Kirin - Level 15 High Elf Wizard (Evocation) - Zorg's Lost Souls - Overchannel Steel Wind Strike for the Win against Demogorgon Silas - Level 11 Human Cleric (War Domain) - Tomb of Annihilation Done
Only so much can fit in a small letter attached to a familiar, and also want to ensure sensitive information doesn't fall into the wrong hands. The message will be addressed to the patron, but will only say effectively: "we know the location of the object of our search, and expect to reach said location within a tenday." Won't explicitly mention Soul Monger, or who is presently in the company.
While in Kir Sabal, Badger is interested in: 1) speaking to the elder Aarakocra, who is obviously a seer of some kind, on their divination methods 2) picking up some more spells from somewhere appropriate, such as a library or other mages
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Pulling open the bag, Sickle sees a package wrapped in leather, with a leather tie around it. It pulses blue light. He reaches in. Something heavy is within. The leather tie seems to almost untie itself, the leather wrap falling away to reveal a ring. The golden band is covered in a thin layer of what appears to be frost. It is large, so large it would probably be quite loose on Sickles thumb. It glows, the frost emitted a blue light as it almost twinkles in Sickles open palm. The ring feels cold through the leather wrap, and what looks like steam slowly rises from it. The sound has stopped, but Sickle feels a strong sense of need to put the ring on. He feels as if....without this ring, the party is going to fail on their mission. It's like an auger, and must be what Badger senses through his rituals. This ring will help them destroy the soul monger.
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Sickle hesitates. Ham told them this ring was powerful, but dangerous. And the size of this...it wasn’t made for Sickle’s hand. This wasn’t a good idea. And yet...
The jungle was full of dangers, and constant threat to their lives. And the task in front of them was critical...people’s lives hung in the balance, maybe the fate of Faerûn itself. This ring obviously had power over the jungle, they had seen its icy effects. And Sickle believed in his power of his mind, surely he could control...
Sickle looked down to find the ring glowing on his hand.
"You are awfully kind. I would like to know more about this Omu. I know that this kingdom is important. A civilization is required to tame the wild nature of this jungle."
He feels unwhelmed by her and pauses to ponders her questions.
"As for my role in helping to tame it I am not sure. I try to assist whoever I can, and help my family when able. If only I could be as needed as you. It seems you have the ability to reshape your world..."
He felt rushed up in the moment, but then sighed.
"You have many responsibilities, so you must understand that I have my own. That being said I would like to spend what time I have with you learning about this land of yours."
The world around the ring seems to bend, until the ring fits snugly on his finger. The coldness of the ring makes his hand ache, the finger around it turning red.
Ham's eyes snap open. He looks down at the ring on Sickle's hand. He leaps to his feet, his sword rips from the sheath nearby as he holds it defensively before him. The smell of baked bread fills the room. The sudden explosive movement of Ham startles everyone awake as Sickle takes a step back. The darkness in the room is broken by the dim blue glow coming from Sickle's hand, and the bright silver glow coming from Ham's blade. Everyone looks around in confusion as they rub sleep from their eyes.
Sickle feels a spike of anger reverberate through his body.
Sedrik says, "What...what's going on here?"
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Sickle stares at the ring on his hand, eyes widening as it warps to fit his finger comfortably, then almost painfully as the cold sets in. As Ham draws his sword, Sickle glares back at him, and snarls, "Put that down."
Sickle looks back at his hand as Sedrik asks his question. "I don't...I woke up and the ring was glowing. I wasn't going to put it on...then I did." He gets more energetic now. "We can use it...look at what it did to the jungle, and we can use that for what lies ahead!"
Finally, he drew for the half-orc. Already the pendulum had swung unfavourably before this one, and Badger drew the cards with shaking fingers. The Anarchist and the Rogue. He gasped in alarm, dropping the remainder of the deck. Chaos and Deception! Discord and Mischief! Great emblems of misfortune and woe lay mightily on this one.
Badger sat upright in his bedroll, watching the half-orc suspiciously. So, the pendulum finally swings back again, he thought. Badger always knew the time would come when Sickle showed his true colours. Remembering again his tarokka reading for Sickle, Badger knew that however Sickle justified his clandestine actions here, they would all need to be on their guard in the future. Some folks just don't have the mental fortitude to control powerful magic items, Badger thought smugly to himself.
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Silas sits up in his bed and looks around, "What's going on?" Silas sees everyone starting at Sickle so he follows suit. He look at Sickle then the Ring and then Sickle. He took a short intake of breath as he process what Sickle says.
