At The Stone River Waypoint

"yes, you can join us in our next move against Zorall." -"Hammy what do you think is a good bribe for bahamut? seems prudent to get his aid since we're about to fight the spawn of a chromatic dragon."

Josh said: "yes, you can join us in our next move against Zorall." Sir Sevyir kneels, drawing his mace and offering to you hilt-first. Hamanap takes it, and gently dubs him on each shoulder with the iron head. "You service is accepted, sir. Rise as a knight of the Stone River Waypoint ," she announces in her melodic voice, handing the weapon back to him as he does so. "Lavinia will find quarters for you," she adds. As the plump valet leads your new knight off, Hamanap sighs, adding to you "With the rate at which our numbers grow, I think we will soon need to add a new floor to the fort. Leoavor and I can help along the process very rapidly with our magic, but it will probably needs wait until after the War, or at least until we see how things shake out with Zorall." Josh said: -"Hammy what do you think is a good bribe for bahamut? seems prudent to get his aid since we're about to fight the spawn of a chromatic dragon." The nubian woman gives you one of her trademark disapproving frowns. "One does not bribe  the gods." Then she reconsiders, admitting "...well, perhaps some of them may be bribed. But the Lord of the North Wind is not so petty. Though, I agree that a grand offering would be appropriate before going into battle, especially with that new Shrine of Garyx and the little fire festival your guest held. Perhaps something forged of platinum, like a statuette... if it had blue gemstones for eyes, that would be even better."

"I'll see what i can put together." -hiskel will peruse the vault to see what kind of gems are in there, toss in 10 platinum for both of the moon stones. "Hammy, are these moonstones blue enough?" "what kind of dragon type should it be an can you guide me through the process?"  "if you don't mind walking me through the steps Gunnloda I would like to do the crafting this time." hiskel will attempt to smelt a bar's worth of platinum (50) and make a dragon leaving spots for 2 gemstones in the eyes. craft blacksmithing : 7,21,9,11 with out guidance or assistance added. I need a dc to figure out the crafting period.

Josh said: hiskel will peruse the vault to see what kind of gems are in there, toss in 10 platinum for both of the moon stones. "Hammy, are these moonstones blue enough?" One of the moonstones is pale blue, but the other is white. Luckily, the chalcedony is sort of blue. "These two should be suitable. I'll provide some platinum pieces as well, so we have plenty to work with," Hamanap says. Josh said: "what kind of dragon type should it be an can you guide me through the process?"  "if you don't mind walking me through the steps Gunnloda I would like to do the crafting this time." hiskel will attempt to smelt a bar's worth of platinum (50) and make a dragon leaving spots for 2 gemstones in the eyes. craft blacksmithing : 7,21,9,11 with out guidance or assistance added. I need a dc to figure out the crafting period. "A celestial gold dragon would be most suitable, Bahamut usually sends them as his heralds," Hamanap muses. When the two of you bring the materials to Gunnloda, she considers them, and looks over the rough sketch Hamanap drew up. "I think I could guide you through, though I'd like to bring in Caden to consult." She points out a few aspects of the design which will need adjusting in order for the statuette to be properly molded and hold together. For such a difficult item, the DC will be 15. Gunnloda and Caden both assist, each giving you +2 on your checks (+4 total).

dc 15 an with 50 platinum being 1/3 of the raw materials put the final price at 1500 gold. with the first 4 weeks: 540/1500 craft 20,840     11,np   25,1215  10, another 25 platinum  14, np    9, 25 platinum  21,1530 done in  11 weeks total.  she'll spend her off time mediating on her new experience with fire an craftring with it. "thanks for the assistance, would you two like some payment?" hiskel will put back the white moonstone and will send someone to waterwend to get the gems cut to fit it. when it's all ready to go hiskel will write a letter in Auran ,asking for help, attach it to the little herald an put it on the shrine. -unless she missed the fighting then she'll ask for something else. -reread the crafting rules that is 1530 silver out of 15,000 silver. craft 27,1935  15,2160  26,2550  21,2865 11,np   12,np   16,3105  21, 3420   10, hiskel can't afford this anymore an its put on hold. 20 weeks. this is time consuming an expensive when she gets around to finishing it she's going to ask for guidance on the true name of air. -I guess she'll put the process on hold to help with the zorall raiding when the others get back, hopefully also getting more materials for it

After a couple of weeks' work, it becomes apparent how long the project will take... and you started on Harvester 5th, so by that time Xankoris should be finished with his research and ready to join your assault on Zorall's territory. But you can continue the work whenever you have downtime at the Waypoint. "I am sure that Bahamut will be pleased with your dedication, Hiskel," Hamanap says with a smile when you tell her the bad news. "To labor in His honor is a great offering in itself." "We are loyal followers of your master Limar, my lady," Gunnloda assures you when you offer her and Caden compensation. "To have the honor of serving him is all the payment we require." Your work with the forges, crucibles, and molten platinum does help you gain a better understanding of fire, though. Roll a Truespeak check. The gemcutting ends up costing 3gp total, and they don't come out great either, to be honest.

just let me know where she stops so i can put it in her notes. true speak 20

Josh  said: I also recommend giving Limars trusy rogue Silaquin a 100 or so gold an sending her to waterwend to gather information on the Merchant lords an where each of them stand on the slavery thing. learn more about the flesh market, who their suppliers are, where they keep their slaves. -maybe send some letters to Euphemia to see if she'll help us.  Does Hiskel actually do this in the prep time at the Stone River Waypoint before she departs with the away team? If so, roll a Diplomacy check (Hamanap assists) and what exactly does she write to Euphemia? While preparing for the raid, Ering and Triss also had a little time to decorate their rooms at the Stone River Waypoint . Do either of them have preferences on the decor?

If there is still any gold in the treasury she'll get silaquin a 100 gold for that mission. To Euphemia highhill    After this war is concluded the way finders will be attempting to legally end slavery in Water wend. Will you help us?                                                                                                                                               Hiskel diplomacy 14

Josh said: If there is still any gold in the treasury she'll get silaquin a 100 gold for that mission. There isn't that much in the Vault, but there are some gems she could pawn for petty coin. Josh said: To Euphemia highhill    After this war is concluded the way finders will be attempting to legally end slavery in Water wend. Will you help us?                                                                                                                                               Hiskel diplomacy 14 Silaquin takes the letter with her to Waterwend , promising to deliver it to the high priestess of Yondalla.

Max said: While preparing for the raid, Ering and Triss also had a little time to decorate their rooms at the Stone River Waypoint . Do either of them have preferences on the decor? Ering will ask for a comfortable bed, a large rug to cover the cold stone floor, a desk, chair and multiple shelves for his books and varoius collections/jars of arcane components. He will also ask for a small chest and a wardrobe for his clothes.   After decorating his room he will inform his second in command Enrique to train the troops, maybe even running mock combats and sieges with the other Red King's soldiers stationed in the Waypoint. Before departing he will also visit Hamanap, inviting Kraggan and Leoavor to the meeting. "I know it's not my place to give orders here." Ering will start, while Vigil happily jumps from his shoulder to his staff. "But I have to voice my opinion, since the soldiers I am responsible for also live in this fortress. While we were away on a mission to secure funding for our operations a dangerous hostage was released. Some of the money from the ransom even went towards the construction of an altar for a god of Chaos and Destruction ."  Ering eyes Hamanap and pauses, as to let the last two words settle in. "Enemy agents were allowed inside our fort! Even an untrained eye would have been able to estimate our defenses with the time they were given!" "So, please, let me ask you. What exactly is the goal of the Wayfinders? Do you want to end the Stone-River war? Free the people of the catacombs from slavery? Or are you doing this for the money and power? To collect golden shrines of Dragon-Gods?" After the meeting Ering will approach Master Sergeant Verne, and after a small exchange of pleasantries he will ask if he has the report from Base Camp that Ering requested.

Dawi said: Max said: While preparing for the raid, Ering and Triss also had a little time to decorate their rooms at the Stone River Waypoint . Do either of them have preferences on the decor? Ering will ask for a comfortable bed, a large rug to cover the cold stone floor, a desk, chair and multiple shelves for his books and varoius collections/jars of arcane components. He will also ask for a small chest and a wardrobe for his clothes.   After decorating his room he will inform his second in command Enrique to train the troops, maybe even running mock combats and sieges with the other Red King's soldiers stationed in the Waypoint. Leoavor sets Caden Redhill to work weaving the rug, and Alton Highhill to building the furniture. "Hopefully everything will be ready by the time you guys return from raiding Zorall," he says with his easy smile. Enrique salutes, "Yes sir!" and begins regular drilling and training exercises. The Red King's men are much less disciplined, more like a makeshift band of conscripts than professional soldiers, but most are willing to go along with the exercises, as are the regular Waypoint guards. Dawi said: Before departing he will also visit Hamanap, inviting Kraggan and Leoavor to the meeting. "I know it's not my place to give orders here." Ering will start, while Vigil happily jumps from his shoulder to his staff. "But I have to voice my opinion, since the soldiers I am responsible for also live in this fortress. While we were away on a mission to secure funding for our operations a dangerous hostage was released. Some of the money from the ransom even went towards the construction of an altar for a god of  Chaos  and  Destruction ."  Ering eyes Hamanap and pauses, as to let the last two words settle in. "Enemy agents were allowed inside our fort! Even an untrained eye would have been able to estimate our defenses with the time they were given!" "So, please, let me ask you. What exactly is the goal of the Wayfinders? Do you want to end the Stone-River war? Free the people of the catacombs from slavery? Or are you doing this for the money and power? To collect golden shrines of Dragon-Gods?" Hamanap looks compassionate, Leoavor a little abashed. "It's not uncommon to parely or ransom hostages during wartime, at least in the Flaness ..." Leoavor says, "but I do agree that it was unwise to allow our enemies so much access to the fortress." He gives Hamanap a disapproving look, but she replies serenely "It would not have been my preference either. I do not like these evil shrines that Limar and his sorceress have been building, but we are not a theocracy. It is not my place to enforce the law of Bahamut on my comrades, only to advise and guide them onto the correct path." "I suppose that's true..." Leoavor admits. "But still, did you have to let them inside ?" "They needed to enter in order to build the shrine," Hamanap explains, spreading her hands apologetically. "It was Hiskel's prisoner and Limar's project. I ensured that they were kept under guard, and not allowed freedom of the Waypoint." Leoavor doesn't seem satisfied. "Even so! You should have convinced Hiskel to have it built outside while we're still at war with them! I don't care that much about the shrine of Garyx--hell, I favor Boccob myself, and he's no champion of good--but it was too much of a security risk to be practical." "Perhaps you are right," Hamanap concedes, bowing her head slightly in deference. Kraggan looks thoughtful while they argue, then says at last "The Wayfinders started as a completely different group than we are now. We just wanted to make our way in the world, but as time passed we realized that we couldn't leave evil alone, and ended up freeing slaves and fighting for good. We met people we cared about in Waterwend , and when war came there we defended it. But even then we allied with the Red King, a questionable power at best, to protect our adopted home. You're a soldier Ering, so you understand hard decisions. Sometimes you have to give to get, and sometimes you work with people you're not sure if you can trust because they're the best option to keep you alive." She continues, "as far as the hostage went, it was either put him to the sword in cold blood after his surrendered, or ransom him. He should have been kept under lock and key, and then returned outside of our walls. His comrades absolutely should not have been let inside the walls. I wasn't here to make the call, and though it was a misguided attempt to fulfill one of our party members' goals, that doesn't mean it was evil--it just means it was a mistake. As an accomplished and experienced military planner, you can help us better navigate this landscape of war, Ering. You are  a trained soldier, you are  experienced, so the risk that Hamanap, Hiskel, and Avariel overlooked occured to you automatically. I think your trained eye forgets how difficult it is for an untrained one to see such dangers. Hiskel wasn't schooled in the arts of war, she's a linguist . Hamanap is a missionary, and Avariel... well, I'm not honestly sure, I'm still getting to know him." Hamanap and Leoavor both nod, the former looking properly ashamed of her mistake. Kraggan pauses to let this  sink in, then admits "But yes, I do see what you mean. It was ill-advised. My goddess teaches goodness, but I don't expect everyone to agree with Her. Our members should do no harm to the innocent, but that doesn't mean I'm going to expect them to worship whom I choose either. Hiskel is loyal to Limar, our green dragon. He was born evil, but he chose to turn against it. I don't judge people based on their race or their gods, but by their actions. He has been on this quest to understand and worship all the dragon gods for some time, and if that is what he chooses, he can do it in our fortress. We don't restrict our members that way. He's also built Shrines to Bahamut , both here and in Waterwend ."  "And as a nobleman, I'm sure you understand the importance of money and power. Money got us this safe haven, and power is the only thing that deters those stronger than us from crushing us like bugs. The fact that we have a reputation for strength, and are intimidating, is just as much a part of our defenses as these stone walls. I've worked hard for this guild and our reputation, and if we're known for being hard and cruel at times, working with evil and being willing to kill when we have to, that reputation will help keep my friends alive, including you and your men. I will free slaves, I will protect innocent, and I will kill enemies. That is the way life works: some lives end, and new lives grow from them. Like nature herself, we must nurture life, but also be ready to defend to it fiercely. An ecosystem has no single goal, it is a process and a cycle. Does that make things clearer?" After speaking longer than any of those present have ever heard her, Kraggan has a strange and almost mystical look about her... like a mother bear peering from the deeps of a primordial forest, a part of the wild world forgotten by men in this age of civilization. Dawi said: After the meeting Ering will approach Master Sergeant Verne, and after a small exchange of pleasantries he will ask if he has the report from Base Camp that Ering requested. "Yes sir, I do, Lieutenant Colonel. The economic situation there is bad... they were already having trouble recovering from the Storm last autumn," he says grimly, recalling to your mind the massive superstorm that raged across most of Terolus almost a year ago, causing serious damage to the southern regions and scattering the Suloise fleets (a large part of why most of their largely naval force has since moved inland), "but Rith One-Eye's embargo in the Stonefare and the spread of her golgari has ground their trade with the rest of the Catacombs settlements nearly to a halt. They've also been dealing with periodic attacks from bands of golari, and raids by the scattered pockets of Suloise forces, especially on outlying farmlands and thorps. Refugees from these areas have been trickling steadily through the gates, and many have enlisted with the garrison, but supplies are low. The garrison has been bolstering the town's defenses as best they can though, and an old friend of the Wayfinders named Jakob, a priest of Ehlonna I believe, has organized some watchmen into a holy order of soldiers he's calling the Alicorn Resurgent, training them as an elite guard. I suspect the commander there, Lt Colonel Treeford, is hoping the enemy will attack soon in force... if they wait much longer, the town may well be starved out."

