Post by: Harry Baldman on December 27, 2012, 02:21:21 pm
An RTD Of Biblical Proportions
You, a resident of the fair land of Tezelom, had been living much like any other person of the time - you got by, survived in this cruel, unforgiving world through means you deemed acceptable and effective. However, no matter how you lived, you were always lacking in one thing - enlightenment. It was a hole in your very soul that you barely noticed was there until one fateful day - the day you found God. Not just any god, definitely not one of the gods in the temples. The God. The one true God that would guide you with words of wisdom and entrust you with a holy mission - to spread His word and His faith to heathens of which you were one until very recently.
You will be met by great darkness, ignorance, possibly even outright hatred. But you will prevail. Your God has ordained it, and He is the greatest support a man could ever have.
Onward, prophets. Spread the word.
Spoiler: OOC Introduction, Game Info, Player Selection (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: The Setting (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: The New God (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Prophet Sheet (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: The Mechanics (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: The Miracle System (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Prophet Progression (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: For The More Villainous People (click to show/hide)
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 27, 2012, 02:23:51 pm
The New God, also known as Aulana the Terrible, Mo'kar the Teacher and Ash'Mah the Serpent to some of its followers, is all-knowing, yet free with knowledge. It apparently has a good, if dark sense of humor, but also possesses a vengeful streak a mile wide. The New God is also quite greedy.
The New God likes water, loves alcohol, approves of gaining knowledge, likes gain and seeing unbelievers and enemies of the faith burn like the scum they are. It dislikes war, hates enforced monogamy, disapproves of people who would withhold knowledge, dislikes waste. It also hates disobedience.
Active Prophets
Spoiler: Phiali Heavenchanter (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Gronok the Old (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Elizas Hi!kok Bagon (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Shashari (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Lars the Shepherd (click to show/hide)
Inactive Prophets
Spoiler: Sejena the Temptress (click to show/hide)
Waitlist
1. AKingsQuest - Razeos
2. Innsmothe - Kain of the Frozen Desert
Post by: Digital Hellhound on December 27, 2012, 02:24:11 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 27, 2012, 02:26:59 pm
Post by: Xantalos on December 27, 2012, 02:29:29 pm
Post by: miauw62 on December 27, 2012, 02:34:10 pm
Spoiler: Sheet (click to show/hide)
P.S.: I'm really starting to like odd names that can be shortened to common names.
Post by: Toaster on December 27, 2012, 02:35:30 pm
Post by: TCM on December 27, 2012, 02:40:33 pm
(! is pronounced by clicking the tongue against the roof of your mouth. It's actually a fairly common constant in certain African dialects.)
Gender: Male
Age: 32
Pre-enlightenment Profession: Royal Court Musician
(Entertainer: +1 to using vocal arts to appease to people.
Casanova: -1 to resisting the allures of beautiful seductresses.)
Story of Enlightenment: Elizas was a prized court musician of King Wallo of West Africa. He was showered with wealth, women, and wine. And boy did he love the latter two. He'd indulged in massive wine binges during post-performance feasts and got extremely intoxicated, wandering around the palace in a drunk stupor. His drunkenness drew criticism from the local holymen, especially since he'd bed many women during his intoxication. (Some of these "women" even seemed ambiguous of gender. Or age. Or species.) This criticism and dishonor caused Elizas to drink more. In his most drunken state that he'd ever achieved, he fell asleep and came into contact with God. God fortunately agreed with Elizas, telling him that alcohol was the purest of nourishment to the body, and all his critics were hypocrites, as traditional marriages set before hand were actually blasphemous to the true God. Elizas asked God why he, a humble musician who simply wanted happiness, had to struggle. God replied that it was because he was teaching his earthly creations to get a sense of humor. When Elizas woke up, he had become enlightened. He rush to the court to tell everyone of the news, and was promptly booted out of the Kingdom. Disillusioned, he continued on to find a new kind of people who were willing to see the truth, and after many months, finally came to the land of Tezelom.
Suggestions for the New God: God loves alcohol & and despises traditional, monogamous marriages. He has a good, if sometimes dark, sense of humor.
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 27, 2012, 02:42:59 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on December 27, 2012, 02:50:25 pm
Gender: Male
Age: 32
Former Profession: Soldier
Backstory: Phiali was once a mere soldier from a distant land. You can tell that he is not from Tezelom by his green hair1 and very dark skin. He was sent to attack a neighboring land from his home, far to the south of Teselom. His regiment was slaughtered, but Phiali survived; he didn't know how. Phiali awoke in an oasis, far from the jungles he was raised in. He followed a voice; he learbed the True Teachings. Phiali took his daraje2 and snapped off the blade, leaving it behind to rust. Phiali hiked north many moons, until he founf Teselom, the Chosen Land.
New god: Vengeful, Likes water, Dislikes war
1Dyed, if you prefer realistic hair colors.
2A spearlike weapon with a blade more like a sword's and a curved haft; typically used to combat mounted enemies.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Toughened: +1 to rolls to avoid dying.
Saved: +1 to rolls involving faith.
Moved: +1 to rolls involving speaking, when telling the truth.
Foreign: Xenophobes will distrust Phiali.
Pacifist: Phiali will never intentionally start a fight or hurt anyone.
Everything OK?
Post by: Digital Hellhound on December 27, 2012, 02:53:07 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Don't worry, I won't go over PG13 despite her old profession. If you want the god to be unnamed, I can remove that.
Post by: lawastooshort on December 27, 2012, 02:58:38 pm
Oh, I'll have to get the Prophet Lars in on this.
Prophet of the God of Nude Arson.
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 27, 2012, 03:17:19 pm
Everything OK?
Yes. And I do prefer realistic hair colors.
If you want the god to be unnamed, I can remove that.
Like I wrote in the OP, you can name your god whatever you please and call it whatever you please, just show it proper reverence and respect its ways.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on December 27, 2012, 03:19:11 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 28, 2012, 03:04:12 am
Post by: Xantalos on December 28, 2012, 03:47:57 am
Gender: Male
Age: OLD
Pre-enlightenment profession: Gronok was that old man you see in small villages. The oldest one there, he regaled people with tales of their ancestors/the gods/current events, firelight flickering over his face. He is very charismatic,(+1) and can make up stories and other such stuff in a flash. However, Due to telling so many stories, he occasionally mixes up details.
Story of enlightenent: Gronok had a good life. In exchange for food, water, and a place to sleep, he did what he loved to do: tell stories. He told stories of peace and plenty, war and strife ... rather a lot of the latter, actually. But life was good, and Gronok was happy. It was not to last. Raiders cam one night; in the dark before morn. The village had no chance to survive. Women were raped next to their husbands, then killed and placed in each-others' arms. Children were butchered. Blood covered everything. Gronok, awake by chance, terrifed by the noise, turned to run ... but something stopped him. Something made him turn around, march back into the village where the radiers were cornering a child - the last one left alive - and yell wildly to attract their attention. He even threw a rock or two at them. The raiders turned, and the child slipped away. As the outraged bandits charged toward him, Gronok was calm, knowing he had saved one life, at least. He closed his eyes ... and was shocked to see a pair of blinding eyes staring back at him. As he flinched away from the glare, he heard a voice, saying, You have My favor, and the light grew so blinding as to force Gronok's eyes open. To find every last bandit dead - with charred holes punched through their hearts. Gronok was in awe - he dropped to his knees, and looking up at the sky, beheld them reform into the shape of a cloaked figure. Go forth and spread my word, Prophet, and know that I am with you. The light faded, and Gronok knew his new calling - to spread the faith of the New God.
New God Suggestions: Mo'kar the Teacher (' is a syllable break) is all-knowing but wishes to see mortals learn, approves of gaining knowledge - any knowledge, (ie: both learning math, how to milk a goat, and a moral from a story) and dislikes the act of withholding knowledge from another, ie secrets or deliberately not teaching them math even if they ask to be taught.
Post by: AKingsQuest on December 28, 2012, 06:07:41 am
Gender: Male
Age: 29
Pre-enlightenment profession: Master of The Shadows of Tezelom guild. ( +1
to stealth, has contacts within the city, He is wanted by the city guard. )
Story of enlightenment: Thief, assassin, businessman, all these words could describe Razeos.
He was once just a simple scoundrel, struggling to survive on the mean streets of Tezelom. His gang,
which was called The Shadows of Tezelom, were beyond small time. They were more like a mob of
starving kids, then anything that could seriously be called a gang. But even in his youth, Razeos was
a vastly intelligent man. He could see the raw potential that the shadows had, all they need was
a new leader that could unleash that potential. All they needed was him.
Fortune struck Razeos one day, when the old leader of the Shadows was mysteriously assassinated
in his own bed. With him being declared the next in line for the job not a day before, Razeos could
not of been happier about the turn of events. He quickly took charge, and began a violent campaign
to wipe out every other gang in the city. It took years of brutal fighting, but the shadows eventually
became the last gang standing, and with that came all the city's criminally networks. For most men,
this would be enough, but not for Razeos. He wanted to be more then just a criminal mastermind,
he wanted to be a king. To do this, he used his newly acquired wealth to buy up hundreds of legitimate
businesses across the city, and used them to legally sell stolen goods at sky high prices to their
unsuspecting victims. Only to be stolen again. He then bribed officials so they would making his
gang into guild, which blocked anyone from the lower classes of their ability to charge him of any crime.
He soon became one of the most powerful men in the city. The king of thieves they called him.
But his vast wealth and power left him unfulfilled. He wanted to be a real king, not just the king
of thieves. But that would be imposable for one of his low birth to achieve on his own. His inability
to ever achieve his dream made him despair.
He was laying in bed, sadness washed over him like a blanket, when a voice called out to him.
"I have been watching you Razeos, watching you like a master watches his slave.
So far your cunning, and ruthlessness has impressed me. But now look at you, to scared to die,
and to weak to move ahead. I can help you child of Tezelom. I can give you power beyond that
of mere men. You could be king of this world. All I require is your worship, and obedience."
Rezeos thought about It for only a moment. "Yes my lord."
Suggestions for the New God: This god is ruthless, likes people who use others to grow more powerful, hates helping to others at the cost of yourself.
Post by: Toaster on December 28, 2012, 01:14:54 pm
Gender: Male
Age: 45
Pre-enlightenment profession: Shepherd (Survivalist: Can live off the land. Animal Empathy- Bonus to working with animals, especially sheep. Low Social Status: No one likes shepherds- they stink!)
Story of enlightenment: Lars was tending his flock on a hillside one night, watching the stars. A strange light appearing on a neighboring hill seemed to beckon him. He walked over to the next hill to investigate, and found a fire burning from nothing. He reached out toward it... and the flames enveloped him, washed over him, cleansed him. Lars passed out from the shock, but woke with a new purpose. No more shall Lars tend sheep. Now he shall be a shepherd of men, tending the flock and guiding them on their new path. Those that strayed, however, were not to be rescued- they would be culled.
And the only true way to cull a man was with fire.
Suggestions for the New God: The New God is vengeful and likes seeing those who refuse to see the light burned. He hates disobedience.
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 30, 2012, 06:01:33 am
Post by: IronyOwl on December 30, 2012, 06:55:39 am
Hm... I wonder if this is a sign.
Post by: Xantalos on December 30, 2012, 07:01:05 am
The devil? How did I miss this for three days?A sign to get a character sheet in!
Hm... I wonder if this is a sign.
And stuff.
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 30, 2012, 07:16:10 am
A sign to get a character sheet in!
Actually, yeah, the bump was mostly for Irony, I have to admit. Seemed pretty excited about the idea way back, after all.
Post by: IronyOwl on December 30, 2012, 09:24:58 am
Spoiler: Character (click to show/hide)
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 31, 2012, 05:35:07 am
The Prophets Have Arrived!
It's a beautiful day in the land of Tezelom, the skies are clear and the songs of birds ring out across the landscape. People all across the land are going about their daily lives, enjoying the uneasy peace the day has brought them. They may live in a land of ancient tradition, great culture and reasonable wealth, but it is also true that said land is frequently consumed by conflict, senseless destruction and violence. However, this is not merely an unusually peaceful day, for today begins a new era: The Age of the Prophets, a time that will leave an indelible mark on the nation's history.
The Prophets, men and women of varying backgrounds, have all made their way into Tezelom, and even though none of them know each other, they are still unified in their mission to bring the One True Faith to the unenlightened masses. The beginnings of their respective journeys are quite humble indeed, but each and every one of them holds the power to change the world, even if they may not fully realize it yet.
For instance, the youngest of the Prophets, Shashari, has only left her home this morning, setting off from her hometown into the world to preach the word of the True God. As she walks along the dirt road, she regards the seemingly savage world around her with a sort of cautious interest. This is all so unfamiliar to her, the sights and sounds of the countryside, the rough road ahead and the feeling of uncertainty that a traveler's life brings. However, these feelings also bring a sort of novelty with them, as the unknown brings new experiences, new challenges, new things to desire and obtain. She stops to consider the area around her.
All these fields look alike to her. Honestly, how can people find their way around, let alone live here? It's getting infuriating. She doesn't know where she's going, where she is and what's ahead. What's a girl to do in this situation?
[Perception roll: ?]
The only living beings she sees around her are a flock of sheep gently grazing a ways off the road. Well, it's good to know that at least something can survive in this area.
Elsewhere, an old man named, aptly enough, Gronok the Old is walking down a road that is similar in a great many ways. That is, it's made of finely-stomped dirt and is equally unknown to the traveler walking it. Gronok, however, is far too excited to let that get to him. Though the area has somewhat of a reputation for its brigand infestation, Gronok finds it difficult to truly fear them, considering the events of the previous night. A certain something has changed in his entire perception of the world and the people in it, and he believes that this change may be for the better.
However, now is not the time for deep introspection. If he remembers correctly, there should be a village just over this hill. Gronok quickens his pace, eager to get some rest for his old bones.
As he passes over the hill, he is met by the sight of an empty plain. Hm, maybe the village was over that hill? Or maybe not over a hill at all, but next to a river? Or maybe he made that entire story up? It's getting difficult to tell some days.
Even further away, right on the southeast border of Tezelom in the Izakiim Mountains that have served to protect Tezelom from the obvious threat of foreign incursion and the more insidious threat of subversive ideas for thousands of years, a man going by the name of Phiali Heavenchanter makes his way into Tezelom to do both in spite of the unforgiving mountainous terrain. It's been a long week in the mountains for him, but through sheer determination and, in his opinion, not an inconsiderable amount of divine guidance, he has made a lot of progress. So he can't help but smile with satisfaction when he reaches the final slope leading to the Chosen Land.
He lets his gaze wander over the countryside from his lofty perch, appreciating the sight of dense green forests and small mountain streams as far as the eye can see. Truly this is a blessed, if ignorant land.
[Perception roll: ?]
He believes he sees a trail of smoke coming from the distance, probably about three miles away. A border town, perhaps?
On the other side of the country, another foreign traveler, one Elizas Hi!kok Bagon finds a much warmer reception than Phiali. He actually has a road to walk on, you see, and it's even cobbled, a privilege extended to only the richer regions of the nation. However, the relative comforts of the road are somewhat offset by the incredible dryness of the area, as only a few shrubs exist along the semi-desert that are the western regions of Tezelom.
Though the general nature of his mission is clear to Elizas, he does feel like he might be in for a difficult journey yet. Thirst is beginning to set in, and the sun is absolutely merciless. He doesn't recall it being this bad even in his own homeland. Still, he has a road to follow. A road that leads to Berikalam, one of the richest cities in Tezelom, and most assuredly a great place to start his mission of enlightenment.
[Perception roll: ?]
Shielding his eyes from the sun and looking in the distance, he notices a merchant caravan going his way just ahead. Perhaps if he rushes, he might be able to catch up with them.
Seemingly safe, but actually in a far worse situation is the last Prophet, Sejena the Temptress, as she wanders the somewhat meager city-state of Telokiim. Though she is dressed in some of the finest clothing money can buy and carries herself like the noblest of queens, she is met not with admiration, respect or even fear. Rather, every person she passes spits in her general direction or at least gives her a very stern and hostile look. It seems that neither the king nor his host of concubines are particularly well-regarded by the public, especially when you consider the recent surge in popularity across the nation that the cult of Kezilam, goddess of purity and hard work experienced.
[Perception roll: ?]
As she walks down the street, she sees nothing but hostile faces all around. Not a single one of these people seems willing to help her, or even talk to her. Some of them seem to take offense from her even looking at them.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Notes (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on December 31, 2012, 05:48:04 am
Post by: Digital Hellhound on December 31, 2012, 06:40:56 am
---
((Is this the city of the king Sejena escaped from, or a different one?))
Sejena moved quickly, keeping her eyes straight forward. Goddess knew these people would take eye contact as an excuse to murder her in her sleep. She would have to obtain a disguise - it was her fine clothing marking her out, she decided. It would be a blessing to be out of her silks and fine dyed fabrics, throwing off the shackles of her old life and starting anew. Still, she was somewhat fond of them. Something so beautiful didn't deserve to be abandoned, and, besides, she could hardly present herself to noblemen in rags. For now, though, simpler clothes would have to do.
The way the people treated and reacted to her - it had been surprising, at first, even shocking. The palace priests had treated her with disdain and the king's late wife with hostility wrapped in smiles, but these people seemed to outright hate her. Perhaps it was all she could expect from peasants. She didn't have much experience outside the walls of the palace...
Sejena realized she had stopped, staring at a storefront, and picked up her pace. The unwashed masses seemed to swirl around her, pushing closer with hostile expressions. Sejena breathed deeply, trying to calm herself. She needed to get out of the street.
Sejena tries to find a merchant who sells more plain, peasant clothes
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 31, 2012, 06:42:27 am
Post by: Digital Hellhound on December 31, 2012, 06:44:52 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on December 31, 2012, 08:51:19 am
[bold]Phiali will enter the town, find a place to stay the night, and tell of his journey, starting from the last battle he fought in, to his miraculous survival, to the pilgrimage, to my arrival. Leave until last the divine guidance I had.[/b] Hopefully these people won't be xenophobic...
Post by: IronyOwl on December 31, 2012, 09:10:01 am
Shashari scratched her head, looking at the sheep. Well... she supposed the only interesting things around here might warrant a bit of investigation. Maybe she could find the shepherd while she was at it.
Approach and examine sheep. Glance around for anything that isn't a sheep.
Post by: TCM on December 31, 2012, 01:18:01 pm
The caravan must have water, or even better, the sweet nectar of wine or beer. Though it was moving farther away from him. Before breaking out into a sprint, Elizas pulled a buffalo-bone guitar from his pouch, a traditional instrument in his homeland and the only one he had brought with him. Strumming the string in between the bones to test the melody, Elizas ran for the caravan.
Elizas runs after the caravan trying to get their attention by playing the melody "Feast for a Warrior" on his guitar.
Post by: Xantalos on December 31, 2012, 01:20:25 pm
Gronok shook his head. He needed to actually find a way to a village; these bones of his were achy and sore, and he had a story he was sure the people would love - and it was true for once! The story of a new God, to lead them out of this era of poverty and suffering. For a moment Gronok could see it, great cities dedicated entirely to learning, shimmering in the wind! Wait, that was a mirage.
Gronok will continue to walk onward for now, trying to spot anything that could lead him to a village or any form of shelter.
((Incidentally, Sir Harry, would it be possible for me to change the god preferences of my character sheet? I realized that not only does it not fit well with Gronok being a storyteller and all, but also that those valorous acts are going to get him killed! ... Really fast! He is old, after all. So would it be reasonable to change my idea if the god to something more in-touch with Gronok?))
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 31, 2012, 01:24:09 pm
((Incidentally, Sir Harry, would it be possible for me to change the god preferences of my character sheet? I realized that not only does it not fit well with Gronok being a storyteller and all, but also that those valorous acts are going to get him killed! ... Really fast! He is old, after all. So would it be reasonable to change my idea if the god to something more in-touch with Gronok?))
Yes, it would indeed be possible. Do so if you wish.
Post by: Xantalos on December 31, 2012, 01:27:40 pm
Edited.
Post by: Harry Baldman on December 31, 2012, 03:49:40 pm
In the city of Telokiim, the infamous Sejena decides to get a less-conspicuous outfit for herself. This means that her task is twofold - first, she must find a merchant willing to deal with her. Second, she has to make sure she is not stoned to death by the populace in the process. Third, she has to hope that the populace does not see through her disguise. She sets out to find a merchant who might help her.
[Search roll: 6-->5]
After taking a cautious stroll along the less-populated areas of the marketplace, she finds a certain stall. The stall itself sells fabrics and various other odds and ends, but its owner is of much greater interest to her. The owner, a man named Medlan of Adokiim, happens to be someone she knows. More precisely, she knows one of his sons. Even more precisely, she knows of that particular son's nightly escapades with one of the younger concubines in the palace achieved through the combination of careful bribery and brazen insolence. The value of this information is great indeed, she realizes - if word of his son's activities were to get out, not only would the son be investigated and probably executed by the king's men, the name of his family would be shamed for the next twenty years at least, probably for far longer in the eyes of the reigning cult. They aren't known to be forgiving of extramarital relations.
Sejena believes she may have found her man.
* * * * *
On the southeast border of Tezelom, Phiali thanks the marvelous providence by the grace of God and heads for the smoke trail. After a bit of trudging through the forest, he finally comes upon the source of the smoke.
[Perception roll: ?]
He doesn't really notice anything about the area until he comes right to the clearing. It looks to be a large bonfire. A whole lot of people seem to be dancing around it, their hands joined to form a circle. They seem to be well-armed.
[People perception roll: ?]
One of the people turns his head toward Phiali almost immediately and lets out a short, very controlled and deliberate shout. The people immediately break the circle and pull out their spears, swords and hatchets, forming what seems to be a battle formation.
[People reaction roll: 5]
One of the people, a man of about 50 years, begins to laugh and lowers his weapon. The others begin to chuckle and also put away their assorted armaments. The older man speaks in a gentle tone.
"We are sorry for our less-than-friendly reception, stranger. Can you forgive us? We are merely cautious of the temple guards of Kezilam. They hound us at every turn, and even in this place we are not safe. Let me introduce our group - we are the worshippers of Rekinozom, god of nature and revelry. And who might you be?"
Phiali clears his throat, then begins to speak.
"I am Phiali Heavenchanter, and I have much to tell you of."
[Charisma roll: 6+1-->6]
He then launches into an epic tale of his pilgrimage to the land of Tezelom, describing in detail the horrors of war back in the lands of the south, then beginning to describe his miraculous survival in the battle with the fiendish tribe of the Singing Spear, demons in human form that reputedly drink the blood of women and children to achieve the strength and brutality they are known for. He describes how he was forced to watch the demon-people kill his fellow warriors, and how they were going to kill him as well, his survival through means unknown to even him. He then spins the tale of how he followed the call of his new god, the True God, to the land of Tezelom, braving untold dangers and seeing things he never thought possible.
The day becomes night and slowly turns to morning as Phiali gets through all of his tale, leaving nothing unexplained. Through all this, the cultists listen with the utmost attention, seemingly hanging on to his every word. As he gets to the end of his tale so far, most of the worshippers stare at him wide-eyed. The leader begins to speak.
"You have suffered much and seen much, Phiali Heavenchanter. You are free to stay with us however long you wish and rest in the finest tent in our commune, but only on one condition."
"And what would that be?"
"When you awaken, you will tell us more of the god you follow. It seems that he is a strong god, indeed. Perhaps he can match the zealotry of Kezilam that our own god seems to be unable to counter."
Some of the people present gasp and are about to protest.
"Silence! We shall hear more in the morning. Then, we shall see. Until then, speak no more."
The man points Phiali to the largest tent in the area.
"There are your quarters for the night. Go now and rest."
* * * * *
On a road and completely lost, Shashari decides to investigate the flock of sheep, as unbecoming of a young girl as such an activity may be. After all, where there are sheep, there are also shepherds. She walks over the field, stumbling on certain patches of unsteady ground, but reaching the flock eventually.
[Flock reaction roll: 1-->2]
The sheep of the flock retreat in reaction to her approach, leaving behind a rather aggressive-looking ram. It looks at her menacingly, as if daring her to make a move. She glances around to see if there is anyone who might help.
[Perception roll: ?]
She doesn't see anyone around, no shepherds, no other people, nobody. It looks like somebody's being negligent in their duties at exactly the worst time. Looks like Shashari's alone in this standoff with an animal both stronger and better armed. Probably faster as well.
* * * * *
On the merchants' road to Berikalam, Elizas finds himself sufficiently tempted by the caravan's potential goods that he decides to try and ride with them. But first, he has to reach them. He breaks into a run, intent on getting to the caravan as soon as possible.
[Pursuit roll: 3]
His run might be called leisurely by most observers, though Elizas himself might counter with an observation that slower, but regular performances can win the attention of the public much more effectively. After all, if this fails, he'll still need to get to Berikalam somehow. With his run not really working so well, he decides to enact his second plan, which is like his first plan, but with good guitar music added. He pulls out his buffalo-bone guitar and begins to play.
[Performance roll: 4]
He manages to strum the guitar quite pleasantly, unleashing a rather catchy tune. The caravan seems to turn their heads in his direction and look curiously.
[Caravan reaction roll: 3]
They slow their pace a little bit, turning around to look at Elizas, but don't stop entirely. It takes quite a while until Elizas finally reaches the caravan, and he is quite tired when he does.
[Endurance roll: 5]
However, the mental promise of alcohol he made to himself keeps him on his feet. He gives the caravan people his most winning smile. A merchant among the travelers looks at him curiously.
"What is it you want, musician? Why are you after us?"
* * * * *
After not finding a village where he remembered one to be, Gronok just keeps walking. There has to be a village somewhere around here, right? It wouldn't be like him to just invent a village, at least not in one of the "factual" stories he likes to tell. It's probably just further down the road or something.
[Exploration roll: 1-->5]
However, his optimism turns out to be entirely unfounded as he wanders along the road for what feels like forever. No matter how hard he looks and hopes, he cannot see a village anywhere. It is really beginning to disturb his state of mind. What doesn't help is that it seems to be getting dark, but there is still no sign of shelter of any kind. Only hilly plains as far as the eye can see, with the occasional tree breaking up the monotony.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on December 31, 2012, 04:12:42 pm
Gronok will try shouting to see if anyone is around. If that fails, he beseeches Mo'kar for assistance, asking for Divine Knowledge of the closest human settlement, be it temporary or otherwise. (That should only cost 1 MP, right, GM? Arg I hate commas.)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on December 31, 2012, 04:27:46 pm
Once they do, pray, then sleep.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 01, 2013, 01:31:36 pm
She'd try to be civil, first. If the man refused, or saw fit to respond unkindly, goddess knew what she'd do.
Try to charm Medlan over. If this fails, blackmail.
Post by: IronyOwl on January 01, 2013, 10:02:41 pm
Unfortunately, her powers were insufficient to simply use divine aid, at least for a permanent companion. She'd have to attempt more mundane methods unless things got genuinely dangerous.
Attempt to tame the ram.
Post by: TCM on January 02, 2013, 12:11:31 am
If Elizas played his cards right, he could not only get a free ride, but also his first converts.
Ask the merchants the merchants to accept the deal above.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 02, 2013, 05:05:47 am
Since his previous strategy bore him no fruit, Gronok decides to change his plan - he will not look for people, he will make them find him! There is probably someone around, after all. He just can't see them. Gronok begins to shout loudly, beseeching people all around to assist a prophet in need.
[Response roll: 6-->2]
After a good ten minutes of strolling and yelling in the most desperate manner he can manage, Gronok is suddenly interrupted by someone tapping him on the shoulder. He turns around.
It seems to be a young man that just tapped him, though with a certain weathered look that makes him seem prematurely aged. He looks rather annoyed.
"Stop making noise, old man, and come with me. Can't have people blundering around here and making a racket."
* * * * *
Phiali graciously accepts the leader's offer and, tired after his long day of traveling, heads to the tent the man pointed out. The tent is lavishly decorated from both the inside and outside and offers great comfort to the weary pilgrim.
Phiali takes one of the bowls available in the tent and fills it with water from one of his many flasks. He puts the bowl in front of him, kneels, then submerges his hands in the bowl. He then brings his palms on his face in a slow, drawn-out motion. Finally, he puts his hands back in the bowl and begins to pray. Total immersion would have been preferable, but you have to make do with what you've got.
After recounting his prayers, Phiali lies down to sleep. In his dreams, he sees men in long white robes plucking the feathers from birds that are still alive and fighting to escape their grasp. The birds cry pathetically, but the statue-like gazes of the men and the steel grip of their mighty hands prevents them from doing any more than that. After the birds are plucked, the men go to a golden room to seek the favor a tiny golden woman, who orders them to bathe in fire. Phiali realizes that this golden woman, while seemingly fierce, is weak and pliable in the hands of the truly righteous and that without this woman, the men are blind and deaf.
Phiali is suddenly awakened by voice in the tent. It's the leader, and he looks somewhat worried.
"Come. We have need of your words."
* * * * *
Sejena approaches Medlan's stall, smiling as convincingly and pleasantly as she possibly could.
[Medlan reaction roll: 2]
"Good day, Mr. Medlan."
Medlan merely looks off into the distance and says nothing. He doesn't even give Sejena a glance. Considering that the man has always had a reputation for sharp eyes and even sharper ears, this is doubtlessly intentional. It's quite amazing, really. He has even managed to keep the same completely bored and disinterested expression on his face. He'd make a good member of the king's court with skills like that.
"I'd like to obtain a set of plain travelling clothes from your stocks, as soon as possible. I'd be extremely grateful if you could help me with this matter - and with your famous discretion."
Still no response. Well, if politeness fails, it's time for blackmail.
[Blackmail roll: 6+1-->5]
"After all, isn't discretion one of your bywords? I hear it runs in the family. In fact, I do recall a time when I saw a certain someone taking an educational trip through the concubines' quarters. Though he was rather loud at times, the guards didn't seem to notice a thing for some reason. Imagine that. So here I was thinking, if a man can barge into the concubines' quarters at night and have his way with them, I am obviously in great danger there. I see only two solutions here - I could inform the king of the glaring flaws in his palace security. But I could also get an inconspicuous set of clothing from a kind stranger and leave the palace for good. Which would you prefer, Mr. Medlan?"
As Sejena gets through her speech, the look on Medlan's face changes from boredom to uncomfortable realization to sheer agony. When she asks her question, he finally looks at her, then takes several sheets of fabric and gives them to her.
"My wife, she lives in my house three buildings down the street. Find her and tell her I sent you and that you want some traveler's clothes made. After that, leave and never come back. And do not dare mention my name in relation to yours for as long as you live."
Medlan points out his house and makes a shooing motion.
* * * * *
Though Shashari's first instinct is to leave, she thinks better of it. After all, animals and people share many common properties. Perhaps ease of taming is one of them?
[Animal taming roll: 5]
She gives the ram a very strict, dominant stare and tries her very best to show a lack of fear from it. The ram is obviously surprised by this, losing all the menace it formerly presented. As Shashari approaches the creature, it becomes docile, even submissive. It proves not very difficult to tame at all, actually. Probably because it's already a tame animal, but Shashari still feels rather proud of her success. And she now has a new companion, certainly of limited use, but probably good for something nonetheless.
* * * * *
With all the grace and composure he could muster, Elizas bows and makes an offer to the merchants.
"Greetings, fair merchants. I am just a court entertainer who has lost his path into the city, parched and tired. So, I ask a favor; please let me ride with you on your way to the settlement and drink enough to keep me from fainting. In return, I'll play any songs or poems that you wish during the ride, completely free of charge."
[Merchant reaction roll: 6-->4]
The merchant smiles genuinely at him and speaks in a far more pleasant tone than previously.
"Well, I see no harm in that proposition. After all, we should be honored that an actual court entertainer saw fit to grace our humble caravan with his presence! You can sit right next to me in the cart, honored guest. You can even have some of my wine! Which do you prefer, good-tasting or expensive? I have both, hah!"
Post by: Xantalos on January 02, 2013, 05:15:07 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 02, 2013, 05:40:04 am
"Well, I couldn't die out here, now could I? That would disappoint Mo'kar, AND leave you without His guidance. Can't have that. Who are you, by the way, and where are we going?"
"Don't ask questions. Not here."
Post by: IronyOwl on January 02, 2013, 05:42:36 am
"Come along then," she said to the ram, leading the way back to the road.
Return to road, continue down it with new ram.
Post by: Xantalos on January 02, 2013, 05:44:10 am
Gronok follows the young man back to wherever he's leading him, keeping an eye on the surroundings in the meantime.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 02, 2013, 06:19:04 am
With that, she made her way away from the man and towards the house, moving as quickly as she could. She considered the boy, Satjap. He seemed to have little respect for the king's laws and this new cult's hateful ways. She wanted to free the girls at the palace for the goddess - perhaps here was an agent for that.
Head for the house and tell Medlan's wife what his husband commands. Find the son, if he's home
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 02, 2013, 10:16:13 am
...
Oops.
Anyway.
Tell them all I know of my god and His teachings.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 04, 2013, 05:56:50 am
Though the man accosting him is rather rude, Gronok feels he has very little other choice than to follow him. Who knows, he may even meet other people. Perhaps even prospective converts!
"Wise choice, old man. Come with me."
The young man leads him through the forest, and Gronok does his best to look out for anything strange.
[Perception roll: ?]
Though there is little to see in the forest aside from some skittish animals, Gronok does manage to mark out several specific landmarks during his walk - strangely shaped rocks, uniquely gnarled trees and so forth. He sees enough of them, in fact, that he bets he might even be able to find the way back on his own.
Eventually he is led to a campsite. Three people of varying ages, a youth, a middle-aged man and a child of about 12 years are sitting around the fire and conversing about their respective days.
[Camp dweller roll: 1]
As Gronok is led into the campsite, the three people get up and approach him with wide grins. He suddenly feels a dagger poking him in the ribs accompanied by a vicious half-whisper.
"An old man lost in the woods without a single clue. Lucky us, don't you think? Tell me, old man, why were you shouting? Were you trying to find any friends of yours nearby?"
* * * * *
Since the pasture holds very little challenge for her anymore, Shashari opts to leave with her newly-acquired animal and proceed further along the road.
[Traveling roll: 3]
She travels for a few miles before reaching a forested area. She's always heard about how the woods were a dangerous place from her father, full of brigands and other sorts of hazards. Definitely no place for a fine young lady such as herself. However, it seems to be her only lead at the moment. She stops to consider her next move.
* * * * *
The merchant's harsh words are too much to leave unanswered, Sejena thinks.
"All this could have been avoided, Mr. Medlan, had you seen fit to have a little human decency in your heart for a woman who has been a slave all her life."
Medlan's face twists into an expression of pure resentment, almost as though her words had somehow let loose a flood of pent-up emotion.
"You are a fine one to talk about human decency, devil-whore! Decency is offered to those who deserve it, not some harlot grabbed from a filthy pack of slaves! Decency is for good people, not the dregs of society, the filth that infests and twists our way of life! I-"
Sejena interrupts his rant before he can come up with something original.
"If your son is home, I would very much like to speak with him before I leave. I have news he needs to hear."
"You stay away from my son! He may have made mistakes, but I will not have him be taken by the devil for it! I swear to every god I know of, if you so much as speak to my son, I will choke the very life out of your harlot's throat with my own two hands!"
He does look like he means it. There's a particular look in his eyes. Either way, not a whole lot of good is to come from speaking with him further. Sejena elects to just leave quietly, letting the man take out his frustration on the empty air. It doesn't take long until she reaches Medlan's house. After knocking on the door, she comes face to face with a woman who couldn't be more than twenty years old, if that.
"Yes, what is-oh my, you are-I apologize for my manner, is there anything you wish?"
"Yes, your husband sent me. You are to make me some plain traveler's clothes out of the fabrics provided."
"Plain clothes? For you? Well, I suppose I shouldn't interfere with his dealings. He gets so worked up if anyone does that, you know?"
She lets Sejena in and examines her from head to toe.
"Hm, you look to be about... yes, that's right... hm. Well, worry not. I will have your clothing ready as soon as possible, honored guest."
She takes the fabrics and disappears off into one of the rooms. Well, better take a look around.
[Other people's presence roll: 5]
As she strolls down one of the hallways, she notices Satjap, the ladies' man himself, lying on a bed of cushions and staring up into the ceiling. He is obviously awake and very bored. Perfect.
* * * * *
Shaken to consciousness by the man's voice, Phiali quickly gets up and heads outside, where he is met by the sight of a whole lot of people.
[Crowd roll: 1]
Most of them look rather hostile. In fact, all of them except the leader look quite ready to stick him on a pike, then slowly roast him over an open flame. Something must have happened while he was asleep. Guess he'll need to make this good, then.
[Charisma roll: 5+1+1-1]
He tells them of his god's character, that it enjoys the sight and presence of water and alcohol, dislikes monogamy and war, is rather vengeful, but possesses a sense of humor nonetheless! He informs them of the god's appreciation of revelry and acceptance of free relationships. As he does so, the people's hatred seems to be slowly replaced with slight bafflement. Even the leader looks confused. When Phiali has completed his description, the leader speaks once more.
"Our gods seem rather similar. It is odd, don't you think? Could they have been the same god all along?"
There is intense whispering currently happening in the crowd.
[Perception roll: ?]
He hears the unmistakable sound of knives being sheathed and clubs being lowered. Seems like they're not about to kill him yet. That's good, he thinks.
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 04, 2013, 10:11:06 am
Talk some about their old god. Miracles, teachings, personalities, whatever they know.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 04, 2013, 10:40:32 am
'Hello, Satjap. Missing Isra?' she asked, settling down opposite the boy. The name of his beloved - well, the only one as far as she knew - ought to get his attention. 'I am glad to see you, and I imagine you might be surprised to see me, and I hope, glad, too. So few are.'
She smiled, lounging on the cushions. He was easy on the eyes, that was for sure. No surprise an airhead like Isra had fallen for his charms.
'But you're not like most people, are you? No, you're... special. You don't mind bending the laws of the king and this cult, do you? They are unjust, just another form of slavery, are they not?' Sejenna said. 'But, I blather. I come bearing news. They plan to move Isra and most of the girls to the King's summer palace. She does not know of this. You will not see her again. But... she seeks escape, as do all the girls. You have a chance here, Satjap, to have her for yourself... forever. Help me free her, and the others.'
It was a lie - the summer palace had its own concubines - with a fine white lie for a good cause. They would shatter the girls' shackles forever in the Goddess' name. Speaking of which...
'There is another who would help us, Satjap. She has come from the heavens and the sea's froth for a single fearsome purpose. Aulanna, the Bloody-Red Lady - she will give her followers freedom, and paint these lands red with the blood of those who would try to stop her. I would give you her blessing, if you'll let me.'
Try to convince Satjap to help me free the Concubines. Tell him of the Goddess and give Her Blessing (+1 Charm or Luck, if there's such a thing, for 4 turns = 4 MP.), if he'll let me.
((Maybe I should've saved some of my babblings for the next turn. Oh well.))
Post by: Xantalos on January 04, 2013, 03:24:47 pm
Tell them of my story and Mo'kar, making it the best story ever. Entertaining, terrifying, whatever, just use my storyteller's skills to their full benefit. Convince them to follow Mo'kar (and me), as they will surely enjoy more success as prophets than as bandits in some random patch of desert.
Post by: IronyOwl on January 04, 2013, 05:40:09 pm
Taking a deep breath, she began marching into the woods.
Continue on into woods.
Post by: TCM on January 06, 2013, 12:07:54 pm
Indulge in alcohol and play the requested music for the man. Also inquire on where exactly we are headed to.
((For some reason, I keep missing this game, even though I look for it. Huh.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 06, 2013, 01:10:15 pm
Intrigued by the cultists' comparison of their two gods, Phiali decides to try and find out more about this Rekinozom. Perhaps what they say is indeed true?
"Tell me of your god as I have told you of mine, so that we may better compare them."
"Very well, we shall tell you of Rekinozom."
[Rekinozom roll: 4]
"Rekinozom is a god who emphasizes personal freedom, and loves nature as the epitome of this ideal. As such, slavery is one of the greatest sins one can commit in His presence. We preach freedom for all in matters of love, politics and other spheres, and we live apart from society because their ideals and way of life are unacceptable to us. Rekinozom is known to appear to the faithful as a songbird, and it is customary to kneel when you hear the song of one."
"What of miracles? Do you know of any miracles performed by Rekinozom or his faithful?"
"Very few, as the worship of Rekinozom has always been practiced by a closed fringe, so we do not possess the lore of more ancient worshippers. However, what little miracles we do know of usually relate to bathing in a mountain spring and attaining physical and mental well-being. For this reason, we revere such water sources and use their water liberally in our rituals."
"I see. Hm."
Perhaps they would indeed make good converts. After all, it would only be a minor step for them to become proper worshippers of the One True God.
* * * * *
Having found her quarry, Sejena makes a confident approach.
"Hello, Satjap. Missing Isra? I am glad to see you, and I imagine you might be surprised to see me and, I hope, glad, too. So few are."
[Satjap reaction roll: 4]
He pauses his careful appraisal of the ceiling and flips on his side, facing the unexpected arrival with a calm demeanor.
"Ah, a palace resident come to see me. I am glad, I truly am. Saves me a bit of a walk, you know. Also a fair bit of money, as you might imagine."
He stretches out on the cushions and lets out a long yawn.
"But, back on point, you were saying something about Isra? How is the girl? Still enjoying the easy life?"
"About that, I come bearing news. They plan to move Isra and most of the girls to the King's summer palace. She does not know of this. You will not see her again. But... she seeks escape, as do all the girls. You have a chance here, Satjap, to have her for yourself... forever. Help me free her, and the others."
[Satjap helpfulness roll: 3]
"Oh, I'd love to. Believe me, I really would. Sounds like a magnificent adventure, to be sure. But hardly worth it, is it not? I would obtain a girl who, while admittedly fetching, would make me lose everything else - my home, my family, any chance at obtaining my father's enterprise, my father's aid. To risk all of that for a single girl would be sheer folly."
He looks up again at the ceiling, then back to Sejena.
"Unless I am to get something else from the deal. Something with a higher market value than a single concubine of uncertain parentage and few skills. Women come and go, after all."
* * * * *
With a dagger at his ribs and hostile-looking people in front of him, Gronok has no choice but to resort to his ultimate weapon, the fine art of fast-talking.
[Charisma roll: 2+1]
"I think, young man, if you questioned me as I think you intend to, you would find that everyone I know has been slaughtered by bandits. I have no wealth, but what I can do is tell you of the God that saved my life and struck down those who would kill me. I think it would be a bad idea to harm he who has the blessing of a god, do you agree?"
"What I don't think you realize, old man, is that we've slaughtered a great many people claiming to be blessed by any number of gods. What you're saying is hardly something new. I've found that the prayers of the blessed ones make their painful death much more satisfying, in fact."
The young man shoves Gronok away, sending him to the ground, and begins to whisper to his compatriots.
[Perception roll: ?]
Gronok can't really make out much of what they're saying. He's pretty sure he heard the words "stick" and "gills", however. Well, at least they're not directly looking at him anymore.
* * * * *
Though the forest ahead is indeed foreboding, Shashari sees it as an opportunity for personal growth and development. Possibly even an opportunity to find more things to make her own. She heads in with her ram, ready to face the perils of the woods.
[Exploration roll: 3]
After walking through the vast green of the forest for a good three hours, she comes to a path branching off from the road. It seems to be leading to a slightly elevated area of the woods. Though the wilds that way seem more untamed, there is the distinct possibility that the path leads somewhere that people live in or at least frequent, which might not be the case with this neverending blasted road.
It is getting quite dark already, and Shashari begins to consider the need for shelter. And food. And water. She also considers the wisdom of not bringing any of these with her. Such is the price of divine inspiration, she supposes.
* * * * *
Having gotten a free ride, Elizas happily accepts the offer of booze from a stranger.
"Whatever you'd like to share, my fellow workingman!"
The merchant nods and hands him a plain-looking bottle. He takes a swig.
[Booze roll: 5]
This stuff is absolutely great, Elizas finds. The taste is great, and the drink itself gives him a certain floaty, airy feeling, as though his own god had actually come down from the heavens and patted him on the back for a job well done. In fact, that's exactly what might have happened, given who he worships!
"Good stuff, no? That's my last bottle of Azlippus temple wine, bought over a year ago when I was last in Berikalam. Really, it's worth going there for the wine alone, hah!"
"I see. What tune would you like me to play?"
[Merchant request roll: 4]
"How about... 'The Endless Table'? Seems fitting enough!"
Fortunately, this tune is familiar to Elizas, being one of the more widespread melodies along the continent. He begins to play.
[Music roll: 2+1]
He plays the song for a bit, but somewhere along the way becomes lost in thought, thinking back to the wine of Azlippus. That was some of the best wine he's ever had, and there's apparently more in Berikalam. How fortunate for him.
"Are you all right there, friend? You seem a bit... distant."
He snaps out of his momentary distraction and decides this would be the best time to ask a question.
"Where exactly are we headed, fine merchant?"
"Berikalam, the most beautiful city in Tezelom! In more ways than one, I might add. You've never been there before, have you? Well, it's a wonderful place. They love foreigners, enjoy all sorts of interesting merriment and are mostly great people. You'll love it, I bet, being a man after my own heart!"
He takes the bottle of temple wine and takes a swig of his own. As he gulps the wine, there is an expression of bliss in his eyes.
"Beautiful stuff, that."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 06, 2013, 01:16:15 pm
Post by: Xantalos on January 06, 2013, 01:43:41 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 06, 2013, 02:02:52 pm
Post by: TCM on January 06, 2013, 02:07:08 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 06, 2013, 02:29:44 pm
'The laws of today will not be here for long, Satjap,' she said. 'There is one who comes from the heavens and the sea's froth for a single, fearsome purpose. Aulanna, the Bloody-Red Lady - she will shatter the chains of her followers and paint these lands red with the blood of those who would oppose her. I serve her now, Satjap. She is the one true goddess, and she will bring the reign of the king to an end. Either you will stay and cower within these walls in fear of your father's disapproval and die with the rest, or turn to the Goddess now, and become a legend.'
She could feel the Goddess' power within her, seeming to darken the room around her, making her seem taller, the pathetic worm before her shrinking away...
Miracle: Divine Charm - Evoke Fear (3-4 MP)
((Is evoking fear possible? Or would that go under something else?))
Post by: Xantalos on January 06, 2013, 02:38:07 pm
I'm just asking them questions for now, so this should count.
I hope.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 06, 2013, 02:45:12 pm
Are Miracles always successful, or do you roll for them?
The casting itself is always successful, but some have further rolls associated with them. For instance, Extremely Painful and Debilitating or Potentially Fatal God's Wrath victims get a roll on how severe the effects on them are. But generally what you want to happen will happen with miracles.
((Is evoking fear possible? Or would that go under something else?))
I suppose it would make sense, so it is now. Evoking fear has an Additional Cost of 2 points.
"If you would take the time to answer your question, overlooking the fact that I have nothing of value. Would you?"
I'm just asking them questions for now, so this should count.
I hope.
It counts, but could you rephrase the question? It's difficult to tell what you mean.
Post by: Xantalos on January 06, 2013, 02:55:44 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 06, 2013, 03:18:46 pm
"If you would take the time to answer your question, overlooking the fact that I have nothing of value. Would you?"
The young man turns to Gronok briefly.
"Shut it!"
He then turns back. How rude of him.
Post by: Xantalos on January 06, 2013, 03:24:20 pm
Now, how many victims do you get per month, approximately?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 06, 2013, 03:26:54 pm
"I'm old; I can talk at you however much I want, laddie!
Now, how many victims do you get per month, approximately?"
[Young man patience roll: 1-->5]
"That's it. Stabbing time!"
He begins to advance menacingly upon Gronok!
Post by: Xantalos on January 06, 2013, 03:35:50 pm
"No, no, no, son! You're handling the knife all wrong! You're going to cut yourself - give it here and I'll show you how to hold a knife!"
If his smooth-talking fails, Gronok will swiftly get up and slap the man across the face, praying for Mo'kar to teach him the folly of his ways! By opening wounds on his face! Essentially, lowest-level Harm, delivered through touch. If the smooth talking fails.
Post by: TCM on January 06, 2013, 09:43:55 pm
Begin the converting process on the wagon driver.
Post by: Xantalos on January 07, 2013, 09:10:00 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 07, 2013, 11:44:33 pm
((GM, what would a curse do?))
It's an inversion of a blessing, instead of giving a bonus to rolls, it will give a penalty.
Post by: Xantalos on January 07, 2013, 11:49:10 pm
Ah. And I'm guessing a minor Harm would open wounds? Just checking.((GM, what would a curse do?))
It's an inversion of a blessing, instead of giving a bonus to rolls, it will give a penalty.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 08, 2013, 12:23:54 am
Post by: Xantalos on January 08, 2013, 12:25:34 am
Yes, working off the same principle.Bueno, bueno.
~
Porque yo habla en malo espanol?
Post by: IronyOwl on January 08, 2013, 03:14:56 am
With an irritated sigh, she began heading up to the elevated area. If nothing else maybe it'd have a nice view of the nothingness and trees.
Elevated area.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 08, 2013, 03:54:58 pm
Being in a good spot, theologically speaking, Phiali decides to make a move on these cultists and begin building a faithful flock in these dark times.
[Conversion roll: 2+1]
"Followers of Rekinozom! It is indeed true that our gods are quite similar. Your god likes water and my god likes water. Your god loves revelry and my god loves alcohol. Your god supports freedom and my god supports freedom. So why don't we do away with what separates us and just worship the same god?"
"Which god?"
"Why, my god."
"Why would we worship your god? Why don't you worship ours instead?"
"It's simple. My god, unlike yours, is real and has power."
"Are you insinuating that Rekinozom is a false god?"
"Yes. The One True God is far more powerful."
"How, exactly?"
"He can do anything your god can, and he can do it better. I swear it."
"Very well, then. You do realize that you need to back this claim up?"
"Yes, I do."
"I challenge you to defeat the Kezilamites dwelling in the Medokalaam Temple, our former stronghold, and you must do this alone. Then we will consider your claims."
Hm. Maybe this wasn't the best idea.
* * * * *
Seeing that Satjap was perhaps not quite what she expected him to be, Sejena decides to throw caution and tact to the wind and outright threaten the pathetic worm. As she comes to this decision, she feels a peculiar power fill her, almost as though the words she is about to speak are not only hers, but also spoken from some greater, more powerful and inscrutable source.
"The laws of today will not be here for long, Satjap. There is one who comes from the heavens and the sea's froth for a single, fearsome purpose. Aulanna, the Bloody-Red Lady - she will shatter the chains of her followers and paint these lands red with the blood of those who would oppose her. I serve her now, Satjap. She is the one true goddess, and she will bring the reign of the king to an end. Either you will stay and cower within these walls in fear of your father's disapproval and die with the rest, or turn to the Goddess now, and become a legend."
Her grave, judgmental tone could pierce the walls of the house and shatter the wills of many weaker souls, it seems, and Satjap acutely feels the effect of this as he stares wide-eyed at Sejena and shrinks before her. He goes pale as a corpse and begins to back away on the bed of cushions.
[Satjap reaction roll: 5]
Finding no refuge even inside his own bed seems to... break the man somehow, as he rapidly abandons his attempts to distance himself from the woman before him and just opts to kneel before her and begin begging for his life in a most pathetic fashion.
For some reason, she finds this sight immensely pleasing, and she is sure her god does as well.
4 MP expended!
1 MP awarded for impressive display of power!
* * * * *
In immediate danger of receiving multiple stab wounds, Gronok tries a last-ditch strategy to save his own life and possibly others as well. Like most of Gronok's strategies, this one involves making use of distracting tales and misdirection.
[Charisma roll: 4+1]
"No, no, no, son! You're handling the knife all wrong! You're going to cut yourself - give it here and I'll show you how to hold a knife! You can't murder a man like that! That's how a drunken lout would butcher an old sheep! Trust me, I know these things. I was the Master Assassin in the court of King Bekhlam of Vinokiim for over thirty years before retiring!"
The young man lowers his dagger at the statement and looks at Gronok in slight confusion.
"What are you talking about, old man? There's no such place as-"
"You dare doubt my claims? Perhaps I should show you exactly how a Master Assassin would handle this situation."
"Oh, shut up al-"
"Challenge accepted, fool!"
He gets up and emits a low hiss, then begins to wave his arms menacingly and move toward the murderous young man. He clicks his tongue, then closes his eyes and begins to spin on one foot rapidly.
"What in gods' names are you-"
"Silence!"
He spins ever more rapidly!
"Fine, if you want to die as a fool, then-"
The man's mockery is cut short by a mighty slap to the face, a slap that has far more power behind it than any slap from an ancient individual like Gronok has any right to be, and he is sent to the ground immediately, a splash of blood hitting his three comrades. They stand dumbfounded as Gronok comes to a stop and takes a deep breath, possibly to regain his balance. The young man is left screaming and clutching his face on the ground. One of his comrades rushes up to check on him only to find that his entire face is covered in bleeding lacerations, almost as though he had been hit by a particularly nasty empty glass bottle. The person who checked on him, the child, turns to Gronok and poses a very good question.
"How in hell did you do that?"
Gronok merely gives him a knowing smile that successfully obscures the fact that he hardly knows either.
1 MP expended!
Impressive display of power! 1 MP awarded.
* * * * *
Having had a pleasant afternoon drink and a free ride, Elizas decides that now would be a great time for philosophy. Alcohol philosophy, to be exact. His favorite kind.
"Have you ever thought, fellow working man, that alcohol is so pure and good, that it must have a higher value than just a drink. Like a spiritual connection, with God himself?"
[Conversion roll: 5]
"Oh, if only you knew how often. In fact, I just thought this a few moments ago. Azlippus wine has that effect on me, I find."
"You are a wise man. Tell me, what would you say if I told you that there is indeed a lot of truth in that statement and that there is indeed a God, and that He is a god who appreciates the pleasures of fine alcohol?"
The merchant has a dreamy look on his face.
"Oh, I'd worship him. Sounds much better to me than worshipping that Kizlibum or whatever her name was. Their followers are an awfully dreary bunch."
He turns to his guards.
"How about it, lads? Would you worship a god of wine?"
The guards nod and discuss this prospect among themselves. Elizas can hear a hint of enthusiasm among them.
"See? They'd go for it, too. Build a temple for a god of wine and the worshippers will flock like crazy, I tell you. Especially in Berikalam."
Having found fertile soil for his ideas, Elizas continues to extol the virtues of alcohol, the undesirability of restrictive enforced monogamy as well as many other ideas related to his god. After some hours of nonstop discussion, drinking, song and merriment the caravan has become a merry band of worshippers of the New God of Alcohol and Freedom. They happily reach the gates of Berikalam and await their entry. As they do so, still debating on the merits of water in comparison to the divine joy brought by alcohol, they are suddenly disturbed by the sight of a white-robed individual staring at them with obvious disdain.
[Perception roll: ?]
Elizas notices that the man is forming a certain word with his lips while gazing hatefully at them, but is sadly too inept at lip reading to tell what exactly it might be. As they are let in through the large city gate, the merchant looks slightly confused.
"It's awfully quiet in here. Not at all like I remember it. Hm. Well, I suppose we should head to my good friend Patalim's establishment. Wait until you see his selection of fine wines! I'm sure he'll gladly treat a dignified guest such as yourself!"
* * * * *
Faced with two paths, neither of which may prove very rewarding, Shashari chooses to head down the less-traveled one with her ram. There's probably a reason it's there, after all. Maybe a dwelling of some ignorant peasant she could trick into giving her shelter.
[Destination roll: 3]
As she makes her way down the path, doing her best to get someplace safe before nightfall, she eventually comes to a rather shabby-looking hovel sitting at the top of the elevated area. Distasteful though it may be, it might be her only option for shelter.
[Hovel occupant roll: 6-->5]
She hears some beautiful singing coming from the inside. Sounds like a woman, though it's difficult to judge more than that just from the voice.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Onyxjew944 on January 08, 2013, 04:40:36 pm
Quote
[Hovel occupant roll: 6-->5]
Idle curiosity, but what exactly does that mean? Is it a five, or a six? What causes it to have the arrow, and what determines the second number?
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 08, 2013, 04:50:33 pm
Quote[Hovel occupant roll: 6-->5]
Idle curiosity, but what exactly does that mean? Is it a five, or a six? What causes it to have the arrow, and what determines the second number?
Exploding die. It goes a little bit like this:
I roll a six, so I roll again to determine whether what happens next is a critical success or an overshot, with 1-3 meaning overshot (a 1 having rather unfortunate consequences, a 3 having relatively mild consequences), 4-6 meaning critical success (with the number rolled determining severity). Similarly, if a 1 is rolled, this gets exploded as well, where 1-3 means complex, multi-layered failure that should be savored and remembered and 4-6 just means a slightly depressing failure.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 08, 2013, 05:48:58 pm
Post by: Xantalos on January 08, 2013, 06:05:32 pm
Honestly though, that turn was awesome.))
Gronok attempts to look solemn and awesome.
"That, friend, was just a smidgen of the power that Mo'kar possesses. He knows all, young one, and he wishes to speed us on our enlightenment - presumably for good conversation - and he has the power to do so. So come and join me. When word of Mo'kar spreads, as it rightfully should, the faithful will flock to my side, and together we will advance beyond what we can even dream. So will you not come with me?"
Gronok uses Inspiring Speech!
The Speech's power is boosted by his +1 charisma!
(hopefully) Success! The bandits have been converted!
No seriously though, I forsee great fun with this. Feel free to substitute my crappy conversion speech with a better one should the urge take you, GM.
Post by: IronyOwl on January 09, 2013, 07:15:58 am
Striding purposefully up to the door, she gave a few loud raps before calling in. "Hello? Me and my ram need shelter and love your singing! Could you teach me how to sing like you do?"
Knock, request shelter and singing lessons.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 09, 2013, 09:37:20 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 09, 2013, 09:43:43 am
((Are the aspects we gave our gods shared, so everyone benefits/suffers from all of the likes/dislikes/traits? I'm guessing yes from Gronok getting +1MP from a show of power, which was my Lady's thing. Shame none of the traits openly conflict, that would be interesting.))
If they conflict, they only appear for the particular prophets that chose them and don't really show for the rest or at best appear inconsistently. If they coincide, the trait becomes stronger and shows more often in the god's holy quests. But otherwise everything is shared across prophets, though naturally the prophet's choices are the most prevalent.
Post by: TCM on January 09, 2013, 05:07:11 pm
"Very well, let's head on over to your friend's home!"
Continue onwards.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 10, 2013, 02:30:21 pm
Phiali is about to head down to the Kezilamite temple, but he realizes that he doesn't know where the place actually is, so he chooses to ask for directions.
"Where's the Medokalaam Temple, if I may ask?"
"Three hours of walking to the west. In a valley, you can't miss it. Now go."
Phiali does so immediately, seeing no point in waiting around. After all, the sooner he deals with these Kezilamites, the sooner he can enjoy the positive benefits of having a backwoods cult following his god's teachings and hopefully gain great favor in his god's eyes. After walking westward for two and a half hours, he gets the sudden urge to say his prayers for some reason. Not seeing any point in fighting said urge (it might save his soul one day, after all), he performs his water-prayer in the relatively peaceful woods, then proceeds on his way. Considering that he only got up in the early evening due to his great filibuster back at the camp, it's already beginning to get dark by the time he reaches the temple.
The sight of the temple is an unusual one, as it sticks out from the forest like a sore thumb with its monumental spires reaching off into the heavens and light marble pillars supporting a roof covered in golden plates. The Kezilamites must be quite rich to be able to afford building something like this in the middle of the woods.
[Perception roll: ?]
The windows are a bit too high to reach from where he is, but there is a huge wooden gate leading inside the temple. Six people in long, flowing white robes are standing in front of it, looking rather intense and watchful.
* * * * *
Having slapped his way to what he thinks is a somewhat decisive victory, Gronok tries to look solemn, but impressive at the same time.
[Charisma roll: 1+1-->3]
He only manages to look very smug and cheeky, not being all that good of an actor. He then tries to smugly deliver a speech to convert these foul heathens and make them the first disciples of Mo'kar the Teacher, the new deity that's sure to be sweeping the nation in no time.
[Conversion roll: 4+1-1]
"That, friend, was just a smidgen of the power that Mo'kar possesses. He knows all, young one, and he wishes to speed us on our enlightenment - presumably for good conversation - and he has the power to do so. So come and join me. When word of Mo'kar spreads, as it rightfully should, the faithful will flock to my side, and together we will advance beyond what we can even dream. So will you not come with me?"
The boy stares at him vacantly for a bit, then asks a question.
"Wait, so you're not the Master Assassin in service of that... uh... that king person?"
"Uh... I retired? You can't be a Master Assassin forever, you know. Besides, I have a god to serve. That's more important."
"So you can slap people around like that because you serve this god fella?"
"Yep."
"Could I slap people around like that if I served this god fella?"
"Maybe? Depends on how "in" you are with Mo'kar. Becoming one of His first disciples would be a good start, I believe."
""Well, I'm sold on that idea. What about you guys?"
"I dunno, sounds suspicious. What if Kezilamites hunt us down?"
"We slap 'em around like the old guy here slapped Azikim around."
"Well, can't argue with that. Would be pretty fun."
The last bandit nods in agreement with the other two, but does not speak. Looks like Gronok has his first converts! Well, they might be in it for the divine power, but at least they're actually in.
"Should we drag Azikim along?"
[Azikim endurance roll: 3]
Azikim suddenly howls in pain and rolls around on the ground. Must be the stiff wind that just started blowing. He seems to be getting up.
"Nobody's dragging me anywhere! I'm going to kill this old bastard and I'm going to kill him now!"
He stands unsteadily and looks at Gronok hatefully, his face bloodied and lacerated to the point of unrecognizability. He looks somewhat angry, to say the least.
* * * * *
Upon hearing the beautiful siren song emanating from the filthy hovel, Shashari decides that whatever's inside probably can't harm him. Nothing bad could sing that well! She strolls up to the door and knocks a few times.
"Hello? Me and my ram need shelter! And we love your singing! Could you teach me to sing like you do?"
The singing stops. There is the sound of hurried footsteps, then the door opens to reveal, interestingly enough, a man. Though he seems to be quite young, he seems to have a beard beyond his years, stretching all the way down to his chest. His hair is similarly long, and there is a haggard look about him that almost successfully masks the fact that he may have been rather attractive before moving to a hovel deep in the woods. The strangeness of the situation is magnified when he speaks - the voice that was singing was undeniably his, and it lacks any hint of its owner's male nature.
"Oh, a girl alone in the woods! How horrible! Come right in, girl! The dark woods are no place to be for a proper young woman!"
He pulls Shashari inside and shuts the door behind him tightly.
"There are witches about, you know. No place for a young lady like yourself, no way. So, what were you saying out there? I'm afraid I only heard the knocking."
[Shashari shock roll: 1-->1]
Shashari merely stares at him. She stares at the man in complete shock and confusion.
"Please ,don't stare. I can't help my voice. It is what I have always sounded like, I'm afraid."
She merely keeps staring unblinkingly.
"Please, stop. Stop now."
Shashari fails to stop doing so, though not really of her own volition. This is quite a lot for a sheltered girl like herself to take in all at once, after all. She needs some time to process this. After a few moments, the man begins to look self-conscious, which then transforms into great anxiety, culminating in the man making a rapid escape to one of the corners of the hovel, disappearing between two odd bits of furniture.
* * * * *
Liking the prospect of sampling somebody's wine collection, Elizas opts to follow the merchant to his friend Patalim's establishment.
"Very well, let's head on over to your friend's home!"
"We should. It is about to get dark."
As they proceed through the streets, the sun is indeed well on its way down. It has almost set by the time they reach... a locked door. The merchant gets off the cart and knocks. It doesn't open. He knocks again. And again. And again. Still nothing.
While the merchant is knocking ever more fiercely, Elizas finds himself looking at the front of the locked building. As he draws perilously close to finishing the bottle of amazing wine, his attention is drawn to a board on one of the windows. It bears an interesting message:
Den of Debauchery closed by order of King Hazamor.
Glory to Kezilam!
Elizas gets the feeling this Kezilam person is not very fond of fun, at least not the kind he prefers.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 10, 2013, 03:13:01 pm
What was the name of the reigning cult? Whatever - anyhow, the only reason that they rule is that no one knows any other worship in Tezelom, at least not one as widespread as them. But they lack power - we do not; you are evidence of that. What we must do is simply let them know of Mo'kar's power, convince them of it's veracity, and ...
Have you ever lead a revolution? Think of it. You could go from being some bandit in the desert to being a leader of the people - a prophet of the New God! Your name could be forever remembered as one who changed the course of history itself.
What do you say?"
If he refuses, kick him in the nuts, take his knife and tell my converts to tie him up or at least bring him along to convert later.
Post by: IronyOwl on January 10, 2013, 11:20:04 pm
But, you really do look rather odd, don't you? Like a really young hermit, hah... um, might I ask why you're living all alone out here? It must be rather rough, and you're such a good singer..."
Apologize and inquire about hermit status.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 10, 2013, 11:28:57 pm
Go towards the front gate and greet the six men there. No way they can have a kill-on-sight policy, right?
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 11, 2013, 10:37:35 am
---
Sejena studied the wretch before her for a moment. She almost felt ashamed of her effect on the man. Almost.
'Get up,' she said. 'If you keep to the faith, you will rise far yet. Now... you will tell me how you access the palace and deal with the guards' bribes. I will also require a safe place to sleep for tonight - I would not wish to intrude upon your home, especially with your father present.'
She softened her tone. 'But first... I will tell you what I know of the Lady.'
Tell Satjap all about Aulanna, the Bloody-Red Lady, Mistress of War, Chain-breaker. Command him to find a place for Sejanna to sleep in.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 12, 2013, 03:35:14 pm
Faced with a very aggressive Azikim once again, Gronok once again opens the unending floodgate of words that is his mouth and tries to talk some sense into the fellow.
[Charisma roll: 4+1]
"Azikim, was it? You look a smart man; surely you're not going to turn down the potential I represent, are you? Because really, how many of your victims have anything of value on them? How many are armed? How many visitors do you even get? We're in some random patch of desert that it took me at least 2 hours to stumble upon, and you gain nothing by killing me. Join me, however, and I can offer you much more."
"Oh, you can offer me so much, obviously. Look at you. You're an old man who slaps people! What could you possibly offer me?"
Gronok pays him no mind and continues his speech.
"What was the name of the reigning cult? Whatever - anyhow, the only reason that they rule is that no one knows any other worship in Tezelom, at least not one as widespread as them. But they lack power - we do not; you are evidence of that. What we must do is simply let them know of Mo'kar's power, convince them of it's veracity, and ... Have you ever lead a revolution?"
"What?"
"Think of it. You could go from being some bandit in the desert to being a leader of the people - a prophet of the New God! Your name could be forever remembered as one who changed the course of history itself. What do you say?"
