Zarbyn listens to each of his companions speaking and realizes they are each learning a little more about themselves as they try to persuade the Toa-Suo to help them. When the vote is cast and the results revealed he finds it very efficient and diplomatic, it even takes a minute to seek in that it went in their favor.
On the way back to their tent, "Thanks to the Toa-Suo we might get to this cache before the goblins or kobolds. Be wary when we enter as we'll likely be the first to encounter traps."
As they arrive at their tent, "But first we have a feast before us and I must say it feels good to know the Toa-Suo have welcomed us and decided to help our cause."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Lira couldn't hide her surprise as the assembled Toa-Suo erupted into cheers and celebration. She felt a rush of warmth at their acceptance, and despite the heaviness that still lingered in her heart, a small smile tugged at her lips. The embraces and pats on the back, even from those who had doubted, made the moment feel real. The burden they carried was still immense, but now, for the first time in a long while, it felt like they weren’t alone.
When Nimka approached, her joy evident, and hugged each of them, Lira embraced her back as tightly as she could. The weight of everything they’d been through—Aldrin’s sacrifice, the struggles against the cult, and the uncertainty of the path ahead—momentarily felt lighter. "Thank you, Nimka," Lira managed to say despite her lungs feeling crushed by the hug, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and resolve. "We won’t let you down."
She nodded as Nimka mentioned the feast and the discussions to come, following her to their tent eagerly. The idea of a warm meal and a chance to regroup with their newfound allies felt like a blessing.
As you enter the tent, Nimka discusses with you the rites of a warrior initiation.
"A young warrior normally would undergo a series of tests including survival skills, combat abilities, and knowledge of the mountains. They would then be sent on a final Rite of Strength. Usually, this would be hunting a powerful predator, or going solo in the wilderness for a month. Because you will be going to face whatever is within the cursed palace, that will certainly qualify. When you return, you will be respected as a full honored friend of the tribe, and will be given a tribal name. It is like you are adopted by us, part of our family even. I would be your sister. You will then be gifted with additional training and if you desire permanent tattoos from those of the tribe that you feel an affinity for." (ooc: 1 day to rest, train, and in theory, level up.)
"A few things will happen tonight. First, our Shaman, Atticus Shadowstroke whom you met earlier, will offer you a temporary tattoo. These tattoos could improve a physical ability (strength, dexterity, constitution), mental abilities (intelligence or wisdom) could provide a magical resistance to something, could provide some healing if you are wounded, or perhaps, if you ask him the right questions, something else that you think could aid you in your task." (OOC: eg., trap detection, see in the dark, improve weapon damage or make a weapon magical, etc.)
Second, the high priestess Aisulu will speak with you, and will tell you more of the place you wish to enter for your initiation. Do not take her words or stories lightly. There is much truth in what she says. I believe she will provide you with some gifts that could aid you against some of what we fear is within, strengthening your spirit.
Finally, we will have a great feast in your honor, and send you on your way with our scout and my friend, Temujin. It is not very far, perhaps an hour's travel but you wouldn't want to go there in the night, that is certain."
She pauses in thought, then turns back, "Oh, I almost forgot, Aisulu gave me this, I believe it was left here with some other belongings by our friend, Na’ah’tali Sh’torem. (She hands you some notes, written on the familiar paper and in the same hand writing as Storms recovered journal). "Maybe this will aid you in some way."
Natalie Storm (A journal note, similar paper as those you found earlier, in the same handwriting, if you open the note, click on the spoiler)
Of the Toa-Suo People
The Toa-Suo are a mix between Trolls and Elves of the region. They seem quite old, living quietly and for the most part peacefully in the Icefinger mountains and farther North. They are known for their warrior culture and are characterized by their strength, agility, and martial prowess. They rarely interact with outsiders, and have many superstitions.
The Toa-Suo have several rituals that reflect their cultural values and connection to their harsh environment, though these rituals can vary somewhat, here are some common themes I found.
Rite of Strength
This ritual often involves physical challenges to prove one's prowess. Young Toa-Suo may have to demonstrate their hunting skills or combat abilities to gain recognition and status within the tribe.
Winter Solstice Festival
Celebrated during the longest night of the year, this festival involves communal feasting and storytelling. It’s a time for the Toa-Suo to honor their ancestors and share tales of their bravery.
