Killian chuckles at Mathalen, "Ha ha! I was only looking for a subtle way of letting Aemon speak with Amaya alone, but if you know of a tea house I would love to visit it! Perhaps we could go later this evening?"
---
Later at the tea house, "Mathalen, this was a wonderful idea. You'd think I'd have heard of such a lovely place as this from someone before now, but no. I fear I may be forever in your debt now." He offers a broad smile and raises his cup to his new friend. As the chat winds along, Killian inquires, "You know, Mathalen, earlier today you'd mentioned sticking with your disciplines for someone else. Tell me, who is it you so honor with such dedication?"
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What do you say we see what Sclavo and Gorvio can do? I haven't spent much time with either of those.
Gorvio works for his uncle Jacovo, a horse trader, but has increasingly grown curious about his ancestry—his vibrant amber eyes (among hints he’s overheard from his uncle during the man’s frequent drunken bouts) make him suspect that somewhere in his past lurks the blood of a tiefling or two. As you work with him, you see that his suspicions are true. He has a natural talent to bend magic to his will, without the need to study books for hours at a time. Regardless, he feels inspired by Bradon's enthusiasm, and becomes more adept.
Scalvo has been very soft-spoken. Sclavo has long worked as a scribe for one of Westcrown’s courts. He longs for a day when the laws of Cheliax can be reformed, and sees this group as a tool that, eventually, can be used to do just that. He's been spending the last few weeks studying the righteousness of Iomodae with Arael, and also enjoys physical training with Beppo. With a heart of the people first, and a thirst for the righteous order of light, You see the makings of a paladin among you.
Both increase in XP. Gorvio is now Level 1 Sorcerer! Relationships increase by one each.
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...In the evening, Beppo sits down with Janiven. You know, I'm not sure I ever got your whole story. How did you end up being Arael's right-hand man?
[dice=Diplomacy]1d20+2
You know...it's a long story, and I'm...I'm a bit tired right now. Don't take this the wrong way, but I've been feeling a bit down lately. It seems we've taken a few blows lately, and sometimes its hard to see the light at the end, you know? And sometimes, I feel so cramped up in this church. Can we...can we just take a walk somewhere?
Relationship increases by 1 pt - now at 13.
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Kyle spends a visit with Vethamer, Iados, and Damaia. "Let's work on our skills." He spends time teaching them more about Shelyn.
Kyle spends time to get to know Damaia more before leaving to headquarters.
They are all appreciative of your time. While they feel somewhat cooped up in here, Janiven has promised them an assignment when she feels they are ready. This training goes a long way to helping them be prepared.
They earn XP. Damaia is now a level 2 rogue! All relationships increase by one point. Please RP out the 'evening' action with Damaia, so I understand that a bit better...and roll a diplo check for her. Thanks!
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After all the training Aemon says his goodbyes to Larko. "Good work today my friend." He puts out his hand to shake Larko's "I agree with you Janiven can be too trusting, i'm glad i've got you to watch our backs back at base i'll see how they do when we assault the lodge i hope my thoughts as misplaced with these two."
-------
He then goes off and get's ready for his walk with Amaya, he washes and prepares his only 'smart' looking clothes. It's just a walk nothing more.. He feels his stomach churn as he slowly makes his way to Amaya room, and knocks. "Hello Amaya, you're looking lovely as ever. I thought we could go for a walk and just talk i don't remember the last time i got a chance to walk and talk with someone so beautiful." He swallows as his throat starts to become dry. That sounded so corny, she must get this from all the men chasing after her. "I'd really enjoy learning more about you." He smiles trying to cover up his earlier cheesy lines.
[dice=Diplomacy]1d20
Amaya is dressed somewhat plainly, though it does a poor job of diminishing her natural beauty much. You honor me, Aemon, though I am not worthy of it. I am a simple artist, that immigrated here with most of my family when I was small. Some of them still leave in Magnimar and Sandpoint. I would love to visit them. My cousin, Ameiko, owns a pub there. I would love to play for her and her patrons. I hear that like you, she is an adventurer.
But, please, I love the people here. Please tell me more about yourself.
