Echoes of the Sephira, Redux

Game Master Divinitus



Dotting with the power of Demiurge!


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Male Jungle Giant Animal Lord (Mastodon) Gestalt druid 17 / Wild Rager 5 / Mythic Hierophant 3

DOT


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

dOt


Male Grippli Shaman 7

dert


One black powder fueled dot (aka a bullet) coming your way!


CYCLE 0-1: SEVEN SHINING STARS

"I see the innumerable threads of fate, shining like stars in the dark tapestry of eternity, dragon, and I glimpse the future you fear. There shall arise The Seven whose light burns too brightly to be contained by the Loom. They shall band together, drawn by a mighty son of flame and brass, to bring about the doom you seek to avert. Know despair, wyrm of a forgotten age, for this I have seen, this is what will be."
-Marasia, the Blind Seer

It has been a long journey through the Plane of Fire, your legs sore from the long ride atop the dragon your mysterious new 'patron' sent to escort you to the City of Brass. As you step from the giant, ruby-scaled beast that has served as your travel companion, you look around. The others whom you have shared the ashen skies with have also landed.

Momentarily ignoring them, you glance around at the massive, bejeweled gates of etched brass and the line of creatures waiting to be let through by two powerfully muscled Efreeti. The ground you tread upon is a dark, igneous rock studded with pores, the sky above you soot.

You feel a gust of wind behind you and the sound of flapping wings. Your dragon has departed, the brazen chain around its neck that you held swinging with each flap of its wings. As you watch it fly into the distance, heat shimmers distorting the beasts form, you see the massive sea of molten lava surrounding the island that is the City of Brass.

Turning towards the others who arrived with you, then glancing at the line, you get the sense that you have a while to converse without the thunderous flapping of wings that you heard the entire journey.

This rather general introduction allows you all to get acquainted and allows you to form a more character-specific backstory on how you were contacted by your patron, the Sultan of the Efreet. You all have a small brass medallion that was given to you by whatever servant the Sultan sent to you to request your aid (Again, some may have had a different servant of the Sultan's contact them. Any creature of flame that would work with the Efreeti are fine candidates. Just allowing some creative license for you all!). It weighs 0.25 lbs and does not occupy a magic item slot. Once you are all better acquainted, I shall move things forward in gameplay.


Male Jungle Giant Animal Lord (Mastodon) Gestalt druid 17 / Wild Rager 5 / Mythic Hierophant 3

A young man barely past child hood stands next to his brother in the sooty hot air. "I do not like it here brother, the air is hot and the people appear less than pleasant. I much preferred the jungle."


Real post coming tomorrow, but just a reminder that (now that Theresa isn't part of the mix) all of us have adventured together before, at least occasionally...and at least enough for Naga to have crafted gear for most if not all of us.


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Aren felt her familiar, Shiva, shift on her shoulder as she sang the songs of the thrush's. The glowing bird wasn't a thrush anymore though. Thanks to a very harrowing time on the positive energy plane to defeat a Hekatonkheires.

The group she had been with shouldn't have been able to defeat it. But thanks to a patron, a group of proteans, and a blessing from the goddess of luck, a portal was open and they were shunted to the very heart of the positive energy plane. They managed to figure out that Aren's healing could over charge him just like the plane itself could. So while she channeled all of her healing into him, the group protected him from taking her out. The fight lasted longer than she had ever experienced and one by one her friends fell to the creatures attacks.

It was exhilarating and frightening all at once as the plane infused into her very being. She was truly blind for the fight as all around her was positive energy. Because of her friends protection she was being over charged. Calling on her strongest healing she managed to overcharge the Hekatonkheires and make him explode in a very bright flash of positive energy. She hurriedly got her friends bodies out, finding she needed to stay in the positive energy plane to channel enough power to bring them back to life she risked death by overcharge to bring them back. She passed out just as she brought them to life.

When she came too she found herself on the material plane, the portal closed. She was still glowing from her time in the positive energy plane but all of her new friends were gathered around. "We did it.....we managed to defeat it thanks to you. We managed to catch and yank you out before you exploded....but...Shiva..." She heard a huffy tweet.

"What, I am not dead. I am just all glowy and am better than I was."

Aren at that point could see a brightly glowing bird with her unique brand of sight. Because of all the healing she was outputting, and the plane itself Shiva had died and was reborn a positive energy elemental. Much to Aren’s joy, for the little bird had always been with her.
With that group, they reformed the chaos that the Hekatonkheires had been hiding and controlling to give a home to the proteans and be a place of life and healing. Now the Nascent Sphere was now under their control.

Satisfied she started her travels again much to the astonishment of her companions. After all, she had defeated the great creature. It didn't take her long to convince them that they were the hero's there and she merely gave them her aid. Her journey wasn't done and there was much more healing to spread into the world.

Little does she know they started a college of healers and protectors in her honor.

The wind played in her hair as she traveled down the dusty road. Aren wondered where it would lead and who she would be able to help next. A day or so into her travels she encountered an odd creature. It flew up to her a small wisp of life energy. It looked like a tiny version of a genie.

