Hello and welcome to my game. to start lets go over the rules.
1. must post once per day unless giving me prior notice.
2. Character sheets are to remain updated on dndbeyond so i can accurately track progression.
3. Be kind and respect full of others.
4.next as this is play by post lets try and focus more on role play take time think of how your character would truely react (ex. Cleric Saying a prayer to there god for spells actually write out a prayer for that spell)
Character Creation Rules
1. Standard array or point buy for your stats
2. Only official, Playtest and CritRoll Content allowed NO Homebrew!!
3. we will do chapter leveling other wise known as milestone
4. Give me a backstory for your character in that back story give me 1 secret, 1 long term goal, 1 short term goal your character has. (if you put it in the backstory section of dnd beyond me and you are only one that can see it so secrets will be safe)
Finally the world
The world of Astos is composed of islands scattered across it. Each has its own lifestyle and cultures just as any other place. Magic runs wild in the land it is embraced and loved across all the lands. but there's something foul coming many high priests can feel a change in their divination magic. people once restored to life by magic are growing ill. those that can resurrect the living have begun to fail in their rituals. the high wizards of Redtorch are summoning teams of heros across the realms to investigate the newest lead they have gotten on this matter.... and that is where our story begins! before we begin id like to wait till i receive all character sheets. and back stories
For the past several days, the talk of the streets and taverns has all been about the so-called death curse: a wasting disease afflicting everyone who's ever been raised from the dead. Victims grow thinner and weaker each day, slowly but steadily sliding toward the death they once denied. When they finally succumb, they can't be raised-and neither can anyone else, regardless of whether they've ever received that miracle in the past. Temples and scholars of divine magic are at a loss to explain a curse that has affected the entire region, and possibly the entire world.
You have been invited to the home of Syndra Silvane, a retired adventurer and merchant. A uniformed attendant leads you up a grand staircase to the third floor, then ushers you into a wood-paneled room with a fireplace, comfortable chairs, and a heavy table bearing goblets and bottles of wine. The darkly paneled walls are hung with maps and sea charts. Racks, shelves, and cabinets hold hundreds more rolled-up maps and charts. A person is seated in an overstuffed chair near the fire. You can't discern a gender, because only the person's head emerges from under a heavy blanket draped over the chair, and an embroidered hood and silver mask conceal the wearer's face. Even the person's dry, raspy voice provides no clue. "Help yourselves to wine, and seat yourselves, friends- I hope I may call you that.
"I was an adventurer years ago. I died once and was raised from the dead. I have since closed the door on that stage of my life." "The death curse you've heard about has struck me. 1 don't know how much longer I'll last before I perish. Clerics have no help to offer. They're stymied by what is happening
"My contacts in the Harpers have learned that the cause of the death curse is a necromantic artifact called the SouJmonger. According to their sources, the Soulmonger is somewhere in Chult.""Chult is a peninsula ringed with mountains and choked with rainforests. Enormous reptiles, savage goblins, and an army of undead prowl its jungles and ruins. Mapping the place has always been nigh impossible, and nothing is known about the region's current geography beyond a few miles from the coast."
"Working from dozens of sea charts, log books, and explorers' journals, l assembled everything known about the current state ofCbult into one map. I'll provide it to you if you undertake my mission." "When you're ready to depart, I will teleport us all to Port Nyanzaru, the only major settlement in Chult. I've been there several times before, so there's little chance of mishap. Once there, I'll stay with a friend named Wakanga O'tamu. He's one of seven merchant princes who rule the city."
Upon success ill reward you each with one of these 4 magic cloaks. And I can promise you the jungles of chult are riddled with enough loot to make you rich as kings and queens.
A letter sealed in an envelope colored in silver ink and stamped with a golden seal. The promise of riches alone that radiated from the envelope was enough to convince anyone to follow its instructions, though with extreme caution. However, it was threateningly odd how my fellow crew and I were in the middle of an ocean far from any port or other vessels (we usual made a point to be discreet) and I grew up long enough with everyone to know they were not rich enough or even imaginative enough to pull this sort of prank. After studying our recent course and reviewing some of my old crows' logs (notes entered from observations in the crows nest), I noticed a pattern I had not noticed before, a small fleet-scouter ship would float just to the edge of the horizon and follow our pace for half an hour then leave, and this has only happened a couple times within the past three days. So, someone with a large pair of balls decided to board our ship in the middle of the night, located my room below deck, picked my lock, set a letter on my nightstand- inches from my face, and manged to re-lock the door and leave the ship without any of the night-owls noticing. The letter read:
"find the home of Syndra Silvane, great wealth and knowledge line your path. Death is becoming permanent, those once risen are dying and those who have fallen are unable to be resurrected even by the most talented of clerics. Find me in Redtorch, we desperately await your arrival."
To the protests of all on board we set out for the great island-city of Redtorch, I set down my star map and began working on our fastest route. I also rifled through my personal bookcase and researched any text I could find on "Syndra Silvane" and "Redtorch". I would also like to research any historical event that may relate or be similar to this event.
----------Four days later----------
I never thought I could say goodbye so easily, but I knew that they could handle themselves and that I would always know how to find them (I did design all the maps that they use and found them all of there hiding places.) I would head to a local tavern that morning (though knowing time is of the essence) and get a tankard (or two) and get a feed on as much local gossip regarding these incidents as I could; names, places, and such. then I would find my way to the Silvane household. Upon entering I would take mental notes of any emblems, wall mounts, etc.. that would indicate wealth, political affiliation, and *personal touches (*Class preferences like roguish daggers, magic scrolls, ranger hunts, etc..)
While hearing Syndra speak I would be very inquisitive but reserved, keeping focus on payment and feeding on any information about the job. I have never really been hands on so I will also visually-assess my fellow compatriots to make sure they are able to provide the support I am looking for and taking their forms to memory enable to quickly identify friend from foe in a stressful situation.
