The twin sided scimiar is... awkward. It's weight in various positions and as you give it a bit of a feel. It's sturdy, but light. More weight along the ends of the blade as would generate along circular cuts. You think given some time, this weapon could be something far more than meets the eye. ((Will add Gem and Blade to your inventory))
Vol gives a bit of a shrug. "The answer is simply yes. Pirate affairs do tend to turn into muddled stories once they reach shore." His eyes do dart over towards the person walking. "Her? Let's just say that she's a friend to a old orc named Gridelin. Rumors said that Gridelin was a Captain of quite the fine ship awhile ago. Some say that there Gnome was responsible for its construction. Might be looking to get another boat out to sea soon, too. Not a fan of Blackscales herself. But a bit too well connected to simply go missing. Might be someone you'd like t get to know."
Vol raises a bit of a brow with a bemused smirk. "But I certainly wouldn't know anything about that."
Tarak...
The Priestess takes a seat beside Tarak, her eyes glancing to the arm in question.
"Well, I can't say I haven't seen one of these before. Granted an entire spine's of their young." She taps along the spines ridges a bit. "They're suppose to be extinct, you know. The Wish Dragons. Dangerous things that are only less dangerous when dead."
She feet begin to fidget just a bit as she ponders. "There are few immediate options. As these bones are bound to you, we could remove it. But it will likely take your arm in the process. We do have many a master smith who could make a fine prosthetic for you. From there, we would send word to the Towers and wait for delivery."
You certainly feel this may be her preferred option. Not out of malice, but simply due to forging and crafting prosthetic.
"You could take it to The Towers and the High Temple. Although this does nothing to assist you in your escaping any demon that may be tracking you. There is a far more dangerous third option." She leans back in the seat, looking up at the ceiling. "I assume these bones are still haunted. You could attempt to banish the being in them. Knock it out. However, it does mean direct combat with the fragment of it's ghost."
She closes her eyes, giving her head a bit of a 'no' shake. "And I'd do it far away from a city, or," she cuts herself off. "Just away from others outside those you trust. This won't destroy the bracer though. Just whatever the haunted ghost of the wish dragon is adding to it. So if the demon wants the bones for whatever purpose, it may still come after you. But the whispers and the control it exerts will stop."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Morgan will haggle by earnestly expounding on the qualities of the gun how much the vender could reasonably sell it for persuasion19 and then agree to the exchange.
Morgan goes to the fortune teller, if they think the fortune teller is legit insight22 if they think the fortune teller is on the level they agree to have their fortune read, if they think the fortune teller is a fake but they have a cool presentation then Morgan will pay half price just for the experience.
Morgan tries to find Tarak, "listen, I know you've got that cursed item that we'd need to cut your arm off to remove. I'm hoping you're looking into other ways to remove it, because I'm also cursed. it's how I can do all my" Morgan waves their hand vaguely "stuff, well until recently... anyway point is having powers is cool and everything, but then I the entity behind the curse wanted me to kill another cursed person... Didn't seem right, I don't like answering to someone like that. Logic says that the Faith would probably be the ones with the most knowledge in this area but unfortunately they have a team of hunters after me, which given that I'm pretty sure they were the ones that cursed me in the first place seems pretty messed up...Anyway I was hoping that while you were talking to your Faith friends about removing your curse if you could look into getting mine removed with out outing me. If you think it will help I'll come along too."
The vendor agrees. Paying 34 for the gun and ammo, and 1 gold for the crowbar. You feel like you got a fair deal.
The fortune teller's home is quite lavish inside. Trinkets and baubles hanging from velvet like ropes. A simple sign reading 'minimum donation of 1 silver' with a small bucket. Candles of different lengths and colors arranged in what is likely more for theatre than anything. A male halfling eventually comes out from the back; requesting you to join at a table. Some light discussion comes up naturally as you feel him out and get a sense that he's no mystic. But certainly believes that he is. A set of rings on both forefingers read in elvish;
"Shepherd them to seek Ruin" "Shepherd them to seek Fortune"
He places several cards down in a convoluted pattern. One in the center; four around it in a compass pattern along the cardinal points. Four more along the outer edge between the cardinal points.
"This card represents you. It is," he flips it over as its a symbol of the chained man. "The chained one. This is normal for most, as we carry many burdens."
His hands move to flip over the cardinal points. "These represent your biggest chains." With a quick motion he turns the cards. Each of them being a broken sword. You catch him mouthing what the, before blinking and continuing to move on. "The Broken Blade. Times four. It... uhh... appears that your burden is..." he stammers on about a reasoning. Clearly not prepared for seeing this. In fact, you don't think a deck has four of these cards normally.
...and these four represent the ways to undo your burdens... he continues. Moving to flip over another four.
The first a Golden Door
For a moment when you see a door. Like a closed iris made of a shimmering field of light. The shadowy outline of a giant of a man stands against the shimmering field of light, features mask by the radiance. "You seek guidance and purpose. Find counsel to AEGIS."
The second a Tree; inverted
The scene shifts. There's a tree out in a endless field. "Not a curse. Freedom. I can offer you that, if you can find me in Vyr-Salah." This name is familiar.. you heard it before...
The third is The Old Beggar
Again while the halfling describes to you what he thinks, you see and hear something else. An old crone sitting by a fire; a wicker basket drawn over her face except for a large yellow eye that peers out. "What? Who's there. Get lost. We have enough to worry about."
