Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: RedKnight on 09-06-2022, 20:13:53</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>09-06-2022, 20:13:53</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/d6/94/f9/d694f9b3cf8f7b03bb8479ce54584582.jpg)</div>This post is the opening post for the Road to Nowhere.<br><br>Please briefly introduce your character. Describe what motivates a journey to Nowhere. How do your characters arrive - on foot, horsed, or part of a larger caravan?<br><br><hr>Nowhere had been many things in its existence. Rumors are it has been the outpost of some long-forgotten Kingdom or Empire. It had served as a base for various groups of bandits, Warlords, and Darklords. Nowhere was a sanctuary for those running from the law or simply performing practices upon which society frowned (e.g., Beastiality, cannibalism, demon summoning, and necromancy). Had Nowhere been located in a more fertile or productive location, it would likely have been ruled by a lord accountable to a local King. However, the land surrounding Nowhere - the Badlands - was dangerous and marginally productive.&nbsp; <br><br>Nowhere itself was notable more for the location than any specific features. It occupied a hill with a deep spring. A ditch and palisades gave the inhabitants a bit of protection. Inside the palisades were a couple of large, dilapidated buildings. One is the Dry Gulch Inn and Tavern, and the other Pay Dirt - a shop that buys and sells items found in the badlands. Various merchants dot the remaining space inside the palisades. Farmers have planted Crops outside the defenses, but they look rather sickly in the less than ideal soil of the badlands.&nbsp; &nbsp;
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>10-06-2022, 03:24:37</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe took another sip from her water-skin as she trudged down the road with her head held high despite the exhaustion. <br>She had lost track of how long she'd been on this road. She guessed about two weeks but it could have been longer. Her food reserves were running low. She only had enough for about three more days. <br>She had no idea what road she was on and where it led. The entire path seemed a mystery. She had stumbled on it while she was escaping the town through the neighboring forest. <br>At first she had stayed to the side of the path, letting it guide her but staying unseen in the forests or hillsides as much as possible. But after three days without evidence of any living thing she had decided to walk the easy dirt road. <br>As the days went on she had developed a routine. She would rest at night and continue during the day. Eating a small breakfast and then eating little bits of food throughout the day to fuel her travels. She would only stop to forage for berries and to refill the waterskin. Come night she would make camp far from the path and eat a large meal. <br>This was also the time she would try removing the slave collar. She had been the property of local tavern for half a year before she'd finally escaped. Her master, the tavern owner, had forced her to wait tables and entertain the patrons along with the rest of the slaves.<br>Escape had seemed impossible since her wrists and ankles were always shackled, preventing free movement. The worst being the slave collar, which somehow prevented her from using magic. <br><br>For the six months she'd been a captive she'd looked for an escape to no avail until the night the dwarves came. They had requested she dance on the stage, which wasn't new to Sondanwe. But what was new, was that the dwarves requested a dance that requires wide movements and the full use of her limbs. For the first time in six months her shackles were removed. She performed the dance as ordered and was sent to her room shortly after. Taking advantage of the situation, she snuck into the storage room where her belongings were hidden,she took her things then snuck into the kitchen for supplies, which luckily was right next to the window. She slipped out and rushed towards the forest before anyone knew she was missing. <br><br>Now, two weeks later, her collar was off, her body once again radiated with the mystic energies, and her limbs were free from chains. Despite seeming to be in the middle of nowhere, she was completely happy. Perhaps the seclusion added to the feeling. The days had gotten slightly harder. She was in the badlands. Away from the forests and grasslands of before. Food and water was much more scarce. <br>But still, no sign of civilization save for this unused but well kept road. <br><br>"<em><span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size">Perhaps I'm the only one left alive.</span></em>" Sondanwe mused to herself as she turned a corner. As if on cue, or answered by some unforeseen force, she was greeted by a small village, sitting quietly in the dusk. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>peachfuzz221</strong> on <strong>10-06-2022, 03:44:11</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/021/776/701/large/anna-elizabeth-astrid2.jpg?1572906977)</div>Wrapped in a cloak of dark green and settled on the back of a trotting warmblood, Pharli Willowbrook of the Wood Elves rides into Nowhere with the length of a smooth quarterstaff strapped to her back and eyes of emerald green studying the poor biology that struggled to thrive in the dying wasteland. The pungent stench of plant rot mixed with the stink of the area crinkled her nose. The rumors undersold the misery of this place. When she bought <em>Ursula</em> for the ride to the Badlands, she had taken the time to speak with the locals at the tavern. Some of the more seasoned adventurers had regaled her with tales of passing through Nowhere and the troubles they met that kept them from leaving. Bandits, cretins and malevolent sorcerers burgeoned within the palisades, preying on visitors and wallowing in their own perversions. It was a hellhole ripe for the saving.<br><br>That was Pharli's intent. The loss of nature poisoned the Badlands and she hoped with the healing touch of a druid she could bring life back to the sweltering wastes. The elf easily gained entrance to the community, slowing her horse to a walk. Outsiders were not uncommon and in her current apparel she did not stand out among the crowd. Her horse did catch a few stares, but that is as far as it went. Gently pulling in the reigns, she halted Ursula near the local Inn and Tavern. The establishment was not hard to find as it attracted the most repellent of individuals. A host of them gathered outside to haggle patrons and loiter with their frothing mugs of drink beside the entrance. Ignoring them was not the issue but tying her companion to the hitching post would leave her vulnerable for theft. A rope would not deter a determined thief.<br><br>Sliding a hand along the warmblood's jaw, she murmured a soft apology to the mare, eliciting a quiet whinny. They would have to risk it. She slid off the saddle and led the mare to the post, double knotting the rope. The raucous laughter and lewd remarks from the wily loafers reached her ears, no doubt spying her figure and formulating a plan to harass her as she entered Dry Gulch. How annoying. Patting the warmblood's pelt, a final time, she eyed the rear of the building. Perhaps it had a back door she could sneak through?<br><br>"<strong>Worth a shot</strong>", she muttered under her breath, pulling the cloak tighter.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>12-06-2022, 04:03:28</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>On a good day, people would get to see Alisandra in her elaborate blue finery, but she was certainly accustomed to traveling and currently in her other, traveler’s apparel.&nbsp; It had been necessary to get one with all the journeying.<br><br>Alisandra never balked at the need to keep walking, but it wasn’t common for the nobleborn like her, constantly being so far from home.&nbsp; Even so, as she saw this new place, she gave a gentle smile, seeing potential.&nbsp; Perhaps she could turn it into something beautiful.<br><br>The first step, however, was the inn and tavern.&nbsp; Most folks were all too happy to let her house set up a line of credit to support her, and as far out as they were, it wasn’t that far.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>12-06-2022, 10:40:09</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dry wind rippled waves of ginger hair.&nbsp; A petite girl with bright blue eyes walked into town with alongside a peddler's wagon.&nbsp; She didn't exactly look&nbsp; &nbsp;like a guard—if anything she looked like the peddler's girlfriend.&nbsp; Or harlot.&nbsp; Or at least his rebellious daughter.&nbsp; Her tight tummy was bared to the sun by her high cropped tunic—as were the lower curves of her extremely generous breasts.&nbsp; Blue trigger trousers road low on her hips revealing arcane sigils tattooed on her hips.&nbsp; They could have magical significance but could just as easily be a fashion choice.&nbsp; Copper bangles with golden beads encircled her wrists and angles.&nbsp; She carried no weapons—not even a walking stick—but the knife at her belt could probably do in a pinch.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Clearly the actual guard was the burly old soldier walking on the other side of the peddler's wagon.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nonetheless, “This is my stop, Uncle,” she said, and the inflections behind uncle definitely sounded more like, 'informal but polite form of address to an older man,' than, 'Family.'&nbsp; “Want me to stick with you 'til you're set up?”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Nah, don't worry about it,&nbsp; Cassie.&nbsp; Hans and I can take it from here.”&nbsp; He passed the girl five silver coins.&nbsp; “You really deserve more than that for flaming those goblins.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Don't worry about that, sir,” she pocketed the silver in her belt purse, “I couldn't have handled those goblins without Hans, and you fed me really well and let me sleep in the wagon.&nbsp; I kind of feel guilty taking this.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She didn't take the silver back out, though.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The burly old soldier walking on the other side of the wagon now came around while they were halted and put a hand on her shoulder.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I was wrong about you, girl.&nbsp; Your going to do fine in this work.&nbsp; Just remember, don't get so caught up in charity that you don't eat and don't tackle those ruins alone, okay Cassandra?”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Yes, sir,” she replied, looking up at the gray bearded soldier with a youthful smile and giving a bow.&nbsp; “I learned a lot from you, Hans.&nbsp; I won't forget.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The little redhead started away for the inn, stopping once to turn aback and wave again.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A raven drifted out of the sky and settled easily on her shoulder.&nbsp; “Looking out for us, Poe?”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He replied with a caw, and the redhead grinned, “Let's get some food.&nbsp; Maybe we can find a team where I'm not the only girl.”&nbsp; 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>12-06-2022, 22:00:02</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/d6/94/f9/d694f9b3cf8f7b03bb8479ce54584582.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 1, Post 1</strong><br>All, please see the Encounter section of the Whiteboard. A lot of information that I would normally cut and paste into the IC post will be captured there.<br>Whiteboard (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FJsC9yGy1G1ttWQNWMsW7IRcBfBaqQ01RujNOYY38KY/edit?usp=sharing)<br><br>Alisandra and Phari are inside the Dry Gulch. They have heard the commotion on the street and can step outside (or stay inside), but cannot take an action this turn<br>Cassandra and Sonanwe should roll initiative. On an initiative of 11 or higher, they can act this turn.<br><br><hr> <strong>IC - Damsel in Distress</strong><br><br>Pharli was no Wizard. However, the Druid's close ties to the Land enabled her to sense that there was something unnatural about the Badlands. The land's nature was not totally due to natural causes - lack of rainfall, acidic soil. Rather some subtle curse clung to the land.&nbsp; Tying her horse up outside the Inn and Tavern, Pharli shifted from an assessment of the land to an assessment of its inhabitants.&nbsp; The noise and sight seemed to reinforce what Pharil had heard about the village. Going around back, Pharli runs into Cook, who rules the kitchen with an iron hand. <br><br>Cook's initially cool reception to Pharli changed as she found out that Pharli was a Druid. A Druid, who could summon water with a gesture, create magically nourishing berries and was adept with various Herbs. Cook and Pharli came to an arrangement, room, and board for the Druid and her horse, in return for assistance, mundane and magical in the kitchen. <br><br>If Pharli had entered through the rear of the Dry Gulch, Alisandra strode through the front door. There was a bit of heckling from the regulars in the tavern, which were a surprising number of Orcs. However, Alisandra's signet ring and more importantly letter of credit secured her a meeting with Kitty, the proprietor of the Dry Gulch. Kitty was quick to provide the best room for Alisandra. However, she did provide a warning, "The village is even more unsettled than normal. The last Mayor was rather brutally evicted by a band of Hobgoblins - the Green Legion or something.&nbsp; <br><br>Sondanwe's time as a slave had changed her. Perhaps they were mental scars, maybe a finely honed sense. However, she felt that someone or more likely something was hunting her. So it was that when the Tall Sorcerer arrived at the entrance to nowhere, she continued into the village, searching for a place to hide as well as food and shelter. Something told her to risk the town rather than the road for the night.<br><br>Cassandra had just left the Peddler behind and was headed toward the Dry Gulch, when a scene began to unfold in front of her.&nbsp; A tall lean half-elven female walked towards the Tavern. The woman had obviously spent some time on the road. However, despite the dirt on her clothes, she was obviously a beauty. Then she saw the beauty being accosted by two villains on horseback.<br><br>Sondanwe heard two horses cantering into the village behind her, and then a shout, <strong>"There she is! Don't let her get away."</strong> The two riders cantering towards Sondanwe seem to mean to capture her. However, they have not drawn weapons.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>13-06-2022, 00:17:00</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe continued towards the town. She would buy a hot meal, some wine, a bed, and hopefully even a tub to clean the dirt from her. <br><br>It had been a long time since she had good wine. The Inn she belonged to favored potency over taste. Sondanwe had no hopes for the wine being better than her cities but did hope for a decent glass. <br><br>She looked around the small town with a suspicious and curious eye. What customs would they have? Suddenly her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of horses. It had been so long since she'd seen another humanoid she'd grown complacent. <br>She turned just as the horsemen made their intentions known. She raised her staff in anger "<span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size"><em><strong>Tye ignorant rodents followed me ana your ambart- amarth!</strong></em></span>" she screamed in elvish. Sondanwe didn't wait for a response or reaction, she merely began chanting, letting the mystic energies run through her. She felt goosebumps rise on the skin, it seemed as if electricity ran up and down her hair. Her eyes seemed to glow and the world around her was tinted.<br>&nbsp;It felt good. It had been a long time since she'd cast magic. She no longer had the dreaded slave collar around her throat.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>Sondanwe laughed maniacally as all the hatred for her captors culminated in the spell. All her spiteful curses and complaints over the last few months came back to her and echoed within the minds of the foolish humans who'd foolishly threatened to bring her back to her old Master.<br><br>With a sadistic smile she watched the riders react. She readied herself to cast another spell, one to lower their defenses should any rider resist the madness. <br>"<span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size"><em><strong>Imeúre- mardi titta kittens! Amil misses tye!</strong></em></span>"<br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Roll Initiative:</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">1d20+2=14<strong>(16)</strong></span> <br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Twinned Spell</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">Cast Dissonant Whispers on Each Rider. <strong>(Wisdom Save 13)</strong></span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Dissonant Whispers Rider 1:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">3d6=4,6,4<strong>(14)</strong></span> <br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Dissonant Whispers Rider 2:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">3d6=4,3,4<strong>(11)</strong></span> <br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Reaction</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">Cast Silvery Barbs on first Rider to succeed save.