Errands in Town

I'll leave diamonddew out of it. religion 6 I doubt we actually have enough evidence to convince the guards to put a lock down  on a temple any ways. who is ready to move on the temple at night? or day, right now would be good since they could do the spell at any time seemingly.  you've been here a year deathwalkers any shrines in town or nearby to undead hating gods we could offer to before going into battle? should be expecting some undead minions such as skeleton or zombies  along with their necromantic master levi as well as an old invisible man fond of back stabbing and possible a murderous halfing who will do the same. and what ever traps they've placed to keep us out. pitfalls, magic runes... I hear that Skyshroud is nice this time of the year. -how many of the deathwalkers will be aiding us in this  end of treefall bossfight? 

Knowledge (arcana) check: , Spellcraft check: 26 (Nat20): Research how to destroy a magic circle. Knowledge (arcana) check: 9, Spellcraft check: 12: Compare a magic circle with other magic circle in books. Yes, I'd like to keep teaching Silk.

Josh said: who is ready to move on the temple at night? or day, right now would be good since they could do the spell at any time seemingly.  you've been here a year deathwalkers any shrines in town or nearby to undead hating gods we could offer to before going into battle? should be expecting some undead minions such as skeleton or zombies  along with their necromantic master levi as well as an old invisible man fond of back stabbing and possible a murderous halfing who will do the same. and what ever traps they've placed to keep us out. pitfalls, magic runes... I hear that Skyshroud is nice this time of the year. -how many of the deathwalkers will be aiding us in this s end of treefall bossfight?  Leoavor: "Everything does seem to lead back to the Temple of Corellon , but I can't bring myself to believe that the priests there could be in cahoots with the Cult of Vecna... maybe we should talk to them first, and share our suspicions? Or at least warn them that Zeke and Levi are planning something centered on their temple?" Hamanap: "Do not forget, Vecna is the god of secrets. If anyone could pose as a priest of another deity for so long, it would be a Vecnan cultist. And if Zeke is connected to the Assassins Guild, or the Cultists are connected to the Church, we might be playing right into their hands. We should be very careful of whom we trust, until we're more sure of our enemies' allegiences." Oskar Strakeln: "There is  a Church of Pelor in town, he's known to be particularly opposed to undead, though most Good deities are as well, including Corellon Larethian. If you may be heading into a trap at the Temple, we'll go with you just in case our help is needed. It seems your danger is much more urgent, so once it is dealt with you can help us to handle our own problem. We may find some useful clues in the course of rooting out this Cult, too." Pamu: "Anubis teaches that death is a time of repose and peace, and that undead are the worst sort of abomination, for disturbing it. If you would join me in ritual prayer and offering to the Great Jackal, I am sure he will lend us his aid in putting down any undead we may encounter." Ritt K. said: Knowledge (arcana) check: , Spellcraft check: 26 (Nat20): Research how to destroy a magic circle. Knowledge (arcana) check: 9, Spellcraft check: 12: Compare a magic circle with other magic circle in books. You spend Ready'readt 17th and 18th on your research, make sure to pay 2 gold for the library entrance fees. You learn that since the power of a magic circle comes from its pattern, it can be disrupted by breaking up the lines and sigils on it. Unfortunately, the lines in Treefall's circle are streets, and the sigils are buildings... so disrupting it would involve massive damage to the city. You have more luck finding similar circles in the books, though: from the comparisons you can find, Treefall's circle seems to be intended for conjuration magic. The sigils are the type used to draw out power, particularly death energy, and others are intended to collect it towards the center of the circle (and the city). It seems that Levi did his research too--his choice of Treefall for collecting death energy is too big of a coincidence, he must  have discovered this secret circle too, and intends to take advantage of it just like he took advantage of Bowhery's old plague pits. Also, there are a couple things I want to ask you guys. First, I'd like everyone to decide on their character's greatest fear. Second, I'd like feedback from each of you on how the campaign's going. We're reaching the end of the Assassins Guild Arc, which represents a major turning point in your adventures. I have some loose plans on what's to come next, but before I flesh them out I want to know what you all would like to see, as far as encounters, scenarios, obstacles, challenges, NPCs, treasure, etc. What kinds of things have you enjoyed the most, and the least? Is there anything you'd like to see more of, or anything I haven't included yet that you'd like to come up in the future? Anything we've done that you really don't want to do again? Both of these are important topics, so you can take some time to think before answering if you need it. Just whisper or PM me your answers before the start of this week's session, please.

Xankoris fill each pineapple bomb with medium venom poison one and green blood one. Spot check: 23, Knowledge (Religion) check: 20. Xankoris trying to find Vecna's sign or something similar in  Temple of Corellon Larethian. BTW, How long does Pamu's ritual gonna take?

Ritt K. said: Spot check: 23, Knowledge (Religion) check: 20. Xankoris trying to find Vecna's sign or something similar in  Temple of Corellon Larethian. BTW, How long does Pamu's ritual gonna take? Pamu's prayer ritual lasts about 20 minutes, and includes some traditional Egyptian songs and prayers to Anubis, drinking of wine, and a burned offering of some cloth wraps. Hamanap seems familiar with it, and sings along with him (surprisingly well, she's clearly trained her voice) in their strange dialect of Common. Int checks apply. You don't see any signs or symbols of Vecna around the Temple, but there is  a lot of beautiful art and architecture on display. The only odd thing you can see is what you noticed the first time you visited it: that although the ceiling inside looks as high as the roof outside, the huge stained glass windows at the front and back are only visible from outside, as if they're a facade on the outside walls, or perhaps the height of the ceiling inside is some sort of optical illusion. Knowledge (architecture & engineering) applies.

Intelligence check: 6. And because of he doesn't know anything that related to this ritual, he's still going to help them by using Ghost Sound for some sort of BGM. Knowledge (architecture & engineering) check: 19.

Ritt K. said: Intelligence check: 6. And because of he doesn't know anything that related to this ritual, he's still going to help them by using Ghost Sound for some sort of BGM. Knowledge (architecture & engineering) check: 19. You can't make much out of the words, but your Common isn't great as-is, so that's not surprising. Roll a Perform check to see how good your illusory music is. As you gaze up at the ceiling, you realize that it's not any kind of magical illusion, but simply a clever bit of architecture. The arches and buttressing of the main cathedral hall are shaped so as to create the effect of making it seem much higher than it really is. In fact, the ceiling in here isn't even as high as the bottoms of the huge, circular stained glass windows outside, which means there must be a fair bit of space between the ceiling and the roof--such as an attic. Strangely, you have not seen any stairs going upwards anywhere in the Temple, or heard any mention of an attic or second floor. As you ponder this, you have the sudden feeling that someone is watching you. Roll a Sense Motive check.