Max said: Hamanap looks compassionate, Leoavor a little abashed. "It's not uncommon to parely or ransom hostages during wartime, at least in the Flaness ..." Leoavor says, "but I do agree that it was unwise to allow our enemies so much access to the fortress." He gives Hamanap a disapproving look, but she replies serenely "It would not have been my preference either. I do not like these evil shrines that Limar and his sorceress have been building, but we are not a theocracy. It is not my place to enforce the law of Bahamut on my comrades, only to advise and guide them onto the correct path." "I suppose that's true..." Leoavor admits. "But still, did you have to let them inside ?" "They needed to enter in order to build the shrine," Hamanap explains, spreading her hands apologetically. "It was Hiskel's prisoner and Limar's project. I ensured that they were kept under guard, and not allowed freedom of the Waypoint." Leoavor doesn't seem satisfied. "Even so! You should have convinced Hiskel to have it built outside while we're still at war with them! I don't care that much about the shrine of Garyx--hell, I favor Boccob myself, and he's no champion of good--but it was too much of a security risk to be practical." "Perhaps you are right," Hamanap concedes, bowing her head slightly in deference. "During a war, even the smallest information about your enemy is worth something. This also applies to the treatment of our hostages. Freeing someone that has caused so much pain for a ransom could signal to Zorall that our coffers aren't exactly overflowing, or could send the wrong message to the people of Bowhery once they find out that the terrible Razzy has been released and their city is once again in the sight of the enemy. Sure, he was dumb as brick, but we could have questioned him, or at least kept him captive for a prisoner exchange, in case an ally got captured." "Building the shrine right now, during the war, was a mistake, I think we can all agree to that. I understand why it happened, so didn't come here to antagonize you, just to make sure something like this will never happen again." "Sometimes people focus too hard on their goals and end up losing sight of the bigger picture, I think this was exactly what happened to Hiskel. The easy way to prevent it is to make sure that more than one person is involved when making decisions about a large amount of money or, more importantly, our enemy."  Max said: Kraggan looks thoughtful while they argue, then says at last "The Wayfinders started as a completely different group than we are now. We just wanted to make our way in the world, but as time passed we realized that we couldn't leave evil alone, and ended up freeing slaves and fighting for good. We met people we cared about in Waterwend , and when war came there we defended it. But even then we allied with the Red King, a questionable power at best, to protect our adopted home. You're a soldier Ering, so you understand hard decisions. Sometimes you have to give to get, and sometimes you work with people you're not sure if you can trust because they're the best option to keep you alive." She continues, "as far as the hostage went, it was either put him to the sword in cold blood after his surrendered, or ransom him. He should have been kept under lock and key, and then returned outside of our walls. His comrades absolutely should not have been let inside the walls. I wasn't here to make the call, and though it was a misguided attempt to fulfill one of our party members' goals, that doesn't mean it was evil--it just means it was a mistake. As an accomplished and experienced military planner, you can help us better navigate this landscape of war, Ering. You are  a trained soldier, you are  experienced, so the risk that Hamanap, Hiskel, and Avariel overlooked occured to you automatically. I think your trained eye forgets how difficult it is for an untrained one to see such dangers. Hiskel wasn't schooled in the arts of war, she's a linguist . Hamanap is a missionary, and Avariel... well, I'm not honestly sure, I'm still getting to know him." Hamanap and Leoavor both nod, the former looking properly ashamed of her mistake. Kraggan pauses to let this  sink in, then admits "But yes, I do see what you mean. It was ill-advised. My goddess teaches goodness, but I don't expect everyone to agree with Her. Our members should do no harm to the innocent, but that doesn't mean I'm going to expect them to worship whom I choose either. Hiskel is loyal to Limar, our green dragon. He was born evil, but he chose to turn against it. I don't judge people based on their race or their gods, but by their actions. He has been on this quest to understand and worship all the dragon gods for some time, and if that is what he chooses, he can do it in our fortress. We don't restrict our members that way. He's also built Shrines to Bahamut , both here and in Waterwend ."  "And as a nobleman, I'm sure you understand the importance of money and power. Money got us this safe haven, and power is the only thing that deters those stronger than us from crushing us like bugs. The fact that we have a reputation for strength, and are intimidating, is just as much a part of our defenses as these stone walls. I've worked hard for this guild and our reputation, and if we're known for being hard and cruel at times, working with evil and being willing to kill when we have to, that reputation will help keep my friends alive, including you and your men. I will free slaves, I will protect innocent, and I will kill enemies. That is the way life works: some lives end, and new lives grow from them. Like nature herself, we must nurture life, but also be ready to defend to it fiercely. An ecosystem has no single goal, it is a process and a cycle. Does that make things clearer?" After speaking longer than any of those present have ever heard her, Kraggan has a strange and almost mystical look about her... like a mother bear peering from the deeps of a primordial forest, a part of the wild world forgotten by men in this age of civilization. Ering nods with sympathy. "Money and the perception of power are key elements to win conflicts, perhaps even more important than soldiers and commanders." Ering sighs, not in disapproval but burdened by the responsibilities. "Right now we are on the upswing: cities have been liberated, the trade is starting to flow again, our enemies have been sent back underground and we are preparing to raid and plunder in their moment of weakness. But, I fear, tough times are coming. Rizdar is marching and hungry for the Red King's blood, the Golgari are ever growing and Kendling schemes, wounded and full of revenge." "It is in times like this where we have to be united. Four strong horses that pull a cart in different directions will still be slower than a single, focused mule. I only ask for thoughtful and shared decisions, nothing else." Ering nods, listening quietly to the report. He had hoped for good news, but what Verne told him was not as bad as he feared. "Hopefully our raids into enemy territory will leave some breathing room for trade, at least until the Golgari problem is dealt with. I also fear that the Lt Colonel's wish may become reality sooner than later." He pats Verne on the shoulder and dismisses him with a military salute. "Good work Master Sergeant."

