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04:37, 4th May 2024 (GMT+0)

Calafalas in the City.

Posted by TadeuszFor group 0
Tadeusz
player, 9788 posts
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Wed 2 Aug 2017
at 03:21
  • msg #1

Calafalas in the City

OOC: This message is a placeholder for Cala's latest thread, GMed by Tadeusz.  :)
Tadeusz
player, 9791 posts
As you dimension dance...
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Fri 4 Aug 2017
at 16:38
  • msg #2

Calafalas in the City

Swords keeping hitting soccer balls which bounce off clown's heads to the tune of 'White Christmas' while the swords argue about whether ...

You're awake. Cold. Chilled.  Your right shoulder is on stones.  A faint rank odor hits your nose, and then beyond it a much stronger odor of manure and rotting food and wood and human.  Opening your eyes, you see a thin layer of snow dusting you as you lay on a cobblestoned street.  In front of your face are two leather boots, mismatched.

Your bubble foam astronaut suit is on you.
Cala
player, 96 posts
Fri 4 Aug 2017
at 18:16
  • msg #3

Calafalas in the City

I panic briefly.

I just died, definitely, 100% dead. But now I'm not. Did I transmigrate again? Does this mean that shock from the computer killed me? Damn, easily the lamest way to go. This obviously isn't a one time thing, since it has happened twice already. Well, I guess that's cool.  But let's avoid the creepy and the nightmare fuel from now on.

Also, that... dream? Supa creepy. Not a fan of clowns, why would they show up?  Anyway, real talk, where am I? Boots. I can breathe, so I'm not in space, time to get out of this suit.

I look up from the boots, is there a human in them? I also look around my surroundings to see what buildings (if any) are nearby.

If the boots are standalone, then I get up and find an alley or other place to disrobe where no humans are present. If no one is on this street, I'll just discard the space suit where I am.

If the boots have a human attached to them, I get up and greet the person, "Hi, name's Cala. Must be fate that we meet like this."
Tadeusz
player, 9794 posts
As you dimension dance...
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Fri 4 Aug 2017
at 19:53
  • msg #4

Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 3):

Your facescreen broke, and you versed from explosive decompression and lack of oxygen and supercold.  It was quick, but not pleasant.

The human in the boots has a tunic and loose pants on.  Nearby buildings have thatch walls, with some whitewashed and others not.  The roofs are some different type of thatch somehow.  Looking more closely you realize the walls are mud and thatch, and the roofs are just thatch.  The doors are hewn wood, and painted solid blue and green or red.  The doors have iron latches.

Snowflakes drift out of the sky, and the smell of woodsmoke is strong in the air.

You rise and begin to speak, and then suddenly with a  sinking feeling you see a spider cross over his eyeball.  He doesn't twitch.  Fact is, he's not breathing.  He does not respond to you, but a man in a heavy green corduroy coat and woolen pants comes out of a nearby red door.  He starts yelling and gesturing at you, even as he yanks a twelve foot leather whip from his waist belt with clear signs of using it.  You don't understand his words, but he sounds angry.
Cala
player, 97 posts
Fri 4 Aug 2017
at 20:59
  • msg #5

Calafalas in the City

I nod and flee.

Once I reach a vacant area that is not obviously part of someone's property, I get out of the suit and put my hood up. I head through the town looking for signs of an inn or tavern.

Must be an inn somewhere. Definitely not in kansas anymore. So, inn should have a fire going and be someone noisy? Stereotypical D&D inn at least, but I don't have much to go on given this architecture.
Tadeusz
player, 9795 posts
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Wed 9 Aug 2017
at 01:51
  • msg #6

Calafalas in the City

The whip cracks behind you, touches your bubble foam suit on the arm, but does no damage.  You make it around the corner, dodging piles of poo, and find a short dead-end alley.  Taking off the suit takes a few minutes, and suddenly you're much cooler.  A shiver runs down your back.

Walking out, you look around, and find one and two story buildings.  In the distance, you see a square tower rising above the buildings.  Its made of stone, and has what looks to your wondering eyes as a giant mandolin hanging on its exterior walls.

Finding an inn is quick and you enter the Dead Duck passing by two dead looking men in mismatched boots just standing outside, very still.

Inside, its smoky, and dim lit by rush lights.  A tavern wench comes up to you, but her lack of teeth and her wart don't inspire adoration. A few others are inside, with one obviously falling down drunk.
Cala
player, 98 posts
Thu 10 Aug 2017
at 23:16
  • msg #7

Calafalas in the City

Cheery.

I look around and say (in English):

"Does anyone speak English?"

In French:

"French?"

In Spanish:

"Spanish?"

In Japanese:

"Japanese?"

In Portuguese:

"Portuguese?"

In Italian:

"Italian?"

After rattling off language names in multiple languages I await a response, standing awkwardly at the entrance.


Real talk: I can speak English fluently, obviously. I've learned a bit of French (was taught in elementary school, middle school, and high school). I also learned a bit of Japanese in high school (and have watched copious amounts of anime). In this part of the world, there are lots of folks that speak Spanish, so I know enough to recognize it and ask if anyone speaks Spanish (plus, it's a question I get asked in Spanish frequently at work).  I've heard bits and pieces of Portuguese from friends and family, enough to say the language name appropriately and literally nothing else.  Lastly, I've learned Italian on my own because half my family is Italian and it's generally a cool language.

I can't even begin to claim competency in any of them, but I can recognize enough to ask.
Tadeusz
player, 9798 posts
As you dimension dance...
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Sun 13 Aug 2017
at 02:35
  • msg #8

Calafalas in the City

They stare blearily at you until you try Italian.

And then suddenly several speak up in something that sounds like a dialect of Italian.

"Yes, Rhodani, in the City we speak it." Says one man.
"More beer." Says the drunken man to  you, holding out his hand.
"Yes, signor (????), we speak that. Would you like a small beer, or a wine?" Says the tavern wench.  She's treating you with a little more respect since you're evidently a man of learning.

A man in a pale purple jacket and trousers comes out of a back room with several more poorly dressed men behind him, pleading, you think, for a job.  He also has a whip at his hip.  The others are dressed in drabber thinner clothes with one having a jacket that is but a sheet of fabric cut to shape, thin as a t-shirt.

He looks at you.

"You're too late. Be faster and earlier next time if you want a job, unless you're just naturally lazy."  He begins to move past you on the way out.
Cala
player, 99 posts
Sun 13 Aug 2017
at 03:02
  • msg #9

Calafalas in the City

How do you say speaks in italian? Probably a version of parlay. Parlo? Probably, let's go with it. Birra? Beer? Late? Something something job?

"Non parlo molto bene Rhodani. Parla Inglese... Alternativo linguiva? Lingua?"

Ok, that should be 'I don't speak Rhodani (assuming that's what they call it) very well. Speak English... Alternative language?' I don't remember how to say language, it's probably something like that. Most of the words are close enough to english that they can be guessed, anyway. After a fashion, if drunk enough.

I shrug and shake my head in a negative fashion, and move out of the way of people trying to leave.

Times like these I wish I had a D&D style comprehend languages spell, or even a pill or drink that just teaches me the language a la Seoul Station's Necromancer.


I'm assuming my language proficiency didn't get a sudden meteoric rise, so I'm going on the assumption that I missed 90% of what they just said.  If it did, that's awesome,
 but I'm assuming it didn't.
Tadeusz
player, 9799 posts
As you dimension dance...
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Mon 14 Aug 2017
at 00:38
  • msg #10

Calafalas in the City

OOC: Agreed, no meteors.

They shake their head, and the tavern wench points at herself and the bar and waves her hand all around...."Rhodani."

Strongly wishing for a comprehend language spell, you see the wench offer you a beer, and one of the guys babbles something at you.  He seems friendly but otherwise not a clue.

The richer dressed man leaves.  The others stay and sit down.  They wave at you to sit down with them with gap-toothed grins and thin arms.
Cala
player, 100 posts
Mon 14 Aug 2017
at 01:13
  • msg #11

Calafalas in the City

I decline the beer and take a seat. I will try to further my understanding of the language by piecing together the little I know and the words that sound similar to English. I otherwise relax and consider ways to improve my language proficiency.
Tadeusz
player, 9801 posts
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Fri 18 Aug 2017
at 17:15
  • msg #12

Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 11):

After an hour, you have a dozen words.  After two hours, you have a few dozen words.  People have come in, and left.  Many of them seem to be poorly dressed, and there are a number of young men.  A small game involving placing stones has started over in the corner table.

Rhodani 1@1.
Cala
player, 101 posts
Mon 21 Aug 2017
at 06:55
  • msg #13

Calafalas in the City

Huh. I have no idea what to do next. I should learn more, but how do I navigate in a foreign culture without a common language? I can't speak the language properly. Ugh.

I stay until I get kicked out. I'll continue trying to beef up my Rhodani, and occasionally try to ask if someone can help me learn the language. If someone takes me up on the offer, great. If not, then I'll wander around once I leave, trying to find a reasonable place to sleep.
Tadeusz
player, 9806 posts
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Mon 21 Aug 2017
at 21:21
  • msg #14

Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 13):

By closing time, which is shortly after nightfall, you've boosted it to 1@2 Rhodani.

You wander out into the night, and the power of the dark in a time before electricity is immediately apparent.  Its black, and a fog hangs in the streets, and the moon is not out.  You can barely see your feet.

Stumbling on, you find an alley, and bed down in it.  Its cold, and you're shivering, wondering if you are going to make it through the night when you hear a scream in the distance.  You hear some doors open, and men with torches and clubs step out.  But most of the doors have scraping sounds behind them, and t hey stay shut.

A man with a dark beard comes out, and his wife pleads for him to come back in.

"Dead walker, dead walker, man, come back inside."

More screams are coming closer.
Cala
player, 102 posts
Mon 21 Aug 2017
at 21:41
  • msg #15

Calafalas in the City

Yep. Nope.

I get up and find a person with a torch and ask what is going on.

"Mi scusi signore/signora..." (Excuse me, sir/miss) and then what I hope passes for 'I'm new here, I don't understand Rhodani well, what is going on?'

If I can't get anything solid from them, then I go in the opposite direction of the screams.
Tadeusz
player, 9810 posts
As you dimension dance...
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Thu 24 Aug 2017
at 01:19
  • msg #16

Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 15):

"Signor, the dead men, not ruled, come over the city wall.  Kill all the living. Tell my husband to stay here." The distraught wife in the doorway says to you.