</span><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>13-06-2022, 15:30:05</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>One of the stranger actions of a nobleborn with a signet ring was her choice of table: one with a huge hole in it where one orc had put a fist-sized hole into it.&nbsp; Without her finery, the only other clue besides the signet ring was her bearing, and plenty of nobility demanded the best; some would rather stand than tolerate imperfection.<br><br>The reason why became quite evident immediately after when she started to cast a spell, placing a hand upon her amulet to draw strength before placing both palms to either sides of the hole.&nbsp; The process took a minute, during which she kept chanting, and soon the hole was as good as new.<br><br>This process would soon be noticed as habitual and common with her during her time at the Dry Gulch.&nbsp; When not particularly busy and spotting broken objects in need of Mending, such as fragile mugs, she did so without word and without complaint, asking nothing and drawing no attention beyond the overtness of Spellcasting.<br><br>Soon enough, she was talking with Kitty and enjoying a glass of fine Elven wine, a delicacy she’d obviously missed in the weeks since she’d had a proper vintage.&nbsp; It wasn’t that she couldn’t handle the traveling or the wilderness; it was that civilization was simply better in all ways, and that anyone thought otherwise baffled her.<br><br>Fine food and drink were definitely amenable, but the very best room less so, as she explained, “In my experience with innkeepers, it’s often best for you to have the very best room open for the event that another noble comes through.&nbsp; Although unlikely, I know it gets very difficult for you, and I’d rather not again be challenged to a duel for the privilege of the very best room.&nbsp; Without offense, I also doubt the next quality down is all that different.”&nbsp; One of the great but not rooms would be sufficient.<br><br>“Another thing I should discuss would be if the inn has a tub and basin for washing.&nbsp; A cubic foot of water is sufficient and I’ll be able to heat it with my magic if need be.”&nbsp; Although she hoped for better, it was important to give her minimum standards so that the innkeeper wouldn’t be afraid of offending if they couldn’t be met.&nbsp; “Though certainly a full tub of-“<br><br>The sudden shouting caught her attention, and without pausing to explain or finish the conversation, Alisandra rushed out into the night to assess the situation.&nbsp; Personal comforts and negotiations could always wait when shouts were heard, innocent people may well be in danger, and she never shirked the obligation to use her power for that responsibility.&nbsp; However, it would mean watching for a bit at first and determining what was going on.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>13-06-2022, 20:31:19</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/d6/94/f9/d694f9b3cf8f7b03bb8479ce54584582.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 1, Post 2</strong><br>Please see the Encounter section of the Whiteboard. A lot of information I would usually cut and paste into the IC post will be captured there.<br>Whiteboard (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FJsC9yGy1G1ttWQNWMsW7IRcBfBaqQ01RujNOYY38KY/edit?usp=sharing)<br><br>Notes:<br><ul class="bbc_list"><li>We are out of combat turn (6 seconds). Figure each turn now is about 2-3 minutes. </li><li>Both riders are on the ground stabilized by Kitty</li><li>Long Rests are tied to the adventuring day - figure around 10-12 total encounters, of which 4-6 might be combat encounters. Although, I feel the spectacular nature of the spells is well worth the cost.</li></ul><hr> <strong>IC - Hunters become the Hunted</strong><br><br>Sondanwe hurled out a curse in Elvish and cast a spell on the two approaching riders. One rider fell before her magic. The second rider appeared to resist the worst effects before a magical flash from the Elven Sorcerer caused the second rider to fall. The cantering riders and Sondanwe's maniacal laughter caught the attention of anyone on the street and had even drawn on-lookers outside. <br><br>Orc spilled from the Dry Gulch, and the shrill piping of a whistle attracted several armored Hobgoblins with green sashes. The citizens of Nowhere backed off but continued watching. Kitty, a feline humanoid and proprietress of the Dry Gulch, had emerged from her Tavern. A tall, lean figure clad in plate armor had emerged from Pay Dirt, the magical shop.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>The Leader of the Hobgoblins announced, <strong>"You broke the peace. You are under arrest."</strong> to which one of the Orcs announced, <strong>"They attacked her. Self Defense."</strong><br><br>The Orcs and Hobgoblins started to square off. There was no love last between the two groups. Sondanwe was not sure if the Orcs were defending her or merely using her as an excuse to thwart the Hobgoblins.<br><br>It was Kitty that broke the impasse. She had squatted to administer aid to the two prone figures. She announced from the ground, <strong>"Slavers. These two are slavers."</strong> The announcement set the crowd buzzing. Then someone called from the crowd, <strong>"Hang them."</strong> It seemed there was no love for slavers in Nowhere.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>14-06-2022, 03:41:56</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div>In many ways, the situation was handled very quickly, with the two men getting dropped and then healed up.&nbsp; This was fine with her; she didn’t want to waste her magic on men who apparently randomly attacked people unless she had a really good reason, and it was hubris to expect she understood the situation with them specifically.&nbsp; Before walking up, she put a hand on her chest and called in a Celestial spell for the divine to guide the way.<br><br>Walking in through the crowd and between them, hands raised to display no hostile intentions and no weapons, “I’m still new in town, but I know how hard it is to get a truce going, and how easily it can break.&nbsp; All it takes is a true accident and regrets that last not lifetimes, but often generations.&nbsp; All of you are very strong, but let’s be honest, calm down, and accept that the chance to shatter some skulls today just isn’t worth what would be lost.”<br><br>The mention of slavers caught her attention, but rather than hatred, she had the disdain all too commonly seen in a regal bearing.&nbsp; No doubt orcs and hobgoblins were used to seeing it from nobles; she showed their directions only understanding and compassion.&nbsp; “If we have slavers coming into Nowhere,” she said loud enough to be heard by many, “our best bet is finding out who they sell to and where.&nbsp; They may be alone, but others will come sooner or later, and no doubt they have all kinds of slaves in that other place that need freeing.”<br><br>OOC:<br><br>Persuasion with Guidance: 14+1+5=20
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>peachfuzz221</strong> on <strong>14-06-2022, 04:52:15</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/021/776/701/large/anna-elizabeth-astrid2.jpg?1572906977)</div>Slipping through the back door undetected was child's play, that is, until she ran into the busty, middle-aged cook. By the looks of the kitchen, she was an exceptional multi-tasker. Multiple pans steaming, pots boiling, slabs of tenderized meat laid bare on stained blocks of wood, dirty dishes filling the bubbly sink; all filled the kitchen in an uproarious blend of appetizing aromas and cacophonous noise. There were no helpers that Pharli could see, meaning that this robust woman was doing all the food preparation on her own.<br><br>"<strong>I apologize for barging into your kitchen, ma'am</strong>", she started, attempting to explain herself. "<strong>I only meant to avoid trouble at the front doors</strong>." Sliding her hood down, the cook's demeanor changed when she glimpsed the staff and realization dawned on her. She cleverly made the guess that she was a druid and upon confirmation, offered her room and board in exchange for a helping hand in the kitchen.<br><br>It was more than a fair arrangement. Pharli was no stranger to odd jobs, taking plenty during her earlier travels for extra pay or information, and doing work around the tavern could allow her access to local gossip. The cook put her to work immediately, summoning water as needed, chopping vegetables, seasoning meat and using her knowledge in herbs to enhance recipes. Then she sent her out to wait and serve tables, bringing mead to the patrons and taking orders in the form of boisterous laughter and disrespectful remarks.<br><br>Shouting interrupted her conversation with a particularly pesky hobgoblin and she looked up in time to see a woman rush out of establishment followed by a few curious frequenters. Dropping what she was doing in an instant, she burst through the door just in time to see orcs and hobgoblins facing off and a trial going on involving slavers.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>14-06-2022, 05:49:23</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A buxom ginger approached Sondanwe.&nbsp; "Wow!" she said.&nbsp; "That was really impressive.&nbsp; i was going to offer to help, but you finished these guys befroe i could even come close.&nbsp; My name's Cassandra.&nbsp; &nbsp;May I..."&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The rest was interrupted by the arival of the town guard...&nbsp; Who were hobgoblins!&nbsp; "Meep," Cassandra gasped.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She glanced and the strawberry blond she'd approached and realized that--by closing the distance with her at that moment--she'd probably identified herself as an accomplice in the eyes of these lawmen. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>14-06-2022, 06:53:15</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> <br><br>Sondanwe's eyes burned with rage as the second rider resisted her spell. <br>"<strong>What insolence!</strong>"she hissed.<br>&nbsp;She knew it was an irrational thought but the idea that small minded rider wouldn't succumb seemed an insult. With a few words of power a silver stream of light exuded from her fingers swirling around his head. He shook and backed away, distracted, letting the original spell take hold, falling to the ground writhing in madness. <br><br>Sondanwe smiled as she turned away from the battle. What happened next continued the roller coaster of emotion. <br>First she had been elated to find the town, then she was accosted by slavers, but she had defeated them.<br><br>The next horror came when the orcs came pouring out of the inn. She had hated orcs all her life. Had hunted them as a child. The city was swarming with them. She raised her hands ready to defend herself. Perhaps submitting to the riders would have been better? Things got worse moments later. The city was run by hobgoblins. They blamed her for disturbing the peace.It did not surprise her they would side with the slavers and against run away slaves. <br>But then things made a turn for the better, something the surprised and utterly perplexed her. The orcs had taken her side. Her heart leaped in her chest. The situation wasn't so bad. <br>But then the next turn, a cat woman confirmed they were slavers, setting the crowd abuzz. Now she would be guilty as a runaway slave."<strong>Hang them.</strong>" was her proclamation. <br>Sondanwe sighed in relief. She leaned on her cane. This was too much all at once. What would happen next? <br>Another High Elf by the looks of it. A noble? She spoke like a diplomat, it seemed as if the crowd was listening too. It had been so long since Sondanwe had spoken with on of her kind! She was so elated she could cry. She would thank the elf personally. But first, she would set herself further in the orc's good graces. <br><br>She was about to speak, when a human woman came to claim she was going to help but the fight finished before she could make a move. Sondanwe stopped herself from rolling her eyes and placed her hand on the young woman's shoulder. "<strong>Why thank you!</strong>" the elf cooed with a sweet smile before turning away to face the orcs. The foolish woman would have joined Sondanwe in chains had she'd gotten involved. <br><br>"<strong>Greetings!</strong>" she said holding up her hands, nodding at the orcs and then to the elf who'd come to her aid. <br>"<strong>Balkalesh-ra Okak!</strong>" <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">thank you</div></div> she said in orcish to further endear herself to them. She did not mention that she'd learned their language studying to hunt them.<br>&nbsp;"<strong>Lat bore auga ve ul truth auga your tukor agh mir, unlike ul dagalush liga goblins nalkriuk dan nug us.</strong>" <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">You gave witness to the truth conveying your strength and honor,unlike the wretched hobgoblins that stand before us. </div></div>Her words would most likely work against what the noble elf had done to bring about the peace but this would help insulate Sondanwe from harm. If a battle broke out she could leave the hobgoblins and orcs to kill each other. Perhaps she would aid the orcs if it was clear they were winning.<br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Roll Persuasion:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">Convince the orcs to like her more; playing off their hatred for the goblins. 2d20+5=19,9<strong>(24)</strong></span> <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>14-06-2022, 21:59:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/d6/94/f9/d694f9b3cf8f7b03bb8479ce54584582.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 1, Post 3</strong><br>Please see the Encounter section of the Whiteboard. A lot of information I would usually cut and paste into the IC post will be captured there.<br>Whiteboard (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FJsC9yGy1G1ttWQNWMsW7IRcBfBaqQ01RujNOYY38KY/edit?usp=sharing)<br><br>The GM was/is trying to get the PCs together. However, the Orc Chieftain is not cooperating. We are pretty much in full sandbox right now. Sondawe and the other characters can do as they please.<br><br>Notes:<br><ul class="bbc_list"><li>Both riders are on the ground, stabilized by Kitty</li><li>Long Rests are tied to the adventuring day - figure around 10-12 total encounters, of which 4-6 might be combat encounters.</li></ul><hr> <strong>IC - Keep your friends close and your enemies closer</strong><br><br>The Orc talking with Sondanwe was not like the others. The other Orcs were clad in hides and wielded axes or clubs. This one wore chainmail and carried a shield and longsword. Additionally, he was a bit less beastial than the other Orcs. Perhaps he had a mixture of human blood in his background.<br><br>The Orc was surprised but responded to Sondanwe's Orcish in the same language. <strong>"Look like an innocent victim, but dispatch two attackers with ease. Look like Elf, but speak Orcish. You are full of surprises. We should talk. My warriors are strong, but we lack magic. Come, I buy your drink."</strong> <br><br>Before Sondanwe could respond, Kitty turned to her and spoke in Common. <strong>"My dear, you look tired from your time on the road. Come to the Inn, and you can soak off the trail dust in the baths."</strong> Kitty looked to Cassandra, <strong>"You are invited as well. It is a communal bath. However, I will limit it to females for the time being. You might like to meet a couple of interesting women staying in the Inn."</strong><br><br>The Orcish scowled for a moment, <strong>"Bathe?"</strong> He leaned in and took a couple of good sniffs of Sondanwe. <strong>"Smell good. Better to cut dust with alcohol than try to wash."</strong> <br><br>The Hobgoblin inserted himself into the conversation, <strong>"We're taking the two unconscious men to the Jail. My commander will want to see you in the morning so that we can sort out who attacked who."</strong> He glanced to the Orc and then to Kitty, <strong>"Don't leave the village or we'll be forced to track you down."</strong><br>&nbsp;<br>The Orc growled at the Hobgoblin, <strong>"She friend of Seeker. You mess with her, you mess with all of us."</strong> Then tension between the Orcs and Hobgoblins increased up, but then Kitty stepped into the middle, <strong>"She'll be in the Dry Gulch, getting a bath and a few drinks. Let's worry about tomorrow when it gets here."</strong><br><br>The tall, thin, Plate clad figure watched the conversation as&nbsp; it unfolded. They were close enough to hear but did not intervene. As the tension diffused, the figure turned around and re-entered the magic shop.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>14-06-2022, 22:30:03</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>Alisandra nodded back to Sondanwe in turn.&nbsp; One adventurer recognized another, and even though Alisandra wanted to talk, it was simple common sense that such things could wait until matters calmed down.<br><br>However, not every ascertainment the nobleborn made was perfect.&nbsp; She had far too easy an assumption of women who remained scantily clad and attached themselves quickly to others, and if Alisandra had been told that Cassandra was an adventurer as well, she’d have been quite surprised.