------A description of my character---------
After the meeting I would meet with my team and introduce myself:
"I am Armaeus [Are-may-us] (I won't give my last name yet) I have been a navigator since I was old enough to watch the stars move across the night-sky, I grew up on that ship.. Anyway, now I'm here and we have a common goal be it to be heroes or reap the rewards, wherever you fall know that we are in this together. I will guide us through the realms and back, follow close and I will push with all my heart never to lose you."
Armaeus is a five-and-a-half foot tall Triton. His skin a sky blue, textured like its covered in goosebumps. His eyes blue, like pools of water in the night, reflecting streaks of hazel starlight. His Hair a dark brown pompadour tapering to a well kept medium-stubble beard. His ears, appear almost elvish but are skinnier and more elongated past the top the head by almost an inch and ending in a top point and a thicker more rounded point that is closer toward the center of the ear. His outfit, an old sailors uniform, a blue trench-coat with white buttons; clean but covered in old rips and tears; and a torso reinforced with leather and iron scale mail.
Armaeus is a level 1 ranger who specializes in research of celestial arcanum and sea navigation. His preferred battle technique is to evaluate the enemy and then approach in melee when possible, if not, stick to the shadows and wait for a counter-attack opportunity.
My name is azure I'm a warforged paladin built and programmed for the protection of others above my self I follow and study the God torm the God of self sacrifice my aligence is with the harpers and any other comrade fighting for the same cause recently I was asked to study rumors goi g around of a death curse I havnt found much that rumors are already saying the guild leader chose me to travel to red torch meet with syndra silvane and embark on her quest.
While listening to her speak azure would be studying and analyzing the combat abilities needed or recommended for thos area she speaks of. She would also be sizing up her comrades and amalyzing them
After her spiel Azure speaks "torm has guided me here to you so I will take this quest with honor and may any one who travels with me be considered my shield brother or sister" let's be off to chult the land of riches as she slams the pommel of her great axe on the ground. And beats against her heavy plating of armor
Aerial Quillyn has lived a humble life in a small home on top of their family-owned book store. She is an air genasi who loves to research and delve into books. On one of her trips to a book store in a neighboring town, she found a book that seemed to jump out at her. As she read, she started hearing the voice of Titiana. Though Aerial doesn't quite understand what Titiana wants from her, she is willing to do everything in her power to learn all that she can and accomplish everything Titiana wants from her. Days ago she recieved a letter inviting her to the home of a retired adventurer and although she was hesitant, Titiana encouraged her to go. Somewhat reluctantly, she packed a bag, tearfully said goodbye to her parents and sister, and started in her journey. ~~~
I walk into the home slowly, somewhat untrusting of everyone and everything around me. My eyes scan the surroundings nervously. I stop when I enter the room where a dark figure is sitting. A dark figure that I assume to be who invited me here. I cautiously sit in a comfy, luxurious-looking chair and immediately study the two others sitting on this side of the table with me. When the dark figure begins to speak in a dry, raspy voice, my skin begins to crawl and I unintentionally pull into myself. I'm not too fond of this stranger calling me their friend but I guess it's better that this person brought me here on good terms rather than with ill intentions. As the figure continues talking, I become increasingly nervous. In theory an adventure sounds great, but in practice it's terrifying. I mean, it's about a death curse; it's not going to be a fun, leisurely vacation. I look to the others again, the ones that would be accompanying me on this journey if I choose to go. They both look tougher and more experienced than a sheltered bookkeeper. Realizing that makes me think that I am in no way ready for this journey but it also makes me realize that I need to do something with my life. I can't spend all my days in a book store. A journey like this would be good for me. I swallow my fear and decide that I need to do this. I need to get out of my comfort zone and truly start living.
As you all accept this Quest you watch as the room begins to warp and spin as syndra is chanting her incantation to teleport you all to port nyanzaru.
You appear in a tropical city under the blazing sun. The familiar sounds of a harbor- creaking ropes, slapping waves, heavy barrels rolling across cobblestones-min· gle with voices shouting and cursing in an unfamiliar language filled with clicks, inhalations, and sing-songy words that make it sound almost musical. The aroma of unfamiliar spices and tropical fruit mixes with the wharf. side smells of fish, tar, and canvas. Beyond all that, Port Nyanzaru is an explosion of color. Buildings are painted in bright shades of blue, green, orange, and salmon pink, or their walls are adorned with murals portraying giant reptiles and mythical heroes. Every building sports baskets and clay urns of colorful flowers or is draped in leafy, flowering vines. Minstrels in bright clothing adorned with feathers and shells per· form on street corners. Multicolored pennants and sun awnings flutter atop the city walls. A crowd of children dressed in feathered hats and capes races past you, squealing in delighted terror as a street performer costumed as a big-toothed lizard stomps and roars behind them. The whole city seems to be bustling, sweating, laughing, swearing, and singing.
syndra speaks up
" Thank you for taking on this quest and traveling here with me. I recommend you take some time get some supplies and rest before setting out on your journey. i would also suggest you hire one of the many guides to lead you thru the Jungles of chult. last time i was here i used Rakan the wild. he is who i would recomend finding He cant be hard to find hes the only koblold guide around here. there are two taverns in the port The thundering lizzard (a more rowdy tavern) or Kayas house of Repose ( if you want a good nights rest) im off to my old friends Wakanga O'tamu one of the 7 merchant princes. well see you around find me before you set off so i may wish you well"
you watch as she walks down the road threw the Bazzar district.
it is at this point you decide where you would like to go?? or do?
if rolls are needed or you think needed use the built in dice roller in your check ill let you know the out come
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
I look to the rest of our group, and shield my hands over my eyes and stare into the sky for several seconds. We must not drag our feet, it is already approaching midday. Time is not our ally, tarry if you wish but I am a bit of a ball of fire, if you will; and I believe in action. If you wish to follow please do so at a fair distance, if not meet me at Kayas' House of Repose by the time the sun touches the horizon line.
With that I turn with a flourish of my long-coat and, like a raindrop into the ocean, blend myself into the pedestrian flow.
-Just in case, my attempt to look inconspicuous {Deception:17} or {Stealth:4} Whichever is more applicable in your opinion.