"I cannot wife. I made a promise."  The tall bearded man with the torch says.  "Signor, can you fight?  Will you fight?"
Cala
player, 103 posts
Thu 24 Aug 2017
at 01:47
  • msg #17

Calafalas in the City

"Oh. Zombies."

I shake my head, "No ability, abili..ta? to? abilita?"

Times like these I'd love to have fire magic, throw a fireball, do 3d6 fire damage. Or maybe a friendly fire elemental.  Does magic exist here? Can't believe I'm thinking such a question. This time last year, magic was merely a fantasy, and then poof, time travel/transmigration and luck magic is a thing.  Now I'm here and there are actual legit zombies. How would I even do magic? Depends on the book it's similar to, I guess. What would I choose? Less Dresden Files, more Coiling Dragon? No, that'd be bad if I had no affinity for fire. Lightbringer wouldn't necessarily be bad at first, it'd be enough to get through this.
 Not the time to be thinking of it. Maybe I should ask.


I try to ask if magic or wizards/magi exist.

If magic is a thing, I'll see about putting book theory to the test. Might try it out anyway, but confirmation would be nice.
Tadeusz
player, 9813 posts
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Thu 24 Aug 2017
at 04:20
  • msg #18

Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 17):

"Is Signor a Deadmaster, a muerte maestro, or a Magi, or Wizard?"  The big man looks at you with hope.
Cala
player, 104 posts
Thu 24 Aug 2017
at 05:17
  • msg #19

Calafalas in the City

Oh. Snap.

A grin spreads across my face.

I shrug in response to the question. "Maybe. Or perhaps, not quite. We'll see."

How is magic handled? Is it internal, where everyone has mana, or is it external, like the weave? Perhaps it is will based? Or negotiation between the planet / magic itself and the caster, getting to use however much can be persuaded or swindled from the other? Too many possibilities. Perhaps there is no limit, but how much that can be used is limited by understanding? A slew of books and games to choose from, but which do I try out first?

Alright not sure if this will work at all, but it could make me look like a fool. It's really dark, so let's try chanting, it's generally considered a reliable method. Deadmaster is probably a necromancer, the distinction between Magi and Wizard is important, so multiple paths for magic exists. Not sure what this falls under, but let's try it out.

I walk out in the middle of the street and look towards where the screams are.

I say the following the English.

"I go by the name of Cala, and am a newcomer to this planet. I know not which beings or entities oversee magic or the power to call upon the elements. I extend greetings to all entities, known and unknown. While I am here I hope to use magic or the elements, and wish to do so in a manner that is agreeable to both you and I. Until we can formally meet, or at least meet through a designated representative, I hope you'll forgive any offense I may give if I address you incorrectly.

"I call out to the spirits of Light, please bless me with some of your power, so that I may bring light to this lightless night. I seek an orb of light, shining in the sky, bringing light upon this town for 4 hours, or 14,400 heartbeats.

"I call upon the Lord or Lady of Fire, I seek a temporary pact with one of your servants, so that I may bring cleansing fire to the dead that walk these streets tonight. May their spirits rest as their bodies turn to ash, nourishing the planet so that life may spring anew."

I wait to see if anything happens, or if I just look like a crazy foreigner monologuing in a foreign language in the middle of the night.
Tadeusz
player, 9825 posts
As you dimension dance...
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Mon 4 Sep 2017
at 02:52
  • msg #20

Calafalas in the City

OOC: Sorry about missing replying.

Full body involvement, Loud, Vocal, Takes Five minutes, Commune with Unspecified Powers.

That would be relatively easy.

Commune with Lady of Light 1@3.

Speak, Worldwalker. A cool, female voice with an undertone of dancing enthusiasm echoes through your mind.

And you make your request for light.

And as you do, you hear some deep, subterranean voice that speaks in words you don't understand, and you can feel the light from above being twisted with the fire from below.  And the ground shakes.  Soon there will be light....after all, volcanic magma produces light when ejected into the air above a city.

OOC: Botch.
Cala
player, 106 posts
Mon 4 Sep 2017
at 04:28
  • msg #21

Calafalas in the City

Well. That happened. Not quite as planned, is this the real life equivalent of a nat 1? But I can work with that. Also, what was that about a Worldwalker? Is that what I am now? Cool.

"Lady... Woman... Female entity of Light, not sure how you prefer to be addressed, but if I get through this night, I'd like to see about having a discussion, possibly about a working relationship. Also, please don't take this the wrong way, but unless light magic also includes color magic, I've got some other elements to speak with, zombies don't stop themselves."

I look up as I speak, feeling what I do.

If this was Dungeons and Dragons, I'd swear it was a being of earth speaking Terran. No Lady or Lord of Fire, unless the Lady of light is also the Lady of Fire. Fire magic does share a border with light magic, after all. Earth is on the opposite side of fire, where it borders earth, so to get through this, I want water, but I don't have the control for it, and I'd rather not drown. Air or wind counters earth, but I don't know the dao of wind, and lack the magic necessary to react quick enough.

What to do, what to do...  Shamans and Druids channel the elements, Mages go elemental, wizards arcane, cultivators go for daos, priests for the divine. I really need non-specific elemental shields covering the city to protect it from whatever I just summoned, as well as shooting fireballs to just wreck zombies.  Of course, I could go for control, but necromancy is generally frowned upon and zombies are icky.

If magic is non-specific or all encompassing, then I could ask assistance from a being of light, as I had, but I could also try to control or channel the elements. If it is only the type of calling for assistance, then trying to channel it to be according to my will is terribly insulting, but if it can be done as well, then I'd be stupid not to try it.  I just don't know enough.

"I don't know how magic is handled. Do I always need to ask for help? Do I need to make a pact with an elemental being? Does magic or mana just flow through the air waiting to be called upon or channeled?  I just, I don't, I don't know, and I don't want to insult y'all. So let's just chalk this all up to me being new, ignorant, and uninformed, and I would gladly speak to everyone's representatives after this night so I don't behave improperly."

As I start this monologue/speech with the unknown/newly known, I turn around (180 degrees) and then start walking at an angle in the 2 o'clock direction. I continue walking as I talk.

"The goal is to get rid of the zombies. The walking dead. That which walks the night past its time. Undead. My limited understanding, from books and web novels suggests that light magic would be best to purify them, or fire to cleanse, but I figure any element has their own ways of handling problems. Water can wash away, earth can bury, darkness can devour/drain, wind can slice into pieces or blow away. If I just caused a volcanic eruption, then I'll leave it to lava to handle the zombies, but I'd rather not kill all the townspeople.

"Being of Earth, thanks for the volcano, I'm sure it suits the spirit of what I asked, if not really the letter, and it should take care of the zombs, so thanks. I'd thank you in what I assume might be terran, but I don't know the elemental languages, or whatever passes for them on this planet.

"Spirit or spirits of Water, after the volcano does its thing, after it spews lava and removes the zombies, I humbly request a torrential rain in this region for 2 days. Let's cool the area down and wash away the bodies.

"Spirit of Air or Wind, I don't know who or what governs this element, but I request that you safely whisk away the townspeople, that they might escape from this danger caused by whatever raised the dead, as well as what I have inadvertently caused to happen to their town.

"Spirits of the Elements, I don't really expect this to be done for free or just because I ask, but if I make it through this night, then I'll gladly be your representative to work with you or to repay whatever amount of effort or work my requests have caused you to do or go through until such a time as my efforts have repaid you.  I may not be able to work with all of you at the same time, but I'll go in order of response for as long as it takes, starting with the Lady of Light."

I keep walking to escape what I assume will be a burning hell in the very near future. If I see them I'm actually going towards danger, I'll turn in whatever way seems safest and away from everything and jog in that direction.



It's k. Happens.
Tadeusz
player, 9828 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Mon 4 Sep 2017
at 23:27
  • msg #22

Re: Calafalas in the City

Cala:
Well. That happened. Not quite as planned, is this the real life equivalent of a nat 1? But I can work with that. Also, what was that about a Worldwalker? Is that what I am now? Cool.

"Lady... Woman... Female entity of Light, not sure how you prefer to be addressed, but if I get through this night, I'd like to see about having a discussion, possibly about a working relationship. Also, please don't take this the wrong way, but unless light magic also includes color magic, I've got some other elements to speak with, zombies don't stop themselves."

====You get the feeling that as long as you're not working with the Shadow or Chaos she's okay.

I look up as I speak, feeling what I do.

If this was Dungeons and Dragons, I'd swear it was a being of earth speaking Terran. No Lady or Lord of Fire, unless the Lady of light is also the Lady of Fire. Fire magic does share a border with light magic, after all. Earth is on the opposite side of fire, where it borders earth, so to get through this, I want water, but I don't have the control for it, and I'd rather not drown. Air or wind counters earth, but I don't know the dao of wind, and lack the magic necessary to react quick enough.

What to do, what to do...  Shamans and Druids channel the elements, Mages go elemental, wizards arcane, cultivators go for daos, priests for the divine. I really need non-specific elemental shields covering the city to protect it from whatever I just summoned, as well as shooting fireballs to just wreck zombies.  Of course, I could go for control, but necromancy is generally frowned upon and zombies are icky.

If magic is non-specific or all encompassing, then I could ask assistance from a being of light, as I had, but I could also try to control or channel the elements. If it is only the type of calling for assistance, then trying to channel it to be according to my will is terribly insulting, but if it can be done as well, then I'd be stupid not to try it.  I just don't know enough.

"I don't know how magic is handled. Do I always need to ask for help? Do I need to make a pact with an elemental being? Does magic or mana just flow through the air waiting to be called upon or channeled?  I just, I don't, I don't know, and I don't want to insult y'all. So let's just chalk this all up to me being new, ignorant, and uninformed, and I would gladly speak to everyone's representatives after this night so I don't behave improperly."

As I start this monologue/speech with the unknown/newly known, I turn around (180 degrees) and then start walking at an angle in the 2 o'clock direction. I continue walking as I talk.

"The goal is to get rid of the zombies. The walking dead. That which walks the night past its time. Undead. My limited understanding, from books and web novels suggests that light magic would be best to purify them, or fire to cleanse, but I figure any element has their own ways of handling problems. Water can wash away, earth can bury, darkness can devour/drain, wind can slice into pieces or blow away. If I just caused a volcanic eruption, then I'll leave it to lava to handle the zombies, but I'd rather not kill all the townspeople.

====You feel as if multiple Powers are listening, but none replies.  +@1 to Commune.

"Being of Earth, thanks for the volcano, I'm sure it suits the spirit of what I asked, if not really the letter, and it should take care of the zombs, so thanks. I'd thank you in what I assume might be terran, but I don't know the elemental languages, or whatever passes for them on this planet.