[Azikim reaction roll: 5+1]
He stands for a few moments, lost in thought. He lowers his dagger and scratches his chin, then winces in pain as he accidentally sticks his finger in a bleeding bit.
"I will go with you. For now. But I reserve the right to be the one to kill you if things go wrong."
"You got it, chief!"
"Yeah, chief. You'll even get to choose the method of execution."
Something about this makes Gronok highly uneasy. Being pressured is never fun, after all.
* * * * *
As Shashari snaps out of her shocked state, she peers over to the corner the man disappeared in. She then apologizes at it, hoping to catch the ear of the poor fellow.
[Apology roll: 3+1]
"I'm sorry! I'm just not used to... well, anything. I just recently left home, I didn't mean to stare."
"Nobody ever does. They always just look at me and say nothing, then stare, and I feel ashamed of my voice and my looks and... and... everything! How is a man to live like this, sounding like a woman! I was the laughingstock of my home ever since I became a man! Called me the Bearded Lady, they did!"
"But, you really do look rather odd, don't you? Like a really young hermit, hah... um, might I ask why you're living all alone out here? It must be rather rough, and you're such a good singer..."
"I am a hermit, and I'm living all alone here because society will not accept me as I am, at least not in my village. There are witches about in this area, yes, but at least they leave me alone for the most part, unlike other people. Unlike you. I sing to keep myself sane in this lonely existence, and it really helps. It's something to help pass the time between hunting and water-gathering trips."
A hand emerges from between the rather poor furnishings and points to one of the corners. Some straw seems to be laid out there.
"You may sleep there, if you wish. I will remain here to spare your ever-so-delicate eyes and my far more delicate pride."
* * * * *
With six guards ahead and no good way to bypass them, Phiali decides to just try the direct approach and speak to the men. He calmly proceeds toward the first gate and tries to appear as non-threatening as possible.
[Guard visitor policy roll: 1-->1]
He waves to the guards in a friendly manner. The guards reply by drawing wicked-looking blades from their robes and raising them high up in the air.
"He treads on holy ground! Slay him immediately!" one of them yells! The other guards seem to like this plan quite a bit. They proceed to shout in unison and charge at Phiali.
"GLORY TO KEZILAM!"
They must not get a lot of visitors, Phiali figures.
* * * * *
Seeing Satjap grovel before her does Sejena's heart some good, though it is getting a bit too pathetic at this point.
"Get up, if you keep to the faith, you will rise far yet. Now... you will tell me how you access the palace and deal with the guards' bribes. I will also require a safe place to sleep for tonight - I would not wish to intrude upon your home, especially with your father present."
Satjap gets up and stands completely still, then answers stiffly.
"Find Naphizim of Vipuka, he will arrange things. All of them. Guards, living quarters, everything. Tell him I sent you. Tell him I will pay for you as well."
A simple answer to a seemingly complex problem. Interesting.
"Very well then, I shall depart soon. But first... I will tell you what I know of the Lady."
"Whatever you say!"
Sejena then informs the hopelessly frightened Satjap of who this god she serves is, how she prefers to conduct her business and how serving is quite possibly the most important thing Satjap will be asked to do his entire life.
[Conversion roll: 5+1+1]
"Sounds like a very good goddess, yes. Very good goddess indeed. Better than Kezilam, assuredly. Will worship her immediately if you want me to. Now, please, could you... uh... leave? Please?"
Though he appears to have understood everything Sejena said, his eyes still have a look of pure fear in them. It seems that Sejena's presence might be causing him actual physical discomfort.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: TCM on January 12, 2013, 03:45:06 pm
Elizas asks the merchant if there is another safe haven for them to travel to.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 12, 2013, 03:51:45 pm
Pray for a miracle to strike these violent heathens down.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 12, 2013, 04:02:32 pm
Are there farms in the temple or something?
Pray for a miracle to strike these violent heathens down.
None that you can see. Also, do you wish to run or stand still while doing that action? It's best to clarify.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 12, 2013, 04:31:43 pm
That was a rhetorical question, and hold my ground until they get within striking distance.Are there farms in the temple or something?None that you can see. Also, do you wish to run or stand still while doing that action? It's best to clarify.
Pray for a miracle to strike these violent heathens down.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 12, 2013, 04:59:39 pm
Get the clothes from his mother (wait for them if she's not ready), give her my deepest thanks, and put them on.
Post by: IronyOwl on January 12, 2013, 10:09:50 pm
Say, how'd you like to come with me on a journey? Can't be any worse than living out here alone forever, and you might find some people who appreciate a face and voice like that!
I'm Shashari, Prophet of the One True God, by the way. He hates waste, you know, and leaving you out here to sing to rocks and squirrels is most certainly a waste."
Convince Siren Boy to join me.
Post by: Xantalos on January 13, 2013, 02:33:22 am
"Oh, you younglings are all so feisty! Now, do you know of any villages nearby? We need to start converting."
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 13, 2013, 03:57:47 am
((I'm like a really old car dealer! I love it.))
"Oh, you younglings are all so feisty! Now, do you know of any villages nearby? We need to start converting."
[Bandits knowledge roll: 5]
"Well, there aren't a lot, but there is at least one to the west, about six hours of walking. A quaint place, I'd say."
"Ooh, I know of a closer one! That one's four hours to the north!"
"Yeah, but that leads through a very unfriendly part of the woods."
"There's also a city two days to the south. Take your pick."
"Take your time. It's not like we're going anywhere at this particular time."
Post by: Xantalos on January 13, 2013, 04:04:38 am
To the six-hour-away village!
EDIT: Oh, and the link in your sig leads to the second page, GM.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 13, 2013, 03:07:03 pm
Since poor old Patalim's establishment seems to be closed, Elizas asks the merchant a very important question.
"Say, perhaps there is another safe haven where we could spend the night?"
[Merchant contingency plan roll: 1-->5]
"I'm afraid not. I don't have any other friends in the area, neither do I have any other place. I used Patalim's establishment both for my own lodgings and as a place to store my goods until I had done all of my business here and enjoyed the fine pleasures of the city. It appears we are in quite a bit of trouble now."
Suddenly, one of the guards pipes up!
"Hey, maybe Patalim's around somewhere. The old bastard couldn't have up and left, could he?"
[Passerby roll: 6-->5]
He walks up to a passerby, a sad-looking old man.
"Say, would you perhaps know where Patalim is?"
The man looks at the guard with a cloudy stare, then answers slowly and not without a very noticeable air of sorrow.
"Poor fella. Got on the Kezilamites' bad side. His public execution is tomorrow at noon. Death by stoning and decapitation."
The guards and merchant regard the man with abject horror. Well, this got very bad very fast.
* * * * *
As the guards of the Temple charge at him, Phiali does the messianic thing to do in this case and starts to get on his knees and pray for divine aid.
[Prayer roll: 6-->4]
He doesn't even get down before he is struck by a flash of inspiration almost as great as the one he received the day he started out on his quest! He realizes that these people are unenlightened zealots, people of dark minds, but this is not their own fault. There is, however, a way to shock them back into a more human state. That way is the wrath of the New God.
The central guard is suddenly twitches, then bursts into flame and screams loudly!
[Central Guard endurance roll: 1]
He screams louder than Phiali could have ever imagined a man to scream, but this only lasts for ten seconds at best, since he passes out from extreme pain shortly after that.
[Guard morale roll: 5]
The guards glance momentarily toward their fallen comrade, but evidently don't seem to consider his fate anything worth stopping for. Hm.
"DEATH TO THE HEATHEN! GLORY TO KEZILAM!"
Within moments they have reached Phiali, still rather surprised at their unwavering zealotry. This was definitely not part of the plan.
[Guard 1 vs. Phiali: 4 vs. 1+1]
[Guard 2 vs. Phiali: 2 vs. 3+1]
[Guard 3 vs. Phiali: 5 vs. 2+1]
[Guard 4 vs. Phiali: 1 vs. 4+1]
[Guard 5 vs. Phiali: 6 vs. 1+1]
He is sliced across the shoulder and the chest, obtaining superficial wounds, then handily disarms another of the guards while keeping another at bay with his curved stick. This doesn't prepare him at all for what comes next, as he receives a curved blade straight through the belly, impaling him most severely. He is bleeding very badly now.
4 MP expended!
People insufficiently impressed! No MP awarded!
* * * * *
Having gotten what she wanted from Satjap, Sejena waits for the mother to be finished with her clothing. It only takes about half an hour before she's done and presents Sejena with her work. The clothes are just as advertised: sturdy, covering, warm and, most importantly, plain.
"I hope this set will meet your standards."
Sejena puts on the clothing and finds it rather comfortable for the most part, at least moreso than the rather revealing concubine outfit she was wearing.
"My deepest thanks to you, these will be quite adequate."
She gives Sejena a wide smile.
"I am glad to hear that. It's not very often that I can make something for a noblewoman. I am pleased that you find no issue with my work. It's much higher praise than you'd think."
* * * * *
Looking at the area where she knows the man to be, Shashari realizes that this is most definitely an opportunity for a conversion. And that is an opportunity you cannot miss.
[Conversion roll: 6-->4]
"But your voice is so pretty! And you look like you'd be pretty handsome if you weren't living in squalor."
"What? Me? You think I sing well?"
"Yes! Say, how'd you like to come with me on a journey?"
"Well, I don't know about that, I might-"
"Can't be any worse than living out here alone forever, and you might find some people who appreciate a face and voice like that!"
"Um, I-"
"Great, I knew you'd agree. I'm Shashari, Prophet of the One True God, by the way. He hates waste, you know, and leaving you out here to sing to rocks and squirrels is most certainly a waste."
"Now, I wouldn't-"
"You wouldn't want to say no to such a fine offer, I know. So we leave at dawn."
"I have-"
"You have no reservations about this plan of mine? Perfect. We shall speak no more of it."
"But-"
"No more! It is agreed!"
There is an audible sigh of resigned acceptance from one of the corners.
* * * * *
After hearing these pleasing news of nearby villages, Gronok is quite excited!
"We'll head for the one six hours away. Lead the way, boys!"
"What, now?"
"It'll be a six hour walk! And we're already tired from a busy day of robbing and plundering! And it's about to get dark!"
[Gronok charisma roll: 6+1-->4]
"Now, you see, what I hear there are excuses. Poor excuses. But maybe I'm wrong. Care to repeat?"
"Well, it will be a six hour walk and..."
"Oh, you'll have to forgive me, all I heard back there was 'whine whine whine, I can't walk'. Start over, please."
"A six hour walk through the woods is no simple matter, it is quite a challenge!"
"There it goes again. My hearing must be getting pretty poor, since I could swear I just heard a fearsome bandit, a scourge of the plains whine about having to take a walk. Next thing I'll hear will be how you're scared of the dark or some such rot."
"The woods can get pretty perilous at night, you know."
"Because that's when the bloodthirsty squirrels come out, right? I do believe I've heard this entire thing before, only it came from a child of six years when she tried to tell her mother she didn't want to go to the well! I'll have you know that this girl grew up to be quite a worthless layabout, though I have to blame her mother for that, as she was the one that kept listening to her lazy good-for-nothing child. But back on track, you were saying?"
"It's been quite a long day, you know. We've..."
"You've done what? How many well-armed caravans have you waylaid? How many people have you stopped along the way? Heck, how many sheep have you rustled?"
"Uh..."
"Well?"
"... none."
"I do believe that settles that matter. We set off now!"
The other bandits look at Azikim, who shrugs with a bitter expression on his mutilated face. They get up, grab their things, fold up their tents and head west, Gronok following along.
[Travel roll: 5-1]
It turns out that traveling through the dark is, while not entirely pleasant, also not as incredibly perilous as the whiny bandit had led him to believe. The road is difficult, but eventually they reach the village to the west - Kilnipom, a somewhat poor-looking community. The village seems full of low hovels, but there is one structure that poses an exception - a large temple made of bright white stone in the middle of town. Seems relatively harmless apart from that, though.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 13, 2013, 03:14:11 pm
"Hello there! Would you care to tell me what that temple in the middle of town is for?
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 13, 2013, 04:45:21 pm
Five bucks says I'll be the first martyr.
Calmly remove the blade, using my last MP on a healing miracle before turning around and leaving. Maybe they won't follow?
Post by: TCM on January 13, 2013, 06:21:12 pm
Elizas questions the old man on what charges Patalim is being executed on. Then ask him if there is someplace for weary travelers to spend the night.
Post by: IronyOwl on January 13, 2013, 07:39:00 pm
Eat, drink, rest. Pleasant conversation while we do so.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 14, 2013, 10:42:37 am
'Ah... you are a saint amongst men,' she said. 'And much more important than you think. If you allow me, I would give you Aulanna's blessing.'
After that, she would have to go and find this Naphizim of Vipuka. Hopefully her new clothes would give her protection from most hateful eyes.
Bless the mother (I would like to actually use Blessing, but I'm not sure what I'd do with it, so maybe not) and then head out and find this Naphizim of Vipuka.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 14, 2013, 03:02:43 pm
In the foreboding dark of the early morning, five travelers enter the village of Kilnipom. They proceed aimlessly along the streets until their leader, Gronok, decides to try and ask a nearby villager what that large temple-like structure in the middle of town is.
[Search roll: 1-->4]
He chooses to ask a knowledgeable, enlightened-looking fellow dressed in gray clothes what the place may be.
"Hello there! Would you care to tell me what that temple in the middle of town is for?"
"Why, yes. It's the Temple of Amaliz Teze, the Great Prophet! That you would not know this is quite shocking. Why are you in Kilnipom if not to see the Temple? It is the only thing of interest here among these poor, ignorant peasants."
The man looks over at a nearby hovel dismissively.
"But I suppose they have their uses. After all, everyone has their place in life. It would be folly, not to mention a betrayal of Teze's core tenets to attempt to leave it."
Ah. Kezilamites. That makes sense.
* * * * *
Phiali is in quite a bad spot right now. He does, after all, have quite a few wounds on him. He is, however, determined not to die just yet. He stands tall and pulls the blade of one of the guards from his belly, then runs his hands over his wounds in a smooth motion. There is a glow of warmth and the sound of flowing water, and when the prophet removes his hand, his wounds are gone! He then turns around and begins to walk away.
[Guard morale roll: 5]
The guards, obviously not deterred by obvious supernatural activity, charge at Phiali and try to stab him once more.
[Guard 1 vs. Phiali: 1 vs. 1+1]
[Guard 2 vs. Phiali: 4 vs. 6+1]
[Guard 3 vs. Phiali: 5 vs. 2+1]
[Guard 4 vs. Phiali: 5-1 vs. 5+1]
[Guard 5 vs. Phiali: 3 vs. 6+1]
As he hears the footsteps of the approaching guards, he turns around. He watches as one guard runs right past him, then takes a far-too-impatient one's blade as the latter tries to perform a reckless overhead swing at him. Even though one of the guards manages a lucky swipe at his arm, he still manages to push away a previously disarmed though still madly charging one and disarm a last one. He shows the three blades he already has to the guards with a questioning look on his face.
[Guard morale roll: 1-->5]
The guards look at him cautiously, then take a few steps back. Phiali nods solemnly and leaves without a word, disappearing into the woods in a scant few minutes.
1 MP expended!
* * * * *
Upon hearing about the execution, Elizas decides to take charge of the situation.
"Be calm, my friend, for I have a plan to stop your comrade from being killed, and to do so we will attend his execution tomorrow. For now, we must plan and find a place to stay the night."
[Merchant reaction roll: 5]
"What? What will attending his execution solve? I... well, I suppose I'll trust your judgment. After all, you are closer to God than myself."
"Yes. Now, old man, what crime is Patalim charged with committing?"
"Debauchery and corruption of the public, same as any other owner of an... entertainment establishment that didn't close its doors when the Kezilamites politely suggested they should."
"I see. Do you know of a place where weary travelers may spend the night?"
[Sad Old Man knowledge roll: ?]
"Why, yes, yes, I do. There is quite a fine place for people like you, in fact. Go to the home of Gezerim, right down the street over there. I am sure he can help you in some way."
He points to a house of not-inconsiderable size at the end of the street. It is somewhat unadorned, but there is nonetheless an air of refinement about it. Like there is more than meets the casual eye to that place.
* * * * *
Having successfully made the siren-man submit to her wishes, Shashari inquires about his home next. The Siren seems a bit less shy of her now, as he has now poked his head out of the corner.
"Excellent! Now, I'm tired and hungry, do you have anything to eat and drink?"
[Siren resource roll: 4]
"I do have a bit of jerky left over from one of my better hunts lately. I also have a lot of spring water and some herbs. Help yourself, girl."
She does so and does her best to enjoy the meal.
[Meal enjoyment roll: 4]
It's good, she supposes. Definitely not the tastiest meal she's had, but filling nonetheless. The herbs add quite a bit to the meat in terms of flavor, she finds. After eating her share, she makes some after-supper smalltalk.
[Smalltalk roll: 4+1]
They chat for quite a while, and soon the communication between them has taken on a much friendlier tone, as the Siren regales Shashari with various exploits of his youth. They mostly involve him getting in trouble with his less womanly brothers and, believe it or not, less womanly sisters, plus a certain amount of more unique stories, such as an instance where he managed to accidentally make a shepherd of a nearby homestead fall in love with the sound of his voice. Though some of the stories are more strange and disturbing in a way, such as the time when his sister, then a girl of seven years, tried to take away his voice with a knife due to an insanely jealous phase she was going through. He points at a noticeable scar on his throat when he tells the story, adding a level of realism Shashari does not really appreciate. She nervously laughs to keep the conversation going, which seems to work just fine.
After quite a while of hearing varied stories of the Siren's youth, Shashari decides that perhaps it might be time to rest. She gets into the most comfortable position she can on the bed of straw, then tries to fall asleep while her ram, who has been passively watching the evening's proceedings, takes up residence just a few steps away.
[Resting roll: 6-->4]
Surprisingly, she sleeps just as soundly on the rather humble bed of straw as she would have in her soft, soft feather bed back at home. Soon enough, she has left the conscious world and plunged into the realm of dreams.
[Dream roll: 6-->1]
She dreams of a keep of nine doors, each of them guarded by a crone. As she passes each door, its respective crone takes something from her. The first one takes her clothes. The second cuts off her hair. The third, however, slices off one of her ears with a large, extremely sharp knife.
[Endurance roll: 5]
She screams and clutches the empty space where her ear used to be, but resolves to keep going, feeling a vague promise of something dragging her forward despite all sense and reason. The crones do not let up, either: the fourth removes her hands, the fifth cuts off her feet. The sixth tears her tongue out of her mouth with a single pull of her hand.
[Endurance roll: 4]
Now mute and reduced to a crawl, Shashari is still determined to continue her progress. The sixth crone nods in approval as she makes her way forward to the seventh door. The seventh crone seems to be far more lenient, as she merely takes away her ram companion. Still, with its loss, she feels that something else has left her as well. The eighth one does something far worse, however, as she takes away her name and the face of her father and family, shattering both against a stone wall like mere glass playthings, then tearing out her heart with a seemingly taloned hand. But still, she is not prepared for the final crone's punishment. For you see, it is but a single question.
"Who are you, girl?"
[Will roll: 2]
For the life of her, Shashari isn't sure. What is she without a name or a face, without her hands and feet, without a tongue and without family, without anything? What is left when all else is taken away? As she thinks, she feels an icy darkness close in. The ninth crone begins to laugh, then speaks in a vaguely teasing tone.
"I suppose I can give you a small glimpse to what is behind this door. After all, you did perform admirably up until this point."
As the door opens by the very tiniest of margins, Shashari indeed gets her glimpse. And what she glimpses is beyond any imagination and beyond any mortal concept of value.
She wakes up soon after, the visions of the crones slowly leaving her mind and memory. It still seems to be dark and she can hear the Siren sleeping in the corner, breathing softly. Her ram is similarly unperturbed.
* * * * *
Sejena thinks about the words of Medlan's wife for a moment and decides that she is probably just being unusually nice rather than uncommonly oblivious. She replies with kind words of her own.
"Ah... you are a saint amongst men. And much more important than you think. If you allow me, I would give you Aulanna's blessing."
She seems to be progressing from smiling to positive beaming as the conversation takes its course.
"I... thank you for your words. And it would be foolish to resolve a blessing, whoever it may come from, no?"
After Sejena mutters a quick, but heartfelt prayer in her favor, the lady bows gracefully and they say goodbye to one another. Then Sejena heads out to find the apparently useful Naphezim of Vipuka, all the while hoping nobody sees through her disguise.
[Search roll: 1-->2]
Two things stop her from doing this, however. For one, she forgot to find out where this Naphezim of Vipuka might be, and her knowledge of the city is quite insufficient to make anything even close to an educated guess. Secondly, she keeps getting a slightly odd feeling in her gut. Something's off.
[Perception roll: ?]
She doesn't really see anything suspicious around, but the feeling does not leave her for some reason.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 14, 2013, 03:10:07 pm
"I would like to meet with the head priest or holy man here, if it please you good folk! I have a matter of grave importance to relay to him!"
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 14, 2013, 03:13:39 pm
Hurry away, find people and ask them for directions to Naphizim's
Post by: IronyOwl on January 14, 2013, 04:34:28 pm
...she wondered if witches made good converts. More likely than not they followed some heathen forest goddess, though. At least, that's what she'd heard...
Probably more importantly, the dream raised an interesting question. Who was she without anything?
Curl back up and attempt to rest until Siren gets up. Meditate on the dream.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 14, 2013, 06:27:46 pm
Camp out in the woods. Prepare to return the next morning.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 16, 2013, 03:32:50 pm
Gronok is forming a plan of some kind in his head, and has decided that going to the huge Temple of Amaliz Teze should be the first step in this plan. He also tells his entourage of converts to 'play the part', looking very suspicious and odd as he does so.
[Convert comprehension roll: 5]
They look at Gronok, then look at the people heading for the Temple and their respective entourages and do their very best to look exactly like them, which is to say they become like lambs before a mighty, omnipotent butcher looking for a good source of meat. Gronok grins at their convincing performances and walks over to the temple.
The temple itself is a very boring-looking place, with plain columns supporting its utilitarian shape. The door leading inside is similarly unadorned and surprisingly unguarded, though the main room, unlike most temples, doesn't feature a single altar, it features ten, all alike. There is no sign of any priests around, though there does seem to be quite a flock gathered. This seems kind of odd to Gronok.
* * * * *
Sejena, taking a careful look around, decides to go faster and hopefully lose any would-be assailants.
[Escape roll: 1-->6]
After going in what she hopes are very misleading and tail-losing circles, she attempts to hurry right away. This plan of hers hits a bit of a snag, however. While half-running away, she runs smack into a person who seems to be going about their daily business in a somewhat suspicious manner. As she collides with him, the man emits a high-pitched yell of surprise!
[Perception roll: 6-->5]
As Sejena looks at the high-strung man, she notices his face - the look in his eyes as he looks at her can't be mistaken for anything other than abject horror, and he shrinks away at her touch and retreats immediately. Also, as he does so, he keeps muttering something. Upon thinking about it, Sejena realizes it could only be one thing - a prayer. Uh oh.
* * * * *
Not really so much disturbed as intrigued by her dream, Shashari, rather than try to wake anyone up and disturb them, tries to curl up and rest on the bed of straw.
[Resting roll: 5]
Since she's already gotten relatively comfortable, she falls asleep rather soon, though she does take the time to consider her dream for a bit.
[Dream consideration roll: ?]
Well, it obviously means something about the beginning of her journey. It's a pretty momentous thing, this quest she has undertaken. With such momentous tasks it is only natural that great mental distress and development would happen, though the exact nature of what her goddess is trying to say eludes Shashari at the moment. She briefly ponders why gods have to be so dang cryptic, then relaxes and falls asleep with relative ease.
She awakes at dawn, finding the Siren already up and about.
"Good morning... uh... Shashari, was it? Did you sleep well?"
* * * * *
Phiali, having been uncomfortably sliced and stabbed one time too many, decides to just find a good camping spot to rest up for tomorrow.
[Camping spot roll: 4]
There's a decent place to camp out in next to a river. It's slightly damp and not entirely protected from the elements, but it's good enough for now. Phiali takes some time to make camp, but realizes that there's still some time before it gets dark which he could spend doing any number of things, some of them perhaps even useful.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 16, 2013, 03:35:07 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 16, 2013, 05:08:08 pm
Post by: TCM on January 16, 2013, 05:17:05 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 17, 2013, 10:26:08 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 18, 2013, 03:13:37 pm
There is complete silence in the temple of Amaliz Teze. All of the people gathered stand motionless and stare at the ten altars, which form a sort of semicircle at the back of the hall. It's eerie enough for Gronok to begin feeling queasy. He stays at the back of the crowd, but remains watchful of any unusual happenings.
Soon enough, an atonal clang rings out through the temple and ten men in brilliant white robes enter in one line. Each takes his place over at an altar and nods his head solemnly. A very old man in gray robes soon follows them and stands in the middle of the semicircle of priests. The man clears his throat and speaks in a deep, echoing voice.
"Faithful of Kezilam, you are gathered here once again to witness the Annual Trial of Amaliz Teze, and it is my honor to be the one to judge these ten men by the grace of our Purest Mother, the Greater Judge of All That Lives. Glory to Kezilam and Her greatest prophet, Amaliz Teze, the Immaculate Child!"
The crowd loudly repeats the man's last sentence.
[Subterfuge roll: 4]
Gronok does it as well, though mostly out of a desire to remain unseen and in a rather halfhearted fashion. He remains unnoticed, however. After the cheer is done, the gray man continues his speech.
"According to Our Mother's teachings, all that lives is corrupt in one way or another. There are none who can be said to be perfect. None except for the Chosen of Kezilam, Amaliz Teze, the man who was touched by Kezilam herself before his birth and given the Gift of Purity to lead us mortals from our dark existence. And this he did. He gathered ten followers and spread the word of Kezilam to the four corners of the earth, never failing or tiring in his quest, such was his purity! Sadly, his purity was not shared by all his followers. One was secretly harboring dissenting thoughts, terrible thoughts of lust, disobedience and personal greed! However, all was known to Amaliz Teze, and he held a trial among his flock to give the offender a chance to identify himself. Just as the Immaculate Child's flock was impure, so is ours, whether we like to admit it or not."
The old man's face becomes incredibly grave.
"In the great tradition of many centuries, we once again hold our very own trial, very much like Amaliz Teze's. May impurity be found and identified for what it is, and may our head priests once again be pure in their entirety! Priests, present your arguments."
The priest on the far right begins to explain how he has prayed for twelve hours every day for this entire year, holding himself up as a beacon of purity and separation from the sinful world around him. He goes on at great length about the many varied prayers he has said, explaining the significance and purity of each, both in the saying and the intent behind it. The old man, having listened intently the whole time, nods at the end and motions to the next one in line, who begins his speech by telling about all the alcoholics, whores and hedonists he has personally converted, going into a disturbing amount of detail about their previous lifestyles and the new lives they received upon converting.
Gronok can't help but find this whole idea strange. Judging priests in a trial annually? Arguing one's own purity? What sort of religion is this?
* * * * *
Having had enough of any adventurous activity for today, Phiali decides to pray.
[Prayer roll: 2]
Rationalizing that God hates waste, he decides to do without water on this particular prayer. After all, wouldn't want to run out of water when he desperately needs it. He prays for a bit, but finds no particular spiritual relief in it. Hm. Better fix himself up some dinner. Berries at the very least, he supposes.
[Search roll: 2]
The surrounding area is surprisingly empty of anything reasonably edible. And the only other thing he has with him is his last tiny piece of bread. He places it in his hand, then prays some more.
[Prayer roll: 2]
Once again, it doesn't really... fill him as it usually should. Maybe he's doing something wrong. He ponders this while chewing on a piece of bread. It's still not dark, but it's not far away now. Two hours, maximum.
* * * * *
Elizas thanks the old fellow and heads to the house of Gezerim with his party of converts. He walks right up to the house and knocks on the door.
[Answer roll: 5]
A short, thin, withered man dressed in expensive finery opens the door immediately.
"Yes? What do you want? Are you... prospective guests?"
"Yes, actually. May we have a room for the night?"
"And a place to store some goods?"
"Why, of course. It will cost you, of course, but it is within my power to provide these things."
"Excellent! So, the cost will be..."
"Never you mind what the cost will be. These things are best discussed in the morning and with a clear head, no? Now, would you come in? I have plenty of wine and entertainment to give if you would accept it."
There is indeed the sound of revelry coming from within.
"But what about my-"
"Your goods will be safe. Boy!"
Responding to Gezerim's call, a chipper voice comes from a side room.
"Yes, master?"
"Take care of the wagons."
"Right away, master."
"Now, come in. There is plenty of wine left for you yet. Women, too. I will also have beds made for all of you in some of my best rooms."
He makes a polite, welcoming gesture, motioning the group to enter his rather exquisitely furnished house.
* * * * *
Feeling uncomfortable at having collided with a religious fellow (and she can guess which religion he belongs to), Sejena backs away and mutters an equally menacing prayer. She then tries to make herself scarce as fast as possible in order to prevent any unfortunate run-ins.
[Escape roll: 5]
She runs through several streets, ducks into a whole lot of alleyways and takes unusual detours through less-traveled locales, then maneuvers through the thick marketplace to make sure she's lost anybody who could possibly follow her. She feels rather safe now, all in all.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 18, 2013, 05:25:07 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 18, 2013, 05:53:05 pm
((Asking for Divine Knowledge of if the priests are telling the truth would cost 12 MP, right?))
((1 point for Divine Knowledge * 1 point for Targeted * 3 for ten people = 3 MP))
Post by: Xantalos on January 18, 2013, 05:54:38 pm
Ah, thank you!((Asking for Divine Knowledge of if the priests are telling the truth would cost 12 MP, right?))
((1 point for Divine Knowledge * 1 point for Targeted * 3 for ten people = 3 MP))
Gronok will ask Mo'kar to grant him Divine Knowledge on whether the priests are telling the truth about their 'purity'.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 18, 2013, 10:09:27 pm
Think. Set up a simple ritual to do to pass the time and please The God until the GM lets Phiali go to sleep.
Post by: miauw62 on January 19, 2013, 05:52:44 am
Post by: IronyOwl on January 19, 2013, 06:12:46 am
"Funny you should mention that. I had the strangest dream... it involved witches and some sort of trial, but I'm not really sure what it means...
Speaking of which, what do you know about the witches that live in these woods?"
Ask Siren about witches.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 19, 2013, 07:57:52 am
Ask people (in the marketplace, for example) for directions to Naphezim's place as politely as I can. Keep an eye out for the heathen man.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 20, 2013, 02:34:05 pm
Standing in the temple, Gronok has a good idea - he'll verify the truth of the claims of all 10 priests in one fell swoop by asking his god for help! He concentrates briefly and says a prayer to his Lord, then concentrates on what the first priest said - about the praying every day.
Truth.
He then thinks of the conversions and all the stories of hedonism.
Slight exaggeration.
Gronok listens to the third priest. He begins by telling of all the material possessions he and his family once owned and how he rid himself of them to hand it all to the poorer faithful of Kezilam, helping them survive and spread the good word of purity and saving them from what would probably have been a life of crime.
By the 'poorer faithful' he means 'three people'. All of which were distantly related to him. Two of them later landed among the converts of the previous guy.
The fourth priest, a man with very long hair and a woefully overgrown beard, explains how he hasn't even left his humble cell for the entire year or spoken to anyone.
Truth. Very, very, very boring truth.
The fifth priest, quite similar to the previous one, very unsubtly points out that he has done one better than the previous priest, as he has kept a blindfold on and plugged his ears during the year he spent in his cell.
Complete truth. Insipid, but truthful.
The sixth priest speaks next, detailing the long self-torture sessions he has spent in his own dungeon to forcefully exorcise any mortal faults.
He mostly poked himself with needles. Nothing too bone-breaking or, indeed, even all that painful. He did yell up a storm down there, however.
The seventh priest merely takes off his robe and stands on the altar, showcasing a body covered in whip marks and various burns. Then he screams "THIS IS TRUE PURITY! GLORY TO KEZILAM!" repeatedly until the judge calms him down and sends him back to his place.
Too insane to lie. Even so, he definitely did it all by himself and without prodding by anyone else.
The eighth priest, obviously rather disturbed by the previous priest's demonstration, says that he merely tried to run his temples as efficiently as possible in order to keep the populace loyal and in awe of Kezilam.
True, but he also pocketed quite a bit of the temples' assets and used them in order to exert greater economic control of the city he's based in.
The ninth priest says he didn't do anything extraordinary, but remained completely loyal to Kezilam and tried his best to follow her principles and inform as many people as possible of her good works in order to keep the flock as calm, pure and worthy of heaven as anywhere in the land. He looks quite worried, and the coordinator definitely sees this.
Not a single word of what he said is true. He and his city have rather extensive ties to the cult of Zishal Tinn, the God of Trade, Agriculture and Civilized Merriment, frequently associated with pragmatic and relativistic worldviews, and the poor head priest vainly hopes that most of the room doesn't know this.
The tenth priest launches into a long, flowery speech on the virtues of Kezilam - what they are, their history and their relevance in this time. He then explains why Kezilam is such an important influence on this land and how exactly one would serve her best. After that, he delivers a lecture on how his city always gathers to hear his voice every Wednesday outside of his palace and how he enthralls them with his voice, makes them listen and understand the words of Kezilam. The lecture, all in all, takes about twenty minutes, though the faithful certainly seem to be enjoying it. Not the coordinator, though. The coordinator looks quite frustrated. The priest bows at the end of his lecture and straightens out nobly.
Every bit of what he said is true (from a certain point of view). Too bad he said nothing of serving Kezilam. Because he really doesn't. He's installed himself as a messiah to the people, and they all worship him. Nice speech, though.
The coordinator looks at the tenth priest sternly, then at the ninth priest and finally at the eighth. That corner definitely is trouble.
3 MP expended!
* * * * *
Phiali, feeling an odd need to stay awake he believes might not entirely originate within himself, decides to figure out some kind of ritual to pass the time until nightfall.
[Intelligence roll: ?]
After briefly pondering his previous prayers and why they didn't seem to be all that effective, he realizes that he has very little clue. So he goes for a swim in the river instead. The water's rather good, he finds. After spending quite a bit of time in the water, he gets out feeling refreshed. Well, that felt pretty good and fulfilling, considering what he's been through today. He gives a quick prayer to his god and goes to sleep.
[Dream roll: 1-->4]
His only dreams that night involve getting repeatedly stabbed by guardsmen. While definitely not pleasant, they do illustrate the point that he probably needs a better plan than "try that thing you did yesterday again". He awakes with twin purposes the next morning - defeat the Kezilamites somehow, and do not get stabbed in the process.
1 MP gained from refreshing swim and prayer!
* * * * *
Sitting up in her bed of straw, Shashari wastes no time and gets right to the questioning. There is only so much daylight and by the Serpent, she will use it. After all, time is the easiest and most valuable thing to waste of all.
"Funny you should mention that. I had the strangest dream... it involved witches and some sort of trial, but I'm not really sure what it means...
Speaking of which, what do you know about the witches that live in these woods?"
[Siren knowledge roll: 2]
"Oh, they are a very secretive lot. I hear they're around, but I haven't seen them lately."
"Have you seen them at all?"
"Well... no. Not a single time. But I bet they're around."
"How so?"
"I've seen shapes prowling around on four legs in the night. They howl at the moon and travel in packs. A coven of witches, obviously."
"Or wolves."
"You make the distinction. I do not. They eat sheep either way, so I fail to see the difference. I've also seen toothy creatures fly around at night on leathery wings and screeching hellishly. Those are definitely witches."
"Or bats."
"It's all the same to me. Also, occasionally I find very odd-looking rocks in the woods. They are probably what witches turn to in daylight. Why else would they be so odd?"
"Hm, perhaps there is truth in your words. This may deserve further consideration."
* * * * *
Sejena, upon catching her breath and calming down, decides to look for someone helpful in the marketplace.
[Search roll: 2]
She wanders all around and attempts to get the attention of somebody passing by or in one of the market stalls, but the hour of the day makes this impossible, as everybody is far too busy with their own things to pay any mind to a woman asking them for directions. It doesn't appear to have anything to do with people recognizing her or anything, just a severe lack of time on their part.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 20, 2013, 03:15:47 pm
Rinse and repeat. Ask anyone who answers me what they know of Naphezim.
((Sorry for repeating an action, but I want to get to possible safetyyyyyy. In other news, we should probably try to work together at some point. Even though our ideas of the true god(dess) aren't necessarily anything alike.))
Post by: IronyOwl on January 21, 2013, 05:24:46 am
"Well... if what you say is true, then these rocks sound like the place to start, don't you think? Let's go see if we can find some."
Search for and examine the strange stones Siren spoke of.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 21, 2013, 08:32:17 am
Go back to the temple. If they try to stab me, ask how well that worked yesterday. If they stab me anyways, don't retaliate--just remove weapon(s) from wound(s), heal, and leave, like yesterday.
Post by: Xantalos on January 21, 2013, 11:20:47 am
"Now, I can forgive exaggerations, second priest, and maybe even what you did, third priest, but you last three just violated something , you can be sure of that. And I'll not stand for it!
Point to the eighth priest.
"I accuse you, sir, of willingly using the profits gathered to you by your temples to take control of that city, thereby gaining further profit from it, something I'm pretty sure your god forbids!
Point to the ninth priest.
"You I accuse of knowingly having ties to another god, Zashal Tinn, the god of Trade, Agriculture, and Civilized Merriment, which I'm sure none of you Kelamazites are allowed to do! Now both gods hate you for worshiping another
Point to the tenth priest.
"And you have sinned worst of all! You I accuse of setting yourself as a false idol, and deposing your god in favor of having the populace worship YOU!
You three have betrayed your god, and I sentence you to the mercy of your fellow Kelamazites. I hope all that sinning was good to you, because they sure won't be.
Oh, and the third priest only gave all his wealth to his brother's uncle's niece's cousin's aunt's son's twin grandsons."
"I have revealed the truth to others, just as you commanded me to, Mo'kar. Are you pleased with me?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 22, 2013, 04:12:57 pm
Sejena, not really the type of person who takes rejection lying down, decides to be more assertive in her quest for the elusive Naphezim of Vipuka.
[Search roll: 6-->4]
She grabs a slightly less busy-looking person by the shoulder and pulls him aside.
"What? What are you doing, woman! You should know better than to-"
"Where can I find Naphezim of Vipuka?"
He slightly shrinks at her tone of voice.
"Uh, south side of the city, in Cutthroat Alley, I believe."
"Thank you. Goodbye."
"Um, glad to help?"
"I know you are."
If only everyone was this cooperative.
* * * * *
Though skepticism is beginning to take root in her brain, Shashari supposes she could go and take a look at the supposed rockwitches of the area.
"Well... if what you say is true, then these rocks sound like the place to start, don't you think? Let's go see if we can find some."
[Siren helpfulness roll: 6-->4]
"Very well. You must be quite brave to be willing to go and meet a witch, even a stone one. It took me several attempts to obtain the courage to do the same thing."
"Uh, thank you, I suppose."
The Siren kindly leads Shashari to the last known location of one of the rock witches. And, right as rain, the rock is still there. It's definitely an oddly-shaped thing. It seems to have a branched structure, with three column-like branches protruding from the ground and joining together at about eye level. The top of the rock seems oddly... spherical.
"See? Something like this could not have formed naturally! It can only be a witch!"
[Examination roll: ?]
It's definitely a very odd-looking thing, and Shashari can spot one bit that looks kind of like an eye on the spherical bit. The Siren is right, this is most definitely not natural. It couldn't be. Something's afoot, and it's probably not good.
* * * * *
Phiali, while trying to think of a plan, realizes that, distasteful to him though it may be, getting stabbed may be an unavoidable possibility. Indeed, it may actually be beneficial to him, paradoxical though it may be. He goes back to the temple. Once again, there are six guards, though only three seem to have metal swords. The rest have blunt wooden practice swords with the word "SHAME" written on them in large, suitably shameful letters.
Phiali approaches and waves to the guards.
[Guard reaction roll: 1-->1]
He gets a brief moment of deja vu as the guards shout out their catchphrase and charge.
[Charisma roll: 1+1-->3]
"Oh, go right ahead. Not like you can do anything."
The guards close the distance to him in short order and commence the stabbing. And clonking, as the case may be.
[Guard 1 vs. Phiali: 2 vs. 1+1]
[Guard 2 vs. Phiali: 5-1 vs. 5+1]
[Guard 3 vs. Phiali: 3 vs. 4+1]
[Guard 4 vs. Phiali: 1-1 vs. 3+1]
[Guard 5 vs. Phiali: 4-1 vs. 3+1]
[Guard 6 vs. Phiali: 5 vs. 3+1]
As the first guard charges right past him, Phiali ducks resignedly after a second guard's wooden sword as it sweeps close to his head. He rolls past a hardly competent stab by one of the other guards. The fourth guard seems to be attempting to hit him as well. Phiali responds by taking the shame-sword away from him and tossing it into some nearby bushes. The guard sighs and jogs over to look for it. The fifth guard then narrowly misses him with a shame-sword of his own. Phiali yawns. However, this allows the sixth guard to slip past his defenses and give him... a scratch on the shoulder. Brilliant maneuvering, chosen of Kezilam.
"Really, guys? Is that the best you've got?"
[Guard morale roll: 5]
They merely say their usual phrase as one and keep trying to stab him.
* * * * *
Verifying the claims of the priests gives Gronok an interesting perspective on the situation. He strides out of the mass of worshippers and goes straight to the semicircle of head priests of Kezilam and tries to interrupt the ceremony in a move that he believes is very wise. Admirable, even.
[Charisma roll: 4+1]
"Now that we have heard the words of our spiritual leaders, we shall delibe-"
"A-HEM! I believe that many things have been left unsaid! Important things!"
"Who dares interrupt the Trial of-"
Gronok pays the coordinator no mind and starts pointing fingers and tattling on the less-than-honest priests.
"Now, I can forgive exaggerations, second priest, and maybe even what you did, third priest, but you last three just violated something, you can be sure of that. And I'll not stand for it!"
The three last priests all seem surprised. This must be quite unusual for them. Gronok points to the eighth priest!
"I accuse you, sir, of willingly using the profits gathered to you by your temples to take control of that city, thereby gaining further profit from it, something I'm pretty sure your god forbids!"
[Priest 8 excuse roll: 5]
"Not quite. You see, I obtained all the money and property to keep it out of the hands of the impure who may misuse it. And Kezilam has nothing against property in general. It is merely the more radical of us that feel property of any kind to be a corrupting influence. It is not backed up by any holy texts or the decrees of the Councils. And believe me, I would know."
The coordinator nods affirmatively.
"He speaks the truth."
Yes, what he said.
Gronok stares blankly at the eighth priest for a few seconds, then moves on to the ninth.
"Okay then, you I accuse of knowingly having ties to another god, Zashal Tinn, the god of Trade, Agriculture, and Civilized Merriment, which I'm sure none of you Kelamazites are allowed to do! Now both gods hate you for worshiping another!"
[Priest 9 excuse roll: 4]
The priest looks wide-eyed at Gronok for a moment, but seems to rebound immediately.
"Don't be silly. There are no gods except for Kezilam, obviously. I don't have to tell anyone this, do I? I was merely humoring the ignorance of the foolish masses in order to not drive them away. It was all done in the name of the greater good, you see."
"Though compromises are a slippery slope, I trust in your motives. However, be more truthful next time."
"I will, Judge. I merely thought you would question my loyalty if I revealed this information."
Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. Well, nothing to lose by going all out, is there? He points at the smug-looking tenth priest, unquestionably the worst of the lot!
"And you have sinned worst of all! You I accuse of setting yourself as a false idol, and deposing your god in favor of having the populace worship YOU!"
[Priest 10 excuse roll: 4+1]
"You dare accuse me of anything, especially something that ridiculous? It is already clear that you come bearing nothing but lies. This is a house of Kezilam, and I will not bow before some fool that seeks to corrupt it with loud words of no substance, a bringer of impurity and muddler of minds. I will not even dignify your accusations with a response, for you clearly deserve no better. Leave in shame, corruptor, and mind your mouth before you speak again."
"Well said, head priest. Suffering fools gladly is not what this house of Kezilam is about, truly."
Tough crowd. Maybe the last one'll stick?
"Uh, the third priest only gave all his wealth to his brother's uncle's niece's cousin's aunt's son's twin grandsons."
[Priest 3 excuse roll: 1-->3]
"Triplets, you idiot! They were triplets! That changes everything!"
"What was that, head priest?"
"What? I didn't say anything!"
"I hear everything, dear priest, absolutely everything that is said in this room. It is my duty, after all. Now, did you or did you not split your entire fortune gathered before your appointment between three members of your family and then lie about it?"
"Uh... maybe?"
"It is settled, then. You lied in the Trial of Amaliz Teze, therefore you are impure and are judged as such. As Amaliz Teze judged the impure, so too are you judged by your peers. Do you accept it or refuse?"
"I refuse the judgment! My family members were quite poor, I'll have you know! Those three especially! They were criminals already!"
"Very well, then. Run for your life, impure one."
[Priest 3 escape roll: 3]
The priest looks distraught and confused for a moment, then switches over to full-on-horror and begins to run away. The judge stares at him as he makes his way down the aisle and to the exit. When he is halfway there, the judge speaks once more.
"From this moment on, he shall be known as the Impure One. Your duty as the faithful is to capture him and exorcise his impurity through fire. Should he return alive in ten years, he will be considered vindicated. So it shall be."
The crowd begins to trail after the third priest as the latter makes his escape.
"I have revealed the truth to others, just as you commanded me to, Mo'kar. Are you pleased with me?"
Difficult to say, really. He revealed the truth, but found mostly unwilling ears. Maybe this proselytizing thing is more difficult than he may have imagined.
[Priest perception roll: ?]
The tenth priest glances at Gronok. As Gronok meets his gaze, he notices a grin forming on the priest's face. Not only that, there seems to be something else forming in his eyes. Gronok could recognize it anywhere. It's the pre-speech twinkle.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: TCM on January 22, 2013, 04:20:53 pm
Elizas engaged in the pleasures of women and alcohol, taking the opportunity to also try to convert even more followers.
He also asks if Gezerim knows anything of Patalim and his trial.
Post by: Xantalos on January 22, 2013, 04:48:21 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 22, 2013, 08:03:56 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 22, 2013, 08:20:21 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 23, 2013, 12:57:32 am
((How many MP would it cost to force the tenth priest to reveal the truth?))
Can you guess what time it is? It's time to expand the abilities of Divine Charm again! Now you can perform Mind Control, which has an additional cost of 4 due to being way better and more versatile than every lower ability. This means you can mind control a single dude at the steep, steep price of 8 MP. Of course, there may be other, less direct ways of doing this.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 23, 2013, 10:05:33 am
Head to the south side of city, try to find Naphezim. Keep an eye out for any unsavory sorts.
Post by: Xantalos on January 23, 2013, 12:37:36 pm
...How much MP would it cost to have a booming voice, which the people will assume is Kezilam, proclaim him guilty?((How many MP would it cost to force the tenth priest to reveal the truth?))
Can you guess what time it is? It's time to expand the abilities of Divine Charm again! Now you can perform Mind Control, which has an additional cost of 4 due to being way better and more versatile than every lower ability. This means you can mind control a single dude at the steep, steep price of 8 MP. Of course, there may be other, less direct ways of doing this.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 23, 2013, 12:42:39 pm
...How much MP would it cost to have a booming voice, which the people will assume is Kezilam, proclaim him guilty?
There's no specific miracle for that. However, it is possible.
Post by: Xantalos on January 23, 2013, 12:52:51 pm
HGNH...How much MP would it cost to have a booming voice, which the people will assume is Kezilam, proclaim him guilty?
There's no specific miracle for that. However, it is possible.
Anything for 2 MP that involves him confessing?
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 23, 2013, 12:54:21 pm
Post by: Xantalos on January 23, 2013, 12:55:49 pm
Just shout at him really loud. That's the way the true followers of the true god(dess) do it.If I have to, I will annihilate him in a storm of words.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 23, 2013, 01:04:47 pm
Anything for 2 MP that involves him confessing?
The list of miracles you and I use are one and the same. You can look on it (first post) and figure something out, I believe. I don't really like giving too many hints to people.
EDIT: Also, I just noticed that healing costs 2 MP and not 1 MP as I thought. So Phiali isn't actually able to do it and he shouldn't have been able to the first time. Just a heads-up. Not that I'm going to change anything (since it's my mistake).
Post by: Xantalos on January 23, 2013, 01:25:06 pm
[/derp]
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 23, 2013, 02:12:39 pm
Post by: Xantalos on January 23, 2013, 02:17:52 pm
Gronok, moving quickly, interrupts the priest before he speeches and puts a Curse on his ability to speak (curse on Charisma).
"You never actually said anything, I notice. You evaded it with fancy words, but on the whole you said nothing. What, are you afraid of an old man? You must have something to hide, otherwise a man with as much faith in God as you have would surely not be afraid of an old mane's outrageous accusation that you have betrayed God, correct? So why don't you tell this honorable court what you are hiding? You set yourself up as a false idol. Admit it."
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 24, 2013, 04:17:57 pm
Elizas decides to take this Gezerim fellow up on his offer, but not before asking a question.
"Say, would you know anything of the trial of Patalim? I hear he's being executed tomorrow."
"Oh, there wasn't a trial at all. The Kezilamites only try their own worshippers. Any others can be freely denounced and sentenced to lawful execution singlehandedly by a ranking Kezilamite priest. It's a very efficient system. Good at motivating nonbelievers to join."
"And Patalim was a nonbeliever?"
"I do not know, not knowing him personally. Probably, considering he's about to be executed. Believers don't get such treatment."
"I see."
Elizas nods and heads deeper into Gezerim's home. He is pleased to find much wine and fine companionship within, as are the merchant and his followers. They proceed to enjoy a fine evening of drink and various entertainment. Eventually, in one of his more profound phases of inebriation, Elizas decides to try to convert some of the people in the party!
[Conversion roll: 2]
As he speaks of God, the people around him seem to be in one of the less lucid phases of inebriation. They look to be unable to pay attention to his words long enough to discern what he's saying, let alone stomach the concept of the god he espouses. One of the consequences of coming to the party late, he supposes.
* * * * *
Phiali decides that these people aren't worth his time today. He solemnly and meaningfully shakes his head, then tries to walk away.
[Guard pursuit roll: 2]
The guards, seemingly capable of learning from their mistakes to some degree, decide not to follow him. They don't even try to stab him or anything. Good guards. Good guards! Phiali leaves quietly and heads back into the woods.
Well, he didn't get stabbed today. Scratched, maybe, but not stabbed. That's a start, sort of.
* * * * *
Sejena heads to the south side of the city, colloquially known as the meanest part of town. And in this part of town, there are places that are a cut above the rest in terms of sheer meanness. Some might argue that Cutthroat Alley is such a place, a den of murderers, thieves and murderer-thieves. Others, however, would say that these are merely the tales of frightened noblemen to tell each other. Though Sejena feels she might regret it, she enters the dark depths of the south side.
[Safe passage roll: 1-->6]
As she wanders down the streets of the south districts, she feels many eyes staring at her from every corner. Even in her plain clothes, she clearly stands out in the area. Everybody knows everybody on the south side of the city, and if they don't - well, clearly you've wandered into the wrong place.
Somehow Sejena gets the feeling that asking for directions wouldn't be a good idea.
[Perception roll: ?]
The stares of the surrounding denizens of the area seem to mentally pick apart her outfit for good places to find valuables. They also seem to be looking for good places to deposit their respective collections of sharp instruments. And she's not even in Cutthroat Alley yet. Aulanna only knows what that will be like.
* * * * *
Gronok meets the stare of the tenth priest, and he meets it with an uncommon fierceness. The priest, looking into Gronok's eyes, sees something. Something greater than him, greater than Gronok, greater than the church. Perhaps even greater than Kezilam herself. Though it is but a brief glimpse, the priest shivers for a moment, then begins to sweat faintly. Gronok turns to him and speaks once more.
"You never actually said anything, I notice. You evaded it with fancy words, but on the whole you said nothing. What, are you afraid of an old man? You must have something to hide, otherwise a man with as much faith in God as you have would surely not be afraid of an old man's outrageous accusation that you have betrayed God, correct? So why don't you tell this honorable court what you are hiding? You set yourself up as a false idol. Admit it."
[Priest 10 excuse roll: 1+1-1-->6]
"I... I don't know... messiah? False idol... I..."
The coordinator looks away from the escaping third priest and gives the tenth priest a firm stare.
"Head priest? What is wrong with you?"
"Uh... no, I didn't... I. I. I did? I did not? What did I do?"
He seems to have gotten very confused all of a sudden.
"Compose yourself, head priest! You are in a house of Kezilam!"
"Kezilam? What? Nothing... nothing at all..."
"Stop babbling, head priest, or I will be forced to remove you from the temple! Do you wish for that to happen? Do you wish to have your purity questioned?"
"Questions... all answered."
"Very well. Guards! Remove him!"
Several fellows come out of a nearby alcove and take the head priest by his hands, leading him out of the hall.
"How strange of him to have such an episode. Sad as well. That particular bit of misbehavior disqualifies him from being a head priest any longer. How unfortunate. For him, that is."
The grave face of the coordinator seems to approach a state not entirely unlike a grin. Seems like he didn't like the tenth priest much, either.
2 MP expended!
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 24, 2013, 04:21:37 pm
"Question him and you'll find the truth of my words. Now, you worship Kezilam, correct? What are her or his primary tenets?"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 24, 2013, 06:05:21 pm
Oh, and pray before all meals. Prayer is good.
Post by: TCM on January 24, 2013, 06:41:06 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on January 24, 2013, 07:04:36 pm
Search around for more clues.
((Sorry about missing another turn. Was caught in indecision between investigation and fleeing. :P))
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 25, 2013, 01:07:13 pm
---
Onwards! Find Naphezim. If anyone blocks my passage, tell them he wouldn't be very happy if I came to any harm.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 25, 2013, 03:30:12 pm
Having successfully defeated his glib adversary, Gronok gives the coordinator some advice as the two of them watch the third priest get run down by an angry mob.
"Question the tenth priest and you'll find the truth of my words."
"I do believe he will be difficult to question in such a state. Perhaps when he gets better. If he gets better."
[Priest 3 escape roll: 1]
[Mob pursuit roll: 1]
The coordinator chuckles slightly when he sees the third priest mistake a curtain leading into an alcove for a door. This chuckle turns into full-on laughter when the mob does so as well, smashing together into a great clump of bodies that grasp, punch and kick each other with great intensity. In the middle of it all, the third priest awkwardly rolls out of the alcove and over an overenthusiastic mob member, then begins to stumble his way toward the exit.
"Hilarious lot, these peasants. Not that the head priests are any better."
"I suppose so. Now, you worship Kezilam, correct? What are her or his primary tenets?"
[Coordinator reaction roll: 1-->3]
"Wait, you do not worship Kezilam? Why are you here, then?"
The coordinator begins to examine him suspiciously.
"Who are you, anyway? And why did you interrupt the ceremony?"
* * * * *
Phiali is not nearly stabbed enough to consider stopping his questing for today. He attempts to explore the surrounding area around the temple.
[Scouting roll: 6-->3]
He walks all around the temple, taking note of various important objects. After a long examination, he comes to several conclusions. Firstly, there are plenty of windows around the temple and they all seem to be wide open and easy to enter, though he will need a hooked rope to reach them. Secondly, there are three entrances to the temple - one at the back, one at the front, one on the roof four stories above ground level, of which only the roof entrance and front entrance seem to be always open. Thirdly, there is a brief security gap in front of the temple at around midnight. If he times it perfectly, he might be able to get to the doors, open them in time, close them and get in before anyone gets wise. Fourthly, there is a noticeable structural weakness in one of the side temple walls that is unguarded. If he times it perfectly with the ringing of the prayer bell, he might be able to break this wall and sneak in, though he'll need some kind of hammer or pick to do this. Fifthly, for all this to work, he may need to impersonate a woman. It's necessary, you know.
With that done, he looks for some food.
[Search roll: 5]
He finds a few bushes full of berries, which is sort of good, since he does not have any good hunting implements and he does not really feel like whacking fish over the head with his curved stick. He gorges himself on the tasty vittles after thanking God for this amazing find, then continues exploring.
[Exploration roll: 1-->2]
He doesn't get very far before he runs into a guard right in the middle of the woods!
"Uh, why are you not at your post, guard?"
"I heard rustling and munching coming from the area. Figured somebody was around. And here I am. And here you are as well."
[Guard intelligence roll: ?]
The guard suddenly starts yelling!
"I FOUND THE INFIDEL! HE IS HERE, GORGING ON NATURE'S BOUNTY! COME QUICK, EVERYONE!"
Well, crap.
* * * * *
Elizas decides to just relax and find somebody to spend the night with rather than get carried away with the prophet business just yet.
[Nightly companion roll: 2]
Though the women seem loose and friendly enough, none of them seem particularly willing to get to know Elizas on quite that much of a personal level. It's their loss, he decides as he goes to sleep late in the evening.
[Dream roll: 6-->1]
He dreams or, more precisely, has nightmares of a horrible kind of world. A massive desert of absolute nothingness, white vultures flying about and tearing at the flesh of the hungry and thirsty, all the while a massive dark river flows ominously to the north. Finding no refuge in the dry areas, Elizas realizes that the river is his only hope. He runs after it, seeking to get but a taste of its waters.
[Elizas endurance roll: 6-->3]
He runs like he has never run before, sprinting as fast as the wind. His feet burn in the desert sand, but he keeps on running. The desert air feels like sand making its way to his lungs, but he steadfastly trails after the river, gaining steadily. It takes him over an hour of sustained running, but he pushes himself to get to the very edge of the escaping river. Mustering his strength, he makes a desperate leap for it!
It proves insufficient to reach the river, but he does get something almost as valuable. A whiff of the waters. That smell. He'd recognize it anywhere.
Wine.
Elizas awakens in his bed, sadly still alone. It is early morning, and Patalim is probably due to be executed soon. He'd better hurry.
* * * * *
After examining the rock, Shashari is slightly unsettled. She searches around for clues to gauge the true threat of rockwitches.
[Search roll: 5]
Looking around the site of the rock, Shashari notices something. A clue! Well, not a clue per se, but perhaps something leading to a clue! It is a pair of footprints!
[Intelligence roll: ?]
Hard to tell if they're human or not, since the soil is hardly ideal for preserving such things. Could be a human. Could be a wolf. Could be a witch. Fact is, Shashari doesn't know. Could be anything really. What can you expect, she's not a wilderness expert, after all.
* * * * *
Sejena does her best to put on a convincing facade of knowing what she's doing and a general sense of belonging in this wretched hive of scum and villainy.
[Charisma roll: 6+1-->5]
She gets a purposeful look in her eyes, then gets into not a walk, but a stride. She heads down the street, managing to look like she's been around. In a menacing sort of way, not in a concubine sort of way. This change in attitude is not lost on the denizens of the area, as they seem to suddenly become more... submissive, allowing her to pass along the area unharmed and unmugged. They're still looking at her, mind you, just not in quite the same, predatory way.
[Pathfinding roll: 5]
Cutthroat Alley proves rather easy to find, to tell the truth. It seems to be an area that the other denizens of the south side avoid like the plague. Even looking from afar, the place looks just plain sinister. Even less safe than the rest of the area, too. However, Sejena doesn't let this stop her. She goes right in and looks for Naphezim of Vipuka.
Sadly, she doesn't know what he looks like.
[Perception roll: ?]
There does, however, seem to be an old woman sitting in front of a house. She seems to be eying Sejena oddly. There also appears to be a young man crawling along a nearby roof. Both don't seem like talkative types, but Sejena doesn't really have a lot of options.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 25, 2013, 07:40:15 pm
You are correct in assuming that I am not a worshiper of Kezilam; I serve Mo'kar, the Teacher, the Wise One, who wishes for his children to learn so they may ascend to his side. And I come to spread word of his teachings, which are very similar to Kezilam's, from what I know.
Use speaking skills to get the guy interested in what I have to say, and not being all 'HERETICBLAH' towards me.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 25, 2013, 07:54:26 pm
Head away from the temple at a brisk walk.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 26, 2013, 05:26:44 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 26, 2013, 06:04:02 pm
Keep calm, carry on, and ask for Naphezim. Be as friendly as possible.
Post by: Xantalos on January 26, 2013, 06:08:31 pm
Bump for fun and profit, just in case somebody missed the turn.Gronok WordFlooder reporting for duty!
Post by: TCM on January 26, 2013, 06:14:01 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on January 26, 2013, 10:39:42 pm
Follow the tracks!
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 27, 2013, 04:06:42 pm
Gronok, realizing that he just revealed his spiritual allegiances to a man representing a different, not particularly tolerant religious sect, a man who seems to be carrying a very, very sharp sword, no less, tries to get out of this situation as painlessly and smoothly as possible.
[Charisma roll: 1-->2+1]
"As a holy man, you must have a creed, correct? Then you know the importance of following said creed. I was compelled to reveal the false priests - by the way, you really should question the ninth and eighth priests - because my god cannot stand it. Their lies benefitted none, nor revealed some great truth, nor even entertained! They were just that - lies that taught nothing and sought to reveal knowledge."
"You are correct in assuming that I am not a worshiper of Kezilam; I serve Mo'kar, the Teacher, the Wise One, who wishes for his children to learn so they may ascend to his side. And I come to spread word of his teachings, which are very similar to Kezilam's, from what I know."
"So, this god, this... Mo'kar, he... teaches you things? Tells you things?"
"Yes. He is a force of enlightenment, and I see far more clearly due to his influence."
"How does this god appear to you?"
"Usually as a niggling voice in my head telling me to do things."
[Priest 3 escape roll: 1-->4]
Gronok sees the escaping priest stumble confusedly to the door and try to pull, only to find it locked.
"And you do them?"
"Yes. It is the will of my god, after all."
"I see."
[Crowd pursuit roll: 2]
The crowd slowly begins to recover from its pile-up and advance toward the priest. The coordinator gestures to one of the alcoves. Several guards come out.
[Priest 3 escape roll: 5]
The priest, noticing the crowd after him once more, runs for one of the side doors. It appears to be open, interestingly enough.
[Crowd pursuit roll: 1-->4]
The crowd clearly sees his avenue of escape, but one of them shouts something about the area being sacred and not for the uninitiated. The people seem to stop at this remark. Interesting. Gronok turns back to the advancing guards. The coordinator pulls out a wicked-looking sword from a scabbard on his belt and speaks once more.
"It is rather clear that you are possessed by an evil force of some kind. Submit for purification. It is for your own good."
Well now.
* * * * *
Seeing the guard raise an alarm disheartens Phiali. Well, maybe tomorrow will be better. He starts to walk away after saying a few words.
"Oh, hello. Congratulations on losing the third chance you had. Have a good day."
[Guard pursuit roll: 2]
The guard seems confused by this remark. Confused enough, in fact, to not pursue Phiali as he walks away. Poor guy. Well, at least he'll get to practice his excuse-making skills. Phiali is soon out of sight and earshot, and it seems like no one is following him. Still not stabbed. This is a good thing.
* * * * *
Sejena purposefully walks over to the old lady and tries to be as friendly as humanly possible, given the circumstances.
[Charisma roll: 3+1]
"I'm here to see Naphezim of Vipuka," she says to the old woman. "Satjap sent me."
The lady gives him a critical look.
"Naphezim of Vipuka? Satjap... do you mean Satjap of Adokiim?"
"Yes, it indeed him."
"Are you the whore he was promised?"
Well, that's quite... blunt.
* * * * *
Elizas knows that time is of the essence and acts accordingly, seeking out the merchant and his companions.
[Merchant condition roll: 5]
The merchant is fairly easily woken up, as are his companions. They are a little bit drowsy, but that's probably natural when you consider the previous night's entertainment. Especially when Elizas realizes that they seem to have had a bit more luck in the loose women department than himself. Shaking them out of their sleep, he manages to get them to head with him to the execution square, post-haste.
[Pathfinding roll: 3]
It takes him quite a while to find the place, but the execution square is eventually reached. Looks like a few executions have happened already, judging by all the blood on the ground. A man is being currently led over to the stoning pole.
"Crap, it's Patalim! They're executing him already!"
It looks like the people are getting their stones ready, and a fellow in gray robes is preparing to read something from a scroll next to the pole as Patalim is being secured to it. Patalim himself has a look of defeat on his tired features.
All in all, it's a depressing, bloodthirsty-looking place.
* * * * *
Shashari is about to investigate the tracks, but realizes that she should probably fill the Siren in on her findings first.
"Hm... definitely tracks. Less definitely witchtracks, but I say we go for it. Don't see why a notwitch or wolf would be wandering around here anyway. Other than to find out why a notwitch or wolf was wandering around here anyway, I suppose."
"It is most regrettable that witches do not have easily recognizable tracks. It would make life much easier for me. Anyway, I have nothing against a little investigation. After all, all the witches are petrified at this time of day. We are probably in no real danger. Probably."
Now that that's cleared up, Shashari gets on with her detective work.
[Tracking roll: 1-->6]
After a monotonous hour of following the tracks, Shashari comes to the saddening conclusion that she has no idea what she's doing due to two reasons: one, yesterday was literally her first time in the woods. Two, she's pretty sure the tracks didn't look like this when she started following them. Hm.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 27, 2013, 04:16:47 pm
If he agrees, call upon Kezilam to provide proof to me that s/he exists, and/or Mo'kar does not.
Apologize to Mo'kar beforehand, saying that in just trying to reveal the truth to the priest.
Post by: TCM on January 27, 2013, 05:33:18 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 27, 2013, 06:41:17 pm
Head back to camp, pray, look for dinner, prepare dinner, pray, take a brief nap, wake up around midnight.
Post by: Xantalos on January 27, 2013, 08:19:42 pm
I am amused that Xantalos is apologizing to Mokar.I prefer not to get smited over a misunderstanding.
Head back to camp, pray, look for dinner, prepare dinner, pray, take a brief nap, wake up around midnight.
Post by: IronyOwl on January 27, 2013, 09:36:56 pm
Have I mentioned I am not a woodswoman?"
Keep trying? Hopefully these are shapechanging witch tracks and not angry bear who walked over witch tracks tracks.
Or meaningless shapes in the ground.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 28, 2013, 08:41:32 am
'I'd appreciate if you watched your tongue, so I don't have to pluck it out. Now, where is Naphezim?'
Be a bit more... assertive. Head to Naphezim's if successful.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 28, 2013, 12:46:54 pm
Gronok tries to stop the horrible guards and the horrible coordinator from inflicting horrible demon exorcisms from him. He's heard of these things, you know. It's not his first time around a temple. His mouth, a very useful organ if there ever was one, begins to work full-time once again!
[Charisma roll: 1-->5+1]
Though it proves quite futile, for as he thinks of how to best defuse this situation, the guards set upon him!
"Wait, stop!"
