Lera listened to her father's music, letting the rhythm guide her. 1-2-3 turn. 1-2-3 spin. She could feel the air spinning and whooshing past as she sidestepped past the mallets. By some small miracle, she made it to the other side, without a scratch. In her moment of safety, the performer's daughter gave the audience a little bow. The audience ate it up, cheering and screaming. The platform narrowed, and before her she saw the jets of fire.
The jets of fire felt warm, but not hot enough to burn. And Lera knew fire. It was one of her signature things. She decided to continue dancing across, because, well, that was how one moved in these sorts of situations. She managed to dance her way past the first flame, but the second one flared into her face. The sorceress lost her balance, feeling herself fall. Somehow, she managed to catch herself, hanging onto the platform with one arm. She looked towards Woe and Zamar, visibly shaken. Woe pulled out her bagpipes and after a little quivering note, pumped it full of air and started playing a song of the green hills, a song of battle and a song of hope. Lera used the song to gain the strength to pull herself up and face the flames again. She was a hero, damnit. With people standing beside her. She could do this! Knowing that the fire was just an illusion, she closed her eyes and took off at a run.
Unfortunately, with her eyes closed, she forgot about the boulder that comprised the next obstacle. She felt the boulder before fully running into it, her eyes shooting open as it grazed her shoulder. She stumbled, but the momentum propelled her forward, right to the edge of the tank. Her sharp eyes, thanks to the amulet, noted a trick panel on the other side. She would have to make sure she avoided that...
There was nothing else to do other than jump. As she was about to jump in, she heard Woe's music once more. Her father's voice mixed in there as well, the song filling her with hope and strength. Lera dove into the water, having no trouble avoiding the whirlpools. Gasping for air, Lera came to the surface and pulled herself out of the pool on one of the safe tiles. A priest awaited her, handing the teenager one of the modrons.
Woe and Zamar watch as the improbable girl danced, stumbled and tumbled her way through the course willing her to victory with their bardic magic. Even when it seemed it would not be enough, they watched as her form shimmered and she pressed through to the finish. Was that her wild magic? Zamar thought so, but only time would tell for sure. Suddenly, she was at the finish, the priests handing her a trophy. Zamar whooped, turned and hugged Woe. "Come on!" he shouted and rushed over to Lera.
"You gave me quite a fright, young lady," he said, "but I am very proud of you." As Woe caught up, Zamar turned to her and said, "and my thanks to you as well. I hope to be as generous with my inspiration in the coming battle."
As the trio were celebrating, Singe returned from the library. "Well," Singe says "I think it's time to go meet back up with the rest of the group"
They all agreed. "Good point," said Lera. "I guess we got carried away in the moment."
As the friends started to make their way back toward the Lower City, Zamar asked Singe, "Any luck with your research?"
"No, research is a beast on a time crunch. But for the time being I have a few books in mind. The day after tomorrow I might be able to tell you something." Singe looks peeved by this, but he's quivering from excitement. "I think I know what Mr. Viscardi wants, but I don't want to repeat myself."
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
“Mordenkainen’s pants, we did it Dad!” Lera exclaimed, giving her father a huge, wet squeeze. “And Woe, I could not have done it without your music. Seriously, you are the greatest bag pipe player I have ever heard.” The poor half-elf also received a wet hug.
Thanks to a towel of marginal fluffiness and her father’s magic, Lera was soon dried off. As they walked back to the lower city, the young aasimar tried her best at small talk. “So, what did you guys do before you entered this contest? And how did you get in the Upper City?” She asked curiously.
"Ambassadorial work," both Singe and Woe respond. Singe smiles at Woe. "We didn't know each other, I was up north in dwarven kingdoms and Woe was stationed here."
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
The Sun begins to fall and Selune and her tears begin to rise. It's at this moment that the Red Team of Eldon Viscardi's potential applicants assemble in front of the Baldur's Mouth office. The office is closed and the afternoon traffic is winding down, as many Baldurians have found refuge in taverns and their own homes by now. Lamplighters now walk the street, assisting Selune to keep the residents of Baldur's Gate safe in the refuge of the walls. The Flaming Fist patrols that roam the streets stand out more than ever, as each patrol carries a lantern to assist in illuminating the shadows.
The Red Team has gathered nearly everything on Viscardi's list. The last two items that remain are a Shimmering Shield and a Diamond. The location of the shield still hasn't been discovered, but the Diamond lies within grasp as a tournament of bards is taking place at the Blade and Stars. Having only moments to get to know each other, the Red Team now begins their travel to the Blade and Stars in an attempt to make it there by midnight.