====You see a vision of a volcano, but its not the city-destroying thing you thought.  Its more of a street destroying thing.  But it will shoot magma into the air that will fall down and spread fire.

"Spirit or spirits of Water, after the volcano does its thing, after it spews lava and removes the zombies, I humbly request a torrential rain in this region for 2 days. Let's cool the area down and wash away the bodies.

====Many voices answer, twisting together until they come into harmony.  "We are the Naiads. We are bound in chains of stone by the Mages of the City. Free us, and we will aid you."

"Spirit of Air or Wind, I don't know who or what governs this element, but I request that you safely whisk away the townspeople, that they might escape from this danger caused by whatever raised the dead, as well as what I have inadvertently caused to happen to their town.

===="You ask without understanding, Worldwalker." The Voice booms through your head like thunder.

"Spirits of the Elements, I don't really expect this to be done for free or just because I ask, but if I make it through this night, then I'll gladly be your representative to work with you or to repay whatever amount of effort or work my requests have caused you to do or go through until such a time as my efforts have repaid you.  I may not be able to work with all of you at the same time, but I'll go in order of response for as long as it takes, starting with the Lady of Light."

====Many voices speak, and then a cool, distant voice speaks, and the others fades.
"You who walk worlds
Who dies and dies not
Art made First Wielder
Strike down the Chains
Take from the Dead Hand
The Key to the Many
And Open the Door Again."

I keep walking to escape what I assume will be a burning hell in the very near future. If I see them I'm actually going towards danger, I'll turn in whatever way seems safest and away from everything and jog in that direction.



It's k. Happens.

Cala
player, 107 posts
Tue 5 Sep 2017
at 00:11
  • msg #23

Re: Calafalas in the City

Once I get far enough away, I watch the destruction, and ponder the Words.

I mumble a bit to myself, "Walk worlds, dies and doesn't... so this isn't just a one or two time thing? Still new at this. If I knew last year that I'd die and become this world walker thing, I would've probably expanded my knowledge a bit."

I look around.

"First wielder, chains, dead hand, door, key.  Sounds good, don't know what any of it means. Is there a guide I can read? Or talk to? A few months ago I didn't even know magic existed. Though I generally fall into the category of freedom for everything magical, I've got a few problems. I don't know the local language fluently, or where to find this key and the door it opens.

"So, if at all possible, could someone impart upon me the language of the locals, or denizens of this plane, or at least the ability to read and understand the languages? Once I know that, I can get to work striking down the Chains and freeing whomever needs to be freed aside from the Nai... the spirits of Water."

Man, magic is so cool. Need work getting the result I want, but still super cool. Freeing spirits of the elements, does that make me a shaman or a druid? Probably a druid. Not really my thing, would definitely prefer chantless magic; think of what I want to happen and have it happen. Quicker that way, but if I've learned anything from Child of Light, it's always super helpful to have the spirits of the elements as your friends.

Of course, being able to chant magic or just cast it as I please would also be super cool. I wonder if this world has a magic library with some conventions for normal magic use.


Child of Light:  http://www.wuxiaworld.com/col-index/

Also, finding out about the versing thing by context instead of a chat with another verser is an interesting route so far.

On the topic of magic, there's an anime I saw 4 or 5 months ago called ROKUDENASHI MAJUTSU KOUSHI TO AKASHIC RECORDS aka Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor. In the show,
 all magic is 3 verse chant by standard, but changing the chant to 2, 4, 5, and so on verses, same words, changes the outcome of the spell. Instead of flying straight it might curve, or hover, or travel then shoot off in a different direction.

Cool stuff. I mention this so there's some context, as I'll probably try it out in the future.

Here's the reference (4 min 30 sec long) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2Lr-o6YvNM
Tadeusz
player, 9831 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 5 Sep 2017
at 22:36
  • msg #24

Re: Calafalas in the City

Cala:
Once I get far enough away, I watch the destruction, and ponder the Words.

I mumble a bit to myself, "Walk worlds, dies and doesn't... so this isn't just a one or two time thing? Still new at this. If I knew last year that I'd die and become this world walker thing, I would've probably expanded my knowledge a bit."

I look around.

"First wielder, chains, dead hand, door, key.  Sounds good, don't know what any of it means. Is there a guide I can read? Or talk to? A few months ago I didn't even know magic existed. Though I generally fall into the category of freedom for everything magical, I've got a few problems. I don't know the local language fluently, or where to find this key and the door it opens.

"So, if at all possible, could someone impart upon me the language of the locals, or denizens of this plane, or at least the ability to read and understand the languages? Once I know that, I can get to work striking down the Chains and freeing whomever needs to be freed aside from the Nai... the spirits of Water."

====No one is listening to you now.  Its a lonely feeling.  Deep in the dark, and then light flares behind you with a boom.

You go on further, and find a place to wait.  By morning light, you see that the City still stands.  But several hundred houses have been burnt.

Walking in the cool, smoky morning, you see a few large men attempting to buy a widow's husband's body from her.
"Look. He died. He does you no good. Sell him for a gold." One of the men says to the widow who is trying to ignore them.

A bard in bright green and red striping comes by with a mandolin and a flute and a trumpet.
"Thanks to the Tower of War, we are saved.  Thanks be to the Nobles Brave we are saved.  Thanks be to the Militia Many we are saved. The Uncontrolled Dead outside have been destroyed."
He yells in a loud tenor that is clear and carries well up and down the cobblestoned street.
"The Masters of the Dead, the White Lords, have cause to worry.  The fire last night was an act of Wielding the Elemental Powers.  Such Treason against the City and its Benevolent Rulers will be put down.  But speak now, and you will be well rewarded.  Also, if you see a spirit of mischeif, speak and a silver will be yours."
"Sell the unblemished dead. Make them of use to the Living.  See your friends walk again.  Profitable and pleasant and pleasing to the Great. How can you resist?"

He walks on, shouting, occasionally ryhming...

Man, magic is so cool. Need work getting the result I want, but still super cool. Freeing spirits of the elements, does that make me a shaman or a druid? Probably a druid. Not really my thing, would definitely prefer chantless magic; think of what I want to happen and have it happen. Quicker that way, but if I've learned anything from Child of Light, it's always super helpful to have the spirits of the elements as your friends.

Of course, being able to chant magic or just cast it as I please would also be super cool. I wonder if this world has a magic library with some conventions for normal magic use.


Child of Light:  http://www.wuxiaworld.com/col-index/

Also, finding out about the versing thing by context instead of a chat with another verser is an interesting route so far.

====Thx.  :)

On the topic of magic, there's an anime I saw 4 or 5 months ago called ROKUDENASHI MAJUTSU KOUSHI TO AKASHIC RECORDS aka Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor. In the show,
 all magic is 3 verse chant by standard, but changing the chant to 2, 4, 5, and so on verses, same words, changes the outcome of the spell. Instead of flying straight it might curve, or hover, or travel then shoot off in a different direction.

Cool stuff. I mention this so there's some context, as I'll probably try it out in the future.

Here's the reference (4 min 30 sec long) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2Lr-o6YvNM

Cala
player, 108 posts
Wed 6 Sep 2017
at 01:34
  • msg #25

Re: Calafalas in the City

I'm not sure if I understand them because my proficiency with the language is getting better from exposure or because someone actually helped me understand the language.

I go over towards the bard. In English, "Hey, do you understand this language?" If he does, "It's really hard learning a new language when no one can understand you. How do I get to the City?"

If the bard doesn't understand, I try to ask and convey the following: "Hey, bard/minstrel/singing guy, I'm new here, how do I get to the City?"
Tadeusz
player, 9832 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sun 10 Sep 2017
at 14:52
  • msg #26

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 25):

Your Rhodani is rough, but much more serviceable.

He blinks, and then laughs at you.

"You're a good joker. Very much.  This is the City."
Cala
player, 109 posts
Mon 11 Sep 2017
at 21:43
  • msg #27

Re: Calafalas in the City

I blink and raise an eyebrow, "This..." as I motion to the buildings around me, "...is the City?"

Huh.

"What was that about wielding elemental powers? Looked like magic, can people do magic? Can we learn it? Again, I'm new here, not sure how this city runs."


Apparently my... imagination? What I currently picture as Cala's surroundings is different than what is being pictured. How big is this place, from what Cala can see?
Tadeusz
player, 9834 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Thu 14 Sep 2017
at 17:41
  • msg #28

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 27):

The City, judging by the Four Towers, is a mile by two miles wide rectangle.  It is composed of two-story buildings, in the main, of thatch and mud.  It has windy cobblestoned streets.  It is crowded with people, but not stumble over people dense.

The Towers are seven stories high.  One is bright red, and another has a giant mandolin hanging from its side.

About eight acres was burnt last night.

"Oh, a foreigner. Its good to see a merchant back here.  Not many of you since, well, you know.  Magic is ruled by the White Council, and is primarily control of the Dead which gives us great economic advantages in low cost production to be shipped overseas to your country.  And you can certainly appeal to the White Council for a license to learn.

Um, Wielding, well, thats treason to the City, which is led by the King and the Towers and advised by the White Council.  If you see anyone wielding, be sure to tell someone in a Tower, and you will be well rewarded.  We want to capture the traitor, and toss him into the Pit of the Dead where uncontrolled Dead will rip him to shreds."

Hey, you're Public Enemy #1.
Cala
player, 110 posts
Thu 14 Sep 2017
at 18:22
  • msg #29

Re: Calafalas in the City

Huh. Well, city definitely isn't a city, more like a glorified village or town.  I need to find a library, or perhaps a historian. Librarian. I need information, and can't go blind with all this.

"Huh. Sounds terrible. Well, good luck with your hunt. I'll try to stay out of your way, wouldn't want to hinder your search."

I look for a place to sleep that's out of the way and hidden from view of most people. If possible I will try to find a way onto the roof of a building and assess it's possibility as a sleeping spot.

It's been a long night, and I need sleep. I can deal with all this in the morning.... or after I wake up from a nap. If memory serves, Kvothe from Name of the Wind spent some time sleeping in the corner of roofs in his youth. This isn't exactly a city, but it should do for now.

If/when I wake up and if it is night, then I'll try to meditate my way through the night, after maneuvering into a position where I am shielded from the wind.

In the morning, I'll try to find a library.
Tadeusz
player, 9837 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 15 Sep 2017
at 06:55
  • msg #30

Re: Calafalas in the City

You find a roof sheltered between two ridgelines.  There is still wind, but its more wafts than straight line gusts and breezes for a plus, there is a warm chimney to cuddle up next too.  Its cold, hard, awkward, and you can't make much noise for fear of waking the householders below you.  But its better than the streets.