Dawi said: Max said: Hamanap looks compassionate, Leoavor a little abashed. "It's not uncommon to parely or ransom hostages during wartime, at least in the Flaness ..." Leoavor says, "but I do agree that it was unwise to allow our enemies so much access to the fortress." He gives Hamanap a disapproving look, but she replies serenely "It would not have been my preference either. I do not like these evil shrines that Limar and his sorceress have been building, but we are not a theocracy. It is not my place to enforce the law of Bahamut on my comrades, only to advise and guide them onto the correct path." "I suppose that's true..." Leoavor admits. "But still, did you have to let them inside ?" "They needed to enter in order to build the shrine," Hamanap explains, spreading her hands apologetically. "It was Hiskel's prisoner and Limar's project. I ensured that they were kept under guard, and not allowed freedom of the Waypoint." Leoavor doesn't seem satisfied. "Even so! You should have convinced Hiskel to have it built outside while we're still at war with them! I don't care that much about the shrine of Garyx--hell, I favor Boccob myself, and he's no champion of good--but it was too much of a security risk to be practical." "Perhaps you are right," Hamanap concedes, bowing her head slightly in deference. "During a war, even the smallest information about your enemy is worth something. This also applies to the treatment of our hostages. Freeing someone that has caused so much pain for a ransom could signal to Zorall that our coffers aren't exactly overflowing, or could send the wrong message to the people of Bowhery once they find out that the terrible Razzy has been released and their city is once again in the sight of the enemy. Sure, he was dumb as brick, but we could have questioned him, or at least kept him captive for a prisoner exchange, in case an ally got captured." "Building the shrine right now, during the war, was a mistake, I think we can all agree to that. I understand why it happened, so didn't come here to antagonize you, just to make sure something like this will never happen again." "Sometimes people focus too hard on their goals and end up losing sight of the bigger picture, I think this was exactly what happened to Hiskel. The easy way to prevent it is to make sure that more than one person is involved when making decisions about a large amount of money or, more importantly, our enemy."  There's a pregnant pause, then Hamanap says softly, "I see. We are lucky to have gained such a learned ally in the dangers we now face. I will consult with you more often when such matters arise, Lieutenant Colonel." Sense Motive applies. "I just hope we don't end up losing someone to Razzy, when we invade Zorall's caves..." Leoavor grumbles. "Last time we were in Waterwend hanging out with the Deathwalkers, Oskar told me a story about a troll tearing two of his guildmates in half, a wizard named Aria of Suel and that monk Zhun. It was when Tayton Fain stormed their headquarters at Callanhall ." Dawi said: Max said: Kraggan looks thoughtful while they argue, then says at last "The Wayfinders started as a completely different group than we are now. We just wanted to make our way in the world, but as time passed we realized that we couldn't leave evil alone, and ended up freeing slaves and fighting for good. We met people we cared about in Waterwend , and when war came there we defended it. But even then we allied with the Red King, a questionable power at best, to protect our adopted home. You're a soldier Ering, so you understand hard decisions. Sometimes you have to give to get, and sometimes you work with people you're not sure if you can trust because they're the best option to keep you alive." She continues, "as far as the hostage went, it was either put him to the sword in cold blood after his surrendered, or ransom him. He should have been kept under lock and key, and then returned outside of our walls. His comrades absolutely should not have been let inside the walls. I wasn't here to make the call, and though it was a misguided attempt to fulfill one of our party members' goals, that doesn't mean it was evil--it just means it was a mistake. As an accomplished and experienced military planner, you can help us better navigate this landscape of war, Ering. You are  a trained soldier, you are  experienced, so the risk that Hamanap, Hiskel, and Avariel overlooked occured to you automatically. I think your trained eye forgets how difficult it is for an untrained one to see such dangers. Hiskel wasn't schooled in the arts of war, she's a linguist . Hamanap is a missionary, and Avariel... well, I'm not honestly sure, I'm still getting to know him." Hamanap and Leoavor both nod, the former looking properly ashamed of her mistake. Kraggan pauses to let this  sink in, then admits "But yes, I do see what you mean. It was ill-advised. My goddess teaches goodness, but I don't expect everyone to agree with Her. Our members should do no harm to the innocent, but that doesn't mean I'm going to expect them to worship whom I choose either. Hiskel is loyal to Limar, our green dragon. He was born evil, but he chose to turn against it. I don't judge people based on their race or their gods, but by their actions. He has been on this quest to understand and worship all the dragon gods for some time, and if that is what he chooses, he can do it in our fortress. We don't restrict our members that way. He's also built Shrines to Bahamut , both here and in Waterwend ."  "And as a nobleman, I'm sure you understand the importance of money and power. Money got us this safe haven, and power is the only thing that deters those stronger than us from crushing us like bugs. The fact that we have a reputation for strength, and are intimidating, is just as much a part of our defenses as these stone walls. I've worked hard for this guild and our reputation, and if we're known for being hard and cruel at times, working with evil and being willing to kill when we have to, that reputation will help keep my friends alive, including you and your men. I will free slaves, I will protect innocent, and I will kill enemies. That is the way life works: some lives end, and new lives grow from them. Like nature herself, we must nurture life, but also be ready to defend to it fiercely. An ecosystem has no single goal, it is a process and a cycle. Does that make things clearer?" After speaking longer than any of those present have ever heard her, Kraggan has a strange and almost mystical look about her... like a mother bear peering from the deeps of a primordial forest, a part of the wild world forgotten by men in this age of civilization. Ering nods with sympathy. "Money and the perception of power are key elements to win conflicts, perhaps even more important than soldiers and commanders." Ering sighs, not in disapproval but burdened by the responsibilities. "Right now we are on the upswing: cities have been liberated, the trade is starting to flow again, our enemies have been sent back underground and we are preparing to raid and plunder in their moment of weakness. But, I fear, tough times are coming. Rizdar is marching and hungry for the Red King's blood, the Golgari are ever growing and Kendling schemes, wounded and full of revenge." "It is in times like this where we have to be united. Four strong horses that pull a cart in different directions will still be slower than a single, focused mule. I only ask for thoughtful and shared decisions, nothing else." "Hear, hear!" Leoavor says, his easy smile returning. "Together, we can keep the lands around us safe from Shurreon and his goons." Hamanap returns his smile, though hers is a bit strained, as she adds "With strong leadership and wise counselors, we will not make such mistakes again." Dawi said: Max said: "Yes sir, I do, Lieutenant Colonel. The economic situation there is bad... they were already having trouble recovering from the Storm last autumn," he says grimly, recalling to your mind the massive superstorm that raged across most of Terolus almost a year ago, causing serious damage to the southern regions and scattering the Suloise fleets (a large part of why most of their largely naval force has since moved inland), "but Rith One-Eye's embargo in the  Stonefare  and the spread of her golgari has ground their trade with the rest of the Catacombs settlements nearly to a halt. They've also been dealing with periodic attacks from bands of golgari and raids by the scattered pockets of Suloise forces, especially on outlying farmlands and thorps. Refugees from these areas have been trickling steadily through the gates, and many have enlisted with the garrison, but supplies are low. The garrison has been bolstering the town's defenses as best they can though, and an old friend of the Wayfinders named Jakob, a priest of Ehlonna I believe, has organized some watchmen into a holy order of soldiers he's calling the Alicorn Resurgent, training them as an elite guard. I suspect the commander there, Lt Colonel Treeford, is hoping the enemy will attack soon in force... if they wait much longer, the town may well be starved out." Ering nods, listening quietly to the report. He had hoped for good news, but what Verne told him was not as bad as he feared. "Hopefully our raids into enemy territory will leave some breathing room for trade, at least until the Golgari problem is dealt with. I also fear that the Lt Colonel's wish may become reality sooner than later." He pats Verne on the shoulder and dismisses him with a military salute. "Good work Master Sergeant." Verne salutes back. "Thank you, Lieutenant Colonel, sir. And if I may be so bold, sir, I would recommend that we consider moving against the golgari next. If Limar isn't able to deal with them soon, or they don't attack Base Camp on their own, the town will be in a very bad way."

Sense motive: 20 Ering nods. "I'm glad we spoke frankly and came to a conclusion, let's hope our next more on Zorall will have a strong impact in the war."

Dawi said: Sense motive: 20 Ering nods. "I'm glad we spoke frankly and came to a conclusion, let's hope our next more on Zorall will have a strong impact in the war." You get the feeling that Hamanap is trying to suppress resentment towards you, likely out of a feeling of displacement--she's been the party's advisor on most matters for some time, but this seems to be an area where her expertise is greatly outclassed by your own.

Before leaving for the raid in Zorall's lands Ering will sit in his barren room, thinking to himself about the encounter with Hamanap, Leoavor and Kraggan.  "I feel like I came off too strong, don't you think Vigil? Did I find the right balance between making sure that those mistakes will never happen again and coming off too strong and imposing?"  "NO!" The raven croaked in the strange language of birds. "TOO HARSH, APOLOGIZE, LETTER." He flapped his wings and puffed his chest, trying to give more importance to his words. Ering sighed, knowing that his familiar spoke the truth, but still questioning his choice to ask for advice to a bird that couldn't even convince other birds to follow him to a safe location.  He grabbed a sheet of paper and begun writing with his expensive black ink. The years spent penning letters, copying manuscripts and tattooing runes reflected well on his calligraphy, making each word clear and at the same time elegant.  Dear Hamanap, I hope that by writing this letter I am not stepping over any boundaries, I also realize that I am basing everything just on an impression I got during our last conversation. If I am wrong I will apologize greatly, but if even an inkling of what I perceived is true I feel this message is warranted.  I joined the Wayfinders because we had a common cause, ending the Stone River War. Our methods were different, just like our approach to authority. I was raised in a strict family with strong military traditions, I joined The University in Skyshroud and then the even more strict Military's Magical and Arcane Support Branch. After living my whole life under rules, following and giving orders I made the mistake of applying my limited experience while making suggestions and demands to the Wayfinders, especially in our last discussion.  I still stand by the points I made, but I feel the need to apologize to you: it is clear that what I said, while not being my goal, may have undermined your position as advisor. This was not my intention, I respect your great Wisdom and I am sure that a large part of our future success will depend on it. I should have asked your advice before giving mine and I should have recognized the differences between the Terolus Military and the Wayfinders.  To our future victories, Ering Walfire. Ering will wait for the ink to dry, carefully folding the letter in an envelope. He will melt his red sealing wax and press his signet ring, leaving his sigil : a crow with open wings over a crescent moon.  "At least do me a favor Vigil. Grab this letter and bring it to Hamanap, try to do it when no one else is around."

Dawi said: Ering will wait for the ink to dry, carefully folding the letter in an envelope. He will melt his red sealing wax and press his signet ring, leaving his sigil : a crow with open wings over a crescent moon. "At least do me a favor Vigil. Grab this letter and bring it to Hamanap, try to do it when no one else is around." Vigil squawks with approval, taking the sealed envelope carefully in his claws and flapping out the open window.  Dawi  said: Dear Hamanap, I hope that by writing this letter I am not stepping over any boundaries, I also realize that I am basing everything just on an impression I got during our last conversation. If I am wrong I will apologize greatly, but if even an inkling of what I perceived is true I feel this message is warranted. I joined the Wayfinders because we had a  Common Cause , ending the Stone River War. Our methods were different, just like our approach to authority. I was raised in a strict family with strong military traditions, I joined The University in Skyshroud and then the even more strict Military's Magical and Arcane Support Branch. After living my whole life under rules, following and giving orders I made the mistake of applying my limited experience while making suggestions and demands to the Wayfinders, especially in our last discussion. I still stand by the points I made, but I feel the need to apologize to you: it is clear that what I said, while not being my goal, may have undermined your position as advisor. This was not my intention, I respect your great Wisdom and I am sure that a large part of our future success will depend on it. I should have asked your advice before giving mine and I should have recognized the differences between the Terolus Military and the Wayfinders. To our future victories, Ering Walfire. Sitting alone at the writing desk in her elegant room later that evening, Hamanap closes the letter with a mixed expression on her beautiful, nubian features. She gazes up at tapestry of Bahamut that Caden Redleaf wove for her, the holy dragon god embroidered in cloth-of-silver thread that gleams in the filtered light of the setting sun. After several minutes deep in contemplation, she pushes aside some pages of hieroglyphic writing, opens a drawer to draws out a fresh sheet of parchment, dips and blots her quill, and begins to write... The next morning, the ill-favored flunky Alton Underbough brings Ering a rolled scroll with a wax seal bearing the shape of the holy symbol Hamanap usually wears proudly: a large five-pointed star above a field of tiny ones. "Fer you, sir," the boy says before running off on his bare, furry feet. Unfurled, it reads in Common: Dear Ering, Your words are a kindness, and show the deep wisdom of your soul. You were not in error in your perception, though I must admit to my shame that it was with some difficulty that I came to understand my own feelings as well as you did. I also came from an isolated culture, one of order and authority, very different from the chaos that often reigns in the world of adventurers. I was trained so thoroughly in the teachings of my faith that perhaps at times I forget that there are still large gaps in my education... to us priestesses and priests, the world is all-too often bordered within the margins of a holy book.  I have prayed for wisdom though, and Bahamut has helped me to see that your coming is a great blessing to us. While I may be well-suited to advise the Wayfinders in many matters, winning the war we now find ourselves embroiled in is truly not one of them. I hope that you can, in turn, forgive my foolish pride in putting my personal feelings above the needs of our party, and the needs of the people we fight to protect. Let there be no animosity between us, for as Bahamut wrote in Wind and World , Caves 2:3, "As ores together forge the true steel, so do peoples of different mind together make the strongest and most resilient society." Your friend, Hamanap

Since Ering is spending the bulk of several days at the Waypoint , he can roll some Craft (herbalism) checks to forage for useful herbs in the surrounding Hills of Light if he likes. Each check takes d4 hours to gather 4 random herbs of the DC rolled or lower, so you can roll as many checks as you'd like (and have time for) and I'll determine what herbs you find. While talking with Leoavor on his visits, he learns that Leo has been using his new wall of stone  spell to help construct more outbuildings for the growing merchant trade and Ering's soldiers to occupy. "I'm thinking of starting work on an outer wall around the outbuildings soon, to give us a second line of defense, and help protect our outbuilds and farmlands" Leoavor explains. "What do you think, from a military perspective? Good idea, bad idea? Any tips you could give me?" Profession (soldier) applies. He also hears that Verne seriously hurt one of the guards while disciplining him for drunkeness on duty. From the story, it sounds like he lost control of himself for a moment, and since then he's been very withdrawn, going on long scouting missions into the Hills  alone.