Woe is hungry. She is starving. This day feels as though it has already lasted 48h, and they are nowhere near to even think about a little rest. They have a gruelling 3h march in front of them, having to cross the city in the dark. Woe much appreciates having dark-vision, so she doesn't need to bother carrying a light. Then her focus shifts back to her growling stomach...
At the next street vendor, she buys a big panfried parcel of rice, wrapped in leaves. The vendor praised it as the best Brassla in all of Baldur's Gate, with his special, secret ingredient... Woe wonders, in a dish that contained eel, other fish, frog, mouse, onions and oysters, what that secret ingredient might be... But her stomach didn't allow her to think for too long, she was just grateful to finally have some food. When she sees Lera stare at her portion, she happily breaks it in two and gives the girl a hug. "You did fantastic today!!" says Woe to her with a smile.
Once she finished her food, she feels like herself again. She joins the others in chatter about the adventures of the day, but she keeps her eyes open in the dark alleyways, as to spot any dangers awaiting her and her newfound friends. perception 17
Perrin is really happy to see that between all three groups we were able to collect all but two of the items so far. With the information about The Blade and Star competition shared amongst everyone the group begins to travel towards the inn; following a similar path that Perrin, Koll, and Shanolia recently took. Along the way, Perrin decides to introduce himself to the other members of the team that he really didn't get to because of how quickly everything happened.
"I'm Perrin, everyone. Paladin of Yodalla. This is Shanolia, she is also participating in this competition and is on our team. She found me and Koll after the split. And this is Koll Junior but I just call him Junior for short." Perrin says as he points first to himself, then Shanolia, and finally the monkey. "He is named Koll because they both share an insatiable appetite for my pies and want to climb all over me." Perrin jokes and teases at Koll. "Junior is kind of us with us currently after we sort of rescued him from his abusive owner that forced him to do tricks and whipped him when he didn't perform correctly. So, far though the only things he has done is eat my pies and laughed at Shanolia."
Perrin will let a moment pass for the other members to dote over Junior before explaining what they have gathered and how they obtained it. "So, we retrieved ginger hair from Shanolia's old boss Flint, a space hamster, and another scavenger hunters list from another team that attacked us, and finally the counterfeit fit coin from Koll's brother." Perrin makes sure to leave out the deal with Loro and the incident with Flint; that's their story to tell not Perrins.
Singe looks at the armored halfling. "Oh yes! Let's make sure that we're not all strangers. I'm Singe, this is Woe, Zamar and Lera. We found everything on our part of the list except for the counterfeit coin and another team's list, which you have, so all we're missing is the diamond and the shield."
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
“Thanks, Woe,” Lera already liked the bard, but the food and hugs instantly propelled the other bard to the top of her list of favorite people. Plus, she looked to be the right age...
“Woe seems nice,” she sent a message to her dad. “Big heart, very musically talented, not too bad on the eyes either...”
“She is indeed very kind. I am glad we found her. And she is...lovely. But must you try to set me up at every opportunity?”
”Maaaaybe.” If a devious grin could be conveyed only through voice, then Lera was certainly sending that toward her father this very instant.
———
Lera certainly did dote over Junior when they found him. Here she was thinking they had gotten the coolest stuff, but the other team had a monkey? One just couldn’t compete with that.
”Pops and I got the four leaf clover, a treasure map, and two healing potions,” Lera reported back in hushed tones. She didn’t want anyone else to overhear their spoils. “And then when we met up with Woe and Singe, we did this crazy obstacle course and got a modron... It was wild, but that’s a story for later. More importantly, we got some information. First, this is all an experiment being performed by Viscardi. Second, Viscardi bought out the entire paper, so everything on there must have been some sort of clue. And third, we know that Viscardi plans to be at the Bard Competition tonight, which means he doesn’t plan on being in his room at the 10 Bed Inn.”
"You don't think Viscardi intends to employ us?" Koll asks. "Perhaps you are reading too much into the word 'experiment'?
I too am glad to have a monkey with us. I named him Koll Jr not because of a shared fondness for pies, but because, though he may not be a monk, he is monk-y. Terrible joke. No, it is more because of the scars he bears like me. I was lashed twenty times for the crime of murder and imprisoned for five years. But I am on a path of redemption. I was trained by a fellow prisoner, a monk named Eeneko, during my time in Baldur's Bowels, in the ways of the Broken Ones of Ilmater.
Anyhow, my brother Loro remains a rogue; the city has changed much in five years, but that has not. I thought he could help us with our quest, so we went to him. We learned that his gang, the Tower Wolves, was planning on stealing the diamond that is tonight's prize. We convinced him otherwise, since we knew having two bards among us would give us a good shot at winning the prize. We did agree, however, to a sort of alliance between our two groups should we succeed at becoming part of Viscardi's adventurers' guild. I hope that does not offend any of you."