Spirit Offerings
The Toa-Suo may perform ceremonies to appease the spirits of the mountains, often making offerings of food or crafted items to ensure good fortune in hunting and safety from harsh weather.
Warrior Initiation
Young warriors undergo a coming-of-age ritual, which typically includes a series of tests that assess their survival skills, combat abilities, and knowledge of the mountain terrain.
These rituals emphasize the importance of strength, community, and respect for the natural world, reflecting the Toa-Suo's adaptation to their challenging environment.
Here are a few notable examples and themes that are often illustrated through their culture:
Rite of Strength
- Description: This ritual is typically held when young Toa-Suo reach maturity. They must demonstrate their prowess in hunting and combat.
- Challenges: Candidates may have to hunt a dangerous creature (like a snow beast) or engage in a series of combat trials against experienced warriors.
- Outcome: Successfully completing the rite earns them a tribal name and respect, solidifying their status among the Toa-Suo.
Winter Solstice Festival
- Description: Celebrated during the winter solstice, this festival includes storytelling, feasting, and music.
- Activities: The Toa-Suo gather around large bonfires, sharing tales of legendary ancestors and their exploits, while traditional music plays on handmade instruments.
- Significance: It reinforces community bonds and allows for the passing down of oral history, ensuring the culture and traditions are kept alive.
Spirit Offerings
- Description: The Toa-Suo believe in the spirits of the mountains and perform rituals to appease them.
- Ceremony: They might create small altars made of stones or ice, decorated with offerings like food, crafted items, or tokens of gratitude.
- Purpose: These offerings are meant to invoke protection for their hunts and safety from avalanches or other dangers of the mountains.
Warrior Initiation
- Description: Young warriors face a series of rigorous tests to prove their readiness to join the ranks of adult warriors.
- Tests: These might include navigating treacherous terrain, surviving alone in the wilderness for a set period, and demonstrating combat skills against a mentor.
- Ritual Recognition: Upon successful completion, a feast is held in their honor, marking their transition into adulthood.
Legacy and Storytelling
- Oral Tradition: The Toa-Suo place a high value on oral storytelling, especially during significant gatherings. Elders recount tales of bravery and survival, reinforcing cultural identity and teaching younger generations.
- Cultural Heroes: Stories of legendary Toa-Suo heroes who overcame great odds are particularly revered, serving as inspiration for future generations.
While these examples may not be extensively outlined in a single source, they reflect the kind of rich, community-oriented culture that the Toa-Suo possess, rooted in their unique cold mountain environment.
Entry 2:
The Toa-Suo have offered me the honor to join with them and “share blood.” A variety of tests were given to me, both mental and physical in nature. The hardest was hunting a huge elk with a short bow. This proved quite difficult. I”m not good at sneaking. Upon completing the initiation tasks, I was given the honorary name, Na’ah’tali Sh’torem, but many call me “The Sh’torem” meaning, the storm. I kinda like it. Oh, and the tattoos they can provide are magic in nature. Very helpful.
Entry 3: The Palace is apparently haunted. Some sort of angry spirit within. The Toa-Suo are very superstitious, and won't go near the place. Several warriors have tried to enter as a rite of passage, but none have returned. I'm thinking there are undead within, and perhaps some sort of demonic spawn of Myurr, left to protect the cache. Bone is the artifact within.
The door seems to have two entrances. A large door, and a hidden door above. It is marked with this symbol. Damnable cultists.
An ancient trap within, I call the leap of faith was built to trick unwanted visitors. It is a pit with spikes, a safe platform after, and an easy jump. But, the real trap is on the second platform. Supposedly, turning the torch or some other thing, like a statue, should disarm it, but I wouldn't trust my luck and just jump.
Amdaengs eyes lit up as Nimka mentioned a tattoo that allows one to see in the dark.....she was fairly confident in her ability to overcome the trials set for her....she'd always tested well both in and out of the ring....
Zarbyn also perks up at the mention of these tattoos that can grant magical abilities, he can't help but glance over to Amdaeng and see that she also seems interested in Nimka's words.
"It already seems like we will benefit greatly from our new 'family' huh, Amdaeng?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
"Family..." Lira murmurs, resisting the urge to touch her amulet. This wouldn't be some trick of the mind, but genuine acceptance and warmth, something she can really trust in. The idea is almost enough to bring tears to her eyes, but she tries to focus; they need to pass the trials first.
