The GM
GM, 13 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 06:12 | 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
 he days when the storms give the port a rest are spectacular. The bright sun reflects off the waves and the pale golden stones of the city by the bay. It is almost enough to make one forget about one's own troubles. By midmorning the clangor and babble of the populace prohibit such reveries, and the multitude of odors soon dispel any sense of ease. But just after daybreak, with the clouds all dispersing and the rains done for the moment, one can gaze at the grandeur of the giant's ruined city, and almost see the glory of the cyclopian architecture as it once was.
Then the noise surges and carries one back to the reality of the place.
The bones of the giant city are still there; titanic slabs of stone originally hewn from some quarry in Xen'drik that explorers had yet to find, and fitted together with a precision that belied their great size. One in ten of the colossal bricks were custom fashioned to serve the human-sized slaves the giants made use of. The current invaders made use of all these, and more; houses and shops crafted of wood and rope were affixed to the old construction.
Scattered among the stonework were odd looking clusters of dark clay with queer hexagonal capsules within. Enterprising merchants used these as ready-made storage spaces; and desperate homeless people used others as cramped shelter from sun and storm.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:38, Wed 18 Apr 2018.
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The GM
GM, 17 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 15 Apr 2018
at 17:01 | 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
 Tap
Tremor had counted fourteen stone heads along the route he walked to work. Tap had spotted twelve, but Tremor's count included one that had toppled so it was nearly upside-down and the forehead demolished. The other had been so large that it housed three floors of rigging.
Tap's home in the rigging was one of the highest of the hand-crafted homes atop the ruins of the giant's buildings, affording a view of the city practically layed out at Tremor's feet. Every morning Tap would arise from its enclosure and begin the careful climb down so it could arrive at its job at the brewery on time. Tap was one of the few warforged Tremor had ever seen that carried extensive damage. Part of its skull was caved in on the left side. It did not seem to hamper Tap, but there was no telling with some of the warforged.
Tap was quiet most of the time, but as it walked to work it would often mutter rhymes to itself: "Plants, pants. Chance. Sun, fun. Walk, talk, rock." At the brewery Tap was a tireless worker, as expected, standing and stirring large vats, surrounded by fumes which would render flesh and blood employees insensate within minutes.
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 Elminster Harlian
There were two people Tremor had acquainted himself with in preparation for gaining employment at the brewery; Elminster Harlian, the gnome from Sharn, who'd implied at least a strained relationship with the Library of Korranberg, and who Tremor had surmised was attempting to heal that breach with the discovery of something new. The state of his dress suggested that attempt had taken a good deal of time more than Harlian had anticipated, time... and money. Harlian's abode was near street level, and while he had studied the brewery, the gnome's present occupation was selling archaeological 'finds' of questionable provenience.
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 Ekewaka Tua
The other was a dark elf native of the land. The local clan was called 'Tulita' and though Ekewaka Tua was still strong and capable, being denied the sea had dashed his spirits. During his last voyage he'd apparently caught the attention of a passenger and that interaction had brought him up before the captain. The captain cancelled his seaman's papers, and now the tall sailor scraped by for enough coin for drink, and a few hours of forgetfulness. Ekewaka had also room in his hovel for the displaced halfling, but it was filthy and smelled. Tap's accommodations were constantly refreshed by a high borne breeze.
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Tremor had served as sommelier aboard the Tanaka's Grace, a fine airship from Sharn that had provided first-class transport to Stormreach. At least it had been first-class for Haftak ir'Clarn. Tremor had gone to lengths to provide a completely authentic performance aboard the airship, and so Haftak had no small affection for the halfling. The wealthy bookseller had given Tremor a packet to deliver to Bronden Klondek, in exchange the halfling had obtained a letter of recommendation.
Tremor's cousin Arcadenweth d'Ghallanda had also set Tremor a task. Two in fact. The first was to look into the manufacture of kuryeva. The drink exported from Stormreach had grown in popularity on the mainland to a noticeable extent. The House of Hospitality had noticed. It needed to be sourced, and a better price needed to be found for the House.
The second task was to look into the status of one Maarten d'Tann, who had negotiated a deal in person with the Keep in Stormreach. The deal was struck but, there has been no word from d'Tann for a month.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:20, Thu 19 Apr 2018.
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The GM
GM, 18 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 17 Apr 2018
at 20:24 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe work at Molou’s Distillery was menial at best with newcomers given the back-breaking task of cleaning out the boilers, scrubbing the pungent plant remains from the equipment and mopping the detritus from the floor, and shifting the heavy casks to areas underground where the liquor could continue to ferment. The barrels were crowded into what might have once been a burial catacomb but it is apparent that additional room would be needed. But the workers fear expansion into other areas, and what might already have design on them.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 1 post
Thu 19 Apr 2018
at 11:06 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachFinding his patron's taste in wine was one of study and and investigation.
Sweet wines, some called dessert, were not to the bookseller's fancy. Mostly.
With the fair maidens as guests, these wines would be served, however, not savored.
Lord ir'Clarn sis like the wines with prices a common man would think of as liquid gold, but it was not price alone. Age, story. Those brought up the eyebrows and those ultimately transfigured the wine an arrow that pieced the heart.
Much talk of Bronzewood barrels, and barrels made from Murk oak of the Shadow Marches, how vintages soak in the elements of those rare crafted vaults. Talk of how Mithral presses had been engineered by Elven vintners in vain attempts to reproduce the taste of thousand year old magnums.
Happy accidents of location and just enough exposure to sun and maybe a manifest zone of this or that. Arguments over whether Druids are best at raising the vines in early years or whether a dedicated grower, with trusted family could do as equal a job.
It all made the trip that much more exciting and enjoyable.
04:08, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 6 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 2. sommelier challenge Persuation DC 15
This message was last edited by the player at 23:39, Thu 26 Apr 2018.
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The GM
GM, 22 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 19 Apr 2018
at 20:15 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachAs much as the voyage was enjoyed by all, sadly Haftak ir'Clarn was no great tipper. And the letter of recommendation was of little use in negotiating a good placement at the brewery; the hiring floor manager Garreg Meldenbourne was an uncouth ruffian apparently accustomed to wrangling miscreants off the streets. No amount of persuading would put anything but a mop in Tremor's hands until he'd proven himself.
 Garreg Meldenbourne
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 2 posts
Sat 21 Apr 2018
at 09:40 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachIt is as the great poet Willowspeare once noted, 'In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.'
Tremor will carry out his assigned mop duty, keeping an eye out for any contribution he could make, any his size would allow, while he climbing skills were poor, perhaps the use of rope, winch or pole could place him in a spot few if any other could squeeze or fit into.
Mopping required water. Water had to be held nearby or pumped in. This was Marketplace, the River ran South in Southwatch. The Distillery needed water, perhaps knowing how the water flowed, where it flowed, that might be helpful. Time to investigate.
Time to see if any small weaknessInvestigation or inadvertentStealth act could further his understanding of the water system. That diversion was fine to keep his mind occupied at work.
After the mopping shift was done, time to hit the public places of hospitality and inquire about one, Maarten d'Tann, was he lodged here or elsewhere?
Why do I inquire? A young lady, who by indiscretion knows this d'Tann, has... hired me to deliver a message, one that may Quicken his stepDeception
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The GM
GM, 23 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 23 Apr 2018
at 18:25 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachMolou's Distillery occupied a huge collection of buildings at the south edge of the Marketplace. It was nearly the size of the whole Bazaar. It was divided into two main sections; the tap room, and the kuryeva brewing factory. The tap room was large enough to comfortably host a party of almost a hundred party-goers, while the factory played host to almost double that number of workers.
To say that Molou's used water was an understatement. It was practically a bathhouse. Steam vented from carefully monitored vats and pipes, pumps sent fluids gushing by the gallons. The workers were drenched from the moisture in the air, steam and sweat dripping into eyes, off of noses. A frequent joke was that you could tell your shift was over when your underclothes were full damp.
That was the factory floor, though. The tap room was cool, comfortable, and clean; at least until the guests of one of Lord Varen Lassite's parties arrived.
The work is exhausting, but Tremor managed; he'd managed before in other times, other places; here at least there were no 'raptors vying to get in through the delivery doors.
By the end of the first day Tremor had assessed the pipes and determined the flows and contents of the major conduits. By the second he'd ascertained which one of the behemoth mechanisms were pumping the water into the system.
The first part of the creation of the liquor known wide across the Five Kingdoms was the boiling down of the scaled fruit. Teams of workers transported the kuryeva fruit from the inner jungle to the city. Sometimes the workers would be late. Sometime these workers would need medical attention when they arrived. Sometimes they never arrived.
The fruit was peeled and prepared and then dumped into one of the huge boilers and cooked under pressure. Apparently great pressure, if one was to judge by the steam that escaped from the pipes and lids. The preparation of the friut was not without hazard, either, as the bushels of kuryeva would sometimes be infested with giant centipedes. Their colors indicated a virulent poison. Garreg sneered that the venom was in fact a better intoxicant that anything made in Molou's, as no one who sampled it ever drank anything else ever again.
The boiling finished, the whole stinking mass was decanted and then pressed and the squeezings taken for further processing. In that section of the factory, the drink was poured into barrels, sealed and then rolled off into the catacombs. The barrel rollers would come back with store that had aged between one and ten years, depending on the quality of the order that was to be fulfilled. Anything over five years was watched over by Garreg; any over eight were supervised by the manager, Volen Lassite himself.
Once pressed, the fruit was no good; the seeds were toxic and must needs be disposed of. The workers tasked with that clean-up had poor health to a man, and staggered when they pushed their barrows away. Tap recommended that Tremor avoid the dregs duty at all cost with a quiet "death, breath."
Then the best of the aged liquid was distilled in another series of cooking contraptions; brought to a boiling point and kept there until everything of value was in the vapor, and all that was left was a pungent sticky mass, which, of course, needed to be cleaned away for the next batch.
Tremor worked quickly when he could, and stepped carefully into the shadows to linger, scoping out the hazardous layout and listening to whispered conversations that were not meant for the ears of the grunt workers.
When the day was through most of the workers were too tired to even consider anything but a soft bed, or even a hard one. But Tremor came alive at night, ferreting out information about the dragonmarked Maarten d'Tann.
D'Tann had apparently wanted to try a different route for expanding Ghallanda's influence in Stormreach, appealing to the poor and downtrodden and thus had put together a deal working with the Church of the Silver Flame. Not the grand Keep in the city, but a small lodge that catered to those without food or money or hope. Everyone knew of the friendly halfling, and the old cleric who ran the lodge, but no one knew where they were; the lodge had been deserted for a fortnight, and the beacon of hope was quickly becoming a symbol of despair.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:28, Thu 26 Apr 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 3 posts
Tue 24 Apr 2018
at 05:54 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachSo sayeth the roller
22:49, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 20 using 1d20+9. whispered conversations Stealth DC 15.
22:50, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 14 using 1d20+7. uncover weakness Investigation DC 10.
22:51, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 16 using 1d20+4. clues to d'Tann Deception DC 12.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:54, Tue 24 Apr 2018.
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The GM
GM, 25 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 25 Apr 2018
at 00:40 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachOn the factory floor it's needful to shout to be heard, and it's easy to conceal a conversation by simply holding it at a normal volume. Garreg Meldenbourne's reports to the manager were of this variety. Gleaned from these reports were leads to some specifics on the next large party planned by Varen Lassite's parties in three days' time. A guest list has already been delivered to Garreg's office, along with instructions for the event.
Also, and unrelated, the floor manager seemed obsessive in his instructions for the disposal of the kuryeva waste matter, in particular, which wagons were to be used in moving it all for disposal. It seemed at odds with the treatment of the workers that he was so concerned with how the toxic plant material was disposed of.
Once he knew what to look for, the accesses to the water supply became obvious, with only really one hurdle required to open and thence travers the supply system. A special tool was needed to remove the bolts that held the access doors closed. An educated guess suggested that Garreg might have one in his office.
While everyone had heard of d'Tann no-one knew where he was currently. The consensus was that he and the old cleric, by name of 'Archibald Noeliss', had dealings with Capshaw the Crier who frequented a ramshackle tavern in Fisher's Folly called by turns either the Leaky Dinghy or Run Aground Tavern, depending on who you asked.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:38, Thu 26 Apr 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 4 posts
Wed 25 Apr 2018
at 08:28 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe nut was Garreg's office, the sweet meat inside the shell was the tool.
A survey had to be taken of the office, it's surrounds. What material was there, what access might be there and where a canine might slip to fall in shadow.
Plenty of mop work to be done, and the timing for when Garreg was in his office to ask for a special broom, small handle but broader mop head, an improvement, more suited to pushing liquid, one where bristles were longer more like a comb, flexible to work into corners and around drums. It was a short time for such an improvement but perhaps Garreg could see the usefulness of it.Deception
In truth it was just a means to access the office in working hours to investigate what could be seen.Perception
Checking his coins, he took with him only a few copper and silver, hen came the visit to the Leaky Dinghy or Run Aground Tavern, no questions as to anyone inside, unless it was for a friendly game of cards. Winning was not the goal, a clandestine check for cheatsSleight of Hand?, and finding out who, if any, could be prodded into talking about the religious in the Harbor or StormreachPersuasion
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The GM
GM, 26 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 26 Apr 2018
at 02:02 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachGarreg's office overlooked the boiler room floor, with an unobstructed view of almost all of the places that workers could be. The stairway up was in full view of anyone on the floor that cared to look. Those stairs were imposingly steep, even if there wasn't a guard at Tremor's elbow when he went to propose the special broom.
The office had a thick ironwood door and a substantial lock, and the windows were barred. the office itself was more like a narrow hallway with several storage lockers, a cluttered desk and a heavy Kundarak safe at the far end.
The curious name of the tavern was self-explanatory when Tremor arrived that evening. The structure was primarily composed of what had once been a boat. It was artfully 'smashed' against a large boulder at ground level, and the gaping hole in the prow served as the ground-floor entrance. The second 'story' was roofed with a dinghy which had a hole punched clear through it's stern, and a climbing rope dangled into the interior of that space.
It was a rotting, rat-infested, creaking mess of a tavern in an area of the docks called Fisher’s Folly, an unsafe mishmash of rigging, fishing boats, and huts that was home to many of the city’s fishers. This ramshackle little tavern seemed to be a haven for the many downtrodden folk of the district. The owner, Falgor Finney, a kindly old dwarf, allowed the homeless and destitute a seat at his bar, a free tankard of ale and a bowl of stew whenever he can spare it. Other innkeepers in the neighborhood call the poor souls who make up Finney’s clientele “driftwood” and never allow them past their thresholds.
The tavern persists only because of the love its patrons have for the place, keeping it alive despite the best efforts of storm and rot to destroy it. The tavern’s survival against storms has become an occasion for celebrations, with parties being held in the swaying structure during the severest storms.
Joining a card game, Tremor is introduced to Captain Donovan Montgomery, whom the other card-players call 'Shakes'. The Captain drinks too heavily to play well.
Other notables are stern looking halfling writing furiously at the bar; a mage who has nursed a single mug of cheap ale for more than an hour, a drunkard wearing a ragged city guard uniform, and a fishy-smelling sahuagin looking to be hired as a guide. The rest seem to be beggars and homeless people seeking a few moments of relief under a roof.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 5 posts
Thu 26 Apr 2018
at 02:20 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachSo Speaketh the Roller
19:14, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 23 using 1d20+4. avoid raising suspicions Deception DC 14.
19:16, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 17 using 1d20+5. Garreg Office Perception .
19:18, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 18 using 1d20+6. Cheat check Sleight of Hand DC 12.
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The GM
GM, 29 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 29 Apr 2018
at 14:38 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachGarreg might have been smarter than he looked, but it didn't seem to be by much. His opinion of Tremor was now confirmed in thinking the halfling as an officious waste of time. Which meant that Tremor's movements and observations in the office went completely past the brew boss.
The first thing Tremor saw was the shift roster and a map for the floor security; six armed thugs had well-marked routes that covered the office access.
The second was the beddings for two dire hounds. They were scruffy and mean looking.
The third was that in addition to the Kundarak safe there was a large cabinet of tools. Garreg shut it while Tremor talked, and fastened a chain with a padlock. He kept the key on a chain around his neck.
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The GM
GM, 30 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 29 Apr 2018
at 14:44 | 1: Becalmed in Stormreach'Shakes' might have been losing because he was inebriated, but it didn't help at all that the bearded man and the woman sitting next to him were cheating pretty badly. The pair both looked like they were pretty tough people; not the sort you would want following you into a dark alley.
Tremor also noticed that the majority of the homeless folk were Tulita drow; they watched from the shadows.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:15, Mon 30 Apr 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 8 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 30 Apr 2018
at 04:51 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachGarreg's office was a thorny briar patch.
Making mental notes of the floor routes, seemed best. Tremor's fingers twitched at the closeness of the map, now was not the time. Coin or other precious valuables of the Distillery did not interest him, seeing the list for the upcoming party, did.
Perhaps Garreg could be reminded in an oblique way.
"I also wanted to know if we have Cedar oil? To wipe down the Tap room with after it is swept and washed, the lye odor is strong."Deception 22
Leaky Dinghy
It is possible, but counter to the public face of Falgor, but the couple could be giving a percentage of their take to the House. Proving the cheat, how it was being done, that was important. Falgor knew of Tremor what he knew of worms that lived in the dark soil.
It is the happy and cheerful face, knowing who was really facing and not caring to lose the copper or even a silver to the pair.
12:25, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 8 using 1d20+5. Card Game d20 + Insight +5.
Tremor bought a pitcher to share at the table, played a couple of rounds, learn the methodologies of the cheats, lose some more and then excuse himself, taking his leave and going to the bar asking for the whereabouts of Capshaw the Crier, gauging the reaction of the bartender.Insight 24
Tremor went looking for Ekewaka Tua, there was an inkling of an idea and he could hire the Drow Elf to answer a question he had about the disposal of the fruit and the carts used by the Distillery.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:29, Tue 01 May 2018.
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The GM
GM, 34 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 2 May 2018
at 00:46 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachGarreg sneered at the halfling's apparent concern for cleanliness. "All right, bottle boy. You want to be in charge of getting the room ready for the Stormlord? Be my guest. You can use cedar oil, or leviathan oil, or flaming oil for all I care. In fact..." he handed the instructions for the party to Tremor. "You are now in charge of the party. If the Lord is not pleased, then I will not be pleased, and then you will not be pleased." Even if the threat was clumsy, the intent behind it was honest, intuited Tremor. Garreg would likely attempt some bodily harm on Tremor if the party was not its usual success.
The dire hounds were named Rasha and Sasha, and they were poorly looked after. Tremor was no houndsmith, but in his own estimation he reasoned that he could do no worse with them than kindness. It might take some time to win them over, however. The day man who managed them was Philup, and he would be none too difficult to convince that Tremor was a better person to fetch the hounds in and out.
The marketplace would have clay, certainly, and possibly other needed materials.
The office windows had had a metal gridwork permanently affixed to them; apparently there was at one time a need to prevent objects the size of a bottle from passing through the window into the office. This also meant that something the size of a halfling would also be prevented from passing through the window.
The ceiling in the factory was high, though and above the walls gave way to cross-beams. If a person were to manage to get up to them, then there was probably no place they couldn't go. It seemed an egregious security flaw.
As far as the crafting of the tool was concerned the answer was probably to be found among the local guildsmen; seemingly everyone who did anything of note was a member of a guild. There couldn't be too many pipers to ask.
The woman was called 'Tanika Sharpe' Her hair was long on the left, and close cropped on the right; apparently to draw the eye to a scar that ran across her temple. The bearded man was 'Jock Thim' and he could use a wash; sitting at the same table was uncomfortable for those of a more delicate nature. They were palming and replaying cards, even passing them to each other. Shakes was oblivious to the crimes. He was still recounting that he could sail any craft, big or small through the shoals around Stormreach. Blindfolded. In the dead of night.
The ale was far from the best, but palatable, and the time it took for the table to drink the pitcher was enough to see the crudity of their approach. Shakes, of course, was at their mercy, and Tremor's intuition told him that these two would happily rob him in an alley, if they had not fleeced him of his coin at cards.
Falgor Finney served up gruel to the last of the waiting Tulita. In Tremor's estimation the dwarf's sentiments were as advertised. But a cynic might suggest that his attempts to make things better for his customers would not serve him well in such a cynical and harsh city. He addressed Tremor's query about the Crier with a nod at the halfling who was still writing furiously on sheafs of paper at the bar.
 Capshaw the Crier
When Tremor approached, the serious Capshaw looked up from his papers:
"Do you realise that the Tulita are facing extinction?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 13 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 2 May 2018
at 08:41 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor took the instructions that were thrust upon him, trying and failing keep all of them in his small hands.
"I understand." As Tremor backs away to the office door. "Ummm, who prepared the Tap Room last?"
{*}
Who opens with that? Must be obsessed with the Dark Elves. Naturalist? Historian? Tailor?
By the Shadow this is a dismal place. How do I relate?
Tremor hopped up on to a seat and put his hand out for the Dwarf.
"How did you come to that? Isn't this their homeland?"
When the proprietor comes and there is time to order, "I just lost all my coin in the card game. My new friend here is dis-wrought, can I pay you tomorrow?
I am Tremor Valevine, I work at the Distillery."
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The GM
GM, 38 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 8 May 2018
at 01:20 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachGarreg waved dismissively at the halfling's questions "You hang out with that block of stone Tap. It knows everything you need about the Tap room. Huh. Tap, in the Tap room. Huh-har! Get out."
Tremor got the feeling that pressing beyond this would irritate the boss; or worse arouse suspicions.
Capshaw the Crier
"It was their homeland. Since the Plantation Battle they have nowhere to truly call home. They cannot live where they did, it's all plantations. Their huts are razed and their villages planted with crops like kuryeva for export. And they cannot own property in the city, nor bear weapons. Within these walls they are prey, and beyond these walls they are hunted if they are seen. The young generation is growing up without the guidance of their elders, who are slain or in hiding. Even if they knew their rituals, practicing their old religion is forbidden in Stormreach and the environs." He sighed.
"Even if the Tulita survive, when they lose their culture then it is as if the people died. The depression sets upon them; they drink to forget, or numb the pain. And the Stormlords collect the coin that the Tulita spend on suicide."
 Falgor Finney
"Humph. You ought not wager if you can't afford to lose. This ale is on me. One mug to remind you that all is fleeting." The dwarf also pushed over a quarter of a roast chicken. "The gruel's out. If you're looking for a meal you need to get here earlier. But I'm done with my dinner, so you can have the rest. Tonight. I'll be hungrier tomorrow."
He waggled his eyebrows in an obscure gesture.
Capshaw the Crier
Capshaw placed a handful of coins on the counter.
"My friend will have at least one more with me, I hope. Finney is one of the bright lights in this dark time. Tulita know they can come here and avoid harrassment or poersecution. And while he'll give them a mug, it's never that kuryeva poison or worse... the dragon's breath.
Still it's a slow death. The end of a great nation if it cannot be stopped. The Treaty showed us on the continent that even bitter enemies can co-exist; why can't we have that here? I just want a fair chance for the people who were here first."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 15 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 8 May 2018
at 06:38 | 1: Becalmed in Stormreach{*}
It was delicious, seeing the pot heat up, knowing just a few chosen words could bring Garreg beyond simmer, Oh' it might be worth it. How would the Hounds react?
Tremor slowed his backward stride, mulling just the correct spice to bring the broth to boil. "Yes, Tap, of course, I should have known..."
A skip turn and a dash down the stairs.
Back to duties, one mop brush, two mop... time to read the preparations and find Tap, bring him to the Tap room for discussion.
{*}
Why should Xen'Drik be any different from anywhere else? Brelanders were pushed out by the Stone Queens, and the Gobs fro that matter. Now Stormreach is claiming more and pushing out Poisoners and Spider worshiping savages.
Prey seems a bit harsh, they have no coin or much of anything of value. So went the Gobs, so go the Drow, another Empire crumbles.
"There are other... Tribes? There is an entire continent, surely somewhere they could make a home? Look at wee folk, Master of Clawfoot and Razorfamg! Trained without use of a Mark of Hobbling. Better for them to be out there than the _slow strangle here in Stormreach?"
"I always think I am going to lose, a little, but not winning anything is a bit of surprise. Bless you and May the Host honor your Hospitality, see it repaid a Thousand times."
Tremor hefts the Dire fowl and swings the enormous haunch to his mouth for a taste.
"You know, I like this place, it needs... something. Have you thought some on that; improvements?"
After the answer, Tremor turns back to his melancholy cousin, hand raising a mug in salute, "You have a solution? Wait... are you recording their stories, their histories?"
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The GM
GM, 42 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 9 May 2018
at 18:49 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachCapshaw the Crier
"You might well ask all of Thrane to play host to Kaarnathi soldiers as expect the Tulati to live with other tribes. It would be a slaughter. And they have a spiritual connection to this ancient place. They stay because of a duty they feel to the land and to the sea. I have spoken to their elder Milliauka at length, but still I have not penetrated the mysteries of this duty.
Yes, I have studied their culture, and their history, and perhaps putting their stories into bound pages might have been enough for me... once. There are many books about dead cultures, many written by those cultures that facilitated the end. The Tulita would be dust and their books would be covered in dust, and so all of my meals thereafter would taste of dust.
So I tell their stories and make plain the injustice I see, and if my bread be meagre, still it has a wholesome flavor, and sits well in my belly. That is my solution."
Falgor Finney
"Mind yer prayers, ser Valevine. The Traveler's the only one of the Host who listens in Stormreach. But you are right..." Finney looked around the bleak mishmash of ruined construction and decaying wood. "...there's room for improvements. Holes to patch, maybe a bit 'o paint.... Come back during daylight, and you have my permission to make them. I'll even let you borrow my hammer."
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 16 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 10 May 2018
at 07:15 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach| Consumer of wholesome and meager breads |
"The Drow Tribes are Nations? High opinion of themselves. No_wait, you misunderstand, Duty to land, we Halflings know about this, I just meant the size of what they claim.
So why not employ them? The City Watch, who is that Stormlord, why not employ them as messengers or for cleaning drains? Give them a barracks, pay them some coin and they have a purpose. Fixed. No? It is hard to see a solution, they are poisoners and are here because there is no where else for them to go?
I am surprised they have not been collected and shipped to a Tooth or some small Isle..
How many of them are there?"
| Provider of Dire Fowl and to the Cupless |
"I am happy to return after three days, my duties at the Distillery prevent any earlier return. While I am not Shipwright, I can drive nail and swab pitch like a man twice my size."
|
The GM
GM, 46 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 10 May 2018
at 18:28 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachFalgor Finney
The dwarf's massive eyebrows went up, and his manner a shade warmer.
"You will sir? And I believe you. It's almost enough to make a fellow re-evaluate his opinion of people. Almost." He eyed Capshaw. "After all, the cure for laziness is to find some work.
Capshaw the Crier
"I am working. I have these leaflets written for my criers, and these sheets to post.
Now then, you might imagine that all the dark elves are of a kind, playing with venomous creatures in the black of caves... this is not so. Their gods are strange and varied. The Tulita have a special reverence for the Leviathan, now hunted 'til the seas are red. They worship the powers that make the land; the spirits that reside in the volcanic fields. These people were custodians; caretakers for some special purpose. Now all they can do is scrub the sewers to earn enough coin to pay for the privilege of living in what was once their home?
And the powers that be know to their cost not to put the weapons of the city watch in the hands of a Tulita. They are defeated but not done. Not yet. Their numbers in the city are dwindling, soon there will be few enough that they could be shipped away. Who knows how many hide in the outskirts and the jungle. Not enough to take Stormreach, there are fewer than there were during the plantations war."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:21, Fri 11 May 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 17 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 11 May 2018
at 11:24 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor mocks the use of the honorific 'Sir' buy looking around for someone the Dwarf is actually addressing.
A silent smile and then Tremor's eyes follow the Dwarf's eyes and he turns to see his cousin implicated as the target of the inference. A brief cloud over his features could not be helped, these are still early days, time enough to measure in these coming seasons.
"Look at the Gobs, they built Sharn, they had an Empire. You only keep things until you can't. They can have Leviathan as Gods, they can talk to Fae in their fields, Men came along and now they lost what they had. Drow Empire will go the way of others.
Men are better than Elves, Elves better than Orcs, Orcs better than... that's a hard, ah, better than Gnolls.
They can't cling to old ways. I'm all for Drow learning how to be civilized.
What does your post say?"
|
The GM
GM, 48 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 13 May 2018
at 05:24 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachCapshaw the Crier
"These people don't want to have an empire... they just want to live."
The halfling crier could not speak. He thrust the page at Tremor then jumped off the stool and dashed out the door.