They don't seem very inclined to converse with demon-possessed lunatics. Neither does the coordinator. All is not lost yet, however, as the guards are a bit overzealous and push him off the altar area of the temple rather than simply grab him. This seems to be a mistake they are not particularly eager to repeat.
* * * * *
Elizas realizes that he has arrived here just in time! He pulls out his trusty buffalo-bone guitar and plays a very fine riff while yelling "STOP!" The crowd halts their whispered conversations and turns to the musician and his companions.
[Charisma roll: 3]
"I am a dignitary of God and I must inform you all that you are sentencing a man to death for following His Holiness. I warn you that if any of you harm this man further you will be cast into the fiery pits of the underworld where the men are limp and lame, the women give you burning dreadfulness, and the alcohol is always warm!"
The crowd seems quite puzzled by this.
"Eh, which god are you talking about? Kezilam? Azlippus? It's kind of important!"
That... wasn't quite the reaction one would expect. Perhaps holy disputes are more common here than where he comes from?
* * * * *
Phiali decides that perhaps this is not the best time for exploration. He heads back to his camp and prays for a while, then looks for something to eat.
[Search roll: 2]
Since there wasn't a whole lot around here the last time he looked, it comes as no surprise that there are still exactly zero delicious vittles in his immediate vicinity. A man can dream, Phiali supposes. To fix his bad luck, he prays once again, then takes a good nap.
[Dream roll: 2]
He dreams of water. Lots of it. Delicious, cool water. Everywhere. It was a good dream, all in all, so Phiali can't help but slightly miss it when he gets up at around midnight. Oh well. Time to get down to business, presumably.
* * * * *
Though Shashari hardly feels confident in her woodswoman abilities, she keeps trying to find out where these tracks lead.
"...either these are shapechanging witches after all or we're going in circles and ruining them. Or they're just different tracks."
"Have I mentioned I am not a woodswoman?"
"Not yet, though I've already gathered as much from our trip. Good effort, though, I suppose. For what that's worth."
[Tracking roll: 6-->6]
Bolstered by the Siren's optimism, Shashari resolves to track these tracks like a true tracker would, following them with as keen an eye as she can muster. This time, she will not lose track and follow them to their source... or destination. Surprisingly difficult to tell with these tracks.
After about an hour of following tracks and examining suspicious animal droppings, Shashari believes she may have found the source of the tracks - it is a cave of some kind. It looks rather dark and mysterious.
* * * * *
Sejena tries a bit of a different approach with the old lady this time.
[Charisma roll: 1-->5+1]
"I'd appreciate if you watched your tongue, so I don't have to pluck it out. Now, where is Naphezim?"
"To be honest, if you are not the whore he was promised, I see no reason why I should tell you this. He does not really need to see any other particular whore, at least not today. So, now that we have resolved that issue, will that be all?"
The old woman grins toothlessly at Sejena. Quite the mouth on that one.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 28, 2013, 01:19:35 pm
Post by: Parisbre56 on January 28, 2013, 01:24:58 pm
((Guys, how undignified would it be if I started publicly strangling this woman out on the street? Like hell I'm gonna be civil with her.))((Well, you ARE in Cutthroat Alley...))
Post by: Xantalos on January 28, 2013, 02:21:10 pm
Gronok ran. He ran like he never ran before - except for hat one time he was being chased by bandits, of course. He had to get out of here alive, and he knew just the way to do it. However, he'd need to get those guards off his tail first ... Aha! Mo'kar truly did plan for all situations.
"Azikim! Other guys! Split up and run!"
That said, he runs toward that holy door the third priest used, shouting disconcerting truths at the crowd in an effort to slow them down.
"You're all likely to die before the age of 40! 25% of you will develop leprosy! Did you know that there's a unique type of toad that lives in these very temples - very poisonous, only attacks crowds? The only way to avoid it is to stay completely still! Did you know that being chaste actually increases your risk of violent genetalia explosion by as much as 80%? Any sudden movement will set it off! Did you know that simply by not being there, your house is in extreme danger of burning down? Real purity that is associated with giving your possessions away actually has to do with never having any had any possessions at all! Better get to work on that time travel! Praying won't help you either - the only way to cleanse yourself of mortality is to ascend to your gof's side or kill yourself! Have you read 'An Uncomfortable Fact' by Ali Gare? It details how people are stinking up the heavens with their people emissions and if we don't stop soon, God's fist will kill us all! Au revior, hasta luego, adjö, وداعا, and ta-ta!"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 28, 2013, 04:52:07 pm
Sneak to the temple, very very quietly. Note the time.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 29, 2013, 08:32:55 am
'Well done,' she said. 'But as much as I'm enjoying this, I am tired and an unfortunately impatient woman. Very well then. I am your whore. I am sure it brings you great pleasure to lord your no doubt immaculate past over one who has been a slave for so long. Now... be kind, and tell me where to find Naphezim.'
As above. If she still refuses or plays the fool, look for the man who had been crawling on the roofs instead.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 30, 2013, 03:17:17 pm
Not one to waste an opportunity, Gronok runs like hell after shouting to his buddies to split up and make themselves scarce as well.
"Azikim! Other guys! Split up and run!"
They don't look very thankful about being singled out in the crowd while the guards look on. They still run, though. Good for them.
[Gronok escape roll: 1-->3]
[Guards pursuit roll: 2]
Gronok jogs up to the crowd as fast as a man his age possibly can. This is at about 4 kilometers per hour. The guards don't seem to be in a particular rush either, though. They seem to have gotten a bit cocky, though they seem to be slowly closing the distance between themselves and Gronok. Luckily, Gronok has a back-up plan. It is a plan that plays to his strengths.
[Charisma roll: 4+1]
"You're all likely to die before the age of 40! 25% of you will develop leprosy! Did you know that there's a unique type of toad that lives in these very temples - very poisonous, only attacks crowds? The only way to avoid it is to stay completely still! Did you know that being chaste actually increases your risk of violent genitalia explosion by as much as 80%? Any sudden movement will set it off! Did you know that simply by not being there, your house is in extreme danger of burning down? Real purity that is associated with giving your possessions away actually has to do with never having any had any possessions at all! Better get to work on that time travel! Praying won't help you either - the only way to cleanse yourself of mortality is to ascend to your god's side or kill yourself! Have you read 'An Uncomfortable Fact' by Ali Gare? It details how people are stinking up the heavens with their people emissions and if we don't stop soon, God's fist will kill us all! Au revoir, hasta luego, adjö, وداعا, and ta-ta!"
Fortunately, he is going slowly enough for the crowd to hear his entire speech before he half-saunters into the corridor the priest used. He is also going slowly enough to see the results.
Clearly, genitalia explosions are taken very seriously by the Kezilamite faithful. A commotion immediately starts in the crowd, and it is only further compounded by the perplexing, strange words coming out of the prophet's mouth! Chaos erupts around the exit Gronok takes, aiding his escape greatly.
[Gronok escape roll: 6-->3]
[Guard pursuit roll: 5-1]
Noticing the dangerous ideological influence of the lunatic prophet on the crowd, the guards decide to stop messing around and hunt the prophet down. However, the crowd slows them down sufficiently to let Gronok put quite a bit of distance between himself and his pursuers. However, he is still at somewhat of a disadvantage. For one, he doesn't know where he's going. This place looks to be a maze of gray stone hallways. You'd have to be some kind of expert on gray to find any sort of difference between these hallways or, for that matter, the various sleeping quarters they lead to.
* * * * *
Phiali tries to be as quiet as he possibly can and sneak over to the temple. He succeeds in getting to the temple, though that might just be because there was nobody around to hear him. Or so he thinks. Now, however, it is time for the real challenge: getting inside. It looks to be about midnight, so the guards should be away right now.
[Guard absence roll: 4]
Yep, no guards. Yet. Looks like he has a clear shot to the door, though he can't exactly say what he'll find inside. Probably nothing good.
* * * * *
Driven to the point of impatience, Sejena admits defeat in front of the old woman.
"Well done. But as much as I'm enjoying this, I am tired and an unfortunately impatient woman. Very well then. I am your whore. I am sure it brings you great pleasure to lord your no doubt immaculate past over one who has been a slave for so long. Now... be kind, and tell me where to find Naphezim."
[Old Woman reaction roll: 6-->5]
"A-hah! I knew it! I knew that good-for-nothing lout was bringing whores home the entire time!"
She stands up triumphantly and yells into the house behind her "Come on out, Naphezim of Vipuka, and face me! I've found proof of your misdeeds!"
There are a few seconds of silence, but eventually an irritated voice comes from within.
"And just what exactly would those misdeeds be? Hold on, I'm coming!"
The old woman glares at Sejena.
"I knew he would slip up one day, you know. It was only a matter of time. Just like that good-for-nothing lout father of his."
A minute later a short young man exits the building behind the old woman through the front door. He seems ordinary enough, if a bit intense. Also, he immediately takes note of Sejena and spends a moment carefully studying her.
"Well, what do you say about this, you libertine?"
"First time I've seen this woman in my life."
"Now that makes sense, doesn't it? Doesn't it?"
"I have absolutely no idea who she is."
"She's a whore! She admitted it to my face!"
"You tricked her into doing this, I presume."
"No, she just came up to me and said that she wanted to see you, I asked her if she was a whore, and she said yes!"
"You do that with every woman that comes over here. One day someone was bound to say yes."
"With the company you get, I never doubted it!"
Naphezim rolls his eyes, obviously unwilling to continue this discussion at the current place and time. He looks at Sejena again.
"You just had to tell her that, didn't you? Now she'll terrorize me day and night."
"As your mother, it is my duty to steer you away from your horrid lifestyle, I-"
"I know, Mother," he says, sighing. "So, you," he points at Sejena. "Who are you and why are you here?"
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on January 30, 2013, 03:51:15 pm
Search for a way out. If I run into any people, pretend I'm some guy doing penance or something and walk by them muttering 'Glory to God' and all that. If the guards catch up to me while I'm alone, run faster. If they find me while I'm with another person, claim that the guard has been possessed by demons and is a danger to the faith. Run off during the resulting commotion.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on January 30, 2013, 09:19:32 pm
Approach front door, listen.
Post by: TCM on January 30, 2013, 09:47:22 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on January 31, 2013, 05:45:47 am
"Uh, well. This... is either the cave of a shapechanging witch, or the cave of a wolf or bear or something.
Um. Fortune favors the bold? Plus I didn't get my ram having good sense around dangerous animals."
Enter cave. Call hello.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on January 31, 2013, 05:54:56 am
...I would've strangled her, but she's probably bigger and more experienced in street brawling than me.))
Sejena kept her expression as calm as humanly possible. By the Goddess... she'd made a complete fool of herself.
'I'm... terribly sorry about the trouble I've caused,' she said. 'My name is Sejena. Satjap sent me. He told me you could give me a safe place to stay the night. Can we... can we talk somewhere more private?'
Say the above. Glare daggers at Naphezim's creature of a mother.
Post by: Harry Baldman on January 31, 2013, 06:48:02 am
((To be fair now, this game updates way too fast. And I think that might be the weirdest complaint I've ever made.))
I guess I'll just update once per two days regardless of player posting quickness. Better to have an entirely regular schedule rather than make a whole lot of exceptions. Though feel free to make a suggestion on preferred update speed. If enough people agree to it, I can alter the schedule further.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 01, 2013, 01:12:17 pm
Gronok realizes that wandering aimlessly will do him absolutely no good. So he'll wander with the very precise aim of escaping this vile place. There has to be an additional exit around here, right? It would be extremely poor design if there wasn't, he thinks.
[Search roll: 4]
He methodically jogs through the halls, looking for some sort of window or door or... something. Eventually he does find something: a window in one of the cells! It's pretty high up on the wall and it will take some effort to get through, but it is an escape nonetheless! He looks around to see if there's anyone following him.
[Gronok escape roll: 2]
[Guard pursuit roll: 6-->2]
He hears a couple of guards kick down the door of the next door cell. His flight-or-faster-flight response kicks in and he tries to leap through the window!
[Window navigation roll: 2]
Damn these high windows, they are nigh-unreachable! Gronok sees no way he could possibly escape through this particular window, though he supposes it was worth a shot. And it does sound like the guards are coming this way.
* * * * *
Phiali sneaks up to the front door of the temple and has a bit of a listening session.
[Perception roll: ?]
He doesn't really hear anything from the inside. Then again, this door is really thick. Thicker than the guards, even.
* * * * *
Now that he's gotten the crowd's attention, Elizas breaks out his latest masterpiece - "The God Of Alcohol And Polygamy Is The Only God For You And Me".
[Performance roll: 1-->4+1]
He then realizes he has no such masterpiece on hand or even in his mind. So he just plays vaguely distracting music instead. Hopefully nobody will notice.
They don't. But they do seem to be getting back into an executing mood. Patalim, meanwhile, just looks confused.
* * * * *
Shashari once more explains her next course of action to her companion with the womanly voice.
"Uh, well. This... is either the cave of a shapechanging witch, or the cave of a wolf or bear or something."
"Very astute observation. You may also notice that meeting any of those does not bode well for us in the least."
"Um. Fortune favors the bold? Plus I didn't get my ram having good sense around dangerous animals."
"Uh, I'll just hang back a bit, then. I'd rather have less fortune than less blood."
Shaking her head at the Siren, Shashari heads into the cave.
"Uh, hello?"
[Response roll: 1-->4]
There is no response. At least, none that Shashari can hear.
[Perception roll: ?]
She does hear something faintly moving and rustling in there. Something definitely heard her.
* * * * *
Sejena is, quite frankly, embarrassed by the proceedings here today. She attempts to make up for it by performing the best death glare she can at that... thing.
[Charisma roll: 5+1]
Naphezim's mother shrinks back from Sejena's suddenly intense and, to be honest, faintly murderous look.
"Son, she's looking at me funny! The streetwalker is staring at me! There is murder in her eyes, I can see it!"
"You say that about everyone, Mother. Go inside, please."
"But I don't want to leave you alone with that shrew! Who knows what she'll do to you!"
"I'm sure I will be fine. Now go. Work on the loom or something."
Naphezim's mother's eyes wander from Sejena to her son, then back. Finally, she admits defeat and begins slowly walking back into the house, throwing a glance back occasionally. After she goes in, Sejena can sometimes see her peeking out through the window. The impulse to wave is hard to suppress.
"Right. Now that that's done with, I ask again: who are you and why are you here?"
"I'm... terribly sorry about the trouble I've caused," she says. "My name is Sejena. Satjap sent me. He told me you could give me a safe place to stay the night. Can we... can we talk somewhere more private?"
"Satjap, Satjap... Satjap of Adokiim?"
Sejena nods.
"What a tiresome fellow. So now he's sending people my way. We will have to have a talk about that. Nevertheless, he said I could provide shelter?"
"Yes, he did."
[Naphezim thinking roll: ?]
"Well, I do know of a place nearby. Follow me."
He leads Sejena off the street and into the building the roof-climber still seems to be on. Naphezim raises his hand in a greeting, which the man returns. He takes Sejena to a room in the back of the building, which seems to have been quite an opulent house back in the day. Right now, however, it is largely a dust filled semi-ruin. The particular room that Sejena is taken to, a bedroom, is a bit better, with some of the dust actually looking like it's been disturbed in the past 20 years, in contrast to all the other ones Sejena had seen.
"So, you wished to talk about something?"
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on February 01, 2013, 02:21:16 pm
Try again! If that doesn't work, try to hide, and if they find me, fake death.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 01, 2013, 04:21:10 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on February 01, 2013, 11:07:12 pm
"Um, well, if you can hear me... anyone? Anything? I'm not here to burn you at the stake or steal your meat... so nice witch and/or wolf and/or bear? Want to come out and talk about this?"
I cast diplomacy at the darkness.
Post by: TCM on February 03, 2013, 12:03:41 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 03, 2013, 02:15:12 pm
Gronok, not seeing a better way out, tries again to jump at the window. Except this time, he will do it better!
[Jumping roll: 2]
Or not. It looks like the window is just too high for his creaky-kneed self to reach. Realizing the true depths of his physical ineptitude, he attempts to hide to the best of his ability.
[Hiding roll: 6-->2]
Not seeing any better places to hide himself, he hangs upon the door, hoping the guards will be gentle when they come in.
In a surprising twist, the guards are not gentle. Not at all. They kick in the door, sending it (and, by extension, Gronok) smashing into the brick wall of the cell.
[Gronok endurance roll: 5]
He manages to not yell in pain and his bones manage to not break. Overall, a very good showing for Gronok. The guards, meanwhile, not seeing anything amiss in the cell, head right out and proceed to kick in the next door in the hallway.
Phew. That was a close one.
* * * * *
Phiali, not really seeing any reason why not, opens the door to the temple with the utmost caution and quietude.
Nothing tries to stab him. Or yell at him. This is what he calls a good sign. He peeks inside.
[Perception roll: ?]
Doesn't look like anyone's around in the immediate vicinity of the door. The room the door leads to seems to be a great entry hall, judging by all the fountains, white columns and the many, many archways probably leading to all sorts of places. Since it's the middle of the night, the place is generally empty. Although he does spy something slowly moving at the end of the hall about a hundred feet away.
* * * * *
Shashari, very much aware that whatever is in there is unlikely to hold a high opinion of her, tries to perform a feat of diplomacy at the impenetrable darkness. After all, it could only do these creatures good if they listened to reason and didn't give in to their base, destructive impulses as animals and witches are known to do.
[Charisma roll: 4+1]
"Um, well, if you can hear me... anyone? Anything? I'm not here to burn you at the stake or steal your meat... so nice witch and/or wolf and/or bear? Want to come out and talk about this?"
The only response is a sort of irritated growl coming from the cave. No other sounds follow. Shashari makes two conclusions: whatever is in there is not known for its communication skills (though she suspects she might have understood the general intent of this particular growl, if not the particular details), and it also cannot be bothered to come out and eat her. Yet.
* * * * *
After suffering an unexpected musical failure, Elizas has to resort to his other plan. This plan is elegant in its simplicity. First, Elizas has to raise his hands into the air. Then he has to let some divine confidence flood into him. Finally, he has to take a step, followed by another. Then another. Then ten more. And would you look at that, he's walking on air! What a wonderful feeling it is indeed. But now, time for the final step - the jump.
Elizas jumps forward and flies over the crowd, grabbing the bewildered Patalim from the stoning area as he flies past! The crowd goes wild!
[Elizas strength roll: 3]
Patalim is quite heavy, though. It is a bit more difficult to carry him than one might think. However, Elizas manages to slowly ascend with the convicted libertine in hand while the crowd looks on.
[Crowd reaction roll: 4]
They seem a bit dumbstruck by this development. Speechless, even. Which is fortunate, as they have a sufficient number of stones in their hands to bring down every last one of the city's persistent carrion birds, let alone a single floating musician. This allows Elizas to carry Patalim for quite a while before his godly aerial blessing runs out. Now they are somewhat clear of the execution square, though one would be hard pressed to term their current position as safe, exactly.
3 MP expended!
Crowd sufficiently impressed by divine power. +1 MP.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: TCM on February 03, 2013, 02:27:02 pm
Elizas puts Patalim into a covert spot while the bard moves around sneakily to try to determine where they are, as well as pick up any useful tools (or even a stick or rock or something graspable) that he can take.
Post by: Xantalos on February 03, 2013, 02:55:14 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 03, 2013, 05:04:36 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on February 04, 2013, 12:10:57 pm
'Ah... I am very grateful for your patience, Naphezim,' she said. The familiarity would hopefully add towards the desired effect. 'Again, my deepest apologies for the inconvenience. If I'd know I'd be forcefully abusing your hospitality so, I would have found another place. Nevertheless, I have a feeling I was fortunate to end up here with you as my host. Aulanna willing, you will have no reason to dislike my presence here.'
She glanced around, and made a show of hesitating. 'But... I am a stranger to the city in the night. I would feel much safer with a guard outside my door or simply close by...'
She trailed off, giving a slight smile.
Charm up, request a guard. Make sure the door can be locked, and if not, barred with something heavy.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 05, 2013, 02:17:12 pm
Elizas sees that Patalim might not be clear on what exactly is happening here. So he pulls the fellow into a corner and starts to explain what is expected of him.
"Hey, Patalim. I know you probably have a lot of questions, and this is really sudden, but it would help me a bit if you converted to the God of alcohol and debauchery, the one true God, right now. He did just give me the ability to fly you away from your execution, so you should give him some credit. While you do that, I'll come up with another plan."
[Patalim reaction roll: 3]
"Uh... okay. I'm converted."
He doesn't sound very converted. Not very converted at all. That, however, is something that Elizas will have to deal with at a later juncture. For now, not getting run down by a bloodthirsty mob of purity enthusiasts is a higher priority. Speaking of.
[Crowd activity roll: 3]
Judging by the situation at the execution square, the crowd still seems to be processing what just happened. You don't see that kind of thing every day, after all. Excellent. Elizas gets to looking for some tools.
[Search roll: 6-->3]
There looks to be a carpenter's workshop nearby. Surely the owner is a kind soul that would not object to the temporary borrowing of his tools in order to further a worthy cause? And if not, surely he couldn't be in this early in the morning to actually object to the temporary borrowing of his tools in order to further a worthy cause?
* * * * *
Gronok hangs on the door for a while, resisting the urge to whimper at his painfully bruised pelvis. Eventually the sounds of mayhem, kicking and the guards beckoning any possessed individuals to show themselves and make the proceedings easier on everyone cease, at which point the old fellow climbs off the door and continues to seek out an exit of some kind.
[Search roll: 1-->5]
Since the windows remain maddeningly out of reach for the fragile-boned obscurogenarian, he focuses his attention on finding a door. Eventually he finds one! It seems to be wheel-operated, so he turns the wheel, allowing the door to open, revealing a downward staircase. Lacking a better alternative, he heads down it.
Unfortunately, as he enters, the door shuts behind him. And there is no wheel on this side. Oh, Mo'kar, why must you test your humble prophet so? Gronok sighs and goes right down.
He finds himself in a dark dungeon of some kind. It's full of miserable, tortured-looking people of all kinds milling about and not doing much of anything except bemoaning their sad existences.
Well, on the bright side, nobody's likely to look for him here!
* * * * *
Phiali, upon judging the area to be relatively low, about a 3 or so, on the likelihood of getting stabbed scale, goes inside and looks for the main worship area.
[Search roll: 3]
To his disappointment, there is no large sign that says "MAIN WORSHIP AREA" or points him in the right direction. There do, however, seem to be some guards at the far end of this hall. They must be guarding something important.
* * * * *
Hoping to regain some control of the situation, Sejena piles on the charm once again.
[Charisma roll: 3+1]
"Ah... I am very grateful for your patience, Naphezim," she says. "Again, my deepest apologies for the inconvenience. If I'd know I'd be forcefully abusing your hospitality so, I would have found another place. Nevertheless, I have a feeling I was fortunate to end up here with you as my host. Aulanna willing, you will have no reason to dislike my presence here."
"Yes, yes, yes. Pleasantries and all that. Go on."
"But... I am a stranger to the city in the night. I would feel much safer with a guard outside my door or simply close by..."
"I will tell Minozan to watch for any murderers or any other usual visitors, yes. But you still have not told me - what do you want from me? It is obvious you are here for one reason or another. I strongly doubt you came to Cutthroat Alley expecting only hospitality."
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Digital Hellhound on February 05, 2013, 02:33:31 pm
'I meant what I said, but very well. I am here because this was what Satjap offered when I ordered him to aid me. You are right, he is quite a tiresome man - but I have his loyalty, for now. As for why I needed a place to stay... I left my... home here, and did so gladly,' she said. 'Although... I intend to return soon enough.'
'I'm sure we can go over them over a pleasant glass of wine sooner or later, Naphezim. I would think that would be a more civilized use of our time than stand here making petty demands forever.'
Try to get rid of him already. It's time for my beauty sleep (behind safely locked-slash-barred doors, naturally).
Post by: Xantalos on February 05, 2013, 03:19:47 pm
"My downtrodden fellows! What brought you to this state?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 05, 2013, 03:25:49 pm
((Wait. Sad people? CONVERSION TIME))
"My downtrodden fellows! What brought you to this state?"
They look at you with infinite sadness.
"The fact that we are in a dungeon and tortured incessantly for the purposes of exorcism. I believe I speak for all of us when I say that it really is nothing to be happy, proud or even vaguely content about."
Post by: Xantalos on February 05, 2013, 03:42:07 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 05, 2013, 03:44:10 pm
"Of course not! I'd not be happy with my life if I were in your position, but luckily for me I'm not. However, I must know: why were you imprisoned to be tortured in the first place?"
"Depends on who you ask. Some of us acted inappropriately in public. Some were judged impure. Some were lunatics. All of us were judged as carriers of demons in our souls."
Post by: Xantalos on February 05, 2013, 06:08:45 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 05, 2013, 06:36:18 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 08, 2013, 01:17:19 pm
Sejena changes her approach a bit, seeing how Naphezim isn't very receptive to her most winning smile.
"I meant what I said, but very well. I am here because this was what Satjap offered when I ordered him to aid me. You are right, he is quite a tiresome man - but I have his loyalty, for now. As for why I needed a place to stay... I left my... home here, and did so gladly," she says. "Although... I intend to return soon enough."
"I'm sure we can go over them over a pleasant glass of wine sooner or later, Naphezim. I would think that would be a more civilized use of our time than stand here making petty demands forever."
[Charisma roll: 4+1]
"Very well, then. I will leave for now, but I expect an answer very soon. I do not enjoy being jerked around. Not at all."
With those words, he leaves. Ah, sweet peace, so elusive, yet so incredibly delightful. Only one thing needed to make you complete - a locked door. Sejena checks the entrance to her room for signs of a lock.
[Room lockability roll: 4]
It looks to have a bolt, interestingly enough. It looks like a fairly recent addition, all shiny and new. How nice of the owner to do such a thing. Sejena bolts the door and lies down in the bed. It's quite soft, if a bit dusty. Not the worst place to sleep, though it hardly compares to the quality of the castle's bedding. Then again, those had their own costs. But that is a thought for another time.
Right now, it's time to get some beauty sleep. Sejena drifts off into dreamland soon enough, the stresses of the day having taken their toll on her.
[Dream roll: 1-->5]
She dreams of blood. Blood everywhere. Blood on the walls, blood on the ground, blood in her eyes and blood pouring out of every corner of the city. It pools in the city streets, forming raging rivers where there once were streets. Men, women and children are swept up by the waves, then drowned in the many undertows. It is indeed quite a grisly spectacle, or so Sejena thinks as she stands on one of the roofs, watching the city sink under an endless wave of vitae. The waves rise and rise, however, and soon Sejena becomes a bit more familiar with the sensation of drowning in blood than any human being really should.
As she wakes up, she feels quite queasy, almost sick.
* * * * *
Gronok, upon seeing the bunch of people looking all sad and generally dissatisfied, decides to investigate.
"My downtrodden fellows! What brought you to this state?"
"The fact that we are in a dungeon and tortured incessantly for the purposes of exorcism. I believe I speak for all of us when I say that it really is nothing to be happy, proud or even vaguely content about."
"Of course not! I'd not be happy with my life if I were in your position, but luckily for me I'm not. However, I must know: why were you imprisoned to be tortured in the first place?"
"Depends on who you ask. Some of us acted inappropriately in public. Some were judged impure. Some were lunatics. All of us were judged as carriers of demons in our souls."
Gronok sees potential in these people. If nothing else, at least they're truly miserable.
[Conversion roll: 4]
"In my opinion, they're the ones possessed by demons! Honestly, who tortures people to get demons out? Anyhow, I believe I can improve your lives by freeing you and leading you out of here, but I require one thing first. Since Kezilam decided to torture you, why not abandon her and join Mo'kar the Teacher, who I serve? I can promise that no follower of him will ever torture you."
"Well, I don't see how it could make anything worse. I'll join this faith of yours. What about you people?"
They shrug and nod in a serious, almost sorrowful manner.
"One question, however."
"Yes?"
"What are we worshipping, exactly?"
Say, that's not a bad question.
* * * * *
Phiali looks for side passageways to sneak down. There are indeed a few around here, about six in total, three on the right and three on the left. Of course, each of the tunnels is awfully gray and boring-looking, as befits the Kezilamite artistic vision. So Phiali just chooses one at random.
[Tunnel choice roll: 6]
He decides to head down the middle one on the left, through a combination of the principles of exploring the left path first and the golden mean. You see, picking a path according to a logically inapplicable principle increases your chances of being right nine times out of ten. He stealthily skulks down the tunnel, trying to make as little noise as he can.
He eventually comes to a door that seems to be locked. The door appears to have something scratched on it, writing of some kind.
SOMEBODY SHOULD REALLY FIND THE KEY TO THIS ROOM. IT HAS BEEN MISSING FOR AGES!
Quite the conundrum, there. And there even appears to be another text in a different style of scrawl underneath it.
ADMIT YOUR GUILT IN ITS THEFT AND GIVE UP!
There is but a single word under that line.
NO.
Oh, intrigue in the temple! Daring key thefts and wall scrawlings. Truly this will be a magnificent adventure. Why, it is almost enough for Phiali to start keeping a mental map!
Spoiler: Phiali's not-to-scale mental map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on February 08, 2013, 01:55:13 pm
"So how's that sound? If you all agree to worship the rightful cause of Mo'kar, I'll set about freeing you."
When they agree, free them.
Additional request for map.
Post by: IronyOwl on February 08, 2013, 02:28:48 pm
"Em, well, good day to you then," Shashari said, turning to leave. "I think it's just a bear," she added to Siren.
"You're right though, something's not right with those stones."
Return to witch-stones. Try following tracks again, maybe a different pair this time.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 08, 2013, 05:59:29 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 11, 2013, 01:28:51 pm
Post by: Xantalos on February 11, 2013, 01:30:02 pm
I was going to update, but I will settle for a bump due to reasons of updating with two players missing making me feel dirty inside.Which two players?
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 11, 2013, 01:32:28 pm
Post by: Xantalos on February 11, 2013, 01:36:13 pm
Why, Digital Hellhound and TCM. Sad, that. I quite enjoy writing up turns for them.PMs awaaaaaaaaaaaaaay
By which I mean I've PMed them.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on February 11, 2013, 01:39:31 pm
Sejena sat on the bed and ran her fingers over her face, trying to make sense of the dream. Was it a message from the Goddess? Sometimes, dreams were just dreams. But this wasn't like any other dream she'd ever had.
Goddess... that wasn't even the only matter. This... Naphezim. That man was getting on her nerves. She would have loved nothing more than shattering the disgusting little man, so full of himself, so... lacking in manners. If he hadn't wanted her here he could've just turned her away.
Time was wasting, though. She wanted to know something more than a name of the man.
Clean up to the best of my ability, head outside. See if the roof-climber is still around and see if he's in a talking mood.
FAKE EDIT: ((Aieee, three new replies while you were typing? A bump is enough, thankyouverymuch. And I quite enjoy reading these turns too - I only take so much time 'cos I feel I have so many things I could do, which is a good thing. Well, for me, maybe not for your patience.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 11, 2013, 03:06:48 pm
Gronok, delightfully prompted by the imprisoned people, launches into an explanation of God's true nature and power.
"Mo'kar is the only god there is, a benevolent overlord who gifts his followers with knowledge. You worship him by teaching things, learning something new, or revealing the truth. There's no need to torture those who stray from the correct path when your god can show you that the reason you strayed was wrong. Remain faithful to Him, and He will reveal secrets of great power to you. And once we know all there is to know, we will ascend to His side, ready at last to Teach his new children."
"So how's that sound? If you all agree to worship the rightful cause of Mo'kar, I'll set about freeing you."
"Sounds like a good enough deity to worship. We agree to this conversion. Freedom does sound awfully tempting."
Gronok, having received this affirmative and acceptable answer, sets about freeing these miserable individuals.
Unfortunately, they are placed behind bars. And the door is locked.
[Dungeon lack of security roll: 1-->3]
And the key is nowhere in sight or, indeed, easy reach. It appears that this place, contrary to most impressions, is not staffed primarily by fools. Hm. Well, at least Gronok can spend this time looking very thoughtful and composing a mental map of the area.
Spoiler: Gronok's mental map (click to show/hide)
* * * * *
Shashari judges the cave as quite unlikely to hold anything and politely excuses herself.
"Em, well, good day to you then," she says, turning to leave. "I think it's just a bear."
"Indeed."
"You're right, though, something's not right with those stones."
The group then follows the tracks right back to the witch-stones and, upon witnessing their frightening semi-lifelike visage once more, decides to try once more. They are wasting daylight, after all, and the night is unlikely to be a good period to be outside in the witch-infested woods.
[Woodsmanship roll: 2]
Shashari attempts to follow the tracks once again, but this proves to be an ultimately fruitless task. She just manages to follow them back to the cave again.
"Obviously, the witch must be a bear as well. Their power knows no bounds."
* * * * *
Phiali, as the next step in his investigation, tries to explore the various tunnels in a counterclockwise fashion while remaining as stealthy and inconspicuous as possible.
[Stealth roll: 3]
He strolls down the front-left tunnel, only to find three branching paths - one leads to a set of metallic bars in the shape of a door, the others are wooden doors. There seems to be some noise coming from within the right one.
[People attention roll: 6-->4]
Suddenly, the room audibly quiets down!
"Say, did you hear that? That doesn't sound like one of us."
"True. Too sneaky."
"Let us check it out!"
That is rather... not good.
[Quick disappearance roll: 6-->2]
He quickly tiptoes into the room opposite the one with the people, closing the door as quietly as possible. He finds himself in a room full of swords, spears and a whole lot of other deadly implements of dastardly violence. They are, to tell the truth, quite shiny. And sharp. Phiali is almost tempted to handle one, but he is interrupted by the sound of voices again.
"I don't see anyone around."
"Let us arm ourselves anyway. Better to be safe, no?"
He hears lazily approaching steps.
Spoiler: Phiali's not-to-scale mental map (click to show/hide)
* * * * *
Sejena, after pondering her dream and shaking the lung-destroying amounts of dust pervading the house off herself, seeks out the roof-climbing man she saw earlier in order to gauge his manner and temperament. There has to be someone amiable in this area, right?
[Search roll: 1-->1]
Upon reaching the area outside, she notices that it is absolutely empty. There is nobody around at all, curiously enough. Not that Minozan fellow, not Naphezim, not even his mother, who seemed very much like a permanent fixture of the area when she first met her. Everybody's just up and disappeared all of a sudden. Cutthroat Alley is emptied of all visible life.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on February 11, 2013, 03:13:20 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 11, 2013, 03:14:49 pm
"...Did any of you happen to see where the guards put their keys, or went after locking you up?"
"They keep them on their person. At all times. Even while they sleep. Particularly as they sleep."
Post by: Xantalos on February 11, 2013, 03:18:35 pm
Are they easily provoked and manipulated, or emotionless buffoons like everyone else here?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 11, 2013, 03:26:09 pm
"Fecking guards not being incompetent...
Are they easily provoked and manipulated, or emotionless buffoons like everyone else here?"
"Not entirely sure. They do feel eminently responsible for their keys, as any retribution for their loss is exacted on them most severely. I hear they give shame swords to the ones that lose their keys or their swords, and it takes at least a year of penance for them to get the real ones back. The frustrated and shamed torturers definitely are the worst. They are always so vindictive."
Post by: Xantalos on February 11, 2013, 03:29:36 pm
Ahem! So! I'll get to work on that. What do the shame swords look like?"
Post by: TCM on February 11, 2013, 03:30:36 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 11, 2013, 08:37:16 pm
shame swordsWhat.
-----
Resist the temptation! Exit the armory and run across the hall to that other hall quickly and quietly.
And while I'm here, let me remind you of a little something that you may have forgotten...
Pacifist: Phiali will never intentionally start a fight or hurt anyone.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 12, 2013, 12:55:00 am
"Hehe. Hahaha. Hahahaha! HAHAHAHAHA! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! PERFECT!
Ahem! So! I'll get to work on that. What do the shame swords look like?"
"Like normal swords, except they're made of wood and have the word 'SHAME' written on them in large unfriendly letters."
Post by: Xantalos on February 12, 2013, 01:05:35 am
Sneak through the corridors until I find a guard carrying a shame sword. Avoid any with nonshame swords.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 15, 2013, 04:58:39 am
Elizas heads down to the carpenter's workshop to perform some righteous borrowing of material goods for the salvation of all, also known as one of the better reasons to choose prophecy as your calling in life. He opens the door and looks within.
Well, the carpenter does seem to be in. But his tools are lying around unattended at the moment. Perfect opportunity for righteous borrowing if there ever was one.
[Theft roll: 2]
As he walks in, the carpenter turns around immediately.
"Yes? How can I help you?"
Hm. How best to handle this?
* * * * *
Phiali resists the temptation to handle any of the deliciously deadly armament in this room and tries to get out of the room as quickly as possible to not let the sheen of the excellent-quality iron blades get to his head. He opens the door!
There are two guards right outside, heading right in his direction.
[Phiali stealth roll: 5]
He casually brushes past them, looking as natural as a human being possibly could. He then strolls out into the main hall, looking exactly like an invading heretic on a holy quest wouldn't. The guards clearly see him, but make no fuss about it.
You see, this is what happens when you do not pay enough attention to your fellow temple-dwellers.
Spoiler: Phiali's not-to-scale mental map (click to show/hide)
* * * * *
Gronok, upon finding out the truth about the shame swords, tries to head out in search of a guard.
Unfortunately, the door leading out of the dungeon seems to be totally and utterly locked. And there is no key that he can see.
[Gronok perception roll: ?]
But that doesn't really make sense, does it? Why would a dungeon be closed without some way to open it from the inside? What if a guard gets trapped in here? What if he needs help torturing someone? What if a totally innocent old man wanders into a taboo zone and accidentally locks himself in a dungeon? This place is unsafe!
Spoiler: Gronok's mental map (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on February 15, 2013, 05:05:24 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 15, 2013, 09:08:21 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 15, 2013, 09:13:30 am
Anyways.
-----
Enter the lower-right hall on my map. Stealthily.
Post by: TCM on February 15, 2013, 08:00:06 pm
Con the carpenter out of his tools.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on February 16, 2013, 07:32:21 am
Keep close to the door and try to hear/find out if there's anyone... anywhere.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 18, 2013, 01:53:27 pm
Gronok is currently locked inside a dank dungeon, exactly the sort of place an old man should never allow himself to be locked inside of. There is only one thing he can possibly do now, and this is to search for some heretofore undiscovered means of exit that clearly should be present in an inescapable dungeon meant to keep people inside of it.
[Search roll: 1-->3]
After pulling on every torch on the wall and achieving absolutely no results aside from a bit of a splinter in his thumb, Gronok gives up the search as hopeless. He is obviously stuck in here for the probably few years he's got left of his life. He is about to loudly bemoan his terrible fate, but he notices that the prisoners seem to be looking at him, so he saves it for a later time.
* * * * *
Phiali, feeling somewhat relieved at the guards' overwhelming preoccupation with their shiny artifacts of murder and war, goes to explore the tunnel across the hall from him. He shuffles silently through the tunnel until he reaches a room decorated with elaborate writing on the wall. There seems to be a fairly large staircase leading downward in the room. The air around the staircase is substantially cooler than the rest of the area.
If he had to guess, Phiali would say that the staircase leads to some sort of basement.
Spoiler: Phiali's not-to-scale mental map (click to show/hide)
* * * * *
Elizas, having been noticed by the carpenter, attempts to perform a quick con for personal gain and sport.
"Good evening. I am a tax collector from the royal court, and it has been decreed that there will be an annual tax in which all carpenters, blacksmiths, metalworkers, and others who use tools in their occupations to give me exactly 1 sack full of said tools. This all sounds strange and new, but we desperately need more smelting material for the city. You don't have to give me anything, but if you do not, know that in a few days a couple soldiers will come here and take even more things by force. And they are mean and have very pointy swords."
[Bluffing roll: 4]
The carpenter's facial expression sours visibly at the information given to him.
"A shakedown? By one of the king's men? And a foreigner at that? This is an outrage!"
"Outrageous though you may find it, it is actually a perfectly reasonable request. Once again, it is probably in your best interest to hand over a sack now, as it will allow me to check you off in my ledger. Do you wish to do so?"
The carpenter tightens his hands into fists and is about to say something, but then thinks better of it, looks like.
"Wait a minute, I will be right back," he says with defeat audible in his voice, then walks off.
He comes back ten minutes later with a bag in his hand. He jangles it for a bit to prove the metal content of it, then hands it over to Elizas.
"Since you only need smelting material, I took the liberty of removing the handles. They were wooden and no use for smelting, you see."
That may pose a problem. Regardless, it is something. Quite a bit of something, judging by the weight of the bag.
* * * * *
Sejena, having seen enough bad signs in her lifetime to know how to spot one a mile away, backs up against the exterior door of the house and listens as well as keeps an eye out for any people.
[Perception roll: ?]
She thinks she sees somebody approaching from the distance. A whole lot of people, actually. They seem to be walking at a steady pace. Also, they are obviously wearing robes, though they look to be dark robes rather than the gray one would usually expect. Regardless, as they draw a bit closer, Sejena thinks she can hear chanting coming from them.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 18, 2013, 01:59:53 pm
Post by: TCM on February 18, 2013, 02:03:18 pm
Exit, go back to the hiding spot with Patalim and check the contents of the bag. Ask Patalim if he knows where we are, and if there are any safe places for him to hide in or around the city.
Post by: Xantalos on February 18, 2013, 03:17:07 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 21, 2013, 04:32:50 pm
Phiali leaves the foreboding downward staircase be for now, since temple basements are rarely known to be particularly safe, small or easily searchable, and heads up the hall to the middle tunnel on his right.
As he makes his way down the tunnel, a strong smell of recently-burnt incense assails him, and it soon becomes apparent why - the room he gets to has many torches in it. And braziers, to which about nine different alcoves with archways leading to them have been devoted. Well, this explains the amount of chimneys he saw from outside at least.
Each of the braziers seems to have a shiny copper plates spaced in a circle around it. All in all, this place looks a bit unusual.
Spoiler: Phiali's not-to-scale mental map (click to show/hide)
* * * * *
Elizas nods to the carpenter.
"Very well, you are cleared. See you next year."
The carpenter only mutters something under his breath as he gets back to work. Elizas, meanwhile, gets back to where he left Patalim. It appears that the man is still there, sitting around in confusion and bewilderment. Nodding with satisfaction, Elizas takes a look inside his bag of loot.
It is full of blades of all kinds - saw blades, axe blades and blades from things he can't really place at the moment. A lot of blades, to be sure. Very well, then.
He turns to his new companion and poses several good questions on where exactly they might be and what sort of shelter and safety one could hope to find at this hour.
[Patalim knowledge roll: 4]
Patalim proves rather talkative, all things considered.
"We're near the execution square, I guess, so that would put us near the central bit of the city, east side of the river... yes, that would be where we are. As to where I could hide, I could only begin to guess. They would certainly find me if I stayed with anyone I know, I believe," he says, shrugging with unknowing.
* * * * *
Gronok is completely and utterly stumped now. However, he realizes that he is quite lucky, actually. After all, he is a worshipper of Mo'kar, and Mo'kar likes to give knowledge to stumped followers to help them on their way. He sits down and has a bit of a praying session, hoping to get some divine guidance soon. He is pretty sure being here is unlikely to improve his health, to tell the truth.
[Prayer roll: 1-->2]
Halfway through the first sentence he realizes that there probably isn't any point to this, so he gets up and goes over to the prisoners.
"Say, imprisoned people! How would you like me to teach you..."
[Gronok knowledge roll: 3]
"... well, some basic arithmetic?"
[Prisoner knowledge roll: 3]
"We already tried that. We were remarkably successful, too. Helped pass several months of our time, though the joy of numbers eventually passed and we slipped back into despondency, though that may have also been the extra beatings from the dissatisfied guards at work. Can't have your prisoners being too happy, after all."
Now there's a perfectly good idea that's gone down the gutter, so to speak.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on February 21, 2013, 04:50:09 pm
If they don't want to learn, pray.
Repeat until Grokok gets an MP or something happens.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 21, 2013, 07:01:54 pm
Sit down. Pray some. To my god, not theirs.
Keep doing so until someone finds me.
Post by: TCM on February 21, 2013, 08:28:06 pm
Elizas orders Patalim.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 22, 2013, 03:04:24 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on February 22, 2013, 03:06:48 pm
Stay hidden, watch. Be ready to bravely run away if they seem to be heading for the building.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 22, 2013, 03:24:17 pm
((Why would they usually be grey?))
Because white robes don't keep their whiteness very well in this day and age. They become a brownish-gray in short order, usually. And the things they burn in their rituals don't help, either.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 24, 2013, 04:17:19 pm
Gronok, upon realizing that mathematics aren't really his strong suit, goes for history and geography as potential alternatives. After all, nobody knows as many stories as he does of far-away lands or ancient history, and some of those stories may even be true!
[Gronok knowledge roll: 4]
[Prisoner knowledge roll: 3]
"Hey, how about I teach you a bit about our history? It is helpful to know a bit about these things, don't you think? And some fun bits about far-away lands, how about those?"
"We were hoping you would let us out, but whatever floats your boat, I suppose. Not like we have a whole lot of choice."
"Right then, let me tell you a story about King Eredimil of the land of Gelitia to the northwest of here - you see, no more than three hundred seventy seven years ago, King Eredimil, not to be confused with his predecessor, Aradimil, decided to build the biggest whopping statue in the realm, and it was to be a statue of himself, Eredimil being an inherently narcissistic fellow and everything, as is becoming of a king. He got countless laborers to work on it and many forests were felled to construct the scaffolds for the thing. Quarries were emptied, as were the towns. All resources were devoted to finishing this statue in under a year in order to beat the record set by Aradimil and his shorter, if exactly as wide - Aradimil was a a bit tubby, you see - statue. And the project was quite successful, resulting in a giant statue looming over the surrounding land, where it presumably stands to this day. Unfortunately, another result of this was hostile tribes encroaching on Gelitian territory, which cost them quite a bit of good, fertile land. The populace was so angry at this that they decided to roast the king on a pike and eat him and his entire family in a feast, a sacred tradition and right of the Gelitian people to be invoked when their king acts like a complete fool. After that, the Gelitians decided to do away with the king business and just govern themselves through the use of voting on decisions."
"And what happened to them?"
"I think they got eaten by foreign tribes, who invoked a sacred tradition and right of theirs to be invoked when anyone, foreign nations included, acts like a complete fool."
"And the moral of the story would be?"
"It is that in the ancient land of the Gelitians, it is better to eat a fool than to be one."
Gronok nods sagely at that last remark, feeling like a very important lesson has been taught here today.
Educational activity performed! +1 MP!
* * * * *
Phiali takes advantage of the ascetic quarters provided and sits down on one of the copper plates. He then enters a praying session, one that hopefully won't be too long.
[Interruption roll: 6-->3]
Just as he sits down, he hears a yell from the way he came in!
"You there! I see you, you know! My eyes may not be the brightest, but I recognize who you are!"
[Man reaction roll: 5]
"Yarout, you layabout, why are you blundering about without your robe? I will have you know that we have strict rules of discipline here, and it is a disgrace to Kezilam for one to pray to her in such a manner! Come with me to the living quarters at once!"
The man, an ancient gray-robed individual with a very stern expression and a permanent squint from the looks of it, starts to wander up to Phiali, possibly with the intention of grabbing his ear.
Spoiler: Phiali's not-to-scale mental map (click to show/hide)
* * * * *
Elizas, keenly aware of his own inadequate knowledge of good sneak-paths out of town, tries to order Patalim to take him on one that he might know!
"Take me on the most hidden road out of the city, we shall retreat that way."
[Patalim knowledge roll: ?]
"I am sorry, but I am afraid this clandestine thing is entirely beyond me. I do not know of any smuggling routes, hidden roads or even which ones have less guards on them. I haven't even left the city in ages. You would probably be better off asking my wife, I suppose. She might be thankful if you brought me back, though I can hardly guarantee that, considering the details of the affair. You could try to convert her to your religion, though. Would give her something else to think about."
* * * * *
Sejena, sensing trouble from all the dark robed people approaching, tries to make herself as hidden as possible while alertly watching for any signs of potential intent.
[Stealth roll: 6-->5]
Not really feeling that the door offers a good advantage in regards to stealth, she quickly scampers off and looks for a good place to hide in. Such a place quickly presents itself - what looks to be an old temple to her a few buildings down from the house. She runs in, finding the exterior door to be open, then locates a good place in the northwest corner of the building to watch from, a turret of sorts offering a great view of the street and not allowing anyone from the street a similar luxury in respect to her. She watches as the procession approaches.
Oh dear. They are carrying torches. And they seem to be very keen on using them to light some of the buildings on fire.
[Perception roll: ?]
She thinks she hears her name from the procession! Then again, she also thinks she heard the name of her mother, which she is pretty sure nobody in the city would be privy to, so it may be simple paranoia. Her musings are interrupted by a voice from behind her.
"I knew we had forgotten something. Glad to see you to be in good health."
Ah. Him again.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on February 24, 2013, 04:31:55 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 24, 2013, 04:41:22 pm
"You have misidentified me. I am not a "Yarout," I am Phiali, and I serve the true god. How else could I have entered into this heathen temple without your unneeded numbers of guards noticing me?"
Return to prayer.
Post by: TCM on February 24, 2013, 07:19:15 pm
Elizas heads in the most "Patalim's-Wife"-ish direction.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on February 26, 2013, 11:17:20 am
'What is this, Naphezim?' she demanded, keeping her distance.
Keep him at length. Inquire on the crowd and what's going on.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 27, 2013, 05:04:53 pm
Gronok, feeling the familiar sensation of successful moralistic storytelling, tries to continue his winning streak with another tale from what may have been actual history at some point.
[Storytelling roll: 3+1]
"Right, I've got another tale! This one is from the lands beyond the peaks to the southeast. You see, some five hundred and thirty years ago in the land of Hakatikzimipik there lived a king. He was the First King of the Hakatikzimipik, and he was, to put it mildly, quite an angry lout to be sure. He got angry about a whole lot of things, from an uncomfortably early sunrise to his bowl of blood soup in the afternoon not tasting quite right. But what particularly irked him was that, since the traditions of the area dictated that only the toughest, strongest man of all could possibly lead the nation of Hakatikzimipik, all manner of silly fools kept challenging his claim to the throne at any given point. The First King beat mostly everyone who tried this, and had his warband dispose of any who he couldn't take care of on his own. But these constant interruptions were hardly pleasant, and he decided to prove how tough he was once and for all by consuming the Poisonous Fruit of the Oasis of Unending Sins, which was reputed throughout the land for its amazing properties utilized in dishonorable murder, with one fruit capable of killing up to twelve strong men along with their mounts. Clearly, there was no better test of one's fortitude than ingesting it."
"Now, he obtained the fruit and ate it in full view of everyone who cared enough to look, intent on settling this manliness nonsense right away. He twisted, turned and retched for a long time, and his eyes became yellow with the intense concentration that the situation demanded. Also, he went completely bonkers in a short while, wandering off into a nearby desert one morning and not coming back. Now, nobody knows what exactly happened to the First King of the Hakatikzimipik, but one thing is clear."
"What's that?"
"You see, they don't call the Desert King Lizards the Desert King Lizards for nothing. What Desert King Lizards do, you see, is that they occasionally wander into villages. At least one such lizard was reported to have carried a strange object that seems to have been the First King's crown, and it reacted extremely aggressively when someone tried to take it away! The locals realized what had happened - the lizard had, paradoxically enough, beaten the weakened king in a contest of manliness and claimed the throne! And from that day on, the Desert King Lizards were considered sacred by the Hakatikzimipik, who, despite having moved on to less manliness-based governance, still feel a sizable bit of reverence for their Second King."
"And the moral of the story would be that you shouldn't try to prove your manliness with something that kills virtually everything?"
"That, and to beware of treacherous reptilians encroaching on your power."
A good thing to remember, Gronok thinks. It feels good to exercise those storytelling abilities again.
+1 MP for mythology/history lesson!
* * * * *
Phiali, not the lying type, says it straight and sharp to the man with poor eyesight.
"You have misidentified me. I am not a "Yarout," I am Phiali, and I serve the true god. How else could I have entered into this heathen temple without your unneeded numbers of guards noticing me?"
The man looks over Phiali and scratches his chin.
[Man reaction roll: 1-->1]
"I see. Well, it is awfully kind of you to have told me that. It would have been awkward to have dragged you off to the priest quarters by your ears when you're not even a priest, eh? Hah!"
He nods briefly and heads out the tunnel. Phiali shrugs and returns to prayer. A few minutes later, however, he is interrupted once more.
"Hello, it's me again!"
Phiali turns to acknowledge the presence of the priest and notices that he has five temple guards with him. And a nasty-looking two-handed sword in his hands.
"So, Phiali, I suppose it's time for us to deal with you appropriately."
He turns to his guards and says "Make sure not to leave too much of a mess, it's so dreadful when there's blood all over the meditation room."
The man pauses, then turns his attention to Phiali once more.
"I don't suppose you'd like to convert? That way, we would only have to burn and bleed you minimally. And we could... wait, no. Wouldn't work. Sadly, we would have to kill you anyway. But at least you'll go to heaven if you die as a Kezilamite. Does that sound agreeable?"
Spoiler: Phiali's mental map (click to show/hide)
* * * * *
Elizas gives up on the idea of leaving town for now, deferring to Patalim's superior (if still ultimately lacking) knowledge.
"Very well, let's just get out of here. Where is your wife?"
"Probably at her father's residence. I can lead you there, it is not too far."
Elizas allows himself to be taken through the winding streets of Berikalam, eventually winding up at a humble home in one of the seemingly poorer sections of the city. Looks to be a craftsman's home, judging by the general look of the place. It is, however, relatively inconspicuous.
"Looks like somebody's in. Let's go in, then."
Elizas follows Patalim inside his father-in-law's house, finding it to be just as humble on the inside as it is from the outside. The interior is neat enough, though it is clearly rather aged. Another thing in the house that's clearly rather aged are two people, a man and a woman, sitting in ancient chairs at the moment, neither looking particularly alert at the moment.
"Uhm... good morning. Have you seen my wife?"
The old man turns his decrepit head and studies Patalim carefully. He then slowly begins to speak, his voice drier than sand and possibly just as ancient.
"Aren't you dead?"
Patalim seems uneasy in his presence.
"Not... not yet. Where's my wife?"
"You're supposed to be dead."
The creature that is presumably Patalim's mother-in-law, equally ancient and equally slow as her husband, intently stares at Patalim.
"I'm not dead, let's leave it at that."
"No, I am quite sure. You're dead."
What a strange old man.
* * * * *
Sejena, not entirely pleased to see her infamous and unwilling host, frowns and asks a question.
"What is this, Naphezim?"
Naphezim's expression is a complete blank, and his voice sounds quite cold.
"A hazard of living in the poorer quarters, I'm afraid. Once per year, the Kezilamites here celebrate the Day of Ash, and part of the ceremony is the ritual burning of a den of iniquity. Unfortunately, it looks like our alley has drawn the losing lot this year. I wonder how much they'll burn this year, actually. I remember last year when they burned down one of the better wineries in town. Most unfortunate, that was. Well, at least they will leave quickly. They start a fire, sing some songs, then leave after the fire's gone out, you see. Some sort of important experience for them."
He shakes his head solemnly.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on February 27, 2013, 06:37:06 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 27, 2013, 10:31:36 pm
Use my last mana point to escape, ideally teleporting somewhere nearby but safe.
Post by: Harry Baldman on February 28, 2013, 12:44:18 am
"I'm sorry, but I can't convert from the one true god. Nor will I come with you. Know this, however: You have lost your last chance. Be sure to tell whatever fell priest you blindly follow that it is your fault that this temple will fall."
Use my last mana point to escape, ideally teleporting somewhere nearby but safe.
Well, you can't really teleport with a single MP. You can try Divine Knowledge, a Blessing or a Curse, all of which are at their lowest power levels in that case.
((What miracle would one use to unlock chains?))
There isn't really one that does that specifically, though a blessing on yourself or a curse on the chain might work.
Post by: Xantalos on February 28, 2013, 12:45:22 am
Post by: Innsmothe on February 28, 2013, 07:45:30 am
Even though the game play is slower, and seems to have less chances for inexplicable carnage and thus player rollover, I will wait until untold eons have past! :o
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: TCM on February 28, 2013, 03:46:38 pm
"Greetings! My name is Elizas and I am an ambassador of God, the one and true, who rescued Patalim from a vicious and ignorant mob. He would have been executed had God not given me the ability to carry him away from the madness."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on February 28, 2013, 05:40:02 pm
Could I provide a blessing on myself that lets me run fast or something?Use my last mana point to escape, ideally teleporting somewhere nearby but safe.Well, you can't really teleport with a single MP. You can try Divine Knowledge, a Blessing or a Curse, all of which are at their lowest power levels in that case.
And why are miracles so limited? I don't want to be teleported across the continent; a few dozen feet would (probably) be sufficient.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 01, 2013, 07:37:02 am
Could I provide a blessing on myself that lets me run fast or something?
And why are miracles so limited? I don't want to be teleported across the continent; a few dozen feet would (probably) be sufficient.
Yes, you could indeed provide such a blessing.
And miracles are limited because they always succeed. Can't have prophets that have only just started their respective holy journeys teleport around at will or call down the wrath of God to destroy stuff at will. At first, you have to rely more on your own abilities.
Post by: Xantalos on March 01, 2013, 10:14:05 am
Set a -2 Curse on the chains, touch range. He then breaks the chains. Make sure the prisoners convert afterward.
Post by: Parisbre56 on March 01, 2013, 12:56:30 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 02, 2013, 12:51:53 am
Fine, I'll do something which doesn't have as many ways to go wrong even on a success.Could I provide a blessing on myself that lets me run fast or something?Yes, you could indeed provide such a blessing.
And why are miracles so limited? I don't want to be teleported across the continent; a few dozen feet would (probably) be sufficient.
Quip as noted earlier. Give self a blessing that lets me run fast and all. Hurry past the guards and out of and away from the temple.
Post by: Digital Hellhound on March 03, 2013, 11:50:15 am
She smiled at Naphezim, betraying no fear of the mob. 'Well, I am glad you chose to come back for me, Naphezim. My prayers are with you and your home here. Regardless - I don't suppose you've heard from Satjap in the meantime?'
Sejena and people talkin'
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 03, 2013, 02:55:41 pm
Elizas bows to the older couple and attempts to explain the strange happenings of this morning.
"Greetings! My name is Elizas and I am an ambassador of God, the one and true, who rescued Patalim from a vicious and ignorant mob. He would have been executed had God not given me the ability to carry him away from the madness."
[Old People reaction roll: 2]
"Doesn't sound like a very useful god to me. Ruining the natural order of things is hardly a good thing to do."
"I'm your son-in-law!"
"Which makes it doubly important that you be summarily executed. One cannot make exceptions in the law for his own family, particularly family one strongly dislikes."
"You're being unnecessarily hostile!"
"I am not hostile. I am merely implying that you are supposed to be dead and that it is fully reasonable to expect such a thing of you, and yet you have failed my expectations. The last in a long series of such and similar failures, might I add."
The old man's wife nods along to the old man's words, her wizened features contorting in a shape of disdain. The old man, meanwhile, remains completely expressionless.
* * * * *
Gronok, the storytelling having filled him with nothing short of divine inspiration, focuses his will upon the foul chains of the prisoners, praying that, by the grace of the Lord, even the emaciated arms of the prisoners can break them! He then tries to pull them apart, one by one!
[Gronok vs. Chains: 5 vs. 4-2
"Hey, watch this!"
He walks up to a prisoner, then pulls at his chain with all his might! The chain shatters into individual links and falls to the ground, and the prisoners' eyes go wide with amazement. Gronok follows it up by pulling off every last one of the other chains as well, freeing all the prisoners and filling the ground with lots of broken links. After all are free, he stands triumphantly in the middle of the crowd that has now formed and loudly proclaims words that none had hoped to hear.
"By the grace of Mo'kar, you are delivered!"
The prisoners look rather ecstatic, to tell the truth.
2 MP deducted!
Impressive display of power! 1 MP awarded!
* * * * *
Phiali calmly stands up on the temple floor and announces his exact feelings on the matter of conversion to the priest.
"I'm sorry, but I can't convert from the one true god. Nor will I come with you. Know this, however: You have lost your last chance. Be sure to tell whatever fell priest you blindly follow that it is your fault that this temple will fall."
"Well, it was worth telling you the options anyway, I believe. Hopefully the fires of hell will cleanse that nasty impudent streak out of you and you will be able to join us in heaven. One can only hope!"
Phiali, feeling a particularly inspired moment coming on, starts to run!
[Phiali escape roll: 6-->1+1]
Though the guards are in his way, Phiali pushes on, confident that God will provide a way! Unfortunately, God does not do this, so Phiali is left with making a route for himself! After muttering a quick prayer, he tackles the priest, rolling with him toward the exit!
[Guard pursuit roll: 6-->1]
As he rolls over the priest and starts to run, the guards run after him, trampling over the poor old half-blind priest in the process!
[Priest endurance roll: 3]
The priest seems quite hurt in the process, as he lets out a pained moan and curls up into a ball upon the guards' passing.
[Guard reaction roll: 4]
Though two of the guards pay their fallen master no mind, three stop in their tracks and go back to attend to the frail and abused old man, asking if he's alright and apologizing profusely for their impatience. Phiali runs out into the main hall.
Hm, there seem to be no guards around here. Looks like the old man got all of the ones around to follow him to Phiali. Not that he has very long to appreciate this, as the guards are right behind him and about to start closing in.
1 MP expended!
* * * * *
Sejena keeps the conversation going, making sure to keep any uneasiness about the pyromaniacally-inclined Kezilamites well-hidden.
"I see. I look forward to seeing them perish when the Goddess arrives."
"They doubtlessly feel the same way about you. And many other people, the King included."
"Well, I am glad you chose to come back for me, Naphezim. My prayers are with you and your home here. Regardless - I don't suppose you've heard from Satjap in the meantime?"
"Thankfully, no. But, since we are speaking of him, let's get on with our business. Namely, its nature and purpose. You will tell me what your purpose in coming here was, and you will tell me now. This roundabout manner of yours bores me quite immensely."
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Digital Hellhound on March 03, 2013, 03:13:10 pm
'Oh, for the love of... I came here to seek sanctuary, you half-wit, because Satjap promised me it would be found here and I am short on allies in this abyssal excuse for a city. And why do I need sanctuary, Naphezim? Because I have fled the palace and the slave-life I've had to suffer my entire life. Because I serve Aulanna, the Bloody-Red Lady, and will stop at nothing to see her will done. By the Goddess, I will bring down this doomed, pathetic speck of a kingdom and cast the king and all his sycophants and priests from his high tower and bathe in the blood of all who dare to defy her. Any more questions?'
Tell Naphezim what's what. Curse his... willpower? by -1 for 1 turn and try to get the fear of the Goddess into him (Miracle: Curse [1*1*1*1]=1). If that doesn't work, boost my own charisma/intimidation.
((Act backfiring in 3... 2... 1...))
Post by: Xantalos on March 03, 2013, 04:26:16 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 03, 2013, 06:41:24 pm
Run out the front doors, jibing at the guards about their lack of care for the priests.
Post by: TCM on March 03, 2013, 07:13:24 pm
"This man is a child of God, and as such it is of my duty to protect him with the fullest measure of my abilities from harm." If you harm this man in anyway you will not only mark yourselves a target of God but all of his people."
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 05, 2013, 08:01:55 am
So...my MP expended let me roll normally to escape? How is that different than what would have normally happened?
No, it gave you a +1 to said roll. You get what you pay for and all that. In your case, the +1 was actually quite important in that it let you put some distance between yourself and the guards.
"Excellent! Now, are any of you particularly strong or adept at picking locks?"
"In a word, no. It is the primary reason we are still here. That and the fact that the door leading out has no lock to pick."
Elizas butts in at this point.
"This man is a child of God, and as such it is of my duty to protect him with the fullest measure of my abilities from harm. If you harm this man in anyway you will not only mark yourselves a target of God but all of his people."
"You misunderstand. I am not going to harm him. I am merely saying that he should be harmed by someone in general."
The old man scratches his chin thoughtfully.
"Say, perhaps you could do it? I am sure your god would never see it coming."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 05, 2013, 08:19:57 am
Ah, I see.So...my MP expended let me roll normally to escape? How is that different than what would have normally happened?No, it gave you a +1 to said roll. You get what you pay for and all that. In your case, the +1 was actually quite important in that it let you put some distance between yourself and the guards.
...Note to self: MP are more efficiently spent on classical miracles.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 05, 2013, 08:35:26 am
Ah, I see.
...Note to self: MP are more efficiently spent on classical miracles.
Except God's Wrath. That one is a bit too expensive to use at your level. With the 4 MP spent on God's Wrath, you can give yourself a +4 to persuasion or defense for one turn, after all.
Post by: Xantalos on March 05, 2013, 10:42:10 am
Gronok blesses said strong guy with a 1-turn +1 to strength via touch, then directs him to break the door down.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 06, 2013, 04:18:22 pm
Sejena, quite annoyed by Naphezim's persistent badgering, spells the entire thing out to him in a somewhat irritated hiss, feeling righteous fury overtake her.
[Intimidation roll: 1-->2+1]
'Oh, for the love of... I came here to seek sanctuary, you half-wit, because Satjap promised me it would be found here and I am short on allies in this abyssal excuse for a city. And why do I need sanctuary, Naphezim? Because I have fled the palace and the slave-life I've had to suffer my entire life. Because I serve Aulanna, the Bloody-Red Lady, and will stop at nothing to see her will done. By the Goddess, I will bring down this doomed, pathetic speck of a kingdom and cast the king and all his sycophants and priests from his high tower and bathe in the blood of all who dare to defy her. Any more questions?'
Naphezim looks gravely at Sejena for a few moments, staring deeply into her furious eyes.
Then he begins laughing. He laughs long and hard, then stops and looks at Sejena again, at which point he breaks into a slight giggle. After about a minute of that, he finally calms down and takes several deep breaths. Composing himself, he finally speaks.
"Sorry about that. Don't know what came over me back there. Probably all the ambition. Anyway, I cannot really help you with any of that bathing in blood you have got planned and whatnot. I can give you two things: a well-hidden room with provisions, which will cost you 12 tezerams a day, and access to certain places you should not be in, which will cost somewhere between 200 and 500 tezerams per instance, depending on the location. Neither of these prices are negotiable. Take them or leave them."
Sejena might not be entirely clear on how much in terms of expenses 12 or 500 tezerams are, but it sure sounds like a lot.
1 MP expended!
* * * * *
Gronok, having carefully thought about his next course of action, formulates a plan of escape. This, however, requires one thing.
"Say, are any of you particularly strong or adept at picking locks?"
The lead prisoner shakes his head.
"In a word, no. It is the primary reason we are still here. That and the fact that the door leading out has no lock to pick."
Ah. Next plan.