The dawn sun wakes you, and you hear the chirp of birdsong.

Looking out, you see a road out of the City, and up over a hill.  It looks overgrown, and you see what might be men standing unmoving on it.

You find a library, but you don't have noble blood or a license so the librarian at the door shakes his head.  The guard next to him looks bored.  Its a small building.

"I'm sorry goodman, but this library is paid for children of the nobility."
"Goodman? He looks a lazy wastrel to me." The guard snorts.
Cala
player, 111 posts
Fri 15 Sep 2017
at 07:12
  • msg #31

Re: Calafalas in the City

I narrow my eyes at the guard. "~Because it's so easy to make a living as a foreigner in a country where you barely know the language, and without family to rely upon. Where attempts to learn about the country are hindered because I'm not nobility.  Lazy wastrel indeed.~"

I turn around and wander the streets.

Not sure if sarcasm comes across appropriately. Whatevs, guards will be guards. Probably all retired adventurers anyway; arrows to the knees has ended many a career.

I head towards the closest tower to see what it represents, or what sort of folks work there. I plan to make it to all the towers.

So, for future reference, I use '~' to represent sarcasm. Because there is no sarcasm font, unfortunately.
Tadeusz
player, 9838 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 19 Sep 2017
at 17:40
  • msg #32

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 31):

He narrows his eyes back at you.

You walk to the White Tower, which shines in the morning sun.  It is fitted into the wall which is twenty feet high, and about three feet thick.

A large plaza is in front of it, and a square of men is standing with a white-robed man in front of them.  Off to the right, another white-robe with a youth in white tunic and trousers are standing over a man on the ground.  The youth waves his hands, and speaks some words, and suddenly the man on the ground twitches, and then rises, as if on wires.  The youth looks excited.

=======================

The next tower is of the same brick, but red-enamelled.  Outside it a dozen men in red-and black beetle like armor are drawn up.  They are armed with chopping axe and boar spear.

A man in red and black tunic comes up to you.

"Do you wish to join the King's Guard?"

====================

The next plaza before a tower in bad shape of worn granite is filled with several dozen folk of all ages.  The men and the women all have long, straight hair, with the men having combs in their hair.  There is a haughtiness to them, and a grace at odds with their sometimes patched clothing.

Two young men, both armed with a pair of Frankish axes are duelling acrobatically in a style that emphasizes dodging, movement, and sudden decisive damage.

=============

And as you come to the last plaza, and see the giant wooden mandolin, nigh three stories tall hanging on the exterior of the beautiful tower, you hear a minstrel singing and speaking as he plays....and you drift off, and only awaken from your trance to see him walking away, and the sun has moved in the sky.
Cala
player, 112 posts
Tue 19 Sep 2017
at 19:27
  • msg #33

Re: Calafalas in the City

Huh, soul effect. Guess that's what they mean in the books... definitely scary. So,
 necromancers, king's guard, thieves guild, and bard college. I don't have the agility or confidence of body to do acrobatic thief stuff, and I'm not musically inclined, so the last two are out. I really truly am interested in necromancy, but it's probably not the best option on this world. I have no interest in bending knee to anyone that isn't supernatural in nature.

That all said, I probably can't advance in my main story quest unless I join the necromancers.  What was it.. strike down the dead? No, it was chains, strike down the chains, take the key from the dead hand, or something like that. Close enough.  Dead hand is probably the necromancers or their head council, mages love giving their cabals fancy and creepy names.

I bet necromancers have no trouble getting food, and I really do need to eat. Ugh.

I sigh, as if no matter what I do, I'll need to do something troublesome.

This is why I need either a ring of sustenance, or be able to get the effect through supernatural means.

I head back towards the white tower.

I guess we can necromance if we want to, we can bring your friends to life. If your friends aren't dead, and if they're not dead, then they're no friends of mine. We can go where we want to, to a place they'll never find...

I will inquire about joining up to learn magic when I get there.

Ring of Sustenance from Dungeons and Dragons 3.5 edition: http://www.d20srd.org/srd/magi...rings.htm#sustenance

Lyrics are from the Safety Dance... sort of. http://68.media.tumblr.com/73c...A61ub1k0po1_1280.jpg

Also for shiggles: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chds8F-UkAEIoQA.jpg
Tadeusz
player, 9840 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 19 Sep 2017
at 21:02
  • msg #34

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 33):

You walk past a different block of men, this time, its twenty.  A velvet jacketed man with a round shape is paying a white robed man gold coins.  The white robe gives the other a short staff, marked with red and white sigils that look like chains.

Mr. Fat Velvet shakes his wand, and starts giving orders.  And you see the block start shambling off, more or less in the right direction.

Mr. White Robe turns and looks at you assessingly.

"Not a Merchant or a Wizard Maker here to buy controlled Dead.  A Foriegner.  Interesting.  I am Crnhi of the White Mages, and a Master of the Dead."  He stares at you with an intelligent, but dispassionate gaze.  The gold coins clink in his hand as he moves them.
Cala
player, 113 posts
Thu 21 Sep 2017
at 00:42
  • msg #35

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Greetings, Crnhi."

I bow***.

"I want to learn magic. My knowledge of the subject is lacking and I seek to know more. Unfortunately, I lack currency, having used everything just to get here. I am willing to compensate via other means, if necessary."

Adding in mind, Of course, I also want to eat and not starve, so if you could please give me food and shelter that'd be fantastic too.


***Scouring the internet yielded nothing, so I eventually went through several episodes of The Legend of Chusen to eventually find it. https://youtu.be/5WwV1hAXsIU?t=24m50s A very particular type of bow, hence the delay.  The Legend of Chusen, by the way, is an excellent chinese drama, with many of the episodes on youtube, or elsewhere on the internet, with subtitles (though in the case of youtube, need to turn on captions).
Tadeusz
player, 9842 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 22 Sep 2017
at 00:59
  • msg #36

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 35):

At first he turns away, and then a thought occurs to him.

"Yes, yes, we can help you."

He takes you inside, which is black and white, with occasional gold chains poking through the walls of marble blocks.

He takes you into a smaller room, below ground, and on the way gives a message to a messenger.

Once in the small, stone room, which is barren of decoration, he turns to you.

"In order to control the Dead, a strong stomach and a lack of a certain kind of weakness, a fantasizing imagination, is helpful.  Some spirits, whiners, may complain they are being kept from their destiny, but really, if eternal wonder awaits them, then a few years serving as a servant to a Deadmaster is hardly a trial.  Personally, I believe the Doctrine of Oblivion, that once you go past not just Death, but the Second Portal, you are gone.  I'll be interested in hearing your opinion now, but even more so in a few minutes."

The door behind him opens, and two guys who look like an advertisement for Brutal Thugs, Ltd with with killer's eyes, and giant shoulders, and scarred faces step in.  Crnhi pulls a dagger from his robe's sleeve.

"Some Dead Masters train by book and by exercise.  I, well, I prefer a more direct method, which I'm sure will work, once I get all the wrinkles out.  And you're a poor foreigner, with no friends...."  He smiles like a shark might if it were human.  Thug #1 chuckles and Thug #2 giggles.
Cala
player, 114 posts
Fri 22 Sep 2017
at 01:25
  • msg #37

Re: Calafalas in the City

When he reaches the point about strong stomach, I gently interject, "Strong stomachs can be replaced with desensitization."

Oh, he plans to use it on me.  Crap.

"Oh, you plan to use it on me.  You're wrong on that part though, about me having no friends. I lack money, but I am not poor, I just hate owing people. You owe someone once and then they use it on you later to do something ridiculously stupid or inconvenient. Far too troublesome.

My question to you, Crnhi, is what do you know about luck magic? Surely it'd be extraordinarily helpful in this line of work.  I trade in skills more than I trade in currency, and surely someone of your status would find this particularly appealing."

It's why I'm here now, partially. Yea, food matters, but... Much as I appreciate the help from the elements, I do owe them, and they only gave me one request. Ugh. As I said, ridiculously stupid or inconvenient.
Tadeusz
player, 9845 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 22 Sep 2017
at 04:12
  • msg #38

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 37):

He stops and listens.  Then he shakes his head.

"You really are a foreigner.  We have bound all magic, except the Binding and the Mastery of the Dead.  This luck magic, well, I have never heard of it, but it needs to be bound as well."

He puts the dagger back up.

"I was really looking forward to this test, but we have to Bind your magic first. Stay here, you two, and don't let him do any magic.  I will be back."

He turns to leave the door while the Thugs eyeball you.

+@1 Persuasion.
Cala
player, 115 posts
Fri 22 Sep 2017
at 04:44
  • msg #39

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Bind? You have bound all magic? I think you're taking the wrong approach to magic, it isn't something that can be bound. I look forward to seeing this... binding."

Once Crnhi is gone from the room, I clear my throat, "Did you know luck magic isn't generated from the self but instead channeled from the cosmos? You can make yourself luckier, make it harder for your foes to navigate a storm, walk into a see of arrows and have them all coincidentally miss you. It is very complex though, you need to draw a lot of designs and make quite a few calculations. I'd need a room far larger than this to actually do luck magic. It's not battle magic."

I look at Thug 1 and Thug 2, "So, do you guys have names? See, in my home country, we make our introductions like this... Reminder, it's a bit lengthy in comparison, but it's not really subtle. Everything is mentioned. I say 'Hello sir or madam person, how are you? I am Cala and I ask that your day is well and your stomach full. May your gait be swift and the wind ever at your back.'"

In English (which I'm assuming no one understands. This will get really awkward if they do.):
"Earth spirit, Sovereign of Earth, I'm not sure how subtle you can be, but if possible, could you do I, Cala, a favor in helping out the water spirits? I'd like to have the foundation the white tower, where I am currently, turned to sand?"

Meanwhile, I keep my hands clasped in front of me, in a very straightforward and non-magic casting fashion.  I make sure they can see that I'm doing literally nothing but making what they can assume to be an introduction.
Tadeusz
player, 9850 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 26 Sep 2017
at 02:07
  • msg #40

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 39):

One of them wants you to 'shet it', but the other is amused, so the first yields to letting you 'rattle on'.

"I'm Pain, he's Suffering." Says the second.

They both laugh loudly, slapping their legs.

<You stand in the center of our enemy's power.  We can barely talk to you, let alone do these great deeds you expect.> The Earthen speaks in your head, strain obvious to you.
Cala
player, 116 posts
Tue 26 Sep 2017
at 02:54
  • msg #41

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Ahh, pain and suffering, I see what you did there."