Relationship improves by 1 point to 13
Taryin goes to a nice place he used to eat, getting some food to go. He inquires about Tessai until he finds her, then gently knocks or clears his throat to let her know that he's there. "Hi Tessai. I didn't know if you'd eaten yet or not. I...I just wanted to talk a bit, if you don't mind. I still have a lot of questions...and" He glances down, thinking of his mother. He walks over and sits some food by her "I guess I feel a little lost. Ya I'm finally a part of this group that's doing some right in the world, but I'm not who I used to be anymore. A few years ago I wouldn't have even" He pauses, then continues on with a softer voice "I wouldn't have even considered tieflings were civil. I learned much about the world when I was traveling, but I still don't know anything" Taryin nurses his drink for a minute, then puts a hand on her shoulder. "But I keep going on about me, how have you been holding up?" He maintains eye contact with her, trying to really understand how the injury is affecting her.
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He was a kind soul...one of us. He called himself "Black Devil," but honestly, his heart was made with purity. He showed me that I could channel my emotions into calm, and focus that through discipline. He taught me to defennd myself, and others, using just that focus alone. No weapons. No armor. No distractions. Becoming one with the energy around you and maintaining order and balance brings a new perspective. Unfortunately, he returned back from a mission in a very... dramatic way. He made it back to our base, but died as result. His spirit was at peace with that move... they tried to revive him, from what I understand, he was ready to move on. I ... miss him.Killian chuckles at Mathalen, "Ha ha! I was only looking for a subtle way of letting Aemon speak with Amaya alone, but if you know of a tea house I would love to visit it! Perhaps we could go later this evening?"
---
Later at the tea house, "Mathalen, this was a wonderful idea. You'd think I'd have heard of such a lovely place as this from someone before now, but no. I fear I may be forever in your debt now." He offers a broad smile and raises his cup to his new friend. As the chat winds along, Killian inquires, "You know, Mathalen, earlier today you'd mentioned sticking with your disciplines for someone else. Tell me, who is it you so honor with such dedication?"
[dice=Diplomacy]1d20+8
Relationship improves by 2 to 5
Taryin goes to a nice place he used to eat, getting some food to go. He inquires about Tessai until he finds her, then gently knocks or clears his throat to let her know that he's there. "Hi Tessai. I didn't know if you'd eaten yet or not. I...I just wanted to talk a bit, if you don't mind. I still have a lot of questions...and" He glances down, thinking of his mother. He walks over and sits some food by her "I guess I feel a little lost. Ya I'm finally a part of this group that's doing some right in the world, but I'm not who I used to be anymore. A few years ago I wouldn't have even" He pauses, then continues on with a softer voice "I wouldn't have even considered tieflings were civil. I learned much about the world when I was traveling, but I still don't know anything" Taryin nurses his drink for a minute, then puts a hand on her shoulder. "But I keep going on about me, how have you been holding up?" He maintains eye contact with her, trying to really understand how the injury is affecting her.
[dice=Diplomacy]1d20+13
You find her staring at an empty mug, alone in her thoughts as you approach. She listens to you, and replies. I appreciate the thought. But, I'm not really hungry.
She looks briefly at you, and then back into her mug. As if ignoring your own revelation to you, she seems beside herself. Did I...did I do something to displease Cayden? Did I... Lose his vision? Let him down? Or his children? Where did I go...wrong? What's to become of me...now?
She trails off in the distance, mentally, very non-response to further questioning. You do feel like you know her a little better as a result, however. And while she has not admitted it, you feel she knows you better as well.
Relationship increases by 2 to 5.
In the evening Brandon seeks out Arael.
The injury to Tessai had affected them all and the alchemist was concerned with morale.
Evening Arael. Brandon says, pouring them both a cup of coffee from a copper pot. How is everyone doing? The newcomers seem to have given everyone a lift, but Tessais injury... he shakes his head.
@Amaya "Please when you sing it relaxes me, you have some real talent. You immigrated? me and my father moved to Magnimar also when i was really young, it was me, my parents and my older brother. We lost our parents almost as soon as we arrived here..."
He's ran through these events in his mind so many times it's strange to speak them aloud now. I feel like i can let her know about me"So it was just me and my brother growing up on the streets of Magnimar it was always... an adventure but then you grow up you realised how you're living isn't normal going from day to day not knowing when your next meal will come... but my brother looked after me. He was then taken by the Hellknights.... so here i am trying to fight back in a world the will always try and keep you down."