"Yes, it is very powerful but it can control people. Why don't you show us you're the one in control, Just take off the ring and show it has no control over you,"
Kirin - Level 15 High Elf Wizard (Evocation) - Zorg's Lost Souls - Overchannel Steel Wind Strike for the Win against Demogorgon Silas - Level 11 Human Cleric (War Domain) - Tomb of Annihilation Done
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Mandra opens her eyes, the ruckus from upstairs disturbing her meditation. She casts Invisibility on herself and quietly walks upstairs to see what is going on.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Seeing that all the fuss seems to be centered around the glowing blue ring on Sickle's hand, Mandra will try to position herself to a spot in the room where she'll have a good view of the action should things turn violent. She'll wonder to herself if she would be able to pull the thing off his finger using mage hand, but is uncertain if its obvious Arcane nature will prevent her attempts. Arcana: 18
Sickle hesitates, looking at the apparent unity of the group against him. He touches the ring for a moment. “I get what your saying, and I’d be happy to, but it, uh, doesn’t seem to want to,” he says a bit abashedly. “But other than that, it doesn’t seem to have control over me. Look, we looked the other way while Kasaaptu and Darak harnessed their own darkness...though perhaps those aren’t great examples...” Sickle trails off, wondering what he got himself into. “Let’s just figure out what this thing is and if we can use it.”
Mandra knows she can't try to grab things away from people or try to pull rings off with mage hand. Apparently, some rogue's of sufficient power can use it to pick pocket people...but...that's a bit of a special case.
Ham seems to wait for Sickle to make a move, though...since Sickle seems to be communicating with them calmly, his blade drops a bit. Some Brimstone fills the air.
Mwaxanare to Boris, "You of course are very honorable. I shouldn't expect anything less. Find me tomorrow morning and we'll talk over breakfast. For now, settle down with your friends and find sanctuary in these walls." She lets a hand linger on his shoulder for a moment and then heads away.
Back to the evening scene, everyone seems to hold their breath for a few moments, frozen in indecision. Ham sighs angrily and sheaths his sword. He picks up the leather wrap off the ground with a swipe and jams it into his bag. Glaring at Sickle he pushes his backpack under his pillow and returns to sleep.
Everyone else seems to let things be and soon everyone returns to an uncomfortable sleep.
The morning brings bright light and sun, and heat bearing down on the cliffside dwellings. No breakfast is brought to the group, though Na does come knocking, "Is Badger here? I'd like to show him my garden if he has time." An Aarakocra also comes knocking, "Sir Boris is invited to breakfast with Princess Mwaxanare." The group that remains sits about tensely eating a breakfast of rations, while Ham shoots evil glares at Sickle. Eventually Sedrik, uncomfortable, breaks the silence, "So, what is the plan today? Do we head to this Nagalore place? Or are we hanging out here for the day?" Badger/Boris, do you stay with the group or go meet your new friends?
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Sickle eats his breakfast in silence with the others, though his neck is slowly flushing with anger at Ham’s repeated pointed looks. He finally meets a glare with one of his own, then stalks out the room.
For DM or anyone that follows:
Sickle makes his way through the complex to find a way back down to the jungle and relative isolation, resorting to wild shape if necessary. He’ll keep an eye out for being followed. He stays close to the cliffs, but looks for a safe place to test the ring. If he seems to be alone, he will begin feeling out what the ring is capable of.
The events of the night confirmed to Badger the importance of being vigilant, and he berated himself for not taking the time to read the omens. Seership was a burden, but one he couldn't escape, and the future would catch up with him whether he was prepared or not, and there was still much he did not know about those in the group, some of whom had been with him since the beginning, but none since his first reading. Early the next morning, he crept out of the room, taking his cards, coins and tome, and found a secluded spot to cast his auguries. First he drew tarokka cards for each of his companions, in order of their time in the group...
He started with Boris, the one who was originally the knight's groom, but who had learnt to fight in the wild jungle. For him Badger first drew the Soldier - no surprises there, the man had shown skill with weapons. The second card however was the Broken One. Yes, it was clear that the stress of the mission would eventually be too great, and the poor man's mind would crack under the pressure, eventually driving him insane.
Next was Sedrik, the knight's page and kinsman. For him Badger drew a most interesting combination - the Conjurer and the Donjon, both inverted! These cards were symbols of evil magic and slavery, both dangerous omens. But their inversion meant that Sedrik could end up being either an agent or a victim of arcane chaos and bondage, or perhaps even a saviour from such a fate.
