Zeph feels a bit awkward himself when Shar has to shift his cup to his other hand in order to shake hands. Why hadn't he noticed that? This boy may be large, and could almost definitely overpower him with shear strength, but he is definitely unsure of himself. "A pleasure to meet you as well. And of course it's ok with me if you want to help. It's more than ok. You certainly look like you can hold your own in a skirmish. Looks like now I won't have to be the party's main frontliner." He retracts his hand, chuckles slightly and reaches up to readjust his glasses. "Heheh, that probably sounds weird coming from me. I know I don't look like a brawler, but until you showed up I was really the only frontliner this group had." His smile fades as his hand falls back to his side and his eyes grow a bit distant. Though it is hard to tell if this is simply due to fatigue or if he suddenly became deep in thought.
The young elf remains in this slightly dazed state while Zahira attempts to coax Kuro into speaking with Shar, and her endeavor of getting Shar's number. When the principal offers him a cup of tea, he gives a slight start and a small tired smile. He takes the cup, but doesn't start drinking it. Instead he moves to sit somewhere in the room and simply holds the cup in both hands while staring into it.
He looks up the knock sounds from the door, he can't help but smile when Himari and Arthur walk in. He takes one hand off his cup to return their greetings. After a few moments, he realizes that he's been looking at Himari for a bit longer than necessary and he feels his face heat. Blinking, he takes a deep breath and looks back at his cup. What has gotten into him? Is this what its like to actually like someone? With all the suitors pushed on him, he'd thought himself numbed to those feelings. He sighs. Not that it matters anyway. Even if that is what...whatever this is, it could never be. He sighs, this is not the time to be fretting over such things.
Still without taking a sip from his cup, Zephyro sets his cup down on the coffee table then leans back and folds his hands in his lap. "Alright. Now that we are all here." He begins in a serious tone. "I have a suggestion." He scans everyone in the room. "Can anyone here cast the spell Zone of Truth?" His gaze lands on the principal expectantly. "Based on the information we found. We have reason to believe that both the knights and the police may be in on these kidnappings, and if that is true, it is reasonable to believe that this organization's reach may go even farther than that. Now, I don't think any of us here are involved in it, but it's better safe than sorry."
- Not me, I'm afraid... - Zahira answers Zephyro. She is pretty sure that neither him nor Kuro know that spell, so she glances at Arthur and Himari. Perhaps the paladins knew this spell? She wished Forthright wasn't the only one present being able to cast Zone of Truth, because in that case he would be the one knowing who can or cannot lie inside the circle, which wouldn't help them that much in knowing if he's to be trusted... right?
Silas had listened to Zephyro and to Zahira. Himari had glanced over at Zephyro though she blinked a bit tilting her head as she looked at him she had merely smiled and waved happily despite the situation.
Arthur's eyes had rested upon Zahira. He had nodded listening to her entire statement he seemed rather impressed by her speech! He didn't stop looking at her for a few more moments before catching himself. Though when he had he couldn't help but laugh a bit at himself. Despite Himari and Arthur's laid back attitudes Silas hadn't seemed thrown off but he seemed like a hard guy to read.
"Ahh, you do realize young Zahira.. Necromancy isn't just the magic of death. It controls the ebb of life energy as well. Transmutation is the magic of changing properties.. As for Celestial magic? I couldn't fathom why or how they would use such a thing. Or who would be behind this, I've only a few guesses but nothing really sound. Ahh, quite a quandary we have found ourselves in."
Arthur looks over and shakes his head when she ask about Zone of Truth.
"I.. I just picked up magic after our cafeteria battle and some training. I only know how to use first level spells..."
"As you know Zone of Truth is commonly a spell cast by force of personality or by a strong enough connection to the divine. One must share a special connection with the weave, as a Wizard I cannot use such magic."
Himari raises a hand looking around.
"I-I've been working on second level magic.. I-I haven't tried it but.. I can try too."
Himari had taken a deep breath gesturing somatic motions while speaking a bit of the verbal components. "Tea (pronounced Tay-uh) Guide me..."
With that a 15 foot radius of magic was created in the center taking a silver twilight like glow.
"Did.. Did I do it right?"
"Don't ask me, feel for yourself child. Has anyone resisted you're spell? You know the answer, just don't doubt yourself."
"I don't think.. Anyone has. Let me see, hey Arthur.. Do you think Zahira's cute?
"Oh yeah! She's the cutest! Wait.. Ahh Himari come one that's terrible!"
With a light giggle she closes her eyes and nods.
"I think I did it right I don't feel any resistance."
OOC Thank you for making a link to my world anvil map for our new friend here ^~^
Insight DC on Forthright will vary for more info.
DC 15
DC 16
And for a super clear look DC 18.
Of course if anyone wants to save against her magic her response may be different xD
Than again she may lie for the parties sake if they wish to save regardless. But if that's the case she will have to roll deception xD
Zahira's face goes from a "Go girl, you got this!!!" cheering expression when Himari says she can cast the spell, to display a deep purple blush which afterwards turns into a "I'm going to murder you, Himari Sato!!!" expression when the she tricks Arthur. Not that Himari's ever needed a Zone of Truth to manage that before, but... well. Oh well! The genasi can't deny it was nice to hear Arthur calling her cute once again. She glances at Arthur smiling shyly. Then looks the floor. Then to one of the many shelves covering the Principal's office which is ... oh ... so full of interesting books. Wait, is that the latest edition of "Compendium of the Arcane"? She'd love to read that one!
"Errrrm....come on, Zahira, back to the real world. Say something useful".
- So... hehe....Well! Nicely done, Hima - "Damn you, though, girl" - I haven't tried to resist the spell, but let me try out of curiosity, because I've never been in a Zone of Truth before. Hmmmm. My favourite ice cream flavour is ... - and she tries to say "vanilla", but she's just unable to do it - ... nope, no can do. Vanilla is just the worst. I'm sorry, Zeph. Aaaanyway. Mr Forthright, you said you had a few guesses about who's behind this. Could you share them with us?- "There you go. Something useful".
"Let's see what's Forthright's answer to this one. 'The Purists' perhaps?"