Perform check: 21 Sense Motive check: 20

21 spot as we are walking to zeke to see how good this jail is an guess how long it will take for him to break out once he has recovered. simple non boasting " where is the hand?"  diplomacy 22, note his response sense motive 15 and sit by and see what everyone else has to say to him. -would like to catch up with the death walker,thank them doubt we would have been victorious with out them, offer to help Pamu lay the dead to rest. see if they got the hit called off, and what they are planning next? -gather the kobolds and ask if they saw the giant "death elemental" on church and proceed to tell them how it fled after just one breath, bluff 20 -count up the treasure and pack to leave treefall. -admonish leo for not aiming his lighting bolt better it hurt a lot, and aid kraggan in attempt to convince him to stay in the fort when we take it over, we'll need someone trust worthy and smart to watch over thing while we gone and he can use the time to figure out what he wants to do with his life now. -Ask Xankoris how he feels after dieing. -  would like to suggest to kraggan the we're going to need to recruit staff for the fort so if we start spreading word now that in 1-3 months ( no idea how long it will take to clear it out) we'll have people on the way to bowhery or nearby and ready. would also like to add in hosting a party to celebrate all of our victories, possible a tournament to recruit real adventurers and not just guards.

I'm gonna run each scene simultaneously, in order to resolve loose ends more efficiently. Josh  said: 21 spot as we are walking to zeke to see how good this jail is an guess how long it will take for him to break out once he has recovered. simple non boasting " where is the hand?"  diplomacy 22, note his response sense motive 15 and sit by and see what everyone else has to say to him. It's a pretty solid jail, even better than Waterwend's. The cells are heavy brick, with stone doors tightly barred windows. The guard escort takes you down several floors to the deepest level of the dungeons, and brings you to a series of cells with faintly glowing magical sigils on their doors and walls. Knowledge (arcana) and Spellcraft apply. He unlocks the door of one, and ushers you inside. Those who enter feel a strange sensation, Spellcraft applies. It's pretty bare, with only a straw-stuffed pallet bed and a bucket. In the corner, Zeke sits curled up, bound into a straight jacket with a wild look in his eyes. He's still wounded from the battle, but somewhat recovered. Looking up at Limar's voice, he grins and answers "I have two inside my jacket. Two hands, ten fingers, ten toes, five lakes, 3 dragons, 8 gold, I counted, I remember... you.. YOU!" He suddenly snarls and leaps at you, but trips on his manacled ankles and falls hard, cursing and thrashing, rolling on the floor in a senseless rage. He'd always been strange and dark, but it seems like he's finally descended into complete madness. "He's been like this since he woke up," the guard says disgustedly. "Damn loony. I hope they give him the rope for what he did to Silaqui." Later that day (Earthday, Ready'reat 20th), at noon: Josh  said: -would like to catch up with the death walker,thank them doubt we would have been victorious with out them, offer to help Pamu lay the dead to rest. see if they got the hit called off, and what they are planning next? The remaining Deathwalkers meet you at the Temple of Sehanine Moonbow , where Oskar's body is being packed into a sturdy wooden coffin. The slabs for hosting the dead are all occupied, and some wooden tables have even been laid out to handle the overflow of bodies from the battle. Pamu explains "Anubis teaches that sometimes death is only a stepping stone. Oskar was our guildmaster, far too important to be simply laid to rest. We communicated with his second in command (and now acting guildmistress), Cora Greenbottle, this morning, and it was decided that we will have him raised  from the dead and restored to life. We're leaving for Waterwend in 3 days' time, to purchase the diamonds necessary for the spell and seek out a powerful priestess to cast it."  They thank you for your help as well. Jonas tells you, "A representative from the Assassins Guild met with us this morning. They pardoned us for our involvement in the 'Death Elemental Event', and told us that in gratitude for helping save Treefall, they would cancel the contract on our friend Rurik. It's fairly unprecedented... and, the rep hinted that you all had some role in convincing them." Zanean nods, the old high elf still looking weary from the night's efforts. "As acting team leader, I think I can safely say that you have the lasting friendship of the Deathwalkers. If you'd like to join our guild, you could return with us to Strongtown after we finish in Waterwend..." he trails off, letting the offer hang in the air, then adds "No rush in deciding. Once we're back, I expect we'll need to seriously deal with Grizzled One's attacks on our city." They take you all out to a long, luxurious lunch to celebrate your mutual victories. There's good food, good drink, Pamu and Hamanap singing songs of their homeland, more good drink, Silk and Chessy chasing each other around and playing lightheartedly, Zanean telling funny stories about his adopted (and now missing/evil?) daughter Xanaphia as a child, a bit more good drink, Nell flirting rather aggressively with Leoavor, people coming by to thank you all for saving the city, and finally a parting of ways as friends. Still later: Josh  said: -gather the kobolds and ask if they saw the giant "death elemental" on church and proceed to tell them how it fled after just one breath, bluff 20 -count up the treasure and pack to leave treefall. -admonish leo for not aiming his lighting bolt better it hurt a lot, and aid kraggan in attempt to convince him to stay in the fort when we take it over, we'll need someone trust worthy and smart to watch over thing while we gone and he can use the time to figure out what he wants to do with his life now. The kobolds didn't see it personally, but they've been eavesdropping on the gossip about it all morning--people have been talking of little else, it seems. They're awed by your prowess. Take 5 roleplaying xp. They also help pack the party's supplies, and carry them to the boats when you're all ready. Luckily, the improvements you made to the launches are also finished today, just in time. Leo blushes a bit, scratching the back of his head. "Sorry about that... heat of the moment, you know? I'll be more careful in the future." Roll Diplomacy.

spellcraft- 16,23 diplomacy- 31 guess the hand is lost for now.

Josh  said: spellcraft- 16,23 diplomacy- 31 guess the hand is lost for now. You think the sigils on the walls might have something to do with abjuration magic. As you enter the cell, it takes you a minute to realize what the strange tingle is... inside it, magic is entirely suppressed. Even the corrosive gas stored inside your special draconic organ it has disappated, leaving you feeling the sort of emptiness you do right after using your breath weapon. Later on, speaking to Leoavor with Kraggan about him staying on, you feel as though you're making some progress in convincing him. "I don't really know that I'd want to keep adventuring forever," he says, "it was really just a means to an end. But you all have been such great friends to me, and I want to repay you for helping me find closure. If we can capture the Fortress of Pelor and set it up as a base, I might be willing to stay there in a research and advisory role, while I figure out what I want to do with the rest of my life." 