Max said: Since Ering is spending the bulk of several days at the Waypoint , he can roll some Craft (herbalism) checks to forage for useful herbs in the surrounding Hills of Light if he likes. Each check takes d4 hours to gather 4 random herbs of the DC rolled or lower, so you can roll as many checks as you'd like (and have time for) and I'll determine what herbs you find. Ering will welcome the quietness of his treks, savoring every chance to relax from the stressful raiding days. He will take to opportunity to invite Leoavor on his second walk, to discuss his stone creations and the ongoing war (Profession (Soldier) check: 19) On the third day he will invite Master Sergeant Verne (and leveraging his rank if he refuses the invite), firstly commending him again on the bravery he displayed in the liberation of Bowhery, and then asking his side of the story with the drunken guard. Total time and herbalism results: Day one:  19, 9 // 4 hours total Day two: 9, 16 // 5 hours total Day three: 18, 19 // 5 hours total Day four 17, 22 // 7 hours total

Dawi  said: Max  said: While talking with Leoavor on his visits, he learns that Leo has been using his new  wall of stone  spell to help construct more outbuildings for the growing merchant trade and Ering's soldiers to occupy. "I'm thinking of starting work on an outer wall around the outbuildings soon, to give us a second line of defense, and help protect our outbuilds and farmlands" Leoavor explains. "What do you think, from a military perspective? Good idea, bad idea? Any tips you could give me?" Profession (soldier) applies. He will take to opportunity to invite Leoavor on his second walk, to discuss his stone creations and the ongoing war (Profession (Soldier) check: 19) Your education in Skyshroud included a good deal on the construction and defense of castles and walls, so you're able to advise Leoavor on things such as how to use buttressed, curved walls to better deflect catapult shots, layering a second curtain wall with a moat between them to make scaling even harder, building catwalks and hoardings so that the wall can be manned with defenders, and letting the walls move smoothly along the curves of the hillsides but with uniformly deep foundations so they can't be pulled down easily. Dawi  said: Max  said: He also hears that Verne seriously hurt one of the guards while disciplining him for drunkeness on duty. From the story, it sounds like he lost control of himself for a moment, and since then he's been very withdrawn, going on long scouting missions into the  Hills  alone. On the third day he will invite Master Sergeant Verne (and leveraging his rank if he refuses the invite), firstly commending him again on the bravery he displayed in the liberation of Bowhery, and then asking his side of the story with the drunken guard. Verne is reluctant at first, but gives in when you remind him of your authority as a superior officer. Once alone among the beautiful, sunwashed  Hills of Light , he opens up a bit, clearly pained by the admissions. "Kraggan or one of the others probably told you, but I'm not... entirely human," he begins. "I was born linked with a parasite called a breed leech, because my mother had been infected by one while pregnant. It changed me in the womb, gave me powers that it took years to understand... the gist of it is, the leech and these beetles on my arm are aberrations, symbionts connected to me psionically. But they have a will of their own, and sometimes I struggle to control them.   I can't live without them, and without me they'd find a weaker host to control more easily, and do more damage. "  He's quiet for a long moment, looking at the small, shiny blue scarabs lined up along his left forearm as he walks beside you. "A sage once told me that my kind are called daelkyr , that we and the symbionts bound to us are the result of psychic pollution from the influence of alien creatures dwelling deep beneath Oerth. He said that some scholars think we were intended to be weapons against the surface world, agents of chaos and violence. But since I became a man, since I learned what I was, I've spent the last 10 years trying to change that destiny. I learned discipline, learned to fight the will of my symbionts, learned to control them  and use them to hunt down the aberrations that plague our world instead. But sometimes... sometimes they still win over, even if just for a short time. And I worry that maybe being around other people is too great a risk..." Dawi  said: Max  said: Since Ering is spending the bulk of several days at the  Waypoint , he can roll some Craft (herbalism) checks to forage for useful herbs in the surrounding  Hills of Light  if he likes. Each check takes d4 hours to gather 4 random herbs of the DC rolled or lower, so you can roll as many checks as you'd like (and have time for) and I'll determine what herbs you find. Ering will welcome the quietness of his treks, savoring every chance to relax from the stressful raiding days.  Total time and herbalism results: Day one:  19, 9 // 4 hours total Day two: 9, 16 // 5 hours total Day three: 18, 19 // 5 hours total Day four 17, 22 // 7 hours total Fortunately, herbs are plentiful in the warm, long days of high summer. Berries are in bloom, insects buzz overhead, and the gentle breezes and bleating of sheep are soothing to your weary nerves. In total, you find:     3 doses of dill (hang in doorway to protect your home, used in pickling for flavor)     1 dose of ginger (use in charm spells and love potions, eat before casting buff spells, helps nausea, useful for circulatory problems)     1 dose of water spinach (treats inflamed hemorrhoids, digestive problems)     2 doses of black cohosh (relieves hot flashes and menstrual cramps, helps circulaton, lowers blood pressure, useful for nervousness, abortifacient)     1 dose of juniper berries (use in protection spells, burn incense as a ward or to enhance psionics)     2 doses of rhubarb (spicy/sweet tuber, laxative, improves digestion)     2 doses of burdock (healing baths (especially for the feet), can toughen feet for long journals or against caltrops)     2 doses of willow bark (eases pain, helps to brace against pain effects)     1 dose of thyme (burn to improve healing spells, wear in sachet to enhance psionics, helps treat inhaled poisons and diseases)     1 dose of marshmallow (cures bladder infections, diuretic, soothes sore throats & indigestion, topical anti-inflammatory)     1 dose of Queen anne's lace (infuse into 'moon tea' on a full moon to abort a pregnancy, looks like poisonous hemlock)     1 dose of sage (promotes longevity, burn in four corners of the room to purify of negative energy before holy rituals, helps abdominal disorders)     1 dose of black walnut (good for eliminating parasites, good for fungal infections, good for warts and poison ivy, aids digestion)     2 doses of angelica root (carry root as protective talisman, or burn as part of exorcisms and wards)     1 dose of rosemary (use in lust incenses and potions, digestive and nerve stimulant, helps headache and bad breath)     1 dose of red clover (consume to promote breast growth)     1 dose of basil (use in prosperity spells, sprinkle on sleeping lover to increase fidelity, powerful antispasmodic, anti-infectious, soothes stomach)     1 dose of heartleaf (cures diseases, purges parasites, draws out poisons, clears skin rashes, roots dehydrate, very strong [+2 to preparation bonuses]; potential ingestion poison: 1% chance of a fatal allergic reaction [DC15 Fort save vs drop to -5 and dying, DC20 Heal required to stabilize] only roll first time consumed) As a reminder: Aside from burning, most preparations take too long to do in combat, though things like oils and potions can be used in combat. Some herbs can also be used as additional material components to enhance spells, which requires no preparation, but a check to determine how well they're used. In general, follow this pattern to determine the overall effectiveness of a Craft (herbalism) check for a preparation. If made in advance just mark off the components, announce what you're doing, and then roll when used to determine effectiveness. You can attempt a specific application or effect, but herbalism is not an exact science, and the final results are up to DM adjudication.     DC15: mild effect, +2 bonus to/against one roll     DC20: moderate effect, +4 bonus to/against one roll or +1 bonus to/against one roll for multiple characters     DC25: strong effect, about as much as a lv1 spell     DC30: very strong effect, about as much as a lv2 spell

Max said: Verne is reluctant at first, but gives in when you remind him of your authority as a superior officer. Once alone among the beautiful, sunwashed  Hills of Light , he opens up a bit, clearly pained by the admissions. "Kraggan or one of the others probably told you, but I'm not... entirely human," he begins. "I was born linked with a parasite called a breed leech, because my mother had been infected by one while pregnant. It changed me in the womb, gave me powers that it took years to understand... the gist of it is, the leech and these beetles on my arm are aberrations, symbionts connected to me psionically. But they have a will of their own, and sometimes I struggle to control them.   I can't live without them, and without me they'd find a weaker host to control more easily, and do more damage. "  He's quiet for a long moment, looking at the small, shiny blue scarabs lined up along his left forearm as he walks beside you. "A sage once told me that my kind are called daelkyr , that we and the symbionts bound to us are the result of psychic pollution from the influence of alien creatures dwelling deep beneath Oerth. He said that some scholars think we were intended to be weapons against the surface world, agents of chaos and violence. But since I became a man, since I learned what I was, I've spent the last 10 years trying to change that destiny. I learned discipline, learned to fight the will of my symbionts, learned to control them  and use them to hunt down the aberrations that plague our world instead. But sometimes... sometimes they still win over, even if just for a short time. And I worry that maybe being around other people is too great a risk..." Ering listens to Verne's story silently, thinking carefully about his next words. "Those times when they win over shouldn't be seen as losses, Verne, but merely as a reminder of your humanity, it's what distinguishes us from a weapon, learning from our weaknesses and improving each day. Being born with a curse... And still overcoming the fate that someone laid out for you is a noble act, something that only a few manage to achieve." Ering shrugs. "You could live the life of a hermit, avoiding being around other people at all times, but wouldn't that be a victory for your enemies?" 

Dawi said: Max said: Verne is reluctant at first, but gives in when you remind him of your authority as a superior officer. Once alone among the beautiful, sunwashed  Hills of Light , he opens up a bit, clearly pained by the admissions. "Kraggan or one of the others probably told you, but I'm not... entirely human," he begins. "I was born linked with a parasite called a breed leech, because my mother had been infected by one while pregnant. It changed me in the womb, gave me powers that it took years to understand... the gist of it is, the leech and these beetles on my arm are aberrations, symbionts connected to me psionically. But they have a will of their own, and sometimes I struggle to control them.   I can't live without them, and without me they'd find a weaker host to control more easily, and do more damage. "  He's quiet for a long moment, looking at the small, shiny blue scarabs lined up along his left forearm as he walks beside you. "A sage once told me that my kind are called daelkyr , that we and the symbionts bound to us are the result of psychic pollution from the influence of alien creatures dwelling deep beneath Oerth. He said that some scholars think we were intended to be weapons against the surface world, agents of chaos and violence. But since I became a man, since I learned what I was, I've spent the last 10 years trying to change that destiny. I learned discipline, learned to fight the will of my symbionts, learned to control them  and use them to hunt down the aberrations that plague our world instead. But sometimes... sometimes they still win over, even if just for a short time. And I worry that maybe being around other people is too great a risk..." Ering listens to Verne's story silently, thinking carefully about his next words. "Those times when they win over shouldn't be seen as losses, Verne, but merely as a reminder of your humanity, it's what distinguishes us from a weapon, learning from our weaknesses and improving each day. Being born with a curse... And still overcoming the fate that someone laid out for you is a noble act, something that only a few manage to achieve." Ering shrugs. "You could live the life of a hermit, avoiding being around other people at all times, but wouldn't that be a victory for your enemies?"  The two of you come to the top of a rise as you're speaking, and your last question lingers on the breeze as Verne gazes out over the gleaming grass of the Hills , away from you. When at last he answers, his voice is thick. "...thank you, sir. That means a lot." He swallows, takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "But even so," he adds, looking down and kicking a bit at a clump of grass, "that doesn't do much good for the people caught in the crossfire. I think after you all finish raiding Zorall, it might be time for me to go hunting for Moonshadow and Neuromancer..."

Max said: The two of you come to the top of a rise as you're speaking, and your last question lingers on the breeze as Verne gazes out over the gleaming grass of the Hills , away from you. When at last he answers, his voice is thick. "...thank you, sir. That means a lot." He swallows, takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "But even so," he adds, looking down and kicking a bit at a clump of grass, "that doesn't do much good for the people caught in the crossfire. I think after you all finish raiding Zorall, it might be time for me to go hunting for Moonshadow and Neuromancer..." "Hunting Moonshadow and Neuromancer? All alone? What is your plan?" Ering knows something about Moonshadow: Illithid sworn to Shurreon, defeated by the Red King and waging a guerrilla war against Litheria (that may have pushed the hag further towards waterwend as the last reports say) But what does he know about Neuromancer? Also, the Zhongshan that recently delivered a gift to the waypoint was apparently sworn to a vassal of Astarte. Is it normal that someone so loyal to a great power walks to freely in the surface cities? Or is Astarte not as terrible as the Coiled Lady?

Dawi said: Max said: The two of you come to the top of a rise as you're speaking, and your last question lingers on the breeze as Verne gazes out over the gleaming grass of the Hills , away from you. When at last he answers, his voice is thick. "...thank you, sir. That means a lot." He swallows, takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "But even so," he adds, looking down and kicking a bit at a clump of grass, "that doesn't do much good for the people caught in the crossfire. I think after you all finish raiding Zorall, it might be time for me to go hunting for Moonshadow and Neuromancer..." "Hunting Moonshadow and Neuromancer? All alone? What is your plan?" "I know I'm no match for them by myself, but scouting is my speciality. I'm wasted here as a guard anyway... and we haven't had reliable intel on them in months. I want to try to track them down, get a solid read on their whereabouts and plans, maybe bleed off a few straggling grimlocks while I'm at it..." Knowledge (nature) or (dungeoneering) applies. Dawi said: Ering knows something about Moonshadow: Illithid sworn to Shurreon, defeated by the Red King and waging a guerrilla war against Litheria (that may have pushed the hag further towards waterwend as the last reports say) But what does he know about Neuromancer? Also, the Zhongshan that recently delivered a gift to the waypoint was apparently sworn to a vassal of Astarte. Is it normal that someone so loyal to a great power walks to freely in the surface cities? Or is Astarte not as terrible as the Coiled Lady? From your briefings in Skyshroud, it sounded like the followers of the Great Powers mostly dwelt beneath the Catacombs and in the Underdark, waging war on each other and raiding the surface periodically for supplies or slaves. But it seems the situation out here in the wilds may be a bit more complex than the impression they have at THUMH (Terolus Human Military Headquarters). Knowledge (nobility & royalty) applies to both.