Kuro blinks, slightly surprised that the Wizard can't cast that spell but Himari can... wait, does he really want to be stuck in a zone of truth? ...he lifts his head a little when the magic washes over him, contemplating whether or not to put up a fight. Ultimately he decides that doing so would look bad on him and also draw unwanted attention towards him if Himari really can feel who tries to resist. Besides, he doesn't really plan on talking anyways and it isn't as if the spell can force words out of his mouth...
Turning his eyes to the principle, he watches for any sort of reaction.
The principal had straightened his suit as he pushed his tea aside for the moment with a light chuckle. He looked to Zahira with a wry grin.
"I wasn't wrong about you Zahira, it was wise of you to make sure that I was in this circle. It's hard to tell how far this goes yes? It's true I could be apart of these machinations unfolding, though if I was I am a bit curious. What would you're plan be?"
Arthur and Himari had flinched a bit, these two seemed completely out of the loop when it came to suspecting him. Himari however was able to ready herself faster as a look of shock remained on Arthur's face. His red cheeks dampening to their usual color in the light of the moment. Silas had stood up flickering a flame in his hand. Arthur hadn't reached for his sword but he had grabbed his shield.
"You must know, that owning an adventuring academy I've spent most of my youth delving in dangerous ruins hunting down fanatics and monsters alike. Heh, those were the good days and in that time the magic I've accumulated has been useful. Not all of it explosive either, some magic's can control one's mind in large area's. Perhaps being in this room was reckless, a zone of truth with someone that could be against you. Despite the gap of experience you stand tall and Zahira you ask you're question firmly. You even tried protecting Shar from this conversation."
The magic had flickered away as the man offered a chuckle before it evolved into a light fit of laughter as he begun to shake his head slightly.
"That.. Is the mark of an adventurer. Maybe even a hero, as for my guesses? I believe one to be the Purist. Another is Straus Haven, I know some of them hold bad feelings after the war but I hope that isn't the case. Aside from the purist I have heard of demon worshipers that were drove out of the outskirts of town so perhaps? There's always a chance it could be unrelated to these things but they are all I could fathom to think about. Now allow me to ask you all a question in return. Why did you all come to this school? To you what does being an adventurer mean? Freedom? Power? Honor? Respect? Justice? Or is it a burden? I want to know what it is that drives you."
Arthur takes a deep breath and lowers his shield before looking back at Zeph,Zahira,Kuro. Himari had looked over with an awkward chuckle. They were texted beforehand that the principal could be compromised but it was clear they hadn't thought about trapping a possible powerful wizard in a zone of truth where he couldn't lie.
"Allow me to save you all some time, I am not working with those involved in the disappearance of the children. Were I in you're shoes I too would suspect anyone in power. There's been many cases that me and my party had taken a case only to learn the local noble was involved! Hahaha! Those were good times indeed. The wine the sights the wom- the wonders of adventuring I mean!"
OOC I shall PM you for Zahira's insight and she can share with the others later if she wishes to ^~^ Oh same for Kuro since he rolled high enough! ^~^
Silas however is now getting a read back on these kids. So for a deception check the DC will be 18 unless they don't have a reason to hide their expressions/reactions.
"Of course Himari knows that spell! She's brilliant! Why didn't I think of asking her that before?"Zephyro thinks to himself in both admiration for the girl, and irritation at his own foolishness. If he had simply asked her prior to this meeting, they wouldn't have even needed to let Forthright know what was going on. Gah! He should have thought of that earlier. No matter, what's done is done, no use dwelling on it.
His thoughts are broken when he feels the spell wash over him. His first instinct is to fight it however, he forces himself to let it go....and then Himari asks her question to Arthur. His reaction brings a smile back to his face. At least everyone here seems to be acting normal. It really helps lighten the mood. Though...he really hopes none of them try to ask him any personal questions...if they do, he's going to do his best to answer with silence.
Before he can speak, Zahira pipes in. He grins and shakes his head, at least she seems to be thinking on her feet...just like usual. However, his smile wavers when Forthright begins speaking. He hadn't thought this all the way through. Fortunately, his shock turns to relief when the principal seems give them some answers. The Purists, Straus Haven, or demon worshipers. The young elf almost becomes lost in thought again before the principal asks his question. "Why did I come here?"Zephyro looks up, "Well...I suppose being an adventurer means you have a bit of each of those things....accept the burden...for me anyways. I came here to find a sort of freedom I didn't have before and to grow my power in a way that I want. Honor and a sense of Justice are something any hero should have...as for respect. Some might think I have plenty of that as a noble, but I want to be respected for the person I am, not just my family name...." He stops himself from continuing face a bit red from embarrassment. He hadn't meant to say that much...not out loud anyways.
Kuro tenses slightly when Forthright summons the fire, but quickly realizes that they don't have anything to worry about. Though the principles words do make sense... what would they have done if they'd found themselves trapped in this room with someone as powerful as this guy? Honestly, Kuro hadn't really expected to have to worry, so perhaps that underlying confidence had caused him to overlook the 'what if' of the situation. Though, he had considered that maybe (had Forthright been on the bad side) he would have been a little more wary with the bugbear kid here? Looking back on that however, he realizes how stupid that was. Why would Forthright need to worry about it if Shar was on his side? Or if he has the power to just make them all disappear? Of course... he had prepared somewhat by asking Mom to come pick him up. Though in hindsight that wouldn't have saved them aside from letting someone know that they were taken...but would the principle have been the main suspect? There were so many variables. Oh well, no point in analyzing it. All he cares about is that Forthright is on their side so they can dump Len on him and leave.
He blinks when Forthright asks what 'drives' them. Surely he knows already that his father is forcing him to go to this school and he has no real desire to be an adventurer or a hero. So, he does his usual and says nothing.
I rolled deception on the private chat... it was a 10 lol.
Zahira felt her heart beating furiously as Forthright began speaking and preparing a spell. What had they done? Assailing him with questions in a closed space! It didn't matter if they were five against him - six, counting Shar - they wouldn't be a match for the Principal's powerful magic!
But then, all of a sudden, Forthright's expression changes and with that comes the realization that he's after all to be trusted. The genasi relaxes and the hand that had been clutching the lockpick to ready herself for an incoming attack falls limply to her side. She looked at her friends with relief, then turned to the Principal:
- That ... was ... scary... - she said, letting out a nervous chuckle. Then added - I'm truly glad to hear you say you are not involved in this, Mr Forthright.