”Greetings Aren Starlight. I come on behalf of my master to summon you to his home for a favor rendered to you is now to be paid. Oh, I have never seen eyes like yours. Why are they milky white?” The tone was friendly and cheerful with a hint of curiosity.

”It is because I am blind. I was born unable to perceive the world with the sight everyone else has.”

”But you seem to walk fine and don’t run into things?”
A soft chuckle and a tweet from Shiva. ”It is because my companion here tells me if I am going to run into anything. So how long have you been tailing me?” Aren asked.

”Oh, only a day, but I was bored so decided to contact you before I confirmed who you were. But since you were the only woman by yourself in white I figured it was a pretty good chance you were who I was looking for.” A boastful tone in his voice.

Aren smiled and would nod. ”Indeed, I am Aren. So you will lead me to your master?” The small genie form bobbed and moved over to her.

”Yes, my name is Fitz by the way. Because I give my master Fits apparently.” A warp of magic and then heat surrounded her.

”Welcome to the Plane of Fire Miss Aren. Home sweet home. Home of my master and all manner of creatures. OH! I am supposed to give you this medallion. Let me put it on you.” She felt something being put around her neck. Reaching up, Aren touched the medallion feeling its contours and grooves. ”Okay all set, now get on Ruby here and she can take you to my master. My job was to get you here. Maybe if you have free time you can tell me more of your realm.” And the little genie disappeared into the distance flitting away before she could ask any other questions.

A low rumbling growl came from the dragon alerted her to the dragon’s whereabouts and she turned looking at her. The dragon stared at her before gently reaching out with a wing and guided her to climb up on her back so they could take off.

The sights of the realm were lost upon her as they flew over the flames. She had made very pleasant conversation with the dragon letting her describe the realm as she saw it.

Ashen skies described as rolling fields of soft choking salt that was lovely to taste. Rolling waves of heat as thermals to pleasantly warm the body and make flying easier if you knew how to feel them.

The scales under her hands and legs flexed with each little movement of her wings. The scales smooth and yet she could feel the hints of growth lines on them letting her know they were like nails in how they grew. The chain she held onto held warmth constantly.

What her eyes did notice was not what normal people would see. She could see the life force of the dragon she was riding. Watch it ebb and flow within its body. Looking at the others around she could see their life force also and that of those riding them. She knew their life force was familiar and Shiva nestled up to her neck confirming what she thought was true.

Dismounting she turned to one she had been riding. "Thank you kindly for the ride. May your journey's always be as exciting as you describe them.”

The dragon gives a nod as she straightens. Aren had learned “Ruby” Was a proud dragon and rarely talked unless she really liked you. Luckily Aren was very likable.

Turning to the other’s that had come with her she leaned on her golden wood staff and said loud enough for people to hear. ”So who do I have the pleasure of being with here? As a blind woman I cannot see those around me.” Her voice was light and full of cheer. "But, If I was to hazard a guess I know all of you."

Aren’s soft white hair moving in the breeze created from the fluctuating heat. Those who knew her recognize the long white robe she is wearing. It has a simple sun motif along its edges and along the sash that loops over the shoulder and waist. There is nothing fancy about the robe; even the suns are simple with a faded golden thread that has seen better days, giving a sense of a gentle hopeful sun, than that of a bright overbearing one.

The tattered long white vest, she wears, looks worn and ragged. Ragged tears where strips have been taken out of it showed signs of it being used for impromptu strips along the bottom. Surprisingly enough it keeps its white look and no matter how many strips are taken from it it never seems to get any shorter. As if the sheer desire Aren has, says there will always be more. Tattered strips of this vest are also wrapped around the Aren’s feet as simple slippers.

Her staff was made of golden birch the wood is a beautiful golden color. It is a nice long staff with the top a knotted interwoven lacework of wood topped with such fine tendrils that it looks like hair that hangs down over the top.

What is different is her familiar. Shiva, before was brightly colored robin. Now Shiva was a bright white glowing bird that looked made up of nothing but energy.


Male Grippli Shaman 7
Ferun, The Savage Storm wrote:
A young man barely past child hood stands next to his brother in the sooty hot air. "I do not like it here brother, the air is hot and the people appear less than pleasant. I much preferred the jungle."

"Where the people eat human hearts and the air was wet in addition to full of parasites that laid eggs in your bare flesh? You remember home far more differently then I. This place is at least honest."

A massive red dragon booms from above the boy a massive feathery headdress dons its head covering its horns. HE did not "ride" the dragon escort. He became the dragon. Became one with his environment and traveled as he chose. As is his way. If this insulted the dragon Hanuhpah did not care. It would not have been the first nor last dragon.

"Ah, the Altruist, we meet again. It is good to see you have yet to donate the very flesh off your bones." The rumble is calm and non-chalant without any hint of smugness.