Third up was Azaka. Badger had previously read her palm, but the cards would provide something more specific to the quest. For her he drew the Monk and the inverted Elementalist. This indicated a person that followed their own path, but that also had access to great primal power - perhaps even hidden power yet to be revealed. Azaka had shown an independent will, and little concern for the mission. Would her power be used for personal gain or for the good of the quest?
Next to join the group was Mandra, the unfortunate undead. This card reading could be confounded somewhat by the fact that her soul and her body were from different people, so Badger pondered a little longer as he drew the Dictator and the Philanthropist - two very conflicting cards. Mandra was clearly in conflict, with a pure heart in opposition to an evil nature, but this reading was not clear on which would dominate in the end.
Finally, Badger drew for Ham. The two final cards were the Bishop and the inverted Artifact. This was interesting! The Bishop was an ill-omened card, and generally indicated someone assuming authority beyond that delegated to them. The Artifact hinted at something of great value. Perhaps Ham had coveted the ring, or had even taken it forcefully from his now-dead friend, hence his anger at Sickle's claim on it. Badger trusted Ham, but revelations such as these suggested that Badger should remain cautious and not take anything for granted.
After the card reading, Badger cast the coins to receive more guidance for himself and the next stage of their quest. The question in his mind was "Will we succeed in finding the magic flower?" Casting the coins, and looking up the corresponding explanation in the tome, Badger read:
The joyous Lake is cradled by the tranquil Mountain. The Superior Person takes great satisfaction in encouraging others along their journey. He draws them to him with his welcoming nature and genuine interest.
What an unusual piece of guidance! Clearly Badger was supposed to encourage his companions, and to make use of his gnomish positivism and cheer to keep morale high in the face of tension and mistrust. This particular casting also had connotations of romantic attraction, and Badger wondered whether this was any connection to the obvious relationship between Boris and the Princess...
Badger arrived back at the room to find the young Na there seeking him. Although the boy was pleasant company, Badger had additional priorities while here, and he hoped to achieve them without hurting the boy's feelings. Remembering his coin reading, he assumed his most cheerful gnome voice and said:
Urgh, greetings young Na. I would be delighted to see your garden. However, I also noticed your collection of books. Is there a library here in this place? Perhaps you might show me there first?
Then, seeing the others munching on hard tack, he added: Er, that is to say, right after we find ourselves some breakfast, eh?
Silas will pull him aside ans talk, "Should our friend appear to be succumbing to ring I will attempt to Hold Person. Try to take the ring back then. Hopefully without any lost limbs but the ring removal is most important. Can't have run amok,"
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Kirin - Level 15 High Elf Wizard (Evocation) - Zorg's Lost Souls - Overchannel Steel Wind Strike for the Win against Demogorgon Silas - Level 11 Human Cleric (War Domain) - Tomb of Annihilation Done
Boris is afflicted with nightmares during his sleep. After a lull in the night his body seizes and stretches. Eventually he awakens and in a sleep full stupor he eventually appear to go back to sleep. He repeats this process throughout the night.
The next morning he seems cheerful and unaffected from his restless sleep except for the pair of bags under his eyes. He spends the time in the morning checking the supplies and looking to see if any of the rations and other food can be prepared to be more appealing for the group.
When he is informed of the offer to eat with the princess he feels guilty with not being able to provide a meal for the group beyond the rations. He then realizes it would be rude to make her wait, and shoots up from his crouched position.
”ah... yes. I will come with you right away. Apologies everyone. I think we should trade for some spices and other food when we next have the chance. I didn’t realize we had so little to work with.”
He leaves to follow Aarakocra.
(if the group leaves without me that is fine. I am unsure how long this side thing will take, but if it is as long as everyone’s breakfast I plan to leave with you)
Boris heads off to his breakfast with the princess. After eating Badger and Na leave together, the young boy babbling to Badger about the books that the elder Aarakocra has gathered. Sickle, glaring at Ham, stalks out of the building.
----------
Boris:
You are escorted up through the temple and onto the well appointed private chambers of the princess. She smiles rather strikingly at Boris and comes to give him a warm hug. "Thank you so much for meeting me for breakfast." An Aarakocra watches from one corner as you both enjoy a meal with small fruits, and dried meats as well as some sort of cheese, and an oat mix. Boris inquires about goods and she says she's sure the Aarakocra would sell them some more healthy and fresh options for their travels. "So, Boris, tell me all about your homeland. You seem so down to earth. It must be a lovely place where you come from. Oh, Taraka, would you mind inquiring about putting together some grains, and other spices and goods for Boris' companions for their journey?" The Aarakocra hesitates, and then departs. She smiles, "So, about your homeland." She places her hand on Boris' knee and listens expectantly. Before much talking however, it's clear she has other designs for Boris and begins to make more aggressive advances. ?