The Principal's question surprises her. Wasn't he going to ask anything else about what they had discovered? It was as if their initial suspicions didn't surprise nor worry him at all. Instead, he's was showing more interest in knowing why they came to study to his Academy. "What a strange man", Zahira thought. She had liked the Principal's chill - even comical - attitude from the very begining and this made the genasi like him even more. She nods to Zephyro's answer and then proceeds with hers:
- Well, in my case I didn't think that much about where to study. I only knew I wanted to follow my uncle steps and become an artificer like him, contrary to what my parents wished me to be. They expected me to become a holy knight like both of them, but it was the arcane and all the tools, and the tinkering, the machinery and little pieces that I saw on uncle Plash's workshop that I fell in love with. My little brother, Tobias, has been sick since he was born, and all I've really wanted for a long time was to be able to create little toys for him to be entertained, seeing that he couldn't go outside and have fun like the rest of kids. Then my interest turned into trying to find some cure for his illness, or at least something that may ease his day to day. That has been one of my uncle's main interests of late, and I thought that if I could get to learn as much as he does I could help him! I came to Rising Dawn by his recommendation. So, I haven't really thought that much on becoming and adventurer. But now that I'm here...well.. I may as well try to help solve any situation we are faced with. And I will put to good use everything I learn. Be that for my brother's sake, or for anyone's.
Zahira doesn't add more for the moment, but looks intently at Zephyro. Talking about helping people, they should hand Len's crystal, right?
Shar cannot believe the boldness of the request... to include The Principal in a zone of truth spell?? What they were talking about?. He doesn't dare, however to express his doubts about it, and even before he is able to think to leave after all, the spell is cast.
A few seconds of tense expectation pass as the Prinpicial speaks of him beingi involved in all those dissapearances but it pass quickly eonugh and then he asks the a question. As they all reply to it he feels compelled to do so, even if he wasn't so sure if he was included in the question.
"I am here because of the grea..." he cannot continue to say the reharsed phrase to impress the principal and the teachers.The spell, of course.
"I only want to be an adventurer and graduate in this school to be able to help my parents buy a new house and leave the suburbs... we do not live in the best neighbourgh. I do not care if I am enlisted by a collegue team or I graduate and get enough gold for them to be able to live better. I... I do not have the least idea of how to do that though... I am big " with that word he raises one arm, as if measuring someone, but his long left arm really stand tall, specially in comparison with his still confined in the chair body. ".. And I am good at the game but I do not know if I will be really good at a real fight..." He puts again his arm around his knees and it seems to shrink
Silas had eyed Kuro for a moment before listening to everyone's own reasons. He had offered a smile to Zephyro and Zahira as well as a chuckle to Shar.
"I see, a hero young Zephyro. Zahira, to help you're uncle.. Plash with Tobias is honorable as well. Shar, I think you'll need more time to find what.. Truly drives you but I can see it a fire deep inside. ..Kuro, you're desire to be here isn't exactly lit is it? If I know anything about you're father.. I'm sure you had no choice but to be here is that so? You're father is hot headed but a good man. However I think it's imperative that you find you're own path. I wish to help you study you're magic. Not everyone can have strong convictions like Zahira or Zephyro at such a young age but we all do have something different that makes us move forward. I hope young man you find that, you can't always remain in the background to allow others to talk. There will be a day you'll be forced to either stand aside in the face of an unjust world or.. Stand up for what you believe in. That being said however.. Is there any other evidence you all have discovered?"
Himari holds a feel tombs that have some runes on them. Before anything though she does offer them to Shar who had asked for them beforehand. (DC 15 Arcana check.)
The bugbear looks at the runes, carefully turning the feel tombs on his obviusly big hands but he must admit that he has no idea what they mean and he can't remember if he has seen them before. He handed them back to Himari as he negates with his head and mumbles an apology.
Once again, the young elf is struck by how similar Zahira's story is to his own. To both of them, this school offered them the freedom to choose their own path...even if one of them was more up front about it with their family than the other. When she is finished talking and looks directly at him, Zephyro catches her eye and gives a sharp nod. He had not forgotten about Len. How could he? No, he was simply waiting for the best time to bring it up.
He waits patiently as Shar tells his reasons for attending the school. He can't help but feel sorry for the boy...and a bit guilty. Perhaps he can help his new party member out a bit. Hopefully being in this party can help boost his confidence, and perhaps the young elf can help the larger boy out financially from time to time....
Once the principal is finished talking, Zephyro speaks up, "Well, since we got the trust thing out of the way..." he stands and picks up his bag, still trying not to think about how poorly his half thought out plan with the zone of truth could have gone if the principal really did turn out to be a villain. "When we searched the cellar in that house, we found out that whoever is kidnapping students, is trapping them in these crystals....and we, well we found Len."He pulls out Len's Crystal, holding it with care. "Uh, he's in here. Do you have any idea of how to get him out?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Kuro averts his eyes, tilting his face to one side to look away from everyone in the room. He didn't need to hear anything Forthright was saying to him, he already knew all that. But... find his own path? When would that ever be an option? As long as he was stuck at this school he'd have to keep studying his stupid magic that never worked right, and prepare to be an adventurer--which will probably wind up getting him killed before he's even old enough to consider leaving home (which in his mind is the only possible way he could get out of heeding Father's demands). Until then, he's just a fourteen-year-old, trapped in whatever rules his parents decide for him. Sure he'll disobey here and there, whatever it takes to make his own life easier--sometimes listening to Father rant was easier than doing what he was told to do. After all this time, well he's grown rather immune to it--mostly. He'd given up on pleasing the man a long time ago. He just isn't built for this kind of life. He'd be happy just living in his room with just the cats to keep him company. There isn't any point in worrying about the future right now. All that does is make his stomach hurt. Why in Spiral did Zephiro and Zahira think that this school was somehow a form of freedom?
He manages to force himself to pay attention when they finally get around to showing Len to Forthright. He also takes a brief glance at the runes, in spite of telling himself how pointless it is for him to even bother trying to identify them.
Arcana: 6(I realize this check was just for Shar, but if its alright for Kuro to try and identify it with a glance at a higher DC (or same DC lol) I thought I'd give him a chance since he actually is proficient in arcana.)