Male Jungle Giant Animal Lord (Mastodon) Gestalt druid 17 / Wild Rager 5 / Mythic Hierophant 3

Second intro post

Those of you who have met Hanuhpah and Ferun before Recognize the way Ferun acts and talks but his form is quite different than the 16 foot giant you are used to. This Ferun is small and rather weak looking a large serpent rest coiled around his arms and across his shoulders. His tone and demeanor seem much more jovial and energetic than his brother, although that isn't saying much right now because said brother is a rather large dragon currently.


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Aren turns her blind gaze to the two brothers and smiles. "Ah, I recognize that voice. Though I suspect you look far different than you use to by what I can hear." Taps her staff.

"It seems you two have changed since we last met. I hope you realize that I do not find being an Altruist a bad thing. This world needs hope and kindness when so few wish to give it. Even here in a place like your home. Though the jungles are lovely this time of year correct?"

Her smile is warm and her tone teasing. "Who else is here with us?"


Descending out of the sky comes another ruby dragon. This one appears at first to be riderless but as it gets closer those already gathered see a man-shaped swath of night sky twinkling above the dragons shoulders. Soon, it's clear to those that know him that Kezra Tern has arrived.

He floats rather than steps off of the dragons back and, absentmindedly, his feet don't quite manage to make it back to the ground. Kezra stands eleven feet tall and (while he roughly retains his former human shape) he appears less like a man and more like a window into another world: an inky blackness filled with tiny points of light and swirling nebulae. Light itself seems to shimmer and distort as it approaches him.

While it’s difficult to read his expressions, there’s no mistaking his laugh -- a warm, merry rumble. ”Whoah ho, well met! This patron of ours seems to have quite a sense of humor, gathering us together in the same place again. Aren, I haven’t seen you since that glorious tomb raid on Avidarel...though I keep hearing tales of you ‘happening’ to be around when deeds of great heroism are being done.

“Hanupah and Ferun, when was the last time for you two? Oh! Hunting down the lich-queen Essufeh, right? That was some adventure!

“How many years has it been since we’ve all been together though, in the Dead Plane? Seeing all three of you in one place...I can remember falling into that cosmic mirror like it was yesterday...and then waking to you two, Aren and Hanupah, having somehow managed to put me together.”

With another belly laugh he notes, ”Mostly back together anyway, eh? Where in the Cosmic Riddle my mass went, only the Gods know. I swear I can’t keep my feet on the ground anymore to save my life.”

Scanning the horizon he exclaims, ”Ah, here comes another dragon! Maybe we’re not yet all gathered quite yet. What kind of odds would you give me if I wagered we’ll know whoever’s on that one too?”


As the Kommandar stood stoticly atop the red dragons back he sighed.
It looks like it is time to repay past favours, to reply in kind for services rendered. We will see if the value of elementals willingly bound in bullets is worth this price i am about to pay.
The Kommandar then reminices on events in recent past.
He had made a pact with Brim the Everflame. The Kommandar would be allowed to bind willing elementals into his bullets if only he would enleash them against worthy foes and allow them the wonton destruction they desired. And that he answer his summons when the time came that he was called. Brim would also overlook the elementals that he had bound unwilingly as well, of course.
The Kommandar got the feeling that he was only bound to answer the summons with no expectations of his answer, it would not be that easy. Brim no doubt had leverage over the Kommandar that would leave him little choice on his part, or prove too costly to refuse...
Whoever this mysterious patron was, he no doubt was connected to Brim in some way or other. Whether pulling the strings or dancing to this mysterious patrons tune. Now how do i exploit this to my advantage or at least minimize its damage.

Its bloody hot here! Oh that i eould give my soul for a spot of shade and a mug of Bufo!

His thoughts interupted by his companions complaints and black humor, new thoughts entered his mind.
Thats right. I have my diplomat, Gabberjabber with me. Whatever the situation he will construe it to my benefit, as he has always done in the past.
Well Gabberjabber my friend. You get us through this one and i wil buy you a barrel of bufo for you to gorge to your hearts content.

Yes Sir!
And with that they had arrived. Disembarking off of the dragon that The Kommandar had cared not to converse with nor learn its name, Gabberjabber no doubt had that covered, a smile formed on his lips. It was his old companions, Kerza the Not-Human, Aren the Light and the Beast Brothers. This would no doubt be interesting.


Wasting no time after hopping off of Purewing the Fire Dragon, Gabberjabber was all busness. He had a job to do.
Introducing his emenacy, Lord Kommandar Killthemjaro Killjoy. Imfamous leader of the Gear Ghosts, ruler of the Metal Forge District on the Plane of Rusty Gears. He has humbly taken time out of his tight schedual of subujating Pandoras Portal. He has...

The smartly dressed goblin wearing a two piece tuxedo and standing just over 2 feet tall with a rather large pistol holstered at his side was cut off by the Kommandar.


Male Grippli Shaman 7

The dragon shrugs. "I am not sure I would have called it an adventure more an exercise in tedium. We could not locate her phylactery and thus Ferun had to tear her limb from limb. We later placed her head in a chattering skull pillar on the planes of Asheron. A great deal of work to remove such a bothersome creature."