The fourth is nothing. Blank.
The scene shifts into a blank room. A figure flips back and forth between two things in a slight stutter. A lithe figure with long hair and strong looking arms. Static moving across its chest and featureless face. Then shifting to a segmented rapier. Dozens of broken sword pieces moving to like a serpent in the wind; electricity bounding between. "You made this deal. You are mine. Forever. Always." That inhuman screech of the unknowable void washes over you as you come back to your senses.
The halfling finishes their explanation with a bit of a theatrical hand wave; you somehow missing whatever he was trying to say.. Quickly gathering up the cards, and gesturing to the donation plate.
Morgan you do easily find Tarak, at some point after his conversation with the High Priest of the Temple.
At the indication that the gnome might be a naval engineer, Abigail's interest is peeked; she taking out several coins for Vol before continuing, "I assume she has a name?" A short pause is followed by, "...and I assume an introduction will cost more than this?"
Tarak listens intently as the priestess lays out different options. “What else can you tell me about these Wish Dragons? If I were to try to purge the echo from these bones how would I do that? I fear there is only way to make the one that pursues me stop. That is to kill them. If I were to leave the bracer here it would only transfer the target on my back to yours. Do you have anything I could use to strengthen myself in the attempt?”
While they talk Tarak hears the door open and looks up to see Morgan entering the room. “Excuse for a moment Priestess that is one of my crew.” He stands up and meets Morgan by the door. As Morgan explains what they seek Tarak nods. “It seems you and I are more alike than you cared to previously admit. Have no fear, no harm will come to you here.”
Tarak turns and heads back over to the High Priestess. “If I have not already asked too much of you, I have one more request. My companion would like access to the library so they can research the purging of the demon. It seems I have one person I can trust.”
Vol plucks the 5 gold from your hand. "Madam Adamanta Ce'Forgebar." The name isn't one you're instantly familiar with. The Madam signifying at least a person of importance with official title. And the Ce' being a naming convention for many adopted into Dwarven families.
He pockets the coins before continuing. "I'm afraid I can't do any proper introductions. Need to keep my own nose clean, you see. But I assume you're resourceful enough to not let the cat get your tongue if you stop by and say hello." He gives the slightest of smiles, as if amused by his own joke.
"Besides. Duty calls me elsewhere. Can't keep the person who has me on retainer waiting forever, now can I stranger?"
Tarak (& Morgan)
"I do have some guards, and others from the Orders here who could assist in keeping it safe. Yes, we will be in danger. But we do have the benefit of being inside our own home. I understand your hesitance on this, and will leave the decisions to you."
When discussing the Wish Dragons she thinks for a moment. "I don't have anything I think that would help you. At least not right now. I'm sure with enough studying we could come up with something; but that would take months. But if you wished to purge the echo, you need something stronger than steel. Powerful Weapon or Magical Arte with the intent to harm and destroy. I assume you would have to do it. If someone else was to do it, they would have to be attempting to destroy you to force it to show itself. But that's just me assuming from very old teachings many decades ago."
She gives a nod as Morgan enters, standing up to begin discuss with a few of the abbots.
Once Morgan and Tarak return to her side, she looks the newcomer up and down. "I see no problem with that. Lady Mella tends to the halls of study down stairs. If you need assistance, by all means make a request upon her."
The High Priest brings you both through a few doors, a small curved hallway, and towards the cellar. A set of stone stairs leading down. Warm air from likely a furnace and forge wafting up to greet you. Down the staircase the library is clearly visible. Lanterns hanging around older tomes that line a few shelves in the good sized chamber. It certainly isn't the most impressive library out there; but will suffice. Lady Mella sits at a small desk to the side, dressed in traditional robes. The parrot headed avian looks up to the two of you, before giving a nod. Her feathers a dull gray despite a colorful and expressive orange beak. A shield rests by the leg of the table with the symbol of the Tower of Knowledge is within arms reach, and a heavy mace rests on a hook on her belt. It clanking against the chair as she shifts.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Abigail will attempt to tail Madam Adamanta Ce'Forgebar - assuming that she has unfriendly eyes observing her movements.
Her goal here is to find an opportune time when Madam Ce'Forgebar is not as visible in public to try to approach her; however, if no such opportunity presents itself before nightfall, she wants to take note of her actions and whereabouts to gauge what sort of person Madam Ce'Forgebar is...
Tarak approaches the Library curator and tells her we are looking for anything we can find relating to demon banishment, sword curses, and wish dragon echo removal.
It takes quite some time. Watching and waiting for some kind of clear moment to approach Madam Adamata. Unfortunately, there isn't much time that she isn't in the public eye. Seeming to duck into meetings and buildings. Always under watch via her bodyguards. Of course, her being such an apparent high profile figure may be what keeps her safe. Someone well connected can't simply go missing without raising questions.
There's a moment that you find her less busy. Sitting outside at one of the many small cafes. Snacking on a scone and a rather expensive brew of Ethurian coffee. A newspaper splayed out. Glasses pushed up close to her older face.
Figuring that she is almost out of opportunities to introduce herself, Abigail bucks up her courage and attempts to approach Madam Forgebar.
"Madam Adamanta Ce'Forgebar, might I have a moment of your time?"