&nbsp; It wasn’t that she held disdain for Cassandra, just that Alisandra took her for a broken slave looking for a home, not something that needed the attention of Alisandra in a relatively safe place like this.<br><br>It was the mention of the bath that got Alisandra’s full attention, asking as soon as it was polite, “I have the partial blessing of Correllon.&nbsp; Would I be welcome while it’s females only?”<br><br>The true blessing of Correllon Larethean came when some elves were as androgynous and hermaphroditic as Correllon himself, and Elvish had a full set of pronouns for such.&nbsp; The truly blessed were even able to switch from male to female to complete intersex over the course of a trance.&nbsp; However, humans didn’t always know how to handle this, and if it was an issue, Alisandra was willing to wait for communal.&nbsp; It wasn’t like her to push around her privilege and demand benefits; truly noblehearted felt no such need, and besides, it reflected poorly upon her House.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>peachfuzz221</strong> on <strong>15-06-2022, 01:47:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/021/776/701/large/anna-elizabeth-astrid2.jpg?1572906977)</div>She watched intently with bated breath as the scene unfolded, all the while the wheels turning in her mind upon glimpsing the fair Elf communicating with the beastly Orcs. She spoke fluently in their tongue, easily winning their favor. Even Kitty, the proprietor of the Dry Gulch, extended her a sublime offer for a soothing bath. Who was she to warrant such attention? Clearly she was well-educated and of high status. She was also familiar, though Pharli could not her finger on where she had seen her. Perhaps it would come to her later.<br><br>Keeping to the sidelines, she watched the Hobgoblins drag away the unconscious men, catching sight of a curious figure clad in plated armor entering the nearby magic shop. Intending to visit to restock on supplies after acquainting herself within the Inn, she debated whether to risk the Cook's ire by shirking her duties further to follow the mysterious stranger. Once she stepped foot back into the tavern, she would be at the mercy of more unruly customers until the moon was nigh.<br><br>Sidestepping away from the crowd shuffling back into Dry Gulch, she shouldered through the stragglers to approach the shop. Pushing through the door, she entered silently, an instinct that was crucial to the hunt to which she participated in her youth. While she no longer partook in the sport, she would still walk lightly by habit.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>15-06-2022, 02:23:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> <br>Sondanwe stayed out of the argument and merely paid attention. It was confirmed that siding with the orcs was the right path in this case and it seemed the cat was also someone who'd take her side.<br><br>When it all ended,Sondanwe smiled at the orc. "<strong>Orcs lived naj ul kitot nalkramal jiak mis born. Jiak know tak nalal.</strong>"<br>Again, she left out the history of her experience with orcs. She smiled at the compliment, that she had dispatched the riders easily. "<strong>Jiak evinaj think kulknej gelnaj both dispatch such stuzor creatures shapit.</strong>"<br>&nbsp;She looked to the riders being carried away but then very obviously, obvious to the orc at least, she eyed the hobgoblins. The insinuation against the hobgoblins was clear. Sondanwe then walked over to the noble elf and wrapped her arm around hers. "<strong>To the baths!</strong>" she announced to the cat. She turned to the orc as they left. "<strong>Agh jiak liwo olk decline ij pi nalkruska ul ekko katu.</strong>"<br><br>Sondanwe walked towards the inn with the other elf, her arm still wrapped around hers. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Ni am sondanwe athor. Ehtelë met. Ar tye are?</em></span>"she asked in High Elvish. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>-yes's been so anann ana cen- moriquende -o mime nostale. I osse -o sina nór na- sarda. Ni am so happime ana cen- tye. </em></span>" <br><br>"<strong>I would enjoy your best wine and something to eat while I bathe.</strong>" she announced to the cat as the door to the inn was opened.<br><br><br><br><br>Orcish: <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Orcs lived near the city where I was born. I know them well.</div></div> <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I would think we could both dispatch such weak creatures hastily. </div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">And I will not decline a drink when the time comes.</div></div><br>Elvish:<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"> I am Sondanwe Athor. Well met. And you are?</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">It's been so long to see another of my kind. The horrors of this realm have been hard. I am so happy to see you.</div></div><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>15-06-2022, 16:28:34</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>Alisandra didn’t have any real preference between Common and Elvish.&nbsp; Both languages had strengths and weaknesses.&nbsp; However, she could understand because she so rarely got to speak Celestial, which she developed a knack for soon after becoming a Celestial Warlock.<br><br>She responded in Elvish, “&lt;A pleasure to meet you, Sondanwe.&nbsp; My name is Lady Alisandra Nénarnar; you may call me Alisandra.&nbsp; Unless I miss my guess, you’re either an adventurer like myself, or you’re a magic user searching for a better occupation.&gt;”&nbsp; There were only so many reasons slavers would rush this deep into a city where slavers were hated, but then, it wasn’t any of Alisandra’s business anyway.&nbsp; “&lt;My travels often take me to places where people need assistance, and I like to keep appraised of others because not everything is something I can handle alone.&gt;”<br><br>Back inside, drinks did indeed sound delightful, and after the bath, she could get out of her traveling clothes and into proper finery.&nbsp; “Do you have any of the Tears of the Ruby vintage?&nbsp; I would adore a glass of that right now.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>16-06-2022, 21:35:26</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/ee/c0/f0/eec0f02302389cb992a1cc43438d95f7.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 2, Post 1</strong><br>I'm splitting this post into two parts to reflect Pharli going to the Magic Shop, and the second part will be the other three joining Kitty in the Spa.<br><br>Culture: As a player, I'm a big fan of Hot Tubs, so you frequently see Japanese/Oriental Style communal baths in my stories. In short, there is a stool, pail, and cloth/brush. The bather soaps and cleans themselves while seated or standing. Then, there is a large hot soaking tub where people can relax.<br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/fe/aa/ac/feaaacbfa8dd4ad052f1637c2310fce5.jpg)</div><br>&nbsp;"I have the partial blessing of Correllon.&nbsp; Would I be welcome while it's females only?" &nbsp;asked Alisandra,<br><br><strong> "It was merely an invitation to bathe.</strong> Kitty licked her lips and smiled, <strong>" However, why don't you show me yours, and I'll show you mine. Then we can decide if both of us want something more."</strong> Kitty turned to Cassandra and Sondanwe, <strong>"And the invitation, or rather both invitations, are open to both of you as well."</strong><br><br>Kitty led the women back into the Inn towards the back. As they passed, she stuck her head into the kitchen, <strong>"Cook, would you bring some heavy snacks to the bathing room? Also, If you see your new assistant, send her down to the baths."</strong> Kitty turned to Sondanwe, <strong>"Nowhere is more a homebrewed village - beer and moonshine. However, this is a special occasion; I'll spring for a couple of bottles from my personal stash.<br><br>Kitt led the group through a locked door, where they descended a set of stone stairs in the basement. A hallway ran the length of the Dry Gulch,&nbsp; or perhaps a bit beyond the Tavern. The stonework in the hallway was curious, solid stone but with intricate relief. It was likely crafted magically and somewhat at odds with the construction of the Inn itself, or at least the visible portion.<br><br>Some of the rooms along the corridor were open with various supplies for the Kitchen and Tavern. Others were shut off with locked doors. Kitty stopped at one of the locked doors. Interestingly, she opened the door with a lock pick rather than a key. She smiled and told the group, <strong>"I need to keep my hand in."</strong> The room had many cabinets. However, a section of one wall was a wine rack. Kitty pulled a couple of unlabeled bottles off the rack. <strong>"Fortuna's choice. These are two bottles that can from a cache unearthed by a group of explorers in the Badlands. <br><br>Kitty smiled at the other three women, <strong>"Don't expect me to give up all my secrets. However, Someone built the Dry Gluch on top of the basement. All of Nowhere is built on a set of ruins. There are quite a few ruins in the Badlands, and some make a lucrative if dangerous living looting them."</strong><br><br>Kitty led the women to a large open room. Along one wall were cubicles for clothes and hanging towels and robes. Another wall had a series of stools, fixtures, and buckets. A large soaking tub dominated the third wall.<br><br>Kitty took off her boots, tunic, and trousers to reveal that the rest of her body was as furry as her face. The Shifter Tavernkeeper did several deep stretches, displaying her lithe and acrobatic figure. She told the group, <strong>"Like a cat, I prefer to be clean, but unlike a cat, I adore water."</strong><br><br>By the time Kitty and the three women had cleaned off, a server had brought down a platter with an assortment of dried meats, cheeses, and crackers.&nbsp; Additionally, the tray held five wine glasses, and five small plates.</strong></strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>17-06-2022, 07:56:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> <br><br>At the mention of the human Sondanwe gave a surprised look and turned to look at her again, as if she'd disappeared and had just materialized again. Sondanwe had forgotten all about her and it seemed odd the passerby was given an invitation. <br>She forgot about the surprise moments later and returned to her conversation with her new elven friend. <br>"<em><span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size">-yes's a alasse ana oment- tye, Alisandra.</span></em>"&nbsp; Sondanwe responded happily. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><br><em>Tye're verime astute. Ni'm an cen- ve tye. Ni scour i world -esse search -o nólë ar societime curiositime.</em></span>" she glanced at the cat woman leading the way as she continued speaking. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Manenvoro ni osán- ni'll mére- ana lende sina sinome orme. I animals símen don't settle ehtelë as me. -yes's filled as orcs ar led bime goblins.</em></span>" <br><br>She continued following the cat until they reached the wine cellar. She was overjoyed to see what lay in store. "Thank you very much!" she exclaimed like a child on Christmas. She wasted no time removing her dress and getting into the pool. She cleaned the grime of the trail from her body and then sat in the water, meditating on the warmth. With one hand she sipped the wine and another she ate the cheese and crackers. It had been so long since she had enjoyed such luxury. <br>As she soaked she rememembed something else Alisandra had told her. <span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>"Tye are símen ana boon vammeself?"</em></span> she asked as she took another sip of wine.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">It's a pleasure to meet you, Alisandra </div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">You're very astute. I'm an adventurer as yourself. I scour the world in search of knowledge and sociological curiosity.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">However I think I'll want to leave this place soon. The creatures here don't sit well with me. It's filled with orcs and led by goblins.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">You are here to help others?</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>17-06-2022, 23:22:08</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>OOC Scene 2, Post 2</strong><br>Arty is casting Detect Magic before viewing Pharli.<br><br><br><hr><strong>Pay Dirt - The Magic Shop</strong><br><br>Pharli stood outside Pay Dirt, one of the few stone buildings in Pay Dirt. There was a Door Sill. However, the door was solid stone with no handle or hinges. After a few moments, the door split in two, each half sliding back into the wall. The doorway exposed a ten by 10 room with a counter bisecting the room. Part of the counter was swung up, allowing someone to walk around the remaining portion.<br><br>A section of the back door slid aside, exposing the armored figure she had seen outside. The figure pulled a set of goggles down over the armors eys slides and stared silently for Pharli for a few seconds, <strong>"Hmm, so Wood Elf and a Druid. Not from around here. What would bring a Druid to the Deadlands? Surely not hunting for herbs."</strong> the figure chuckled. Then he paused.<br><br><strong>"I'm sorry. Where are my manners? I never had many with which to begin, dealing with the types that come through Nowhere."</strong> In a matter of seconds, the suit of plate armor receded into the boots and greeves. Standing in front of Pharli was a tall, lean elf with blonde hair and green eyes. He smiled at the Druid and extended a hand, <strong>"Arty at your service. Well, my family name's not Arty, but it's what folks around here call me."</strong><br><br><strong>"Come on back."</strong> he gestured. <br><br>Stepping through the doorway was like entering another world. An eclectic mix of shelves, drawers, and cabinets covered the four walls. The center of the space had a grid of tables laid out. Each table seemed to contain an experiment of some sort, with tools ranging from Alchemical to Smithing scattered between the tables. <br><br>Arty waved a hand, <strong>"Yah, well, ignore the mess. I get an idea and get started. Then I don't have the right part or tool, so I'm on the next."</strong><br><br>Arty led her over to a section of drawers, which appeared to contain large sheets of parchment with drawings and complex instructions on the side when opened. Finally, he seemed to find what he was looking for. <strong>"Here it is. The base design is for Dragon Scale Armor."</strong> Arty chuckled, <strong>"I doubt you're up for hunting dragons yet, but you need to find a creature with a hide thick enough to use for scale. Then bring back the creature's hide, and I can make you a set of scale mail. Perfect for Druids that don't want to wear metal armor."</strong><br><br><br>&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>18-06-2022, 01:51:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>Sondanwe’s third comment surprised Alisandra, but she nodded acceptance that the woman could make up her own mind and do what she wanted.&nbsp; Regarding the last question, however, she responded in Elvish, “&lt;I’m a Celestial Warlock.&nbsp; My powers were granted by a Solar to help people; far too often, magic is used in the aid of the rich and nobility, but it’s a large world where not everyone can receive aid.&nbsp; I don’t have magic of my own, but I’m very happy with the choice.&nbsp; I may well be here for some time.&gt;”<br><br>That was the more serious aspect of the conversation, though.&nbsp; Alisandra undressed with little shame, for she had no reason to be ashamed in that both her male and female parts came in exceptional proportions.&nbsp; Nothing freakish, but certainly generous.&nbsp; At first she just slipped into the water and savored before truly beginning to bathe, then starting on the wine and cheese.<br><br>Some of the mention of scrounging through old buildings caught her attention, but only to be left if she still had some power left as a day was coming to a close.&nbsp; She expected this place to have all sorts of surprises.<br><br>Likewise, Kitty’s flirtations got a smile, though not a full acceptance of invitation.&nbsp; Alisandra was considering, realizing nothibg permanent was expected or being requested.&nbsp; It could be fun.&nbsp; Yet it had been a long journey…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>peachfuzz221</strong> on <strong>18-06-2022, 02:36:18</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/021/776/701/large/anna-elizabeth-astrid2.jpg?1572906977)</div>Her eyes of sparkling green roved over trinkets aplenty strewn on top of shelves and drawers in a disorderly fashion as she entered. Though the interior was messy, the shop itself did not quite fit in with the rest of the hovel that was Nowhere. What one would consider junk lying across the nearby tables, which crossed her mind without a hint of guilt, Pharli could find value in, the cogs in the well-oiled machine that was her mind turning as she studied a few alchemical designs waiting for an absolute solution. As far as she could tell, he was close to completing a few of them.<br><br>She refrained from touching his work, turning when he acknowledged her. "&lt;These lands called to me.