Hanuhpah ignores the little creature as it spouts out its litany of introduction for its master and takes in the surroundings wondering if they are being watched. Inwardly Hanuhpah curses to himself and wonders if he should not have taken a more subtle form.


Thats enough Gabberjabber. These individuals know who i am. Isnt that right Kerza, old friend? Hope you dont need me to shoot any more mirrors eh?
The small goblin of 3 feet jokingly interjects. He is also smartly dressed with well kept army fatigues and a chest full of shiny medals.
Ah Kerza, my old friend. But is he the same friend he was back then?

And it appears to be Aren the Lovely. You seem even more lumenessant then i remember. I take it Shiva has been treating you well?

Then finally turning to the Brothers of the wild while Gabberjabber scampers off to ferret out any more information he can.
Hello Wild ones. I am surprised to see you here, so far from your jungles, but then again, here i am away from my war.


Male Jungle Giant Animal Lord (Mastodon) Gestalt druid 17 / Wild Rager 5 / Mythic Hierophant 3

Ferun lets out a chuckle when his brother mention the dismembering of the loch-queen. "She was tough that one, took me more than one try to get her head off. That was a first, HA."

He looks around before turning back to the group.
"This place seems to be safe for now. Thank god I can get out of this disgusting skin."
The young man's skin ripples as his muscles start to bulge and he begins to grow rapidly. Within seconds the Ferun those who knew him before are used to stands in his place. A massive hulk of a giant, his bare chest is covered in scars and tattoos. Small (ish) tusks poke to from beneath the massive skull of whatever beast he used for a hat.

"Kommander, it's good to see you wee man. Your companion? Can we make a no talking rule for him? Ferun appears to be joking (mostly).


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Aren smiles upon hearing Kezra's voice her hair twisting in the wind generated by the dragon's wings. Aren's form did indeed glow, though in the light of the flame is was extremely hard to see. Shiva is glowing brightly and she would fly up above Aren's head without even having to flap her wings, though she does so anyways. Gone was the simple thrush of before.

Shiva's voice tinkled out in a beautiful lilt that was very unlike the Shiva of old. Who was more tweet then lilt. "Kezra it has been a while. Good to see you are still intact. Hunting liches, that must have been fun. Nasty things they are."

Aren smiles up at Shiva and nods in Kezra's direction. "I am merely a facilitator of those with great destinies. I merely ensure they can fulfill them. I am just a simple healer. Though, thanks to our time in the tomb I learned how to use my own life force to increase my ability to hold a soul to this world." She would bow her head slightly. She had never told them that was what she had done to hold him there and maintain the healing in his body.

Hearing a rambunctious goblin voice she chuckled and wondered if it was Kommander. Turning her gaze that way she would see a life force she didn't recognize next to one she did. She had never told her friends that she could see their life force and the life force of all those around. After all, it didn't give her details of them in the same way they perceived things.

A faint blush on her face as Kommander calls her lovely.

"You are sweet as always Kommander and Shiva has indeed treated me well. We have been through a lot together and she stayed with me even after certain events."

Shiva looks down at Aren. "Why would I leave my friend. Plus, you still need me. I have so much more to teach you now." The glowing thrush moves over and flies to Kommander's shoulder and perches there. Her mere touch reminds you of Aren's healing power.

Turning her gaze to Ferun she smiles.

"More comfortable now? Why did you look like that in the first place if you don't mind me asking? I heard your muscles and bones shifting as if you transformed."


Bantering with Hanupah and Ferun, Kezra shakes his head. "I'll admit the search for the phylactery was tedious, but what about the battle before that, eh? We come over the pass and see an army of monstrous undead led by two 30 foot tall nightwalkers beating a drum made of human flesh. Ferun was glorious, throwing himself onto the pair of nightwalkers, both twice his size...and the cunning way you dealt with that horde of wights and bloody ogre skeletons blew me away. I knew you were devious...but really I had no idea. And as to myself, I’ll admit I had myself a fine time overhead, carving up their pack of zombie drakes. Don’t tell me you weren’t pleased with that part. And what about th--”

Kezra stops midsentence when what appears to be the final dragon alights and he sees a familiar goblin dismount.

”Kommandar, you old rascal! Good to see you. And yes, by all means, if you see me approaching any mirror ever, you have my leave to shoot first and ask questions later.” The giant swath of night chuckes.

”You know, if only Naga were here it would be a full on reunion from our Avidarel run. I wonder...clearly it’s no coincidence that all of us have been summoned here. I’ve been scanning the sky though and don’t see any more dragons on the horizon. Anyway, do any of you have insight into our Patron? I get more curious by the minute.”


Male Jungle Giant Animal Lord (Mastodon) Gestalt druid 17 / Wild Rager 5 / Mythic Hierophant 3

Responding to Aren's question. "You can never be too careful, besides i weigh less like that."


The Kommandar chuckles a bit,
Kekekeke. You may as well TRY to muzzle Gabberjabber but i well doubt you could, and you may find his perchant for noise and... Deception useful later on.
And i dont know about tearing ones head off, doubt i could. Blowing one off tho.

The Kommandar looks at his hands a moment, a flash of evil glint in his eyes reminicent of his races nature, and gone the next instant.