The flyer demanded 'justice and freedom' but in as disorganized way as ever it could be presented. Tremor immediately saw five simple changes in the prose and layout that would make the poster so much more persuasive.
Capshaw had no talent for the task he'd taken on.
Falgor Finney
"All heart, that one. It will kill 'im"
The drunk in the Guard uniform chimed in: "Gnolls 'r nothing to sneeze at!"
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 18 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 13 May 2018
at 09:05 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachIt was of course the natural follow up to the question.
Tremor took the flyer into his hand, his eyes went to black liquor and tried to follow its flocking and wheeling use of prose.
When Tremor looked up from the page, his cousin was seen only as a shadow out the door.
"Wait!" Tremor threw himself from the chair and ran, half leaping, half weaving, half skipping through patrons, chairs tot he door and outside in an attempt to accost the Crier.
Certainly if his voice had not stopped him there was very little in the way of egress from the Dinghy, it was on a pier. perception 19
Tremor returns to the Dinghy, to his chair at the bar, looking for consolation and information from the proprietor, "Aye, it is a strong trait amongst the Halfling; Hearts made for Lions.
I have to find the old Silver cleric and his friend, they came to visit Capshaw.
Did you happen to know where they went? Or when Capshaw is likely to return here? "
This message was last edited by the player at 21:33, Mon 14 May 2018.
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The GM
GM, 51 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 14 May 2018
at 21:37 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachFalgor Finney
"Oh, aye... He'll be back. His hut's somewhere near here in the rigging, but he'll be putting some 'o that passion to work, now, handing down his instructions to the local boys he's got crying out his message." He shook his head.
"You'll be meaning old Archibald Noeliss? He's the only one of the Flame seen around these parts. The rest of them churchy types fear getting fish guts on their socks, and so they stay far away from the harbor. But Archie came to where the folk were needing help. He hasn't come down of late, and that's bad for everyone. You could go the the lodge and see if he's there, and just indisposed, or if he needs some kind of assistance."
Finney drew a simple map on a scrap. "It's not easy to find like the big cathedral, but you can spot it if you know not to look for flashy decor. Up near the Sloths."
The drunk in the Guard uniform piped up: "I fought a gnoll, once."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 19 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 14 May 2018
at 23:40 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor nods, that Keeper Noeliss is the same he referred to.
Taking the simple map, "Falgor, my thanks. May Aureon reveal to you the Lore you require."
Tremor takes off to follow the map. Being vigilant, wary and looking for places for cover as he goes.
|
The GM
GM, 53 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 15 May 2018
at 23:53 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachOn his way Tremor passes the Wavecrest Tavern where he can hear the cheering of the ongoing arm-wrestling contest within.
Beyond it there are fewer lights, fewer people moving about, fewer sounds of laughter or happiness.
A ragged beggarman proffers a soiled parchment: "I's th' map o' Garr Bloodbane’s gold!" An offer that Tremor had already heard before. The map he held in his hand was more likely to lead him to that mythic treasure..
The route leads through what Tremor has been given to understand is a dirty, dangerous neighborhood. The back of the Cross was untended by the Guard. Tremor noted that an alternate route high over in the 'rigging' was climbable, although there were plenty of crates and piles of refuse that an intrepid halfling could use for cover on the ground. If he wished to avoid anyone in the alleyways he probably could.
Which thought came to mind whern Tremor spied three 'beggars' on the path ahead. They had none of the stoop of the downtrodden. They were well formed and fit, with what Tremor's eyes said were regular meals. Though they were spattered with dirt and blood. He spotted boiled leather armor under their rags and daggers too dear for the homeless they pretended to.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 20 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 16 May 2018
at 08:52 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachWith a quick judgement as to location, cover and escape routes, Tremor sought refuge behind some of Stormreach's many piles of crates.
Then if he had chosen correctly, perhaps he could hear a bit of conversation, a name.
Then whirred the mind for a story should he be... noticed. Beaten at cards, given a map to find a Keeper and ask for work.
Tremor settled his mind, body and listened.
01:53, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 12 using 1d20+9. Stealth, hide from brigands.
01:55, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 24 using 1d20+5. Perceptio, Brigand talk.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:22, Thu 17 May 2018.
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The GM
GM, 56 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 17 May 2018
at 00:34 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachHe could hear the toughs conversing as they came towards him. Two were speaking while the third just listened. Tremor lingered to listen as well.
"... No, see it's brilliant, they can get it, but they can't keep it or use it, so it all gets sold to us."
"And then we sell it on, right. But not all of it. Couldn't we sell more?"
"Nah, the best of it gets shipped for top dollar."
"You heard that. But do you know it for a fact?"
"It's above my pay grade, but I know they got enough to bribe the Guard, and pay the Salty Dogs."
"The Guard? That don't take much. And Rickard's an asshole. Why'd Gar-- Hello there."
Tremor was confident he'd picked an apt place to conceal himself, but whether it was a trick of the light, or the famed Traveler's Curse, the shelter he'd intended to hide behind was simply not there when he attempted to use it.
One of the toughs addressed Tremor: "Pardon, but you seem a little lost. Can we perhaps guide you to your destination? These streets can be dangerous this time of night."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 21 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 17 May 2018
at 01:20 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe Halfling takes a step out and back, hopping a little.
"Just stopped, thought I saw some shiny. Nuthin' 'cept reflection.
Just movin' on, got a cat to feed."
Should they not buy his act, Tremor would gauge their coming for him, and do his best to turn and run, counting on his nimbleness to overcome obstacles and leave things in his wake to... impede those that followed.
18:22, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 18 using 1d20+4. Deception v Brigands.
Deception: Know where I am/where I am going/Expected somewhere
18:23, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 15 using 1d20+6. Acrobatics to avoid/leave obstacles.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:28, Thu 17 May 2018.
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The GM
GM, 59 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 24 May 2018
at 03:22 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLeveraging a nearby fruit cart, Tremor kicked up to the second floor of the nearby rigging.
"Nimble little minx, ain't he?"
The second thug agreed, and the third was struggling with the basket that covered his head.
From his perch, Tremor could continue to flee in the direction of his goal, or parlay further.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 22 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 24 May 2018
at 04:45 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTaking a deep breath and stretching a little, while talking.
"You know, I never realized how beautiful the Reach is from on high.
The smell of... well the brine at least, is refreshing.
How are you doing down... Oh, still at it?"
|
The GM
GM, 61 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 24 May 2018
at 06:22 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachBasket-head began a stream of invective, but the leader shushed him. "I' takes all kind, and who be we to judge. An' by the looks of it this is just the kind of fellow we want as our clientele. Adventurous. We are salesmen, after all, and what we sell is... something very special."
With a flourish he displayed a leather pouch brimming with dark, glistening leaves. He lifts a pinch of the prepared vegetable matter to the light. "Dragonsmoke, the best you’ll find in Stormreach. Normally this would run you twenty five gold bits easy, but because I have an excellent supplier I am able to charge you only ten. Here is an adventure worthy of heroes!"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 23 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 24 May 2018
at 09:09 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor smiles and nods swinging his chin left then right as he answers.
"Your offer is a good one. It appeals to my sense of value and parting with less coin then I need to.
Still, you have me confused with the lumbering, armored and generally slow witted knuckle dragging drunkards who have washed up on the Reach, they adventure to put gold in their pockets.
I am in search of pockets filled with gold.
Everyone needs a trade, you would do well to learn from Jesters; 'Know thy prospect, the better to empty deeper pockets.'"
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The GM
GM, 62 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 26 May 2018
at 02:14 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Let's empty his head!" shouted Basket-head.
But the leader of the group smirked and shook his head in response."If that one's not using dragon-smoke now, he will be soon. Come find us when the time comes, my friend, and when your pockets are full."
He directed the trio to move on, giving the halfling a wry wave.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 24 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 29 May 2018
at 04:26 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor waved jovially back at the retreating group.
Time to move on, Tremor will look from his perch and try to reconcile it with his map and the destination.
using the carefulness of his people Tremor will move around and then back down to the ground and continue on his way, hoping the proprietor could put him near where he had to go.
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The GM
GM, 67 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 30 May 2018
at 01:13 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe rest of Tremor's journey to the Silver Flame Lodge was without incident. The Lodge was dark when Tremor arrived, the windows closed, and the doors. A stray cur pads down the filthy alley in front of the doors, but there is no-one else in sight.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 25 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 30 May 2018
at 01:40 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachWithout any light within the lodge, it appeared no one was present or wanted their residence known.
Perhaps some way higher would present itself.
Tremor circled the building and tried to spot ways up and looking for places that might be good as a perch, from which one might keep an eye on the front door.
18:41, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine, rolled 15 using 1d20+9. Stealth.
18:42, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 15 using 1d20+7. Investigation .
18:42, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 22 using 1d20+5. Perception
This message was last edited by the player at 01:46, Wed 30 May 2018.
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The GM
GM, 71 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 30 May 2018
at 19:57 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe Lodge of the Silver Flame was constructed with a conservancy that bordered on the fanatic. Nowhere was the yellow stone of the surrounding buildings found; it was all timber and brick. The windows were the same stained glass motif used in all of Khorvaire. But while the lodge was detached, the rest of the neighborhood was rigging. The ropes dangled down from on high, knotted to boards that spaned the ropes. The whole thing might have been suspended from a column, or from some floating structure, or from nothing at all; it was impossible to say in the gloom.
Tremor found a likely spot to see without being seen, and settled in to watch for a bit. A half dozen rats scurried down the alley. Half an hour later the cur returned, skinny, and sniffing the ground. There was an unintelligible shout that came over the wall from the adjoining neighborhood. The lodge was still.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 26 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 31 May 2018
at 10:11 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachWhy was the cur so skinny with all these rats? Slow, aged? So go we all.
Tremor adjusted to relax and keep an eye out, unless it rained or a cold snap rolled into the Reach, he would stay until sleep overcame him.
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The GM
GM, 74 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 31 May 2018
at 18:55 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachAt about three'o'clock Tremor heard a cart being wheeled along. It was a faint sound, but the repetitive nature of the wheel's squeak caught Tremor's attention.
Looking down, he tried to see the cart better, but there was nothing. The alley below was empty, save for the sound.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 27 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 31 May 2018
at 19:03 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachMagical Invisible carts?
Who was moving? Was it a wheel or just rats?
Deciding to move slow, Tremor slowly took some steps to descend. Then stop. Listen and look, then a few more steps, caution and inquisitiveness battled for every step.
12:04, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 12 using 1d20+9. Stealth v Squeaky cart.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:05, Thu 31 May 2018.
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The GM
GM, 75 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 1 Jun 2018
at 04:40 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe sound was lower, still lower, every bit of the way. Until Tremor stood on the cobbles of the alley. And the sound came from under his hairy feet. Now he could hear, ever so faintly, another sound, a voice high and sweet, singing a lullaby.
Nearby, Tremor saw a group of three rats suddenly stop scurrying. The cur, more of a skinny puppy, really, trotted towards the apparent meal and then it too, suddenly lay down in the street.
A heaviness descended on Tremor's lids, and with that, suddenly the long night seemed to catch up with him. He was sore pressed to join the resting animals there on the cobbles. His mind hungered for sleep.
But he did not.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:28, Fri 01 June 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 28 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sat 2 Jun 2018
at 09:29 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachCould this be linked to the silent and darkened Lodge?
Twine? Leather line? Bootlace? Stick? As prod or as pole?
The Halfing made his way down to the rats and cur. Cur is too big rat though cannot really be trusted. Cur might be trusted and trained; that campaign would require treats.
Tremor pulled a shirt lace and tied it to the left rear leg of a sleeping rat. Now a pole or bit of wood and a loop over that and the rat is now dangling like sleeping divining rod. then a bit of a dip into a puddle or a quick dash to the ground and back up to wake it.
Not quite a canary, not as yellow. Oh how the Zil's love their feathered, preening, colorful pets.
Could it be roused or was the rat's slumber deeper?
How does one follow a singing traveler of the sewers from above?
Was it headed away from or towards the Lodge? Was it one or many? Listening at storm drains, that might help. A Warforged might help, a Flamekeeper might help, a modicum of caution might help.
If this meant going into the sewer, hard soled boots might help, a blistering pox of blackened sorcerous Khyber leeches upon the thing that would make plunging his soft boots into...
< cascade of images of bowel movements from Giants to Gnolls >
02:30, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 20 using 1d20+7. Investigation to follow singing direction from above.
02:31, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 13 using 1d20+5. Perception to listen at Storm drains.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:32, Sat 02 June 2018.
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The GM
GM, 81 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 6 Jun 2018
at 02:28 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachIt was a simple matter to construct a ratty divining rod. So simple, that Tremor wondered if there wasn't somewhere that a profit might be made in the manufacture and sale of rat divining rods. Once the animal regained its senses, the thought lost most of its appeal. After that, the dog seemed a more palatable companion. The leftover chicken would make a substantial impression on the starved puppy.
The squeaky cart continued its subterranean motion. Tremor explored with confidence in his rat-rod, brandishing it in a prodding search, but he found no further sopophoric effects. There was no nearby entrance to the underground sewers, and that must surely be where the sound came from. But where there are sewers, there are those who make it their business to know them. Even if they might make the angry rat seem like good company.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 29 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 7 Jun 2018
at 11:00 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"It is a Puzzler. Why must it be any other way? Perfume, kerchief, mask, waders, Wax or tallow, rash mendicants, salt, bags of salt, brushes, combs, a small fire, smoke cabinet, nose plugs.
By the Host my life is nothing but a general store list."
Tremor stops, unwraps the saved dire fowl, throwing bits to the nearby cur.
Absently Tremor begins to speak to the cur.
"You know radishes grow in the ground, celery, cabbage, carrots, what Men call potae'toes. Flowers grow, mighty willows, brambles, berry bush, grapes of all kinds."
More scraps and Tremor sits, cross legged, one arm's elbow set in the knee crook, the other slowly flicking bits of dire fowl.
"I am none of those fine, growing things. If Eberron wanted me to wade in dark soils, I would have shoots and leafy bits. I like the sun, the stars for that matter. Who could possibly... the 'Forged. By the Seven Halls of Mror, I need to convince a 'Forged."
Time for sleep and work, time later to return and continue the puzzle.
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The GM
GM, 85 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 9 Jun 2018
at 04:43 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe puppy followed, having either ascertained that the halfling would give him food; or that here was a person who didn't kick and was fairly entertaining. It was difficult for Tremor to say which.
The journey back might have been quicker, but Tremor desired no further surprises. There were none, and he collapsed for the meager remains of the night.
Tap
"Deep sleep." The warforged commented when Tremor began to wake. "Brought dog? Bought dog? He fetch, he ketch." Tap demonstrated with a ball made from tied rags. When the dog had returned the rag several times, Tap said: "No good; need fud."
Then it indicated a birdcage that was sitting on the floor. The occupant was the rat previously tied to the stick; Tap had repaired the cage with a bit of wire. The rat eyed the puppy nervously, but the cur was glad to just give the cold rodent a friendly yip every now and again.
"Save rat. Slave rat. No eat. No beat."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 30 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 10 Jun 2018
at 09:45 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachWake-fullness crept in like fingerlings of light and sound painting a blurry picture of the meager dwelling.
"Swift dog, Drift dog. His name is Drift."
"Slave rat, Pole rat. No beat, for street."
The Halfling, rolled up to his feet, stretched to his toe tips and flexed his fingers and then back.
"Steeljack face, Steeljack place?"
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The GM
GM, 87 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 11 Jun 2018
at 02:59 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTap
The warforged turned his head to regard Tremor. He tapped the dent in his head with a polished metal fingertip. Someone had attached a decorative patch over the worst of the dent. Tremor had wondered if it covered a hole in its head which would have exposed Tap's inner works. 'Movement' it was called in timepieces.
"I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I---."
The warforged resolutely closed its mouth, then reopened it.
"I-I-I have a speech impedi-di-di-ment." He tapped rapidly; it sounded like rain on a cooking pan. "If I rhyme, it saves me time." He shrugged his shoulders in a deliberate way. "I-I-I und-er-er-stand you."
Tremor had discussed Varen Lassite's party plans at the Taproom with Tap earlier. It was to be the usual affair (Tremor observed that fancy parties except for a few notable exceptions followed a very similar theme with regard to details). Security was increased, but only due to the fact that many of the nobles invited would bring their own bodyguard. Lassite's guard usually stepped in when any ejection from the party was needed.
Tremor had managed to catch the responsibility apparently for placing the orders for the food, and also for making sure that they get 'double the order' but the order of what was not specified. The instructions asked for five courtesans from the Pink Conch; in particular a 'Vrina'.
The counsul from Breland was ineffective as a politician, but she does what she can for downfallen Brelish citizens in Stormreach. That takes money. Vandar Lassite needs entertainment, and she did have a lovely singing voice, and so each of their needs are met when she agreed to sing at the party. The booking of a live band is therefore also required of Tremor.
Tap said in his round-about way that the restaurants who catered the parties pretty knew what the orders were, they needed to be confirmed.
~Guest List~
for Varen Lassite's Taproom Party
Aeron Chambers
Alhaura d’Jorasco
Berrigan Enge
Bethany Razor
Calynden d’Lyrandar
Commander of the Dragoons Gregory Bonedeuce
Durgran’Torrn
Lord Gerald Goodblade
Magistrate Barrison Hargrove
Sorala d’Ghallanda
The current champion brawler at the Broken Skull
Tyzian Davandi
Valexa Von Ruthvek
Wernor Lyrriman d’Sivis
Haftak ir’Clarn
...
the list went on to include a total of sixty five names |
There were no other Stormlords invited, and only a handful of the House members; and just one lone warforged: Steeljack of the Iron Guard.
They needed to visit the various locations to make the arrangements. "We walk, we talk. If we are to keep pet, then feed we must get."
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:34, Mon 23 July 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 31 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 14 Jun 2018
at 10:43 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor reflected on his own past, the lovely use of words and rhyme as a way of telling the histories. He knew that Tap could understand, from work at the Distillery, but he was so eager to enter the verbal joust, he forgot that is would seem be mocking to some who knew the 'forged.
"My apologies. I meant no offense, only to speak in the fraternity of rhyme.
Today we have much to do. Steeljack first, then the cooks, the Consul from Breland, then the courtesans, then minstrels.
We have much to plan and to worry over."
|
The GM
GM, 93 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 14 Jun 2018
at 23:49 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
| Tap
"Agreed. I concede. Steeljack-attack will be in Forgelight-fight. M-m-m-might.... Foundry boundary. Or...." Tap tapped its temple again. "Honey-ey cakes in Cross, boss. Bre-e-e-lish consulate too. Jade street's for sweet meats--Silverwall. I-I-I do not know where music is. You will see seven heads."
Tremor noticed that Drift seemed to want to follow. |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 32 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 15 Jun 2018
at 11:05 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Forgelight it is then.
Tap, without rhyme, I need you to tell me hat you know about Steeljack. Any dealings, any personal observations about him."
Without really calling him, Tremor will buy street food on the way and occasionally take bits and feed Drift and pay some attention.
|
The GM
GM, 99 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 18 Jun 2018
at 22:11 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
| Tap
It seemed to struggle to comply with Tremor's request. Its expression was unreadable, but its reaction was faltering. "S-s-steeljack. So much potential, so much ac-c-complished. Is it a paragon? All who meet Steeljack love Steeljack. We do not interact frequently. It may not even remember Tap. Though if it did, it might be fond. Steeljack knows how to shake a hand. I know heads. There is a word: 'fraternity,' we do not have brothers, but we have fraternity. Unless something sets one apart."
Drift played a game in which he pretended to know the way, and sped ahead, and then kindly slowed so the bipeds could keep up.
Forgelight was heard before they saw it, the clanging and battering sounds were a battering counterpoint to the warforged footsteps. Drift decided to add his own excited yips to the clangor. There were no shout's though, no clamor of crowds. The anvils all did the talking. The ringing of metal accompanied them to the Watch house. Two of the largest warforged Tremor had seen stood on either side of the banded metal door that sealed what seemed to be a fortress sitting at the end of a street. Tap paused and regarded the halfling.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 33 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 20 Jun 2018
at 08:56 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTo Tap, Tremor nods and listens, he hers words he associates with danger, then believes that Tap has used them in a way most, and Halfling, would not.
Drift can run and move about as he wishes.
To the two large 'Forged, Tremor will stop before them.
"I am on official business of Molou’s Distillery. My name is Tremor Enkau Valevine. I request audience with Steeljack concerning a matter of that concerns my Stormlord."
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The GM
GM, 105 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 21 Jun 2018
at 00:52 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
| Warforged Guard
The larger of the two, a warforged that showed battle scars that made is seem even more imposing, turned and looked at the travelers."You will not find Ser Steeljack here, Tremor Enkau Valevine. That one has gone to the Temple of the Sovereign Host. You will find Steeljack there." It resumed its stiff pose of attention.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 34 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 21 Jun 2018
at 01:01 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor bows and with a clicking of his tongue to attract Drift, he turns.
To Tap, "We head to thee Temple."
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The GM
GM, 108 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 21 Jun 2018
at 05:32 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe Sovereign Host accompanied the early explorers to Xen'drik from Khorvair. This temple was built from the tithes collected for blessing, healing and burying those early treasure seekers who found fabulous treasures in the wilderness beyond the city. Now the temple was itself a treasure.
Below the octogram that symbolized the pantheon, a medium-sized crowd had gathered. There were tables and benches set out in the fountain area in front of the temple. Food was being served, and the poor of the city thronged. No-one was turned away, and it appeared as though no money was changing hands.
About a quarter of the way down the serving line, a metal form towered over its neighbors. The warforged incongruously wore an apron, and was talking to those in line and serving large dollops of something that looked like mashed potatoes.
"A-armor plates, serving p-p-plates. S-steeljack serves." said Tap, pointing.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 35 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 21 Jun 2018
at 23:50 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Then we wait. I will not interrupt while he serves.
Yet, he cannot remain unaware of our need to speak."
Tremor will think and remain alert to the movement of Steeljack. If the 'Forged stoops his service on the meal line, Tremor will move to intercept.
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The GM
GM, 117 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 23 Jun 2018
at 19:17 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTap
Tap did not wait, he stepped forward until he was nearly to the line. Steeljack, noticed Tap and beckoned him. "S-S-Steeljack, I-I-I would like you to m-m-eet a f-f-friend. Tremor Enkau Valevine has a qu-qu-estion for you."
|  Steeljack
Steeljack's alien gaze turned from Tap to regard the halfling. "But of course! Join me--" it indicated the spots adjacent to its large frame. "--and I would be happy to help you as much as I can. But these people are hungry, and I pledged my service here."
| Tap
Tap stepped between the tables to take up his station: some kind of thin green bean fried with herbs. "Bean? Green?" he said to the next in line.
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This message was last edited by the GM at 18:56, Thu 28 June 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 37 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 25 Jun 2018
at 09:10 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachAm I truly aided in this, or AM I just on a path to learn more of 'Forged than i need to?
Tremor will be only a few steps behind Tap, as he realized a new course had been set.
"I was not in favor of disturbing your service, just to be clear.
What I have to converse about is not a topic for an open hall. I will step back and wait.
How much of the day will pass before your service pledge is fulfilled?"
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The GM
GM, 122 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 28 Jun 2018
at 19:03 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachSteeljack
The warforge's eyes had been manufactured without any way to gauge where it was looking, but its face, oriented on Tremor's never wavered. "Tap, would you be so kind as to mind my spot for a few moments? If what you have to ask is not for the hall, Tremor Enkau Valevine, then I doubt it is meant to wait overlong. Come." He stepped away from the throng and led Tremor to a shaded spot under one of the temple buttresses. "There. We are as alone as ever I am. Tell me, citizen, what troubles thee?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 39 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sat 7 Jul 2018
at 11:44 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor assessed the location, escape routes, avenues of most difficulty for a armored heavy 'forged, best to know how best to get out of a location.
"Garreg Meldenbournehas... assigned me the preparation of the Tap Room for the event two days following this day. My duties extend to all manner of service and satisfaction of guest_ vice.
In order to provide, I must first know what to provide. I must hire companionship, musicians and servers.
You Steel-Jack are charged with the safety and sanctuary of the gathering.
What do I need to provide you to aid in your duty and what must I know of the unspoken needs of guests that you know."
04:45, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 11 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 6. Persuasion v Steeljack, Lordly vices.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:46, Sat 07 July 2018.
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The GM
GM, 136 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 10 Jul 2018
at 18:22 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Steeljack
Steeljack kneeled down next to Tremor in a gesture that reminded him of the works of the controversial sculpter Delane y'King. Its face was a cypher. The warforged was still, and there were sounds that came from within it, a humming that combined to form the words. It's mouth was not moving, yet it spoke.
"Some people like to try to imagine... the worst reason for someone to do the things they do. I have oft been judged. I was built thirty five years ago as a weapon; a soldier. I was made in the shape you see as part of the reason I was formed. I was made as a thing to be feared and a thing to wreak harm. I have killed many, but I do not do so any longer.
That was my old purpose. Now I have a new purpose. There is no need for fear. It is my hope that someday all my kind will not be regarded as a threat, but as comrades. Like your friend, Tap. I mean no more ill-will than that poor soul. I only wish to try to help. People will assume otherwise when they set eyes upon us. Perhaps you have experienced much the same? Looking at a halfling, and only seeing a scion of House Jorasco or Ghallanda. I try to see beyond that. I try to help others see beyond that.
After all, we are all equally created."
As it shifted position there was a whirring sound and a clicking.
"Garreg Meldenbourne is not a person with whom I choose to deal much with. I am looking forward to the party, but we are not securing the event. It was my impression that the Stormlord wished to discuss something with me in a comfortable atmosphere. I do not have the answers for you about what needs the others would have. I am looking forward to hearing Lady Rusila ir’Clarn sing, though. Have you heard her? She is quite excellent. A person of interest. Like yourself.
Tap would know what the usual arrangements are for the other guests... But you thought I was security. Perhaps I could be. If you wish I can bring an increment--I mean--a 'plus one'. If you think it wise?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 40 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 11 Jul 2018
at 08:55 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor cocks his head to one side and involuntarily scooches back on his heels while in his head a version of himself jumps up and down on Lightning rail lines of thought that wanted to take him to sixteen destinations, none of which were the destination he wanted a ride to.
Equal only by Treaty, unequal in the hand that crafted.
"I possess no direct knowledge of any threat. I am a Mop Hand at the distillery and have come to these shores just days past.
In part I came to you because I had thought you would know the landscape of those persons who will attend and any possible problems or preferences they had, a subject I am unsure would have ever been delved by Tap. For it is the Unusual that interests me.
As Stormreach is yours to protect and the Distillery being in Stormreach, I came to listen to what I thought as years of attention to what may cause friction or conflict, so I may smooth out or cool such passions.
It must be that Stormlord Lassite's own men are responsible for the safety of all attending.
Then it appears I must mine Tap like Mror master Delvers for all I must prepare for.
My thanks for your time, that I took any of that precious resource from you this day, I apologize.
May the Sovereign Host be with you."
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The GM
GM, 141 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 12 Jul 2018
at 19:27 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Steeljack
Steeljack stood, towering over the halfling. Tremor could imagine the warforged striding across a battlefield in Khorvaire his resonant artificial voice shouting out commands and his mighty arms laying low any who stood across his purposes.
"And with you, Tremor Enkau Valevine, 'Mop Hand'. Tap knows a great many things. I hope that it finds satisfaction in being of use. If you are not prepared for the upcoming event I feel certain that you shall be soon. I believe I will bring Cord to the Tap Room gala." He indicated a warforged which was engaged in a human-seeming embrace with Tap at the food line. 'Cord' was formed in a more feminine shape; but the hug looked all the more bizarre for its apparent humanity. Cord patted Tap's head, gently and released its embrace. Cord took Tap's position at the table, serving food to the hungry.
"Do not apologize. I consider any time spent to be an investment; never a waste. I share your interest in the 'Unusual' and I should like to hear what you have found, when you are at greater leisure to speak. I will leave word at the Watch House gate that you shall be directed to me where ever I am. Feel free."
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Tap knew the way to the Brelish consulate. It led the way to Cross. Tremors' questions about allergies and preferences were answered satisfactorily. Tremor marveled that one of the guests had an allergic reaction to fish, which would cut down on Aeron Chambers' dinner selection. Tap went on to explain that the Sorcerer Supreme of the Dragoons rarely ate in public. The preferential differences were minimized by supplying a variety of appetizer dishes at different ends of the Taproom and then relying on the prestige of the event to squash any minor complaint.
As they approached the Consulate in Cross, they passed one of the many entrances to the Rubble Warren. Tremor heard children playing hide-and-seek in the rubble and ruin, but did not see any of them. He smelled the famous honeycakes of the Beehive Pastries, and saw the clamor of the marketplace passed the consulate.
