[User]
 Arena Tournament, Round 26:  Grall  vs.  Yoshi
 Map:
 Spoiler

 XP Award:  300 XP
 GP Award:  300 GP

 Tortise262 - Grall Greenskin
 Mavian - Yoshi
 All Combatants, please roll initiative.

[User] I have a few items I may yet purchase depending upon various things.

[User]
 Initiative:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]

EDIT: Er, I don't think you have to worry about rolling... Glad I got that 1 outta the way, at any rate!

[User]
 Yeah, the +4 Initiative bonus makes rolling unnecessary.  I also ended up not making any additional purchases.

Yoshi - Round 1

 Spoiler

Once again applying my Carmendine monk bonus to speed for a 40 foot movement this round.  Turn

Double Move: From M25 to D15, where I'll hide.  (1d20+14)[ 22 ]  Note this does not taken in the negatives for movement.

End of Turn

Stats for Refs:

 Spoiler

Hp: 6 *Note: Dam Red: 3/Lawful
AC: 21, 19, 17
Position: D15
Shuriken: 12

[User]
 Grall - Round 1
 Spoiler
Start on M2
Move to M8
Take total defense as a standard action.
Use Dodge feat against Yoshi.

Current position =  M8
HP = 12 / 12
AC = 22 (touch 18)

[User]
 Flipping through your character sheet, I happened across something that won't impact this round, but needs to be fixed.

Your initiative is wrong, you should have a further -2 on it due to your musclebound trait.

 From Initiative:

 At the start of a battle, each combatant makes an initiative check. An initiative check is a Dexterity check.

 From Musclebound.

 You take a -2 penalty on Dexterity-based skill checks and ability checks.

I'll also grab an LoS check before my turn.

[User]
 High Ref Bronz

@Mavian

 Spoiler

No LoS

@Tortoise

 Spoiler

No Los

[User]
 Yoshi - Round 2

 Spoiler

Move Action: D15 to H18 Hide Check  (1d20+14)[ 22 ]  movement not factored in.
Standard Action: Ready an Action to wing a shuriken if LoS is established

End of Turn

Stats for Refs:

 Spoiler

Hp: 6 *Note: Dam Red: 3/Lawful
AC: 21, 19, 17
Position: H18
Shuriken: 12

[User]
 Originally Posted by Mavian
 Flipping through your character sheet, I happened across something that won't impact this round, but needs to be fixed.

Your initiative is wrong, you should have a further -2 on it due to your musclebound trait.

Good call. I'll fix it after this match. I'd also like another LOS check before I go.

[User]
 GM Kyeudo

No LoS that I can see.

[User]
 Grall, round 2

 Spoiler
Start: M8
Move Action: Move to N14 (as long as no LOS occurs during movement)
Standard Action: Total Defense ( " )
Dodge Feat is still active.

END OF TURN

Current position = N14
HP = 12 / 12
AC = 22 (touch 18)

[User]
 Yoshi
Assuming no LoS

 Spoiler

Move to K18 Hide Check -  (1d20+14)[ 16 ]  No negatives to add this time

Not done, need a LoS check.

[User]
 Yoshi

 Spoiler
You establish LoS, he is in N14. Are you crouching/crawling? If not, I would like to ask what allows you to hide.

Grall

 Spoiler
make a spot check please.

[User]
 @ refs:
 Spoiler
 Spot Check:  (1d20-5)[ 10 ]
Plus a bonus listen check!:  (1d20-5)[ -4 ]

NOTE: I think that -5 is the right modifier, but my character sheet won't load right now, so I'll get back to you.

[User]
 @Seribo

 Spoiler

The ground above me is higher, hence I can treat it as low wall cover?  The differences heights aren't really established enough to rule it any other way.

[User]
 @Yoshi

 Spoiler
The height in difference is only five feet... Well, I aint going to fuss about it right now. I allowed him a spot check and you see your target at the top of the hill between in the pass. You're not triggering any reaction as far as you can tell so you pretty much got a clear shot here.

[User]
 Yoshi - Rest of Turn

Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]

And I'm in K18

End of Turn:

Stats for Refs:

 Spoiler

Hp: 6 *Note: Dam Red: 3/Lawful
AC: 21, 19, 17
Position: k18
Shuriken: 11

[User]
 That attack misses.

Start at N14
Charging Trip Attack with Ranseur*
End on M16, if I'm correct

Touch Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 27 ]
STR Check:  (1d20+10)[ 20 ]

If I win, I get a free attack with Improved Trip.

*EDIT: I meant Guisarme, sorry.

End of Round for refs:

 Spoiler
End on M16
AC = 16
HP = 12 / 12

[User] Trip Defence:   (1d20)[ 2 ]

[User]
 Follow-up Attack:
 (1d20+11)[ 23 ]  (+2 if charge bonus still applies)
Damage:
 (2d4+7)[ 14 ]

[User]
 Wait, what? What special ability or feat you have allows to make a follow-up attack? A trip is a standard action and no free attacks are mentioned in its description.

Edit: indeed your right. Always thought it just prevented AoO and gave a bonus to the strength check. Well, in that case, this game seems like a match to me. Your attack bonus doesn't get the +4, but since your opponent is prone, he does get a -4 to AC, so it doesn't really make that much a difference. Also, yes I do think you get the +2 from charge since the description of improved trip says the normal attack functions as if you never made the trip attack.

 Winner be Tortoise.
(Unless I am missing something?)

[User]
 High Ref Bronz

He gets a free attack via Improved Trip feat.

[User] Oops, I knew the 4 came in some way, but I forgot it was an AC penalty, not an attack bonus.

[User]
 High Ref Bronz

And Grall wins, collecting all treasures hidden by map.  X Marks the spot!

[User]
 Search Check:  (1d20+1)[ 7 ]

Did I find the "X"?


[User]
 Despite the name that the "people" have coined for it, The World in Ruins can be quite beautiful. This is not the case for Waystation, a small town on the boarders of the once nation now wasteland Cadia. Aside from the smell, the place is rumored to harbor Muties. These rumors are despised in the town, and they have subsequently become quite the "Witch-Hunters" as they have started calling themselves. However on the outskirts of town, however, there are Muties hiding in the shadows that use Waystation as a resupply point.

 Spoiler: OOC
Take this time to get into character.

[User]
 Waystation
Kole Deem exits a cheap guest house on the north side of town. He hops on his hoverbike and rides to the Crusade fort in the center. He hopes that he doesn't have any deliveries to make today, but he doubts that will be the case.

[User]
 Waystation
Mask is at a local bar.  He doesn't know the name, he just knows it's a bar.  He's currently disguised as an average, Caucasian, middle-aged man.  He is also currently nursing the strongest drink they have.

[User]
 Waystation
Zoe Baikal approaches the town from the east after night of questionable rest. Long treks on foot are certainly harder on the body than a ride, but if every the time came to flee, Zoe would be far more comfortable not leaving anything valuable behind. She is making the long march west in answer to the Droton's call for aid. The aptly named Waystation is her next stop on the route. The rumors of a mutant underground and supply point, however, demand her attention as well. Any crusader presence in the town would be her first destination, after which she would need a good meal...

[User]
 Waystation

Skrib the Lame is also hobbling towards the town. His mutated, useless left leg is tucked up and strapped to his torso, hidden under his clothes, and he's swinging along on his crutches. He has a fake leg strapped to his back, but whilst he's still a short distance from the town, he stops to take it off his back and straps it in place, onto his stunted limb. On the crude prosthetic and his crutches, his movement's a lot less graceful as he clomps closer, muttering and grumbling. He had to walk around the town at quite a distance, so he could approach from a direction other than from Cadia.


[User]
 Amsterdam was still grumpy and couldn't await that you all leave the elves - as a group.

At the third day in the morning you recognized that he wasn't at the breakfast. He wasn't in his room either. Lissa started to search for tracks - easy. This citizen could be followed after 2 days of rain with ease.

His tracks led outside of the elven camp.

(What do you do?)

 Link OOC

[User]
 Lissa swore. That damnable rogue shouldn't have left them on his own. They were only going to stay for a little longer, and then...

Ugh, it didn't matter. The important part was trying to find him. She took the map she'd been given by the half-point and checked which direction Amsterdam had left in - was it still towards the magi? Was it back to the city?

She worked it out quickly. He was attempting to continue their quest. She scowled, and went to inform the others.  "Amsterdam's gone. I suspect he didn't leave long ago, so he's probably not far away, but we should go,  now,  and see if we can catch up with him."

[User] Alright,   Bria says.   But why do you think he left? These are pretty nice people.

[User]
 "Well, people can seem nice on the outside and not on the inside. But that doesn't seem to be what happened. I just think he was on edge and... well, we stayed here longer than we were going to... anyway, we've got to go! We need to find him, damn it!"

She was acting a little more concerned than she'd any right to be over a man she wasn't interested in. Best to throw the others a decoy to try to convince them that it wasn't them she had feelings for. Not that she could act worth a damn, but... it was a nice idea? Maybe she just came off as being over-the-top and impulsive. Whatever the case, it didn't matter.

She went back to the tracks and started to follow them. They weren't hard to follow, fortunately. Amsterdam knew nothing about how not to be traced. At the same time, though, this somewhat concerned Lissa... what if he'd got into trouble.  "All right, let's go."

[User]
 The three women packed their equipment and left fast. Elrond wasn't around and Lissa couldn't search him and Amsterdam at the same time. Elrond knows how to pass without a trace...

They followed Amsterdams footprints and marks that he had passed like broken branches on the bushes and so on. He must have been in a hurry as you could see by the length of his steps. Either he was following something or he was running away.

After following the trace for about 3 hours (it's about 11:00am) you find Amsterdam lying in the grass in front of you. Face down. With an arrow between his shoulders.

[User] Lissa frowned. Either he was in stable condition or he was dead, and she would like to know which. She carefully crouched down next to him, and checked for a pulse, acutely aware that she might also be in danger...

[User]
 Bria looks around nervously, debating about casting a defensive spell on herself.

 Spoiler: Spot
 (1d20)[ 1 ]  for any threats.

[User] Arianna frowns at Amsterdam's disappearance.  I made it clear that he was to stay!  she though to herself.  When I find him, I will make sure he knows that he is to protect the shamans and do as they say. If he doesn't die learning that lesson, he'll be better for it.  When Lissa and Bria decide to leave, Arianna obediently gathers her things and walks with them. When they find Amsterdam's body, though, she frowns.  I didn't get to teach him that lesson,  she thinks as she draws her sword and looks around.  But someone did.   "Care,"  she says, eyes darting about.  "Danger."