Old rascal eh! I be youngin than you and yet i still seem to have more weight ta my frame than ya!
He goes up to Kerza and gives him a very informal yet friendly handshake, the likes he would give a good friend.
Hmmm. Lets try and figure out whats goin on here.
Gabberjabber!

man i missed this! Time to get back into full swing here! The Gobbo Horde is back!


Right Boss!
And with that, the goblin in a two piece suit vanishes. Utterly. Some of you that are more observant (like Aren) may have noticed that there was only an illusion in his place for a few moments before he vanished but even you cannot tell where he has gone.

A short while later a poorly dressed beggar approaches a strong looking man waiting in line.
Alms for the poor? Kind sir could you spare some alms for the poor? My what a turnout! And what might this crowd be waiting for? I aint never seen a group quite like this!
Disguise (40ish): 1d20 + 40 ⇒ (6) + 40 = 46
Deplomacy: 1d20 + 30 ⇒ (20) + 30 = 50
Perception: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (19) + 20 = 39
A short ways into the conversation, when the man looks away, the beggar just vanishes...

A short distance over a human guard approaches another, grunting a bit.
I don know about this here group. Thay look a cut beluw tha norm eh? What you figure? Ya figure thay gots a chance? Whats they gotta do anyway?
disguise (+40ish): 1d20 + 40 ⇒ (17) + 40 = 57
deplomacy: 1d20 + 30 ⇒ (16) + 30 = 46
After a short time, the guard thanks him Well thank ye, ah gots ta git back ta my post. and then ambles off around the corner.
A short while later a child is playing in the courtyard, on the other side of the gates, playing and watching the crowd, and looking all around him.
perception check inside the gates: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (20) + 20 = 40
so Gabberjabber is getting busy! If there is anything you want to tell the group or you need something to drive the plot forward, feel free to control Gabberjabber as he roots around, infultrating :)
You seen X-men? Kind of like Mystique X)
Also, if something dosent work or he gets discovered or something, we will go from there :)
Edit:Wow. I just blew through 2 20s,a 19, 17 and a 16 there O.o


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Aren, being one that is blind does not perceive the world as the others do and her blind eyes see that which is full of life. Though she could recognize the arcane gestures from careful observation of his life force.

Her ears also pick up different things but she wasn't to concerned with what GabberJabber was doing at the moment.

Smiling towards her friends as they all catch up. She had not gone on many other mission with them. Their fates had not chosen to cross hers again until now. She wondered what new abilities and spells they had learned.

"So my friends, shall I go stand in line while you all catch up. I am sure I can gather some information while in line. After all, what harm is there in speaking to a blind woman."

Smiling she would lean on her staff and makes her way towards it picking her way a little slower than most people do but not to badly.

Aren would try to strike up casual conversations with people in line to gather information on the city and the sultan.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 41 ⇒ (5) + 41 = 46


Response to the swarm of actions made by Gabberjabber!

Gabberjabber's begging for alms does not go unnoticed. A powerfully built angel, with skin the color of polished gold turns to the filthy wretch, pulling a faintly glowing feather of purest white from his left wing. He holds it in his hands before the beggar and closes his fingers over it, "Blessed are the poor, who are rich in spirit." he speaks in a baritone voice. He opens his hand and the feather has turned into a small pouch of silvery thread, which he offers to the beggar, "Take this and go in peace, remembering this kindness when such kindness is asked of you."

Shifting through the crowd and asking questions, Gabberjabber comes upon a strange, corpulant creature that looks like a man with a distinctly insectoid face, his six golden eyes reflecting the fiery environs beyond the island. He chuckles a bit in a rasping voice, his massive girth and meaty jowls flapping unpleasantly as he does so, "Hehehe, what a turnout? You must be new here, stranger. The City of brass is one of the finest metropoli in all of creation, where everything may be had... for the right price. Such a place is rich in opportunity for the countless millions who come seeking one thing or another. I myself have come here to peddle my wares, strange antiquities gathered from the most wondrous of locales across the planes. Were it only that you had aught to barter, for I have much to sell! Ah well, more's the pity sir."

Now disguised as a human, Gabberjabber weaves his way through the crowd, speaking to a massive human, seemingly from some cold northland area on a material world, his long white hair flowing around the impossibly large blade strapped to his back by some sort of scaly, white leather, think the biggest, meanest looking viking you have ever seen. The large man lets out a derisive grunt and snarls out a few words, "Do you know who you're speaking to, milkdrinker? Arnbjorn of Wulfstein does not care about the likes of such a motley group of planar fortuneseekers, even if they have arrived on the Sultan's own lapdogs. Begone, for I have a score to settle and with every word you speak, my thoughts grow redder."

Gabberjabber takes a peek through the gates. A massive city, far larger than any you have ever seen, seems to stretch into infinity. Red-skinned Efreeti mix with every race imaginable, stalls made out of some strange ash-grey wood with colorful canopies strung above line the streets where merchants can be seen peddling ware both familiar and strange, and that's only what he can make out!