"An alliance with criminals? Yes, that bothers me! But we can only cross that bridge when we come to it. But I think I know what Mr. Viscardi wants, or at least how tonight might go down; may I rant?" Seeing a consensus among the group, he continues, "This entire trial is an experiment and every location in the paper is part of it. At each location there is a plant, an assistant, someone watching and recording. Mr. Viscardi expected us to go to those locations and act, being recorded. If we found out about a single person, well, they're just doing what they're told to, and Mr. Viscardi would tell us that he can't be everywhere, he wants to see how his potential employees will act. But some of these items, well, they're not limited to one location; you can find a flaming fist insignia by the dozen if you know where to go. But a 1000gp diamond? That's harder. One location, one time, if I was a social scientist trying to learn about the way people act under pressure, I can think of no better place. So, what if something goes awry? A punch is thrown, the diamond stolen? How will these wannabe adventurers act? Don't assume any actions the wait staff or the people not part of the trail are not choreographed, because this won't be the first time he's done this.
If it does go down that way, we need all hands on deck. Yes, I'd love to find out what exactly Mr. Viscardi is looking for, but I don't want to split the party again. What should we do?"
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
"Honestly, Koll, I am not sure. I don't know what his game is, merely that he has one. He may be looking for something other than gathering all the items on the list. It's possible that he expects everyone to get most off the list and all need the diamond. If that is the case, the Blade and Stars will be a powder keg. How far will teams go if they can't claim it fairly? Does he want to see how we handle ourselves in a fight?" Zamar shakes his head. "Too many questions, not enough answers."
"But I forget my manners," he says with a start. "I am Zamar and this is my daughter Lera. We are travelers from up the coast and while we are not exactly maintaining a low profile, we are not advertising our true selves. Since you all have share so much with us, it seems only right to reciprocate. Our true family name is Zahuv, but we only use that when we need to trade on our name. Mostly we go by Fiore. Unless we are up to mischief. Then we go by Winterbourne." He grins. "I know. So very many names. But it is necessary for Lera's protection. Lord Winterbourne means to ruin her. I have stolen his means and we have been on the run ever since. Life was simple until she decided she wanted to be an adventurer. I blame myself. She got the idea from all the stories she heard me trade for meals."
He turns back to Koll, a more serious expression on his face. "My friend, we all have done things we are not proud of. We do what we believe is best for those we care about. Some of us, for example, may have charged a rather expensive piece of jewelry to their ancestral estate." He winks. "All we can do is strive to be our best selves and make amends along the way. I, myself, have become indebted to a small band of make-believe pirate children who gave away something whose value they could not appreciate. I will find my way back to them and do right by them when I can."
“If I were to hire a band of adventurers, I would certainly want to know how they handled themselves in a fight,” the younger aasimar nodded.
”What if Viscardi payed the Tower Wolves to steal the diamond so that he could see what happened?” Lera’s eyes brightened. “I was planning on finding Viscardi and talking to him while the bards play, which will still keep me there so I think that’s fine. Xanathar’s pants, this is exciting.”
"I wouldn't worry about the Tower Wolves and our deal with them. Koll was once a part of them and now he is on the walk of redemption. I'm sure that eventually, with some intervention from us we can have the Tower Wolves also take the walk of redemption like Koll. As for this experiment, well, there is not much we can do about it now. I'm more worried about two things. One, if a group that hasn't done well is there and attempting to steal the item off of other groups, like us. Should we keep all of our items together and protected by one or separate. Two, what if Lord Viscardi is "attacked" at this event. Maybe the point of all of us together is to see who protects him and who doesn't. After all, if I was your boss I would want to make sure that you are willing to put my life on the line for me. Anyways, it doesn't matter too much. Let us just go and win this contest. Not let anything be stolen from us and not let Lord Viscardi die if he is "attacked"."
Perrin ends his little ramble with a wide smile; confident that this team can past whatever test or experiment or whatever this is.
Singe looks at the seventeen year old, "Lera, what's your repertoire? Innate, learned, or something else?"
"That’s a really good question. What do you call it when you accidentally set stuff on fire and then your dad says 'well kid, I guess you have magical powers now'?" responds Lera, doing her best impression of her father.
"Monday" Perrin jokes, Koll Jr. chortles.
"So mainly fire based magic?"
"No, I can also make illusions... and a bunch of other stuff. I just found out I could make magic when I... had a Monday."
"What do you think the repercussions of Mr. Viscardi remembering that he answered our questions honestly would be?" Singe muses.
"Possibly not being employed." Perrin jumps in, Koll Jr. has begun grooming the halfling, but - to the monkey's distress - finds nothing appetizing.