Aemon then looks away from Amaya. Look at me blabbing about my problems... He then wipes eye's and turns back with a smile. When all this is over maybe we can head to Sandpoint and see your cousin, i've never been far from Magnimar it can be our adventure."
In the evening Brandon seeks out Arael.
The injury to Tessai had affected them all and the alchemist was concerned with morale.
Evening Arael. Brandon says, pouring them both a cup of coffee from a copper pot. How is everyone doing? The newcomers seem to have given everyone a lift, but Tessais injury... he shakes his head.
[dice=Dip]1d20-2
Arael listens carefully to Brandon's words.
Your concern is well founded, my friend. I have been working hard, alongside with Kyle and Fiosa, to reach out to everyone and remind them that we are working with higher purpose. And while adversity will come our way, the Inheritor will see us through this and even darker darkness in the coming months, and possibly years.
However, my biggest concern is for Tessai. For lack of a deeper insight, I believe she is having a crisis of faith. She's been lost in herself, and falling into a pit of depression and despair. I dare say, I once heard her ask the gods "Why did you not just let me die?" My heart is saddened for her. I freely admit that the deity she crusades for, Cayden Cailean, eludes my complete understanding. But, to see anyone lose such strong convictions so quickly disturbs me greatly. And, yes, you are right. It impacts the group as a whole, especially given her role which, at least for now, she can no longer carry out.
He gets up. That will have to be another, heart sinking conversation we will have to have. As long as Tessai cannot carry herself in battle, and new field leader will have to be chosen. I leave it up to you and your friends as to whether you want to tell Tessai. If you do, however, I would give it some time.
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@Amaya "Please when you sing it relaxes me, you have some real talent. You immigrated? me and my father moved to Magnimar also when i was really young, it was me, my parents and my older brother. We lost our parents almost as soon as we arrived here..."
Amazing. What is the expression used here? "The World of Golarion is large and yet small at the same time. Yes, I would like to travel there again, once I know that the people here can live in peace. It is why my family moved here, to escape war and the fear of death it brings.
I don't just think we should tell her I think she should select the New leader, or at least have a say. She had a gift for strategy the rest of us lack.
I think that is fair. Brandon, if I may ask you to communicate that with her. You all have a closer relationship with her than I do. Thank you.
You know...it's a long story, and I'm...I'm a bit tired right now. Don't take this the wrong way, but I've been feeling a bit down lately. It seems we've taken a few blows lately, and sometimes its hard to see the light at the end, you know? And sometimes, I feel so cramped up in this church. Can we...can we just take a walk somewhere?
Fair enough. It's- it's been tough on all of us, but that's why we have to win. I've had my ass kicked and quit on something before - I really had no choice - and it didn't get me anywhere. Beppo pauses for a moment. Man, I am really talking too much right now.. He turns back to Janiven. But you get some rest, and I'll come find you tomorrow. Maybe you can show me around - I'm not from this town, you know.
"Ah! Scalvo! You strike me as a man of conviction, tell me, would you care to enjoy a show at the Nightshade theater this evening perchance? There's a performance of Aroden's Lament tonight and I've a pair of tickets. I would love some spirited conversation afterward if you'd be interested?" Killian claps the man on the shoulder, his smile wide and hopeful. When Scalvo agrees, Killian laughs, "Ha ha! Excellent. I will see you this evening then!"
---
Later that evening, after the show, "So tell me, good man, what did you think of the show? I particularly like how on the surface it seems as if the show paints Aroden as a weak and nervous god, but the allusions to Aroden's interest in more than just humanity, that he was devoted to the greater good of all Golarion is one I find quite inspiring. It's subtle of course, Westcrown being where it is presently, but I think it shows a deeper truth to things that one can find if one is willing to look." His questions, while pointed and showing an obvious familiarity with the material, are still open and casual. It's obvious Killian is more interested in the exchange of ideas and perspectives than he is in proseltyzing or arguing, and his tone and posture seem to set Scalvo at ease.
@Amaya Aemon beams a smile, forgetting all he has ahead of him for once forgetting what he's put himself in for with the shades all the stress washes away. "I'm really glad we could spend this time together Amaya. He takes her hand in his and they walk home together talking of what they hope to do when this is all over.
After spending the night with Amaya Aemon decides to spend some time out of training with Larko. "Hey Larko want to get a drink and just have a chat?" He grabs a few drinks for them both. "So i spent last night with Amaya we went for a walk and just talked, it was good it was nice to just relax. But enough about me how are things going with you? we never get a lot of opportunities to just talk me and you."