That building was a stately affair, stubbornly Brelish in looks, though constructed of local materials. A floating chunk of building had been painted with the arms of the Brelish crown and tethered to the building by two heavy chains.
| Tap
"There is a tradition that the performers at the Taproom audition for the organizer. Stormlord Lassite has not personally attended one of these audition in years, and Garreg... is not welcome at the consulate. He did not show decorum, and seemed to expect a different kind of audition.
The Lady will have some preference as to her accompaniment, so we will find out from here who she wishes us to book for the event. That is why I brought you here. You are expected to hear and approve of the singer. She will tell us who and where her chosen musicians are. Lady Rusila ir’Clarn uses these engagements as favors; pushing business to the musicians she feels needs the work or exposure. Many important guests attend, and the musicians can expect further bookings to appear at parties of those who wish to imitate a Stormlord.
There are honeycakes sold at the shop on the corner nearby the consulate. Apparently, the Lady finds them quite delicious. If we have some in our possession, it might help influence her mood, and thus, smooth your audience. I can carry them for you if you do not wish to seem ... subservient.
The Consulate is here. The Lady is within."
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This message was last edited by the GM at 17:15, Sun 15 July 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 43 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 16 Jul 2018
at 09:27 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachIt was strange, Tremor was recalling all of his interactions with 'Forged and only one before SteelJack ever had made an impression of... rapport.
"Thank you for the invitation, I accept."
Tremor bows, a less than formal, somewhat roguish genuflect.
Tremor nods in assent and turns to the Brelish confectionery, Beehive Pastries.
Inquiries are made concerning, freshness, when is the next batch of Honey-cakes will come out of the ovens, also the variety available and ingredients, Asking if there are any pastries of Zil influence. Thinking of the guest list, ask what if any, delicacies they have from the other Kingdoms, excepting Karrnath.
A taste then a wide selection of which some will be Honey-cakes. All to be boxed and being wrapped as best as possible.
"I would have you hold half the pastries, I will carry the other half.
Tap, we have yet to speak of coin. Are we agents of the Distillery and able to use its name, or must we draw coin from Garreg?"
Tremor prepared in his mind for the audience. His own self, his sartorial choices, will be explained away as necessary for the travel and commerce with common folk. They respond better and he will ask the Lady for forgiveness of his unkempt state as a reflection of the speed at which he must move for preparations, given that Garreg had only just assigned these duties, if it came up.
Now title, Master of Ceremonies was improper, what then?
Brevet Quartermaster. Good for Announcement. Better than Mop Hand.
At the Consulate, the inquiry will be for an audience with Lady Rusila ir’Clarn, regarding audition, the name given is Tremor Enkau Valevine, Brevet Quartermaster, Molou’s Distillery.
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The GM
GM, 151 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 17 Jul 2018
at 01:17 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tap
Tap explained that the Taproom parties were known by the suppliers; and that the Lassite credit was good wherever they would go in town. "That said, Garreg would prefer that we not use all of the funds budgeted to the event, so as to better line his own pockets." They were able to procure two-dozen fresh, hot cakes, each about the size of a fist. The honeyed aroma wafted around them, and Tremor, despite himself, ate one more cake than even he thought he would. The boxes were therefore not as much of a burden as planned.
| The baker made a show of affront when the halfling asked about other pastries. "Honey cakes is what we have, and honey cakes is what we sell. If you need any of that Zil fanciness, then you are out of luck. Here, these are hot." the baker asserted, handing over some that were fresh out of the ovens.
Tap held the packages with practiced ease, and, in fact, took more than half of the boxes to hold. When Tremor said "Brevet Quartermaster," Tap looked at Tremor, but said nothing.
|  Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
A tall, thin butler dressed in stiff Brelish lace welcomed them in, and guided them to the music room, then asked if they required any refreshment. Lady ir'Clarn opened the doors herself and entered shortly after. She dressed in high Brelish fashion, with only a few concessions to the heat and humidity of the city. Here inside the consulate, Tremor could almost imagine that he was back in one of Sharn's mighty towers. The trilling of some exotic bird outside gave the lie to that thought.
"I am so pleased to meet you, Ser Valevine, And I'm glad that Molou's is doing well enough to warrant a Brevet Quartermaster. That bodes very well, I should think. And you've been offered drink? Good. And hello, Tap. It is good to see they let you out now and again." She smelled the cakes and smiled warmly. "Are you here to listen to my audition, or are you here to bribe me with honey? Whichever it is, you have my full attention."
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This message was last edited by the GM at 01:53, Tue 17 July 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 44 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 17 Jul 2018
at 11:37 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachAs Tap spoke, a more clear, sharper image of Garreg was drawn. A ledger, a ledger and an accounting of all expenditures. Next position will be Brevet Exchequer.
"Garreg does like his finger in the pie. How many pies I wonder? And does the baker object?"
Well, it was Stormreach after all. That there was a bakery here at all, at the tip of the continent of Giants, seemed ridiculous. Armory, Weaponsmith, Stonemasons, Engineers, Artificers, Shipwrights... bakers?
And a thespian baker to boot.
"Yes, but the Honey? What surrogate is there for the sweet treasure produced by the industrious striped princes of Aundair?"
04:04, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 11 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 6. Persuasion v baker for ingredients.
With the assertive offer, Tremor took the warm flaky pastry and pulled a ragged segment, tasting it as if to find it wanting. Timing, timing is all.
If the sun had not risen that day, it could be replaced by the beaming solar delight Tremor's face now cast.
"A delight, I have now the key to the Lady's favor."
The answer to the refreshment inquiry came in the form of a specific Brelish wine, meant for a light and informal sit down.
Tremor will bow when the Lady enters, then gesture to the boxes, so recently made weighty.
"I am here for the audition. I was instructed to taste the second sweetest confection in Stormreach, before I listened to the first. I am happy to share.
Come sit, they are fresh from the oven."
With that Tremor will make a slow attempt at removing the bow, the box lid, the unwrapping and serving; to build a little anticipation.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:39, Tue 17 July 2018.
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The GM
GM, 152 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 17 Jul 2018
at 16:47 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
In response to Tremors' query, the baker explained that Stormreach bees were the fastest, strongest, largest bees in all Eberron. He added that they could scour the jungles for many miles choosing only the sweetest flowers to visit; flowers so rare and fine that explorer's had lost their lives just in the hopes of glimpsing a blossom. The beehives were nearby, in the Rubble Warren, where the Brelish children, who were used to the miraculous bees, collected the honeycomb. "And they only sell to me, Sulman. Everyone comes here, from across the city. I hear the fables of the fishermen, the complaints of the cooks, the exploits of the explorers, and the gripes of the guards. And my reply is always the same: have some cake."
On leaving the stall, Tremor mentally filed the baker, Sulman, away as a possible source of gossip.
Tap suggested that due to her position, Lady ir'Clarn might know better what interpersonal conflicts might exist between the guests on the list, though no doubt she might be biased as well.
| The butler brought two chilled glasses of a Hatheril summer wine. "Apologies, Ser, but the Bandoc you requested rarely survives the journey to Xen'drik. I hope this will suffice. I've known the Curlot family for some time, and their five year summer wines are impeccable." Tremor knew that; he also knew that the Curlot wines were now one of the most expensive wines in Sharn, due to the political climate. The Curlot had been politically active, and their opinions had put the family at odds with the Crown. The ban was informal, but it was not wise to do business with the Curlot in Breland. The wine was cold, an almost transparent gold, and possessed of strong legs. He swirled and sniffed. the flavors evoked were the grapes and flowers of the Hatheril hills, a dry spiciness--almost pepper, all resting on a foundation of hardwood. It warmed the throat as he swallowed. It was a perfect substitute for Bandoc, and Tremor realized that he might, in fact, like the Curlot better.
| Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
The lady bowed in response. Then with a murmured 'oooh', she took up the cake from his hands. She bit as she accepted Tremor's invitation to sit. Tremor knew the cakes were perfect, having sampled them at the shop. He'd been hard pressed to maintain a facade of indifference in front of the baker so as to maintain a fair price. They were good, and Tremor knew good. Tremor's smile was a winning trait, and prompted an equal reaction from the Lady. It did not escape Tremor's notice that her hands briefly touched his when she collected the pastry. She held her glass and watched Tremor's expressions as he took his first sip, then took one herself.
She gathered her hems as she sat, an elegant gown; scarlet with gold Brelish lace. She did not wear the multiple layers that Brelish high fashion would have demanded, for even in the shadows of the music room there was heat from without. Her plunging neckline was not covered by a traditional embroidery, but rather revealed a small blue bear tattoo to the left of her collarbone. She was dressed to be admired, and knew she was beautiful, but did not dress to flaunt herself. Like the wine, her beauty was meant to be savored, appreciated, and shared.
"Ahh. It is so nice, some days, to take one's time. In conducting business, so many are rushed. You have a refreshing manner, Tremor Enkau Valevine. I pray it withstands the storms of the reach. This city... can sometimes wear down a sunny smile, and make one forget the taste of honey."
Her voice was like that honey, burnt at the edges of the cake.
"You have not long been at Molou's. Do you have any news from Sharn?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 45 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 18 Jul 2018
at 10:59 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"I do have news but where to begin?"
Tremor rakes a judicious bite and sips after that to clear his throat fro flaky and honeyed cake.
"The Sharn Inquisitive has a series on Ship's Towers, in Cliffside, how Q'barra has now begun to sell trained gelatinous Cubes to work at night to clean up waste. Apparently it involves lightning spears. The article goes on to talk about the shipping of these creatures and there benefits and conditions for living and breeding.
I found it quite thorough, and while I am not a naturalist I am constantly amazed at the ingenuity of the city of Towers.
I read an article on Shadow March rope made from something called Broom vine, grows in some remote part of the Vile. Has a very odd spiral nature, it coils very tightly, where a length of it may be 50 feet when stretched out, when not bearing a load, it measures only 20 feet long, and is acid resistant. It is highly sought after for cargo net webbing.
I had occasion to visit the Cerise Seal and happened to peak to a Fidel Morgengast, who had just come form the fields of Bluevine. He mentioned that some how seedlings of Cyrean grapes had been found in a greenhouse somewhere and were now being grafted to Aundarian grape vines and brought to Sharn to grow somewhere up in Skyway. A search is on for a refugee who cultivated the Cyrean native vine.
I confess that while I did sit with gentlemen very concerned about politics of the Crown and the Noble families, so fast paced was the conversation and so limited is my knowledge of the Brelish nobility, I can not reliably repeat what I heard.
I did attend the last performance of the play Rosencrown and Gilderpin. A comedy with political undertones, but the Phiarlan have such a deft touch, whoever the actor was playing Rosencrown, his timing and delivery, it was like a Masters class. The Owlbear costume was so real, you could almost believe.. no, it had to be a costume.
For some reason tickets to Thrane where half price when I was there. Speculation had House Orien wanting to fill more cargo cars instead of running them empty.
That is all... Wait, I did read something in the Korranberg Chronicle. A ship made from crystal, a Sarlona vessel, was recently towed by a stormship, the Sky Sunder, into Trolanport. It had been hidden in a reef, discovered and raised. Scholars translated the name as World-Key. No bodies were found aboard."
Tremor sits back, sips a bit more wine and thinks again on th e baker and the lack of a public chronicle.
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The GM
GM, 153 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 19 Jul 2018
at 07:02 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Rusila ir’Clarn
"You are a font of information. I was there for the opening of Rosencrown," she smiled, remembering. "One can only watch Karklos ir’Ilsirs denigrations so many times before one wishes to throw oneself to the orchestra pit. I do not care for politics in my theater.
I've asked my man to fetch two musicians who I hope you will like; Rodrigo Guillermo is a master of the gittern, and Ser Papathanassiou is my flautist. They should be here shortly. I cannot recommend them highly enough."
"Do you play, ser Valevine?"
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This message was last edited by the GM at 23:49, Thu 19 July 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 46 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 20 Jul 2018
at 10:53 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor sipped and straightened for the answer.
"When I was younger I dabbled. First it was strings, the Lyre, then Rebec. Then I tried the drum, then the reeds, the winds. Through it all, the pondering, the practice, the performance, I could play the notes, never the music.
Music is not my medium for expression. I admire those that can make music, I take solace in knowing small animals and children do not suffer my attempts."
Tremor knew the expected reciprocal.
"How did you find your voice? Was it in the Temple? Was it family? Wait.. did you study with the Phiarlan?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:38, Sun 22 July 2018.
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The GM
GM, 156 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 22 Jul 2018
at 17:44 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Rusila ir’Clarn
"I think you know where your expertise is, ser. Words are your instrument, and poetry is your song. As for my study, nothing so ... intentional. The pirates founded this city. Stole and fought and plundered and hid ... treasure. All in the bones of the giant city. It colors the place; infuses it. Everyone here must search; dig deep or plumb the depths, to find their treasure. I searched within myself and found something worth a few coin. I have not told another this. Stormreach is as much despair as it is hope; and every time I sing my heart breaks a little more."
She looked away, cleared her throat, and then turned back to Tremor.
"And how is my kin, Haftak? He has not seen fit to send even a message since Tanaka's Grace set sky-anchor, much less grace me with a visit. You traveled with him here. Had he no word for me?" |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 47 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 23 Jul 2018
at 02:20 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachI took a moment to collect his thoughts, it was an admission of some sorrow that was unexpected.
"Haftak ir’Clarn, when we traveled, is an intelligent and insightful person. Warm and sharing about his person or family was not something I encountered.
We spoke of wine, tall tales and fancies. His mind was agile, he seemed in good health, his spirits were high but I sensed a weight, one that I think he tries to lighten with a few fine Brelish and Aundairan vintages.
You have the Taproom party, as Haftak ir’Clarn is a guest, you can speak with him there.
I wanted to know if you could recommend a tailor? I have not yet had time to investigate since I made landfall."
Tremor reached for his wine and sipped again.
|
The GM
GM, 159 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 24 Jul 2018
at 00:54 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
"Fancies. I can well imagine. That man. He puts credence to the tiniest rumor. Like this ridiculous expedition into the ruins he wrote me about. Honestly, nine out of ten expeditions vanish without a word, and nine out of ten of those that come back are glad to still breathe. And they return with trinkets suitable for keeping ones door open, or scrolls from blowing away. And then they sell maps to where they went, in the event anyone wanted to really make sure there was nothing there but rocks.
He can be close-lipped, when he thinks he's guarding a secret of note. Unfortunately he's not a good judge of whether a secret is worth keeping. But it will be good to see him again."
She wrote on a small sheet and handed it to tremor.
Mogden Vilmingwarthy Tailor (Behind Havulak Prospecting)
Sheela's Stylists (ask for Agnot)
"There, your investigations have come to an end. This is a tailor whom I have great confidence in; tell him I sent you, and he will see you right." She laced her fingers and leaning in looked carefully at Tremor. "I also recommended a barber. You will be the first thing the guests see; you will set the tone. I believe that you are the most capable man to manage this affair in some time. We must take care to ensure a great success.
So are there any special requests for songs? Any ... pieces I should avoid?"
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|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 48 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 24 Jul 2018
at 13:13 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor takes the small sheet, reads it, then tucks it into a pocket, looking at he Lady and giving a gentle pat to the pocket location.
"Very kind words, I will endeavor to be credit to them."
Tremor takes a sip of wine.
"There is a song I heard in Sharn, played by a street troubadour, it struck a chord, about a boy who let his farm, seeking fortune and adventure, who came under the thrall of pirates, traveled the Seas of Eberron, only to realize that the greatest treasure was love, and that now his heart was hardened to it.
As to pieces to avoid?
I could not say, almost the entirety of the list is unknown to me. Tap has kindly answered some questions, but I lack insight into the character of the guests, beyond some glimmer afforded by military rank."
|
The GM
GM, 160 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 24 Jul 2018
at 15:07 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Rusila ir’Clarn
This time it was Lady Rusila who took a long sip of her wine. She reclined slightly and smiled. "Of course, you are only freshly arrived in Stormreach. But I can help you there. If you tell me who is on the guest list, I can tell you their character. I know all about the powers that be, and their behavior, I know who fell from grace, I know who cares about the Tulita, and who does not. I know who to talk to and about what.
What I don't know.... is how that troubadour song goes. I'm afraid I rarely pursue pirate songs. Though they do get requested now and again." She smiled at the irony.
|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 49 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 25 Jul 2018
at 00:44 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Then I will inquire only about what you do know.
Let us start with the Houses.
Alhaura d’Jorasco
Calynden d’Lyrandar
Sorala d’Ghallanda
Wernor Lyrriman d’Sivis.
|
The GM
GM, 162 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 26 Jul 2018
at 01:02 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
Lady Rusila considered and drank the rest of her wine, then leaned forward. "The Dragonmarked Houses have been trying to get a toehold in Stormreach for many years. The Stormlords by and large present them with expensive deals that keep them at bay. House Jorasco's healing enclave was meant to stimulate exploration and expeditions. The amount of successful journeys into the wilds has dropped precipitously, and there was a thought that if one could be sure of a resurrection at the end there would be more financial interest.
They won't talk about it, but I happen to know the last two attempts to bring the dead back only resulted in more death. Alhaura was responsible, so she's doing what she can to appear useful. But the people who need healing can't afford the price, and the people who can afford it can also afford not to risk their lives. She needs a win, so she might be angling for favor from Varen Lassite, through his uncle Volen, at the party. If she can't fulfill the needs of the contract, they'll have cause to revoke and the House will lose possession of their space in the city. She needs to find a need to fill.
That's what most of us are angling for, after all; some bit of influence over someone -- and almost everyone will be there.
Calynden d’Lyrandar, now there's a piece of work. He's called 'the Kraken,' but not to his face. He's gotten farther in bringing House Lyrandar to Stormreach. Not only did he grant the Lassite's full access to the Falconer's Spire, he gifted the family their own airship. That, combined with the sudden death of the current harbor master's father, means good sailing for Lyrandar, and the Kraken. He's dangerous, but does not pay attention to society. You could sing about the fall of his House and he wouldn't blink. But cross him at the negotiating table and you could accidentally get sucked into a passing tornado.
The Marketplace has one center for gossip entertainment, rest and recuperation and that is the Chapterhouse. Sorala d’Ghallanda runs the Chapterhouse along with some assistance from House Phiarlan. It's another example of the Stormlord's control over the Houses; chaining them together like prison-workers doing hard labor. If there's a rumor in the city it came or was repeated at the Chapterhouse, and Sorala probably heard it.
Wernor Lyrriman d’Sivis is an expert in international law, and now the greatest scholar of Stormreach's existing bureaucracy. He's not much for parties, but I don't know what else he could be looking to achieve; there's not much call for the kinds of conversation Wernor provides. Maybe someone is trying to meet him?"
While she was speaking, the butler returned. When she paused, he refilled her glass and whispered to her. She nodded and took a sip of wine. "The musicians are here, would you like to meet them now?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 50 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 26 Jul 2018
at 11:27 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachIt was a valuable length of rope that Lady ir’Clarn offered, and take it he did, climbing from the ground up the tower of society.
It was as though he could offer her an arm to escort her, Tremor hopped off the chair and with that little bit of energy moved like a dancer to help with her chair.
"Very much. How long have they accompanied you?"
|
The GM
GM, 163 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 26 Jul 2018
at 18:36 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Rusila ir’Clarn
"It seems like I've known them for several lifetimes. I lied, before, I did have a singing master: Kai'row of House Phiarlan. Rodrigo and Ser Papathanassiou were friends of Master Kai'row. And here they are; I can't tell you how many times they saved my life on stage." Lady ir'Clarn took Tremor's hand, as was convention when humanoid size differences preclude the taking of an offered arm. Convention did not dictate the gentle squeeze she gave his when the musicians entered. "I do hope you like them; here they are."
|  Rodrigo Guillermo
Rodrigo Guillermo bore in his hands an elaborately mosaicked gittern. The strings were of polished metal, glittering silver. His suit was black with white stripes painted on the sleeves.
|  Ser Papathanassiou
Ser Papathanassiou held a long flute of silver. His suit was white, painted with black stripes on the sleeves.
They stepped forward and bowed simultaneously.
|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 51 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 27 Jul 2018
at 12:09 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor turned and looked upward, smiling and positive that now he was i good company.
At the introduction, Tremor moved a step closer and raised his hands in mock defensiveness.
"Gentlemen, I am pleased to be here and to have you play. How this has happened, must be due entirely the Host and its delight in making the impossible, inescapable in hindsight.
Whenevr you are ready, I am your humble audience."
|
The GM
GM, 165 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 28 Jul 2018
at 06:32 | Nothing At All | |
Ser Papathanassiou
"You have... the Zil!" He tapped his ear. "I know this. My family grow in Zilargo many years. I know the sounds." he struck the end of the flute against the floor, and it rang with a strong tone that hung wavering in the air. "You never forget the sound of Zilargo." He was right; Tremor's mind involuntarily went back to the chimes of Trolanport. "I was shown the pantomime, but I was not made for the charade. I could not, would not. I left. But I remember the music, and the dance. Across all the way I travel, and still the sounds of Zilargo ring in my ears. Like a tubular bell. And I meet Rodrigo. You remember when we meet?"
| Rodrigo Guillermo
"You ask me where to begin?"
He shook his head gently, recalling.
"I ... was lost. Thrane is not a place for artists. I questioned."
He nodded at the other's words.
"I left.
I took the lightning rail. as far as it went. The spires of Sharn reach so high, I climbed the tallest spire and stood on the balcony. I thougt there was nothing left. And then I heard ... "
The flautist sounded a plaintive note reminiscent of the cooing of doves.
"Yes." Rodrigo's eyes were closed, remembering. "Across the chasm, on the adjacent spire, this man was playing the song in my heart." He strummed eight notes on the gittern, quietly tapping his toe.
| Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
She inhaled.
The lights seemed to change slightly, following her face.
She sang, acapella, at first.
I want to be still
I want to walk into your grave
where I can shelter in peace
until all our cares have blown away
She caressed Tremors' face gently and stepped back. Rodrigos' foot tap took on the authority of a drum beat, the gittern and flute taking up the harmony.
♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬
let the whole world fall away
and fall into my arms
stay with me
I don't know how long we've got left
and so I'm asking you
to forgive me
I learn as I go
to float far away
into silence
and just watch your face
and find some kind of grace
in that quiet bliss
can I stay? and say nothing at all
at all
where will we go when we get old
when the bustle and the noise
get too fright'ning
when each and every angry word
is banished to the past
that when I think
we'll learn as we go
to float far away
into silence
and I'll watch your face
and read of patience and grace
in each line there
work each day
all for nothing at all, at all
and the few words I say
they mean nothing at all at all
will you walk into the grave with me?
will you leave this empty world
soft and wistful
to sink into the dark, dank earth
and never reappear would be blissful
to float far away
into eternal space
and God's silence
where I'll watch your face
and find patience and grace
in each line there
drift away into nothing at all at all
find the grace to be nothing at all at all
fade away
and end up nothing
at all
♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬
The last notes died, and the trio bowed and held silent.
Nothing At All
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This message was last edited by the GM at 16:04, Sat 28 July 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 52 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 1 Aug 2018
at 01:04 | Nothing At AllTremor was silent for only a moment.
"Quite the melancholy ballad. A siren's song that could move even a 'Forged to reflection.
Excellent. My highest praise to the musicians and for you Lady, if you had not already been invited I myself would compel a the Storm Lord to retain you. A treasure, uncovered, fought for, indeed. Worthy of the effort.
I will arrange your invitations. What else in why of preparation do you require? Stage? Rehearsal?"
|
The GM
GM, 179 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 2 Aug 2018
at 06:38 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachTap looked up when Tremor mentioned 'Forged, and then nodded.
The songstress smiled, a demure, stage style smile, but it still warmed to see it. "You are too kind. You have given us such an opportunity. It is more than enough for us. But... If you should desire to hear me rehearse, I will do so, this evening at six. If you wish we can examine the guest list more closely. To see what else of my repertoire is suitable." The butler stepped forward and whispered something in her ear. "Alas, I have foolishly made an appointment which I must now keep. I would prefer to stay and continue our dialog, but the obligation is real, and I must not leave it unfulfilled."
She extended her hand to Tremor. "Would you like me to have Ser Papathanassiou and Rodrigo keep you company? They are not a part of my obligation, and provide very good conversation." The two bards exchanged a look, then smiled and nodded.
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 54 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 2 Aug 2018
at 09:46 | 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor rises as he takes the hand offered.
"I am much like the Pike(Pawn) in Conqueror. I must advance and prepare to reinforce the positions of my First rank. To do that, I must now take my leave and move to my next field.
Gentlemen it was a pleasure, know that only the duties Plentiful tasked to me in time Abbreviated propel me on.
I can not scry where I might be at the ring of the bells hexad. I have no other agenda than to witness your rehearsal. I allow for the possibility that I may be unable to return.
Can I be selfish, just a little and ask that two seats be saved?"
|
The GM
GM, 182 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 3 Aug 2018
at 04:20 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
"I confess, I do have another agenda. But I will be happy to accommodate a friend. Two seats, at least. The Livewood Theater. Six sharp." She waggled a finger in mock sternness.
| Tap
Tap had gotten awkwardly to his feet. "Yes. Thank you. Lady. Sers." He bowed, and squeaked a little. He addressed Tremor. "Ser. If we make haste I am sure the duties can be swiftly accomplished. I believe the Pink Conch is next on the agenda?" He seemed unsure what to do beyond saying that.
| Rodrigo Guillermo
"A very good choice." Rodrigo said with a smirk. His voice was high and sweet, and Tremor could imagine that he and Ser Papathanassiou could carry a concert on their own, if they had not the Lady to sing with them.
| Ser Papathanassiou
"'Do anything, but let it produce joy.'" Ser Papathanassiou said enigmatically.
| Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
It was difficult to say for certain, but the Lady might have been blushing. "Please do give Tydameira my regards. My
butler Gerard will see you to the door, when you are ready. Adieu." She added the last in Aundair, and departed the room.
|
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 55 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 6 Aug 2018
at 07:42 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor makes his farewells and follows Gerard to the door and then steps out onto the street and turns to Tap for directions.
"Tap, I again ask, what if anything can you tell me of Vrina and this Tydameira the Lady mentioned."
Tremor will motion for walking as he listens.
|
The GM
GM, 191 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 6 Aug 2018
at 21:43 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTap
The Lady's invitation was for seven hours hence, Tap indicated they should be done well before that. "I do not know Vrina, except by reputation. She is supposed to be very popular. Tydameira guards the door. I have seen her. She has maintained herself impeccably. I imagine she goes through a considerable amount of oil." As they crossed the street, Tremor spied a small child playing with Drift. That interaction was being watched by a city guard, who seemed to be moderately displeased. "I have questions about the music. Why do you enjoy a song about death? I can imagine that it is foremost on the mind. But that seemed a celebration. Also did you notice the Ser's flute? Very sturdy construction; I know steel. I have an appreciation, I mean."
|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 56 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 7 Aug 2018
at 08:54 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tremor took a moment to stop and answer, putting a hand out to indicate a stop for Tap.
"It is a subject that has been talked about, written about, debated, explored and sung for... well as long as I imagine there have been creatures on Eberron. Dragons, Dwarves, Elves, Gnome, Goblins, Halfling, Men, Orcs, all consider this state, it exists it waits for all of us to come to it.
The path to it is varied and one can run to it, or walk, or run from it, but it finds all of us. Sacrifice, accident, age, horror, crime. And a celebration it can be. Members of my family have lived to a ripe old age, birthed children, mastered a trade, bounced grand children upon a knee, traveled, had adventures of the senses and made stories to pass on. I can celebrate a death like that. So to can I revile the death of an innocent who contracted the Red Feather Fever and passed to Dolurrh before living a handful of years.
Now with the 'Forged, a new creature that without interference by sword, spell or spawn will live many Elven lifetimes. You, your kind, Tap, will have many stories that have yet to be spoken, I look forward to hearing those, as much as I enjoy the song we heard.
A good eye, while I saw the flute, I have not the expert eye for the material or construction. There are any stories of those even on the bardic profession, who travel with weapons disguised form the eyes of most. Guitars made from Bronzewood that are wielded as a mace. I have stories of spies who have used seemingly simple objects, but when assembled in a particular way, form a miniature crossbow.
I will mention it to Steeljack."
Tremor will walk over to the child playing with Drift.
"Is he playing nicely? I named him Drift."
|
The GM
GM, 197 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 11 Aug 2018
at 04:54 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTheme Music
Tap
"So, sometimes death is... good?" | This last was overheard by a well-dressed lady carrying a bag of honey cakes.
She looked quizzically at Tap and quickened her pace.