"That was my thought. I think our investigation into Mr. Viscardi has to be put on hold." Singe says.
"I agree," Perrin now tying to get Koll Jr. out of his hair, "Let's just get there and see what happens."
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
Zamar and Woe have been fairly quiet while the group was making their way to the Inn for the bard competition. Suddenly the silence is broken by Lera inquiring
“Hey pops shouldn’t you and Woe figure out what you’re going to be doing for the contest?”
”Do you do requests?” Chips in Perrin.
“Gladly!” Zamar quickly responds “As for what Woe and I are doing I think we will inspire each other pre-performance. I am not sure we can perform together.”
“Do you know Here Ye all You Rascals?” Perrin inquired excitedly. “It’s a great Halfling Camp Song.” Perrin then begins to joyful sing the song from memory. Momentarily he is back on the farm with his Ma and Pa. (Performance: 1d20+2=11+2=13)
“Do you think I’d be able to help like normal?” Lera ponders as they walk
“What does your normal help look like, Lera?” Woe says, intrigued on how the duo perform. "I think a little pre-performance inspiration would do the trick! Just to get into the tune and the swing of things. Looking forward to jamming with you Zamar” Woe adds.
As Lera waves her hands creating illusionary fireworks Zamar answers Woe with “She does illusions and pyrotechnics to pump up the performance”
"Very nice, I had something similar in mind, if not quite as beautiful as your display!" Woe responds obviously impressed by the duo.
“I can give you the same back up, Woe!” Lera chimes in cheerfully.
"Thank you Lera, we will see what they allow. We won't be able to prepare or practise our synchronisation. So we might have to keep it simple. Maybe a firework at the end, but only if I nod my head in your direction. Sounds good? Thanks for your offer!!" Woe states after giving Leras offer some consideration. "You two might be able to go on stage together! We'll have to find out if they take groups!" Woe exclaims as the group approaches the Blade and Stars.
From out of an alley, a dark shadow bursts onto the main road. As the lamplight lights him up, his dark feathers are recognized by Woe and Singe. It's the Kenku from earlier in the day. When he sees your group, he turns to run... but stops. His voice pierces the quiet of the night, "Three teams have teamed. Be careful... they wish to stop any other team from reaching the tavern." He then rushes off into another alley. Whoever this Kenku is, you get the feeling he's never actually been part of any of the teams.
"Oh no" Singe's hands lit with fire spreading light around him. He grabs the rod from his side and flames streak up Singe's arms and wrap around his torso. For a moment, he appears to be on fire. The flames die down and Singe's white suit has fiery arcane symbols and intricate designs emblazoned on it.
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
Perrin, concerned for his friends who don’t seem to be wearing any If much armor, will sling off his backpack and put Junior inside there for safe keeping. Putting his backpack back on Perrin will bring his shield down on his left arm and his shortswoard in his right arm while telling the rest of the group:
”Stay behind me. I’ll protect you with this shield. Also, I’m not a fan of violence and blood and neither are the guards so we probably shouldn’t kill anyone while within the city. Or at all for that matter.”
Perrin will then take point.
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Group 1 and 3/Team Living on a Prayer
Lera listened to her father's music, letting the rhythm guide her. 1-2-3 turn. 1-2-3 spin. She could feel the air spinning and whooshing past as she sidestepped past the mallets. By some small miracle, she made it to the other side, without a scratch. In her moment of safety, the performer's daughter gave the audience a little bow. The audience ate it up, cheering and screaming. The platform narrowed, and before her she saw the jets of fire.
The jets of fire felt warm, but not hot enough to burn. And Lera knew fire. It was one of her signature things. She decided to continue dancing across, because, well, that was how one moved in these sorts of situations. She managed to dance her way past the first flame, but the second one flared into her face. The sorceress lost her balance, feeling herself fall. Somehow, she managed to catch herself, hanging onto the platform with one arm. She looked towards Woe and Zamar, visibly shaken. Woe pulled out her bagpipes and after a little quivering note, pumped it full of air and started playing a song of the green hills, a song of battle and a song of hope. Lera used the song to gain the strength to pull herself up and face the flames again. She was a hero, damnit. With people standing beside her. She could do this! Knowing that the fire was just an illusion, she closed her eyes and took off at a run.
Unfortunately, with her eyes closed, she forgot about the boulder that comprised the next obstacle. She felt the boulder before fully running into it, her eyes shooting open as it grazed her shoulder. She stumbled, but the momentum propelled her forward, right to the edge of the tank. Her sharp eyes, thanks to the amulet, noted a trick panel on the other side. She would have to make sure she avoided that...
There was nothing else to do other than jump. As she was about to jump in, she heard Woe's music once more. Her father's voice mixed in there as well, the song filling her with hope and strength. Lera dove into the water, having no trouble avoiding the whirlpools. Gasping for air, Lera came to the surface and pulled herself out of the pool on one of the safe tiles. A priest awaited her, handing the teenager one of the modrons.
Sweet Tymora, she had done it!
PBP: DM of Titans of Tomorrow
PBP: Lera Zahuv in Whispers of Dissent
PBP: Evaine Brae in Innistrad: Dark Ascension
PBP: Cor'avin in Tomb of Annihilation
Team 1 + 3/Modron Love
Woe and Zamar watch as the improbable girl danced, stumbled and tumbled her way through the course willing her to victory with their bardic magic. Even when it seemed it would not be enough, they watched as her form shimmered and she pressed through to the finish. Was that her wild magic? Zamar thought so, but only time would tell for sure. Suddenly, she was at the finish, the priests handing her a trophy. Zamar whooped, turned and hugged Woe. "Come on!" he shouted and rushed over to Lera.
"You gave me quite a fright, young lady," he said, "but I am very proud of you." As Woe caught up, Zamar turned to her and said, "and my thanks to you as well. I hope to be as generous with my inspiration in the coming battle."
As the trio were celebrating, Singe returned from the library. "Well," Singe says "I think it's time to go meet back up with the rest of the group"
They all agreed. "Good point," said Lera. "I guess we got carried away in the moment."
As the friends started to make their way back toward the Lower City, Zamar asked Singe, "Any luck with your research?"
Zamar Zahuv - Level 4 Aasimar Bard in Whispers of Dissent
Golos - Level 1 Halfling Barbarian in Night's Dark Terror
Jerrok Flametongue - Level 6 Human Barbarian in Zendikar - Whispers of the Aeons
R'thr Ka'ri - Level 5 Paladin in The Adventures of Bubbles (every other Wednesday)
Johnathan Moonspeaker - Level 6 Druid in Web of Lies (every other Friday)
DM of Something Wicked This Way Comes - D&D Modernverse (every other Tuesday)
Group 1 and 3
"No, research is a beast on a time crunch. But for the time being I have a few books in mind. The day after tomorrow I might be able to tell you something." Singe looks peeved by this, but he's quivering from excitement. "I think I know what Mr. Viscardi wants, but I don't want to repeat myself."
Tooltips | Snippet Code | How to Homebrew on D&D Beyond | Subclass Guide | Feature Roadmap
Astromancer's Homebrew Assembly
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
Group 1 & 3/Team Even More Awesome
“Mordenkainen’s pants, we did it Dad!” Lera exclaimed, giving her father a huge, wet squeeze. “And Woe, I could not have done it without your music. Seriously, you are the greatest bag pipe player I have ever heard.” The poor half-elf also received a wet hug.
Thanks to a towel of marginal fluffiness and her father’s magic, Lera was soon dried off. As they walked back to the lower city, the young aasimar tried her best at small talk. “So, what did you guys do before you entered this contest? And how did you get in the Upper City?” She asked curiously.
PBP: DM of Titans of Tomorrow
PBP: Lera Zahuv in Whispers of Dissent
PBP: Evaine Brae in Innistrad: Dark Ascension
PBP: Cor'avin in Tomb of Annihilation
Group 1 and 3
"Ambassadorial work," both Singe and Woe respond. Singe smiles at Woe. "We didn't know each other, I was up north in dwarven kingdoms and Woe was stationed here."
Tooltips | Snippet Code | How to Homebrew on D&D Beyond | Subclass Guide | Feature Roadmap
Astromancer's Homebrew Assembly
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
The Sun begins to fall and Selune and her tears begin to rise. It's at this moment that the Red Team of Eldon Viscardi's potential applicants assemble in front of the Baldur's Mouth office. The office is closed and the afternoon traffic is winding down, as many Baldurians have found refuge in taverns and their own homes by now. Lamplighters now walk the street, assisting Selune to keep the residents of Baldur's Gate safe in the refuge of the walls. The Flaming Fist patrols that roam the streets stand out more than ever, as each patrol carries a lantern to assist in illuminating the shadows.
The Red Team has gathered nearly everything on Viscardi's list. The last two items that remain are a Shimmering Shield and a Diamond. The location of the shield still hasn't been discovered, but the Diamond lies within grasp as a tournament of bards is taking place at the Blade and Stars. Having only moments to get to know each other, the Red Team now begins their travel to the Blade and Stars in an attempt to make it there by midnight.
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Woe is hungry. She is starving. This day feels as though it has already lasted 48h, and they are nowhere near to even think about a little rest. They have a gruelling 3h march in front of them, having to cross the city in the dark. Woe much appreciates having dark-vision, so she doesn't need to bother carrying a light. Then her focus shifts back to her growling stomach...
At the next street vendor, she buys a big panfried parcel of rice, wrapped in leaves. The vendor praised it as the best Brassla in all of Baldur's Gate, with his special, secret ingredient... Woe wonders, in a dish that contained eel, other fish, frog, mouse, onions and oysters, what that secret ingredient might be... But her stomach didn't allow her to think for too long, she was just grateful to finally have some food. When she sees Lera stare at her portion, she happily breaks it in two and gives the girl a hug. "You did fantastic today!!" says Woe to her with a smile.
Once she finished her food, she feels like herself again. She joins the others in chatter about the adventures of the day, but she keeps her eyes open in the dark alleyways, as to spot any dangers awaiting her and her newfound friends. perception 17
Perrin is really happy to see that between all three groups we were able to collect all but two of the items so far. With the information about The Blade and Star competition shared amongst everyone the group begins to travel towards the inn; following a similar path that Perrin, Koll, and Shanolia recently took. Along the way, Perrin decides to introduce himself to the other members of the team that he really didn't get to because of how quickly everything happened.
"I'm Perrin, everyone. Paladin of Yodalla. This is Shanolia, she is also participating in this competition and is on our team. She found me and Koll after the split. And this is Koll Junior but I just call him Junior for short." Perrin says as he points first to himself, then Shanolia, and finally the monkey. "He is named Koll because they both share an insatiable appetite for my pies and want to climb all over me." Perrin jokes and teases at Koll. "Junior is kind of us with us currently after we sort of rescued him from his abusive owner that forced him to do tricks and whipped him when he didn't perform correctly. So, far though the only things he has done is eat my pies and laughed at Shanolia."
Perrin will let a moment pass for the other members to dote over Junior before explaining what they have gathered and how they obtained it. "So, we retrieved ginger hair from Shanolia's old boss Flint, a space hamster, and another scavenger hunters list from another team that attacked us, and finally the counterfeit fit coin from Koll's brother." Perrin makes sure to leave out the deal with Loro and the incident with Flint; that's their story to tell not Perrins.
Singe looks at the armored halfling. "Oh yes! Let's make sure that we're not all strangers. I'm Singe, this is Woe, Zamar and Lera. We found everything on our part of the list except for the counterfeit coin and another team's list, which you have, so all we're missing is the diamond and the shield."
Tooltips | Snippet Code | How to Homebrew on D&D Beyond | Subclass Guide | Feature Roadmap
Astromancer's Homebrew Assembly
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
“Thanks, Woe,” Lera already liked the bard, but the food and hugs instantly propelled the other bard to the top of her list of favorite people. Plus, she looked to be the right age...
“Woe seems nice,” she sent a message to her dad. “Big heart, very musically talented, not too bad on the eyes either...”
“She is indeed very kind. I am glad we found her. And she is...lovely. But must you try to set me up at every opportunity?”
”Maaaaybe.” If a devious grin could be conveyed only through voice, then Lera was certainly sending that toward her father this very instant.
———
Lera certainly did dote over Junior when they found him. Here she was thinking they had gotten the coolest stuff, but the other team had a monkey? One just couldn’t compete with that.
”Pops and I got the four leaf clover, a treasure map, and two healing potions,” Lera reported back in hushed tones. She didn’t want anyone else to overhear their spoils. “And then when we met up with Woe and Singe, we did this crazy obstacle course and got a modron... It was wild, but that’s a story for later. More importantly, we got some information. First, this is all an experiment being performed by Viscardi. Second, Viscardi bought out the entire paper, so everything on there must have been some sort of clue. And third, we know that Viscardi plans to be at the Bard Competition tonight, which means he doesn’t plan on being in his room at the 10 Bed Inn.”
PBP: DM of Titans of Tomorrow
PBP: Lera Zahuv in Whispers of Dissent
PBP: Evaine Brae in Innistrad: Dark Ascension
PBP: Cor'avin in Tomb of Annihilation
"You don't think Viscardi intends to employ us?" Koll asks. "Perhaps you are reading too much into the word 'experiment'?
I too am glad to have a monkey with us. I named him Koll Jr not because of a shared fondness for pies, but because, though he may not be a monk, he is monk-y. Terrible joke. No, it is more because of the scars he bears like me. I was lashed twenty times for the crime of murder and imprisoned for five years. But I am on a path of redemption. I was trained by a fellow prisoner, a monk named Eeneko, during my time in Baldur's Bowels, in the ways of the Broken Ones of Ilmater.
Anyhow, my brother Loro remains a rogue; the city has changed much in five years, but that has not. I thought he could help us with our quest, so we went to him. We learned that his gang, the Tower Wolves, was planning on stealing the diamond that is tonight's prize. We convinced him otherwise, since we knew having two bards among us would give us a good shot at winning the prize. We did agree, however, to a sort of alliance between our two groups should we succeed at becoming part of Viscardi's adventurers' guild. I hope that does not offend any of you."
"An alliance with criminals? Yes, that bothers me! But we can only cross that bridge when we come to it. But I think I know what Mr. Viscardi wants, or at least how tonight might go down; may I rant?" Seeing a consensus among the group, he continues, "This entire trial is an experiment and every location in the paper is part of it. At each location there is a plant, an assistant, someone watching and recording. Mr. Viscardi expected us to go to those locations and act, being recorded. If we found out about a single person, well, they're just doing what they're told to, and Mr. Viscardi would tell us that he can't be everywhere, he wants to see how his potential employees will act. But some of these items, well, they're not limited to one location; you can find a flaming fist insignia by the dozen if you know where to go. But a 1000gp diamond? That's harder. One location, one time, if I was a social scientist trying to learn about the way people act under pressure, I can think of no better place. So, what if something goes awry? A punch is thrown, the diamond stolen? How will these wannabe adventurers act? Don't assume any actions the wait staff or the people not part of the trail are not choreographed, because this won't be the first time he's done this.
If it does go down that way, we need all hands on deck. Yes, I'd love to find out what exactly Mr. Viscardi is looking for, but I don't want to split the party again. What should we do?"
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Astromancer's Homebrew Assembly
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
"Honestly, Koll, I am not sure. I don't know what his game is, merely that he has one. He may be looking for something other than gathering all the items on the list. It's possible that he expects everyone to get most off the list and all need the diamond. If that is the case, the Blade and Stars will be a powder keg. How far will teams go if they can't claim it fairly? Does he want to see how we handle ourselves in a fight?" Zamar shakes his head. "Too many questions, not enough answers."
"But I forget my manners," he says with a start. "I am Zamar and this is my daughter Lera. We are travelers from up the coast and while we are not exactly maintaining a low profile, we are not advertising our true selves. Since you all have share so much with us, it seems only right to reciprocate. Our true family name is Zahuv, but we only use that when we need to trade on our name. Mostly we go by Fiore. Unless we are up to mischief. Then we go by Winterbourne." He grins. "I know. So very many names. But it is necessary for Lera's protection. Lord Winterbourne means to ruin her. I have stolen his means and we have been on the run ever since. Life was simple until she decided she wanted to be an adventurer. I blame myself. She got the idea from all the stories she heard me trade for meals."
He turns back to Koll, a more serious expression on his face. "My friend, we all have done things we are not proud of. We do what we believe is best for those we care about. Some of us, for example, may have charged a rather expensive piece of jewelry to their ancestral estate." He winks. "All we can do is strive to be our best selves and make amends along the way. I, myself, have become indebted to a small band of make-believe pirate children who gave away something whose value they could not appreciate. I will find my way back to them and do right by them when I can."
Zamar Zahuv - Level 4 Aasimar Bard in Whispers of Dissent
Golos - Level 1 Halfling Barbarian in Night's Dark Terror
Jerrok Flametongue - Level 6 Human Barbarian in Zendikar - Whispers of the Aeons
R'thr Ka'ri - Level 5 Paladin in The Adventures of Bubbles (every other Wednesday)
Johnathan Moonspeaker - Level 6 Druid in Web of Lies (every other Friday)
DM of Something Wicked This Way Comes - D&D Modernverse (every other Tuesday)
“If I were to hire a band of adventurers, I would certainly want to know how they handled themselves in a fight,” the younger aasimar nodded.
”What if Viscardi payed the Tower Wolves to steal the diamond so that he could see what happened?” Lera’s eyes brightened. “I was planning on finding Viscardi and talking to him while the bards play, which will still keep me there so I think that’s fine. Xanathar’s pants, this is exciting.”
PBP: DM of Titans of Tomorrow
PBP: Lera Zahuv in Whispers of Dissent
PBP: Evaine Brae in Innistrad: Dark Ascension
PBP: Cor'avin in Tomb of Annihilation
"I wouldn't worry about the Tower Wolves and our deal with them. Koll was once a part of them and now he is on the walk of redemption. I'm sure that eventually, with some intervention from us we can have the Tower Wolves also take the walk of redemption like Koll. As for this experiment, well, there is not much we can do about it now. I'm more worried about two things. One, if a group that hasn't done well is there and attempting to steal the item off of other groups, like us. Should we keep all of our items together and protected by one or separate. Two, what if Lord Viscardi is "attacked" at this event. Maybe the point of all of us together is to see who protects him and who doesn't. After all, if I was your boss I would want to make sure that you are willing to put my life on the line for me. Anyways, it doesn't matter too much. Let us just go and win this contest. Not let anything be stolen from us and not let Lord Viscardi die if he is "attacked"."