Knowledge (Arcana) check: 18, Spellcraft check: 21, Spellcraft check: 22. When seeing sigils, Xankoris uses *Read magic* and tries to read it. Xankoris does a *Ki shout* on Zeke (DC17, Fear effect), and use *Hypnotism* (7HD, Will save 15) and said: "Clear your mind and be honest". Then, use Detect thought on Zeke specifically. "Simple, Could you tell me what is your agreement between you and your God?" "And if possible, Would you like some mental treatment or anything else?" (sense motive check: 11, Diplomacy check: 25). In celebration, Xankoris eat many things, except for meat because of 'Rokugani tradition' and alcohol as he doesn't want to get drunk. But he uses *Minor image* to make an illusion of traditional Rokugani band and song for his entertainment while eating. Xankoris Profession (painter) check: 24+1 from Guidance= 25, Xankoris draw a fight screen of 'Death elemental event' which he writes “When ten thousand men clash with arms and fire, it is always a single man's actions that make the difference.” at the bottom of the picture, and give it to temple as 'thank you gift' for they let him and Silk stay for a while. Xankoris Craft (Origami) check: 17+1 from Guidance= 18, Xankoris make a little water-proofed paper crane and give it to Silaqui's family as 'sorry gift' for being responsible for her death. "I'm really sorry. I know that revenge can't bring her back so I make this as my need to clear my mind, Please accept this thing as my deepest apologies!" (Diplomacy check: 22.)

Xankoris explains Limar about his feelings after dying, "It's like you passes out, then you wake where you know can't possibly belong here." He scratches his arm, "Actually... My case is weird." "When people die, they should go to hell or heaven or any other plane, right?" He sighs, "But I go to the Void, the place that makes you, me, planes and everything still connected. So, After sitting for a moment, I found a chance. I go through the 'planar portal' and dive my soul back into my body " He assumes that Limar would be total confused right now, "So, It feels like you wake where you weren't sleeping last night, That's it." "Actually, I'd like to take a great doubt that if you die, you will see Bahamut or Tiamat. Who'll know, right?."

Ritt K.  said: Knowledge (Arcana) check: 18, Spellcraft check: 21, Spellcraft check: 22. When seeing sigils, Xankoris uses *Read magic* and tries to read it. Xankoris does a *Ki shout* on Zeke (DC17, Fear effect), and use *Hypnotism* (7HD, Will save 15) and said: "Clear your mind and be honest". Then, use Detect thought on Zeke specifically. "Simple, Could you tell me what is your agreement between you and your God?" "And if possible, Would you like some mental treatment or anything else?" (sense motive check: 11, Diplomacy check: 25). You make the same assessment as Limar, and with the added help of your read magic  spell you identify the sigils as part of a powerful abjuration spell intended to project an antimagic field  over these cells, completely suppressing all magic inside of them. You also notice an invisible  arcane mark  integrated into each of the sigils, which reads "Gol RRT". Because of the field, your other spells have no effect on Zeke, but the ki shout (being a natural ability, rather than a magical one) works, and seems to shock him out of his rage. He sits up, trembling, his eyes wide and wild. "My god? My goddess. My lady. Lady of fire, lady of love, first of the dead, queen of shadows, dusk of Suel... I gave her souls, so many, Levi was the first... was I not good enough, my ruby goddess? O, you have forsaken me! I tried to kill them, I tried!" he wails, gradually looking upwards as he speaks, as if he's forgotten that you're here. "I saw the shadow you sent to warn me, I saw it in the deep! The gaping dragon, the eater of minds!" Knowledge (religion) applies. Ritt K.  said: Xankoris Profession (painter) check: 24+1 from Guidance= 25, Xankoris draw a fight screen of 'Death elemental event' which he writes “When ten thousand men clash with arms and fire, it is always a single man's actions that make the difference.” at the bottom of the picture, and give it to temple as 'thank you gift' for they let him and Silk stay for a while. Xankoris Craft (Origami) check: 17+1 from Guidance= 18, Xankoris make a little water-proofed paper crane and give it to Silaqui's family as 'sorry gift' for being responsible for her death. "I'm really sorry. I know that revenge can't bring her back so I make this as my need to clear my mind, Please accept this thing as my deepest apologies!" (Diplomacy check: 22.) The materials and delivery for these will cost 10 gold pieces total. Silaqui's family seems moved by the gesture, her mother tells you "Thank you for the gift. I know it wasn't your fault that she died... she was a good girl, and it makes me proud to know she had such heroes for friends." Her father adds, "I'll be glad to see that little monster that killed her put to death. Thank Corellon you helped catch him." The painting will take a bit longer, about a week's work, but you can have it shipped to Treefall when you finish (since you guys have to get out of town pretty soon). It will be an excellent piece once finished. Ritt K.  said: Xankoris explains Limar about his feelings after dying, "It's like you passes out, then you wake where you know can't possibly belong here." He scratches his arm, "Actually... My case is weird." "When people die, they should go to hell or heaven or any other plane, right?" He sighs, "But I go to the Void, the place that makes you, me, planes and everything still connected. So, After sitting for a moment, I found a chance. I go through the 'planar portal' and dive my soul back into my body " He assumes that Limar would be total confused right now, "So, It feels like you wake where you weren't sleeping last night, That's it." "Actually, I'd like to take a great doubt that if you die, you will see Bahamut or Tiamat. Who'll know, right?." Hamanap strokes Limar's wing reassuringly. "Our young wyrmling has a long journey yet to find the full light of Bahamut's glory, but I am confident that when he does, he will one day stand before the Lord of the North Wind in all his majesty, and be found worthy. Those who struggle against their evil nature and succeed are the most blessed of all." She launches into a parable from Bahamutian scripture about a copper dragon wyrmling who left his family to seek a life of selfish destruction, but eventually saw the error of his ways and returned, only to be welcomed with love, forgiveness, and a feast of fatted calf. After the meeting with the Deathwalkers, Kraggan mentions to the party "I've been thinking about what Pamu said, about raising Oskar... Ehlonna can grant me a spell now that can do that, more or less, but it would require some expensive materials, and it comes with a risk: it builds a new body for you, if I raised one of you with it, your mind and soul would stay intact, but you would probably reincarnate as a new race. You'd be an adult and all, but it might be strange. Would any of you want to be reincarnated that way if you die?" She adds, "We should probably also discuss our final wishes in general... adventuring is a pretty dangerous career. Xankoris, before you died in the battle, you said that you wanted your ashes returned to the Kingdom of Provincia in a jade urn, I think? Do you still feel that way, or would you want to be reincarnated by my magic? I know for myself, if I died I'd want to be buried in the forest, with a sapling planted over my body so that my flesh could return to the cycle of nature." Everyone can roll Sense Motive. Leoavor speaks up first. "I think I'd want to be reincarnated, yeah. It would be weird to come back as a dwarf or a gnome or something, but... I feel like almost giving up on my life to kill Shark gave me a new appreciation for what I have." Hamanap nods, saying "I would as well. If I were given a new body, perhaps lord Bahamut would see fit to reward my service with a form closer to draconic perfection." 
 FYI to everyone, I added the treasures Limar took off Zeke on the rooftop to the Loot thread. Craft (alchemy), Knowledge (local), and Forgery apply.