[User]
 As you come closer you see that the blood on Amsterdams back has already dried. He has to lay here for a bit longer.
Lissa checked for a pulse, but nothing. He was dead.

Bria searched for a threat but she was either distracted or not focused enough to find something.

[User]
 Lissa joined Bria in searching for anything she could find to provide some clue as to who killed the rogue... and whether or not they were still there.

 Spoiler
 (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  Spot
 (1d20+8)[ 24 ]  Survival
 (1d20)[ 19 ]  Search

[User]
 Lissa started searching, too. She was more focused then Bria but her search came to the same result: nothing. Nobody was here, you were alone.
The offender wasn't here anymore.


[User]
 The crisp morning air is tinged with the smell of fresh bread and meats, as you join the other students for breakfast. You see people slowly joining in, as some of the staff and students show up later than yourself, some working on projects others simply waking up late. The voices of others echo through the air as people talk about the days ahead, the tables lively as the dinning hall fills.

Without warning, you see the headmaster stand from his table, his expression solemn as he taps his throat lightly with his pocket watch.  "All students please assemble in yard three in two hours for an emergency assembly. That's all students please assemble in yard three in two hours for an emergency assembly.

The voice of the headmaster echoes through the entire academy, interrupting the otherwise normal breakfast. You hear many groans, as much from the other students as from the teaching staff. You hear murmurs from those around you. "This is ridiculous!" "How long are they going to keep doing these random meetings?" "I hope we don't get another 'assignment'"

[User]
 Vya joined in with the grumbling. Breakfast was one of her favourite times of the day. It was an opportunity to eat good food, while surrounded by good people. She loved loading her plate to bursting; Then talking with her fellow students between mouthfuls. Now instead of enjoying the moment, she'd be too busy worrying about what's to come. Her banter with her friends had a more bitter edge to it than usual.

" This is getting ridiculous. We came here to study! Not be trained gophers for the Powers That Be. I'd skip the assembly altogether, if I thought I could get away with it. "

[User]
 Alexandra Caeruela

The young mage was sitting next to Vya, eating slowly a piece of bread with strawberry jam. Alexandra was currently in her favorite shape, a young girl with blue hair and eyes, "wearing" an illusion of airy robes, also blue. In truth, she was wearing only smallclothes.

Obviously, there was an explanation for that. As a natural shapechanger, she needed to change her looks a lot. And, especially in a case in which she would like to vanish into the crowd, wearing clothing inappropriate to her current form would be undesired. So, as a master of illusions, she created the perfect solution.

She raised an eyebrow when she listened to the headmaster, but outside of that, she didn't say anything, until she finished the last bite. At the very moment, Vya had spoken.

-  I dunno, it could be serious...  - Alexandra went silent for a moment. When she was being thoughtful, her whole body changed its color to light blue -  Also, it's our headmaster, we should listen to him, don't you think?

[User]
 " I don't mind listening to him. But these days, he's not really the one speaking. It's obvious that he's being pressured by the politicians. "

Vya gulped down the latest in a long line of snacks. No matter how much she ate, she never seemed to gain weight. On the surface, that was a good thing. But it had turned her into something of a glutton. She dreaded the thought of going on an 'assignment' with limited rations. There was also another reason for her reluctance: One that her shapeshifting friend might empathise with.

" Besides, I'm tired of being told what to be. You can understand that, right? The humans have had time to define themselves; We haven't. Our species are newcomers to this world. We need a chance to find our place in it. I don't want to just follow humanity's lead. "

[User] -  Hm...  - Alexandra went even more blue -  I guess it's true. We should be able to pick our own ways and try own our stuff. But you know,   - the color started to fade slowly from her body -   I dunno. I mean, there are rules, aren't they? We can do whatever we please, but we have chosen to be here, in this academy, so we have to play the game as long as we are students. I know that the headmaster is kinda... I understand what you could not like his actions, but he is giving us an education. Isn't it valuable enough to play along?

[User]
 " True enough. That's why I'm still a student here. Well, that and the company. "

Vya cast her eyes across the crowded hall. She was at her happiest when surrounded by people. The Academy had introduced her to so many friends. It'd be a real shame to leave them behind. So for now at least, her travel bags remained empty.

" And as I said, the headmaster himself is all right. But he's not as free as he used to be. I can't shake the feeling that this place is being forced down a dark path. "

[User] -  Well, you obviously have the right to your own perspective. I dunno if I share it, but truth be told, it's nothing we have influence over, so better not to get distracted by it. They can be more powers behind the curtain, but even if, there's simply nothing to do about that. Better focus on something productive, don't you agree?  - explained Alexandra. As always when being to the point, her skin took the color of white marble. She looked like a pretty, big, porcelain doll.

[User]
 Wolfram bursts throught the door, panting. Great day to oversleep, uh? Looking frantically for a place, he seats next to Alexandra, immediately wolfing down food.
 "I'm not late right? Why everyone looks so dismayed?"  he says, eyes darting to the teaching corp to check if they noticed his arriving late to the party. Well, breakfast.

[User]
 After breakfast, the air takes on a resigned feel as the gathered bodies make their way to listen to the speech. The field is open, more than enough space to fit three times as many people comfortably, with an elaborate
Stage made of oak and adorned with silver edges standing between The field and The lake behind The academy. The crowd murmurs, wondering just what is coming next.

When the headmaster takes to the stage, a hush falls over the crowd. The headmaster waits a moment  before speaking, as if to let those gathered have a moment before he speaks.

"I know many of you tire of these announcements as they often detract from your studies. I wish I could say that this time will be any different, but I refuse to lie to any of you." Several students can be heard being rather upset at the admission of more distractions and work.

" Duke Nurin was found dead last night." With that sentence, silence returns to the field. Nearly everyone at the academy knew the duke in some capacity or another. He was very outspoken about the academy being used as an extension of the military, protesting the deportation of students, and was often on the grounds to aid promising groups of students with side projects. Furthermore, he was the biggest financial backing the academy had besides the king.

After a minute or so, the headmaster raised a hand to silence the outrage. "The king has sent more tasks to be done, however I feel that finding the identity of this killer to be of greater concern. Any who wish may pursue this, in place of the requests sent to us this season, without penalty."

Afterwards he goes on about the other tasks available should students decide against the pursuit, but it's hard to hear over the crowd. The headmaster continues on for a minute or two, before giving up and simply placing a few rolls of parchment on the front of the stage, embedding each request in place witb a single nail before moving on.

[User]
 Alexandra stood silent, her head low. She was thinking about the Duke. He was a good person and did many good things for the academy. Who would like to kill him? And why, most importantly?

After the headmaster finished speaking, she did a quick series of gestures and whispered something under her breath. At the same time, Vya sensed another presence in her mind.

~  Hi, it’s me  ~ a familiar voice of Alex sounded in her head ~  I did cast this spell cause I do not wanna to join the murmur of other people. What do you think? Should we investigate? I believe we owe it to him, he was a nice person. Plus, the killer could kill other people too. The faster we will take care of it, the better, don’t you think?

[User]
 Vya reluctantly tore herself away from the breakfast table. She grabbed a final few snacks, to sustain her along the way. Then it was off to the field. She and her fellow students braced themselves for whatever was coming. But though Vya had expected bad news, the full extent of it took her off guard. Duke Nurin was dead?! Vya gaped. She'd always felt as if that man was in her corner. Thanks to him, she'd been able to live a peaceful life. And now he was dead. This crime could not be allowed to go unpunished. She took a determined step forward. That's when a voice entered her head. Alex? Oh, right; Telepathy. Vya soon discovered that her friend was thinking along the same lines as her.

[ Absolutely. As you say, we owe it to him. I'm grateful for all he's done. Let's work together to unmask his killer! ]


[User]
 The Soreni queen has organized a meeting.
While the meeting is mainly between the Soreni, Naherin, and the Hydra, others are invited as well.
The main purpose of the meeting is to finalize the deal between the Soreni and Naherin.
Other than that, it is a chance for the civilizations of Sikar to meet and discuss whatever is necessary.

The meeting room itself is a big room, made of stone, with arches and pillars, and other things like pottery and trophies, a few comfy chairs, and a blightspawn carpet. There is food and drink provided. Fairly nice place.

After much preparation, the day arrives.
All parties involved are arriving at the palace.
Queen Gothek is already there, along with the Soreni hero, and some others, mostly guards.


[User]
 OOC Thread

Like a ghost on the wind, you're making your way through Gosa. You know this city like the back of your hand, every last nook and cranny-or at least, a lot of them. You've been hearing rumblings of  something -but you've been at a loss trying to peg down exactly what it is. So, you're scouring the city for clues.

You've managed to narrow it down at least a little-or at least, find some kind of lead. You're currently heading for the Luminary Consortium-a merchant group specializing in extraplanar imports. The area around their HQ is brightly lit with Dawnstone, a valuable celestial mineral and an opulent display of wealth.

It is currently approaching sundown, and you're still a minute or two from the Consortium HQ. Any last preparations you want to make?

[User]
 Originally Posted by JNAProductions
  OOC Thread

Like a ghost on the wind, you're making your way through Gosa. You know this city like the back of your hand, every last nook and cranny-or at least, a lot of them. You've been hearing rumblings of  something -but you've been at a loss trying to peg down exactly what it is. So, you're scouring the city for clues.

You've managed to narrow it down at least a little-or at least, find some kind of lead. You're currently heading for the Luminary Consortium-a merchant group specializing in extraplanar imports. The area around their HQ is brightly lit with Dawnstone, a valuable celestial mineral and an opulent display of wealth.

It is currently approaching sundown, and you're still a minute or two from the Consortium HQ. Any last preparations you want to make?

 Spoiler: OoC
Not sure what kinda preparations to make. What kind of rumblings have I heard? Just a general "ready yourself cuz stuff's about to happen" "whats happening" "idk but the higher ups are nervous and stocking up for some reason", or something more concrete?

[User]
 So far, you've gotten a lot of low-level folk who've heard that something big is coming. No one's been officially told anything-just bits and pieces that they've put together to realize that change is on its way.

This is the first solid lead you've gotten (you think, at least)-the Luminary HQ personnel were told to prepare for a new guest, with some incredibly odd and specific requirements, and to tell NO ONE.
Naturally, at least one person blabbed a bit, and that's how you learned.

[User] Whatever was incoming, they must've expected it would give them an edge in the market and didn't want anybody knowing until it's too late. Brooke plans to sneak in and get an idea of what's coming, so she can figure out what (if anything) she needs to do about it.

[User]
 You head closer to the Luminary HQ. As you get near, you're no longer able to teleport with ease-the Dawnstone fixtures are too bright.