Silas:
Ham nods calmly. The thin smell of ham fills the air.
Badger:
Na leads you back to the temple, and into a side room. This room seems to be filled with ancient scrolls, books, maps and papers. The ancient Aarakocra sits here with a single male Aarakocra standing in one corner. She eyes Badger as he enters with Na. "You took your time seer, but I knew you would arrive eventually. The books you seek are in that section. If you need help with them, I can give you aid. You will need everything up your sleeve to survive the coming trials. Though, as confident as I sounded in the room, your victory is far from assured. And when you are ready, I'm happy to discuss divination."
You wander over and crack open the first book in the section. It contains arcane symbols and rights of a spell. You dive in. The ancient one distracts Na from you to let you focus. You find the following spells described in a dozen books within the library, Alarm, Burning Hands, Chromatic Orb, Color Spray, Comprehend Languages, Alter Self, Arcane Lock, Blindness/Deafness, Blur, Cloud of Daggers, Continual Flame, Blink, Counterspell, Blight.
Sickle:
You walk in the hot breeze down to the lower most section. Aarakocra watch you with curiosity. A few offer assistance. You decline and eventually, your form shimmering into that of a spider, begin the long walk down the cliff to experiment. The rock is firm and true beneath your spider legs as you clamber down hundreds of feet of sheer cliff. The wind blows, but your clawed legs grasp the rock supremely. You reach the bottom, the jungle encroaching against the base of the cliffside, greenery and trees everywhere. With exuberance he really tries to feel the ring, and holds his hand out, trying to let it do its thing. Nothing happens. The ring sits there, returning his own gaze in its golden frost shrouded perfection. He feels satisfaction and a sense of patience. The ring is a complicated thing. It will reveal it's nature soon enough. Is he feeling that, or is the ring? He thinks he's feeling a bit short tempered actually. Or maybe that's the ring's feelings. He runs his hand through his hair, and pulls his hand down. He's holding a comb made of ice. He's run it through his hair, the knots pulling, but the ice comb seems as strong as steel. Nor does it melt. He tucks it away. He imagines an ice goblet in his hand. One slowly grows out of ice, matching his imagination, until it's complete and in his grasp. He bangs it against a large boulder, it doesn't break, nor does it melt, but it is cold and steaming slightly. (12 charges per day, recharged at dawn. 2 charges to create an inanimate ice object, with no moving parts, able to fit in side a 10 foot cube, and has the density and durability of either metal or stone (your choice) ) After creating a few more ice objects to test it's boundaries, he eventually clambers back up the cliff face. A feeling of victory sits in his gut, and he's sure his allies are eager to get the black orchid.
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
The elder Aarakocra could be excused for thinking he was babysitting TWO children that day, as Badger skipped around the library, pulling books off the shelves with the most interesting titles, then tucking them under his arm. Within minutes, Badger was seated at a table, his dangling feet swinging merrily, his face concealed behind several small towers of books, as he pored over the texts. The hours flew by, lunch forgotten, as Badger devoured instead the writings of the sages.
Two treatises occupied most of his attention though. One was a discussion on the origin of characteristics of the various living creatures throughout Chult, including a spell on how to simulate many such features through magic. The other was a dissertation on the nature of magic itself, with a particular section on the resonance of the Weave, and methods of neutralising spells with phase-contrast magic. The intellectual methodologies of the Aarakocra authors was rather foreign to Badger, but he happily passed the hours contemplating and deciphering their logic, rewriting it in his own fashion, and then formulating it into words and gestures that he could employ in spellcasting.
Finally, as the sun began to sink in the distance, the elder politely reminded Badger that it was time for the evening meal. Returning his books and packing his things with a yawn, Badger thanked the sage for his generosity and assistance. Then, with a weary sigh and downcast eyes, he asked:
Urgh, how DO you know of the things that are to come? What methods of foretelling do you use? I've tried several myself - orbuculi, tasseography, haruspication, osteomancy, tarot, astrology - but between us, I often feel like I'm ... well ... groping in the dark.
OOC: Copying Counterspell and Alter Self to spellbook, but supposed to be 10 hours and 250 gp in total...