Max said: "I know I'm no match for them by myself, but scouting is my speciality. I'm wasted here as a guard anyway... and we haven't had reliable intel on them in months. I want to try to track them down, get a solid read on their whereabouts and plans, maybe bleed off a few straggling grimlocks while I'm at it..." Knowledge (nature) or (dungeoneering) applies. "That sounds a lot better than what I feared, it is a wise decision. The lack of reliable intel is something we should try to fix, I'd like to help you as much as I am able. I would scribe you scrolls, but I am not sure they would be of much use to you, and potion brewing isn't exactly my specialty..." Ering looks at his feet, deep in thought. "We could stay in touch by magical means... You will be able to relay information safely and I could contact you back with any advice that you might need, whether it is about a strange magical effect, a rare creature or similar niche knowledge." Nature: 23 Dungeon: 16 Max said: From your briefings in Skyshroud, it sounded like the followers of the Great Powers mostly dwelt beneath the Catacombs and in the Underdark, waging war on each other and raiding the surface periodically for supplies or slaves. But it seems the situation out here in the wilds may be a bit more complex than the impression they have at THUMH (Terolus Human Military Headquarters). Knowledge (nobility & royalty) applies to both. Nobility: 11, 14

Dawi said: Max said: "I know I'm no match for them by myself, but scouting is my speciality. I'm wasted here as a guard anyway... and we haven't had reliable intel on them in months. I want to try to track them down, get a solid read on their whereabouts and plans, maybe bleed off a few straggling grimlocks while I'm at it..." Knowledge (nature) or (dungeoneering) applies. "That sounds a lot better than what I feared, it is a wise decision. The lack of reliable intel is something we should try to fix, I'd like to help you as much as I am able. I would scribe you scrolls, but I am not sure they would be of much use to you, and potion brewing isn't exactly my specialty..." Ering looks at his feet, deep in thought. "We could stay in touch by magical means... You will be able to relay information safely and I could contact you back with any advice that you might need, whether it is about a strange magical effect, a rare creature or similar niche knowledge." Nature: 23 Dungeon: 16 "I don't really know how to read that magic language on scrolls, yeah..." Verne admits. "I can do a little magic, but just the kind that comes naturally, from concentration and practice over the years. I think it's in my blood, because it's more like what aberrations can do. But we could use something like that sending  spell that Hamanap always uses, is that what you mean, sir?" You know that grimlocks are one of the slave races bred by illithids in the ancient past. Big, strong, and eyeless, these monstrous humanoids have keen senses of smell and hearing that more than compensate for their blindness. Though some communities of them are independent now, dwelling in the mountains or underdark to raid settlements for supplies and meals of humanoid flesh, many serve under mindflayers or other powerful and clever underground creatures. Dawi said: Max said: From your briefings in Skyshroud, it sounded like the followers of the Great Powers mostly dwelt beneath the Catacombs and in the Underdark, waging war on each other and raiding the surface periodically for supplies or slaves. But it seems the situation out here in the wilds may be a bit more complex than the impression they have at THUMH (Terolus Human Military Headquarters). Knowledge (nobility & royalty) applies to both. Nobility: 11, 14 The name Neuromancer rings a bell, but you don't recall any specifics. If you ask Verne, he explains "I've been gathering any intel I can on Moonshadow for a while. She was the leader of a cult of 3 mindflayers before the Stone River War, with several dozen grimlocks under their command. Her 'mindraker'--that's what illithids call a sort of combination military commander and prison  warden--her mindraker Silverlime was slain in a battle in Bowhery some months ago. Afterwards, her sole remaining underling, a female illithid named Neuromancer, was put in charge of Silverlime's duties as well as her own. She's what they call a 'thought harvester,' one who oversees the experimentation in their arcanopsionic laboratories . From what I hear, she's not much of a leader, though, and kept losing grimlocks or avoiding battles she could have won, so I suspect Moonshadow has taken a more direct leadership role now that they're on the run." While Astarte has a less aggressive reputation than the Coiled Lady, she's definitely no less evil or less bent on conquest of the Catacombs, just more of a plotter. People call her 'the Whispering Cripple', as she's said to be barely able to move, holed up in some deep and ancient cavern whispering orders down the grapevine of her followers. You do recall that Meilin Zhongshan is supposed to have a lot of connections in Waterwend's criminal underground, though... she might be serving as a sort of bridge between the societies of the surface settlements and Astarte's more monstrous vassals.

Max said: "I don't really know how to read that magic language on scrolls, yeah..." Verne admits. "I can do a little magic, but just the kind that comes naturally, from concentration and practice over the years. I think it's in my blood, because it's more like what aberrations can do. But we could use something like that sending  spell that Hamanap always uses, is that what you mean, sir?" “Something like that, yes. I’m not very well versed in the Evocation school so we’ll have to use a less direct method... To receive your messages I will have to Scry on you, and we can decide specific days and hours. Once I have successfully Scryed I will try to cast a simple Message spell through the sensor, it should work about half of the times. If the Message spell fails I still will be able to hear everything you say or see everything in your immediate vicinity. My response will come the same night in a Dream , via an incantation I’ve been working on in the past few weeks.” “Is there anything else I could help you with? Equipment? Funds?”

Dawi said: Max said: "I don't really know how to read that magic language on scrolls, yeah..." Verne admits. "I can do a little magic, but just the kind that comes naturally, from concentration and practice over the years. I think it's in my blood, because it's more like what aberrations can do. But we could use something like that  sending  spell that Hamanap always uses, is that what you mean, sir?" “Something like that, yes. I’m not very well versed in the Evocation school so we’ll have to use a less direct method... To receive your messages I will have to  Scry  on you, and we can decide specific days and hours. Once I have successfully  Scryed  I will try to cast a simple  Message  spell through the sensor, it should work about half of the times. If the  Message  spell fails I still will be able to hear everything you say or see everything in your immediate vicinity. My response will come the same night in a  Dream , via an incantation I’ve been working on in the past few weeks.” “Is there anything else I could help you with? Equipment? Funds?” Verne nods slowly, not really understanding all the arcane jargon but getting the gist of it. "Specific days and hours, okay... I'm alright on funds, sir, and the Waypoint should be able to provide most of the equipment I'll need. Except, perhaps... some potions or scrolls of basic healing spells, in case I get into a tight spot? Those would be useful."

Max said: Verne nods slowly, not really understanding all the arcane jargon but getting the gist of it. "Specific days and hours, okay... I'm alright on funds, sir, and the Waypoint should be able to provide most of the equipment I'll need. Except, perhaps... some potions or scrolls of basic healing spells, in case I get into a tight spot? Those would be useful." "Would you be able to read scrolls with healing spells? If not, potions are our best and last option. I'm not much of a brewer and the few ones I carry with myself may be useful in the following raids, so I could give you some money to buy them in town. Know of any shops along the way?"

Dawi said: Max said: Verne nods slowly, not really understanding all the arcane jargon but getting the gist of it. "Specific days and hours, okay... I'm alright on funds, sir, and the Waypoint should be able to provide most of the equipment I'll need. Except, perhaps... some potions or scrolls of basic healing spells, in case I get into a tight spot? Those would be useful." "Would you be able to read scrolls with healing spells? If not, potions are our best and last option. I'm not much of a brewer and the few ones I carry with myself may be useful in the following raids, so I could give you some money to buy them in town. Know of any shops along the way?" "I'm not sure..." he admits. "I've never seen one, but I could try to learn if it's just one kind of spell. But you're right sir, it might be best to stick with potions. I'm sure I can get some in Waterwend , there are lots of magic shops there. Maybe I can get some leads on Moonshadow there, too."

Max said: "I'm not sure..." he admits. "I've never seen one, but I could try to learn if it's just one kind of spell. But you're right sir, it might be best to stick with potions. I'm sure I can get some in Waterwend , there are lots of magic shops there. Maybe I can get some leads on Moonshadow there, too." Ering nods approvingly. "I will get you some fund when we return to the Waypoint. How does one Scry per week sound? It would be every first day of the week at sunset. And it would help me immensely if you game me a lock of your hair to facilitate the spell."

Dawi said: Max said: "I'm not sure..." he admits. "I've never seen one, but I could try to learn if it's just one kind of spell. But you're right sir, it might be best to stick with potions. I'm sure I can get some in Waterwend , there are lots of magic shops there. Maybe I can get some leads on Moonshadow there, too." Ering nods approvingly. "I will get you some fund when we return to the Waypoint. How does one Scry per week sound? It would be every first day of the week at sunset. And it would help me immensely if you game me a lock of your hair to facilitate the spell." "Stardays at sunset... alright sir, I'll remember that," Verne promises. He looks a little weirded-out about the hair thing, but you're the wizard, after all... so he concentrates on one of the beetles on his arm for a moment, and it extrudes a fine, thin razor of organic green glass, which hardens in the time it takes to spurt out. Snapping off the glass dagger, he uses it to slice a small lock of hair from his temple, and hands that to you.

Max said: "Stardays at sunset... alright sir, I'll remember that," Verne promises. He looks a little weirded-out about the hair thing, but you're the wizard, after all... so he concentrates on one of the beetles on his arm for a moment, and it extrudes a fine, thin razor of organic green glass, which hardens in the time it takes to spurt out. Snapping off the glass dagger, he uses it to slice a small lock of hair from his temple, and hands that to you. Ering grabs the lock of hair and nods. "I promise I'll give it back when you return."  Back at the Waypoint Ering will neatly order his herbs, then he will grab the strongbox in his haversack and open it with the secret key in his pendant, taking 20 platinum coins from it. He will then head to the infirmary, hoping to find the resident herbologist Traubonn Baldark. Ering will ask the dwarf help with the preparation of a talisman made with angelica root, and will chat with him about his findings in the hills of light and about herbalism in general.  Once the talisman is prepared Ering will give it to Verne as a farewell present, along with the 20 platinum pieces. 

Dawi said: Max said: "Stardays at sunset... alright sir, I'll remember that," Verne promises. He looks a little weirded-out about the hair thing, but you're the wizard, after all... so he concentrates on one of the beetles on his arm for a moment, and it extrudes a fine, thin razor of organic green glass, which hardens in the time it takes to spurt out. Snapping off the glass dagger, he uses it to slice a small lock of hair from his temple, and hands that to you. Ering grabs the lock of hair and nods. "I promise I'll give it back when you return."  Back at the Waypoint Ering will neatly order his herbs, then he will grab the strongbox in his haversack and open it with the secret key in his pendant, taking 20 platinum coins from it. He will then head to the infirmary, hoping to find the resident herbologist Traubonn Baldark. Ering will ask the dwarf help with the preparation of a talisman made with angelica root, and will chat with him about his findings in the hills of light and about herbalism in general.  Verne spends a moment wondering why he'd want the hair back... do wizards have ways to reattach hair? But he shrugs, and nods. "Yes sir, Lieutenant Colonel." While Verne continues his walk, you find Traubonn in the fortress proper. He's tending to Private Urian, who came down with a fever a few days ago. "Angelica root, eh?" Traubonn says, rinsing his hands in a basin after changing Urian's poultice. "I can give you a hand with that, milord. Antievil properties, should help ward you in the dragon's caves." He chats with you while showing you the proper way to treat the root and bind it into a special, ornate knot, giving you a +2 bonus on your Craft (herbalism) check. You can mark off one dose, and roll for it now since you're giving it to Verne. You also learn a bit about the best places to forage in the Hills of Light , and get a +1 bonus on your next Craft (herbalism) check to search for herbs there.