I allowed to approach:
"My name is..." she hesitates considering what she is about to risk - but figures that if she eventually wants a ship worthy of taking on the Sea Dragon's Bane, she was going to need to try to make this introduction eventually. "Abigail Strangepride. I may not appear like much at the moment, but it is my intention to eventually captain my own vessel for the initial purpose of dispatching a certain dark-scaled captain and his crew. Seeings how you you are one of the best ship engineers there are, I wanted to introduce myself and inquire as to what sort of fees you generally charge for your designs. I am leaving port tomorrow, but wanted to know what sort of funding I should acquire before returning to commission you for such a design."
Madam Adamata gestures for you to take a seat. One of the bodyguards, sitting by another table, goes move to approach. Giving a small patdown across the arms and sides. "No worse armed than anyone in this port." He moves to take his seat at the nearby table; somewhat caddy corner to Abigail while she gets the chance to sit.
A waiter does come by, with Madam Adamata giving a nod. Abigail, too, getting a cup of coffee poured before her while they chat for a moment. "Well, I appreciate the flattery of the concepts of my ideas. I'd love to take credit for them, but I must admit that the Thrimbru family are the ones who turn an idea into true feats of engineering. I simply have the funding to get it done."
She takes a sip of coffee as Blackscales is mentioned. Somewhat holding the cup over her face to hide and ticks of the mouth. "It's no secret that I have a boat currently under construction. A replacement vessel to the few that I've lost. Tell me, what other ships have you served on? I've yet to decide on a future crew for my project, and references are always a good way to see if we should do business together."
Tarak...
You spend several hours pouring over anything that may give you a lead on more so the Wish Dragons and anything related to them. You do come across several stories of the Great Hunt - roughly 33 years after the current calendar was adopted. (With year 1 being the first year after the Iron Queen ascended.) Magic had been waning and the Faith saw several "Other Worldly" Beings offering power and corrupting them. The First Justicar (Leader of the 4 Towers and Knightly Orders) ordered the hunting of all these corrupting forces. The following year also initiated the Great Purge; where the Justicar lead the Faith to stamping out those full of corruption and magics they saw bringing harm to the young nations of the world.
Morgan...
After scouring through a few books, you come across a journal, written by Henry Odan, over the course of 4 years nearly 100 years ago at this point. Time hasn't been very kind to it as pages are smudged and torn. Some having rotten away, likely from being read before or perhaps it was once kept elsewhere and the slightly damp air of the sea caused it to fall apart. It reads very much like a medical journal, with notes on a subject who has been presenting with some kind of madness and sickness. Over the pages you recognize the familiar tones. The person having been put into a extreme situation; only to be offered another chance at life. Taking it. Not understanding what was happening to them.
The author unfortunately does not know exactly who, or what. As the notes are between smudges and trying to make sense of someone elses mindscape. The Priest goes into details of a exploratory surgery on the person, but to no success. They are, in fact, mortal and seemingly "put together properly" based on their medical examination. This leads the Priest to write about three primary theories:
Magic is related to blood and essence. A large enough transfusion of blood and bone could remove whatever is 'cursing' this person; like amputating a rotting limb. But the amount of blood to take and somehow transfuse - along with bone - would be a monsterous task. One that would likely kill the person. The Priest believes that it isn't worth the risk, but that the concept is sound and could be explored if people had the time to research such an idea. You know that the Mortis Foundation, as well as the Universities in Ethuria and Ossus would be excellent resources for this.
Another theory would be connecting them to The Faith. As the Iron Queen herself guards us all, and grants some with extranatural gifts. It is possible that the sheer act of faith and following may shield the mind; as those who have the talent to become Paladins or Clerics of High Order don't seem to have the same madness but understand their power comes 'from elsewhere.' That perhaps a strong enough conviction or belief could shield them. It, in theory, should work. The way to test if it worked turns more into scribbles of theories that are washed away - and would take far more time to research and recreate than you have time for here. You're unsure exactly on the first steps on becoming a (divine spellcaster)
A similar, third theory, appears in notes dating years later. That whatever instills this pact governs it to its own will. So finding a replacement, or transference, should work. There are notes detailing how fragments of the one of the 13 Holy Weapons was found. A piece of the divinity that had granted another person incredible gifts - the notes seeming to indicate abilities similar to your own. With the Divine granting such pacts, the Priest is recommending that the subject attempt to bond with this holy artifact in a effort to return its mind from madness. You think the others you saw in visions were offering you something similar. A replacement pact.
The journal comes to a end before it gets into details on how the experiment actually went, or what exactly happened. Either there's another tome out there, or, it was never written down.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
*Assuming nothing stops them*
Morgan will go to the library and drop 20 gold on 2 session of *cram sessions*
first session will be researching more on Vyr-Salah, the second one is researching other entities one could make pacts with especially relating to the others they say in their visions, and then crash for the night, but if they wake up early enough for a 3rd session they'll do another cram session for counsel of Aegis
if some sort of intelligence roll is required for studying
Morgan, the library along the streets of the town is rather pact. The patrons inside moving through tomes and books while blantantly yelling and shouting at each other. It's certainly opposite of what one would assume a library is for. Small corners have been sectioned off for whoever seems to work here on a more regular basis to practice their instruments.
Drinks and food are served throughout the chambers, creating even more ruckus. The books on the shelves seem to be more stories and parables than anything else but some information is able to be gleaned from them. Either due to the telling of the tale being particularly good or the fact it's an actual book full of information.