Aren strikes up conversation with a nearby Efreet guard, who appears to her eyes a column of golden flames rising into a glowing golden humanoid with horns. The Efreet bows to the blind priestess and begins talking to her in a cultured voice, "Salaam, stranger! I bid you welcome to this, the fair City of Brass. It would seem from your arrival that you are a guest of Our Most Incadescent Majesty, the Sultan of All Efreeti. Tis a most impressive feat to be given the pleasure of riding atop his Ruby Valets, whom were gifts of conquest from the ancient world of Daraakanis. It would be a great honor to make your acquaintance, Aanise...?"
Which questions do you ask? That's a LOT of information! Also, mixing in Arabic words to represent the local Efreeti dialect. Salaam is welcome or greetings, while Aanise is equivalent to Miss.


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

"Aren Starlight. I thank you for such a welcome. I had not realized such a special honor it was to ride the Ruby Valet's. I am humbled for they are indeed magnificent creatures." Smiles warmly up at him as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "To be honest, I wish to ask about your Most Incandescent Majesty, the Sultan of All Efreeti. I have never had the pleasure of meeting him before this and wish to know the customs and proper way to greet him upon meeting. I would also love to hear tales about his deeds and about him. I do not wish to seem ignorant of his great accomplishments."

Knowledge:Planes: 1d20 + 26 ⇒ (10) + 26 = 36 For what she does know about the City of Brass and the Sultan

When he finished explaining that she would then ask. "What sights do you suggest I visit? Being blind I can not see the world as most. But knowing what to listen for and feel for would give me a good idea."


Aren's Knowledge Check:
The Sultan of All Efreeti, known by a thousand and one other names and titles across the planes, is indisputably one of the most accomplished beings in all the planes. A masterful tactician, peerless warrior, accomplished wielder of the arcane arts, owner of forbidden knowledge from across the planes, antiquarian, and brilliant diplomat, his accomplishments are numerous. He has conquered countless worlds, enslaved whole races of beings, found many artifacts long lost to time, traffics with gods and fiends as an equal, and was credited with the slaying of an evil deity in one-on-one combat.

The Sultan is known as a divided man, capable at once of enormous generosity and soul-chilling cruelty, depending on whether he counts someone as friend or foe. His allies and confidantes are lavished with treasures beyond imagining, have the desires of their hearts laid before them, and more. His foes, who he rarely gives the release of death, often suffer torments far in excess of those endured in even many of the lower planes, within the Sultan's Minaret of Screams.

Despite his more extreme personality traits, he is known as a wise and fair ruler who is able to effectively govern one of the largest metropoli in all the planes, no small feat in and of itself. He is said to walk amongst his people in the City of Brass, disguised as a stranger, to test the honor of fellow Efreet, though what the Efreet call honor is a strange thing. Those who fail his tests are punished and publicly chastised, in most cases, while those who pass are often given some reward.

What would you like to know about the City of Brass? There's a LOT of info there that your check could hit! Geography, economics, populace, customs, ect.

Will finish post later. Need to grab a bite to eat.


Aren:
You also remember the official code of the Efreet. Their laws echo many of the laws of mortals: no theft, murder, rape, ect. You remember that these things are subject to harsh but fair punishments, which are harsher if visitors commit the crimes against residents and, especially, against the Efreeti themselves. There is, however, one punishment that brings the death penalty without exception... the use of any sort of cold magic within the walls unsanctioned, which is punishable by incineration within the Maw of Righteousness if the offender is not fireproof or by being cast into the Sultana's Garden District, from which no one has emerged alive (A haunted district that has been closed off due to an ancient curse levied against the Efreeti people after the Sultana of the Djinn died and was entombed here many eons ago. Even the Efreeti fear some of the horrors contained within the district, something which wise travelers should take note of!). As far as Efreeti customs, showing either great humility or showing great skill are ways to earning the respect of the fiery genies. The Efreeti also love great tales and shrewd bargaining, taking a shine to those who can do either. One of the greatest mistakes to avoid making is insulting one of the proud races honor, which almost always provokes them to seek retribution.

"A pleasure to meet you, Aren Starlight. My name is Khalid Ibn'Ignaaris, third-removed nephew to our glorious Sultan, here on vacation from my private villa in the Ashen Desert." After chatting with you a bit, confirming the things about the Sultan and the Efreeti customs he smiles for a moment, "One thing about the Sultan that you do not know... he is known for not requiring the lavish gifts most rulers receive for an audience. However he asks for one anyway as a test and those who bring him one or who apologize for the breach in etiquette and offer him a service, earn his respect. One thing, however... don't mention the Sultan's wife, for it casts him in a dark and torrid mood. She was slain years ago by assassins nwho infiltrated her room and strangled her with a length of golden wire. Malicious rumors say that the Sultan slew her himself, but I say those who speak so are liars and gossipers, unworthy of the honor of being one of the Sons and Daughters of Flame! But enough about that, for such talk is like gravel upon my tongue. What is it you are looking to find here in the City of Brass? I know every shadowed nook and corner of it!" After waiting on your reply, he looks behind you, "Who are those whom you have journeyed with, Aren Starlight?"


