"That would be fantastic, I would love to see you at work in the fighting pits, all of you," Eonis says, her former stiffness and awkwardness forgotten, and now nearly giddy with excitement. "Yes, far too many waste time with posturing and judging others based on their reputation, their confidence, and the way they carry themselves and present themselves. What really matters are observable fighting parameters. How quickly do they cover ground, how difficult are they to strike while wearing their chosen armor, how much punishment and fatigue can they endure, what is their reach, their accuracy, their speed of attack, the potency of their strikes and their spells. Oh, yes, I'd have much more insight after seeing you in battle. A fighting pit - how wonderful!"
She collects herself a bit, but remains much more at ease going forward, having an opportunity to document at least some of their combat abilities firsthand to look forward to. "I mean, a person's character matters, as well, their conduct and such. It just doesn't factor into The Strategy. The most pious of paladins and the most reprehensible of villains are made equal under The Strategy, The System, both reduced to a series of conceptual parameters. It's more of a Red Knight thing, and not really something I should be fixating on now that I'm returning to the good grace's of the church of Tyr. But once the notion gets into your head, it's hard to let it go."
She gestures to the eye patch, "Electing to allow the eye injury to go without restoration does fit the image of piety for Lord Tyr, of course, that probably helps even things out. I suppose if I lost the other eye and a hand as well I'd be ready for sainthood, but that would make me tactically useless. The missing eye is more than enough to compensate for, and show my renewed commitment to my faith, I think."
Those familiar with the faith of Tyr may recognize that wearing one black glove and one white represents the deity's missing hand, while blindness is another one of Tyr's traits.
Ola listened, sipping her freshly purified water, even with a friendly interest, or so it seemed. When Eonis paused long enough that it looked as an invitation to an answer she slowly nodded: "I would never thought that Tyr can frown upon a holy strategist keeping its faith. Though clergy might, true. One is not supposed to serve two gods... It seems you are used to "organized" battles and war plans. Would be nice if we encounter one, indeed. However, it is rarely the case in our life, as we all found out the hardest way possible. The books and instructors of war strategy, tactics and manoeuvring usually say nothing about encountering an ancient animated armour suit, or an artifact razing dead in front of your very eyes. And it seems these are the things our group is usually called to deal with. Our future campaigns might be quite different from your usual ... battle activities and require more situational approach. I hope it would not be a problem."
"That's fascinating! You've had some remarkable and unconventional skirmishes in your time together, it seems," Eonis says. "I would love to hear about all of them, moment by moment from beginning to end. And, I suppose, some context on the how and why they took place. But really, mainly the battles themselves, that's what fascinates me."
"It's true, one cannot effectively serve two deities as a cleric, although there is no specific conflict between Tyr and the Red Knight. I had to decide, ultimately, where my calling was to be, and I returned to Tyr. My years trying to follow the ways of the Red Knight led to something of an unhealthy obsession, contemplating battle without acting on it. I wasn't doing anything with my life. Five years as a mad recluse, surrounded by books on combat and tactics, and strange maps and miniatures, was enough for me. I need to be a part of the world again."
"Auril's Kiss!" Sylyra curses from the bar, and he turns on his heel to face the table once again. "Are we done? Can we be done? Is all the talking done?" He walks over and drops into a chair. He at first looks tired and frustrated, but he quickly collects himself, and he becomes erect and proud before anyone can comment. "I was able to secure another job for us. We are needed at the Valhingen Graveyard once again. We're to speak with Doomguide Yovir Glandon this time. I was assured a hefty sum for our services as we are now in such high demand."
“Oh thank Tyr,” Eonis says, ironically in an ‘it’s about time’ manner, as she quickly gathers herself and stands to leave. “Let’s be on our way. I’m coming with you, of course.”
On the way Eonis describes in perhaps excessive details the cleric spells and cantrips she has prepared for the day, including the exact number of times she can cast them and her best guesses as to their ranges and efficacy. "...Guiding bolt has the most range, as I've been able to strike targets up to 120 feet away..." "...Cure Wounds provides superior restoration, generally speaking, but Healing Word is quicker to cast, and can heal from a distance..."