Natalie's note mention that she had trouble with the sneaking element and hunting an elk with a bow. Lira feels confident in her ability to do this, although she wonders if her skill in tracking will be good enough...
"What kind of tattoos do the rest of you think you want? Hm...I can't decide between improving my athletics or survival skills."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
| Joy - Hexblood Open Sea Paladin - Netherdeep| Kaelen - Shadar-kai Gloom Stalker Ranger - Old Keep| Lira - Half-elf Thief Rogue/Druid - Allansia| Arkon - Goliath Champion Fighter - Hardcore DiA| Teryn - High Elf Archfey Warlock - Runewarren| Zoveldra - Kalashtar Open Hand Monk - Eberron| Mavilius - Tiefling Bard - Golden Vault| Vannithos - Shadar-kai Astral Self Monk - Von Nichts Manor |
The huge warrior that was openly against your group joining earlier knocks on the tent. He smiles as he greets you.
"Ah warriors, it is good to see you." He takes out some tools used to make tattoos, several bowls, a closed container, and a dagger that appears to have ice as its sharp edge.
"They call me Atticus Shadowstroke. I am a Shamon here and have the power to harness magic from our surroundings. I am here to give you a magical tattoo, that could aid you in your warrior rite of strength and bravery which will begin when the sun rises. It will last for one days time." He describes some of the various options to you (See https://www.dndbeyond.com/private-messages/307299?page=14)
"If you are successful, you may return and ask for a permanent tattoo that could be similar to these or more powerful. The Toa-Suo have many of these tattoos that we acquired over our lifetime, as we participate in battles, rites, and ceremonies. This blood magic of our ancestors, of trolls and elves, has made our tribe strong, and has been passed on from generation to generation. I will require some of your blood mixed with the blood of our elders to make the ink for your tattoo." He takes out a container that holds thick red liquid. Then pours a small portion into a small bowl.
"This blood was taken from the council moments ago. They have all given of their life essence so that you can be victorious." Then he takes out a sharp knife made of ice. "You will cut your hand and allow 5 drops of your blood to join with that of our elders. If all goes well, the blood will mix and provide me the ink for your tattoo."
He smiles, grabs the icy dagger and holds it out. "Who would like to go first, and where would you like your tattoo?"
Zarbyn rolls up his sleeve and presents his left arm.
"The left forearm is as good a place as any I guess, and since recently I was a bit of a burden to my companions during the night... they had to lead me in the dark, is there a way to see through darkness similar to an elf? Some sort of night vision that works when there is no light available?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Iólinder pondered on what he might ask the high priestess Aisulu. Professor Storm's notes spoke of a waterfall behind which the entrance to cache three lay. He also wondered what he could choose for a tattoo both temporary and permanent. For now he stood back a bit. He never was a fan of needles, let alone the ones that were going to inject bloody ink into his skin. He was also rather curious what the others would ask for as he had, at the moment, no idea for himself.
Shadowstroke thinks for a minute, "Yes Zarbyn, I can make that work but it would only help you if all who can't see in the dark choose that power. (He looks at Amdaeng). Otherwise, I would suggest something else. I could offer you a tattoo that allows you to cast a light spell for the day.Then Amdaeng could choose a different type of tattoo."(Cantrip: Gain the light cantrip for 24 hours).
He hands you the ice-covered knife. "Cut your palm and place 5 drops of your blood in this bowl when you are ready."
Zarbyn takes the ice knife, and although he briefly wonders which will cause him more pain, the cut from the ice knife or the cold from handling it, he makes a small cut on his palm and drips 5 drops of blood into the bowl.
"As you say, maybe if we all choose different tattoos we would have a variety of options and that in itself could give us another edge. Thank you Shadowstroke."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Zarbyn also perks up at the mention of these tattoos that can grant magical abilities, he can't help but glance over to Amdaeng and see that she also seems interested in Nimka's words.
"It already seems like we will benefit greatly from our new 'family' huh, Amdaeng?"
Amdaeng grinned in reply then scritched Ning and moved forward....
Zarbyn rolls up his sleeve and presents his left arm.
"The left forearm is as good a place as any I guess, and since recently I was a bit of a burden to my companions during the night... they had to lead me in the dark, is there a way to see through darkness similar to an elf? Some sort of night vision that works when there is no light available?"
Amdaeng tried really hard to look as if she was considering options as the old shaman spoke....but she wasn't.....