There's a few guards patrolling, and a few that are a couple of floors up, on some outcroppings. Sneaking through won't be the hardest thing in the world, but it won't be the easiest either.

And then, of course, there's the doors themselves. There are enough windows that you can see whether or not someone is at the door when you crack it open, but they are locked tight.

 Spoiler: OOC
Opening a locked door (or trying to) would normally be an action, but you're a Thief, right? So you can try it as Cunning Action as well.

I'll make active rolls for the guards, since this is a special time and they've been told to be on alert-the rolls will be in the spoiler below. Please don't peek. :P

 Spoiler: DM Rolls
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ]
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ]

[User]
 Spoiler: OoC
Cloak gives me adv vs being seen and gives them disadv to see me. Doesn't apply to sound though...I'll do one roll for now. Get a Guidance cast before I get too close to the building, then ghost down and pick a door lock while keeping out of sight. Call it...

A: cast Guidance
BA: Hide
M: Move down near door

A: Search (listen at door for nearby guards)
BA: Use An Object (pick lock, unless guards are too close to risk it)

It's a couple turns planned out, at least. Guidance will be used on the Stealth check.

Stealth:  (1d4)[ 4 ]  +  (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  (adv vs sight  (1d20+12)[ 27 ] )
Perception: passive 27
Thieves' Tools:  (1d20+12)[ 21 ]

[User]
 You chart a course that gives you a wide berth from the guards-seeing is easier to hide than hearing, with your gear. You make it to the door without any major difficulty, and have to wait a mere moment for someone passing through the hall near your chosen door to start working the lock. A quick jimmying of the lock with your tools gets the lock undone, and you crack the door open just enough to slip inside, closing it quietly once you're in.

The interior isn't quite as bright-the ostentatious display of the outdoors isn't needed in here. It is well-lit, though. You listen for the person who you just saw pass through, and hear them muttering.

"I don't like it. It goes against everything we stand for! I just-" is all you get before they move too far.

[User]
 Originally Posted by JNAProductions
 You chart a course that gives you a wide berth from the guards-seeing is easier to hide than hearing, with your gear. You make it to the door without any major difficulty, and have to wait a mere moment for someone passing through the hall near your chosen door to start working the lock. A quick jimmying of the lock with your tools gets the lock undone, and you crack the door open just enough to slip inside, closing it quietly once you're in.

The interior isn't quite as bright-the ostentatious display of the outdoors isn't needed in here. It is well-lit, though. You listen for the person who you just saw pass through, and hear them muttering.

"I don't like it. It goes against everything we stand for! I just-" is all you get before they move too far.

Brooke follows those guards, since they seem to have some idea of what's going on. She doesn't want to get too close, though...

[User]
 Spoiler: OOC
 (1d20+12)[ 21 ]
 (1d20+12)[ 24 ]

Your stealth check with advantage, due to being able to teleport through shadows and other factors.

 (1d20+3)[ 5 ]  Perception on the followed person.

The woman you're following is deep in thought, concern, and in a bit of a rush. You tail her without any difficulty.

Listening in closely, it would seem her mind is on the guest that they're entertaining. There's a lot of words said, many of which aren't fully relevant, but you glean that they've invited some kind of undead and their entourage to the HQ. Apparently, this monster has been talking with the top merchants, and has quite a deal for them.

[User] Brooke looks around for a storage room or closet or something - somewhere she's unlikely to be interrupted quickly.

[User] You search for a couple of minutes, and find an out-of-the-way meeting room. It's empty, has no windows to the outside, and can be locked from the inside-it should do. There's also enough nooks and crannies that, should someone start unlocking the door, you can hide away somewhere.


[User]
 Just started a fresh game of BGEE and bought a scimitar and a ninja-to at the first inn.

Then, I tested them against a poor cow (just for the heck of it, was going to load the game afterwards). One blow and the cow died and my scimitar was broken, too! Worst scimitar ever...

Since I was going to reload anyway it didn't bother me, but I was amazed at my bad luck.


[User] I’m thinking of running RHoD next, but it would be part of a larger campaign, the BBEG of which is a lich my players have been hunting for some time. Because of this, I’m worried the ghost lord portion of RHoD would create some redundancy I’d rather avoid. For those that know this adventure inside and out…if I leave this bit out, would the rest of the story still make sense? Or could I reflavor it in some way…make the ghost lord something else?


[User]
 The Dream begins again, as it always has and always will: with the dying cries of the Great Mother and the End of All Things. Old Scratch, with thick black tears of pain and fear streaming down his face, opens his great maw and then there is nothing. The dreamer recoils from the awful emptiness of the void and, for a time indeterminable, weeps with the pain of loss. After an eternity, light sparks, color flows, the desolation of the void unbearable even unto itself. Unfettered creation runs wild, spinning itself out into myriad, ever-changing forms. For a time this was good, then came unending pattern, the click-clack of Grandmother's hooks and needles spinning out form and meaning where none had existed before. With form and meaning came ending as well, and thus Old Scratch once again. For a time, this was good, the balance struck between the Three bringing forth the Great Mother and all of her children. Yet the legacy of the last turning, the dreamer knew, lingered somehow across the impossible gulf between this Turning and the last; a stain black as night polluting the great tapestry, spreading, which would ultimately bring this Cycle to a close as well, ending in pain and death. However, hope endures; the dreamer knows that this time is different, that the Eternity of the Cycle is not fated and breaking it is yet still possible. Above all, a baleful red star burns in the sky.

Nelson Chang awoke from his dream quest, gasping the thick, cloying air that filled the tent, fed by the burning censer in the corner of the small cabin. Rising, he towels the sweat from himself as he exits, for a time simply staring up at what can be seen of the night sky in the Great Caern. Frustration creases his face, The dream never changes, no new insights, no new visions.  His attention shifts, his nose bringing him the shared scent of frustration, although this comes from the young lupus that impatiently prowls the Caern.  No matter , he thought; the pup's elders had commanded him to attend and obey is such strong terms that even a Ragabash such as Yurth knew better than to balk. Nothing to do but continue with the plan: soon Mr. Voloshyn would arrive, summoned by the Caern elders, albeit for reasons other than his normal services. The Strider Theurge would arrive soon as well, bearing messages to Chang that were important but immaterial to the issue at hand; the visions had simply shone Chang that he would arrive this night. Hm.  Voice of Cowards . Even as a Child of Gaia, Chang was ill at ease with the omen that that name implied, especially with all that was at risk.

Looking back at the lodge, appropriately bathed in Luna's light, Chang's thoughts turned to the young Stargazer inside, still lost in his own visions. Any Stargazer was a valuable resource in these times, even an inexperienced cliath such as Anuraj Clark. Many of the others were questioning the formation of a new pack, especially one with members of such ... diverse ... tribes, not to mention the typical biases against the Theurge and the Ahroun. The Ahroun, the boy. That would be their first task tonight, to find the boy before he is caught by what pursues him. Unicorn had been sparing with instruction, merely insisting the gathering of this pack would be a key point on which Chang's visions hinged.

Sighing, he calls to Anuraj from outside the lodge and sends a kinfolk to find and fetch the lupus Yurth; Mr. Voloshyn's car would be arriving soon and matters need to get underway.

[User]
 Raj was in a row boat on a fast moving river. Up ahead he could see the river gathering speed as it curved around to the right. With no oars or other means of propulsion and the water swirling and frothing around him there was nothing to do but wait and see what happened. Around the bend the river moved through a wide shallow canyon that was arrow straight. Picking up speed, Raj clung to the sides of the boat as he hurtled along, the walls of the canyon flashing past. Suddenly the cliffs were closing in around him and there was darkness and void ahead. Raj sat transfixed as the blackness approached at deadly speed. There was nothing he could do. He braced for impact...

Raj shifted uncomfortably and opened his eyes as a giant bead of sweat practically splashed as it hit the top of his arse crack. Damn was it hot in here. He considered that maybe this vision wasn’t going to happen. Mentally narrating the journey of each drop of sweat as it left his body was probably a good sign he was too distracted to get anywhere. Today he would meet his pack, the group of people, no, *beings*, not all Garou were human after all, that he would be expected to bond with like a family in this other world he inhabited now. He was excited but also nervous. What would they be like? Would he like them? Would they accept him? What would they be tasked with doing? Would he have his throat torn out on their first mission?

Hearing Nelson call from outside, Raj unfolded himself from the position he had been sitting in for the last few hours, got dressed and stepped out of the lodge.

[User]
 As the slumber's shadows melted in Yurths eyes when they opened, he stopped to try and collect whatever fragments of his dream he could grasp.  Yurth recalled a chase, the rancid smell of human fake musk, the one they would trade shiny coins or leaves for, permeating and polluting his forest. He recalled the exhaustion and the taste of fresh kill in his mouth. But above all, he recalled fear.  It is not common for a lupin to be chased, much less to fear, so it was a sensation he did not enjoy.

"Doesn't matter" he yelped out loud as he got up on all fours and stretched while yawning.  He would attribute the odd dream and sensations it carried to the mandatory summons he had received.  He was a Ragabash afterall, being told what to do never sat well with him.

The moment he took in air, the wind whispered to him something, it carried with it the scent of friends approaching. The kinfolk was coming closer.  "I have the feeling today will be interesting"

[User]
 Alexander took a puff off his vape as the roads transitioned from the familiar streets of Vancouver to the bumpier rural roads outside the suburbs. The forest seemed to materialize around him in full, as it always did. No gradual shift from city to wilds, not in this direction. He knew he would encounter worse terrain than the bumpy roads on the way to the caern, or on whatever errand the elders had called him for, but also knew his Subaru was up to the chalenge.

 Why did the elders call me out here?

It was not the first time he'd had this thought. Nothing had been explained by the messenger, just that he was to meet with Nelson Chang, and it wasn't associated with the firm. Which is why he was driving his peronal vehicle, and not one of the firm's fleet of BMWs.

Alexander wasn't as uncomfortbale in the wilderness as some of his tribe, but it still wasn't his favorite place to be. Cell reception was terrible at the caern, and he would be way behind on work by the time he made it back to civilization...elders only knew when that would be.

He arrived at the meeting point, and put the car in park. Alexander opened the door, and swung out, flashing his most charming smile at Chang.

"Well, I'm here...we can get this party started."

[User]
 The kinfolk's message was clear as Luna's light. To make haste and meet with Nelson.  When the kinfolk began talking about somebody waiting in a car, Yurth lost interest.

"Ugh. Those things reek of human. *sigh* I'll get moving. No point in making Nelson wait, better to get it over with"

He knew the road well, he'd be there shortly.