Not that he really has any plans on saying much if he does recognize them... though he probably will tell someone later after they aren't in the same room as the principle. He's had enough of the old guy examining him.
Meanwhile, he pulls out his crystal and texts his mom, "We are about done. Could you let me know when you get here?" He figures having his mom text him would be a good excuse to leave if things go on much longer.
Zahira had felt a wave of tenderness when Shar explained his motivations and wanted to make him feel welcome in the party and let him know he now had a group of people he could count on. So when he doesn't get much information from the runes, she approaches him:
- Could I look at the runes, too? - she asks - Perhaps together we can gather something from them? By the way, I think your motivations are very noble. And I'm sure you will learn the reins along with us. It's not like we know ourselves how to be adventurers already, and we sure need to learn a thing or two about fighting. We will learn together, Shar - she adds, with a smile.
Zephyro's motivations weren't that foreign to her, as they had already talked a little bit about their similarities in wanting follow their desires instead of what their parents expected to them. But was a little surprised when she heard him say that he wanted to be respected for himself, and not so much for his family name. She hadn't thought about that, and there they had a major difference. Thought the Etesians were noble too, their name didn't carry a weight as heavy as the Aethelmyr's, or the Chevalier's for that matter. She once again thought how unfair it was that he was, for example, being pushed to marry Arthur's sister, instead of who he wanted. She eyes Himari, knowing how she felt for him, and wondered once again if her feelings were returned. And what would it imply for Zephyro if they did.
Kuro's situation was totally different. And here, the young genasi was at a loss. How could they help him if he didn't want to be here at all? It was no wonder that he always displayed that uninterested look. She was pretty sure he would make an incredibly powerful sorcerer one day, but perhaps this academy wasn't the place for him to do so? She felt sad thinking about this, because if he ended up getting what he wanted and left Rising Dawn, it would probably mean that he wouldn't hang out with them anymore?
When Zephyro handed Len's crystal the young artificer added:
- Mr Forthright, we heard that whoever is doing this is targeting students with magical knowledge. We know that Len was studying to be a wizard, but it would help to know if the targets are just wizards or perhaps other magic users as well? Have other students been missing? Who are they and what were they studying?
(OOC: Arcana = 19. Tried just in case, though Kuro had already gotten a superb roll. And mainly to just speak with Shar a little)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Shar could tell these ruins were a tough code to crack. Some was in Celestial but much of it was in complex formula it had seemed. Himari had offered Shar a wide friendly grin as she shook her head refusing the runes.
"You and Zahira can have them! Zephyro is good at that stuff too!"
The principal had widened his eyes, his calm demeanor broken for a moment before clearing his throat. He had held the crystal ball for a moment while examining it.
(Principals Arcana Roll)
22
Kuro's mom had texted back that she was heading on over, it was obvious she was worried but was trying her best to stay calm in the manner. The teacher had cast a few spells such as Detect Magic and Identify on the the crystal ball that Len was in while studying it for a moment.
Regardless of how much he can find, he hands the ball back to the group.
"I wish I could keep this... But if what you say is true and the police may have some corrupt members.. They are allowed to seize my property and investigate without warning. Since I am training many young minds in a dangerous field it was a fair agreement at the time.. However now it proves to be troublesome. I always felt the school should be more independent and now here is a reason why! I am sorry.. However I do have an address of an archmage that could aid you. Another good person to ask would be Zahira's own uncle Plash. Though he may.. Worry about Zahira being caught up in this."
The principal had looked over to Zahira and had shook his head at her question.
"No, sorcerer's... Warlocks and Clerics have all been taken. Those with larger quantities of magic, fewer Rangers and Paladins as well as Artificers and only those with superb talent. I should consider cancelling classes for awhile.. But if I do that... They aren't exactly safer. Still it does feel wrong continuing classes"
Kuro and Zahira can see the celestial runes and even some Infernal. Many in archaic code, code they could use it was a matter of deciphering those two languages. (if they know them my bad.) With just those two languages along with Elvish they can probably figure these Runes out! Even having someone read the formula back to them they could probably piece it together from the formula's they can decipher in common.
OOC His glance/check can work fine as long as Shar doesn't pull the tablet away it should work ^~^
I'll tell the result since he showed Zahira I'm sure he'd show Kuro ^~^
(OOC: Ok! Zahira takes the runes and of course shows them to both Zeph and Kuro for them to see ^^)
Zahira looked a bit dissappointed when the Principal handed Len's crystal back. It's not that she expected the kid to be out of that crystal right away, of course, but she thought they would leave that office knowing a little more about how to help him. Also, she wasn't sure what to think about involving Plash. Oh, sure she would love seeing him applying all his knowledge into this, but Forthright was right: was her uncle going to let her investigate further?
- Hmmm, my uncle, riiight. There's no one I trust more than him and I'm sure he will want to help right away. But you are right, Mr Forthright: I'm not sure how he'll react regarding me. He's very protective of Tobey and me, but ... at the same time, he's tremendously logical and practical. So I may be able convince to him that I can be of help, and that it is better that his niece is informed of what is going on, better than let her live in ignorance. How am I going to be able to react to the reality of what is happening if I don't know anything about it, right? I ... well...that is what I would try to explain to him.
She looks at the rest:
- What do you guys think? Should I take the crystal to him, then? And if you agree, does any one of you want to accompany me to my home to be there when I tell him about this? He may be more eager to let me help in this investigation if he gets to know you and see that we are not just helpless children and that we are precisely studying here to do these kinds of investigations. Or I can try to speak to him alone first, if you guys prefer.
After saying this she remembers what Forthright has said about Kuro, and thinking of him she adds:
- I don't want to impose, of course. This is not an obligation. If you don't agree we can think of other options. The fact that I want to continue on this investigation doesn't mean that the rest of you have to do it. Though...I will of course feel more confident knowing that you are in this, too.
She then turns again to Forthright:
- In any case, who is that other person you talked about? The archmage? Is he in town?