Max said: While Verne continues his walk, you find Traubonn in the fortress proper. He's tending to Private Urian, who came down with a fever a few days ago. "Angelica root, eh?" Traubonn says, rinsing his hands in a basin after changing Urian's poultice. "I can give you a hand with that, milord. Antievil properties, should help ward you in the dragon's caves." He chats with you while showing you the proper way to treat the root and bind it into a special, ornate knot, giving you a +2 bonus on your Craft (herbalism) check. You can mark off one dose, and roll for it now since you're giving it to Verne. You also learn a bit about the best places to forage in the Hills of Light , and get a +1 bonus on your next Craft (herbalism) check to search for herbs there. (12 on the herbalism) Ering asks Traubonn a suggestion on the best quality tools for this new discipline, especially where to find them and how muck they would cost. (Masterwork tools for Herbalism/Herbology) He would also inquire about his opinion on Preservariums, how much they might cost and what is his experience with them.

Dawi said: Max said: While Verne continues his walk, you find Traubonn in the fortress proper. He's tending to Private Urian, who came down with a fever a few days ago. "Angelica root, eh?" Traubonn says, rinsing his hands in a basin after changing Urian's poultice. "I can give you a hand with that, milord. Antievil properties, should help ward you in the dragon's caves." He chats with you while showing you the proper way to treat the root and bind it into a special, ornate knot, giving you a +2 bonus on your Craft (herbalism) check. You can mark off one dose, and roll for it now since you're giving it to Verne. You also learn a bit about the best places to forage in the Hills of Light , and get a +1 bonus on your next Craft (herbalism) check to search for herbs there. (12 on the herbalism) Ering asks Traubonn a suggestion on the best quality tools for this new discipline, especially where to find them and how muck they would cost. (Masterwork tools for Herbalism/Herbology) He would also inquire about his opinion on Preservariums, how much they might cost and what is his experience with them. Traubonn shows you through his setup in the infirmary: mortars and pestles of various sizes and materials, grinders, funnels, cheesecloths, strainers, jars, infusing glasses, solvents, various pure alcohols, measuring utensils, shears, knives, and books full of annotated plant sketches. Many are of significant quality, and with the warm verbosity of a man who loves his craft, he explains the most important features of each. In total, it looks like a masterwork setup for Craft (herbalism) would be similar in cost and size to an alchemist's lab, and grant its bonus to any preparations made using it. "Preservariums are a bit more complicated, I'm afraid," he admits. "Each one has to be built to suit the needs of the plant it's to store... tinted glass to create the proper lighting, filtration to alter the water and nutrients, sponges soaked in the proper chemicals to change the air conditions, and so on. Alchemical devices, so I never used one meself, but I've heard that Mister Ningle down at Stumbleduck's Reagents in Waterwend has one. They say he keeps two angel's tongue plants in it--very rare and difficult to cultivate, but full of all sorts of useful properties--that milord's comrades brought him from the Stonefare . 'e might be able to explain them better." Dawi  said: Once the talisman is prepared Ering will give it to Verne as a farewell present, along with the 20 platinum pieces.  "Thank you, sir," Verne says, accepting them with a deep bow. "I won't forget your generosity. Once the raids on Zorall are done, I'll make sure that Moonshadow doesn't escape us again."

During one of his lunches with Leoavor, Ering will start discussing plans for the future. "There are many things that we could be doing to end the Stone River War and make this whole region safer, maybe too many. When we return from the raids I will have to travel to Base Camp and link up with the Terolus Military, it's why I was sent here after all. Verne told me they are having problems with the Golgari, do you know if Limar has made any progress in his mission?" "We'll need to visit Waterwend as well. Xankoris wanted to thank Miss Zhongshan in person and I wanted to see how dangerous is the plague that her servant warned us about. It would be a good opportunity to lay the foundations for the Marquis' plan. He gave us a large loan and I think we could start spending it to gather some information about the key figures in Waterwend: what's their stance on slavery and where lies the power now that we have ended Kendling's small reign. Do you know someone that we could hire for this little act of espionage?" "Lastly, I think it's in our best interest to find a way to secure our next meetings from curious ears and scrying attempts. Ridlaz has done it once and I'm sure he could do it again. Would covering a room with lead sheets be enough? Or maybe we could try to find a scroll of Private Sanctum and scribe it? 

Dawi said: During one of his lunches with Leoavor, Ering will start discussing plans for the future. "There are many things that we could be doing to end the Stone River War and make this whole region safer, maybe too many. When we return from the raids I will have to travel to Base Camp and link up with the Terolus Military, it's why I was sent here after all. Verne told me they are having problems with the Golgari, do you know if Limar has made any progress in his mission?" Leoavor tops off your cup of wine, a fine Glemmerian red from his own stash. Knowledge (geography) applies. "From what I've heard from Hamanap, he's been giving her small status updates in reply to her sendings . I understand that he's been gathering allies down there, and sent some of his followers on a covert mission to Waterwend . I think he's planning to try to take Rith's head, if he can collect enough support." Dawi said: "We'll need to visit Waterwend as well. Xankoris wanted to thank Miss Zhongshan in person and I wanted to see how dangerous is the plague that her servant warned us about.  "From what I remember," Leoavor muses between bites of Ovak's fragrant lamb korma , "Litheria likes to spread demon fever among her most zealous followers. They think of it as a special power, and try to infect as many innocents and enemies as they can before they die. If the plague and the refugees are connected, that may well be what's hitting Waterwend , and it's a doozy." Craft (herbalism) applies. Dawi said: "It would be a good opportunity to lay the foundations for the Marquis' plan. He gave us a large loan and I think we could start spending it to gather some information about the key figures in Waterwend: what's their stance on slavery and where lies the power now that we have ended Kendling's small reign. Do you know someone that we could hire for this little act of espionage?" He looks a little confused for a moment when you mention Kendling, then asks "Wait, you mean when Kendling was planning his coup? That was in Bowhery , he was one of the faction leaders within the Companions. They're the warriors guild that runs the town. Waterwend is controlled by a city council... though they say the Merchants Guild really pulls the strings." He takes a drink of wine, and swallows, thinking. "But... yeah, more detailed information is a good idea. Axil might be the best choice to take point, he seems pretty good at espionage and already has a vested interest in the project. If our friends Black Sabbath are still in town, their thief Garion could help. Wyatt Ferris is always willing to give us a hand there too, but he's... well, maybe we should save him in reserve until the discreet parts are finished. I don't think the guy's ever gone a day without challenging someone to a duel or swearing his eternal loyalty to an honorable cause." Alton Underbough pauses from collecting empty plates to snicker knowingly at Leo's dry sarcasm. "I think Hiskel already sent Silaquin to do some advance recon. We know a few merchants as well, and the high priestess of Yondalla, so we might be able to make some inroads into the upper crust from there." Dawi said: "Lastly, I think it's in our best interest to find a way to secure our next meetings from curious ears and scrying attempts. Ridlaz has done it once and I'm sure he could do it again. Would covering a room with lead sheets be enough? Or maybe we could try to find a scroll of Private Sanctum and scribe it?  "Lead would work fine, as far as I know, and it's cheap. But we'd have to cover every square inch of a room for it to be effective, which would take some doing... it might be best to pursue both avenues. We could build a special leaded meeting room in the cellar, and have Mordenkainen's private sanctum  as a backup for when we're traveling and such." (DM note: the OGL has no power here :P)

Max said: Leoavor tops off your cup of wine, a fine Glemmerian red from his own stash. Knowledge (geography) applies. "From what I've heard from Hamanap, he's been giving her small status updates in reply to her sendings . I understand that he's been gathering allies down there, and sent some of his followers on a covert mission to Waterwend . I think he's planning to try to take Rith's head, if he can collect enough support." Ering nods. "Let's hope he can take him down before his cover gets blown. And hopefully he'll have some key information for us when he gets back." Knowledge (geography): 21 Max said: "From what I remember," Leoavor muses between bites of Ovak's fragrant lamb korma , "Litheria likes to spread demon fever among her most zealous followers. They think of it as a special power, and try to infect as many innocents and enemies as they can before they die. If the plague and the refugees are connected, that may well be what's hitting Waterwend , and it's a doozy." Craft (herbalism) applies. "Do we know how long Litheria has been giving this gift to her followers? We should try to find out what we can about the plague... How it spreads, how lethal is it or if there are any remedies or cures..." (For craft herbalism checks like this one, that I assume is about knowledge and not crafting how do I account for the tools? It's either a 15 or 13 if you count the penalty for no tools) Max said: He looks a little confused for a moment when you mention Kendling, then asks "Wait, you mean when Kendling was planning his coup? That was in Bowhery , he was one of the faction leaders within the Companions. They're the warriors guild that runs the town. Waterwend is controlled by a city council... though they say the Merchants Guild really pulls the strings." He takes a drink of wine, and swallows, thinking. "But... yeah, more detailed information is a good idea. Axil might be the best choice to take point, he seems pretty good at espionage and already has a vested interest in the project. If our friends Black Sabbath are still in town, their thief Garion could help. Wyatt Ferris is always willing to give us a hand there too, but he's... well, maybe we should save him in reserve until the discreet parts are finished. I don't think the guy's ever gone a day without challenging someone to a duel or swearing his eternal loyalty to an honorable cause." Alton Underbough pauses from collecting empty plates to snicker knowingly at Leo's dry sarcasm. "I think Hiskel already sent Silaquin to do some advance recon. We know a few merchants as well, and the high priestess of Yondalla, so we might be able to make some inroads into the upper crust from there." Erin puts down his fork and shakes his head, smiling. "Yes, sorry, I meant Waterwend. I really should take a few days to rest after the raids are over."  "Axil is certainly a good starting point, and his loyalty to the cause is unquestionable, but someone that knows the ins and outs of the city could have access to things that would be hard to find for an outsider. This Garion sounds perfect, but only if we can completely trust him."  Max said: "Lead would work fine, as far as I know, and it's cheap. But we'd have to cover every square inch of a room for it to be effective, which would take some doing... it might be best to pursue both avenues. We could build a special leaded meeting room in the cellar, and have Mordenkainen's private sanctum  as a backup for when we're traveling and such." (DM note: the OGL has no power here :P) "Indeed... Doors, windows, roofs and pavement. The larger the room the bigger the chance of mistakes... But I suppose we could test it after the work is done. I think a small room would be more than fine; comfort and luxury are small prices to pay for absolute secrecy."