Then, thinking mostly to myself but also projecting my thoughts out into the void, given I can't respond  physically...

~Obviously, that's why I asked to affect the foundation. Make the ground around and under the tower soft and it all shifts and falls. Who would expect you to affect the tower itself? This is more engineering and science than it is magic. Even just launching meteors at the ground near the tower, to shake the foundations would work. I need a distraction.~

Ok, so, for real here, I have no idea what to do. I want to leave, but thugs 1 and 2 probs won't let me. I need food and shelter, but I just happened to meet one of the crazier mages.
  Clearly, my luck isn't the best at this point in time.

"So, did you guys ever find that cute lass that did all that magic last night?"

...and bluff check, please don't be a nat one.
Tadeusz
player, 9852 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 26 Sep 2017
at 03:07
  • msg #42

Re: Calafalas in the City

They are pleased that you recognize their wit.

<Small steps first, Wielder.  Let us try to drive the dust from the ground of your room into their eyes. The White claim to be good, and the Black evil, but I cannot tell the difference between them.  They are all mad with power.>

The two of them stop laughing, and stare at you with interest when you mention the lass.

And you try to envision the dust flying up, and into their eyes, the magic around you catches at your magic, and winds it around you.  You're covered by a half-inch thickness of dust.

OOC: Botch for magic, success for Persuasion.
Cala
player, 117 posts
Tue 26 Sep 2017
at 03:25
  • msg #43

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Madness! I mention the lass and she does this to me!? What, does everyone pick on foreigners these days!? What's next, girl, I see your tricks!"

I not quite feign outrage as I am slightly outraged at magic not going my way at all since I arrived on this planet. As I soliloquy, I wave my arms around, almost as if outraged.

Nice try, could be better. Now if this dust that is flying off of me and into the air could fly into their eyes, maybe with a small gust of wind... small steps indeed.

Also do I not actually need to speak out loud to communicate?

As I project my thoughts outwards hoping for a response, of words, magic, or both.

For real though, that's 2/2 right? Magic botches...
Tadeusz
player, 9855 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 26 Sep 2017
at 18:11
  • msg #44

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 43):

<Speech is not needed, but it helps to focus the human mind.>

And you feel power from Elsewhere pour through you, and the dust suddenly blasts off you, and into their eyes.  Thug #2 tries to block it, and instead takes a mouthful as well so he's on his knees coughing.  Thug #1 is blinded, and using one hand to try to clean his eyes, and the other beefy hand to try to reach for you with murderous intent.

Edit: 1@2 Direct the dust, short range, thirty seconds casting, if target fails block they may be temporarily blinded.  High energy cost.

Yeah,  you're dripping sweat.

OOC: One of the thugs botched.  And yes, that's bad dice rolling.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:13, Tue 26 Sept 2017.
Cala
player, 118 posts
Tue 26 Sep 2017
at 18:38
  • msg #45

Re: Calafalas in the City

I shudder for a moment as going from not sweaty to dripping sweat in a moment is a weird feeling. Yep, super weird. I need to get better at this magic thing. While maybe not resorting to stealing, I should use this time to get some food and find a place to lay low as I.. attune myself to magic.

Also, time to dish out some pain and suffering myself, to hopefully prevent this unlucky chump from pursuing so quickly.

As thoughts flash by quickly, I deliver a fierce, potentially ball-shattering, kick between the legs to the thug not already on the ground, and quickly flee, aiming to return to my resting place on the roofs, away from view of the public.
Tadeusz
player, 9856 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Wed 27 Sep 2017
at 00:51
  • msg #46

Re: Calafalas in the City

You hammer him, and he hits the ground in a crouch, vomiting a little bit.

+@1 to Dirty Fighting.

The door opens, and you bolt out, listening for others.

OOC: Time for a GE roll.

You are halfway to the front door when another white robe looks up, and says 'Hey, who are you?  What are you doing here?"
Cala
player, 119 posts
Wed 27 Sep 2017
at 01:11
  • msg #47

Re: Calafalas in the City

I greet the white robe, "I'm Cala, Crnhi brought me in.  That said, he gave me a test, it's a weird test though. I don't want to fail it, so I can't stay. I'm sure you're familiar with Crnhi's... methods." I do a short bow and continue towards the entrance.

Projecting my thoughts out..

Any chance of making a small, audible sound directly behind him? Nothing much, but I only need a moment.

As I think that, I imagine a coughing noise right by his ear, behind him.
Tadeusz
player, 9857 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Thu 28 Sep 2017
at 04:05
  • msg #48

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 47):

He looks at you with a deeply skeptical gaze, but says nothing.  Then a coughing noise from behind him gets him to spin, and by the time you're at the front door you hear him say ...

"Hey wait..." But with the lack of enthusiasm that makes you pretty sure he's not going to chase you.  Still, you make several blocks in quick march, veering off on other roads until you feel safe.  Down a short deadend alley, and up on a roof, and across the roofs until you get to your hideaway.

Feeling safe now, you relax a bit.

1@1 Distracting Cough, within twenty feet of caster, Magic
Cala
player, 120 posts
Thu 28 Sep 2017
at 04:32
  • msg #49

Re: Calafalas in the City

If this were a world of cultivation in a cultivation novel, this would totes be the point where I hole up and focus on cultivating to increase my strength.  Unfortunately, I don't currently have a clear-cut way to methodically increase my.. power? Strength? Ability? I have no clear way to get stronger.

Not that I'm fond of stealing, I may have to wait til after dark to pilfer some food.

My methods were incorrect and too dangerous. I do need to bring down the tower, and weakening the foundations is a good step in that direction, but I need to secure long term survivability to do it.

First step I guess is to see if I can magic up some food, like that one D&D spell, create food and water.

I picture a loaf of bread appearing in my lap, italian bread, as I might order at Subway.

If it doesn't work, I go through a few different variations of it to see if I can get it to work. If, after a while (20-30 minutes - though I have no way of keeping time accurately), I still don't succeed, I'll project my thoughts out to whatever beings are listening, asking if  it is possible to magic up some food and water so I don't starve.

I guess the best way to get stronger, at least on this world is to familiarize myself with magic... wielding, as it might be called.
Tadeusz
player, 9859 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 6 Oct 2017
at 18:35
  • msg #50

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 49):

And in the wind you hear, 'draw on the winds' and like a string you see your attention drawn across the city to a full cart stuffed with many loaves of bread.  And one has fallen free, and is about to hit a mud puddle.  The Voice of the Thunder seems to guide you in this magic.

And then your fingers of wind snatch it up, and carry it flying over the roofs until it lands in your lap.

'Summon Unowned with Fingers of Wind' 1@1 Magic, five minutes, full body involvement, tiring.

You're dripping in sweat again, but a nice, large tan and crusty loaf of bread is in front of you.  Its still fresh.  Eating it fills your stomach, and you still have half left over.

It seems that Wielding is more like being a cleric to a pantheon of varied spirits of differing levels of power.  And First Wielder allows you to do such magic even as the Tower locks the others in the City from this power.

And then two heads, both ragged, almost feral, pop over the roof edge ten feet from you.  One has a short dagger in his hand.

"Why are you on the Thief's Road?"
Cala
player, 121 posts
Fri 6 Oct 2017
at 18:51
  • msg #51

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Is that a serious question? Do you not see the bread I am eating? Do you think I bought this? Please. ~Who would eat bread they bought on a roof?~"

I look at the two as if they just asked a colossally stupid question.

"It's the 'Thief's Road', and I'm a thief, why else would I be here?  That said, it's hard to find a place without a steady source of income, and I don't know who the local fences are. I figured I'd run into some local compatriots if I hung around here enough."

Not wholly true, but not really a lie either. Adapt to the situation. Running with thieves might give me a place to stay as well as provide some help in dropping the tower.  The chaos would probably provide a nice distraction for an organized band of thieves.  I can work with this.

Looking over the two of them, "So, do you guys have a local leader I could chat with? I'm obviously not from around here. I might be able to provide some timely aid."
Tadeusz
player, 9863 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 6 Oct 2017
at 19:04
  • msg #52

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 51):

They glance at each other, and then the speaker shrugs.  Its a very slight shrug.  They are standing very still.

"There is a fee to talk to Rilson."
Cala
player, 122 posts
Fri 6 Oct 2017
at 19:38
  • msg #53

Re: Calafalas in the City

"That's obviously false, and easily one of the oldest tricks in the book. Anyone new or faking it would pay. Who doesn't want free money? What's next? Saying that there's no fee, but this here is a toll road? C'mon guys, let's not be cliche here. I'm sure Rilson's curious about the recent commotion, and in a few minutes, things will get a bit more interesting.  I don't need to see him right now, just pass along that Cala is looking for him."

I've played as a rogue or assassin in far too many games to blatantly follow what a pair of random goons says at first contact.

I settle in and relax, but position myself so that I can move if they start a fight. "Let's be real here, you guys didn't come up here just to talk to me. I'm sure you've got business to take care of, and I'm just here to relax a bit. Just pass this off as an interesting story to tell at the pub later."

I casually put a hand if my pocket and grab my keys in such a manner that they can be easily rotated via the keychain to be an impromptu shiv. I wave my other hand in a relaxed and non-threatening manner as I speak, to also draw attention away from my other hand.


What's the temperature like where Cala is at?
Tadeusz
player, 9864 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 13 Oct 2017
at 19:05
  • msg #54

Re: Calafalas in the City

They study you for a long pause. The leader nods.  They don't vanish, but they move so quick they might as well have.  They are gone.

Its in the high sixties with a five to ten mph breeze and scattered clouds.
Cala
player, 123 posts
Tue 17 Oct 2017
at 20:38
  • msg #55

Re: Calafalas in the City

I wonder if it is possible to condense the water vapor in the air to serve as liquid to drink? It's not humid, so that just means that the air isn't fully saturated with water, but there should still be water vapor.  If I can condense it into a floating ball to drink out of, that should be safe... safer than whatever is served from the ground or whatever else they get their water from.

Let's science this up with liberal application of magic. Put those college courses to use.

It would be nice if I had a pot, but I'm running out of time.  I'll try the magic at night, for now I'll just lay low.

I stay out of sight and try to avoid what I assume will eventually be chaos stemming from the White Tower. Once it is night, or if the thieves come back, I'll decide what to do then.