Zeph feels a bit awkward himself when Shar has to shift his cup to his other hand in order to shake hands. Why hadn't he noticed that? This boy may be large, and could almost definitely overpower him with shear strength, but he is definitely unsure of himself. "A pleasure to meet you as well. And of course it's ok with me if you want to help. It's more than ok. You certainly look like you can hold your own in a skirmish. Looks like now I won't have to be the party's main frontliner." He retracts his hand, chuckles slightly and reaches up to readjust his glasses. "Heheh, that probably sounds weird coming from me. I know I don't look like a brawler, but until you showed up I was really the only frontliner this group had." His smile fades as his hand falls back to his side and his eyes grow a bit distant. Though it is hard to tell if this is simply due to fatigue or if he suddenly became deep in thought.
The young elf remains in this slightly dazed state while Zahira attempts to coax Kuro into speaking with Shar, and her endeavor of getting Shar's number. When the principal offers him a cup of tea, he gives a slight start and a small tired smile. He takes the cup, but doesn't start drinking it. Instead he moves to sit somewhere in the room and simply holds the cup in both hands while staring into it.
He looks up the knock sounds from the door, he can't help but smile when Himari and Arthur walk in. He takes one hand off his cup to return their greetings. After a few moments, he realizes that he's been looking at Himari for a bit longer than necessary and he feels his face heat. Blinking, he takes a deep breath and looks back at his cup. What has gotten into him? Is this what its like to actually like someone? With all the suitors pushed on him, he'd thought himself numbed to those feelings. He sighs. Not that it matters anyway. Even if that is what...whatever this is, it could never be. He sighs, this is not the time to be fretting over such things.
Still without taking a sip from his cup, Zephyro sets his cup down on the coffee table then leans back and folds his hands in his lap. "Alright. Now that we are all here." He begins in a serious tone. "I have a suggestion." He scans everyone in the room. "Can anyone here cast the spell Zone of Truth?" His gaze lands on the principal expectantly. "Based on the information we found. We have reason to believe that both the knights and the police may be in on these kidnappings, and if that is true, it is reasonable to believe that this organization's reach may go even farther than that. Now, I don't think any of us here are involved in it, but it's better safe than sorry."
Insight on the principal's reaction to Zeph's proposal. 8 (oof)
- Not me, I'm afraid... - Zahira answers Zephyro. She is pretty sure that neither him nor Kuro know that spell, so she glances at Arthur and Himari. Perhaps the paladins knew this spell? She wished Forthright wasn't the only one present being able to cast Zone of Truth, because in that case he would be the one knowing who can or cannot lie inside the circle, which wouldn't help them that much in knowing if he's to be trusted... right?
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Silas had listened to Zephyro and to Zahira. Himari had glanced over at Zephyro though she blinked a bit tilting her head as she looked at him she had merely smiled and waved happily despite the situation.
Arthur's eyes had rested upon Zahira. He had nodded listening to her entire statement he seemed rather impressed by her speech! He didn't stop looking at her for a few more moments before catching himself. Though when he had he couldn't help but laugh a bit at himself. Despite Himari and Arthur's laid back attitudes Silas hadn't seemed thrown off but he seemed like a hard guy to read.
"Ahh, you do realize young Zahira.. Necromancy isn't just the magic of death. It controls the ebb of life energy as well. Transmutation is the magic of changing properties.. As for Celestial magic? I couldn't fathom why or how they would use such a thing. Or who would be behind this, I've only a few guesses but nothing really sound. Ahh, quite a quandary we have found ourselves in."
Arthur looks over and shakes his head when she ask about Zone of Truth.
"I.. I just picked up magic after our cafeteria battle and some training. I only know how to use first level spells..."
"As you know Zone of Truth is commonly a spell cast by force of personality or by a strong enough connection to the divine. One must share a special connection with the weave, as a Wizard I cannot use such magic."
Himari raises a hand looking around.
"I-I've been working on second level magic.. I-I haven't tried it but.. I can try too."
Himari had taken a deep breath gesturing somatic motions while speaking a bit of the verbal components.
"Tea (pronounced Tay-uh) Guide me..."
With that a 15 foot radius of magic was created in the center taking a silver twilight like glow.
"Did.. Did I do it right?"
"Don't ask me, feel for yourself child. Has anyone resisted you're spell? You know the answer, just don't doubt yourself."
"I don't think.. Anyone has. Let me see, hey Arthur.. Do you think Zahira's cute?
"Oh yeah! She's the cutest! Wait.. Ahh Himari come one that's terrible!"
With a light giggle she closes her eyes and nods.
"I think I did it right I don't feel any resistance."
OOC
Thank you for making a link to my world anvil map for our new friend here ^~^
Insight DC on Forthright will vary for more info.
DC 15
DC 16
And for a super clear look DC 18.
Of course if anyone wants to save against her magic her response may be different xD
Than again she may lie for the parties sake if they wish to save regardless. But if that's the case she will have to roll deception xD
Zahira's face goes from a "Go girl, you got this!!!" cheering expression when Himari says she can cast the spell, to display a deep purple blush which afterwards turns into a "I'm going to murder you, Himari Sato!!!" expression when the she tricks Arthur. Not that Himari's ever needed a Zone of Truth to manage that before, but... well. Oh well! The genasi can't deny it was nice to hear Arthur calling her cute once again. She glances at Arthur smiling shyly. Then looks the floor. Then to one of the many shelves covering the Principal's office which is ... oh ... so full of interesting books. Wait, is that the latest edition of "Compendium of the Arcane"? She'd love to read that one!
"Errrrm....come on, Zahira, back to the real world. Say something useful".
- So... hehe....Well! Nicely done, Hima - "Damn you, though, girl" - I haven't tried to resist the spell, but let me try out of curiosity, because I've never been in a Zone of Truth before. Hmmmm. My favourite ice cream flavour is ... - and she tries to say "vanilla", but she's just unable to do it - ... nope, no can do. Vanilla is just the worst. I'm sorry, Zeph. Aaaanyway. Mr Forthright, you said you had a few guesses about who's behind this. Could you share them with us? - "There you go. Something useful".
"Let's see what's Forthright's answer to this one. 'The Purists' perhaps?"
(Ooc: Heeeey, got a a 20 in my Insight roll!!)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Kuro blinks, slightly surprised that the Wizard can't cast that spell but Himari can... wait, does he really want to be stuck in a zone of truth? ...he lifts his head a little when the magic washes over him, contemplating whether or not to put up a fight. Ultimately he decides that doing so would look bad on him and also draw unwanted attention towards him if Himari really can feel who tries to resist. Besides, he doesn't really plan on talking anyways and it isn't as if the spell can force words out of his mouth...