She held out her hand ready, " I would very much like to see when there is no light.....and make that permanent when I return victorious."
Amdaeng has the right idea, a temporary one now and later a permanent one, but Zarbyn would also like to see in the dark. (ooc: we already tried it with two groups having to lead and guide us around when the humans couldn't see in the night or in the dark... darkvision for those who don't have would help everyone by freeing up everyone to do their own thing.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
(OOC: This is a temporary tattoo. It will last 24 hours and will then fade. If you do not use it, it will still fade. You could pick a design and location as you see fit)
Zarbyn's blood mixes with that in the bowl. Atticus chants a ritual and you see the blood begin to mix.
"It is ready," he takes a quill and carefully draws owl eyes on your (place of choice). "This will allow you to see in the dark for one day, once it is activated. The tattoo is temporary and will fade, its magic wearing off also in one day. When your rite is completed, you could get something different if you wish, or I may be able to make this power permanent." It is slightly painful but as he completes the final steps, you feel a flush as the magic of the tattoo infuses with your flesh and spirit.
(Darkvision 60 feet)
Then he takes out a new bowl for Amdaeng, poor new blood into it from his jar. He cleans the dagger in some sort of alcohol or sterilizer.
"Amdaeng, take this dagger and cut your hand. I need 5 drops." He then repeats the process.
Zarbyn stands near Amdaeng and puts his hand on her shoulder for moral support, "It's not as bad you think. Try to focus on the positive benefits it provides."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
For Lira, Atticus takes his quill and he mixed blood and draws a coined whip on her arm. Then he takes her whip (storms whip) and wraps it around her arm, covering the tattoo. When the whip is removed, she has a new (temporary) understanding of how to use the whip (Proficiency). In addition, 1x, she can use (Precise Strike, adding a d6)
Zarbyn listens to each of his companions speaking and realizes they are each learning a little more about themselves as they try to persuade the Toa-Suo to help them. When the vote is cast and the results revealed he finds it very efficient and diplomatic, it even takes a minute to seek in that it went in their favor.
On the way back to their tent, "Thanks to the Toa-Suo we might get to this cache before the goblins or kobolds. Be wary when we enter as we'll likely be the first to encounter traps."
As they arrive at their tent, "But first we have a feast before us and I must say it feels good to know the Toa-Suo have welcomed us and decided to help our cause."
Lira couldn't hide her surprise as the assembled Toa-Suo erupted into cheers and celebration. She felt a rush of warmth at their acceptance, and despite the heaviness that still lingered in her heart, a small smile tugged at her lips. The embraces and pats on the back, even from those who had doubted, made the moment feel real. The burden they carried was still immense, but now, for the first time in a long while, it felt like they weren’t alone.
When Nimka approached, her joy evident, and hugged each of them, Lira embraced her back as tightly as she could. The weight of everything they’d been through—Aldrin’s sacrifice, the struggles against the cult, and the uncertainty of the path ahead—momentarily felt lighter. "Thank you, Nimka," Lira managed to say despite her lungs feeling crushed by the hug, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and resolve. "We won’t let you down."
She nodded as Nimka mentioned the feast and the discussions to come, following her to their tent eagerly. The idea of a warm meal and a chance to regroup with their newfound allies felt like a blessing.
| Joy - Hexblood Open Sea Paladin - Netherdeep | Kaelen - Shadar-kai Gloom Stalker Ranger - Old Keep | Lira - Half-elf Thief Rogue/Druid - Allansia | Arkon - Goliath Champion Fighter - Hardcore DiA | Teryn - High Elf Archfey Warlock - Runewarren | Zoveldra - Kalashtar Open Hand Monk - Eberron | Mavilius - Tiefling Bard - Golden Vault | Vannithos - Shadar-kai Astral Self Monk - Von Nichts Manor |
As you enter the tent, Nimka discusses with you the rites of a warrior initiation.
"A young warrior normally would undergo a series of tests including survival skills, combat abilities, and knowledge of the mountains. They would then be sent on a final Rite of Strength. Usually, this would be hunting a powerful predator, or going solo in the wilderness for a month. Because you will be going to face whatever is within the cursed palace, that will certainly qualify. When you return, you will be respected as a full honored friend of the tribe, and will be given a tribal name. It is like you are adopted by us, part of our family even. I would be your sister. You will then be gifted with additional training and if you desire permanent tattoos from those of the tribe that you feel an affinity for." (ooc: 1 day to rest, train, and in theory, level up.)