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
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Silas simply ask just for the eye to be crafted then, thanking for them for be willing to craft it for him.
(need it for a spell, seeing is proably better than hearing a target)
Kirin - Level 15 High Elf Wizard (Evocation) - Zorg's Lost Souls- Overchannel Steel Wind Strike for the Win against DemogorgonSilas - Level 11 Human Cleric (War Domain) - Tomb of AnnihilationDoneOnly so much can fit in a small letter attached to a familiar, and also want to ensure sensitive information doesn't fall into the wrong hands. The message will be addressed to the patron, but will only say effectively: "we know the location of the object of our search, and expect to reach said location within a tenday." Won't explicitly mention Soul Monger, or who is presently in the company.
While in Kir Sabal, Badger is interested in:
1) speaking to the elder Aarakocra, who is obviously a seer of some kind, on their divination methods
2) picking up some more spells from somewhere appropriate, such as a library or other mages
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Pulling open the bag, Sickle sees a package wrapped in leather, with a leather tie around it. It pulses blue light. He reaches in. Something heavy is within. The leather tie seems to almost untie itself, the leather wrap falling away to reveal a ring. The golden band is covered in a thin layer of what appears to be frost. It is large, so large it would probably be quite loose on Sickles thumb. It glows, the frost emitted a blue light as it almost twinkles in Sickles open palm. The ring feels cold through the leather wrap, and what looks like steam slowly rises from it. The sound has stopped, but Sickle feels a strong sense of need to put the ring on. He feels as if....without this ring, the party is going to fail on their mission. It's like an auger, and must be what Badger senses through his rituals. This ring will help them destroy the soul monger.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Sickle hesitates. Ham told them this ring was powerful, but dangerous. And the size of this...it wasn’t made for Sickle’s hand. This wasn’t a good idea. And yet...
The jungle was full of dangers, and constant threat to their lives. And the task in front of them was critical...people’s lives hung in the balance, maybe the fate of Faerûn itself. This ring obviously had power over the jungle, they had seen its icy effects. And Sickle believed in his power of his mind, surely he could control...
Sickle looked down to find the ring glowing on his hand.
To Mwaxanare
"You are awfully kind. I would like to know more about this Omu. I know that this kingdom is important. A civilization is required to tame the wild nature of this jungle."
He feels unwhelmed by her and pauses to ponders her questions.
"As for my role in helping to tame it I am not sure. I try to assist whoever I can, and help my family when able. If only I could be as needed as you. It seems you have the ability to reshape your world..."
He felt rushed up in the moment, but then sighed.
"You have many responsibilities, so you must understand that I have my own. That being said I would like to spend what time I have with you learning about this land of yours."
The world around the ring seems to bend, until the ring fits snugly on his finger. The coldness of the ring makes his hand ache, the finger around it turning red.
Ham's eyes snap open. He looks down at the ring on Sickle's hand. He leaps to his feet, his sword rips from the sheath nearby as he holds it defensively before him. The smell of baked bread fills the room. The sudden explosive movement of Ham startles everyone awake as Sickle takes a step back. The darkness in the room is broken by the dim blue glow coming from Sickle's hand, and the bright silver glow coming from Ham's blade. Everyone looks around in confusion as they rub sleep from their eyes.
Sickle feels a spike of anger reverberate through his body.
Sedrik says, "What...what's going on here?"
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Sickle stares at the ring on his hand, eyes widening as it warps to fit his finger comfortably, then almost painfully as the cold sets in. As Ham draws his sword, Sickle glares back at him, and snarls, "Put that down."
Sickle looks back at his hand as Sedrik asks his question. "I don't...I woke up and the ring was glowing. I wasn't going to put it on...then I did." He gets more energetic now. "We can use it...look at what it did to the jungle, and we can use that for what lies ahead!"
Badger sat upright in his bedroll, watching the half-orc suspiciously. So, the pendulum finally swings back again, he thought. Badger always knew the time would come when Sickle showed his true colours. Remembering again his tarokka reading for Sickle, Badger knew that however Sickle justified his clandestine actions here, they would all need to be on their guard in the future. Some folks just don't have the mental fortitude to control powerful magic items, Badger thought smugly to himself.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Silas sits up in his bed and looks around, "What's going on?" Silas sees everyone starting at Sickle so he follows suit. He look at Sickle then the Ring and then Sickle. He took a short intake of breath as he process what Sickle says.