Across from the Consulate a trio struck up a melody, the guitars playing low at first.
The dark haired child, a girl of no more than nine, looked up wordlessly from where Drift lay on the ground, ignoring her attentions.
The guard was looking at the lady, no longer displeased.
The child, with a look of fear on her face, ran past the lady.
The lady, attempting to avoid the barreling child, collided with Tremor and Tap.
She exclaimed in dismay as she dropped the bag, and some of the cakes spilled on the ground.
The urchin continued sprinting soundlessly down the street.
The guard started chuckling.
The musicians continued to play.
|  Lady
Kneeling after a fallen honey cake brought the lady's face on level with Tremor's. The scent of honey filled the air. "Oh!" she said as their eyes met. |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 57 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 13 Aug 2018
at 08:11 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachIt was the answer on the tip of his tongue, the concept of death being good, in context, which was then shattered by the half dozen or so events that conspired, in some strange Goblin like clockwork way, to bring his eyes and those of another honey-cake conscript to meet.
There was chuckling, and it was set to string play.
"has there ever been a more tragic loss for such a brief moment of chaos?"
Tremor aids in recovery of the spilled cakes.
|
The GM
GM, 207 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 15 Aug 2018
at 04:42 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Jalia Ramires
"Tragic, Ser?" she smiled. "Hardly, considering that it was all my clumsiness. And, consider the positives:" she indicated Drift, who was industriously savaging a honeycake. "Not a bit of it wasted. And then I get to meet you? No I would not say this is a tragedy, Ser, but a comedy. I am Jalia Ramires." Her tongue trilled over the 'r's in the Lhazaar way. | Tap
"..." Tap was methodically searching himself. |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 58 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 15 Aug 2018
at 10:04 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor helps, and as he does so, he begins to assess the dress, shoes et al., objects, armor and weapons, if any, hands and general agility and physical attributes for signs of a profession or industry.Investigation
03:06, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 26 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 19. Investigation Lady Jalia profession.
"Well met Lady Jalia Ramires. Drift is nearly related to Vulture-Lions, none of the cakes will be wasted, true, but he was hardly the intended recipient. That person will have to sup' on the story of the loss.
I am Tremor Enkau Valevine, companion to Drift, recent resident of Stormreach and newest inductee of the Cult of Sulman.
I confess I feel responsible, in part, for the events that led to this comedy.
I would like to make amends and invite you to the Livewood Theater at six bells today."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:08, Wed 15 Aug 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 208 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 17 Aug 2018
at 06:47 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Jalia Ramires
"You have uncommon eloquence, Tremor Valevine, which is rare in Stormreach. For my part you are a welcome addition. And I refuse to allow you any part of the blame. But I accept your invitation. What do you do, Ser Valevine?"
Tremor subtly observed the woman for details that should answer his own questions as to her profession. The clothes were fine looking, she wore a full ensemble: hoop skirt, black silk stockings, lace gloves. She wore rings on her fingers (but none that indicated marriage or promises) and glittering hairpins. But her shoes, though well made, were not fancy at all, but practical leather slippers, and the large green broach was paste. Tremor noted that the large fan she had seemed to have its spine crafted in the style of a wizard's wand. Her form was athletic, and her movements graceful and deliberate. Her hands were gloved, but there was an old scar just visible at her neck. | Tap
"Ser, I believe that I've been robbed." |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 59 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 20 Aug 2018
at 11:59 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor smiled at the compliment.
"I am a waged hand at the Distillery, with recent duties taking me.."
Tremor broke off at Tap's tentative declaration, looking at the 'Forged's movements.
"Tap, what was the take? Er, what is missing?"
Tremors hands drifted down to his own possessions.
|
The GM
GM, 216 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 20 Aug 2018
at 19:56 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTap
"Well, ser, I don't think much was taken. I suffer what others would call hypoesthesia. I was bumped into no less than sixty-four times durning my first week in Stormreach. In twenty-three of those times I discovered shortly thereafter that I was missing property. I cultivated an attitude towards possessions that would lessen my distress, but occasionally the property was not my own. I began to store such things ... in a safer place in my person" With a face that was ill-equipped to show any emotion, Tap still managed to broadcast a certain embarrassment at this.
"My personal pouch was taken. It contained maintenance supplies, nothing a human could possibly use. We can continue our duties uninterrupted."
While Tap spoke, Tremor assured himself that nothing was amiss with his own property. Nothing was missing.
| Lady Jalia Ramires
"You were robbed? Should we call the guard? Do you think it was that girl that ran past us?" |
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:53, Tue 21 Aug 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 60 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 21 Aug 2018
at 11:24 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe Halfling looked to the 'Forged for confirmation of the identification of the pilferer.
"No harm, no fowl. It was a skilled pass at an easy... mark Javi. The punishment will be meted out for poor results, not the dip itself.
A lesson here, I think I was enjoying my day too much, not paying proper attention.
The day is moving on, I think we should as well.
Lady Ramires, may we escort you?"
|
The GM
GM, 223 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 24 Aug 2018
at 08:16 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTap
"I am no d-d-dummy. But I am unwilling to assign blame at this moment. We have things to do."
| Lady Jalia Ramires
"Serves your thief well, then to think they have doubloons and find only springs and gears." She put her hand to her red lips. "Oh, I'm sorry. I meant no offense. I'm sure they are very nice... parts." She blushed, prettily, with a pale rose' that reminded one of the pale pink wines of the north.
" Um, where are you going? I would not wish to take you out of your way..." | Tap
"We are going to the Pink Conch to seek concubines. We need six."
| Lady Jalia Ramires
She raised her eyebrows at Tremor with a look of rising admiration. "So many? Perhaps what I've heard is true..."
She let those words linger, then laughed playfully. "Well I must go with you, then. I was headed to the Temple district any ways, and now I desire to know much more about... distillers." |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 61 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 27 Aug 2018
at 09:01 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach - Let the dice fall, as they be thrown.
What is this, is it effusive or cunning? INSIGHT
01:42, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 8 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 3. Insight v Lady, cunning charm/seduction?
"What you have heard is true, we Halfling folk are courteous and believe in having healthy appetite.
Come along and have a small peek into the workings of the Distillery, at it's most formal.
Let us be wary of the road and its dips and turns."
Tremor motioned to Tap to take the lead, as he himself was not sure of the location of the Pink Conch, offering a friendly smile and hand to the Lady.
"Lady Ramires, I was wondering if you know of any greenhouses; arboretum, I think the Brelish call them? Here inside Stormreach?"
|
The GM
GM, 230 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 31 Aug 2018
at 05:17 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Jalia Ramires
"Jalia, please." and she took Tremor's offered hand. He surreptitiously studied her hazel eyes, and eye lashes. It was a puzzle. She was a puzzle. And a recollection came to him then, from a time long ago. |  Alston Scheppen Maelogilden Lazarumbear
When he was not yet a man in Korranberg, Tremor was placed in a school for etiquette. But since this was Zilargo, and Korranberg in particular, 'etiquette' meant something quite different than it would mean in any other place in Khorvaire. The instructor was Alston Scheppen Maelogilden Lazarumbear, whom students called 'The Bear', but only quietly and when he was not around.
"What!?" had asked The Bear. "Are!?" He continued. "The Three Types of Lying!?"
That was the way that Alston Scheppen Maelogilden Lazarumbear spoke.
He had finished, and then listened to the silence that prevails only in classrooms and lecture halls after an instructors' questions. 'The Sound of Ignorance,' The Bear called it.
The students 'hemm'ed for a bit and got Prevarication: the Deliberate Lie. One student then suggested 'Dissembling' and got a rap on his knuckles for his efforts.
The students 'haw'ed for a bit and recalled Misleading: the Belief in the Incorrect. They had covered this at length in class before. The Bear had insisted that willful ignorance was a common mode of Lying in the world, though considered vulgar, at best. 'One ought to Know the Truth, even when one Lies!'
And then they were stuck, until Tremor had put forward the correct answer: Delusion: the Lie of Collaboration. The Bear rolled his hand for the young halfling, now suffering under the gaze of a half-dozen spiteful gnomish students, to continue. He explained that this lie was the hardest to detect, as it involved the listener's co-operation.
"You See?!" The Bear exclaimed. "No Lie is Harder to Detect than the Delusion: a Lie that You Wish to Believe!"
That was the way that Alston Scheppen Maelogilden Lazarumbear spoke.
| Lady Jalia Ramires
"You are quick, and a wit, to boot. I can appreciate a healthy appetite. Though I draw the line at two breakfasts." She patted her midriff with her free hand. "I have to keep my figure." Her figure looked very fine to Tremor. Well suited for fashion. Her eyes were shining. It looked like delight; Tremor considered if delight was what she wanted him to see, or what he wanted to see. The key was detachment. Tremor refocused. Her lips might harbor some fine motor cues to the thoughts beneath the smile. But... it was just a smile, a perfect bow of muted red, a crumb of honeycake lingered at the corner, almost perfect teeth. Her smile grew. "And I can look out for the 'turns' while you look out for the 'dips!'" Was that a clue? Had she picked up on the slang, and what would that mean? "Of course I do know a bit about distilled liquors, but I honestly can say I know nothing about the process; a small peek would be most pleasing."
Holding her hand, Tremor noticed, not a roughness, as such, but ... Jalia's hands were not as soft as Lady Rusila's. And then she squeezed gently, fondly. She was more of a height to Tremor than Lady Rusila, he need not crane his neck to look her in the face, framed so gently by her flowing locks.
"I'm surprised that you don't know the Garden of Respite. I suppose there might be other gardens and the like, but nothin' like those. You know, it's hot all the time, there's really no need for a greenhouse. Things just grow." She smiled. She looked at Tremor. Tremor looked at her.
In almost every case the halfling had been able to read people like an annotated book: imaginary notations in the margins that told Tremor what he needed to know. Jalia's margins were blank; it was perplexing, and commanded focused attention.
"What?" she chuckled, "Oh," she said, then brushed the crumb from her lips. Still smiling.
| Tap
"Begging your pardon, Ser. We're here"
Tremor had hardly noticed the walk, or Drift ambling along with contentment.
| Tremor heard a caller nearby:
"Ladies and gentlemen, if I might speak to you of the Pink Conch’s advantages for a moment. Our services are refined, our men and women unmatched, and our discretion limitless. And at the Conch, there is no theatrical subterfuge, as you might find at the Livewood Theater. No, here what you see is what you get. And I’d wager we have much you’d like to see."
|
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 62 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 4 Sep 2018
at 09:47 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Ah_ my thanks Tap."
Releasing his hand, turning, bending down and calling Drift. "You just sit here, wait for us. I might have something."
Tremor pats Drift and gets him to lay down outside.
"Let us see what the establishment has, Tap, you are going to have to introduce me as the one taking over duties you previously exercised, please do not refer to or use Jalia's name."
Tremor indicates Tap should enter first, then he takes Jalia's hand and enters.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:53, Fri 07 Sept 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 242 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 7 Sep 2018
at 02:27 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tap
Drift seemed to know how to behave in this part of town... that he ought to attract as little attention to himself as he could. He picked a shaded area near the stairs up into the Conch and lay down, half-hidden and quiet.
"Oh, yes, I see, ser. Only, I hesitate to mention... Could you please not leave me alone with Tydameira? She ... likes to mess with my head."
He stepped up and the hawker immediately seized upon the trio as potential customers.
"Ah yes, step right up, step right up! We can provide you with individual rooms, for individual experiences, or groups. If you choose four companions we'll offer you a fifth at half-price. All real, no glamor, everything real and everything satisfying. So, what will it be? Ménage à trois? Quatre? Cinc? How can we serve you with excellence today?"
| Lady Jalia Ramires
Jalia grinned widely at the flamboyance of the suggestion, and looked at Tremor slyly. What do you think? her eyes seemed to ask. | Tap
"Ah, not at this time. I am Tap, from Molou's Distillery. There is an entertainment event. One of Varen Lassite's parties. Five courtesans are requested, two male identifying, two female identifying, and by name, one 'Vrina'."
"Ah yes, ah yes! One of Varen's parties! Of course, of course! Step in, step in! We will make all the arrangements, It will be most excellent!"
Tap moved to follow the man as he stepped under the great sign of the Pink Conch, which from this angle looked more like an exotic pink flower than a seashell.
| Lady Jalia Ramires
Jalia's mouth made a mou at the name 'Vrina.' She knelt and whispered into Tremor's ear, her breath gently tickling as she spoke: "I'm going to let you manage this on your own. Vrina and I have a history, and I'd hate to -- Well, she's a bit of a bitch. But I will see you at six bells, at the Livewood Theater." She embraced Tremor, kissing him gently on the cheek, with the addition of an intimate squeeze of his buttocks. "Something to remind you of me until then."
She stood, again with a look on her face that Tremor could not identify beyond affection. "It was very fortunate bumping into you two; Tap, and Tremor. But as I said, I have an errand in the district myself, which I must attend to."
She made ready to go.
As Tap moved inside Tremor heard an exclamation of surprise and delight as a melodious feminine, though definitely warforged, voice shouted "Tap!" |
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:20, Fri 07 Sept 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 63 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 11 Sep 2018
at 11:37 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe Halfling could not help but bring a good-natured smile to his face.
"It appears I must protect a Warforged from an errant piece myself. Safe travel and may the Host safeguard you until we meet again."
A brief hand over hand clasp then letting go and stepping back to watch her leave.
Some days are just brighter
Turning, Tremor now brings his focus to Tap's predicament.
There were a few ways to play this, Tremor discarded most as inappropriate.
Tremor followed inside and moved to interpose his body between Tap and diffuse the situation.
Using a simple mnemonic taught to him, Tremor recited the name.
"Tydameira, I am Tremor Enkau Valevine, pleased to meet you. May I ask what your duties are at the Pink Conch?" Persuasion
A hand is offered. Tremor assesses the interior, looking for exits, stairs up and an ear for activities that would be on upper floors, such as conversation, music or crafting. Perception
04:40, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 22 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 17. Persuasion v Tydameira, Deal with me over others.
04:58, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 18 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 13. Perception v activities and ways up.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:59, Tue 11 Sept 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 250 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 12 Sep 2018
at 06:57 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
 Tap
"I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I n-n-n-n-n-ngggg!" Tap was saying as the tall and elaborately filigreed warforged pressed Tap's head to her chest plate.
|  Tydameira
"Tap, mon amour, too long have you been absent from my side! When will we be together forever? When will you free me from my torment?" Her voice was produced from some mechanism within her. It sounded as if a master violinist had managed to shape words from their instrument. It sounded strange, and beautiful all at once. It was quite different from Tap's grinding exclamations of discomfort.
Tremor's interposition brought her up short, though, she released Tap, who rubbed its head gently, and shook itself slightly.
"Pleased to meet you as well. Any friend of Tap's is a friend of mine." Her voice made him think of a quartet of strings he'd seen perform once in at the Bond concert hall in Zilargo. An all female quartet. Her face was an enameled full helm, with nothing human behind it. "My duties are to ensure the safety of the guests and of our hosts."
The gateway they had entered had no door, but there must have been some enchantment on the lintel; a gentle breeze blew out towards the street keeping the smell and insects outside. The Conch interior was vivid pastels; warm shifting colors that reminded one of the varied tones of people's skin. Hallways extended to the left and right and opposite the gateway another stairway led up. Thus far no other exits presented themselves. At the top of the stairs there appeared to be a balcony with additional doorways along the back wall. These had doors, and were closed, with glowing sigils indicating occupancy. Tremor heard an ambient music, neither as harmonious as Tydameira's voice, nor as melodic as the song of the consular, but pleasant and subdued. From behind the doors there was muffled laughter, some moans, and what might be a squeak of surprise, or of pain. There were no sounds that bespoke crafting. |  Veri l'Sivius
"Ye-e-e-ess!" The caller's voice ascended and descended in a was that was almost exactly completely unlike Tydameira's. "Tap, and his little friend here are here on behalf of Ser Lassite, Molou's you know. The fabulous parties? Only the very best for our very good friend Valen. I am Veri l'Sivius; call me Veri. We have just the thing for this season's events. Tell me Tydameira, what do you think? Let's book them Rocco Ironwood, Mona Amore, Likke Lyke, and Sin Spire. Those four will breath life into a Karrn regiment!" | Tydameira
"Yes. Only... Mona might be coming down with a cold. So... Partha Sighs?" | Veri l'Sivius
"Oh, Of course! You are a treasure, Tydameira, a treasure! Partha will be most excellent! Oh she has a passion unlike any other! And so flexible!" He paused. "Ah... and Vrina... by special request. Would you take them up to see her? Thank you!" He bustled off to draw up the papers and prepare the bill. | Tydameira
"Ah. Yes. Well. Vrina. She is the courtesan's courtesan, and very particular about the clients she accepts. You will have to negotiate with her in person. I will be happy to entertain Tap while you do." She drew her finger along the back of Tap's scalp; it made a quiet screech. Tap shuddered, and looked at Tremor, perhaps plaintively. "She ... doesn't like our kind." she added placing an arm possessively around Tap's shoulders. Tap seemed dwarfed by her, though she was only a foot taller. "At the top of the stairs, first left, the bleeding rose. You can't miss it." |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 64 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 13 Sep 2018
at 06:37 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Enough Tydameira, you are to remove your hand from Tap, and as long as we are in this establishment you will never lay a hand or touch Tap in any fashion.
I will mention this to Vrina and make it a point that my business waxes or wanes based on your conduct."
With that Tremor begins to walk to the stairs, ascending.Stealth
Tremor thinks of the layout of the street, the path most likely to be taken by Jalia. Tremor by passes the doors and looks for windows outside and any balconies that he may use to surveil those below, looking for Jalia. Perception
Moving up until he finds a way to the roof or an attic then the roof. it may be quicker if he does not see a way up to just go to a balcony and make his way down.Acrobatics
Jalia had said the Temple district was her destination, and with the cakes, that was what Tremor had to go on. The game was on, the second favorite game to be taught by Gnomes, hide and seek.
Jalia had said the Temple district, she may have stopped outside just to make sure he did not come out the front entrance after her, now was the time her guard would be down, thinking Tremor occupied.
23:39, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 24 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 15. Stealth from Tydameira > Halfling LUCK reroll.
23:38, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 10 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 1. Stealth from Tydameira
23:40, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 9 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 4. Perception v Jalia finding her outside
23:41, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 24 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 18. Acrobatic Climbing down to street from Conch.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:36, Mon 17 Sept 2018.
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The GM
GM, 253 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 14 Sep 2018
at 01:39 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tydameira
"How rude!" Tydameira said, but she released Tap, who ducked under her arm and practically ran past Tremor up the stairs. | Tap
"My thanks." They moved up the stairs, until Tremor spied a window high above. At Tremor's bidding the warforged provided a boost with his hands. As Tremor squeezed through the porthole-sized window, Tap said "I'll just arrange things with Vrina, then?"
| Lady Jalia Ramires
No one was aware of Tremor's exit, save the grateful Tap. He pulled himself out of the decorated window, another flower-looking seashell. Thirty feet above the street below, he was somewhat exposed on the eaves, but there was no-one to see. Nimbly he moved along the roof until he spied below that whom he sought. Jalia was heading along the street fairly quickly, and even took a skip or two. Tremor could imagine her smile. She stopped at a corner, and spoke to a group of children who were either begging or playing. She gave them her honeycakes, and headed down the alley. Tremor easily kept pace from his vantage. There was a fortuitous laundry day and a not-quite broken street light that provided easy access to the cobbles From here Tremor could either follow or confront her. As yet she was oblivious. |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 65 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 14 Sep 2018
at 02:19 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachJust as he gets the assistance from the 'Forged, and the question.
"Go to Vrina's door, stand there, say nothing. If Vrina comes out and asks you, you say that I was called away suddenly by Message. That I will return when able."
With that Tremor climbs out and begins his trace of Jalia. Descent was clear, however, Tremor kept an eye out for tools, borrowed not taken. A shirt, made less baggy by rolling it up, selection of which is made while least observed, perhaps a small shirt will make for a tied bag, into which he would put the odd small stone he would pic up from between cobbles.
The goal was to trace, as his teachers referred to the practice. Where and who. SO far the advantage was his and the barriers would be the children, which seemed to work as Jalia's eyes and ears, if not hands.
19:40, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 17 using 2d20+9
keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 7,8.
Stealth v Jalia, continue the Trace on the cobblestones, Using Hero Point for Advantage +1 HP for Adv.
Edit HP had me confused for an hour.
03:56, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 10,16 using d20+5,d20+5 with rolls of 5,11. Perception 10, +1 form HP = 11
Insight 16
to follow and know who is looking out.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:05, Sat 15 Sept 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 257 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 16 Sep 2018
at 07:31 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tremor found a shirt the right size. The kids would have been a trouble, but for the honey cake, which occupied their attention completely, as the halfling dashed by.
A quick dip to the ground acquired the stones he wanted, and then quickly Tremor moved along the alley.
Though the way was crooked, there were few outlets; Tremor could, of course, get up to the overlooking structures. The area felt closer than Tremor preferred; fewer options. Less like a street and more like a tunnel, but, Tremor noted, there were always options, even if they were difficult or unconventional.
He slowed his pursuit when he heard Jalia's voice ahead.
| Lady Jalia Ramires
"Well boys, that was a bust; are you certain that your tip wasn't crooked? If those two were from Molou's they were leveraging credit, and not carrying cash. But I don't even think you gave me the right marks"
Tremor peeked around the last corner in time to see her toss a small pouch to one of three city guard, a burly sergeant, if Tremor judged correctly. The coin purse clinked as the guard caught it one handed.
"That's right, I guess the the punishment will be meted out for poor results. That's all they had on them; five gold and sixteen sliver. Hey let me know if you get a line on anyone with actual money to steal, but don't give me any more of these minnows, okay? I'm a busy lady."
The guard scowled. The three seemed unconvinced.
"Na, naa, that ain't the way this works, 'Lady Lightfingers.'" growled the sergeant. "That wasn't the deal. We gave you the targets. The stupid halfling and the stupid forged. The Lassiter's party are expensive, those two must have been carrying over three hundred gold for deposits. They were carrying the funds. Your task was simple, take it. Like a test. This was your entrance exam. And you failed."
Tremor knew there was no-one else about. He also knew that in a matter of moments only, the guard's steel would be drawn and then blood would be spilt.
|
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:39, Mon 17 Sept 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 66 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 16 Sep 2018
at 09:37 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe learning of various things did mark Jalia higher in Tremor's eyes and possibly his heart.
It would seem impossible that 'Lady Lightfingers,' knowing that she would return and knowing that the lack of reward would be displeasing would walk into this predicament without a plan of escape. The brutes actions would seem all together the most obvious.
That was one side of the razor, the other being a consequence of a greater order than the crime. Also it would not due to have a injured companion for the theatre.
Tremor moved his head back from the corner, then ran back to the street, mixing in slowly and just a few steps off the alley entrance.
Then in a voice a little too loud, and indistinct, then growing in alarm and a different direction. Deception
"Its Steeljack. The Iron Watch has come"
"Its the 'Forged, run!"
"Hide, they can't find me."Performance
If anyone seems to be looking for a way out, Tremor will point them in the direction of alley and down it, saying, "Warn the others, tell them the Iron Watch is here, GO!" Persuasion
02:44, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 10 using 2d20+5, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 5,3. Deception v Convince crowd Iron Watch on its way 1 HP for Adv.
02:45, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 19,20 using d20+5,d20+5 with rolls of 14,15.
Performance, 19
Persuasion, 20
sell it, direct > Jalia.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:48, Sun 16 Sept 2018.
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The GM
GM, 263 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 18 Sep 2018
at 01:39 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe people in the street looked about curiously as the halfling generated the sounds of agitated parties leery of the Iron Guard. Their reaction was less of alarm and more of disbelief. The youths at the mouth of the alley, however, behaved exactly as Tremor had hoped, leaping to their feet and already in motion down the alley screaming and shouting. There were further shouts and Tremor moved to keep the objects of his handiwork in view. They barreled past the City Guardsmen, who were confused by the sudden disturbance.
Still hidden from searching eyes, Tremor moved up to observe their confusion. They were casting about looking for Jalia.
"Where'd she go!?" the segeant shouted.
That thought was echoed in Tremor's mind until he looked upwards along the walls that enclosed the alley. Jalia, or 'Lady Lightfingers' was clinging to a windowsill above the guard's heads. If they but raised their gaze she would be found.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 67 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 18 Sep 2018
at 07:00 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachAh, the razor's edge. Tremor envied Jalia, this moment will be hers.
The Halfling looked down at his feet and curled his toes. Gauging his weight and the echoes he has heard in the alley, how much sound the impacts will make to be audible, yet soft like a wisp of a human foot, and...
Tremor begins to step heavy, and in place create the sound of running, he will attempt a soft laughter, to just float, as a taunt might, then he begins to move back towards the street. Performance
00:03, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 19 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 14. Performance v Guards mimic of light step running away and laughter.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:04, Tue 18 Sept 2018.
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The GM
GM, 264 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 18 Sep 2018
at 14:00 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"That way!" the sergeant yelled and headed towards where Tremor was. The halfling led them a merry chase to the street, then blended into the crowd and vanished. Then up the wall to the porthole-window that he'd used to exit the Conch. Jalia could no doubt manage on her own. Until six bells, at least. Tremor squirmed through the organic-looking opening, and seeing no one in the stairwell dropped down. A few passes of his hands assured him he was presentable, and then up the stairs to join Tap.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:33, Fri 21 Sept 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 271 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 21 Sep 2018
at 23:33 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
 Vrina
Tremor's keen ears picked up music as he approached. A song, melodious, plaintive, coming from behind Vrina's door.
"Come in through the window, and I'll show you to the door ♬ ♫ ♪
There's a devil in the basement, underneath the floor
Devil in the basement, don't you look into her eyes
Or she'll know just you want, and your demons will arise
Devil in the basement, oh I wish she'd go away
I tried to talk to her, but I've got nothing left to say
Come in through the window, I'm going down to hell
Close the door on your way out, and tell the world I wish it well
Oh, ohh, ohhh, ohh, ohhh
Wooah, ohh, ohh, ohhhh
Wooah, ohh, ohh, ohhhh" ♬ ♫ ♪
Theme Music
As the door opened, Tremors' mind was placing the tune. The last notes of which he was certain he knew. High and sweet, like a lullaby that he'd heard accompanying an odd subterranean cart-squeak.
She was a halfling. Her eyes were on a level with Tremor's. They flickered briefly to regard Tap, then returned to Tremor.
"Before you ask, I won't do warforged. But you are a different matter. What can I do ... for you?"
|
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 68 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 24 Sep 2018
at 13:34 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachCareful... _careful. More traps abound in this room then that of the lair of the Bear. Bless him for his wisdom and dedication to his craft.
It took only a few steps to form the next few possible exchanges.
"Good Vrina, it is a pleasure to finally meet. I am Tremor Enkau Valevine. I apologize I was delayed, Tap here was only to remind you of the reason for my visit.
Oh, I was informed of your opinion of the Warforged, your House is vigilant and accommodating.
There is much we could do for each other, but I am here to request you grace a grand gathering such as Stormreach has ever seen. While I am still freshly landed here, I know enough to read the Regiis Royal, as the Brelish would say, nature of this request.
Will you do the Stormlord the Honor of accepting his invitation?"
Tremor did not adopt a stance of rigid, formal, attention, he strove for a stance of friendship and comity.
|
The GM
GM, 278 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 25 Sep 2018
at 21:50 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Vrina
"Good!? Oh, I'm never good. I can be expert, or phenomenal. I am quite frequently 'the best,' but I'm never good." Her laughter was like a syrupy fruit drink savored ice-cold on an uncomfortably hot day; one missed it when it was gone.
"Just business? Then you may both come in." As Tremor entered she sniffed at him. It had been a long time since anyone had done that; the traditional Talentan greeting of sniffing the ears. "I will do the stormlord as much honor as he can stand, with a down payment of... one hundred." She tapped the dressing table, and as though that was the end of the matter, began intently studying Tremor's face.
| Tap
Tap stepped towards the dressing table
"Shall I... pay her, ser?" | Vrina
She acted as though Tap were not there. "'Tremor Enkau Valevine,' So much Zilargo in you. Do you remember anything of the plains at all? The spirits that guide and comfort? The feel of your clawfoot driving you forward at breakneck speed? Or is it all gone now, subsumed by an endless progression of tiny, bearded, whisperers, planning enormous schemes? Do you miss it? Would you know what you miss?" She'd poured a drink for herself, and then sipped it, without taking her eyes from Tremor. "You are sweet, like those honeycakes, but I wonder... what is beneath the sweet surface? Are you a man, Tremor Enkau Valevine, or just a sugared morsel that one forgets as soon as one puts it in her mouth?" She dipped her finger in the small glass of red liquor, and brought her fingertip to her tongue and pointedly sucked on it. "So... what is it that you believe you could do for me?"
|
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 69 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 26 Sep 2018
at 00:30 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachVrina
"Good!? Oh, I'm never good. I can be expert, or phenomenal. I am quite frequently 'the best,' but I'm never good." Her laughter was like a syrupy fruit drink savored ice-cold on an uncomfortably hot day; one missed it when it was gone.