Depending on the length of the trip, or whether someone cuts her off, she may go on to elaborate on her familiarity with all varieties of weapons, and bemoan "...with only a quarterstaff and a warhammer, I am a bit limited in variety of means to deliver injury. Bludgeons are excellent for skeletons, but some oozes and other creatures are better damaged by slashing or puncturing weapons. I really should look into purchasing a glaive and a pike, when budget allows..."
By the time the group arrives at their destination, without ever seeing her in combat, they likely have a very good idea of exactly what Eonis is capable of - or believes she is capable of - whether they wish to or not.
Just as they were standing up, Uragum's food arrives. He looks at the plate then his friend and then a bunch in his mouth swallow and stuffs some more before chasing after them.
Arnald, having not interacted with Eonis beyond a simple wave, is quietly amused by how she's just walked into the group and they accepted her, albeit reluctantly for some, almost entirely because she never really gave them a chance to not accept her.
When Sylyra walks over and threatens to kill him, Arnald chuckles and figures it's probably time to speak up. At the next lull in the conversation he lifts his voice so the whole group can hear him, "Thank you all for making Eonis feel so welcome. My apologies for not discussing her joining us before hand. I really wanted the group to make it's decision without my input. Now that you've allowed her to come with us it seems the decision has been made so let me explain my reasoning, please."
Seeing that he had everyone's attention he continued, "I recently went and spoke with Zern, a friend I had made in the Order of Gauntlet. Between him and Villonah, they managed to convince me to join. While Zern and I were doing some gambling a couple nights ago he mentioned that he had another new recruit who was looking to join a group. The next day he introduced me to Eonis. And, as Ola said earlier, the help of a cleric is always welcome. Especially with our new found fame, thanks to our noble job finder", with this Arnald slaps Sylyra on the back, "I can only imagine that our work will be getting more dangerous so I figure healing magic and us learning some of the strategy stuff she knows could go a long ways to keeping us alive long enough to reach our goals."
Eonis nods briskly. “Thank you for that, Arnald. It’s just as much an opportunity for me to prove myself in the field again as it is for you and your group, with whatever support I might provide. A mutually beneficial arrangement for all of us. I do look forward to getting to know all of you. Your speed, your accuracy, situational awareness on the battlefield, and mastery of spells and weapons, that is. All the things that make you who you are... in battle.”
She pauses, her hands darting from weapons to coin pouch as she typically does every minute or so, then adds, “One caveat to Arnald’s description. Healing and strategy I can offer, but ‘The Strategy,’ note the implied capital letters, currently eludes me. I’m afraid that I may have done more harm than good seeking it, as my mind isn’t what it once was. But I suppose that’s heavy drug use for you.” She says this entirely deadpan, with no indication she was joking, and then resumes walking briskly to meet the group’s contact.
OOC: For anyone familiar with the show Silicon Valley, I imagined this character typically speaking in the cadence of Laurie Bream.
(Unfamiliar with the show but the general idea is very vivid :) )
Ola, that continued to listen with the same expression of polite interest, looked at Arnald: "Compare to some of your new brethren Eonis is pretty tame." She paused for a second but had to admit the truth: "though membership of The Order of Gauntlet is ... showing." Ola smiled a touch apologetically to the cleric: "I do not mean any disrespect, Eonis, but those of The Order we that we met before before, presumed to know what everyone around needs and how everyone is supposed to live, regardless of opinion of that "others". And declared as much at every opportunity. Zealotry of any form can make people around ... cautious".
"But we are here. Let us learn how can we help to the High Priest."
The sun shines brightly in Phlan, and the usual bustle of people cross your path, most leaving for errands and work for the morning. You are directed to an older human man working in the Valhingen Graveyard. His grey robes are grass-stained and his hands are dirty and calloused. He turns the dirt with a small hand trowel, amidst several pots of flowers.
Without looking up, he speaks in an even voice, "I am so glad you answered my call for aid. If all is as I fear, time may be short. Let us talk quickly."
"Doomguide Glandon," Sylyra responds, "I understand you have a problem affecting trade, but the information I was given was minimal. What can you tell us?"
Eonis stands stiffly and respectfully, having positioned herself within the group but towards the edge, so it will be clear enough that she is there with them, but he will also clearly recognize them as the group he was expecting. She waits politely for the man to explain the specifics of their task.