After a thought provoking conversation with Arael, Brandon makes dinner for himself and Tarvi, discussing her progress and whether she has been in touch with her parents.
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Later that evening, after the show, "So tell me, good man, what did you think of the show? I particularly like how on the surface it seems as if the show paints Aroden as a weak and nervous god, but the allusions to Aroden's interest in more than just humanity, that he was devoted to the greater good of all Golarion is one I find quite inspiring. It's subtle of course, Westcrown being where it is presently, but I think it shows a deeper truth to things that one can find if one is willing to look." His questions, while pointed and showing an obvious familiarity with the material, are still open and casual. It's obvious Killian is more interested in the exchange of ideas and perspectives than he is in proseltyzing or arguing, and his tone and posture seem to set Scalvo at ease.
[dice=Diplomacy]1d20+8
Well, yes. I feel shame that we have lost focus on what is true, right and holy with Aroden's fall. Everytime I see a play like this, I cannot help but think back to the older times where men and women had convictions that they would stand for, and take to the grave, if need be. We have peace now, but at what price? A price not worth paying, I say.
Relationship rises by 2.
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@Amaya Aemon beams a smile, forgetting all he has ahead of him for once forgetting what he's put himself in for with the shades all the stress washes away. "I'm really glad we could spend this time together Amaya. He takes her hand in his and they walk home together talking of what they hope to do when this is all over.
After spending the night with Amaya Aemon decides to spend some time out of training with Larko. "Hey Larko want to get a drink and just have a chat?" He grabs a few drinks for them both. "So i spent last night with Amaya we went for a walk and just talked, it was good it was nice to just relax. But enough about me how are things going with you? we never get a lot of opportunities to just talk me and you."
[dice=diplomacy]1d20
Amaya tells you a little more about her family and herself. She conveys that most of her people hold to a strong sense of tradition, including a code of honor. Everyone, from the poorest to the richest to the rulers, follow these basic codes, and it helps create stability. She also conveys that it may also be a catalyst in fights and wars when honor has been tainted.
Larko
I have been practicing. And, Janiven took me out on a mission while you guys were out. She really knows the city and the terrain very well. She showed me how she tracks people even though crowded streets and small alleys. The woman really know what she is doing.
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1d20+3
After a thought provoking conversation with Arael, Brandon makes dinner for himself and Tarvi, discussing her progress and whether she has been in touch with her parents.
Not much, I'm afraid. Since I do most of my studies here, and in the library, I do not spend nearly as much time at home. If I did, I would simply get distracted by my father. He'd want me to drop everything and help run the shop, again. She sighs. Then she sits up and looks excited. Oh, but I'm working on something new! And this one isn't jewelry. I can't tell you what it is yet. I want to make sure I can do this right before I say anything to anyone...even you.
She takes a few mouthfuls of food, looking pensive. She then looks up at Brandon and asks, Is it true? One of the other ones said that you gave Ermolos a beating with a mace? Her tone gets quiet, and a bit serious.
Relationship rises by 1 (for now)
After a week, Ailyn and Arael pull the group into his 'office.' It's a bit cramped, but Arael insists.
Ailyn wants to talk to you all about the mission, but first, let's talk about Tessai.
Unfortunately, in her condition, she cannot fight, or lead the team on the battlefield. She refuses to allow us to take up the Hellknights' offer to have a cleric of Asmodeus help her out. As most of you know, our own divine magic here isn't strong enough to help her. I have a few ideas I'm working on, but all of them will take some time.
I don't want to alarm you all. You have a job that must be focused on right now. But, please keep her in your prayers. She seems to be falling into a fit of depression, and I'm afraid that I've been able to do much to bring her out.
Rest assured, during your absence, The others and I will tend to her every need as best as possible.
Arael pauses for a minute before continuing on.
Is it true? One of the other ones said that you gave Ermolos a beating with a mace?
Brandon pauses, fork floating halfway to his gaping mouth.
Well no... I mean, that is to say... I didn't give him a beating. We were having a practice match and I did win so I mean I did beat him in that sense but...
He stops himself from bleating on and forces himself to take a deep breath.
I was probably too hard on him. He is still learning and I was too... exacting in my choice of strikes and ended up making my point more forcefully than I needed to.