"Hum tee tum... well, the strongest of you step forward, please."
[Strongest person roll: 5]
A very well-built man stands up and steps toward Gronok. Despite being covered in superficial burns and scars, he looks plenty strong. But he could be stronger! Gronok outstretches his God-blessed hand, placing it firmly on the man's chest and allowing the grace of the Lord do its divine work. The man, originally a bit of a slouch, seems to fill with energy, standing upright and ready for action.
"Now, go break down the door!"
"I will do so to the best of my considerable ability!"
He runs up the stairs and tries to remove the door from its frame!
[Man strength roll: 1-->6+1+1]
He returns to the group a few minutes later.
"After a cursory inspection and mechanical test of the door and its surrounding area, I have come to several important conclusions - the door is firmly held by the stone it slides into, seemingly continuing beyond what we can normally perceive both horizontally and vertically for a significant length. Furthermore, the walls seem to be constructed of very durable materials, possibly solid granite. All in all, not something one can break down simply with one's hands."
The spirits of the group sink at this analysis.
"However," the strongman continues, "in my investigations, I also found something unusual! It looks to be a bit of string protruding from the wall! If my skills of deduction have not failed me, it is likely that it may control the bell the guards use to get out!"
The people in the room perk up immediately!
"Follow me, people, I will get us out of this yet!"
He runs up the stairs with the prisoners, leaving Gronok behind with nothing but the somewhat unpleasant feeling of being upstaged.
* * * * *
Phiali, currently running for his life, chooses to remind the guards of the priest that probably needs help right now!
[Phiali persuasion roll: 6-->6]
To this end, he stops dead in his tracks, then motions for the guards to stop as well. He then proceeds to prepare his best accusatory tone.
"How dare you not prioritize the well-being of your priest over the capture of an intruder!"
The guards shrug as one.
"We're pretty sure he'll be fine."
"But what if he isn't and you aren't around to help him?"
"We are sure that your capture will gain us more prestige than caring for a priest. Besides, there's several of us doing that already. This way, it is more likely we'll be successful!"
"I have a better idea, however - it lets you gain prestige both for capturing me and for helping your priest!"
The guards are clearly intrigued by the proposition, though they still seem a bit wary of Phiali.
"Tell us this... idea of yours."
"Ah, you see, it is a stroke of genius. You go and help your priest now and let me escape, thus gaining prestige for helping a hurt superior. This is something you can't do tomorrow, after all. I, on the other hand, will probably be back in a few days. You can capture me then, gaining even more prestige. Who knows, you may even become distinguished among your peers for such success. Not a bad plan, no?"
One of the guards scratches his chin.
"Seems like a sound plan. So you'll be back in a few days, and then we'll capture you."
"Presumably."
"Very well then! Where will you be?"
"The bell tower. If I do not appear, wait a bit. I may just be running late."
"It is a deal! Run along now, and make sure you are in the right place next time we meet. To get to the bell tower, go up the right stairs in the hall, then take the right path at every intersection. You will get there eventually. Have a nice day, now."
"Oh, I will."
Phiali runs out the front door while the guards run back to aid their priest. Well, that was a nice escape.
* * * * *
Elizas, not a big fan of either death or enforcement of the natural order of things, butts in on the conversation going on.
"This man is a child of God, and as such it is of my duty to protect him with the fullest measure of my abilities from harm. If you harm this man in anyway you will not only mark yourselves a target of God but all of his people."
"You misunderstand. I am not going to harm him. I am merely saying that he should be harmed by someone in general."
The old man scratches his chin thoughtfully.
"Say, perhaps you could do it? I am sure your god would never see it coming."
Well... that's an option, Elizas guesses. A pointless and insane option, but an option nonetheless.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 06, 2013, 05:30:36 pm
"Idiots."
Find some spot, far from the temple, to camp for the remainder of the night.
Post by: IronyOwl on March 07, 2013, 03:21:21 am
Speaking of which, what do you know about the surrounding areas that aren't witchbear-infested forest?"
Return to Siren's hut, engage in conversation. Wait for tomorrow.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 08, 2013, 09:05:36 am
Post by: Xantalos on March 08, 2013, 10:22:13 am
Gronok frowned. Usually he was the one upstaging people! Humph.
...
...
...
Of course, he still goes with the people to the door. There could be guards out there.
Once he's there, he takes the lead and has the people follow him out of the place. If they meet any guards, notice if they have shame swords. If they do, try to convert them to our cause by embittering them against their fellows. If they're real guards, Gronok bamboozles the man with his wit and has the former prisoners knock him unconscious and arrange him in an embarrassing position.
Post by: TCM on March 08, 2013, 04:50:00 pm
-------
"Okay."
Slap Patalim.
"AND GOD'S WILL HAS BEEN CARRIED OUT."
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 09, 2013, 05:11:21 pm
Phiali, having liberated himself of the foolish guards, walks off into the wilderness to find himself a good camping spot.
[Search roll: 2]
The surrounding area does not seem very friendly, actually. Most of the woods around here seem to stretch on both horizontally and vertically, creating a thick and often bramble-filled undergrowth that would hurt immensely even to walk over, let alone sleep on. And his old camping spot is not exactly what one would call 'far from the temple', being only slightly out of sight and earshot of the entrance. Either he will have to range quite far or stick with a fairly easily located camp site.
* * * * *
Shashari realizes that very little has been achieved today, considering how she has only managed to make conversation with cave-dwelling predators and get lost in the woods several times. So she instead elects to go to the Siren's hut, questioning the female-voiced owner on the way.
"Okay, I clearly do not belong in the woods. Let's go back to your place for now and get out of this place come tomorrow, hm?"
[Siren wanderlust roll: 4]
"I see no problem there. Though this place has been my home for years, it is probably time to move on. Mostly on account of all the accursed witches everywhere."
"Speaking of which, what do you know about the surrounding areas that aren't witchbear-infested forest?"
[Siren knowledge roll: 3]
"Not really. I know that the woods stretch on for quite a distance, but I am afraid my knowledge ends there. Very much like you, I suspect, I blundered here with no real clue on what to do."
Great. That's helpful. Nevertheless, Shashari and her two companions safely return to the hut, encountering no trouble on the way. The hut is the same as they left it - austere, but generally acceptable for a hermit. Which is to say, it is a tough place for one of Shashari's pedigree to stay in. She manages to distract herself in various ways until evening, at which point she tries to fall asleep once again.
[Resting roll: 2]
Perhaps the smell is more intense, maybe it's due to lack of exertion, possibly even the curse of a roaming witch, but Shashari simply cannot fall asleep. She twists and turns, the minutes of the night seemingly dragging on forever as she keeps intently trying to lose consciousness, but failing.
Insomnia is a terrible thing to have, all in all.
* * * * *
Gronok, though a bit irritated at the loss of control over the situation. heads upstairs with the crowd before he's lost them entirely. Once he gets up there, he hears the strongman's voice.
"Right, then! Ring the bell!"
There is a ringing, then the sound of footsteps.
"When they open the door, pour out and overwhelm them!"
The crowd whispers to one another, then they all nod.
The door eventually is raised, 4 guards standing outside! The prisoners charge at them immediately!
[Prisoners vs. Guards: 4 vs. 6-1]
Though the prisoners are numerous, the guards do have the considerable advantage of weaponry on their side! With their metal swords, the prisoners are kept at bay as the door begins to close! Not a bad showing by the guards, all in all!
[Gronok escape roll: 4]
Gronok manages to get through to the other side, elbowing his way through the crowd into a leading position! He sighs with relief at the door shutting behind him!
[Crowd escape roll: 4]
Most of the crowd, the strongman included, seem to have gotten to the other side safely. Some were left behind, which is regrettable, but sadly unavoidable. It's all a bit chaotic right now, what with the former prisoners fighting the guards. And loud, too. Particularly when people get stabbed. That produces particularly loud noises.
* * * * *
Elizas takes the old man's words into account. Perhaps he should do something. Yes, he must do something!
"Okay."
He attempts to slap Patalim.
[Elizas vs. Patalim: 4 vs. 2-1]
Patalim takes the slap very much like you'd expect a man to take a slap from somebody he thought he could trust! He looks shocked, then angry, then embarrassed, his face flushed and his expression completely perplexed.
"AND GOD'S WILL HAS BEEN CARRIED OUT."
The old man stares at him for a good minute, then speaks once more.
"You are a strange one, to be sure. I do not see how that solved anything, to tell the truth."
[Patalim agreement roll: 2]
"You wouldn't see that, of course! You can't ever see a solution! It's always just 'this is impossible' or 'this is unethical' for you, isn't it?"
Patalim looks pretty angry now. Well, angrier than before.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 09, 2013, 06:00:36 pm
Post by: Xantalos on March 09, 2013, 06:57:40 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 12, 2013, 02:14:21 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on March 12, 2013, 02:27:20 pm
Seriously, though... if I don't post an act soon, use this. Bless my Strength +1 and fuck this bitch up. If there are sharp-looking rocks, use one - if not, pummel his skull in. The Goddess will not stand for halfwits.
Post by: IronyOwl on March 13, 2013, 05:41:14 am
She'd have to see about converting an innkeeper or something soon.
In the meantime, she needed sleep. But Siren's shack wasn't a good place for that to happen, which meant she needed to get so exhausted she passed out or make it more comfortable. The former sounded terrible and she didn't think she could pull off the latter.
So... she'd do something else. That'd either put her to sleep anyway or be productive while she was not getting the beauty rest she required.
Meditate on the One True God. Attempt to receive a vision, dreaming even if I can't sleep.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 13, 2013, 03:54:40 pm
Phiali opts to just keep on his path away from the temple. That is, until he realizes that he left some stuff back at his old campsite. He gets back to it, reclaims some of the berries he left and some particularly high-quality leaves worth keeping, then sets about covering his tracks.
[Track coverage roll: 2]
He realizes that he has neither the time nor patience to dust all the footprints away or, for that matter, readjust any disturbed bushes. So he just chooses to rely on the well-established fact that the guards of the temple are neither particularly smart nor very prone to leaving their sacred grounds and walks away after expending no time or effort on any highly professional ranger business that nobody is likely to appreciate anyway. Now to look for a new campsite.
[Search roll: 4]
Several miles away from the temple there seems to be an adequate clearing providing a nice shade from the sun. It isn't covered in brambles, nor do there seem to be any predatory or non-predatory animal droppings around that Phiali can see. He figures this location is about as good as it is likely to get.
* * * * *
Gronok attempts to demoralize the guards by telling them all the negative things he can currently think of!
[Gronok persuasion roll: 5+1]
He starts to narrate every inadequacy of the Kezilamite faith and priesthood that he can think of, then recites every case of battles he knows (as well as some he made up) where numerical superiority won out over superior armaments and tactics. He tops it off with a nice dose of targeted doomsaying, which is a thing usually expected from an old man in pretty much every conventional situation.
[Guard attention roll: 5]
The guards clearly hear it, too, despite being a bit preoccupied. They seem to be clearly demoralized by this verbal assault, being more used to negative reinforcement meant in a tough love kind of way rather than just plain negativity. In addition, they are nicely distracted by Gronok's routine, so there's that.
[Crowd vs. Guards: 2 vs. 4-1-1]
Despite the guards clearly not giving it their all, the crowd of prisoners does not look like it is very inclined to run into four people with metal weaponry. Sharp metal weaponry, no less, unlike some of the weaponry used on them at previous points in their lives not really worth discussing at this juncture. The guards turn away from the yammering old man and begin to pay attention again as the crowd prepares for yet another offensive!
* * * * *
For everything there is a season and time for every purpose under the sun. And right now, it is time for Sejena to teach someone a lesson in respect in the very best traditions of her faith. She looks nearby for anything suitably sharp to aid in her idea of an object lesson.
[Object availability roll: 4]
There does look to be a copper candlestick right next to her. Good enough.
[Sejena vs. Naphezim: 3-1+1+1 vs. 4+1-1]
As Sejena swings the candlestick with righteous fury, Naphezim takes a step back, looking a bit unimpressed.
[Naphezim reaction roll: 2]
"That was awfully unwise of you."
[Naphezim vs. Sejena: 1+1 vs. 5]
He lunges forward, a dagger suddenly, but not entirely unexpectedly having appeared in his hands in what Sejena is sure is a movement he's spent long hours practicing either in a mirror or on unsuspecting strangers. Luckily, she is prepared for just such an eventuality, weaving out of his path and exploiting the opening that immediately appears as Naphezim stops just in time to avoid falling out of the window.
[Counterattack: Sejena vs. Naphezim: 3+1 vs. 6+1]
The slippery worm is a bit too fast, however, handily dodging a second candlestick swing and assuming a less dangerous position in the room, namely a few steps away from Sejena.
"Honestly, you could have waited for a bit. Paid me once to build up some trust and all. Not that it is going to do you any good now."
He seems to have assumed a somewhat more murderous character, contrasting with his earlier disagreeable and dense image most profoundly.
1 MP expended!
* * * * *
Shashari, feeling sleep to be an unlikely prospect, tries to meditate herself into either greater insight or sleep. Either seems like a pleasing prospect.
[Meditation roll: 6-->6]
Freeing herself from the cares of the world around her, of the sight of the humble shack, of the sound of a distant screeching bat (perhaps a distant screeching witch, she isn't entirely sure), of the smell of warm ram, of the feeling of the dirt floor. And in plunging into nothingness, she attains a deeper level of awareness. Not of the world around her, but of things beyond, things in the realm of Ash'Mah.
There is one that lives. It lives and it cuts. It cuts and it creates. It creates and it relocates. It knows not why. It knows that it must. It derives joy and it finds purpose in pointlessness. It knows things. It knows the where and the how. It knows not the what. It looks at the leaves and it appreciates the tree man's confidence in its works. It offers the tree man vast treasures, but the tree man always refuses. It finds the tree man's unwillingness disturbing.
Find it through its friend. Pilfer its secrets. Find its ward.
Shashari opens up her senses once again. It seems to be morning. The Siren is up and about, the ram is chewing on some grass outside, the floor is still made of dirt and, what's strange, Shashari feels oddly refreshed. Who knew sleeping while sitting up would be so comfortable?
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: TCM on March 13, 2013, 03:58:08 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on March 13, 2013, 04:03:40 pm
Congratulations. You've made me unbelievably pissed at this fictional smug son of a bitch. If I die because of it, so fucking be it. The Goddess would be proud. Although judging from my rolls she either does not favor me at all or is not the one true god.
Post by: Xantalos on March 13, 2013, 05:02:56 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 13, 2013, 05:06:06 pm
Catch up on sleep. Try to sleep lightly.
Post by: IronyOwl on March 14, 2013, 09:34:51 pm
"Say, Siren, do you know where I might find a tree man?"
Ask Siren about tree man.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 16, 2013, 10:47:24 am
Elizas attempts to soothe the heated tempers (well, only one heated temper, the other is more like blistering apathy) with a specifically chosen tune.
[Music roll: 4]
Pulling out his buffalo bone guitar, he starts to play a tune of peace and love, a particular favorite of the ladies back in his land. It is quite the wonderful little number, one that the people can't help but nod their heads along with.
"That is a very fine instrument you have there, sir. And might I add that you use it with impressive skill."
Well, he seems distracted. Patalim, meanwhile, looks to have reached new heights of confusion.
"What is going on here? Why does nothing make sense anymore?"
The old man shushes him and keeps listening. The old lady closes her eyes and kicks back to enjoy the melody.
* * * * *
Sejena, having failed in her surprise attack, realizes that what comes next might not be favorable for her. But she will be damned if she lets this fool treat people this way and expect subservience. If she dies, let it be so.
[Sejena vs. Naphezim: 1 vs. 4+1]
As she tries to smash Naphezim in the head with the candlestick, the man stops her strike expertly, then tries to stab her.
[Counterattack: Naphezim vs. Sejena: 2+1 vs. 2]
[Naphezim vs. Sejena: 4+1 vs. 1]
His first stab results in but a scratch, but the other one catches Sejena right in the stomach, burying itself in her internal anatomy. Sejena feels a rather large amount of blood begin to escape from the wound.
[Sejena endurance roll: 2]
She stumbles back and slumps against a wall, unused to severe stab wounds. Though this would normally be a good thing in one's life, it all but ensures that she is out of the fight for now.
"And the lesson we have learned here today is that you should not attempt to wantonly assault a man with far more experience in that kind of thing than yourself. I suppose this is goodbye, then."
Naphezim turns around and leaves the tower, leaving Sejena still alive in a pool of her own blood that is steadily growing in size.
* * * * *
Gronok attempts to inspire the other escapees with his skill in oratory. After all, it worked on the guards.
[Inspiration roll: 1-->2+1]
He starts to talk about the prisoners and their terrible plight! Sure, they might be emaciated. Yes, they are indeed mostly unarmed. And they have no idea where the exit is. All those things are very true. But they have numbers!
Well, except for the fact that there are probably more than fifty other guards, considering the vast importance of this site. So they haven't got that either. Gronok apologizes for distracting the people. Carry on.
[Crowd perception roll: ?]
Fortunately, they do not seem to have heard him over the sound of them fighting the guards.
[Crowd vs. Guards: 4 vs. 4-1]
They seem to be slowly moving toward victory, clonking a guard on the head. The guard doesn't seem to overly mind, though it is obvious that they are getting quite pessimistic about their odds of victory.
* * * * *
Phiali decides to make camp and lie down for now, trying to do his very best job at sleeping as lightly as he can.
[Dreaming roll: 3]
He dreams of a nice cloud. He is in the cloud. It is soft and cool, offering great nourishment in the hot climate. His entire night is spent dreaming of this cloud and others like it. Very nice dreams, those. He eventually wakes up with the morning light. Hopefully this day will be better than the previous one.
* * * * *
Shashari, having received the revelation she had so hoped for, acts upon the information given immediately.
"Say, Siren, do you know where I might find a tree man?"
[Siren knowledge roll: ?]
"Uhm... no. Wait... maybe I... no, that was a tree cat-thing. And probably not a tree at all. No idea where your tree man might be, sorry."
Hm. This might be harder than she thought.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Digital Hellhound on March 16, 2013, 10:53:12 am
Try to write a message in my blood on the wall; ALL WILL DROWN.
((It's that or SATJAP, YOU STUPID BASTARD))
Post by: TCM on March 16, 2013, 11:01:07 am
"Now I know things are confusing for you, and the older man has some conflict with your ideals, but you need to lighten up and think. I just saved your hide from being buried beneath dozens of stones and you act this way? You're role is no longer one of a man; you are a figure in the workings and legends of the true God. I was repulsed by that disgusting marriage affair those two folk were in, but I held my tongue. Anyways, do you think you could stay here for now? I have to rendezvous with Gezerim and a merchant party."
If he can be left here, Elizas will head back to Gezerim's home.
Post by: Xantalos on March 16, 2013, 11:57:51 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 16, 2013, 01:34:49 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 19, 2013, 02:17:51 pm
Sejena goes ahead and tries to write a message on the wall using only her finger and the copious amounts of blood she's lost.
[Penmanship roll: 5]
She manages to write the words "ALL WILL DROWN" on the wall in a very menacing, ominous fashion. Perhaps this message will leave future generations in fear, awe or bafflement. Now, Sejena is ready to rest.
[Endurance roll: 4]
She would close her eyes and let go, but either the wound hurts a bit too much or she's lost too little blood to not care about such things. One thing is for certain, though - the moment is absolutely, completely and irrevocably ruined.
* * * * *
Elizas finishes up his song and bows to the old man, who claps with uncharacteristic heartiness. With the performance done, he drags Patalim to a nearby hallway, closing a curtain behind him and making sure Patalim is backed up in a corner.
"Now I know things are confusing for you, and the older man has some conflict with your ideals, but you need to lighten up and think. I just saved your hide from being buried beneath dozens of stones and you act this way? Your role is no longer one of a man; you are a figure in the workings and legends of the true God. I was repulsed by that disgusting marriage affair those two folk were in, but I held my tongue. Anyways, do you think you could stay here for now? I have to rendezvous with Gezerim and a merchant party."
[Patalim cooperation roll: 5]
Patalim seems to calm down, looking almost guilty about his lack of composure.
"I apologize. I should have remained calm. Yelling at that man never helps, yet it is so tempting. I shall stay here, do not fear. And I will also stay out of the old man's way. Now go on. I will, as they say, 'keep a low profile'."
Elizas doubtfully looks at Patalim, but the fellow gives him a thumbs-up, so he guesses it will be okay. Time to leave and get back to Gezerim.
It takes some time to get back there, but he eventually manages it. The merchant and his guards seem to be sitting around and drinking around a table in the main hall. Gezerim is nowhere to be seen.
* * * * *
Gronok attempts to tell the guards fighting the convicts off, as they clearly deserve no better.
[Gronok demoralization roll: 2+1]
He tries to say mean and bad things about the guards, but he figures they could really use a break from that kind of thing. They don't seem to be doing too well already, no need to rub it in, you know?
[Crowd vs. Guards: 4 vs. 4-1]
The crowd clonks another guard on the head, and the guard decides to run away. Well, good for him. There's still an awful lot of noise being made.
[Ruckus roll: 5]
Gronok bets that the entire living quarters can hear all this, actually. That may soon become a problem.
* * * * *
Phiali packs up his belongings, what little there are, and heads out in search of greener or at least people-filled pastures.
[Search roll: 1-->4]
After about three hours of walking, he reaches the outskirts of the forests, with a vast valley stretching out before him. It is a verdant and green, lush with vegetation and teeming with wildlife. It is also completely and utterly primeval. If Phiali had to take a guess, he'd say that there is no civilization within a hundred miles of here aside from the temple and that religious commune. Makes sense, these being the borderlands and all. The temple and commune are probably here precisely due to these reasons.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on March 19, 2013, 05:12:14 pm
Grabbing a handy utensil, be it torch, wood sliver or fork, Gronok sneaks up behind the mob and begins backstabbing them!
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 19, 2013, 05:45:40 pm
Hm. No civilization, you say?
Try to locate people I haven't found yet. If needed, make them not want to kill me with the power of talking.
Post by: TCM on March 20, 2013, 06:09:08 pm
Elizas informs them and asks.
Post by: IronyOwl on March 20, 2013, 06:44:11 pm
Now then, onwards! ...I'm really hoping you know the way this time."
Leave! I hope!
Post by: Xantalos on March 22, 2013, 04:11:43 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 22, 2013, 04:13:41 am
Post by: Xantalos on March 22, 2013, 04:15:53 am
Post by: Digital Hellhound on March 22, 2013, 06:39:02 am
Well. She wasn't dead yet. Perhaps the Goddess still had use for her.
Get up and try to find something to bind my wounds with.
Post by: IronyOwl on March 22, 2013, 11:56:23 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 22, 2013, 12:43:02 pm
Deciding to lead the not-so-brave prisoners by example, Gronok looks for something to help him with inflicting divinely-mandated punishment upon the enemies of the faith, which the guards just so happen to be.
[Search roll: 2]
But alas, all spoons, forks, knives, chairs and other things that you could usually count on finding in a brawl have been seized by the prisoners. An unfortunate thing, truly.
[Crowd vs. Guards: 6 vs. 5-1]
The crowd, meanwhile, finds much more success in its endeavours, with the strongman managing to beat down one of the guards and seize his sword!
"Ī now have a sword, my fellows! Watch the guards tremble before our might!"
[Guard morale roll: 5]
The two remaining guards, hearing these impudent remarks thrust against them like blunt and insulting daggers, choose to stand tall! If they are going down, they shall do so with fire in their hearts and their knees as solid as the mountains themselves!
[Reinforcements roll: 5]
Luckily for them, the ruckus truly has been sufficient to attract more combatants - the escaping guard and two more, just as well-armed as the ones already here, join the fray!
"Glory to Kezilam, my brothers! Let us show these fools what it means to fight the chosen of the Goddess!"
They look pretty pumped now, what with the extra reinforcements and their previous burst of self-confidence.
* * * * *
Phiali looks for any unattended people in the woods he could find and utilize for some purpose. After all, the place can't be entirely empty of reasonable life, can it?
[Search roll: 4]
He finds a young woman not too far from the temple, picking berries and singing joyfully. He recalls seeing her in the cultist village, though he wouldn't say that they've met before, exactly. At least not one-on-one.
* * * * *
Elizas, seeing the merchant and his party, goes about informing them of his adventures in a quick and effective fashion.
"I have saved Patalim, my friends. But where has Gezerim gone?"
The merchant looks pretty happy at the news.
"Marvelous! We were afraid we would have to spend the rest of our stay right here among all these... beautiful women and... delicious wine."
He scratches his chin.
"Why did we want to save Patalim again? Never mind, I am only fooling. Of course I am glad at these news! But you were looking for Gezerim, right? Well, he was around here someplace. Spoke to him not half an hour ago. Should be around. Yes."
He starts to giggle.
"Or not, I suppose. It could have been somebody else I spoke to! Hah!"
Well, he has certainly availed himself of Gezerim's hospitality.
* * * * *
Shashari, figuring something will turn up to help in her quest, decides to just give the Siren the reins on this particular expedition and head out.
"Hm... oh well, I'm sure we'll figure it out. Now then, onwards!
...I'm really hoping you know the way this time."
[Siren knowledge roll: ?]
"Oh, there's nowhere to get lost, I assure you. Just one road, after all. We just have to head down the road and we'll reach a town soon enough. Well, unless there's something unexpected."
Something unexpected. Right.
Well, no time to consider that statement and all of its potential implications. They're wasting daylight, and that just will not do! Shashari, the Siren and the ram all head out on their merry way, going for the nearest town.
[Travel roll: 1-->5]
Heading in the same direction Shashari was going when she arrived in the area, they continue for several miles until they reach a bridge hanging over a somewhat rapid and deep-looking river. It looks to have been washed away by a great stream of water. The Siren scratches his head and chuckles.
"Oh, right. Flooding. Happens sometimes. Wonder why they haven't fixed it yet?"
* * * * *
Sejena, not quite as dead as one would expect, gets up.
[Endurance roll: 2]
She gets midway through the motion, then lies back down after a great surge of pain warns her that this is an incredibly terrible idea. Guess she'll have to practice medicine from this position, then.
[Medicine roll: 5]
She rips out some of the more superfluous bits of her inconspicuous garb, figuring that not being dead is a little bit more important than remaining unseen. Her outfit is now quite a bit more ragged than before, but at least she now has a stomach wound that is a bit less likely to kill her in the next half hour or so. It's pretty safe to say she's in no danger of bleeding to death, though moving around without traumatizing herself will probably take a bit of skill. And rest is probably something she'll need a bit of in the near future.
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on March 22, 2013, 12:48:09 pm
(about the prisoners, to the guards)
Attempt to convince the guards that the prisoners are infected with the Xungus Worm, a parasite that does horrible things to those who touch the infected.
Post by: IronyOwl on March 22, 2013, 12:52:56 pm
"...well, Ash'Mah is technically also a god of water. I get the feeling I'm not a very good swimmer, though."
Meditate for advice from Ash'Mah near the river.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 22, 2013, 05:30:38 pm
Post by: TCM on March 22, 2013, 05:52:34 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 23, 2013, 01:42:22 am
Cultist will age...that's where I got the quest, right?
That is indeed the case.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 23, 2013, 09:13:15 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 24, 2013, 10:09:41 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 25, 2013, 12:58:35 pm
Gronok, seeing the odds evened again, tries to tip the scales in the prisoners' direction once again!
"Stop! Stop, don't touch them! They're infected!"
[Guard attention roll: 5]
"Infected? With what?"
[Charisma roll: 6-->3+1]
"Why, the Xungus Worm, of course! It is an exotic parasite that explodes the eyes, impacts the liver and distends the stomach! It also blackens the lungs and yellows the kidneys! So you know it's terrible. You should not touch these prisoners, as you may get it too! Flee while you can, they will die on their own eventually!"
[Guard morale roll: 3]
"Well, we had better fight them very carefully, then! Touch them only with your blades, men! Make sure not to get any blood on any of us!"
The men gladly oblige.
[Crowd vs. Guards: 5 vs. 3-1]
Though the guards put up a valiant effort, three of them are dragged into the crowd and touched quite a lot by the supposedly infected prisoners! They let out screams of anguish as they are kicked and beaten!
[Guard morale roll: 6]
"They are more virulent than I thought! We need a new plan!"
"Ooh, I have an idea!"
"Wait, are you proposing-"
"Yes! Let us tactically retreat while screaming like newborn children!"
They do so, their screams echoing in the halls.
[Reinforcements roll: 5]
There is the sound of speech from farther ahead, followed by vague sounds of assent, then by rapid footsteps. However, nobody seems to coming, at least not yet.
"We are victorious, my friends! Follow me! To freedom!"
[Crowd faith roll: 3]
Most of the crowd runs off with the strongman, leaving Gronok behind. That is, except for the speaker guy. He stays behind.
"I will follow you, great prophet, rather than that giant bag of gas posturing like he is some kind of messiah. Seems wiser and better for my spiritual well-being."
* * * * *
Shashari faces the river and sits down, speaking mostly to herself.
"...well, Ash'Mah is technically also a god of water. I get the feeling I'm not a very good swimmer, though."
"If you 'get a feeling' that you are not a good swimmer, you probably should stay away from a stream that can wash away a bridge. I remember old Tarkizip, he was a good swimmer. Lost to a school of killer fish, he was. Why, I remember the day..."
Shashari, however, is not really listening, as she is a bit too busy attempting a communion with Ash'Mah the Serpent, master of all that exists, but particularly water.
[Meditation roll: 4]
After a long period of focusing her thoughts, Shashari, though hardly filled with divine inspiration or anything, does have one idea - why not make a bridge? Seems like a practical solution, and it would require no divine assistance aside from the unspoken guarantee that she won't be hit by lightning in the middle of construction, though that is really something that applies to all outdoor and some indoor endeavors.
* * * * *
Elizas, having received a dose of information from the merchant, looks about for that Gezerim fellow. Shouldn't be too hard to find.
[Search roll: 3]
He doesn't look to be around the house or anything, and Elizas can't see any clues on his current location around that he wouldn't need to gather by rifling through the fellow's personal things. Though he does spot one of the women he saw yesterday evening. Perhaps she knows something.
* * * * *
Phiali still thirsts for undiscovered civilizations, and does not let the lack of any supporting evidence for their existence stop him from seeking out primitive tribes that may be living in the area.
[Search roll: 5]
He searches high and low, climbs trees and gazes into caves, splashes around in creeks and disturbs bushes of all shapes and sizes. Several hours later, he is forced to admit defeat and return to his campsite.
He is rather surprised to find a woman who looks to be in her late thirties and wearing some assorted heavy-looking rags there.
"You took my spot," she says. "You... should not do that."
She appears to have some difficulty pronouncing words, and there is a peculiar accent to her speech.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on March 25, 2013, 02:52:05 pm
Consult speaker guy as to way out! If he doesn't know, go in the direction of everyone else, but go behind them, keeping a watch out for exits!
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 25, 2013, 06:41:13 pm
(I was thinking more "tribe" than "civilization," but this woman is a good start.)
Post by: TCM on March 26, 2013, 09:26:03 am
Elizas asks the woman he sees.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 26, 2013, 09:48:21 am
"I am sorry to have...taken your spot. May I ask what this spot and your name are? My name is Phiali, incidentally."
(I was thinking more "tribe" than "civilization," but this woman is a good start.)
She looks to be struggling with certain words, attempting to explain them through vague gestures first.
"This is my... camping spot. I live here when I do not... hunt. I am... Zarah."
"Excuse me miss, have you seen Gezerim of recent?"
Elizas asks the woman he sees.
[Woman helpfulness roll: 1-->3]
The woman looks at you like a frightened animal, then makes a run for it down the hall.
That is quite unusual.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 26, 2013, 10:42:51 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 27, 2013, 02:26:18 pm
"Hello, Zarah. I am sorry to have intruded. Might I offer to make my presence welcome with a bit of a story to make your day more interesting?"
She shrugs.
"Speak, and I shall listen."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 27, 2013, 07:16:45 pm
"What do you think about the story? There's a little more you can hear, if you wish..."
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 28, 2013, 02:37:53 pm
Gronok thanks the man for showing some actual faith for once, unlike some of these ungrateful godless individuals, then inquires about a possible exit for himself and his one true disciple.
"Well, I'm sure that an exit is around here someplace. That is, unless they have completely changed the layout, which, considering that I have been down there for more than twenty years, is not unlikely. Things get bricked up, you know. I suppose I could try to lead you somewhere. I might not have forgotten everything but mind-numbing boredom, terrible food and searing agony in my time in the dungeon."
"Then lead me you shall! Onward!"
The speaker takes Gronok down a somewhat different route than the one the others presumably took, though they do not get very far until they stop in a certain hallway.
"That's unusual."
"What?"
"The floor from here on in is covered in some sort of black liquid. Very, very strange."
* * * * *
Elizas walks up to the woman, intent on obtaining an answer on the whereabouts of his kind host.
"Excuse me miss, have you seen Gezerim of recent?"
[Woman helpfulness roll: 1-->3]
The woman looks at him like a frightened animal, then makes a run for it down the hall. That is quite strange, he must say.
* * * * *
Phiali, not deterred by the woman's lack of politeness, attempts to begin a heartfelt, honest communique with her.
"I am sorry to have...taken your spot. May I ask what this spot and your name are? My name is Phiali, incidentally."
"This is my... camping spot. I live here when I do not... hunt. I am... Zarah," she says, struggling with words at certain points and resorting to odd hand gestures.
"Hello, Zarah. I am sorry to have intruded. Might I offer to make my presence welcome with a bit of a story to make your day more interesting?"
Zarah's expression does not change even the slightest bit, and she shrugs.
"Speak, and I shall listen."
"You see, it is a tale of certain stormy events of a certain person's life."
[Phiali storytelling roll: 6-->4+1]
"It all started in a land far to the southeast, a land of vast jungles quite unlike these forests of Tezelom. It was a land consumed by war, hatred and terror, and it was the birthplace of the hero of this tale."
He then expounds upon his origins in great detail, describing the land he was born in with the utmost honesty and attention to detail, providing vast amounts of information in a straightforward, easily digestible and hard-hitting manner very much like a bard would certainly not. Whatever the case, Zarah seems to be paying attention.
"... and it was in that oasis that the man heard the voice of God. The voice guided him, told him of the True Teachings..."
Once he starts getting into the whole prophecy thing, the woman starts to become really intrigued. Though when Phiali gets to the temple bits, she starts to become slightly perplexed.
"... and then the man, having refused the old man's abhorrent offer, tackled him to the ground and made an escape in the resulting confusion, diverting the last few guards with promises he had absolutely no intention to fulfill. And I have it on good authority that he roams this area to this very day."
"So, what do you think about the story?"
"I am glad I do not... know this man. He sounds very... strange. Following... spirits is not... wise, as they are..."
She snaps her fingers a few times in the air while she tries to remember the word she's looking for.
"... fickle, yes... fickle. They lead you... astray. Powerful spirits especially."
"There's a little more you can hear, if you wish..."
"Proceed. I am... curious."
Well, that's good, he supposes. Even though she did call him strange and question the divinity of the one true deity.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on March 28, 2013, 02:43:09 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 28, 2013, 02:47:16 pm
Phiali took a brief pause to take a sip of water and catch a few breaths.
"Would you be interested in hearing more of this god?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 28, 2013, 02:52:46 pm
"After this man left the temple, he searched for more people to talk to about his god. After a day or two, he met a woman who informed him that he had taken her spot. Upon meeting her, he apologized for the transgression and offered to tell her a story. Quite thankfully and politely, she agreed. So the man told her his own life story, leading up to the point where he told the woman his life story. Then he offered to speak of the god who made it all possible to the woman; the rest of the story is not yet written."
Phiali took a brief pause to take a sip of water and catch a few breaths.
"Would you be interested in hearing more of this god?"
Zarah makes a somewhat disapproving motion with her head.
"You should not listen to spirits. They can only bring evil if... obeyed. Their... motives are... unknowable. Their ways are mysterious. Best to steer clear of them."
Post by: TCM on March 28, 2013, 08:06:52 pm
Elizas pursues the running woman.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 28, 2013, 09:57:41 pm
"...Think of a god, spirit, wakyambi or whatever as merely a human capable of things no man or woman can. When a man with power--be he a father, lord, elder, any leader--interacts with his subordinate--child, vassal, subject--the interactions benefit both. That is how the God works--the God's worshipers gain divine boons for their work in the God's name. Even if one assumes the being to be untrustworthy, only false servants who try to steal boons they neither earned nor deserve need fear the God's treachery, as it is in the God's own interests to keep other followers well."
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 30, 2013, 07:34:09 am
Phiali thought for a moment, pondering how to consider. What proof had he that the God was more than a mere spirit, and more importantly, more trustworthy? Not helping matters is that Phiali's home culture had little closely resembling the types of spirits he had learned existed in the mythology of these northern lands, being enigmatic but inescapably honest and honorable.
"...Think of a god, spirit, wakyambi or whatever as merely a human capable of things no man or woman can. When a man with power--be he a father, lord, elder, any leader--interacts with his subordinate--child, vassal, subject--the interactions benefit both. That is how the God works--the God's worshipers gain divine boons for their work in the God's name. Even if one assumes the being to be untrustworthy, only false servants who try to steal boons they neither earned nor deserve need fear the God's treachery, as it is in the God's own interests to keep other followers well."
"But how do you know that the spirit, how did you say, benefits? Maybe it is not a good spirit, but a bad one. A spirit that only exists to... abuse and mislead people for its own... amusement, laughing in the deep groves as you think it to be your... guardian?"
She looks at the nearby tree, picking away at its bark with her rough hands.
"Or maybe it laughs as you hurt other people at its behest and spread pain to people? Spirits are unknowable and unreliable, so I do not try to know them or even think to rely on them. It is unwise."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 30, 2013, 08:37:08 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 30, 2013, 08:53:01 am
"If the God was such a malicious creature, why was I saved? Not once, nor twice, but many times. Why is it that the God would command me to nonviolence if it was the God's purpose to spread strife? The only possibilities are that the God is as benevolent as claimed, or that the benevolence is an act so pervasive that the God may be treated as such, for the God's actions are and will be those of a benevolent being."
"To ask 'why' of a spirit is foolish. Why spirits do things, only the spirits themselves know. They are old and patient, they know things we do not. Perhaps the spirit seeks to spread strife of a different sort, a much more... insidious form that consumes the minds of the many rather than the flesh of the few. You may merely be its tool of madness, necessarily unknowing to perform your purpose in its scheme. If the spirit were to tell you something different than before the next day, yet still grant strange... providence in your favor, would you not still trust its words?"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 30, 2013, 09:05:41 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 30, 2013, 09:19:52 am
"Probably not, but such a thing has not yet happened. Regardless, if a 'spirit' acts benevolent, why would you not treat it as such until otherwise proven?"
"For the same reason I would not trust the... unsolicited benevolence of a man or woman acting the same way unless I knew exactly what it wanted from me. Outward benevolence can be the... disguised maw of a predator. Spirits do things and think differently than men or women because they are not men or women. This makes me distrust them even more."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 30, 2013, 09:35:51 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 30, 2013, 09:52:08 am
"I could argue further, but we have reached an impasse; you refuse to trust anything unless you know why they act as they do, whereas I am content to know they aid me. Good day, ma'am."
"The aid of spirits and people alike should not always be gratefully accepted. I only hope you do not find this out in the easiest of ways. There is still the matter of my spot."
She points at the taken spot of refuge.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 30, 2013, 01:50:19 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 30, 2013, 01:52:42 pm
"Which matter? I intend to leave immediately, if that is what you mean."
"Then feel free to do so. We have spoken enough. It was good practice for me, but is growing wearisome."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 30, 2013, 02:08:15 pm
Pack up my gear and head out.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 31, 2013, 01:14:05 pm
Gronok looks for something to toss into the black liquid before forging ahead.
[Search roll: 3]
Well, there's some dust. He throws dust on the black liquid.
It is now dusty in one spot. Well, Gronok has certainly learned a lot.
* * * * *
Elizas follows his only lead on Gezerim's location while informing her of his intentions!
"Wait, I shall not harm you! I only wish to ask you something!"
[Fleeing Woman response roll: 4]
She stops after a bit of running, perhaps realizing that it is unlikely that she'd get too far away, anyway.
"You're not going to hurt me? Honest?"
She looks really nervous about something. Hm.
* * * * *
After speaking with Zarah for some time, Phiali finds no fertile ground for the word of God in her mind. Not only does she refuse to believe that God is more than a spirit, she also refuses to trust God's word that he is benevolent and seeks only the best for his followers. How unfortunate for her.
"Alright then. Have a good day."
"I will. Good day."
With that, he takes all of the stuff he left on the ground and heads out. So this is what the border has to offer - crazed and stupid guards of a temple and its priests, dwindling isolationist cults and antisocial hermits. Hardly a truly open mind in sight in this area.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on March 31, 2013, 01:17:48 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 31, 2013, 01:34:55 pm
"Hey, do you have anything in your pockets?"
"I do not even have pockets."
It's true, he really doesn't. None of the prisoners had any clothes - this guy, the best clothed of all of them, is simply wrapped in some dirty rags and that's all.
"It took me twenty years of imprisonment to collect all these rags from other dead prisoners and fashion them into something vaguely like a robe."
Post by: Xantalos on March 31, 2013, 01:38:51 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 31, 2013, 01:44:48 pm
Hmm. Did you see any torches on the walls?"
"Yes, actually. There's one right next to you, in fact."
He points a long, bony finger at a torch that is, indeed, right next to you.
Post by: Xantalos on March 31, 2013, 01:47:26 pm
Touch the torch to the liquid that is certainly not oil, then back the hell up.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 31, 2013, 06:34:15 pm
Find a piece of paper and map the area as well as I can.
Find edibles.
Determine the time.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on March 31, 2013, 06:35:24 pm
Find a piece of paper and map the area as well as I can.
Find edibles.
Determine the time.
Post by: Harry Baldman on March 31, 2013, 08:29:04 pm
((What happened to the other prophets?))
Nothing in particular, why do you ask?
Post by: Xantalos on March 31, 2013, 08:29:52 pm
They haven't been posting much, I think is why he asked.((What happened to the other prophets?))
Nothing in particular, why do you ask?
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 02, 2013, 03:10:58 pm
Post by: TCM on April 02, 2013, 03:15:06 pm
Elizas asks the questions, whilst putting his hands up in a peaceful gesture.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 02, 2013, 04:04:11 pm
Post by: Xantalos on April 02, 2013, 04:12:30 pm
There's me, Xantalos, and eventually TCM. Did we have waitlisters?DH and IronyOwl are ostensibly playing.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 02, 2013, 04:16:04 pm
I know.There's me, Xantalos, and eventually TCM. Did we have waitlisters?DH and IronyOwl are ostensibly playing.
Post by: Onyxjew944 on April 02, 2013, 06:08:43 pm
There's me, Xantalos, and eventually TCM. Did we have waitlisters?Three, in fact.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 02, 2013, 06:13:01 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 02, 2013, 11:51:49 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on April 03, 2013, 03:40:43 am
...how are you with architecture and manual labor?"
Start trying to figure out what I can build a bridge out of.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 03, 2013, 11:50:12 am
Gronok, seeing how the dust doesn't really tell him much, confers with his companion.
"Hey, do you have anything in your pockets?"
"I do not even have pockets."
It's true, he really doesn't. None of the prisoners had any clothes - this guy, the best clothed of all of them, is simply wrapped in some dirty rags and that's all.
"It took me twenty years of imprisonment to collect all these rags from other dead prisoners and fashion them into something vaguely like a robe."
"Hmm. Did you see any torches on the walls?"
[/quote]
"Yes, actually. There's one right next to you, in fact."
He points a long, bony finger at a torch that is, indeed, right next to Gronok.
"Ah, excellent. Back away, please."
"Right away."
As the man backs away, Gronok takes the torch. After making sure the man is safely away, he touches the torch to the black liquid.
In a move anticipated by no one, the liquid bursts into bright flames that spread rapidly along the hallway, setting it and any corridors similarly filled with the liquid on fire!
After a few minutes, a horrendous scream erupts from somewhere a good distance away, followed by several more. The old prisoner looks worried.
"I think the first one was Stumpy. And that second one was probably Thizir. Not sure about the rest, but they sound familiar as well."
Hm. Well now.
* * * * *
Phiali tries to find a piece of paper.
Naturally, he, being a man from the less civilized regions of the world without any particular need for paper or any other writing surface, doesn't have one. And the prospects of finding some in the woods seem unrealistic. Thus it is unlikely that he will get a map any time soon. Fortunately he, blessed with a rather fine sense of direction, could probably find his way to any place in these woods that he has previously been to.
Since that quest is a failure, he supposes he'll look for edibles.
[Search roll: 6-->6]
He finds a grove of fruit-bearing trees and shrubs! And the branches seem to have several large beehives in them for the discriminating man/bear on the go. Finally, it looks like there are several roots in the area that resemble edible ones from Phiali's home. All in all, a magnificent bounty has been found. And after all this, it's only noon!
* * * * *
Elizas puts on his most trustworthy look and asks some questions of the poor frightened woman.
"I promise. What's wrong? All I want to know is where Gezerim is."
"That's the problem! I don't know! The other women have left with him, and I don't know where! This is my first run with him, I don't know what's going on! I get the feeling something's wrong."
She doesn't seem to know much, regrettably.
* * * * *
Shashari decides to act upon her hatched idea. It's hers, after all, so it can't be totally bad
"I've got it! We'll build a new bridge!
...how are you with architecture and manual labor?"
"A bit better than hunting and woodsman stuff."
That's great! So, what could you make a bridge out of? Hm.
She realizes that this is the forest, so there are no piles of lumber or convenient stones lying around. Sadly, those are the things she knows how to work with to a limited degree. All the things you could find in the woods, such as beast saliva or skeletal remains, are hardly useful to her.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on April 03, 2013, 12:55:07 pm
Down the other passage!
Post by: Digital Hellhound on April 03, 2013, 12:58:56 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 03, 2013, 01:19:03 pm
Ey, you should probably drop me with this posting speed. I'm not sure what to do now that I missed out on martyrdom.
Aw. Such a pity, that. Should you feel that you are ready to get back in someday, feel free to say so and I'll put you back in.
By the way, do you know what this means, guys? It means that you no longer will get MP for impressive displays of power!
Post by: Digital Hellhound on April 03, 2013, 01:44:20 pm
Post by: Xantalos on April 03, 2013, 01:47:04 pm
Like any of us would ever be capable of any sort of display of power. We're the saddest prophets in the land.You just wait until I get out of this damn labyrinth and evolve into Pimp Gronok.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 03, 2013, 01:48:16 pm
Like any of us would ever be capable of any sort of display of power. We're the saddest prophets in the land.
Well, hopefully Prophet Lars will do a bit better. I'll also be a bit less cruel to the players from now on, considering how those 5 MP were spent fast for most of you.
Post by: Toaster on April 03, 2013, 01:48:40 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 03, 2013, 01:51:18 pm
Speaking of Prophet Lars, should he start this turn or next?
He'll be introduced next turn with a fitting setup. Not too far from other prophets this time.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 03, 2013, 04:12:38 pm
Gather a lunch. Try to make a bow and a good pack.
Post by: Toaster on April 03, 2013, 08:40:30 pm
Post by: TCM on April 03, 2013, 08:45:31 pm
Elizas searches the place for any clues on the whereabouts of Gezerim and the disappeared women.
((Yeah, HB, are there any definite ways we can gain MP? Just curious.))
Post by: Xantalos on April 03, 2013, 08:47:34 pm
Elizas sighed. "These are dire consequences. Thank you madam."((I got MP from teaching fairy tales with nonsensical morals to people - so just do what God likes and you get MP. In your case, get people drunk.))
Elizas searches the place for any clues on the whereabouts of Gezerim and the disappeared women.
((Yeah, HB, are there any definite ways we can gain MP? Just curious.))
Post by: IronyOwl on April 03, 2013, 09:29:25 pm
"...well, can we haul a log?"
Try to find an already-downed log that's long enough to bridge the span. If found, try to haul it over there with Siren and the Ram.
Post by: Xantalos on April 03, 2013, 10:14:14 pm
((That's unfortunate. Getting MP for displays of power is like a discount on showy miracles. :P))((It's like Mafia - you can get MP for ANYTHING with enough
"...well, can we haul a log?"
Try to find an already-downed log that's long enough to bridge the span. If found, try to haul it over there with Siren and the Ram.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 03, 2013, 11:38:51 pm
If we can't get MP from displays of power, what CAN we get it from?
You may remember getting some from being in the water. Other MP-gathering activities include teaching things to people, stealing valuable objects, praying while drunk and more. Just do what God likes and you will be rewarded. Oh, and when Prophet Lars joins up, you will be able to get MP for setting people on fire. So that's good.
Post by: Xantalos on April 03, 2013, 11:40:03 pm
((Dammit Lars why didn't you join this turn? :P))If we can't get MP from displays of power, what CAN we get it from?
You may remember getting some from being in the water. Other MP-gathering activities include teaching things to people, stealing valuable objects, praying while drunk and more. Just do what God likes and you will be rewarded. Oh, and when Prophet Lars joins up, you will be able to get MP for setting people on fire. So that's good.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 04, 2013, 06:38:35 am
...If we can't get MP from displays of power, what CAN we get it from?You may remember getting some from being in the water. Other MP-gathering activities include teaching things to people, stealing valuable objects, praying while drunk and more. Just do what God likes and you will be rewarded. Oh, and when Prophet Lars joins up, you will be able to get MP for setting people on fire. So that's good.
Why don't I have MP?
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 04, 2013, 07:26:23 am
...If we can't get MP from displays of power, what CAN we get it from?You may remember getting some from being in the water. Other MP-gathering activities include teaching things to people, stealing valuable objects, praying while drunk and more. Just do what God likes and you will be rewarded. Oh, and when Prophet Lars joins up, you will be able to get MP for setting people on fire. So that's good.
Why don't I have MP?
Who did you teach? I may have missed that one.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 04, 2013, 03:43:41 pm
I gave a nice history/religion lesson over the last few turns, no?Who did you teach? I may have missed that one....If we can't get MP from displays of power, what CAN we get it from?You may remember getting some from being in the water. Other MP-gathering activities include teaching things to people, stealing valuable objects, praying while drunk and more. Just do what God likes and you will be rewarded. Oh, and when Prophet Lars joins up, you will be able to get MP for setting people on fire. So that's good.
Why don't I have MP?
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 05, 2013, 12:07:46 am
I gave a nice history/religion lesson over the last few turns, no?
Well, Zarah didn't really learn anything from that except that you're a lunatic who listens to weird spirits.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 05, 2013, 02:25:55 pm
Sejena the Temptress, having bandaged her wounds, is at a loss on what to do. She supposes she'll slink into shadows like one of the rats of the city. After all, it is quite a dangerous world she lives in. Despite her failure, she is not going to give up. This is merely a setback. As Sejena gets up and slowly proceeds out of the building, she curses the name of Naphezim of Vipuka, making a solemn promise on the way.
She will come back. Mark her words. And when she does, the people will know the wrath of Aulana the Terrible.
* * * * *
Gronok decides that it is best to skedaddle while the iron is still hot, so to speak.
"Well, if they were walking in oil I'm fairly sure Mo'kar wasn't favoring them. Anyhow, we might as well go the other way now that any guards down that way have died in a completely accidental fire."
"Stumpy was never known for his smarts, I have to admit. Let us go, then."
Together they head down another passage, walking through the maze of burned-out tunnels and taking in the scent of horrible devastation. Eventually they reach the passageway that leads out into the main hall.
It appears Gronok was incorrect in that last assumption of his. The guards are still very much alive. And now there's a whole lot more of them.
"Look, my fellows! Some of the infected yet live! Draw your bows! For Kezilam!"
Ah.
* * * * *
Phiali gathers up a very nice vegetarian lunch from the available food, then sets to making some useful things for himself.
[Craftsmanship roll: 5]
He takes out his trusty bone needle and thread, a wise traveler's constant companion. Taking some particularly large leaves from one of the nearby trees, he fashions a rather interesting-looking pack. Though it is bright green, it looks quite waterproof. And spacious, too.
However, to make a bow he'll have to hunt down an animal or two. And get some good wood as well. Both of those are things he doesn't have the tools for.
* * * * *
Elizas sighs at the woman's use-impaired state.
"These are dire consequences. Thank you, madam."
"Um. Yes. Good day, sir."
She runs away quickly. Elizas supposes it's time to get to work. He starts to search the house, looking in every corner, on every table and under every bed, but he cannot find so much as a single clue anywhere. Maybe he went on an errand and the women just scattered on their own business? If that's the case, they should come back eventually.
* * * * *
Shashari, faced with logistical difficulties, considers the bounty of nature. It probably exists, she supposes. She's never really partaken of it, to tell the truth, but she's heard of it from other people. Nature provides and all that. So there has to be some kind of bridgemaking material lying around.
Oh, she's got it!
"...well, can we haul a log?"
"Depends on the log, really."
"I will take that as a yes."
They go out and look for downed logs to steal from Mother Nature's greedy, unforgiving talons. Interestingly enough, they don't have to look very far - there seems to be a whole lot of toppled trees right nearby, and what's more, rather than old, dry husks that could break any second, these seem like rather young, flexible and durable trees. In fact, they seem to have been toppled by an animal digging out the earth around its roots rather than, say, the wind. Interesting and useful! The best kind of loot.
Shashari has the Siren and the ram drag the firm young trees over to the spot next to the bridge while she supervises. In no time at all, useful lumber is acquired and ready for use.
* * * * *
In the fields of East Tezelom, a middle-aged man slumbers. Well, perhaps slumbering isn't the best word for it. More like half-comatose from an overwhelming vision of the divine, a glimpse of a new awakening in the fundamental fabric of the universe. However, as all states of confusion and trauma, this too must pass. And right now is the perfect time for it.
Lars the Shepherd opens his eyes, taking in the sight of the midday sun. Where is he? What happened? Wait, it's coming back to him.
The flames. The light. God. Everything. It's all so clear to him now. There's the way the world is and there's the way the world should be. These are radically different, as one might suppose. And to minimize the difference between these, there is only one thing that will do. Fire. If there's one thing those Kezilamites have gotten right, it's all the fire. The flames will cleanse all, cull the unworthy and elevate the faithful. This is how it must be.
So, where was he? Oh, right. Shepherding the flock. The literal one, in this case. Hopefully nothing bad has happened to it. As Lars steps over the hill, he sees that the flock is still in place. Oh, good. It would be most unfortunate if anything had...
Wait a minute. Where has the ram gone?
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on April 05, 2013, 02:50:02 pm
Walking confidently towards them, Gronok unleashes his patent-pending Mouth of Words:
"Yes indeed we must find those heretics! Now, judging from what I know of heretics they always go to the most holy place so they can destroy them, so the altar room's where we'll find them! Let's go, faithful of God!"
Convert - play along.
Post by: Toaster on April 05, 2013, 03:10:40 pm
But should he even bother? So much had happened, so much new to consider... the flames... did these sheep even matter, now?
He couldn't just leave, though. This would give him time to think.
"Hejad, come back here..."
Head downhill to search near water. Ponder the nature of God, and try to recall any mission assigned to him in the vision.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 05, 2013, 04:13:27 pm
Pack as much food as I can, and head in some civilized-looking direction.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 07, 2013, 10:16:25 am
Post by: TCM on April 07, 2013, 10:24:04 am
Elizas finds a bottle of fine liquid, and gulps it down, as he uses Divine Knowledge to find Gezerim's location!
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 08, 2013, 12:23:02 pm
Gronok, seeing that the guards have their bows drawn with homicidal intent, attempts to counter their vile intent with his sheer charisma and confidence.
[Gronok charisma roll: 5+1]
"Yes, indeed we must find those heretics! Now, judging from what I know of heretics, they always go to the most holy place so they can destroy it, so the altar room's where we'll find them! Let's go, faithful of God!"
[Guard intelligence roll: ?]
The guards lower their bows.
"What in Kezilam's name are you talking about, you silly old bastard? There's no altar room, just the main hall! And it's the infected we're here to keep back!"
"And kill righteously in Kezilam's name if they happen to come into our line of sight."
"Yeah, that as well."
"So, is he infected or not? Looks pretty pestilent to me. And that guy over there looks to be under the weather as well."
[Convert charisma roll: 3]
The old man looks confusedly at Gronok, unsure of what one should do in such a situation.
* * * * *
Lars, noting the conspicuous absence of Old Hejad, decides to look for him. Probably couldn't have wandered far. He's probably just in his favorite spot downhill, right by the river. He heads over there and takes a gander, searching for any sign of the wayward cattle.
Well, he isn't there. That's odd. Scratching his head and going back to the flock, he notices something. Right there on the soft, damp ground. Tracks. One set of them seems to belong to a sheep or a ram - presumably Old Hejad. The other set belongs to a human being. A human being with rather small feet. A-hah! He knows of only one person in the area with feet that small, and that's Jezufim, the old, mean-spirited codger living some miles to the south. So he's at it again, the fiend. Rustling sheep that rightfully belong to someone else. Why, he ought to...
Wait. This isn't about him anymore. He has a greater purpose in life now. Well, he thinks. God has ordained that he become His prophet, and this takes precedence over any other matter. Lars tries to remember bits of his visions and recall something resembling a set of instructions.
It takes him but a second to remember. There is a great nest of heretics to the east of here, a temple of some kind. It is an unholy monument to a false god and as such presents a horrid affront to the One True God. The gist of the vision was that he do something about it, he recalls. And that there were some faithful needing help or some such. Or they will need help. It was a bit ambiguous. It's apparently a pretty dark place in a metaphorical sense. The name for it was... Kil-something. Kila... Kile... Kilnipom! Right, Kilnipom. So God wants him to go to Kilnipom, he's reasonably sure, then do something (in accordance with His nature, probably bring light and/or flames) about the horrible affront to Him that has been built there. Sounds simple enough, really.
From what he could understand, the place is some distance away, though not unreasonably so. However, Jezufim lives just beyond the nearby valley. Hm, obey immediately or do something else first? The ever-present dilemma of the wandering prophet, it seems.
* * * * *
Phiali fills his newly-made pack with all the food he can get, then tries to look for more civilized parts of the world. Can't live out in the frontier, after all. Not enough people, you know. And the ones present are largely zealots, annoyingly skeptic people or prone to giving him impossible quests. Therefore, they should best be left to their own devices for now.
Phiali climbs a tall tree and looks around for civilization. It looks to be a primeval forest apart from... wait, is that...? It is! A village in the distance! Maybe not a completely terrible one this time! He must get to it and bring the holy word to them!
He climbs down and moves toward the village at a steady pace, reaching it in several hours. Upon his arrival, he finds that the village is not, strictly speaking, a village. More like a collection of dilapidated wooden houses that look to be empty of life. Well, most of them, anyway. One house looks to be inhabited, a rather large clay and wood building at the foot of what looks like an unusually steep hill with a small stone shack-like thing on top of it.
* * * * *
Elizas realizes that there is only one thing left to do. Only one thing he can do. He grabs a nearby bottle of very fine wine and drinks it, pacing himself rather well. It's not very strong, but it does give him a very good buzz by the end. And with this buzz, he will know the truth!
He falls back in a comfy chair, looking at the ceiling. He closes his eyes.
Gezerim appears in his mind. He seems to be going down a street toward some sort of large house with a storehouse right next to it. As he goes toward it, he looks at a square right next to it, reflecting on the saddening lack of the proud golden statue of Azlippus that once stood there. The square looks kind of familiar - Elizas remembers passing it when going to Patalim's wife's residence. As Gezerim enters the house, Elizas wakes up.
Well, he supposes he knows where that guy is now.
1 MP expended!
Miracle performed while drunk! 1 MP regained!
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 08, 2013, 03:22:08 pm
If no life is found, head to the inhabited house and knock on the door.
Oh, and what actions provide MP again? Teaching, setting heretics on fire, stuff I don't remember...
Post by: Toaster on April 08, 2013, 03:33:02 pm
Lars considered for a minute, then nodded to himself. Really, there were more important things in life. The flock could take care of itself, and if Lars left for any real length of time, Jezufim would make off with the sheep. At least they would be taken care of. For now, his life had become subordinate to another purpose. Just to be sure, he would pray for their safety.
Pray for the safety of the flock, then head straight to Kilnipom.
Post by: Xantalos on April 08, 2013, 06:25:36 pm
((Behold the power of the Bavarian Fire Drill!))
Post by: TCM on April 08, 2013, 07:08:35 pm
Elizas jumps up and heads out to the location he saw in his dream, bottle still in hand.
Post by: Toaster on April 09, 2013, 10:55:36 am
Except Gronok. He's awesome, even if he is reasonably incompetent.
Now we just all have to stand in water and deliver lessons to burning heretics whom you just robbed blind, all while drunk off your gourd to fund the fancy miracles!
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 09, 2013, 11:13:24 am
"Everyone knows that heretics are very sneaky, however! They'll even accuse faithful of being heretics in order to escape! Fortunately, I know a way to catch them, yes I do! I've caught plenty of heretics using this method. Would you like to hear it? By now I'm sure the heretics have begun sneaking around - they've gone to ground and the only surefire, approved by Kezilam herself, way to catch them once they've begun sneaking is this one."
"Oh, really now? Well, why don't you tell us about it?"
"Yeah, tell us!"
Post by: Toaster on April 09, 2013, 11:21:38 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 09, 2013, 03:16:33 pm
Finally caught back up. You are all pretty sad prophets.I resemble that remark!
Quote
Now we just all have to stand in water and deliver lessons to burning heretics whom you just robbed blind, all while drunk off your gourd to fund the fancy miracles!*takes notes*
Theft? Really?
Post by: Xantalos on April 09, 2013, 03:55:14 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 10, 2013, 06:53:08 am
"I'll need to know if there is a place where you dedicate your prayers to Kezilam as a group. Is there one?"
"Well, there's the main hall. Does that work?"
EDIT:
Theft? Really?
Yes, really. It has to be something valuable, though, not just a potato or something.
Post by: Xantalos on April 10, 2013, 10:15:59 am
To the main hall!
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 11, 2013, 02:49:07 pm
Phiali looks at the other dwellings in the area, but they seem to have had no inhabitants for a long time. Some longer than others, and one house in addition to the obviously inhabited one looks to be in decent condition, if a little weathered. However, all is silent and lifeless in the village as far as he can see. Seeing few interesting options, Phiali knocks on the door of the large dwelling.
The door is opened by a rather unattractive woman. Her near-black eyes are sunken, her face possessing a gray, dusty quality, though it's not the kind you see in dignified scholars - the general sense of degeneracy of the surroundings seems personified in this woman. She stares at Phiali, an odd mixture of boredom and scorn visible in her expression. Her silence, which she dutifully maintains, is a bit more welcoming in that it seems expectant, or at least cripplingly awkward enough to tempt one to break the ice.
* * * * *
Lars, figuring that if Jezufim could rustle one ram, he can safely rustle all the rest and keep them until such a point when their rightful owner can make a violent recovery of his property (and possibly more, in the interests of obtaining recompense for damages), prays for the safety of his cattle and runs off in the direction of Kilnipom, the village of assured adventure.
He travels for quite some time, getting a good view of the surrounding plains as he traverses quite a long expanse of road. Day turns into night as he reaches a crossroads, one path leading up a wooded hill, the other leading into the distance to parts unknown. Well, both lead to parts unknown, truth be told. Lars has hardly a clue on how to proceed from here, though he's pretty sure Kilnipom can't be far now.
* * * * *
With a triumphant exclamation, Elizas, bottle still in hand, runs out of Gezerim's mansion and through the streets of Berikalam, making his way to the place of his dreams! He makes sure to keep the bottle with him in case of desperate need.
He reaches it without issue, though there's something different about the place. Wonder what it could be. Something obvious, he knows.
"What are you doing here, sir? Why do you have an open-"
"Wait! I'm thinking!"
"Are you drunk, sir?"
* * * * *
After conferring with the none-too-clever guards of the temple, Gronok feels he is ready to demonstrate some superior heretic-catching techniques. He leads the guards into the main hall.
He notices that the master of ceremonies is still there, admiring the workmanship of a fine staircase as he twirls his absurdly sharp sword. Luckily, this activity seems to have distracted him sufficiently to allow the man he condemned not an hour ago to be in the same room as he is without some heavy repercussions.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on April 11, 2013, 03:01:07 pm
Go down the road. Look for someone to ask directions.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 11, 2013, 06:20:09 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 12, 2013, 12:41:54 am
"Hello. How are you today?"
"Good."
She pronounces the word completely without inflection.
Post by: IronyOwl on April 12, 2013, 02:07:07 am
Finally caught back up. You are all pretty sad prophets.((You're just bitter cause I totally your ram from right under your nose. Yes I'm lost in the woods what of it.))
Except Gronok. He's awesome, even if he is reasonably incompetent.
Now we just all have to stand in water and deliver lessons to burning heretics whom you just robbed blind, all while drunk off your gourd to fund the fancy miracles!
Attempt to build or direct the building of a bridge!
Post by: Xantalos on April 12, 2013, 02:10:28 am
Post by: TCM on April 12, 2013, 06:46:53 am
Elizas speaks to the man in front of the house.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 12, 2013, 06:55:48 am
"Why hello, fellow priest of God, and how are you doing this wonderful day?"
You call out to the standing master of ceremonies. He turns about and looks at you, his face lighting up.
"Ah, you people finally caught him. Good."
"What?"
"The man you were supposed to capture so that we could torture the demons right out of him."
"That's him?"
"Yes."
"He was about to teach us how to find heretics in our midst."
"That's good. But first, an exorcism is in order. Seize him."
"What about the other one?" the guard asks, pointing at the convert.
"Oh, him. Let that one out, I believe we got most of the demons he had. The rest are up to him to lose in faithful prayer."
"He might have the Xungus Worm! It's real infectious, we hear. Transmitted by touch!"
"It isn't, should it actually exist by some miscarriage of nature. Worms cannot infect people through mere touching, as they are parasites. As long as nobody eats his feces, the public is safe, vain though such a hope may be. Where did you hear about this worm, anyway?"
"Why, this old man among the prisoners matching his description told... oh."
"Now that that's taken care of, we can get some nice torturing done. What do you say, lads?"
"Aye!"
"And you, prisoner, you are free. Go with Kezilam," the master of ceremonies says to the old man in rags next to you. The guards advance menacingly on their quarry, who is also unquestionably you.
"Nevermind that. I need to see Gezerim, inside of here, for urgent matters.
Elizas speaks to the man in front of the house.
You look at the man speaking to you. He is dressed in white robes and carries a rather nasty metal blade. His expression is quite stoic.
"I am afraid I do not know what you are talking about. No Gezerim lives within this house. We did, however, track down a con artist seeking to misappropriate ill-gotten funds to this place and are apprehending the slippery son of a whore as we speak. Perhaps 'Gezerim' is the name he gave you? I'll describe him."
A few sentences later, you realize that it is probably Gezerim he's talking about. Hm.