Definitely confused, Although it will be Chronepsis who will pass judgement on where I will go when I pass. 22 knowledge religion 19 nobility on house of lord Ebano and where we might check in that 808 gold. I'm not planing on dying anytime within the next couple  thousand years but i am curious, how expensive is it? and is there any way to control it? If i  did perchance fall, I would not want to come back as a dung beetle. we should ask the Deathwalkers if they forged any of the current papers we got of zeke.

Dru doesn't know how to feel about re-incarnation. She asks for some time to think it over.  Dru would like to put forward the idea to go hunting for the rare cards, now that the major issue in treefall has been dealt with, maybe not being seen in the town would also do a lot to calm the situation down.  Knowledge (local) 5 Also, my loot thread hasn't updated in a month. 

Knowledge (Religion) check: 4 (Nat1), 'Ahhhh... whatever, seem like I have to go with the flow.' Xankoris thought. Then he said: "Don't you see, Zeke? The way of darkness always brings great power. The way of darkness always brings a great price.” "Could you tell me what will she give you if you give souls to her?" (Diplomacy check: 27) Sense Motive check: 22."Revive? I'll pass. There's a lot of better guy than me around there, waiting to be in the part of this adventure. And If I actually die, please keep my body as much as possible. or my wakizashi, It means a lot to us. And sends it back to crane clan. Anyway, If it's my body, Jade or light-blue urn. If it's my wakizashi, pack it in a good package and coil it with rope, don't forget a letter about how I die and when too, especially in a poem form, they do like a poem." "However, I don't think I'll die shortly." He glances to Silk a little "Because still have the void to study and the student to teach about arts and crafts." For loot: Craft (alchemy) check: 15, Knowledge (Local) check: 15, Forgery check: 11.

Josh  said: 22 knowledge religion 19 nobility on house of lord Ebano and where we might check in that 808 gold. Some of the names Zeke used are common titles for Wee Jas, though they're a little off as well. "Dusk of Suel" is a new one to you, though you've read that she was originally a Suloise goddess before rising to greater prominence. Knowledge (geography) applies. You have no idea what the 'gaping dragon' he refers to is, though. You've heard of the House of Lord Ebano , as well. It's one of the five major banks of Terolus, though the first branches were in the Kingdom of Provincia. It was founded there by a Rokugani immigrant, a nobleman, and traditionally still employs guards of Rokugani descent, armed with their traditional weapons. Knowledge (geography) applies, as does Craft (weaponsmithing), trained only. Letters of credit can generally be turned into the issuer in return for the listed value, though one from a major bank (or another well-known and reliable source) is almost as good as money, and might be accepted at 90% value. Josh said: I'm not planing on dying anytime within the next couple  thousand years but i am curious, how expensive is it? and is there any way to control it? If i  did perchance fall, I would not want to come back as a dung beetle. we should ask the Deathwalkers if they forged any of the current papers we got of zeke. Kraggan tells you, "The rare oils and unguents I'd need to spread over the body cost about a thousand gold. There's no way to control it that I know of, but I can always pray and hope Ehlonna aids me... my ability to alter fate might also help. I believe it almost always brings you back into a humanoid form, but there's a tiny chance that you could end up as just about anything." Jonas looks over the papers from Zeke's scroll case, and shakes his head. "None of these are my work, although... the military orders are a bit suspicious. They might be fakes." He points out several small details that only an expert forger (or possibly an experienced military officer) would notice. Ahmed Y. said: Dru would like to put forward the idea to go hunting for the rare cards, now that the major issue in treefall has been dealt with, maybe not being seen in the town would also do a lot to calm the situation down.  Also, my loot thread hasn't updated in a month.  Leo hmms, and says "I'm not really interested in risking my life for some Gathering cards, I think I'll sit that one out. Are we still planning to go squat in the Fortress of Pelor? Maybe I could supervise the repairs and renovations while you guys are treasure hunting." New treasure is always in the first post at the top of the Loot thread. The comments thread is just for claiming items or discussing party assets. Ritt K. said: Knowledge (Religion) check: 4 (Nat1), 'Ahhhh... whatever, seem like I have to go with the flow.' Xankoris thought. Then he said: "Don't you see, Zeke? The way of darkness always brings great power. The way of darkness always brings a great price.” "Could you tell me what will she give you if you give souls to her?" (Diplomacy check: 27) "You saw! You saw what she gave me! Yes, the power, yes, yes, darkness... I can burrow into the darkness, hide forever, hide from the dragon, hide from the darkness..." He curls up tighter and struggles frustratedly, as if trying to use some power that the antimagic field  is suppressing. "Whyyyy can't I go? WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME, MY LADY?!" he screams, his shrill halfling voice echoing off the walls. Ritt K. said: Sense Motive check: 22."Revive? I'll pass. There's a lot of better guy than me around there, waiting to be in the part of this adventure. And If I actually die, please keep my body as much as possible. or my wakizashi, It means a lot to us. And sends it back to crane clan. Anyway, If it's my body, Jade or light-blue urn. If it's my wakizashi, pack it in a good package and coil it with rope, don't forget a letter about how I die and when too, especially in a poem form, they do like a poem." "However, I don't think I'll die shortly." He glances to Silk a little "Because still have the void to study and the student to teach about arts and crafts." Silk has seemed uncomfortable with all this talk about you dying, and seems comforted by the reassurance. She hugs on Xankoris's arm as you all walk along, adding "You'd better not. My painting sucks ," with a weak smile. Ritt K. said: For loot: Craft (alchemy) check: 15, Knowledge (Local) check: 15, Forgery check: 11. You sniff and examine the vial, concluding that it's some sort of alcohol-based mouthwash, flavored with menthol... The sort of thing popular with nobility. Probably worth about 10 gold pieces. As for the letter of credit, you recall there being a branch of the House of Lord Ebano in Waterwend. 