"Just business? Then you may both come in." As Tremor entered she sniffed at him. It had been a long time since anyone had done that; the traditional Talentan greeting of sniffing the ears. "I will do the stormlord as much honor as he can stand, with a down payment of... one hundred." She tapped the dressing table, and as though that was the end of the matter, began intently studying Tremor's face.
|
It was a bit of nostalgia. As a child Tremor recalled the greetings in the fashion of the Plains. His Uncles, Aunts and some children, who did not know its significance, performed this greeting.
It is possible that moment was when Tremor felt a fondness for Vrina.
Always allow for a recant.
"You will have no argument from me on advance. I have only the appeal to deliver from the Stormlord, and to return an accurate accounting. Your advance will be honored."
Tap
Tap stepped towards the dressing table
"Shall I... pay her, ser?"
|
"Please do." Not expecting a change, Tremor did pause and readied himself to stop Tap.
Vrina
She acted as though Tap were not there. "'Tremor Enkau Valevine,' So much Zilargo in you. Do you remember anything of the plains at all? The spirits that guide and comfort? The feel of your clawfoot driving you forward at breakneck speed? Or is it all gone now, subsumed by an endless progression of tiny, bearded, whisperers, planning enormous schemes? Do you miss it? Would you know what you miss?" She'd poured a drink for herself, and then sipped it, without taking her eyes from Tremor. "You are sweet, like those honeycakes, but I wonder... what is beneath the sweet surface? Are you a man, Tremor Enkau Valevine, or just a sugared morsel that one forgets as soon as one puts it in her mouth?" She dipped her finger in the small glass of red liquor, and brought her fingertip to her tongue and pointedly sucked on it. "So... what is it that you believe you could do for me?"
|
Is this the blood of his Talenta cousins speaking so forcefully? Is this how the passions of the Plains folk manifest here in Stormreach? No, there had to be more. In this way, the training he received from the Bear was similar to lock-mongers. Always start at and edge and peel back.
Has Vrina substituted one form of riding for another? Tremor admonished himself for the thought, Halflings have strong appetites, no shame in that.
After Vrina finished, Tremor marveled at the prosecution, meant to unbalance, then in a supreme confidence of skill, the dismissal and change to mutual interest.
Tremor ceded control to Vrina, it was the polite way of social graces.
"Zilargo is always home for me. I visit Talenta only through the telling of stories.
If you judge wisdom by volume, that is a mistake. I never had the experience of Clawfoot or Thunderer, that experience is ahead of me, to be reveled in as a Halfling who has traveled Eberron and come back to his roots.
I am a twelve course meal, in the great tradition of Zilargo, you have only tasted the First Spoon."
How to delight, entice, without digging the hole too deep as the Mror have.
"I can answer a question.
Not the number of coins in the Bank Kundarak. Not the number of Dragonshards in the Belt of Siberys. Not what is beyond the beachheads of Argonnessen.
A question which you could not find the answer to."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:35, Wed 26 Sept 2018.
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The GM
GM, 282 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 26 Sep 2018
at 02:38 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tap
Tap faced away from the two other occupants and pressed awkwardly at his abdomen. A part of Tap slid out; a drawer of sorts.
"One hundred." Tap placed the amount on the dressing table and then backed away from Vrina. | Vrina
"Oh!" she laughed even harder, and it was sweet nectar in the desert. "Ha! Ha! Oh, you are a bold one!" She moved closer, and Tremor could not help but imagine a clawfoot sinuously closing on an unsuspecting gazelle on the Plains. Her dress was silk, decorated with strategically placed disks and crescents. The strategy became clear when she walked towards Tremor. "You would do this? Do you think you can?"
Her heat was palpable, and Tremor identified the very vintage of the wine from the aroma of her lips. "A man, then? Or a brave mouse playing at it?" She parted her lips, and made a passable imitation of a cat's growl. "Someone will eat you up if you're a mouse." Then she seemed to gather herself, withdrawing somewhat, and Tremor only then realized how close she'd been. The hairs on his arms, legs, even his toes had felt her presence. "And what, brave ser, would be your charge to me of such an impossible task?" She sipped again at her drink, a grape grown on the northern border of the Eldeen Reaches, and no longer obtainable. Her eyes never left his.
|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 70 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 26 Sep 2018
at 05:03 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachOh, it was working. Vrina knew and Tremor knew Vrina knew it.
"A simple thing. One favor. A... a favor I ask, what ever it is."
|
The GM
GM, 289 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 27 Sep 2018
at 01:13 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Vrina
"Hmm." she said as she turned away. She set the glass down next to the money Tap had placed, but her eyes were on the small round window that looked ofer toward the harbor. Her view was very fine, the almost straight road, and in the distance the sun gleamed off of the water of the bay.
"Do you know much about 'fishing', Tremor? Not much opportunity to fish in the Plains, but I suppose theres plenty in Trolanport. It's a very big activity here." She turned and mimicked casting a line. "From the shore, or the docks you could catch a fish, as long as your arm, say. Those who want bigger catches must get a boat. A large enough boat and you can pull in even the leviathan, and they do. But if you try it with a smaller boat, well. The fish will catch you." She looked Tap up and down, then she was looking into Tremor's eyes once more. "You are going to need a bigger boat."
She crossed the room and then opened the door. "I shall make all the arrangements for the Lassite affair. It will be stunning, and you will be praised. As for your offer... I will watch you, and let you know when... it's big enough."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 71 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 28 Sep 2018
at 09:16 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor heard the words and put his training to the argument between his heart and head. Insight
02:18, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 10 using 2d20+5, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 5,5. Insight v Vrina, +1 HP adv
"I was raised a river fisherman. Dappled Carp, Bearded Trout and Angelfish are all I have hooked on a line.
These be deep salty waters, I have heard the weight of these are counted by barrel weight, not ounces as they are in Zilargo.
Often questions are not answered because the answer is feared.
My Thanks and If I can be so bold, the Stormlord thanks you."
Many days hence Tremor will reflect, look back, replay every detail and tr to put all in perspective.
His conclusion will be that he was just outplayed, and had no doubt that, in part, it had much to do with his own ego.
The day was a like the shooting river rapids on a soarwood board as a chlld, currents that buffeted up and down.
At the exit of the Conch, "What is next Tap?"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:39, Fri 28 Sept 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 294 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 28 Sep 2018
at 21:13 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tap
With all the arrangements made and the entertainment secured for the party, they collected Drift and proceeded.
"There is only the food service. And the consul had mentioned a barber? I don't know if you wanted to... Ser." It paused, motionless for a moment. "Ser, I have questions... about what we've seen and done. This did not seem like... like anytime I've ever helped prepare the party." It moved its hands, trying to grasp something invisible. "There is machinery, under this shell. I am now thinking there is further machinery under everything. This is not comforting to me." It had no eyes, and so it was troubling to have Tap look him full in the face, but Tap did. "I believe that woman Vrina frightens me, though she only ignored me. I do not understand why you left, and then came back. I used to think I knew what was going on around me, and now..." Tap turned its head from side to side. "I believe I was not seeing, not understanding. It would be of comfort if you could explain." |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 72 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 1 Oct 2018
at 09:16 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor looked back at the Conch and wistfully thought that he could see Vrina, somewhere in there looking at him walk away.
"Then let's us try and find this Barber.
Now Tap, it must be a great comfort to know there is machinery under all this."
Tremor spread his arms wide, his hands open and stretched to include all of Stormreach, if not all Eberron.
"How old are you Tap? How long after you were made did you start to fight in the Last War?
Has there ever been a folk that came into Eberron, fully formed and put tu a purpose from creation?
These questions you ask, the fear you may have, these are all natural to children, to be shepherded through by family, mentors.
I can't imagine that life has prepared you for understanding the machinery you are now aware of.
I believe you when you say the word, what I do not understand is the why. Why would she cause such a reaction. You are a bit of magic, magic has bound crystal, fiber, metal, stone and K what ever else House Cannith and its Artificers decided to add.
Are you able to read her thoughts? Has House Cannith given you the ability to determine her inner philosophy? Can you detect magical auras? Is Vrina cursed?"
Tremor paused. Then decided to answer the least interesting question asked by the 'Forged.
"I left and returned because of the machinery you now see. I had to look at the cogs, see what they were made of, see what spin they turned, and what other possible tumblers might be at work.
I saw only one set deeper into the machine, deeper yet, must I dive."
|
The GM
GM, 299 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 2 Oct 2018
at 01:26 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tap
"I am unsure of my age. I recall only fragments of my early times. There are faces, and I do not have names. There are names, without faces. I do not know Cannith. I do not recall ever fighting. I seem different than other warforged. Many seem content with what they are; what they do. Even Tydameira who wishes to be different, understands enough of what she is to wish it changed." Tap's fingers twitched.
"I do not know what I am. I do not seem entirely like my brethren. And perhaps you are correct; at such an age as a child, one might have fears. Unfounded, even. But such mentoring as is offered here... I am not comfortable with." Tap studied his rough formed fingers.
"Tydameira would desire to have me under her... tutelage. But that is not what I wish to do. Steeljack has stated I would be of use, that I could place myself at the disposal of the guard. But it does not... feel right." Tap stroked his head, gently itching at the dent.
"It is that 'not feeling right' that I call fear. I do not know if it is fear. I only know it is what I feel. Vrina does not like the warforged. And she seems very strong to me. It is as though something very hot is coming to melt my outside and strip out my insides. I know this is not a likely occurrence. I do not even know if it is possible. But it is what I feel in her presence. I know I am made with magic, bone, wood. I am familiar with my metal exterior, and I have a small understanding of my innards. But I do not even understand my own philosophy, let alone those of others."
Tap looked about them as though trying to reconcile what Tremor had said with the perspective they had. "I live, I move. But I have had no purpose. Others have a purpose. Perhaps I have a purpose too, but when I think on that, I feel afraid. Perhaps it is I who is cursed."
Tap reached for where the stolen pouch had been. "Or perhaps it is just that I am distraught over the loss of my personal items. I see Sheela's Stylists there."
|  Agnot
Sheela's Stylists was a collision of color, sound, and fragrances. The whole front room was given over to the haircutters' stations. Agnot was a very big orc, using a very big knife, doing some very delicate trimming of a nobleman's mustache. The note garnered Tremor the next place in line, but Agnot was unwilling to interrupt his task even for conversation.
| Tap
"Thus far, my most comfortable period has been this day with you. I too, wish to 'look at the cogs,' though my understanding is poor."
| Agnot
"FINISHED!" Agnot shouted, and the noble practically lept from the chair. "NEXT!" the orc shouted at Tremor.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 73 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 2 Oct 2018
at 03:29 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor vaults into the chair, "Agnot, I am Tremor.
I warn you, Gnomish Masters of the Shear have tried to tame the tangled, knotty forest you see on my head.
I need you to obey only one rule, do your best, I offer nothing to hinder your craft."
To Tap, Tremor motions to put their conversation on pause until Agnot is done.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:29, Thu 04 Oct 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 300 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 4 Oct 2018
at 17:45 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Agnot
Agnot narrowed his eyes. "Tame forest? Naw tame forest. Cut is tame forest. No. Agnot sees. Forest has path. Agnot sees path. You schmott guy. You see Agnot. Agnot make you look schmott." He brandished the blade, which looked very like a meat cleaver to Tremor's eyes. When Tremor failed to flinch Agnot added "You brave. Good. You obey Agnot. Hold schtill." The cleaver was polished on the sides to a mirror-finish and the edge passed through a lock of hair that dangled atop Tremor's forehead.
The orc sniffed the hair, then placed the lock in his mouth, dangling like a forgotten noodle. He sucked. "Tremor's hair needs food, badly." Agnot took up a blue bottle and unstoppered it; dashing several slashed on Tremor's head. The orc's big hands vigorously massaged the liquid into Tremor's hair. It smelled of oils, and spices, and the scent of a forest path after a rain. Then Agnot produced a comb seemingly made from the skeletons of dead fish. And though Tremor had expected a painful tug of war between the orc weaponry and his scalp, the tangled knots surrendered to the orc with barely any resistance. As Agnot worked, the rest of the shops conversations resumed their original volume. Tremor caught snatches of phrases, parts of conversation.
Agnot continued speaking in orcish, just speaking, low and rumbling to an audience he didn't expect an answer from.
 When he was done, Agnot held the reflective cleaver in front of Tremor's eyes again.
"You have submitted under Agnot's blade. Now you are better for it. Go and conquer, but know: Your successes are my successes, your conquests are my conquests, and your failures are my failures. Go into the world, and remember who you are. Bring honor and glory to the clan."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 74 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 4 Oct 2018
at 21:41 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Transformation. Polymorph. The Zil Archmages spoke of its power.
Indeed many a problem and simply been polymorphed into.. more pleasing shapes.
While this is... a lesser form of polymorph, it did have an effect.
Tremor assessed his changes and of all of them, the scents were his fovorite, but that only pushed his gratitude higher, because the craft was exceptional.
It was then that Tremor realized it had been a few moments and oddly he had not spoken.
"You Agnot, are a... There is no direct translation for the Zil word.
You have my thanks, May the Host Bless you with Unending challenges."
Tremor extends a hand, to shake vigorously.
After leaving the barber, Tremor indicates that the Tailor is next.
|
The GM
GM, 303 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 7 Oct 2018
at 17:59 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Agnot
Agnot took Tremors arm in the way of the Shadowlands clans. It was the greeting of warriors, and it felt strangely intimate."Fight well, in what way you fight. Triumph, or perish gloriously. Come back in a week. NEXT!" the orc shouted.
| Tap
As the pair reunited with Drift and headed to where Tap indicated Havulak Prospecting was located. "There was no charge. Ser, how much orcish do you speak?" | Veri l'Sivius
The sound of running feet brought their eyes around to the direction from which they had come. "Ohhh, ooh, ohh." The man panted, out of breath, though he obviously wanted to speak. Recovering, only slightly, he said "Ser Valevine, I *huh* am so pleased to *heh* have found you." Here he paused again for a moment of hyperventilation. "Mistress *huh* ... My pardon sir, I have but run all this way, and some further ways, as I did not know precisely where you had gone...." Tremor was recalling something something Master Lazarumbear had said about people who had the capability of speaking without saying. "*Hah* she bade me give you this missive." |
| Missive: | Tremor Enkau Valevine:
Meet with me at six bells tonight, at the Onyx Fountain. I will wait at the sign of the rose. I have a proposition for you which will benefit us both. Two minutes are all I ask. Take precautions to come alone, for the instructions I shall give you are for you only. If you show yourself capable with this, then I will accept your proffer. Succeed, and then I will gift you a favor for an answer.
V. |
|
Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 75 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 8 Oct 2018
at 11:24 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
The culture of the Marchers is mostly a mystery to Tremor. Certain things were known, the Dragonmark of Finding, the exclusion from the grand laws of Galifar.
Tremor was... surprised by the earnestness, the sincerity of Agnot.
Agnot
Agnot took Tremors arm in the way of the Shadowlands clans. It was the greeting of warriors, and it felt strangely intimate."Fight well, in what way you fight. Triumph, or perish gloriously. Come back in a week. NEXT!" the orc shouted.
|
"One week. ." The answer seemed inadequate to match what had been shown. It caught tremor off guard, a simple agreement, acceptance, no pretense, no posturing, what little tremor knew of marchers, let alone Barbers, it seemed the respectful thing to do. Still it lacked what the Bear had called reciprocal aspect. Yet, it seemed greater than a return to a barber chair, it seemed more familial.
Tap
As the pair reunited with Drift and headed to where Tap indicated Havulak Prospecting was located. "There was no charge. Ser, how much Orcish do you speak?" |
Tremor called Drift and played with the pup and gave the dog some well deserved pats for being patient.
"Beyond the phrases, 'I am not a snack,' 'I only drink wine, it's a religious obligation,' and 'How poisonous is that??' I know the words for the number one and five.
Tap do you know the Orcish language, or anyone who might start me on the path to learning it?"
Veri l'Sivius
The sound of running feet brought their eyes around to the direction from which they had come. "Ohhh, ooh, ohh." The man panted, out of breath, though he obviously wanted to speak. Recovering, only slightly, he said "Ser Valevine, I *huh* am so pleased to *heh* have found you." Here he paused again for a moment of hyperventilation. "Mistress *huh* ... My pardon sir, I have but run all this way, and some further ways, as I did not know precisely where you had gone...." Tremor was recalling something something Master Lazarumbear had said about people who had the capability of speaking without saying. "*Hah* she bade me give you this missive." |
| Missive: | Tremor Enkau Valevine:
Meet with me at six bells tonight, at the Onyx Fountain. I will wait at the sign of the rose. I have a proposition for you which will benefit us both. Two minutes are all I ask. Take precautions to come alone, for the instructions I shall give you are for you only. If you show yourself capable with this, then I will accept your proffer. Succeed, and then I will gift you a favor for an answer.
V. |
Tremor thinks while signalling the man should take time to slow his breathing and allow his heart to return to a restful state.
Once the attention returns and focused on the answer.
"Tell the sender that I have an irrevocable obligation.
However, when the toll is ten, we tryst."
Looking the man straight in the eyes to confirm his comprehension, Tremor makes an offer of his hand and tucks the missive away in his own pocket.
After they part, and continue on to the tailor, Tremor adds on the request of tap to show him the Onyx Fountain, in preparation, but after the tailor has had his time.
|
The GM
GM, 307 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 11 Oct 2018
at 05:16 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachVeri l'Sivius
"Wh-- ten!? But thats' not-- But ser! This is... this is she! She who must be obeyed. Please... Please! You cannot send me back with anything but a 'yes'." His eyes and face showed such distress that Tremor almost felt something. |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 76 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 11 Oct 2018
at 06:13 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
"Pull your self together.
You will receive no beating, you will suffer no scorn.
For you found me, delivered the missive, knew the truth when you heard it, pleaded the case and exhausted all linguistic wiles to convince me.
Back you must go. Be direct, make no evasion. Communicate how resolute the answer was."
|
The GM
GM, 311 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 12 Oct 2018
at 23:58 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Veri l'Sivius
The force of Tremor's personality checked the man's protests, at the expense of worried squeaks and splutterings. "No beatings... The truth.... resolute, no evasion." He exchanged the gasping of exertion with the hyperventilating of anxiety. "'The toll is ten'." He nodded, all speech now gone and ran off to deliver his unwelcome answer to his mistress. "Ohhh, ooh, ohh." | Tap
"I presently understand some of Agnot's tongue, not all. The tenor of his words leads me to believe that you are now part of his clan, having submitted under his blade; surrendering a lock of your hair as a trophy. Agnot's definition of 'conquest' seems figurative to the others at Sheela's, including gaming, trysts, and political achievements. His understanding seems to be that any successes you achieve, now that he has claimed you, are also attributable to his prowess. In a week Agnot expects you back in the chair to report on your achievements...
Tap paused, considering. "and a trim."
Tap pointed out the location of the Onyx Fountain, the entrance to the various artistic venues and craft rooms demarcated by the glossy black dragon water sculpture in front. Across a busy plaza with small carts and shops offering goods that theater-goers might desire, the Livewood Theater perched like a tamed forest. The theater was an open amphitheater, lined with trees that had been trained or coerced to grow in such fashion that they formed the walls and seats and roof.
"There is the Onyx fountain, and there is the theater. The tailor Lady Rusila mentioned is behind Havulak Prospecting, which is on the far side of the Marketplace, in Greystone. Mogden Vilmingwarthy is an unusual name. I cannot place the nationality."
|
On the way through the Marketplace, the pair were able to finish the arrangements for the food deliveries from a high end seafood restaurant and another that specialized in Continental cuisine. The sounds and smells of the Tharashk refinery became overwhelming when they entered the Graystone corridor that separated the market area from the harbor. A smokey pall hung over the area. Havulak Prospecting came into view, and Tremor, glancing in, spied a pair of tall wading boots. He realized that this shop would likely have the various sundries that would be needed if one were to delve into the sewers below the city.
| Tap
"I am unsure how to proceed, ser. I do not see any 'behind' to this store."
|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 77 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 15 Oct 2018
at 12:55 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach At the fountain, Tremor began his search for a few things.
Where might be the sign of the rose that Vrina would likely be to wait. Where might be a good place to secret one self to watch the fountain and its surrounds, if one wanted to place men, footpads, where might they hide themselves, and the same for an archer or lookouts, up high, some elevation that would provide cover and view.
Then an assessment of the available things taken for granted. Where rain barrels might be, crates, an off laden cart or wagon. How to plan an escape, what may be a climb that could provide some cover and yet, not be the first or second easiest to identify as an escape from the street. Perception
Tremor nods and thinks as Tap speaks. The vendors and the ordering of food was a good way to ask questions and survey. Ask about the area, the Livewood theatre, what shops stayed open late, ask about patrols of Guards, any interesting features or stories concerning the fountain. Investigation
"It is a mystery. Is there no solution? Is it possible we were lied to, to confound us?
Come, we will see what there is to purchase in Havulak Prospecting."
A bit of mischief crept into the tone of the Halflings voice, his smile seemed a bit crook'd from normal.
Once is inside Havulak Prospecting, will begin looking for all the protection one might need for a watery... muddy... a unsanitary meadow of... only the Mockery knew what.
Then it came time to probe to see if this tailor had a quiet location for his craft and to generate the entry to it through Havulak Prospecting. Deception
05:57, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 22,16,18 using d20+5,d20+7,d20+5 with rolls of 17,9,13.
Perception +5, 22
Investigation +7, 16
Deception +5, 18
This message was last edited by the player at 12:59, Mon 15 Oct 2018.
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The GM
GM, 318 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 18 Oct 2018
at 19:45 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachAt the Onyx Fountain Tremor noticed:
A large open air plaza surrounds the fountain which is located between the entrance to 'Onyx' proper and the Livewood Theater. The cluster of performance spaces and studios which was House Phiarlan's training areas are accessed through a gate on the north-western side of the plaza.
On the eastern side the Livewood Theater dominates the view. The theater is technically open air, but this is only due to the fact that the theater itself is constructed from a copse of growing livewood trees. The walls are close-ranked trunks, and the 'roof' is loosely woven branches.
Nothing immediate that suggested a rose, or indeed any other flower, but on investigation he found that there were frequently flower sellers who provided their wares to theater-goers at or before the showtimes. Roses being a popular favorite, a rose seller might be present in the plaza this evening. There were also a smattering of shops that opened late to cater to rich patrons or theater-goers who attended in the evening. A few were food or snack stores, some light, open air drinking establishments. There was also an umbrella store. All of these specified an opening time of after five.
Additionally Tremor is informed of the "Lothar" controversy. Globach and Lothar is generally cast with a halfling as Lothar. The current production has plans to use a human transformed with magic in the role, and this has inflamed certain tempers in the community.
There is little at the moment in the plaza that would provide cover save the fountain itself; the black stone carved into the shape of a 18 foot high black dragon, sans wings. The wings are provided by the water jets and some shaping magic. A stone bench surrounds the dragon.
The livewood theater offers a multitude of possibilities, for observing the plaza, but the branches weave too closely to attempt a free viewing of the theater interior.
OOC: advantage to find a hiding spot, but disadvantage to not be notice when there.
The Onyx areas would be more challenging as some of the facades of the buildings there are in fact 'facades'; illusory, and offering no physical perch to hide upon.
OOC: disadvantage to find a hiding spot, but advantage to not be notice when there.
The remaining wall were in poor repair; plenty of hiding places at ground level, but the condition of the walls an roofs preclude safe or easy positioning of ... less skilled ... operatives.
A rumor Tremor overheard is that not every performance in the Onyx is actually theater; that some savvy conspirators conduct their business in such a way that their illicit conversations can be held in full view of an audience, and no-one is the wiser.
That reminded Tremor of the first time he heard Alston Scheppen Maelogilden Lazarumbear say the words "I don't know." When the context was such that only Tremor knew what he meant, and the remaining class remained ignorant.
The perimeter of the plaza was largely unguarded, though City Guard patrols did occasionally stroll through, no one really expected they would act on the behalf of any but the wealthy theater patrons. Barrels and boxes and large chunks of stonework were present, but not prevalent around the plaza, all cleared away from the central portion (to keep the dragon pristine). The ground was cobbled, and some of the area had suffered subsidence, so it could be uneven.
Tap
"Lied to? To what purpose?" But Tap followed Tremor into the prospecting shop. The bulk of the shop was taken up with rows of shelving that held material goods that even a novice would associate with adventurous excursions into the jungles. There were boots, gloves, and outerwear, as well as several dozens of hats. Spaced in and around these were items that could be decoration as they evoked the feelings of the exotic and adventurous. There was a dessicated humanoid dressed in wildly colorful Tulita garb near the entrance. There were several statuettes perched up high on shelves place for that purpose. the Lighting had a simple spell on it making the whole appear to be under a gently moving canopy of leaves. There were also bags, packs and specialized climbing gear. Ropes were coiled together, and sets of spikes (some were quite elaborate). There were walking staffs of a multitude of lengths. There were tents and canvasses, and mounted on one wall a set of paddles. There was fishing gear, and pots and pans that were suitable for use during travel or on the road. Tremor noted that scattered amongst these items were other things that were also useful. One box near the selection of boots contained what he was certain were some of Quall's feather tokens, and one haversack hanging in the selection seemed to be dripping water into a pail placed for just the purpose of catching the drops. There, Tremor spied Elminster Harlian, whom he had only a passing acquaintance with. He took up the pail, and replaced it with an empty one.
| Elminster Harlian
"Oh! Hello! Tremor, was it? Did you find a place for yourself, then?"
|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 78 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 19 Oct 2018
at 10:03 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Tremor now had a place for the name. A hand reaches out for the greeting.
"Elminster, good to see you.
After a fashion. Molou's Distillery is where I have planted my acorn.
This is Tap, my fellow at Molou's. "
Pointing to the full bucket the elderly Gnome now held.
"Can I take that... where would you like me to put it?"
Tremor will ask about the Gnomes health and stories and strike up conversation and for his part mention that he heard about Dragonsmoke, confess' that it is unknown to him, talk about meeting Steeljack, just the location, finding the honey-cake bakery.
After all the pleasantries will Tremor mention that he had been given to understand there was a highly skilled tailor in this part of Stormreach, whose location has eluded him.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:04, Fri 19 Oct 2018.
|
The GM
GM, 324 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 19 Oct 2018
at 23:55 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Elminster Harlian
Harlian spoke with a northern Zil patois. "Take?" He looked at the pail. "No, no." The gnome dumped the contents out the door onto the cobbles. Then shook Tremor's hand. "Molous' Distillery? Good, good. Thriving business. None for me. The expeditions have all but stopped, and no one wants the trinkets from a lost age anymore. Well, no one with any money. The Blackwheel Company waits for a hint of success and the 'whoosh'" his hands mimicked a bird snatching up prey. "Molous' has good business, everyone drinks. Plain folk drink the kuryeva. Rich folk drink the fine quryeva liquor, the poor drink the dregs. Molou makes the coin." He tut-tutted. "The dragonsmoke, that's a strange thing. The Tulita, they find the leaves of a plant. The Tulita say is is a holy thing, for their kahuna and seers. Prophecy. Many people have tried to find out what, but that, among other things, the drow will not say. So there is another reason the Lords get angry with them. I know that others do use it. Mostly it makes a person sleep. Sometimes they do not wake."
Tap was looking at the pouches and bags near the leaky haversack. "I greet you, Tap."
| Tap
"I greet you, Elminster Harlian. These pouches, they are larger on the inside."
| Elminster Harlian
Harlian nodded "Aye. It is too difficult to get the Cannith manufactured. These are rejects, off stock. No one wants to buy a pouch when they can have a whole haversack. And no one wants a haversack with a hole to an unending water. So I have the pouches, and I have the haversack. But a good expedition could be assembled. I do not have the money, but if I did, I would set myself up well with what is here. We had a folding-boat, but it is sold. Still, with a careful selection you could go almost anywhere in Xen'drik in fair comfort." he shrugged.
When Tremor mentioned Steeljack Harlian shrugged again. "I do not have much to do with either the city guard, or the Iron Guard. Perhaps if there was more business, they would want more from me. As it is, the owner says we may have to close soon. I have not had enough coin some days for bread, let alone cake. At least I have a roof over my head, for now."