[User]
 As usual, the Spirits came first. On the physical side as a wave of echo-like smells of fur, feathers and musk barely perceptible to the ones gathered. With them, their physical counterparts followed. For a while, insects, snakes and lizards, frogs, birds, small mammals, even the odd larger one - including and old boar bearing many scars - gathered, shying away from the Garou, but seeming determined to stay for whatever came next. What was a cawing, hissing and chittering crowd suddenly went silent and focused. The Gauntlet parted, and with a cloak of swirling mist came out a Garou, but one seeming  wrong  at the first glance. His  lupus  legs were long and spindly, fur slick and weirdly colourful, and the head crowned with not just a pair, but two pairs of antlers, a  Sign of the Prey .

Voice of Cowards shook of the last of umbral dust of his journey, a smell of dusty, hot country roads lingered for a second in his nose feeling comfortably familiar. Then it all came crushing down - the unfamiliar place, the atmosphere, and... As usual, the greeting committee of Spirits along with their own host. A long, tired sigh escaped him, as the sleek form of his body slowly folded in on himself, flowing, changing and rising to a fuller, taller-than-human form of a weirdly balanced [i]glabro[i], crowned as well with two pairs of long, curved ram's horns burried in a mess of long, curly black hair. He was clad in a long, worn brown leather cloak, hand-made and adorned with symbols and applications from all over the world, and laden with many trinkets spilling out of pockets and pouches. The animals suddenly parted, and one by one turned back where they came from, as the figure stepped forward.
" -I come as requested by the Elders. Peace of Gaia and Wisdom of the Owl be with you. " - Said the  Metis  with a deep, but strangely melodic voice as he bowed deeply, the sound of clinking metal and sliding leather in the background.  " -I apologize for the display, but I was born with the Favour of the Spirits, and they usually insist on greeting me that way wherever I go. I am at your service, whatever it may be in this famed and glorious place for a cub such as I. " A slight and tentative smile crossed his lips, with no hint of teeth bared.
" -And yes, I have heard  all  of the Disney Princess jokes already. "

[User] Nelson eyes the young cubs as they arrive, sparing a slight grimace for the car. "It is good that all of you are timely, for there isn't much time this night to forward Gaia's work, Unicorn be willing." Turning, he gestures to a campfire with logs arranged around it. "Please, sit and warm yourselves. There is a chill in the air tonight." Sitting himself, he stirs the fire a little and tosses a handful of aromatic herbs into the flames. "Normally, this would be a night of celebration, but there is urgent business about..."

[User]
 Yurth eyed Nelson and approached where he was sitting.  He made eye contact with his friend and nodded to him as a sign of familiar respect.

His instincts whispered to him that this would not be an ordinary meeting. He scanned the faces surrounding him:

"What a colorful lot" he said to himself.

[User]
 Raj was around 6 feet tall (180cm) of slim build.

He had his mother to thank for his “poor student, jeans t-shirt and Chuck Taylor’s” fashion sense, lightly tanned complexion, dark hair and dark eyes.

He had his dentist father to thank for his clean shaven face, trimmed and styled hair, expensive watch and dazzling smile.

Raj stood awkwardly for a moment, surveying the group, before giving a wave that encompassed all present and moving to sit down.

 Hi, I’m Raj...

[User]
 Nelson eyes the young cubs as they arrive, sparing a slight grimace for the car. "It is good that all of you are timely, for there isn't much time this night to forward Gaia's work, Unicorn be willing." Turning, he gestures to a campfire with logs arranged around it. "Please, sit and warm yourselves. There is a chill in the air tonight." Sitting himself, he stirs the fire a little and tosses a handful of aromatic herbs into the flames. "Normally, this would be a night of celebration, but there is urgent business about..."

"There is to be a new pack from this Sept. A pack that all of you will be members of..." Nelson eyes the lupus, "no matter how unorthodox it may seem. Even  some  Elders can listen, if Unicorn speaks loud enough. Still, there is no time for the normal ceremony; there is another that will be joining you, an Ahroun of the Wendigo. He is currently being hunted through the city by forces the Nemesis and your first task will be to retrieve him. You must hurry, so let us get the objections and questions out of the way." He turns to eye each of the cliath, waiting with a weary expression.

[User]
 "An Ahroun Wendigo? And we must rescue him? By Gaias bossom..."  Yurth whispered just low enough for those next to him to hear, but not loud enough to trouble the elder.

He was still uneasy that some of the Garou around him reeked of human perfumes. If it was the will of the elders, he had to play along.

"Why is he in particular being pursued, Elder one?" He finally said out loud.


[User]
 It's been close to a month since you left the northern coast of Colombia. A month of brutally hot, sunny days where breezes were hard to come by. Saying goodbye to your failing beast shop was difficult, but necessary: managing the store was hard on top of the difficulties of breeding the animals. And besides, the people of Colombia were growing uneasy, beginning to fight for independence from Spain. Perhaps you could have stayed long enough to equip one or both sides of the conflict with war dogs, but... down that path raised many difficult questions.

No, life on the sea was simpler. Just you, Asp, and the handful of crew on the caraval that you now call home.  The Sleeping Monk  is a merchant ship, laden down with goods from Colombia and headed for Haiti. Your captain, Bautista Velazques, is a clever man and more concerned about his bottom line than playing fair. His plan to use the impending revolution as an excuse to upcharge your cargo is certainly shrewd.

It leaves the  Sleeping Monk  with little time to dally though. The wind's haven't been favorable getting to Haiti, and Captain is quick to remind his crew of the financial consequences of wasting time. Finally though, after many weeks in the open sea, you can see the shore of Haiti. And along with it, Santo Domingo: a port to rest, sell and buy wares, and whatever else you may want to do on solid ground. No one has been looking forward to this more than the  Sleeping Monk's  full time crew.

Your duties aboard the ship have been fairly easy until now. Mostly keeping the crew safe from sunstroke and dehydration, ensure the food you've all eaten hasn't spoiled, and your run-of-the-mill deckhand duties. But as one of the only other merchants aboard, Velazques expects you to make yourself useful when they arrive in Santo Domingo and help find buyers.

 Spoiler
Welcome! Feel free to mention what Kaspur and Asp have been doing this near month on the ship, and possibly what things were like leaving Colombia and joining with the  Sleeping Monk . Things will pick up with actual plot after.

[User]
 Closing the shop down had a few upsides,  Kaspur  was able to branch out! Having no real responsibilities and plenty of time, he spent some time training up a parrot, and through an unlucky accident with aiming a charm animal, a bat as well.
A few days and he had the parrot singing a sailors song, much to the delight of several crewmembers of the  sleeping monk.
Spending time with the sailors he eventually ran into  Captain  Velazques   . Offering his services aboard the ship in return for passage and permission to keep and train some animals,  Kaspur  was accepted as a deckhand, with only a small bribe of the parrot and daily castings of Endure Elements.

Establishing himself by tending to cuts, purifying spoiled food, conjuring water and generally being helpful outside of manual labor,  Kaspur  enjoyed a somewhat relaxing trip. Most of his free time spent with training the growing bat and keeping Asp's training up to par. As well as acquiring a brand new companion: a seagull lured in with a combination of stale bread and a dose of charm animal. Some   . Offering his services aboard the ship in return for passage and permission to keep and train some animals,  Kaspur  was accepted as a deckhand, with only a small bribe of the parrot and daily castings of Endure Elements.

Establishing himself by tending to cuts, purifying spoiled food, conjuring water and generally being helpful outside of manual labor,  Kaspur  enjoyed a somewhat relaxing trip. Most of his free time spent with training the growing bat and keeping Asp's training up to par. As well as acquiring a brand new companion: a seagull lured in with a combination of stale bread and a dose of charm animal. Some good-natured teasing had followed for a few days until it had gotten trained up for rat-hunting, nobody liked rats.

[User]
 The addition of a dog and a trio of birds (well, two birds and a flying mammal) does a lot to liven the journey. Even sailors can't resist the unconditional joy that a dog brings. Eventually, the sounds of dock bells and the chatter of strangers pull you out of your thoughts. You've arrived at Santo Domingo and the  Sleeping Monk  will be docking soon.

The island before you is large enough to be taken for a continent. Beyond the city, you can see the untamed forest of the land stretch off into the horizon. The docks themselves are crowded: dozens of merchant ships of varying sizes and qualities sit in the bay, anchored to the end of long wooden piers. People from all over are hard at work loading, unloading, docking, or making repairs to their vessels, and the  Sleeping Monk  joins them as an anchor is cast overboard and the gangplank is drawn out.

Humans may dominate the scene, but they're far from the only creatures here. Trumpetfish and Goatfish dodge around in the bay in a few large schools. Seagulls overhead, too many to count, perch on masts, sails, and docks, keeping a wary eye out for unattended food. A few horses and dogs walk along the docks with their human masters.

Captain Velazques claps his hand on your back, appearing almost out of nowhere. His parrot, as you well trained it, sits happily on his shoulder and flutters its wings a bit. "Master Oak. We made sh*t time getting here, but we made it. My men will be unloading until late afternoon, and time is of the essence. I want you to use your merchant mind to find buyers: shouldn't be too hard here. I doubt we can sell of all our cargo, so ask around about other islands we can stop at as well. After we've sold and you get your share, you're welcome to come back aboard with us, or go your own way." The large man gives you another pat on the back, and turns away: he has never been a man of many words or pleasantries, but no doubt the possibility of finally turning goods into coin has put him in a better-than-usual mood.

From the many days aboard the  Sleeping Monk , you're familiar with what she carries: coffee beans, ground cane sugar, nuts, and bananas, mostly. Woven blankets, several hundred pounds of iron and pewter, and a smaller sample of alchemical goods used for the more mystical artificery and potion crafts. Along the busy street that runs parallel with the coast, you see plenty of buildings: a few taverns and inns, a guardhouse, a church, what seems to be an apothecary, a mystic advertising fate- and future-telling services, and a courtyard filled with market stalls.

[User]
 Nodding at the captain as he prepares to set out into Santo Domingo he replies:
" Will do Captain. This may be my last stop for a while, nothing to do with you, but Asp is getting fat and lazy from all this sailing. A ship is no place for a hunting dog I am afraid. "
With that  Kaspur  sets off towards the apothecary and market stalls  'hopefully this will be over with quickly, those forests look real interesting'.  Whistling at Asp as he leaves the Sleeping Monk.


[User] Doesn't look like anyone's here yet...

[User]
 The bartender scoffed as the odd ladies in the bar, an elf and dwarf, got their fortunes read by Dan (a known scoundrel and vagabond).

John Kerthaniel, a man who has fallen on bad fortune when his farm was burned to the ground during the forest fire last year, was also in the bar that night. It's said he has gone crazy afterwards and it's true he's been up to all sorts of odd ventures as of late.