He reaches across and takes her hand.
Listen, Edm- someone had upset me that morning. But that's not even it. Seeing Tessai last night... she was not a Shade of Grey but a Shade of herself. That woman is so strong and coutragous and yet even she was so badly wounded in our cause. The same thing could happen to any of us, at any time. And I just want the others to be as well prepared as they can be. Because it's better that I hurt them temporarily in training that a demon hurts them permanently in the field.
Ill apologise tomorrow and I'm sorry that it upset you also.
He kisses her hand.
Tessai was our leader in the field and hopefully will be again. None of us know the dangers we might face in Delvehaven but without clear direction it could be deadly. I propose we elect a new leader at least temporarily but I want to remove myself from the equation - I have no gift for strategy.
With his strength and military background, I nominate Beppo.
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Tarvi@Brandon
I didn't know... I mean...I know you went with the groups to help fight, but, I always thought it was through you magic potions or something. I wasn't... I mean... I didn't think you....
She looks a bit lost and forelorn. And you...took it out on a friend? I... She bolts out of the room.
Tarvi wait! he watches her run out helplessly.
Brandon runs to catch up with her.
A leader, eh? It's not as though Taryin or I have earned a say, so let's just wait and see how this plays out, hmmm?
Killian listens intently to Arael and any of the suggestions for a replacement for Tessai, remaining silent and respectful throughout.
Beppo frowns at Arael's mention of Tessai and her emotional state. She must think Cayden is letting her down. She never talked about her religion that much, but it was clear that's where she drew much of her strength. Why am I so attached to this devil-spawn anyway?
He nearly misses Brandon's eloquent nomination. At "I nominate Beppo," he sits up with a start. Eh? Uh, well, someone has to take Tessai's role, at least nominally. I am, obviously, qualified for such a task, but we all lead in our own ways - no matter who "leads," we should each take the lead in what we do best.
That said, if you choose me for this role, I will do it to the best of my ability. If others are of a different mind, I will not get in the way... He allows himself a half grin. ...much.
"With Tessai.. out of action for the time being there is no one else i would rather follow than my big friend here." He nods to Beppo. "He's strong of heart and muscle.. he's also good for standing behind." Aemon smiles at the group.
Beppo chuckles at Kyle's last comment. Shelyn has saved my ass - through you - too many times for me to ignore her, friend.
Killian smiles brightly at the further mention of Shelyn, obviously glad her agency in the fight for Westcrown's soul isn't overlooked.
I agree, sir. We each lead best in our own ways. I have heard about your prowess on the battlefield, and those you have trained speak highly of the tactical expertise you have shared. I believe you will do fine in the role.
Realizing he made a pun, though not intention, Arael stifles a smile.
No offense. Ailyn, please.
Thank you.
We've not been able to find out anything more about the Lodge itself, but we have figured out something of the security...at least, outside of the Lodge itself. The Dotorri keep the place under surveillance through patrols. At midnight, the shift changes, and the guys are slow getting back out there. They seem to think that the dangerous and reputation of the lodge itself deters people from even trying.
If you take the east road, and move in after midnight, you should be able to slip in unseen. Just watch out for shadowbeasts.
Awmon nods his head at everything Areal says then looks to Ailyn "That seems like the best and only plan of getting in. Can you tell us again what we could expect from inside? We've have all the items from the cache and i hope they get put to good use."
We're sure there's some traps involved, set by the Pathfinders, though they aren't documented. More importantly, be on your guard! Something has taken over. I'm sure of it. Chelaxian government tried to get in via the Chelaxian Pathfinders. They were killed. Be careful!
"Well, it sounds like this will be thrilling on several fronts! Let's hope we prove craftier than your forebears, Ailyn." Killian's comment is offered with a grin. He rolls his shoulders and runs his palm back across his bald pate. "I stand ready."
Aemon stands and nods his head. "I'm ready, It will be good to finally tackle this place."
Let's do it then. We enter at midnight. Killian, Taryin, stay alert on the way over - there is more than the dark to fear out there.
Beppo shoulders his gear.
...say, do either of you - he points at the new chaps - know how to pick a lock or disarm a trap? We can get in the front door, but the gods only know what we will find when we get inside.
Killian shrugs, shaking his head, "Sorry, friend. I've never tried to do either of those things before."
Taryin shakes his head "Never had the knack for it"