Harlian grinned wryly at the word 'tailor'. "And there it is. No one comes here, but to go on to Mogden's. In the back, just there past the cleansing stones you see a curtain of beads? I caution you, they are ..." His mouth worked a bit. "They can be rude."
|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 79 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 21 Oct 2018
at 10:09 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "So.. a bit more than passing knowledge when it comes to the Tulita.
The Drow have Prophecy as well, I should not be surprised. It seems Dragons favor communication by Prophecy, Eberron especially.
I have not entered your shop for only the sartorial skills of Mogden.
There are some items I saw in the display, boots and other... equipment I require and advice. I am headed for swampy and noxious gaseous locations. What would you advise? I need to seal my skin fro leeches, water of.. bilious odors and blights of the darkest kind. Also, poisonous creatures of all varieties, what have you that I may have some preventative measure?"
Tremor will take some time to collect what prophylactics are available, offered, and mix in questions about the Blackwheel Company, the name of the owner and a question about the bead curtain, is it Animate?.
All these things will come to a price, a price that occurs before a true price can be determined. Tremor will assess Elminster and thee expectation for haggle.
(I assume Persuasion is the Haggle skill)
"I have Mogden to visit, then I have preparations to make and return to the Distillery. I would like to return later and bring the coin for these later, is that possible?"
After finishing his interests with Elminster, Tremor begins to recall many of the licentious and downright blasphemous jokes and tales told by sailors and denizens of the promiscuous trades. Then trying to alter what he recalled to substitute beads for the object of the joke.
Then will Tremor go to find and speak with Mogden and engage hs service.
03:42, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 12 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 7. Persuasion +5 Elminster info, haggle .
This message was last edited by the player at 10:44, Sun 21 Oct 2018.
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The GM
GM, 331 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 28 Oct 2018
at 07:33 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Elminster Harlian
Harlian's eye sparkled when Tremor mentioned the Prophecy "Ahhh. The Draconic Prophecy: you know, it's just called that. It's really a matrix of potentials.
So, so... swampy, and noxious, hmm? Leeches. Leeches, blights and poison? But.. but... you're a tenderfoot, and unless your first trip is going to be three hundred miles, your swamp is nearby. But there are no swamps nearby, only ... sewers? A venture into the underbelly of the city eh? Sewer diving for treasures? Say no more. I -- I am a professional. You, you, place your faith in me. We'll not say 'trust' eh? No, no. There is no trust here. But give me a moment. Head to toe protection, mmm? Cleansing stones, of course. Sleeping arrangements, of course. A standard tent won't do though. Do...Dooo. Odor is an issue. Poisons. Poisons.... Poison and venoms. Not the same, you know.... not the same." He indicated a wooden box hinged and exquisitely carved. Opening the lid Tremor saw four rows of small stoppered bottles. The bottle set was incomplete, there were three bottles missing. "This is the kit for you, unless you meet a centipedes, angry Tulita or a purple worm. Well, well, if you meet a purple worm, you probably have other problems, hmm? Now... now. The conditions are hmmm not sanitary. You must keep your supplies free of contamination, and yourself eh? Disease is tricky, tricky. I had a Jorasco charm, sadly no more." He'd assembled a large selection of clothing, boots, a comfortable cot, and sundries. | Tap
"That is a very large amount of things. I really need a new pouch."
| Elminster Harlian
Harlian nodded "Aye. Pouches, pouches. If that haversack didn't leak... well, though it would not matter in the sewers, and clean water, it could do... could do, Up to you, Ser..."
The tally was as sizeable as the pile, and Tremor had to admit the prices were reasonable. It was just that it was a whole expedition.
"But, but! The thing that you need, really need... Is a map! Now, I don't have one here, but I know just the gentleman to speak with. Come back tomorrow evening. I'll have the goods wrapped, and, and, perhaps more. Well settle up then. I must say, must say, this sale is going to help me tremendously." He touched his finger alongside his nose.
The mention of trust was not lost on Tremor, and the phrase 'There is no trust here' was one that could get a person into a terrible amount of trouble in Zilargo.
|
Behind the bead curtain was a tall podium, and up about six feet two reptile eyes glared down. "Yessss?" |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 80 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 28 Oct 2018
at 09:41 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach To see the wheels, the mind at work, drawing on intellect, jumping from the abstract to the specific, it is a joy to watch. Tremor could not remain stone faced or even feign disaffection, Elminster had put it together, his reward in part is the honest recognition from another puzzle solver.
"Just keep in mind I am one Halfling, not a myth* of my kind.
Evening next, I will return, there may be drink, so have two cups ready."
Tremor will thank Elminster then turn to find the beads.
"Good evening. I seek a Tailor extraordinaire.
Lady Rusila ir’Clarn has assured me, no greater confidence does she have in any craftsman than in Mogden Vilmingwarthy.
I am told this is where he is found. Am I rightly informed?"
* Myth is the name for a group of Halflings <a href=http://grammar.yourdictionary....nimals.html>Names for Groups of Animals</a>
|
The GM
GM, 335 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 3 Nov 2018
at 19:29 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
 Mog
The eyes belonged to a kobold perched absurdly high behind the podium. The interior of the store was walled with clothing racks; unfinished suits ready to be fitted.
The kobold had an ornate hat on, and Tremor recognised the styling as the same as some of the hats on display in the 'Prospector's'. A single feather was on it, a feather so large it nearly dwarfed the hat, which itself seemed large for the kobold. Not oversize, just... big.
"The Lady sends you? You have proof?" The kobold looked at the note. "Phhht. I am Mog. That..." the kobold pointed at another kobold "... is Den." It peered at Tremor. "You arrrre very short!." |  Den
Den was already eyeing Tremor's clothing, extending a clawed forefinger and thumb to pluck disdainfully at Tremor's well-worn outfit. "Tsk-tsk." Den cocked its head to one side. "This would not do for anyone. What is the occasion?" Den had a smaller, plainer hat on, its feather more in concert with the hat and wearer. |  Vil
Another kobold came forward bearing measuring tapes that helpfully held themselves in place as the kobold reached about Tremor's waist. "I am Vil. You need a working suit, certainly. You will be needing formal wear. And since it is the Lady, I expect something special." | Mog
"There will be no dissscount, even though you are short." Mog said, as he dismounted the lectern. | Den
"Very short." Den agreed. | Vil
"Eh. Taller than his toes, shorter than his hair." Vil stated. His hat was plainer still. "I think this one is a 'dancer.'" |  Ming
"The Lady sends a danccccer? And are you surprised?" said another voice from the back of the store. This kobold wore only a simple hood. "How do you dress?" he asked. |
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:00, Tue 06 Nov 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 81 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 4 Nov 2018
at 08:45 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
Ah, concatenation of names, how interesting. The order by hat? The first has the largest most ornate, and speaks in terms of coin, the next least, comments then the next last measures, then asks the direct question.
One maybe two left for the full name.
"I dress for the occasion, a Storm Lord party, for which I am neither guest nor operative.
Color, though not riotous. I prefer what Zil would call conservative, restrained, yet I find myself drawn to certain Brelish influences in cut.
I am as my Father, Mother and Eberron made me, I conceal none of my shortcomings, and I need not flatter any other expectations.
By temperament I go unshod, for social graces, I allow for a boot."
Tremor turns to address the emerging voice.
"As to how... for that I am at the mercy of my tailor's skill and imagination."
This message was last edited by the player at 09:19, Sun 04 Nov 2018.
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The GM
GM, 340 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 6 Nov 2018
at 06:35 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Ming
Ming smiled, and an unpleasant number of sharp teeth were revealed thereby. "Mercy? There iss precious little of that commodity here..." he said. The kobold gestured to the bolts of cloth, and nodded agreement with Tremor's selections. "The red isss very good. The dye iss made from the shells of carnivorouss beetles that only thrrive in these jungles. We have made several red shirts for sailors, and the guards. But the jacket will be even better." | Vil
Vil presented a glistening blue tie to compare the color, and Ming nodded. Tremor noticed that Vil wore gloves, with only the fingertips showing. "Leave the concealing to usss." he said with a cavalier tone.
| Mog
"Verrry interesting." Mog said, having gotten on all fours to peer at the halfling's feet. He took measurements on a slate, poking and prodding Tremors toes. "A difficult problem, frrom a foot-ware perrsspective. Dancing?" | Ming
"Of a certainty" he replied. | Den
"The hat is very good." Den said, when Tremor had made his selection. Then the kobold set about measuring the circumference of his head with a curious device that seemed reminiscent of certain fearsome devices held by the Trust. | Ming
Once the measurments had been made (and Tremor was still unsure that all of those measurements were truly needful) the one called Ming addressed him once again. "Return in two days. Speak to no one of this." |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 82 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 6 Nov 2018
at 10:45 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
Tremor followed the conversation as it circled him, was it possible that Dancer was a Draconic word, that sounded as the Common word, but had a different meaning id one heard the pronunciation in Draconic.
The device was a reminder, what am I missing?
Try to see beyond what is in front of you, see the facade for what it is, treat it as a mask.
Tremor began to listen, for things that the chatter may hide, used eyes as he looked through cloth rolls for a closer look at the Kobolds. The colors of scales, marks/scarring of injuries or combat, jewelry in ears hands, toes.
Scents of things beyond wood oils, like flowers, perfumes, weapon oils/grease, perhaps food. Perception
Tremor decided he wanted one tape measure, that affixed itself so helpfully.
He waited for an opportunity and then maneuvered to exploit it. Sleight of hand.
A reward for their insight, should Danceur.... Danseir, Daansur? be what it might mean in a round about way to Common.
With a successful lift, Tremor will conclude his business with a simple raised right hand index finger to his lips, pursed into a 'shush' feature, then bow and walk backwards one step, turn and depart.
Tremor will seek Tap and see how he is doing with his pouch search.
02:46, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 11,22,9 using d20+5,d20+6,d20+5 with rolls of 6,16,4.
Percept +5, 11
Sleight of hand +6, 22
Decept +5. 9
This message was last edited by the player at 10:51, Tue 06 Nov 2018.
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The GM
GM, 343 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 10 Nov 2018
at 06:33 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor wracked his mind for an explanation; there was nothing in his dress, manner, or speech that said that he danced. The word had come up as his measurements were taken, his physicality evaluated and his body examined and felt. A glance at the shadows in the back of the store confirmed his suspicion that there were more kobolds present, yet hidden. They were suspicious, careful, even the ones he'd seen were only the first layer.
He opened his senses, the tailors were moving in near dark. Den was the one that was the closest when he spoke, and smelling his breath was a mistake. They were meat eaters, and the meat this kobold favored was well 'seasoned', in the traditional sense of aging meat. Mog had a fencing scar discoloring a line of scales along his jaw. The hats were their only ornamentation. Those and the tools of their trade: scissors, pins, chalk, measuring tapes... The reptilian faces were impossible to read; the rigid faces were inscrutable. There was rank, though. The hats were obvious, but there was also a subtle deference. Organized, then, in ranks. But what was the organization? There were no clues, no logo, not a sigil, not a trace.
Tremor chose his moment and action with care, the kobolds seemed not to notice, and the measuring tape was his.
'Dancer' Tremor rolled the word around his mind. Not for the last time Tremor regretted his disdain for the study of the myriad tongues of the world. At the time it had seemed prudent to master the practicals.
He'd seen fancy balls, the dancers took the center of the room, moving in predictable forms, while those others clung to the sides, watching. Perhaps it was this notion of being the center of attention? Or was it that those who joined the dance were merely moving through the motions, having no actual consequence. No, Tremor dismissed that. For it was during the fleeting moments during the dance that essential connections were created, such dances could cement the bonds between great families, or break the bonds of society if such associations could be formed.
With their hats, and attention to clothing these 'Mogden Vilmingwarthy' would surely be cognizant of such things, but they did not seem to Tremor to be speaking of a 'dancer' in these terms.
What had Master Lazarumbear said on 'euphemisms' seemed most appropriate: "Words or descriptions meant to convey meaning to those who would already know the context, and provide an excuse to those who would prefer not to know, to feign ignorance. A euphemism should never be considered a true lie." Was 'dancer' a euphemism? He considered his recent foray in, out, and then once again into the Pink Conch. Agility, flexibility, grace, a sense of time and timing, all were qualities that a dancer should possess. Tremor himself had said 'operative.' That was a word that held meaning, in another place. In Zilargo.
Tremor recalled seeing the look on the face of the one who had had the device applied to him. This was not that, and the measurements of his head were transferred to paper without pain or injury. There was a moment of hesitation, though, not fear. Fear was for others. And it was just for a hat, a hat that would fit well, if he was to judge the attention to detail these tailors had.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:39, Sun 11 Nov 2018.
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The GM
GM, 344 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 11 Nov 2018
at 15:09 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachWhen the bill was presented Tremor looked at the total; it was outrageous, insupportable, a 'shot across the bow' in pirate's parlance. Tremor's face must have held some measure of his feelings, for Mog asked "Is therre ssomething wrong?"
The shadowy wall at the rear of the store moved, and Tremor realized it was a curtain obscuring a back entrance to the shop. Another kobold came through that entrance, older, and dressed in a simple white robe, his head bare. He spoke draconic and tapped his wooden cane on the floor, and the others gathered up their tools and left quickly through the curtain.
"There has been a misstake made. Yourr accent, and ... some assumptions have been made. We do get involved in our work.
Now, you arre not to blame for this error. And we can cerrtainly make for you a suit of fine clothes, only. They will be beautiful, but non-functional.
You are cu-rrious, though. And I, we, have considerable pride in our work. Would you like to see? He lifted the blue tie that glistened. This was woven in situ by specially enchanted crawlers, you see those small beads there? They contain a minuscule portion of the crawler poison. But no one would know until the tie was roughly applied to skin, or perhaps thrust into a mouth, and they would be able to do little with that knowledge."
He lifted the sample of the hat that was to be made to Tremors size and color specification, set it upright on a stool, and then with surprising speed brought the cane down upon it. The hat was undamaged.
"Would you like to see more?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 83 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 11 Nov 2018
at 20:51 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach The mind worked while the body reacted. Of the dozens of voices that began the conversation, one chided the lack of restraint, giving away a true facet, while another voice spoke to the fact that it was useful and that it could not be an err, as it fit the narrative.
Other higher voices mooted, the topic, review of language, the interpretation of that language into a structure that gave a meaning, meaning, which was unexpected.
The Trust, they presumed him an agent of the Trust. The Lady, her letter, his accent, use of operative. The presumption, the hidden craft applied to his attire, might that mean a connection based solely on the Lady? Had she sent others here who expected the clandestine craft? Was the Lady aware of the shadowy, not a reference to the amount of light, application of other, clearly armorer, alchemical, crafts? These other applicable crafts would only be revealed upon agreement with the question, the question was leading, it only had one answer.
Was it only that the Lady knew of his presence, and that a relationship existed, that prevented a permanent solution to accidental discovery.
The moot shifted focus to discuss utility. Utility, preparation, modality of coin, tactics, capability, violence; each voice argued its point and given the years that passed in time, no resolution was agreed to by any majority before the body made such mooting ended, by acting on executive voice.
"Gladly." The single word was accompanied with a shift in eyes to what would be next, imagination now trying to run ahead of the Kobold's hands, to conjure what aids were hidden.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:59, Tue 13 Nov 2018.
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The GM
GM, 348 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 02:46 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe kobold led the halfling beyond the curtain to a metal stair that spiralled down about twenty-four feet into a well-lit cavern which was walled on three sides with more curtains. The fourth side of the cavern was opened to the yawning chasm that thrummed with the breeze that moved ceaselessly through it. Tremor could not see the bottom of the chasm.
In the cavern, which was roughly thirty feet by fifty feet, were seven 'stations' with tables and a variety of equipment; all different.
"I should mention, however unnecessarily, that you musst remain ssilent about all of this. This iss the work of lifetimess." The kobold reached the cavern floor, paused and then looked up, unreadably, into Tremor's eyes. "If it is worth my life, then one reasons it would be worth yours, should you speak of it." He strode forward towards the first station.
"First principles; we have no control over the situation nor the intent. All we can do is leverage the element of surprise. That means wherever possible we must anticipate passive detection, and that means... as little magic as possible in the end product. Because the common first line of defense is 'detections'." He looked at Tremor once again "If you follow." He gestured at the javi that wore a plain gray double breasted suit. "Ignore for the moment the considerable difference between this jacket and the one that you have chosen. In this rare circumstance, style does not matter." He gestured to the table, where several crossbows and bolts were arrayed. "Would you care to do the honors?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 84 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 10:15 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe principals explained were a familiar creed.
Was it the need of coin, or perhaps a way to engender trust and cultivate a new customer, by appealing to the curiosity trait of Halflings? Or the association with the Lady?
Stairs. Stairs always lead to interesting things.
Tremor looked for any familiar use of the Cant, and signed his assent in Cant to the 'unnecessarily,' in a phrase that would equal a Vow of Cordage, meaning bound in agreement, the gesture being that of tying a knot.
A light crossbow is what Tremor picked from the table, selecting what appeared to be a steel tipped bolt, sliding it in, then lowering the weapon, steadying his arm on the table, aiming for the center of the javi, Tremor pulled the trigger.
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The GM
GM, 350 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 16 Nov 2018
at 06:46 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe crossbow was well-made, but simple; the craftsmanship put into it was for function and not embellishment. Tremor noted a small icon on the the lever, two curves that met at one end and crossed at the other; a child's rendition of a fish. The bolt flew true when the trigger was pulled, the 'smack' of the impact echoing in the cavern.
Tremor saw several things in that moment. The bolt ricocheted off to the right; not entirely unexpected, given the durability of the hat he'd seen. What was unexpected was a movement behind the curtain to the right as the bolt caromed into the curtain. They were there. Tremor knew the curtains surrounding the cavern must hide the workers who were so noticeably absent from this workshop. Impossible to say how many, or even precisely where they were positioned about him.
The kobold strode forward, and Tremor knew that he knew the table was still laden with projectile weaponry. The creature examined the point of impact on the coat.
"The fabric is not enchanted; there is no shield spell operating, it is pure engineering. One out of every five threads was brushed with cockatrice feathers, and the rest woven about the resulting stone. Thin bands of ironwood are inserted into the hem and along the bodice, conforming to the cut of the fabric as you see. The cloth wears a little heavy if we leave it at that, and so into the epaulettes and the collar are similar slivers of soarwood. The outer layer does show some wear and tear at the point of impact, but with some steam, brushing and patience... there. Good as new."
The kobold had buffed out the dent with only a little effort. "There are inside pockets for additional protection, specially shaped panels of wood here, and here..." he indicated the chest and back "Will protect from strong blows, but they have a tendency to crack under such use, and must be replaced after three blows. Still, far more appropriate than studded leather at a ball."
"Do you have a particular weapon of choice?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:06, Fri 16 Nov 2018.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 85 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 20 Nov 2018
at 07:22 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe crossbow, simple and now boltless, was laid down on the table, as Tremor moved around, then to the well attired target.
His hand moved to the spot of impact, then rose and slipped between the 'cloth' and the target to gauge the damage to both.
"I favor what Men call the short-bow, I have used a sling a time or two, and for close quarters, a dagger and shortened sword."
This is something that will be needed, and it seemed... unpleasant to turn down such a clandestine use of craft. In his mind's eye, Tremor could se what was ahead, and bribes and special 'sourcing' of material and information would require most of his discretionary coin.
As imagined as his identification was, the pecuniary limits were real, the pay of the Distillery was not the object of employment.
A suit first, its armored twin later.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:23, Tue 20 Nov 2018.
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The GM
GM, 358 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 28 Nov 2018
at 02:36 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe kobold's face might have been hard to read, but the small reptile's fingers twitched, betraying surprise and disappointment. "No? You... But your assa--assignation?" There were other audible whispers, now and Ming crept forward, placing a hand on the old kobold's shoulder.
"Perhaps we are in error."
The old kobold looked keenly at Tremor "Are you not from Zilargo?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 86 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 28 Nov 2018
at 07:52 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Was the question 'Do you have a particular weapon of choice?' actually a challenge and response a verbal cypher?
Was it possible they would expect the Lady to have one such in her employ. Or are they trying to set a trap for a Trust agent?
Calm. Gentle now.
"I am, I have its waters running through me, its bounty has nourished me from the time I could walk, its wealth has clothed me, its wisdom has instructed me and my discretion is as unbreakable as the Seawall mountains.
We are here now, and it is now that I divine the Lady's perspicacity in sending me here.
Come, let's have a drink, some savory and relish.
Tell me what problem you need solved so that I may report back to the Lady; I am put to good use." Persuasion
23:54, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 13 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 8. Persuasion v Kobolds, calm, no error, tell me how to help.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:55, Wed 28 Nov 2018.
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The GM
GM, 362 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 29 Nov 2018
at 06:12 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe old one calmed himself. "You are the Zil, not of Zilargo." He pushed the hand of Ming away. "Of this... I am sure. My misunderstanding was of the debt. 'In debt to these children.' You understand. The dancer is not owing us; he owes us... because our works are given freely!"
Ming stood agog, his tongue flickering nervously. "I do not think that is right."
The old one seemed more confident, but moderated his tone. "We have a need. This one has offered his use, and perhaps he is the dancer, and perhaps he is not. Certainly he has need of our services, whether he is the Zil or not. Two decades we waited. We may wait longer, but what risk we but a few coins. Set a task for him that a dancer would manage. Waive the fee."
Ming rocked back his heels, turning to Tremor he said. "I do believe I would like that drink. We can discuss the problem we need solved while we walk."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 87 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 29 Nov 2018
at 11:33 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach The tone, the quotations, it sounds like how Old Maitia sounded when speaking of the...
The physical reaction was one of stopping short and leaning back, as if to resist some rope that had encircled his midsection, pulling him forward.
Kobold culture was a book heretofore collecting dust on a shelf somewhere in Korranberg.
"I wanted to meet everyone. Should all hear the matter."
Tremor looks to the older Kobold, making his appeal a matter for the whole... family, clan?
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The GM
GM, 363 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 2 Dec 2018
at 05:05 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
 Old Kobold
"You wish to meet everyone? Yess. And there may be others who wish to meet you. Maybe. We have a problem. Many problems, perhaps, but of these there is one. Can you, for a moment, imagine a hypothetical? I sense you are perceptive. Imagine, then that a group of people are engaged in a dangerous undertaking. Many risks, many hardships. The group is tested, bonded, become one. There is trust. Now, in the course of their endeavors, they must rely upon an outsider, let us say. They do not know whether he is who they think he is, who they hope he is. Imagine that if they are wrong... if they confide in this man... if he is not who or what they think, it could destroy them." He spread one clawed hand wide. "They would have to act; they would have to kill. Imagine, though, that they have no wish to kill some innocent. Better to be sure. Better to set tasks, questions, tests. You see? We are not monsters." He gestured at the great cavern hall. "You see there is much beneath the surface, you are wondering if there is more, and you are not wrong, there is more. I sense you are curious. If you wish to learn more, then you will let Ming escort you out, he knows our top concerns, and where we need more information. Demonstrate capability, loyalty, ... discretion. Then you will meet others. Then you will be told secrets. There will be no fear of error.
What say you?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 88 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 2 Dec 2018
at 06:29 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "Such a thing, I can imagine.
There is a saying in Zilargo; only a Beholder can see in all directions.
It is a warning; We are not Beholders, we must trust to see in many directions at once.
I accept this is the way, I will go with Ming. If Ming holds the power of the purse, we can negotiate any task."
Holding his hand out to shake, or waiting for th eKobold custom, then, turn and follow Ming.
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The GM
GM, 365 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 6 Dec 2018
at 18:10 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Ming
Ming nodded. "Beholders. Have you ever seen a beholder? Seen the death and destruction a spawn of madness can evoke?" The kobold eyed the halfiling as they mounded the steps. "I hope that you will understand, he is old, and excitable. It would be difficult for us to supply you so completely without any charge at all. But a solution suggests itself, if during the task he asked me to set, you come across any surplus funds, perhaps you could see your way to ensuring some of those funds make there way to our little shop. But I suppose I get ahead of myself." Once again in the shop, Ming made his way to the lectern and pulled open a drawer. Therein was a bottle, and glasses, among the scissors and chalk. "I assume that you have tasted kuryeva? This is an old Tulita recipe." he poured two cups of the blood-red liquor.
"I will set you a task, but first I would that you answer me a question." He took up his glass, and gestured in a way that Tremor did not recognize. "To your continued health." Ming said, and then "Why are you here?" The kobold was no Lazarumbear, but Tremor recognized the dertermination in those dragon-eyes. | Alston Scheppen Maelogilden Lazarumbear
"Why are you here?" Lazarumbear had summoned Tremor for a stroll about the grounds. This was before Tremor had seen what he'd seen, and heard what he'd heard. And long before he'd done what he'd done. The grounds were cool with fog, and other shapes moved in the mist, but no one else was in earshot. The Bear could speak quite quietly when he wished. Tremor supposed it might have been the Dragonmark. "You have no family here, no connections. But you are a most apt student. But you are an enigma, and I do not know what to do with you. And I should caution you, a clever student learning is like a blade being honed. And so, I would have you answer my question." The gnome, old even then, before it all happened, took a stance of 'undivided attention that brooks no dissembling' and stood thus before Tremor, and Bear had waited thus until Tremor had answered him. |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 89 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 6 Dec 2018
at 23:27 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachMemories, a sympathetic summoning by phrases, smells, situations. Tremor admitted them, reflecting on their relation to his current moment.
"Let my whetstone be truth, and if your hand is the one that ordains the edge, so much the better.
If I wanted to study War, I would go to Karrnath; Magic, I would go to Arcanix, Survival, I would go to Talenta; Eberron, I would go to the Gatekeepers; Politics, I would go to Wroat.
I am here because I want to study Diplomacy, the knowledge of people; how it blunts weapons and births peace, by word and by act."
..."Why are you here?" the Kobold could not know what he summoned, perhaps though, others might try the same, with purpose.
Tremor takes a moment to build the sense of thought and the organization of intent and revelation to Ming's question, irregardless of its attempt to leapfrog over the 17 steps to removing artifice.
"I have seen illusion, a phantasm of magic, display a Beholder, its fury, and the softened, distant violence."
The Halfling nodded in assent as the liquid was poured. When lifted, Tremor only mimicked a drink, only allowing a small bit of liquid to the tip of his tongue, which he then evenly meted over his lips. Mind sifting through toasts.
"To family." Then waited.
"I am here to learn about the Distillery, its crops, its makers, its travels, its costs, and its taste.
Here is oft times a series of turns, one such turn, brings me to this shop, to you."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:45, Fri 07 Dec 2018.
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The GM
GM, 369 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 12 Dec 2018
at 05:38 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Ming
Ming toasted. "To Family." He agreed, and drained the liquor. Its flavor was complex, not the simple sweetness of the Pub's brew. Woods, spices, and something beyond his considerable palate. Tremor felt a tingling in his lips where he'd moistened them with the kuryeva. "I have read some tales that have come from Khorvaire, stories for children. Many of the heroes depicted are simple farmers, or sons of farmers, or fools. One was even of a tailor. They go to seek their fortune, and face mighty threats and challenges--even giants. I always suspected there was more than a little license taken with these stories, for how could a fool, no matter how brave, conquer giants." His eyes had dilated from reptilian slits to ebon blackness. "Yet here am I, a tailor, so how can one deny the truth? The children know." The kobold set the glass down.
"There is a person in the city: Calynden d’Lyrandar. He is known as the Kraken because he is deadly and powerful but never seen until he strikes. We have information that someone in Stormreach is plotting his death, and they will act--at the party you are arranging. Ensure he lives." |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 90 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 12 Dec 2018
at 11:51 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Daunting.
Certainly something not in a child's story. I accept this task."
Perhaps it was time to reacquaint with the bodyguard.
"I will have need of my suit, just a common cloth version. I have need for tailor services for a friend, is there some one you can recommend who could accommodate on two day notice?"
The Halfling considers his attire for this evening.
"I need something of your stock, smart and clean."
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The GM
GM, 375 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 19 Dec 2018
at 02:27 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachMing
Ming agreed, and presented Tremor with acceptable garments for the evening.
"You may send your friend here, if you wish. Have them ask for the custom-fit. That will tell us who they are. No mistakes. Or if you wish, Thandy's handiwork off Market street is passable for anyone no taller than a dwarf; her hand is not so good for larger clothes. Or if you go to Respite, Nat'reths Fabric. Anyone but Durak. " The kobold then bowed. "I think you might just do." |
When Tremor rejoined Tap and collected Drift, it was hard on four bells. They headed back, tremor with his purchases, and Tap with his; he'd chosen the leaky haversack.
Tap had many questions, but only asked each once.