"A few things will happen tonight. First, our Shaman, Atticus Shadowstroke whom you met earlier, will offer you a temporary tattoo. These tattoos could improve a physical ability (strength, dexterity, constitution), mental abilities (intelligence or wisdom) could provide a magical resistance to something, could provide some healing if you are wounded, or perhaps, if you ask him the right questions, something else that you think could aid you in your task." (OOC: eg., trap detection, see in the dark, improve weapon damage or make a weapon magical, etc.)
Second, the high priestess Aisulu will speak with you, and will tell you more of the place you wish to enter for your initiation. Do not take her words or stories lightly. There is much truth in what she says. I believe she will provide you with some gifts that could aid you against some of what we fear is within, strengthening your spirit.
Finally, we will have a great feast in your honor, and send you on your way with our scout and my friend, Temujin. It is not very far, perhaps an hour's travel but you wouldn't want to go there in the night, that is certain."
She pauses in thought, then turns back, "Oh, I almost forgot, Aisulu gave me this, I believe it was left here with some other belongings by our friend, Na’ah’tali Sh’torem. (She hands you some notes, written on the familiar paper and in the same hand writing as Storms recovered journal). "Maybe this will aid you in some way."
Natalie Storm (A journal note, similar paper as those you found earlier, in the same handwriting, if you open the note, click on the spoiler)
Of the Toa-Suo People
The Toa-Suo are a mix between Trolls and Elves of the region. They seem quite old, living quietly and for the most part peacefully in the Icefinger mountains and farther North. They are known for their warrior culture and are characterized by their strength, agility, and martial prowess. They rarely interact with outsiders, and have many superstitions.
The Toa-Suo have several rituals that reflect their cultural values and connection to their harsh environment, though these rituals can vary somewhat, here are some common themes I found.
Rite of Strength
This ritual often involves physical challenges to prove one's prowess. Young Toa-Suo may have to demonstrate their hunting skills or combat abilities to gain recognition and status within the tribe.
Winter Solstice Festival
Celebrated during the longest night of the year, this festival involves communal feasting and storytelling. It’s a time for the Toa-Suo to honor their ancestors and share tales of their bravery.
Spirit Offerings
The Toa-Suo may perform ceremonies to appease the spirits of the mountains, often making offerings of food or crafted items to ensure good fortune in hunting and safety from harsh weather.
Warrior Initiation
Young warriors undergo a coming-of-age ritual, which typically includes a series of tests that assess their survival skills, combat abilities, and knowledge of the mountain terrain.
These rituals emphasize the importance of strength, community, and respect for the natural world, reflecting the Toa-Suo's adaptation to their challenging environment.
Here are a few notable examples and themes that are often illustrated through their culture:
Rite of Strength
- Description: This ritual is typically held when young Toa-Suo reach maturity. They must demonstrate their prowess in hunting and combat.
- Challenges: Candidates may have to hunt a dangerous creature (like a snow beast) or engage in a series of combat trials against experienced warriors.
- Outcome: Successfully completing the rite earns them a tribal name and respect, solidifying their status among the Toa-Suo.
Winter Solstice Festival
- Description: Celebrated during the winter solstice, this festival includes storytelling, feasting, and music.
- Activities: The Toa-Suo gather around large bonfires, sharing tales of legendary ancestors and their exploits, while traditional music plays on handmade instruments.
- Significance: It reinforces community bonds and allows for the passing down of oral history, ensuring the culture and traditions are kept alive.
Spirit Offerings
- Description: The Toa-Suo believe in the spirits of the mountains and perform rituals to appease them.
- Ceremony: They might create small altars made of stones or ice, decorated with offerings like food, crafted items, or tokens of gratitude.
- Purpose: These offerings are meant to invoke protection for their hunts and safety from avalanches or other dangers of the mountains.
Warrior Initiation
- Description: Young warriors face a series of rigorous tests to prove their readiness to join the ranks of adult warriors.
- Tests: These might include navigating treacherous terrain, surviving alone in the wilderness for a set period, and demonstrating combat skills against a mentor.
- Ritual Recognition: Upon successful completion, a feast is held in their honor, marking their transition into adulthood.
Legacy and Storytelling
- Oral Tradition: The Toa-Suo place a high value on oral storytelling, especially during significant gatherings. Elders recount tales of bravery and survival, reinforcing cultural identity and teaching younger generations.