Dawi said: Max said: Leoavor tops off your cup of wine, a fine Glemmerian red from his own stash. Knowledge (geography) applies. "From what I've heard from Hamanap, he's been giving her small status updates in reply to her sendings . I understand that he's been gathering allies down there, and sent some of his followers on a covert mission to Waterwend . I think he's planning to try to take Rith's head, if he can collect enough support." Ering nods. "Let's hope he can take him down before his cover gets blown. And hopefully he'll have some key information for us when he gets back." Knowledge (geography): 21 As a nobleman of Skyshroud , you of course know that Glemmeria is the elven capital of Terolus. Built on stilts and platforms in the Great Marsh about 2000 miles south of Skyshroud , Glemmeria rises above the long-buried remains of the former elven capital that was destroyed during the Cataclysm. Since its refounding by a former adventurer named Tharivol, it has had strong diplomatic relations with human kingdom, and many noble families in Skyshroud now have a mingling of elven blood. Knowledge (history) and (nobility & royalty) apply. "Indeed," Leoavor agrees, with a strained smile. Clearly, he's spent many days worrying about his friend. Dawi said: Max said: "From what I remember," Leoavor muses between bites of Ovak's fragrant lamb korma , "Litheria likes to spread demon fever among her most zealous followers. They think of it as a special power, and try to infect as many innocents and enemies as they can before they die. If the plague and the refugees are connected, that may well be what's hitting Waterwend , and it's a doozy." Craft (herbalism) applies. "Do we know how long Litheria has been giving this gift to her followers? We should try to find out what we can about the plague... How it spreads, how lethal is it or if there are any remedies or cures..." (For craft herbalism checks like this one, that I assume is about knowledge and not crafting how do I account for the tools? It's either a 15 or 13 if you count the penalty for no tools) "I'm not sure, at least a few years I think... but I've spoken with Kraggan and Traubonn about demon fever before, and from what I understand it's a supernatural disease created and spread originally by demons. It spreads though physical contact with an open wound or sore, or through the mouth and eyes, and rapidly breaks down every bodily system. I'll start putting out feelers, and see if the symptoms in Waterwend match those." When Craft skills are used like Knowledge skills, you don't get any bonus or penalty for tools. You recall that a few herbs can help against diseases like the one Leoavor described: angelica root can help prevent or cure infection, basil can help prevent infection but not cure it, the aquatic plant Indian lotus can help prevent oral infection, and dill can help protect your home from the disease being brought in if hung in the doorway. Dawi said: Max said: He looks a little confused for a moment when you mention Kendling, then asks "Wait, you mean when Kendling was planning his coup? That was in Bowhery , he was one of the faction leaders within the Companions. They're the warriors guild that runs the town. Waterwend is controlled by a city council... though they say the Merchants Guild really pulls the strings." Erin puts down his fork and shakes his head, smiling. "Yes, sorry, I meant Waterwend. I really should take a few days to rest after the raids are over."  "Don't worry about it," Leoavor says with a reassuring smile. "I'm not from the Catacombs area either; it took me a while to keep all the settlements here straight. I still have to study my notes all the time to keep a handle on the politics of the powers, haha!" Dawi said: Max said: He takes a drink of wine, and swallows, thinking. "But... yeah, more detailed information is a good idea. Axil might be the best choice to take point, he seems pretty good at espionage and already has a vested interest in the project. If our friends Black Sabbath are still in town, their thief Garion could help. Wyatt Ferris is always willing to give us a hand there too, but he's... well, maybe we should save him in reserve until the discreet parts are finished. I don't think the guy's ever gone a day without challenging someone to a duel or swearing his eternal loyalty to an honorable cause." Alton Underbough pauses from collecting empty plates to snicker knowingly at Leo's dry sarcasm. "I think Hiskel already sent Silaquin to do some advance recon. We know a few merchants as well, and the high priestess of Yondalla, so we might be able to make some inroads into the upper crust from there." "Axil is certainly a good starting point, and his loyalty to the cause is unquestionable, but someone that knows the ins and outs of the city could have access to things that would be hard to find for an outsider. This Garion sounds perfect, but only if we can completely trust him."  "Garion is a good man, he and his comrades have fought beside us more than once. They slew the black dragoness Puelossi, one of Rith's vassals in the Stonefare , and helped us defend Waterwend from Gurak and Grizzled One's armies. I'm... pretty sure that if we impress upon him the importance of secrecy, he can be trusted..." he says, not looking that sure. Dawi said: Max said: "Lead would work fine, as far as I know, and it's cheap. But we'd have to cover every square inch of a room for it to be effective, which would take some doing... it might be best to pursue both avenues. We could build a special leaded meeting room in the cellar, and have Mordenkainen's private sanctum  as a backup for when we're traveling and such." (DM note: the OGL has no power here :P) "Indeed... Doors, windows, roofs and pavement. The larger the room the bigger the chance of mistakes... But I suppose we could test it after the work is done. I think a small room would be more than fine; comfort and luxury are small prices to pay for absolute secrecy." "Agreed, something just big enough for a table and a dozen or so chairs should do," Leoavor nods, growing visibly excited by the new project. "I wonder if leaded glass would work... hrm, better not risk it, we can skip the windows. I'll start sketching up plans right away, and get Gunnloda to work smithing lead plates."

Max said: As a nobleman of Skyshroud , you of course know that Glemmeria is the elven capital of Terolus. Built on stilts and platforms in the Great Marsh about 2000 miles south of Skyshroud , Glemmeria rises above the long-buried remains of the former elven capital that was destroyed during the Cataclysm. Since its refounding by a former adventurer named Tharivol, it has had strong diplomatic relations with human kingdom, and many noble families in Skyshroud now have a mingling of elven blood. Knowledge (history) and (nobility & royalty) apply. "Indeed," Leoavor agrees, with a strained smile. Clearly, he's spent many days worrying about his friend. Knowledge (history): 25 Knowledge (nobility & royalty): 27 Max said: "Garion is a good man, he and his comrades have fought beside us more than once. They slew the black dragoness Puelossi, one of Rith's vassals in the  Stonefare , and helped us defend  Waterwend  from Gurak and Grizzled One's armies. I'm...  pretty  sure that if we impress upon him the importance of secrecy, he can be trusted..." he says, not looking that sure. "Agreed, something just big enough for a table and a dozen or so chairs should do," Leoavor nods, growing visibly excited by the new project. "I wonder if leaded glass would work... hrm, better not risk it, we can skip the windows. I'll start sketching up plans right away, and get Gunnloda to work smithing lead plates." "I am not the best judge of character either... I am sure other Wayfinders will be able to find out where he stands on slavery and if he can be fully trusted with this operation." Ering chuckles when Leoavor starts talking about leaded glass, recognizing a shared curiosity in the mundane aspects of otherwise powerful spells. "You know, when I was studying in Skyshroud I always wondered about this sort of things... Sure, being able to summon a ball of fire with accuracy is interesting, but sometimes you do start thinking about leaded glass. What kind of concentration of lead is enough ? 20% and five times the thickness you would have for a normal lead sheet? What if your sheeting is too thin in just a small space, does it still increase the scying difficulty or is it completely useless?" Ering shrugs. "Maybe one day we'll write a book about that."

Dawi said: Max said: As a nobleman of Skyshroud , you of course know that Glemmeria is the elven capital of Terolus. Built on stilts and platforms in the Great Marsh about 2000 miles south of Skyshroud , Glemmeria rises above the long-buried remains of the former elven capital that was destroyed during the Cataclysm. Since its refounding by a former adventurer named Tharivol, it has had strong diplomatic relations with human kingdom, and many noble families in Skyshroud now have a mingling of elven blood. Knowledge (history) and (nobility & royalty) apply. "Indeed," Leoavor agrees, with a strained smile. Clearly, he's spent many days worrying about his friend. Knowledge (history): 25 Knowledge (nobility & royalty): 27 Reminiscing a bit on your days of private tutoring, you recall that in the Common Year 865, Terolus was devastated and polluted by an event now known as The Cataclysm, centered roughly on the former human capital in what is now The Wastes . Elven refugees from the Great Forest founded Reluin in the north, an ice-domed city that still stands today. The Lich-King Tellaj soon built his dark tower and catacombs in northwest Terolus, to rule a realm of undeath there. In CY 915, the Lich-King destroyed the former trade hub Karn , one of the few human cities still standing despite its proximity ground zero of the Cataclysm, and slew its legendary protector, forcing the remaining human refugees to evacuate to Reluin , where they were welcomed by the elves and half-elves. Then in CY 919 a group of adventurers remembered as the Reclaimers cleansed Terolus of its curse, in an equally supernatural and equally myserious event known as The Renewal, before going on to destroy the Lich-King as well. In CY 1081, Skyshroud , the new human capital of Terolus, was founded in the mountains that mark Terolus's northern border with The Longinus States . In CY 1209, the Knights of the Frozen Sun, a group of adventuers, made their name in Terolus, and went on to achieve great things: their priest Razi founded the Burning Sun, a sect of Pelor devoted to the destruction of undead, and their leader Tharivol refounded Glemmeria  above its swamp-sunken former ruins to become its first king. In CY 1275, King Leopold, the first of his name, ascended the throne in Skyshroud , and sent peace envoys to Highhelm , the Golden Hills , and Digzaggle . In CY 1350, his son King Leopold II enacted sweeping reforms in peasant rights, and in CY 1392 King Leopold III soon wedded the elven princess Valanthess of Glemmeria , formally uniting the two kingdoms in friendship. Dawi said: Max said: "Garion is a good man, he and his comrades have fought beside us more than once. They slew the black dragoness Puelossi, one of Rith's vassals in the  Stonefare , and helped us defend  Waterwend  from Gurak and Grizzled One's armies. I'm...  pretty  sure that if we impress upon him the importance of secrecy, he can be trusted..." he says, not looking that sure. "Agreed, something just big enough for a table and a dozen or so chairs should do," Leoavor nods, growing visibly excited by the new project. "I wonder if leaded glass would work... hrm, better not risk it, we can skip the windows. I'll start sketching up plans right away, and get Gunnloda to work smithing lead plates." "I am not the best judge of character either... I am sure other Wayfinders will be able to find out where he stands on slavery and if he can be fully trusted with this operation." Ering chuckles when Leoavor starts talking about leaded glass, recognizing a shared curiosity in the mundane aspects of otherwise powerful spells. "You know, when I was studying in Skyshroud I always wondered about this sort of things... Sure, being able to summon a ball of fire with accuracy is interesting, but sometimes you do start thinking about leaded glass. What kind of concentration of lead is enough ? 20% and five times the thickness you would have for a normal lead sheet? What if your sheeting is too thin in just a small space, does it still increase the scying difficulty or is it completely useless?" Ering shrugs. "Maybe one day we'll write a book about that." "Perhaps it would be best to trust in our more tactful members, yes," Leoavor admits with a self-deprecating laugh. As you speak on spellcraft though, his eyes light up with interest. "That does sound like a useful topic of study! I'd love to analyze the problem in detail with you, one day when this war is over," he says, and the two of you launch into a spirited discussion while Alton rolls his eyes in the background. Back in the present... The procession of freed slaves and prisoners slows you down considerably on your overland journey eastward, and the first night and day are wearisome... with the wagon loaded full of treasure, even the exhausted members of the raid team must push through on sore feet. But the lead you gain by departing in the evening seems to have been wise after all, for you outpace whatever searchers may have been sent into Zorall's forest to look for your camp.  En route, Hamanap offers to prepare an extra sending  for Xankoris, and asks what it is he wants communicated and to whom. She at least sends  ahead to Leoavor, warning him of their return and a possible invasion by Kendling; then relays his response: "We will fortify and prepare. Safe journey." She uses her magic to preserve Raliza's corpse as well, preventing it from rotting in its makeshift shroud. Axil also continues his conversation with Xankoris from the previous day... Ritt K.  said: Max  said: "Does it work against multiple arrows, or on multiple people? If that was our last raid, we ought to focus on things that'll help in larger-scale battles, I imagine," Axil points out.     "Glad you asked, It depends." Xankoris turns to Axil. "Here, let me show some examples." He casts Minor image spell. "Haven't used this for a while, bear with me."     Several diminutive-sized Air elementals surround Xankoris with a protective whirlwind. "Blessed winds, pretty nice for personal protection, but there's more."     Air Kami are now all gone and then the wall of shimmering, churning water encircles Xankoris in 10ft. radius. "This is Castle of Water, one of the castle spells. It can deflect normals projectile, some magical flame, and space intrusion, but it can't block boulders, catapult shots, ray spells, and such. I recommend this against the tanglefoot bag and alike."     Of course, those aren't only Rokugani's protective spells. Xankoris also duplicates himself, filling every space in a 15ft radius, "Castle of air, they couldn't hit when they don't know which is the real one."     He then makes figment arrow comes toward him, but instead of getting hit, the projectile bends around as flowing water bends around a rock in river hit the ground behind. "Fortune's turn, though I have to casts it for every projectile, but there's no way it could've hit the target."     "There are a lot more than that, some are even prohibited. But for the real large scale, I need a month. And the area of it, about 2-miles radius." "...so about those Rokugani defensive spells you demonstrated," he says to the shugenja while trudging through the forest beside the wagon. "That castle of water seems very useful for us personally, especially if it can block firebreath from the half-dragons. Though castle of air  doesn't seem much better than mirror image , to be frank. The large-scale version would probably be great for protecting the fortress, but I don't know if Kendling will give us a month to prepare..." The few stray predators that cross your path are scared away by the size of your party, and despite the slow pace you reach the Hills of Light  and the Stone River Waypoint  unmolested after 4 days of travel. It's around lunchtime on Starday, Harvester 22nd when you finally roll up the fortress. Your prisoners of war are well-behaved, and seem to believe, as Raliza did, that Kendling will come with an army to destroy you if they're patient. During the return journey, Hiskel's +1 bonus to damage rolls from Garyx wears off, as does her +2 sacred bonus to saves vs magical effects and +2 bonus to Appraise (however, she can finally ask a new question of the Lexicon!). Ering's soldiers welcome their commander back heartily, while Leoavor comes out to the gates and embraces Hamanap like a sister and even picks up Kraggan in a laughing hug. "Thank goodness you're all okay!" he says, before you introduce him to Sja'renj, Jargon, and the newest crop of slaves liberated from the dragonlord. "I'll see about finding places for all these people. We've been busy here, preparing our defenses and taking in all the crops we can in case they try to burn our fields." Leoavor explains, talking while walking back into the fortress. "I've been throwing together more outbuildings too, and some fortifications, but it'll be easier with Hamanap and Kraggan to help shape  my walls of stone . Come, let's talk in the cellars, I managed to finish that secure room we discussed before, Ering." Dark clouds are rolling in, and Kraggan can smell hail in the air. Once the party is gathered in the small, lead-lined room around a conference table with a heatless, smokeless lantern burning on its center, Leoavor explains "We should be hidden any form of divination in here, so this is where we can hold our war councils from now on. We're underground too, and the walls and door should be thick enough to muffle any sound from outside." He also brought down a basket with some small loaves of fresh bread, a wheel of cheddar, a cold fried chicken, and a bottle of good wine for the hungry travelers to munch on while planning. Hamanap begins "I just sent  to Limar this morning, and it sounds like he's preparing to lure Rith into some kind of deadly trap soon. We should pray for his success. He also asked us to fund a Shrine of Aasterinian  and buy a scroll of consecrate  for Hiskel's clerk Eslen, so he can link it. I approve of the idea, for the Messenger is an ally of Bahamut, but... should we wait until the matter with Zorall is resolved first?"