OOC: Depending of the current year in Plhan, but I believe he is the high priest of Kelemvor. (sorry, FR lorefan here, can not resist giving trivia sometimes)
OOC: It’s kind of fascinating how, more than any other fantasy setting, FR has dramatic changes that coincide with the edition changes of D&D. Eberron has stayed relatively the same since its 3.5 debut, and the older settings they’ve brought back haven’t had significant time line advancements or lore changes, like Dark Sun 4e. I looked up Tyr FR lore to prep a bit, and Tyr has apparently died and been resurrected, post spell plague, as they reshuffle the deck of gods with every edition.
“Indeed, Doomguide, please let us know the nature of your problem. From my observations you’ve chosen well. This group has a well balanced mix of fighting capabilities and likely a well rounded skill set. I’ll also be more than happy to aid with my own skills and those powers Tyr has granted me,” Eonis adds.
OOC: The Valhingen Graveyard is indeed run by the Order of the Silent Shroud, a group of Kelemvorites.
"That is good to hear. Thank you all for coming," Yovir says. The Doomguide finishes his small task before standing up and dusting off his hands briefly. "I will get straight to the reason for my call for help," he says.
"Yesterday, a man from a small hamlet outside of Phlan, about two days southwest, was picked up just outside of the city. He was raving about a 'dracolich', seemingly insane. He was delivered into our care. His mind is gone...it will take some time for him to recover, if he ever does at all. This comes following reports that a ghost ship has been haunting the Stormy Bay coast, destroying villages and homesteads along the way. I fear a correlation between the two."
"I know that the Knights of the Black Fist are concerned about this situation, given that these attacks are apparently moving in our direction. If the rumors are true, and these attacks continue, it is possible that Phlan becomes a target. I will be blunt; while they are keeping a nominal eye on the situation, they are not preparing as much as I believe they should."
"We are specifically neutral in the intricate web of Phlan's politics. I fear that the arguing disparate groups in our city will not be able to agree and act in time to prevent this danger, should it prove a real threat. That is why I turn to adventurers; to you."
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"That would be fantastic, I would love to see you at work in the fighting pits, all of you," Eonis says, her former stiffness and awkwardness forgotten, and now nearly giddy with excitement. "Yes, far too many waste time with posturing and judging others based on their reputation, their confidence, and the way they carry themselves and present themselves. What really matters are observable fighting parameters. How quickly do they cover ground, how difficult are they to strike while wearing their chosen armor, how much punishment and fatigue can they endure, what is their reach, their accuracy, their speed of attack, the potency of their strikes and their spells. Oh, yes, I'd have much more insight after seeing you in battle. A fighting pit - how wonderful!"
She collects herself a bit, but remains much more at ease going forward, having an opportunity to document at least some of their combat abilities firsthand to look forward to. "I mean, a person's character matters, as well, their conduct and such. It just doesn't factor into The Strategy. The most pious of paladins and the most reprehensible of villains are made equal under The Strategy, The System, both reduced to a series of conceptual parameters. It's more of a Red Knight thing, and not really something I should be fixating on now that I'm returning to the good grace's of the church of Tyr. But once the notion gets into your head, it's hard to let it go."
She gestures to the eye patch, "Electing to allow the eye injury to go without restoration does fit the image of piety for Lord Tyr, of course, that probably helps even things out. I suppose if I lost the other eye and a hand as well I'd be ready for sainthood, but that would make me tactically useless. The missing eye is more than enough to compensate for, and show my renewed commitment to my faith, I think."
Those familiar with the faith of Tyr may recognize that wearing one black glove and one white represents the deity's missing hand, while blindness is another one of Tyr's traits.
Ola listened, sipping her freshly purified water, even with a friendly interest, or so it seemed. When Eonis paused long enough that it looked as an invitation to an answer she slowly nodded: "I would never thought that Tyr can frown upon a holy strategist keeping its faith. Though clergy might, true. One is not supposed to serve two gods... It seems you are used to "organized" battles and war plans. Would be nice if we encounter one, indeed. However, it is rarely the case in our life, as we all found out the hardest way possible. The books and instructors of war strategy, tactics and manoeuvring usually say nothing about encountering an ancient animated armour suit, or an artifact razing dead in front of your very eyes. And it seems these are the things our group is usually called to deal with. Our future campaigns might be quite different from your usual ... battle activities and require more situational approach. I hope it would not be a problem."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
"That's fascinating! You've had some remarkable and unconventional skirmishes in your time together, it seems," Eonis says. "I would love to hear about all of them, moment by moment from beginning to end. And, I suppose, some context on the how and why they took place. But really, mainly the battles themselves, that's what fascinates me."