- Cultural Heroes: Stories of legendary Toa-Suo heroes who overcame great odds are particularly revered, serving as inspiration for future generations.
While these examples may not be extensively outlined in a single source, they reflect the kind of rich, community-oriented culture that the Toa-Suo possess, rooted in their unique cold mountain environment.
Entry 2:
The Toa-Suo have offered me the honor to join with them and “share blood.” A variety of tests were given to me, both mental and physical in nature. The hardest was hunting a huge elk with a short bow. This proved quite difficult. I”m not good at sneaking. Upon completing the initiation tasks, I was given the honorary name, Na’ah’tali Sh’torem, but many call me “The Sh’torem” meaning, the storm. I kinda like it. Oh, and the tattoos they can provide are magic in nature. Very helpful.
Entry 3:
The Palace is apparently haunted. Some sort of angry spirit within. The Toa-Suo are very superstitious, and won't go near the place. Several warriors have tried to enter as a rite of passage, but none have returned. I'm thinking there are undead within, and perhaps some sort of demonic spawn of Myurr, left to protect the cache. Bone is the artifact within.
The door seems to have two entrances. A large door, and a hidden door above. It is marked with this symbol. Damnable cultists.
An ancient trap within, I call the leap of faith was built to trick unwanted visitors. It is a pit with spikes, a safe platform after, and an easy jump. But, the real trap is on the second platform. Supposedly, turning the torch or some other thing, like a statue, should disarm it, but I wouldn't trust my luck and just jump.
Amdaengs eyes lit up as Nimka mentioned a tattoo that allows one to see in the dark.....she was fairly confident in her ability to overcome the trials set for her....she'd always tested well both in and out of the ring....
Zarbyn also perks up at the mention of these tattoos that can grant magical abilities, he can't help but glance over to Amdaeng and see that she also seems interested in Nimka's words.
"It already seems like we will benefit greatly from our new 'family' huh, Amdaeng?"
"Family..." Lira murmurs, resisting the urge to touch her amulet. This wouldn't be some trick of the mind, but genuine acceptance and warmth, something she can really trust in. The idea is almost enough to bring tears to her eyes, but she tries to focus; they need to pass the trials first.
Natalie's note mention that she had trouble with the sneaking element and hunting an elk with a bow. Lira feels confident in her ability to do this, although she wonders if her skill in tracking will be good enough...
"What kind of tattoos do the rest of you think you want? Hm...I can't decide between improving my athletics or survival skills."
| Joy - Hexblood Open Sea Paladin - Netherdeep | Kaelen - Shadar-kai Gloom Stalker Ranger - Old Keep | Lira - Half-elf Thief Rogue/Druid - Allansia | Arkon - Goliath Champion Fighter - Hardcore DiA | Teryn - High Elf Archfey Warlock - Runewarren | Zoveldra - Kalashtar Open Hand Monk - Eberron | Mavilius - Tiefling Bard - Golden Vault | Vannithos - Shadar-kai Astral Self Monk - Von Nichts Manor |
The huge warrior that was openly against your group joining earlier knocks on the tent. He smiles as he greets you.
"Ah warriors, it is good to see you." He takes out some tools used to make tattoos, several bowls, a closed container, and a dagger that appears to have ice as its sharp edge.
"They call me Atticus Shadowstroke. I am a Shamon here and have the power to harness magic from our surroundings. I am here to give you a magical tattoo, that could aid you in your warrior rite of strength and bravery which will begin when the sun rises. It will last for one days time." He describes some of the various options to you (See https://www.dndbeyond.com/private-messages/307299?page=14)
"If you are successful, you may return and ask for a permanent tattoo that could be similar to these or more powerful. The Toa-Suo have many of these tattoos that we acquired over our lifetime, as we participate in battles, rites, and ceremonies. This blood magic of our ancestors, of trolls and elves, has made our tribe strong, and has been passed on from generation to generation. I will require some of your blood mixed with the blood of our elders to make the ink for your tattoo." He takes out a container that holds thick red liquid. Then pours a small portion into a small bowl.
"This blood was taken from the council moments ago. They have all given of their life essence so that you can be victorious." Then he takes out a sharp knife made of ice. "You will cut your hand and allow 5 drops of your blood to join with that of our elders. If all goes well, the blood will mix and provide me the ink for your tattoo."