I would begin to make my way in the direction of The Thundering Lizard.
-I do not remember her giving us directions so, {Investigation:21} To find the tavern.
As I travel through the crowd I would like to try and get a feel for the general crowd and energy of the city, pick up on rumors and make note of important names and places that I hear mention of. I do this in one of my notebooks and a quill that I have strapped to my waist tucked just inside my long-coat on the right, my sword being hidden on my left.
I watch Armaeus disappear into the crowd and glace over at Azure. I'm just going to meet you guys at Kaya's House of Repose. I walk briskly through the crowd, still not fully ready to talk to my companions. As I snake my way between people, I wonder if there is a bookstore here.
I look around for a bookstore {Investigation: 13}. - If I'm able to find one, I'll look around the store for anything I can understand (Abyssal, Common, Elvish, Primordial). If there is, I'll look through it and might purchase it if it looks interesting. Something to do with nature, traveling, or anything on resurrection spells. After browsing through the store, I'll head to Kaya's House of Repose. - If I'm unable to find one, I'll just go straight to Kaya's House of Repose.
I look around for Kaya's House of Repose {Investigation: 18}. Hopefully I'm able to find it quickly, if not I'll continue walking around until I find it, Armaeus, or Azure. When I arrive at Kaya's House of Repose, I'll sit at a table and wait for my companions if they aren't already there.
Armaeus you take some time but manage to appear as if youve traveled here 1000X As you walk off the Warf you Over hear a thin Tabaxi Talking with the harbor master
in a burly dwarf accent. " if your looking for work cat there bounty on Pirates in the harbor 2000 gold pieces per ship brought in with a bonus of 500gp for each captains head." following you hear the sly tabaxi reply "Thank you Harbormaster Zindar"
you swiftly continue in to the busy streets look ing for the thundering lizzard when you pass and group of Dragon born talking
"you going to bet on the dino Races tonight? they run through the port once week last week i made out with 600gp"
you success fully find both thundering lizzard and Kayas house of repose
Aerial you briskly follow after the triton in search of a book store you spend most of the day light finding one but manage to find a store and scan its wares when you come acrost an elven tome covered in dust. Soulmonger and the lost city of Omu. you skim thew and few words sick out " the death curse, Artifact, jungles of chult" you take it to the clerk withered old goblin man with dry cracked voice.
hello dear you find somthing you like?...oh dear i cant sell this to you please take this out of my store i dont know how it got here hide it and leave leave. now before some one sees it.
he shoves you out the store front slams the door behind you and you hear a series of locks as hes locking the door. you take look rond notice eve is aboout to fall and accross the way you find Kayas House of Repose. where you find Armaeus.
azure wasnt able to post but she told me what shed like to do.
Azure you check in with the harpers out post where you descover youve been sent here in exile... and are no longer an honored member of the harpers...as you loom thru the streets as you hear rumors of pirates stoping merchant ships in the bay and hear of the Dino races taking place tonight. you also see no sign of Rakn the wild either. so you make your way to Kayas house of Repose. where you meet Armaeus and aerial....
in these next posts would be the time for any role playing while at the house of repose tell me how many drinks food and rooms will be getting. as well with the table of prices above.
retcon syndra would of left you with 30 gold 20 sp 10 cp each before she left sorry
Before Armaeus arrives at Kayas' House of Repose he will stop in at The Thundering Lizard.
As I enter the tavern I want to purvey the more rowdy crowd and pick up on more information regarding; local pirates, names, flag colors, anything that might ring a bell. Also, I would ask around for Rakan the Wild. Occasionally name dropping Syndra Silvane and Wakanga O'tamu to gauge reactions.
All applicable rolls: Information for local pirates (Investigation:19) Rakan the Wild (Investigation:21) Name dropping (Insight:7)
If I happen to run into or find Rakan in the tavern I will deliver him Syndra's message and tell him to meet us tomorrow morning right before the sun rises at Kayas' House of Repose.
Otherwise, I will write down what information I can manage to obtain and leave. On my way back I will swing past where the Dino Races are to take place and gather information about the riders throwing 20gp into whomever I think will win, however I will tell them that if I won anything to send a messenger to Kayas' House of Repose and leave a package under the name Artwig Brahman and if there is a dept to be paid send a letter to Kayas' House of Repose under the name Indigo Brahman.
Rolls that might be needed: Inspection of the riders, mounts, and crowds opinions (Investigation:6)
Upon my return in the later afternoon; the sun roughly three finger widths to the horizon, not quite dark but approaching twilight; I will grab a tankard and a meal while waiting for the rest to gather. While ordering food at the bar and enjoying my tankard, I see Aerial enter briskly. I quickly usher her and place myself to a table in one of the more bustling part of the tavern, though if it is particularly empty at this time, i would rather find a table out of the way, maybe tucked under stairs or adjacent to the front door with a window-seat that allows me to keep an eye out on the street in front of the tavern. I use a hand signal for the tavern patron to bring us two more tankards, and to let them know that I moved seats so they know where to bring my food when it is done.
Aerial and I sit in awkward silence, even though Aerial does try to speak to me, I respond by staring up for a moment not really meeting her gaze in acknowledgement of her speaking, yet I do not reply. Until, I see Azure walk in and I catch her glance to silently call her over to our spot. As soon as we are sat down and all of us are settled I will speak up:
I hope we all found something useful this day. We have one day down, and who knows how much more our benefactor can withstand. I have made plans to get up tomorrow and [Depending on if I located Rakan: meet with Rakan our guide or go and find our guide.] Now I have no intentions of taking lead but I believe that no words should be wasted if not important, but I assure you I am not an ass, just straight-forward. Now if we are to work together we must share all relevant information and anything that may seem notable.
I will briefly mention the pirates which may cause us future issue but I will focus on any information gathered on Rakan and Syndra, though not knowing the others' allegiances towards Syndra and this city I will not add my personal bias to the recounts of information.
Azure walks in to kayas torn not sure how to feel or react. But as she over heres chultians bring up the dino races she blurts out research she has stored on the topic.