"Yes, it is very powerful but it can control people. Why don't you show us you're the one in control, Just take off the ring and show it has no control over you,"
Persuasion: 14
Kirin - Level 15 High Elf Wizard (Evocation) - Zorg's Lost Souls- Overchannel Steel Wind Strike for the Win against DemogorgonSilas - Level 11 Human Cleric (War Domain) - Tomb of AnnihilationDoneMandra opens her eyes, the ruckus from upstairs disturbing her meditation. She casts Invisibility on herself and quietly walks upstairs to see what is going on.
Stealth: 23 Perception: 11
Seeing that all the fuss seems to be centered around the glowing blue ring on Sickle's hand, Mandra will try to position herself to a spot in the room where she'll have a good view of the action should things turn violent. She'll wonder to herself if she would be able to pull the thing off his finger using mage hand, but is uncertain if its obvious Arcane nature will prevent her attempts. Arcana: 18
Sickle hesitates, looking at the apparent unity of the group against him. He touches the ring for a moment. “I get what your saying, and I’d be happy to, but it, uh, doesn’t seem to want to,” he says a bit abashedly. “But other than that, it doesn’t seem to have control over me. Look, we looked the other way while Kasaaptu and Darak harnessed their own darkness...though perhaps those aren’t great examples...” Sickle trails off, wondering what he got himself into. “Let’s just figure out what this thing is and if we can use it.”
Mandra knows she can't try to grab things away from people or try to pull rings off with mage hand. Apparently, some rogue's of sufficient power can use it to pick pocket people...but...that's a bit of a special case.
Ham seems to wait for Sickle to make a move, though...since Sickle seems to be communicating with them calmly, his blade drops a bit. Some Brimstone fills the air.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Mwaxanare to Boris, "You of course are very honorable. I shouldn't expect anything less. Find me tomorrow morning and we'll talk over breakfast. For now, settle down with your friends and find sanctuary in these walls." She lets a hand linger on his shoulder for a moment and then heads away.
Back to the evening scene, everyone seems to hold their breath for a few moments, frozen in indecision. Ham sighs angrily and sheaths his sword. He picks up the leather wrap off the ground with a swipe and jams it into his bag. Glaring at Sickle he pushes his backpack under his pillow and returns to sleep.
Everyone else seems to let things be and soon everyone returns to an uncomfortable sleep.
The morning brings bright light and sun, and heat bearing down on the cliffside dwellings. No breakfast is brought to the group, though Na does come knocking, "Is Badger here? I'd like to show him my garden if he has time." An Aarakocra also comes knocking, "Sir Boris is invited to breakfast with Princess Mwaxanare." The group that remains sits about tensely eating a breakfast of rations, while Ham shoots evil glares at Sickle. Eventually Sedrik, uncomfortable, breaks the silence, "So, what is the plan today? Do we head to this Nagalore place? Or are we hanging out here for the day?" Badger/Boris, do you stay with the group or go meet your new friends?
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Sickle eats his breakfast in silence with the others, though his neck is slowly flushing with anger at Ham’s repeated pointed looks. He finally meets a glare with one of his own, then stalks out the room.
For DM or anyone that follows:
Sickle makes his way through the complex to find a way back down to the jungle and relative isolation, resorting to wild shape if necessary. He’ll keep an eye out for being followed. He stays close to the cliffs, but looks for a safe place to test the ring. If he seems to be alone, he will begin feeling out what the ring is capable of.
The events of the night confirmed to Badger the importance of being vigilant, and he berated himself for not taking the time to read the omens. Seership was a burden, but one he couldn't escape, and the future would catch up with him whether he was prepared or not, and there was still much he did not know about those in the group, some of whom had been with him since the beginning, but none since his first reading. Early the next morning, he crept out of the room, taking his cards, coins and tome, and found a secluded spot to cast his auguries. First he drew tarokka cards for each of his companions, in order of their time in the group...
He started with Boris, the one who was originally the knight's groom, but who had learnt to fight in the wild jungle. For him Badger first drew the Soldier - no surprises there, the man had shown skill with weapons. The second card however was the Broken One. Yes, it was clear that the stress of the mission would eventually be too great, and the poor man's mind would crack under the pressure, eventually driving him insane.
Next was Sedrik, the knight's page and kinsman. For him Badger drew a most interesting combination - the Conjurer and the Donjon, both inverted! These cards were symbols of evil magic and slavery, both dangerous omens. But their inversion meant that Sedrik could end up being either an agent or a victim of arcane chaos and bondage, or perhaps even a saviour from such a fate.