Hearing the question, Kezra floats over and looks the massive efreet up and down. He bows his head in greeting, "Honored Khalid. I am Kezra Tern, sometimes called The Shooting Star.

"We have been summoned here, it seems by your glorious Sultan." He holds up the brass star medallion given to him by the previous Efreeti. "I believe he's calling in a favor, but what precisely he desires I have no idea. Might you have any insight into your uncle's desires?"


The Efreeti does a courteous bow the the void of a man standing before him, Khalid's strange robes of living brass shifting into strange patterns and glowing from his oppressive internal heat, "And an honor to meet you as well, Sayyed Sigh-Yed is how it's pronounced. I have no insight as to my uncles reasons for calling you here. He usually does not make personal invitations for people to come to the palace, so it must be something important... It's not the Disciples of the Fallen One, Asmodeus, because they have been allies for millennia. The followers of Set have not the power to oppose my uncle. The Codex of Infinite Planes was found a hundred years ago, almost like yesterday, and rests in my uncle's treasuries. What could it be...?"

The Efreeti pauses for a moment and rests his head in one of his read hands, his angular but handsome face reflecting his deep thought. He snaps out of his reverie and waves towards the others who have not approached him, "Are these your companions? My curiosity is piqued, Sayyed. I was content to wait in line as a show of courtesy to the hundreds of beings trying to get in, but this could be of more import than mere fortune-seeking. I can get us in right now, if you are amenable to such a thing. I am most curious to determine what is going on!"

Everyone else?


Male Grippli Shaman 7

"I am amenable to a faster meeting" The dragon rumbles


Kezra turns his head at the dragon's booming voice. "Khalid Ibn'Ignaaris, third-removed nephew to our glorious Sultan, this here is Hanupah, a mighty shaman of the -- oh, I always forget their name -- and his brother Ferun, the savage storm. This here is Kommandar Killjoy, a great general and a mean shot...and his leutenant, Gabberjabber. And of course you've already met Aren. We've all known each other from various adventures on and off over the years and were recently reunited here by the will of the honored Sultan."

"We can chat more but I believe Hanupah speaks for all of us in this. Our curiosity is piqued as well so if you would be so good as to introduce us to your uncle, you would have our sincere appreciation."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 37 ⇒ (13) + 37 = 50 >> to influence toward friendliness


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Aren nods to the efreeti and smiles. "It is a good thing there is no great gift required for as you can see I do not have one. I am a simple woman who lives by simple means. All of my wealth goes to those in need not myself. It seems I will have to offer my services as a healer." Shrugging slightly she took in his advice about mentioning his wife. It was interesting to her that such a style of death had occurred. Was there a particular reason for using gold wire. As far as she new of gold it was a soft metal and couldn't be used as such a weapon. Maybe, just maybe it was enchanted if that indeed was the weapon.

"As for a places to go. I am a healer and as such try to bring help and hope to those in need. I am interested in the poor districts to see who needs help and if I can provide healing services to those who normally can't afford such free of charge."

"I can not see who you are motioning to but the two that have spoken are indeed my companions Khalid. Kezra has introduced himself and the others. The giant is Ferun and the goblin is Kommander Killjoy. As for getting in early I am content to wait. If the Sultan truly wished urgency he would have sent someone to receive us and have us go through quickly. It would be rude to all those who have been waiting to get in to cut in line. As you see though the others are eager to go."


Male Jungle Giant Animal Lord (Mastodon) Gestalt druid 17 / Wild Rager 5 / Mythic Hierophant 3

Let's get going then. As much as I love standing in line, I imagine there is something more interesting inside.


The Efreeti noble's eyebrow raises his eyebrow and flashes a smile of pointed but ivory white teeth at Kezra's words, "Ah, this is refreshing! It appears most of you are great conversationalists as well as being mighty warriors. Many of those who come to the City of Brass lack such eloquence, unfortunately.

Khalid does a slight bow, [b]"A pleasure to meet all of you." Rising from his bow, he motions to the guard at the gate and shouts something in Ignan.

Ignan:
"Salaam, Brother of Flame! By order of Khalid Ibn'Ignaaris, nephew of the Sultan, I command you to part and make way for myself and my entourage, for we have urgent business at the palace!"
The guard nods and motions for all of you to enter.

"Well, shall we go hence friends to the Palace?"


"By all means!" Kezra floats forward behind the Efreet, not bothering to move his legs.

I assume we're yet-to-meet Zashier? Or is he here as well?


Yet to meet.


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Aren would follow the group slowly and apologizes to those they pass politely. It was clear she felt bad for them skipping ahead but at the same time figured it best to stay with the group.

Carefully, she made her way through her staff feeling the ground ahead of her as Shiva told her to go left or right to avoid things.

Aren took in the smells and sounds of the city as they went, her ears tuning into the conversations at hand.

"Khalid Ibn'Ignaaris, may I ask why you are so eager to find out what it is the Sultan want's with us?"