I have no idea what I initially wanted to do when I asked what the temperature was, so this is mostly a filler post, sorry.
Tadeusz
player, 9875 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sat 21 Oct 2017
at 02:12
  • msg #56

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 55):

That night, you're able to fill your hands with condensed fog.  You're drinking your third handful when you hear a voice to your left.

"Nice trick. How do you do it?"  There is a cloaked figure sitting ten feet from you.
Cala
player, 124 posts
Sat 21 Oct 2017
at 03:46
  • msg #57

Re: Calafalas in the City

"I keep a jug of water under my clothes with a tube flowing to my hands. Add in some brief smoke from rocks or incense to cover up what you're doing, and you can 'create water' pretty easily.  Nifty to fool the masses, but also a nice convenience when I want to hide liquids pilfered from other places. Then again, that's the case in other places.  Those folks from the White Tower have some... troubling thoughts regarding magic, so I've been up here instead. Wouldn't want the townsfolk to feel... troubled.  Not yet, at least. Trouble comes later. Or sooner. Walking dead is mighty troubling, at least, it is considered a problem back home."

I raise an eyebrow at the figure.

"Rilson? Or a proxy?"
Tadeusz
player, 9876 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sun 22 Oct 2017
at 02:08
  • msg #58

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 57):

"Uh hunh. Well, its a problem for the Thieves as well.  Used to be you could make an easy living skinning a dozen working men and a merchant, enough for a week, not taking everything, but lightening their purse, not enough to make someone mad, but....now, the only ones with money are the very rich, and they always move with guards, of at least the dead.  And no deadman ever needed a coin, at least no ways I saw.  And none of the rich have a sense of humor about it.  Its like if you take from them, you prove your better than them and they can't stand that."

He smiles in a mirthless flicker.

"I'm Rilson. More than a few thieves have danced their last for Mistress Rope in the last months.  No mercy any more.  Sure you want to join our company?"

You do remember the jacketed man at the pub who left his deadmen outside.
Cala
player, 125 posts
Sun 22 Oct 2017
at 15:24
  • msg #59

Re: Calafalas in the City

Ahh, playtimes over, I guess. Much as I enjoy the occasional charade, if I actually want to get anywhere, might be time for some good ol' honesty.

"Sure? Not really. That said, I'm not looking to join. I'm thinking mutually beneficial cooperation would be better.  I have a goal I'm trying to accomplish, and it'd be much easier with the help of you and your company. The completion of this goal would also probably help your company indirectly. So I want us to work together.

Before I get into specifics though, there is one vitally important question I must ask you.  How do you feel about magic? Not the summoning the walking dead variety, but manipulating the elements, like what happened not that long ago. Or magic that can influence a person's luck, people getting distracted at just the right time to not notice someone walking past them, a coincidental cough covering a footfall.

The White Tower obviously hates it and tries to get rid of. That said, what is your opinion?"
Tadeusz
player, 9879 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 27 Oct 2017
at 04:18
  • msg #60

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 59):

"Back in the days before the Uncontrolled Zombies, and the Black Council that released them, when Humans spread across the land, instead of cramped up in the City, well, it was good times.  Not that we knew it.  And Magic was part of it.  You could get healed, hide behind a sudden fog,  sing a guard to sleep.  I wish we could have that time back.  Like when I was but a young child, just starting my thieving ways as a cutpurse and a stallsnatcher, grabbing fruit and running."

He studies you a bit.

"I've never heard of this luck magic, but it might not be a bad thing.  The White Tower says all this uncontrolled magic made it easy for the Black Council to raise the Uncontrolled Dead, but I'm a good liar, and I know one sometimes when I hear it.  They lie."
Cala
player, 126 posts
Fri 27 Oct 2017
at 07:25
  • msg #61

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Ahh, that's nice to hear. I'd like to bring that back. The elements... the lords and ladies that embody and control the various types of magic, they want to be freed. I plan to accomplish that. I'm hoping to drop the White Tower to the ground and make it look like... an accident. Or perhaps faulty construction.  It'll make clean up afterwards easier, and should remove most of the problematic people without having to confront them directly."

I look at Rilson, and motion to the 'road' around us.

"I've been staying up here as I lack a place to stay, and the money with which to pay for it. I'm fairly certain staying at an inn will result in a poor end for myself.  Luck magic should still work, though I haven't tested it lately. I'll do that, and once I confirm it works in this city, I can teach you all I know about it.

All I'd like is a place to stay that's relatively safe.  I should also be able to lend a hand from time to time if things get..."

I motion with my hands to suggest 'tricky, complicated, up-in-the-air'.

"tricky, for some of your crew."

I shrug.

"Plus if the tower comes down and magic returns, it should make dealing with the zombies easier. Balls of fire to the face tends to end zombies back home."

Though using 'back home' loosely. Zombies weren't really a problem outside of novels and video games, but I stand by what I said. Fireballs to the face drops zombies, and if they can keep going after they are headless, then just burn the rest of them. Can't walk when all they've got left is ash.

I gesture towards him.

"Do you find this agreeable? A place to stay in exchange for occasional help and possibly luck magic if it works in this city? Even if it doesn't work, I'll still try to help from time to time."
Tadeusz
player, 9880 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 27 Oct 2017
at 19:12
  • msg #62

Re: Calafalas in the City

"For now. We'll see how it works out. Follow me." He gets up smoothly, and you follow him.  He flows over the roof tops, sticking to shadows even when it should be safe, and leaps lightly over alleys.  Its an education in what the human body can do.

+@1 to Running.

You and he stop in front of a gable window in the middle of a flat roof.  He slips it up, and motions inside.

Inside is a four hundred square foot room.  It has old rugs covering every inch of the floor, and even going up the walls a few inches.  A small table, a few candles, a couple chairs, and some full bags stacked in the corner finish the décor.  He lights the candle, and then draws heavy curtains over the window.

Now you can smell animals.

"An old forgotten room above a large stable.  Keep silent when you hear voices or too much noise from the sheep, and you should be fine." He shows you the emergency back door, and then looks at you questioningly.
Cala
player, 127 posts
Fri 27 Oct 2017
at 20:42
  • msg #63

Re: Calafalas in the City

Beggars can't be choosers. It's a place in relative safety.

"Looks good, thanks."

This is the point where, if I were watching an anime or other show and the MC gets a place to stay to accomplish 'main quest'... this is the point where a training montage begins to pumped up music. What would I choose for my training montage music? Hmm.  Guile's theme goes with everything, so that'd probably be good.

After he leaves, I make a plan for the future.

Alright, ok, calling this Operation: Training Montage. I'm exhausted after doing magic, most likely because I am not in the best of shapes. The body is like a vessel, and I'm a cracked, barely functioning jar.  I need to forge myself into a sturdy jar that won't break for much less than overwhelming force; I'll also need a suitable lid to control water outflow, but that can come later.

I can run on the rooftops and do strength training in here. Even if I become a better jar, I still need to increase the volume of water I can control and to do that, I need practice. It's probably a magic muscle and much like the rest of my muscles, it needs to be worked, stretched, and otherwise improved to be awesome. So, let's focus on the small tricks, moving the sand or dirt beneath someone's feet as they walk or run to make them trip.  Largely unnoticeable unless someone is specifically paying attention, but immensely useful. Should help tune fine control as well as overall getting thoughts to actions. Can move up to elemental conjuration afterwards. Small balls of light, or balls of dirt. All in preparation for the large projects.

To drop the tower, the best way is probably to dig a tunnel underneath it and convert or otherwise change the foundation to sand. This should make it loose and unsteady, as well as pave the way for dropping the tower. So long as it is only loose sand on a few sides, I should be able to direct the tip. I don't want it dropping directly on the busiest parts of the city.

Once my magic control is better and my body is in better shape, I need to scout and survey the area surrounding the city. I'll need to find a place fairly far away to start digging a tunnel. Can't have it too close or someone may notice it and that would ruin my plan. As for getting  it to tip, a number of factors will come into place but I'm currently hoping luck magic will be the deciding factor.  So I definitely need to confirm if it works or not.

I first start with luck magic. I take my wallet and keys from my pocket.

Ok, if I drop my keys, it is highly unlikely that my car keys will remain on its side, standing up. It's most likely to be flat on front or back, like a quarter. So if I drop it on these carpets, it A, shouldn't make that much noise, and B should prove a decent testing area.  If I can get it to consecutively land on its side, that should prove luck magic works, right? I'll also try it with my wallet, as keys might be too low of a percentage, due to their shape, to see any outcome without seriously harming myself in the process with the amount of unluck necessary to get it to work. Baby steps.


I'll try for a little bit and then sleep, starting my training regimen in the morning with magical practice in the late evening, when people are more tired and less likely to notice my attempts at magic or making them trip.

For the magic, I'll first start on unoccupied dirt to see if I can get it to work reliably, before I attempt to do it on humans or animals.


For real though, if you haven't ever looked it up, "Guile's Theme Goes With Everything" on youtube.

Also, putting the training plan here, for reference later as well so I don't have to type it up again.  At least, not again in the near future.
Tadeusz
player, 9881 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 31 Oct 2017
at 23:10
  • msg #64

Re: Calafalas in the City

The first time with the keys is nothing but an odd feeling, and then you do it.

After this, you start your training montage.

And after a couple days you start hearing Guile's Theme in your head.  It seems one of the Powers that you are Wielder for approves of the idea.  Magic, theme music, Relative Success divided by five for relevant actions, bonus.

You learn to jump, and to run, and to hide in the shadows, and to walk quietly.  And your magic skill, your Wielding Strength gets greater.

Strength +1
Endurance +2
Jumping goes from normal of 1@5 to 1@8
Theme Music Magic is 1@3
Wielder Magic Skill is now 1@4
Running goes from 1@7 to 1@9
Stealth gains a +@1
Magic Endurance goes from 1@1 to 1@5.
You have a variety of eight low level spells, you choose, at 1@1 to 1@4.  This does not include, blinding dust, summon food, summon water, commune with Powers in your Pantheon which is 1@6, which are 1@4.

You've been a month here.

Rilson comes by and asks if you can fiddle the luck to make a more likely 'not proven' verdict on a thief who will otherwise swing.
Cala
player, 128 posts
Wed 1 Nov 2017
at 21:59
  • msg #65

Re: Calafalas in the City

I consider it for a moment when Rilson comes in, "I'll try, what's the thief's name?."

I attempt luck magic to swing the verdict in favor of the thief. The thief looks like a friend someone once knew, it's probably someone else that looks similar to him, with different eye color. In exchange, said thief will have less than splendid luck for a month, exchanging a moment's grace for a month's disfavor.