Perrin ends his little ramble with a wide smile; confident that this team can past whatever test or experiment or whatever this is.
Singe looks at the seventeen year old, "Lera, what's your repertoire? Innate, learned, or something else?"
"That’s a really good question. What do you call it when you accidentally set stuff on fire and then your dad says 'well kid, I guess you have magical powers now'?" responds Lera, doing her best impression of her father.
"Monday" Perrin jokes, Koll Jr. chortles.
"So mainly fire based magic?"
"No, I can also make illusions... and a bunch of other stuff. I just found out I could make magic when I... had a Monday."
"What do you think the repercussions of Mr. Viscardi remembering that he answered our questions honestly would be?" Singe muses.
"Possibly not being employed." Perrin jumps in, Koll Jr. has begun grooming the halfling, but - to the monkey's distress - finds nothing appetizing.
"That was my thought. I think our investigation into Mr. Viscardi has to be put on hold." Singe says.
"I agree," Perrin now tying to get Koll Jr. out of his hair, "Let's just get there and see what happens."
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Astromancer's Homebrew Assembly
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
Zamar and Woe have been fairly quiet while the group was making their way to the Inn for the bard competition. Suddenly the silence is broken by Lera inquiring
“Hey pops shouldn’t you and Woe figure out what you’re going to be doing for the contest?”
”Do you do requests?” Chips in Perrin.
“Gladly!” Zamar quickly responds “As for what Woe and I are doing I think we will inspire each other pre-performance. I am not sure we can perform together.”
“Do you know Here Ye all You Rascals?” Perrin inquired excitedly. “It’s a great Halfling Camp Song.” Perrin then begins to joyful sing the song from memory. Momentarily he is back on the farm with his Ma and Pa. (Performance: 1d20+2=11+2=13)
“Do you think I’d be able to help like normal?” Lera ponders as they walk
“What does your normal help look like, Lera?” Woe says, intrigued on how the duo perform. "I think a little pre-performance inspiration would do the trick! Just to get into the tune and the swing of things. Looking forward to jamming with you Zamar” Woe adds.
As Lera waves her hands creating illusionary fireworks Zamar answers Woe with “She does illusions and pyrotechnics to pump up the performance”
"Very nice, I had something similar in mind, if not quite as beautiful as your display!" Woe responds obviously impressed by the duo.
“I can give you the same back up, Woe!” Lera chimes in cheerfully.
"Thank you Lera, we will see what they allow. We won't be able to prepare or practise our synchronisation. So we might have to keep it simple. Maybe a firework at the end, but only if I nod my head in your direction. Sounds good? Thanks for your offer!!" Woe states after giving Leras offer some consideration. "You two might be able to go on stage together! We'll have to find out if they take groups!" Woe exclaims as the group approaches the Blade and Stars.
From out of an alley, a dark shadow bursts onto the main road. As the lamplight lights him up, his dark feathers are recognized by Woe and Singe. It's the Kenku from earlier in the day. When he sees your group, he turns to run... but stops. His voice pierces the quiet of the night, "Three teams have teamed. Be careful... they wish to stop any other team from reaching the tavern." He then rushes off into another alley. Whoever this Kenku is, you get the feeling he's never actually been part of any of the teams.
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"Oh no" Singe's hands lit with fire spreading light around him. He grabs the rod from his side and flames streak up Singe's arms and wrap around his torso. For a moment, he appears to be on fire. The flames die down and Singe's white suit has fiery arcane symbols and intricate designs emblazoned on it.
Singe casts mage armor on himself.
Tooltips | Snippet Code | How to Homebrew on D&D Beyond | Subclass Guide | Feature Roadmap
Astromancer's Homebrew Assembly
"The relevant equation is: Knowledge = power = energy = matter = mass; a good bookshop is just a genteel Black Hole that knows how to read." - Terry Pratchett
Perrin, concerned for his friends who don’t seem to be wearing any If much armor, will sling off his backpack and put Junior inside there for safe keeping. Putting his backpack back on Perrin will bring his shield down on his left arm and his shortswoard in his right arm while telling the rest of the group:
”Stay behind me. I’ll protect you with this shield. Also, I’m not a fan of violence and blood and neither are the guards so we probably shouldn’t kill anyone while within the city. Or at all for that matter.”
Perrin will then take point.