After Shimay and Seva received their readings, John sat down with the odd lot.  He introduces himself to the group and asks for a reading as well.

 "Strange, all of you got the Knight of Wands upright..."  Dan says trailing off.    "It means you three are in for an adventure."

[User]
 Cyne enters the bar. He's exhausted after a long day of work: he's just escorted a caravan home after a long week abroad. He sits heavily at a table and points at Dan to Evel Porte, the fortune teller whose caravan he was hired to protect.
  "Looks like you've got some competition tonight."

Evel Porte walks straight to Dan's table. She unveils her hand mirror with a mystical gesture, inspects the cards layout for a moment, then concludes:
 "What's that? You've got it all mixde up buddy, the Squire should be the other way round! Guys, I wouldn't accept a 100 gp gift if one of his prophecies told me to do just that. Come and I'll show you what a real fortune teller can do."
She then proceeds to sit at Cyne's table and to unveil her own set of tarot cards.

Zigil is weary after a day at the mine. She's slightly amused by all the ruckus caused by the conflict between the two diviners. She slowly stands up and walks up to her fellow dwarven miner Seva Steelsmasher.
 "Hi sis. I'm Zigil. How long before a bar brawl erupts? 5 coppers it's before 2 minutes."

[User] Darren, Ivan Serra and Holly after a long day of work. Each walk in to the bar sitting down in various spots to enjoy a good hot meal


[User]
 Lyandra Haivann arrives in the city of Leaf Port. Leaf Port is the third largest port city in the nation of Tra'ving. The city is mostly made up of humans, elves, and halflings though there is a two percent gnome population. As of late there have been some manner of monster attacks in the surrounding areas. A bounty of 500 gp is offered for the captured of this creature. However the mayor of Leaf Port increased the reward to 1,500 gp as the youngest prince of Tra'ving will be visiting the city of Leaf Port in a week and the mayor really wants the monster caught before then.

Lyandra Haivann finds herself in the Blue Leaf tavern. It's one of the few pubs in the city that allow animals inside and as such is a hotspot for druids, rangers, and wizards and sorcerers with familiars.

What do you do?


[User]
 esto es para el personaje nivel 12 campaña de andres quesada 17 oct 2019, 6.43 am hora de panama.

opcion 1
 (4d6)[ 6 ][ 4 ][ 4 ][ 6 ](20)
 (4d6)[ 4 ][ 3 ][ 4 ][ 4 ](15)
 (4d6)[ 3 ][ 6 ][ 2 ][ 3 ](14)
 (4d6)[ 3 ][ 2 ][ 4 ][ 4 ](13)
 (4d6)[ 5 ][ 4 ][ 6 ][ 5 ](20)
 (4d6)[ 4 ][ 6 ][ 4 ][ 1 ](15)

reroll 1s:
1- (4d6)[ 4 ][ 2 ][ 2 ][ 5 ](13)
2- (4d6)[ 5 ][ 4 ][ 3 ][ 4 ](16)
3- (4d6)[ 2 ][ 6 ][ 4 ][ 5 ](17)

opcion 2
 (4d6)[ 2 ][ 2 ][ 3 ][ 5 ](12)
 (4d6)[ 2 ][ 5 ][ 1 ][ 4 ](12)
 (4d6)[ 6 ][ 4 ][ 1 ][ 5 ](16)
 (4d6)[ 2 ][ 1 ][ 3 ][ 6 ](12)
 (4d6)[ 1 ][ 6 ][ 6 ][ 4 ](17)
 (4d6)[ 2 ][ 1 ][ 3 ][ 6 ](12)

reroll 1s:
1- (4d6)[ 5 ][ 5 ][ 4 ][ 1 ](15)
2- (4d6)[ 5 ][ 2 ][ 6 ][ 1 ](14)
3- (4d6)[ 4 ][ 2 ][ 5 ][ 5 ](16)

opcion 3
 (4d6)[ 1 ][ 5 ][ 2 ][ 6 ](14)
 (4d6)[ 3 ][ 3 ][ 5 ][ 5 ](16)
 (4d6)[ 4 ][ 1 ][ 4 ][ 4 ](13)
 (4d6)[ 1 ][ 4 ][ 1 ][ 2 ](8)
 (4d6)[ 5 ][ 3 ][ 2 ][ 4 ](14)
 (4d6)[ 2 ][ 6 ][ 4 ][ 6 ](18)

reroll 1s:
1- (4d6)[ 1 ][ 4 ][ 6 ][ 5 ](16)
2- (4d6)[ 5 ][ 4 ][ 3 ][ 5 ](17)
3- (4d6)[ 3 ][ 5 ][ 5 ][ 6 ](19)


[User] With the knowledge you had recently gained to assist your summons and binding power, you return to the hull of the Athena and prepare your magic circle against evil.


[User]
 The Proving of Vast IC

   "Rome will only ever exist as long as the Coliseum does;
when the Coliseum falls, so will Rome; when Rome falls, so will the world."
 - Unknown

Here, at the threshold of the hour of reckoning, you ready yourselves for your first match with destiny. The Halls of Anticipation - so named for the time spent within where victors and losers alike await the riddle of blood that is the Proving - are about as opulent as one who has seen the rest of Vast might expect. Tiles of black chased with accents of silver and gold cover the walls and floors, with elegant pillars and frescoes of epic combats lit by glimmering magical lanterns. Extended divans and lounge chairs dot the hall in which you sit, along with a long central table of frozen quicksilver that has been polished to a mirror-like perfection.

Upon the table, an impossible feast has been laid out before you: platters of ratified meats, fruits and vegetables from dozens of worlds, steamed pots of cooked plates set in gold, and fountains of exotic liquors and wines that threaten to dizzy the senses by their mere presence. Enough seats have been left around the table to feed several families, although the four of you are the only ones in the room aside from the distant swish of grey cloth that is one of Ur-Epoch's ushers. The custodians of this place are unobtrusive in their service, all the better to allow the contestants to enjoy their pre-celebration feast - or else their last meal.

On the far side of the chamber lies a set of monstrous double doors, above which hangs a clock crafted of gold and crystal filigree that burns with some inner radiance. The hands - wrought of a jet black metal - tick unerringly towards the moment that each of you have been waiting for since you arrived. However, you know that you have some time yet before you will be called upon to fight.

As you all bide your time in reflection, planning, or otherwise engaging your time, you are eventually approached by a strange looking troupe. Several of the grey-robed attendants - no flesh but darkness visible beneath their robes - flank a absolutely flawless looking human man. His burnished bronze tanned skin is on full display as he has no hair on his bald pate, nor does he have any eyebrows or chest hair visible. He wears a richly brocaded burgundy vest, the colour of which matches the rather excessive looking eyeshadow that makes his golden eyes look like twin sunsets. Around his bull-like neck fall a cascade of jewels on thick chains of heavy metals which jangle as he moves. Joining in the orchestra is the clicking chorus of his leather high-heeled boots on the stone floor. Finally, twilight nails glitter in the air as the man falls into a courtly flourish and bow.

 "Good evening, honoured champions. As some of you may be aware, my name is Lorn Caedriss, and I am the Maker's Seneschal here in His arena of Ur-Epoch, His voice for the tournament. I am here to introduce myself, as I will be announcing the fights, and along with several other impartial arbitrators will be judging your conduct in the ring itself."  Caedriss' voice has a deep, bass musicality to it, not unlike the calm depths of the ocean far beyond the storms that play along its surface.  "As you have already been informed, during the trials you will be placed into an alternate reality that follows many of the same rules as this one. However, the Maker has created custom-made environments for each round of the Proving, many of which are unique even as His architecture mirrors this one. Things may not be as they seem. Now, I am also here to answer any lingering questions that you may have before the fight... and to exact the price required for a chance at immortal glory."

With a snap of the Seneschal's fingers, several of the attendants step forward, carrying heavy laden chests. They throw them open to reveal a number of strange looking alchemical apparatuses, along with rows of glass vials.  "The moment you signed on to take on the Proving, each of you chose to undertake an incredibly singular task. These challenges will push you to your very limits, and occasionally beyond. Such acts can sometimes occur only once, and never again in your lifetime. In order to record such heights of achievement for your soon-to-be adoring fans, I will need samples of blood from each of you - at least two litres apiece, although more is always appreciated. There are staff right here on hand to replenish your supply magically, so that you are fully rested and prepared for the trial ahead."  It is only then that the first of the attendants fully unrolls the hose and needle onto a side table and you see the full extraction equipment for what it truly is.

 "I promise,"  Caedriss says with a smile that positively oozes honey,  "that this won't hurt a bit. Please do let me know if you think of any questions while we undergo the process."

 Spoiler: OOC
Alright! All of your characters are getting ready for your first match. What do they do in the Halls of Anticipation? How are you reacting to the demand for blood? What do you plan on calling your team as you step out into the arena to face your first trial?

[User]
 "EMMIT, run one last diagnostics for me."
  "Pretty sure we've run a dozen of those in the past hour, chief."
 "Humor me here, man.  You know how important first impressions are."

The metallic voice coming from the suit of armor itself sighs, and runes across the length and breadth of the heavy plate armor light up in sequence.  The figure wearing the plate is pretty bookish, not at all who you would expect to be wearing such heavy armor.  Fine features, a steely gaze, and thinnish limbs peeking out of bits of the armor.  He strokes a finely-trimmed beard as a very small tic of nervousness.

 "Massif, my friend, are you prepared?"  he calls out to the large man as the strangely-perfectly-fashioned man begins his speech.  Horace gives Massif a grin, though it is cut short when the perfect-man asks for two liters of blood.  That was a bit unexpected.

 "Urgh.  I guess let's get this over with."   He goes up to the man and his attendants and offers his arm.  The plating shifts and morphs, releasing its hold on his arm up to the shoulder, baring an arm covered in comfortable, librarian-esque clothes.   "Can we know how many teams there are in total participating?

[User]
 Massif, The Quaking King
 DV 120' | Blindsight 10'
AC 20 | PP 18 / PIns 17 / PInv 9
Auras: 30' imm surprise

Massif had foregone the elegant plates and instead piled a number of cooked wings, cheeses, and other delicacies onto his arm, bracing them against his abundant torso.   "AHM AHWES PUHPEHD,"   he replies with a masticating smile.

Wiping his hand on the furs around his waist as he approaches, he extends it in greeting to Caedriss.   "Thanks for givin' The Armory a chance. We won't disappoint - this'll be a story for the ages,"   he boasts with a grin to his companions.

  "Whatdya do with the blood?"   Massif asks, curiously eyeing the contraption as the attendants approach Horrace.