hiskel- "if we are making battle plans we should have the leader of the red kings infanty men here too." Sja'renj uses this chance to watch, learn an nibble on some bread. - after the meeting hiskel will ask Ering to stay and show him the lexicon   -asking her next question "where should i go to hear the true name of fire?" "It's shaped like a Rubix Cube, but each of the 54 faces has a Draconic letter or numeral carved into it, with the remaining faces bearing strange symbols she has yet to decipher" (anything apply to the strange symbols yet?) basically she pulls that out and slowly arranges those words one at a time and it will answer it. here are some notes of my previous questions - It takes only a few minutes for you to get the letters all lined up. As the last clicks into place, the Lexicon suddenly spins to life, its sides rotating this way and that with great speed for a few seconds--then it snaps to a stop, realigned to show an answer read across its faces: "once every 7 sunsets" 2.who made you? Tellaj the lich king 3. can you help me in combat? -"Only if a truename is spoken." 5. How do i learn a true name? -"learn many languages an listen well." 6. what were you made to do? ""unravel secrets"." 7. why did Tellaj use the draconic language for your sides? "Draconic is the purest language" 8. What can you do with a True name? "help you to hear it" 8.5 how can you help me hear a true name? (skipped) 9. Do you hold the True name of others? "all and none" 10.My true name is (hiskels true name) show me what you can do. "you are a namer now (hiskels true name)l: speak and create" 11. what is the true name for pain?"seek pain to know pain."  12"where can i find pain?"  "only in living flesh". (gave up learning more on power word pain didnt care to learn torture) 13." what is the first step to the true name of fire?" "fire is change and power; you must respect it" 14. what is the true name of the spark that starts the flame? t rerotates to spell out the answer: "ixen" ...which is just the Draconic word for fire. (figured that didnt mean much and it was just limited to the draconic on it) 15"where does Tellaj keep his true speak research notes?"   "Ishconn"  (one of Astarte's people, previous follower of lich king controls undead) 16 - " where were you made?" "Desteroth"sounds a bit like Destreth, the old capital of Terolus that was destroyed during the Cataclysm.  17. I've learned a new word power disable, can you enhance it? "To disable is to break. Study creation to understand destruction" 18. can truespeak protect or cleanse taint?"the true tongue can control anything".(xankoris has taint issues but hiskel isnt that skilled) 19."what else do you know besides True naming?: i can know anything". 20."what do you know of Garyx's offer to change bodies?""his fire destroys, but a strong soul may be reborn". 21.do you have any feeling or desires?@i am no mind, only a mirror to the world". 22. do you have a truename?the Lexicon". 23.how can you help me hear a true name? (skipped)  24.where should i go to hear the true name of fire? (waiting) "You've proven a good ally and I don't mind you studying it."

    "I want you to send some message to my mother again." He breaths in, "25 words, let's see... Dear mother, It is me, Xankoris. The evil dragon Zorall possesses another Gaijin Black Scroll. Tell Daimyo, or Dark God will walk among us, again." He goes silent for a second, making it's in 25 words. "That's all I can tell her for now. I can't believe there will be another Gaijin Black scroll. Is there any evil god in Oerth that was destroyed?" Max said: "...so about those Rokugani defensive spells you demonstrated," he says to the shugenja while trudging through the forest beside the wagon. "That castle of water seems very useful for us personally, especially if it can block firebreath from the half-dragons. Though castle of air  doesn't seem much better than mirror image , to be frank. The large-scale version would probably be great for protecting the fortress, but I don't know if Kendling will give us a month to prepare..."     "Of course, the original Castle of Air is meant to be lost, to bring it back I must ask Daimyo for permission. Even this Castle of Water is not the original, the real one can make Rokugan's castle out of the water, hence the name."         "There's another thing I forget to tell everyone, There's a spell with the same level as Castle of Water which in theory can kill Zorall if you can hold him down for 10 minutes, at least." Xankoris makes a couple of illusion of humans that has blue flame within the belly. "Imagine this blue flame is Chi, the energy within every creature. With the power of water, I can force to move a little portion of Chi from one being to another being."     While explaining, a little part of the flame constantly moves to another, until it has no flame and one human figment fade away, leaving another with twice the size of fire. "Though the effect is temporary, Zorall would be in a helpless state for a while."

On the road to the Waypoint Ering will wait for the convoy to stop for the night, he will retreat in a quiet tent and Scry on Vigil. He will observe his familiar and his surroundings with the intention to teleport there in the near future. He will try to cast Message through the crystal sphere (rolled an 87), and will speak the the raven. "Vigil, our raids in the caves of Zorall have gone well. I will scry on you one more time, then you will leave Base Camp and fly with haste to the Waypoint. You need to contact the birds around the fortress and convince them to come to the aviary. A siege is coming and fire and devastation will follow. Bring Hurok, he might be more persuasive then us." He will Scry one more time on his familiar, trying to reduce the chance of a mistake for an eventual teleport.  Ritt K. said:     "There's another thing I forget to tell everyone, There's a spell with the same level as Castle of Water which in theory can kill Zorall if you can hold him down for 10 minutes, at least." Xankoris makes a couple of illusion of humans that has blue flame within the belly. "Imagine this blue flame is Chi, the energy within every creature. With the power of water, I can force to move a little portion of Chi from one being to another being." "And I assume the person that absorbs Zorall's Chi would become very powerful while the spell lasts, right? But I very much doubt we'll be able to hold him down for so long. I have been experimenting with semi-real illusions and I could create a net of force around his wings, but it won't last more than one minute..." Max said: Once the party is gathered in the small, lead-lined room around a conference table with a heatless, smokeless lantern burning on its center, Leoavor explains "We should be hidden any form of divination in here, so this is where we can hold our war councils from now on. We're underground too, and the walls and door should be thick enough to muffle any sound from outside." He also brought down a basket with some small loaves of fresh bread, a wheel of cheddar, a cold fried chicken, and a bottle of good wine for the hungry travelers to munch on while planning. Hamanap begins "I just sent  to Limar this morning, and it sounds like he's preparing to lure Rith into some kind of deadly trap soon. We should pray for his success. He also asked us to fund a Shrine of Aasterinian  and buy a scroll of consecrate  for Hiskel's clerk Eslen, so he can link it. I approve of the idea, for the Messenger is an ally of Bahamut, but... should we wait until the matter with Zorall is resolved first?" Ering looks around the room, surprised. "The work you've done here is impressive, and in such a short time..." He sits in one of the chairs and waits for everyone else to settle in the room and close the door.  "I see no problems with Limar's request, but I think we all agree that it is not a priority and such construction can be postponed for the time being." Ering sits back in his chair, ready to share his knowledge about sieges and warfare.  "First of all... The Waypoint is in a very good shape. We are well stocked on food and armor. We have strong walls, a moat, a drawbridge, siege engines and good soldiers to defend them. I think they could easily stand against a regular force even ten times their size.  Of course, what we are up against is not what I would define as a regular army. We will have to face Zorall's children: flying and fire-breathing half dragons... In case of a full assault they will have to be our first priority, ideally they will need to be brought down before they land on the walls or in the courtyard.  It would be wise to leave barrels full of water along the walls and in the castle, as well as select volunteers that will help putting out the eventual fires. My second in command will run drills, since people always think they know how to do something until they actually have to do it.  Kendling is smart and devious, so we should expect sabotage attempts. Poisoned water, infiltrators to ruin our supplies and even assassins should not surprise us. We should add more guards during the night. Kraggan do you think having your dogs roam around the fort would help catch eventual intruders? Lastly, the key in winning all battles: information. The more we know about our enemy and their tactics the greater our chances become. I have asked Vigil and Hurok to find and bring all the birds near the fort in our aviary, if we are lucky we can persuade them to spy for us. I will try to Scry on Kendling and some of Zorall's children. Xank, Hamanap, do you think you could divine if Kendling is attacking alone or if he is followed by Zorall as well? Knowing the answer to that question may save a lot of people their lives. Also, what do we know about Kaladesh?"

Josh said: - after the meeting hiskel will ask Ering to stay and show him the lexicon   -asking her next question "where should i go to hear the true name of fire?" Ering will look in amazement at the Lexicon. "This artifact is incredible... I really wish I could spend more time studying Truenaming, but alas, our time is short and mastery of everything is impossible. Have you learned the full Truename of something or someone? Excluding yourself."

"Importantly, my Remove Poison power works but once per day. That said, I'm particularly resilient against poison myself and I have a feeling others may be as well. It might be helpful to have someone or someones test the water at regular intervals, so that we are not caught by surprise should they attempt such an act. I believe there are certain spells that can be used to purify the food and drink as well, should we become suspicious." Avariel rubs his chin. "In a battle, I can provide aerial support, but I can't fight dozen half dragons alone. We should prepare siege weapons if we have them."

whats the time relation between Limar and the party now? -want to know if its ok to level Hiskel hiskel-"Any chance For hammy and leo to coordinate a teleport for Limar? I'm sure he'd want to defend the waypoint from invaders." "I dont know much about kaladesh, he's a friend of Limars." "No I've only learned my own it takes so much time and cost to learn the truename of someone." -hiskel will also retrieve the lesser rod of enlarge spell, the range increase should be more useful now that we're out of the caves.

Dawi said: "And I assume the person that absorbs Zorall's Chi would become very powerful while the spell lasts, right? But I very much doubt we'll be able to hold him down for so long. I have been experimenting with semi-real illusions and I could create a net of force around his wings, but it won't last more than one minute..."     "That's right, imagine Avariel has 99% strength of Zorall on top of his Angelic power. I also think about that kind of spell too, like Weight of Heavens , but don't worry about that yet, let's focus more on a battle against Kendling" Dawi said: Lastly, the key in winning all battles: information. The more we know about our enemy and their tactics the greater our chances become. I have asked Vigil and Hurok to find and bring all the birds near the fort in our aviary, if we are lucky we can persuade them to spy for us. I will try to Scry on Kendling and some of Zorall's children. Xank, Hamanap, do you think you could divine if Kendling is attacking alone or if he is followed by Zorall as well? Knowing the answer to that question may save a lot of people their lives. Also, what do we know about Kaladesh?"     "Divination spell only works if the event will occur in one week. I also have to recover the spell back, therefore I won't have enough time to Sense Void on anyone"     Xankoris proceed to cast Divination spell and ask, "If I begin recovering the spell that will take 4 weeks to finish, would I finished before Kendling strike The Waypoint?" (1d100 = 43; Success)