Third up was Azaka. Badger had previously read her palm, but the cards would provide something more specific to the quest. For her he drew the Monk and the inverted Elementalist. This indicated a person that followed their own path, but that also had access to great primal power - perhaps even hidden power yet to be revealed. Azaka had shown an independent will, and little concern for the mission. Would her power be used for personal gain or for the good of the quest?
Next to join the group was Mandra, the unfortunate undead. This card reading could be confounded somewhat by the fact that her soul and her body were from different people, so Badger pondered a little longer as he drew the Dictator and the Philanthropist - two very conflicting cards. Mandra was clearly in conflict, with a pure heart in opposition to an evil nature, but this reading was not clear on which would dominate in the end.
Finally, Badger drew for Ham. The two final cards were the Bishop and the inverted Artifact. This was interesting! The Bishop was an ill-omened card, and generally indicated someone assuming authority beyond that delegated to them. The Artifact hinted at something of great value. Perhaps Ham had coveted the ring, or had even taken it forcefully from his now-dead friend, hence his anger at Sickle's claim on it. Badger trusted Ham, but revelations such as these suggested that Badger should remain cautious and not take anything for granted.
After the card reading, Badger cast the coins to receive more guidance for himself and the next stage of their quest. The question in his mind was "Will we succeed in finding the magic flower?" Casting the coins, and looking up the corresponding explanation in the tome, Badger read:
The joyous Lake is cradled by the tranquil Mountain. The Superior Person takes great satisfaction in encouraging others along their journey. He draws them to him with his welcoming nature and genuine interest.
What an unusual piece of guidance! Clearly Badger was supposed to encourage his companions, and to make use of his gnomish positivism and cheer to keep morale high in the face of tension and mistrust. This particular casting also had connotations of romantic attraction, and Badger wondered whether this was any connection to the obvious relationship between Boris and the Princess...
Badger arrived back at the room to find the young Na there seeking him. Although the boy was pleasant company, Badger had additional priorities while here, and he hoped to achieve them without hurting the boy's feelings. Remembering his coin reading, he assumed his most cheerful gnome voice and said:
Urgh, greetings young Na. I would be delighted to see your garden. However, I also noticed your collection of books. Is there a library here in this place? Perhaps you might show me there first?
Then, seeing the others munching on hard tack, he added: Er, that is to say, right after we find ourselves some breakfast, eh?
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
For Ham
Silas will pull him aside ans talk, "Should our friend appear to be succumbing to ring I will attempt to Hold Person. Try to take the ring back then. Hopefully without any lost limbs but the ring removal is most important. Can't have run amok,"
Kirin - Level 15 High Elf Wizard (Evocation) - Zorg's Lost Souls- Overchannel Steel Wind Strike for the Win against DemogorgonSilas - Level 11 Human Cleric (War Domain) - Tomb of AnnihilationDoneBoris is afflicted with nightmares during his sleep. After a lull in the night his body seizes and stretches. Eventually he awakens and in a sleep full stupor he eventually appear to go back to sleep. He repeats this process throughout the night.
The next morning he seems cheerful and unaffected from his restless sleep except for the pair of bags under his eyes. He spends the time in the morning checking the supplies and looking to see if any of the rations and other food can be prepared to be more appealing for the group.
When he is informed of the offer to eat with the princess he feels guilty with not being able to provide a meal for the group beyond the rations. He then realizes it would be rude to make her wait, and shoots up from his crouched position.
”ah... yes. I will come with you right away. Apologies everyone. I think we should trade for some spices and other food when we next have the chance. I didn’t realize we had so little to work with.”
He leaves to follow Aarakocra.
(if the group leaves without me that is fine. I am unsure how long this side thing will take, but if it is as long as everyone’s breakfast I plan to leave with you)
Boris heads off to his breakfast with the princess. After eating Badger and Na leave together, the young boy babbling to Badger about the books that the elder Aarakocra has gathered. Sickle, glaring at Ham, stalks out of the building.
----------
Boris:
You are escorted up through the temple and onto the well appointed private chambers of the princess. She smiles rather strikingly at Boris and comes to give him a warm hug. "Thank you so much for meeting me for breakfast." An Aarakocra watches from one corner as you both enjoy a meal with small fruits, and dried meats as well as some sort of cheese, and an oat mix. Boris inquires about goods and she says she's sure the Aarakocra would sell them some more healthy and fresh options for their travels. "So, Boris, tell me all about your homeland. You seem so down to earth. It must be a lovely place where you come from. Oh, Taraka, would you mind inquiring about putting together some grains, and other spices and goods for Boris' companions for their journey?" The Aarakocra hesitates, and then departs. She smiles, "So, about your homeland." She places her hand on Boris' knee and listens expectantly. Before much talking however, it's clear she has other designs for Boris and begins to make more aggressive advances. ?