Sense Motive check: 14, Diplomacy check: 19(Nat1): "Listen, Zeke. You cannot live while hiding from life.." Xankoris said with a serious tone. "Lose your fear, and you gain the world." Xankoris turns to the guard and said: "Is there anybody in this town who can cure his mental illness?"

Ritt K. said: Sense Motive check: 14, Diplomacy check: 19(Nat1): "Listen, Zeke. You cannot live while hiding from life.." Xankoris said with a serious tone. "Lose your fear, and you gain the world." Xankoris turns to the guard and said: "Is there anybody in this town who can cure his mental illness?" Zeke lifts his face to look up at you, momentarily calm, but his cheeks are wet with tears. "I've lost everything... everything... why won't you die? WHY WON'T YOU DIE?! DIE, DIE, DIE!" He rushes suddenly at you, scrambling to his feet, but falling again as he forgets he's still hobbled, once more lost to his own rage. He keeps on rolling around, screaming "DIE! DIE! DIE!" in a tone that's almost entreating, until he breaks into a coughing fit for a few minutes, then settles down to slow, wheezing panting face-down on the stone floor, his throat hoarse from yelling.  The guard looks down at him in disgust. "A priest could, perhaps, but why bother? He'll surely be put to death for his crimes. Madness is no defense in Treefall."  Hamanap speaks up at last, advising "No soul is beyond saving. If he could repent in the end, even with the last moments of his life, he might yet find redemption in the eyes of Yondalla. If we paid for it, could a healer be allowed to treat him?" The guard shakes his head. "Not as it stands, milady. Orders are that he's to be kept in this cell until his fate is decided by the magistrates and barristers, and no magic works in here. I think they might be worried about him escaping with some sort of arcane trick."

Xankoris sighed before said: "Why won't I die? It's because a clear mind can topple even the strongest will. And I'll leave you with this last lesson, 'Stop thinking, and end your problems'," Then, Xankoris steps away from Zeke and said: "He suffers only because he takes seriously what the gods made for fun." "But I don't think to kill him is the best decision too, because he worships a god of death. He might come back as undead or ghost or anything."

If Limar does die i would like for you to wait until the last possible day to reincarnate him, that way he can talk to Chronepsis and ask some questions,\ -where will he send limar? -if he chooses to reincarnate will he come back to Chronepsis after he dies again or will he go to the gods of his new race? -if everything is good he might reject the spell and decide to stay dead.

Josh said: If Limar does die i would like for you to wait until the last possible day to reincarnate him, that way he can talk to Chronepsis and ask some questions,\ -where will he send limar? -if he chooses to reincarnate will he come back to Chronepsis after he dies again or will he go to the gods of his new race? -if everything is good he might reject the spell and decide to stay dead. Hamanap nods approvingly. "Such cautious thinking shows a great stride forward toward the true path. If a life is well-lived, death can be greeted with satisfaction. Consider Levi--his soul was poisoned with hatred and obsession such that he welcomed even the abomination of undeath if it meant another chance to carry out his selfish goals. He may have thought and spoken and felt, but he was not alive by any true measure."

Once Lady's Lace  and Triumph  are loaded up, and everyone's said their goodbyes, the Wayfinders depart from the Treefall on Waterday (a good omen), Ready'reat 26th, rowing east with the current along the Orthan River. The dawn is cold but clear, good weather for rowing. The river is still swollen from the hurricane, and you see fewer boats than you ever have, especially near a port--hardly surprising, considering the sheer volume of wreckage floating in the ruins of the docks.  As fortune would have it, today is Valormight, an ancient holy day of Heironeous. It commemorates a ten-month war in which Heironean forces are said to have been outnumbered six to one by Hextorians, yet still managed to confine the Hextorians to the lands east of the Flanmi River in northern Oerik. The weather grows steadily colder as you follow the Orthan River southeast... passing by an orc village on the southern shore, glimpsing distant flames in the hills when you camp one night, turning south where the Stone River forks off and the massive Lang Bridge towers in the eastern distance (thankfully not destroyed by the storm). By the time you see the Hills of Light rising along the western banks, winter has truly come. The winter sun shines beautifully on the rolling grasses of the hills, making the origin of their name clear to any observer. In the afternoon of Moonday, Sunsebb 3rd, you draw up your boats onto the shore by the hillsides. The kobolds begin setting up camp as the sailors stow supplies and bind down tarps over the boats, and the mercenaries secure the area. Limar, from your scouting trip earlier, you believe the Fortress is only a mile or two west of the river. How much of your party and entourage do you guys want to bring? Limar, you can also pay your servants for the week. I'll mark off hireling costs and rations from the party treasure.

once we're done appraising the keep, since the plan is to go help rebuild waterwend and i doubt we will run into anything dangerous doing that I'll suggest we split up an send some people to aid bowhery as well. As per my new initiative to more clearly delineate the purpose of different threads, I moved this to Teamwork & Planning . -Max

The party sets out for Waterwend on Godsday, Sunsebb 4th. Xankoris introduces his new companion to the entourage: a death elemental who has become accidentally bound to his soul, that he's named Siwan. He manifests its physical form around himself like a cloak, or a 'Deathmantle', allowing it to speak aloud. "hello. i with xankoris," it says, in a strangely hollow, wispy voice. The mercenaries and sailors are wary of it, but Silk takes to it strangely well, chatting amiably with the thing until it withdraws into Xankoris's body after a few minutes. Over the course of your journey, you all have the chance to get to know Siwan a bit better, but its alien personality is never quite a comfortable fit. The trip upriver is slower, with your strong members and the sailors having to row continuously against the current. The party's supply of rations soon runs low as well, forcing your entourage to slow down even more while you forage for food along the way. The bitter cold would slow you down even further (one reason why most adventurers spent the wintertime resting), but since the need for speed is dire now, your healers are able to burn through their spells each day to stave off hypothermia and frostbite among the party and your entourage. After a difficult and tiring 8 day journey, you reach Waterwend on Waterday, Sunsebb 12th. Limar, you need to pay your kobolds for the week. The damage to the city is extensive, and it's clear that the people there are in dire straits indeed. Few boats are moored to what remains of the Docks , but the guard stations are still there. A clerk charges you 1gp and 5sp per boat for your docking fee, explaining that the fee has been raised as a temporary measure by the council to aid recovery, and that this fee will cover up to 1 week of security. Many buildings, especially those of the commonfolk, are still in ruins, and debris is still piled here and there. Beggars line the streets, far more than you've ever seen before, and as you travel through the city you're constantly mobbed by people asking for money or food. Many of them seem sick as well, and shivering from the cold. Some lay too still in alleyways, frozen to death and not yet gathered by the corpse-laden carts that guards drag through the streets. Others eye you from alleyways with unsavory looks, but seem to decide better than trying to mug the dangerous-looking adventurers. On several occasions, you catch passersby with their hands in your pockets after they 'accidentally' bump into you, but they always run away after a stern look. That sort of thing happened occasionally in the past here, but never so often. You soon discover that prices are even higher than usual (about 50% more), with everything scarcer and in greater demand. Xankoris has had time to finish his painting of the Death Elemental Event though, and can ship it to Treefall now. Hamanap says, "We should find a powerful healer right away. Which temple do you think would be best?"