I'm picturing Aren walking past folks in the line, and suddenly blind folks can see and people with diseases and injuries find themselves feeling better than they have for years.


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Yep, she would so do that.


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Aren would gently touch a couple of folk in greeting stopping to talk with them. Commenting on a beautiful smell or lilt of the voice. Her touch warm and inviting making them feel at ease. Just a brief conversation and she would move on. The delay of the magic wasn't her, but infact the shock in what they were feeling.

Warmth spreading within them, easing and getting rid of their ailments. Curing their diseases, healing wounds long since healed over that didn't heal quite right. Blindness, deafness, even relieving fear in another.

She was merely a passerby when miracles happened.


Male Grippli Shaman 7

Hanuhpah will not eat anyone.


Kezra floats along behind Aren, noticing her healing antics and chuckling.

"Aren, I never will understand why you insist on pretending you aren't mighty yourself. You realize you're the one healing those people, right? Do you try to hide it from them only, or yourself too?"

After a pause he adds, "It seems our glorious sultan isn't confused about your abilities either. I must say, I'm getting quite curious what he's brought us here for..."


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

Hearing Kezra's voice she smiled.

"I am just a simple healer. I heal those in need. It means little to me to be recognized for such feats. I find quiet satisfaction in their happiness. Just as I helped your line. Though Hanauhpah deserves the most credit there. Being a specialist in just healing means I have neglected other areas and am weak because of it. It is why I adventure with groups. Plus, I am just a child of fate. She weaves the lines, I merely help them stay intact." Her voice is soft and gentle. Her milky white eyes turning to look at Kerza unerringly.

"You should understand by now I don't do things for myself. I prefer to help others."


Khalid turns to Aren, "Because my uncle is not known for personally requesting aid from others. It must be a matter of utmost importance to force him to seek outside aid. He has not requested the aid of strangers in over 79,000 years, and even then, did not fly them on his Ruby Valets. He is obviously rolling out the proverbial red carpet for you all, something he normally only reserves for dignitaries such as Zagyg, Asmodeus, or similar beings of planes-wide renown, which makes me curious as to why he did so for you all."

Khalid shakes his head slightly, "I apologize for any offense I gave with that statement, honored ones. I simply have not heard of you all and I like to keep myself well-appraised of planar matters. I had taken a short, century-long from the planar scene though, so your fame may have simply slipped by me."

He looks towards each of you, "If I may be so bold, may I ask what mighty deeds you have achieved to garner my uncle's attention? Kingdoms rise and fall in a blink of his eye, gods have been born and fell into oblivion without so much as a minor sliver of interest from him, so what then is it that makes you all such a rare commodity?"


Male Grippli Shaman 7

"In the grand scheme of the cosmos we are all but specks of infintessimal dust." Hanuhpah rumbles. "I have devoured fey lords, feasted on the flesh of legendary crwatures and removed the hearts from the chests of millions both good and evil men, deserving and undeserving...oh and I turned a man into a moving spacial anomaly." Hanuhpah says indicating Kezra.

"Boring things."


Kezra chuckles, floating along above the efreet and his old companions. "Hey, I like to think of myself as your and Aren's magnum opus." Though his face is a mass of stars on black space, it's clear from his tone that he's grinning.

"Anyway, I'm happy to say I don't bore as easily as poor Hanuhpah here. For myself...I think it's fair to say I'm a bit more exciting than the average spec of infinitesimal dust.

"I've raided the lost tomb of Hurlik Tul, Mummy King of Gohal and the jeweled palace of Tiktukfurkkut, Twin-headed Demon Lord of Discord. I met Hanuhpah, Ferun, Aren, and the Kommandar when we worked together on a raid in the all-but-dead plane of Avidarel, where-- (Kezra nods toward Aren and Hanuhpah) --these two managed to save my life and help me to, ahem, expand my horizons, as it were."

Pausing, he adds "As to what attracted your honored uncle's attention...well I have no idea. If I had to hazard a guess it could relate to Avidarel in some way, only because that's the last time all of us were together...though I've seen the brothers more recently."


Female Human Priestess of True Sight Merciful Healer Cleric/Witch: Healing Patron Mythic Heirophant Aren's Prepared Spells

"I wouldn't know why your uncle would want me unless he wants a skilled healer. I mostly travel with groups such as this providing healing and support when needed. I tend to stay out of most fights if necessary."

Kezra and the others knew this to be true but should one of her patients be in danger she wasn't against throwing down some firepower to protect them if necessary.

"Recently I traveled with a rather strong group that worked on the Nascent Sphere on the material plane."


Male Jungle Giant Animal Lord (Mastodon) Gestalt druid 17 / Wild Rager 5 / Mythic Hierophant 3

"Compared to my companions anything I have done is just brutal. I have laid waste to entire cities for invading my land, and ridden among the animals and elements alike, but what would have caught your uncles attention I could not say." Ferun grins a huge toothy grin whistles up at the huge vulture circling overhead. "Urza, let's go we're gonna go meet the Sultan." The massive bird lands on his shoulder and pecks at one of his ears.

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