He smiles, grabs the icy dagger and holds it out. "Who would like to go first, and where would you like your tattoo?"
Zarbyn rolls up his sleeve and presents his left arm.
"The left forearm is as good a place as any I guess, and since recently I was a bit of a burden to my companions during the night... they had to lead me in the dark, is there a way to see through darkness similar to an elf? Some sort of night vision that works when there is no light available?"
Iólinder pondered on what he might ask the high priestess Aisulu. Professor Storm's notes spoke of a waterfall behind which the entrance to cache three lay. He also wondered what he could choose for a tattoo both temporary and permanent. For now he stood back a bit. He never was a fan of needles, let alone the ones that were going to inject bloody ink into his skin. He was also rather curious what the others would ask for as he had, at the moment, no idea for himself.
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
Valerius Sergius Publius: Dhampir Paladin - Vae Victus
Shadowstroke thinks for a minute, "Yes Zarbyn, I can make that work but it would only help you if all who can't see in the dark choose that power. (He looks at Amdaeng). Otherwise, I would suggest something else. I could offer you a tattoo that allows you to cast a light spell for the day. Then Amdaeng could choose a different type of tattoo." (Cantrip: Gain the light cantrip for 24 hours).
He hands you the ice-covered knife. "Cut your palm and place 5 drops of your blood in this bowl when you are ready."
Zarbyn takes the ice knife, and although he briefly wonders which will cause him more pain, the cut from the ice knife or the cold from handling it, he makes a small cut on his palm and drips 5 drops of blood into the bowl.
"As you say, maybe if we all choose different tattoos we would have a variety of options and that in itself could give us another edge. Thank you Shadowstroke."
Amdaeng grinned in reply then scritched Ning and moved forward....
Amdaeng tried really hard to look as if she was considering options as the old shaman spoke....but she wasn't.....
She held out her hand ready, " I would very much like to see when there is no light.....and make that permanent when I return victorious."
(Ooc: what type of power does Zarbyn want (see in the dark?)
Amdaeng has the right idea, a temporary one now and later a permanent one, but Zarbyn would also like to see in the dark. (ooc: we already tried it with two groups having to lead and guide us around when the humans couldn't see in the night or in the dark... darkvision for those who don't have would help everyone by freeing up everyone to do their own thing.)
(OOC: This is a temporary tattoo. It will last 24 hours and will then fade. If you do not use it, it will still fade. You could pick a design and location as you see fit)
Zarbyn's blood mixes with that in the bowl. Atticus chants a ritual and you see the blood begin to mix.
"It is ready," he takes a quill and carefully draws owl eyes on your (place of choice). "This will allow you to see in the dark for one day, once it is activated. The tattoo is temporary and will fade, its magic wearing off also in one day. When your rite is completed, you could get something different if you wish, or I may be able to make this power permanent." It is slightly painful but as he completes the final steps, you feel a flush as the magic of the tattoo infuses with your flesh and spirit.
(Darkvision 60 feet)
Then he takes out a new bowl for Amdaeng, poor new blood into it from his jar. He cleans the dagger in some sort of alcohol or sterilizer.
"Amdaeng, take this dagger and cut your hand. I need 5 drops." He then repeats the process.
Zarbyn stands near Amdaeng and puts his hand on her shoulder for moral support, "It's not as bad you think. Try to focus on the positive benefits it provides."
For Lira, Atticus takes his quill and he mixed blood and draws a coined whip on her arm. Then he takes her whip (storms whip) and wraps it around her arm, covering the tattoo. When the whip is removed, she has a new (temporary) understanding of how to use the whip (Proficiency). In addition, 1x, she can use (Precise Strike, adding a d6)
(Lev, Vydar, Iólinder, then Aisulu will enter.)
"Thank you. I'll use it well." Lira is encouraged by her new feeling of mastery with Natalie's weapon. She steps aside for the others.
| Joy - Hexblood Open Sea Paladin - Netherdeep | Kaelen - Shadar-kai Gloom Stalker Ranger - Old Keep | Lira - Half-elf Thief Rogue/Druid - Allansia | Arkon - Goliath Champion Fighter - Hardcore DiA | Teryn - High Elf Archfey Warlock - Runewarren | Zoveldra - Kalashtar Open Hand Monk - Eberron | Mavilius - Tiefling Bard - Golden Vault | Vannithos - Shadar-kai Astral Self Monk - Von Nichts Manor |