Vyr-Salah is a place in Loxodon controlled Unity. It's somewhere in the plains and grasslands but it can't really be missed by its defining feature; a tree. A big tree. Some stories saying it stands as tall as the clouds. Other say building. Few say mountain. It's not directly on any map but there is enough general knowledge of the larger flatland dip of Unity to give you a pretty general idea - even if it'll be a journey on foot.
Most of your time looking into beings of pacts doesn't yield any fruit. It does yield several stories that are entertaining and about marriage, though.
After a power nap in one of the dormitory style rooms that are underneath the library floors - and also full of ales and foods - you do find something. A cookbook with the pages town out yet one of the recipes seems to catch your eye. A discussion of a layered geometric dish that resembles a Golden Closed Iris: Apple Egged-Goose In Sauce. The geometric patterns are some kind of magical circle. The recipe dictating on how to draw them, but likely needing to scale the process up. You think the lines need to be dusted with gold; and a lot of it. At least a few hundred coins worth (300+) but the way its coded is somewhat off leaving you guessing that it could also be double that assumption (600).
Within the margins are scrawls of different writings. "It brings about such a joyous sleep that lets the mind drift off to such a marvelous sight." "Never trust a witches stew or a devil's pie." "Take heed. Not all sleep can be overcome. Some sleep is eternal."
Tarak looks up from the last book he was reading. Knowing that the right thing to do is to follow the example of the First Justicar. There is no guarantee that those who protect here could keep the bracer out of shatter’s grip and after reading the histories it was never clearer than now that Shatter must not get it.
Standing he stretches and then returns the books to the librarian. Thanking her, he waits for Morgan to have a free moment “So? Find what you seek?” He asks as they leave. He also reiterates what he found. “Would you help me cleanse the echo if I tried?”
Then he heads back to the boat along the way he will browse what various stores are selling
Morgan looks Tarak up and down, "fight an echo... Sure, why not? You've been helping me deal with my whole thing, and while I don't agree with your dogma or several of your actions. I don't think people shouldn't have to live under a curse their whole life, even if they did make bad decision in the past... I'm talking about me there. I've got a big decision coming up soon I don't think any of the choices are good so I'll probably need your help soon doing something similar... Or I might just need a great deal of money I haven't decided yet."
Abigail notes the name Thrimbru, apparently they are the ones to commission; but decides not to look a gift horse right in front of her.
"Well, to be honest, I am not sure how references will do. I served upon the Lady Nomlilly for a time during my first year or two as a sailor, but the crew - more than the captain - were more than happy to take advantage of a new sailor, and I found myself quickly becoming bitter and bored. So, I left the Lady Nomlilly, and spent the next couple of years as a ship hand upon the Abyssal Dreadnought, until Blackscale and his crew sunk us. Now, I am crewed with the Windhook - a smaller river boat. "
Abigail sips on her coffee before continuing, "I still have some time to fulfill my time with the Windhook, but I would love it if you kept me in mind for your next venture."
Abigail you see a bit of a twinkle in the eye when you mention the Abyssal Dreadnaught. A sense of... excitement? Maybe hope? She and one of her bodyguards exchange looks. The conversation continues as she takes out a few coin for the coffee.
"Walk with me," she gestures for Abigail to follow. The other bodyguards standing and moving to stay at attention by each of them. You don't get the feeling of any harmful intent, more of a possible offer. "I have to say, I don't know the Windhook. Then again I focus out to sea and less on the river. No shame on either; both are rewarding and risky livlihoods. Just less interest from me as anyone who can turn coin into profit can buy a boat and head out along the Kingdom's waterways. Affording a proper seafairing boat and maintaining it - slightly tougher..."
As you all walk the guards seem to be guiding you towards the warehouses by the shipyards. Through the side streets, as if to maintain a little bit of secrecy. "I appreciate the fact you are keeping to your current Captain and making sure you stay true to your word. Not all Captains and not all crew's behave in such a way. I'm sure it's either a predisposition you have, or perhaps a learned trait. I've known few good captains that can keep a crew profitable and morale high."
They turn to the guarded warehouses. Large metal gates keeping them away from what is likely a semi-private dock for the owners of these supplies. A smaller door off to the side; build for more her size than you, but still able to get through. "I knew fewer Great Captains who instilled that in others." As you continue to walk, you head up a set of stairs towards the top outer entryway to one of the warehouses. She pulls out a key, turning it and entering inside.
"One of them was a good friend of mine," she looks over the railing down below. Dozens of boxes along the front and back of the warehouse. Seeming to disguise what was in the center. Fragments of the hull of a boat.
"Someone that made me believe in them. So I took a chance and sponsored them. And I was paid back twice in full for all the funds I put in."
A torn main sail laid across what seems to be the remains of a mast. Somewhat rotten and barnacled, as if it had been dredged up from the ocean floor. But you recognize it.
"What started as a business partnership turned into friendship. Letters and hearing stories and tales from time to time."
A damaged and barnacled figurehead you, Abigail, know well sits in the remains. It's the Abyssal Dreadnaught's...
"It seems, Miss Abigail, that you and I have a common purpose. So I do hope I can count on you when the time is right."
She gestures towards the ladder that leads from this upper viewing area, down to the middle. Giving you a moment with the slim remains of your old ship.
Abigail...