"It's true, one cannot effectively serve two deities as a cleric, although there is no specific conflict between Tyr and the Red Knight. I had to decide, ultimately, where my calling was to be, and I returned to Tyr. My years trying to follow the ways of the Red Knight led to something of an unhealthy obsession, contemplating battle without acting on it. I wasn't doing anything with my life. Five years as a mad recluse, surrounded by books on combat and tactics, and strange maps and miniatures, was enough for me. I need to be a part of the world again."
"Auril's Kiss!" Sylyra curses from the bar, and he turns on his heel to face the table once again. "Are we done? Can we be done? Is all the talking done?" He walks over and drops into a chair. He at first looks tired and frustrated, but he quickly collects himself, and he becomes erect and proud before anyone can comment. "I was able to secure another job for us. We are needed at the Valhingen Graveyard once again. We're to speak with Doomguide Yovir Glandon this time. I was assured a hefty sum for our services as we are now in such high demand."
“Oh thank Tyr,” Eonis says, ironically in an ‘it’s about time’ manner, as she quickly gathers herself and stands to leave. “Let’s be on our way. I’m coming with you, of course.”
"Of course," nodded Ola, "And you will see for yourself if that books of yours will be of any good."
"If the high priest is calling we might need to hurry up." She was ready to go.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Sylyra all but shrugs before standing as well, ready to get on the way.
On the way Eonis describes in perhaps excessive details the cleric spells and cantrips she has prepared for the day, including the exact number of times she can cast them and her best guesses as to their ranges and efficacy. "...Guiding bolt has the most range, as I've been able to strike targets up to 120 feet away..." "...Cure Wounds provides superior restoration, generally speaking, but Healing Word is quicker to cast, and can heal from a distance..."
Depending on the length of the trip, or whether someone cuts her off, she may go on to elaborate on her familiarity with all varieties of weapons, and bemoan "...with only a quarterstaff and a warhammer, I am a bit limited in variety of means to deliver injury. Bludgeons are excellent for skeletons, but some oozes and other creatures are better damaged by slashing or puncturing weapons. I really should look into purchasing a glaive and a pike, when budget allows..."
By the time the group arrives at their destination, without ever seeing her in combat, they likely have a very good idea of exactly what Eonis is capable of - or believes she is capable of - whether they wish to or not.
Just as they were standing up, Uragum's food arrives. He looks at the plate then his friend and then a bunch in his mouth swallow and stuffs some more before chasing after them.
Sylyra sidles up beside Arnald as they walk. "I might kill you later. Not her. You."
Arnald, having not interacted with Eonis beyond a simple wave, is quietly amused by how she's just walked into the group and they accepted her, albeit reluctantly for some, almost entirely because she never really gave them a chance to not accept her.
When Sylyra walks over and threatens to kill him, Arnald chuckles and figures it's probably time to speak up. At the next lull in the conversation he lifts his voice so the whole group can hear him, "Thank you all for making Eonis feel so welcome. My apologies for not discussing her joining us before hand. I really wanted the group to make it's decision without my input. Now that you've allowed her to come with us it seems the decision has been made so let me explain my reasoning, please."
Seeing that he had everyone's attention he continued, "I recently went and spoke with Zern, a friend I had made in the Order of Gauntlet. Between him and Villonah, they managed to convince me to join. While Zern and I were doing some gambling a couple nights ago he mentioned that he had another new recruit who was looking to join a group. The next day he introduced me to Eonis. And, as Ola said earlier, the help of a cleric is always welcome. Especially with our new found fame, thanks to our noble job finder", with this Arnald slaps Sylyra on the back, "I can only imagine that our work will be getting more dangerous so I figure healing magic and us learning some of the strategy stuff she knows could go a long ways to keeping us alive long enough to reach our goals."
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DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
Eonis nods briskly. “Thank you for that, Arnald. It’s just as much an opportunity for me to prove myself in the field again as it is for you and your group, with whatever support I might provide. A mutually beneficial arrangement for all of us. I do look forward to getting to know all of you. Your speed, your accuracy, situational awareness on the battlefield, and mastery of spells and weapons, that is. All the things that make you who you are... in battle.”