&gt;" She had a distinct drawl in her speech, not quite as refined in the Elvish tongue as other elves. Some would consider it rather unsophisticated and country and have voiced such opinions to her in her travels. She hardly took it personally.<br><br>Approaching the armored figure, she was surprised to find a slender frame hiding beneath. Even moreso that the, so far, uncouth stranger was a High Elf! The ones she had met preferred their gleaming cities and honorable statures to the filthy backwater places like this, among ruffians. Nowhere would be considered beneath them. Apparently not all of them. She hesitantly took his hand and gave it a firm shake, struggling to withhold her flabbergasted expression.<br><br>"<strong>Pharli Willowbrook</strong>." A half-strangled wheeze of a laugh escaped her throat at his self-directed back-and-forth. She cleared her throat, not only caught off guard by his race, but by him. His face was conventionally attractive, with lovely blonde hair and eyes that rivaled hers. Normally she was impervious to the charms of other elves, but he had her tongue-tied and light as a feather. <br><br>She followed him further in, fisting a part of her cloak. "<strong>I must admit, this is not what I was expecting when I entered this shop. You have quite the collection.</strong>" Stopping before a set of drawers with a complex design sketched on a piece of parchment, she sidled up beside him to study his plans. "<strong>This is amazing! Just what I need for superior protection! I am nowhere near strong enough to take on a dragon, but I'm sure I could take down a worthy beast with scales fit for your project!</strong>"<br><br>She beamed in uncharacteristic excitement, through with the uncomfortable bindings of metal armor. This also provides her with an opportunity to explore the lands and hunt its creatures. "<strong>Do you know of such an animal roaming the badlands?</strong>"<br><br>She realized to late their proximity, her face just inches away from his.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>18-06-2022, 05:16:28</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"What a lovely offer," the redhead gave a little bow t the innkeeper.&nbsp; "Thank you, ma'am.&nbsp; I would adore a bath..." <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The innkeeper's generosity continued to grow. She blushed a little at the extravagant wines.&nbsp; For a moment, Cassandra wondered if she'd misunderstood something?&nbsp; Would local custom see her billed for this?&nbsp; It didn't matter.&nbsp; The small stash of coin in the subtle fold at the bottom of her backpack could cover it easily--probably for all of them.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The redhead giggled when their hostess picked the lock to her own wine cellar.&nbsp; "I keep being afraid I'm crashing the party.&nbsp; Thank you so much for including me.&nbsp; My name's Cassandra."&nbsp; She flashed a smile to the half elf 'girl'.&nbsp; "Blessed by Corelon? You mean," and she spoke the elvish word for the gender.&nbsp; "I've never met one so blessed.&nbsp; I won't mind sharing the tub, but I hope you won't mind if i look.&nbsp; I'm not the cat here, but I'm quite curious."&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When they got to the bath itself, the redhead gave a grin.&nbsp; “What a lovely tub!&nbsp; My teacher had a truly opulent bath.&nbsp; It was nowhere near this big but we fit into it together.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She pulled off her high-cropped tunic and let pert, generous breasts bounce free.&nbsp; Setting down her backpack, she hurried to finish stripping.&nbsp; “would anyone like my help with their hair?”&nbsp; <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">In the baths.</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/03/Leanna-decker-shower-bikini-tits-redhead-nude-playboy-20-800x1200.jpg)(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c9/Leanna-Decker-Nude-TheFappeningBlog.com-8.jpg)</div></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>18-06-2022, 20:24:06</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/e1/be/e1/e1bee16d747a4ffca52dc819c932376e.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 2, Post 3 - Pay Dirt.</strong><br><br>Characters: Pharli, Arty<br><hr><br>Arty was mesmerized by the proximity of the Elven Druid. She was so different than the haughty High-Elves with whom he had contact at University. They all had looked down on Arty's work as common and not really worthy of being called magic. The more vicious had called him a Half-Dwarf or Half-Gnome behind his back. In fact, a group of nasty students had started a rumor that Ary was studying Artifcing because his endowment was closer to Gnomish than Elven. His chosen course of study added to Arty's lack of popularity at school. After one reasonably spectacular failure, the Dean of Students had suggested that Arty go on an extended sabbatical and conduct any experiments far away from Elven Lands. All of these factors had contributed to Arty's lack of experience dealing with females.<br><br>When Arty realized that Pharli was close at hand, his blood drained to his nether regions. This left the artificer with a deficit of blood going to his brain. This lack of blood left the artificer speechless and a bit woozy. He failed to respond to Pharli's question and wobbled forward, his lips brushing hers. When he realized what he had done, he stepped back, his cheeks turning red. <strong>"I, uh, oh."</strong> <br><br>Arty his brain tried and failed to come up with an explanation for his actions. Finally, he fell back to Pharli's question. <strong>"Beasts with Scales in the Badlands?"</strong> Arty seized on a top about which he could expound. Eagerly he told Pharli, <strong>"Yes Scorpions. Giant Scorpions. There is a nest not far from here."</strong> and then his voice fell, <strong>"Although they are dangerous beasts. You would need a party of seasoned adventurers to take one down, much less venture into their lair."</strong> 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>21-06-2022, 08:27:29</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> <br><br>Sondanwe nodded in agreement. Magic was often misused. Overall, it could be said to have done more damage than good. It would have been better if only a few had known its secrets.&nbsp; <br>But what really surprised her was where Alisandra had gained her magic. Was she really a warlock? Sondanwe had never met one before. It was fascinating. <br>"<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Ni've lala anta a warlock yenya. Tye've n- anna your ingóle?</em></span>" she asked not trying to hide her fascination. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>An- ni've met have istima i arcane on their her-.</em></span>"<br>Another perplexity to this new elf was what she was doing here. Who could she be helping in a place like this?&nbsp; Then it hit her. She wasn't helping someone within the town, she was helping someone near the town. Whenever her uncle had wanted her to do good deeds he had sent her to eradicate some goblin nest or chase off a troop who'd gotten too close to the city. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Are tye símen ana tyelde i denizens símen? Surelime vamme ilquen símen deserves ana fírima.</em></span>" Sondanwe tried her best to sound supportive of her new friend and not judgmental. She looked to the human woman who was having trouble with her own hair. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Ni estel tye have mercime an tai such ve i miuco ar i hilde símen.</em></span>" She took a deep breath and with firm conviction offered her help, "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Imeúyo pata, tye pole- count on mime tulco.</em></span>"&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I've never met a warlock before. You've been given your powers? </div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Most I've met have learned the arcane on their own.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Are you here to eradicate the denizens here? Surely not everyone here deserves to die.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I hope you have mercy for those such as the cat and the human here.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Either way, you can count on my support.</div></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>21-06-2022, 19:10:08</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>Cassandra’s question was met with a simple nod of welcome.&nbsp; “Technically only half so, since I’m not a full elf, but I’m not shy.”&nbsp; It helped that Alisandra was beautiful and well-endowed both as a male and female, and didn’t have any reason to be shy or ashamed.<br><br>She did, however, have reason to be concerned at Sondanwe’s words.&nbsp; Surprise took her at the very idea, and she never got outraged or upset, simply horrified.&nbsp; “No, I certainly don’t intend to slaughter everyone here out of hand,” she said, switching back to Common by reflex as the conversation took such a turn.&nbsp; “Even if I was powerful enough to do so, that certainly wouldn’t help people.”<br><br>Using Prestidigitation, she conjured up a bit of silvery-white glowing light that soon dissipated, a simple demonstration of her power.&nbsp; “I’m not sure what would give you the other impression, but…when I say I’m here to help people, I don’t only mean the pure and virtuous.&nbsp; From what I’ve seen so far, plenty of the people have good intentions and hope for a better and more civilized existence than in so many other places.&nbsp; Just having a truce means the hard parts are already done; I do intend to see what can be done about the slavers and their ilk, though.&nbsp; With a surprise and a coordinated attack, even a gigantic fortress might be brought down if we spellcasters focused on enemy magic users and led an assault with the orcs and hobgoblins to free the slaves and destroy the slavers.&nbsp; Of course, that’s assuming the enemy is so huge and organized as to need such a thing; we need more information first.”<br><br>She looked over to Sondanwe with concern, trying to figure out why that would be where the woman’s mind went.&nbsp; “Did something horrible happen to you?”
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>21-06-2022, 23:34:55</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/ee/c0/f0/eec0f02302389cb992a1cc43438d95f7.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 2, Post 4 - The Baths</strong><br>I'm splitting this post into two parts to reflect Pharli going to the Magic Shop, and the second part will be the other three joining Kitty in the Spa.<br><br>Culture: As a player, I'm a big fan of Hot Tubs, so you frequently see Japanese/Oriental Style communal baths in my stories. In short, there is a stool, pail, and cloth/brush. The bather soaps and cleans themselves while seated or standing. Then, there is a large hot soaking tub where people can relax.<br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/fe/aa/ac/feaaacbfa8dd4ad052f1637c2310fce5.jpg)</div><br><strong>"Would anyone like my help with their hair" </strong> asked Cassandra, to which Kitty answered with a giggle,<strong> "How about I help you wash yours, and then you brush mine when we get out. There are spots on my back which I cannot brush on my own."</strong><br><br>The group soaked, enjoyed their wine and cheese, and chatted idly for a while. Then Kitty broke into the conversation between the two Half-Elves. Given that Kitty did not speak Elven, she had not been following the conversation. <strong> "Ladies, I apologize for breaking into your conversation. However, there are some things you should know about Nowhere. The village is like..." </strong> Kitty paused, thinking, <strong> "Ah, are you familiar with a game played by human children. Atop a hill, one declares themself 'King of the Hill,' and then all others seek to push them off. The Ruler of Nowhere is similar. One group will come in and declare themselves rulers of Nowhere, and eventually, another group will come along and push them out. The Orcs and Hobgoblins arrived and put paid to the Bandits that had been here before. Neither is quite strong to take out the other. The Hobgoblins took the local keep but could not push the Orcs out without too many casualties. So, the two groups circle and snip at each other."</strong><br><br>Kitty turned to Sondanwe, <strong> "I do not know what your intent is here. However, the way you casually dispatched the two riders was impressive, and you speak Orcish. The Orcs see you as a possible ally and one that may tip the balance. The Hobgoblins may see you as a danger and seek to either recruit or eliminate you." </strong> Kitty turned to Alisandra and Cassandra, <strong> "Either or both of you may find yourself in a similar situation - as potential allies or enemies." </strong><br><br><strong>"You are likely safe here in the Dry Gulch. Arty and I steer clear of the politics, and the various gangs steer clear of us. Without me, Nowhere would not get provisions, and without Arty, no gold or magic. Regardless of what brought you here - Gold, Glory, Divine providence, or fleeing something better left behind - you will likely decide to explore in the Badlands. I caution you to go as a group, a powerful and well-equipped group. Many dangerous things exist in the Badlands."</strong><br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>peachfuzz221</strong> on <strong>22-06-2022, 02:57:23</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/021/776/701/large/anna-elizabeth-astrid2.jpg?1572906977)</div>Pharli had kissed twice before Arty. Once with another Wood Elf, a boy in her village, behind the stables. He was the son of another ranger and their parents had encouraged a play date while they mapped out their latest excursion. He had been bold, daring her to climb the tallest tree, jump across the deepest creek and chase the wild geese that nested there. She fell and bruised her bottom, got drenched in the murky waters and was bit by a pair of protective geese parents while he kept at a distance, laughing each time. Finally, perhaps enamored by her bravery (or stupidity), he pulled her into a pile of hay and kissed her. It was short and brief and he tasted of ripe strawberries. Pharli looked upon the memory with fondness, even if she punched him in the face afterwards.<br><br>Her second kiss was with a promiscuous High Elf woman drunk off her gourd. Her tongue was sharp, and she used it to get into trouble at the tavern Pharli was staying at. Coming to her rescue, she repaid her with a tantalizing offer for a night alone with a bottle of wine she had stolen from the bar while her savior fought off disgruntled patrons and a less than chaste kiss. Pharli declined, though she doubted she would have kept her word considering the woman of notable stature passed out once she was escorted back to her room. <br><br>This kiss felt different than the others; clumsy, soft and awakened in her a spark of desire she had not felt for someone in a long while. Though her fist clenched from the shock, she relaxed as he, regrettably, pulled away. "<strong>S-Scorpions, yes</strong>," she sputtered out, shifting focus back on the conversation. This was no time to get caught up in a whirlwind of attraction. She needed to find a party to help her defeat the arachnids. "<strong>The half-elf that took down the riders outside would prove a great ally.&nbsp; I should meet with her at Dry Gulch</strong>."<br><br>Still reeling from the kiss, she gave him a nod while contemplating a farewell. "<strong>...I shall be back, shopkeeper</strong>," she said rather coldly, though that was not her intent. In an attempt to relieve them both of the awkwardness, she turned tail and fled the magic shop quite quickly, heading for the tavern.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>22-06-2022, 07:36:25</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe was glad the cat and human had distracted one another. When she had invited everyone to bathe Sondanwe was quite dismayed that kitty didn't know she should give the elves their own tub and had even crawled in with them.&nbsp; A strange behavior. It seemed she thought the most commonality they shared was their gender. <br>The elf took another sip of the delicious wine and sighed. The cat had shared her best wine. Sondanwe was being too hard on her. Whatever minor mistake must be forgiven.<br>&nbsp;<br>She was about to compliment the cat on her wine choice when Alisandra suddenly spoke common and was seemingly shocked by Sondanwe's question. She didn't understand how ridding the area of orcs and hobgoblins would help? Sondanwe wriggled her nose slightly in disbelief but other than that tried to hide her shock. <br>When the elf mentioned the slavers Sondanwe pounced on the subject to salvage the conversation. <br><br>"<strong>Yes, if we could gain the advantage, an attack on the slavers would help many people.</strong>" she responded in common. Sondanwe moved her fingers and tipped her wrist casting the same spell. A purple orb of light appeared over the bath. "<strong>Did you have a goal-</strong>" Sondanwe failed to finish her sentence. The cat had interrupted her, perhaps the feline could sense the tension in the conversation. Sondanwe was pleased to hear how politely the cat had spoken. <br>"<strong>So, Kitty, your advice is that we stay neutral in this war? What of the slavers? Could we not convince the orcs to join our cause? I lack faith in the goblins but if we helped the orcs gain power perhaps they would help?</strong>"<br><br>Sondanwe transformed the purple orb to turquoise and spoke to Alisandra in elvish once again. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Or lótesse n- emme cilme let i héru n-. Tye would n- a moneime captive. Freedom na- a alkaringue luxurime.</em></span>" <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Or perhaps we should let the slavers be. You would be a valuable captive. Freedom is a glorious luxury. </div></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>22-06-2022, 17:43:16</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div>The “King of the Hill” explanation brought Alisandra some confirmation but little surprise.&nbsp; “&lt;A throne never stays empty for long,&gt;” she said with a sing-song voice in Elvish that sounded like part of a longer poem.&nbsp; Her demeanor, however, made the message far more clear: politics didn’t change no matter where you went.&nbsp; “At least brute force and strength of arms demonstrates an ability to help defend the area, rather than the usual methods of poison and duplicity.”&nbsp; Alisandra had little interest in playing the kinds of games it took to become a ruler, and it showed.<br><br>“I should ask if there was anything legitimate and ‘duly-appointed’ about the mayor, and if either side is more markedly noble or tyrannical in rulership that one is worthy of being supported, but beyond that, I have nothing binding me to these politics.&nbsp; I didn’t study as hard with historical examples as many others of my upbringing - I always found the mystical far more fascinating - but my experience is that, 90% of the time, the rulers change but the rules do not, and the desire of the current king of the hill to prove themselves keeps them from too much abuse of power.”&nbsp; As she ate another piece of cheese, it was clear she was inquiring of Kitty whether it was the same here.&nbsp; “It’s only when one side has a distinctive advantage that the real problems start.”<br><br>Her attention turned back to Sondanwe.&nbsp; “You were asking about being a warlock.&nbsp; For many, it means conjuring up devils and trading off one’s soul, or fusing with creatures from the Far Plane, or other horrifying things.&nbsp; I entered into a conversation with a Solar, a powerful Celestial with more sheer magical ability than actual opportunity to perform good works.&nbsp; As such, that’s the trade.&nbsp; I continue using the power I’ve been given for good and making the world a better place however I can.&nbsp; There’s plenty of ways to make a difference, and few are without risks of at least some kind, but I don’t regret the choice.&nbsp; I have no magical ability of my own and couldn’t even manage memorizing cantrips without the assistance.&nbsp; Some suggested I should have followed the path of the bards, but…”&nbsp; Her body language shifted to show that she felt that beneath one of her station.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>25-06-2022, 01:30:43</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cassanda kept her silence.&nbsp; She was enjoying the bath, but didn't have the language to follow most of the conversation.&nbsp; She'd like to get to know these girls better, though, maybe travel with them.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She did take the invitation to observe Allisandra's body.&nbsp; "You're blessed in many ways, Alisandra" she commented, not thinking about the innuendo despite the fact that she was staring thoughtlessly at the blessed's body.&nbsp; "The gods gave me a gift as well.&nbsp; Nothing like you, though, just a twist of fate that saved me from a dark path.&nbsp; A paladin of Torm gave me an opportunity.&nbsp; I made the most of it, and now I have the power to pay it foreword.&nbsp; I intend to do so.&nbsp; So we sort of have somethin in common."&nbsp; <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">In the baths.</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/03/Leanna-decker-shower-bikini-tits-redhead-nude-playboy-20-800x1200.jpg)(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c9/Leanna-Decker-Nude-TheFappeningBlog.com-8.jpg)</div></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>27-06-2022, 19:20:17</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/ee/c0/f0/eec0f02302389cb992a1cc43438d95f7.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 2, Post 5 - The Baths</strong><br><br>This post is intended to provide a wrap to this scene:<br>@peachfuz221, feel free to write Pharli in or not. The two groups should feel free to share info OOC.<br>@AndyZ, it is up to you how far if at all, Alisandra wants to take Kitty's offer. If it is more than a bit of petting, I'll likely move it to a Channel in Discord.<br><br>@All, the next scene will open tomorrow morning, just before the trial.Everyone will be in the Dry Gulch and able to interact with Kitty and or the Orcs.<br><br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/fe/aa/ac/feaaacbfa8dd4ad052f1637c2310fce5.jpg)</div><br><strong>"So, Kitty, your advice is that we stay neutral in this war? What of the slavers? Could we not convince the orcs to join our cause? I lack faith in the goblins but if we helped the orcs gain power perhaps they would help?"</strong> Sondanwe asked.<br><br>Kitty sighed, <strong>"You, all of you, lack the experience to understand how Nowhere works."</strong> Kitty smiled at the group, <strong>"Additionally, Arty and I have grown used to the status quo.&nbsp; Perhaps, a new group can push the village in a different direction."</strong> The cat-like shifter smiled, not unlike the proverbial cat with a bowl of cream. <strong>"I could tell you what I think will happen tomorrow, but it might be more illustrative of how Nowhere works today to let you simply watch it play out."</strong><br><br><strong>I will give you two pieces of advice. The first is tactical. Think carefully before you make any commitments to either the Orcs or the Goblins. To favor one will put you at odds with the other. The second piece of advice is strategic."</strong> She looked to Alisandra, <strong>"If you truly wish to change things in Nowhere, look beyond the village. The entire land is under a subtle curse. Shifting or changing the curse is the best way to change Nowhere."</strong> <br><br>Kitty looked to Alisandara, <strong>"Come, let me dry and brush your hair. Then you can return the favor by brushing my back, and if you are adventuresome, you can rub my stomach. And if you are interested, we can do more than that. I find your body most,"</strong> Cat-Shifter licked her lips, <strong>"Appealing, you have my favorite parts of both male and female body."</strong>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>peachfuzz221</strong> on <strong>28-06-2022, 19:56:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/021/776/701/large/anna-elizabeth-astrid2.jpg?1572906977)</div>Remembering Kitty's offer to the Elven woman, Pharli followed the sound of gentle splashing and low conversation to the bath. The owner of Dry Gulch had extended the offer of private bathing to any woman who had been outside to witness the slavers being taken down and it was there, as she entered, that she glimpsed not only the elf who took down the riders and spoke near perfect Orc, but two other women whom she had briefly seen in the chaos. Instead of undressing, she stood at the edge uncomfortably. "<strong>I hope I am not intruding</strong>."<br><br>Reaching down to pull up the legs of her pants, she settled down against the cool floor and dipped her tan legs into the chill of the water. She was not keen on exposing herself to the group but was determined to recruit them so that she may accomplish her new quest. She arrived just in time to hear Kitty speak of a curse plaguing the land, to which Pharli had a sudden sense of clarity. This was bigger than just getting scales from Scorpions. This was what she came her for. "<strong>Do you know what or who is causing this curse?</strong>"<br><br>It seemed the bigger picture benefitted all the women in their goals. The Badlands was the key. "<strong>If we want to make significant changes to Nowhere, then going alone would be fruitless. I came here because I want to make a difference and I need a team at my side to help me. You three were outside, in-between the Hobgoblins and the Orcs. You are strong, clever and, from what I saw, capable enough to aid me in my quests</strong>."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>29-06-2022, 03:02:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>The various explanations that Kitty offered had Alisandra’s rapt attention, but as the other offer was made, she couldn’t help but smile.&nbsp; “Tempting, but tonight, I’m still weary from the road and not sure I can give the full effort of what I usually bring to bear.&nbsp; Back scratching, though…”&nbsp; She accommodated there, reaching over to give proper scratches as one would a cat, just the right mix of gentle and firm.&nbsp; Other offers could be considered for later; part of Alisandra was tempted to let herself just fall asleep in the tub.&nbsp; Thankfully, she never actually slept anymore, so that wouldn’t happen.<br><br>When Pharli came in and made her business clear, however, Alisandra smiled all the more.&nbsp; The nobility within her and all the training had taught her the necessities of tact and decorum, but she couldn’t have become an adventurer if she felt that they were absolutes and that those that lacked them were beneath notice.&nbsp; Quite the contrary; it was a lovely sight to see another so eager to aid in the problems she saw around her.&nbsp; “Lady Alisandra Nénarnar,” she introduced herself, “Celestial Warlock.&nbsp; You may call me Alisandra.&nbsp; Do you already have a particular plan of action in mind?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>29-06-2022, 08:08:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe poured another glass of wine as she listened to Kitty's explanation that sounded very self interested to her. Any disruption would be bad for business. <br>Still, Sondanwe saw wisdom in it. There was no reason to get involved in any dispute. She would stay neutral unless the hobgoblins made the first move. Then she would insulate herself with the orcs' favor. <br>When Kitty finished speaking Sondanwe said nothing and continued sipping her wine. <br>She was half finished with her glass when an actual wood elf walked in! <br><span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>So lin- elves -esse er sinome!</em></span> she exclaimed excitedly in elvish - the wine was influencing her mood, she could tell. She had been fascinated by wood elves as a child. They were like High Elves but feral, not as sophisticated as High Elves but they had a certain folk wisdom to them. <br>The creature walked in timidly and dipped her legs in the water and in typical wood elf fashion dispensed with any pleasantries making her desires known; It was some druid business. A curse of the land she wanted solved, which seemed to be what wood elves always wanted. A dam needed to be built or destroyed- some rock was out of place, or too many trees had been felled. They were very particular. <br>&nbsp; <span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Ni admire manen emote tye are.&nbsp; </em></span> she said with a polite smile.&nbsp; <span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Ni'm ruce- ni don't sinte mana i curse na- or manen ana solve -yes. N-sides, ni'm quite busime at i lú.</em></span> she held up her glass to accentuate her point. <br><br>Sondanwe wasn't surprised when Alisandra volunteered to go. What was it about this place that made these two want to fix it so terribly? <br>She would let them figure out how to remove the curse on their own."<strong>Kitty, did you not say you'd have a private room available for me?</strong>" <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">So many elves in one place!</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I admire how passionate you are.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I'm afraid I don't know what the curse is or how to solve it. Besides, I'm quite busy at the moment. </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>01-07-2022, 08:18:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The redhead gave teh latecomer a smile.&nbsp; She took a bottle of shampoo and rose from the baths.&nbsp; Water sluiced down her curvaceous body as she crossed to the other girl.&nbsp; "I'd like to help. <br>&nbsp;My&nbsp; name is Cassandra.&nbsp; I don't think i got yours...&nbsp; Sorry, I probably just missed it in the excitement.&nbsp; Want me to wash your hair?'&nbsp; <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">In the baths.</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/03/Leanna-decker-shower-bikini-tits-redhead-nude-playboy-20-800x1200.jpg)(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c9/Leanna-Decker-Nude-TheFappeningBlog.com-8.jpg)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>01-07-2022, 20:37:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a8/69/21/a8692123642dc4adc8684b7130cc9e6d.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 3, Post 1 - Judge, Jury, and Executioner</strong><br><br>I don't want to spend a lot of time over sleeping arrangements. @crabmouse and @Muse, I'll let you figure out whether to stay in the Common Room, or prevail on someone to share their room (and possibly their bed). <br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/fe/aa/ac/feaaacbfa8dd4ad052f1637c2310fce5.jpg)</div>Sondanwe found out that Alisandra had booked the last and only private room in the Inn. Pharli found that her work at the Inn entitled her to sleep in the kitchen. Although, the staff would be up early to begin preparing breakfast, and Pharli would need to help.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>Cassandra and Sondenwe had the option of either sleeping in the Common room with the Orcs or convincing someone to allow them to use the floor in their room.<br><br><hr>The morning started early, with smells coming from the kitchen. The fare that came out was plain but filling - boiled oatmeal, but with bits of dried fruit and Urns of a strong Herbal tea. Jerky was available for one extra copper and was popular with the Orcs. Some of the Orcs demanded beer, but Kitty was firm, <strong>"No alcohol till after the trial."</strong><br><br>The lead Orc was clad in chainmail and carried a Battle Axe and Shield. This was in contrast to the other Orcish warriors clad in Hide and armed with Mauls. The lead Orc came up to Sondanwe and announced in Orcish <strong>"Hokulk tribe friend of Sondanwe. The tribe will protect Sondanwe from bad goblins. Sondanwe friend of Hokulk?"</strong> the Orc continued his attempt at persuasion. <strong>"Bare is back with no brother to protect. Sondanwe strong spell caster, but no warrior. Need warrior to protect."</strong><br><br>The chainmail-clad Orc shifted his attention to the other three women, <strong>"Maybe other women need strong Orc warriors to protect them?"</strong> The Orc flexed his muscles under the chainmail. Then he slapped his oversized codpiece, <strong>"Urg strong warrior. Make many strong babies."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>02-07-2022, 16:11:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cassandra was already asking the girls if anyone wanted to share a room when she found out that there was only one to be had, and it was...&nbsp; Well, had.&nbsp; And the orcs had the commons?&nbsp; ""Meep!&nbsp; Alisandra, please...&nbsp; May I split your room?&nbsp; If you don't want company in bed I'll sleep on the floor.&nbsp; I'm..." she swallowed hard, then sighed.&nbsp; "Okay, I suppose sharing the commons with greensknis is not the most alarming thing i've ever done.&nbsp; Its just been a while."&nbsp; She flashed their hostess a smile, "I mean, I already know your floor is going to be cleaner than a lot of places I've slept!"&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>02-07-2022, 23:13:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>At the mention of being out of rooms, Alisandra frowned with sympathy.&nbsp; “I don’t actually need to sleep,” she told Sondanwe.&nbsp; “If you want my room, by all means.”&nbsp; She really was either just the kind of person who kept trying to do nice things…unless she was doing it all consciously in order to maintain her power, but the former seemed more likely.<br><br>Alisandra spent the night quietly staring at the golden-white sphere, apparently seeming either to communicate with it or somehow divine information.&nbsp; A simple chair was sufficient for her, and by morning, she was delighted for hot tea but completely uninterested in the jerky.<br><br>The offer for protection got the reaction of a thankful smile even as she politely declined.&nbsp; “I appreciate the offer,” she conjured a puff of sparkling dust with Prestidigitation, “but I’m tougher than I look.&nbsp; Really, I should be asking if there’s any issues in or around town that require magic to fix.”&nbsp; Something casual and demure about her tone showed that she wasn’t throwing her hat in for an alliance, just that she was the kind of person who hoped to help in whatever ways she could.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>03-07-2022, 00:52:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe was drying off when Alisandra offered her room. "<strong>That is so kind of you!</strong>" she said loudly in common. She began dressing, noticing her fingers fumble. She was more intoxicated than she'd been in a long time. <br>"<strong>It will be so nice to have a private room after my long journey.