The twin sided scimiar is... awkward. It's weight in various positions and as you give it a bit of a feel. It's sturdy, but light. More weight along the ends of the blade as would generate along circular cuts. You think given some time, this weapon could be something far more than meets the eye. ((Will add Gem and Blade to your inventory))
Vol gives a bit of a shrug. "The answer is simply yes. Pirate affairs do tend to turn into muddled stories once they reach shore." His eyes do dart over towards the person walking. "Her? Let's just say that she's a friend to a old orc named Gridelin. Rumors said that Gridelin was a Captain of quite the fine ship awhile ago. Some say that there Gnome was responsible for its construction. Might be looking to get another boat out to sea soon, too. Not a fan of Blackscales herself. But a bit too well connected to simply go missing. Might be someone you'd like t get to know."
Vol raises a bit of a brow with a bemused smirk. "But I certainly wouldn't know anything about that."
Tarak...
The Priestess takes a seat beside Tarak, her eyes glancing to the arm in question.
"Well, I can't say I haven't seen one of these before. Granted an entire spine's of their young." She taps along the spines ridges a bit. "They're suppose to be extinct, you know. The Wish Dragons. Dangerous things that are only less dangerous when dead."
She feet begin to fidget just a bit as she ponders. "There are few immediate options. As these bones are bound to you, we could remove it. But it will likely take your arm in the process. We do have many a master smith who could make a fine prosthetic for you. From there, we would send word to the Towers and wait for delivery."
You certainly feel this may be her preferred option. Not out of malice, but simply due to forging and crafting prosthetic.
"You could take it to The Towers and the High Temple. Although this does nothing to assist you in your escaping any demon that may be tracking you. There is a far more dangerous third option." She leans back in the seat, looking up at the ceiling. "I assume these bones are still haunted. You could attempt to banish the being in them. Knock it out. However, it does mean direct combat with the fragment of it's ghost."
She closes her eyes, giving her head a bit of a 'no' shake. "And I'd do it far away from a city, or," she cuts herself off. "Just away from others outside those you trust. This won't destroy the bracer though. Just whatever the haunted ghost of the wish dragon is adding to it. So if the demon wants the bones for whatever purpose, it may still come after you. But the whispers and the control it exerts will stop."
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Morgan will haggle by earnestly expounding on the qualities of the gun how much the vender could reasonably sell it for persuasion 19 and then agree to the exchange.
Morgan goes to the fortune teller, if they think the fortune teller is legit insight 22 if they think the fortune teller is on the level they agree to have their fortune read, if they think the fortune teller is a fake but they have a cool presentation then Morgan will pay half price just for the experience.
Morgan tries to find Tarak, "listen, I know you've got that cursed item that we'd need to cut your arm off to remove. I'm hoping you're looking into other ways to remove it, because I'm also cursed. it's how I can do all my" Morgan waves their hand vaguely "stuff, well until recently... anyway point is having powers is cool and everything, but then I the entity behind the curse wanted me to kill another cursed person... Didn't seem right, I don't like answering to someone like that. Logic says that the Faith would probably be the ones with the most knowledge in this area but unfortunately they have a team of hunters after me, which given that I'm pretty sure they were the ones that cursed me in the first place seems pretty messed up...Anyway I was hoping that while you were talking to your Faith friends about removing your curse if you could look into getting mine removed with out outing me. If you think it will help I'll come along too."
Morgan...
The vendor agrees. Paying 34 for the gun and ammo, and 1 gold for the crowbar. You feel like you got a fair deal.
The fortune teller's home is quite lavish inside. Trinkets and baubles hanging from velvet like ropes. A simple sign reading 'minimum donation of 1 silver' with a small bucket. Candles of different lengths and colors arranged in what is likely more for theatre than anything. A male halfling eventually comes out from the back; requesting you to join at a table. Some light discussion comes up naturally as you feel him out and get a sense that he's no mystic. But certainly believes that he is. A set of rings on both forefingers read in elvish;
"Shepherd them to seek Ruin"
"Shepherd them to seek Fortune"
He places several cards down in a convoluted pattern. One in the center; four around it in a compass pattern along the cardinal points. Four more along the outer edge between the cardinal points.
"This card represents you. It is," he flips it over as its a symbol of the chained man. "The chained one. This is normal for most, as we carry many burdens."
His hands move to flip over the cardinal points. "These represent your biggest chains." With a quick motion he turns the cards. Each of them being a broken sword. You catch him mouthing what the, before blinking and continuing to move on. "The Broken Blade. Times four. It... uhh... appears that your burden is..." he stammers on about a reasoning. Clearly not prepared for seeing this. In fact, you don't think a deck has four of these cards normally.
...and these four represent the ways to undo your burdens... he continues. Moving to flip over another four.
The first a Golden Door
For a moment when you see a door. Like a closed iris made of a shimmering field of light. The shadowy outline of a giant of a man stands against the shimmering field of light, features mask by the radiance. "You seek guidance and purpose. Find counsel to AEGIS."
The second a Tree; inverted
The scene shifts. There's a tree out in a endless field. "Not a curse. Freedom. I can offer you that, if you can find me in Vyr-Salah." This name is familiar.. you heard it before...
The third is The Old Beggar
Again while the halfling describes to you what he thinks, you see and hear something else. An old crone sitting by a fire; a wicker basket drawn over her face except for a large yellow eye that peers out. "What? Who's there. Get lost. We have enough to worry about."
The fourth is nothing. Blank.
The scene shifts into a blank room. A figure flips back and forth between two things in a slight stutter. A lithe figure with long hair and strong looking arms. Static moving across its chest and featureless face. Then shifting to a segmented rapier. Dozens of broken sword pieces moving to like a serpent in the wind; electricity bounding between. "You made this deal. You are mine. Forever. Always." That inhuman screech of the unknowable void washes over you as you come back to your senses.