Post by: Toaster on April 12, 2013, 08:11:24 am
((You're just bitter cause I totally your ram from right under your nose. Yes I'm lost in the woods what of it.))
((Thievery gets you nowhere. Well, I guess it might get you MP since Gain is Good, but yeah, woods. You'll note I avoided the GM's clever trick to try to get us to interact!))
Post by: Xantalos on April 12, 2013, 11:50:36 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 12, 2013, 11:58:53 am
"May I at least tell you how God saved me and expelled the demon from my body first?"
"Naturally. But rest assured that it is likely to promptly be ignored in favor of making very, very sure that there are indeed no demons in your body, considering that you have proven yourself to be a liar already. Kezilam would appreciate such certainty, I am sure."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 12, 2013, 05:41:31 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 13, 2013, 12:56:49 am
"Well, that's good. Um...might I ask what happened to the rest of the village?"
"They died."
Post by: Xantalos on April 13, 2013, 01:26:26 am
"What? When have I shown myself to be a liar? I have not lied in the time I have been in this temple! That I can be sure of!""May I at least tell you how God saved me and expelled the demon from my body first?"
"Naturally. But rest assured that it is likely to promptly be ignored in favor of making very, very sure that there are indeed no demons in your body, considering that you have proven yourself to be a liar already. Kezilam would appreciate such certainty, I am sure."
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 13, 2013, 01:41:17 am
"What? When have I shown myself to be a liar? I have not lied in the time I have been in this temple! That I can be sure of!"
"What of the Xungus Worm, dear friend? This worm one can catch simply from bodily contact, despite such a thing making no sense whatsoever?"
Post by: Xantalos on April 13, 2013, 01:54:26 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 13, 2013, 02:04:57 am
"No, that is simply a case of your guardsmen not being specific. I never said what part they were to touch in order to contract the Xungus infection, nor what part to touch the unidentified part with in order to become infected. Any other examples? Because I have never outright lied as long as I was in here, and I have an explanation for my crazy behavior."
The priest sighs.
"Give us your explanation, then."
Post by: Xantalos on April 13, 2013, 02:21:56 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 13, 2013, 06:51:48 am
((Xungus worm?))
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 13, 2013, 07:27:00 am
"Um...I see. What did they die of and is it contagious?"
((Xungus worm?))
"Old age. Very contagious."
"It is as you said - a demon most foul, or at least mischievous, had made it's home inside my body. How else can you explain me bursting in here, seemingly knowing about the inner sins of each one of the priests here, and then escaping when you called the demon out, causing chaos in my wake? After my escape, the demon had me wander the halls, searching for a way out, undoubtedly so it could escape and spread it's corruption further. However, it found the prisoners that were in that cell somewhere back there. By interacting with all but that one - Gronok points to his follower guy - "it corrupted them, and set them free to wreak havoc in this sacred temple, as it's nature compelled it to. However, as it contemplated what it had done, I found myself to be full of such fervent hatred for the foul beast that I called upon God to cleanse the beast from within me. I am forever grateful the God decided to aid me. Holy fire burned through my mind, and when I awoke, the demon was gone and I knew that I must stop the corrupted followers that it unleashed. With this brave soul in tow, I followed their trail and soon found them to have gone on a path down which the floor was completely soaked in oil. A torch was conveniently nearby. It was obvious what God wanted me to do. The corrupted burned along with the filth inside of their souls, and I found these fine young guards and offered to help them find the rest. I brought them here, as I reasoned that since the demon that possessed me had been drawn here, any others would be as well."
The priest rubs his chin.
"Well, that certainly sounds like a typical case of being freed of demons. Complete with fire, no less."
Tapping his foot for a few moments and looking thoughtfully at you, he comes to a decision.
"Tell you what. Since you managed to reduce that annoying fellow to a gibbering wreck earlier, I'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt. You're free to go for now. You guards really should be getting back to guarding the passage out of there in case of escapees, anyway. He didn't get all of them, did he?"
"Only one or two, judging by the screaming. The rest are likely to still be in there."
Just at that moment, a whole lot of prisoners burst through the door the guards were standing at, led by the strongman!
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 13, 2013, 07:37:08 am
"Ah. I see. Um...two, no, three questions. One: Why--did they all die about at once, or was it over several years? Two, how have you been living all alone? I mean, how well? Finally, is there...anything you need? Or want?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 13, 2013, 10:47:58 am
((Snarky, isn't she?))
"Ah. I see. Um...two, no, three questions. One: Why--did they all die about at once, or was it over several years? Two, how have you been living all alone? I mean, how well? Finally, is there...anything you need? Or want?"
"One, many years. Too many to count. And yet I do."
She nods sadly, then continues.
"Two, you are presumptuous."
She seems to consider the third question for a bit.
"Three, bring some water. The bucket is next to the door."
She points at a bucket, a sad-looking wooden affair if you have ever seen one. It is indeed right next to the door.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 13, 2013, 10:57:53 am
Grab the bucket and locate the village's well. Fill the bucket and return.
Post by: Xantalos on April 13, 2013, 11:01:04 am
Back away from the fighting, watching with my convert guy.
Hope that the strongman dies.
((Also, I just reread everything ... why isn't real religion backstory this funny?))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 14, 2013, 12:24:43 pm
((Also, I just reread everything ... why isn't real religion backstory this funny?))((Because it was carried out and edited by people with more dignity and hopes of being taken seriously than anonymous people on the internet? Or maybe because they were trying to promote a religion, not have fun?))
Post by: Xantalos on April 14, 2013, 01:21:08 pm
((Bah.((Also, I just reread everything ... why isn't real religion backstory this funny?))((Because it was carried out and edited by people with more dignity and hopes of being taken seriously than anonymous people on the internet? Or maybe because they were trying to promote a religion, not have fun?))
And lo, Gronok the Bullsh*tter accidentally wandered into one of the enemy's temples for no particular reason. And he was condemned, but he escaped by the grace of Mo'kar, and he accidentally set one of his own converts on fire.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 14, 2013, 01:33:54 pm
((...Yeah, no way that Prophet could be taken seriously.))((Bah.((Also, I just reread everything ... why isn't real religion backstory this funny?))((Because it was carried out and edited by people with more dignity and hopes of being taken seriously than anonymous people on the internet? Or maybe because they were trying to promote a religion, not have fun?))
And lo, Gronok the Bullsh*tter accidentally wandered into one of the enemy's temples for no particular reason. And he was condemned, but he escaped by the grace of Mo'kar, and he accidentally set one of his own converts on fire.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 14, 2013, 02:46:20 pm
Lars rather wisely decides that perhaps the woods are not the best place to look for civilized company wise in the ways of navigation. With that in mind, he heads down the road instead.
After going down the road for some time, he finds very little of interest. No people, certainly. It's gotten terribly dark already, and Lars can hardly see five feet in front of him anymore. Not to mention that he's walked for many miles already and he's getting tired. Luckily, this is hardly the unfriendliest terrain one could find themselves on. It's the plains, and very few are as familiar with plains as Lars. Though it is unusual to walk down the road for a whole day and not see a single person.
* * * * *
Shashari, having supervised the obtainment of materials, goes on to instruct the Siren to start building a fine bridge over the raging river for both of them (and the ram) to cross.
[Construction roll: 5]
With her wise supervision, the Siren performs a whole lot of labor placing the trees over the river carefully, then securing them to the ground with the aid of flexible twigs and heavy rocks found nearby. Soon enough a perfectly serviceable bridge is constructed right over the river.
Shashari, in her infinite wisdom and recognition of who did all the work here, names it after herself in a short, but touching ceremony.
That is, it would have been a touching ceremony if not for the filthy screaming man charging out of the woods right at her just as she was about to bless the new construction!
[Screaming Man vs. Shashari: 2 vs. 2]
Shashari shrinks back as the man stops in front of her and begins to yell in a shrill tone!
"WITCH! How dare you tame this mighty river! It was meant to run free by the grace of the Water Goddess!"
"By every god and their mothers, what is wrong with you, man?"
"Ah! Siding with her, are we! Well, how about this!"
[Screaming Man vs. Siren: 5 vs. 3]
The man punches the Siren right in the mouth, causing him to reel back! The ram is rather displeased at the man's noisemaking in the meantime.
[Ram vs. Screaming Man: 2+1 vs. 6]
It charges at the man, who proceeds to jump on it and ride it like one would ride a horse, except in an altogether more demented-looking, jerking and jumping fashion.
"No foul beast can be a match for a man of faith!"
* * * * *
Elizas look at the man speaking to you. He is dressed in white robes and carries a rather nasty metal blade. His expression is quite stoic.
"I am afraid I do not know what you are talking about. No Gezerim lives within this house. We did, however, track down a con artist seeking to misappropriate ill-gotten funds to this place and are apprehending the slippery son of a whore as we speak. Perhaps 'Gezerim' is the name he gave you? I'll describe him."
A few sentences later, he realizes that it is probably Gezerim the guard's talking about. Hm.
* * * * *
Phiali, upon speaking to the gray woman and receiving a most holy quest and the bucket to perform it with, takes the coveted vessel of water carrying and heads over to the village well. Fortunately, there still is one.
Rather unfortunately, the mechanism to operate it seems quite broken. Which is to say that it doesn't work. Seems like something's jammed the mechanism. Something of that nature, anyway. Also, the rope for it is missing.
* * * * *
Gronok, upon causing a slight misunderstanding with the head priest and then resolving it, sees that his less loyal converts seem to have gotten out of the corridors mostly unharmed.
"Well, I'll let you fellows sort this out. Come, ...er, what's your name? We'd better back away from the fighting."
"My name? I do not rightly remember, have to say. But yes, let's get back."
"Was about to suggest you do that myself. Right then. Guards, fire."
[Kezilamite Guards vs. Prisoners: 5+1+1 vs. 3]
As Gronok and his good buddy backs away a bit, the thirteen guards all draw their bows and take aim at the approaching prisoners, then fire a volley of arrows, followed by another one. Each arrow seems to find a mark, and more than ten of the about thirty prisoners are mowed down immediately. The guards then quickly put the bows on their backs and draw blades in unison.
[Prisoner morale roll: 6-->2]
The prisoners, led by the strongman, decide on an all-or-nothing approach, charging right at the guards before they can take up any more defensive formation!
[Prisoners vs. Guards: 6 vs. 2+2]
They grab two of the guards, pulling them away and relying on the force of the crowd to trample them into submission.
[Guards vs. Prisoners: 3+2 vs. 5]
The guards try to pay the prisoners back for their insolence, but the mass of people draws back, then attempts to envelop them to lessen their advantage.
[Prisoners vs. Guards: 4 vs. 4+2]
This maneuver proves foolish, as there are only two prisoners per one guard now, so the numerical advantage is not quite superior enough to nullify the fact that the guards are both better armed and better trained. To prove this point, the guards stab several prisoners right in their impudent abdomens.
[Guards vs. Prisoners: 6+2 vs. 1]
"Right. Let's stop fooling around, men. Kill the rest."
"You heard the man! Kill them all!"
Suddenly, the fight takes on an entirely different character. Something loosens in the guards' mentality, and they become relentless. They bear down on the prisoners, slicing off limbs and heads, covering their robes, their blades and the floor with blood. At the end of the orgy of violence, not one of the prisoners is left standing. The strongman was the last to fall, getting no fewer than six blades stabbed through the chest at once, then summarily decapitated.
When that bit of business is done, the guards stand in line in front of the priest.
"Are the two beaten ones alive?"
"Yes, barely."
The priest nods.
"That's good. Take their swords and oversee their recovery, you two," he says, pointing out two particular guards. "When they feel better, tell them to get their shame swords and clean up this mess. The rest of you, burn the corpses and the still-living ones in the same pile outside. Hopefully they'll be accepted by Kezilam in death."
Thus instructed, the guards tend to their respective tasks. The priest turns to Gronok and the old man.
"Now, unless there is something else you want, I would advise you to leave."
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on April 14, 2013, 03:06:51 pm
Try to get sword on the basis of self-defense. If I can't get one, leave with my convert.
((This was on the whole worth it! I lost three bandit followers trying to kill me and got a faithful dude!))
Post by: IronyOwl on April 14, 2013, 03:20:24 pm
And lo did Gronok wander into the Temple of the Enemy
And here he did get lost
And thus did the enemy guards find him
But thus did he evade them by clinging to a door
And then did he lock himself in a prison by accident
And spoke he to his fellow prisoners 'Let us escape this place'
But failed he to pick the lock
And so one blessed with great strength pried the door open
And so did the unfaithful follow the strong rather than Divine Gronok
All save one, who traveled with him
As he set a great sheen of oil alight, accidentally burning two prisoners alive
Then did he bullshit the high priest
As the guards stabbed all the prisoners
And he sort of walked out with his one faithful convert
Amen.))
Shashari bolted straight up when the wildman mentioned a Water Goddess. Then she took a step back as he punched Siren and rode her ram.
"N-now see here! There is only one God, and she is Ash'Mah the Serpent! Goddess of Water and many other things too! I believe I would know if he didn't want me making a bridge across his river!"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 14, 2013, 03:28:35 pm
Post by: Xantalos on April 14, 2013, 03:34:16 pm
((It was also a tale bizarre enough to be a true part of the gospel.Sigging this.
And lo did Gronok wander into the Temple of the Enemy
And here he did get lost
And thus did the enemy guards find him
But thus did he evade them by clinging to a door
And then did he lock himself in a prison by accident
And spoke he to his fellow prisoners 'Let us escape this place'
But failed he to pick the lock
And so one blessed with great strength pried the door open
And so did the unfaithful follow the strong rather than Divine Gronok
All save one, who traveled with him
As he set a great sheen of oil alight, accidentally burning two prisoners alive
Then did he bullshit the high priest
As the guards stabbed all the prisoners
And he sort of walked out with his one faithful convert
Amen.))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 14, 2013, 03:35:07 pm
Real!Sigs aren't big enough.((It was also a tale bizarre enough to be a true part of the gospel.Sigging this.
And lo did Gronok wander into the Temple of the Enemy
And here he did get lost
And thus did the enemy guards find him
But thus did he evade them by clinging to a door
And then did he lock himself in a prison by accident
And spoke he to his fellow prisoners 'Let us escape this place'
But failed he to pick the lock
And so one blessed with great strength pried the door open
And so did the unfaithful follow the strong rather than Divine Gronok
All save one, who traveled with him
As he set a great sheen of oil alight, accidentally burning two prisoners alive
Then did he bullshit the high priest
As the guards stabbed all the prisoners
And he sort of walked out with his one faithful convert
Amen.))
Post by: Onyxjew944 on April 14, 2013, 05:46:07 pm
Post by: TCM on April 14, 2013, 05:53:36 pm
Elizas walks away....and when out of sight, goes around the building to look for another less guarded entrance.
Post by: Toaster on April 14, 2013, 10:58:10 pm
Find a nice quiet spot to sleep till morning. Shepherds aren't picky.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 15, 2013, 01:14:31 pm
Shashari bolted straight up when the wildman mentioned a Water Goddess. Then she took a step back as he punched Siren and rode her ram.
"N-now see here! There is only one God, and she is Ash'Mah the Serpent! Goddess of Water and many other things too! I believe I would know if he didn't want me making a bridge across his river!"
The man seems to have been listening, as not a second passes before he screams a reply as the ram keeps trying to throw him off.
"YOU WILL NOT DISSUADE ME FROM MY MISSION, WITCH!"
He begins to steer the ram toward you. Well... that's not quite good. He does, however, lose his grip on one of the ram's horns, slightly losing his balance as the ram veers dangerously in your direction.
Post by: IronyOwl on April 15, 2013, 01:23:22 pm
Use the ram's liking of me to my advantage, and attempt to dodge the ram and pull the madman to the ground (or pull myself onto the ram as well, if I'm that weak and light) as he passes.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 17, 2013, 03:52:55 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 18, 2013, 12:27:35 pm
Gronok thinks on the priest's question for a bit. What does he want, really? It's such a simple, yet such an interesting question at the same time. Luckily, he knows the answer this time.
"No, unless you would be willing to give a man of God a sword so I may defend myself against the depredations of the unfaithful."
"I really would not be willing to do that, no. Proper self-defense is a path one must begin to take on their own, and charity would cause more harm than good in this situation. Will that be all?"
Gronok shrugs and affirms that sure, that will indeed be all. He then heads out of the Temple of Amaliz Teze with his convert, walking out to the village of Kilnipom. It is just as much of a fetid example of mental decay as it was when he was here a few hours ago, fortunately. It seems like it's mostly composed of dirty hovels inhabited by dirty villagers, but there does seem to be a marketplace around as well. And a flophouse as well. Seems like a very happening place, Kilnipom.
"Just as terrible as I remember it."
* * * * *
Phiali, utilizing his immense mechanical expertise, looks at the mechanism and tries to locate what's been jamming it.
[Repair roll: 2]
He's pretty sure it's something. Something bad. He dares not venture to guess what, but it can't be good. Why, he might even venture a guess that evil things may be afoot, though this may be a bit hasty of a judgment at this point.
* * * * *
Elizas, having received the information he sought, makes a vaguely affirmative statement and looks for alternate routes into the house. Preferably unguarded ones. However, he does not manage to find any - these Kezilamites seem to have covered every entrance and every ground floor window with at least one guard.
Elizas does, however, spot Gezerim up at one of the third floor windows. He appears to be trying to sneakily climb to the storehouse roof.
* * * * *
Lars decides that there's really not a whole lot of point running around blind, so he finds some thick, soft undergrowth next to it to sleep on, drifting off into a peaceful sleep soon enough.
He dreams of Jezufim, that scumbag, selling off every single sheep that Lars ever owned, laughing at the vast profit he's making on the sale of every last one. The cackling, weasel-like laugh of Jezufim rings in his ears as Lars twists and turns in his sleep, waking up early in the morning with a good dose of righteous anger running through him. He shakes his fist in the direction he believes Jezufim to be in as he silently curses the little twerp in his mind.
What a way to start the morning.
* * * * *
Shashari, faced with a crazed individual using her own faithful ram to try and run her over, tries to execute a daring grapple maneuver against the man!
[Shashari vs. Screaming Man: 5 vs. 4]
As the ram passes, she grabs one of the dangling legs of the man and pulls!
[Screaming Man grip roll: 4]
He still manages to keep hold on the ram, forcing Shashari to get dragged along with him! Shashari, seeing that this might not have been the best idea, tries to climb onto the ram over the would-be divine servant.
[Shashari climbing roll: 4]
Luckily, the man is wearing loose enough rags to afford her sufficient climbing opportunities, so she climbs up on the ram in no time at all. She then thinks about why she did this for a second.
[Ram rage roll: 5]
The ram does his very best to throw off both his riders, jumping around and shaking vigorously!
[Shashari grip roll: 4]
[Screaming Man grip roll: 6-->5]
Shashari holds on rather admirably, and the screaming man even manages to grab onto the beast with his other hand as well!
"The fury of the wild can only be tamed with equal stubbornness!" he yells, half out of breath.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on April 18, 2013, 12:35:49 pm
Jezufim. Ugh. Lars made sure to remind himself to convert or burn him personally.
But now, he had a task to do. Get to Kilnipom... wherever it was.
Keep going down the road. Keep looking for someone to ask directions.
Post by: Parisbre56 on April 18, 2013, 12:43:35 pm
Originally, I was writing the above for Shashari but I just realized that a good headwhacking to the right people or objects can solve the problems all of the prophets are having.
And headwhacking+fire can solve all of the problems the prophets are having in an amazing way.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 18, 2013, 12:52:39 pm
That's one tough-ass ram to be able to carry two people. Maybe Lars should rethink getting it back.
To be fair, one of them is a teenage girl and the other is a bit of a spindly fellow who's been largely living on water, nuts and berries for a long, long time.
Post by: IronyOwl on April 18, 2013, 02:39:55 pm
Convince the foul heathen of the error of his brutish ways!
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 18, 2013, 05:54:23 pm
((Whack them in the head, whack them in the head!((How does headwhacking solve wells being stuck? No, seriously, tell me.))
Originally, I was writing the above for Shashari but I just realized that a good headwhacking to the right people or objects can solve the problems all of the prophets are having.
And headwhacking+fire can solve all of the problems the prophets are having in an amazing way.))
Post by: Xantalos on April 18, 2013, 05:59:43 pm
Post by: Toaster on April 18, 2013, 09:40:23 pm
((Whack them in the head, whack them in the head!((How does headwhacking solve wells being stuck? No, seriously, tell me.))
Originally, I was writing the above for Shashari but I just realized that a good headwhacking to the right people or objects can solve the problems all of the prophets are having.
And headwhacking+fire can solve all of the problems the prophets are having in an amazing way.))
[6->2] You headwhack the well. This dazes you so much that you fall in! The force of your fall suddenly dislodges the bucket from the tree branch that was holding it in place- it is now free to move.
You're still stuck in the well, though.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 18, 2013, 09:46:41 pm
...I'll pass. However, take away the "head" and that's sorta close to what I had imagined.[6->2] You headwhack the well. This dazes you so much that you fall in! The force of your fall suddenly dislodges the bucket from the tree branch that was holding it in place- it is now free to move.((Whack them in the head, whack them in the head!((How does headwhacking solve wells being stuck? No, seriously, tell me.))
Originally, I was writing the above for Shashari but I just realized that a good headwhacking to the right people or objects can solve the problems all of the prophets are having.
And headwhacking+fire can solve all of the problems the prophets are having in an amazing way.))
You're still stuck in the well, though.
Give the mechanisms a gentle tap. Test to see if they work.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 19, 2013, 12:25:15 pm
Well, since you don't have a name would you mind being called Onon? Also, a question for you: how widespread are the Kelamazites?
"Oh, I don't mind. Onon seems like hardly the worst name one could give a person. As to your question, they were quite widespread when they put me in the dungeon twenty years ago. Mo'kar only knows how many places they've gotten themselves into now."
Post by: Xantalos on April 19, 2013, 12:30:49 pm
Post by: Parisbre56 on April 19, 2013, 03:15:22 pm
((Easy. When all else fails to fix it, hit it. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Percussive_maintenance)((Whack them in the head, whack them in the head!((How does headwhacking solve wells being stuck? No, seriously, tell me.))
Originally, I was writing the above for Shashari but I just realized that a good headwhacking to the right people or objects can solve the problems all of the prophets are having.
And headwhacking+fire can solve all of the problems the prophets are having in an amazing way.))
Although, what Toaster said is
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 19, 2013, 03:45:09 pm
((Huh, I didn't know The Other Wiki had an article on the subject.))((Easy. When all else fails to fix it, hit it. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Percussive_maintenance)((Whack them in the head, whack them in the head!((How does headwhacking solve wells being stuck? No, seriously, tell me.))
Originally, I was writing the above for Shashari but I just realized that a good headwhacking to the right people or objects can solve the problems all of the prophets are having.
And headwhacking+fire can solve all of the problems the prophets are having in an amazing way.))
Although, what Toaster said isbetterfunnier.))
Post by: TCM on April 20, 2013, 03:47:42 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 21, 2013, 02:34:14 pm
Lars, rather displeased with the nature of his dreams, goes down the road, hoping to find a sufficiently charitable person that might give him directions down that way. And not an hour later, he finds himself to be in luck! A group of four people are coming his way! Two men, a youth and a boy, seems like. One of them seems to have a severely lacerated face and a sour expression. The others look to be consumed with sheer ambivalence, except for the child, who looks slightly doubtful.
In other words, the perfect people to ask for directions!
* * * * *
Shashari, still hanging on to the ram, tries to persuade the filthy cattle-stealing heathen of his terrible and inappropriate ways.
[Charisma roll: 2+1]
"Nonsense! This ram was tamed by none other than myself using gentle diplomacy, hence its desire to protect me and my fellows! Your brutish ways are a crude and false form of dominance!"
"I could see that from the way it could be easily steered to run straight into you! Filthy animals are meant to be physically dominated, they know no other mode of communication!"
[Shashari grip roll: 5]
[Filthy Cattle-Stealing Heathen grip roll: 6-->3]
As Shashari holds on to the ram, the heathen tries to get a better grip on the creature, moving toward his riding companion! That is, until he grips a bit of the ram that one really should not grip if one values their health, further enraging the creature and forcing it into a roll!
[Shashari grip roll: 6-->4]
[Filthy Cattle-Stealing Heathen grip roll: 6-->6]
Both of them stay firmly glued to the ram's back as it tries to lose them in a rolling motion! It begins to look quite tired!
[Ram endurance roll: 2]
In fact, it seems to be unable to continue its wild activities, breathing heavily as it unsteadily stumbles forward and feebly tries to shake its riders off.
"Ha-hah! The beast is conquered!"
"Oh, get off the ram already!"
[Grapple: Siren vs. Filthy Cattle-Stealing Heathen: 6-->5 vs. 6-->5]
"Now to conquer the heathens!"
The Siren tries to grab the lunatic and restrain him, but the weirdo is too fast, leaping off the ram and onto the Siren in a single, fluid motion, rolling off with him towards the river.
* * * * *
Phiali takes a careful look at the mechanism. It is certainly possessed by the evil of Sloth, that is for sure. And the best way to fix Sloth is to give it a good tap.
[Percussive maintenance roll: 3]
He taps it gently, hearing something move slightly, like a gear moving a fraction of an inch before stopping again. This is certainly promising, if not entirely encouraging. A successful diagnostic procedure, certainly.
* * * * *
Gronok, faced with the dismal reality of the surroundings, thinks back to the directions the bandits gave him.
He remembers clearly that they said there was a city two days to the south from here, a village four hours to the north from here that you need to go through unfriendly woods to reach and a village six hours to the west! It's good to have such a wonderful memory.
* * * * *
Elizas, seeing Gezerim climb on the roof, takes up an optimum viewing position and waits to see what happens.
[Gezerim stealthy escape roll: 1-->3]
He doesn't have to wait long, as Gezerim immediately slips off the roof and lands on the grass below face-first, causing the nearby guard to jump with surprise!
[Gezerim endurance roll: 4]
Gezerim quickly gets up, looks around, notices the guard, yelps and tries to make a run for it.
[Gezerim escape roll: 4]
[Guard pursuit roll: 5]
He does not seem to have chosen the most optimal avenue of escape, as he runs right past another guard, who immediately chases after him as well, albeit much more closely.
[Gezerim escape roll: 5]
[Guard pursuit roll: 3]
That is, the guard would have followed Gezerim much more closely had he not been immediately run into by the previous guard, making them both fall over and make surprised exclamations that betray that they probably aren't very good at this.
[Gezerim escape roll: 2]
[Guard pursuit roll: 4]
However, more guards have been attracted, and these ones pursue the con artist with great gusto, chasing after him like a pack of bloodhounds.
[Gezerim escape roll: 1-->4]
[Guard pursuit roll: 5]
He is then tackled from two different directions by yet more guards, who proceed to pin him to the ground and search his possessions without saying a word.
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on April 21, 2013, 02:38:55 pm
Post by: Persus13 on April 21, 2013, 02:56:25 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 21, 2013, 03:07:15 pm
Post by: Toaster on April 21, 2013, 08:04:44 pm
Post by: Xantalos on April 21, 2013, 08:05:33 pm
"Greetings, travellers! May I trouble you for directions to Kilnipom?"((Oh this'll go wonderfully.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 22, 2013, 12:03:42 am
"Greetings, travellers! May I trouble you for directions to Kilnipom?"
The lacerated man looks at you with dissatisfaction.
"Good luck with that."
"It's actually where we're coming from."
"Escaping from, to be honest."
Post by: Toaster on April 22, 2013, 08:17:57 am
"Er, right, so it's that way then? Will this road take me straight there?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 22, 2013, 08:33:11 am
"Er, right, so it's that way then? Will this road take me straight there?"
"Yes."
"Indeed."
"Are you a pilgrim?"
Post by: Toaster on April 22, 2013, 09:37:08 am
Poor Lars should keep his mouth shut sometimes.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 22, 2013, 09:45:05 am
"Ah, many thanks. A pilgrim of sorts, yes. I was sent by the One True God to combat the temple of heretics there, and do something about the affront to Him that is constructed there, as well as assist the faithful already there."
"Not a Kezilamite, eh?"
"We're kinda faithful to one god or another. At least I am, I'd say."
"Hey! I'm faithful as well! I just haven't slapped anyone yet!"
"Could we not discuss this right now?" the leader grumbles. He then mutters something to the effect of "hurm, didn't even get to stab him" to himself.
Post by: Toaster on April 22, 2013, 09:51:50 am
This raises an interesting point- how are the prophets supposed to recognize each other? Given the prophet-personal God-points are different, there may be confusion.
Beyond that, how would one prophet know what the other prophets had contributed to the God liking? I'm assuming Lars would get props for, say, praying in water, but how would he know that IC?
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 22, 2013, 10:10:48 am
"Oh? Are you servants of the One True God as well? Perhaps you are or know the faithful I am looking for?"
"We serve this Master Assassin guy! He slapped Azikim and scrambled his face with a single blow!"
"Ancient fart, but a total badass. Although that dance was a bit goofy."
"Bastard ruined my credibility for life. Avoid the scumbag."
This raises an interesting point- how are the prophets supposed to recognize each other? Given the prophet-personal God-points are different, there may be confusion.
Beyond that, how would one prophet know what the other prophets had contributed to the God liking? I'm assuming Lars would get props for, say, praying in water, but how would he know that IC?
Aside from divine revelations, you don't actually recognize other prophets unless you find that your beliefs are highly similar. And all of the prophets have a slight glimpse into God's nature, being prophets and all. You technically have an intuitive grasp of what God likes and what it doesn't from your vision of revelation that made you a prophet.
Post by: Toaster on April 22, 2013, 11:11:43 am
Head on up the road toward Kilnipom.
Does that include the bits that aren't relevant to our input? So Lars might have an inkling that drinking, stealing, teaching, and water are all Good Things?
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 22, 2013, 11:15:55 am
Does that include the bits that aren't relevant to our input? So Lars might have an inkling that drinking, stealing, teaching, and water are all Good Things?
In a word, yes. A faint inkling. As do the others as well.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 24, 2013, 12:47:40 pm
Gronok decides that it's probably time to leave this filthy, terrible hole of a town. He heads out to the southeast, hoping to get to someplace better than this. With Onon in tow, they head out to assuredly great adventure, leaving the terrible town behind and heading for new and promising horizons.
The trip is rather uneventful, though going direct southeast does mean he needs to trudge through the woods. Rather unpleasant, that, but he and Onon both make rather good progress. And they don't even run into ravenous bears, sociable apes or anything of that sort. Must be because it's daytime.
However, soon enough the sleepless night of tireless walking catches up with Gronok, who feels like his legs are made of lead and his eyes are barely capable of staying open. Dear gods, one should not avoid sleeping nights at his age. And it's in the middle of the woods, no less. Good times.
* * * * *
Phiali taps the well's mechanism again in the same way, listening for what exactly might be the problem there, aside from the obvious evil spirits dwelling within.
He gets the feeling that it might be the mechanism (possibly composed of some manner of possessed gears) that's moving slightly. How it is moving or what exactly is it doing, it is quite difficult to say. He'd probably have to dismantle the thing to perform a proper exorcism or even a demonic diagnosis.
* * * * *
Lars bids the helpful band of strangers farewell and heads toward Kilnipom, getting there within three hours or so.
Kilnipom is a quaint little town, with dismal hovels of wood built in an unnecessarily slum-like fashion covering most of the landscape. However, their terrible state is made all the worse by the bright white, austerely constructed marble temple towering over the nearby area. As in, it's five stories tall rather than the one to two stories that most of the other structures possess. Certainly looks like a wretched hive of ignorance and darkness to Lars. Optimum prophecy ground, one might say.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on April 24, 2013, 01:02:13 pm
"People of Kilnipom! I come before you to bring word that this so-called temple is an affront to the One True God! The heretics that have built this sham must be driven out of the city, lest the cleansing flames consume you all! For our True God is vengeful, and is displeased that the people are following the false gods! Soon will come a culling, and our God culls... with FIRE!
Repent now or be burned by his fury!"
Go to temple and
Post by: Xantalos on April 24, 2013, 02:12:36 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 24, 2013, 03:34:52 pm
Locate the rope/chain, see if I can untangle it from the mechanism.
Post by: TCM on April 24, 2013, 07:40:00 pm
Elizas walks to where Gezerim is being seized and decides to fount his disguised persona as an official. "On the authority of the king, I demand you set this diplomat down!"
Bluff the guards!
Post by: Xantalos on April 24, 2013, 07:43:01 pm
((I didn't post last turn since I was thinking about what to do in a situation like this. Hmm...))This will go well.
Elizas walks to where Gezerim is being seized and decides to fount his disguised persona as an official. "On the authority of the king, I demand you set this diplomat down!"
Bluff the guards!
Post by: Toaster on April 24, 2013, 08:12:41 pm
Post by: Xantalos on April 24, 2013, 08:15:46 pm
About as well as me preaching on the front steps of the Kelazimite temple!You can probably deal with 6 armed guards with swords with your 5 MP.
Post by: Toaster on April 24, 2013, 09:52:19 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on April 25, 2013, 12:01:43 am
Assuming I get rewarded for setting the first one on fire, I can set the second one alight too!((Chainflame is the favored spell of the newly wrathful God's true followers.))
"Wh- hey, wait! Don't fall in there! GOD MIGHT NOT SAVE YOU IF YOU FALL IN THERE!"
Try to make sure they don't tumble straight into the river.
((Also I hope I'm not pissing God off by not letting people fall into the river. Which, in turn, makes me wonder if his love of burning heretics applies to drowning them.
...maybe he's really into Viking funerals for still-living heretics. Hm...))
Post by: Xantalos on April 25, 2013, 11:19:05 am
Assuming I get rewarded for setting the first one on fire, I can set the second one alight too!((I didn't get rewarded for setting those two people on fire, so what 'first' one are you talking about?))
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 25, 2013, 12:47:42 pm
((I didn't get rewarded for setting those two people on fire, so what 'first' one are you talking about?))
((He means that he could use God's Wrath to set one guard on fire, then use the point he might gain from it to set another one on fire. Starting from 5 MP, that would leave him at 1 MP at the end of it. And you didn't get rewarded because you A) set converts on fire, B) set them on fire when God didn't particularly enjoy that kind of thing.))
Post by: Xantalos on April 25, 2013, 01:10:11 pm
((Oh.))((I didn't get rewarded for setting those two people on fire, so what 'first' one are you talking about?))
((He means that he could use God's Wrath to set one guard on fire, then use the point he might gain from it to set another one on fire. Starting from 5 MP, that would leave him at 1 MP at the end of it. And you didn't get rewarded because you A) set converts on fire, B) set them on fire when God didn't particularly enjoy that kind of thing.))
Post by: Toaster on April 26, 2013, 10:02:18 am
((I didn't get rewarded for setting those two people on fire, so what 'first' one are you talking about?))
((He means that he could use God's Wrath to set one guard on fire, then use the point he might gain from it to set another one on fire. Starting from 5 MP, that would leave him at 1 MP at the end of it. And you didn't get rewarded because you A) set converts on fire, B) set them on fire when God didn't particularly enjoy that kind of thing.))
Yes, that's exactly what I meant.
I'm wondering what a divine knowledge request for "How do I get out of this mess?" info would result in. "Sorry, you're boned, I'll still welcome you in the afterlife though!"
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 27, 2013, 02:47:46 pm
Lars figures there's no use in messing around and heads right up to the temple steps. Fortunately, there is a bit of a crowd standing about there already, talking about something called the "Trial of Amaliz Teze". However, the gossip of unbelievers is not what today's performance is about. It is about the unbelievers themselves, soon to be one of two things - converted or burned to a crisp.
[Charisma roll: 1-->5]
"People of Kilnipom! I come before you to bring word that this so-called temple is an affront to the One True God! The heretics that have built this sham must be driven out of the city, lest the cleansing flames consume you all! For our True God is vengeful, and is displeased that the people are following the false gods! Soon will come a culling, and our God culls... with FIRE!"
... and a dramatic pause...
"Repent now or be burned by his fury!"
Some of the gossiping people turn to Lars.
"You're in the wrong town, moron!"
"Yeah! We already have a temple of Kezilam! It's right behind you!"
"So no need to preach fire and brimstone at us, we already converted!"
"And Kezilam's a she, you dolt! How could you get that wrong?"
"Well, I'm hardly surprised. He's here instead of Ginipim, after all."
"I remember that back in my day, a priest like that wouldn't have made it past the first trial! Those were the days! Now they'll let any idiot preach fire and brimstone at temples!"
* * * * *
Gronok, barely able to stand now, goes for a bit of camouflage to protect himself during the perilous afternoon in the forest.
[Camouflage roll: 1-->5]
He lifts up a pile of fallen leaves with his ancient and tired arms, then softly collapses face-first into it from exhaustion. He falls asleep instantly.
Some hours later, he wakes up to the feeling of something crawling on his foot. It looks to be a squirrel! Fortunately, it is easily scared away. And it didn't even ruin his boots or reach his actual feet. How fortunate. He rubs his eyes and looks for Onon.
Huh? Where did he go? Gronok can't see him anywhere.
* * * * *
Phiali, summoning up all of his mechanical knowledge, looks for a rope or chain to pull on. That's how you fix things, right?
Unfortunately, the rope, chain or whatever seems to be missing, and is nowhere to be found. Clearly, whatever problems this well has, they are manifold like the wisdom of God. Not to mention brutally annoying like petty heretics.
* * * * *
Elizas decides to flex his lying muscles and try to get pseudo-Gezerim out of trouble. He strolls up to the scene of holy peacekeeper brutality and exclaims loudly.
"On the authority of the king, I demand you set this diplomat down!"
[Bluff roll: 6-->4]
The guards jump back from the man and look as innocent as possible, a movement they have clearly learned through vast experience in the field. Pseudo-Gezerim, having been tackled, searched and otherwise disturbed, doesn't seem too eager to get up yet.
"A diplomat, sir? This man is a diplomat?"
Elizas is not deterred by the questioning, and lays on the seeming competence and soberness on thick.
"Yes! And you are currently in the middle of ruining a great many plans of the king, a fact that shall not be appreciated by the true authorities of this city!"
The guards look quite confused now.
* * * * *
Shashari, noticing the combined ball of the Siren and the filthy heathen rolling toward the river, shouts and runs after them.
"Wh- hey, wait! Don't fall in there! GOD MIGHT NOT SAVE YOU IF YOU FALL IN THERE!"
[Shashari intervention roll: 4]
She runs toward the river and gives the aggressive heathen a swift kick while he is otherwise occupied, successfully distracting him from the grapple and stopping the rolling ball.
[Grapple: Siren vs. Crazy, Filthy Heathen: 1 vs. 1-1]
The two men stop fighting for a moment and stare at Shashari. The Siren slightly distances himself from the heathen.
"Well, now you've ruined the moment and the mood. Are you happy, shrew-heathen?"
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on April 27, 2013, 03:44:48 pm
Gronok explores the surrounding area for Onon!
Post by: IronyOwl on April 27, 2013, 05:17:36 pm
Now then! There's the little matter of you being a Godless heretic standing in The One True God's Prophet's way. Surely you know some water sprite couldn't possibly be a God of this river. Has she even given you any visions? Any miracles? Mine has, of course.
And look! I've both tamed a ram and gained a companion with a beautiful singing voice using the power of my faith. All you've done is tucker one and nearly drown yourself with the other."
Convert heretic. Or maybe just mock him some.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 27, 2013, 11:05:23 pm
Head into the jungle. Look for a vine. Tie it to the bucket and lower it into the well.
Post by: Toaster on April 28, 2013, 08:20:32 am
"People, you have been maligned and mislead! This Kezilam is no true God, but instead a deceiver and deception! You must throw down the temples of this false Kezilam and instead come to the One True God! Fire and ash await those who refuse to see the light!
Come, we must not tarry! Disobedience will not be tolerated!"
And Lars joins the ranks of the Failure Prophets.
Post by: Harry Baldman on April 30, 2013, 01:06:34 pm
Gronok, reasoning that converts are probably better for the faith if you manage to keep them around for longer than a day, looks around for Onon. Couldn't have gone far. Unless bears got him, that is.
Actually, that's probably what happened. There do seem to be peculiar reddish-brown stains on the ground near Gronok, not to mention some large tracks leading away from the area. Damned bears. Enemies of the faith is what they are. When God's kingdom comes to earth, let's see them get in. Let's see them try!
They wouldn't get in, obviously. The Kingdom of God will have a great golden fence with a gate leading into it, and no bears will be admitted beyond it. It's the least that Onon deserves, and Gronok will make sure that it is so. This he solemnly swears.
* * * * *
Shashari, faced with an unrepentant meanie of a heathen, mocks him most divinely.
"Yes, because I've stopped some filthy hog-heathen from drowning himself along with my disciple. God hates waste, you know.
"Now then! There's the little matter of you being a Godless heretic standing in The One True God's Prophet's way. Surely you know some water sprite couldn't possibly be a God of this river. Has she even given you any visions? Any miracles? Mine has, of course.
"And look! I've both tamed a ram and gained a companion with a beautiful singing voice using the power of my faith. All you've done is tucker one and nearly drown yourself with the other."
For a moment, the heathen looks truly hurt. His expression soon changes to one of anger, however, and he flips over on the side, facing away from Shashari. He quietly mumbles for a moment, then goes silent.
"I'm not speaking to you anymore. Go away."
The Siren gets up in the meantime, wiping some of the dirt from the ground off his clothes.
"Well now. That was strange."
* * * * *
Phiali, not a big fan of on-the-spot improvised cobbling of imaginative solutions, looks for some spare parts in the surrounding jungle. Namely, a vine to serve as a rope.
Fortunately, the jungle is a dreamland for someone with apelike ambitions of acrobatics, and there are many vines in ready availability, some of them even unusually tough. Phiali grabs several, removing them easily and creating the foundations of a very nice cord. He then goes back to the well and ties the bucket to the vine-rope, lowering it in the well.
It's difficult to raise at first, but it gets lighter and lighter as Phiali goes on. After a moment it becomes clear why - the bucket is leakier than the famous Southland folk hero who tried to deflect arrows aimed at his king with nothing but his naked, manly and probably insane chest. In other words, very leaky indeed.
* * * * *
Lars understands that these people may be ignorant and terrible, but let not it be said that he is unwilling to bring light to the darkest places!
[Charisma roll: 6-->3]
"People, you have been maligned and mislead! This Kezilam is no true God, but instead a deceiver and deception! You must throw down the temples of this false Kezilam and instead come to the One True God! Fire and ash await those who refuse to see the light!"
"Come, we must not tarry! Disobedience will not be tolerated!"
The townspeople start chattering to one another.
"Say, he's not a moronic priest of Kezilam! He's a silly priest of someone else!"
"And right in front of the temple, too. Brave of him!"
"Back in my day, heretics were all as confident as this man! Those were the days your faith was truly challenged, not like now! I say we hear him out, if only to reward his sheer ballsy act!"
"Agreed. Prophet! Tell us more of your god! Is he like Kezilam, only better, or are there more distinguishing marks to him? Because we're not about to throw our lives away for some sort of off-brand version of the god we already have!"
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on April 30, 2013, 01:13:33 pm
Post by: Xantalos on April 30, 2013, 02:23:07 pm
Uh oh, too successful. Danger is surely headed my way.((I am incredibly jealous, but actually, yeah. Lars' god is actually almost exactly like Kezilam.))
Pray to Mo'Kar that his soul will be delivered to His Kingdom, write a small biography of all I knew about him in the dirt, then continue on.
Post by: IronyOwl on April 30, 2013, 08:11:25 pm
In fact, I'll bet The One God would love to have you as a convert. You were very enthusiastic and athletic, at least."
Conversion!
Post by: TCM on April 30, 2013, 08:13:28 pm
Post by: Persus13 on April 30, 2013, 09:39:24 pm
Spoiler: Prophets 1 (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 30, 2013, 09:55:30 pm
Alright...let's try this."
Look for some kind of sap to seal the leaks with. Wait for the sap to harden. Repeat previous plan.
Post by: Toaster on April 30, 2013, 09:58:19 pm
"No, the One True God is not like this sham Kezilam! For he is a jealous and vengeful god, and brooks no disobedience!"
A flash of insight- perhaps half-remembered bits of his vision- comes to him.
"The One True God supports no such prohibitions on alcohol and forced monogamy as Kezilam does*! Nay, such things are not a true tenet! We must obey his commands!"
"Behold this false temple! Here Lars gestures at the temple behind him. "We have been commanded to tear down this temple and cleanse it with the true holy flame! Join me at once, or disaster will befall you all!
Continue to preach.
*If I'm missing the mark on the background of Kezilam here, I blame Lars not getting out much.
Look for some kind of sap to seal the leaks with. Wait for the sap to harden. Repeat previous plan.
I think there are five saps in this thread!
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on April 30, 2013, 10:00:09 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 01, 2013, 02:17:03 am
If you'll allow me, this is the the RTD for Xantalos told Biblical style. Let us read from Prophets 1 1:1-12Spoiler: Prophets 1 (click to show/hide)
I was actually originally planning on writing something like that myself - the Book of Prophets, Biblically Abridged edition, with all of the prophets' misadventures presented in, shall we say, a more dignified form. Feel free to continue if you wish.
*If I'm missing the mark on the background of Kezilam here, I blame Lars not getting out much.
You aren't. Kezilam is, in essence, a goddess of purity and order, and focuses on these two tenets mostly. Fire is a large part of the religion in a ritualistic sense.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 01, 2013, 04:56:49 pm
Post by: Persus13 on May 01, 2013, 05:08:18 pm
I can't wait to see how future generations interpret Phiali breaking into the rival temple."it is clear that Phiali quest to enter the enemy temple shows that even if with God's help you fail to defeat heresy, you should not give up."
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 03, 2013, 01:45:08 pm
Gronok prays for Onon's soul to be delivered by Mo'kar, then sets about writing a short biography of the man in the dirt. He traces some words on the damp ground, making sure to include every detail he knew of the man.
"In memory of Onon, convert for a day before getting dragged off by bears. Imprisoned for 20 years or so, didn't remember much. Presumably tortured and suffered a lot. Name given yesterday. Pleasant enough chap.
Signed,
Gronok the Old, Illustrious Prophet of Mo'kar the Teacher, Holy Bringer of Knowledge and Wisdom, Master of Words, Deliverer of Mighty Slaps and Alleged Liberator of Prisoners."
Having stood around solemnly for a bit, Gronok turns around and continues on his way. However, he is interrupted by a noise! Something seems to have fallen near him! Didn't sound like a tree-bear, either. He looks in the direction of the sound.
Oh, look. It's Onon.
"Good morning! I was going to drag you up a tree as well, but I'm not as young as I'd like to be. Did you sleep well? Nobody try to chew you up?"
My, he seems awfully chipper. He steps toward Gronok, suddenly spotting the message in the dirt.
"Wait, what's this? Did you write that?"
He reads the message.
"Oh my. Dragged off by bears, eh? How terrible! Well, at least I rank as a pleasant enough chap."
* * * * *
Shashari, noticing that the filthy heathen seems to have taken on a slightly offended air, changes her tone a bit.
"Uh, well, hey now. I didn't mean to be mean, it's just that you... insulted my bridge and punched my friend and tried to trample me with my own ram. In fact, I'll bet The One God would love to have you as a convert. You were very enthusiastic and athletic, at least."
The heathen turns around, looking curiously at the girl.
"You really think so? Honestly? It's been so lonely in the woods here. I've got only Hazutiim to keep me company, and he hardly even talks, you know. And it's been five years since I've seen anyone else. I just got so excited when I got something to defend. Fight off wild beasts and vile heathens and all that, you know. No offense, I mean."
He looks up at the sky suspiciously, then at the river.
"We'll have to talk to Hazutiim about this conversion business. Away from... certain things." He says the last bit as a whisper, leaning toward Shashari and throwing a quick glance to the river.
* * * * *
Elizas, utilizing the guards' confusion, picks Gezerim up from the ground, leading him away from the area as he berates the guards for their vulgar breaches of guarding etiquette. Fortunately for him, they are sufficiently confused to momentarily forget that they aren't supposed to be guarding anything at all, and Elizas and Gezerim safely get away from the area. Once they are away, Gezerim speaks.
"Thank you for that intervention. They certainly work fast, these Kezilamites. I owe quite a lot for that, my friend."
Now, what to do with him?
* * * * *
Phiali, upon seeing that the bucket is indeed a piece of garbage, tries to fix it. Maybe there's some sap in the woods to help? Couldn't hurt to look for some. He heads out into the jungle, looking for any trees or other plants that might contain such an adhesive.
Fortunately, there is indeed such a tree around, and its resin seems to be quite liquid at this point. Better utilize it while there's still time!
[Repair roll: 2]
Upon looking at where the leaks spring from, Phiali smears a generous helping of resin over one of the leaky bits, then waits for it to harden. After a bit, it has done this, and the hole is sealed. He tries to get another handful.
Sadly, the rest of the resin has hardened in this time as well. Dang.
* * * * *
At the steps of the temple, Lars defends his god like a consummate prophet.
"No, the One True God is not like this sham Kezilam! For he is a jealous and vengeful god, and brooks no disobedience! The One True God supports no such prohibitions on alcohol and forced monogamy as Kezilam does! Nay, such things are not a true tenet! We must obey his commands!
He gestures toward the heretic temple.
"Behold this false temple! We have been commanded to tear down this temple and cleanse it with the true holy flame! Join me at once, or disaster will befall you all!"
"Your offers of limitless debauchery are heard and appreciated, fine heretic. There is a problem, though."
"More of a sharp concern, really."
"The Kezilamites have nasty swords and lots of guards!"
"Pah! Back in my day, the guards were a lot sharper than their swords! These days they let any idiot join!"
"True as that may be, do you, fine heretic, have any means of subverting the guards of Kezilam and make us really listen to you?"
"Like the one coming toward you right now!"
Lars turns around, noticing that there is indeed an approaching guard.
"What's all this damned racket?" he asks with all the patience a temple guard can muster.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on May 03, 2013, 01:58:41 pm
Surrepiteously wipe out the message with a foot.
Sorry about that, but I'm not as young as I used to be and there are those reddish brown stains over there, he said, gesturing.
Well, now that this misunderstanding has been cleared up, I'd better apologize to Mo'kar for taking the easiest assumption rather than searching for the truth.
Pray to Mo'kar for forgiveness.
Possibly recieve holy vision.
Post by: Toaster on May 03, 2013, 02:21:02 pm
Lars looks at the guard. A true heretic, unlike these unenlightened masses. Now was the time. He pointed directly at the guard.
"Foul heathen, one who would follow the false Kezilam! Repent your sins, turn away from your false god and follow, now, the One True God! Convert, or taste the cleansing flames!
Demand the guard repent. If he fails to do so, God's Wrath him on fire (Base level, so MP cost 3). Scream something appropriate while doing so, such as "Then taste the fires of God, heretic!
Now we're cooking with fire!
"Your offers of limitless debauchery are heard and appreciated, fine heretic."
I'm glad to see that Lars is really getting the point across here.
Post by: IronyOwl on May 03, 2013, 02:47:11 pm
Quite possibly long-lived as well, though.))
Post by: Xantalos on May 03, 2013, 02:48:30 pm
((So what, five turns in and he's already lighting someone on fire? We really are a bunch of sorry prophets.((I'd be driving foos insane with SHEER KNOWLEDGE but I got no MP.
Quite possibly long-lived as well, though.))
Dawg.))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 03, 2013, 03:30:09 pm
Locate another wound on the tree to get sap from. If this fails, get a sharp implement to make a new one with.
Fix the other holes with sap.
Post by: TCM on May 04, 2013, 12:13:34 pm
"If you don't have someplace safe and secret in the city, you need to get out of here. I foresee a great war to come."
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 06, 2013, 04:19:43 pm
Gronok notes Onon's appearance, moving quickly to wipe out the filthy lies scratched in the dirt with his ancient slightly, chewed foot.
"Huh. I commend you for your ingenuity. Mo'kar is surely proud."
"That's good, I suppose. My back didn't appreciate the tree branch much, however. But at least I've curried favor with the divine power."
"Sorry about that, but I'm not as young as I used to be and there are those reddish brown stains over there."
"Oh, that. There were some small berries over there and you fell on them. I figured I shouldn't let you sleep in gunk, so I rolled you slightly away."
Gronok clears his throat slightly.
"Well, now that this misunderstanding has been cleared up, I'd better apologize to Mo'kar for taking the easiest assumption rather than searching for the truth."
Gronok immediately kneels in his leafy bedding, praying to Mo'kar. He is suddenly hit with an amazing vision! It's a large city, larger than any he's seen so far. And it's on fire, burning intensely, the air full of screams of heretics. However, among them all stands one man. He is not on fire. He is not impressed. He is not one of the faithful.
"Burn my flesh and slay my fellows, but you will not break me. None can break me. I am the man you cannot touch, the man you cannot reach. And yet I can reach any man for a price. I am the torch of disobedience, the one that never laughs, but always mocks."
Maybe it's because he might be an asshole, but Gronok can't help but intensely dislike this man. He gets the feeling that this man has... gravely wronged him in a way both unspeakable and imperceptible to the mind, yet perfectly clear in an emotional sense. As he opens his eyes, he feels himself consumed by a hatred he has never felt before. A hatred whose origins transcend him and stem from something else, something higher. Perhaps even the mind of Mo'kar himself.
* * * * *
Lars diverts his attention to the guard, pointing at him most sternly.
"Foul heathen, one who would follow the false Kezilam! Repent your sins, turn away from your false god and follow, now, the One True God! Convert, or taste the cleansing flames!"
"Um, how about no?"
"Then let the flames of the one true God consume your heathen flesh!"
Lars' entire body radiates a white glow briefly, his breath turning to acrid smoke as he spits out the words of righteous hatred, turning the full attention of God on the guard. A split second passes as the guard is enveloped in bright white flames, heat radiating from his body. It is but a flash of divine flame, subsiding in a second, but this second proves enough for the guard to stop resembling so much a guard of a temple as a standing mass of scars and painful boils, his current existence clearly a bit too painful for the average mind to consider.
[Temple Guard endurance roll: 2]
He falls over in a screaming, twitching heap, his mind struggling to accept his new state of being. His new enlightenment, so to speak. Or should it be "alightenment"? The public looks visibly shaken by this display.
"Holy crap! Even prophets didn't do that in my day! And they were real prophets of Kezilam, unlike those sissies you get these days."
"Indeed! Limitless debauchery and holy fire, how could we possibly go wrong with that combination?"
"Evangelize to us some more, oh mighty prophet! We are willing to listen to you!"
3 MP expended!
Heretics burned! 1 MP gained!
* * * * *
Phiali, not discouraged by such setbacks, looks for some more sap to utilize for his needs. Unfortunately for him, no trees seem to secrete it in particularly large amounts, as this forest is peculiarly lacking in wounded trees of most kinds.
Well, you know what they say - nothing easier to make than new wounds! Unfortunately, wounding a tree is a bit of a tall order for Phiali right now, as he is experiencing a bit of a shortage of sharp implements. At least ones that wouldn't take forever to wound trees with. Stupid trees and their silly resilient bark.
* * * * *
As Elizas leads the hapless Gezerim away from the prying eyes of undesirables, then lays it all out for him.
"If you don't have someplace safe and secret in the city, you need to get out of here. I foresee a great war to come."
Gezerim shrugs.
"Sure, no problem. Thanks for the help, dear fellow. See you later!"
He begins to quickly make his way in a certain direction, presumably to return to what he was doing. Huh.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on May 06, 2013, 06:01:10 pm
Mo'kar has granted me a vision. A man, a heretic. An enemy of the faith. He is the torch of disobedience, the mocker.
We must find him.
Travel to the city, quest in mind. Try to recall the features of the man so I will recognize him when I see him.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 06, 2013, 06:08:16 pm
Look in the abandoned houses for sharp implements, then. "It's not stealing if I'm helping them and put them right back afterwards."
Post by: Toaster on May 06, 2013, 08:46:01 pm
Also, I want Mr. Debauchery as my right-hand man now.
Post by: TCM on May 06, 2013, 08:49:12 pm
Elizas goes off to find some sort of alcohol selling establishment in town, or at least find out about their existence.
Post by: Toaster on May 06, 2013, 09:02:29 pm
"People of Kilnipom! Behold what awaits those who stubborn cling to their false gods!"
"The One True God has commanded us to act!" Lars gestures at the dirty ramshackle buildings of the village. "See how you all live in poverty, while these liars and heretics-" here he pointed behind him at the temple- "live in opulence! We have been commanded to tear down this monstrosity! We must go in there and take back what is rightfully ours! Smash down the temple, burn those who do not repent, and kneel to the One True God!"
Inspire the masses to tear down the offending temple.
Man, Lars almost sounds like a communist there. Next he'll start singing the Internationale...
Post by: Persus13 on May 06, 2013, 09:26:17 pm
The True God! A divine miracle had been imparted, and the hearts of the people were open. Now it was time to sway them.
"People of Kilnipom! Behold what awaits those who stubborn cling to their false gods!"
"The One True God has commanded us to act!" Lars gestures at the dirty ramshackle buildings of the village. "See how you all live in poverty, while these liars and heretics-" here he pointed behind him at the temple- "live in opulence! We have been commanded to tear down this monstrosity! We must go in there and take back what is rightfully ours! Smash down the temple, burn those who do not repent, and kneel to the One True God!"
Inspire the masses to tear down the offending temple.
Man, Lars almost sounds like a communist there. Next he'll start singing the Internationale...
It doesn't help that you are in red.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 06, 2013, 09:45:51 pm
Except he's in a big city. Lars is in a crappy village with only one nice building; a heretic temple.He's also not much of a heretic.
Post by: Xantalos on May 06, 2013, 09:52:04 pm
He's the second most faithful of the lot.Except he's in a big city. Lars is in a crappy village with only one nice building; a heretic temple.He's also not much of a heretic.
The most faithful, of course, is me.
Hey, the New God doesn't forbid pride.
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 09, 2013, 02:04:47 pm
Gronok, for once, remains completely silent, taking Onon with him as he travels to the unknown city to the southeast. He tries to commit the enemy's features to memory, but manages to only get a handle on his voice, as his features shift in memory to the point of unrecognizability.
Nevertheless, the two men move through the woods, Gronok leading the way with remarkable quickness, seemingly animated by an unusually strong purpose. Moving as quickly as they do, they are out of the woods by evening. Before them is a plain, vast in size, but there is hope - standing on a hill as they are, Gronok and Onon can see for quite a distance, and what they see in the distance is a city. Instinctively, Gronok knows that this is the city they are looking for. It is at least twenty miles away at the bottom of a deep valley, and it's getting dark. Not to mention that both old men, Gronok's divine inspiration notwithstanding, are rather hungry and thirsty by now.
* * * * *
Phiali, lacking in sharp implements to make trees bleed more efficiently, looks for a sharp implement in one of the decrepit houses.
Unfortunately, there are very few implements in them at all - some forks, a spoon and a knife, all of which are rusted and dull, are all he finds. Damn these people and damn their terrible, extinct ways!
* * * * *
Elizas, having resolved this entire Gezerim mess, goes off to look for some place that might present him with pleasures of the alcoholic variety.
Fortunately, there is at least one such place around - a rather seedy establishment located next to a ruined temple named "The Temptations of Azlippus". Seems like there's plenty of alcohol within, judging by the smell and the sound of happiness coming from within.
Alcohol successfully located!
* * * * *
Lars tries to agitate the all-too-willing crowd to tear down the temple some more. After all, there's strength in numbers!
[Lars charisma roll: 2+1]
"People of Kilnipom! Behold what awaits those who stubborn cling to their false gods!"
"The One True God has commanded us to act! See how you all live in poverty, while these liars and heretics live in opulence! We have been commanded to tear down this monstrosity! We must go in there and take back what is rightfully ours! Smash down the temple, burn those who do not repent, and kneel to the One True God!"
However, the masses don't seem all that excited about the prospect of endless class conflict and the righteous redistribution of wealth.
"It's a rather nice temple, actually. Why don't we live in it instead after redecorating a bit? Dab some paint here and there, and then you'll have a den of debauchery suitable for a true disciple of God."
"And they still kind of have really sharp swords. And not all of us can conjure holy fire at will. Perhaps a better plan is in order?"
Oh dear! Reason, the greatest enemy of the most glorious revolution!
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on May 09, 2013, 02:37:16 pm
"Obedience is a top priority! Clearly we must first evict the hateful heretics inside and put those who do not repent to the torch! It doesn't have to be HOLY fire- regular fire will work just fine!"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 09, 2013, 03:21:48 pm
Post by: TCM on May 10, 2013, 03:52:15 pm
Elizas enlightens the patrons and workers of the establishment of the existence of the God of polygamy and alcohol.
Post by: Xantalos on May 10, 2013, 07:30:02 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 11, 2013, 02:52:26 am
Say Onon, do you have any foraging experience?
"Not from the last 20 or so years I don't."
Post by: IronyOwl on May 11, 2013, 02:08:46 pm
Glorious nonphysical combat that didn't hurt much, that was.
Follow whatshisname to Hazutiim.
Post by: Xantalos on May 11, 2013, 04:58:17 pm
Look for food. If succesful, eat. If not, climb up a tree and sleep 'till the dawn.
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 12, 2013, 02:09:49 pm
Lars, feeling the favor of the people slowly slip away from his grasp, tries to intensify what he believes are the most important points of today's agenda.
[Charisma roll: 5+1]
"Obedience is a top priority! Clearly we must first evict the hateful heretics inside and put those who do not repent to the torch! It doesn't have to be HOLY fire - regular fire will work just fine!"
"Oh, right. We pick up torches, obey the commands of God right now, do the whole Kezilamite "let's burn everything" routine for a bit, and then we're free for limitless debauchery forever?"
"In a word, yes!"
"Alright! We can do that! Everybody, get torches!"
"Torches, everyone! Get torches! Kezilamites got long robes, very flammable!"
All the villagers run off in their own directions, the entire village abuzz with activity. In but a scar the entire peasantry of the area has arrived, each one bearing a flaming torch in hand.
"You have to love religious conversions that use the exact same articles of faith!"
Large-scale conversion performed! 1 MP gained!
* * * * *
Since they lack any sort of sharp object that isn't a rusted piece of useless trash, Phiali takes a theoretical step backward and just looks for a less terrible bucket instead.
Fortunately, there certainly is one of those lying around. Phiali picks it up. Ah, made of copper, looks like. Not particularly corroded, practically unused, even. Makes sense, since it was stashed in a locked chest in a locked closet inside a house which was also quite locked.
Luckily for Phiali, wood isn't known to stay durable for very long periods of time in damp weather, and he is very thorough.
As he looks at the copper bucket, he can't help but admire the workmanship. It's heavily ornamented, covered in reliefs of various burial scenes, and you could even call it a masterwork creation if it were not a, you know, bucket. Then again, maybe it's not a bucket at all and merely looks like one, and is actually something more prestigious instead. Like a receptacle.
Yes, receptacle sounds much better. Phiali, beaming with pride and fulfillment at this fantastic find, takes the bucket and skips back to the well. And it's not just that he feels accomplished, either. It's something more. He feels he's done a good thing by thoughtlessly stealing this potential heirloom.
Treasure stolen! 1 MP gained!
* * * * *
Elizas, seeing that there is a fully equipped hive of free living right in front of him, walks right in.
He comes to the conclusion that it is indeed quite the seedy establishment, no doubt about it. It is dark, dank, smells of booze and full of carousing individuals. Just the sort of place he was looking for.
[Elizas charisma roll: 1-->4]
He starts yelling in the middle of the crowd
"I bring the word from the true Lord!"
"Yeah, Azlippus!"
"Azlippus! Azlippus!"
One of the staff bangs a rough wooden club against a wall.
"You there! Shut up! No invoking of that name! We already narrowly avoided getting shut down, I won't have you bringing the Kezilamites here again!"
"Then why don't you change the sign, you twit?"
"That's been the name of this place for 80 years, and I won't change it now, by... um... yes! I won't change it!"
"The temple's been demolished for five years already! You even burned the icon!"
"Look, we can either talk about it until I have to beat you to death in a blind rage or you can shut the hell up already!"
The other guy remains silent, effectively ending the exchange.
* * * * *
Shashari is intrigued by the words of the heathen, though the overall strangeness of them is also a bit off-putting.
"Hazutiim? Certain things?" she asks, the last bit in a whisper.
"Yes, follow me."
"I get the feeling this will be strange."
Whether Shashari ignores the words of the Siren out of more important things on her mind (such as the defeat of a heathen water-sprite) or simply because they are brutally obvious is unknown, but she does trail behind the heathen like a hound as he leads her through the dense woods. After a bit of wandering they come to a clearing.
"We are here!"
It is an odd place, to say the least. It appears to have a tree in the middle of it, and a strange-looking tree at that. But the strangest thing is, Shashari can't quite put her finger on what exactly is strange about it. It's just... off, somehow.
The more obviously strange thing in the clearing are several rather interesting pieces of rock - seven in total, standing in a circle around the tree.
Witches.
* * * * *
Gronok, having ascertained that Onon does not possess any skills relevant to this situation, tries to forage on his own.
Fortunately, there is a berry bush providing an ample bounty for the two of them right nearby. After the two pilgrims help themselves most generously, they sit down on the plain and reflect on the bounty they have obtained.
"Those were some good berries."
"Indeed. Mo'kar provides!"
Gronok looks up at the purple, swirling sky and the faintly shivering moon. Oh yes, Mo'kar certainly provides.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on May 12, 2013, 02:31:38 pm
Climb up tree (with Onon's help if necessary), and sleep 'til the morn.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 12, 2013, 04:03:29 pm
Fill the recepticle, fill the bucket with the recepticle.
Post by: Toaster on May 13, 2013, 08:46:44 pm
"Well done, children of the New God! Now we must fulfill our purpose! Take your torch and bring cleansing fire to this heretical abomination on the land! Forward, brothers, and CHARGE!
Lead a charge into the temple! Generally set things (and especially any Kelizamites) on fire- see if I can get a torch for myself.
Post by: TCM on May 13, 2013, 08:50:52 pm
Elizas pulls out his gutair and improvises a song about why everyone should worship the real God who will make the drinks tastier and eliminate STDs.
Post by: IronyOwl on May 13, 2013, 11:42:15 pm
Um, but yes! What's here, and where's Hazutiim?"
Inquire about destination.
Post by: Fr0stByt3 on May 14, 2013, 07:43:01 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 15, 2013, 01:42:47 pm
Gronok looks at the spot where Onon was a second ago. He isn't there anymore. All Gronok can hear is giggling coming from seemingly everywhere.
"Well, let us get some rest. We'll be at the city tomorrow, after all," he tells the moon, who seems to have stopped shivering.
"Not a problem, buddy," he says, winking. Gronok walks up to a nearby dancing tree and starts to climb.
[Climbing roll: 1-->3]
The tree throws him right off and looks at him sternly.
"What the hell do you think you're doing? I don't know about where you came from, but in my day people didn't just jump on the first stranger they meet. They had standards, you know."