I suggest Pelor, Liman might still be there or the gnome police lady if not.

Gather Information check: 9 (Nat1) (5sp) and Knowledge (Local) check: 10, For finding the best temple. "How about the Church of Nerull? At least Cade won't be shocked if he knows about Siwan."

Ritt K. said: Gather Information check: 9 (Nat1) (5sp) and Knowledge (Local) check: 10, For finding the best temple. Kraggan and Xankoris ask around a bit, but don't get any real useful intel on which temple would suit your needs best. They do find out that in the wake of the hurricane, almost all the churches and temples have opened their doors to the poor, providing free healing and services, though by now they have little left to offer except magic. At the Church of Pelor , you speak with one of Limar's exhausted-looking, yellow-robed acolytes. Among cots crowded with the sick and dying, he tells you that the high priest doesn't have the magic to treat such curses. At the Church of Nerull  in the Red Light District , you talk to Wellby Underbough. His is one of the few churches not to be helping the poor survive the winter, but he mentions that there's been a huge surge in membership, organ trafficking, poison dealing, and other criminal activities. He seems quite pleased with the news, one of those profiting greatly from the suffering and destruction left by the storm. Unfortunately, neither he nor his twin brother know the spell you need either. By 'gnome police lady' I assume you mean the town magistrate and high priestess of the halfling god of war, tallfellow halfling Amyrillis Greenbottle. At the  Church of Arvoreen , you speak with her chief acolyte, Lia Greenbottle. The halls here are crowded with city guards, praying for aid, drinking hot ale, or recieving medical care. Lia tells you that the church has been very busy helping the guards and the wave of new conscripts lately, as piracy, crime, and attacks from savage races have been on the rise since the hurricane. The city council has been actively recruiting new guards to keep the peace, but Waterwend's resources are stretched desperately thin, so the church has been trying to help the guards handle the strain of their new duties. Again, unfortunately, it seems that even the high priestess is not powerful enough to help you. After some complex conversation between Lia and Hamanap, they conclude that if you had been able to reach Waterwend sooner, she might have been able to cure your soul damage, but running out of rations slowed you down too much. Lia recommends the Temple of Yondalla , Waterwend's largest place of worship: "High Priestess Euphemia will surely be able to help, she's the most powerful cleric in the city. But I warn you, it will be very expensive..."

I easily place my soul above my gold, let's go see how much this will cost.

Josh said: I easily place my soul above my gold, let's go see how much this will cost. As the party makes their way towards the grand Temple of Yondalla , still getting mobbed by starving beggars, Drusilia catches sight of a familiar face. A human woman in dark blue robes pushes through the press towards you, masked bodyguards to either side of her, both of them well-armed and armored beneath their fur cloaks. Spot applies. "The Wayfinders! As I live and breathe, how long has it been? Almost a year now, I think..." she says, and only after hearing her voice do you remember her: the necromancer that Kraggan, Drusilia, and Leoavor captured on their first day in the Stonefare. "The streets are a mess here, aren't they? You must join me for tea, we can catch up... tomorrow afternoon, at Capsized Cathay ? I need to run now, important meetings. Ta!" With that, she hurries off with her bodyguards in tow. Sense Motive and Knowledge (local) apply. After a moment of confusion, Leoavor asks, "...didn't we beat her up and rob her? She seems... oddly cheery, considering." Not long after that, you find yourselves in the rather cramped  Temple of Yondalla , where the homeless and sick (mostly halflings) are piled in for warmth and succor. One of the acolytes and an underpriestess are examining Hamanap and Drusilia, and discussing complex divine magical healing with the former. "The high priestess can  cure you," the underpriestess says at last, "but not completely. There will likely be some small residual damage to your souls, that will recover with time. I'm afraid our prices are also higher than usual, due to the rising costs of everything in the wake of the hurricane. But I assure you, the fees will go towards helping Waterwend's needy. The spell you need will cost 870 gold pieces each, including materials." Appraise applies, and you can try to haggle with Diplomacy.

Sense Motive check: 19, Knowledge (Local) check: 19. "Who is she?" Xankoris asked. Appraise check: 21, Diplomacy check: 25. Xankoris is thinking about the price and knows what he must do, talking. "I know this town need help, so do we. We should treat everybody like they're from the same place. So if it is possible, Could you lower the price, please? Since we all lost something too."

I don't know who she if, but we're allow to beat people up an rob them in this guild? wish i had known that earlier.I think we should do that to a few of the merchants around here. spot 10 diplomacy 14, does that mean the spell will cost us 870 gold and we have to put forth the materials or the materials are already included in the cost? and would you accept trade? I do not have many coins on me but a nice selection of gems. I have to go check on the underbough bank make sure everything is good there.

Ritt K. said: Sense Motive check: 19, Knowledge (Local) check: 19. "Who is she?" Xankoris asked. Josh said: I don't know who she if, but we're allow to beat people up an rob them in this guild? wish i had known that earlier.I think we should do that to a few of the merchants around here. Xankoris, you got the feeling that Leo, Drus, and Kraggan were all tensing for a fight when she came up, and seemed confused by her friendliness. You're also pretty sure that her bodyguards were hobgoblins in disguise. While it's not illegal  for hobgoblins to enter Waterwend, it's also not surprising that they would conceal their race, given the increase in raids from savage races like theirs lately. Leo scratches his head in bafflement. "Well, she sort of attacked us with perambulating skeletons and dark magic... I think we had accidentally happened upon her during some kind of ritual, summoning an undead outsider maybe? It was a while back, hard to recall the details. After the battle, we took her stuff and tied her up, then interrogated her about the area, and let her go free on the promise that she'd never take up arms against us again. She looked stronger just now, though... I guess things must've gone well for her after all." Josh said: diplomacy 14, does that mean the spell will cost us 870 gold and we have to put forth the materials or the materials are already included in the cost? and would you accept trade? I do not have many coins on me but a nice selection of gems. "That includes the cost of the materials. We keep a supply of various spell components on hand, for such occasions," the underpriestess explains, while the acolyte waits politely in case she's needed, deferring to her superior. "Certain gems would be acceptable, if they're useful in our magic. Rubies, diamonds, and onyx, for example." Ritt K. said:  Appraise check: 21, Diplomacy check: 25. Xankoris is thinking about the price and knows what he must do, talking. "I know this town need help, so do we. We should treat everybody like they're from the same place. So if it is possible, Could you lower the price, please? Since we all lost something too." The quoted price would make sense for an extremely powerful spellcaster, though from what she said about their prices being higher than normal right now, the high priestess might not be quite that strong. The underpriestess seems swayed by your ardent plea, and thinks for a minute. "Perhaps we could arrange something... you all seem powerful, and the Wayfinders have a reputation for being good people. I can reduce the price to 2000 gold total, if you will vow to help us with reconstruction and recovery for the next month. We need magical healing, strong fighters to help keep the peace, and spiritual guidance for those who have lost homes and loved ones. The aid that a group such as yourselves can provide would go a long way towards helping Waterwend survive."