The halfling finishes their explanation with a bit of a theatrical hand wave; you somehow missing whatever he was trying to say.. Quickly gathering up the cards, and gesturing to the donation plate.
Morgan you do easily find Tarak, at some point after his conversation with the High Priest of the Temple.
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
At the indication that the gnome might be a naval engineer, Abigail's interest is peeked; she taking out several coins for Vol before continuing, "I assume she has a name?"
A short pause is followed by, "...and I assume an introduction will cost more than this?"
Tarak listens intently as the priestess lays out different options. “What else can you tell me about these Wish Dragons? If I were to try to purge the echo from these bones how would I do that? I fear there is only way to make the one that pursues me stop. That is to kill them. If I were to leave the bracer here it would only transfer the target on my back to yours. Do you have anything I could use to strengthen myself in the attempt?”
While they talk Tarak hears the door open and looks up to see Morgan entering the room. “Excuse for a moment Priestess that is one of my crew.” He stands up and meets Morgan by the door. As Morgan explains what they seek Tarak nods. “It seems you and I are more alike than you cared to previously admit. Have no fear, no harm will come to you here.”
Tarak turns and heads back over to the High Priestess. “If I have not already asked too much of you, I have one more request. My companion would like access to the library so they can research the purging of the demon. It seems I have one person I can trust.”
Persuasion if needed 21
Abigail...
Vol plucks the 5 gold from your hand. "Madam Adamanta Ce'Forgebar." The name isn't one you're instantly familiar with. The Madam signifying at least a person of importance with official title. And the Ce' being a naming convention for many adopted into Dwarven families.
He pockets the coins before continuing. "I'm afraid I can't do any proper introductions. Need to keep my own nose clean, you see. But I assume you're resourceful enough to not let the cat get your tongue if you stop by and say hello." He gives the slightest of smiles, as if amused by his own joke.
"Besides. Duty calls me elsewhere. Can't keep the person who has me on retainer waiting forever, now can I stranger?"
Tarak (& Morgan)
"I do have some guards, and others from the Orders here who could assist in keeping it safe. Yes, we will be in danger. But we do have the benefit of being inside our own home. I understand your hesitance on this, and will leave the decisions to you."
When discussing the Wish Dragons she thinks for a moment. "I don't have anything I think that would help you. At least not right now. I'm sure with enough studying we could come up with something; but that would take months. But if you wished to purge the echo, you need something stronger than steel. Powerful Weapon or Magical Arte with the intent to harm and destroy. I assume you would have to do it. If someone else was to do it, they would have to be attempting to destroy you to force it to show itself. But that's just me assuming from very old teachings many decades ago."
She gives a nod as Morgan enters, standing up to begin discuss with a few of the abbots.
Once Morgan and Tarak return to her side, she looks the newcomer up and down. "I see no problem with that. Lady Mella tends to the halls of study down stairs. If you need assistance, by all means make a request upon her."
The High Priest brings you both through a few doors, a small curved hallway, and towards the cellar. A set of stone stairs leading down. Warm air from likely a furnace and forge wafting up to greet you. Down the staircase the library is clearly visible. Lanterns hanging around older tomes that line a few shelves in the good sized chamber. It certainly isn't the most impressive library out there; but will suffice. Lady Mella sits at a small desk to the side, dressed in traditional robes. The parrot headed avian looks up to the two of you, before giving a nod. Her feathers a dull gray despite a colorful and expressive orange beak. A shield rests by the leg of the table with the symbol of the Tower of Knowledge is within arms reach, and a heavy mace rests on a hook on her belt. It clanking against the chair as she shifts.
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Abigail will attempt to tail Madam Adamanta Ce'Forgebar - assuming that she has unfriendly eyes observing her movements.
Her goal here is to find an opportune time when Madam Ce'Forgebar is not as visible in public to try to approach her; however, if no such opportunity presents itself before nightfall, she wants to take note of her actions and whereabouts to gauge what sort of person Madam Ce'Forgebar is...
Going to assume new rolls are needed:
Stealth: 25
Perception: 12
Insight: 12
Tarak approaches the Library curator and tells her we are looking for anything we can find relating to demon banishment, sword curses, and wish dragon echo removal.
not sure what rolls if any
Abigail...
It takes quite some time. Watching and waiting for some kind of clear moment to approach Madam Adamata. Unfortunately, there isn't much time that she isn't in the public eye. Seeming to duck into meetings and buildings. Always under watch via her bodyguards. Of course, her being such an apparent high profile figure may be what keeps her safe. Someone well connected can't simply go missing without raising questions.
There's a moment that you find her less busy. Sitting outside at one of the many small cafes. Snacking on a scone and a rather expensive brew of Ethurian coffee. A newspaper splayed out. Glasses pushed up close to her older face.
Tarak & Morgan
((Investigation to learn more))
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Figuring that she is almost out of opportunities to introduce herself, Abigail bucks up her courage and attempts to approach Madam Forgebar.
"Madam Adamanta Ce'Forgebar, might I have a moment of your time?"