"Luck magic is often give and take, some fortune now at the cost of fortune later. You can be as unlucky as ever but if you remain in isolation for a month, you can ride out the unluckiness and reduce the chance of harsh consequences. Give and take. I'll try to swing the vote so that they don't swing, but it's best they lay low for a month or so afterwards."


A variety of eight low level spells. Not sure what powers are involved in the pantheon and what is covered. At present, I'm assuming 5 of the 6 elements (Earth, Fire, Wind/Air, Water, and Light (remaining element not present being Darkness)). But not sure if neutral spells are included? The theme music spell I'm guessing is from a Power of Song/Dance/Music, but I'm ultimately not sure what is covered, and what is qualified as low level.  So, going on what D&D 3.5 terms as 'level 0 and level 1' spells, and keeping within the 5 elements plus possibly misc, I've got a tentative list. These are the spell names, and I'm hoping for a similar effect, I am also including what elements I feel would be the basis, in case it matters.

1. Endure Elements (Water, Fire, Wind).
2. Obscuring Mist (Water, Wind) Though I would prefer Fog Cloud (Water, Wind) if it is available instead.
3. Cure Light Wounds (Light, Water)
4. Purify Food and Drink (Light, Water, Fire)
5. Comprehend Languages (Whatever Power is responsible for music)
6. Feather fall (Wind)
7. Prestidigitation (Earth, Fire, Wind, Water, Light, Song, Food, it covers everything.)
8. Mage Armor (Wind)

I don't expect all of those to be possible (especially Cure Light Wounds, Featherfall, Mage Armor, and Comprehend Languages.) So here's other possibilities.

1. Suggestion (Would prefer this over Charm Person (Light, Song)
2. Grease (Wind - in this case, not so much forming a pool of grease, but creating a thin cushion of air on the ground to reduce friction to 0 - achieving a similar effect as if someone was walking on ice.)
3. Charm Person (Light, Song)
4. Darkvision (Light)
5. Sleep (Wind, Water, Song).

Depending on which spells I have available to me, that would also change my action for Rilson's thief (in the event I could do suggestion, for example. Or Charm Person/ Prestidigitation.) Other options exist with magic, but assuming I don't have any of them yet, I'm attempting luck magic in such a fashion as listed.

The associated spells can be found here: http://www.d20srd.org/indexes/spellLists.htm
Tadeusz
player, 9886 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Thu 9 Nov 2017
at 18:31
  • msg #66

Re: Calafalas in the City

The magic seems to take.  But you're not sure its enough to swing the vote.

Spells are fine.
Cala
player, 131 posts
Thu 9 Nov 2017
at 18:39
  • msg #67

Re: Calafalas in the City

"The magic seems to work, but it may not be enough. Have you considered bribing people? Is that an option?  Also, did you want to learn luck magic? I can teach you what I know of it."

I consider the spells I can do at the moment.

"Is it possible to rescue the thief? Do we have time for it?"



Which spells?
Obscuring mist or fog cloud? Because if it's fog cloud we could probably just straight rescue the thief.
Cure light wounds, comprehend languages, mage armor, and feather fall are all good too?
Tadeusz
player, 9889 posts
As you dimension dance...
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Thu 9 Nov 2017
at 18:46
  • msg #68

Re: Calafalas in the City

Fog cloud for the GE win.  You get the other spells.

"You're ambitious.  Don't be.  A cautious thief lives to enjoy his loot." Still he doesn't leave.
Cala
player, 132 posts
Thu 9 Nov 2017
at 19:00
  • msg #69

Re: Calafalas in the City

"It's precisely because I'm cautious. Let's go check the situation. I performed luck magic, so there is a better chance of him living through this, but it's not guaranteed. Let's head over and assess the situation. If it looks like we can do something, we will, but if it's absolutely not possible or not safe enough, we won't.

I've picked up a few tricks over the course of the month, and it may be very useful. You don't have to do anything yourself, just show me to the area."

I get up, touch my chest, and try to activate 'Mage armor'.

"Even if nothing works, we should at least be present when he passes along to the other side."
Tadeusz
player, 9891 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Wed 15 Nov 2017
at 17:06
  • msg #70

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 69):

It takes you two tries, but you activate Mage Armor.  Rilson goes with you, and now, with your greater skill, you can see more clearly his even greater skill.  Before, you didn't know enough to realize how little you knew about slipping from shadow to shadow.

The hundred fifty yard square is perfectly square with a fountain to the left middle and a solid stone stand to the right middle for speeches and executions.

The north side of the square is the King's palace, which is smaller than you'd expect.

"The wooden gallows is prefitted, and will be quickly built before the hanging." Rilson says.  He points to little stone caps which can be removed, and timbers dropped into them on the right hand square.

"The square will be full to the brim."
Cala
player, 133 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Wed 15 Nov 2017
at 20:37
  • msg #71

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Oh? Full to the brim? We can work with that. Rilson, if it suddenly became so foggy around the platform that you couldn't see further than your outstretched arms, could you work with that? It wouldn't cover the whole square, but a small centralized area, those on the inside wouldn't be able to see further away.

I've got a spell that might work.  I've been upping my repertoire over the past month. I plan on dropping the tower, but that doesn't help if anyone can see what we do at key moments. I need a way to obscure vision, and I believe I have that now, for a limited time, at least. That is all that is needed though, if we act quick."

I try to judge the distance between our current location and where the stone caps are, and check to see what paths out of the square are nearby.

"I don't like risking my life, I'm cautious by nature, but when I need to act, I NEED TO ACT. Oh, by the way, while I'm thinking of it, are any of your crew injured right now?"
Tadeusz
player, 9897 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sat 18 Nov 2017
at 05:18
  • msg #72

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 71):

Rilson nods.  "We'd have some chaos, and we could grab him, dump him into a quick change costume.  And then as the crowd went away, we could have him leave with a girl on his arm, like he was married."  He pauses.  "I'd need to see this fog if you can before hand."

Fifty yards away and three stories down from the roof you are on.  There is one large exit off to  your right, one small one to your immediate left, and one medium one a bit more to your left.  There are other exits.

"I got a couple that are.  Why?"
Cala
player, 134 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Sat 18 Nov 2017
at 08:52
  • msg #73

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Not sure if it will work. It should work. I think it works, but I'd have to see to find out. I can probably heal your injured crew, magically. Not sure how much, probably not a lot, but better than waiting for it to heal naturally.  Also, if you have a space that isn't in the middle of the public eye, I can show you the fog."

Hmm, would need to get closer, but I might be able to pull it off in the crowd, especially if I'm surrounded by Rilson's crew.  Yea, worth a shot. Crowds are easy to get lost in, especially without surveillance technology.
Tadeusz
player, 9899 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sat 25 Nov 2017
at 05:07
  • msg #74

Re: Calafalas in the City

He laughs. Quick. Short.

"We may have a hidden spot."  And you leap after him, going over alleys that would have killed you two months ago.

And you arrive in a warehouse that looks like a terrifying collapse about to happen.  But inside, it looks quite sturdy, even if pieced together.  Several other dangerous looking sorts are around and Rilson sends one to 'fetch Lou and Jiam.'

You recognize of the group as one of the first too meet you, the non-talkative one.

Rilson waves his hand about after sending the others off.

Later, a man with a broken arm shows up.  Upon closer inspection, he also has an infection.
"Deadman grabbed me.  Spiked his dirty fingertips into my arm.  My name's Lou, be grateful if you can save my arm."

The kid has a few broken fingers.  "Guard stomped me."
Cala
player, 135 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Sat 25 Nov 2017
at 05:42
  • msg #75

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Yea, let's see what we can do. This'll be interesting."

I try to cast Cure Light Wounds on them, starting with the man that has a broken arm.

"Fortunately, as far as I can tell, the Lady of Light, is a cool and awesome person, so with her help, y'all should be, if not right as rain, then at least sweet as dew.   If that makes any sense at all."

If only I knew how to sing or play an instrument, might be able to job change to Bard.  I doubt singing off key counts.
Tadeusz
player, 9903 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sun 26 Nov 2017
at 02:36
  • msg #76

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 75):

Light glows around you out to about five feet, and the man's arm seems to ease a bit.  It still looks infected, and he winces when he moves it, but its now a wince, and not a controlled shudder.

The kid takes two tries, but all his fingers heal.  And he laughs at something you don't know, and then runs off with a big smile on his face.  The others there come around, grinning.  You feel acceptance and welcome radiating from these hard men and women.  It may be good to be king, but a doctor often can find friends anywhere.

OOC: The Bible has a much quoted passage about 'making a joyful noise' to God which many of the Company of the Screeching Owls reminds themselves of when its time to sing in church.  As a founding member of this company, welcome.
Cala
player, 136 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Sun 26 Nov 2017
at 16:08
  • msg #77

Re: Calafalas in the City

I look over towards Rilson.

"Yea, so, that worked. Some. Some healing is better than no healing.  Do you have a spot where I can do the fog thing?"

I look around admiring my work, and seeing whom else makes up this crew of thieves, this band of brothers and sisters.
Tadeusz
player, 9906 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 12 Dec 2017
at 22:14
  • msg #78

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 77):

"Brothers of the Night, our friend here wants to bring back the Old Days of Magic.  Some of you are too young to remember them, but others..."  And he nods at a few who nod back.

"It were better days. That White Tower has a chain about all our necks, not just us in the night, but e'en the normals." A gruff old man speaks, and then spits on the ground.  The rest spit as well.

"That for the White Tower." One girl says and spits as well.  "My dah, bless his soul, is honest, not like me." There is laughter.  "He works hard, and without my gifts, he'd starve like."

"I owe  you friend." The man who's arm you healed says to you.

Rilson just says to do it here, the fog.
Cala
player, 138 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Wed 13 Dec 2017
at 04:01
  • msg #79

Re: Calafalas in the City

I nod and say, "Yea, no problem. Magic needs to be free and the beings that grant it, well, they're none too pleased about the current situation.  So, watch this."

I cast fog cloud, and see how it goes.

"This could be useful."
Tadeusz
player, 9912 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sat 16 Dec 2017
at 21:31
  • msg #80

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 79):

It appears and fills the area with a dense fog so much that you can hardly see someone two yards from you.
Cala
player, 139 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Mon 18 Dec 2017
at 05:01
  • msg #81

Re: Calafalas in the City

"So, I know it's a bit hard to see, but that's the point.  You can see right around you, but not much past that.  So, I was thinking, if someone is supposed to be hanged, cast this from the crowd and storm the area, can cut the guy down and escape into the crowd before it goes away.