Gronok would answer if he wasn't too busy trying to fight off the pain lizard currently biting his head.
"Get out of here, lizard! There is nothing for you here!"
"I beg to differ! There's your head! It clearly isn't ringing quite enough! Let me fix that!"
The lizard slithers into his ear and invites all of its friends to a party, line-dancing on his gray matter until it's all jumbled up and disjointed. A crooked-looking ogre strolls up to him.
"Whoa," it wisely observes as Gronok's eyes spit lightning at him.
* * * * *
Phiali considers the fact that he seems to have been rewarded for stealing this amazing bucke-erm, receptacle. He heads to the well and fills the receptacle right up, then pours the rest into the bucket that's full of holes.
Naturally, the bucket, being full of holes, lets most of the water right out in a matter of minutes. How interesting.
* * * * *
Lars, seeing that his flock has gathered and is ready to burn these ungodly heathens, leads a charge into the temple after grabbing a spare torch from one of the mob members. It's time to burn stuff!
"Well done, children of the New God! Now we must fulfill our purpose! Take your torch and bring cleansing fire to this heretical abomination on the land! Forward, brothers, and CHARGE!
Heading into the temple, the group finds about 5 guards standing right next to a priest of Kezilam, who appears to be wielding a large sword. 55 villagers against 6 representatives of Kezilam!
"What is going on here?" the priest asks, visibly surprised.
"Change in management!"
[God-Mob vs. Guards and Priest: 5+2+1 vs. 1+1+1]
The guards charge into the mob thoughtlessly, hoping to suppress them like on any ordinary day.
Unfortunately for them, this is hardly an ordinary day. Extremely unfortunately for them, they are wearing ceremonial Kezilamite temple guard robes.
After the five are quickly set on fire and thoroughly trampled, the crowd howls with delight. Only the priest, who seems to have wisely stayed behind, is still alive!
"Hm. This isn't good."
While the crowd is busy setting drapes on fire, he makes a run into one of the side passages. He's pretty quick, Lars has to admit. However, that still won't save the temple from destruction!
[Templewrecking roll: 2]
The crowd is disappointed to find out that there isn't much around here to set on fire, regrettably, beyond a few tapestries. And even those are really small. Kezilamites sure are frugal. Takes the fun out of destroying everything, you know.
* * * * *
Elizas, observing that his crowd is of the silly sort, tries to dispel any ill-conceived notions the sordid lot might harbor.
"Azza-who? No, I speak of the new true God who was contacted me! Let me tell you of his greatness!"
[Elizas vocal performance roll: 5+1]
He steps on the table and strums a few chords on the guitar to get both the crowd and himself in the mood.
"Somebody throw me a bottle!"
Somebody does - it's a bit too close to his face for his liking, but he catches it nonetheless. Taking a swig from it, then returning it via a similar throw aimed at the generous provider's face (after all, wouldn't want to go against custom), he begins to sing.
His voice, marinaded in delicious wine, causes the people around to turn their heads and listen in a generally enraptured fashion. Like Elizas previous work, "The God of Alcohol and Polygamy is the God For You and Me", this song is also expository in its nature. It starts out with the tale of a bunch of people kept in the hold of poor alcohol, diseased women and, as a consequence, very uncomfortable STD's that generally all make things uncomfortable. This discomfort is accented through strategically used dissonances that also serve to attract the attention of any drunks still oblivious to the musical number.
Then Elizas changes the tune a little, making it more upbeat as he explains that, despite all this, there is still hope! Oh yes! There is a way to cure one's ailments, to improve one's booze, to have a better, more joyous life! And this way lies in the worship of the One True God, the God of Booze and Many Women! In the soaring chorus that follows the verse, Elizas explains that the God of Booze and Many Women dwells in the mythical River of Endless Enjoyment, the stream that flows from the divine heights of heaven to the minds and hearts of all that accept it. And that we all should make room for the River of Endless Enjoyment within our hearts, as it is the spice of our life, the only meaning one can possess in their lifetime.
The next verses grow more and more optimistic, and the catchiness of the chorus soon infects the entire audience - by the fourth time the chorus is played, the whole lot is singing along, having memorized the words by heart at this point. After the entire 8-verse song (it gets into more detail as it goes on, elaborating on the more aggressive parts of the faith, such as setting zealots opposed to fun on fire) is done, complete with impressive guitar solos, the crowd is completely enraptured, the Ballad of the River having taken a special place in their minds. Once Elizas finishes playing, he is met with wild applause and admiration. These people love him. They really love him!
* * * * *
Shashari, noticing the witches in the clearing, is a bit disturbed. After all, there's so many of them around. This place must be pretty magical.
"Huh. Well, looks like I was right to look around... um, but yes! What's here, and where's Hazutiim?"
"Why, he's right there."
The heathen walks into the center of the clearing, then strolls over to the tree. Yeah, there's definitely something off-putting about its shape, Shashari finds. The heathen presses his ear to the trunk, then sticks his head into a hollow on one of the sides. A minute later, he pulls it back out and walks back to Shashari, looking slightly sad.
"Hazutiim doesn't like the idea of betraying Shamiil. Shamiil's been good to us, he says. Hasn't flooded the area lately. Wouldn't be wise to tempt her wrath is what he's saying."
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on May 15, 2013, 01:55:32 pm
Gronok floats over to the ogre.
Could you tell me where Mo'kar is? I'm sure he's here somewhere, and I can jump off the moon to get to him!
Post by: Fr0stByt3 on May 15, 2013, 02:03:00 pm
Post by: Xantalos on May 15, 2013, 02:47:23 pm
Dude, Gronok is tripping some major ballsack right now. I mean, Holy Fukken' Shit level tripping right now.MMMmmmmmmamammaamaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnn
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 15, 2013, 06:10:00 pm
See if I can hold the bucket closed. If not, search the village for (in order) bucket-repair supplies, other buckets, or some less-ostentatious water receptacle.
Post by: Toaster on May 15, 2013, 10:59:34 pm
Lars pointed at two strong-looking men near him. "You two! Come with me! The rest of you, get flammable things and set this abominable place alight!"
Say the above while getting two villagers to chase after the priest with me.
Post by: IronyOwl on May 16, 2013, 08:22:59 pm
...who's this Hazutiim anyway and why is he living in a tree surrounded by witches?"
Theology!
Post by: TCM on May 16, 2013, 09:05:34 pm
Elizas asks the people of the bar for the nearest Kezilam stronghold they can pillage.
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 19, 2013, 02:29:05 am
Gronok realizes that the current state of affairs is most certainly abnormal. This means one of two things - he is either tripping major balls or he is tripping major balls under the influence of God. Better make it count then!
He tries to float over to the ogre, but it seems to be at the end of a long and narrow tunnel, and he is simply too large to fit through it! When he tries to argue with the tunnel, it shrinks further, so Gronok decides to leave it be for the time being. Instead, he shouts to the ogre.
"Could you tell me where Mo'kar is? I'm sure he's here somewhere, and I can jump off the moon to get to him!"
"We are in the house of Mo'kar right now. I should know, as I AM him!"
It's true. He is. How else would his hands have reached through the narrow tunnel that stretches over a mile in length?
Well, that resolves that question, at any rate. That still leaves the whispering, yet exploding trees. They don't seem like they possess the best of intentions, Gronok thinks.
* * * * *
Phiali, unwilling to part with his treasured water receptacle, sees if he can hold the old and battered bucket closed.
Probably not, he guesses, as he would probably have to set it down at some point. Not to mention that the holes in the thing are a bit too numerous to hold closed with one's hands, which means that Phiali might get wet. And that's not a good thing. Better look for bucket repair supplies or something. He goes on to survey the houses for anything useful.
After about half an hour of searching, he locates some silvery metal! A thin, large sheet of it, to be exact. It was propped up against one of the walls in one of the less ruined houses. This could certainly come in handy.
* * * * *
Lars understands that this priestly fellow probably should be killed quickly, otherwise there might be trouble. He sees two rather ordinary-looking people and decides that they'll probably do.
"You two! Come with me! The rest of you, get flammable things and set this abominable place alight!"
"Will do!"
The two guys with torches run after him while the rest start looking for flammable stuff.
[Lars pursuit roll: 2]
[Priest escape roll: 3]
Lars and company run into the passage the priest took, but can't seem to find the guy. He does get the feeling that the sneaky fellow's nearby.
[Lars pursuit roll: 3]
[Priest escape roll: 3]
He and his band of helpers run down a hallway, cross a few intersecting tunnels and kick open a few doors. At certain points, they hear something run from them, and they realize that their quarry isn't far away.
[Lars pursuit roll: 1-->1]
[Priest escape roll: 2]
After a moment, they find their quarry!
It isn't the priest. Rather, it is a guard.
"Ah! You guys! I was looking for you!"
* * * * *
Shashari doesn't entirely defer to the judgement of this Hazutiim. After all, if he lives in a tree, surely he can't be that smart.
"Pfah! Ash'Mah is the One True God, and Water is one of her favorite things."
"The sun is one of my favorite things, but I cannot influence its rise and fall each day."
"...who's this Hazutiim anyway and why is he living in a tree surrounded by witches?"
"I'd rather not speak of it at this juncture. Hazutiim wouldn't like that."
Awfully secretive, this Hazutiim.
* * * * *
Elizas, having endeared himself to the crowd, moves on to the next step in today's agenda.
"Now we must purge the world of sinning philistines! Tell me my comrades, where are the heretics?"
"Hold up there, buddy! What's all this purging talk?"
"Yeah, purging is what Kezilamites do!"
"Ain't there a better way to deal with 'em? After all, they've got sharp swords and lotsa people."
"And fire! Lotsa fire!"
"Can't we just have a drink with 'em?"
"I don't think they drink, Hizin!"
"Good for them! More for us, then!"
The rest of the patrons seem to agree that this is a very good thing and resume drinking, some still humming the tune they just heard.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on May 19, 2013, 02:36:03 am
Just a question, lord. Why me? Why choose me?
Ooh, look. The sky is in thrice half twister now.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 19, 2013, 06:44:52 am
Line the inside of the bucket with the silvery metal. Pour water in. See what happens.
Post by: Tiruin on May 19, 2013, 07:05:03 am
Also, yellowgreen text :3))
Post by: Toaster on May 19, 2013, 10:48:17 am
Lars stopped and pointed directly at the guard.
"Sinner! Throw down your weapons and renounce your false god! Bow to the One True God or taste the flames!"
Convert the heretic! If he doesn't, the three of us with torches should be sufficient to set him on fire.
Post by: Xantalos on May 19, 2013, 04:36:25 pm
Post by: TCM on May 19, 2013, 04:38:39 pm
Elizas takes a break from his conversion work to get so smashed he's practically asking for a message from God while unconscious.
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 22, 2013, 02:52:39 pm
Gronok, confronted with the oddly ogre-like though nonetheless blindingly luminous and transcendent visage of Mo'kar the Teacher, his guide and teacher in life, can't help but feel a bit embarrassed at not having recognized the Illuminator By Fire.
"Oh! Sorry I didn't recognize you; I was busy being the sky," he says, wondering why the moon tastes like star-butter mixed with earth-tears. It's probably an interesting story. Sadly, he, lacking any structure beyond a vague shape formed by a creative mind when looking at chaotic waves of soap bubbles, cannot quite comprehend what it might be. He does know one thing, though - the ending is quite underwhelming. Isn't it always? But wait! Is that a question flying out of the dying sun?
Why, it is! Wonder what it is?
"Just a question, lord. Why me? Why choose me?"
Mo'kar looks at the reasonable question with kindly, sweet eyes, giving it a pat on the head, then whispering in its air-ear. The question then goes to heaven, where all the good ones go.
"It's funnier that way."
Oh. That's okay, then.
"Ooh, look. The sky is in thrice half twister now," Gronok says, allowing the sky to lull him into the wondrous sleep of babes.
When he opens his eyes, the world is still spinning and the light is quite blinding. There is also quite a lot of pain.
"Oh, good. You're finally up."
Mo'kar? You're still here?
* * * * *
Phiali takes the silvery metal and tries to line the inside of the rotten old bucket with it.
[Craftsmanship roll: 2]
Sadly, bending metal with his bare hands is a skill Phiali has yet to master. Particularly with any degree of precision and usability.
* * * * *
Lars, confronted with a heretic, tries to convert him to the true ways of divinity!
"Sinner! Throw down your weapons and renounce your false god! Bow to the One True God or taste the flames!"
"Um, okay. I'm bowing before the One True God and all that."
He does it, too. Clearly he is one of the faithful. He even takes off the white robe, revealing rather reasonable-looking clothes underneath.
"Do I really have to throw down my sword, though? It would be easier to stab other, less intelligent guards while possessing it is all I'm saying. I could even hold a torch in the other hand. Then I'd be like some kind of divine commando or something."
* * * * *
Elizas decides that getting totally pissed does indeed take precedence over the nationwide religious revolution. God would want it that way.
"... Fine. Bartender, give me your strongest stuff!"
The barkeep, who was most certainly among the men quite moved by the song, kindly provides some sort of beverage.
"Free of charge for you, but be careful with it. Real strong stuff."
Elizas nods, opens the bottle and commences the chugging. The drink is a spirit of some kind, but Elizas hasn't drunk its like yet. Must be a local distillate.
This works in his favor, actually, as he is but a junior alcohol abuser and it takes him only about a quarter of the bottle to get as wasted as the day is long. After his final chug, he throws the bottle back to the bartender, then falls face-first on the floor.
He dreams of a crowded pub very much like the one he passed out in. In fact, it's actually the same pub, he'd say. He appears to be sitting at a table with three beautiful women and plenty of Azlippean wine. He takes a sip and chats the women up, and in but a short while they are quite taken with him. They seem to quite agree with his views on the obsolete nature of monogamy in today's enlightened society and how a good drink is truly a magnificent social tool without peer. They laugh at his jokes, look thoughtful when he shares his philosophical insights and respond positively to his flirtations. After a bit of conversation, all three of them agree to join him in his quarters for tonight for a more in-depth discussion, the euphemistic meaning of which one can easily gather.
Well, as they go about their business in the quarters, Elizas comes to a rather disturbing realization when he embraces one of the women. It appears that she is not a woman at all, but a simulacrum cleverly made of jagged and splintery wood! How terrible. Though highly uncomfortable and full of splinters, not to mention quite naked, Elizas decides that he should perk up. After all, he's got two others left. He embraces the second woman.
She, however, is made out of poisonous snakes. They proceed to bite, hiss and slither most unpleasantly, of which, surprisingly enough, the latter bothers Elizas the most. Then again, now he's got five minutes or so left to live, and the last two of those will be spent in horrible agony. With this in mind, he moves on to the last woman. However, as he is pressed for time, he'll have to skip the foreplay.
When the last woman turns out to be made of white-hot iron, Elizas wishes he had been bitten by the snakes a few more times, to put it mildly. Fortunately, the agonizing pain does a good job of knocking him out. He wakes up in a bit, still face-down on the tavern floor. Looking around, he notices that most of the people seem to have gone off to their rest, leaving behind only a few of the most seasoned drunks and the barkeep.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 22, 2013, 03:36:51 pm
Particularly with any degree of precision and usability that goes beyond .That goes beyond what?
"Hm. Not aluminum or something so malleable...not sure why I would expect that, though."
Keep looking for bucket replacements or repairers.
Post by: Xantalos on May 22, 2013, 03:45:47 pm
Berries.
Drug berries?
Try to recover from hangover thing. Look around. Examine source of voice.
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 22, 2013, 04:54:13 pm
That goes beyond what?
Beyond something that I forgot to write and now corrected into appropriate nonexistence. Thank you for paying attention.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 22, 2013, 04:59:03 pm
Post by: Toaster on May 23, 2013, 12:48:32 pm
"Fine. Go on ahead, then! We'll be behind you."
Follow this dude out. Keep an eye on him for treachery.
Post by: TCM on May 23, 2013, 09:19:20 pm
Elizas heads out the bar and tries to locate the nearest Robber's Den/Thieves Guild.
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 25, 2013, 06:21:55 pm
Phiali, after musing loudly on the nature of the metal he has found, continues to look for help with his most distressing predicament.
Sadly, the area is pretty much a cute little corner of wasteland placed in the middle of a mostly wild forest. All in all, not the sort of place where you might expect help and actually get it. And there's no buckets he hasn't stolen yet either. What a drag this place is turning out to be.
* * * * *
Gronok, slowly trying to shake off his stupor, thinks about the visions he has received. He comes to the conclusion that they were probably a trip. And this is probably a hangover. A really, really bad hangover. His head hurts, his ears are ringing quite a lot and he seems to be having trouble seeing clearly.
He tries to get up, but his head spins him back down. He looks over at the voice of Mo'kar. It's a bit hard to see Him. It is the voice of God from his dreams, though. No doubt about that.
"You need help. I'll drag you to town."
Gronok stammers incomprehensibly as he is picked up by the arms and the dragging begins. It's a tad uncomfortable, but hey, Mo'kar could just as well not help him.
* * * * *
Lars, not really liking the looks of such an easy conversion, is cautious about the guard, nodding to him in a careful fashion.
"Fine. Go on ahead, then! We'll be behind you."
"Um, okay. Where?"
"Out."
"Alright, not a problem!"
He picks up his sword, then begins to lead the group back the way they came from, taking a shortcut occasionally.
"Okay, so... hang a right and..."
The group comes back out into the main hall. The mob seems to be doing well, starting rather nice fires with all the drapes available around here. Good for them.
Just then, a detachment of 4 armed guards burst in through one of the hallways, making a dramatic entrance over a raging bonfire! Naturally, they are still wearing their robes. Their unusually flammable robes.
[Kezilamite self-extinguishing rolls: 4, 6-->5, 1-->6, 2]
And only two of them are successful at extinguishing their respective flaming robes before the flames totally engulf them. The two less fortunate ones simply flail around ineffectually, suffering terrible burns. Even so, only one of the guards is quite ready to enter a defensive position. The other still seems to be a bit shaken.
* * * * *
Elizas, getting up from his less than comfortable position, realizes that he seems to be in a bit of a slump. Time to fix that. To the nearest organized crime facility he can think of! A Thieves' Guild! Yes!
As he walks down the street, he realizes that if organized crime does exist (and, as far as he knows, it does not), he's probably not going to find it by just wandering the streets or anything. Sure, there's thieves aplenty, but no sign of thieves' guilds. Or any robbers' dens with large, ornate signs pointing to them. Well, there is one sign that says "Thieves' Guild" on one of the buildings in one of the squares, but for some reason Elizas doesn't think it's strictly kosher. Maybe it's the fact that it actually has a sign. Other than that, nothing too obvious around.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on May 25, 2013, 06:26:56 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 25, 2013, 10:26:47 pm
Locate some sewing stuff and some large leaves. Sew a watertight leafy thing and put it inside the bucket. Put water in the bucket. See if it leaks.
Post by: TCM on May 26, 2013, 08:41:23 pm
Post by: Toaster on May 26, 2013, 11:02:22 pm
Slay the infidels! See them burn. Generally set things on fire.
Post by: IronyOwl on May 27, 2013, 12:35:48 am
Shashari put her hands on her hips, puffing out a bit.
"Hmph! Fair point, but how do you know this whatshername can control it either? Could've just been coincidence, or Ash'Mah doing something for his own reasons.
And why's this Hazutiim so secretive? He's saying oh we can't cross the water sprite just to follow the One True God but he's hiding in a tree? Awfully peculiar sense of priority, if you ask me. When is he going to come out or explain himself, if not now?"
Theology! Hazutiim!
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 28, 2013, 02:42:39 pm
As he is dragged through the plains leading to the now-middling city of Lazalam, Gronok tries to compose himself. He would presumably be successful, were his mind not under the continuous assault of an annoying ringing noise from his ears. This is certainly unlike any hangover he's ever had. Better petition Mo'kar for aid on this matter, or who knows what sort of dire straits he could find himself in. It's not like he has to look far, either - fellow's right next to him, apparently. Or a mile away.
"Oh, powerful and wise Mo'kar, enlighten me as you drag me through the plains, how long... will this... um... what was I going to say? I'm sorry, Great Teacher, but I completely forgot what I was going to pray for. Sorry to bother you."
As he stares at the sky, Gronok feels slightly inadequate. Not to mention that he hears a slight booming and echoing from when he spoke. And when was that, he cannot say. It's all a tad muddled. What does happen is that he stops at one point. Or at least he thinks he stops.
"Open these gates, my apostle. My prophet suffers from a terrible malady, and he must be let through at once!"
"At once, Lord, no speaker of the truth may be turned away from these gates, so says the will of God."
"You are a credit to your faith, Gatekeeper. Now, regrettably, I must be on my way with my charge. Rejoice that Mo'kar the Teacher has passed through your gate, and remember to spread the word."
And with that, the ground quickly becomes altogether more stony while also remaining altogether unpleasant to be dragged around on. However, in the hands of God, Gronok knows he's safe. It only takes a moment for him to land on something soft.
"Now, sleep, my prophet. Sleep and gather strength for a new day."
* * * * *
Phiali, quite determined to fix the fiendish water bucket that may or may not have possibly been actually useful once, looks for some sewing supplies to add to his existing ones. Unfortunately, there aren't any around. Fortunately, he still has some of his own. Now for some leaves!
He locates and rips a great many reasonable-sized leaves from a tree, then begins to sew a watertight sleeve from them. In a few minutes, he is done. It's a bit of a rush job and it took all of his remaining thread, but it should work!
[Craftsmanship roll: 1-->1]
However, a quick test reveals that it really isn't. Leaks water quite a lot, this covering of his. The thread's completely knotted and buggered somehow, not to mention that the watertight qualities he wished for proved a bit more difficult to achieve with these particular leaves. Yep, it's all the fault of the leaves, says he, and he'll passive-aggressively reprimand (as he can't actually fight) any who say otherwise.
* * * * *
Elizas, not feeling that this Thieves' Guild business is worth checking into, goes looking for something more accessible and understandable to the common man - a brothel. Should be at least one in operation, right? Wouldn't make sense if there wasn't. After all, what would all those poor people do with their lives?
Fortunately, there certainly is one that he can see - it appears to be a bit expensive from the outside, has a touch of high-class atmosphere, and it smells of rather nice flowers and fine wine. All in all, he could have definitely done worse in his search. Going inside, his suspicions are confirmed to be quite correct - a nearly aristocratic level of refinement permeates the place. The women are unusually attractive, the patrons look fairly wealthy, the wine is several degrees nicer than at the Temptations of Azlippus and they even serve snacks that look pretty decent. Oh, and there's a garden from the looks of it. And some form of bath house.
* * * * *
Lars lays out his intricate battle plan to the assembled harbingers of change.
"Slay the infidels! See them burn!"
The crowd seems pretty receptive to such a suggestion, and the single battle-ready guard finds himself being attacked by a full mob of riled-up torchbearers!
[God-Mob vs. Guards: 4+3 vs. 2]
Yeah, with fire behind them and fire in front of them, the guards didn't really stand a chance, did they? The ones who weren't burned become so in short order, then are summarily extinguished by a good round of old-fashioned trampling. They are rather finished, Lars would say.
However, just then, a loud voice comes from one of the other passages!
"Fire!"
Hey, that's Lars' line!
[Bow-Guards vs. God-Mob: 3+1+1 vs. 4+2-1]
Suddenly, seven arrows come flying at the mob! Unfortunately for the would-be attackers, the people of Kilnipom are a generally paranoid sort from their long association with Kezilam, so when they hear the word "Fire", they certainly know when that means a squad of archers and when it's merely priests having fun. They spread out along the room, avoiding the hail of arrows rather adequately.
* * * * *
Shashari, faced with an uncommunicative tree-dweller backed by a merely obstinate heathen of the more conventional kind, puts her hands on her hips and continues with some determined theology and provocation.
"Hmph! Fair point, but how do you know this whatshername can control it either? Could've just been coincidence, or Ash'Mah doing something for his own reasons."
"Well, yes, certainly. But it doesn't change the fact that I and Hazutiim have served the lady of the river our whole lives, and nothing bad has happened to us yet. At least, nothing river-related. And that one time I asked another traveler about what's happening elsewhere, he told me there was a flood recently! A flood of all things! Clearly they hadn't done what we did, you see. If they had, there wouldn't be a problem."
"And why's this Hazutiim so secretive? He's saying "oh, we can't cross the water sprite just to follow the One True God", but he's hiding in a tree? Awfully peculiar sense of priority, if you ask me. When is he going to come out or explain himself, if not now?"
"Oh, he isn't going to come out. He doesn't talk to strangers. Or heathens. Especially both. He's a bit inflexible that way, happens with age," the heathen says, making sure to lower his voice at the end.
"But anyway, tell me more of your god. What else does Ash'Mah do? And why is a young girl his prophet? Not to mention a woman-voiced man."
"Hey! I'm not a prophet. I'm a guide! And sort of faithful, I guess."
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 28, 2013, 03:11:34 pm
Grab some more big leaves. Put them along the weaknesses in the bucket-covering. Pour water in. If I get enough leaves in the bucket along the breaks, cohesion and adhesion will "glue" the leaves to the bucket with a watertight seal. (Sealed with water. Yeah, water is really weird, and that's not the half of it.)
Post by: IronyOwl on May 28, 2013, 03:27:31 pm
Oh, but yes! Ash'Mah the Serpent is the One True God. I became His prophet through a vision, well, maybe more of an experience. What do you call it when you suddenly get really inspired and start cackling madly while making glass figurines of everything great in your village?
Anyway I did that, and in so doing so affirmed my superiority to my home and confirmed my devotion to Ash'Mah, God of Coveting Everything You Want. She teaches us to claim that which we desire, like I did with this strong ram and this nice guy with a gorgeous singing voice.
He also likes water and, uh... I'm not entirely sure otherwise. I'm still not a master of everything She likes. Oh but I think He likes watching heathens burn, I, uh... I'm not going to burn you or anything, I just thought I should mention it."
More theology.
Post by: Xantalos on May 28, 2013, 03:54:49 pm
Sleep.
Post by: Toaster on May 29, 2013, 09:27:53 am
"Heretics of the false Kezilam! Throw down your arms and repent or taste the burning flames of the One True God!
He then spoke quietly to the three with him.
"See if you can get around behind those archers..."
Intimidate guards. Attempt flanking.
[Craftsmanship roll: 1-->1]
I think this sums up the whole bucket enterprise. GM, pity good roll for him!
Post by: Harry Baldman on May 31, 2013, 03:50:39 pm
Phiali, having successfully buggered the entire leaf-sleeve enterprise so far, tries to form a watertight seal! With water! But for this, he will need more leaves, which prove easy to find, considering that this is indeed a forest that he's almost stranded in. Now to work some magic!
[Craftsmanship roll: 2]
After putting more leaves in the bucket and hoping that works, Phiali comes to the conclusion that it really doesn't. Or maybe there's too many points where it leaks (almost every point, to be exact) for that to work. Or maybe cohesion and adhesion don't work like that. The fun part about engineering is that you never know! And sometimes you never get the opportunity to find out!
* * * * *
Shashari is not intimidated by the filthy heathen's anecdotal evidence. She takes his illogical viewpoint and presents her own view!
"Hmph! I've never done what you do either, I don't think, and I've never been flooded. I guess that does happen to old people, though."
"Oh, but yes! Ash'Mah the Serpent is the One True God. I became His prophet through a vision, well, maybe more of an experience. What do you call it when you suddenly get really inspired and start cackling madly while making glass figurines of everything great in your village?"
"Well, it's certainly inspiration of some kind, though-"
"Anyway I did that, and in so doing so affirmed my superiority to my home and confirmed my devotion to Ash'Mah, God of Coveting Everything You Want. She teaches us to claim that which we desire, like I did with this strong ram and this nice guy with a gorgeous singing voice."
"Hey! I'm not property! I'm-"]
"He also likes water and, uh... I'm not entirely sure otherwise. I'm still not a master of everything She likes. Oh but I think He likes watching heathens burn, I, uh... I'm not going to burn you or anything, I just thought I should mention it."
"Uh, one question. Is Ash'Mah male or female? It's just that it's getting a bit-oh, nevermind. Anyway, it does seem interesting that you haven't been flooded and that you feel inspired, even. And I am also quite glad you won't burn me. Burning really hurts."
"I know, right?"
"Yes, verily. Still, I suppose it does come down to which god is better. And there is no better way to determine this than a show of power. Show me and Hazutiim that you can control the river, and we - well, I, at any rate, shall convert."
* * * * *
Gronok feebly thanks Mo'kar and fades into blissful sleep. Though it's not all that much like sleep - Mo'kar is still here, he knows. And the city is still the same, though a bit different in some way. Less... blissful. He flies through the cityscape, observing all that lies beneath him with a wise eye. The one he seeks, the Mocker, lies somewhere around here.
"That I do."
And he needs to find this fellow.
"That you do."
But why?
"Disobedience toward the wise one."
And how?
"Defiance of the true speaker. Punishment is to be delivered."
Suddenly, there is a wall. A large wall with some writing on it. Concentrating for a moment, Gronok can make out what's written on it: "ALL WILL DROWN", scrawled by an unsteady, yet seemingly incredibly determined hand.
"All who sin must burn. But the very special few, they must drown slowly in blood. Such is the retribution of the wise one."
The dream seems to repeat itself several times, becoming ever more a chaotic jumble until only a few words remain. The message remains clear enough, however.
"Drowned in blood, the sins are washed clean of this earth."
Eventually Gronok wakes up. He feels better. Quite a bit better, though there's still a bit of fogginess.
"Feeling better?"
* * * * *
Lars ducks down as arrows fly overhead, then goes for an intimidation attempt!
[Intimidation roll: 3]
"Heretics of the false Kezilam! Throw down your arms and repent or taste the burning flames of the One True God!
The guards don't seem very responsive aside from somebody laughing loudly.
"Who is the heretic here, fool? You stand in the home of the goddess, infidel!"
Predicting that not all Kezilamites are quite as easy to convert as the one in his personal guard, he explains a battle plan to his retinue of three people in a hushed voice.
"See if you can get around behind those archers..."
They nod and move out in the crowd, who appear to be advancing on the guards menacingly.
[Retinue flanking roll: 3]
However, they don't seem to be able to get in too advantageous of a position, only managing to creep up from a side that has a few less guards.
[Retinue vs. Bow-Guards 1 and 2: 3+2 vs. 4+1]
And they can't even get too close, as the archers soon have prepared another volley.
[Bow-Guards vs. God-Mob: 2+2 vs. 1+2]
They shoot down about two mob members before the whole group bears down on them!
[Bow-Guard retreat vs. God-Mob speed: 5 vs. 6]
As the mob closes in, the archers try to quickly vacate their shooting spot, but the mob members are too fast!
[God-Mob vs. Bow-Guards: 4+3 vs. 1+2]
All seven of them are set on fire, and four are immediately trampled to death!
[Bow-Guard self-extinguishing rolls: 1-->5, 1-->4, 1-->5]
Considering that they were in the middle of a retreat as they were set on fire, they don't notice they have this combustion problem until it's too late, that is, until they are rather difficult to put out. So three flaming guards and what looks like a priest, though a different one than the one from before, quickly beating a brave retreat and rapidly disappearing into the passages leading further into the temple.
For a moment, everything is quiet apart from the screaming, burning guards, who are put out of their misery by the merciful crowd. Then everything becomes real quiet in the temple.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 31, 2013, 05:23:20 pm
Search the jungle for a gourd or something else hollow to put water in.
"Why is this town so devoid of water-carrying objects, anyways? No one had a spare waterskin or barrel?"
Post by: Xantalos on May 31, 2013, 06:03:58 pm
"Yes, much better."
He looks at the origin of the voice.
"Who are you?"
Post by: IronyOwl on May 31, 2013, 06:23:11 pm
Oh, and Ash'Mah is both. If there was anything He liked about one gender or the other, She'd have taken it, right?"
Technicality?
Post by: TCM on May 31, 2013, 06:28:46 pm
"Greetings! I am a musical prodigy from an exotic land, and would like to offer your patrons and employees a night of fine quality guitar playing in exchange for a reasonable commission."
Elizas offers to get a job for the night at the brothel.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on May 31, 2013, 07:29:23 pm
Elizas offers to get a job for the night at the brothel....
I know that's not what you mean, but still...
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 01, 2013, 04:04:09 am
Gronok groggily got up.
"Yes, much better."
He looks at the origin of the voice.
"Who are you?"
It looks to be Onon, actually, though his shape is a bit hazy.
"What, you don't remember? I'm Onon! The person you both named and saved from imprisonment!"
That clinches it, then. Onon it most certainly is!
"Oh. Um. Oh! Haven't I already, constructing that bridge like that?
Oh, and Ash'Mah is both. If there was anything He liked about one gender or the other, She'd have taken it, right?"
"Oh no. You most certainly haven't. If anything, you have only tempted the wrath of the river maiden by attempting to step over her works. To demonstrate your control of the river and attunement to it, you will have to swim it. Swim over it, then swim back. Also, good to know about your god's... interesting state."
Elizas proceeds up to whomever looks like the manager of this fine institute.
"Greetings! I am a musical prodigy from an exotic land, and would like to offer your patrons and employees a night of fine quality guitar playing in exchange for a reasonable commission."
Elizas offers to get a job for the night at the brothel.
It's difficult to spot anybody fitting that description. Perhaps they're not around this particular room. There are a few guards, though.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 01, 2013, 06:28:41 am
"Hm...did I try this already? Well, can't hurt to look again."
Search the jungle for a gourd or something else hollow to put water in.
"Why is this town so devoid of water-carrying objects, anyways? No one had a spare waterskin or barrel?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 01, 2013, 06:32:47 am
...Was that the turn?
Your turn doesn't count because it has an action. When a turn only has talking in it, I try to process it immediately in order for the actual turn to have, you know, an action. I've been kind of forgetting to do this lately. I took some liberties with TCM's action because he didn't post for last turn and it's a bit elementary for an action, anyway.
After all, no sense in wasting a turn when you just turn to somebody and ask who they are. Dialogues would take forever in that case.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 01, 2013, 10:19:21 am
Post by: Xantalos on June 01, 2013, 12:34:49 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on June 01, 2013, 12:48:01 pm
"Oh no. You most certainly haven't. If anything, you have only tempted the wrath of the river maiden by attempting to step over her works. To demonstrate your control of the river and attunement to it, you will have to swim it. Swim over it, then swim back. Also, good to know about your god's... interesting state.""Oh. Well. I can do that," Shashari said, a little nervously.
Go inspect the river's swimmability.
Post by: TCM on June 01, 2013, 02:19:11 pm
Post by: Toaster on June 01, 2013, 02:26:31 pm
"Children of the One True God! You have done very well, but the test is not yet over! We must scour every corner to destroy every last trace of this Kezilamite stench from Kilnipom! Keep searching, and keep your fire at hand!"
Encourage the masses, then go after that priest with my entourage.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 01, 2013, 03:32:43 pm
"Ah, my apologies, my vision was a little blurry. Where are we?"
"We're in... what was it... Lazalam, I think? Yes, Lazalam. And I suppose it makes sense if your vision's a bit blurry - you hit your head. I think you fell out of a tree when we ate those berries. There was quite a bit of blood, and you were babbling a lot. You're safe now, though - well, as safe as one in a pile of hay can be."
Post by: Xantalos on June 01, 2013, 03:35:25 pm
Stand up and look around.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 03, 2013, 03:10:10 pm
Phiali, his clever water retention plan having failed due to circumstances beyond his knowledge, goes and looks for a natural bucket alternative. Where the works of man have failed, Mother Nature will provide! That is, unless it, too, hates his internal components for some heretofore undiscovered sin.
Rather unfortunately, it doesn't look like gourds are naturally occurring around these parts. At least not that he can see. Maybe there's some kind of camouflaged gourd that's impossible to see or something, but still, it's likely that there aren't any around. And neither is there anything else immediately obviously hollow he could harvest easily and utilize to his own ends.
Well, could be worse - Mother Nature could be actively seeking his death rather than just be completely unhelpful at the present time.
* * * * *
Shashari, a quest handily obtained from the heathen, goes back to the river and takes a good, hard look at it. If she's going to have to swim this, she really should make sure there aren't crocodiles in it. Or worse, hippos. That would certainly ruin her day. Anyway!
Well, it's certainly a river, she'd say. It flows and it's full of water. It isn't too wide, she'd say, about ten meters across at this point. While this is certainly wider than at the bridge that's out, it still isn't too wide.
"Hey, that doesn't look too bad. Still, there's probably more to it than that - if it was easy, why would that guy say it was some kind of heroic thing to do this?"
* * * * *
Elizas, seeing how the owner's not really around to be spoken to, at least as far as he can see, goes up to a guard.
"Greetings! I am a musical prodigy from an exotic land, and would like to offer the patrons and employees a night of fine quality guitar playing in exchange for a reasonable commission," he says to him, hoping that these guards aren't complete philistines for once.
The guard sizes him up for a moment.
"Are you any good? Play a tune or two. We get wannabes here all the time. It's gotten tiresome, to be honest. If you're good enough, we'll tell the owner about you. Sound agreeable?"
* * * * *
Lars, hearing everything go quiet, tries to inspire the masses once more!
"Children of the One True God! You have done very well, but the test is not yet over! We must scour every corner to destroy every last trace of this Kezilamite stench from Kilnipom! Keep searching, and keep your fire at hand!"
And the masses begin searching, heading down several different passages to look for the foolish heretics. Lars and his three companions take the way the priest ran off, hoping to find him before he causes any trouble.
However, it's a veritable maze of passages, many of them seemingly leading in circles. Lars manages to not get lost, fortunately enough, though it's also clear that wiping out the rest of the Kezilamites will be more difficult than he imagined. In many ways it's like a rat warren, though in this case the rats are far more heavily armed than usual.
* * * * *
Gronok, having received important details on his location and other things, remains positive despite his head injury.
"Well, that's good. Now, let's get to it, shall we?"
He gets up from the snug pile of hay he has been laying in for quite a while and is overcome by a wave of nausea and dizziness that forces him back to the pile.
Okay, so maybe he's not quite as well as he'd like. Looking around the room, Gronok becomes rather convinced of the fact that this is a stable. Probably because of the fact that there's a lot of horses in here. And the smell is rather unmistakable. It's pretty spacious, Gronok has to say, and the atmosphere, though it smells strongly of horse, not entirely unpleasant.
"Need anything? Food, drink, people to talk to? I could find something. Or somebody, if you want."
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on June 03, 2013, 03:24:56 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 03, 2013, 03:26:41 pm
Turn 59 - The Warren of Kezilam the Awesome - Wherein the GM has lost his D6
Oh, I used it quite a bit, actually.
I do love hidden rolls.
Post by: Toaster on June 03, 2013, 03:28:28 pm
Post by: Xantalos on June 03, 2013, 03:30:14 pm
Post by: TCM on June 03, 2013, 05:09:04 pm
Elizas plays the guards a classic folk song from his homeland on his guitar, "I'm Actually A Traveling Prophet Whose Ulterior Motive In Getting This Job is To Influence the Minds of Everyone Here With Subliminal Lyrics in All of My Songs".
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 03, 2013, 07:59:37 pm
((When did I begin the Quest for Water?))
Post by: IronyOwl on June 04, 2013, 04:08:03 am
"...well thanks, here I was getting all optimistic. Still, I guess it's good to keep that in mind. Okay, nothing looks wrong, so unless there really is a water sprite or something..."
Wade into the water a bit to get used to it.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 04, 2013, 04:37:34 am
"Why is there nothing to help me on this?"
((When did I begin the Quest for Water?))
Your rhetorical question goes unheard by anyone!
Plus you've been at this since turn 43.
What we need is to find the Enemy who dwells here...but first we need to start converting. Some food and water would be nice, if you could retrieve it for me.
"So... food and water, then. Do you want me to bring anything else? What about methods? Anything I should not do to attain said things, Great Prophet?"
Post by: Toaster on June 04, 2013, 07:47:25 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 04, 2013, 08:10:39 am
Lars looked at his companions. "What do you know of the layout of this temple?"
The ex-guard pipes up immediately.
"Oh, quite a bit, actually - I lived here, you know. I'm pretty sure the others are all hiding in their little cubbyholes, hoping to ambush us all when we go looking for them, maybe set up a whole lot traps - fiery ones, mechanical ones, pitfalls and such - then hope to thin our ranks while we're separated enough to be able to take us down. After all, right now, unless I've missed my mark, we outnumber the guards two to one. And there's four priests as well - some of them are bound to have gone to the reliquary, I'd say - that's deeper down this way. The others are probably skulking in the hallways hoping to catch a lucky break. So we really shouldn't be running after them - some of those traps are really nasty."
"I could lead you to all sorts of places - the library, the dungeons, the icon halls, anywhere at all, even the tombs. But like I said, several of them are probably protecting the reliquary. There are three exits to the place - one is the main entrance, another is the prisoners' gate, through which prisoners are led in, and the third is the goods entrance, where food and supplies are brought in. Is there something specific you want to know about the interior?"
Post by: Toaster on June 04, 2013, 08:47:59 am
"Is the reliquary the priest headquarters or something? Is there an armory, or a treasure room?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 04, 2013, 09:08:09 am
Lars thinks for a moment.
"Is the reliquary the priest headquarters or something? Is there an armory, or a treasure room?"
"Oh, the reliquary... well, the correct term is reliquary room, but we often skip the 'room' bit, is the treasure room - that's where they keep the Sacred Flame, among other things. And yes, we do have an armory - it's on the other side of the temple from the dungeon, near the reliquary, actually. So that the faithful don't have to move far to get the weapons to guard the more important things. A matter of efficiency, really."
Post by: Toaster on June 04, 2013, 09:09:15 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 04, 2013, 09:45:52 am
"Can you take us to the armory? Pitchforks and torches only go so far. Plus, if there are guards in there, we don't want them coming behind us when we storm the reliquary..."
"Sure, but I think we'll need more than 4 people to get through whatever's on the way over there - they are bound to have people watching the tunnels, plus they've had time to lay traps now. Though too many people aren't needed either - they've still got the advantage over us in narrow hallways."
Post by: Toaster on June 04, 2013, 09:47:09 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 04, 2013, 09:49:17 am
"Okay, we'll find some others. Do you know of any guards that are likely to turn?"
"No, not really. I only turned because I got forced into doing this guard thing - was the fourth-born son, you see - and if the others have got similar circumstances, they haven't talked to me about it."
Post by: Xantalos on June 04, 2013, 09:50:53 am
Post by: Toaster on June 04, 2013, 10:00:06 am
Gather up others for a final assault.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 04, 2013, 02:58:24 pm
Look again in the houses for anything which could hold water, repair a bucket, or be of sufficient value/interest to earn some MP. Hope that God rolls the dice instead of assuming I find nothing. Hopefully, I'll find something interesting...hm, actually interesting might not be a good thing...
Post by: Toaster on June 04, 2013, 03:04:27 pm
It is pitch dark inside. You are likely to be eaten by a grue.))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 04, 2013, 03:16:51 pm
((You enter a house... and fall through to the rotted-out basement.((>Light Torch))
It is pitch dark inside. You are likely to be eaten by a grue.))
Post by: Parisbre56 on June 04, 2013, 03:19:11 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 04, 2013, 03:23:47 pm
((Don't you have that receptacle? Why don't you use that to carry water?))
Probably because it's shiny! And worth MP!
Prophets don't share, you see.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 04, 2013, 03:25:31 pm
((Don't you have that receptacle? Why don't you use that to carry water?))((I don't want her to think I stole it. Besides, that's my backup plan.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 06, 2013, 05:22:48 pm
Elizas, being quite ready for his audition, takes out his guitar and starts to play this beautiful ditty he thought of just now, "I'm Actually A Traveling Prophet Whose Ulterior Motive In Getting This Job is To Influence the Minds of Everyone Here With Subliminal Lyrics in All of My Songs".
[Vocal music roll: 2+1]
He plays three chords.
"I'm actually a traveling prophet whose ulterior motive in getting this job is to influence the minds of everyone here with subliminal lyrics in all of my songs," he nonchalantly narrates.
"Was that the song?"
Elizas plays the same three chords.
"Maybe?"
"You get points for honesty, I suppose. Got any other routines? Might be possible to take this prophet thing places."
* * * * *
Shashari scowls at her faithful yet pessimistic companion.
"...well thanks, here I was getting all optimistic. Still, I guess it's good to keep that in mind. Okay, nothing looks wrong, so unless there really is a water sprite or something..."
"Or predatory fish or something."
Yes. Or predatory fish. Of course. Shashari begins to wade into the water.
[Strength roll: 4]
There are some really strong undercurrents in this river - thing's more treacherous than a paternal grandmother with a chip on her shoulder. It takes quite a bit of balance to not get swept off her feet as soon as she steps into the dark water. And this river gets really deep really fast from the looks of it. In fact, it doesn't look to be quite your average ordinary river, to be honest. There's something awfully tectonic about its shape - it's less of a bed created by water washing stuff away and more like the mouth of hell itself opened up and had a nice drink of fresh spring water from the bleeding hearts of the nearby mountain sprites.
* * * * *
Lars, a plan of attack quickly forming in his mind, goes back to gather the people for an assault on the most sacred bits of the Temple of Amaliz Teze.
Unfortunately, most of them appear to have wandered off to places and whatnot. There's only two people left in the main hall, looks like.
Guess they took that searching directive really seriously.
* * * * *
Gronok has a nice chat with his non-brain-damaged companion.
"What we need is to find the Enemy who dwells here... but first we need to start converting. Some food and water would be nice, if you could retrieve it for me."
"So... food and water, then. Do you want me to bring anything else? What about methods? Anything I should not do to attain said things, Great Prophet?"
"Well, preferably nothing that gets you arrested. I doubt either of us has any money on our person."
"Well, I'll try to figure something out. Be back soon! Get well, Great Prophet!"
And so Onon leaves to seek out fortune and vittles for the hungry prophet. He comes back three hours later. Sadly, he is quite empty-handed.
"It turns out you can't get a whole lot of things legally without money. Who knew, huh? And begging doesn't work either. Loitering is punishable with ritual immolation now, apparently."
Oh dear. How barbaric.
* * * * *
Phiali, scarcely able to remember the now-distant times before he took on the quest for the bucket of water, tries once more to find something of use in the houses. He will wring some usefulness out of their worthless carcasses, this he swears! He will steal something suitably useful, yet not valuable and important enough to be successfully identified as not actually his property! And to do this, he shall abandon any standards! All that is even remotely valuable, he will consider it for personal use!
And he is successful! He finds a rather large leather hat. It is probably one of the uglier leather hats he's seen. In fact, it's only by the feathers on it and a bit of cloth wrapped around it that he can tell that it's not a bag of some kind.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on June 06, 2013, 05:26:06 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 06, 2013, 08:23:31 pm
"I give up."
Bring the water receptacle to the woman. Fill it first if it's not full. Hope that this works.
Post by: Toaster on June 06, 2013, 10:07:54 pm
Gather the peasants. Head toward the armory and grab anyone else on the way. Let the turned guard lead and look out for traps.
Post by: TCM on June 06, 2013, 10:18:49 pm
Elizas plays another tune for the guards, "Guards Are Really Cool People That Get Money and Women."
Post by: IronyOwl on June 07, 2013, 03:27:35 am
Try laying flat in the water, trying to stay above the undercurrents. See if I can successfully swim like that.
Post by: Parisbre56 on June 07, 2013, 05:27:42 am
Bring the water receptacle to the woman. Hope that this works.((Aren't you forgetting something? Shouldn't you put water in the hat before bringing it to her? You know, since the quest was a quest for water, not a quest for buckets, even though that's what it turned into.
I wonder what the old lady used to get water for herself...
Maybe she's a ghost. Boooooooh!))
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 08, 2013, 10:58:38 am
Well, if you can help me up I think I may be able to do something. First if all, is telling tales illegal?
"Probably not, though it also probably depends on the tale."
Post by: Xantalos on June 08, 2013, 11:01:26 am
Get Onon to help me up and take me to someplace elevated.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 10, 2013, 02:45:40 pm
Phiali, giving up on the completely terrible and broken bucket as a potential receptacle of water, fills up the copper water receptacle again and goes back to the house, knocking on the door. A very unattractive middle-aged man opens it, his face containing within it a very clear impression of general degeneracy that seems to metaphorically lunge at Phiali like a wild animal.
"What do you want?" he asks in a surly tone.
* * * * *
Lars gathers the three available peasants!
"Brothers, with me! We shall assault the heart of evil itself!"
He then begins to lead his glorious assault, picking up ten others as he walks through the halls, allowing the guard to lead the way around any obvious traps or optimum ambush locations! However, at one point the guard stops.
"Um, I think we might be surrounded."
Lars listens in. He doesn't hear anything at all. The other peasants look to each other and shrug as well.
"Yep, definitely surrounded. And they're coming this way. Be careful."
* * * * *
Elizas, seeing that the guards appear to be enjoying his musical stylings, continues with his next masterpiece, "Guards Are Really Cool People That Get Money and Women".
[Vocal music roll: 6-->4+1]
And what a song it is. Continuing the magnificent tradition of soaring, triumphant songs by the prophet, the song is an anthem celebrating all the virtues of the humble guard, beginning with their respect for duty, their toughness and steadfast refusal to admit strange people who may very well be harboring nefarious intentions, then expounds upon the fact that their job will, in fact, have a reward - money and women, delivered in this life or the next, but ultimately delivered. At the end of it, one guard is in tears. The other is also visibly moved.
"That was beautiful. Let me show you in."
He leads Elizas deeper into the building, coming into a room with a small, fat man reading a scroll while sitting on a large cushion.
"Um, sir, this man wants to speak with you."
The man looks up with his small, narrow eyes at Elizas.
"Yes? What is it you wish?"
* * * * *
Shashari, thinking of how to bypass the deathtrap formed by what could only be an opening to the underworld itself, comes to a decision.
"Hrm... well, if... maybe..."
Not a well-articulated decision, mind you, but a decision nonetheless. She tries to lay flat on the water and float.
[Flotation roll: 5]
It works perfectly, actually. The undercurrents only start deeper down, being undercurrents, Shashari realizes, so it should be a snap getting over the deadly river now that she's got the hang of it. Up top the current's no stronger than a mild pull.
"That certainly doesn't look all that bad."
* * * * *
Gronok understands the depth of his predicament, but also understands that there is no predicament his mouth cannot outrun, even if it has to leave his tender brain behind.
"Well then. Let's get going, shall we?" he says, indicating to Onon that he should come closer and help him out. And Onon does.
Good news is, he's feeling rather good now! He doesn't even get the urge to throw up incredibly intensely as Onon helps to lug his traumatized bulk all over town. On the way, Gronok points out his desire to get to someplace elevated. Unfortunately, aside from the tower of what is obviously a rather inhabited Kezilamite temple, they don't really see any particular elevations that look very dramatic and whatnot. There are some slightly steeper streets, sure, but that's mostly it.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 10, 2013, 08:16:47 pm
((That is what happened, right? It's been a while...))
Post by: Toaster on June 10, 2013, 10:01:07 pm
Post by: Xantalos on June 10, 2013, 10:10:20 pm
Announce my intention to tell stories. Question crowd as to what type of story they would like to hear.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 11, 2013, 03:33:39 pm
"Um...hello. Do you know where the old woman I was asked to bring water to is?"
((That is what happened, right? It's been a while...))
The man stares at you.
"Old... woman? I don't think there are old women here, unless you mean Azha. She's certainly not old, I would say. Hardly past thirty-five."
"How many of them are there? And how can you tell?"
"About... six to eight, I would say. And it comes with practice."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 11, 2013, 09:30:42 pm
Where did the Quest for Water start? I can't even remember what exactly happened.
Post by: TCM on June 11, 2013, 09:42:46 pm
Post by: Toaster on June 11, 2013, 10:30:16 pm
Advance cautiously, in the direction best indicated by the ex-guard.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 12, 2013, 12:35:13 am
Um...
Where did the Quest for Water start? I can't even remember what exactly happened.
Here you go, then. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=120963.msg4169491#msg4169491)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 12, 2013, 06:43:56 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 12, 2013, 07:12:44 am
"Ah. Don't tell her I said this, but she looks older. Anyways, do you know where she is?"
"She relieved me of my sacred watchman duty while I came home to have dinner. And I see she... delegated a duty to you as well. There will be words. Anything you can say to her, you can say to me. Tell me everything."
He reminds you of the woman in the woods, Zarah. Not in any physical way, mind you, just the way he speaks. He looks a bit unused to hearing his own voice.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 12, 2013, 07:17:31 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 12, 2013, 08:52:08 am
"Well, I'm Phiali; I'm trying to spread the Word of God, but failing. I came here, and almost thought this village was completely empty, then I saw this house, and met, um, Azha. She asked me to get water from the well with a bucket that seemed to be made more of leaks than wood. After fixing the well, failing to repair the bucket, failing to find something that could be used to fix the bucket or make a new container in the jungle, and then looking around for a container, I found this receptacle, got water from the well, and came back. I also wasted my supply of thread and stuff like that, but that doesn't seem important."
"I see. Where did you find your bucket or receptacle?"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 12, 2013, 05:18:32 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 13, 2013, 01:27:56 am
"Um...geez, it's been a while. You have no idea how long it's been since I started trying to get water for her. It feels like I've been at it for...close to one-third of how long I've been around. It's been a while. I might have had it when I got here, but I don't think I would have..."
"Ah. It just looked familiar. Never mind. Azha is at the top of the hill, if you wish to speak to her. Go ahead. Let her whisper conspiracies at you. I am far beyond the point of caring."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 13, 2013, 07:09:22 am
Head to the hill and ask Azha what she wanted with this water.
Post by: IronyOwl on June 14, 2013, 03:49:24 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 14, 2013, 04:17:58 pm
Gronok, feeling quite ready to take this show on the road, walks up the steps of the Kezilamite temple. Fortunately, there's a lot of people around. He addresses them all as he takes a seat at the top of the steps - that climb took a bit of strength to do, actually. It may have been only seven steps, but it sure felt like more.
"People of Lazalam!" he addresses the people. "There are many things in this world of ours that give us joy - love, food, devotion. But I find that one thing that always sets me in a good mood is a story. I'd like to pass that good mood onto you. What kind of stories would you wish me to tell?"
One person stops, turning to him, soon followed by several others.
"Ooh, stories. I like stories. Tell us about... um..."
"Tell us about the stars! Those are wonderful!"
* * * * *
Elizas, rather than explain his motivations and needs in words, adds a musical accompaniment in what is the third song of today - "I'm A Prophet And I Need A Job In This Cathouse".
[Vocal music roll: 6-->1+1]
He manages it rather nicely, getting the point across while also being incredibly bawdy and provocative about it! After all, you hire a bard for the voice, but you let him stay for the bawdiness. Maybe the profanities were a bit much, but Elizas nonetheless stands by his work.
"That's a very... interesting song. I suppose our patrons may like it, and more like it. Very well. You are hired. You will receive 15 tezerams a night, more than adequate pay for a bard. Is this agreeable?"
Alright! Once again, the day is saved by the miracle of working blue.
* * * * *
Lars, after consulting with his guard-guide, decides to let him lead the people for now.
"Very well. We must stay together as unto the flock of sheep - stray, and the wolves will come for you."
"Okay then, how about we go this way? Wait, wait. How about we... CHARGE!"
The guard runs in a certain direction, and Lars and the mob follow him at a sprint. They come upon four surprised-looking guards!
They look a tad too confused by the guard's yelling to get to slaying the infidels and whatnot.
* * * * *
Phiali, finally about to conclude his business with the buckets and put this chapter of largely miserable failure behind him, heads up the hill, bucket in hand. He reaches a stone structure up above. Azha appears to be sitting within it, chewing lazily on a dried piece of meat while looking intently at a hatch of some sort.
"Excuse me, but why did you want me to bring you water?"
She stares at Phiali for a moment expressionlessly, then resumes chewing. Once she's finished, she speaks with boredom.
"How is the well?"
* * * * *
Shashari, judging the river to be safe, swims safely to the other side! Man, this is actually pretty easy once you get the hang of it. She climbs out on the other side, a bit wet from the water of the hell-river, but otherwise completely unharmed. Wasn't so bad, really.
"Should I call the fellow over or do you want to swim back first?"
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 14, 2013, 05:12:42 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 14, 2013, 05:17:09 pm
"Fixed."
"How fixed?"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 14, 2013, 05:36:38 pm
"You can get water from it.""Fixed.""How fixed?"
Post by: IronyOwl on June 14, 2013, 06:42:11 pm
Post by: Toaster on June 14, 2013, 08:26:24 pm
Attack and burn.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 15, 2013, 06:19:44 am
"You can get water from it."
"Good. Hand me the bucket."
"Well... I suppose you might as well fetch him. Hopefully he'd just believe us, but I don't really want to do this again."
The Siren nods and runs off, leaving the ram behind. Moments later, he is back with the heathen.
"You appear to have crossed the river! How did you do it? How were you not swallowed up by the mouth of the goddess?"
Post by: IronyOwl on June 15, 2013, 02:15:36 pm
Paddle-float back to the other side.
Post by: Xantalos on June 16, 2013, 01:32:51 am
A very very long time ago, there was no blanket over the world. The earth was seared by the gaze of Almighty God as He looked down upon His world, only one of many. But His glory and majesty was too much for the world, for He is without limits and the world he made is limited in nature. What he glanced upon, was destroyed and made to ash. Only when His gaze moved on did the land regrow and repair itself. But God was not content to see just one part of His creation, and thus He looked upon it all at once, and it all burned under His gaze. Seeing this, and knowing that life would only grow if He were not to look, He looked away. And once the land had the gaze of God turned from it, it cooled and repaired. But God wished life to grow, and He did not look back. And far from God's sight, the world froze and withered, for it was made by Him and could not long sustain itself beyond His attentions. Knowing all, God placed a sheet over the world, and cut a hole in it and looked through it at the world. Thus only a fragment of His self was shown, and the world only slowly dried out wherever He turned his gaze. We know that opening as the sun. Seeing how when he looked for too long at the world it dried out as before, He turned His attention from it at night. However, unwilling to look from His creation, He made innumerable small holes in the canvas of the sky, and let His brilliance shine through. Thus were the stars made.
Talk.
Post by: TCM on June 16, 2013, 09:32:08 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 18, 2013, 02:37:11 pm
Phiali, having reached Azha, elaborates on the state of the well.
"Fixed," he puts it succinctly.
"How fixed?"
"You can get water from it."
"Good. Hand me the bucket," she asks. Phiali looks down at his receptacle of water. It's a rather pretty receptacle. Does he really want to hand it to this dusty, rather unpleasant woman?
* * * * *
Lars finds himself in his own element once more. It's rather lucky that the guards are there, all in all.
"Children of the One True God, burn the abominable heathens!"
Egged on by the prophet and the guard in equal measure, they charge at the four unfortunates in front of them!
[Mob vs. Guards: 6+1+1 vs. 2+1]
The four are quickly dispatched when the mob demonstrates the rather considerable flammability of their robes with great gusto and joy. There is a bit of screaming, but the kicks of the crowd soon silence it.
"Right, then! Now, that takes care of four, so we should probably move before they regroup and ambush us again. Or perhaps we can begin hunting them, though they could use this to lure us into traps. Any insights, sir?"
* * * * *
Shashari, having received an appropriate audience, gets to business.
"Haha! Your goddess' grip is lacking at the surface. Observe!"
She then performs her patented float-paddle-stroke back to the side the heathen is on. He looks quite horrified.
"Oh my! Such a technique I have never seen! Clearly, you must either be wise or insane, and considering that the goddess has not eaten you yet and spit your bones up, I would say it is the former! Amazing work, girl. I must tell Hazutiim of this!"
He runs back to the clearing, then comes back before Shashari has even considered following him. He then exposits excitedly at her.
"Hazutiim says that you are indeed touched by a minor deity of trickery at the very least! However, further testing is required to ascertain your deity's true superiority. And for that, I must blindfold you. And separate you from your companions. Are you prepared to take the greatest test?"
* * * * *
Gronok is pleased. These people are eating out of the palm of his hand thus far!
"Ah, you want to know about the stars, do you? Very well then."
He clears his throat in a dignified fashion, then commences the tale.
"A very very long time ago, there was no blanket over the world. The earth was seared by the gaze of Almighty God as He looked down upon His world, only one of many. But His glory and majesty was too much for the world, for He is without limits and the world he made is limited in nature. What he glanced upon, was destroyed and made to ash. Only when His gaze moved on did the land regrow and repair itself. But God was not content to see just one part of His creation, and thus He looked upon it all at once, and it all burned under His gaze. Seeing this, and knowing that life would only grow if He were not to look, He looked away. And once the land had the gaze of God turned from it, it cooled and repaired. But God wished life to grow, and He did not look back. And far from God's sight, the world froze and withered, for it was made by Him and could not long sustain itself beyond His attentions. Knowing all, God placed a sheet over the world, and cut a hole in it and looked through it at the world. Thus only a fragment of His self was shown, and the world only slowly dried out wherever He turned his gaze. We know that opening as the sun. Seeing how when he looked for too long at the world it dried out as before, He turned His attention from it at night. However, unwilling to look from His creation, He made innumerable small holes in the canvas of the sky, and let His brilliance shine through. Thus were the stars made."
"A very interesting tale, elder."
"Makes sense, too!"
"Yes, quite. Enlightening, one might say. Never thought about the stars that way. Or about Kezilam that way, either."
"I don't think he was talking about Kezilam."
"Why not? Sure, he may have used 'he', but what does gender mean to a god, anyway?"
Having expanded the minds of several people and provoked discussion, Gronok feels fulfilled once more. Like a hole in his soul has been mended and balance has returned.
People enlightened! 1 MP gained!
* * * * *
Elizas, accepting the job offer, chooses to head out into the courtyard of the building.
There are a whole lot of people outside, actually. Drinking, chatting up loose women, discussing today's happenings - all in all, looks like this place attracts an educated crowd.
[Vocal performance roll: 3+1]
Elizas then performs yet another soon-to-be-hit (possibly), "Here Is My Religion and Everyone Should Convert to It".
The message isn't all that nicely carried to the audience, but it makes for very good background music. Few more times and a subliminal effect may be achieved!
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on June 18, 2013, 02:51:52 pm
"How close are we to the armory?"
Post by: Xantalos on June 18, 2013, 04:37:22 pm
Are there any other tales you wish me to tell?
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 18, 2013, 09:25:30 pm
"One sec."
Take her literally: Go back to where I left the bucket, grab the bucket, and bring it back to Azha.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 20, 2013, 06:55:37 am
Lars looks to the heavens. While destroying the disgusting heathens was important, getting to the armory was still vital.
"How close are we to the armory?"
"Not too far, I'd say. Third turn on the left if we keep on going straight."
Gronok smiles benevolently.
Are there any other tales you wish me to tell?
"Yes, tell us the tale of God. Where did it come from?"
Post by: Toaster on June 20, 2013, 07:50:42 am
Continue to head for the armory. Dispatch targets of opportunity if doing so does not take us far off course.
Post by: IronyOwl on June 20, 2013, 03:08:33 pm
Accept test.
Post by: Xantalos on June 20, 2013, 03:09:05 pm
Post by: TCM on June 20, 2013, 06:38:49 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 23, 2013, 03:23:49 pm
Phiali decides to get smart with Azha and perform one of those brutally annoying 'exact words' things.
"One sec."
He waltzes out of the building, goes downhill, picks up the bucket he previously discarded and goes back to Azha, handing it to her, slightly winded from the downhill-uphill rush.
"Here you go," he says, giving her the decrepit old thing.
"Was it really worth it, running all that distance just to waste ten seconds of my time?"
"I'm a prophet. Wasting time is what I do. Don't question it."
"Very well. Hand me the copper bucket in your other hand that actually has water in it."
* * * * *
Lars, feeling that this whole thing begs for a quick resolution, comes to a decision.
"Then let's head there now. If we catch a small group on the way, we can ambush them, but otherwise we must focus on our goal, and break the power of these sinners."
The group affirms this decision, and they all follow the guard, keeping a lookout for any guards they might slay to keep their trip fun and profitable. However, none are in sight. Probably all hiding somewhere. Eventually they come to a hallway that seems to lead to a set of large, imposing metal doors with the image of a raging fire engraved on them. There looks to be a single guard in front of them.
"Well, that's the armory - turn left at that door and go down the hallway and there we'll find the reliquary room, also behind a similar-looking door."
* * * * *
Shashari, figuring there's no sense in delaying the inevitable, not to mention rather curious on what the test might be, accepts the filthy heathen's offer with an appropriate level of conviction.
"...er, I guess so...?"
"Very good! Now, if you don't mind," he takes out two blindfolds, putting one over Shashari's eyes and one over the Siren's.
"Have to prevent cheating, after all."
He then leads Shashari over rather uncomfortable patches of undergrowth for about half an hour before finally stopping and untying the blindfold. Shashari finds that she is in the middle of nowhere as usual, and pays it no further mind.
"Right, then. We're here! Time for your test."
Shashari looks at the heathen quizzically before she is unceremoniously shoved forward and the ground beneath her gives way, leading to a slight fall downwards.
[Shashari landing roll: 5]
Luckily for her, her survival instinct kicks in at just the right moment and she lands without injury of any kind. Looking around, she realizes that it is completely dark down here, with only a little bit of light shining in from about three meters above where she fell through.
"Now, your task is twofold! Find the most prized relic of the Goddess and find a way out! If you do this, you will have proven without a doubt the worth of both yourself and your god! Stay safe, now!"
Before Shashari can ask anything, she hears the rapidly leaving footsteps of the heathen. Hm. So this is the way they want to play it, eh?
* * * * *
Gronok smiles benevolently at the provoked discussion.
"Are there any other tales you wish me to tell?"
The listeners, now having gotten into a rather heated heart-to-heart, turn to him.
"Yes, tell us the tale of God. Where did it come from?"
Oh my. That's... an interesting request.
* * * * *
Elizas, having gotten into a comfortable groove, keeps on exercising those pipes while playing the guitar.
[Vocal performance roll: 3+1]
And he does certainly provide a good enough background track for the establishment. It's good in that unobtrusive, almost unnoticeable way. The patrons appear to be enjoying themselves, though the room empties over time as the occupants go off on to perform their... business in this building. At the end of the night, Elizas is left alone in the yard, having converted exactly zero people, though he has scored four tezerams in tips.
The owner approaches him, handing a small pouch of coins.
"Here are your fifteen tezerams. Not a bad job, keep at it."
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: IronyOwl on June 23, 2013, 03:28:55 pm
Speaking of which... was there actually a relic in here? Seemed like a strange place for it...
Wait for my eyes to adjust to the dark. Crawl forward to get out of the light if that'll help with that.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 23, 2013, 06:41:07 pm
Give her the bucket.
Post by: Toaster on June 24, 2013, 12:49:02 pm
Order the guard to surrender. Failing that, kill him with the group. Storm the Armory.