Turning his eyes to the principle, he watches for any sort of reaction.
Insight: 19
The principal had straightened his suit as he pushed his tea aside for the moment with a light chuckle. He looked to Zahira with a wry grin.
"I wasn't wrong about you Zahira, it was wise of you to make sure that I was in this circle. It's hard to tell how far this goes yes? It's true I could be apart of these machinations unfolding, though if I was I am a bit curious. What would you're plan be?"
Arthur and Himari had flinched a bit, these two seemed completely out of the loop when it came to suspecting him. Himari however was able to ready herself faster as a look of shock remained on Arthur's face. His red cheeks dampening to their usual color in the light of the moment. Silas had stood up flickering a flame in his hand. Arthur hadn't reached for his sword but he had grabbed his shield.
"You must know, that owning an adventuring academy I've spent most of my youth delving in dangerous ruins hunting down fanatics and monsters alike. Heh, those were the good days and in that time the magic I've accumulated has been useful. Not all of it explosive either, some magic's can control one's mind in large area's. Perhaps being in this room was reckless, a zone of truth with someone that could be against you. Despite the gap of experience you stand tall and Zahira you ask you're question firmly. You even tried protecting Shar from this conversation."
The magic had flickered away as the man offered a chuckle before it evolved into a light fit of laughter as he begun to shake his head slightly.
"That.. Is the mark of an adventurer. Maybe even a hero, as for my guesses? I believe one to be the Purist. Another is Straus Haven, I know some of them hold bad feelings after the war but I hope that isn't the case. Aside from the purist I have heard of demon worshipers that were drove out of the outskirts of town so perhaps? There's always a chance it could be unrelated to these things but they are all I could fathom to think about. Now allow me to ask you all a question in return. Why did you all come to this school? To you what does being an adventurer mean? Freedom? Power? Honor? Respect? Justice? Or is it a burden? I want to know what it is that drives you."
Arthur takes a deep breath and lowers his shield before looking back at Zeph,Zahira,Kuro. Himari had looked over with an awkward chuckle. They were texted beforehand that the principal could be compromised but it was clear they hadn't thought about trapping a possible powerful wizard in a zone of truth where he couldn't lie.
"Allow me to save you all some time, I am not working with those involved in the disappearance of the children. Were I in you're shoes I too would suspect anyone in power. There's been many cases that me and my party had taken a case only to learn the local noble was involved! Hahaha! Those were good times indeed. The wine the sights the wom- the wonders of adventuring I mean!"
OOC
I shall PM you for Zahira's insight and she can share with the others later if she wishes to ^~^
Oh same for Kuro since he rolled high enough! ^~^
Silas however is now getting a read back on these kids. So for a deception check the DC will be 18 unless they don't have a reason to hide their expressions/reactions.
"Of course Himari knows that spell! She's brilliant! Why didn't I think of asking her that before?" Zephyro thinks to himself in both admiration for the girl, and irritation at his own foolishness. If he had simply asked her prior to this meeting, they wouldn't have even needed to let Forthright know what was going on. Gah! He should have thought of that earlier. No matter, what's done is done, no use dwelling on it.
His thoughts are broken when he feels the spell wash over him. His first instinct is to fight it however, he forces himself to let it go....and then Himari asks her question to Arthur. His reaction brings a smile back to his face. At least everyone here seems to be acting normal. It really helps lighten the mood. Though...he really hopes none of them try to ask him any personal questions...if they do, he's going to do his best to answer with silence.
Before he can speak, Zahira pipes in. He grins and shakes his head, at least she seems to be thinking on her feet...just like usual. However, his smile wavers when Forthright begins speaking. He hadn't thought this all the way through. Fortunately, his shock turns to relief when the principal seems give them some answers. The Purists, Straus Haven, or demon worshipers. The young elf almost becomes lost in thought again before the principal asks his question. "Why did I come here?" Zephyro looks up, "Well...I suppose being an adventurer means you have a bit of each of those things....accept the burden...for me anyways. I came here to find a sort of freedom I didn't have before and to grow my power in a way that I want. Honor and a sense of Justice are something any hero should have...as for respect. Some might think I have plenty of that as a noble, but I want to be respected for the person I am, not just my family name...." He stops himself from continuing face a bit red from embarrassment. He hadn't meant to say that much...not out loud anyways.
Insight just because: 7
Kuro tenses slightly when Forthright summons the fire, but quickly realizes that they don't have anything to worry about. Though the principles words do make sense... what would they have done if they'd found themselves trapped in this room with someone as powerful as this guy? Honestly, Kuro hadn't really expected to have to worry, so perhaps that underlying confidence had caused him to overlook the 'what if' of the situation. Though, he had considered that maybe (had Forthright been on the bad side) he would have been a little more wary with the bugbear kid here? Looking back on that however, he realizes how stupid that was. Why would Forthright need to worry about it if Shar was on his side? Or if he has the power to just make them all disappear? Of course... he had prepared somewhat by asking Mom to come pick him up. Though in hindsight that wouldn't have saved them aside from letting someone know that they were taken...but would the principle have been the main suspect? There were so many variables. Oh well, no point in analyzing it. All he cares about is that Forthright is on their side so they can dump Len on him and leave.
He blinks when Forthright asks what 'drives' them. Surely he knows already that his father is forcing him to go to this school and he has no real desire to be an adventurer or a hero. So, he does his usual and says nothing.
I rolled deception on the private chat... it was a 10 lol.
Zahira felt her heart beating furiously as Forthright began speaking and preparing a spell. What had they done? Assailing him with questions in a closed space! It didn't matter if they were five against him - six, counting Shar - they wouldn't be a match for the Principal's powerful magic!
But then, all of a sudden, Forthright's expression changes and with that comes the realization that he's after all to be trusted. The genasi relaxes and the hand that had been clutching the lockpick to ready herself for an incoming attack falls limply to her side. She looked at her friends with relief, then turned to the Principal:
- That ... was ... scary... - she said, letting out a nervous chuckle. Then added - I'm truly glad to hear you say you are not involved in this, Mr Forthright.