Yea, we can't see either, but we're not completely blind. Plus, we'll be expecting it, others won't.  It's still dangerous, sure, but not nearly as much as it would be otherwise.  It's hard to hit and harm that which you can't see."

I wave my hands around briefly.

"This will fade away in a bit, or a strong gust of wind should blow it away. It's otherwise harmless. Thoughts?"
Tadeusz
player, 9915 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 19 Dec 2017
at 17:48
  • msg #82

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 81):
There is some buzz and conversation and a bit of a scuffling noise, and then the old man asks a question.

"Can you do this thing both at the stand, and also a bit later at the guards at the edge of the crowd?"
Cala
player, 140 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Fri 29 Dec 2017
at 06:16
  • msg #83

Re: Calafalas in the City

"I actually have no idea. I can try, but I've never really tried casting them back to back in succession. Plus it's not wholly up to me, but I'll do what I can. What's the plan?"

I shrug and make general hand gestures as I speak - that Italian heritage shining through.

Italians speak with their hands. Also I've caught the holidisease, as I've heard it called.  Some might say I'm... Down With the Sickness.
Tadeusz
player, 9921 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 9 Jan 2018
at 22:47
  • msg #84

Re: Calafalas in the City

Rilson speaks in a few words that you don't recognize.  Then he laughs short again.

"You do as you said, and then hit another burst of fog at the guards at the exit so we can slip by them easy as well.  Mmmm, you say the Lady of Light is helping you....should we light put up a shrine or something?"
Cala
player, 141 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Tue 9 Jan 2018
at 23:02
  • msg #85

Re: Calafalas in the City

I nod, "Not sure what you said, my Italian or... what's this language actually called? is still spotty, at best.  Still, I'll cast the spells."

Regarding the shrine:

I shrug, "Sure, let's do that. Can't hurt, especially given the state of the world. Though I'm getting help from several folks, so it's probably best to have either a general shrine to all of them, representing powers that far exceed our own, or an individual shrine to each of them. Though even I'm not fully aware of which is which, or which specifically is helping out with the fog."

I consider the options as I speak.

"Let's put up a general shrine, designated for the various powers present in the past, present now, and hopefully, more commonly present in the near future, and I'll put out a message of goodwill to them when we've got it done, that they may look favorably upon our efforts."

I start considering the speech I'm going to give.

Because even gods and goddesses prefer eloquence, I'm sure.
Tadeusz
player, 9922 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Mon 15 Jan 2018
at 17:59
  • msg #86

Re: Calafalas in the City

A corner of the room is dedicated to the shrine, and roped off with silk, and a gold chain gate.  Each thief donates an item to the shrine with Rilson and the injured man donating quite large items.

Walking back to you after putting a golden bowl on a table, Rilson pauses.  "Never met a lady who liked a cheap man.  And what I was speaking is the Thieves' tongue.  Its very simple, and many of the words sound like animal noises so to disguise what you're about because speaking it in public is illegal."
Cala
player, 143 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Mon 23 Apr 2018
at 21:16
  • msg #87

Re: Calafalas in the City

I close my eyes and reach out the various gods and goddesses, elemental beings, pretty much every magically gifted or granting entity that might be on this particular frequency that amounts to a broadcast on all open channels. I extend my arms out in a welcoming but respectful gesture and do a slow bow towards the shrine as I speak, "Ladies and gentlemen, gods and goddesses, elemental beings and planar entities, beings too unfathomable for my tiny mind to comprehend them. Although this shrine may not be much, it certainly isn't as grand or detailed as each of you deserve, but it's a start. This is where I begin, where we begin, where this city begins, on going back to the old ways; on returning freedom to those who are chained. We may not be particularly amazing, but we are people who believe, people that will act, and people that would like to wake up to a different world, one not ruled by the towers. In our efforts to achieve this, I humbly ask that the various beings look favorably upon our efforts, so that we may succeed where others might fail."

I remain bowed and silent for a bit as I wait to hear anything, and if nothing happens, I return to a normal stance and turn around. "So, that went well."

I initially had a speech in mind when I made that post, that speech long faded into nothingness by the time I came back to reply, and then I stopped posting as I had no speech and then purely forgot, stuff happened.
Tadeusz
player, 10001 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Tue 24 Apr 2018
at 01:58
  • msg #88

Re: Calafalas in the City

There is a noise, loud as thunder outside.

"The first of the Chains that Bind Us is broken.  You all have done very well. We bless the Thieves' Guild with gracefulness, and you, our Emmissary are blessed also with a Graceful Tongue."

The voice is soft, but clearly heard in the room near the shrine, and then its gone.

You look at everyone, and there is a discernible difference in how they stand.  Its not much of one, but its there, an ease, a grace to their motions.  You feel it too in your body.

Agility attribute +@1.

There is noise in the city as people wake.  Shouting, alarms...
Cala
player, 144 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Wed 16 May 2018
at 23:04
  • msg #89

Re: Calafalas in the City

"Ahh, seems we've caused a ruckus."

I shrug.

"Mildly unexpected, but also not necessarily due to us. How are y'all feeling? Shall we check it out?"

If folks agree, I try to look into the commotion safely.
Tadeusz
player, 10033 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Thu 17 May 2018
at 18:34
  • msg #90

Re: Calafalas in the City

They follow you unobtrusively into the street.  Sleepy-eyed night guards and street cleaners are coming out now.  Already, regular people are concgregated in the streets.  Some kids are darting looks around.

Everyone is asking everyone else what 'that noise' was.  A few guesses are being advanced like an earthquake.  This makes people near the speculator look very nervously at the city buildings, and you realize an earthquake in this city would be disastrous.
Cala
player, 146 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Sat 16 Jun 2018
at 04:52
  • msg #91

Re: Calafalas in the City

That realization really makes me consider starting one near the tower again.

I ask around, "Did you hear that?" "So weird." "What was that?"

When in Rome, do as the Romans. Make like a confused citizen and also sound out the public.

Finishing that, "Well, blend in, get used to the new buffs, do whatever it is y'all do."

Until it's time for the public event and for me to put on a show, I'll hang with the thieves (puns for days). Rest, exercise, planning. Making sure I can cast the fog cloud twice in a row in fairly rapid succession, successfully enough to make things go smoothly under 'ideal' conditions.
Tadeusz
player, 10068 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Sun 17 Jun 2018
at 05:52
  • msg #92

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 91)

Soon enough the Official Word is put out by the Bard's College.  An underground cave collapsed, some seeking a way out of the City past the zombies outside, and they died, so sad.  Its readily believed, and as you listen to one bard speak you find yourself believing as well.  The Authorities are trustworthy.  Things are okay.  Go back to your business, and don't fret.


You increase your skill with the Mist, and find with your Graceful Tongue that pe ople are more likely to accept your explanations even if they don't quite make sense.


And you're on the roof, overlooking the square as two masked figures are brought out to be hanged.


The first is your thief, and as the charges are read against him, you feel again the rightness of the Judgement for his many crimes.  And then a girl with ragged, long hair is unmasked.


"She is guilty of using Light Magic, so called, to heal, but really its vampiric..."
Cala
player, 148 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Wed 11 Jul 2018
at 19:57
  • msg #93

Re: Calafalas in the City

I already agreed to rescue the thief, regardless of right or wrong, but even if I were to go against that - not that I will, as promises should always be kept - I must rescue the girl, as someone that can also do magic. Vampiric? So? Freedom is what matters, karma will come and affect everyone eventually. Actions have consequences and in this case, knowing some of the consequences for what I'm doing, I'm still choosing to up the ante. Let's magic this up.

I get into position where I can cast my magic in range to cover everything. I preemptively cast 'Mage Armor' to better protect myself against anything unforeseen.

"Free the girl, too, if you can. If you can't, it's fine. Doesn't have to escape with us, but deserves a second shot, especially as a fellow wielder of magic."

Yea, maybe not must, but I'm here for a job, and I should guarantee that can be completed before worrying about optional side quests.

When everyone is ready, or even if they aren't but things aren't proceeding as quickly on our part as they are for the doomed, I'll cast the magic, fog cloud, and hope everyone can do their part.
Tadeusz
player, 10110 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Wed 11 Jul 2018
at 22:11
  • msg #94

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 93):

the girl is not vampiric; her Light magic is of me.  The liars insult me!!

You hear in your head.  It sounds like the Lady of Light is cheesed off.

You cast the mage armor, and feel safer.  Then  you bring down the fog.  There is a lot of yelling, and you can see some motion in the crowd, but it fades back into the fog.

And then you see your group ushering the two of them out of the fog toward the exit.

"I thought I saw someone up here." You hear a gravelly voice behind you.  Looking back, about twenty feet away is a city guardsman in a light leather vest.  He looks experienced.  He grins sadistically.  "I wonder how many bags of gold I get for turning in an evil magic user." He draws his short sword with a scraping noise, and trails it along the ground.
Cala
player, 149 posts
Magic?
Yes please.
Thu 12 Jul 2018
at 00:30
  • msg #95

Re: Calafalas in the City

I raise an eyebrow at the man, "Guess we'll never find out."

I cast feather fall and jump off the building into the fog (but in the direction of the exit).

What I do from here varies:

I'm not actually sure how close the spells are to the D&D 3.5 versions. Feather Fall only requires some words and is an immediate, quick spell, that can be cast whenever.

Whereas fog cloud takes longer, but also is pretty quick (as a standard action).

I'm not sure how that is being represented in this world and system.  Since I have access to spell, I should have some familiarity.

What I'd like to do is cast feather fall and jump off the roof.  That should be a fall into the fog.  If possible, I'd like to cast fog cloud again as I'm falling, with the location being the exit.

If that's not possible, or if it isn't feasible because of how the spell is cast, then I'll wait till I reach the ground and run towards the exit, casting the spell when I get a chance.


If possible, I cast fog cloud as I fall and upon landing run towards the exit, pushing past people as soon as I see them in the fog (once they are within reach/5 feet).

If not possible, or if I try it and the spell botches or fizzles, then when I reach the ground I'll run towards the exit and try casting the spell again.
Tadeusz
player, 10115 posts
As you dimension dance...
Crowbar or Towel?
Fri 13 Jul 2018
at 23:02
  • msg #96

Re: Calafalas in the City

In reply to Cala (msg # 95):

He screams in outrage as you fall out of his sight.

You have to cast twice while you're slowfalling because the nausea from the sudden drop distracts you.

Plus one to Feather Fall spell for new use as falling.

You're almost out when you hear a guard's roar off to your right but out of sight.

"Its them.  Stop them."
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