She pauses, her hands darting from weapons to coin pouch as she typically does every minute or so, then adds, “One caveat to Arnald’s description. Healing and strategy I can offer, but ‘The Strategy,’ note the implied capital letters, currently eludes me. I’m afraid that I may have done more harm than good seeking it, as my mind isn’t what it once was. But I suppose that’s heavy drug use for you.” She says this entirely deadpan, with no indication she was joking, and then resumes walking briskly to meet the group’s contact.
OOC: For anyone familiar with the show Silicon Valley, I imagined this character typically speaking in the cadence of Laurie Bream.
(Unfamiliar with the show but the general idea is very vivid :) )
Ola, that continued to listen with the same expression of polite interest, looked at Arnald: "Compare to some of your new brethren Eonis is pretty tame." She paused for a second but had to admit the truth: "though membership of The Order of Gauntlet is ... showing." Ola smiled a touch apologetically to the cleric: "I do not mean any disrespect, Eonis, but those of The Order we that we met before before, presumed to know what everyone around needs and how everyone is supposed to live, regardless of opinion of that "others". And declared as much at every opportunity. Zealotry of any form can make people around ... cautious".
"But we are here. Let us learn how can we help to the High Priest."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
The sun shines brightly in Phlan, and the usual bustle of people cross your path, most leaving for errands and work for the morning. You are directed to an older human man working in the Valhingen Graveyard. His grey robes are grass-stained and his hands are dirty and calloused. He turns the dirt with a small hand trowel, amidst several pots of flowers.
Without looking up, he speaks in an even voice, "I am so glad you answered my call for aid. If all is as I fear, time may be short. Let us talk quickly."
See my profile for all my PbP threads!
"Doomguide Glandon," Sylyra responds, "I understand you have a problem affecting trade, but the information I was given was minimal. What can you tell us?"
OOC: This is a Kelemvorite, I assume?
Eonis stands stiffly and respectfully, having positioned herself within the group but towards the edge, so it will be clear enough that she is there with them, but he will also clearly recognize them as the group he was expecting. She waits politely for the man to explain the specifics of their task.
OOC: Depending of the current year in Plhan, but I believe he is the high priest of Kelemvor. (sorry, FR lorefan here, can not resist giving trivia sometimes)
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
OOC: It’s kind of fascinating how, more than any other fantasy setting, FR has dramatic changes that coincide with the edition changes of D&D. Eberron has stayed relatively the same since its 3.5 debut, and the older settings they’ve brought back haven’t had significant time line advancements or lore changes, like Dark Sun 4e. I looked up Tyr FR lore to prep a bit, and Tyr has apparently died and been resurrected, post spell plague, as they reshuffle the deck of gods with every edition.
“Indeed, Doomguide, please let us know the nature of your problem. From my observations you’ve chosen well. This group has a well balanced mix of fighting capabilities and likely a well rounded skill set. I’ll also be more than happy to aid with my own skills and those powers Tyr has granted me,” Eonis adds.
OOC: The Valhingen Graveyard is indeed run by the Order of the Silent Shroud, a group of Kelemvorites.
"That is good to hear. Thank you all for coming," Yovir says. The Doomguide finishes his small task before standing up and dusting off his hands briefly. "I will get straight to the reason for my call for help," he says.
"Yesterday, a man from a small hamlet outside of Phlan, about two days southwest, was picked up just outside of the city. He was raving about a 'dracolich', seemingly insane. He was delivered into our care. His mind is gone...it will take some time for him to recover, if he ever does at all. This comes following reports that a ghost ship has been haunting the Stormy Bay coast, destroying villages and homesteads along the way. I fear a correlation between the two."
"I know that the Knights of the Black Fist are concerned about this situation, given that these attacks are apparently moving in our direction. If the rumors are true, and these attacks continue, it is possible that Phlan becomes a target. I will be blunt; while they are keeping a nominal eye on the situation, they are not preparing as much as I believe they should."
"We are specifically neutral in the intricate web of Phlan's politics. I fear that the arguing disparate groups in our city will not be able to agree and act in time to prevent this danger, should it prove a real threat. That is why I turn to adventurers; to you."
See my profile for all my PbP threads!