Post by: TCM on June 24, 2013, 01:42:48 pm
Post by: Xantalos on June 26, 2013, 03:56:23 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 26, 2013, 07:44:33 am
Post by: Xantalos on June 26, 2013, 02:25:30 pm
To clarify: The whole book of Genesis, or just the first chapter and a half or so?Which bit is where the world is created and organized and stuff?
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 26, 2013, 02:35:45 pm
Creation is darn near entirely contained within the First Chapter of Genesis.To clarify: The whole book of Genesis, or just the first chapter and a half or so?Which bit is where the world is created and organized and stuff?
Post by: Xantalos on June 26, 2013, 02:36:57 pm
Mine might be a tad longer.Creation is darn near entirely contained within the First Chapter of Genesis.To clarify: The whole book of Genesis, or just the first chapter and a half or so?Which bit is where the world is created and organized and stuff?
Post by: Persus13 on June 26, 2013, 05:00:28 pm
Well if you are talking about how humans were created, that is chapter 2.Mine might be a tad longer.Creation is darn near entirely contained within the First Chapter of Genesis.To clarify: The whole book of Genesis, or just the first chapter and a half or so?Which bit is where the world is created and organized and stuff?
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 26, 2013, 05:07:47 pm
Humanity, sure. Pretty sure Adam was in the First Chapter.Well if you are talking about how humans were created, that is chapter 2.Mine might be a tad longer.Creation is darn near entirely contained within the First Chapter of Genesis.To clarify: The whole book of Genesis, or just the first chapter and a half or so?Which bit is where the world is created and organized and stuff?
Post by: Xantalos on June 28, 2013, 02:33:48 am
While neither I nor any mortal can claim to know the true extent of God, we do know that He - or She - created the world, and all others. This is the basic truth that everyone knows, but there are details that are left out for the sake of translation. These details are what I reveal to you now.
In the very beginning, there was nothing. Absolutely nothing anywhere at all. But the very nature of nothing counteracted itself and before the nothing was conceptualized as anything, God was there. And God was everything there was.
Because time had not been invented yet, God floated - or the equivalent of floating, as floating did not exist - for an eternity in pure nothing. But eventually God's mind became bored with reflecting only God unto God, and desired to know something other than itself. So God willed something else to be, and the nothing was thrown back to create void. And the void was endless, but for God at it's center.
God loved the void. It was something new, it had substance, an analyzable property - three, no, four - more, where there where previously none! He analyzed its length and found it to be endless, and when She looked at its width and height, they too were endless. It wandered the void for ages beyond counting until God had explored every iota of it. And with full knowledge came boredom, for God now knew all, and with nothing new to learn, nothing new to figure out, God was bored once again.
There was naught else but God and void, and thus God willed substance to be, and in the process created all the concepts that come with substance of any sort -weight and all its derivatives, texture, color, reactions, solidity, permeability, and hundreds upon hundreds of other things. All were manifested in this thing that God willed to be - Time, Space, Attraction, Death, Life; all contained within a perfect sphere containing everything that exists today, whether it be rock, wind, water, war, love, birth, or death. And God looked into the Eternal Sphere, and saw everything there is, was, and shall be.
As with the last, God eventually knew every facet of everything He gazed upon. He knew all language, all permutation of the mating dance of the octopus tree of Glarnakitch, everything there was, but one thing.
He never saw anything be created. He had willed these things into existence, and they were existant by that measure, but She had never seen anything interact. Never seen anything created by the combination of two things. So with a force of will, He shattered the Eternal Sphere, and let everything within it pour out.
It was chaos. Everything clashing all at once! The sun scorched all too near it to ash, the wind took those ashes and blew them willy-nilly all across the tumbling things of creation, all out of place! But God did not intervene, for She had never seen anything interacting or combining as these had, so He watched and waited. Men tumbled and died in the void, great swooping hordes of locusts consumed all in their path, and eventually all was made dust. Eventually even the sun itself failed and died, and all the wonderful things that God had created were consumed again by the void. And for the first time, God was left unknowing.
The chaos had taught Him much, but it was all ended too soon, and God wished to see it happen again, but She knew that if He were to create another Infinite Sphere, the same result would occur, and God did not wish for that, for He had divined a most interesting possible future inside the Sphere - there would be Others. Others who would create in turn, and Their creations would in turn arise and spawn more creations, in an endless cycle of genesis, granting God the one thing She had desired since He became self aware - the possibility to always be learning. For that was why God continued to create, even seemingly pointless things - if He did not know what it was when it was created, then He could learn about it and what it was! And that was the sensation that God treasured above anything. And within the mysteries of infinity She had seen a way to make that wonderful future happen.
God took hold of the ashes that remained from the previous catastrophe and shaped them into a perfect ball. She saw how, despite it's geometrical perfectess, it was cold and dead, and He took a tiny, miniscule fragment of His infinite self and imbued the Earth with it to give it life. As God's spirit fused with the ground, it lit up as if in some great joy, and the thoughts that God had channeled into that fragment grew and grew and became the first life. Not even I know how this first being looked or what it did, but it is known that eventually it split into many different creatures after God placed the blanket over the sky to shield it from Her brilliance. Those thoughts that made up the first creature and were split up, one for each subsequent creature, multiplied as the creatures did, and eventually the world evened itself out to be as it is right now.
Gronok grins.
That is the ultimate truth - all that we are, everything that we ever do, say, or think - that which we call our soul - is but one thought of God. Everything in this world, from the smallest pebble to the mightiest wind, is but an expression of a thought of God. And that is why I worship God not under any particular name, be it Kezilam, Mo'kar, Hewantok, or any number of sacred syllables, but the true purpose that He made us for - She wishes us to become a God.
He has repeated the process He performed to create our world many times, and even now waits, hoping beyond hope that one of the myriads of worlds might finally yield its intended result - another like Her, that She may watch while It - or perhaps They, for perhaps multiple worlds will yeild a God - go through the cycle of initial creation, boredom, enlightenment, and world creation to spawn yet another generation of Gods, that He may examine their creations, and learn forever.
Gronok pauses for breath.
So, what do you think?
Explain creation mythos. Hopefully convert listeners.
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 28, 2013, 03:14:43 am
Shashari groans at the current, rather unfortunate state of events. She steps out of the light and lets her eyes adjust to the dark. After a short while, this does indeed happen, at which point she realizes that this is some kind of cave, though almost certainly not naturally formed. Too regular, she thinks.
There are four tunnels around her. One seems to lead... north, she guesses. In a north-like direction. At least she assumes that. Another leads west, going by the same logic. One leads east. And a final one leads south. She appears to have a lot of options here. She could go in either of those directions or she can stay here next to... a garbage pile of some kind, looks like. Or she could try to climb out, though she does have the oddest feeling about that. Almost like this dark, dank two-bit dungeon joint is where she needs to be for some reason.
* * * * *
Phiali, after a dramatic pause, hands Azha the copper receptacle of water.
"Alright. Here you go."
Azha takes the bucket and sets it down next to herself, taking a handful and washing her face with it. This slightly diminishes her sense of dustiness.
"A reasonably good job. Any thoughts? Or questions?"
Hm. Phiali gets a sense that he's done something right here, but also can't help but wonder if there's some way he could have done it better. As in, without giving up his only treasure of note.
* * * * *
Lars, ever the fair one, gives the guard the standard option. What kind of prophet would he be if he didn't?
"Heretic guard!" he shouts with utter conviction. "Throw down your weapons and surrender, or face doom! The power of the One True God is behind us! Your false Kezilam cannot save you!"
"Okay, okay," the guard says, calmly placing his weapon on the ground. "No need to shout like that, you know. I mean, I could yell for the guys in the reliquary to come over or heck, the priest and his entourage in the armory, but I don't suppose that would end well for me, would it? You'd burn me at the very least, and I, as a Kezilamite, have firsthand experience on how bloody painful that'd be."
He steps over to the group.
"So, what's this True God like, anyway?"
However, the people are too busy storming the armory to answer his question! However, the door is extremely locked. And reinforced. And made of metal. The rather cooperative guard pitches in once more.
"I could open that with the key I've got, I'm pretty sure. But you really don't want to go in there, guys. There's a bunch of people in there. Three guys, real elite-like people, and a priest. And these guys get crazy around priests, let me tell you."
* * * * *
Elizas decides to hit the streets of Berikalam, hoping to find a place to spend his precious time and money. Fortunately, such a place does indeed exist - the Ezitiim Oasis, a rather well-furnished and not too expensive inn not too far from Elizas' workplace! It's not overly populated, and what little clientele he can see at this hour look like the rather friendly sort, strangely enough.
The innkeeper, a fairly attractive woman in her mid-thirties, greets him when he enters, smiling at him politely.
"Welcome to the Ezitiim Oasis, stranger. Rooms are 2 tezerams a night for the common room, 7 tezerams a night for a private room."
* * * * *
Gronok, having spent a moment to think about this latest conundrum, lays out the tale of the world's genesis.
"Ah, so you wish to know about God, do you? Well, best sit yourselves down, for the tale is long in the telling.
While neither I nor any mortal can claim to know the true extent of God, we do know that He - or She - created the world, and all others. This is the basic truth that everyone knows, but there are details that are left out for the sake of translation. These details are what I reveal to you now."
The listeners lean in.
"In the very beginning, there was nothing. Absolutely nothing anywhere at all. But the very nature of nothing counteracted itself and before the nothing was conceptualized as anything, God was there. And God was everything there was."
"Because time had not been invented yet, God floated - or the equivalent of floating, as floating did not exist - for an eternity in pure nothing. But eventually God's mind became bored with reflecting only God unto God, and desired to know something other than itself. So God willed something else to be, and the nothing was thrown back to create void. And the void was endless, but for God at it's center."
"God loved the void. It was something new, it had substance, an analyzable property - three, no, four - more, where there where previously none! He analyzed its length and found it to be endless, and when She looked at its width and height, they too were endless. It wandered the void for ages beyond counting until God had explored every iota of it. And with full knowledge came boredom, for God now knew all, and with nothing new to learn, nothing new to figure out, God was bored once again."
"There was naught else but God and void, and thus God willed substance to be, and in the process created all the concepts that come with substance of any sort -weight and all its derivatives, texture, color, reactions, solidity, permeability, and hundreds upon hundreds of other things. All were manifested in this thing that God willed to be - Time, Space, Attraction, Death, Life; all contained within a perfect sphere containing everything that exists today, whether it be rock, wind, water, war, love, birth, or death. And God looked into the Eternal Sphere, and saw everything there is, was, and shall be."
"As with the last, God eventually knew every facet of everything He gazed upon. He knew all language, all permutation of the mating dance of the octopus tree of Glarnakitch, everything there was, but one thing. He never saw anything be created. He had willed these things into existence, and they were existant by that measure, but She had never seen anything interact. Never seen anything created by the combination of two things. So with a force of will, He shattered the Eternal Sphere, and let everything within it pour out."
"It was chaos. Everything clashing all at once! The sun scorched all too near it to ash, the wind took those ashes and blew them willy-nilly all across the tumbling things of creation, all out of place! But God did not intervene, for She had never seen anything interacting or combining as these had, so He watched and waited. Men tumbled and died in the void, great swooping hordes of locusts consumed all in their path, and eventually all was made dust. Eventually even the sun itself failed and died, and all the wonderful things that God had created were consumed again by the void. And for the first time, God was left unknowing."
"The chaos had taught Him much, but it was all ended too soon, and God wished to see it happen again, but She knew that if He were to create another Infinite Sphere, the same result would occur, and God did not wish for that, for He had divined a most interesting possible future inside the Sphere - there would be Others. Others who would create in turn, and Their creations would in turn arise and spawn more creations, in an endless cycle of genesis, granting God the one thing She had desired since He became self aware - the possibility to always be learning. For that was why God continued to create, even seemingly pointless things - if He did not know what it was when it was created, then He could learn about it and what it was! And that was the sensation that God treasured above anything. And within the mysteries of infinity She had seen a way to make that wonderful future happen."
"God took hold of the ashes that remained from the previous catastrophe and shaped them into a perfect ball. She saw how, despite it's geometrical perfectess, it was cold and dead, and He took a tiny, miniscule fragment of His infinite self and imbued the Earth with it to give it life. As God's spirit fused with the ground, it lit up as if in some great joy, and the thoughts that God had channeled into that fragment grew and grew and became the first life. Not even I know how this first being looked or what it did, but it is known that eventually it split into many different creatures after God placed the blanket over the sky to shield it from Her brilliance. Those thoughts that made up the first creature and were split up, one for each subsequent creature, multiplied as the creatures did, and eventually the world evened itself out to be as it is right now."
As the listeners look at Gronok, their mouths agape, the prophet grins.
"That is the ultimate truth - all that we are, everything that we ever do, say, or think - that which we call our soul - is but one thought of God. Everything in this world, from the smallest pebble to the mightiest wind, is but an expression of a thought of God. And that is why I worship God not under any particular name, be it Kezilam, Mo'kar, Hewantok, or any number of sacred syllables, but the true purpose that He made us for - She wishes us to become a God."
"He has repeated the process He performed to create our world many times, and even now waits, hoping beyond hope that one of the myriads of worlds might finally yield its intended result - another like Her, that She may watch while It - or perhaps They, for perhaps multiple worlds will yield a God - go through the cycle of initial creation, boredom, enlightenment, and world creation to spawn yet another generation of Gods, that He may examine their creations, and learn forever."
Gronok pauses, taking a deep breath, having had his say.
"So, what do you think?"
"You have very interesting thoughts, old man, and your story, though doubtlessly outlandish, has a ring of truth to it."
"So we'll eventually get bored and curious enough to create worlds of our own? And then we'll be gods?"
"Yes, imagine that! But still, doesn't sound entirely improbable for some reason. We already shape our own world. Creation is only a few steps away from that."
They then resume their discussions, most of them expressing approval of Gronok's story, when one of them turns back to Gronok.
"Say, old man, how would you like to come and stay at my home? I am eager to hear more, as are my friends and, I suspect, others as well."
People enlightened! 1 MP gained!
Successful conversion! 1 MP gained!
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on June 28, 2013, 06:25:39 am
When I ate the berries, Mo'kar had the voice of Onon. After we woke up, I was too hungover to move, but he apparently shook off the effect of what was described as quite a lot of LSD berries without any trouble at all, dragged me to the city, which I'm approximating was a mile or so away, and got through the gate of a Kelamazite city, mentioning Mo'kar, and apparently the guard was a follower. Unbelievable acts in itself, but when you combine it with the fact that he's been locked in a cell for 'well over 20 years', was the only one to follow me and not the strongman, and all that malnutrition can't have helped him, I think I may actually have me own god in disguise as an apostle.
Also, I think I have to kill Satjap.))
Gronok grins.
I thank you for your generosity! If I may, I will accept, so long as my companion may accompany me.
He gestures to Onon as he does so.
Accept house offer.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 28, 2013, 07:17:04 am
"Is there anything you want or need?"
Oh, right. Not much there. Well, he had brought her water; maybe she'll listen to him?
"Would you like to listen to a story?"
((Just finished reading the Creation Story a bit ago. Impressive.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on June 28, 2013, 07:37:22 am
Phiali has lived for years without any sort of riches; he's confident he can do so again. He's mostly glad he finished this annoying Quest for Water. He thinks for a moment, trying to remember what he said to Azha when he took this quest.
"Is there anything you want or need?"
Oh, right. Not much there. Well, he had brought her water; maybe she'll listen to him?
"Would you like to listen to a story?"
((Just finished reading the Creation Story a bit ago. Impressive.))
"To your first question, yes, but probably not what you can provide. To your second question, I would listen to it, but I do not guarantee that I may like it."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on June 28, 2013, 08:03:30 am
"Well, here's hoping that you do. It is a story that begins in a far-off land..."
Tell Phiali's story again, from the battle in which he discovered the True God to the present. Try to make the Quest for Water sound less...pathetic.
Post by: IronyOwl on June 29, 2013, 03:37:26 am
Post by: TCM on June 29, 2013, 04:42:26 pm
Say this smoothly enough in hopes that she gets this message, but still forward enough that if she doesn't agree to the second part, it will go over her head.
Post by: Toaster on June 30, 2013, 10:10:03 pm
"Bar the door. Leave them in there to rot. We will go on to the reliquary. Watch this man!"
Block up the door so the guards are stuck in the armory. Head on to the reliquary, with a couple burly villagers escorting the newly-turned guard.
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 01, 2013, 03:54:44 pm
Gronok decides to accept the gracious offer of a place of residence, but only on one condition.
"I thank you for your generosity! If I may, I will accept, so long as my companion may accompany me," he says, pointing to Onon.
"Certainly, I can easily accommodate the two of you," the man says. "Come with me."
He leads the two tired old men to a rather humble home located not too far away.
"Here we are. My home, now yours as well. I will not ask any money of you - it is fairly obvious you would not have much to begin with. Your rooms are on the second floor, follow me."
Gronok and Onon follow the man inside - their first impression of the house has turned out to be accurate, as it is indeed humble. It is also unusually rich in various scrolls and parchments from what Gronok can see. He reaches his room shortly - it has a single bed and a shelf, but little else. Good enough to live in, he supposes. The host points Onon to a near-identical room on the opposite side of the hallway.
"My daughters used to live there, but they have already married off, so these rooms have been empty for a while. Make yourselves comfortable."
* * * * *
Phiali, having found a receptive listener for his story, goes ahead and tries to tell his story... with certain... changes.
[Storytelling roll: 2]
"Well, here's hoping that you do," he says, taking a deep breath. "It is a story that begins in a far-off land. You see, there once lived a guy. He was fighting other guys, but then his guys got killed, and he didn't, so he figured killing people wasn't worth bothering with. Then this god started talking to him, and told him to go north for some reason - he guessed he had to if it was put that way. So he went through the desert with an idea - water is good. It was revolutionary and quite new, he realized, but he stuck with it, since God seemed to think water was good as well. God also didn't like war, so the guy asked him 'why not?' and God was all 'man, lots of people get killed in wars', so the guy went 'alright'. Then he hiked to this land, since God told him to, remember? So yes, he hiked all that way - boy, did his feet hurt a lot after that - and he met a bunch of people. He was like 'worship my god' and they were like 'no', so he went 'why not?' and they went 'there's these other guys, go beat them up', but the guy was a pacifist, see, so he couldn't just beat them up. That would be, like, a religious war. Sorta. So he tried to go for an moral victory over the nasty other guys, but they were all 'no'. And boy, did the guy try. He tried hard. He even got stabbed a bit, but that's okay, because he had God to help him out. God's kind of nice that way. But those guys, the nasty ones, I mean, wouldn't be beaten morally. So the guy cut his losses and looked for a place to get cheap miracles from, maybe some food and stuff. He found this crazy lady in the woods and told her the story, but she didn't like God for some reason. She was pretty nasty, too, though she didn't stab him like the others. Then he went further, got a nice backpack, then found this village. There was a dusty lady who told him to get some water, so he was like 'sure' and went and got it by stealing a bucket and making a rope out of vines. Then he went back to the lady, but found some other fellow, so he looked harder. Then he found the lady and gave her the bucket eventually. She was like 'good', so he went 'would you like ' She was all 'sure, but I can't guarantee I'll like it', so the guy was all 'well, here's hoping you do. It is a story that begins in a far-off land. You see, there once lived a guy. He was-'."
He is interrupted by Azha sighing very noticeably.
"That is indeed a rather impressive tale. Well, perhaps 'impressive' isn't the right word. 'Astounding' fits better, no doubt," she says without emotion.
* * * * *
Shashari decides that west is the direction of the moment. Well, sort-of west, anyway. Maybe not west at all. To the left, in any case. She heads down, finding a dark corridor. At the end of it is an almost pitch-black room. She can't see a dang thing in here, she finds, but the air is certainly cool, yet very humid.
She could probably use a light source of some kind, she figures. This darkness is a bit too all-encompassing at the moment. Also, she hears things scurrying about. Small things, fortunately, but still. Things. Things!
* * * * *
Elizas carefully prepares his smooth face and grins coyly as he makes his selection.
"The common room sounds fine enough, unless you'd like some company tonight..."
She sighs and smiles at Elizas, still seeming pretty friendly.
"Common room it is, then. I'd rather not fall for that sort of scheme again."
* * * * *
Lars looks at the door, then off in the distance. Yeah, these guys are probably not worth much effort. He nods.
"Bar the door. Leave them in there to rot. We will go on to the reliquary. Watch this man!"
Some burly villagers nod and begin to observe the newest member of the divine mob as they start to block the door. Fortunately, there's plenty of beds and junk in the area, so it's not difficult to erect a barricade. Now they can move along to the reliquary!
Once more, there is a single guard outside. He doesn't appear to be looking in the mob's direction. What luck!
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 01, 2013, 04:08:46 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 01, 2013, 04:14:28 pm
(Since I'm telling the truth, shouldn't I have gotten a +1 bonus?)
You stated your action specifically to twist the truth, to deliberately deprive the listener of the essence of the Bucketquest. Therefore, no bonus.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 01, 2013, 05:51:20 pm
Note to self: Don't do stupid stuff like that in the future, since a little bending of the truth evidently spoils all the honesty before.
"...Astounding, how?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 01, 2013, 06:02:31 pm
"...Astounding, how?"
"Not the tale itself, not really. The general failure contained within. That is what I find astounding. Then again, I am certainly one to talk."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 01, 2013, 06:09:47 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 02, 2013, 08:37:48 am
Ignoring the insult, Phiali continues on. "So, you found the tale itself 'impressive'?"
"I found it all too realistic. Let us leave it at that."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 02, 2013, 08:39:28 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 02, 2013, 10:47:20 am
"There is a reason it is realistic. As you may have gathered, it is the tale of myself, and how I came to be fetching water for you."
"That was also quite obvious. Will that be all?"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 02, 2013, 11:02:21 am
(Why does Phiali suck at conversion?
Next player to come in, make God like failure. Phiali will be in MP up to his nose.)
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 02, 2013, 11:18:33 am
"I was actually hoping you'd be curious to hear more about this god."
(Why does Phiali suck at conversion?
Next player to come in, make God like failure. Phiali will be in MP up to his nose.)
"Not really curious, no. But if you like, you can tell me anyway."
Post by: TCM on July 02, 2013, 11:31:29 am
Post by: Parisbre56 on July 02, 2013, 11:55:43 am
(Why does Phiali suck at conversion?((With your luck, you'd probably fail at failing and start being perfectly average...))
Next player to come in, make God like failure. Phiali will be in MP up to his nose.)
Post by: Toaster on July 02, 2013, 12:32:59 pm
Demand the surrender of the guard, as per usual. If he refuses, sic the mob on him.
Post by: IronyOwl on July 02, 2013, 03:34:27 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 02, 2013, 03:58:33 pm
((Hey, I'd take that.))(Why does Phiali suck at conversion?((With your luck, you'd probably fail at failing and start being perfectly average...))
Next player to come in, make God like failure. Phiali will be in MP up to his nose.)
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 04, 2013, 12:57:34 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 04, 2013, 01:11:45 pm
"I was actually hoping you'd be curious to hear more about this god."
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 04, 2013, 01:18:40 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 04, 2013, 01:41:19 pm
Tell her more about God. Stick to the truth, in case it wasn't obvious.
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 06, 2013, 01:29:33 pm
Elizas, having played out his hand, hands over two tezerams and heads on to the common room. There's not a lot of people there - about two or three other weary travelers in a room that could easily hold about fifteen, so it's not really that much worse than sleeping in a private room, though the fact that there's no actual bed is a bit off-putting - there's just blankets and cushions placed all along the floor. They don't look too sanitary, but Elizas guesses that for two tezerams, you can't afford to be picky. He lays down and falls asleep.
He dreams of wine. Good wine. The best wine he's had, actually, that of Azlippus. Innumerable barrels of it, all placed in a single, large room. He feels like a ghost in it - there's people in gray robes walking around, seemingly taking inventory of all this stuff, and at the center of it all a tall, long-haired man in a black robe stands. He seems to be looking over the room with a measure of distaste.
"I hope we'll be rid of this stuff as soon as possible," he says to another man in a gray robe next to him. "Though it pains me that we dabble in mercantile arts, perhaps it is better for the faith in the long term, no?"
The other man nods in halfhearted assent.
"Oh, don't be like that. We'll be able to build a new temple with the profits from the wine. At least some good will come of those heretics."
For some reason, selling the wine strikes Elizas as... undesirable somehow. Such a wondrous nectar, the legacy of the defunct Azlippeans, to be sold like any other bit of booze to the highest bidder? Is that right? Is that what God would want?
No, he says. The wine must flow! It must flow to all who wish it, and fill all willing mouths with the joy of God. Elizas concentrates, dropping to his knees. He calls out to the heavens, causing them to part, sending down a mighty heavenly bolt, leveling the warehouse and exploding every single barrel within it, filling the streets with a massive wave of wine, sweeping away all Kezilamites and their temples. Others are swept up as well, Elizas included, but they don't mind. After all, if you're going to drown, it's best to drown in the thing you enjoy most in life.
However, before he can drink too much of the stuff, he wakes up. This dream sure felt a lot more direct than most of the other ones. Transparent, almost.
Right now it is the early afternoon, as Elizas went to sleep rather late. He's got about seven or eight hours before he's due to play at the brothel. He's got seventeen tezerams on hand and he's feeling as fresh and full of God's favor as could reasonably be expected.
* * * * *
Considering that it's worked so well before, Lars gives his standard spiel to the door guard.
"Heretical heathen of the false Kezilam! Throw down your weapons and submit, or face the fire of the One True God like so many of your comrades before you!"
The man looks at Lars skeptically. He then tries to quickly unlock the door behind him. Lars, seeing how the guy didn't say anything, assumes he's not doing that out of any particular desire to convert. Therefore, he shall be charged at with great rapidity!
[Opposed Quickness: Guard vs. Mob: 5 vs. 5]
The guard unlocks the door just as the mob reaches it, and they push him up against it rather violently!
[Mob vs. Guard: 3+2 vs. 3]
He is quickly set on fire by the mob, being unable to open the door in time! He screams bloody murder as he is burned and trampled. Lars hears a rather notable amount of commotion coming from within the reliquary room.
* * * * *
Shashari, hindered in her exploration terribly by the lack of light, heads back to the place she landed previously, then heads pseudo-north.
The hallway leading in that direction appears to continue for slightly longer, and it is has slightly better illumination. Shashari can still hardly see anything, but at least it's not impenetrable darkness.
As she walks, she trips on something, falling rather uncomfortably on her face. Prodding at the thing with her foot, she realizes that it's a tripwire of some kind. What it's rigged to, she doesn't know, though. It doesn't seem to have been something aimed at her, anyway.
* * * * *
Phiali, glad about the way Azha seems to be a willing listener to his ramblings, speaks of his deity!
[Speech roll: 2+1+1]
"Let me tell you about God. God does not mess around. God is not somebody you take lightly. There are two ways you can deal with God, the easy way and the hard way, and in life you have to choose one. The easy way means a prophet comes to you, tells you about God, you accept the true faith. Then you have a drink with the prophet, crack a few jokes, swap enlightening stories and other knowledge, maybe have a swim in a river. Good stuff, all in all. The hard way means a prophet comes to you, tells you about God, you spit in his face. Now, God doesn't like His prophets to be spit at. Spit in a prophet's face, you spit in God's face. And when you spit in God's face, it's time to get serious. His prophets will come. They will steal your valuables first. Then they will drag you out of your house and set what they haven't stolen on fire. Then they will slowly and painfully drown your loved ones as you watch. And finally, they will ask you if you wish to be spared. Regardless of your answer, they will cover you in pitch and set you aflame, watching you pointlessly try to extinguish yourself, though if you grovel, they will certainly feel far more vindicated, not to mention have a good laugh about it later. God and his prophets, they will avenge all slights eventually without fail, because such is God's nature."
Phiali, an unusually intense expression on his normally calm visage, takes a deep breath after saying all this.
"That stuff in the temple I told you about? That was me trying the easy way. They brought what is to come upon themselves."
Azha looks a bit put off by Phiali's speech, though certainly not in the worst of ways.
"What about me? Have I not refused you already?"
"My dear, I haven't made the offer yet. And when I do, you had best consider it. Consider it well, as God does not forget, and God does not forgive, and God's "
A silence settles on the tomb as Azha stares at Phiali, who has regained his usual composure.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 06, 2013, 04:51:17 pm
Next, I'd like to note that Phiali might actually convert someone! Probably not, but you never know...
Request that she convert to the God that saved me from my enemies multiple times, the one that saved me from thirst, et cetera. If she asks what this would involve, or if she accepts, explain the basic rituals, prayers, holidays, and beliefs to her.
Post by: Toaster on July 06, 2013, 10:17:42 pm
Post by: Xantalos on July 07, 2013, 02:14:40 am
Go do so.
Post by: Parisbre56 on July 07, 2013, 06:47:47 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 07, 2013, 08:05:23 am
((Phiali: Member of the God Mafia))((Where did this come from?))
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 07, 2013, 08:13:09 am
Lars points at the guard that has been guiding them. "Quick, what is likely to be behind this door? Should we all just charge in?"
"No idea. Probably guards. Difficult to say how many."
Post by: Parisbre56 on July 07, 2013, 08:17:07 am
((Well, one could say you're making not-so-veiled threats to the woman, about how she should want to be god's friend and how she shouldn't disrespect god's prophets. And now you're going to make her an offer she can't refuse. And I couldn't help but imagine him talking in a "The Godfather" way (http://youtu.be/FaUq4h818E8).((Phiali: Member of the God Mafia))((Where did this come from?))
So blame my imagination.))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 07, 2013, 08:25:42 am
Post by: Toaster on July 07, 2013, 02:11:34 pm
Burst into the room with the whole of the mob, with those best armed at the front. Demand their surrender.
"Heretics, now is your final chance for surrender! Submit or face the fires of the One True God!"
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 09, 2013, 12:21:49 pm
Post by: TCM on July 09, 2013, 12:23:48 pm
Post by: Xantalos on July 11, 2013, 01:35:42 am
Post by: IronyOwl on July 11, 2013, 03:08:22 am
Examine tripwire or former tripwire in more detail. Did I actually trigger it or just stumble over it because it was built for something heavy?
Like... a witchbear?!
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 11, 2013, 03:29:42 pm
Phiali, feeling that he's made his point here, comes out with the offer at last.
"So, my dear, are you ready to convert to the One True Faith and accept God?"
[Conversion roll: 2+1]
"I'm not entirely sure. What would this mean?"
Hm. Yes. That is problematic, of course. Phiali doesn't really know what exactly following God entails. He's been kind of making it up as he goes so far.
[Ritual explanation roll: 1-->2+1]
"Well, um... I suppose it involves drinking."
"Wine or water?"
"Uh... both?"
"Haven't got wine."
"Water, then."
"I do that anyway," she says, pointing at the bucket of water.
"Also, stealing valuables."
"Nothing to steal. At least, nothing valuable."
"Um... burning heretics?"
"Only I and my husband live here. The rest have died off."
Hm. Phiali's kind of stumped now. He can't really find a basis for much of an organized religion here.
* * * * *
Lars decides on the next course of action.
"We will give them their chance to surrender."
The mob nods, and together they pull open the door and run right in!
They come face to face with four priests of Kezilam, including the head priest, all outfitted in bronze armor with flame patterns drawn on it in black.
"Heretics, now is your final chance for surrender! Submit or face the fires of the One True God!" Lars shouts to them.
The priests look at him silently. Then each of them produce torches, putting them up to their armor. The flame patterns begin to blaze wildly. The priests then draw their rather large swords and charge at the mob screaming in a unified offensive.
[Priests of Kezilam vs. Mob: 2+1+1+1 vs. 4+2]
The members of the mob produce their swords and pitchforks, though, adopting a defensive stance preventing the crazed, flaming priests from getting too close to them. Hm. This is... unusual.
* * * * *
Gronok chooses to currently tell the owner of the house that he's about to go a-prophesying, and then heads out after making sure he notes several landmarks of the area as he leaves.
However, he can't really find any crowds around this place. Looks like the morning rush is over by now, and everybody's sort of dispersed to appropriate locations for either the work or the drinking and whoring they want to accomplish today. Whatever people walk along the streets are woefully solitary and in a bit of a rush.
* * * * *
Elizas, having no idea what to do with his spare time right now, decides to cruise through town. Maybe adventure will turn up on its own.
After two hours, he is forced to conclude, very much like a fellow prophet far away from here, that this town is totally boring at this hour. Guess they party all night and sleep all day in Berikalam. Though Elizas isn't entirely against such a principle, it does put him at a loss on what to do with his time right now. There's not even any executions on, what's up with that? Kezilamites must be getting sloppy after genociding the Azlippeans.
* * * * *
Shashari, caught in a trap she doesn't seem to understand, examines the tripped tripwire. She sees that is still in place, though she can easily trip it again, judging by the easiness of pulling it. It's certainly not meant specifically for a witchbear, bearwitch or anything like that, though she supposes that a witchbear or even a witchbat could trip it just as nicely as she did.
It's strange, actually, because nothing terrible has happened yet. Usually when you trip a tripwire, that's very bad news. Now, though, the thing doesn't seem to have set off deathtraps of any sort.
At least, none that she can see. Yet.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on July 11, 2013, 03:31:45 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on July 11, 2013, 03:40:56 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 11, 2013, 05:48:04 pm
"Well...one moment, please."
Wander off to one side. Pray to God for inspiration on what His rituals and such are.
Post by: TCM on July 11, 2013, 07:07:28 pm
Post by: Toaster on July 11, 2013, 09:39:10 pm
Lars, amid the struggle, points at the head priest. "See! See how your leaders suffer at the hands of the True God!"
God's Wrath the lead priest! (The basic version)
Post by: IronyOwl on July 12, 2013, 03:54:09 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 12, 2013, 07:24:39 am
Post by: Toaster on July 12, 2013, 07:44:31 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 12, 2013, 08:56:13 am
Gronok looks for a library in this hole of a city-state. Fortunately for him, a vast harem is not the only thing the king of Lazalam is known for - it's also the fact that he is an appreciator of good literature, and the city features a great Royal Library, or at least that's what Gronok can gather from an inscribed stone in front of a rather sizable building not too far from the palace. The entrance is flanked by guards on both sides, and they're rather mean-looking.
Gronok considers how best to approach this. The building is surrounded by a tall, ornate stone wall with distinctly enlightenment-themed murals (though some appear to have been defaced), and a currently closed metal gate leads into the courtyard of the library compound. Well, he thinks it's a library compound, judging by an inscription on the building's facade that says "STRIVE TOWARD KNOWLEDGE".
* * * * *
Shashari, observing that she can find out little more from the tripwire, resolutely crawls down the probably-northern passage. Fortunately, there are no notable tripwires. She does reach a circular room of some kind - a few rays of light from up above shine into it, illuminating what looks to be a half-collapsed well.
There is a passage leading further north from here, looks like, though it seems to continue into darkness. There's also a rather... ripe dead fellow here, lying on the ground face-down. There is a faint smell of burnt flesh coming from the body.
* * * * *
Phiali, cursing his lack of creativity in on-the-spot ritual creation, wanders off to a corner slightly away from the rather bored Azha and beseeches God to help him out here. After all, it shouldn't be up to him what God wants Her followers to do?
[Prayer roll: 5+1]
After a rather exhaustive prayer session, Phiali believes he's got it! Regular ritual baths in the river, for one. Probably several times a day. So that's one thing. Another is a sound rejection of the idea of monogamous marriage. It is a silly institution contrary to God's will. Also, people should set aside a time each month or so to ferment wine or distill spirits of their own, depending on the available measures, or all together fund a person who makes wine or spirits for them to enjoy. Finally, days are organized in groups of seven. The evening of the fifth day shall be known as the High Time, when all people are expected to lay down their occupations and spend their time drinking, socializing, joking and engaging in other forms of merriment to please God, laying down immediate material pursuits for the duration of said time.
Ayup. He thinks that's enough to start with, at least with what he knows and what's been done so far. He considers creating a holiday for himself, but then rejects it on the grounds of his adventures being a bit too saddening to warrant a holiday just yet. Maybe later.
* * * * *
Elizas, tired of loitering around pointlessly, tries loitering with a very defined, worthy purpose instead. In this case, the conversion of idlers around town. Fortunately, there's a whole bunch of idlers standing outside the currently closed Temptations of Azlippus. They seem to be waiting for the place to open, and wave to Elizas, probably remembering him from that rather nice musical performance he gave there.
He pauses a moment to figure out how best to manage a spontaneous conversion. Direct approach, fiery approach, sneaky approach? So many ways to proselytize!
* * * * *
Lars, noticing that all the primary targets of his assault are here, brings out the big guns. He points at the head priest, channeling his own wrath into him, hoping to bring down God's mighty, flaming fist of justice upon the filthy heathen! The room darkens for a moment except for the head priest, who glows! He flashes with light suddenly, bursting into holy fire at Lars' behest!
[Head Priest endurance roll: 3]
The head priest screams as his armor begins to radiate heat, tongues of flame streaming out of the joints. The air fills with the stench of burning flesh as the screaming priest drops to his knees, trying to remove bits of his red-hot armor to minimize the danger to his internal organs!
"See! See how your leaders suffer at the hands of the True God!"
[Priest morale roll: 1-->4]
The other priests take a step back from the flaming head priest, some of them involuntarily losing their grip on their weapons.
"The flames, they obey this person who smells of dung!" one shouts in surprise.
"The flames, they have spoken! And not in our favor!"
They all glance fearfully at Lars, who basks madly in the light from the still-burning and panicking head priest, who has now completely liberated himself from his armor, and is now busy rolling around on the ground to extinguish himself. It looks like the other priests are now terribly confused.
3 MP expended!
Heretic burned! 1 MP gained!
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 12, 2013, 09:09:37 am
Post by: Toaster on July 12, 2013, 10:42:29 am
One more time, give them a chance to submit (except the head priest, he's a dead man.) Push the attack very quickly against any that do not fully submit. Stomp on the Head Priest for good measure.
Post by: Xantalos on July 12, 2013, 12:34:39 pm
Reverently enter the library.
Prepare to strive towards knowledge.
Post by: Toaster on July 12, 2013, 12:35:38 pm
I could like this king. I could like him very much.
Stride toward knowledge.
Fixed that for you.
Post by: Xantalos on July 12, 2013, 12:37:00 pm
Edited in favor.I could like this king. I could like him very much.
Stride toward knowledge.
Fixed that for you.
This place better have a librarian that I can convert.
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 15, 2013, 03:35:05 pm
Phiali, having reached a satisfactory amount of rituals, goes about describing them to Azha.
"One ritual of the One True Faith that one cannot live without is the ritual bath," he explains. "One must regularly bathe in running water, preferably several times a day, to not only cleanse their body of all that is objectionable to God, but also bask in Her grace."
"No objections there."
"Secondly, people should set aside a time each month or so to ferment wine or distill spirits of their own, depending on the available measures, or all together fund a person who makes wine or spirits for them to enjoy."
"Hm. That may pose difficulty. But continue."
"Well, days are organized in groups of seven. The evening of the fifth day shall be known as the High Time, when all people are expected to lay down their occupations and spend their time drinking, socializing, joking and engaging in other forms of merriment to please God, laying down immediate material pursuits for the duration of said time."
"Good as any day. No people to socialize much with, though. Except, of course, my husband."
"Well, anyway, finally there is the fact that monogamous marriage is forbidden and must be rejected. Well, exclusively monogamous marriage, anyway."
Azha seems intrigued by the last bit more than anything else, though, as always, it's difficult to tell with her.
"And what if I am in such a marriage? How is divorce handled?"
That's a good question, really. Maybe he can put in something involving fire. Yeah.
* * * * *
Lars, about to milk his miracle for all it is worth, forcefully gestures at the Kezilamite priests!
"Kezilam is a lie! A falsehood brought about by liars such as this one. See how he crumbles when True Light is brought unto him! Unless you wish to join him, cast down your weapons now and beg for forgiveness!"
[Lars intimidation roll: 5+1]
The Kezilamite priests look at each other for a moment. One of them drops to his knees, dropping his sword in front of him.
"I beg forgiveness, I truly do! I see the error of my ways, and in my life I have never seen such a display! You speak the truth!"
Another one follows his example, making yet another sword clang as it hits the ground.
"I beg forgiveness, speaker of truth. You have humbled us and shown us the way through your might and inspiration."
Finally, the last priest, seeing no point in being contrarian, kneels as well, surrendering his blade.
"I submit and ask your forgiveness and that of God. We were ignorant, and now we are illuminated."
Lars, glad that a peaceful agreement could be reached, walks to the head priest.
[Lars strength roll: 5]
[Head Priest endurance roll: 6-->5]
He stomps on the prone priest as hard as he can, but the priest doesn't seem to mind. In fact, he gets up, fetching his sword quickly.
"You may command heathen power, but let's see how well you can dodge a blade from one of the faithful, yes?"
Hm. That's not quite what he had in mind, really.
* * * * *
Gronok, noting that for once he might find himself in a rather favorable atmosphere, tries to reverently enter the library. He approaches the large metal gates and tries to push them open. Reverently.
[Strength roll: 1-->1]
He pushes at the gate. It does not budge. He pushes at it again, but harder. Still nothing. He pushes yet harder, but the gate refuses to move.
Okay, maybe that's not the way to open this gate. Maybe pulling will work? Yeah. He pulls and pulls, a vein visibly popping out on his forehead, but the gate is unassailable. Clearly, there is only one course of action possible.
Gronok clutches the bars and starts to shake them vigorously, yelling for intimidation value.
Against all odds, however, this also does not work. Damn it all.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 15, 2013, 03:38:12 pm
"It hasn't come up. I suppose it would depend on the situation. Around here, I suppose there's not much to worry about with that sort of stuff, so a law like that could be safely ignored."
Determine if giving my guess counts as telling the truth!
Post by: Xantalos on July 15, 2013, 03:39:59 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on July 15, 2013, 05:42:25 pm
Ewwwww. Go back and explore east. Or was it west?
Whichever non-south-ish direction that isn't pitch black and moist probably because it has a pool I'm about to fall into.
Post by: Toaster on July 15, 2013, 10:22:41 pm
"Heretic! You cannot stand against the might of the One True God! If you three are truly faithful, show it by subduing this liar and heretic!"
Grab the sword and face the priest! If the other subdue, run him through. Otherwise, play defensive and strike when able.
Post by: TCM on July 15, 2013, 10:40:17 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 17, 2013, 01:37:09 pm
Phiali attempts to waive God's sacred decree on the abolition of marriage.
"It hasn't come up. I suppose it would depend on the situation. Around here, I suppose there's not much to worry about with that sort of stuff, so a law like that could be safely ignored."
He tries to determine whether this is actually true. He isn't sure, really, but he supposes it is.
"Ah... good. How very... nice," Azha observes. Phiali's real glad she's happy. Maybe she can convert already and allow him to perform sweet miracles!
* * * * *
Gronok, under the impression that this must be some kind of fiendish mechanical gate that only the smartest people can open, looks for pulleys and ropes. When he comes to the conclusion that the gate doesn't seem to have any obvious ones, knocks on the great metal portal. He is about to yell, but he hears someone approach.
"Who was yelling back there?" comes a voice. Moments later, the gate is pulled open by a man in the clothes of a guard, very distinctly unshaven and shabby-looking.
"What do you want? Is your heart giving out, old man?"
* * * * *
Shashari decides to respect the dead from a distance and walks back along the tunnel, then turns... left. She supposes that's east-ish. On one hand, it's dark. On the other, it is also relatively dry, doesn't smell of burnt corpses and seems mostly innocuous, not to mention Shashari's relative certainty that the end of the hallway is rather illuminated.
That is, until she stops at another tripwire. She carefully steps over it, then proceeds along until a room is reached. It looks like the hallway was meant to go two ways from here, but the southern path is covered by rubble while the northern isn't. That said, she heads to the northern part.
Now, she's not really the expert on this, but she guesses this might be some kind of library, judging by the shelves filled with damaged literature and a rather quaint table with two chairs placed at it. A rather notable beam of light from above shines on the table, she guesses this is either from a deliberately made hole in the ceiling or due to a rather strange coincidence. On the table lie several scraps of... leather, she guesses?
* * * * *
Lars, not entirely certain he is competent enough at stabbing people to best someone whose favorite pastime is probably the maiming of whoever he perceives to be unpleasant, enacts two plans at once. First, he grabs a sword that one of the priests dropped. Secondly, he gambles.
"Heretic! You cannot stand against the might of the One True God! If you three are truly faithful, show it by subduing this liar and heretic!"
The three priests immediately perk up and run at the head priest!
[Grapple: Priest 1 vs. Head Priest: 4+1 vs. 5-1]
[Grapple: Priest 2 vs. Head Priest: 6+1 vs. 5-1]
[Grapple: Priest 3 vs. Head Priest: 6+1 vs. 3-1]
One of the priests awkwardly grabs the guy by the non-sword arm, causing him to look slightly uncomfortable from the hot metal plates pressing up against his robe. Another one then immediately puts his other arm in a hammer lock, while the last one lifts the poor head priest up by the legs, totally robbing him of any reasonable method of movement.
Exactly as planned, Lars thinks. He walks over to the immobilized priest and attempts to run him through.
[Lars attack roll: 3-1+1]
He nonlethally pokes the head priest in the side with the sword, drawing blood noticeably. The head priest struggles against the painful grasp of his former compatriots, screaming praises to Kezilam in a maddening fashion.
[Grapple: Head Priest vs. Priest 2: 4-2 vs. 5+1]
He tries to get his sword arm out from the priest's grasp, but the intimidated clergyman refuses to submit, instead only tightening his grip on the man painfully!
* * * * *
Elizas approaches the jolly band of idlers and begins a song of joyful recruitment!
[Vocal performance roll: 3+1]
It's the same one he played yesterday for them, the Ballad of the River, and they all seem to like it quite a bit, joining in on the singing immediately. The effect isn't quite the same this time, probably because they aren't drunk and in the mood for a great change of their worldview, but still, it is Elizas' greatest hit, and it's still very good.
Hey, at least he now has a choir.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 17, 2013, 02:04:38 pm
Post by: Toaster on July 17, 2013, 02:07:19 pm
Run him through.
Post by: Xantalos on July 17, 2013, 03:21:56 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 18, 2013, 04:10:19 am
"So...are you willing to convert?"
"Eh. I suppose. Not like it makes any sort of difference," Azha says.
For some reason this doesn't feel as good as you think it should.
I'm attempting to get into this library, could you help me?
The guard opens the gate up wider.
"It's a public library. Go right in. You seem relatively harmless, anyway. Front door's unlocked."
Post by: Xantalos on July 18, 2013, 07:55:38 am
Head inside.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 18, 2013, 08:17:25 am
Go back to the house. Talk with husband. Use same tactics to convert him, as well.
Post by: TCM on July 18, 2013, 10:44:10 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 21, 2013, 03:28:57 pm
Lars decides to try again on the head priest. After all, one can hardly blame him for mostly missing the first time. It was his way of giving a second chance only to cruelly snatch it away like a proper prophet should. Plus the sun was in his eyes.
[Lars attack roll: 6-->1+1]
He stabs the sword right through the guy's abdomen. Guy's still breathing and struggling. Hm. He stabs again, but he meets with failure once again. Guy just doesn't seem to want to die. Hm.
Maybe he's doing this the wrong way? This sword looks like it's meant more for slashing. Yeah, that's probably it. Lars goes ahead and slashes at the man with great intensity and fervor befitting a true prophet. The head priest yells and struggles a lot at first, but then the massive blood loss makes him black out. Eventually the three other priests, a bit too frightened to protest while Lars works, are left holding the severed limbs of the head priest, whose torso and head are mutilated beyond any reasonable semblance of humanity. Lars keeps on working at it until he is snapped out of it by one of his fellows coughing awkwardly.
Oh. He's gotten a bit carried away, hasn't he? Both he and his newest converts seem to be mostly covered in the head priest's blood.
You know, he never guessed a human being actually could have that much blood.
* * * * *
Gronok, glad at the rather pleasant way his library excursion is turning out, heads inside the great building, finding himself in a massive, ornate lobby. The walls are covered in elaborate stone carvings of various scenes depicting the gathering, use and spreading of knowledge.
In the lobby he is met by a very tall man with an extremely long, braided black beard. His hair looks to be artificially curled, as Gronok has not seen hair naturally twist in such a shape.
"How can I help you? Do you wish to peruse or borrow?" he says, sounding rather bored.
* * * * *
Phiali quickly thanks Azha for being such a good sport, then heads back to the house to hopefully catch the husband before he's asleep or gone. He knocks on the door, and the guy quickly appears.
"You again."
"I wish to speak with you, relate a story of divine inspiration."
"And I do not wish to listen. Leave."
Phiali is about to say more, but the guy shuts the door and seems to lock it. How terrible.
* * * * *
Elizas, feeling that here is a good audience for his material, plays his wonderful song, "Here Is My Religion and Everyone Should Convert To It".
[Vocal performance roll: 2+1]
Hm. It appears he was wrong in his assessment. The people don't seem to particularly appreciate the direct approach. They seem to prefer allegory instead. My, how picky drunkards have become. Still, they don't look particularly dissatisfied. Some of them do ask for an encore of the Ballad of the River, the song they actually know and love.
Elizas feels a pang of fear. Will he, like many talented artists, be only remembered for that song? Have his artistic achievements really peaked with that? The thought is almost too horrifying to contemplate.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 21, 2013, 10:50:11 pm
Alright. Maybe if I just copy what I did with his wife...
Knock on the door and attempt to offer to do a favor or something for him.
Post by: Xantalos on July 22, 2013, 03:41:19 am
To inform, actually. Are you the head librarian, or where can I find him? Or her, as the case may be?
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 22, 2013, 04:29:38 am
Gronok grins.
To inform, actually. Are you the head librarian, or where can I find him? Or her, as the case may be?
"A scribe, actually. We do not have librarians. The head scribe is rather busy coordinating our work. What do you wish to inform us about?"
Post by: Xantalos on July 22, 2013, 04:32:28 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 22, 2013, 05:35:02 am
An opportunity for ... advancement, as it may be. Are you here at this institute followers of Kezilam?
"Why do you ask? Are you one of the faithful?"
Post by: Xantalos on July 22, 2013, 05:41:52 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 22, 2013, 07:51:10 am
Do you imply by that answer that you are not? I've learned that some followers can be a tad violent and overreactive.
"Well, let me put it this way - is this great library on fire yet?"
Post by: Toaster on July 22, 2013, 08:18:56 am
"Such is the fate of those that defy the One True God. Now," he said, turning to the guard that had been his guide, "do you think there are any more holed up anywhere?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 22, 2013, 09:08:17 am
Lars looked down at his handiwork. Such was the fate of those who defied the One True God. In fact, he should probably say that.
"Such is the fate of those that defy the One True God. Now," he said, turning to the guard that had been his guide, "do you think there are any more holed up anywhere?"
"Can't say I'm entirely sure - I think there were about five to eight priests - they keep migrating, I'm afraid."
"There were five of us in the temple. Now there are four. Nuzkim chose to stay in the armory. Unless he is dead, I am sure he remains there."
Post by: Toaster on July 22, 2013, 09:11:31 am
Loot the reliquary. Take anything valuable- burn the rest. Especially any Kezilam relics- burn them first. Head back to the armory.
Post by: Xantalos on July 22, 2013, 03:47:14 pm
Ah, perfect. In that case, I come to this library to offer a bit of a deific upgrade, if you will. I believe that there is only one true god - I should know, s/he told me so - but I cannot think that people are so easily fooled as to follow a false god so easily, so I have come to the conclusion that Kezilam is merely one of God's great aspects, but the time has come for that to change. I come on behalf of the aspect of God known as Mo'kar, Aspect of knowledge, learning, and truth, qualities which I believe God currently wants to be expressed in the world. I'm here to see if you wish to convert.Do you imply by that answer that you are not? I've learned that some followers can be a tad violent and overreactive.
"Well, let me put it this way - is this great library on fire yet?"
Explain motives, attempt to convert.
Post by: TCM on July 22, 2013, 03:48:42 pm
"Well everyone, what about this?"
Invent Rock music 2000 years early.
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 24, 2013, 12:19:05 pm
Phiali decides to give conversion another shot. This time, though, he hopes to at least get a quest of some kind. It would only be polite to offer one, after all. He knocks on the door, and the man opens it once more.
"What now?"
[Phiali charisma roll: 1-->4]
"Now, I'll forgive you being a miserable old bastard if you give me a quest that will allow me to ingratiate myself to you."
"And I'll forgive you being a disrespectful, annoying nuisance that keeps pestering me if you merely left and did not bother me further," the man answers, shutting the door.
Well, that could have gone better.
* * * * *
Lars, having defeated the head priest in honorable mob-to-man combat, goes about the looting of the Kezilamite reliquary!
You know, with all the blood and such, Lars hadn't even noticed that this place had such amazing things in it. Bejeweled goblets, a crate of Kezilamite incense and a barrel of sanctified oil, a whole lot of very expensive-looking bracelets, a whole lot of gold-filled chests, ceremonial weapons and armor and, of course, relics. There look to be two relics of special note - the mummified head of Amaliz Teze, great prophet of Kezilam, and the original manuscript of the revelations of said filthy heathen.
Quite the treasure trove, all in all. Certainly more than a man can comfortably carry, even with the aid of a loyal mob. Perhaps an adjustment of plans is due.
* * * * *
Facing the librarian, Gronok tries to explain his motives.
"Ah, perfect. In that case, I come to this library to offer a bit of a deific upgrade, if you will. I believe that there is only one true god - I should know, s/he told me so - but I cannot think that people are so easily fooled as to follow a false god so easily, so I have come to the conclusion that Kezilam is merely one of God's great aspects, but the time has come for that to change. I come on behalf of the aspect of God known as Mo'kar, Aspect of knowledge, learning, and truth, qualities which I believe God currently wants to be expressed in the world. I'm here to see if you wish to convert."
The scribe shakes his head.
"We are forbidden by law to worship any god but Vaziim the Rising Sun or, more recently, Kezilam, on pain of death. So I will have to refuse your request."
* * * * *
Elizas figures that classic musical techniques, while they have admittedly served him well, are insufficient to express the miracle of God.
"Well everyone, what about this?"
[Invention roll: 5]
Though he has but one buffalo-bone guitar on him, he believes he can reinvent popular music as it is known! He begins a glorious guitar riff!
[Vocal performance roll: 3+1+1]
The resulting music is altogether much rougher than his usual fare, and Elizas pushes the guitar to the limit as he makes sweet music, enthralling the crowd with his new musical direction! The assembled people appear to be enjoying the music greatly, with its rather risque lyrics, relatively more aggressive style and general no-nonsense approach! They rock and they sway, moved by the magnificent tune! When he finishes the song, he can practically feel the delighted adoration of the crowd bathe him in the sweet light of approval.
This certainly is a wonderful invention, Elizas decides. He thinks he will call it... rock. Yes. Short, sweet and simple, it rolls off the tongue.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 24, 2013, 12:24:45 pm
-----
Why do I always fail? Phiali contemplated this and searched for options. He could try praying for help or inspiration, but that didn't seem likely to be of use. Or he could...um...
Pray for help or inspiration.
Post by: Toaster on July 24, 2013, 12:30:42 pm
That barrel of oil gives me an idea, considering one of the New God's aspects...
Post by: Xantalos on July 24, 2013, 12:57:06 pm
And how did the worship switch from Vaziim to Kezilam?
((On Mind Control, Harry - are there costs for duration?))
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 24, 2013, 01:05:13 pm
((So the temple in Kilinipom is the main temple? I don't see otherwise how the prophet's head could be there.))
It's a very important temple. It is the Temple of Amaliz Teze, after all, founded in the prophet's own home village.
And how did the worship switch from Vaziim to Kezilam?
"It hasn't shifted entirely. The cult of the morning sun endures through tradition, the cult of the purifying flame persists by strength of arms and the zeal of its adherents - they proved simply too many and too well-armed to execute, so they now exist in an uneasy truce with the king, practicing their awful traditions unimpeded."
Post by: Xantalos on July 24, 2013, 01:06:46 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 24, 2013, 01:16:22 pm
So the king doesn't support this cult?
"Certainly not, and the king does not like them in return. They oppose his opulent lifestyle and his rather sizable contingent of concubines, calling them a barbaric, filthy tradition, a betrayal of his marriage to the Queen and ultimately detrimental to the health of both his court and that of society's moral fiber. The king, naturally, is insulted by such treatment of the sacred rights of royalty. As a result, they aren't the best of friends, as you may imagine. The entire town is on edge at the moment, I believe. Bad things are most definitely brewing."
Post by: Xantalos on July 24, 2013, 01:19:40 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 24, 2013, 01:25:28 pm
Hmm. Are the guards of the town his or the Kelamazites? Which side would you say has a better chance of winning if they went against each other?
"The actual guards work for the king. Still, the Kezilamites form their own gangs that tend to try and dispense justice in their neighborhoods - their priests encourage them to don gray and white robes, take up arms and make their neighborhoods as safe and free of criminals as possible. And to be perfectly honest, I'm not sure the king will be able to remove their presence from the city. He may certainly fight them to a stalemate, but he is unlikely to win, and I believe he realizes this."
Post by: Xantalos on July 24, 2013, 01:34:14 pm
Would you hypothetically prefer to have the cult of my god in power? He does directly support your effort, and you could worship Him - or Her, doesn't really apply - and still get away with it because since Kezilam and Mo'kar are just aspects of the same god you would still be not lying when you say you worship Kezilam.
Hypothetical conversion attempt. If he seems interested tell him about God.
Tell him the creation story only if he asks for it.
Post by: TCM on July 25, 2013, 01:25:25 pm
Post by: Digital Hellhound on July 25, 2013, 01:28:20 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 25, 2013, 01:57:59 pm
Post by: Toaster on July 25, 2013, 02:07:03 pm
Speaking of Lars, he should act.
--
Lars surveyed the treasure. He knew what had to be done- especially with those relics.
"Faithful brothers! Help yourselves to a reward- but don't burden yourself too much, for we must deal with our foes in the armory! I have a plan..." Lars motioned to one of his close followers. "Help me roll this barrel out of here."
Loot those two major relics- burn the rest. Help self to some expensive yet light loot, then roll that barrel of oil to the armory door with the rest of the mob in tow.
Post by: Xantalos on July 25, 2013, 02:21:06 pm
Checking back into this, I see our heroes are still stuck at average 3 Miracle Points. Not much progress. What's the biggest miracle anyone's done here, eh?((These things take time. I'm beginning to convert an entire city, and will probably kill Satjap along the way.))
Post by: IronyOwl on July 26, 2013, 05:04:01 pm
...I wonder if he's pissed at me for missing so many turns? :x))
Examine the leather and see if I can discern the titles or contents of the books without damaging them.
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 29, 2013, 04:09:01 pm
Phiali takes a moment to try and ascertain the source of his terrible failures so far, kneeling down in prayer.
He gets up a few minutes later, feeling rather empty and unfulfilled in addition to being completely disappointed from previously. He isn't really sure what to do now, to be honest. Everybody really hates him for some reason, it seems, and it doesn't seem like this unwarranted persecution is likely to end any time soon.
* * * * *
Gronok decides to approach this particular fellow politically, as he seems to tend toward such things.
"Hmm. So if someone weakened their neighborhood support, then they could fall... would you hypothetically prefer to have the cult of my god in power? He does directly support your effort, and you could worship Him - or Her, doesn't really apply - and still get away with it because since Kezilam and Mo'kar are just aspects of the same god you would still be not lying when you say you worship Kezilam."
"I would prefer any cult but that of Kezilam in power alongside Vaziim's, or preferably none other at all. And I can't say I worship Kezilam, because that will both alienate me from my fellow scribes and allow Kezilamites to come in here - and I will go ahead and tell you right away that they will not go along with rather ill-conceived technicalities. In fact, they'd probably torture and murder me even more painfully for being a subversive heretic rather than the more overt, less incriminating kind. Arguing with one of the priests, who will undoubtedly be on my doorstep soon if I even provide a hint of converting, is likely to only make it worse. So if you wish to actually attain some popularity for your god, I'd advise coming up with a better hook than that."
Sounds reasonable, he supposes. Unfavorable, but reasonable.
* * * * *
Inspired quite wonderfully, Elizas decides to take a trip through town, get the music spreading!
Unfortunately, there are few people in the streets, and though his playing is most exquisite, he is having trouble finding a prospective audience.
In other news, though, his shift at that wondrous establishment he works at is coming up in a couple of hours. There should be plenty of people there, he guesses.
* * * * *
Lars, upon taking first crack at the loot (and a rather indulgent crack at that), including the head and revelations of Amaliz Teze, then setting fire to any other relics present, of which there are quite a few. He feels all warm inside when the bottled sweat of some weirdo boils and the scalp of the first traitor to Kezilam bursts into flame. He feels he's done a good thing here.
"Faithful brothers! Help yourselves to a reward- but don't burden yourself too much, for we must deal with our foes in the armory! I have a plan..." he tells the faithful, who proceed to grab all sorts of cool loot. "Help me roll this barrel out of here," he says to one that quickly returns, pockets lined with gold and jewelry. Quite satisfied, the fellow helps him out, and together they roll the barrel of sanctified oil to the armory door, where it rests fairly comfortably.
Miscellaneous heretic relics burned! 1 MP gained!
Looting performed! 1 MP gained!
* * * * *
Shashari takes a closer look at the bits of leather on the table. She concludes that they aren't actually leather, strictly speaking. They're not nearly well-prepared enough. It's a few steps away from leather, and somewhat fresh. Not to mention rather... pungent.
However, that's not the most important thing about them - the most interesting part is that they appear to be covered in writing on both sides, making for quite a lot of text. The writing appears to have been done with some sort of dark substance, and Shashari is pretty sure that she doesn't want to know more than that. The handwriting is rather shaky and all over the place, making actually reading the thing a bit difficult, but she gets the idea that this is some kind of journal, judging by the fact that there appear to be rough approximations of times on the strips.
Okay, maybe she'll look at that later. Right now, there's also books. They aren't nearly as well-preserved as the leather bits, and most of them seem moldy and extremely damp. The titles are mostly unreadable, but Shashari does make out one word on a spine of a particular damaged manuscript - "songs".
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on July 29, 2013, 06:01:09 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on July 29, 2013, 07:36:09 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on July 29, 2013, 08:13:57 pm
Climb onto the roof of the inhabited house and bless it as a last-ditch effort.
...If this fails, look through the abandoned houses for something to loot.
Post by: Toaster on July 29, 2013, 08:23:15 pm
"Here is the idea. We open this cask of oil, open the door, spill it in, then burn them alive in it. Simple enough? Once it's safe, we go in and kill the survivors- they've had enough chances to repent." Lars turns to the guard that has been his guide. "Do you see any problems with this?"
Post by: TCM on July 29, 2013, 10:41:05 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on July 31, 2013, 05:54:56 pm
Humph. Do you know if there's any prominent Kelamazite priests in the area, or who heads the church in Lazalam?
"Yes - Blessed Trizitima, though hardly a full priest, nonetheless enjoys a position of great respect among her peers, and could be said to be the unofficial head of the Kezilamites within this city, or at least most respected. As for the highest-ranking priest, I would say that's Pharzi of Gezpom, quite the nasty sort. And then there's also Xer the Pure, who, rather like Trizitima, lacks a high rank but has distinguished himself as a proactive Kezilamite, moreso than his fellows. And then there's Juz. He's probably the craziest one, attracts a lot of zealots around him, goes around torching things for a living."
"Here is the idea. We open this cask of oil, open the door, spill it in, then burn them alive in it. Simple enough? Once it's safe, we go in and kill the survivors- they've had enough chances to repent." Lars turns to the guard that has been his guide. "Do you see any problems with this?"
The guard shrugs.
"I think we even have a key for this door. We do have its guard, yes?"
The other converted guard nods, handing over a rather large key.
I keep forgetting to update this in a timely fashion. Sorry, guys.
Post by: Xantalos on July 31, 2013, 06:16:09 pm
Post by: Toaster on July 31, 2013, 07:11:12 pm
Open the oil cask, unlock the door, open the door, spill it in, light it up. When safe to enter, burn and kill heathens.
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 01, 2013, 06:35:18 am
And all of them would react violently if told of another god?
"Juz and Xer probably would, though in rather different ways, but Tritizima is more the condescending sort, while Pharzi is unlikely to particularly care about other beliefs at all and have you politely escorted away while he gets back to his business."
Post by: Xantalos on August 01, 2013, 01:09:59 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 01, 2013, 01:13:42 pm
Hmm. And where is Tritizima?
"She lives in the poor quarter, although she has a fair amount of money. Don't know the precise place, but I'm sure someone there could help you if you ask."
Post by: Xantalos on August 01, 2013, 01:19:15 pm
Head to the poor district.
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 02, 2013, 05:24:31 am
Shashari carefully examines the journal-like strips of leather. Doubtlessly they will have a whole lot of information pertinent to her current interests, not dying horribly and obtaining good loot. And possibly passing some kind of cryptic challenge, she guesses.
And it does look like it has a lot of information, but the handwriting seems like it is fiendishly difficult to read. That is, if you could call it proper handwriting at all. It's all over the place, really. And she's pretty sure sentences aren't supposed to branch off into three directions like that. Still, the strips look relatively new, at least when you compare them to the room as a whole. Somebody's certainly been here.
* * * * *
Phiali, in a fit of desperation, tries to climb up on the roof of the house!
[Climbing roll: 3]
However, he has a bit of difficulty in that. The house is a bit high, and the utilitarian construction means that there are few places to grab onto, though Phiali does try, climbing on a windowsill and trying to reach the second floor.
[Climbing roll: 4]
He jumps up, grabbing onto the second floor window, which happens to be open, and pulling himself up until he is safely on the window. Then he rather dangerously jumps up to reach the roof, which he then attempts to scale.
[Climbing roll: 1-->3]
The roof, however, proves more than a little slippery, sending Phiali tumbling right down to the ground!
[Phiali landing roll: 5+1]
However, rapid-fire prayer and muscle relaxation save the day as Phiali lands into a damp bush, totally unharmed in any permanent fashion! He climbs right out, awash with disappointment. Maybe he can steal something to make himself feel better.
He searches through the homes one more time, finding very little of interest until he is struck with an idea! Maybe one of these guys hid something in the floorboards! To this end, Phiali rips out a bunch of flooring, finding nothing in two different houses. However, third time's the charm, as he locates a rather decent-looking batch of...
Wait, no. That's a whole lot of spoiled meat. Very spoiled meat, probably several years old. Pungent and quite infested with life, it seems.
* * * * *
Elizas decides to stop looking for an audience - after all, who's the visionary here? He is, that's who! So he just keeps on playing.
[Vocal performance roll: 2+2]
It's a bit sad, though, how nobody has any time for him in this situation. Here he is, pouring his heart out, and nobody's listening. As such, his music takes on a sadder tone, which does seem to attract some attention. Namely, the attention of some women in white robes strolling along the street.