Over the course of the winter, the Wayfinders put their abilities to good use in helping the desperate people of Waterwend in the wake of the Storm: Limar helps hunt for wild game to feed the poor and uses his keen eyes to search for the missing. Leoavor helps direct construction projects, rebuilding homes, offices, and boats, and uses his magic to empower the laborers when needed. Hamanap offers food and rag-blankets to the poor by the Shrine of Bahamut , and gives inspiring sermons from her scripture. Xankoris travels about the city offering comfort with Taoist wisdom, and using his healing spells to help save the injured and freezing. Drusilia helps the city guards patrol, under Shifu Jeng's advisement, and mentors younger students of Snake Style kung fu. Kraggan offers her services to the chief magistrate and high priestess of Arvoreen, Amyrillis Greenbottle, and is assigned to help patrol the forests nearby the city for bandits and raiding parties of savage races.  A few things of note happen as well, in the 2 months you're there. Leoavor uses detect magic to check for any curses on the party, and finds that both Xankoris and Limar had curses active on them; fortunately, Hamanap is able to remove them without any trouble. "We'll have to find the cursed areas and dispel them when we return to the Fortress," she says. Kraggan continues training Cade, the yellow lab she adopted, and is able to help fend off a handful of attacks by raiders and bandits, some even by herself. There are several snowstorms of varying severity, but with your dedicated help the death toll is far less than it would have otherwise been. Drusilia apprehends numerous muggers and pickpockets, and the surging crime rate begins to decrease again. Limar practices his people skills with Leoavor's help, learning how to inspire respect rather than just fear. In late Sunsebb, news spreads of Karenina's defeat by Gurak the bugbear wizard, and the slaughter of most of the enchantress's followers by his forces. Needfest, the first week of 1421 and the first of the 4 weeklong festivals, is very sparing this year: not many gifts are exchanged, but people still sing the holiday songs, and pray for the help of the gods in surviving the harsh winter. With Leoavor's cleverness and donations for materials, much of the residential quarter is rebuilt, and hypothermia cases decline even further. That Needfest Godsday, which falls on the winter solstice, is marked by particular fervent services at all of Waterwend's churches and shrines. Hamanap has gained a few converts to the teachings of Bahamut by then, and holds services by the Shrine of Bahamut all day. Silk's skill in painting improves with Xankoris's tutelage, and she helps paint some murals to improve the public morale. Drusilia observes Newmass on Fireseek 1st, and Leoavor observes Great Discovery on the 9th, then Luna Morta on the 19th and 20th; holidays of their respective faiths. You send out messages to past and potential allies, passing on Dreyan's warning: there is no response from the Terolus Military or Treefall's Assassins Guild, but the Deathwalkers and the Companions write back, promising their support. On the 12th, the city celebrates Rundwin's Day, a Terolus holiday of song and and plays honoring the great bard Rundwin, one of the pioneers who helped settle Terolus for humans and halflings, and is said to have brought the bardic tradition here. Knowledge (history) applies. On the 24th, Limar helps the Church of Fharlanghn celebrate Beggar's Day, a holy day shared with Pelor. The current high priestess of Fharlanghn is Myev, a half-orc cleric who was exiled from the Lintag orc clan for her heresies against Gruumsh, whom she claims is "a total dick." By Readying, you've gained a great deal of goodwill from the people of Waterwend, and even Amyrillis Greenbottle has come around and is willing to work with you again. Though more than a hundred people have died since you arrived, your efforts have saved just as many lives. On Sunsebb 19th, someone offers to sell Xankoris a letter for 2 gold pieces. The envelope shows the sender is Thaimor Oakenheel, of Treefall's Temple of Corellon Larethian . Do you buy it, Xankoris? The cost of living is higher than it was before, but you're able to offset the increase by renting your boats out to fisherman, and your tools to artisans. Everyone needs to pay weekly upkeep 7 times, which takes you through Fireseek 25th. You also have plenty of time to sort out the loot you gathered in Treefall, and split up shares. Who wants to handle some of that? Do you want to keep your hirelings on retainer during the winter, or let them go and rehire/hire new people in spring? Do you want to hire spies to gather more intel on your enemies, during the winter?

Xankoris do buy the letter. "Drawing review, I guess." Xankoris wondered before opening the mail. Anyway. For Intel, Xankoris tries to find Meilin Zhongshan (Gather Information check: 19, 1gp) and ask about spying and assassination.

Ritt K. said: Xankoris do buy the letter. "Drawing review, I guess." Xankoris wondered before opening the mail. Anyway. For Intel, Xankoris tries to find Meilin Zhongshan (Gather Information check: 19, 1gp) and ask about spying and assassination. In the letter, Thaimor thanks Xankoris for the beautiful painting and says it is now hanging in the main cathedral hall. He also mentions that the front stained glass window is being repaired and the attic has been cleared of all Vecnan paraphernalia (which were destroyed in the proper rites), and that the janitor Elwyn (whom Xankoris outed as a member of the Cult) vanished after the Death Elemental Event, though he was not found among the dead. Finally, he thanks Xankoris and his companions for their help in saving the city, and promises they will always be welcome to stay in the Temple, free of charge. Asking around in the Red Light District , you learn that Meilin is basically the kingpin of Waterwend's organized crime, an extremely powerful individual with a large network at her command who basically runs the Red Light District  as her personal playground. Very few people are willing to speak ill of her though, even those who seem to dislike her... it reminds you of the sort of public politeness common in Rokugani culture, which she is likely descended from, given her name. But for her to have spread such an influence so widely in an Oerikeen city, she must truly be superb at inspiring fear of her retribution. You also learn that she is very hard to get in contact with directly, but regularly attends services at the Church of Nerull , so joining it may be the best way to speak directly to her. You could also try hiring lower-level people from her network directly, but as your gold-toothed friend suggested, it seems that Meilin herself tends to trade in favors more than money, which also a more Rokugani approach to business.