Silas:
Ham nods calmly. The thin smell of ham fills the air.
Badger:
Na leads you back to the temple, and into a side room. This room seems to be filled with ancient scrolls, books, maps and papers. The ancient Aarakocra sits here with a single male Aarakocra standing in one corner. She eyes Badger as he enters with Na. "You took your time seer, but I knew you would arrive eventually. The books you seek are in that section. If you need help with them, I can give you aid. You will need everything up your sleeve to survive the coming trials. Though, as confident as I sounded in the room, your victory is far from assured. And when you are ready, I'm happy to discuss divination."
You wander over and crack open the first book in the section. It contains arcane symbols and rights of a spell. You dive in. The ancient one distracts Na from you to let you focus. You find the following spells described in a dozen books within the library, Alarm, Burning Hands, Chromatic Orb, Color Spray, Comprehend Languages, Alter Self, Arcane Lock, Blindness/Deafness, Blur, Cloud of Daggers, Continual Flame, Blink, Counterspell, Blight.
Sickle:
You walk in the hot breeze down to the lower most section. Aarakocra watch you with curiosity. A few offer assistance. You decline and eventually, your form shimmering into that of a spider, begin the long walk down the cliff to experiment. The rock is firm and true beneath your spider legs as you clamber down hundreds of feet of sheer cliff. The wind blows, but your clawed legs grasp the rock supremely. You reach the bottom, the jungle encroaching against the base of the cliffside, greenery and trees everywhere. With exuberance he really tries to feel the ring, and holds his hand out, trying to let it do its thing. Nothing happens. The ring sits there, returning his own gaze in its golden frost shrouded perfection. He feels satisfaction and a sense of patience. The ring is a complicated thing. It will reveal it's nature soon enough. Is he feeling that, or is the ring? He thinks he's feeling a bit short tempered actually. Or maybe that's the ring's feelings. He runs his hand through his hair, and pulls his hand down. He's holding a comb made of ice. He's run it through his hair, the knots pulling, but the ice comb seems as strong as steel. Nor does it melt. He tucks it away. He imagines an ice goblet in his hand. One slowly grows out of ice, matching his imagination, until it's complete and in his grasp. He bangs it against a large boulder, it doesn't break, nor does it melt, but it is cold and steaming slightly. (12 charges per day, recharged at dawn. 2 charges to create an inanimate ice object, with no moving parts, able to fit in side a 10 foot cube, and has the density and durability of either metal or stone (your choice) ) After creating a few more ice objects to test it's boundaries, he eventually clambers back up the cliff face. A feeling of victory sits in his gut, and he's sure his allies are eager to get the black orchid.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
The elder Aarakocra could be excused for thinking he was babysitting TWO children that day, as Badger skipped around the library, pulling books off the shelves with the most interesting titles, then tucking them under his arm. Within minutes, Badger was seated at a table, his dangling feet swinging merrily, his face concealed behind several small towers of books, as he pored over the texts. The hours flew by, lunch forgotten, as Badger devoured instead the writings of the sages.
Two treatises occupied most of his attention though. One was a discussion on the origin of characteristics of the various living creatures throughout Chult, including a spell on how to simulate many such features through magic. The other was a dissertation on the nature of magic itself, with a particular section on the resonance of the Weave, and methods of neutralising spells with phase-contrast magic. The intellectual methodologies of the Aarakocra authors was rather foreign to Badger, but he happily passed the hours contemplating and deciphering their logic, rewriting it in his own fashion, and then formulating it into words and gestures that he could employ in spellcasting.
Finally, as the sun began to sink in the distance, the elder politely reminded Badger that it was time for the evening meal. Returning his books and packing his things with a yawn, Badger thanked the sage for his generosity and assistance. Then, with a weary sigh and downcast eyes, he asked:
Urgh, how DO you know of the things that are to come? What methods of foretelling do you use? I've tried several myself - orbuculi, tasseography, haruspication, osteomancy, tarot, astrology - but between us, I often feel like I'm ... well ... groping in the dark.
OOC: Copying Counterspell and Alter Self to spellbook, but supposed to be 10 hours and 250 gp in total...
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?