The Principal's question surprises her. Wasn't he going to ask anything else about what they had discovered? It was as if their initial suspicions didn't surprise nor worry him at all. Instead, he's was showing more interest in knowing why they came to study to his Academy. "What a strange man", Zahira thought. She had liked the Principal's chill - even comical - attitude from the very begining and this made the genasi like him even more. She nods to Zephyro's answer and then proceeds with hers:
- Well, in my case I didn't think that much about where to study. I only knew I wanted to follow my uncle steps and become an artificer like him, contrary to what my parents wished me to be. They expected me to become a holy knight like both of them, but it was the arcane and all the tools, and the tinkering, the machinery and little pieces that I saw on uncle Plash's workshop that I fell in love with. My little brother, Tobias, has been sick since he was born, and all I've really wanted for a long time was to be able to create little toys for him to be entertained, seeing that he couldn't go outside and have fun like the rest of kids. Then my interest turned into trying to find some cure for his illness, or at least something that may ease his day to day. That has been one of my uncle's main interests of late, and I thought that if I could get to learn as much as he does I could help him! I came to Rising Dawn by his recommendation. So, I haven't really thought that much on becoming and adventurer. But now that I'm here...well.. I may as well try to help solve any situation we are faced with. And I will put to good use everything I learn. Be that for my brother's sake, or for anyone's.
Zahira doesn't add more for the moment, but looks intently at Zephyro. Talking about helping people, they should hand Len's crystal, right?
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Shar cannot believe the boldness of the request... to include The Principal in a zone of truth spell?? What they were talking about?. He doesn't dare, however to express his doubts about it, and even before he is able to think to leave after all, the spell is cast.
A few seconds of tense expectation pass as the Prinpicial speaks of him beingi involved in all those dissapearances but it pass quickly eonugh and then he asks the a question. As they all reply to it he feels compelled to do so, even if he wasn't so sure if he was included in the question.
"I am here because of the grea..." he cannot continue to say the reharsed phrase to impress the principal and the teachers.The spell, of course.
"I only want to be an adventurer and graduate in this school to be able to help my parents buy a new house and leave the suburbs... we do not live in the best neighbourgh. I do not care if I am enlisted by a collegue team or I graduate and get enough gold for them to be able to live better. I... I do not have the least idea of how to do that though... I am big " with that word he raises one arm, as if measuring someone, but his long left arm really stand tall, specially in comparison with his still confined in the chair body. ".. And I am good at the game but I do not know if I will be really good at a real fight..." He puts again his arm around his knees and it seems to shrink
PbP Character: A few ;)
Silas had eyed Kuro for a moment before listening to everyone's own reasons. He had offered a smile to Zephyro and Zahira as well as a chuckle to Shar.
"I see, a hero young Zephyro. Zahira, to help you're uncle.. Plash with Tobias is honorable as well. Shar, I think you'll need more time to find what.. Truly drives you but I can see it a fire deep inside. ..Kuro, you're desire to be here isn't exactly lit is it? If I know anything about you're father.. I'm sure you had no choice but to be here is that so? You're father is hot headed but a good man. However I think it's imperative that you find you're own path. I wish to help you study you're magic. Not everyone can have strong convictions like Zahira or Zephyro at such a young age but we all do have something different that makes us move forward. I hope young man you find that, you can't always remain in the background to allow others to talk. There will be a day you'll be forced to either stand aside in the face of an unjust world or.. Stand up for what you believe in. That being said however.. Is there any other evidence you all have discovered?"
Himari holds a feel tombs that have some runes on them. Before anything though she does offer them to Shar who had asked for them beforehand. (DC 15 Arcana check.)
Shar Arcana check: 10 ( in game log)
The bugbear looks at the runes, carefully turning the feel tombs on his obviusly big hands but he must admit that he has no idea what they mean and he can't remember if he has seen them before. He handed them back to Himari as he negates with his head and mumbles an apology.
PbP Character: A few ;)
Once again, the young elf is struck by how similar Zahira's story is to his own. To both of them, this school offered them the freedom to choose their own path...even if one of them was more up front about it with their family than the other. When she is finished talking and looks directly at him, Zephyro catches her eye and gives a sharp nod. He had not forgotten about Len. How could he? No, he was simply waiting for the best time to bring it up.
He waits patiently as Shar tells his reasons for attending the school. He can't help but feel sorry for the boy...and a bit guilty. Perhaps he can help his new party member out a bit. Hopefully being in this party can help boost his confidence, and perhaps the young elf can help the larger boy out financially from time to time....
Once the principal is finished talking, Zephyro speaks up, "Well, since we got the trust thing out of the way..." he stands and picks up his bag, still trying not to think about how poorly his half thought out plan with the zone of truth could have gone if the principal really did turn out to be a villain. "When we searched the cellar in that house, we found out that whoever is kidnapping students, is trapping them in these crystals....and we, well we found Len." He pulls out Len's Crystal, holding it with care. "Uh, he's in here. Do you have any idea of how to get him out?"
Kuro averts his eyes, tilting his face to one side to look away from everyone in the room. He didn't need to hear anything Forthright was saying to him, he already knew all that. But... find his own path? When would that ever be an option? As long as he was stuck at this school he'd have to keep studying his stupid magic that never worked right, and prepare to be an adventurer--which will probably wind up getting him killed before he's even old enough to consider leaving home (which in his mind is the only possible way he could get out of heeding Father's demands). Until then, he's just a fourteen-year-old, trapped in whatever rules his parents decide for him. Sure he'll disobey here and there, whatever it takes to make his own life easier--sometimes listening to Father rant was easier than doing what he was told to do. After all this time, well he's grown rather immune to it--mostly. He'd given up on pleasing the man a long time ago. He just isn't built for this kind of life. He'd be happy just living in his room with just the cats to keep him company. There isn't any point in worrying about the future right now. All that does is make his stomach hurt. Why in Spiral did Zephiro and Zahira think that this school was somehow a form of freedom?
He manages to force himself to pay attention when they finally get around to showing Len to Forthright. He also takes a brief glance at the runes, in spite of telling himself how pointless it is for him to even bother trying to identify them.
Arcana: 6 (I realize this check was just for Shar, but if its alright for Kuro to try and identify it with a glance at a higher DC (or same DC lol) I thought I'd give him a chance since he actually is proficient in arcana.)
Not that he really has any plans on saying much if he does recognize them... though he probably will tell someone later after they aren't in the same room as the principle. He's had enough of the old guy examining him.