Xankoris ask Cade how to find Meilin and how to hire assassin in her network. "Is it possible to talk with her and make some deal without enter her syndicate?"

Ritt K. said: Xankoris ask Cade how to find Meilin and how to hire assassin in her network. "Is it possible to talk with her and make some deal without enter her syndicate?" Cade explains, "If you join the church, you'll probably have a chance to talk to her after Godsday services sometime. The minimum tithe for members is 10 gold per month, and you'll be required to spend at least 3 days each month assisting with services, observe Nerull's unholy days, provide spellcasting services at normal rates (40% of your fee goes to the church), give free aid to any assassins who may come to the church for help, and accept any quests or errands assigned by Wellby or myself. And of course, you have to worship Nerull. As long as you're a member, you can stay here at the church whenever you like, and you'll also benefit from Nerull's blessings. As for Meilin, she's usually willing to work with our members, as long as you're very polite and respectful to her... though from what I've seen of you, I don't think you'll have any problems with that part." Sense Motive applies.

Sense Motive check: 11. "Um..." Xankoris is thinking, scratching his nose. "Sound good, But I have to reject. I mean the benefit is good but it isn't fit me that well." Then, Xankoris get out, giving up on finding an assassin.

Ritt K. said: Sense Motive check: 11. "Um..." Xankoris is thinking, scratching his nose. "Sound good, But I have to reject. I mean the benefit is good but it isn't fit me that well." Then, Xankoris get out, giving up on finding an assassin. Cade shrugs. "No worries. If you change your mind, come back anytime. We're always looking for more hands."

Spellcraft check: 26 (Nat20),   Knowledge  (Arcana) check: 14. Xankoris examine the hourglass he bought, hoping if it has any hidden ability.

Ritt K. said: Spellcraft check: 26 (Nat20),   Knowledge  (Arcana) check: 14. Xankoris examine the hourglass he bought, hoping if it has any hidden ability. After a few test runs, you conclude that it's a little slow... it runs for about 63 minutes, rather than just an hour. You also notice one more unusual thing about it... it's very subtle, not even really a magical quality, but it seems to have some affinity to death magic. You suspect it may be useful as a focus the right [death] spell, or perhaps for research into creating a new one. 

While on a supply run to Waterwend, the party runs into some familiar faces: Black Sabbath! It's been almost a year since you met them in the Stonefare, and they're happy to share a meal at The Full Net  while telling the tales of their adventure there. It seems they only returned about a week ago, having finally completed their objective... the black dragoness Puelossi has been slain at their hands. Petting her iguana familiar Pebbles, the busty half-elf sorcress Polgara tells a stirring story about their desperate final battle with her, and how their paladin co-leader Marcella sacrificed her life to defeat Puelossi, saving her companions at the same time. Draz, the badly scarred human who leads them alone now, describes some of their previous run-ins with the dragoness, in which they were able to escape or fight her to a stalemate. Their mountain dwarf cleric Grahm toasts Marcella's sacrifice several times during the course of the meal, with his bestie Garion, the quick-witted lightfoot halfling, always the first to join him in raising a glass. Selmidra, their high elf enchantress, is more aloof as usual, but once the boys are getting drunk she mentions how they heard tales in the Stonefare that a new servant of Rith One-eye has been rising in power, a necromancer with strange plant magic, and may take advantage of this power vacuum to claim Puelossi's place at Rith's right hand. Later that day, a letter (paid in advance) reaches Limar from Jonas of the Deathwalkers, warning him of some info they got when interrogating a werewolf follower of Grizzled One: that emissaries have been traveling back and forth between his master, Rith One-Eye, and Gurak, so a even larger alliance may be in the works. He assures Limar that the Deathwalkers remain steadfast allies of the Wayfinders, and will send a team to help defend the river cities if called upon.

how long ago was this? What did they do with puelossi body? would hate for the necromancer to make her a dragon skeleton or something. thats the were wolf guy right? we should probably learn the weaknesses of were wolves if they are going to be joining the fight.

Josh said: how long ago was this? What did they do with puelossi body? would hate for the necromancer to make her a dragon skeleton or something. "I think the final confrontation was about 3 weeks ago," Draz says, after some consideration. "We were worried about that too, so we burned her and Marcella's remains together, and marked the grave with Marcella's sword. We couldn't get the fire hot enough to destroy Puelossi's bones, though... dragon bones get quite hard as they age, Selmidra assures me." Josh said: thats the were wolf guy right? we should probably learn the weaknesses of were wolves if they are going to be joining the fight. Knowledge (local) and (nature) apply.

Josh said: would like to stop by    Ryelly's Wondrous Vault and see if he has anything like and just check up on his newest wares. Ryelly Underbough is glad to see you even without Leoavor in tow (a sign of your growing reputation in Waterwend), welcoming you in and showing off some of his new acquisitions. "This item here is excellent for disarming bandits and the like," he says, indicating what looks like an old, rusty gauntlet. "I know it doesn't look like much, but that's just the transmutation at work. Once each day, it can rust any small iron object into dust with a single touch. Not only that, but it will protect all your possessions from rust while you wear it! And speaking of iron, I've got this new rod as well, it can detect any type of mineral within about 10 yards, and even tell you how much there is of it. Unthinkably useful for mining, oh yes. What's that? An item to make you look like a black dragon?" He thinks about this, perusing his display cabinets. "I don't think I have anything like that in stock, but I could keep an eye out... Have you considered just using black paint?"

No i had not thought of that.. how much for the gauntlet? mind if i try it on? will change to my form? and the rods cost?

"Magic can do all sorts of amazing things," Ryelly says with a knowing smile, "but sometimes simple ingenuity is the more practical solution." He unlocks the display case and takes out the gauntlet, helping you try it on. It's of a size well-suited to a Small creature like you, but clearly made for a humanoid hand--however, when you slide your foreclaw into it, it reshapes slightly to fit comfortably on you. "Most magical items adjust to the wearer, unless they're designed specifically not to... I've heard tales that the dwarves of Highhelm, for example, craft their magic arms so that only dwarves can wield them easily, making it difficult for them to be used against their own people." Knowledge (geography) applies. "Including taxes and our Guild surcharge, the gauntlet costs 12678 gold pieces and the rod costs 11576 gold pieces."