I allowed to approach:
"My name is..." she hesitates considering what she is about to risk - but figures that if she eventually wants a ship worthy of taking on the Sea Dragon's Bane, she was going to need to try to make this introduction eventually. "Abigail Strangepride. I may not appear like much at the moment, but it is my intention to eventually captain my own vessel for the initial purpose of dispatching a certain dark-scaled captain and his crew. Seeings how you you are one of the best ship engineers there are, I wanted to introduce myself and inquire as to what sort of fees you generally charge for your designs. I am leaving port tomorrow, but wanted to know what sort of funding I should acquire before returning to commission you for such a design."
Tarak investigates. 5
Religion for any context if needed 11
Morgan investigation 19
Abigail...
Madam Adamata gestures for you to take a seat. One of the bodyguards, sitting by another table, goes move to approach. Giving a small patdown across the arms and sides. "No worse armed than anyone in this port." He moves to take his seat at the nearby table; somewhat caddy corner to Abigail while she gets the chance to sit.
A waiter does come by, with Madam Adamata giving a nod. Abigail, too, getting a cup of coffee poured before her while they chat for a moment. "Well, I appreciate the flattery of the concepts of my ideas. I'd love to take credit for them, but I must admit that the Thrimbru family are the ones who turn an idea into true feats of engineering. I simply have the funding to get it done."
She takes a sip of coffee as Blackscales is mentioned. Somewhat holding the cup over her face to hide and ticks of the mouth. "It's no secret that I have a boat currently under construction. A replacement vessel to the few that I've lost. Tell me, what other ships have you served on? I've yet to decide on a future crew for my project, and references are always a good way to see if we should do business together."
Tarak...
You spend several hours pouring over anything that may give you a lead on more so the Wish Dragons and anything related to them. You do come across several stories of the Great Hunt - roughly 33 years after the current calendar was adopted. (With year 1 being the first year after the Iron Queen ascended.) Magic had been waning and the Faith saw several "Other Worldly" Beings offering power and corrupting them. The First Justicar (Leader of the 4 Towers and Knightly Orders) ordered the hunting of all these corrupting forces. The following year also initiated the Great Purge; where the Justicar lead the Faith to stamping out those full of corruption and magics they saw bringing harm to the young nations of the world.
Morgan...
After scouring through a few books, you come across a journal, written by Henry Odan, over the course of 4 years nearly 100 years ago at this point. Time hasn't been very kind to it as pages are smudged and torn. Some having rotten away, likely from being read before or perhaps it was once kept elsewhere and the slightly damp air of the sea caused it to fall apart. It reads very much like a medical journal, with notes on a subject who has been presenting with some kind of madness and sickness. Over the pages you recognize the familiar tones. The person having been put into a extreme situation; only to be offered another chance at life. Taking it. Not understanding what was happening to them.
The author unfortunately does not know exactly who, or what. As the notes are between smudges and trying to make sense of someone elses mindscape. The Priest goes into details of a exploratory surgery on the person, but to no success. They are, in fact, mortal and seemingly "put together properly" based on their medical examination. This leads the Priest to write about three primary theories:
Magic is related to blood and essence. A large enough transfusion of blood and bone could remove whatever is 'cursing' this person; like amputating a rotting limb. But the amount of blood to take and somehow transfuse - along with bone - would be a monsterous task. One that would likely kill the person. The Priest believes that it isn't worth the risk, but that the concept is sound and could be explored if people had the time to research such an idea. You know that the Mortis Foundation, as well as the Universities in Ethuria and Ossus would be excellent resources for this.
Another theory would be connecting them to The Faith. As the Iron Queen herself guards us all, and grants some with extranatural gifts. It is possible that the sheer act of faith and following may shield the mind; as those who have the talent to become Paladins or Clerics of High Order don't seem to have the same madness but understand their power comes 'from elsewhere.' That perhaps a strong enough conviction or belief could shield them. It, in theory, should work. The way to test if it worked turns more into scribbles of theories that are washed away - and would take far more time to research and recreate than you have time for here. You're unsure exactly on the first steps on becoming a (divine spellcaster)
A similar, third theory, appears in notes dating years later. That whatever instills this pact governs it to its own will. So finding a replacement, or transference, should work. There are notes detailing how fragments of the one of the 13 Holy Weapons was found. A piece of the divinity that had granted another person incredible gifts - the notes seeming to indicate abilities similar to your own. With the Divine granting such pacts, the Priest is recommending that the subject attempt to bond with this holy artifact in a effort to return its mind from madness. You think the others you saw in visions were offering you something similar. A replacement pact.
The journal comes to a end before it gets into details on how the experiment actually went, or what exactly happened. Either there's another tome out there, or, it was never written down.
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
*Assuming nothing stops them*
Morgan will go to the library and drop 20 gold on 2 session of *cram sessions*
first session will be researching more on Vyr-Salah, the second one is researching other entities one could make pacts with especially relating to the others they say in their visions, and then crash for the night, but if they wake up early enough for a 3rd session they'll do another cram session for counsel of Aegis
if some sort of intelligence roll is required for studying
Session 1 13
Session 2 3
Session 3 17
Morgan, the library along the streets of the town is rather pact. The patrons inside moving through tomes and books while blantantly yelling and shouting at each other. It's certainly opposite of what one would assume a library is for. Small corners have been sectioned off for whoever seems to work here on a more regular basis to practice their instruments.
Drinks and food are served throughout the chambers, creating even more ruckus. The books on the shelves seem to be more stories and parables than anything else but some information is able to be gleaned from them. Either due to the telling of the tale being particularly good or the fact it's an actual book full of information.