"The chultian tradition of dino racing is a high stakes races 1 being quadrapeds. Second bipedals lastly unchained wich is carnivorous dinos un muzzled average winning of 200gp per race." Sorry that happens some times...bets open after dark wanna go watch them tonight before we head to this death curse stuff?
If not azure will go alone
Azure will also explain to armaeus with my research on the death curse I have learned many adventures have been asked on this journey and never returned last word being there was a necromantic artifact called the soulmonger that has been awakened here in jungles bringing hordes of un dead. We shouldnt rush in to our demise we should be careful and well prepared.
I sit next to Armaeus silently. I don't really feel like talking to him and I don't know what I'd say anyway. We sit in awkward silence for a while before I decide to ask him something. Were you able to find anything of interest today? I'm met with a blank stare before he goes back to drinking. I sigh out of anger and slight offense. I was hoping to tell him about the book I found. Azure walks in shortly after and begins telling Armaeus everything she knows about the death curse. I lean past Armaeus to talk directly to Azure. I tell her that I found this book called Soulmonger and the lost city of Omu and that the shopkeeper rushed me and the book away from him. I add that I haven't had a chance to read it yet but I'm planning on doing so when I get a room for the night.
In response to feeling excluded by Aerial, I raise an eyebrow and think to myself, "Did I offend her?"
Speaking to Azure, "Azure, if you would please, investigate the Dino races and keep an eye out for Rakan, sounds like his type of hangout."
Speaking to Aerial, "I apologize for the silence, I'm not use to this whole "nice guy" thing. I would like to hang back and take a look into that book of yours, I also suggest we keep it out of sight as much as we can. Well, unless you would rather watch the Dino races. sounds interesting as well."
Turning back to Azure, "Thank you for your information, keep it up. however be careful who hears any of those outbursts, who knows whose listening."
ok so you all are gathered in the bustling Atmosphere of Kayas hose of repose around a tabele under the stairs. in what could be considered secluded and dark you dont seem to attract many eyes in this area of the tavern. when the dragonborn barmaiden roars.
"Alright you rascals the dino races will be starting soon bets need be placed at this time our racers consist of the following Race 1: Quadrapeds the young triceratops with 6 race streak ,Ubtaos Favorite, our new racer with a young anklyosaurus, Grung Stomper, and finally the wild tempered triceratops, Banana Candy. Race 2: Bipedals The one the only Nasty boy young t rex with the renowned rider RAKAN. followed by 2x champion Mountain thunder the wild Raptor. and our last and rookie dino Red raptor named Jungle Princess. there will be no unchained race this week"
you here few other patrons murmuring "they stil holding the races with the death curse about?" this is madness"
bets open at 20G minimum Payout immediatly after the race results are posted.
after some time the races begin those that are going you see the streets lined with people as every one clears out of the tavern and lines up along the paved strip in front Race 1: Ubtaos Favorite,Grung Stomper,Banana Candy you watch as the racers line up in there brightly colored outfits and dinos and take mark as green cloth is waved the take off from the line. Banana Candy Impales Grung stompers rider causing him to die and be disqualified with banana candys actions it still wasnt enough to beat Ubtaos Favorite. race one goes to Ubtaos Favorite
race 2: racers Nasty Boy, Mountain Thunder, and the rookie Jungle Princess. Nastey boy during the race engulfed Mountain Thunders rider but coming from the back jungle princess rushes up to nasty boy snaps at his anckles causig him to buckle and fall and jungle princess takes race 2.
1hour later The Bar maiden cries out Race Results are as follows Race 1 Ubtaos Favorite and race 2 the rookie Jungle Princess!!! Come collect your winnings!!
let me know hat dinos you would have selected if betting.
rooms for each of you is 4gp for the night also let me know confirmation number of drinks and meals if all paying seprate etc.
yes you ar correct i did for get those. you didnt get any real reactions to syndra name dropping. but did hear that rakan was a famous dino racer as well as a guide. as for the pirates you learned the wanted ship names The pirate ships are called the Dragonfang, the Emerald Eye, and the Stirge. as for dinos you would have learned that Ubtaos favorite was the one to bet on for quads and nasty boy for bipedals
Not wanting to be around a large group of people any longer than I have to, I opt to stay away from the dino races and don't place a bet. I stand from the table and tell the others that I'm going to get a room to start reading the book I found. I pause, giving the others a chance to ask to join me. If anyone asks to join I'll let them, if not I'll just rent a room and begin reading in solitude.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Azure wil place 20gp on Jungle Princess just because she like the name. and will attend the races to gather as much infor mation as possible about rakan (Investigation 11)
after the races azure will look around for her comrades at the table if any didnt join if they are not around she will get a meal and get a room for the night.
so aerial and Armaeus you stay back and read the tome. pages are missing and torn. give me seprate investigation checks to know what information you can ascertain from what is available. and subtract the coin accordaingly from your sheets if you have not already.
azure you go out in to the crowd and watch the races as described in last post when you return to Kayas you see that Armaeus and aerial are no longer at the table below the stairs. you fave down the golden female dragon born and order a meal as she returns to the kitchen she comes out and shouts out.... "ok you rascals quiet down i have the race results of tonight race Race 1 quadra peds Obtaos Favorite Races The rookie Jungle Princess. Azure? is there an Azure in the tavern i have your winnings!" As you aproach you have won 100 PP and 300Gp "what made you bet on the rookie las? the dragon born asks inquisitively.
Next post should have your rolls and what you plan on doing in the morning also what dino did armeaus pick for bet if he was still going to bet
Azure you have not been able to get much information on rakan Other than you do Know that he has not been seen since after the races
Hello and welcome to my game. to start lets go over the rules.
1. must post once per day unless giving me prior notice.