[User]
 "   Two liters ?  " Gregory asks, surprise evident in his tone. "  That's enough to kill a man through shock. One might think you have ulterior motives for such a demand. You are calling that a  sample ?  " He shakes his head. "  Even with magical healing, that seems to me an excessively dangerous demand.  "

The tall middle-aged man has partaken of the feast, but modestly; showcasing impeccable manners even clad in full plate armor. Now he stands, glaring at the seneschal.


[User]
 Two weeks ago

You wake up gasping for breath. The stars dance in your vision as the dream fades. You try to hold on to the fragments but they're gone before you can grasp them. A gunshot. Lightning. Death and screaming.

You shake your head slowly and swing your feet over the edge of the bed, anticipating the pain as your twisted ankle touches the bare earth. It never comes. You frown and put more weight on it. Nothing! You jump out of bed and inspect your bruises, the cuts on your hands, the scraped knees. They're all healed! You frown. You've never been able to do something like this before...

That's when you feel the power surge in your veins, flowing with a new divinity you'd hardly felt before. You flex your fingers with glee. You've been trying to develop your powers ever since your spark ignited but you haven't been having much success. Maybe all that hard work has been paying off! You're one step closer to becoming the God of Fools. With a wide grin you look up at the starry sky. Time to try these powers out!

  Present day

The rain falls hard in endless streams of water. Efficient salarymen walk home through the bustling streets carrying their standard black umbrellas. In the twilight and the rain, the only colour visible in the grey and gloom is the streaks of garish neon, and you. Heads turn as you walk past, then turn away just as quickly, unwilling to get involved in whatever it is that you represent. You don't mind. You focus on the one figure scurrying about ten yards ahead of you. He also carries the same black umbrella as every other person on the streets right now. But there's no losing him. Not dressed as he is, in a bright red lucha libre style outfit.

 Spoiler: OOC

I'm going to say it's been about five days since you started searching for your friend. What is she called? Describe what you're wearing and also what progress you've made in the search. How did you discover she had gone missing?

[User]
 Alex was wondering what the hell happened to her friend. Dispite her worries she had to recall the facts. Dressed in a a Mexican rock band branded t shirt and jeans she was pondering said facts.

Her friend was Osaki Shika. She was a rising star in the Japanese female wrestling world. Also known as joshi wrestlers they take many bumps that hurt their bodies in a non pretend way. Many wrestlers die young. Tho that never seemed to bother Shika tho. As long as she lived out her passions she was happy. And Alex was happy for her.

So when Shika called screaming "They are coming to get me!" Alex knew she had to find her friend with no hesitation whatsoever.

Alex found out recently that this red costumed luchador had some connection to the yakuza since he was a kid. That's all alex managed to to find out so far.

Alex bluntly walked up to the man and asked "would you know where osaki shika is?" Followers of the fool have no place for subtlety afterall.


[User]
 Cladach Sealaith, the Salt Cliffs to other cultures, was imposing even before Dun Salainn was taken into account. High basalt cliffs, stained white from the ocean near the water line, loomed over an unpredictable and sometimes violent surf. The fortress itself sat atop even that, shipwrights laboring at the bottom of winding stairs in the one calm cove along the entire shore.

And today, within, the High Thane of the Solais awaited. Kylara the Ivyreach, hair whitened from winter, sat upon a bench dragged up against a wall within the gate - an unusual place to receive guests, and far less opulent than her hall at Star's End, but there was a reason she had picked this meeting place: no one really needed to know about this meeting. She adjusted her verdant cloak and emerald-set laurel circlet and waited for her visitors. It went without saying that the Star Watch was in attendance, as well as a double-sized contingent of outriders, several magi of various disciplines, and even a couple members of the Moon Guard for good measure. A meeting had been agreed upon, but they were taking no chances with the High Thane's safety.

[User]
 ”Always nice to have a bit of privacy,”   The voice purred out, oozing over lips like bubbling magma from the fractured skin of the earth, and slowly solidifying into a cheshire smile   “Of course, I rarely get such a luxury, heavy are the horns…”   Merlyn began to blow on on their fingers, inspecting the design they had recently scrimshawed upon their nails, and kicking their feet playfully one over the other. The Wyrm Sorcerer leaned to the side, playfully bumping with a bronze mantled shoulder carved to look like a diamond star.

  ”This place is a reliquary, you know.”

[User] "It's just a matter of knowing how to ask."  Kylara held further commentary until her guest got to the part about the reliquary.  "We knew this place had more than stones and brine in it. A reliquary for who or what, exactly? The salt demons, almost certainly, but any one of them in particular?"

[User]
 ”My mother taught me the five winds of witchcraft you know.”   Merlyn nodded their head sagely, eyes closed as they began to slowly scoot back in their seat.   ”Who, What, Where, When, and Why.”   They began to push themselves up a moment as they folded their legs underneath, straightened out their back with a rolling of the neck, and took an awkward if perfectly balanced meditative stance.   ”You Folk are always interested in a Story. Of great heroes and vile villains. Gods and Demons. But there are things older than stories. And yet older still. Not who, but why.”

They uncurled their finger tips in their right hand releasing an effluvia of entropic energy that manifested as three tiny motes of embers floating in the palm of Merlyn’s hand.   ”Why construct centers of worship for a congregation that only meets during bloody battle? Why erect defenses for a force that holds no territory nor structures no state? Unless the act of worship and the worshipped are one and the same. It’d be easier if I showed you, but I also have a star-show ready.”   Merlyn extended their other hand to Kylara, thin leathered fingers cupped together, and thumb crooked carefully.

[User] The High Thane kept a carefully neutral expression through Merlyn's thespian flair.  "I'll take the oral tradition over the demonstration."

[User]
 ”Suit yourself,”   They tugged on one of the motes, eking forth a long strand of nascent orange light that sizzled to a point, and balanced delicately on Merlyn’s finger   “There is only the Sword. Only the thrill of the kill. That is all and all is that. The soldiers and warriors of the ancient Nemoi cast aside in the wake of their Emperor’s hubris. Loyalty, discipline, and courage unflinching to the very End; all repaid with ashes. But every End is both a lock and it’s Key. Even now the Warriors slumber, restlessly, waiting for the time when the world will be calm and need to be harvested. But I do not plan on repeating the same stodgy mistakes of Human Children grasping at the strands of epochs. I am not content to let sleeping hounds lie. It is not in my blood.”

The Horned Sorcerer danced a finger along the curve of their cresting brow

  “They are. However. In my blood, that is, and I am tired of seeing my family act foolishly. I plan to shake them out of their stupor. They are trapped within, rudderless boats swirling in circles until they burst, for what is the Dreamer without the Dream. A dream of Death. A dream of lightless beginnings. Or so my Soul tells me.”

[User] "You wish to... awaken these ancient undead warriors within the fortress? Presumably to begin the harvest."  Kylara leaned forward, resting her chin on one fist and her other hand on her knee.  "And what, exactly, is the benefit to the Solais in this?"

[User] ”You have a rotten tooth, it will fester, writhe, and grow worse with time. Or you can bite down and let me pull the tooth out.”   Merlyn shrugged

[User] "Yes, well."  Kylara sighed.  "I think I would prefer to see what happens when you pull a different one of these... teeth. There are other fortresses that originated with the Salt Demons, yes? Tackle one of those, and if the consequences aren't too dire, we will cooperate with you on this one."

[User] ”This is no experimentation, Thane. These are buoys for the Shrouded Isles. Keeping them aloft in the Dream where they can strike at their leisure.   Merlyn rolled their hand, gesticulating to the ocean abroad, and the stone below   ”Once we knock any single one of them hard enough the whole thing will convulse and be stricken still. Tangible. The more that get rustled simultaneously the less force will be needed. I am the Messiah of Murder, these things I know, and I only ask that you stay out of my champion’s way when he does battle on behalf of all Tarandi.”

[User] "Tch."  The High Thane stood at last, though she was never going to loom over anyone.  "You ask for tremendous and largely unearned trust. I will give you a single chance at this, Merlyn, 'Messiah of Murder,' on the chance that it will render the Salt Demons truly vulnerable. But know this: if it results in another decade of fending off my own possessed people or collapses this facility, I will use the rest of my considerable lifespan  finding a way  to make you regret this."  With that, she spun and retired to the inner chambers of the fortress, retinue following, the meeting effectively over.

[User] ”The Matji said you’d say that!”   Merlyn called after, plopping down comfortably onto the bench once more, and staring out at the vast expanse before them bopping their head to an unheard tune before humming along.


[User]
 OOC
 Dice
 Recruiting

You are all within the town of Grenhome, nestled in the foothills of the Adaman mountains in the northern reaches of the wastes. A relatively large town of a few thousand people, it draws its wealth from the few mines within the mountains, but the most notable attraction is Mount Senrith. A towering sight visible even from the town, the peak is normally shrouded by clouds, and the dragons that dwell on it dissuade most exploration. However where there is danger there is money to made, and the riches and exotic metals and machines underneath the mountain lure in many.

You each for your own reasons are in this town and investigating the region if not the mountain itself. The trip on foot to the mountain takes five days, the trackless hills leaving it slow and treacherous. With your abilities alternative means than walking exist of course, or simple preparation.

[User] Randal is in the same place he has been for the last week, deep in the catacombs of Greg's library, researching the history of the mountain and particularly the strange language sometimes found in the caves within. He runs his fingers through his long black hair in frustration. He was quickly coming to the conclusion that this was far too big to handle on his own. He went to find the troll,   "Greg, you make it a point to know everyone that passes through this town, right? I don't suppose you know of anyone trustworthy looking to put together an expedition into the mountain...or that could be convinced to join one?"

[User]
 Dola

It had been a long week of walking for Dola before she arrived in the foothills of Mt. Senrith. Planar travel is not the most accurate method of instantaneous translocation but it can shave a few thousand miles off a journey, if one knows how to walk in the spaces between existence. Her key to Forgeheart is one of her most prized possessions not for the material worth of it but for the level of trust it showed when her superiors place the tuned fork into her care for protection. Watching the mountains and town grow bigger as she walked closer to them she wondered why they bothered to build their houses outside in the weather and sun when there was a perfectly good mountain right next to them. She learned years ago that some things about humans would never make sense.

She allowed herself one evening of rest once inside the town before beginning her mission in earnest.   What can you tell me that's unusual about the mountain? Do you have any personal experiences related to the Sendisian devices? Are you aware of anyone conducting expeditions into the mountain, and if so, would you recommend them as trustworthy companions?   Her people skills leave much to be desired and her interviews have a tendency to become more like interrogations, but after a few days of hassling the tavern patrons and shop owners she's directed to the local sage by name of Greg.