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Answers and Inquiries
Fri 21 Dec 2018
at 12:27 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe Halfling answered the questions, skirting any that dealt with his own absence and true dealings with the tailors.
This was a life worth living, right here, doing what is best in life. How many tales would Tap be part of in his life? What questions will he be asking in two years, in three years, in five?
Was it necessary to report back to Garreg? No, it seemed autonomy was best for today, tomorrow, yes.
Now it was the bodyguard that concerned Tremor. Located her and just seeing how her activities had been noted by the locals, what, if any activities imprinted on the eyes and ears of the city.
Now was the time to see. Tremor had a starting ooint, knew for whom the bodyguard had worked, when and where passage had delivered her. Knew her trade and appearance.
It was not money that needed to be spent, judicious questions, evoked observations, overheard conversations.
Tremor devoted the next hour or so to finding out where Doriah d'Hevian was or would be this night. Investigation
04:30, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 8 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 1. Investigation v Dory.
Lucky !
00:05, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 9 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 2. Lucky, Investigation v Dory.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:06, Sat 22 Dec 2018.
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The GM
GM, 381 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 24 Dec 2018
at 09:08 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTap
"It has been a very interesting day. I do wish I had not lost my possessions."
| Checking for Doriah d'Hevian's whereabouts turned into a series of comical errors. A great many street people had seen, but not observed, and their lack of attention led Tremor down several blind alleys. She had been seen off the boat. Dragonmarks were like that. On the way to the Lodge, and nearly to it, Tremor found someone who swore he'd seen heading to the Leaky Dinghy. Or the Runaground Tavern. Checking there with Falgor Finney, he heard the story of the arrival of several groups of oddly assorted ne'er-do-wells. Doriah was in the company of Old Fish, but they did not leave together. Finney thought that d'Hevian had gone to the Silver Lodge. And Tremor was out of time if he wished to keep his appointment.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 91 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 25 Dec 2018
at 08:00 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Oh, By the Host, could I enjoy this any more? How have They put this here before me, am I to learn some lessons of parenthood?
"Tap, did you in fact, 'lose' any possessions this day? Might it be better to say it was taken from you?
Consider Tap, all races, all people of those races, we all have questions, our lives are spent in pursuit of answers. We all find answers to certain questions, there are none of us, able to answer all questions. This is why we have fiends and family. To an extent we have family chosen for us by the Host, some family we chose ourselves. Friends are much the same.
Friends and family are how we answer questions we can not answer ourselves, and some answers can be paid for with coin or courage.
Here, take back what was taken from you. Know that it was taken because someone was paid to take coin from you, knew that you had it, simply not the method by which you carried it. It was returned to me to give to you, when the mistake was realized."
Tremor hands over that which was taken.
Tremor will answer more questions and answers will come in the form of philosophy and little fact.
The finding of the bodyguard, movements and likely location is tucked away, and now it was tie to dress, and travel to the Livewood Theater to meet Lady Jalia, Tremor need to be there early in order to claim his two seats and acquaint himself however quickly with the layout, in order to guide his companion, who, while likely she may be familiar, best to be prepared.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:16, Fri 28 Dec 2018.
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The GM
GM, 386 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 27 Dec 2018
at 10:25 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tap
There was no way for Tap's face to show pleasure, but Tremor imagined the warforged was grinning widely. "I see. My thanks. I have much to consider about this day. Enjoy the theater. Please forgive me if I remain at home to contemplate my experiences. I shall think on what you have said."
|  The Onxy fountain was perched in the center of the plaza, the solid black stone spraying water from its mouth, nose and back. The spray from the back formed itself into two large ephemerous wings that flapped slowly and ponderously. On the west side of the plaza was the staid and incongruous cathedral of the Silver Flame. Tremor could tell that the investment into this structure was far above what efforts have been made at the Lodge he'd seen earlier. But the two buildings were alike in their refusal to bow to the architectural bent of the surroundings; the Thranes would be Thrane, and their temples would be Thranish, no matter the cost. To the north the gates to the Phiarlan studios, galleries, and recital halls was framed with two black stone columns that echoes the dragon fountain without detracting from it.
The tall livewood trees that formed the east wall of the plaza dominated the space. Closely grown the trees embraced one another with their leafy arms and left only a single tall arch in the center as a means of ingress. The wall, perforce of natural growth, was not a perfect barrier, but the close growth meant that it would require some concerted effort to penetrate it. Paying guests were beginning to file inside.
Tremor was well pleased with the clothing, the fit was comfortable, and the colors, though less bright than tremor would choose, was still very presentable.
In a circle about the dragon and another circle along the walls a bevy of shop carts and stalls had sprung up: favors and delicacies for the wealthy theater goers. The vendors clamored for attention, shouting "Nuts and sweets!" or "Fresh bouquets!" There were also several umbrella stalls. Tremor had no umbrella.
And she was there: Lady Jalia Ramires. She smiled, and waved. Tremor was sure, at him. She too, had no umbrella.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 92 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 28 Dec 2018
at 11:46 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Tremor smiles at Tap's choice, grooms himself as best as he is able and moves to exit with a wave to Tap.
Upon seeing Jalia, Tremor appraises his choices that brought him to this place, to meet this Lady, to continue the story, halfway around Eberron from his birthplace.
Tremor thought to remind himself to light some candles the next time he visited the church.
The Halfling waved back and straightened and tugged down his shirt, using hands to then smooth out his sleeves.
"It is a delight to see you again.
Can you tell me there is no need of umbrellas?"
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The GM
GM, 388 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 30 Dec 2018
at 19:35 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Jalia Ramires
"I never worry about the weather. But don't you clean up nicely? Let us buy one in the event; and keep those lovely locks of yours dry, just in case." She pointed at the nearest umbrella stall. "Have you seen the Phiarlan perform? I attended a show once, now it must be five years, or more. Here they share the stage with others blown to Stormreach. I think it is more real, since they cannot all rely on illusion. A touch of truth makes all the lies more believable." She smiled warmly. "But, tell me of your transformation: this is not the attire of a distillery wage hand. There is more to you than meets several eyes."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 93 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 1 Jan 2019
at 06:49 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"This Transmutation is a fairly simple one, a few replacement pieces of cloth and what seems to be a claim upon my person by a tribe of Orc, by shear and some part of submission I played, its all _very unclear.
Though I am still listed on the playbill as a wage hand, I will also be paying the part of the simple Halfling who needs to enjoy song with the adventurous, marvelous friend made just this very day.
Come, come... we will enter the Livewood and let the elements play as they will, be it light blessing or tempest.
And yes, I have attended a comedy put on by Phairlan, I thought it subversive, an undertone of political play, but then, I hear that sort of thing is popular with the Brelish.
What I need is advice, from a citizen of Stormreach, a friend, do you know of any places of quiet in the city, where one could go to find peace?
And yes, I do not include the temples of the Sovereign Host.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:16, Fri 04 Jan 2019.
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Fri 4 Jan 2019
at 09:02 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Jalia Ramires
"Oh? Marvelous! Though I ought to say, there's nothing simple about you, Tremor. I should like to hear all about your 'submission,' that sounds intriguing." They entered the Livewood arm in arm, as the orchestra ran through its opening notes. A crowd pressed through before and after them. "The Company only charges half-price for the rehearsal, still... The people crave the entertainment, and at a cut-rate price. The audience for rehearsals is larger than the opening day. I should expect to see subversion, at the least. These are the artists flung off from the spinning gyre of Khorvaire--the outre', the outcast, the rebel. The show I saw was a stinging indictment on the Last War." The gate had Tremor's name, and they filed through.
The world changed.
The living walls towered over the two, swept in by the currents and eddies of the crowd. Tremor's eyes swept up; the ceiling inside appeared twice as high as from without. The foliage arced overhead into a solid-seeming dome of green. The atmosphere felt denser, the spaces seemed larger, and smoke and motes of light filled the air. The orchestra pit looked filled, but Tremor's keen eye soon picked out the members of the band who were merely mirror-images of the real musicians. The sounds of complex tuning called back into Tremor's past. Lady Ramires pointed to where they were located. "'Wage hand', indeed. Nobody who's nobody gets seats like those." There was a brief spell of silence, and the orchestra quieted. They were able to descend the last rows of steps and shimmy into their places. The wood of the benches was soft and warm. The motes of light that suffused the space dimmed. In the quiet, and the dark she said "There is a place I go. There are no other places of peace in the city for me." In the half-light of the stage before them, and in the low opening notes of the concerto, she turned to him. "I'll take you there after, if you want."
There was a surge of applause as the lights extinguished completely. A single note heralded a glowing figure dropping from somewhere over the stage. He fell, illuminated with yellow light and apparently struck the stage and vanished. Tremor noticed the clever trampoline and the shift from yellow to black as the performer was launched up again. Another had dropped, purple, this time, and soon the area over the stage was filled with a seeming rain of acrobats. They fell, overtly, and then jumped back upwards covertly; a shared secret between the leapers and the audience. Jalia was nodding along to the rising music. | ♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBca3xf-j3o&t=13s">Echoes</a>
Overhead the albatross hangs motionless upon the air
And deep beneath the rolling waves in labyrinths of coral caves
The echo of a distant time comes willowing across the sand
And everything is green and submarine
And no one showed us to the land
And no one knows the where's or why's
But something stirs and something tries
Starts to climb towards the light
Strangers passing in the street
By chance two separate glances meet
And I am you and what I see is me
And do I take you by the hand
And lead you through the land
And help me understand the best I can?
And no one calls us to move on
And no one forces down our eyes
No one speaks and no one tries
No one flies around the sun
♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬ | | The acrobats had ceased their rain, and formed out of their bodies a writhing undersea coral fortress. Tremor could not quite tell precisely when the actors moved aside for the practical set to be moved into place, but the whole effect seemed ingenious. At one point a pod of illusory dolphins frolicked and gamboled over all the audience's heads. When the music had collected itself, and resumed its rhythm, first one, and then another acrobat climbed, flipped, and flung themselves down from the tops of the towers. This time, upon striking the trampoline they glowed bright, and soared upwards like fireballs. | ♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬
Cloudless every day you fall
Upon my waking eyes
Inviting and inciting me to rise
And through the window in the wall
Come streaming in on sunlight wings
A million bright ambassadors of morning
And no one sings me lullabies
And no one makes me close my eyes
So I throw the windows wide
And call to you across the sky
♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬ | When the last performer had flashed upwards, and the last notes floated away, Tremor saw the motes had relit themselves, only a dimmer blue, fist-sized blue bubbles. He spied a pixie flashing about and adjusting them. The applause began again, but it seemed muffled, as though under water.
| Lady Jalia Ramires
"Thank you so much for this." she said, and tiny bubbles wobbled upwards as she spoke. |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 94 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 7 Jan 2019
at 07:50 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach The performances, the music, the conjured presence of undersea experience, all very ethereal.
"Did you see the Fae?
I confess, this performance, the song, it spoke to me; here.."
Tremor uses his forefinger and taps it over his heart.
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Sun 13 Jan 2019
at 19:53 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Jalia Ramires
"Fae?" She looked along Tremor's pointing finger "No, I didn't. Oh! They're helping!" She laughed, and it was a sweet sound. "'Strangers passing in the street.' That could be us, couldn't it?"
| Veri l'Sivius
The face and figure of the barker, Veri l'Sivius appeared on the stage, but strangely widened, deformed, a comical caricature of himself. "Fair ladies, kind gentlemen. At this point in the stage production of Globach and Lothar is still being scored, the transition to the island city above shall be effected by these lights, your indulgence, and... music." There was a change of light, and a rising music. The city-scape on the stage changed, became a nighttime scene, with a couple strolling along the street. | Lady Rusila ir’Clarn
The row of stringed insturments started a sonorous growl. The woman was Rusila ir’Clarn, the man, unknown; some other; a handsome man paid her no heed. Beautiful as she was, he had eyes only for the other women that passed along the street. Silently, she protested, he rebuffed her. She changed tack directing her protests at the crowd of women, and while she violently chastised the women, he drew a short blade. He seemed as surprised as she, when he plunged the dagger into her back. She faced the audience. As the man pursued the women across the stage she stood, arms spread, and stared at the audience in frank accusation. | ♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROdo0k-9NDM">Furious Angels</a>
Like a sentence of death
I’ve got no options left
I’ve got nothing to show now
I’m down on the ground
I’ve got seconds to live
And you can’t go now
‘Cause love, like an invisible bullet has shot me down and I’m bleeding – yeah, I’m bleeding
And if you go, furious angels will bring you back to me
will bring you back to me
♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬ | | The man moved upwards, mostly focusing on the women he pursued. Her cloak stained itself with her blood. When she was gowned in scarlet from head to heel, others arose at her feet, garbed in crimson. They set out, in a pack, chasing after the man. | ♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬
You’re a dirty needle
You’re in my blood
And there’s no curing me
And I want to run
(Like the blood from a wound)
To a place you can’t see me
‘Cause love, like a blow to the head, has left me stunned and I’m reeling – yeah, I’m reeling
And if you go, furious angels will bring you back to me
You’re a cold piece of steel between my ribs and there’s no saving me
And I can’t get up from this wet crimson bed that you made for me
‘Cause love, like a knife in the back, has cut me down and I’m bleeding – yeah, I’m bleeding
And if you go, angels will run to defend me – to defend me
‘Cause I can’t get up
I’m as cold as a stone
I can feel the life fade from me
I’m down on the ground
I’ve got seconds to live
Then what’s there that waits for me?
‘Cause love, like a sentence of death has left me stunned, and I’m reeling – yeah, I’m reeling
And if you go, furious angels will bring you back to me
♬ ♪ ♬ ♬ ♪ ♬ | | The angels in red caught up with the man, the women he pursued were transformed into scarlet denizens, too. They flung him down; there was a seeming splash at the stage floor, and a crimson stained skeleton rose in his place. The woman, Rusila, though it hardly seemed to be her any longer, decayed before the eyes. She reached for the ruin of the man. With her hand, now gone completely to bone, she raised him up and in a ghastly display of affection, the two skeletons embraced, and lipless, they kissed. | Lady Jalia Ramires
The woman sitting beside him had no words, only a solitary tear tracing down the side of her face. The Bear had said, tears could lie, but Tremor felt that in this case, it was truth.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 100 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 18 Jan 2019
at 12:09 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach It was vivid, operatic.
Tremor was swept up by the display, the story, the theatre of it. larger than life.
Going back and listening again, for the vocal skill, it might take a few more viewings before the art settled.
Tremor looked over, he saw the reaction Jalia was having, for some reason he felt closer to her now having shared this performance.
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Thu 24 Jan 2019
at 18:53 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Jalia Ramires
The next segment was a traditional acknowledgement of the Traveler, dressed in tattered yellow rags and a veil over his face. As Cassilda spoke, Jalia, still silently weeping, turned to Tremor.
"Can we... get out of here?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 102 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sat 26 Jan 2019
at 11:24 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Without saying a word, Tremor pats her hand gently, stands and makes way for an isle.
Once there he turns to offer a hand, then allows Jalia to take lead, following her out.
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Sat 26 Jan 2019
at 16:32 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Jalia Ramires
They walked together for a space, out across the Onyx Dragon plaza. Tremor noticed a halfling boy selling roses at a stall. "I said I would show you my place of peace." She explained. "I thought... It caught me by surprise. I didn't think. I didn't think it would upset me as much." She headed for the entrance to Forgelight, showing Tremor the way..
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 103 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 28 Jan 2019
at 11:17 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "You thought...
Was it the depiction of the Traveler? Something else?"
Tremor walked with Jalia and thought perhaps engaging in the cause might drain whatever alarm from her mind, replace that alarm with the act of concern for her well being.
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Wed 30 Jan 2019
at 01:20 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Jalia Ramires
Her hand was firm in his.. "No. The Traveler is a friend that I've not yet met. The... thought.. It was the idea. The idea of love. Love strong enough to resist death. or to embrace it" Forgelight was quiet in the night. The forges were silent, and the workers gone to their beds. As they moved to Respite, she asked: "What do you know of Delera's Watch?" |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 104 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 30 Jan 2019
at 06:22 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "Not a thing. Tell me a story."
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Thu 31 Jan 2019
at 06:16 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Jalia Ramires
She still seemed to be working to control her emotions, as they walked alon the now-quiet, but still glowing forges. One lone smith still labored in the distance, the single hammer strikes making a counterpoint to their footsteps.
Tremor had not come unprepared to Stormreach, he'd done some research, and he knew that Delera Omaren was one of the Stormreach founders, her descendant Paulo still held the title Storm Lord. One detail that had stuck in Tremors head was that she had gifted the land around her family tomb to be used as a graveyard for those who could not afford any other place. A pauper's gravesite; Delara's Watch was a necropolis.
"Once there was a handsome lord. He was well liked by his people, and was expected to succeed in his estate. His siblings were none of them equal to his capabilities as a leader, nor his prowess in the art of war. He could keep his people safe and prosperous. His juniors were too well accustomed to riches to have a care for the way of rule, and chose to spend their time honing their skills at subterfuge and politicking. It would have amounted to nothing at all, for he could keep hs siblings in check. As long as he minded them. But then something happened; a distraction. He met a Lyrandar who stole his heart away."
She stopped speaking then, and the hammer fell silent. Overhead the Sword shown fitfully against a sky dark with clouds. The wind was picking up, and the first few sprinkles of what Tremor knew would be a torrent soon came down. Jalia was heedless, her eyes fixed upon a time and place that Tremor felt sure was long gone.
"What would you sacrifice for love?" she asked. |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 105 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 31 Jan 2019
at 09:48 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "Not one single thing would I sacrifice. I accept that when love comes, it is embraced as it is. No matter its shape, size or sensibility.
Conversely, I am to be accepted as I am. There is no sacrifice between equals, it is when one side is not as equal, that bargains are made. For a bargain, one must lose something to gain another thing.
In that way, madness lies. Because love is transformational. It makes the sum of the parts greater than the whole."
After speaking the words, Tremor realized that those words likely were not something Jalia would agree with.
"Do we have different ideas about sacrifice?"
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Thu 31 Jan 2019
at 19:46 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachLady Jalia Ramires
The gate to Respite loomed over them as they crossed into the sedate and calming district. Far above, a castle hovered at a somewhat canted angle.
She shrugged. "It's good to be wealthy and powerful. The Lord was good at being a Lord. But a noble may not keep his title nor can a Dragonmarked heir keep property. When they decided to be together, they lost all they had. I don't disagree, they were more than they were, but there was still a cost. They were surrounded by family who hated their decision. The Lord's eldest brother took up the mantle of the Lord, and immediately began using his influence for personal gain. The land suffered, and the people. The revolt that took place killed the fledgeling lord, and the rest of the siblings lost no time in squabbling over the title, and blaming the ex-lord for leaving.
Meanwhile the House, which had had plans to marry the young heir to another in the house made life for the couple uncomfortable in the extreme." she said.
Delera's Watch was class division made manifest for the dead. In the center were the tombs of the old StormLords, and around that were the less grand pirate tombs, their gold making the raiders nearly as important as those founders. Then there was a ring of merchants, explorers, and other such ne'er-do-wells as came up with the coin in even less conventional ways.
And then the graves of the paupers, graves without number, circled about those.
"There are more dead than living in Respite." She said it like it was a saying, and they picked their way carefully around the often unmarked graves of the destitute. She stopped in front of a pair of stones. "The couple was hounded, they fled and traveled about the Five Kingdoms, but the reaches of the spiteful lords, and influence of the Dragonmarked House were too great. Finally they came to Stormreach, and there they found a sort of calling. There's a word the Tulita use to denote some-one who takes up the cause of the people. Heʻe nalu. Those who ride the wave and are not subject to it. They built a home, and a family. A darling girl..." She swallowed back a choke. "But ... the sea takes, and it does not give back. Their murderer was never found. The rumor was this was a last act of the House to send a message to other 'marked who might desire to stray."
The stones read: "Davos ir'Amires beloved husband and father" and "Jaliyah d'Lyrandar beloved wife and mother."
"There are no holy places in Stormreach, but this is a place of peace."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 109 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 5 Feb 2019
at 11:49 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | {*}: | Oh there are clues, a bond existed.
It was a story that would touch any heart, and Halflings hearts were larger than most all children of Eberron. Can there be peace with so deep a well of sadness or longing? The twins birthed of Grief, stood as silent companions, they might be in stature measured to the knee, or as Titans.
Yes, this place can be of peace, but its visitors may need time to join that peace.
Blessed is this place, may Boldrei continue to bless this place for its purpose and equity to all. |
Tremor walked slowly, trying to be as silent and as undisturbing a presence as possible. Now he had some inkling...
Was Inkling a creature conjured by scriveners? Was there a word for a mere glimpse of an idea by storytellers?
...of what trust Jalia had, to speak so, to share the story, let alone the place.
"Is it possible you are part Halfling, you tell a story like one. "
Tremor turns to the stones and having read them, speaks to them.
"Well met Davos ir'Amires and you Jaliyah d'Lyrandar. This is my first visit, I expect to see you often I come to Delera's Watch.
I am a bit of a conversationalist, so I may speak to you from time to time, I am told it is an endearing trait. Listen as you like, I may whisper so to not make the others jealous."
Turning back to Jalia, "Come, show me the nooks and crannies, your favorite small places."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:05, Thu 07 Feb 2019.
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The GM
GM, 412 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Thu 7 Feb 2019
at 21:22 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTheme Music
Tremor had been taking in the surroundings as he spoke; ever attentive to surroundings, as he'd been taught. The only other person in the Watch at the moment was about a hundred yards away, a tall pale man in dark clothes. He moved slowly along with the aid of a staff that glowed faintly as he illuminated first one and then another gravestone.
Thinking of the Inkling reminded Tremor of the time he'd told Lazarumbear of his fanciful notion. It, and the time he'd answered 'Diplomacy' were two of the three times he'd heard the old sage laugh with true gusto. "And how do you know such a thing doesn't exist?"
While he spoke, the sprinkles turned to droplets of rain. Tremor knew they would become numerous and fat within the hour.
But when he turned back to Jalia after addressing her parents, he found that she'd lost what composure she'd had. Overcome with grief, and other emotions, Jalia had sat down suddenly on a plinth. The statue above was an angel, arms cradling a babe. The rain fell onto the angel's face and hands, and the woman and the angel cried together.
Tremor did what any well bred man might do, to offer comfort, and she hung her arms on Tremor, and wept (somewhat noisily, thought the halfling) for a space of time thereafter. Several flashes of lighting flickered about as the storm came on. Maybe less than an hour, judged Tremor.
Lady Jalia Ramires
When she could, she spoke again. "After I found them again... I got headstones.... And I swore... that I would find whoever did this." She looked into Tremor's eyes, and the lightning flashed again. "Whoever they are. No matter how powerful they are.... They stole everything from me, and now I will take everything from them." The thunder boomed its acknowledgement, and the rain fell around them.
Tremor noted the man he'd seen earlier. He was moving purposefully toward the couple, the light from his stick keeping him from stumbling on the stones between them.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 110 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 8 Feb 2019
at 08:00 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach There is a time when Tremor just holds Jalia and after she looks him in the eyes, he stills his mind and just listens, accepts.
For moments, there was no rain, no storm, no stones, no city, all of Eberron was a plinth and a single statue.
"Quite the declaration, an epic to be told in days or weeks. I foresee only one wrinkle which is... death by saturation.
Shelter is what we need now."
Of the approaching man, Tremor had mild curiosity, his eyes scanned for others, in among the stones and farther, for exits or places of incline to move up above the field.
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The GM
GM, 414 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 11 Feb 2019
at 18:53 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThere were overgrown arches that provided shelter from the storm, which decided to come down in full force as they moved to cover. Tremor suspected that this rain would not, in fact be lethal in itself. But he wondered if there was something else in the rain, which might be.
Jalia was a mess. Her multiple layers of garments became sodden, and heavy with rain. Her make-up was a shambles. 'When the façade is pulled down, the architecture is revealed.' was something Lazarumbear had said more than once. But things seemed safer once out of the torrent. Tremor made a mental note to revise (again) his estimation of how quickly Stormreach weather changed.
He eyed the distance between the approaching man and the cemetary gate, and judged that, even encumbered he and Jalia would be able to outrun whatever threat the approaching man might present. In fact they could both climb up to an advantageous position, if she could be persuaded to shed her dress (which now seemed to weigh an additional twenty pounds).
Tremor also judged the approaching man in terms of threat. He did not seem to be much of a physical threat, though that meant little in a world ruled by magic. But magic was a tool, and tools were wielded by people, and Tremor knew people. This one did not look prepared to attack. He stopped at the statue near Jalia's parents; about twenty yards away.
"Is everything all right? I heard a cry." he asked in a loud voice.
Beyond the man in black, Tremor saw a movement out in the graveyard. A figure running, or loping towards them. It would reach the man first.
There was another flash of lightning overhead, and Tremor saw the unmistakable features of a ghoul, moving swiftly through the heavily rain-swept graveyard.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 111 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 12 Feb 2019
at 00:25 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "Thank you, just a little overwhelming, our visit. I think...
By the Host Behind you! there's ...."
Tremor exclaims with a controlled shout, pointing in the direction of what he sees.
Tremor looks for a way for Jalia to climb upwards, trying to turn her with his hands.
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The GM
GM, 417 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 12 Feb 2019
at 19:54 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachOOC: Jalia is at Disadvantage for all physical activities, in her fancy, and sodden dress. Tremor can Help her climb, or help her out of her dress, which would remove the condition. Heavy Rain makes all Perception rolls at a Disadvantage. Do you have a weapon? The arches are overgrown, and so there are vines to grab. Getting up is DC 10. The gate to Delera's Watch was about one hundred and fifty yards away (90 degrees to the right, if one had one's back to the overgrown arch, and was facing the direction the ghoul was approaching). The ghoul is about 20 yards behind the man.
The man tossed a look behind him and began running full-out towards Tremor and Jalia. The ghoul howled and pursued.
Theme Music
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:35, Wed 13 Feb 2019.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 112 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 13 Feb 2019
at 05:07 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Tremor will Aid Jalia in Climbing (gives Advantage, so even roll) and if he sees she is doing poorly, (donate a d6)
"Alright, up and up the vines, much better view from above, here we go."
Tremor will not himself climb up but stay in readiness to help the running man climb as well when he arrives. Then the idea of leading off the... problem by leading a merry chase amongst the stones does enter his mind.
To the man as he approaches, "Grab the vines, climb" Aid him as well.
OOC: I think Tremor would have a Dagger and a sling
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The GM
GM, 422 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 20 Feb 2019
at 06:25 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Jalia Ramires
Jalia was swearing like a sailor, and severely deprecating the city guards for harassing good folk during the day, and conspicuously absent at night. Tremor noted a few turns of phrase he was unfamiliar with, that seemed both physically and morally impossible. But she nodded, and kicked off from Tremor's cupped hands. She scrambled up the wall like a squirrel, and now Tremor saw the reason why: her black slippers glittered with a webwork tracery on the tread, and gave her a supernatural purchase. From the top of the arch she called down: "I swear this is the first time I've seen a ghoul in the Watch. They better not be chewing on my parents!." This thought consumed her with rage, and Tremor could hear the ripping of fabric accompanying her curses of the guards, ghouls, and society in general. | The Man In Black
The man panting ran up to Tremor. In his hand was a short magical rod or focus with a crystal skull atop it. The skull was the source of the glow the man had used to avoid stumbling over the gravestones as he ran. "Thank you for that shout. Ironically I was coming over to warn you. I saw the spoor. Not what I expected." He spoke with a faded Kaarnathi accent, but Tremor recognized it. The man had obviously spent some time in Breland, enough to alter his idiom. He accepted Tremor's help somewhat more awkwardly than the nimble Jalia. "Don't let it touch you. I'll cover you from above." | Tremor pushed the man up and observed the monster running closer. It was inhuman in the way it moved, jerky and unnerving. It snuffled and growled as it ran, bounding over the headstones. Its arms and legs did not seem properly jointed, and the face looked partly dog-like, and partly human-like, where it was not covered in filth and gore. The eyes, though were clear and shining and very hungry. It was naked save for a small scarlet amulet around its neck.
OOC:the first round Tremor helped Jalia, and the man closed to close range. Jalia freed herself from her sodden dress and readied a hand crossbow that she produced from 'somewhere.' The second round Tremor helped the man up, and the ghoul closed to close range. Both the npcs are atop the overgrown archway. The ghoul will be at close range at the end of this round, and Tremor still has a move action of his own before the ghoul arrives.