2. Character sheets are to remain updated on dndbeyond so i can accurately track progression.
3. Be kind and respect full of others.
4.next as this is play by post lets try and focus more on role play take time think of how your character would truely react (ex. Cleric Saying a prayer to there god for spells actually write out a prayer for that spell)
Character Creation Rules
1. Standard array or point buy for your stats
2. Only official, Playtest and CritRoll Content allowed NO Homebrew!!
3. we will do chapter leveling other wise known as milestone
4. Give me a backstory for your character in that back story give me 1 secret, 1 long term goal, 1 short term goal your character has. (if you put it in the backstory section of dnd beyond me and you are only one that can see it so secrets will be safe)
Finally the world
The world of Astos is composed of islands scattered across it. Each has its own lifestyle and cultures just as any other place. Magic runs wild in the land it is embraced and loved across all the lands. but there's something foul coming many high priests can feel a change in their divination magic. people once restored to life by magic are growing ill. those that can resurrect the living have begun to fail in their rituals. the high wizards of Redtorch are summoning teams of heros across the realms to investigate the newest lead they have gotten on this matter.... and that is where our story begins! before we begin id like to wait till i receive all character sheets. and back stories
links
Create Character here
map-Astos map
For the past several days, the talk of the streets and taverns has all been about the so-called death curse: a wasting disease afflicting everyone who's ever been raised from the dead. Victims grow thinner and weaker each day, slowly but steadily sliding toward the death they once denied. When they finally succumb, they can't be raised-and neither can anyone else, regardless of whether they've ever received that miracle in the past. Temples and scholars of divine magic are at a loss to explain a curse that has affected the entire region, and possibly the entire world.
You have been invited to the home of Syndra Silvane, a retired adventurer and merchant. A uniformed attendant leads you up a grand staircase to the third floor, then ushers you into a wood-paneled room with a fireplace, comfortable chairs, and a heavy table bearing goblets and bottles of wine. The darkly paneled walls are hung with maps and sea charts. Racks, shelves, and cabinets hold hundreds more rolled-up maps and charts. A person is seated in an overstuffed chair near the fire. You can't discern a gender, because only the person's head emerges from under a heavy blanket draped over the chair, and an embroidered hood and silver mask conceal the wearer's face. Even the person's dry, raspy voice provides no clue. "Help yourselves to wine, and seat yourselves, friends- I hope I may call you that.
"I was an adventurer years ago. I died once and was raised from the dead. I have since closed the door on that stage of my life." "The death curse you've heard about has struck me. 1 don't know how much longer I'll last before I perish. Clerics have no help to offer. They're stymied by what is happening
"My contacts in the Harpers have learned that the cause of the death curse is a necromantic artifact called the SouJmonger. According to their sources, the Soulmonger is somewhere in Chult.""Chult is a peninsula ringed with mountains and choked with rainforests. Enormous reptiles, savage goblins, and an army of undead prowl its jungles and ruins. Mapping the place has always been nigh impossible, and nothing is known about the region's current geography beyond a few miles from the coast."
"Working from dozens of sea charts, log books, and explorers' journals, l assembled everything known about the current state ofCbult into one map. I'll provide it to you if you undertake my mission." "When you're ready to depart, I will teleport us all to Port Nyanzaru, the only major settlement in Chult. I've been there several times before, so there's little chance of mishap. Once there, I'll stay with a friend named Wakanga O'tamu. He's one of seven merchant princes who rule the city."
Upon success ill reward you each with one of these 4 magic cloaks. And I can promise you the jungles of chult are riddled with enough loot to make you rich as kings and queens.
A letter sealed in an envelope colored in silver ink and stamped with a golden seal. The promise of riches alone that radiated from the envelope was enough to convince anyone to follow its instructions, though with extreme caution. However, it was threateningly odd how my fellow crew and I were in the middle of an ocean far from any port or other vessels (we usual made a point to be discreet) and I grew up long enough with everyone to know they were not rich enough or even imaginative enough to pull this sort of prank. After studying our recent course and reviewing some of my old crows' logs (notes entered from observations in the crows nest), I noticed a pattern I had not noticed before, a small fleet-scouter ship would float just to the edge of the horizon and follow our pace for half an hour then leave, and this has only happened a couple times within the past three days. So, someone with a large pair of balls decided to board our ship in the middle of the night, located my room below deck, picked my lock, set a letter on my nightstand- inches from my face, and manged to re-lock the door and leave the ship without any of the night-owls noticing. The letter read:
"find the home of Syndra Silvane, great wealth and knowledge line your path. Death is becoming permanent, those once risen are dying and those who have fallen are unable to be resurrected even by the most talented of clerics. Find me in Redtorch, we desperately await your arrival."
To the protests of all on board we set out for the great island-city of Redtorch, I set down my star map and began working on our fastest route. I also rifled through my personal bookcase and researched any text I could find on "Syndra Silvane" and "Redtorch". I would also like to research any historical event that may relate or be similar to this event.
----------Four days later----------
I never thought I could say goodbye so easily, but I knew that they could handle themselves and that I would always know how to find them (I did design all the maps that they use and found them all of there hiding places.) I would head to a local tavern that morning (though knowing time is of the essence) and get a tankard (or two) and get a feed on as much local gossip regarding these incidents as I could; names, places, and such. then I would find my way to the Silvane household. Upon entering I would take mental notes of any emblems, wall mounts, etc.. that would indicate wealth, political affiliation, and *personal touches (*Class preferences like roguish daggers, magic scrolls, ranger hunts, etc..)
While hearing Syndra speak I would be very inquisitive but reserved, keeping focus on payment and feeding on any information about the job. I have never really been hands on so I will also visually-assess my fellow compatriots to make sure they are able to provide the support I am looking for and taking their forms to memory enable to quickly identify friend from foe in a stressful situation.
------A description of my character---------
After the meeting I would meet with my team and introduce myself:
"I am Armaeus [Are-may-us] (I won't give my last name yet) I have been a navigator since I was old enough to watch the stars move across the night-sky, I grew up on that ship.. Anyway, now I'm here and we have a common goal be it to be heroes or reap the rewards, wherever you fall know that we are in this together. I will guide us through the realms and back, follow close and I will push with all my heart never to lose you."