</strong>" she spoke to Alisandra again but was secretly answering the humans question. No, she would not be sharing the room. She left the group and found the room. Happy not to look over her shoulder for a night. <br><br><hr><br>Sondanwe returned to the common room well rested. Her clothes clean from a spell, and her body washed. She greeted the orcs with a smile as she ordered her meal. <br>"<span style="font-family: impact;" class="bbc_font">Jiak kij ij lug ro ul hokulk.</span>" she responded to Urg in orish as she raised her cup aloft. She was in a good mood. The trail would be an inconvenience but things were going her way. The hobgoblins would either rule in her favor or the orcs would cause trouble. <br>"<span style="font-family: impact;" class="bbc_font">Jiak evinaj appreciate tukor shad danak my kurrauz even kor kilgjis ezog ligagoblins.</span>"<br>Sondanwe tried her best not to react to the orcs disgusting proposal. A elf orc hybrid would be an abomination. She was glad he didn't make the proposal to her. <br><br>"<strong>Kitty, a beer or two wont hurt them!</strong>" she called out before taking a bite of oatmeal. "<strong>This is a tavern isn't it?</strong>" The more they were ready to fight and the more chaos they caused at the trail, the more beneficial for her she calculated. Especially if she appeared neutral at the trail. Besides, she wanted to endear herself to them as much as she could.&nbsp; <br><br>Sondanwe almost laughed when Alisandra offered her dogooder service to the orcs. Sondanwe had already benefited from her kindness in the form of the private room. <br>"<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong><em>Ni indóme mel your turma.</em></strong></span>" she called out to the elf. <br>"<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong><em>Please tíre- váre- me lú sina námo. Ni vaquet- ana péle- ana slaverime ar don't estel incegoblins ana sanye justlime</em></strong></span>.<br><br><br><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Orcish</strong></span><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I am a friend of the Hokulk</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I would appreciate strong warriors protecting my back even from these wretched hobgoblins.</div></div> <br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Elvish</strong></span><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I would appreciate your service.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Please help protect me during this trial. I refuse to return to slavery and don't trust hobgoblins to rule justly.</div></div><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>03-07-2022, 23:17:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a8/69/21/a8692123642dc4adc8684b7130cc9e6d.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 3, Post 1 - Judge, Jury, and Executioner</strong><br><br>I only need a post from Sondanwe to forward the action<br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/8d/eb/7a/8deb7ac683e3183ea5f94926b3301af4.jpg)</div>The beat of the drum came from outside, <strong>"Come,"</strong> Urg told the group <strong>"Sondanwe will stand in front, and all those who support her will stand behind her."</strong><br><br><strong>"Be wary of the talking stick; only one touched by the stick can talk as long as the stick touches them. To speak out of turn is to challenge the Hobs. We will put paid to them, but not today. To challenge them now would weaken us for the next challenger. If the verdict goes against you, run for the gate. the Hokuk will block their way."</strong><br><br>Urg gave Sondanwe a piercing look and then continued in Orcish, <strong>"As the Hokuk stands with you today, so will you stand with Hokuk when the time is right."</strong><br><br><hr><br>The Drum seemed to have summoned most of the village to a center square. There were maybe a hundred or so, including the Orc and Hobgoblins. Arty and Kittie were their as well. <br><br>In the middle of the square was a raised dais of stone. On the dais stood the two slavers from yesterday, and a dozen Hobgoblins.&nbsp; The 'talking stick' that Urg had mentioned was less stick and more large staff and held by an imposing Hobgoblin.<br><br>When most of the village had assembled, the drums stopped beating and the Hobgoblin slammed the staff on the stone dais three times, <strong>"Yesterday, there was a public incident - between these two,"</strong> The Hobgoblin gestured to the two slavers, <strong>" and a newcomer,"</strong> the Hobgoblin pointed at Sondanwe.&nbsp; <br><br><strong>"Speak,"</strong> the Hobgoblin rested the stick on one of the two slavers, <strong>"She's a slave. An escaped slave. There's a bounty for her return to her Owner."</strong> the Slaver turned around to look at the Hobgoblin, <strong>"We can ah give you an advance on the reward if you turn her over to us."</strong> The slaver smiled.<br><br>The Hobgoblin leader stepped off the dais and approached Sondanwe. He tapped the Half-Elf Sorcerer on on her shoulders with the Staff, <strong>"Speak."</strong> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>04-07-2022, 02:11:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe nodded as he spoke. As he did, she began forming a protective shield around her in case anything went wrong. Being on the run again would not suit her. She would force the action. Just as they were leaving, so he would not have time to respond, she whispered in orcish. "<span style="font-family: impact;" class="bbc_font">Um khe ekko ve lutaum kulknej liwo zee ve khe kigija ul next nak olk dare. Lat ayh ij tukor drepa. Lat need olk drutimer tak.</span>"&nbsp; &nbsp; <br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">If it comes to battle we will see to it that the next challenger won't dare. You are a strong warriors. You need not fear them.</div></div><br>As she approached the court she gave a pleading look to Alisandra. She also worked to her magic, gathering potent energies around her. She would be ready if something went wrong. <br><br>She stood silently as one of the slavers tried to bribe one of the hobgoblins in front of the entire audience. They truly did only value money.<br>She took a deep breath as she readied herself to speak.<br>As a slave, she had learned many ways to perform. Acting was second nature to her. So she raised her hands with her palms open She took another deep breath and passionately addressed the crowd, adding a dramatic flare to her voice.&nbsp; <br><br>"<span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>It is well and good to have this trial!</strong></span>" she declared. As she spoke,she felt the magical energies flowing through her; the touch of Alisandra's divine guidance. With the mystic energy, she seemingly knew what to say next.&nbsp; "<span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>It is a sign of a truly advanced civilization. Well beyond savagery. As we already know, these brigands, who would attempt to bribe a judge right in front of us, are no more than common thugs and should be hung. </strong></span>" she shook her head in disgust.&nbsp; <br>"Yet" she paused, building dramatic tension "<span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>In order to remain civilized, we still must have a trial.</strong></span>" She held an open palm up to the judge, as if he was what held all of society together. <br><br>"<span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>I was kidnapped by brigands, much like these, for no other reason than to sell me. Profits. I was guarding a trade caravan and was abducted on the trade roads.</strong></span>" she gave the slavers a pitying look. <br>"<strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">They then sold me to the owner of the FourLakes Tavern, who forced me to entertain his guests.</span></strong>" she looked down to the floor, bringing her hand to her forehead as if in pain.<br>&nbsp;"<span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>I quickly learned my station would be permanent. He had no intention of ever letting me free. While some slaves are given the option of working off their debt, he gave me no such option. My only hope was escape, or being sold to a kinder master. I will not waste the court's time with tales of his cruelty but believe me when I say there are numerous tales.</strong></span>"&nbsp; She took a deep breath and shot a smile towards Alisandra, in gratitude for her help. <br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Roll Persuasion:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">Convince the orcs to fight if things go wrong 1d20+5=16<strong>(21)</strong></span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Roll Performance with Inspiration:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">Dramatize the defense to make it more compelling.&nbsp; 2d20+1d4+5=10,4:3<strong>(18)</strong></span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">Cast Mage Armor<strong><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">Transform Level 2 Spell Slot into 3 Sorcery Points.<strong></strong></span></strong></span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>04-07-2022, 02:24:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>When Sondanwe mentioned about wanting help, Alisandra gave a simple nod that she already had such intention of being there and doing what she could.&nbsp; She didn’t know the full story, but what she did know and recognize was promising enough that she felt confident in such an offer.<br><br>Sure enough, before things got started, Alisandra started a spell and placed a Guidance upon Sondanwe to guide her words.<br><br>Finally, after hearing Sondanwe’s story, Alisandra herself offered her hand in the hopes for a chance to speak and persuade the crowd as best she could.&nbsp; Her signet ring gently sparkles in the sunlight as she kept her hand upraised.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>04-07-2022, 11:10:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cassandra was rather moved by the poor girl's plight herself--but also impressed by her elloquence.&nbsp; The redhead stood in support of Sondanwe and held her peace.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>05-07-2022, 20:11:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a8/69/21/a8692123642dc4adc8684b7130cc9e6d.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 3, Post 3 - Judge, Jury, and Executioner</strong><br><br>@Crabmouse,<br>It costs more to Create a spell slot than you can get by converting a spell slot into sorcery points. For example, You create a 2nd level spell slot with three Sorcery points but converting the 2nd level spell slot into sorcery points only yields two points. My rough count is Sondanwe has spent one 1st level spell slot and one Sorcery Point to Cast/Twin <br>Dissonant Whispers.<br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/8d/eb/7a/8deb7ac683e3183ea5f94926b3301af4.jpg)</div><br>Sondanwe had fired up her audience. At the end of her impassioned performance,&nbsp; the Orcs began calling out <strong>"Sondanwe, Sondanwe."</strong> It was a call taken up by a number of the villagers. The Hobgoblins closed ranks and started to move forward. For a moment, it looked like the meeting was about to come to blows.<br><br>However, the Hobgoblin leader raised his staff and stepped forward to face the crowd. His staff came down on Alisandra, and he called out in a booming voice, <strong>"Speak."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>06-07-2022, 02:55:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>Alisandra accepted the staff with a nod of thanks and a combination of prayer for having her way guided in Celestial along with the actual Guidance spell, taking a deep breath before she began to speak.<br><br>"For those who don't know me, my name is Lady Alisandra Starfire."&nbsp; Her words carried gentle but permeating eloquence.&nbsp; "Born into the nobility and through association, I've had plenty of time to see people rule each other, both well and poorly.&nbsp; The same rules of the ownership of slavery extend to governing cities or countries; there are two types of rulers.&nbsp; When done well, the ruler is seen as kind and benevolent.&nbsp; Everyone <em>wants</em> them in charge, because they can handle things fairly, they know what they're doing, and it's just not worth it to see what chaos the next person or group will bring if they lose the position."&nbsp; She shook her head as the smile left her face.&nbsp; "Then you have the tyrants, those who rule by brutality.&nbsp; Perhaps they have the strength of arms to win their position through battle, perhaps they were just able to poison their way to the top through treachery.&nbsp; They treat others as scum beneath them, often because they know, deep down, that they don't deserve what they have.&nbsp; Too often, they abuse their position with gold, knowing that other corrupt people in positions of power will gladly choose their greed over morality."&nbsp; If she wasn't going to offer a bribe, she had to cancel out the one that was offered.<br><br>She gestured towards the slavers with an upturned palm.&nbsp; "I find little fault with these men for seeking out slaves, because most slaves are made so for a genuine chance at a better life, and either through the law or their own consent."&nbsp; Briefly her eyes fixed on them.&nbsp; "Though I would love to know the name of your employer.&nbsp; Obviously, though," she gestured to Sondanwe, "someone justly made a slave fleeing their responsibilities was not the case here.&nbsp; Nor do I recognize the right of a brute to abuse his slaves; a good leader will make his slaves better people just as a good warlord will turn everyone under his command into a better warrior.&nbsp; A bad warlord won't hold his position of authority for long, failing to command respect and ultimately abandoned."<br><br>Another wave of now well-cleaned hands about the crowd.&nbsp; "To suggest that she should meekly go back with them when she should never have been a slave to begin with is the height of foolishness, just as to say that she should not be allowed to defend herself.&nbsp; I have absolutely zero belief that she would have been left entirely to her own devices were she to leave them be."&nbsp; One hand gestured to the orcs, another to the hobgoblins.&nbsp; "The situation clearly didn't have the civility and understanding that your groups have."&nbsp; Some might say such things in sarcasm or mockery, but her tone was completely honest and truthful; that they didn't come to blows showed more of a level of society than existed in many places.<br><br>"My recommendation is to let the matter rest.&nbsp; Having her punished and imprisoned isn't something that she, the employer, or the slavers would want, the slavers not only because it'd speak poorly on their ability to have their quarry brought back alive but because they wouldn't want to explain to others that they had to be rescued from near death by the townsfolk.&nbsp; Better to let them leave peacefully and seek out a slave who actually deserves the title," her eyes turned back to the slavers, "especially since they now know she's no longer alone."<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC: Persuasion 24</div><div class="spoiler_body">18+1+5</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>06-07-2022, 21:13:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> <br>Sondanwe wanted to hug Alisandra. Her defense was so well spoken. Sondanwe did her best not to smile - things seemed to be going her way. The citizens seemed to be taking her side. <br>She raised her hand high to speak again. There was still the problem of the Hobgoblins. It was clear their adversities took her side. The hobgoblins would most likely be in a predicament: rule in her favor and give victory to the orcs. Rule against her and there would be a riot on their hands. <br>Sondanwe would give them a way out. She would argue letting the brigands had disrespected the hobgoblins rule.<br>As she raised her hand high, she looked to the slavers out of the corner of her eye. How were they taking this outcome? 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>06-07-2022, 22:05:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a8/69/21/a8692123642dc4adc8684b7130cc9e6d.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 3, Post 4 - Judge, Jury, and Executioner</strong><br><br>Persuasion Rolls<br>Alisandre Persuasion 24 on Hobgoblins.<br>Sondanwe Persuasion 21 on Orcs.<br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/8d/eb/7a/8deb7ac683e3183ea5f94926b3301af4.jpg)</div><strong>"Born into the nobility and through association, I've had plenty of time to see people rule each other, both well and poorly."</strong> began Alisandra in a rousing speech that seemed to enthrall the Hobgoblins.<br><br>The two slavers ignored what Sodanwe had to say. After all, she was a slave and who listened to slaves. However, the response by the Orcs and many of the villagers seemed to put them on edge.<br><br>At the end, The Hobgoblin Leader stood silent. Finally, the leader spoke, <strong>"I'm no Noble, no ruler, just a soldier trying to perform his mission as best he can. However, I do know that when rulers make mistakes, soldiers like myself usually bear the brunt of those mistakes."</strong><br><br><strong>"As to Sondanwe,"</strong> The Hobgoblin spoke, <strong>"Her actions yesterday rest on whether or not she is a slave. If she is a slave, then to resist the two slavers is a crime, along with running away. If she is not a slave then her actions are those of a free person defending herself."