So: give me a move action, and then a full combat round for Tremor. Let me know what your AC is. You are up! |  Ghoul
Armor Class 12 Hit Points 22
Bite. Melee: +2 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d6 + 2) piercing | | Claws. Melee: +4 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d4 + 2) slashing. DC 10 Con save or paralyzed. |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 113 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 20 Feb 2019
at 12:25 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach
Tremor scrambles up the vines after the Man in Black, as he does he is wary of the attacker, making sure to avoid a touch
Cunning Action: Disengage if the Ghoul is close enough for an AOO by my Movement
Second-Story Work climbing no longer costs you extra movement
AC: 13 | No Armor, DEX +3, base 10 AC
Climb
04:18, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 12 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 6. Climb vines in Watch.
Once up above, Tremor turns, drawing his dagger and starts to cut the vines, to thwart any attempt to climb up after him.
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The GM
GM, 426 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sat 23 Feb 2019
at 17:34 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Tremor scrambled up safely and then began hewing at the vines that made the arch so easy to climb. They came away reluctantly, but he sawed even more furiously as the ghoul ran up. Tremor flung the plant matter down at the furious creature.
OOC: the DC for climbing went from 10 to 15.
The ghoul snarled, momentarily thwarted, and gouged the stone. It grinned then, and digging its claws into the crumbling stonework began to methodically move up the side of the structure. | Lady Jalia Ramires
Jalia had cut away her soaking dresses, heedless that she was now clad in only a whalebone bodice and slip. She aimed the crossbow at the ghoul and let fly. The bolt embedded itself in the monster's eye, but the gore crusted features just grinned, and it continued to climb. | Karl
"My name is Karl, by the way." He gestured with his rod at the creature and there was a low muffled gong sound which seemed to wrap itself around the ghoul's head. It screamed as the wound in its head tore itself open. The lifeless creature tumbled down and splattered on the ground. "One down, but my comrades, the ghoul hunts in packs." he gestured. | | Tremor saw the motion now of seven more of the monsters. Four were running on the ground to get near the base of the arch they had climbed. Three more were already climbing the arches thirty feet away from their position. Overgrown vines had blocked the top of the archway, but if that obstacle could be overcome, then they would have a straight shot at the gate to the graveyard. | Ghoul
Armor Class 12 Starting Hit Points 22
HP 22 13 -1 | Bite. Melee: +2 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d6 + 2) piercing
Claws. Melee: +4 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d4 + 2) slashing + DC 10 Con save or paralyzed. |
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| ground | 5 6 7 8 | | | | | | | | | 1(dead) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Gate Exit |
|---|
| archtop | 2 3 4 | | | | | | | | | T J K | | | | * | * | * | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|---|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 114 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 24 Feb 2019
at 09:12 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Well met Karl. I am Tremor Enkau Valevine. I will try and clear the way."
Tremor will move towards the vines that block the way to the gate.
Move Action: 15 ft.
STandard Action: Perception check for Movement dangers, weak stone, problems for Medum sized creatures, as well as Small.
Right hand: Dagger
Left hand : Empty
01:12, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 16 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 11. Perception v hazards and problem with Arch and vines.
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The GM
GM, 430 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 27 Feb 2019
at 03:13 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor saw that the vines covered the top of the archway from side to side. It could be cleared (one action clears a square). If one wished to vault over or smash their way through (a DC 10 roll against Acrobatics or Athletics) it would not be hard. But if the attempt to bypass the obstacle failed the springy vines would tend to snap back (the attempt costs 10' move).
OOC Tremor still has an action, What do you do?
| ground | 5 6 7 8 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Gate Exit |
|---|
| archtop | 2 3 4 | | | | | | | | | J K | | | T | * | * | * | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|---|
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:40, Wed 27 Feb 2019.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 117 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 27 Feb 2019
at 03:21 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Tremor uses his dagger and clears the first vine covered arch section.
|
The GM
GM, 431 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Wed 27 Feb 2019
at 21:20 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
| Tremor cleared the brush in front of him, but the vines behind the first square were thicker. (DC 10 use tool (knife) as an action to clear the next square.) | Lady Jalia Ramires
Jalia continued to shout invectives and epithets at the uncaring ghouls. She swore to execute every last one of them, as she let another bolt fly. The bolt struck a ghoul, sticking out of its chest like a flag. She brandished her blade, though none were in reach. She stopped shouting when she realized Tremor had backed away. She followed suit and standing next to him asked "So we're going to take them, right? You're going to help me kill 'em all? Right?" | Karl
"Technically, they are not alive." His cantrip, so successful in the previous instance, this time completely failed to affect the ghoul. "Although I can only concur with the sentiment. It seems they have much the same notion about us." He backed away from the creatures as well. "Do we have a plan?" he asked, somewhat hopefully. | | The ghouls rushed. The ones atop the arches dashed forwards, the ones on the ground ran alongside the arches, looking for an easy way up, or hoping the trio might choose to jump down. | Ghouls
Armor Class 12 Starting Hit Points 22
2 22 17
3 22
4 22
5 22
6 22
7 22
8 22 | Bite. Melee: +2 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d6 + 2) piercing
Claws. Melee: +4 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d4 + 2) slashing + DC 10 Con save or paralyzed. |
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| ground | | | | | | | | | | | | | 5 6 7 8 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Gate Exit |
|---|
| archtop | | | | | | | | | | | | 2 3 4 | J T K | | * | * | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|---|
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 118 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 28 Feb 2019
at 03:52 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "I am trying to make a way for all of us to escape. Just a couple more cuts."
Tremor begins to cut away the vines by slipping the dagger under and cutting away the most tangled parts.
MvA: Move 5 ft.
BsA: Fast Hands, Use Object, Dagger; Cut vines DEX, DC 10
MvA: Move 15 ft., over remaining vie sqr, and in next empty arch sqr.
StA: Aid other, help over the Vine sqr.
19:53, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 14 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 8. Vine removal, DEX DC 10..
19:54, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 23 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 17. Self move over 1 Vine sqr DC 10.
"Karl move to me, I will help."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:57, Thu 28 Feb 2019.
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The GM
GM, 433 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 3 Mar 2019
at 01:04 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
| Tremor once again cleared the brush in front of him. He scrambled over the rest of the brush. It was child's play compared to the impediments that the old Bear had set for him in the past. There was a tunnel... Tremor shuddered to recall that test. | Lady Jalia Ramires
"AAAAaaahhhh!" It was an inarticulate cry of rage, and Tremor felt that it might be directed at himself as much as at the undead necrophagi. She slashed at the throat of the nearest ghoul; she missed, and then scrambled towards Tremor. She panted, glared, and said nothing. | Karl
"Just a moment." He gestured in a very specific way and thick, dark webbing filled the spaces where the ghouls moved. He struggled over the viney overgrowth. Even with Tremor's help he barely made it. "It's very strange." he said casting a glance at the creatures writhing behind them. | | The ghouls seemed stuck fast, but two lurched free of the webbing. The one on the ground continued running along below their position. The ghoul atop the arches clambered inhumanly over the vines. It reached past Karl toward Jalia, but she ducked at just the last moment. "Not on a first date." she muttered. | Ghouls
Armor Class 12 Starting Hit Points 22
2 22 17 Restrained
3 22
4 22 Restrained
5 22
6 22 Restrained
7 22 Restrained
8 22 Restrained | Bite. Melee: +2 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d6 + 2) piercing
Claws. Melee: +4 to hit, one target. Damage: (2d4 + 2) slashing + DC 10 Con save or paralyzed. |
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| ground | | | | | | | | | | | | X | 6 7 8 X | | | | | | 5 | | | | | | | | | Gate Exit |
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| archtop | | | | | | | | | | | | 2 4 X | X | | | * 3 | T J K | | | | | | | | | | | |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 120 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 3 Mar 2019
at 03:43 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Tremor really just reacts , he thinks he can lever his size, the slippery stones of the arch and his experiences with climbing.
The attack was over him so, the Halfling pushed at the midsection of the dead and tried to push it off the walkway, making it fall.
Sta: Shove
http://www.5esrd.com/gamemastering/combat#TOC-Attack
Athletics check using a Hero Pt for Adv. before roll.
19:48, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 20 using 2d20, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 14,20. Shove v Ghoul, at Adv. -1.
Result:19 (20 -1)
NvA: turn and move 25 ft., towards the Gate
This message was last edited by the player at 03:49, Sun 03 Mar 2019.
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The GM
GM, 436 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 3 Mar 2019
at 06:02 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor moved with a lithe grace and applied just a few ounces of pressure at the right spot. The creature shrieked its rage as it tumbled off the raised archway.
And that was it. The trio ran swiftly to the gate, and there where the light was brighter, the undead pursuers hesitated. It was not much, but enough for Tremor to slam the gates shut. Karl panted, the exertion obviously just a bit more than he was used to.
Jalia, now somewhat less attired as a Lady, was pacing and growling.
The rain lessened, and became more of a mist drifting down.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 121 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 3 Mar 2019
at 07:34 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor turned, upon seeing Jalia pacing, turned again to Karl.
"We have to alert the Guard, the patrol. The Church, they have to send someone. By the Host that was a near brush. I am not eager to visit Dolurrh."
Tremor goes to Karl and checks to see he is unharmed, with a quick glance to Jalia.
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The GM
GM, 437 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Sun 3 Mar 2019
at 19:16 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Jalia Ramires
"The city guard? I do not think so. Those dragoons and I have some history, and I rather think that should I appear thus and ask that they investigate Delera's Watch that they would swiftly find the simplest solution to the problem would be to clap me in irons." Tremor could tell that she was trying very hard to contain her temper. | Karl
Karl took his black demi-cloak off and held it out to Lady Ramires. "Please." He said. "They did not act .. well 'naturally' is not the correct word. 'Normally.' Did you notice--" | Lady Jalia Ramires
"You know," she interrupted. "If you wanted to get rid of them all we could have done that just now. Sometimes... sometimes it's just best to deal with things yourself. Eh? Oh, thank you." She took the cloak, and then replaced her weapons. They vanished beneath the cloak. | Karl
"Actually, I suspect that going to the authorities would not be the best move for me, either. There have been in my past... some misunderstandings." |
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:00, Sun 03 Mar 2019.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 122 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Mon 4 Mar 2019
at 03:58 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach It was clear, the sentiment and... disagreeableness, from both made it more clear to Tremor his path in th e future. Must remember to tread away from the Watch for these two.
"This not being a regular occurrence... <looking for agreement> Something must have brought them up.
Finding out what that is could be important. There are likely those seven.
Can we make do with what we have?"
Tremor braced for the answer form Jalia, her current state, would sem to indicate one answer.
What time is it? Bells tolled, general time elapsed?
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The GM
GM, 442 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 12 Mar 2019
at 01:58 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachKarl had been peering after the receding ghouls. "They have retreated. This is most unusual. I would have expected a very different behavior. Once one had been brought down, one at least should have stopped to claim the body. But even so, the odd were not in our favor. And if any of us had fallen under their claws, there would have been a very different story."
Jalia seemed to have once again calmed her temper. "A short story. I'm sorry Tremor, you were right; fleeing was the sound move. I was carried away in the moment, and... Fortunately, we get to live another day."
Karl nodded. "It's strange they had that jewelry. A ghoul... is not the sort of creature to value appearances. They hunger, but do not adorn. If only we had had time to examine one of the bodies."
"I'm not going back in there. But I am starting to like the idea of getting a patrol of the city guard after all. If they chased me into Delera's Watch, they might be in for a surprise."
Karl looked concerned. "I don't think that would be wise. They will have freed themselves from my spell. I would come back in the morning, though. There might be some tell-tale left behind."
Tremor considered the time; they had departed the theater before the end of the show, but had crossed a goodly portion of the city to get to Delera's Watch. He would have time to make his rendezvous, if he did not tarry too much longer. It was after nine bells.
Jalia leaned close to Tremor "And don't think I didn't see what you did back there. You weren't all about running away."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:42, Tue 12 Mar 2019.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 125 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Tue 12 Mar 2019
at 11:14 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach By the the great harvests of Aundair, she can wear that cloak like a ball gown, how is it possible?
"Such a thing, it must have been an accident, imagine if it were known a Halfling stood against the Undead, the questions, the arguments."
A wry smile came to the Halfling's face as did a half dozen impulsive ideas, that lead to a quick peck on Jalia's cheek.
"Karl, " Tremor ducked and spun to face the companion survivor, "Where can we meet, where might I come to find you tomorrow or any day?
What about this evening or any evening after this? A sign, a campaign must be mounted. I have many question, which I love, though answers, I dearly love more."
|
The GM
GM, 444 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Tue 12 Mar 2019
at 18:16 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | |
Lady Jalia Ramires
Tremor did not fail to note the roses rising in her cheeks. Her eyes sparkled, and her smile was wide and warm. "Oh, doubtless. Accidents do happen. Though you seem brave enough." She held out her hand to Tremor, he saw a glint on her wrist. She flicked her wrist and the jewelry slid to the end of her fingertip. She extended this to the halfling. "A souvenir. This must have accidentally come off one of those fiends." The amulet chain was plain silver, the stone was scarlet, and intricately carved. "The only treasure I want to keep from this night is the one you just bestowed." | Karl
Karl shifted uncomfortably, cleared his throat. "I must rest, and I came... unprepared for conflict. I will return, but not until the sun is high overhead. Some things are best done in bright sunlight. Others... they are not." He cast a glance at the Watch gates, and Tremor thought it might only be the chill of the evening that made him shiver. "And now I beg your leave. You ought not tarry long so near the graves either. Seek some shelter. Tremor, I can be found at the Blissful Giant Inn, just there in Respite. If I am not there leave word with Leoamros." He bowed in the Karrn mode, and started to leave. | Lady Jalia Ramires
"You don't suppose he's one of those necromancers, do you?" she asked quietly. "I think I will seek shelter. My gown is in tatters, and my hair must be a fright. But next time, I think we should bring umbrellas. What do you think? Shall we go dancing?" She gave him another smile, and paired it with a wink. "We'll see what other brave accidents we can make together." |
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 126 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 13 Mar 2019
at 02:25 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "I look forward to our next soeaking."
A karrn observance, what is that story?
Turning back to Jalia, "By rights, I feel I am owed dancing, to reaffirm the joy of life.
Alas that I can not this eve. I have a prior commitment.
If I do not leave this instant, with all haste, I will be consumed by the Fury."
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Lady Jalia Ramires
Tue 19 Mar 2019
at 05:17 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Of course," she had said. Tremor was hastening back to the Onyx Fountain even as he recalled. "I would not have you consumed by Furies, or anyone else."
But even as he retraced his steps he wondered: had she really kissed him back? Something told him that she had. But she and he had to part, and his foot-falls carried him seemingly by leaps and bounds. For there would be dancing: "Tomorrow night," she had promised. He strangely felt that he was already dancing, and a part of his mind was thing of the tune that might go with the beat of his heart.
At the plaza, he slowed. The theater had let out, and most of the patrons had dispersed, idling their ways to inns or apartments in the upscale locations of Stormreach. Most of the sellers had moved on as well, carting their wares to whatever shelter they called home; it was a late night for these, many of whom would get up again at the break of dawn, beginning their work once more.
A few hardy umbrella salesmen still remained, the rain had stopped, and so had their opportunity. Everyone who needed the protection from the weather had it, or decided they would do without.
There was one flower seller who remained near the center of the plaza. Tremor eyed the halfling who seemed to be slowly destroying the wares, plucking the petals from each rose until there was nothing but a stalk with thorns, and then beginning again with the next flower.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 128 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 24 Mar 2019
at 10:18 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Now was the part whee calm had to embraced. Calm and orderly sorting of activity and a search for things that were a concern.
Looking about for signs of ambush, agents, lookouts, weapons. Perception
03:12, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 10 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 5. Perception v Ambush/Attack Onyx.
Then it was looking at his surrounds and looking for places of cover and escape.
Given that the number of days he had been in the city, Vrina may expect him to be less than punctual.
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Halfling Youth
Thu 28 Mar 2019
at 17:02 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachTremor observed the lone city guard in the plaza at the far end near Old Gate. Well dressed patrons of the Theater were dispersing; no-one there seemed concerned with anything but themselves. Only the halfling rose-seller seemed to command Tremor's attention. The youth paused in his destruction of the roses to gaze unwaveringly at Tremor.
Tremor did not possess the fine sensitivity to danger that the Dragonmarks of Sentinel had, but he was well-schooled, and felt secure at this place and time.
The halfling youth beckoned with a rose with a single petal remaining upon it. When Tremor was close enough to hear, the rose seller said: "You are a different matter. No one makes me wait this long. And yet I waited." The youth twirled the rose, then pulled the petal off and added it to the pile of rose petals. "That would be the last petal. Any longer and you would have been too late. What have you been up to?"
Tremor realised when she spoke it was the same voice that Vrina had. mentally he imagined different clothes, makeup, lighting were different-- the scope of the disguise was well within the scope of the mundane. The Pink Conch might have an edict against deception, but Vrina certainly had none.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 129 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Fri 29 Mar 2019
at 11:04 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach | {*}: | Always a pleasure to find he was worth waiting for. Yet.. the entire reason for being here is a test.
Verbal fencing with someone who did this for a living meant thinking ahead, counters to moves that lead to more counters. Indignation, surprise, argument form authority and the walkaway.
Was the voice simply close.. an excellent mimic, could he tell. More words were needed, this may be part of the test. A test of knowledge beyond what a simple stand-in, substitute may know.
If a counterfeit, to deliver a task, simple enough, should it matter, the message was delivered non-the-less. If.. then a test of the en garde. |
Friendly, bordering on jovial.
"I have been running my toes through tall grass, meeting family of a friend and keeping Watch for changes in weather.
Tell me, how harsh were you with the messenger, when she returned with new terms of our meeting?" Deception
Perhaps too easy, but a signal of caution... to the Vrina he met.
04:06, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 16 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 11. Deception she for he, re messenger
This message was last edited by the player at 11:07, Fri 29 Mar 2019.
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Vrina (presumed)
Fri 29 Mar 2019
at 16:44 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachThe rose seller leaned forward and Tremor recognised absolutely the honeyed voice, as the rose seller sniffed his ears: "I do not wish to unduly influence your decision, but the fate of poor Veri l'Sivius' moustaches rely entirely upon my estimation of this conversation." Tremor marveled. Only a modicum of magics was needed for the eye color, but that small detail sealed the rest of the disguise. So much was imputed to hair, ornaments, masquera, lip color, and even without illusion, there were so many variables, how much deception was there in the boudoir, that there could be so much more in its absence ?
"Grave soil." she said. "And the dead." She sniffed again, deeply. "And the living. Ohh, a sweet one, that. Did she kiss you first?" She blinked her eyes at Tremor "'A question not answered.' You have had a busy evening; I'll not waste our time with that. You suggested that I could obtain an answer, in exchange for a favor. I must be certain that you could obtain my answer without such consequences as would befall me if you failed. And so I propose a test. For you. There is nothing ill that would befall me if you fail, and much to be gained, by you, if you succeed." Her face was still very close to Tremor's. He felt the breath of her whispers.
"The Commander of the city Dragoons has a display case of weapons in his office. Among these is a case that once held a matched set of daggers. Whalebone hilt. Inscribed with scrimshaw. Now there is only one in the case. Obtain that knife, demonstrate to me that you have it. Then I shall make a bargain with you, for I know that you will succeed in my own quest." She purred up at Tremor's face.
"You have no idea how grateful I can be...." She smiled. "Keep the knife, it will be worth a fortune to the owner. Find the other knife, and it will be worth a fortune to you."
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 130 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Sun 31 Mar 2019
at 10:36 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach Tremor considered her words, looking for the signs that would tell him that 'poor Veri', his fate, had already been decided and she was not waiting for this conversation to resolve.
17:18, Today: Tremor Enkau Valevine rolled 19 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 14. Insight v Vrina re Fate of 'poor Veri'.
"A kiss at the parting.
I accept. Is there a way you prefer to be be contacted?"
Too keen a sense of smell, an observation that will be tested. All in all, a fair demonstration, a more harrowing rest could have been devised.
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The GM
GM, 451 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Mon 1 Apr 2019
at 05:57 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"'A kiss at the parting.' And is there no more to the story? I think there is, Oh you are a man, to tease such as I."
Tremor judged that her sense of smell was to keen, even for a halfling courtesan. Oh, there could be enchantments, some kind of spell coerced willingly or not from a sorcerer or wizard, but still, it seemed ... a true thing of the fair one before him. The Bear had oft said to be aware of the truth, when he saw it, for the truth was often the most dangerous thing in the room.
"Send word to the Conch. A message to me that the ... fish has been hooked. But I will want to see the fishhook, for myself. I'm intrigued. You really seem like you think you can do it."
OOC: Real fireworks are known but expensive, and generally not considered the worth of the price, but magical effects to the same or greater extent do exist, and are somewhat a common rite of passage for Eberron wizards. On the continent only the show would matter, but in Stormreach the pride in not using magic would be recognized as a statement of wealth, contrariness, or both.
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 131 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Wed 3 Apr 2019
at 08:23 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "Oh Vrina, _what have you set me to.. that you worry so?
Are you more vested in my failing, to see, that result, than the task?"
The fact that Vrina now knew where he would have to be, the object tasked to him, meant that Vrina could fiddle with any number of levers. The trick was to try and see those levers and her hand upon them, should exertion be made.
This may be a test of skill or a simple trade for information. Vrina did not feel the need to embellish, so gathering the information would be the fun part.
The week would not be dull, thank the Host for that. Mopping.. it may be a haven for peace in the coming days.
Tremor will Insight check Vrina's answer
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Vrina (assuredly)
Thu 4 Apr 2019
at 04:30 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach"Either I've placed you against a cruel master, or a mere pawn of a great evil. Or perhaps he is a very powerful person, and you are but a 'mop hand'. Would any feel less concern? But you mistake me indeed, if you think I hope for anything but your success. You are a key found on the street, and you could unlock things for me. If you do not break. 'One always hopes the coin gives just enough to the teeth'." That was a Zilargan proverb, one of many that dealt with money and its counterfeit.
"If you are the key that I seek you are very valuable to me. If not..." she shrugged.
Tremor felt almost certain that Veri was in no danger, not even his moustaches, but he knew that to ask again to be sure might provide Vrina substantial information about his own concerns. Even his original, casual, question might have given Vrina some small leverage over him. Vrina seemed well satisfied with their business. But she seemed hungry for more.
"What's her name?"
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Tremor Enkau Valevine
player, 133 posts
Mop Hand, Molou's Distill
Halfling, Zilargo accent
Thu 4 Apr 2019
at 05:26 | Re: 1: Becalmed in Stormreach "You think you found.. I recall it differently."
Tremor wags a finger, "I am sure you would not approve of any name I gave, so when I feel you are resigned to my choice, then you will have the name.
I will bid adieu, May the Host Bless you and keep you in all the days to come."
Tremor will take his leave with any parting words, barring being stopped and off towards the docks, checking to see if he is being followed, go to the Distillery, pick up a bottle and two goblets, then head out to the Silver Flame Lodge to meet with Doriah.
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The GM
GM, 454 posts
Fair Winds and
Following Seas
Fri 5 Apr 2019
at 02:10 | Re: 1: Becalmed in StormreachAs he made his polite farewell, Vrina's face displayed a fleeting emotion. One that he'd experienced himself when he and Vrina had first conversed. It was that feeling of being 'out-played,' and she seemed to take it with much less equanimity than Tremor had. She seemed unused to the feeling.
"I will be seeing you again, Tremor Enkau Valevine!" she called out to him as he crossed the plaza, flinging the rose petals into the wind. She sang the song again as he passed through the gate.
"Come in through the window, and I'll show you to the door ♬ ♫ ♪
There's a devil in the basement, underneath the floor
Devil in the basement, don't you look into her eyes
Or she'll know just you want, and your demons will arise
Devil in the basement, oh I wish she'd go away
I tried to talk to her, but I've got nothing left to say
Come in through the window, I'm going down to hell
Close the door on your way out, and tell the world I wish it well
Wooah, ohh, ohh, ohhhh" ♬ ♫ ♪ Vrina's Song
His path wound through streets cleared by rain of the filth and the throng. The smells were sea salt and some kind of night blooming flower that thrived in the jungles nearby. Tremor scanned his surroundings, but there was nothing of threat or danger.
'A kiss at the parting.' There had been that, and that was a great deal. And she had said 'treasure'.
Alston Scheppen Maelogilden Lazarumbear
In Korranberg, learning 'etiquette' there had been discussions of liaisons, and the punishments meted out for such students as would break that law. This worried Tremor little, for the haughtiness of the native Zilargans towards the halfling-born rendered any innate beauty moot. Tremor recalled another quiet walk with his mentor, The Bear:
"It's a good argument, and I particularly like the way you used quotes from the lecture to make your point. It is hard, after all, to disagree with oneself." The paper had been on the hazards of Truth. "'There is a delineation between Honesty and Truth, and one can be forthrightly Honest, and say not a word of Truth.' Too true." he'd chuckled at his own words. The old gnome stopped and looked sternly at Tremor; no one was about in the courtyard. Tremor had sought solitude, and The Bear had sought him.
Lazarumbear stooped and picked up a small stone. He held up the pebble "Truth spawns lies. If I say 'this is a stone,' it is one truth, from a narrow spectrum of truths. But the lies fan out in all directions. I could say 'it is a feather,' or 'it is a bone.' But because you see it the life of the lie is fleeting." He closed his fist. "Now, it could be a feather, or a bone, or nothing at all. The spectrum of potential lies and their potency has increased." He'd handed the stone to Tremor. It was small, smooth, grey, with a mottled white stripe. "If we give this to a geomancer, they could identify the stone's mineral content, give us the proper name; tell you if it is marble and granite, or sandstone... whatever. It's not sandstone. I theorise that if we should slice the stone by some means, and then slice the slices, and then so on and so on, we would arrive at a small chunk of stone that we could not say anything about that was not pure speculation. We could not even say exactly where it was, because it is so small. The potential for 'lies' about the tiny fragment of stone would overwhelm the 'truths' we could speak about it. That fragment. Only lies would hold sway. And the lies would be the only truth. But again, with a thing so small..." he shook his head. "At such a size the potency of the lies would be minimal, as unnoticed as the dust itself. "
As the walked along, the gnome reached into one of many pockets. He withdrew a Siberys dragonshard; a shining gold-colored crystal with lines of sky blue and yellow shot through. It was good quality, though worn on the ends and edges. "If I ask you what this is, you might say 'Dragonshard' and be as right as you could be. But what is a 'Dragonshard?' Is it a stone, or a bone? Is it a feather? No one really knows. And so we have here a presentable something that has those un-definable qualities we were just discussing. The potency of the lies might be enough to reshape reality, and what does a dragonshard do? Why, they enable great magics. Do you see?" Tremor kept pace as the old Bear's strides quickened. "What's missing is the interpretation of the lies as truths, or vice-versa. That's the part that turns this into more than a feeble thought exercise. Someone has to perceive the duality." The Bear had stopped again and looked with a combination of hope and fear into Tremor's eyes. "And what do we say when presented with a multiplicity of possibilities?"
There was but one answer to that question, though it was the one least voiced by the students. The other gnomes felt that this answer showed weakness of study, or intelligence. Tremor bravely gave that answer voice:
"I don't know."
Lazarumbear had grinned so widely that it threatened to split his head. "Indeed."
"I recall your reason for being here. I hope you understand that 'Diplomacy' is not the core of what we teach. Diplomacy is what people do to solve problems in relationships. None of the classes here teaches to solve problems. Here we give you tools for studying relationships, people, facts, lies. Not solutions. We have presented generations of students with the tools to understand and manipulate others, and given not a whit to what they will do with those tools when they leave. 'Trust, and be content.' There is no larger picture." He made a face, and stomped along. Tremor judged the conversation was not done, and so he'd gone along.
"I would like to propose for you an opportunity to work with me. Call it a Magister's project." He gestured around then and Tremor was not sure if he meant to encompass the University, Zilargo, or the whole of Eberron. "Will you help me?"
Tremor's answer changed the direction of his life forever. The threads that led him to Stormreach came into his grasp that day. As to what it meant, even now, he would have to answer 'I don't know.' The Bear was gone, and all Tremor had of him was the tiny tree, and the voiceless whispers of memory.
But the streets were safe, and Tremor was alive and triumphing over his obstacles. And there was Jaliah, who desired dancing tomorrow (or was it already today?) Tremor mused that there was enough time for a short rest before work. Tap had rigged the leaky haversack so that it would trickle water into a bowl for Drift. Drift was asleep. Tap was not sleeping, but seemed engaged in some quiet meditation over some warforged medallion. Tremor judged it prudent not to disturb Tap.
When he woke, early, he bade Tap make the proper excuses for him when he left to go to the Lodge.
OOC: if that is sufficient for you, then we shall wrap up this thread. If you want to make any further addendum, or challenge any thing I've stated, I welcome the details.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:31, Fri 12 July 2019.
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The Cast