Armaeus is a five-and-a-half foot tall Triton. His skin a sky blue, textured like its covered in goosebumps. His eyes blue, like pools of water in the night, reflecting streaks of hazel starlight. His Hair a dark brown pompadour tapering to a well kept medium-stubble beard. His ears, appear almost elvish but are skinnier and more elongated past the top the head by almost an inch and ending in a top point and a thicker more rounded point that is closer toward the center of the ear. His outfit, an old sailors uniform, a blue trench-coat with white buttons; clean but covered in old rips and tears; and a torso reinforced with leather and iron scale mail.
Armaeus is a level 1 ranger who specializes in research of celestial arcanum and sea navigation. His preferred battle technique is to evaluate the enemy and then approach in melee when possible, if not, stick to the shadows and wait for a counter-attack opportunity.
My name is azure I'm a warforged paladin built and programmed for the protection of others above my self I follow and study the God torm the God of self sacrifice my aligence is with the harpers and any other comrade fighting for the same cause recently I was asked to study rumors goi g around of a death curse I havnt found much that rumors are already saying the guild leader chose me to travel to red torch meet with syndra silvane and embark on her quest.
While listening to her speak azure would be studying and analyzing the combat abilities needed or recommended for thos area she speaks of. She would also be sizing up her comrades and amalyzing them
After her spiel Azure speaks "torm has guided me here to you so I will take this quest with honor and may any one who travels with me be considered my shield brother or sister" let's be off to chult the land of riches as she slams the pommel of her great axe on the ground. And beats against her heavy plating of armor
Aerial Quillyn has lived a humble life in a small home on top of their family-owned book store. She is an air genasi who loves to research and delve into books. On one of her trips to a book store in a neighboring town, she found a book that seemed to jump out at her. As she read, she started hearing the voice of Titiana. Though Aerial doesn't quite understand what Titiana wants from her, she is willing to do everything in her power to learn all that she can and accomplish everything Titiana wants from her. Days ago she recieved a letter inviting her to the home of a retired adventurer and although she was hesitant, Titiana encouraged her to go. Somewhat reluctantly, she packed a bag, tearfully said goodbye to her parents and sister, and started in her journey. ~~~
I walk into the home slowly, somewhat untrusting of everyone and everything around me. My eyes scan the surroundings nervously. I stop when I enter the room where a dark figure is sitting. A dark figure that I assume to be who invited me here. I cautiously sit in a comfy, luxurious-looking chair and immediately study the two others sitting on this side of the table with me. When the dark figure begins to speak in a dry, raspy voice, my skin begins to crawl and I unintentionally pull into myself. I'm not too fond of this stranger calling me their friend but I guess it's better that this person brought me here on good terms rather than with ill intentions. As the figure continues talking, I become increasingly nervous. In theory an adventure sounds great, but in practice it's terrifying. I mean, it's about a death curse; it's not going to be a fun, leisurely vacation. I look to the others again, the ones that would be accompanying me on this journey if I choose to go. They both look tougher and more experienced than a sheltered bookkeeper. Realizing that makes me think that I am in no way ready for this journey but it also makes me realize that I need to do something with my life. I can't spend all my days in a book store. A journey like this would be good for me. I swallow my fear and decide that I need to do this. I need to get out of my comfort zone and truly start living.
As you all accept this Quest you watch as the room begins to warp and spin as syndra is chanting her incantation to teleport you all to port nyanzaru.
You appear in a tropical city under the blazing sun. The familiar sounds of a harbor- creaking ropes, slapping waves, heavy barrels rolling across cobblestones-min· gle with voices shouting and cursing in an unfamiliar language filled with clicks, inhalations, and sing-songy words that make it sound almost musical. The aroma of unfamiliar spices and tropical fruit mixes with the wharf. side smells of fish, tar, and canvas. Beyond all that, Port Nyanzaru is an explosion of color. Buildings are painted in bright shades of blue, green, orange, and salmon pink, or their walls are adorned with murals portraying giant reptiles and mythical heroes. Every building sports baskets and clay urns of colorful flowers or is draped in leafy, flowering vines. Minstrels in bright clothing adorned with feathers and shells per· form on street corners. Multicolored pennants and sun awnings flutter atop the city walls. A crowd of children dressed in feathered hats and capes races past you, squealing in delighted terror as a street performer costumed as a big-toothed lizard stomps and roars behind them. The whole city seems to be bustling, sweating, laughing, swearing, and singing.
syndra speaks up
" Thank you for taking on this quest and traveling here with me. I recommend you take some time get some supplies and rest before setting out on your journey. i would also suggest you hire one of the many guides to lead you thru the Jungles of chult. last time i was here i used Rakan the wild. he is who i would recomend finding He cant be hard to find hes the only koblold guide around here. there are two taverns in the port The thundering lizzard (a more rowdy tavern) or Kayas house of Repose ( if you want a good nights rest) im off to my old friends Wakanga O'tamu one of the 7 merchant princes. well see you around find me before you set off so i may wish you well"
you watch as she walks down the road threw the Bazzar district.
it is at this point you decide where you would like to go?? or do?
if rolls are needed or you think needed use the built in dice roller in your check ill let you know the out come
example dexterity check (23)
I look to the rest of our group, and shield my hands over my eyes and stare into the sky for several seconds.
We must not drag our feet, it is already approaching midday. Time is not our ally, tarry if you wish but I am a bit of a ball of fire, if you will; and I believe in action. If you wish to follow please do so at a fair distance, if not meet me at Kayas' House of Repose by the time the sun touches the horizon line.
With that I turn with a flourish of my long-coat and, like a raindrop into the ocean, blend myself into the pedestrian flow.
-Just in case, my attempt to look inconspicuous {Deception:17} or {Stealth:4} Whichever is more applicable in your opinion.
I would begin to make my way in the direction of The Thundering Lizard.
-I do not remember her giving us directions so, {Investigation:21} To find the tavern.
As I travel through the crowd I would like to try and get a feel for the general crowd and energy of the city, pick up on rumors and make note of important names and places that I hear mention of. I do this in one of my notebooks and a quill that I have strapped to my waist tucked just inside my long-coat on the right, my sword being hidden on my left.
-{Perception:19}
I watch Armaeus disappear into the crowd and glace over at Azure.
I'm just going to meet you guys at Kaya's House of Repose.
I walk briskly through the crowd, still not fully ready to talk to my companions. As I snake my way between people, I wonder if there is a bookstore here.
I look around for a bookstore {Investigation: 13}.
- If I'm able to find one, I'll look around the store for anything I can understand (Abyssal, Common, Elvish, Primordial). If there is, I'll look through it and might purchase it if it looks interesting. Something to do with nature, traveling, or anything on resurrection spells. After browsing through the store, I'll head to Kaya's House of Repose.
- If I'm unable to find one, I'll just go straight to Kaya's House of Repose.
I look around for Kaya's House of Repose {Investigation: 18}.
Hopefully I'm able to find it quickly, if not I'll continue walking around until I find it, Armaeus, or Azure.
When I arrive at Kaya's House of Repose, I'll sit at a table and wait for my companions if they aren't already there.
Armaeus you take some time but manage to appear as if youve traveled here 1000X As you walk off the Warf you Over hear a thin Tabaxi Talking with the harbor master
in a burly dwarf accent. " if your looking for work cat there bounty on Pirates in the harbor 2000 gold pieces per ship brought in with a bonus of 500gp for each captains head." following you hear the sly tabaxi reply "Thank you Harbormaster Zindar"
you swiftly continue in to the busy streets look ing for the thundering lizzard when you pass and group of Dragon born talking
"you going to bet on the dino Races tonight? they run through the port once week last week i made out with 600gp"
you success fully find both thundering lizzard and Kayas house of repose
for expediency table compares taverns costs
Thundering Lizard: |
ALE: 2CP/TANKARD FOOD: 1SP/MEAL ROOM: 1GP/NIGHT COMPANIONSHIP(ESCORTS): 1GP/NIGHTKayas House Repos: | ALE: 1SP/TANKARD FOOD:2SP/MEAL ROOM:4GP/NIGHT COMPANIONSHIP(ESCORTS): 6GP/NIGHT
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Aerial you briskly follow after the triton in search of a book store you spend most of the day light finding one but manage to find a store and scan its wares when you come acrost an elven tome covered in dust. Soulmonger and the lost city of Omu. you skim thew and few words sick out " the death curse, Artifact, jungles of chult" you take it to the clerk withered old goblin man with dry cracked voice.
hello dear you find somthing you like?...oh dear i cant sell this to you please take this out of my store i dont know how it got here hide it and leave leave. now before some one sees it.
he shoves you out the store front slams the door behind you and you hear a series of locks as hes locking the door. you take look rond notice eve is aboout to fall and accross the way you find Kayas House of Repose. where you find Armaeus.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
azure wasnt able to post but she told me what shed like to do.
Azure you check in with the harpers out post where you descover youve been sent here in exile... and are no longer an honored member of the harpers...as you loom thru the streets as you hear rumors of pirates stoping merchant ships in the bay and hear of the Dino races taking place tonight. you also see no sign of Rakn the wild either. so you make your way to Kayas house of Repose. where you meet Armaeus and aerial....
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
in these next posts would be the time for any role playing while at the house of repose tell me how many drinks food and rooms will be getting. as well with the table of prices above.
retcon syndra would of left you with 30 gold 20 sp 10 cp each before she left sorry
Before Armaeus arrives at Kayas' House of Repose he will stop in at The Thundering Lizard.
As I enter the tavern I want to purvey the more rowdy crowd and pick up on more information regarding; local pirates, names, flag colors, anything that might ring a bell. Also, I would ask around for Rakan the Wild. Occasionally name dropping Syndra Silvane and Wakanga O'tamu to gauge reactions.
All applicable rolls: Information for local pirates (Investigation:19) Rakan the Wild (Investigation:21) Name dropping (Insight:7)
If I happen to run into or find Rakan in the tavern I will deliver him Syndra's message and tell him to meet us tomorrow morning right before the sun rises at Kayas' House of Repose.
Otherwise, I will write down what information I can manage to obtain and leave. On my way back I will swing past where the Dino Races are to take place and gather information about the riders throwing 20gp into whomever I think will win, however I will tell them that if I won anything to send a messenger to Kayas' House of Repose and leave a package under the name Artwig Brahman and if there is a dept to be paid send a letter to Kayas' House of Repose under the name Indigo Brahman.
Rolls that might be needed: Inspection of the riders, mounts, and crowds opinions (Investigation:6)
Upon my return in the later afternoon; the sun roughly three finger widths to the horizon, not quite dark but approaching twilight; I will grab a tankard and a meal while waiting for the rest to gather. While ordering food at the bar and enjoying my tankard, I see Aerial enter briskly. I quickly usher her and place myself to a table in one of the more bustling part of the tavern, though if it is particularly empty at this time, i would rather find a table out of the way, maybe tucked under stairs or adjacent to the front door with a window-seat that allows me to keep an eye out on the street in front of the tavern. I use a hand signal for the tavern patron to bring us two more tankards, and to let them know that I moved seats so they know where to bring my food when it is done.
Aerial and I sit in awkward silence, even though Aerial does try to speak to me, I respond by staring up for a moment not really meeting her gaze in acknowledgement of her speaking, yet I do not reply. Until, I see Azure walk in and I catch her glance to silently call her over to our spot. As soon as we are sat down and all of us are settled I will speak up:
I hope we all found something useful this day. We have one day down, and who knows how much more our benefactor can withstand. I have made plans to get up tomorrow and [Depending on if I located Rakan: meet with Rakan our guide or go and find our guide.] Now I have no intentions of taking lead but I believe that no words should be wasted if not important, but I assure you I am not an ass, just straight-forward. Now if we are to work together we must share all relevant information and anything that may seem notable.
I will briefly mention the pirates which may cause us future issue but I will focus on any information gathered on Rakan and Syndra, though not knowing the others' allegiances towards Syndra and this city I will not add my personal bias to the recounts of information.
Azure walks in to kayas torn not sure how to feel or react. But as she over heres chultians bring up the dino races she blurts out research she has stored on the topic.
"The chultian tradition of dino racing is a high stakes races 1 being quadrapeds. Second bipedals lastly unchained wich is carnivorous dinos un muzzled average winning of 200gp per race." Sorry that happens some times...bets open after dark wanna go watch them tonight before we head to this death curse stuff?
If not azure will go alone
Azure will also explain to armaeus with my research on the death curse I have learned many adventures have been asked on this journey and never returned last word being there was a necromantic artifact called the soulmonger that has been awakened here in jungles bringing hordes of un dead. We shouldnt rush in to our demise we should be careful and well prepared.
I sit next to Armaeus silently. I don't really feel like talking to him and I don't know what I'd say anyway. We sit in awkward silence for a while before I decide to ask him something.
Were you able to find anything of interest today?
I'm met with a blank stare before he goes back to drinking. I sigh out of anger and slight offense. I was hoping to tell him about the book I found.
Azure walks in shortly after and begins telling Armaeus everything she knows about the death curse. I lean past Armaeus to talk directly to Azure.
I tell her that I found this book called Soulmonger and the lost city of Omu and that the shopkeeper rushed me and the book away from him. I add that I haven't had a chance to read it yet but I'm planning on doing so when I get a room for the night.
In response to feeling excluded by Aerial, I raise an eyebrow and think to myself, "Did I offend her?"
Speaking to Azure, "Azure, if you would please, investigate the Dino races and keep an eye out for Rakan, sounds like his type of hangout."
Speaking to Aerial, "I apologize for the silence, I'm not use to this whole "nice guy" thing. I would like to hang back and take a look into that book of yours, I also suggest we keep it out of sight as much as we can. Well, unless you would rather watch the Dino races. sounds interesting as well."
Turning back to Azure, "Thank you for your information, keep it up. however be careful who hears any of those outbursts, who knows whose listening."
ok so you all are gathered in the bustling Atmosphere of Kayas hose of repose around a tabele under the stairs. in what could be considered secluded and dark you dont seem to attract many eyes in this area of the tavern. when the dragonborn barmaiden roars.
"Alright you rascals the dino races will be starting soon bets need be placed at this time our racers consist of the following Race 1: Quadrapeds the young triceratops with 6 race streak ,Ubtaos Favorite, our new racer with a young anklyosaurus, Grung Stomper, and finally the wild tempered triceratops, Banana Candy. Race 2: Bipedals The one the only Nasty boy young t rex with the renowned rider RAKAN. followed by 2x champion Mountain thunder the wild Raptor. and our last and rookie dino Red raptor named Jungle Princess. there will be no unchained race this week"
you here few other patrons murmuring "they stil holding the races with the death curse about?" this is madness"
bets open at 20G minimum Payout immediatly after the race results are posted.
after some time the races begin those that are going you see the streets lined with people as every one clears out of the tavern and lines up along the paved strip in front Race 1: Ubtaos Favorite,Grung Stomper,Banana Candy you watch as the racers line up in there brightly colored outfits and dinos and take mark as green cloth is waved the take off from the line. Banana Candy Impales Grung stompers rider causing him to die and be disqualified with banana candys actions it still wasnt enough to beat Ubtaos Favorite. race one goes to Ubtaos Favorite
race 2: racers Nasty Boy, Mountain Thunder, and the rookie Jungle Princess. Nastey boy during the race engulfed Mountain Thunders rider but coming from the back jungle princess rushes up to nasty boy snaps at his anckles causig him to buckle and fall and jungle princess takes race 2.
1hour later The Bar maiden cries out Race Results are as follows Race 1 Ubtaos Favorite and race 2 the rookie Jungle Princess!!! Come collect your winnings!!
let me know hat dinos you would have selected if betting.
rooms for each of you is 4gp for the night also let me know confirmation number of drinks and meals if all paying seprate etc.
What did my roll results, if any applicable, provide?
yes you ar correct i did for get those. you didnt get any real reactions to syndra name dropping. but did hear that rakan was a famous dino racer as well as a guide. as for the pirates you learned the wanted ship names The pirate ships are called the Dragonfang, the Emerald Eye, and the Stirge. as for dinos you would have learned that Ubtaos favorite was the one to bet on for quads and nasty boy for bipedals
Not wanting to be around a large group of people any longer than I have to, I opt to stay away from the dino races and don't place a bet. I stand from the table and tell the others that I'm going to get a room to start reading the book I found. I pause, giving the others a chance to ask to join me. If anyone asks to join I'll let them, if not I'll just rent a room and begin reading in solitude.
Azure wil place 20gp on Jungle Princess just because she like the name. and will attend the races to gather as much infor mation as possible about rakan (Investigation 11)
after the races azure will look around for her comrades at the table if any didnt join if they are not around she will get a meal and get a room for the night.
so aerial and Armaeus you stay back and read the tome. pages are missing and torn. give me seprate investigation checks to know what information you can ascertain from what is available. and subtract the coin accordaingly from your sheets if you have not already.
azure you go out in to the crowd and watch the races as described in last post when you return to Kayas you see that Armaeus and aerial are no longer at the table below the stairs. you fave down the golden female dragon born and order a meal as she returns to the kitchen she comes out and shouts out.... "ok you rascals quiet down i have the race results of tonight race Race 1 quadra peds Obtaos Favorite Races The rookie Jungle Princess. Azure? is there an Azure in the tavern i have your winnings!" As you aproach you have won 100 PP and 300Gp "what made you bet on the rookie las? the dragon born asks inquisitively.
Next post should have your rolls and what you plan on doing in the morning also what dino did armeaus pick for bet if he was still going to bet
Azure you have not been able to get much information on rakan Other than you do Know that he has not been seen since after the races
I bet 34 Gold on Ubtaos Favorite and I did end up going to the race with Azure, however I did give Aerial my research notes.