</strong><br><br><strong>"Here is what I do know. If these two leave,"</strong> the Hobgoblin leader gestured to the two slavers with his staff, <strong>"With or without their slave,"</strong> he gestured to Sondanwe with his free hand. <strong>"We will have others following - slavers looking for escaped slaves, perhaps slavers looking to find new slaves. Who knows, we may even get some mercenary company or aspiring lord, looking to make money by enslaving all of us."</strong> The Hobgoblin leader looked piercingly at Alisandra, <strong>"It is easy to make recommendations when you sit in the stands in the arena. It is different when you are in the pit striving for your very survival."</strong><br><br>The Hobgoblin leader looked at the four members of the Party, <strong>"Tell us that the four of you will stand with the village when the time comes, and I'll listen to your recommendations."</strong><br><br>The crowd had gone silent, and the Party noticed that everyone - Orc, Hobgoblins, villagers - was looking at them very intently.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>06-07-2022, 22:50:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe spoke quickly at the invitation. "<strong>I would side with all who would do justice and so I would gladly stand by your town.</strong>" she did her best to fuel her voice with passion.<br><br>She took a deep breath once again to as she got back into character. It seemed the hobgoblin was insinuating the same thing she had planned on declaring. "<strong>You speak with wisdom.</strong>" She paused respectfully and raised a finger. "<strong>We must consider that these humans, like many of their kind, disregard the rule of other races.Not all but these two and the ones who sent them.</strong>" she pointed at the slavers and with an accusatory tone "<strong>If you let them leave it sends the message that foreign law trumps your own. They came here with no respect or desire to know who ruled here or what the laws are. You are wise to see it.The story will be that they failed because I defeated them in combat. Every brigand, every bounty hunter, every law man, will say there is no law here.</strong>" she pointed at a random hobgoblin. "<strong>If some human baselessly accusing you of murder, you would want to be tried by an honorable judge.</strong>" she gestured towards the judge with an open hand. "<strong>if this precedent stands, where they are free to dispense with their own justice, then they won't seek to try you. They will simply enter this noble town and do murder.</strong>" She looked to the slavers again. "<strong>What punishment for the crime of flaunting your laws to do their own justice in your lands? I believe hanging is the only answer. If they had any respect for your law at all they would not try to bribe you so openly.</strong>" <br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Roll Performance</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"> Dramatize the accusation to make it more compelling.&nbsp; 1d205=15<strong>(20)</strong></span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>07-07-2022, 02:21:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cassandra wanted to cheer for the speeches.&nbsp; She kept her mouth shut--unless the town was cheering, then she let herself go.&nbsp; She didn't have such fine words but--when she was touched with the staff--simply spoke up in a ringing tone--"The power of the flame is mine."&nbsp; The curvy redhead sent a firebolt into the sky like a little fireworks.&nbsp; "Power with which I will fight for this town."&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>07-07-2022, 03:19:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=342867.msg16227035#msg16227035">Quote from: RedKnight on 06-07-2022, 22:05:56</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">At the end, The Hobgoblin Leader stood silent. Finally, the leader spoke, <strong>"I'm no Noble, no ruler, just a soldier trying to perform his mission as best he can. However, I do know that when rulers make mistakes, soldiers like myself usually bear the brunt of those mistakes."</strong><br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>The words got a gentle smile from Alisandra, one of respect.&nbsp; In her experience, those leaders who made no real claim to the title and offered no empty bravado made the best leaders, especially when they understood the true weight of a crown.<br><br>His piercing stare and mention of recommendations and bystanders.&nbsp; Her own judgment would not fall upon him if he felt the need to execute the two men of dubious virtue for the sake of trying to save the town, and her expression made her thoughts clear.&nbsp; Leaders who took into consideration their town and innocent lives, who understood that their troops should never be wasted but might need to be spent, like currency, for the sake of others were worthy of respect in her eyes.<br><br>Somehow, though, she continued to show no preference between the two groups.&nbsp; Nothing about her suggested anything about the orcs, simply recognition that the hobgoblin leader had been a good leader so far.&nbsp; She held no preference for the factions beyond that of the individual, and of the wisdom and worthiness of whoever held the top of the hill at the moment.<br><br>Cassandra's words got a brief look of surprise.&nbsp; Alisandra had expected little from the girl, after all, but a fourth magic user with power all her own was a welcome addition.&nbsp; It wasn't a certainty, but in all likelihood, a town saturated with orcs and hobgoblins would be strong on muscle but weak in magical acumen.<br><br>As the staff came upon her, she said, "I'm also a Celestial Warlock, tasked with using the power granted to me to do good in this world.&nbsp; If you feel that these two need to be executed for the good of this town, I don't know enough about the situation to speak against it.&nbsp; However, if you know where people are unfairly and unjustly enslaving people for nothing more than evil and personal gain, that's exactly where I want to be, certainly so if there's reason to believe it's coming to this city."<br><br>The combination of blue silk finery and her studded leather armor cut quite a contrast, but gave people some hint as to the kind of person she was.&nbsp; Even if she didn't dive headfirst into battle or relish the destruction of any but the truly depraved, she was no stranger to battle or its necessity.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>08-07-2022, 23:10:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a8/69/21/a8692123642dc4adc8684b7130cc9e6d.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 3, Post 4 - Judge, Jury, and Executioner</strong><br><br>Check out the Discord OOC for a few bits.<br><br><hr><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/8d/eb/7a/8deb7ac683e3183ea5f94926b3301af4.jpg)</div><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: Alisandra</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"I'm also a Celestial Warlock, tasked with using the power granted to me to do good in this world. If you feel that these two need to be executed for the good of this town, I don't know enough about the situation to speak against it. However, if you know where people are unfairly and unjustly enslaving people for nothing more than evil and personal gain, that's exactly where I want to be, certainly so if there's reason to believe it's coming to this city."</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>The Hobgoblin leader nodded his head to Alisandra, a sign of mutual respect, <strong>"A wise leader defers to the person on the spot."</strong> then a slight smile, <strong>"As well a wise leader ensures that actions both uphold the benefit of the Horde and respect the law. In this case, we have a common cause with Sondanwe. The Kingdom unfairly enslaved her. As well, the Kingdom considers all who live here outlaws and rebels. Several times has Nowhere been under the heal of some noble or another. In each case, it has been up to us,"</strong> the leader's gesture took in the assembled - Orc, Hobgoblins, and Villagers, <strong>"To eject the parasite from the village."</strong><br><br>Then the leader cautioned Alisandra, <strong>"Do not think your titles or your gold counts for much here in Nowhere. Respect is earned by the strength of arms and deeds of daring."</strong> and then turned to Sodanwe, <strong>"Your actions yesterday have earned their respect."</strong> The Hobgoblin Leader gestured to the Orcs behind Sondanwe. <strong>"Continue to act worthy of their respect, or you may follow these two."</strong><br><br>The Hogblin leader looked at Urg, the Orc leader, and then called out, <strong>"Let this be a reminder to all who would threaten the safety and security of our Village."</strong><br><br>At their leader's words, the two Hobgoblin guards drove the slavers to their knees. The Hobgoblin leader drew his sword and beheaded each of the two mean with a long downward cut of his sword.<br><br>The Hobgoblin leader raised his sword and cried out, <strong>"Justice."</strong> After a few seconds, the cry was echoed by many of the villagers, but none so loudly as the Orcs.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>peachfuzz221</strong> on <strong>13-07-2022, 01:22:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/021/776/701/large/anna-elizabeth-astrid2.jpg?1572906977)</div>Pharli had slept in the kitchen after the bath then made her way outside the tavern to play spectator to the trial. Coming to stand beside a fiery Cassandra, she watched the scene play out silently. As she had nothing to do with the trial at hand, she remained a wallflower, supporting the two women at its peak from a distance. Once the Hobgoblin severed the heads from the shoulders of the slavers, finishing the trial, she motioned for Sondanwe and Alisandra to come closer, turning to acknowldge the human woman at her side.<br><br>"<strong>Quite the spectacle</strong>", she murmured. "<strong>At least Nowhere has two less cretins in its hovel. Could I interest you three in a quest, of sorts?</strong>"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>13-07-2022, 03:15:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>Alisandra watched the execution in silence, her thoughts obvious by her expression.&nbsp; She understood the necessity and didn’t feel as though the wrong call had been made, but it still saddened her that there hadn’t been another way.<br><br>There was at least some solace that, for the immediate time being, the town was safe.<br><br>As the wood elf came over and mentioned a quest, Alisandra simply nodded her interest, knowing there was little she could say that wouldn’t be a repeat of the last few minutes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>13-07-2022, 07:36:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe allowed herself a vindictive smile as the slavers were brought to the chopping block. She did not often have sadistic thoughts but she could not help but but revel in their demise.&nbsp; She should have predicted the outcome. The hobgoblins needed to sate their lust for blood. Why would they give up a chance for an execution. <br>As the heads rolled Sondanwe took a deep breath of satisfaction. She nodded to the judge polity, a sign of respect, and then nodded to the orcs who had supported her. <br>She was walked away from the commotion when the wood elf accosted her once again. <br>She responded in High Elf, trying her best to be polite. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Ni'm sorrime, ni care- vamme sinte anime nat about sangwa ettele. Ar at i lú ni maure plan eth mime tatya vanta.</em></span>" Sondanwe adjusted her glasses and continued, "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Mime boon an tye, na- i yare tye maquen- vamme nólë ana mót- as tye, tye should anne- tien a anna an action so. Ni've been ter- an sarda lú ar maure vamme linne- ter- plus ana foraime i lin- hyarya -o i cemen.</em></span>" <br><br>She then walked over to Alisandra and wrapped her arms around her in a tight embrace. <br>"<span style="font-size: 7pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Anna tye,</em></span>" she whispered. She held Alisandra tightly for a few more seconds and then pulled away. Looking her in the eyes she thanked her again and then went to find Kitty, she would want to reserve a room for the night.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">I'm sorry, I don't know anything about cursed lands. And at the moment I need plan out my next move.</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">My advice for you, is that when you ask strangers to quest with you, you should give them a reason for doing so. <br>I've been through an arduous ordeal and need not go through another to right the many wrongs of the world.</div></div><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Thank you.</div></div> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>14-07-2022, 00:00:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/e1/be/e1/e1bee16d747a4ffca52dc819c932376e.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 3, Post 5 - Judge, Jury, Executioner.</strong><br><br>Characters: Arty, Alisandra, Pharli<br><br><hr>As Sondanwe walked away, Arty moved towards Pharli. The Elven Artificer shook his head at the departing Sorcerer. <strong>"I saw too many like her at school. All charm and good looks, when they need you to enchant something for them or help them study to pass a test. When you need help, they're too busy washing their hair or doing their nails."</strong><br><br>Arty looked at Pharli, <strong>"I'll help you. Although it could be a bit dangerous with just the two of us."</strong> and then to Alisandra, <strong>"I don't know what skills you have. You don't look like a fighter or even a seasoned adventurer. However, we could use one or two more. The scorpion lair is but a half-day from here. If we can catch it in its fave, I can keep it bottled up while. As well,"</strong> Arty tapped a vial in his vest, <strong>"I've got an antitoxin that will give me some resistance against its stinger."</strong><br><br><hr>IC: Sondanwe and Kitty<br><br><strong>"I private room. Well, the Lady there, "</strong> She gestured to Alisandra, <strong>"Has a suite, not really meant to be a private room since it has quarters for servants. The standard rooms, are meant to sleep two or four."</strong> Kitty grinned at Sondanwe, <strong>"Recently, one of my working girls went and got pregnant. She is out of the lineup and I can give you that room at a discount right now, but if someone shows up and wants her place, you'll have to move."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>14-07-2022, 18:01:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div><br>"<strong>I will just take a room for four then. I will pay the extra. </strong>" <br>&nbsp;Sondanwe was about to ask about travel to the coast when she heard someone insulting her. She turned to see a High Elf complaining to the wood elf. Her eyes widened in rage. <br><br>"<span style="font-size: 10pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: arial black;" class="bbc_font"><em>Mana did tye eques? Ni've maquen- úqua -o her ar ni debt her boons sí?</em></span></span>" she pointed her finger at the High Elf "<span style="font-family: arial black;" class="bbc_font"><em><span style="font-size: 10pt;" class="bbc_size">Tye sinte úqua about me. Ni paime mime debts! Ar ana tye milme vamme nólë ni debt úqua!</span></em></span>"<br><br>She then turned to the wood elf and sighed. "<span style="font-size: 9pt;" class="bbc_size"><em>Mime naraca quetta are vamme an tye. Mal warime mime quetta, sina moriquende na- lala mára.</em></span>"<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">What did you say? I've asked nothing of her and I owe her favors now?</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">You know nothing about me. I pay my debts! And to you entitled strangers I owe nothing!</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">My harsh words are not for you. But heed my words, this elf is no good.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>15-07-2022, 07:28:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cassandra's head spun.&nbsp; She really wished she spoke more langueges. "erm, well," she looked back and forth between the groups.&nbsp; "I'm still willing to help so please don't leave without me." <br>&nbsp;She then stepped back from between the two.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>18-07-2022, 22:35:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/e1/be/e1/e1bee16d747a4ffca52dc819c932376e.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 4, Post 1 - A Hunting we will go.</strong><br><br>Characters: Arty, Alisandra, Cassandra, Sondanwe, Kitty, Pharli<br><br><hr>Kitty looked from Arty to Sondanwe and explained to the Half-Elf. <strong>"Arty is a bit woman shy, having been badly burned."</strong> Arty blushed at this comment. <strong>"Still, he has a point; who would you rather have to owe you a favor, this Elven lass, or the Orcs. Or better yet, both."</strong><br><br>Kitty shook her head, <strong>"Whoever you were is in the past, you are a wanted woman with a price on her head. Those two slavers are not the only ones looking for you. Better to find friends here than face the Badlands alone."</strong> Kitty chuckled deprecatingly, <strong>"There are few jobs here in Nowhere for women like you and me. Your best bet is to seek your fortune in the Badlands."