"Ah, look upon the fine street musician, my brothers and sisters! There he is, singing and playing his heart out, hoping to earn a living through his fiery passion. Truly an admirable life, is it not?" a plump, jovial middle-aged woman asks, smiling widely.
"A shame one has to make a living on the streets these days with such talent. A sign of the times, one might say. What's the world coming to, really?" an older, stern-looking woman with a shaved head asks.
"Maybe we should give him some money?" a very young woman in the group, hardly out of girlhood, it seems, suggests.
"Would that not taint his purity? Look at him. He seems happy playing his music, free of what is material and what is irrelevant," a lady in her mid-twenties asks.
"True. After all, it is very easy to drown the holy fire in great torrents of ultimately worthless money, is it not?"
As Elizas finishes up with his song, the jovial woman speaks to him.
"Compliments on your musical ability, sir. Where did you learn to play like that?"
* * * * *
Lars, ever the man with the plan, begins the ceremonies.
"Then we shall go."
He takes the key and unlocks the door after opening the cask, then pulls it open rapidly and spills the cask of oil into the room, much to the surprise of the priest and five guards within!
[Oil use roll: 1-->6]
The oil spills out slowly, allowing plenty of time for the guards to back away. When Lars lights it up, the entire thing goes up in multicolored flames, a pretty, yet ultimately harmless event. Lars steps away from the door, waiting for the fire to go out.
It doesn't for some reason. Guess it's pretty thick. However, before Lars can ponder the wisdom of this maneuver, he notices that the five guards and one priest charge right out of the flames, not a drop of fear in their eyes!
[Priest fire extinguishing roll: 4]
[Guards fire extinguishing rolls: 4, 2, 1-->1, 5, 6-->2]
They seem to be mostly fine! As in, only two are still on fire in a moment. But gods, does one of them compensate for it. His robes, unusually dry and possibly soaked with some sort of fragrant oil, appears to combust extremely quickly, going into a screaming, flailing frenzy! This, naturally, only spreads the flames further as he slams into his fellows, blind and consumed by rage!
[Priest fire extinguishing roll: 6-->5]
[Previously extinguished guard fire extinguishing rolls: 3, 3, 2]
Shortly after the idiot fire dance, everyone except for the priest is on some form of fire!
[Guards endurance rolls: 2, 1-->3, 1-->6-2, 1-->3, 4]
And after that, only one guard isn't busy crackling busily on the floor as their burns rapidly accelerate through varied degrees.
[Last guard fire extinguishing roll: 1-->4]
However, he seems to be in too much pain to actually do much about the fact that he's on fire. The entire bunch of people, heathen priest included, watch with bemusement as the situation develops.
[Last guard endurance roll: 3-1]
And shortly afterwards, that guard passes out on the floor, joining his in all likelihood dead comrades. The hallway fills with the smell of burning flesh and the sound of fat sizzling. After a moment, the priest raises his gaze and looks at Lars.
"Perhaps that wasn't the best approach, eh? Heh," he says, chuckling. Moments later, he begins outright laughing.
* * * * *
Gronok thanks the helpful scribe.
"Thank you, kind sir. If you and the other scribes reconsider my offer - remember, god of learning - ask for Gronok."
"Good luck to you, sir, and may the sun always shine upon your head."
Gronok then leaves, initiating a search for the poor quarter. Too bad he hasn't got the slightest idea where it is - Lazalam is a pretty big place, after all.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on August 02, 2013, 05:36:06 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 02, 2013, 12:29:45 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on August 02, 2013, 12:54:47 pm
West was a cool, humid, pitch-black chamber, almost certainly filled with some sort of water for her to fall into.
North was a probably fairly old corpse that might have been burned to death.
East was the personal library of someone who might or might not be scribbling their demented ramblings onto tatters of their own skin.
That left braving the dead again or heading south, unless she wanted to fumble about in the dark. She was curious what was south, but had a feeling north might be more... meaningful somehow.
...well, she was pretty curious.
South!
Post by: Toaster on August 02, 2013, 01:01:53 pm
Capture and subdue him, with the help of the mob. If he gets roughed up or loses a hand, that's okay.
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 05, 2013, 04:12:45 pm
Gronok wisely decides to search for a random bystander to question on the location of that place where all the poor people are at. Fortunately, there looks to be a crazy old man like himself idling over near a dark alley. Gronok decides to go and question this individual, as kindred spirits are likely to be open to sharing a kind word and some valued information.
"Greetings! I seek information on the location of the poor quarter!"
The alley-man turns to him quickly, gazing into Gronok's face for a moment, studying it for something. Moments later, he answers.
"Ooh, I know where that is! And I'll tell you!"
He takes a swig from a jug of some unidentified liquid, then continues in a raspy, voice.
"Follow the corpse-birds and the smell of terrible poverty, and you will find your destination! Look where eyes don't look, where those of weak constitution fear to walk! Search for the trail of cheap wine and failure, and dire desperation! If you don't see any stone houses, you're on the right track! And stay away from Cutthroat Alley - mean women live there! Terrible, wretched harpies that do not spare time nor booze! And Tritizima's place on the other side is awful, too - full of crazy people, I tell you!"
How informative.
* * * * *
Phiali looks around the houses, hoping beyond hope for something he could steal to please the Lord and be in favor once more.
Unfortunately, no matter how hard he searches, he feels that the potential of these houses is quite tapped - if anything was here, it's probably already stolen by either him or previous entrepreneurs very much like him. He does have an idea, though - that place that Azha is guarding at the top of the hill, wonder what's in it? Something important, he bets.
* * * * *
Shashari thinks about the multitudinous ways she could go from this point. There's west, north and east, which she's explored, finding only horrible things and uncertainty. Then there's south, which she hasn't explored yet.
Clearly, south holds all the answers here. Therefore, she must head down it. Heading back to the intersection, she turns presumably southward, bravely making her way through the semi-darkness.
On the way, she trips yet another tripwire! Not only does she trip it, in fact, she trips right over it, though she manages to not land on her face, fortunately enough. And once again, nothing seems to happen, though Shashari gets the feeling that might not entirely be the case. Otherwise, what's the point of even having a tripwire?
* * * * *
Lars, supposing now's as good a time as any to capture prisoners of religious war, points at the priest and proclaims his judgement!
"You shall serve as an example of those who do not follow the One True God! Seize him!"
"Very well. Do your best, then," he says, resignedly brandishing his sword as the crowd bears down on him.
[Mob of God vs. Last Priest: 2+2 vs. 1]
The mob easily grabs the guy, strips him of his weapons and keeps him restrained in a series of fluid motions.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on August 05, 2013, 04:23:58 pm
Look for congregations of poor people and head that way.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 05, 2013, 07:48:24 pm
If I left, wait around nearby but not visible until nightfall, then examine further.
Post by: IronyOwl on August 08, 2013, 06:35:09 am
Keep heading further south.
Post by: Toaster on August 08, 2013, 08:57:26 am
This action's a bit long, so I can understand if you want it broken up over a couple turns.
Lars had won. Now, to finish this.
Bind then drag the captured priest to the front steps of the temple. Construct a pyre, light it up, and burn the relics on said pyre. Once the priest has witnessed their destruction, throw him in too. Speak to the crowd.
"Behold! The One True God has triumphed over this blasphemous mockery of a temple to the false god Kezilam! See how their fake trinkets are consumed by the cleansing flame! This priest will also taste the flames!"
As the priest burns, Lars delivers one more message. "So too to those who do not obey the will of God!"
Post by: TCM on August 08, 2013, 10:57:02 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 09, 2013, 05:03:50 pm
Gronok thanks the helpful man and walks off to look for some silly poor people. He smells the air carefully, taking the direction of the wind into careful account. He finds that there is, in fact, a slight aroma of destitution in the air. It carries with it a tinge of godlessness and more than a hint of sufficient desperation for his purposes. Nose in the air and eyes on the streets, Gronok follows the scent westward, eventually reaching his intended destination.
He finds himself in a rather dank hole of a residential area, a place filled with rather ancient and dilapidated buildings that loom ominously over the elderly prophet. However, luckily for him, the oppressive look of the area abates mildly - there appears to be a rather large pyre burning in a rather tiny square, shining like a bright beacon and filling the area with warm light. There appear to be gray-robed people grouped around the pyre, humming some sort of melody in unison, their hands joined together.
* * * * *
Phiali walks up the hill once again, going inside the stone shed. Sadly for him, Azha is there. Hm. Better make smalltalk.
"So, rather unseasonable weather lately, eh?"
"I wouldn't know."
"It's usually quite a bit rainier, actually. Or so I would think, anyway. Makes sense, yes?"
"I suppose."
"Oh yes, certainly. So, what have you been doing lately?"
"Guarding this tomb, same as always."
"Really? Well, I- oh, look at the time. Gotta go."
Phiali quickly leaves the shed, then is about to hide in a nearby bush and await nightfall, but then realizes that it's kind of night already. And that Azha's still in there. Hm.
* * * * *
Shashari mumbles to herself about these weird traps. What's up with this place? That's the second tripwire she's tripped over, and this one hasn't done anything, either. Oh well. Better continue onward.
However, she stops again, noticing something amiss. This time, it's not a tripwire. Rather, the floor looks a bit suspicious to her. Closer examination reveals that it isn't a conventional floor at all. Rather, it's a rather flimsy wireframe made of... uhm... animal bones, she guesses? And covered with animal skins, too, yeesh. Poking it with her finger, she finds that there may very well be nothing underneath it. A pit trap. How interesting.
* * * * *
Lars guesses he's essentially won this - now for the wrap-up, he supposes. He binds the priest, utilizing any available materials, primarily torn-off fragments of the guy's own robe, then drags him out over to the lobby, then out on the steps. Enlisting some aid from his fellows, he starts building a pyre.
However, he finds that there is a slight lack of immediately-available materials for such a thing, given the rather burned state of the lobby. That is, unless you count wooden buildings as fuel. Plus, there's no real crowd outside, just his current associates that have been following him since he split from the main group. Guess the rest are still inside.
* * * * *
Elizas gives a short, but accurate description of his own origin to the women.
"I come from a far away land."
"One can guess as much from your appearance, good sir."
"It is hard to miss."
"But your history, though I am curious about it at any rate, ultimately matters less than your musical ability. Perhaps you'd like to play a song for us rather than the empty streets?"
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 09, 2013, 08:35:50 pm
Post by: TCM on August 09, 2013, 09:32:11 pm
Go with the group if I still have time left to go to work afterwards.
Post by: IronyOwl on August 09, 2013, 10:13:49 pm
...didn't explain how she was going to deal with this now that they'd been primed, though. Maybe they deactivated after a time?
Or maybe the tripwires triggered traps that were already expended, so only the pits were left...
Or maybe the tripwires- wait, she could test that one.
Examine pit trap more carefully. See if it has a hinge or similar, or if it'd designed to just collapse.
If it hinges, try pushing it down, then triggering the tripwire.
Otherwise just see if I can move past without walking on it.
Post by: Xantalos on August 09, 2013, 10:15:09 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on August 09, 2013, 10:17:34 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 10, 2013, 04:49:45 pm
"I'd love to, as long as it does not conflict with my contract.
"And what contract would that be, if I may ask?"
"Probably some sort of services-for-money arrangement, yes?"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 10, 2013, 08:46:00 pm
((Also, I can't be the only one who got interesting mental images at this title.))((Thankfully, no one is hunting the most dangerous game.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 13, 2013, 02:04:22 pm
Phiali realizes that he's had just about enough of this backwoods nonsense, with all the weird, uncooperative people, the completely worthless woods and the complete and utter lack of any loot. So he'll go somewhere else, then. Screw this.
He heads off in a vaguely northeastern direction, hoping that this will take him someplace that does not hate him for some reason. He walks for several days and rests for several nights (he is haunted by nightmares about the temple he left behind previously, but these abate afterwards, their place taken by dreams about food and fluffy animals, which Phiali takes as a good sign), not seeing a single soul, but on the fifth day, he observes something. There, in the distance! A village on a riverbank, a rather vibrant-looking place if he's ever seen one! Hooray! Civilization, finally!
He hopes this will be a brand new start for him, far away from all the terrible failure. As he approaches the village, he hears the bustle of everyday life emanate from it. Looks like they're having some kind of celebration.
* * * * *
Elizas explains the stipulations of his contract in a vague manner to the women.
"And what contract would that be, if I may ask?"
"Probably some sort of services-for-money arrangement, yes?"
"Best not to impose upon his daily bread."
"Hm... would you happen to be a performer by contract? And if you are, would you mind if we followed you to where you work?"
* * * * *
Shashari carefully examines the pit trap for any available hinges. She observes none - this really does seem to be a covering of animal parts placed over what may be a pit. A few pokes on the surface seem to confirm this hypothesis, though whether the hole is three hundred or only three meters deep, she can't say. The covering is as wide as the hallway, and if Shashari had to go out on a limb, she'd say she could jump it if she had a running start. At least, as far as she can tell.
* * * * *
Gronok edges toward the pyre and the singing circle. Their activities become a little clearer as a result - they seem to be praying musically, and to Kezilam, no less. How interesting.
What's also interesting is that the pyre smells simply awful - something has been added to it, Gronok thinks. He can't quite put a finger on what it is, though. The people don't pay him any mind, and seem to be in almost a trance-like state.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: IronyOwl on August 13, 2013, 04:48:56 pm
Jump the pit.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 13, 2013, 07:49:28 pm
Post by: TCM on August 13, 2013, 07:56:19 pm
Escort the group of people to the Brothel were I play at.
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 17, 2013, 02:37:02 pm
Shashari gulps as she regards the possible pit in front of her. She supposes she'll have to bravely leap over it, then. After all, Ash'Mah should be looking after her, so it can't be too dangerous, can it? She psyches herself up, then tries the jump.
[Jump roll: 6-->1]
She takes several steps back, stopping at the tripwire, then runs toward the pit, leaping right over it in a single magnificent leap. In fact, she flies over it easily, landing in a graceful roll and getting up, resisting the urge to strike a pose. She takes a moment to bask in her victory.
This, however, proves to be a rather poor idea, as something immediately tightens around her feet - rope, from the looks of it - and she is immediately pulled upwards feet-first.
[Agility roll: 5]
Realizing that her face is rapidly approaching the ground once again, she successfully shields herself from notable harm by catching herself. She is still, however, pulled up by her feet and hung upside down from the ceiling in short order. She finds this rather displeasing and disorienting, not to mention slightly degrading. Being caught like an animal in this sort of trap, how abominable.
* * * * *
Phiali, guessing that there's no reason for him to proceed cautiously or anything, considering that the people are celebrating, walks over to the village. Closer inspection reveals that there are indeed festivities in progress - people wearing rather unnerving white masks and gray robes seem to be dancing in the streets and playing music, telling jokes and engaging in all kinds of harmless merriment. And in the center of the village, there appears to be a rather large pyre burning, sending up large quantities of smoke up into the sky.
Hm. Phiali walks up to a juggling woman and tries to ask her a question.
"Excuse me, but what are you celebrating?"
The woman doesn't stop her performance, answering Phiali rather laconically.
"Burning Day, stranger. Wonderful celebration!"
Well, that answers all of his questions, certainly.
* * * * *
Elizas decides to elaborate on his occupation to the women.
"If I had to be described as such, yes, I am a contract performer. Follow me to my house of music, though be warned, the vicinity is not for those who are prudish."
"One gets used to dens of iniquity in this town, and I doubt we are in a great deal of danger, as we have wandered far and wide already."
"A sentiment I can certainly echo - while we aren't women of loose moral fiber, it certainly cannot hurt to be tempted once in a while, yes?"
"Erm... what? We're going to some... seedy establishment? Why must we, please?"
"To listen to rather interesting music, dear sister. After all, this man can hardly help it if the setting for his trade lends itself to depravity."
The girl reluctantly agrees, and the four women walk along with Elizas to the brothel, which, admittedly, isn't the worst in town to take a woman to. He walks in, and the women follow right after. The main room, rather full of men and their respective escorts, goes a little quiet as they notice the new arrivals. As the women take their seats, Elizas is pulled aside by one of the guards, who whispers to him.
"Did you bring them here?" he asks, pointing at the table where the gray-robed women now find themselves, one of them currently explaining to a scantily-clad woman nearby that they'll be having only water tonight. The scantily-clad woman looks a tad intimidated, although the arrivals seem genuinely friendly toward her.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on August 17, 2013, 03:57:55 pm
Go forward and tap a singer on the shoulder.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 17, 2013, 04:00:25 pm
((DAMMIT I DID THE IRONYOWL CYCLE))((The what?))
((Huh. Phiali is in a situation where screwing up could be either really good or extremely lethal.))
"Why is it called burning day? What is being burnt?"
Post by: Xantalos on August 17, 2013, 04:01:40 pm
2: Imma perform action!
3: *forget to do action*
4: Why I get skip did I not do action?
5: Oooooooooh.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 17, 2013, 04:09:37 pm
"Why is it called burning day? What is being burnt?"
"People who ask too many questions!"
She keeps on juggling, giggling to herself.
"Or effigies, that works as well. I mostly like the music."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 17, 2013, 04:20:22 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 17, 2013, 04:22:37 pm
"Sorry, I'm new. Effigies of what?"
"Things we don't like and need, that's what! Like people who ask too many questions! You should join the festivities!" the juggler says. You still can't read her expression from underneath the mask.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 17, 2013, 04:23:20 pm
Explore the festival. Try not to get set on fire.
Post by: IronyOwl on August 17, 2013, 04:49:59 pm
Post by: TCM on August 17, 2013, 07:40:35 pm
Post by: Toaster on August 19, 2013, 02:18:15 pm
"FAITHFUL OF THE ONE TRUE GOD! COME FORTH, AS WE ARE VICTORIOUS! TOWNSPEOPLE, COME SEE WHAT HAS BECOME OF THE KEZILAM IMPOSTERS! BRING FUEL FOR A FIRE!"
Scream at the people until everyone comes.
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 21, 2013, 08:36:18 am
Gronok, rather interested in what might be so special about this fire and the singing, decides to tap one of the singing people on the shoulder.
The person in question, a kindly, middle-aged woman, turns around and faces him.
"Oh, hello, sir! Have you come to join in for the Day of Flames? We have plenty of room around the fire, and one is always welcome to sing the praises of the True Goddess, even one without a tezeram to their name."
* * * * *
Phiali, cautiously backing away from the suspiciously happy masked juggler, tries to explore the festival, becoming highly mindful of any nearby flaming objects.
After about half an hour of wandering about, he notices several things about the festival. Firstly, there's fire everywhere. Fire on every corner. Some people are juggling torches, and one guy is playing a harp on fire. After half an hour more of watching that guy, he comes to the conclusion that no, nobody takes their mask off during the festivities. Plus, playing a harp on fire is a surprisingly mesmerizing sight. In fact, that's another thing - Phiali can hear music all around him.
* * * * *
Shashari, quite tired of hanging around as usual, tries to reach her ankles and untie the knot.
[Untying roll: 1-->1]
Grumbling as she tries to reach the rope, she bends up, but finds herself seemingly physically incapable of reaching the rope. To be honest, she blames two things - not doing a warmup beforehand and sleeping in an uneven pile of straw on a dirt floor. That kind of thing is a killer for the spine. Not to mention that she has a feeling that she's getting a bit too old for this kind of thing, which is highly depressing.
However, as she reflects on this state of events, she does hear something - the area is not as silent as one might think. In fact, she thinks she hears something like... laughter? It's very distant and muffled, but she's pretty sure it's laughter. And when it stops just as suddenly as it must have begun, she becomes certain - an asshole most certainly inhabits these ruins. And whoever this asshole might be, it is aware of her presence.
* * * * *
Elizas understands that this situation has gotten rather uncomfortably tense. Luckily, he can administer cure - the sweetest cure of all, the power of rock.
[Vocal performance roll: 5+2]
Possessed by the urge to perform, Elizas frees himself of the engagement with the guard, then determinedly steps to the center of the room, brandishing his guitar with intent to amaze. He begins with a short, purely instrumental intro to get the people's attention, then begins a glorious riff accompanied by melodious vocal verses, a musical exploration of what makes a human being what they are, whether it is the love of self, the love of others, the love of God or the love of their respective craft. The audience forgets the presence of the women by the end of the first verse. By the end of the second it is obvious that they've forgotten everything else as well, including themselves.
As Elizas' music soars, so do the spirits of the people present, and many are stricken with the desire to dance freely. It is a wonderful spectacle, as Elizas can see that the power of music and artistic inspiration appears to have set free a part of their being one normally wouldn't see. It's transcendental, in a way. In fact, he hardly notices the passing of midnight, so absorbed he is in the plying of his trade. Finally, in the very latest hours of the night, he is quite done, finishing up his many-part rock symphony with a delightful outro, at the end of which he sinks to his knees, totally spent both physically and mentally. He notices that nobody has really moved too far out of the room - not the patrons, not the ladies of the night, not even his honored guests. To both him and them, this has been an experience.
A good five minutes of roaring applause later, the crowd begins to leave, noticing the lateness of the hour. Elizas feels like he has truly accomplished something here, and that none of the people who entered this room left quite the same way. In addition, he, finally directing his gaze to the stage he currently rests on, notices a rather sizable pile of money in front of him. It takes a minute for him to register that these must be the tips - must be at least 100 tezerams in here.
Furthermore, he becomes aware of the owner passing him some money and making a comment - he doesn't entirely hear what it is, but he's sure it must be some form of congratulation.
* * * * *
Lars, rather disappointed at an absence of a flock to proselytize to, realizes that this is a problem that can most certainly be solved by shouting.
"FAITHFUL OF THE ONE TRUE GOD! COME FORTH, AS WE ARE VICTORIOUS! TOWNSPEOPLE, COME SEE WHAT HAS BECOME OF THE KEZILAM IMPOSTERS! BRING FUEL FOR A FIRE!" he yells to nobody in particular.
He notices several heads poke out of homes in the village. The heads of women and children, in fact, who were conspicuously absent in the attack on the temple. Lars isn't sure if they count as faithful or just rubberneckers, though. As for actual faithful, some people in the temple appear to have heard him, too, particularly after a whole bunch of indoor repetitions. About twenty male villagers emerge from the depths of the temple.
"So, we won? That sure is a relief. So, when does the debauchery begin? And what's this about a fi- hey, what're the priests doing here?"
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 21, 2013, 09:27:30 am
Chat about God with the locals. Emphasize the firey bits.
Post by: Xantalos on August 21, 2013, 04:39:00 pm
((If this conversation doesn't get completed by tomorrow, just consider me paused or something for ~1 week. See sig.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 21, 2013, 04:51:18 pm
Who is this True Goddess?
"Why, She of undying flames and unwavering spirit, the blessed scourge, Kezilam, the one true Goddess of all mankind in these dark, amoral times."
Post by: Xantalos on August 21, 2013, 04:55:55 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 21, 2013, 05:02:05 pm
"And what do you pray to her for?"
"We ask for nothing of the Goddess, for we are unworthy of Her favor in this world as we are, though we are graciously allowed to earn it, and it is only through virtuous living, through purification of the soul, that one earns their eternal place at Her side in the next world. Those that do not live virtuously burn as falling stars as their soul dissipates in the void of death."
Post by: Xantalos on August 21, 2013, 05:08:23 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 21, 2013, 05:15:30 pm
"What does purification of the soul entail? Why are these times dark and sinful?"
"Refusal of that which is material and simultaneously unimportant, devotion to one's family, a policy of abandoning the sinful pleasures of intoxicants and stimulants, regular introspection, devotion to an art or a craft, kindling of one's internal holy fire. In these times, many forget the need to live virtuously, preferring to live conveniently instead when possible. Down such a path lies the corruption of one's being, the cultivation of vile habits and the ultimate destruction of society through stupidity, greed and laziness. Through curbing the fires of the flesh we allow the flame of our soul to burn ever brighter."
Post by: Xantalos on August 21, 2013, 05:26:02 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 21, 2013, 05:39:39 pm
However, I've heard that your faith often involves killing those who believe otherwise. Why is this so?
"It's a matter of interpretation of what a priest of Kezilam must do - some believe that it is their task to purify the world for all who live in it, and that Kezilam wishes them to purify it by fire and violence, wash clean the sins of the world in a storm of blood and smoke. Their aggressive ways allow them to spread far and wide and to bring many under their banners in the quest to purify all of Tezelom. In terms of influence, they leave the more peaceful Kezilamites in the dust, as their messages of burning all that offends are easier to digest than a policy of meditation and self-reflection, as I'm sure you must realize."
The woman sighs rather sadly.
Post by: Xantalos on August 21, 2013, 05:42:04 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 21, 2013, 05:52:36 pm
And which are you, good lady?
"Though I am occasionally tempted to take up arms against those that seek to persecute us, such as the amoral king and his retinue, I like to think of myself as a peaceful sort. And teaching the people in the poor quarter that setting your problem on fire does not qualify as solving it in most cases has been an uphill battle. Our faith has a bit of a reputation, as you said yourself."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 21, 2013, 06:00:55 pm
[color=green"In terms of influence, they leave the more peaceful Kezilamites in the dust, as their messages of burning all that offends are easier to digest than a policy of meditation and self-reflection, as I'm sure you must realize."((Now, this is Social Darwinism.))
Post by: Xantalos on August 21, 2013, 06:04:50 pm
As you can see, I do not worship Kezilam. I did not before, and I do not now. But recently I was struck by a vision of God Itself commanding me to spread the faith, and I knew what I must do. But as I proceeded on my quest I came to the conclusion that so many people cannot have worshiped the wrong God over the years. Instead I believe they worshiped different aspects of God. You worship the aspect of God known as Kezilam. I worship the one known as Mo'kar, God's love of learning and teaching. I come to this city on a holy Quest from God - I must enlighten the city. But the King and the reigning high priests are hostile to new faiths; they will try to kill me. I came to you, good mother, because I believe that the worship of Kezilam can help Mo'kar, and worship of Mo'kar can help Kezilam. I come to you, in a sense, to join faiths.
Post by: IronyOwl on August 22, 2013, 07:41:58 pm
Great.
Perform some stretches upside down. Limber up a bit.
Then try again.
Post by: TCM on August 22, 2013, 07:47:08 pm
"So, how was I?"
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 23, 2013, 07:21:18 am
"So, how was I?"
The women are visibly impressed.
"Very good. One could see the holy fire within you, most certainly."
"To be honest, we would like to make you an offer."
"Yes, I'm getting to that. You see, we would like to ask you to perform at our home, the Low Temple."
"As a-"
"As a temple musician, yes. Your musical stylings are very intriguing, so we offer you this somewhat unique chance."
"Our current musician is far past his prime, and his work has grown stale. We would much appreciate you replacing him."
"I bet the High Temple would be quite jealous of us if we had someone like you, sir."
Post by: Toaster on August 23, 2013, 08:59:40 am
He then kicks the stricken priest. "This heathen shall burn, along with their false idols," says Lars, holding up one of the relics for emphasis. "Let us construct a glorious bonfire, for all unholy must be purged in the fire!"
Lars sighed a bit inwardly, then went on. "Once that is done, we can celebrate our victory."
He looks at the priests. "Now is the time to publicly renounce."
Encourage the procurement of flammable materials. Induce the converts to publicly renounce.
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 26, 2013, 03:35:17 am
Phiali tries to find something to do in this rather peculiar festival. However, he finds that there appear to be only three things happening in the village - people performing various musical pieces, lots of dancing and the burning of rather interesting-looking effigies. Being a reasonable sort, he begins dancing as well. Maybe he'll be able to strike up a conversation with, say, that dancing fellow over there.
"Hi! How's it going?" asks the prophet, bouncing rhythmically to a shockingly catchy tune.
"Wonderful! I come here every year, you know. Absolutely love the festival."
"So, this is some kind of religious shindig, right?"
"A Kezilamite tradition, actually!"
"And Kezilam was this god, right?"
"Goddess, actually! Likes fire and people being pure, apparently."
"I know other gods who like fire as well. Like God, for instance."
"Which god?"
"Just God. No first or last name as far as I know."
"Ooh, mysterious!"
"It's pretty weird - He, or was it She? Anyway, God likes fire and burning things. Water and material possessions, too, and booze, but also burning things."
"Heh, so a Kezilam that allows you to drink to your heart's content, amass lots of money and still burn things you don't like?"
"Pretty much."
"Sounds pretty appealing to the common man."
* * * * *
Gronok, after a short discussion of the Kezilamite faith, reveals his purpose here.
"I am relieved to hear you say that, because I have a bit of a confession to make. As you can see, I do not worship Kezilam. I did not before, and I do not now. But recently I was struck by a vision of God Itself commanding me to spread the faith, and I knew what I must do. But as I proceeded on my quest I came to the conclusion that so many people cannot have worshiped the wrong God over the years. Instead I believe they worshiped different aspects of God. You worship the aspect of God known as Kezilam. I worship the one known as Mo'kar, God's love of learning and teaching. I come to this city on a holy Quest from God - I must enlighten the city. But the King and the reigning high priests are hostile to new faiths; they will try to kill me. I came to you, good mother, because I believe that the worship of Kezilam can help Mo'kar, and worship of Mo'kar can help Kezilam. I come to you, in a sense, to join faiths."
"God's love of learning and teaching, you say? Hm. I always supposed that our faith should have learning somewhere along the way, and I am quite familiar with teaching and its multitudinous difficulties. But does it ultimately matter if our faiths are joined? I will still worship Kezilam and hold to her tenets, while you shall worship Mo'kar and hold to his. Not to mention that I'm hardly the person to speak to about this - Blessed Tritizima is the one you want. She is the one organizing the faithful, of which I am but a single member. You can find her in that building over there," the woman answers, pointing to a humble residence on the north side of the small square.
* * * * *
Shashari realizes that she is really not in any shape to untie herself presently. Thus, she decides to try a few stretches and to limber herself up.
However, she is quite unsure how to properly stretch when she can't even reach her own ankles and when both of her legs are bound. She's pretty sure just flailing around probably won't help, either.
Or maybe she just can't think because of her blood rushing to her head. That is also a possibility.
* * * * *
Elizas grabs all of the money offered him, supposing he is quite a bit richer than he previously was, and most certainly more provided-for than you'd normally expect a prophet to be, walks over to the women.
"So, how was I?"
The women are visibly impressed from the looks of it.
"Very good. One could see the holy fire within you, most certainly."
"To be honest, we would like to make you an offer."
"Yes, I'm getting to that. You see, we would like to ask you to perform at our home, the Low Temple."
"As a-"
"As a temple musician, yes. Your musical stylings are very intriguing, so we offer you this somewhat unique chance."
"Our current musician is far past his prime, and his work has grown stale. We would much appreciate you replacing him."
"I bet the High Temple would be quite jealous of us if we had someone like you, sir."
* * * * *
Lars realizes that some explanation is in order.
"These have seen the error of their ways, and have come here to publicly renounce the false Kezilam and embrace the One True God," he says, pointing to the converted priests, who solemnly nod. Having ascertained this for the benefit of all, he then kicks the bound priest, who appears to consider whether his tormentor is worthy of being spit on.
"This heathen shall burn, along with their false idols," Lars continues, holding up the preserved head of Amaliz Teze and his manuscript. "Let us construct a glorious bonfire, for all unholy must be purged in the fire! Once that is done, we can celebrate our victory."
As the people nod along and agree, Lars addresses one last concern, turning to the ex-priests. "Now is the time to publicly renounce."
The priests look at each other for a long moment, then at the head priest. They then nod, place their hands on their hearts and, one after the other, renounce their faith in Kezilam, affirming that she is a false god, unworthy of proper worship. The head priest gives them a dirty look as they do so, but nobody minds him. The people seem impressed, Lars thinks. It's not every day that you see a priest of Kezilam repent. After a gentle reminder about the business at hand on Lars' part, they move to look for materials for a bonfire.
Not too long afterwards, a rather large bonfire is built at the bottom of the temple steps from various available materials, most prominently a whole lot of stolen or discarded Kezilamite praying robes.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 26, 2013, 06:30:48 am
Hey, Phiali had an action that wasn't a pathetic failure!
Attempt to convert heathen. By telling the truth.
Try to remember if Kezilam sounds familiar...
Post by: Toaster on August 26, 2013, 07:37:41 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 26, 2013, 07:55:22 am
I'm curious if rolls were hidden or all of us just talking didn't invoke any rolls.
I hide lots of rolls - right now, I'm pretty sure I hide most of them. However, in your case, there was just one roll - to see if the people could manage to gather fuel without some form of mishap.
Post by: TCM on August 28, 2013, 07:51:14 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 29, 2013, 05:10:42 am
"Temple musician? I'd love to go, but I have a contract that obliges me here every night."
"Perhaps we can have a chat with your patron and renegotiate it, yes?"
"We can be highly persuasive."
Note - I'm going to be gone from tomorrow until the evening (or morning, for those in America) of September 1st, barring any huge natural disasters, so a turn will have to wait until then, unfortunately, unless at least two more people post actions, in which case I might get it done today.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on August 29, 2013, 06:37:00 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on August 29, 2013, 06:38:48 am
Would the natural disasters mean you return sooner or later?
Depends on where and how it happens, really, as either is possible.
Post by: Toaster on August 29, 2013, 09:06:52 am
"And so, we shall rid ourselves of the last of these relics. First, the head of a false prophet. May he be forgotten."
Lars tosses it on the fire.
"Second, his false statements. May his words never be spoken again."
Lars throws it in too.
"Finally, the head of this blasphemous temple. May the fire cleans all who oppose the One True God."
In goes the priest.
Speak to the crowd, and burn the lies of Kezilam.
Post by: Xantalos on August 30, 2013, 02:33:43 am
Post by: IronyOwl on August 30, 2013, 04:53:12 am
Peeeeeerfect. Juuuuuuuuust perfect.
"Alright, you win!" she shouted, hoping whatever psychopath was out there could hear her and wasn't interested in grinding her bones to make his bread. "I have been caught in your snare!"
Yell things in tunnels.
Post by: TCM on August 30, 2013, 04:03:32 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 05, 2013, 01:21:08 pm
Phiali realizes that now is his chance. He tries to convert this fellow, but not like usually. This time, he will tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
"Well, you see, I dare say that God is the only god worth following on the market right now. Definitely no other good candidates, in my opinion."
"How so?"
"Ah, like I said, She is rather powerful. Why, He even grants miracles occasionally. I was once stabbed by people outside a temple, and wouldn't you know it, I was saved by God. Definitely an eye-opening experience."
"Really?"
"And She's got liberal standards and demands nothing other than obedience when He wants you to burn things She dislikes or go on some other divine quest."
"What are the benefits?"
"Few thus far, but I'm sure they'll increase. You just have to be quick to jump on these things, which ensures you'll be important when we expand. You'd only have to convert some other people, then they'd convert other people, and so on and so on. You may even achieve special favor in the eyes of God, being possibly my first convert who really means it, too."
"Ah, I think I am starting to see the idea here. Well played, good sir."
"Naturally, there'd be plenty of treasure and women in it for you if this works - God abhors monogamy, don't you know."
"I have to say, this God interests me quite a bit. It seems like you have a plan, even. But I believe we should speak in some other place about this. These people, while usually perfectly harmless and fun, don't really like it when people not of the faith try to openly convert others during religious festivals."
Phiali tries to remember if he knows somebody named Kezilam throughout the whole conversation. He supposes he doesn't - he sounds like a reasonable sort, he supposes. Got musical festivals and everything. Somebody who knows how to have this much fun can't be evil, right?
* * * * *
Lars figures he'll do these things in sequence - all at once would be poor showmanship, yes?
"And so, we shall rid ourselves of the last of these relics. First, the head of a false prophet. May he be forgotten."
He brandishes the head of Amaliz Teze, chucking it into the fire. As it burns, he feels a holy shiver come over him, a sense of utmost divine accomplishment.
"Second, his false statements. May his words never be spoken again," he says, taking out the holy manuscript of the Kezilamite prophet and sentencing that to ritual burning as well - that stuff burns very nicely, too. And as it does, the words of Amaliz Teze disappear, granting Lars immense pleasure - it's all he can do not to writhe on the ground right now.
Quite ecstatic, yet determined to see this through with a serious look, he then addresses the crowd once more.
"Finally, the head of this blasphemous temple. May the fire cleans all who oppose the One True God."
[Lars strength roll: 5]
He lifts up the head priest, who doesn't really resist, having accepted his fate a short while ago as well as mildly happy that they chose to burn him rather than, say, drown him, which may have put him beyond Kezilam's reach, and throws him into the fire. The priest does not scream - he just breathes in the smoke, writhing in the flames as they consume his body, then shortly becoming motionless when the fire and smoke do their work on his abused, elderly body.
By the end of it, Lars feels like there's only one thing left to do - destroy the temple as was God's command - none can resist the power anymore.
Two important heretic relics burned! 2 MP gained!
Heretic burned! 1 MP gained!
* * * * *
Gronok guesses there's no point talking to this woman anymore, and heads over to Blessed Tritizima's house, or at least what one might assume to be Blessed Tritizima's house. The door of the humble residence appears to be unlocked, so he heads right in.
The decor, as one might expect, is fairly lacking aside from a few murals clearly done by children - they depict flames, light, that sort of thing. It's kind of difficult to tell with some of it.
Anyhow, he wanders through the house until he notices a middle-aged, rather homely and mildly hunched woman sitting in a chair in one of the rooms, reading a scroll of some kind. Closer inspection reveals that she does not seem to reading at all - instead, she appears to be reciting it quietly to herself, eyes closed. After a moment of this, she opens them back up, noticing Gronok. She says nothing, merely looking at him silently.
* * * * *
Shashari groans, being in quite the terrible position right now. She decides to... sorta give up. For the time being. Cut her losses, you know.
"Alright, you win! I have been caught in your snare!" she shouts into the surrounding darkness, hoping that the crazy bastard out there has good enough hearing to differentiate between panicked defiance and dignified surrender. However, if there is indeed something going on, she certainly can't hear it from here.
Hm. Maybe whoever it is is hoping to starve her out. This would be a desirable scenario, as that would probably mean that it does not mean to wear her pelt after she's dead - everyone knows that human skin suffers noticeably from malnutrition, right?
* * * * *
Elizas, seeing no harm in it, decides to guide the fair ladies over to his patron - the guards wonder if they should intervene, but the bald woman gives him a stern look and he backs off.
"Now, you stay right here and don't move," the leader-woman tells him, entering the room of the patron and shutting the door behind her, the three others following her.
For the next several minutes, Elizas can hear voices from within - mostly the women speaking in an amicable fashion, the owner occasionally chipping in. Elizas can't really make anything out about the conversation. Then, all of a sudden, all four of them come right out.
"Right, it's done. You are freed from your contract, good sir. Will you now join us at the temple?"
Well, that didn't take long at all.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 05, 2013, 02:09:29 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 05, 2013, 02:19:52 pm
"Sounds reasonable. Know any good places to talk?"
"Yes, I possess some lodgings nearby, at the carpenter's home."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 05, 2013, 02:22:13 pm
"Shall we go there?""Sounds reasonable. Know any good places to talk?""Yes, I possess some lodgings nearby, at the carpenter's home."
If yes, go there.
Post by: Toaster on September 06, 2013, 10:45:46 am
Lars gestures at the burned priest. "Disobedience to divine command carries a high price."
Incite the crowd to destroy the temple. Remind them that debauchery has to wait until afterwards. Help said crowd in temple destruction.
If someone asks how a crowd of peasants are supposed to tear down a well-built stone temple, pray via a Divine Knowledge miracle to find out the best way to destroy it.
((Tearing down a temple like that without explosives or a wrecking ball may be tricky.))
Post by: Toaster on September 06, 2013, 10:47:31 am
Post by: Xantalos on September 06, 2013, 01:11:13 pm
Repeat what I said about fusing faiths to the lady. Be really eloquent.
Post by: IronyOwl on September 09, 2013, 08:30:01 am
"Just gonna figure out your trap then!" She could just burn the rope with divine power, but that'd be awfully wasteful.
"Coulda done this the easy way, but noooooo!" She should really look into carrying around a knife or something.
Try to untie self again.
Post by: TCM on September 11, 2013, 09:15:27 pm
Post by: Nunzillor on September 15, 2013, 06:42:17 pm
Post by: Tiruin on September 15, 2013, 08:41:49 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 16, 2013, 12:38:24 am
((Harry is just having college stuff busying up his day. Same with most RTDs run by college people. It ain't dead. :I))
That's rather accurate, actually. I'm hoping I can get an update out today or perhaps tomorrow.
Post by: Xantalos on September 16, 2013, 12:39:54 am
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 16, 2013, 12:48:36 am
Ah, good! I was hoping that this would be still alive. *shakes fist* Gronok ain't done with Tezelom yet!
Rest assured that if I abandon a game, I will give due notification first.
Post by: Xantalos on September 16, 2013, 12:49:38 am
Good to know.Ah, good! I was hoping that this would be still alive. *shakes fist* Gronok ain't done with Tezelom yet!
Rest assured that if I abandon a game, I will give due notification first.
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 17, 2013, 09:44:22 am
After receiving an affirmative answer from his new friend, Phiali follows him over to his lodgings, which are located in an otherwise empty home some distance away from the festivities - whoever else lives there, they are clearly not home right now. The two of them ascend to the second floor, coming inside a refreshingly sensible room.
"All right, let's discuss. You see, you have yourself a faith - that's good. Are there any followers? And do you have any temples? Any gold? Resources? Leverage of any kind?"
Phiali wonders if anything he's done so far really counts in any of those categories. He's guessing no, considering that the best he's got are a couple of people who grudgingly said 'okay' when he generously offered a chance to convert.
* * * * *
Lars, knowing that there is still work to be done, instructs his victorious flock in the ways of ideologically plundering the enemy.
"People, there is but one last task yet before us. We must tear down this temple, lest the unholy acts performed within contaminate this fair village. We must cast down its stones and scour it to the sand. Do that, and we will be in divine favor, and we may celebrate in the newfound joy of the One True God."
And lest they feel themselves inadequate, he throws a little intimidation in there as well, gesturing at the priest who is now mostly charcoal.
"Disobedience to divine command carries a high price."
The crowd seems to be okay with the idea of performing some deconstruction.
"Right, let's do this!"
It is at this point that they realize they don't really have much to destroy temples with, strictly speaking. At least not stone temples.
"Erm... maybe a night of limitless debauchery will help us figure this out? Eh? Eh?"
"No! Later! Right now, we must destroy so that our victory (and the debauchery to follow) will be that much more earned!"
With that, Lars places his fingers on his temples, seeking divine inspiration - it starts weakly, a little trickle of knowledge into his mind from an unknown source. It intensifies promptly, visions flooding rapidly into his mind - they, however, state only the most obvious of things - a battering ram might be useful. Or maybe just a whole lot of people with hammers and chisels. And rope.
1 MP spent!
* * * * *
Gronok, supposing that this must be Blessed Tritizima, goes ahead and speaks his mind.
"Say, I was in town and my religion has no real adherents, so would you like to join faiths? It's totally worth it, I assure you. Religion's a growth industry!"
The woman smiles, shaking her head and returning to her scroll.
* * * * *
Shashari, still hanging around, speaks into the darkness.
"Fine, be that way!" she yells, swinging back and forth. "Just gonna figure out your trap then!" she says, wondering whether she couldn't just miracle her way out of this. Can she even do any miracles? It's not like she's checked or anything. "Coulda done this the easy way, but noooooo!" she continues, making a note to carry a knife around or something. It's what survivalists do, right?
Speaking of survival, she really doesn't want to be used as some kind of cave decoration. Perhaps it's time to get out of here, but seriously this time. No fooling.
[Shashari strength roll: 1-->4]
Uh-uh. Nothing doing. Looks like her upbringing has done a fine job of optimizing her for being in distress.
* * * * *
Elizas, seeing how the deal seems to be done, follows the women out into the streets of good ol' Berikalam. They walk along the cobbled paths, making idle conversation.
"That person proved very agreeable. Quite unusual for his ilk."
"I think he might have been scared of us."
"Not entirely unfounded - the immoral tend to shy away from the faithful. Like light and shadow."
"He was lucky he was dealing with us - I am sure there are plenty of less tolerant individuals who would love to have a talk with him."
"In any case, it's all worked out for the best. Now we have a new temple musician!"
Eventually they reach a fairly large stone building with twin fires burning bright outside the main entrance. It doesn't look very old, and is very much built after the current style. The women quickly lead Elizas inside.
"Ah, looks like we are almost right on time."
In the main hall of the temple, which is rather small as far as main halls go, three women and four men of varied ages, all wearing gray robes, appear to be seated, with one additional man standing slightly further away. The one that's split off from the rest looks positively ancient, and appears to be impatiently handling an odd-looking zither. All of the gathered ones look over at the arrivals.
"Who's that?" one of the men, a rather young one at that, asks.
"Looks very foreign to me. From the south, perhaps?" one of the women adds.
"Care to introduce yourself, friend?" the leading woman asks of Elizas, looking at him knowingly.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Post by: Toaster on September 17, 2013, 10:35:20 am
A battering ram... simple enough, Lars supposed. He was mostly familiar with rams that went baaa, but the principle was the same.
"It is quite simple. We need a battering ram! A large tree trunk would do. Beyond that, hammers, chisels, and rope! It is only a matter of putting your heart and faith into your work, and allowing divine inspiration to take you all!"
Instruct the crowd in siege weaponry. Attempt to help locate a ram.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 10:50:55 am
Use my last and only MP to conjure an impressive miracle to impress them.
"The God's power can flow through anyone faithful who has earned The God's favor."
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 17, 2013, 10:54:16 am
"In order: Not that I know of, no, no, and yes."
Use my last and only MP to conjure an impressive miracle to impress them.
"The God's power can flow through anyone faithful who has earned The God's favor."
You can't really cast anything visually impressive with 1 MP. At that level, you can only do targeted divining and extremely minor blessings or curses.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 11:45:06 am
((I don't want to do that; hear me out.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 17, 2013, 12:00:01 pm
Could I set someone on fire?
((I don't want to do that; hear me out.))
Not really, unless you do it conventionally. You can't afford God's Wrath, and blessings and curses don't cover that. However, if you want to negotiate a new miracle, we can do so.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 12:20:23 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 17, 2013, 12:26:46 pm
Would a lightshow or something be possible?
((No. For 1 MP, I would accept something like producing a flame comparable to that of a candle at your fingertips.))
Post by: Parisbre56 on September 17, 2013, 01:58:18 pm
((If only he had some cigarettes...))Would a lightshow or something be possible?
((No. For 1 MP, I would accept something like producing a flame comparable to that of a candle at your fingertips.))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 02:09:39 pm
((How about more light, but less heat and control?))Would a lightshow or something be possible?((No. For 1 MP, I would accept something like producing a flame comparable to that of a candle at your fingertips.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 17, 2013, 02:38:04 pm
((How about more light, but less heat and control?))
((How much more light?))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 02:55:16 pm
Post by: Xantalos on September 17, 2013, 02:56:08 pm
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 03:05:07 pm
Post by: Xantalos on September 17, 2013, 03:06:08 pm
((Was there an actual bomb, or just a threat of one?))((Threat. Or gas leak or something.))
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 17, 2013, 03:56:02 pm
((Enough for a "Wow!" factor.))
((How much is that? It's a very subjective statement, is all. I mean, some people and other animals might be impressed by your index finger suddenly producing a candle flame. And 1 MP doesn't get you a whole lot in any case.))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 07:53:38 pm
Post by: Parisbre56 on September 17, 2013, 08:18:51 pm
((I'm going for as much of a lightshow as I can get.))((Something like a camera flash or something that lasts longer, like a halo for example or simply a faint glow surrounding you?))
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 17, 2013, 08:35:43 pm
Post by: TCM on September 17, 2013, 08:42:30 pm
"I am indeed foreign. I am Elizas, professional virtuoso. I was cast out of my African homeland due to intolerance of my beliefs in the true God. I hope that I may serve you all well as a musician."
Post by: Xantalos on September 17, 2013, 09:43:04 pm
Post by: IronyOwl on September 22, 2013, 07:14:54 am
Then she remembered she had God's work to carry out. No time to faff about hoping a lonely prince will wander along prior to someone planning to wear her as a coat, after all!
Speaking of which... she was very tempted to call on God's aid a bit for this predicament. She really just wasn't cut out for escaping from things, apparently.
On the other hand... it seemed a bit silly to pray to God herself for assistance escaping from an unattended rope.
Once more! Remember stories about people considerably more adventurous than myself! THEY wouldn't have let a simple rope stop them! They'd also probably be competent and armed and strong but NEGATIVE THINKING GETS US NOWHERE NOW DOES IT.
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 22, 2013, 01:37:27 pm
Lars explains the measures that will be required to achieve the requisite destruction of temples and so forth.
"It is quite simple. We need a battering ram! A large tree trunk would do. Beyond that, hammers, chisels, and rope! It is only a matter of putting your heart and faith into your work, and allowing divine inspiration to take you all!"
The crowd seems into it, Lars supposes. They immediately set about working, everybody pitching in for the building of a mighty ram to shake the foundations of buildings and faiths alike, a surprisingly well-done thing, Lars must say. It only takes them about three hours to get it all together, too. Luckily, there was plenty of stuff to use for such a purpose.
The villagers, one ram richer and having found a bunch of hammers and chisels as well, stand and look at Lars expectantly, waiting for instruction, it seems. A spot of divine inspiration, maybe.
* * * * *
Phiali tries to remain as truthful as possible, explaining his position.
"In order: Not that I know of, no, no, and yes."
And since this doesn't sound very good, he decides to summon up some mad divine favor to get the guy's attention. He focuses upon the open palm of his hand, praying for this to work. He isn't sure what's going to happen, but it better be good! He feels he isn't very popular with God right now.
As he slightly opens his eyes to see what's happening, he notices a small sphere of light appear in the palm of his hand. Sweet! He wonders what it might do. Fortunately, he doesn't need to wander long, as it momentarily erupts into tiny little luminous ribbons that stream and dance along his palm for a short bit before dissipating quickly. Okay, gotta make this good.
"The God's power can flow through anyone faithful who has earned The God's favor."
"Erm... okay. Does it do anything useful? How much of it can you do? Anything more impressive in your repertoire? I mean, that was quite intriguing, but I doubt it's going to persuade anyone you've got the best religion ever, you know?"
1 MP spent!
* * * * *
Elizas introduces himself straightforwardly.
"I am indeed foreign. I am Elizas, professional virtuoso. I was cast out of my African homeland due to intolerance of my beliefs in the true God. I hope that I may serve you all well as a musician."
There is a moment of quiet as the room looks at Elizas ponderously.
"... true god?"
Before people can think on this further, the leader of Elizas' sponsors intervenes.
"Perhaps a bit of a performance will serve adequately as well?"
* * * * *
Gronok decides to approach this from another angle.
"I apologize for my directness, good mother. What are you reading?"
The lady doesn't respond in any way, closing her eyes and resuming a recital.
* * * * *
Shashari, deciding to stop her desperate struggle before she pulls something important, wonders about what she could do about this predicament. She could pray, sure, but it seems kind of stupid to seek divine aid to escape a length of rope. Why, most people could escape a length of rope without even giving their wits much of a workout!
It then occurs to her that the people who could indeed do this are also likely to be the ones who would dislocate their ankles in the process. Deliberately. And dislocating her ankle, which Shashari isn't sure she could even do in good conscience, sounds like it would really, really hurt. Not to mention that she wouldn't really know how to pop it back into place, which would also consequently manifest as a world of hurt.
All in all, she doesn't think she can pull off the truly adventurous method of escaping the surly bonds of entrapment and touching the earth once more.
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 22, 2013, 02:15:37 pm
Shift about uncomfortably.
"...I haven't exactly been doing much to earn the God's favor. Not successfully, at least."
Try to convert them. Please roll for it.
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 22, 2013, 02:19:19 pm
Try to convert them. Please roll for it.
To be honest, I really prefer not to. That way, it makes more sense.
And you of all people shouldn't be advocating more rolling, I would say.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on September 22, 2013, 02:24:07 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on September 22, 2013, 02:45:36 pm
If that doesn't sound like something you all want, I can just keep on rolling, of course.
Post by: IronyOwl on September 22, 2013, 03:36:11 pm
Actually, about that. There's this thing - lots of people here have social interaction bonuses, but I'm seriously considering doing away with rolling for social interaction altogether, and just sticking with initial (hidden, of course) reaction rolls instead, with people being largely in charge of the whole interacting business themselves. If the players all agree, this would also necessitate some changes in their respective perks - in essence, you could change your abilities if you had something as vague as a +1 to charisma, and choose something more narrowly defined and differently useful instead.((Not sure how I feel about that. On the one hand, it's probably more flavorful. On the other, I do like the idea of being good (or bad) at social interaction.))
If that doesn't sound like something you all want, I can just keep on rolling, of course.
Shashari sighed.
"Are you suuuuuuuuure you don't want to come talk about this and be reasonable?" she called into the depths. "It'd probably be a lot better for everyone involved in the long run!"
Futile diplomacy.
Post by: Xantalos on September 22, 2013, 07:47:31 pm
Post by: Toaster on September 22, 2013, 08:15:13 pm
"Well done, faithful of the True God! Now we shall tear down this heretical structure! Start with the support pillars!
Get ramming. Point out obvious external pillars and stuff, then work on the exterior walls. Outside in, basically.
Actually, about that. There's this thing - lots of people here have social interaction bonuses, but I'm seriously considering doing away with rolling for social interaction altogether, and just sticking with initial (hidden, of course) reaction rolls instead, with people being largely in charge of the whole interacting business themselves. If the players all agree, this would also necessitate some changes in their respective perks - in essence, you could change your abilities if you had something as vague as a +1 to charisma, and choose something more narrowly defined and differently useful instead.
If that doesn't sound like something you all want, I can just keep on rolling, of course.
Color me ambivalent on this one- I'll bow to your will. How would my ability need to change, since it's my only negative?
Post by: Xantalos on September 22, 2013, 08:16:55 pm
Actually, about that. There's this thing - lots of people here have social interaction bonuses, but I'm seriously considering doing away with rolling for social interaction altogether, and just sticking with initial (hidden, of course) reaction rolls instead, with people being largely in charge of the whole interacting business themselves. If the players all agree, this would also necessitate some changes in their respective perks - in essence, you could change your abilities if you had something as vague as a +1 to charisma, and choose something more narrowly defined and differently useful instead.((Hmm. While this is my primary skill and the only thing that's kept me alive, I wouldn't mind changing if that's what you want to do.))
If that doesn't sound like something you all want, I can just keep on rolling, of course.
Post by: TCM on September 29, 2013, 01:11:43 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 05, 2013, 01:52:32 pm
Phiali gently eases into explaining to the fellow that times have been a mite rough lately.
"Indeed, there are many other things the God's power can do, from healing to smiting enemies to accelerating travel! I would show you, but I have nothing in mind, and um..." he stammers, shifting his posture. "... I haven't exactly been doing much to earn the God's favor. Not successfully, at least."
"But hey! We can start turning that around, can't we? You and I, we can put God on the map together! Get believers and so forth, spread the word, get tithes and lovely cultists to instruct in our policy of polygamy, that sort of thing. It's not very often that you can say that you're working with a bona fide prophet? A magical bona fide prophet?"
"Can you do any more of that magic?"
"Not yet, no. I need to do things that please God to get more miraculous magical abilities."
"And that would be..."
"Theft, burning heretics, ruining marriages, among other things. Like converting people, for instance."
"Doesn't sound too difficult. So, first priority is to get more divine favor, which we do right here, as surreptitiously as possible. Any preferences on what sort of activity you'd like to do? I'm thinking you should try theft first - adultery's punishable by death, after all."
* * * * *
Shashari tries to reason with the darkness some more.
"Are you suuuuuuuuure you don't want to come talk about this and be reasonable? It'd probably be a lot better for everyone involved in the long run!" she yells, the blood still rushing to her head and getting highly uncomfortable at this point. She clearly hears something laughing a distance away.
She isn't sure what exactly it finds so funny. Maybe uneducated troglodytes have a terribly overactive sense of humor.
* * * * *
Gronok taps the lady on the shoulder. She looks at him in a manner that makes Gronok step back, not out of any sense of intimidation, but rather because he suddenly feels he has violated some sort of rule. She looks at him questioningly, though Gronok gets the feeling that she is doing this purely out of politeness and not out of any interest in what he is really saying.
* * * * *
Lars congratulates the faithful on their marvelous engineering work, and instructs them further.
"Well done, faithful of the True God! Now we shall tear down this heretical structure! Start with the support pillars!"
And the people do begin their work - it goes quite slowly, most unfortunately. This temple seems ancient and sturdy, and the battering ram is having trouble with its mighty, fortress-like walls and giant columns. Perhaps some more powerful device is required, Lars thinks.
* * * * *
Elizas goes ahead and gives the temple residents a free sample of what he's offering - the freshest musical stylings in Berikalam, no more, no less!
[Elizas performance roll: 3+1+1]
Though hardly the same fervor he experienced back in the brothel, he manages to pull off a very nice showcasing of his musical talents, performing complex, yet also quite catchy riffs, the alien nature of his music catching the temple residents by surprise at first, though they ease into the music quickly enough. After about ten minutes of showing off, his sponsor motions for him to quiet down for a moment.
"He is quite good, is he not?"
"Certainly very foreign, yes."
"Add a few vocal harmonies and he might become even better! I say we take him on."
The oldest woman in the temple, about sixty from the looks of it, suddenly speaks up.
"What of our current musician?" she asks, pointing at the zither man, who looks quite crushed. "Are we to throw him out as repayment for the years he has spent with us?"
"Oh, certainly not. We will allow him to stay here for the rest of his days, of course. It's just that our new temple musician will-"
"And what about this true god that the new candidate mentioned? Is he even a faithful of Kezilam?"
She turns to Elizas, looking at him with a measure of hostility. The hall is rather quiet now.
Spoiler: GM Note (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: MP Tracker (click to show/hide)
Post by: Xantalos on October 05, 2013, 06:58:46 pm
The +1 for charisma, on the other hand ... hmm. Probably ... I'd like to say 'making it seem like I know what I'm talking about/sincerity', but if that can't apply, let me know.
Also, am I wrong in guessing that she took a vow of silence?
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on October 05, 2013, 07:59:01 pm
Begin planning heist.
Oh, and another thing that I wish to address - Phiali's advantages. I have come to realize over a long time that "+1 to rolls to avoid death" and "+1 to rolls involving faith" are incredibly vague, and haven't done anything about it mostly because Phiali doesn't get to put either of these bonuses to much use. If you don't mind, GWG, I'd like you to change those to something more precise. For avoiding death, specify dodging, toughness or something else, and for faith... not so sure. You could theoretically argue that pretty much everything you do as a prophet involves faith, so that description does not tell me much at all.((For the avoid-death thing, I was imagining more of the "toughness" thing. For the faith...I have no idea, actually. Let me check that character sheet...))
((EDIT: Yeah, no idea what that would be. Not getting converted? Resisting magic of enemy gods? I honestly don't know what I had in mind.))
Post by: TCM on October 05, 2013, 08:16:43 pm
Bluff with whatever these people are talking about.
Post by: IronyOwl on October 05, 2013, 10:02:19 pm
Shashari sighed again.
"Fine. Fine! We'll see who's laughing in a moment here!" she called out into the darkness.
Then she took a few deep breaths, trying to calm herself down and assume proper composure. She'd never officially done this before, and cleared her throat somewhere between nervously and sheepishly.
"Oh Great God, Ash'Mah the Serpent, Devourer of Strengths, Claimer of All Worth Having, I, your humble servant Shashari, beseech you for aid. For though I have conquered the ram and tamed the Siren and bested the False River and impressed the Wild One, it would seem your servant is somewhat specialized in certain ways. I now find myself bested by a simple rope.
Please Great Ash'Mah, grant me aid in this time of need, that I may continue to do your works and spread your name."
Pray for divine assistance.
I'm actually not sure in what form. Whatever would be appropriate for getting free of a rope.
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 06, 2013, 02:58:52 am
((For the avoid-death thing, I was imagining more of the "toughness" thing. For the faith...I have no idea, actually. Let me check that character sheet...))
((EDIT: Yeah, no idea what that would be. Not getting converted? Resisting magic of enemy gods? I honestly don't know what I had in mind.))
Okay then. Feel free to come up with some other advantage in that case - it can be anything that makes a bit of sense, basically.
Also, that +1 to charisma rolls while telling the truth, with the circumvention of persuasion, isn't likely to be much use. You should replace that as well, if you don't mind.
Post by: Toaster on October 07, 2013, 10:22:41 am
Lars looks on at the disappointing progress. Perhaps there was a better way to go about this? He finds the guard that had helped him so much.
"Brother, you have worked in these wretched halls. Is there any weakness to the structure that you know of? Perhaps a better way to go about this?"
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on October 07, 2013, 12:28:37 pm
Faithful: +1 to rolls about religious knowledge or to resist effects caused by priests of other religions (e.g. torture, propaganda, magic)
Honest: +1 to First Impressions
Toughened: +1 to rolls to ignore or not be affected by injuries
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 07, 2013, 03:47:42 pm
"Hm...theft wouldn't be terrible, but I'd prefer not to be perceived as a cult of criminals. Um...yeah, theft unless you can think of someone easily-converted...can you think of something or someone to steal or steal from that most people would either not care about or approve of?"
"No, not really... most non-Kezilamites either don't come with anything valuable, and they don't really stay for very long. It's a very insular place apart from occasional festivals. They do apparently have a treasure, though. A relic of some sort, I believe."
"Brother, you have worked in these wretched halls. Is there any weakness to the structure that you know of? Perhaps a better way to go about this?"
"I am not well-versed in architecture, sadly. It looks like a pretty sturdy temple, though, doesn't it? They built it to last forever, seems like."
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on October 07, 2013, 07:03:02 pm
Post by: Xantalos on October 07, 2013, 07:07:51 pm
((Also, Skilled Storyteller: +1 to making stories sound convincing through their delivery (ie body language, stuttering/er, um, etc or lack of it, etc)
Confident: +1 to rolls in convincing people that I know what I'm talking about/seem competent/etc.
Don't quite know what my malus should be. Any suggestions?))
Post by: Toaster on October 08, 2013, 10:00:45 am
He finds them and asks them the same question.
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 12, 2013, 04:07:28 pm
"A holy relic? ...Tell me more."
"Ah, you see, the relic I speak of is... well... not quite a relic, so to speak. It is of quite a lot of importance to the village. It's the undying flame. It's this bonfire that they keep burning at the main temple of the village. To my knowledge, it's never gone out in recorded history. I believe they use some kind of oil to feed it continuously. It's the closest thing to an artifact I can think of in this area, and I would think that it would cause quite a stir if something were to happen with either the fuel or the fire itself."
Are you a servant of Kezilam?
She nods.
Lars frowns. "Perhaps the ex-priests?"
He finds them and asks them the same question.
The priests are also unable to help - it seems that the idea of destroying their once-precious temple has never really entered their minds up until this point.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on October 12, 2013, 04:18:02 pm
Spoiler: General Plan (click to show/hide)
"Anything you guys can think of to improve the plan?"
Post by: Toaster on October 12, 2013, 04:44:31 pm
See if we can wrestle up a second battering ram.
Post by: Xantalos on October 12, 2013, 08:59:51 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 16, 2013, 10:37:01 am
Sorry, guys, but I'm going to have to drop this game - can't really hold on to any standard of quality that would warrant waiting two weeks, anyway. I have learned from this experience, and I hope you all had something at least vaguely reminiscent of fun. Toaster was so close to reaching the second prophet level, too.
Post by: Toaster on October 16, 2013, 10:39:27 am
It occurs to me that two out of three Larses are arsonists. I'll have to fix that.
Post by: Xantalos on October 16, 2013, 11:01:02 am
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on October 16, 2013, 12:36:56 pm
How did Phiali fail in his current venture?
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 16, 2013, 12:38:11 pm
I just have one question.
How did Phiali fail in his current venture?
Are you asking me to provide an epilogue or something else?
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on October 16, 2013, 12:58:39 pm
Post by: Harry Baldman on October 16, 2013, 01:12:25 pm
Maybe not that long, but an epilogue works.
Let's see, then.
[6-->4] Shockingly, Phiali didn't fail at all for once. He managed to snuff the bonfire just fine, with the help of the other guy! Talk about a shocking twist, eh?
[6-->2] It didn't particularly endear him to the villagers, though. They were, however, in a suggestible and distraught enough state for him to attempt to exploit through conversion.
[3] He even got one actual convert before they ran him out of town. A happy ending for him, truly.
Post by: IronyOwl on October 16, 2013, 05:12:57 pm
I've also been thinking for a while that the stories of Lars would probably be the primary, focused tales of the main prophet, while stories of Shashari the Forest Wanderer would probably mainly be children's stories. Been trying to think of what everyone else's exploits might fall under, but now seems to be the time.
Gronok I get the feeling would show up in tavern stories.
The crimson lady who dropped out I'm thinking would be one of those obscure prophets who a handful of people really admire or consider important but a lot of people haven't even heard of or are only vaguely familiar with.
Elizas I suspect would be a niche prophet/character, not really showing up in any of the main stuff but being really admired by a handful for his talents/exploits. Not as niche as Crimson, I wouldn't think.
Phiali... I think would be those really weird stories where you're really not sure what the point of them was. Arguably everyone's got at least a little of that, but somehow I think an epic stanza about a bucket would be an especially good candidate for scholars to endlessly debate the meaning of, while everyone else is either not familiar with them or has absolutely no idea what they're supposed to mean or maybe has some fairly simple, not especially deep or necessarily accurate assumption about tenacity or drinking from life or something.
Again though, very nice game.
Post by: Persus13 on October 16, 2013, 06:34:46 pm
Phiali... I think would be those really weird stories where you're really not sure what the point of them was. Arguably everyone's got at least a little of that, but somehow I think an epic stanza about a bucket would be an especially good candidate for scholars to endlessly debate the meaning of, while everyone else is either not familiar with them or has absolutely no idea what they're supposed to mean or maybe has some fairly simple, not especially deep or necessarily accurate assumption about tenacity or drinking from life or something.I think Phiali would be the perfect inspiration for a sort of Taoist spin-off sect that says you should be focused on the journey and failure doesn't matter.
Post by: GreatWyrmGold on October 16, 2013, 06:52:26 pm
Or he could be the Job of this religion.Phiali... I think would be those really weird stories where you're really not sure what the point of them was. Arguably everyone's got at least a little of that, but somehow I think an epic stanza about a bucket would be an especially good candidate for scholars to endlessly debate the meaning of, while everyone else is either not familiar with them or has absolutely no idea what they're supposed to mean or maybe has some fairly simple, not especially deep or necessarily accurate assumption about tenacity or drinking from life or something.I think Phiali would be the perfect inspiration for a sort of Taoist spin-off sect that says you should be focused on the journey and failure doesn't matter.
Post by: Toaster on October 16, 2013, 07:44:47 pm
Post by: Xantalos on October 16, 2013, 11:28:48 pm
Or be a really wierd folk tale.