  'I wonder if the local trolls have a similar custom as back home.'   Dola thinks as she looks at the gift in her hands while she waits outside the house indicated to be Greg's. Late last night she walked a few miles out of town to get a look at the mountain range in panorama. She then formed and shaped the local stone into a replicate of the ranges silhouette. Knocking on the door, Dola holds the miniature mountain range in her hand.   "Hello the house!"   She hollers after a few moments.   "Dola, of the dwarves, is here to speak with the one known as Greg."

[User]
 Randal spies the troll in the back of his library, an elf brushes past him as he approaches, a brief glimpse of a badly burned face under his shadowed cloak. Greg is a troll barely the height of a gnome, dull grey rocky skin shining and a carefully shaped moss beard at their chin. They're sitting hunched over at a desk, glasses glowing slightly as they read a tome written in a language Randal doesn't recognise at a glance, before looking up at the question. "Another one for the mountain 'ey? Yeah, there's a few of you around always, depends on how risky you want to be." They pause for a moment in thought, surveilling Randal. "You look a cut above most though, ask around for an android named Ario, one of the best guides to the hills still working."

A shout bellows forth from towards the front of the library, Greg shouting back in response. "I'm back 'ere dwarf, Just come in!" They hop down, grabbing a bronze cane as they start to head away, giving an apology before muttering about people being too polite for their own good these days.

[User]
 "Dola, is that you? I haven't seen you in ages... but of course you're investigating whatever this spark nonsense is. It's Randal, we stopped that big sacrifice in that creepy tower a few years back, remember."   Randal offers the dwarf a hug, fairly certain that Dola wouldn't accept one but would at least recognize the sentiment in offering it.

  "I was just going to look up a guide this kind troll suggested. Are you already hooked up with an expedition? You weren't planning on taking on the entire mountain yourself, were you?"

[User]
 Dola
  "Randal. What a pleasant surprise."   Dola says and returns the humans hug as if observing a formality one accepts but doesn't understand.   "I mark it a blessing that I find you here. A tested ally in uncertain endeavors is worth  two  axes."   She says and turns towards their host.   "Sir, allow me to introduce myself and present you with a house gift. I am Dola, of the dwarves, and I seek to gain an understanding of the mountain and quest for the spark that Randal mentioned. Here."   She says and holds out the miniature rock formation.   "It's a replica of the mountain range formed from local clay."

She turns back to Randal.   "No, I've no intention of climbing it alone, nor found companions. I walked into town just yesterday. It seems you have been here for longer. Has your research borne any fruits?"

[User] "Honestly, I got distracted researching an obscure language that was occasionally found in the Mountain. I haven't made much progress on researching who else is here or what they're actually up to."   Randal opened his notes.   "The deva that sent me here didn't have a ton of details, but seemed insistent that if the conspiracy currently in power controls the Spark it'll end very poorly. I trust you to be on the side that doesn't end in horrible deaths for everyone. How'd you like to come meet that guide Greg suggested with me?"

[User]
 Dola
  "I thank you for your trust, and will endeavor to make sure it is not misplaced."   Dola says.   "I would like to go with you, yes. What do you know of this guide?"

[User] “I only know that he’s an android and a guide, and that the troll vouches for him”

[User] Greg waves his hand and the model floats down out of Dola's hands into the air, peering and nodding at it as it twists back and forth. "Solid work. Haf ta keep a nodule watching out for you, must've taken some study to get some of these details right. Happy to help ya out with some questions, most of what I'm here for nowadays is keeping track of it all. Things round here run smoothly enough nowadays." He shrugs a little at that as he talks. "Now what was it you and ya friend wanted beyond just an expedition? I'm assuming by a 'spark' you don't mean just a bit of electricity, we've got plenty of that down here."

[User]
 Originally Posted by Xavion
 Greg waves his hand and the model floats down out of Dola's hands into the air, peering and nodding at it as it twists back and forth. "Solid work. Haf ta keep a nodule watching out for you, must've taken some study to get some of these details right. Happy to help ya out with some questions, most of what I'm here for nowadays is keeping track of it all. Things round here run smoothly enough nowadays." He shrugs a little at that as he talks. "Now what was it you and ya friend wanted beyond just an expedition? I'm assuming by a 'spark' you don't mean just a bit of electricity, we've got plenty of that down here."

He had spent a week studying under the troll and thought that he could trust his character,   “There is something down there that could give the group that claims it the power of a God… though perhaps only at a horrific price. I was sent here to investigate the groups going after and make sure that whoever does claim it doesn’t do so at the expense of innocent lives.”


[User]
 GUARDIANS  OF THE  BLADESONG GROVE
  Nestled deep within the mystical tapestry of the  Feywild , where the very essence of light and shadow converge, lies the enigmatic  Dreaming Timberland . Here, the boundaries between the vibrant Feywild and the ghostly  Shadowfell  blur and intertwine, creating a realm of breathtaking beauty and ominous darkness—a realm teeming with untold wonders and perils alike.

At the heart of this enchanting wilderness reigns the enigmatic  Frostbough King , a figure of immense power and ancient wisdom. His dominion extends over the Dreaming Timberland, where he presides over the ethereal dance of life and death that permeates the land.

Central to the Frostbough King's sacred duty is the guardianship of the illustrious  Lucent —powerful nature spirits that serve as the custodians of the natural balance on the Material Plane. When these majestic beings reach the end of their earthly existence, their souls find solace in the warm embrace of the  Moonlit Seeds , where the Lucent undergo a transcendental metamorphosis, emerging as radiant entities ready to be returned to the material plane and begin their duty anew.

Spanning across an expanse that defies comprehension, the Dreaming Timberland sprawls in all directions, its vastness matched only by the complexity of its ecosystems. Only the Frostbough King, with his unfathomable power and ancient wisdom, can hope to navigate such intricate domains. Yet, even he finds himself challenged by the enormity of his sacred duty.

To aid him in his noble endeavors, the Frostbough King turns to the illustrious  Gloomwild Court —a coalition of stalwart defenders, meticulous stewards, and jovial jesters. The Court serves as the linchpin of governance within the Dreaming Timberland. Under their watchful eyes, the day-to-day affairs of the forest are meticulously managed, allowing the Frostbough King to dedicate himself fully to his sacred charge as the guardian of the realm's sanctity.

As a denizen of the wondrous Dreaming Timberland, your allegiance lies with none other than the illustrious Frostbough King, sovereign ruler of this ethereal realm. Regardless of your talents or capabilities, your paramount duty is to strive tirelessly to enhance the splendor of the Dreaming Timberland, fulfilling the solemn mandate of your noble monarch.
    ✦ ✧✦ ✧ CHAPTER ONE ✦ ✧✦ ✧

You find yourselves at The Giant Elf Pub, so named because - as local legend holds - it was constructed inside the foot print of a Winter Elf who used long-forgotten magicks to grow to the size of an ancient treent! The wooden building has a vaguely similar shape as an elven foot, complete with five massive toes, that now serve as private booths.  Half of the booths are occupied by satyrs and centaurs, while the long tables that line the arch of the foot are peopled by faeries and satyrs. The pub is quite busy, with many enjoying fine food and a few drinks.

The bar is located at the heel of the foot. The bar keeper is a satyr named Ghup. He is tall, as far as satyrs go, with buff and black furry legs and skin that is the color of half-rotten a treebark. He greets the party warmly,   "Blessings of the Frostbough King upon you."

The man looks the party over and smiles,   "How was the ride from the town of Joren? Not too long, I would hope... But looking at your haggard expressions and parched lips, I would say it was not pleasant."

He pulls out several glasses and fills them with a blue liquid,   "The finest sinn, made with fresh seele, harvested from the recent soulrain. It is quite delicious."

The mead has a pungent cheese odor. It is thick and frothy, like watery tapioca pudding. It has a taste not too dissimilar to blueberry mixed with honey. You may not be a connoisseur (or even a fan) of sinn but the composition and texture is of the highest quality.

  "I heard old Birchgrowl has been working you lot hard, protecting his caravans up and down the Toadmoor. Can't be too cautious these days, what with the knights and Kobolds skulking around out there in the wilds!"

An elderly centaur, resting in one of the "toe" booths raises his glass and proclaims,   "Death to those Sunglow bastards!"

Ghup nods and calls back,   "May their bowels be strewn across the Timberlands by a flock of rampaging Panthereagles!"

The centaur scoffs,   "That'd be too good of a death for them lot!"

The satyr barkeep nods in agreement, then turns his attention back to the party,   "Birchgrowl has to attend his great-granddaughter's wedding in a few days time, which means you caravan guards have a few days of peace and quiet. If you are looking for work, I have heard a few people in town might be looking for some help...

The barkeep is cut off as a blonde haired, sharp-eared eladrin steps into the bar. The whole pub goes quiet as everyone turns to gawk at the uncommon sight. The eladrin wears the finest silks, imbued with gold filigree. He effortlessly glides across the ground, as if levitating. He is flanked by two guards wearing gleaming golden full plate armor and wielding large shields and thick, serrated falchions. The eladrin stops several feet from the bar and loudly states,   "I am Ambassador Sarn Mendi of the League of Eladria. You  budreddi  should know, my son - Prince Mar Mendi - was assaulted in the woods. You  carthion  know that this is illegal under the terms of the Treaty of Springrise. The culprit will be found! Once we find the curr, I will personally rip their head off with my bare hands - as is my  RIGHT  under the terms of the treaty. If any of you are harboring the villain... Know my wrath is endless and my memory infinite."

At this point several people at the tables rouse to their feet and look like they want to start a fight.

Ghup holds up his hands,   "Wait, wait! Don't do anything stupid. No violence in the bar, especially not against an Ambassador."

He looks over to the party with pleading eyes to help calm the situation.

 Spoiler: Connected Threads

       CONNECTED THREADS

   In Character
 1

   Out of Character
  1

   Recruitment
  1

[User]
 Tyrbas Tallhorn
  Way of the Astral Self Satyr Monk 3
 AC:  16  | HP:  24/24
 Initiative:  +3  | Speed:  45ft

 Ki Points:  3/3
 Active Effects:  None
 Conditions:  None

“A wise and  magnanimous  ambassador such as yourself would know the importance of… diplomacy,” Tyr says in a way that is hard to tell if he’s being courteous or just curt, drinking deeply from his cup, “I am quite good with my hands and ripping heads off with them is thirsty work, so why don’t you sit down, have a drink and tell us what you know of this violent and vexing villain so we can narrow them down?”

[User]
 Tempist stands and spins a pair of fingers in a circle.