</strong><br><br>Kitty looked at where the sun was in the sky and then at Arty. <strong>"If those who are going leave now, you can likely make it to the scorpion caves and back before Nightfall. It will be a hot, dusty trip, but you will avoid the various things that hunt the Badlands at night."</strong><br><br>Arty looked at Pharli and smiled, <strong>"For you, I'll brave the Badlands and the Scorpions. Although, we should net a fair bit of gold from the Scorpion shells and even more if we find something in their lair."</strong><br><br>The Arty turned to Sondanwe. He looked the Sorcerer up and down with an appraising gaze. <strong>"My apologies, I do know nothing of you. Unfortunately, you remind me all too much of several fellow students."</strong> then her turned and have a hand flourish to Pharli, <strong>"It is her quest, she invited you, and you refused. I will leave it to the two of you to decide whether or not you will venture out with us, or even whether we will venture out at all."</strong> <br><br>Kitty chuckled, <strong>"Don't let his attitude deceive you. Arty is salivating at the opportunity to test out his new armor and craft some armor out of the scorpion shell."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>18-07-2022, 22:57:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> <br>Sondanwe frowned at the cat's assessment. "<strong>He seems to think it's me who owes the favor. It is unwise to make common cause with fools.</strong>" <br><br>Sondanwe walked up to the fellow High Elf. "<strong>Perhaps you've taken after the friends you've left behind, thinking yourself entitled.</strong> She then turned to the wood elf, who had been silent during the whole argument. "<strong>I will help with these scorpions if you promise to help me get to the coast.</strong>" She turned back to Arty, "<strong>When I travel to the coast you can stay here.</strong>" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>19-07-2022, 21:05:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>Alisandra wasn't much for these kind of personal arguments, not because she was unused to them, but because they reminded her of the worst parts of her childhood.&nbsp; That nobles could get into petty squabbles was exceptionally well-known, and she just didn't like to participate.&nbsp; It was better to stay out of it, in her experience, and let others sort things out unless they outright came to blows.<br><br>She was more than happy to go; the best thing she could do was to say nothing and let everyone else hammer it out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>19-07-2022, 21:46:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/c3/6e/4f/c36e4fce91f9f4d652541045ceb146ca.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 4, Post 2 - A Hunting we will go.</strong><br><br>Characters: Arty, Alisandra, Cassandra, Sondanwe, Kitty, Pharli<br><br><hr>Arty's face fell at Sondanwe's request for Pharli to help her get to the coast. However, the Elven Artificer, soon turned his mind to the task at hand. <strong>"Come, Kitty is right that the Scorpion Lair is several hours on foot. However, I have a magnificent invention, cobbled together from bits and pieces I found in the ruins."</strong><br><br>Arty leads the group back into his workshop, where he unlocks a hidden stairway that decends into another room equal to the size of the one above. While the room above housed active experiments, this room held a combination of spare supplies and junk; however, in the center of the room was a strange vehicle. It is a carriage but with no place to harness horses.&nbsp; <br><br>Arty led Pharli to one of the front seats, and then he hopped in the other. He told the other three women, <strong>"Climb in, although it will be a bit tight quarters in the rear, and do hold on, it can get a bit bumpy."</strong><br><br>Once everyone had climbed aboard, the carriage began moving. Arty drove the carriage through a hole in the wall and down a tunnel for some distance. The tunnel appeared to end, but Arty performed some arcane gestures, and it began opening onto the Badlands outside of the village walls. The tunnel appeared to come out in an area shielded from the village walls by a rise in the ground. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>21-07-2022, 14:19:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So, scorpions?&nbsp; And your an enchanter?&nbsp; Do you have any antitoxins?"&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well, if we're going to be there soon..."&nbsp; Cassandra cast a spell.&nbsp; Silver light sheathed her body, then vanished.&nbsp; "Okay, I'm ready."&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She followed the group down into the cavern bellow.&nbsp; Brown eyes narrowed at teh contraption.&nbsp; "Is that...&nbsp; No horse hitch?&nbsp; Is that an animated object?"&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cassandra slipped into the back seat&nbsp; between Sondwae and Alisandra.&nbsp; When the buggy leaped forwards at what felt like great speed, the redhead yelped and scooched back into the steat.&nbsp; Then they were out in the dunes.&nbsp; The redhead gave a squeal of fear and delight and grabbed the hands of the girls on either side.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>22-07-2022, 08:12:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe eyed the contraption suspiciously. "<strong>No horses?</strong>" she confirmed as she got into the strange metal object. <br>"<strong>No horses?</strong>" she asked again. She was given an answer as the carriage moved on its own. She grabbed hold of her seat as the thing jumped forward. <br><br>She was also surprised to see the strange woman aboard. The one who said she could have helped in the fight against the slavers and also followed her into the baths. "<strong>My name is Sondanwe</strong>." she said, finally greeting the strange human. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>24-07-2022, 20:47:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>As Alisandra followed inside, she was likewise surprised about the lack of horses, but ultimately just shrugged and said to Sondanwe in Elvish, "&lt;Must be Gnomish work.&nbsp; I once saw a chariot that was pulled by two horses made of metal, with lots of gears inside, made by gnomes.&gt;"<br><br>Beyond that, though, she made sure to sit on the edge, wanting to be able to start blasting with a straight view if the vehicle came under assault.&nbsp; The last thing she wanted was to be stuck where she couldn't shoot.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>01-08-2022, 22:06:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/e1/be/e1/e1bee16d747a4ffca52dc819c932376e.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 4, Post 3 - Shh, be vewy, vewy quiet; We're hunting scorpions</strong><br><br>Characters: Arty, Alisandra, Cassandra, Sondanwe, Pharli<br><br>1) I don't like having NPCs take the lead in encounters. I feel it robs the players of narrative control. I added Arty to give the group a fighter/tank. However, I think this is a teachable moment where I can show the players how to bring the different strengths of the party together.&nbsp; <br><br>2) I'm going to assume that Pharli and Cassandra will follow Arty's instructions.&nbsp; <br>Pharli and Pass Without Trace - see below.<br>Cassandra - Owl Familiar provides aerial reconnaissance, Adv on Sight and Hearing Perception checks (call it an 18 Passive Perception)<br><br><strong>Pass without a trace</strong> – Assuming your group uses the Rules as Written Stealth and Surprise rules, pass without trace is your premier 2nd level spell and one of the best spells in the game in general. Use its hour long duration to cast well ahead of time in any environment with places to hide, watch the +10 bonus completely blitz past bounded monster passive Perception scores, and either easily surprise enemies or skip past combats entirely in scenarios where you don't want or need to engage, possibly holding concentration on it for reuse in future encounters. <br><br>There is a set of rolls - Perception and or Stealth - when two groups are coming together, and both are relatively stealthy. In this case, I will simplify things by using Passive scores for the group. Passive abilities let me roll everything up to Initiative.<br><br>Turning this into ranged combat is advantageous because the scorpions don't have ranged weapons. I will use a 2D Scale to represent the distance between the party and the scorpions. Technically, the terrain is not flat, it is broken with a series of small ridges and gullies. However, I'm not going to introduce this complexity into the scenario.<br><br>Scorpion<br>Perception 11 vs PC 10+ (https://discord.com/channels/984211430507184218/984212526692712478/1003746870755082383)<br>Scorpion to be spotted 3 vs PC 18 (https://discord.com/channels/984211430507184218/984212526692712478/1003747227946205276)<br><br>Ranges<br>Party: +90<br>Scorpions: +0,-10<br><br>Round 1: PCs have surprise <br>Round 2: Any PCs rolling 11 or higher can act before the Scorpions. If your character has initiative, go on and post Round 2. <br><br>The Giant Scorpions have AC 15. All characters get advantage due to Surprise on Round 1.<br><br>Arty<br>Initiative 9 _Goes after Scorpions Round 2 (https://discord.com/channels/984211430507184218/984212526692712478/1003753839826063440)<br>Hit for 13 Damage (https://discord.com/channels/984211430507184218/984212526692712478/1003753502100705441)<br><hr>Arty drove for some time before stopping his horseless carriage. He looked to Pharli in the front seat. <strong>"This is as close as we can go in the carriage. With your Druidic magic, we should be able to get closer to the scorpions."</strong> then Andy looked to Cassandra, <strong>"And if you can use your familiar to scout ahead, we can find the Scorpions. We will catch them outside their lair with a bit of luck and can engage them at range."</strong> <br><br>He smiled at the two Sorceresses and told them in his particularly artless style, <strong>"And I assume the two of you have some kind of magical attack. After Cassandra and Pharli get us close, you can add your magical attacks."</strong><br><br>Cassandra's familiar took of scanning the terrain for the Scorpions while Pharli masked the group. Soon enough, the familiar found the Scorpions. It appeared to be two of the large beasts - enough scales to make several sets of armor, but a dangerous combination if they should get the party into melee. <br><br>Arty pointed at the lead creature with one of his gauntleted hands and launched a blast of energy that hit the creature.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>crabmouse</strong> on <strong>02-08-2022, 00:34:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/71/41/63/714163da1c2240123a9c122d7944c092.jpg)</div> Sondanwe felt sick when they finally arrived. So as Arty spoke she ignored him, trying her best to catch her breath, leaning against a rock. Sondanwe hated the gnomish contraption. When she finally felt sure footed enough to stand, Arty had already attacked one of the scorpions. <br>Not wasting any time she began casting her magic. She looked to the scorpion Art had just hit and from the deep wells within, she conjured a quick burst of mental energy, using it to penetrate the creature's frail mind. She then took her time to cast yet another spell, whispering into both beasts' minds, finding their fears, the spell mimicked the sound of dozens of desert hawks- all screaming in hunger from every direction. <br><br>Sondanwe steadiest herself on her staff. This much magic at once left her feelings drained. Yet she prepared herself again- to cast yet another spell.<br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Quickened Spell</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">Cast Mind Sliver on First Scorpian. <strong>(Int Save 13)</strong></span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Twinned Spell</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">Cast Dissonant Whispers on Each Scorpian. <strong>(Wisdom Save 13)</strong></span><br><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Mind Sliver Scorpion 1:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">1d6+1=2<strong>(3)</strong></span> <br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">1d4=1<strong>(1)</strong></span> -1 to next saving throw if this saving throw fails<br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Dissonant Whispers Scorpion 1:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">3d6+1=5,5,4<strong>(15)</strong></span> <br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Dissonant Whispers Scorpion 2:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">3d6+1=6,1,3<strong>(11)</strong></span> <br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Reaction</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">Cast Silvery Barbs on Scorpion 1 if it succeeds D-Whispers save. Cast on Scorpion 2 if Scorpion 1 fails and Scorpion 2 Succeeds.</span><br><br>Second attack: <br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Fireball Scorpion 1:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">1d20+5=13<strong>(18)</strong></span>; <span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">1d10=8<strong>(8)</strong></span><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>02-08-2022, 02:03:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>"I can definitely blast away," Alisandra confirmed, "and I can help with healing if someone gets hurt, but not as much if they get poisoned and can't get their limbs moving right."<br><br>As they got up close enough, Alisandra remained quiet until the moment to strike, keeping her right hand clear and ready to point.&nbsp; The words in Celestial were harsh and judgmental as she worked, casting the spell and aiming it through her gestures to manifest a beam of silvery-white light that blasted without mercy.&nbsp; Her intent was to move from target to target, aiming for those already wounded when she could so as to coordinate finishing off the scorpions in tandem.<br><br><br>Initiative: 19<br>First attack: 22 to hit, 8 force damage<br>Second attack (if I'm right and we got a second): 16 to hit, 4 force damage
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>03-08-2022, 12:45:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cassandra stood to the right of Allisandra and a step back.&nbsp; She held up both hands.&nbsp; The gold bangles with the red jade beads around her arms expanded and began to spin.&nbsp; Flames corkscrewed down her arms.&nbsp; Then, when the scorpions were close enough, she unleased a blast of flame at Alisandra's target!&nbsp; <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dice</div><div class="spoiler_body">Fire Bolt!&nbsp; <br>18 to hit for 10 damage!<br><br>Initiative 3<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedKnight</strong> on <strong>05-08-2022, 20:09:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/c3/b5/80/c3b580735171bab8122865bfe8f905c9.jpg)</div><strong>OOC Scene 4, Post 4 - Shh, be vewy, vewy quiet; We're hunting scorpions</strong><br><br>I've moved the results of the turn to the Whiteboard: Road to Nowhere (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FJsC9yGy1G1ttWQNWMsW7IRcBfBaqQ01RujNOYY38KY/edit?usp=sharing)&nbsp; <br><br><hr>Arty's strategy appeared to work out well, as the artificer and the three women unleashed their arcane attacks on the two creatures. The first creature made it through the first round of attacks, but before it could even move, Cassandra and Sondanwe finished it off with a pair of Firebolts.<br><br>The second creature was magically compelled to run away from Sondanwe. However, its instincts were in agreement with its magical fear. The creature ran for its life and soon bolted into a cave.<br><br>Arty looked at the women and smiled, <strong>"They say no game is so dangerous as one backed into a hole. In this case, I think we are a match for the creature."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AndyZ</strong> on <strong>06-08-2022, 22:13:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e2/8B39CC2A-1000-4A6D-8442-80198BA60F8F.jpeg)</div><br>As the silvery-white sparkles faded from Alisandra's closed fist, she surveyed the damage.&nbsp; Less giant scorpions in the world meant that they wouldn't harm innocent people and would aid the world in the only way they could: by their corpses being crafted into useful items.<br><br>She gave a simple nod at the mention of the cave, stepping out of the vehicle.&nbsp; "Wherever you want me for this, so long as you don't want me in the front."&nbsp; She wasn't rendered as helpless as most others would be if surrounded, but the Eldritch Blast was still her preferred spell by far.&nbsp; She would follow with the others.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crossroads: The Road to Nowhere (IC)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>07-08-2022, 09:26:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/e5/Leanna_decker.jpg)</div><strong>Cassandra Fireblossom</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iUgvhXjgTwZPMOVKAZLi93XY8WA7WN8nKVYvimrFTRg/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm no good on the front lines," Cassandra replied, "But I and my fire are with you."&nbsp; She glanced at the other blond, "how often can you do that, Sondanwe?&nbsp; It's really incredible how hard you hit there!"&nbsp; 
			</dd>
		</dl>
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