Vyr-Salah is a place in Loxodon controlled Unity. It's somewhere in the plains and grasslands but it can't really be missed by its defining feature; a tree. A big tree. Some stories saying it stands as tall as the clouds. Other say building. Few say mountain. It's not directly on any map but there is enough general knowledge of the larger flatland dip of Unity to give you a pretty general idea - even if it'll be a journey on foot.
Most of your time looking into beings of pacts doesn't yield any fruit. It does yield several stories that are entertaining and about marriage, though.
After a power nap in one of the dormitory style rooms that are underneath the library floors - and also full of ales and foods - you do find something. A cookbook with the pages town out yet one of the recipes seems to catch your eye. A discussion of a layered geometric dish that resembles a Golden Closed Iris: Apple Egged-Goose In Sauce. The geometric patterns are some kind of magical circle. The recipe dictating on how to draw them, but likely needing to scale the process up. You think the lines need to be dusted with gold; and a lot of it. At least a few hundred coins worth (300+) but the way its coded is somewhat off leaving you guessing that it could also be double that assumption (600).
Within the margins are scrawls of different writings. "It brings about such a joyous sleep that lets the mind drift off to such a marvelous sight."
"Never trust a witches stew or a devil's pie."
"Take heed. Not all sleep can be overcome. Some sleep is eternal."
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Tarak looks up from the last book he was reading. Knowing that the right thing to do is to follow the example of the First Justicar. There is no guarantee that those who protect here could keep the bracer out of shatter’s grip and after reading the histories it was never clearer than now that Shatter must not get it.
Standing he stretches and then returns the books to the librarian. Thanking her, he waits for Morgan to have a free moment “So? Find what you seek?” He asks as they leave. He also reiterates what he found. “Would you help me cleanse the echo if I tried?”
Then he heads back to the boat along the way he will browse what various stores are selling
Morgan looks Tarak up and down, "fight an echo... Sure, why not? You've been helping me deal with my whole thing, and while I don't agree with your dogma or several of your actions. I don't think people shouldn't have to live under a curse their whole life, even if they did make bad decision in the past... I'm talking about me there. I've got a big decision coming up soon I don't think any of the choices are good so I'll probably need your help soon doing something similar... Or I might just need a great deal of money I haven't decided yet."
Abigail notes the name Thrimbru, apparently they are the ones to commission; but decides not to look a gift horse right in front of her.
"Well, to be honest, I am not sure how references will do. I served upon the Lady Nomlilly for a time during my first year or two as a sailor, but the crew - more than the captain - were more than happy to take advantage of a new sailor, and I found myself quickly becoming bitter and bored. So, I left the Lady Nomlilly, and spent the next couple of years as a ship hand upon the Abyssal Dreadnought, until Blackscale and his crew sunk us. Now, I am crewed with the Windhook - a smaller river boat. "
Abigail sips on her coffee before continuing, "I still have some time to fulfill my time with the Windhook, but I would love it if you kept me in mind for your next venture."
Abigail you see a bit of a twinkle in the eye when you mention the Abyssal Dreadnaught. A sense of... excitement? Maybe hope? She and one of her bodyguards exchange looks. The conversation continues as she takes out a few coin for the coffee.
"Walk with me," she gestures for Abigail to follow. The other bodyguards standing and moving to stay at attention by each of them. You don't get the feeling of any harmful intent, more of a possible offer. "I have to say, I don't know the Windhook. Then again I focus out to sea and less on the river. No shame on either; both are rewarding and risky livlihoods. Just less interest from me as anyone who can turn coin into profit can buy a boat and head out along the Kingdom's waterways. Affording a proper seafairing boat and maintaining it - slightly tougher..."
As you all walk the guards seem to be guiding you towards the warehouses by the shipyards. Through the side streets, as if to maintain a little bit of secrecy. "I appreciate the fact you are keeping to your current Captain and making sure you stay true to your word. Not all Captains and not all crew's behave in such a way. I'm sure it's either a predisposition you have, or perhaps a learned trait. I've known few good captains that can keep a crew profitable and morale high."
They turn to the guarded warehouses. Large metal gates keeping them away from what is likely a semi-private dock for the owners of these supplies. A smaller door off to the side; build for more her size than you, but still able to get through. "I knew fewer Great Captains who instilled that in others." As you continue to walk, you head up a set of stairs towards the top outer entryway to one of the warehouses. She pulls out a key, turning it and entering inside.
"One of them was a good friend of mine," she looks over the railing down below. Dozens of boxes along the front and back of the warehouse. Seeming to disguise what was in the center. Fragments of the hull of a boat.
"Someone that made me believe in them. So I took a chance and sponsored them. And I was paid back twice in full for all the funds I put in."
A torn main sail laid across what seems to be the remains of a mast. Somewhat rotten and barnacled, as if it had been dredged up from the ocean floor. But you recognize it.
"What started as a business partnership turned into friendship. Letters and hearing stories and tales from time to time."
A damaged and barnacled figurehead you, Abigail, know well sits in the remains. It's the Abyssal Dreadnaught's...
"It seems, Miss Abigail, that you and I have a common purpose. So I do hope I can count on you when the time is right."
She gestures towards the ladder that leads from this upper viewing area, down to the middle. Giving you a moment with the slim remains of your old ship.
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Abigail gazes in astonishment. "How... How did you come by this?"
She runs her hands along the barnacled hull, dazed as memories and questions play out in her head.