"GHUP!, a round for our very calm and understanding patrons who have witnessed our ambassadors grief over the assault on his kin, we ourselves would react the same one of our own was injured, remember our dear fawn who was recently slain by a pantheagle, we all feel the fangs of anxiety when injury comes our folk."

Tempist even volunteers to pass out the round to ensure the patrons do not physically respond to the ambassador.

[User]
 Aldebaran

Aldebaran had been enjoying small sips of sinn while smoking his pipe. It was good to sit and enjoy the rest, after the recent journey. To Ghup's chatter, Aldebaran smiles and nods, looking somewhat over his shoulder. At times, he contributes small phrases like  "With the Elder Ascendant that would be tough"  and " A few days time is just the right time for the orgonic ley energy to pool, for sure".

But then his distant kin arrives. Aldebaran is caught flat-footed by the vehemence of the man. He almost pats the man in the shoulder before Ghul nods him off, and his hand remains on the air for a bit. But then he collects himself and gets ready to take notes.

 "Tell us where, Ambassador. We may be able to help. And perhaps how was it that the prince found himself in the woods, hmm?"

As if he just thought about it, Aldebaran adds

 "And then we can see what we can do about the curr' s head. "

 Spoiler: OOC
If Perception or Insight can be helpful  (1d20+5)[ 16 ]

[User]
 Lexydeia  , satyr paladin/warlock
 AC 18 | HP 24/24 | PP 12 | Init +1 | Speed 35
Slots: 2/2 LR, 1/1 SR | HD: 2/2 d10, 1/1 d8

Lex quietly takes in the chatter, with the politics of it all going a bit over her head, but she's eager to enjoy the sinn.

With the ambassador's arrival, though, she sees the prospect of a valiant adventure. Lex curties to the ambassador, slightly bowing her head but carefully keeping from directing her horns at him (a terrible faux pas), as she joins in with her comrades' offer of assistance. " Lexydeia, at your service. This is a most distressing loss, and we are at the ready to aid you in this investigation. "


[User]
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[User]
 the town of sinhole arizona stretches out like water to a dying man. its a few mom and pop shops, a saloon, a barbers, aand a gambling hall

please introduce your characters, and tell me what has brought you to sinhole

[User]
 The tall man has been following the road south for some time.  Officially, the Federal Government recognized Dakota as a a Sovereign State, and the treaty seemed strong as long as the rail spur connecting the Deadwood enclave to the outside was left intact.

But the idea the Sioux would send spies into American territory was uncharted waters.  More to the point, he did not want to tip off any Ravenites that an agent of the Great Spirits was onto them.

So he pretended to be a simple cowboy, albeit curiously unarmed.  He was not bound by the Old Ways Oath, but holding a soulless, mass-produced machine of death disgusted him, and he would not do it.

It was in this context the man who introduced himself to Strangers by the silly name of "John Horse" rode into Sinhole, hoping for fresh water, at least.

[User]
 "Have a nice day, and God bless!"

Everyone in Sinhole has seen Dixie Daniels at the counter of Parker's Apothecary, or at church. Always clad in a demure, plain dress, with a small gold cross pendant at her neck, and a polite smile upon her face. She has lived in Sinhole for about three years now, and has become a pillar of her community. The entire congregation of the church loves her, even though Father Gregor will never look her in the eye. She speaks with a New Orleans drawl, but never talks more about it than to decry it as "More befitting this charming town's name."

[User]
 Mack Veritos is a surly old man, who is here in Sinhole simply trying to make a life for himself as a repair man. He's surprisingly good at it too. Whatever contraption the townfolk bring to him, more often than not he's able to fix it. Whether a chariot, or a rifle, or a leaky barrel, or a broken breadbasket, his understanding and willingness to help belies his typical leave-me-alone attitude.

He's only been in Sinhole, AZ for close to 6 months and keeps his personal life private. But it hasn't gone unnoticed that his windows are always closed, and he never really looks anyone in the eyes but rather behind them or off to the side. Perhaps he is hiding out? Perhaps he is running away? Perhaps he is only a strange smart old man?

Whatever the reason, his door is always open. At least symbolically. One must knock first. But he's become a friend to the town and most just call him "Guy".

[User] The Tall Man heads to the well, nodding to the nearby townsfolk. He see to his horse, then starts filling his canteens.

[User]
 Dixie carries a broad, flat basket in both hands, walking about the town square. She pauses near Tall Man, and puts on her best smile.

"Well, hi there, stranger! Y'all new in town? You look like you've ridden rough, if I may be so bold. Might I interest you in a free sample of Parker's new tonic? It'll take the edge off your saddle aches."

She holds the basket forwards, showing the tiny, shallow bowls of some greenish-brown oil arranged within.

[User]
 Originally Posted by Charybdis1618
 Dixie carries a broad, flat basket in both hands, walking about the town square. She pauses near Tall Man, and puts on her best smile.

"Well, hi there, stranger! Y'all new in town? You look like you've ridden rough, if I may be so bold. Might I interest you in a free sample of Parker's new tonic? It'll take the edge off your saddle aches."

She holds the basket forwards, showing the tiny, shallow bowls of some greenish-brown oil arranged within.

"Thank you kindly, Miss!"  The tall man takes the bowl, but makes no effort to introduce himself or taste it.  In truth, he is suspicious it is tainted with Ghost Rock, so feels it may be a clue to finding agents of The Enemy

After a pause, he realizes this wasn't enough. "They call me John Horse, I'm a cowboy, of sorts, passing through.  Mayhap you know if some of some work needs doing?"

[User]
 An old man walks by with his tools trying to ignore this exchange until he hears the word "work."

 Work?! What do you mean work? What kind of work?  he injects himself into the conversation, not at all hiding his scowl, glaring at the new comer.

[User]
 all of you would notice two strange people wandering into town. one is a hulking man with one piercing ice-blue eye who totes a gatling gun like it's nothing. he sniffs the air several times, and will lumber along as a small dwarf with a pair of six-guns on his hips rides the hulking giant like a horse. the dwarf will tip his hat, and take the giant over to the horse trough, where the giant greedily drinks his fill. the dwarf will dismount, and tack up a wanted poster for a certain deserter.

the dwarf will call out  "im looking for this man. a buck for information, 25 bucks to whoever helps me collar him"  the giant, now finished drinking, will scan the people with his single eye

 (1d6)[ 5 ]
 (1d6)[ 2 ]

[User]
 "Well, as Matthew said, 'Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find.' I think you just found what you're looking for, Mr. Horse."

"Also, hi there, Mr. Veritos. How's your back? In need of a bit of our new tonic?"

[User]
 John Horse thinks about it, deliberating on purpose.  "Yes, I suppose I have.  This deserter is my Quarry."

This was a break in the job, a way to maybe get info from the Federals without letting on he was funneling information back to The Black Hills.

[User]
 Originally Posted by Charybdis1618
 "Well, as Matthew said, 'Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find.' I think you just found what you're looking for, Mr. Horse."

"Also, hi there, Mr. Veritos. How's your back? In need of a bit of our new tonic?"

Mack barely hears the question as he squints at the lumbering giant and his rider, before replying with his head down surprisingly more hunched than usual, "Uh yes, but not at the moment. I've far to much to work on. Uh, bring it by the shop later." And he hurriedly turns and makes his way in another direction towards a nearby building.

 Spoiler: Out of character

Are there any places nearby that Mack would know of that will have random bits and pieces if he needed to build anything?

[User]
 As requested, Dixie leaves a bowl by his door, then continues walking about the town square distributing samples to whomever she can. When there's a lull in foot traffic, however, she will sidle over and take a closer look at that poster.

"I wonder ... is this my calling? I don't much fancy the idea of fighting him, but maybe I can tag along with a few poultices? I'm sure they'll consider that 'helping,' right? If I sell this to Mr. Parker, he might even pay me for the time. I'll be pushing his product, after all."

[User]
 John Horse says to Dixie, " I would obliged for your assistance, if you are interested, Ma'am." It so happens that...

 Spoiler:  hot streak, continued

 (1d4)[ 2 ]  see OoC for details

[User]
 john horse: there happens to be an old jewish woman called  the witch of Bethlehem.  shes favorably disposed to those not of the cloth, and outcasts. she lives out in a hut about two miles from town, and tends to keep to herself. its said that she can hex someone for the right price

mack: there is sutlers tinker shop, about two shops to your six.

dixie: the giant will casually flash a series of rapid  fire hand signals to the dwarf who nods, and flashes some back

wdyd?

[User]
 Originally Posted by Feathersnow
 John Horse says to Dixie, " I would obliged for your assistance, if you are interested, Ma'am." It so happens that...

 Spoiler:  hot streak, continued

[roll0] see OoC for details

Dixie looks up, startled. "I ... I'm no gunslinger. I'm just a humble, Godly woman, sir. I'd be happy to tag along, and maybe tend to a wound, but I'm not promising to shoot anyone."

[User] "Well that's fine, I don't carry a piece m'self.  I just think we should pay a call to an old lady, and a single man going alone might give folks the wrong idea."

[User] "In that case, certainly! I'm off work in two hours. I'd be happy to come with you then. Do you know of any tonics or treatments she might need?"

[User] "I regret to say I only know her by reputation, but she lives a ways out of town, so might reasonably be worried about varmints."

[User] As quickly as he's able, and without drawing attention, Mack hobbles his way over to the tinker shop, "Well hello there Sutler!  Don't mind me I'm just browsing." He makes his way over to the window to see outside as he looks over and grabs various random parts.

[User]
 Originally Posted by Feathersnow
 "I regret to say I only know her by reputation, but she lives a ways out of town, so might reasonably be worried about varmints."

Once Dixie has distributed all her free samples, she returns to the shop.

"Mr. Parker, might I have a moment? Thanks. A gentleman wishes for me to accompany him to pay a visit to a woman living out of town. Might I take with me a couple of bottles of stuff, in case she wants to buy something? Also, I may need to be a bit late tomorrow, if the trip takes too long."

[User]
 mack: sutler nods,  and will let you pick out some things.  "whats the hurry mack? you look like youve seen a ghost"  sutler will pop a pipe in his teeth, and begin to smoke

(gimme a small list of what your picking, and ill adjudicate the price)

john horse: as you approach the dwarf, he will look at you, flashing a wanted poster.  "do tell me when and at what time?"  he will peel a greenback out of his breast pocket, keeping it between thumb and forefinger.

dixie: ms parker will nod.  "be careful dixie"  she says

[User] (He's not looking to buy exactly. He's keeping an eye on the guys with the wanted poster. But will make something out of the parts available, should things go south. Can he see the wanted poster and who is on it?)

[User] (Hey everyone, Are we still wanting to get this one going?)