Meanwhile, he pulls out his crystal and texts his mom, "We are about done. Could you let me know when you get here?" He figures having his mom text him would be a good excuse to leave if things go on much longer.
Zahira had felt a wave of tenderness when Shar explained his motivations and wanted to make him feel welcome in the party and let him know he now had a group of people he could count on. So when he doesn't get much information from the runes, she approaches him:
- Could I look at the runes, too? - she asks - Perhaps together we can gather something from them? By the way, I think your motivations are very noble. And I'm sure you will learn the reins along with us. It's not like we know ourselves how to be adventurers already, and we sure need to learn a thing or two about fighting. We will learn together, Shar - she adds, with a smile.
Zephyro's motivations weren't that foreign to her, as they had already talked a little bit about their similarities in wanting follow their desires instead of what their parents expected to them. But was a little surprised when she heard him say that he wanted to be respected for himself, and not so much for his family name. She hadn't thought about that, and there they had a major difference. Thought the Etesians were noble too, their name didn't carry a weight as heavy as the Aethelmyr's, or the Chevalier's for that matter. She once again thought how unfair it was that he was, for example, being pushed to marry Arthur's sister, instead of who he wanted. She eyes Himari, knowing how she felt for him, and wondered once again if her feelings were returned. And what would it imply for Zephyro if they did.
Kuro's situation was totally different. And here, the young genasi was at a loss. How could they help him if he didn't want to be here at all? It was no wonder that he always displayed that uninterested look. She was pretty sure he would make an incredibly powerful sorcerer one day, but perhaps this academy wasn't the place for him to do so? She felt sad thinking about this, because if he ended up getting what he wanted and left Rising Dawn, it would probably mean that he wouldn't hang out with them anymore?
When Zephyro handed Len's crystal the young artificer added:
- Mr Forthright, we heard that whoever is doing this is targeting students with magical knowledge. We know that Len was studying to be a wizard, but it would help to know if the targets are just wizards or perhaps other magic users as well? Have other students been missing? Who are they and what were they studying?
(OOC: Arcana = 19. Tried just in case, though Kuro had already gotten a superb roll. And mainly to just speak with Shar a little)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
“Oh sure” says Shar giving the runes to the genasi.
When she talks to him he shyly smiles “Well th..thanks Indo hope to be useful… “
When they produces the cristal with the alleged student inside he opens his eyes widely and mutters
“Woooaah” and looks to the principal hoping he could help the kid.
PbP Character: A few ;)
Shar could tell these ruins were a tough code to crack. Some was in Celestial but much of it was in complex formula it had seemed. Himari had offered Shar a wide friendly grin as she shook her head refusing the runes.
"You and Zahira can have them! Zephyro is good at that stuff too!"
The principal had widened his eyes, his calm demeanor broken for a moment before clearing his throat. He had held the crystal ball for a moment while examining it.
(Principals Arcana Roll)
22
Kuro's mom had texted back that she was heading on over, it was obvious she was worried but was trying her best to stay calm in the manner. The teacher had cast a few spells such as Detect Magic and Identify on the the crystal ball that Len was in while studying it for a moment.
Regardless of how much he can find, he hands the ball back to the group.
"I wish I could keep this... But if what you say is true and the police may have some corrupt members.. They are allowed to seize my property and investigate without warning. Since I am training many young minds in a dangerous field it was a fair agreement at the time.. However now it proves to be troublesome. I always felt the school should be more independent and now here is a reason why! I am sorry.. However I do have an address of an archmage that could aid you. Another good person to ask would be Zahira's own uncle Plash. Though he may.. Worry about Zahira being caught up in this."
The principal had looked over to Zahira and had shook his head at her question.
"No, sorcerer's... Warlocks and Clerics have all been taken. Those with larger quantities of magic, fewer Rangers and Paladins as well as Artificers and only those with superb talent. I should consider cancelling classes for awhile.. But if I do that... They aren't exactly safer. Still it does feel wrong continuing classes"
Kuro and Zahira can see the celestial runes and even some Infernal. Many in archaic code, code they could use it was a matter of deciphering those two languages. (if they know them my bad.) With just those two languages along with Elvish they can probably figure these Runes out! Even having someone read the formula back to them they could probably piece it together from the formula's they can decipher in common.
OOC
His glance/check can work fine as long as Shar doesn't pull the tablet away it should work ^~^
I'll tell the result since he showed Zahira I'm sure he'd show Kuro ^~^
((OOC: Sure Shar show it to all who wants to see, in fact he hands them to Zahira ))
PbP Character: A few ;)
(OOC: Ok! Zahira takes the runes and of course shows them to both Zeph and Kuro for them to see ^^)
Zahira looked a bit dissappointed when the Principal handed Len's crystal back. It's not that she expected the kid to be out of that crystal right away, of course, but she thought they would leave that office knowing a little more about how to help him. Also, she wasn't sure what to think about involving Plash. Oh, sure she would love seeing him applying all his knowledge into this, but Forthright was right: was her uncle going to let her investigate further?
- Hmmm, my uncle, riiight. There's no one I trust more than him and I'm sure he will want to help right away. But you are right, Mr Forthright: I'm not sure how he'll react regarding me. He's very protective of Tobey and me, but ... at the same time, he's tremendously logical and practical. So I may be able convince to him that I can be of help, and that it is better that his niece is informed of what is going on, better than let her live in ignorance. How am I going to be able to react to the reality of what is happening if I don't know anything about it, right? I ... well...that is what I would try to explain to him.
She looks at the rest:
- What do you guys think? Should I take the crystal to him, then? And if you agree, does any one of you want to accompany me to my home to be there when I tell him about this? He may be more eager to let me help in this investigation if he gets to know you and see that we are not just helpless children and that we are precisely studying here to do these kinds of investigations. Or I can try to speak to him alone first, if you guys prefer.
After saying this she remembers what Forthright has said about Kuro, and thinking of him she adds:
- I don't want to impose, of course. This is not an obligation. If you don't agree we can think of other options. The fact that I want to continue on this investigation doesn't mean that the rest of you have to do it. Though...I will of course feel more confident knowing that you are in this, too.
She then turns again to Forthright:
- In any case, who is that other person you talked about? The archmage? Is he in town?
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra