence between the elements, they can call upon their divine powers and guide them towards equilibrium within the artifact. Whether that would be enough to destroy it, Seira isn't sure, but at the very least with the yoke of Fire removed from the trapped souls of Water, a properly balanced artifact would no longer be a cage or a prison for those spirits, allowing them their freedom!
Give me a rank check for my reference.
22:24 <Corwin> roll 1d20+6
22:24 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+6 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{11}
> roll 1d20+1
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+1 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{7}
How curious. The sphere does not respond - but you can infer why. Perhaps on a better day you two would have been able to overwhelm it directly, but that is not today. You can discern how it can be broken, however. It simply needs to be touched by a creature of fire that loves a creature of water.
Seira reaches out to tap it with her index finger.
Do you love a creature of water? I have to ask.
No one specified romantic love, I totally love Sanzha
Your finger sinks into the sphere and slowly, ever so slowly, the boiling ceases. Wispy souls come out of it, slow but steady, flying free from that dreadful prison.
Seira doesn't even need to say anything, merely supporting Sanzha as she helps those souls travel on their journey. Whether it is towards a final rest, now freed of suffering, or to help them rise anew is up to them and to her friend. For her part, she just wants to show them kindness from a being of Fire.
Together the two of you watch, not a word as the power of this artifact flees, even as you feel Sanzha even more intensely than ever.
Sanzha gains divine rank 2. This was in the works since the Imix victory, but now's the perfect time to put an exclamation mark on it. Congratulations.
Glorious! And since we're doing this, I think she accomplished her Node goal, too~
It was definitely the right call! And how adorable it is that the power of love was the key?
In that at the same time, you feel your connection to Sanzha intensify, sharp and powerful.
Node goal, go read.
Laf
Ranbar got a congratulatory hug earlier, so now it's time for Sanzha to get one however she might resist!
I think that leaves out Donald's goal, so let's chat with him next!
Donald's found at practice. By himself and in light armor, a practice blade and shield of solid, heavy metal swung about. His focus is on it entirely, a simple training room set aside and quiet save for him and a single golem that holds a tray with water and a towel.
Seira steps over, giving a showy twirl to the short swords in her hands. "Looking for your insights," she tells Donald, grinning. "Willing to fight you for it, at that. How do you think our invasion of Imix's realm went?"
"We're alive and free," Donald says, "It went amazingly well for that. No way we ever pull off the same trick on Imix or anyone on Fire, or perhaps anyone if people paid attention. I have an offer for our friend for refuge here if he needs it, if Imix figures out what happened and goes after him." He readies himself but doesn't attack yet. "I wanted to finish it but we can't help politics if Kossuth cares enough to get involved, and that was huge."
Seira shrugs. "I think Kossuth is right and Imix is not going to mess with my interests on various Primes from now on. Plus, Zaaman Rul got to raise his own standard, and given a weakened Imix to present to Fire I think our appeal looks better. I hoped I'd get him for good, yes, but then our recruitement efforts and proselytizing would've run against the Crimson Firebrand directly, to our detriment."
As the two of you size each other up, ready to strike, "Speaking of, I'm waiting any day for Kossuth to contact us about that. We're gonna have problems there before it's all done."
"Few worthwhile things are easy," Seira reasons. She moves forward as she speaks, daggers striking out in a feint to draw out Donald's sword. If she manages to lock it down even for a moment, Donald will get a painful reminder of the way Seira can fight with her entire body, including her feet!
"Ranbar wants to duel someone strong, it seems like. And I think Amaryl wants that too. What's the appeal in it?"
Donald seems to see through it - perhaps the fruit of this being far from your only practice together. He keeps his distance, using his practice sword's reach to his advantage.
"To prove yourself stronger over the broken body of your enemy?" Donald says as he jukes aside, a testing slash that makes you dodge. "The fact that are enemies are all horrible and each one we destroy is a net gain for Creation? The treasure they tend to have afterwards?""
"Only the first is a reason to duel someone," Seira disagrees, her attack flowing into a series of rapid dagger strikes to keep Donald on the defensive. "The others are in fact a vote in support of ganging up on them. It's not that I don't understand the romance of it, but surely all of us but Ranbar have had amples times to prove ourselves over the years? I can see her craving it, but not the rest of you."
Donald's answer is lost as you feel it. Kossuth's presence, an overwhelming inferno. It is at your borders, as if about to enter.
Donald draws up short, "Speaking of," he says, "Want to finish this some other time?"
"We'd better, yes," Seira agrees, and without further ado she's gone to freshen up. Meanwhile, her avatar is right there to greet Kossuth!
Kossuth appears as a great being of fire, a man-shaped thing that burns forever with intense heat. "Seira," he greets on seeing your avatar, "We will talk now of matters of Fire."
"Of course," Seira agrees, as her avatar guides Kossuth to her palace and then to a balcony on the second floor where her real self and Amaryl wait. With a nice view of the lake of lava below and the golden flame at the center of her temple above and the assurance of secrecy that comes from divine powers, it should be a pleasant spot to discuss matters without getting ostentatious.
Amaryl is clad in an elegant orange and red dress like flames and bows deeply to Kossuth. "Lord of Fire," she says respectfully.
Kossuth does not sit. He burns. He burns as he stands and declares, "We will speak of the Crimson Firebrand, and how he rebels against me even now. He is a grave threat to Fire and must be stopped now that he has chosen to emerge at last."
"And to tell us why he hasn't been stopped yet?" Amaryl asks back, sitting primly. "There must be some reason you haven't extinguished him in the shadows."
"I want to understand this," Seira agrees, "as well as why he is rebelling in the first place. Not every single power on Fire wants to take your place, after all, and wasn't he always focused only on the efreet?"
"In the beginning, he was." Kossuth begins, "For that was what I created him for. He was created to civilize the efreet, to forge them into one race rather than nomadic tribes."
Amaryl listens to this and takes it in, "That was your purpose?"
"That was why I created him," Kossuth confirms, "But his will was exceptional. I sent him forth to learn efreet life and culture; the Crimson Firebrand took to it easily and started his task early. Through charisma, strength and brutality, the Crimson Firebrand united tribes under him and crushed those who opposed him. I had intended support so his task would not fail, he did not need it." Here Kossuth's gaze bores into Seira, "He destroyed the Alliance of Bonfires which opposed him. He established the City of Brass and saw to the rise of the efreet. He was then to die, to fade away and to leave the efreet established."
Here Kossuth turns, "Little did I know that he sought and received audience with the Incarnation of Law, whom he impressed with his clarity and strength of purpose." A burning fist clenches tightly shut, "The Incarnation of Law allowed his full apotheosis and placed him beyond my power. He then staged his own death and defied my attempt to slay him. He had grown far more powerful than I intended, and the Incarnation of Law only made him stronger."
"Oh." A soft noise from Amaryl, "You succeeded too well with him and he bit the hand that created him."
"He is kin to the devils in spirit, if not blood," Kossuth crackles like a bonfire, "I sought to destroy him, but the Incarnation would not see what interested it so discarded. No. It granted the Crimson Firebrand safety from my wrath until he returned to take his throne in the City of Brass. He has grown even farther in that time. It seems it is the will of the Incarnation of Law that we battle to determine the ruler of Fire. I will NOT accept this lightly. I will not be defeated by the minion I created!"
Didn't he accomplish all that Kossuth wished of him? And dying and becoming a divine servant before using the countless millennia to grow would've been the same, too. In fact, he probably could've broken away later if he chose that path, too.
Ah, there's so much Seira would like to say. She supposes Kossuth feels a betrayal on the level of had Seira acted against Waukeen after she ascended. But minion? And a sense of entitlement, at that? She'd expect to hear it in a villain rant before one turns into a giant snake. Plus if nothing else it clearly shows the dangers of devilkind to Fire, so why were they allowed to act as they wished there all this time? Even as a mortal she'd come over and bust a devil lab now and then!
"I doubt that the Incarnation of Law would actually act in this struggle, so I would like to ask two things, Kossuth. Are you sure that the Crimson Firebrand wishes to take your seat away from you? And could you live with an outcome where he is not destroyed?"
"Yes, I am. He told me to my face," Kossuth says bluntly. Then with a keen gaze on you, "Speak what you have in mind, Seira."
"I was thinking about the future," Seira responds. Badmouthing a friend even if she thinks he's wrong is just plain stupid, but perhaps she could try to offer some advice since it's been solicited? "If a bit of order in one's followers is necessary, archons make a better example than devil kin. They can be uptight at the best of times, but they aren't the betraying, backstabbing kind. And it does coincide with my desire to bring Fire closer to Good than Evil."
There was something that troubled her in Kossuth's ealier words, and she decides to ask about it now. "Since the Incarnation's protection was only until the Crimson Firebrand acted to retake his throne, what prevents you from leveling Brass, say?"
"The Crimson Firebrand has grown strong, strong enough to oppose me." Kossuth explains simply, "He is now capable of directly opposing my will."
"He must be powerful," Amaryl muses softly, "Then again, if he wasn't, you wouldn't need allies for this. Strong enough to prevent the direct approach, so you have to muster strength and prepare for an actual battle. It must be novel for you."
"Can he oppose you locally, or all over Fire? I was thinking that if Brass is special because he's physically there, you could wipe out any military outposts loyal to him across Fire. No reason to wait if fighting is inevitable, after all."
"He can extend his will far," Kossuth growls, a crackle of flame in his voice. "He is capable of protecting his own."
"It sounds like if we can kill him, then the entire opposition collapses," Amaryl muses, "And if you fall, the same for your side. Both of you are strong enough to mostly cancel each other out, aren't you? That explains Razalim. A gift that either draws Seira into the Firebrand's orbit or a gift that destroys Seira and eliminates her as a threat. He can't seriously believe she'd work with him, so mostly the second. "Amaryl blows out a breath, "Our recent disagreement was of unspeakably bad timing. To put that aside again," Quickly Amaryl goes on, "Then we should work to weaken the Firebrand, on Fire or beyond it. What allies does he have?"
"To add to Amaryl's question, do you seek a swift war or a prolongued conflict?"
"Every foolish general dreams of a short, victorious war," Kossuth pops and crackles with flames underneath his every word. "But I doubt this will be any short struggle." After that, "I have no doubt he will have support from the fiends of various stripes. Doubtless Baator will interfere for its own motivations and reasons. I know for a fact he has contacts with various daemon mercenaries and petty lords, as well cadres of daemons who have joined his service in exchange for protection. By their nature they are unreliable, but the Firebrand's strength is sufficient to keep most in line. He has also drawn a handful of balors to his service over the ages, ones who share a passion for fire and are overwhelmed by his charisma."
A moment before, "I have seen fire giants in his service, azer and salamanders, various red dragons and other fire related dragons as well. I've heard reports of a rogue phoenix who serves him."
That gets Amaryl to cut in, "A rogue phoenix? Wasn't Zaaman Rul saved by a -"
"Not the same one," Kossuth says in a tone that brooks no more interruptions. Amaryl goes quiet quickly before he continues. "I have no doubt he has deeply hidden pacts through various identities to a great many creatures of Fire. He has shown signs of inroads into Magma and other planes that touch Fire."
"I have heard he has sent a new delegation to Gond from my own sources. I believe he has made contact in the last few days with Garagos and Tempus, and has done the same with Bane."
Once a moment passes Amaryl delicately clears her throat, "What of the Crimson Firebrand himself. What of his power? We know efreets who serve with or around him have vastly boosted abilities."
A slight nod, "He comes from a more tribal time," Zaaman Rul begins, "Have you ever battled a goblin or hobgoblin warchief? One trick some develop is the ability to imbue great strength into their followers. The Firebrand has taken that far above and beyond what any mortal could dream of, and he counts at least all of the efreet as his tribe. This frenzy is of deadly power."
After a moment, "The Crimson Firebrand can charge with great power, and a single strike from his charge can break an entire enemy line. The former devil ally of yours is similar to him in that regard. Lesser known is that he is a sorcerer of vast power, though he often conceals that ability unless it is sorely needed."
Another moment, "He has dominion over destiny and domination, evil and fire, law and luck, passion and pride, strength and tyranny, and of course war."
"Fiends are the easy part, if you'll forgive me saying so. Since he's drawing from them, we'll just bring over the armies of Celestia, Elysium and Arborea. To avoid this turning in a greater conflict, if I ask my friends to limit their engagement to that of the fiendish host, we'll be able to nullify their influence," Seira states. "As for Fire-adjacent realms, let's work together to secure allies from them. I do have my eye on some outstanding individuals there, though it's a question whether they'll get involved in the conflict. But I don't suppose you have favors of your own to draw upon here, or at least the ability to introduce me favorably before a neutral power that would get us in the door before the Crimson Firebrand?"
"I do, as does he. Do you have one in mind?" Kossuth asks, plainly.
"I doubt anyone would go to Ooze of their own will, so we could do that first."
"With good reason," Kossuth burns, "No one wishes to be in Ooze, not even most natives."
"Bwimb should be pretty strong even against Fire natives, so shouldn't we reach out to her?"
"It is distasteful to reach to a creature of filth and water, but I will not stop you," Kossuth agrees, "Have you met her before?"
"No, but Kascha told me about her, so I'll see if she can make arrangements. If that's our approach on Ooze, who can we reach out to on Magma and Smoke?"
"On Magma I have most," Kossuth declares, "But Earth also has control there, and the dao may yet support the efreet in some way. You have dealt with the Khan recently." A statement, not a question, "You would be well suited to gauging their intentions on this, if you secure a meeting."
"I can secure a meeting with the Khan, certainly. But I don't have much to offer them to bring them over. Do you, by chance? If there's some treasure of theirs you've been holding on, that would be enough to open negotiations properly."
"I can provide that," Kossuth agrees, "That is not difficult."
"I think that's enough options for now. Once we show results, we'll approach more potential allies. Rather than shooting in every direction carelessly, we really should court our would-be allies properly. Do you concur, Kossuth?"
"Yes," Kossuth agrees, "Achieve results in these fields first."
I think this is good here
Agreed. So what are you going to do about this then?
I'd like to first wrap up the OOC stuff, if you don't mind. Donald should've met his Node goal unless worthy opponents for him are so exclusive they're greater deities. And I don't know whether Ranbar met hers, but if she hadn't, perhaps she needs a new one? Practically, her goal requires you to run her in combat solo, and since she's a mage it rarely actually gets to that point.
And then there's the DvR question. Did Donald and I get a raise as well?
You did not, though you made progress. Donald didn't. Sanzha did because this was so on target for her as well.
It's not hard to find Donald after that. "So how's it go?" he asks plainly, back in his adventuring gear and cleaned up.
"We're going to Ooze."
Donald makes a face, "Aw fuck." He groans and takes off his helmet, "No one wants to go to Ooze, Seira. Why do you want to go to Ooze?"
"I volunteered. Kascha reported that Bwimb was nice so I figured I migth as well go and say hi. Ah, but I'm not forcing anyone but her to come with me."
"Oh good," Donald says right away. "You know why?"
"Why what? Why Ooze smells? Why Kascha likes Bwimb? Why I want to befriend her?"
"You know why I don't want to go? I already got to cross swords with the best, and-"
In that moment you feel your connection with Donald magnify, intensify further between the two of you.
Node update.
Read it
"I get the strong sense you're volunteering for adventure on Ooze...."
"No, no, no, no," Donald says, "Kascha's happy to go, and I bet Elle would love to go too!" A quick nod, "So invite those two while I watch everything here. Besides, I promised Garl Glittergold I'd help organize his caves!"
Seira pauses, peering at Donald for a long moment. "I'll invite Elle and tell her it's your idea, you know. I wasn't going to invite her or Sanzha before, but I'm wavering now because of your words of wisdom."
"Good!" Donald nods, "Have fun!" Then Donald's gone, teleported away.
Thus Seira heads to gather Elle and Sanzha for her excursion!
This is easily enough done. Any prep for it first of all?
Team is Kascha (leading us), Sanzha, Elle and I. Our usual battle prep (outside the per minute combat spells) is assumed.
"Before we go," Seira voices, "Do you think control over Water and Air will help in any way over the smell, Sanzha?"
"I've been working on the same idea," Sanzha says, "I should be able to work something out." With a look of distaste, "No one likes Ooze, Seira. Clean air and clean water will go a long way, so long as I stay vigilant."
"It had better," Elle sounds less than happy, arms crossed.
Clearing her throat, Kascha speaks up. "We'll be fine, and really, Bwimb can be very nice."
"Ah, I'll also be taking a nice, aromatic bath. Or my avatar will, rather. For the entire duration, for mental health purposes," Seira brightly informs them, having the avatars to spare. "Let's go!"
A wide zone of air. Air and clean water runs through it, as greenish, foul ooze is everywhere. Flecks of dark colors float in this, the smell...passable. Not clean but fresh air flows, seeming to banish the worst of it.
"We're nowhere in particular," Kascha points out once you're through. "I wanted to start someone remote in case Sanzha needs to work out problems."
Lady Sanzha merely smiles sharply, "Oh, no problems unless Bwimb objects."
"What if we were to mix it up with a variation on the spell that enforces our home plane's traits on the local area?" Seira asks Elle curiously, nodding at Kascha's explanation. "Would it interfere with Sanzha's power, be negated by it, or just work to augment the outcome?"
"Well, she's using divine will so odds are the will would win out," Elle explains, "But Sanzha might be able to adjust to it."
"Let's try it! I think it would be nice to augment the atmosphere with magic, sort of like a divine power prestidigitation!"
"Go ahead," Sanzha invites, "Do it carefully and slowly, but do it, Seira."
Seira brings over the essence of the Cauldron! Steadily and slowly, with a bit of steam escaping now and then purely to create the proper atmosphere, without contesting Sanzha's zone of control but rather merely renting some space in it.
Slowly, ever so slowly, things begin to shift towards your realm. You integrate it, smoothing away the reek and the muck. What comes is familiar instead of foreign, a better zone amid the misery of Ooze.
"Nice and pleasant!" Seira cheers. "Say, Kascha, there's one thing I'm unclear on. I assume Bwimb likes the local conditions of Ooze, being a native, but what other environments is she fine with? I wouldn't want to commit a faux pas like taking a Water native on a leisurely stroll across Fire," she continues brazenly, ignoring having done exactly that with Sanzha just earlier.
"I've never asked, but I assume she'd hate Fire and may not like Air," Kascha considers, "Well, that's what's magic for. Though we might run into a problem if the Water Lord chooses to interfere in this war as well, or namely keeps Water out of it. Grumbar also has some authority here, doesn't he?"
"Grumbar's busy the last I heard," Elle speaks up, "But is less likely to care about Fire's follies except if it spills into Magma at all."
"I sincerely doubt Water will intervene, and this time I'm not going to call on our friends there. If Kossuth wins while relying on foreign powers, it won't be the right sort of win. The most any outsiders can do is counter other foreign involvement, so we probably won't be reaching out to Sylica either."
"It's nice as a backup plan," Lady Sanzha says as she focuses, "Or if the Firebrand expands the scope of the war. We could be right back to a cataclysmic war if this gets out of hand."
"At least the goals are all about Fire. That helps keep it focused...?" Kascha trails off, "But sometimes wars only need a single spark to spread far and wide, like a...fire." She sighs at that last word, "That's far too likely here with everything."
"We also don't know the politics of the Elemental Lords and how they chose to view this conflict. However, I would think that the other three would see Kossuth's overthrow as a threat to them. It sets a bad example. If the Crimson Firebrand can do it, other upstarts will realize they have a chance as well, or at least think that they do." Elle points out here, a sour look on her face. "But self interest sometimes is betrayed by emotions and politics. For all we know if given the chance, the Water Lord would give anything to see the Crimson Firebrand quench Kossuth."
"Unlikely. Highly unlikely," Sanzha's focus stays outward, "I won't say impossible, but I think the guess the the other elements will have their reasons to regard this carefully's right. The outer planes will be more trouble, everything considered."
"Everything is possible, but Kossuth's loss would be a more direct threat to the others, if only because it means the Crimson Firebrand can use his allies to invade Water in total war and see from there."
"He might not stop with Fire," Kascha agrees, "What would happen if he conquered the Elemental Planes? He may well be one of the greatest powers in Creation then, such as the High One or Queen Morwel."
"If things get that dire we'll just have to install Sanzha as the ultimate ruler of the Inner Planes," Seira decides. "Right then, lead on, Kascha?"
Kascha wills you all ahead, but nothing happens.
"Eh?" Kascha murmurs, "Something's blocking teleportation around Bwimb's palace. That's strange. She wants people to come there, not keep people away. She's lonely."
"Contact her directly, please, and ask her if she needs assistance. If so, I'll try to break through with my authority."
Kascha does so and then, "I'm not getting an answer," She says in a small voice. "Something's really wrong, Seira."
That's ridiculous, there's no way someone knew what she was going to do and heading to Ooze is such an off the wall choice a coincidence can't really happen. So what does that leave, an unrelated local problem or information security issues? On Kossuth's side, at that?
Gathering her power, Seira intends to transport the four of them over to Bwimb's residence.
DvR?
Go for it.
20:55 <Corwin> roll 1d20+6
20:55 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+6 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{15}
> roll 1d20+2
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+2 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{7}
Ah.
You appear in stretched, broken space. Everything goes too far and too short at once. Everything is spread apart. Here is there and ahead is upside down. Kascha is both below you and twisted to be behind you while looking around in front of you. Space is incoherent and strange, features so mashed together that it may as well be nothing and everything at once.
Something's wrong with space here. What happened?
Kascha gasps - and it comes from every direction in different modularities, volumes and pitches. It's like a scream, a whisper, a strong voice, a man's voice, a woman's voice and far more at once.
Don't even bother with spoken words. Something's gone gravely wrong here. Space and reality is twisted all about. This has to be Bwimb's work, or someone's destroyed her and is both playing with her realm and able to keep it intact.
She has to be alive! Don't even say that!
More likely she's indisposed by whatever's happened here. If so, we find Bwimb and we can solve this.
Since Bwimb is not responding to divine speech from a friend, and space in her realm is messed up, we are proceeding on the assumption that this is not her doing or wish, Seira tells the others. On my mark, we will expand the effortts of Sanzha and I to reconfigure this space into a more conventional form. Channel your efforts through me.
After a pause, Seira begins a short countdown, whereupon she uses her divine power!
21:32 <Corwin> roll 1d20+6
21:32 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+6 --> [ 1d20=16 ]{22}
> roll 1d20+1 Kascha
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+1 Kascha --> [ 1d20=6 ]{7}
> roll 1d20+1 Elle
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+1 Elle --> [ 1d20=11 ]{12}
> roll 1d20+2 Sanzha
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+2 Sanzha --> [ 1d20=6 ]{8}
> roll 1d20+2
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+2 --> [ 1d20=4 ]{6}
With a loud SNAP space immediately around you regains some measure of sanity. It's a small room, perhaps for storage or something similar. There is no ooze here, only walls of refuge, stone and slime. A single door leads out, intact here at least.
Seira gives it a cursory check for traps and magic before opening it to lead the way out.
No traps, but opening it shows distortion ahead.
"So we made a little safe area," Kascha comments aloud, peering ahead at the madness.
Seira nods in response, studying the magic.
I assume it's not chronomancy, but do I have an idea of just how space is broken? And do I think spamming divine will as I go on is possible?
Spellcraft/K:A/K:P 10 for 122
It is not chronomancy.
Studying carefully, you can see something is wrong - something intensely powerful is twisting space here. It seems to be in part Bwimb herself, but it's complicated. She's far within somewhere here, and something else is involved. Something powerful, but all the twisted space is playing havoc on your ability to get and read the magic. You'll need to find the root of this to get details.
You can maintain a safe sphere around yourself to stabilize where you are, but spaces you leave will revert, you believe.
"Right. First of all, I'm anchoring the settled space around me," Seira informs the others, focusing her will on just that. "It would be a decently-sized sphere, but please be mindful of its limits and stay close to me. We'll go together and try to find Bwimb in all this mess, and fix things at the root."
"In that case," Kascha steps up, "Sanzha, you focus with Seira. You stay in the center. I'll take the rear and you take the front, Elle."
Lady Sanzha smiles ever so slightly, "Oh, did you just take command of us, Kascha? Just like that?"
Reddening, "Well y-yes," she stammers a moment, "Of course I did. We have to do this and deities don't sit there and hope that things work out quietly. Elle's tougher than I am so can take point, since you and Seira will be primarily busy with that."
"Good. Some of your leadership on Aurora's showing through," Elle agrees, "And you can tell your Surru all about it afterwards."
This will take a standard action from you each round to maintain, which leaves you your move and swift actions, Seira. Sanzha will likely be inhibited. This ensures you have safe, coherent and clean space to move through.
I can do a lot with swift actions.
"Looks like we've got things sorted out. Elle, if you can feel where the effect is the strongest, lead us that way."
As you begin to go?
Wisdom comes from consideration within, philosophy is that expressed outwards. I foresee that your philosophy will soon matter.
Oh? What a surprise to hear from you at this timing. Do you know what happened here?
No, but I foresee a point of history draws nigh. Be warned.
There can be only one? Maybe that's what is happening with Bwimb and Bwimb.
Thanks. I'll stay on my toes.
Cool. In that case, toss me Perception real quick and we'll get this moving.
10 for 122
You move ahead - and even in the distorted space you can make it out. A thing is coming forth - of filth and water and stone and ruin, swirling together at angles that should not be angles.
Hello! Seira greets it.
Proceeding on the assumption it's not divine in origin to my senses.
Ahead the space becomes a large, scoured clean hallway of old stone, metal and dirt. It doesn't stop the thing, just outside of the sphere of control.
Kascha is at the ready as well, as a glob of dark brown becomes to gather in front of it.
"Don't think it's friendly," Elle says, sword in hand, "If it won't talk, then might will speak louder."
"Very well, we tried. Kascha, see if you can't affect it with divine will or anarch powers? Elle, you're on if that fails. I'll support you as needed."
In that case, init.
I autowin but I'll wait until Elle and Kacha have gone. I'll still counter any magic cast, though.
> roll 1d20+26 Sanzha
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+26 Sanzha --> [ 1d20=2 ]{28}
> roll 1d20+15 Kascha
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+15 Kascha --> [ 1d20=19 ]{34}
> roll 1d20+17 Elle
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+17 Elle --> [ 1d20=14 ]{31}
> roll 1d20+4 ???
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+4 ??? --> [ 1d20=5 ]{9}
Suffice to say you all win init.
Init is Seira (Supreme) > Kascha (34) > Elle (31) > Sanzha (28) > ??? (9)
Kascha merely points at it, a simple gesture that...
Alter reality to just soup up something to force it away nonlethally.
> roll 1d20+24 Fortitude
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+24 Fortitude --> [ 1d20=8 ]{32}
The creature is sent flying and away as Kascha says, "Let's keep moving rather than fight whatever twisted thing that is. There's a good chance they're victims of this too."
"I thought you might want to try and reform it, similar to how I did with that Far Realm dragon girl, but this is fine too," Seira agrees. "Onwards!"
"Better to do that when we understand more of what's going on here," Kascha disagrees, "There may yet be angles and factors we can't account for."
As you fly Lady Sanzha smiles thinly but goes on without comment.
Elle, however, does not, "Most creatures of Ooze have little to no intelligence. It's not as big a risk as on other planes."
"One of my beliefs is that we all make mistakes, and as deities ours will be farther-reaching than most. But at the same time, we can't advance without taking on calculated risks. Like Elle said, the risk seems fairly low, and to be fair we'll rarely if ever be in a situation where we can account for all the facts."
As you all discuss this, you come ahead to stairs going up. As Kascha leads the way, your divine hearing picks up noises from far ahead.
"...and too..."
"...drop it now..."
"...quickly, get..."
Conversation, so we're getting close. Let's go as silently as we can!
She contributes her own power for that worthy cause, just in case.
Using my swifts for Camouflage and Forestfold for +10 circumstances and +10 competence to Stealth on Elle this round, on Sanzha the next and Kascha the third
In that case, stealth check.
20:30 <Corwin> roll 1d20+68
20:30 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+68 --> [ 1d20=2 ]{70}
As a reminder, the girls also have Greater Heroism for +4 morale.
> roll 1d20+38 Sanzha
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+38 Sanzha --> [ 1d20=6 ]{44}
> roll 1d20+72 Kascha
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+72 Kascha --> [ 1d20=12 ]{84}
> roll 1d20+29 Elle
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+29 Elle --> [ 1d20=2 ]{31}
It's not hard to sneak ahead, and you can hear voices more clearly as you go up the stairs - distorted but you can hear them. Two men.
"It's done. We can now..."
"...about Bwimb?"
"...be dealt with, one way or..."
They do seem to be enemies, Seira muses. Once more, I'll leave it up to you, Kascha. Elle will follow up, and I'll defend against any hostile magic.
We'll see if we can get close enough to overhear without alerting them.
Closer onward, up these stairs.
"...About time, fool." One of the men says. "No one to rescue her."
"Who would want to?" The other man says, voice gruff. "Filthy." Ahead you can just see the top of the stairs now, opening into a room before your range of control ends. They sound closer now, space seeming to closer faster than expected.
I believe I've heard enough, Seira says as comes up the stairs, her zone of control expanding into the room where the men seem to be along with the weight of her being as a deity. You are mercifully granted one chance to surrender, and I strongly suggest you take it.
Let's use the divine aura for the... third time ever, I think? It'll probably fail but it feels like a nice time for it. Daze effect, Will DC 31.
> roll 1d20+28
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+28 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{37}
> roll 1d20+25
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+25 --> [ 1d20=6 ]{31}
You don't daze them - but they reel back. A pair of elves, clad in chain armor painted the same red color. One drops a longsword in hand, the other stumbles back. "That's a g-g-g-g--!"
The second reels as Kascha burns with flames, "Yes. We are." she says, voice steady in this room, some sort of viewing room lined with windows.
Kascha here is Bwimb's friend. Where is she? Seira asks, not bothering with any threats. Her very presence is enough for that, and she won't allow any nonsense such as escape or magical mischief.
One elf has dark red hair and just throws his hands up in surrender, "Somewhere deep in," he answers, no resistance, eyes wide with fear.
"That's S-Seira Aryn," the other gulps, "And K-...K...she was on the Aurora," he wails.
"That's right," Kascha says, "So tell us, or else....please." She appends at the end. "I really do want to know more."
Lead the way. We'll pass the time by having you tell us who sent you here.
"We...nothing outside of this room is safe!" The second one manages.
"It is now," Kascha says, with unreasoning finality. She points and the two spring up, rushing ahead to lead the way.
Start talking. Who made that room spacially stable? Who is behind this scheme?
"W-we did. When we gave Bwimb the..." The first pauses and gulps deeply. "The trapped item. She was so happy to get a g-gift."
Kascha's face hardens, "Who. Is. Behind. This?" she asks with quiet intensity.
"Y-you have to protect us," The second says, "If it's found out..."
"You have it." Kascha says without hesitation, voice brimming with quiet anger, tight. "Now who was behind this?"
"Ogremoch," Is the answer, "Through a servant who gave us the item."
"Wonderful," Kascha says, "What was the item?"
"A puzzle box," The second answers quickly, "Trapped with magic I know not."
Not Ogremoch's style. He's a brute, not a trickster. He beats you overt he head more than he gives you a poisoned apple.
The same thought crossed my mind. Are you thinking a misdirection?
That's one possibility. The other is that Ogremoch works with another who is behind this part of the plan.
My bet is on the Crimson Firebrand working through Ogremoch. He was sniffing around him according to Kossuth, wasn't he?
It could be. We'll have to investigate after we secure Bwimb.
"Then we'll fix it when we find her," Kascha seconds, striding on.
As long as we don't jump to any foolish conclusions we'll be alright. It may well be the Firebrand, but there's more evil out there than just him.
Seira gives a mental shrug. The timing really favors this theory, and since he seems to be our enemy no matter what it's not like he can be even more of an enemy if we were to accuse him of it? We can at least defer judgement until we see it for ourselves.
A quiet agreement from Sanzha as you go on, as...
Concentration check real quick.
21:04 <Corwin> roll 1d20+70
21:04 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+70 --> [ 1d20=3 ]{73}
A ripple goes through the space as you go ahead. Nothing you can't handle, nor Sanzha can't, but it makes you need to focus on your work all the more.
"Faster," Kascha urges them on as you head onward, up another set of stairs, "Is that supposed to happen?"
"Don't know," The first says, "I'm no archmage."
Seira focuses on her task even more, declining to comment. There is little to do until they reach Bwimb's prison or an enemy, after all.
Onward and upward. Kascha leads the way up the stairs, which widen until, "Get back," Kascha calls, the two doing just that. Coming from above are several distorted shapes, things twisted betwen ooze, metal, stone and filth. They're approaching the edge of the bubble again, coming onwards.
As before, I shall be your support, Seira tells Kascha, although this time she projects her fearsome aura!
Will DC 31, Fright. I'm sure they'll save or be immune, but on the off chance it works they'll flee.
> roll 1d20+23
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+23 --> [ 1d20=9 ]{32}
The creatures are not frightened. However, they stop and do not advance. Kascha calls to them, in their minds:
Flee while you have a chance.
The shapes turn and run, no words but merely escaping Seira's presence.
Seira is a bit happier deep down at the sight, even though it also feels a bit undeserved.
"Come on," Kascha points as the two return and you go on.
As you do, in a quiet voice, "I always wonder if that pleases your divine or your dragon side, or both," Elle asks.
"Both, really. It's such a nice convergence of abilities. In theory."
"In theory," Elle agrees, "Still good fun, an enemy scared is one less target."
"Nothing wrong with showing a healthy respect to me," Seira voices with a nod.
Onward. Through twisted passages calmed, ahead. As you go?
Help me!
A desperate cry ahead as Kascha calls, "That's Bwimb! Hurry!"
Seira wordlessly picks up the pace, having Kascha lead the way.
Up another set of stairs. Another. To a door that pushes you back - the edge of the zone hits it and it repels it.
"Something's stronger there," Sanzha says, "We'll have to put our backs into it. With me, Seira."
"Let's do it! Kascha and Elle, let's break through together!"
19:45 <Corwin> roll 1d20+6
19:45 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+6 --> [ 1d20=5 ]{11}
DvR?
> roll 1d20+2 Sanzha
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+2 Sanzha --> [ 1d20=11 ]{13}
> roll 1d20+2 ???
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+2 ??? --> [ 1d20=12 ]{14}
Strata bonus of +4 applies and bails you out here.
A push and you're able to slowly go in, pushing onward.
"Help!" The voice is Bwimb's, far more coherent now and coming just ahead. "Please help me!"
We're here for you! Hold on! Seira calls out, pressing on with all her might!
You push on. Into a chamber twisted, filled with filth. There's no one in it and yet someone is everywhere.
"We're here!" Kascha calls, as you hear a cry of relief.
"Help!" Bwimb cries out, "I don't know how to reverse this! It's like a puzzle I can't solve!"
Some of Creation's greatest minds are here! And they do happen to be decent with puzzles.
Kascha, I need a moment, Seira instructs her friend. Can you stabilize Bwimb while I work on this?
Anything my many knowledges, perception and spellcraft (at 122) tell me here?
You have all the knowledges?
Knowledge/History, Knowledge/Local and Knowledge/Nobility would be at 69+ but yeah, the rest are maxed out.
Near as you can tell, she's curled up around something that twists space. You can't really twist her, but she won't let go, so she's awfully spread out and her entire palace is in the same state.
A simple nod for Kascha, focused inwards already.
> roll 1d20+1 Seira
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+1 Seira --> [ 1d20=4 ]{5}
> OOC: I'm sorry, Kascha, not Seira
> roll 1d20+2
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+2 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{13}
"I can't do it myself," Kascha whispers, as Elle hurries to her side.
> roll 1d20+1 Elle
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+1 Elle --> [ 1d20=13 ]{14}
Elle, on the other hand, is able to do so. Together the space here, while still twisted, stills partially. Less distortion, less twisting as...
Go.
Bwimb, what were you given? Is it a physical object to your senses, and are you capable of letting it go?
"A puzzle box. It's so beautiful, I have to finish it," she says, "It's so, so beautiful. If I finish it, everyone can see the beauty in Ooze that I see," Her voice is quicker, "Everyone will want to come visit then!"
Bwimb, we came to visit you without any puzzle boxes. Kascha met you, and now more came back with her. That's how it works. Do you really think that shortcuts to friendship exist in magical puzzle form?
"It'll let them see! Magic can do anything!" Bwimb cries out.
She's not wrong, but it isn't the remotest bit helpful.
I'd argue at our level there are limitations to magic. Elle, please show Bwimb the scene we came upon.
It might be harsh, but maybe the shock will snap Bwimb out of that delusion. Besides, Kascha's defense of her friend should be more than enough to offset the initial hurt.
Magic could make her all the friends she wanted. She's merely have to make them into her puppets. Let's stop that before it could even happen.
The image appears, of what you've seen and your trip. Bwimb is silent as it goes on until...
Charisma check, both you and Elle.
21:06 <Corwin> roll 1d20+15+2+6
21:06 <Kobot> Corwin rolled 1d20+15+2+6 --> [ 1d20=12 ]{35}
Reminder that Good Hope is good and a +2 to ability rolls.
> roll 1d20+12 Elle
<Kobot> Kotono rolled 1d20+12 Elle --> [ 1d20=5 ]{17}
From it a single oozy hand comes out. It holds a large stone puzzle box, and within you can almost see something as the pieces move on their own.
In that moment, Seira scans the device and tries to see the best way to disassemble it. Should be easier than putting it together!
Intelligence check.
19:18 <Corwin> roll 1d20+23+2+6
19:18 <Rei-chan> Corwin rolled : 1d20+23+2+6 --> [ 1d20=3 ]{34}
It's cunning and complex. It's in more than three dimensions, space twisted within to amplify the difficulty many times over. More, you can tell the only way to dissemble it will be to hold it and work on it yourself.
"Sanzha, can you support this space all on your own? Seira asks, even as she forms two ghostly hands with magic and reaches out to take the puzzle from Bwimb. Worst case, she'll just substitute magic for it, but having the ability to focus on it better would provide more leeway in case something goes wrong.
Long enough.
You grasp the cube and...
Assuming you're trying to solve, another Intelligence check with a +1 bonus.
With a nod, Seira lets go of her divine power and focuses everything she has on breaking this stupid puzzle! And everything means boosting her skills with magic!
19:59 <Corwin> roll 1d20+23+2+6+1+19 improvisation
19:59 <Rei-chan> Corwin rolled : 1d20+23+2+6+1+19 improvisation --> [ 1d20=15 ]{66}
Movement.
Focus.
Quick Seira throws all she has at it, full attention and power on this puzzle. Space moves about, directions shift and move against you. It's like trying to solve a dozen puzzles at once, each one connected but on different spaces and angles than the others. It's a challenge that would make lesser minds break, you can tell. To try and grasp all of this for most mortal minds would be impossible, yet you are equipped for it.
You move it, push it, manipulate the puzzle's parts. The small outside and the vast inside, moved by your hands and our will. With a final, satisfying CLICK you undo it and the puzzle box falls into six separate pieces, uneven and jagged, landing on the ground undamaged.
Around you reality returns to normal. With a soft cry Bwimb splats before you, a twitching puddle of filth and ooze. She lets out a loud groan, twitching all over.
Seira casts Heal on Bwimb, even as her magic picks up the pieces and forms seven separate boxes, one for each. "Any strong pain or lingering sense of detachment?" she asks their host as she does so, since polite greetings will have to wait until she's sure of her safety.
Sanzha relaxes, a deep breath out.
Elle claps, "Well done!"
Kascha hurries over as well, "Does it hurt anywhere?" she asks Bwimb.
As you endure the smell from her as best you can, at least unable to get noisily ill, "My everything's still a little dizzy," she says, "But I'm okay now!"
Sanzha's magic and divine will are there to make it reasonably clean and pleasant, although Seira is honestly not that bothered. And if it gets too much, her avatar just needs to soak in a bath with rose petals to restore her overall sense of smell.
"Glad to hear it! And nice to meet you!"
"Oh, and you're Seira!" Bwimb slowly forms into an oozy version of a young woman, "And Kascha too! Oh, are you here to visit?"
"Ah, partially," Kascha admits with a little smile, "That we saved you was a happy coincidence."
"And with us are our friends Elle and Sanzha," Seira finishes the introductions. Well, and the trash is also here, but what should she do with them? Make them sweat a bit as they are ignored for now, probably. "It is indeed a visit. I'm touring the para and quasi elemental planes, and I decided to start from here!"
Those two are creeping well back and away - until a wall of ooze blocks them off, then a wall of ooze in front of them puts them out of sight. Meanwhile Bwimb jiggles before, "You came to the best one first!"
I have no doubt she believes every word of that, too.
"We came here first," Kascha smiles warmly, offering Bwimb a hand up, but she just oozes upward to stand.
"I have so few visitors, no one wants to come here," Bwimb goes on, "Ever!"
"That's something I might be able to change to a point," Seira muses. "After all, everyone has their preferences, but there are several incentives that could come into play. And who better to implement them then the ruler, wouldn't you agree?"
A wiggling wobble at that before, "Oh! You have idea?! Tell me!"
It's not terribly secret, but Seira does makes sure this stays private and the interlopers won't hear more of their conversation.
"There are several approaches, and they can even be attempted alongside one another," she tells Bwimb. "First is to adopt the core of customer service from developed nations. The customer is treated as nobility, and catered to. You study your would-be visitors, see what they wish to gain out of their visit, and also take a look at what they most dislike, then work on those matters. For example, if my visitors found my realm too hot, I could either establish areas of temperate climate for them, provide them with limited immunity from the sensation of heat or change the concept altogether by framing it as a trial of endurance and faith. Kossuth is big on that, by the way."
She well remembers burning to the bone with her friends while jumping into lava. Good times, probably.
"Then, there's the wonderland approach. When I've made the Cauldron my own, it was just a lost, floating demi-plane in Astral. And before I even built my temple or any of the defenses, I established my palace. I built it of candy and impossible architecture, and I dare say it's been a longterm draw to my realm ever since. I didn't even go out of my way to do it, I genuinely like the style and concept. So you could do the same, but shuffle it around. Make blocks of ooze that stick together, are stretchy and colorful, protect people from being burnt if they hold them to play with... perhaps allow them to reshape your building to a degree, and see if you like the changes?"
The straightforward method is next, and Seira nobly ignores her baser instincts when she speaks of it. "There's the approach Salt takes, too. Salt is inhospitable and ruled by a weirdo shut-in that murders everyone in terrible ways, but people still come there a lot! That's because a certain kind of people comes there, those who wish to bet their lives on getting the riches of Salt. As the queen of all ooze, make oozes that are priceless on Primes! Or even combine it with a previous idea, and a rare kind of colored ooze could literally provide some sort of prize to the finder. Maybe even have it like a puzzle, where several must be combined first for that. In fact, why not take this one step further? Sanitation is often terrible in cities on Primes, but provide short-lived slimes and oozes that can deal with that and you'll have a neverending influx of visitors built around that industry!"
Bwimb listens to it all, "Oh. That's a lot of ideas. You're really smart, just like Kascha!" A little wiggle from her as she mulls it all over.
On the other hand, none of that solves the problem that it's fucking Ooze.
It doesn't have to. And no one said Ooze had to smell bad. That's the number one complaint, isn't it? Just as no one said Fire had to be Evil. I'm changing the latter, Bwimb could change the former and start from there.
"Sometimes things change from the concept stage to the implementation, so we'll be around to help if you're interested in developing these further, alright?" Seira offers. "Ah, but maybe we should first decide what to do with the attempt on your life?"
"Oh. Oh, we should," Bwimb agrees, wiggling back and forth, "Those are the two who gave me the puzzle box." She slumps, "I thought you really wanted to visit..."
"Did anyone visit before them? Or contact you in any way?"
"No," Bwimb says, "They came and they were so nice and unexpected."
"Perhaps, Elle could help with interrogating them more thoroughly? We didn't want to pause for that while you were in danger, but there is plenty of time to do so now," Seira muses. Plus their facilities are back home, so Elle will get her wish as well.
"Allow me," Elle steps forward.
"Oh!" Bwimb perks up, "Alright, that's very nice of you."
Elle goes to them, grabs them and vanishes. Once gone?
"You're sure you're alright?" Kascha asks right away.
"I will be," Bwimb agrees, "I think I'm alright."
"So tell me more about yourself and your realm," Seira asks once Elle is gone. "What are your interests? Do you travel? How absolute is your control over Ooze? Anything and everything interesting!"
A happy little movement at that, "Oh, I love Ooze but I mostly stay here. It's nicer here and people should come here."
Kascha nods along, "Don't worry, Seira really likes to ask questions and talk."
"I can tell," Bwimb agrees, "I can control Ooze a lot and make all sorts of Ooze. I made a healing goo once, but no one would use it." A little slump, "And the few I paid to try it all threw up when they tasted it."
Sanzha stays back, but has an openly amused smile on her face.
"Sometimes medicine can be an acquire taste, but that's not a problem for someone with our abilities," Seira muses. "We could give collaboration a try here. After all, one of the Cauldron's specialties is finding the harmony in the elements. I'm sure you've heard of it?"
"I have, Kascha mentioned it once," Bwimb agrees. "But Fire's usually mean, Kascha's nicer than that."
"I do think we need to state something ahead of time," Seira points out. "Pardon my bluntness, Bwimb, but it seems like Ooze is largely an unpopular tourist destination at present due to the smell, while taste is another issue for local products and consumables. While you like it just as it is, and that's perfectly fine, would you be willing to change those aspects to get bigger exposure to visitors and customers? I'm asking this so directly because if we were to collaborate on a product to make it more widely available, I wouldn't want to hurt your feelings at the time if it takes the final design away from the present one. Sticking to your preferences throughout and making it work is also a possible, if harder, path to success after all!"
"Sure! There's lots of flavors and variety!"
A dozenb lobs of goo appear on the ground before you. Bright mucus green, a red like dried blood, a yellow that - well, you get the idea. The smell is awful, "See? But no one likes any part of Ooze's smells," she slumps a bit after that. "
"In that case, we'll see about adding more smells to Ooze until we hit upon something that works!" Seira says cheerfully. "With that settled, I've always been curious about something. Do you have sapient oozes, and if not, why not? I'm talking about an ooze butler or a slime maid, not to mention you can't go wrong with an honor guard!"
"Of course there's intelligent oozes," Bwimb says, waving. "There's others, too! But most of them..." she trails off.
"Aren't great for much of anything but oozing around," Kascha fills in.
"Ah, but I was talking about sapient ones! Bwimb, you really haven't lived until you've recruited a competent maid!"
Bwimb perks up, "Oh!" A turn to Kascha, "Would you like to be my maid, Kascha?"
Kascha reddens and quickly clears her throat, "I'm busy doing...um...god things." A flare of her aura, just a little.
Bwimb jiggles and oozes all over, "Oh! Oh! OH! It's true! You've really grown, Kascha!" The ooze-woman flows over Kascha, like a full body hug. "Congratulations! You must be so proud that Lord Ao approved of you! You'll be a great deity! I bet you'll be friends with everyone and get invited to all the nice places!"
Quietly Lady Sanzha subtly takes a step back.
"Speaking of travel, have you been anywhere away from Ooze before?"
As Kascha is freed, a little greener for the experience, Bwimb turns to you. "A few times, but well...." Bwimb visibly sags.
"Where did you go? And what went wrong?" Seira asks, fishing for specifics. She can certainly guess at the problem, but breaking it down into smaller pieces will make it manageable.
"I tried Water first," Bwimb comes closer, "But all the water elemental were mean."
"Not everyone likes hugs," Seira points out, guessing at the reason. "Elementals tend to be very focused on their element and little else."
"I know," Bwimb slips back, slumping again. "They said I had too much Earth in me."
"And I suppose the earth elementals said the same about Water?" Seira commiserates.
A sad little nod. "That and I smelled like bad Earth. Like the earth right when a fleshy...uses the bathroom on it." Bwimb says, "But way worse."
Seira scratches the back of her head. "Actually, I'm wondering now. Sorry if it's a sensitive subject, but did you ever try making an avatar?"
I presume achromentals are at least dvr0, is that correct? Also, do I have any idea how strong, divinely, Bwimb is?
It is correct. She's a demipower of no great power or standing.
"Uh huh," Bwimb says, "I've made avatars before."
"Try dismissing one and remaking it as a human," Seira suggests. "Then do a water elemental, an earth elemental... try the basic four. It really helps understand foreign senses and how others perceive us!"
In a moment she appears. Human and not wearing anything. Pretty, short brown hair, a perky smile. "Hi!" the avatar says, "I'm Bwimb!"
Carefully Kascha leans in and sniffs.
A beat.
"I see," She finally says, a little ripple of magic around her. She leans in again and sniffs, "Is that...natural?" she asks, looking towards the original.
"She smells like Ooze," Bwimb says at that, "Because she's Ooze."
"Well, there's your problem! Make a human who smells like a human." Kascha says, "And tastes good too. Romance books say that men smell like sweat and pine trees, or like leather and sunshine or..." A trail off in thought. "Women smell like nice things, like flowers or fruits, or sometimes jasmine or sweet perfumes."
The avatar reaches out and takes Kascha's hand, leaning in to sniff it. "You smell like candy mint and," Another sniff, "Books?" A little tongue dab of Kascha's finger, "You taste like that, too."
Kascha flushes a little and clears her throat, "Yes, I do. I thought something clean would be nice in Ooze."
At least she has the power to make that so, rather than some young maiden who will fruitlessly seek perfumes and washes for such a scent. Purity is not found in a perfume bottle.
Giggling at the commentary, Seira grins at Bwimb. "Mimicking Kascha is a good choice, just give it a try!"
A surge, a push. The smell momentarily overwhelms the room. It's like mint that tries and fails to cover a deeper stench of rot, far from clean and refreshing.
Kascha coughs a few times as it quickly fades, then leans in and sniffs again. "That didn't work?" She questions thoughtfully, "Is your nature interfering? Here," she holds up her hand, "Smell me again and focus on it. Try again."
"If that doesn't work, there are marid techniques that may be useful. A marid maiden seldom relies on perfume, but more holistic means." Sanzha steps forward, "Pure water is the key, untouched by any contaminant and mixed with the proper, water based fruit, plant or sweet thing. It is much more effective than a thin spray of perfume over the skin."
"You're definitely capable of it!" Seira encourages Bwimb. "I'm a Fire goddess but I could make a water elemental avatar if I wished! So don't give up and try again!"
Again. The same scent.
"Let me," Sanzha says, "I understand water." Coming forward as Kascha steps back without an argument, "You see, your water side is deeply contaminated, like a lake turned vile by poisons. You have to eliminate that with better parts of water." In one hand a large glass of slightly pink tinted water appears. "Pure water infused with the essence of strawberries. Drink this and then the potion to cause your body to purge after. It is a traditional marid method for women to make themselves appealing."
A moment.
"You may want to step back, Seira. You too, Kascha."
Kascha eeeps and hurries back.
Bwimb takes the water, "It smells strange," she says, "Not like Ooze at all."
"It's taking you out of your comfort zone," Seira agrees, stepping back with Kascha and ensuring her divine will protects the two of them from any splash damage. Sanzha surely will do this with her own control for herself.
Bwimb drinks.
What comes from her is a vast black sludge you don't even want to think about, that Sanzha busies herself banishing.
Another drink and another potion. More of it.
Again and again.
"Is that countless centuries of waste and filth from Ooze?" Kascha asks.
Seira hopes Bwimb is going by millennia rather than centuries, here. To distract herself from that thought, she muses, "If this works, maybe Bwimb should keep copying you. Then we'll get to see elven Kascha, elemental Kascha and all sorts of different and exotic Kaschas!"
With her own blush, Kascha adds, "And sometimes I just want someone to love Kascha classic."
Pulling Kascha towards her sideways, Seira hugs her with all her might! "That's human Kascha, isn't it? Or the current divine Kascha? Because I love them both, I can't decide between them~"
With a bigger blush, "That's not what I meant," Kascha murmurs. "But one day I'll find someone."
"Of course you will! But they'll need to impress me first~"
That draws a wry chuckle from Kascha, as meanwhile now only clear water comes from Bwimb. "You're ready," Sanzha declares, "Let's try this."
Another will of magic and this time no foul scent comes. Did...did it work?
Seira checks for herself!
You sniff. You smell Kascha's smell, of candy mind and books. No sign of Ooze's unique taint.
"Yep, it's Kascha. Congratulations! How does it feel?"
"Minty," Bwimb giggles, "But I didn't realize I had all of that in me!"
"For as long as it lasts," Sanzha remarks, "But I'll show you how to repeat it on your own. You'll have to work out the details on your - urk!"
Bwimb oozes over Sanzha and hugs her all over, a happy cheer from her.
"You could visit a few other places with this avatar, perhaps starting with Bytopia?" Seira muses, inviting Bwimb over. "Ah, but clothed to better fit in."
Bwimb oozes over, a copy of your outfit appearing on her human avatar. "How about this?"
"Should be fine!" Seira agrees. "It doesn't have to be perfect at start. The key is experiencing things from a human's perspective, and then gaining those of other races. Find out what they like by interacting with them, and going through the same things yourself. Then, you'll be able to tailor better circumstances for when they visit if you want to!"
"Thank you, I will," Bwimb says happily, "This'll be fun, too!"
"Yep! Just be careful when you travel, alright? I don't know how much you've heard about Fire, but the Crimson Firebrand returned, reunited the efreet under his command, and is planning to challenge Kossuth for all of Fire. Looks like there'll be war once more, and so soon, too."
"Oh, that's terrible! But Fire's terrible too," Bwimb says quickly, "I don't think I'll go there."
"Hey, I'm trying to make Fire better! But yes, this is not the best of times for a casual visit. I'll let you know when it's safe, alright?"
Ack! You get a hug incoming - a big, oozy, all covering one is coming right at you.
With a laugh, Seira turns into fire! One that doesn't burn anything it touches, merely providing a sense of warmth to the righteous.
Cold! Hot! A combination of them as you get a 'hug' from Bwimb. At least she doesn't smell like Ooze right now. Indeed a small mercy.
Seira hugs her back!
It's not that bad and Bwimb oozes off of you, "I'll be sure to come up with somewhere good," she promises.
"We'll help out too! Check in with us if you want to try a new concept, and I'll be there for you~"
"It's a promise!" Bwimb agrees.
"Well, we'll be in touch then," Kascha says, "But we should go see how Elle's doing with all of that. I'll visit again soon," she promises.
It does seem like the right choice for now, so once their goodbyes are taken care of Seira brings the three of them back home to hear from Elle.
Once home and cleaned up?
"They're pawns," Elle says dismissively, "Just strong enough to make it and survive in Ooze, but not smart or strong enough to know anything or press pass the surface. They'd actually make good minions for Ogremoch, which may or may not mean anything."
"No leads, then?" Seira muses. "Unfortunate. I suppose we'll be going to Earth to begin with to have a chat with the Khan, so maybe something will get shaken loose."
"Hopefully. He might not be related to this," Elle confesses, "And...we should have someone reliable there to keep an eye on Bwimb for a little bit in case this goes further."
"Makes sense. Who wants to do it?"
"No," Elle says right away.
Lady Sanzha smiles, "You do have an avatar to spare, far more than us," she points out.
"This is true," Seira agrees. "I'll do it, but since my avatar will be busy you'll just have to use yours for something I've been meaning to get done already. And it's perfect, since there's three of them and three of you!"
With a flourish, a trio of cursed items are produced, shielded with her divine power but still rather nasty!
"It doesn't matter whether you do it yourselves or find a worthy hero to handle the quest for these two, but I want Todesurteil to be reforged into a suitable sheath for Arondaaq or reformed into a useful element of the Cauldron's defenses, so that probably requires a personal touch."
I want them to purify Inevitable, Todesurteil and Nightfall.
Inevitable: This ring was worn by Agares, appearing as a wide band of dead gray metal that slowly twists into nothing as it loops around, ending just before it finishes making the ring, leaving a tiny gap in it. Any time a creature deals lethal damage to the wearer, they must make a DC 30 will save. Failure deals 18 points of damage, the wearer healing the same amount minus 1. In addition, it grants a +2 profane bonus to armor class and saving throws. [Inevitable radiates strong evil.]
Quote
To purify Inevitable, you must wear it while seeing to the restoration of lost life and then the creation of something that will restore more life than was lost. Both must be on a great scale, at least that of a large empire. Each day the ring is worn on this quest, the wearer loses 1 point from their maximum hit points. These hit points cannot be restored until the quest is finished.
If you have an exact quest that fulfills those parameters feel free, but it should be something that isn't easy nor quick. If it's something that could be done quickly, it's a bad choice here.
Todesurteil: This lantern sheds life draining green light in a thirty foot radius. Each round a being is exposed to it, they suffer one point of vile consitution drain. This can only be healed by a Restoration spell cast in a sanctified area.
Quote
This lantern can be purified by quenching the lantern's green light within one of the Seven Great Springs of healing in Empyrea, then have a phoenix willingly hold the lantern until it is slain by the Constitution drain, then immolated by the flames of the phoenix's rebirth.
Nightfall: Bracers of Armor+14. Grants a +2 profane bonus to the caster level of spells from the evil domain. 280,000 gold.
Quote
Nightfall can be restored by being touched by the regrets of a fallen paladin who bears the hopes of a nation.
Right. Two from Bleak Rendor and one from Sharran shenanigans?
Those two are ancient so it's hard to be certain but I want to say yes. The Sharran one is Sharran, yep. Here (https://www.soulriders.net/forum/index.php/topic,104121.msg1152502/topicseen.html#msg1152502) is the link where I asked you for purification quests (which I've quoted above).
"I'll make sure to get one," Kascha promises, as Sanzha merely adds, "Well, that'll give us something to do."
She's a phoenix, so it's a perfect feat! "Alright. Then I'm heading for Earth!"
She'll invite Donald and Amaryl, and that should be fine. Amaryl could make the arrangements for a meeting with the Khan, too!
Any prep for this to set up for next time?
No, just the usual travel spells.
Silly question possibly or I failed an in between session reading check, but where on Earth?
As I wrote, Amaryl will helpfully make the arrangements for us. So aside from a case where the Khan tells us he doesn't want to meet, to wherever he offers.
Okay, I was just out of it. Good to know.
You appear in a cavern. Hardly a surprise for Earth. However, this one has great ceiling to floor veins of colored quartz, the ceiling nearly a hundred feet high. The room is filled with soft, multicolored light from this. Inside the crystal veins of water run, a few cracks letting water leak out and form little pools around some of the veins. Water that glitters with crystal dust, glittering.
Deep in this chamber a pair of stone thrones sit. On one is the Khan, who awaits you flanked by a pair of massive beings - primal earth elementals. 30ft away an identical throne faces his, as if awaiting someone to sit in it.
Seira gives him a pleasant smile, making her way to the other throne.
Donald and Amaryl flank your sides as you approach the throne. Will you sit on it?
As you approach, "You wanted to talk," The Khan says, to the point, "What is it?"
Seira appreciates cutting to the point!
"It concerns the ambitions of the Crimson Firebrand," Seira responds. "Kossuth is interested in gathering support on Earth, and I've offered to act as intermediary."
A nod. Short and to the point, "I'll listen to your offer," he invites, "What is Kossuth offering?" He stays where he is, expression serious but calm.
"Kossuth is in possession of a great many artifacts, some of which hail from Earth. He is willing to provide them in exchange for support, with the specifics being dependant on the level of support he shall receive in return. An alliance with Kossuth for the duration of the stated conflict with the Crimson Firebrand could run from remaining neutral combat-wise and providing information on elements on Earth and elsewhere that would be acting against him and all the way to fighting side by side with his own forces."
I'd appreciate a name+short brief on a couple such artifacts Kossuth said he holds, as well as whether he has anything that belonged to the dao.
Sure.
Dramzan: An earthen scimitar said to be made by an old Khan. Strong and powerful, able to command the earth and elementals just incidentally to its true ability - the ability to create gems and gold. Hugely valued by mortals due to this.
Delvemap: Said to be one of the few, if any true maps of the Great Dismal Delve. Stories say it has the ability to update itself as the Delve grows and changes. Attempted to be repossessed by the the nobility, but instead it somehow ended up on Fire.
Three Coins: Three gold dao coins. According to myths, one has power over wealth, one has power over trade and the last has power over travel.
"That would depend on the artifacts," The Khan says at last, "As well as any other concessions."
"Have you heard of the uninspiringly-named Delvemap?" Seira voices, testing the waters. "It's nice that it also happens to be self-descriptive, and unlike artifacts of great direct value to mortals, some woud favor Earth's native powers far more."
"I have," The Khan agrees, "And what would Kossuth expect to buy with that?"
"Logistical and diplomatic support on Earth, as well as neutrality in combat," Seira responds. "You've fought alongside the efreet fairly recently, by planar terms, so if you'd like to stay out of any battles altogether and provide Kossuth with information on the movements of his enemies, this would be the simplest way to make it work. As for the aforementioned diplomacy, that would cover intervening in Kossuth's favor at Grumbar's court. I doubt he is interested in supporting an usurper and establishing a precedent that applies right back to him, but just because the risk is slight doesn't make it nonexistent."
A mere thoughtful nod after, "And any other offers?"
"There is a myth," Seira muses, curling a lock of her hair around her index finger idly. "Power over wealth, power over trade and power over travel. An inconspicious set, at a glance, but one with a proud and ancient legacy."
After all, this is all a taste of Kossuth's treasury. She has no doubt that he could, in fact, make it worth the Khan's while to fight on his side. And for Kossuth, who is engaged in a battle for his life, any artifact not directly boosting his standing on Fire is ultimately expendable towards the goal of total victory. Her words suggest as much, so now it would be up to the Khan to either call, raise or fold, and if it's the first two he'll be playing the same game as she is at last.
Give me a charisma check there, you did something very right.
21:30 <Corwin> roll 1d20+15+6+2
21:30 <Rei-chan> Corwin rolled : 1d20+15+6+2 --> [ 1d20=11 ]{34}
I forgot a +3 bonus, so it's 37.
The Khan leans forward, "I'll take that under..." You get a slow, considering look as well. "Advisement. What else?"
"Kossuth has quite a few ways to show his favor, but that depends on what he'll be getting in return," Seira points out, wishing to hear more from the Khan. If he has a nonstandard proposition, it might fit even better than anything she herself comes up with, as she doesn't quite have a full understanding of his capabilities outside of combat.
After that, "I do. You see, I have a competing offer." The Great Khan explains, then with a slow smile, "The Crimson Firebrand has offered me wealth, magic and other considerations. I'm weighing which one is the better offer."
Seira nods her understanding. "Kossuth clearly wins on wealth, however you look at it, and the same is likely on magic as well if only due to his superior connections. The other considerations mentioned are the real issue, as I see it, so please correct me if I'm wrong. To follow that thought a bit further, if it were something truly indispensible to yourself or to the dao, your decision would have already been made. Since it's like that, Kossuth will certainly provide superior recompense for your support, so the only real decision that remains is who you believe will win. Would you say this is a fair assessment?"
This is a bit of a diversion from an intermediary, but Seira decides to add, "Incidentally, I'm betting on Kossuth, myself, and I intend to help make that happen."
"In simple words," Amaryl says, "I frankly don't care that you're using us to get the best deal from whomever we choose. That's between you and Kossuth. Tell us what you truly want and I have few doubts Kossuth will make it so."
"Who I believe will win?" The Khan of the Dao smiles, not kindly. "I don't know." He spreads his arms and laughs, "Wonderful! Someone has grown so far as to challenge an elemental lord credibly! That Kossuth politics openly speaks to the magnitude of the Firebrand's victories so far. No. The greater question is that we all think but few are brave enough to say? What doors open if the Firebrand wins?" A simple question. "What impossibilities become possible?"
Seira nods at his words. "I too have thought about this, but my conclusion as to what changes in the future? Not much. The other elemental lords will crush those they see as young upstarts, they would be fools not to, and the time to do that would be now before anyone gathers the necessary power to challenge them from within. As for Fire, a victory like this will be costly, and the victor would be greatly weakened, to the point of not being able to project their power effectively outside Fire. In the long term, there would be changes, yes... but we'll never get that far due to the Shar threat that everyone is aware of, whether they believe in Primus's Prophecy or not. The conflict against her will overshadow anything, and its outcome will do the same."
She gives the Khan a smile of her own. "The only doors to truly be opened have already done so. This situation, considered unthinkable by all, has come to pass. That is not something anyone can ever take back, and it is my hope that the elemental lords keep that in mind while interacting with others. In that, and in the challenge to Kossuth's authority right now, lie benefits to be seized, to better position oneself in the conflicts ahead."
The Great Khan sits back, shadows over his face as he does. After a silent consideration of your words, "And what of you in Fire should the Firebrand triumph, everything else aside?"
"An interesting possibility," Seira acknowledges. "In the end, Kossuth must defeat the Crimson Firebrand in single combat, or he won't be able to solidify his control over Fire. So it is true that despite our efforts, the outcome might not be favorable to him. While this is quite unlikely, I suppose that in that case I'll go for it myself. After all, wouldn't you say that I am the third strongest power on Fire at present, despite not being a true native?"
"Stronger than Zaaman Rul, at least," The Great Khan concedes. "And what of our treaty? I believe the current situation may prove amenable to renegotiation."
"I'm listening."
"Cooperation in this matter works both ways. The restrictions on slavery in our..."
"No." Amaryl speaks up here, "No." Again, stronger. "Not on this. Not after all the blood that was shed for that."
"Amaryl is right. Some matters are up for negotiations, but this concerns our core values. When it comes to those, I'm willing to fight as much as it takes. Rather, what I'm open to is assisting in bettering your economic situation. Trade, investment, acting as an intermediary for markets that were closed before you thus far."
"Gather up your proposals," The Great Khan says, "I will consider your words."
Meanwhile, Moore comes divinely calling!
Hi Seira. Do you have a second to discuss whatever is currently going on in Fire if you know? I've been asked to potentially assist In a matter between the current Sultan of the Efreet and Kossuth's envoys to Lord Crystalle of Mineral.
I'm guessing something has happened since this doesn't sound like Akil's doing.
"I believe my first proposal is clear enough on its own. A safe path of staying out of the conflict and supporting Kossuth via intelligence and diplomacy that ultimately shouldn't cost you much if anything, and stands to get you artifacts and wealth. A genuine alliance, however, that has your forces fight on Kossuth's side would see the ancient dao artifacts that reside on Fire returned to their proper place. Kossuth will match the Crimson Firebrand's proposal where it comes to trade concessions on Fire, and provide half again of the wealth the Crimson Firebrand is offering. The Cauldron will offer its intermediary and banking services to the dao, aiding in introductions to forces presently hostile to the dao and allowing for the transfer of goods that the Cauldron deals with at favorable rates. Finally, Kossuth will entertain any single request you might have, Great Khan, so long as it isn't harmful to Fire and is within his power to grant."
Pausing for a moment, Seira adds, "That's as far as the proposal itself goes, but I should note my personal observations from earlier as well. It is quite possible that the planar lords would wish to see Kossuth weakened or outright replaced for their own reasons, but should it actually come to pass, they would certainly never trust those who helped the Crimson Firebrand make it happen. Not only that, they would be fools to not move against them right away to minimize the threat to them. I will probably not be the only one to see direct support for the Crimson Firebrand as the first step to a declaration of intent in following on his footsteps on Earth."
At Moore's message, Seira responds to him with, Please come to the Cauldron in an hour, and I'll fill you in.
A nod as the Great Khan rises, acknowledgement. "For now, our conversation is finished."
I'll be there.
"Thank you for seeing us on such short notice," Seira responds, rising herself. It's time for them to go home!
Indeed, you head home as...
D-d-double questions!
Seira, any set up for this meeting?
Moore, who is coming?
Sylvie and Cresiel unless someone else wants to
We'll have it in a war room that displays a map of Fire. Amaryl, Sanzha and Donald are requested.
A large map of the known regions of Fire is up, along with Donald by it. Amaryl and Sanzha sit as Moore, Sylvie and Cresiel enter.
Go ahead.
"Welcome! So what brought this on?"
Moore arrives and offers a bow to them!
"I was contacted just a bit ago by Crystalle." Moore explains. "He said diplomats from the Sultan as well as Kossuth were coming to see him. He requested we be available to assist him if things got violent. I figured, from this, something must be going on that we weren't aware of, so before I got into the middle of it I wanted to get up to speed."
"The short version is that the Crimson Firebrand got a bit of help from an Incarnation back in the day, and graduated from Kossuth's servant into a greater deity capable of challenging him. And now that he's returned, he's going to fight Kossuth over control of Fire. Even if my personal feelings about Kossuth were ignored, he's clearly the superior choice for the elemental lord governing Fire, so as battle lines get drawn, I'm trying to help him by recruiting allies. Clearly, he's not sitting idle either."
"I imagine Grumbar wants to keep the status quo, but I wonder if that's the case if they're reaching out to the Archomentals." He says. "Either way, we're happy to offer our support to your endeavors. We need to repair relations with Kossuth anyway."
"This seems like a simple way to," Sylvie says, "Mend bridges through cooperation with him. If he's recruiting allies, the problem solves itself."
"Good thing is, if you fight on his side everything is forgiven," Seira agrees. "As for reaching out to Archomentals, there's more than one way to provide support. I doubt there would be much fighting on the front lines, but there will definitely be involvement. In fact, we've contacted Bwimb, though I'm drawing a blank of where to go next. Earth is a bit in Limbo, and Zaaman Rul is on Kossuth's side. Water would likely stay away from this conflict, and if Earth joins in force Air would do best to stay away as well. What options does that leave us?"
"I have to wonder if any of the Elemental Prince or Princesses would be able to fall out if line with the Lords?" Moore asks. "Do you know if Hell has anything to do with the Crimson Firebrand's strength?"
"Only in the sense that Law was the one who elevated him, and Asmodeus is the only one who would keep supporting him in this situation. But I don't expect any overt support beyond some troops, and any troops deployed would surely be matched by Celestia and have their effect on the conflict negated. In the end, Asmodeus wouldn't risk depleting our forces or his before the conflict with Shar, so I don't see him putting in strong support for the Crimson Firebrand."
Moore nods. "That makes sense. For now, I suppose we wait and see how things develop." He says. "If anything happens with Mineral I'll let you know."
"There is one thing," Sylvie points out. "You've met Zanimoth, right, hidden lord of wealth and obscure archomental? There's a few handfuls of those types around, easily overlooked by almost anyone. They wouldn't have a huge impact, but everyone could help further and deny a clever enemy a chance to lure them in too."
"That's true enough," Seira agrees. "Plus there's that location on Fire that Kossuth didn't want anyone to go near last war. Might be interesting to hear what he was hiding there."
Moore nods again. "That all makes sense to me. I guess we will see who the Firebrand manages to sway with his charisma."
"Or, alternately, sway them first?" Seira asks with a grin. "I've talked with the dao, so if you have any ideas go for them."
"Hmm. We do have a relatively good relationship with the current Padisha." Moore says. "She may have heard something, especially if there's even a remote chance that some of the Mercane are involved in any of this." He says. "We can at least do some poking around."
"Worth a shot," Seira agrees. "I don't see Water fighting here, but they'd surely have their own sources of information."
Okay, just a quick DM check. Are you two still chatting or has this wound down? I dunno if you two paused for vacation or were good here.
I'm good to move on unless there was anything else here to discuss.
Okay. As the DM can't make that call as I'm not a mind reader? Was there, Cor, or are we good to move?
We're good.
Alright, Moore goes to a new thread momentarily. In the meantime, any immediate todos after all of this, Seira?
Sylvie was right about Zanimoth, let's have Amaryl arrange for a meeting with him to sound him out.
"We're invited to meet him," Amaryl soon reports, "Do you think we should bring a gift, or would that come off as a bribe?"
DM notes and organization.
Okay, this one was on pause for a bit before the pause, so odds are it's best that I just reread the last several pages. Get back in line with the current plot and work.
Sheets are fine.
Check Amaryl's node goal, clear or revise, do homework on return.
When we do resume, it'll be with new topics as I recenter and focus, so I'm going to lock this one.