The Forgotten God (Table 1) (Inactive)

Game Master Rednal

Well Orithos seems we put our foot in it this time. While we have a moment let me look you over. I may know what that energy was. Let me think.

K Whatever: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15 I have all of them at +7 right now.

How much do I know b/c I have my memories. I know I'm searching for parts of my soul and power. Is a 15 reasonable to think thats what this was for Orithos. If that is what I determine I will wait to share such information.

Hadran studies his friend. Picking up his right arm.. Hhhmmm...Then his left. Interesting. He then lets Orithos stand at rest.

Well budy I have nothing. He smiles. You ladies have any ideas? Can you share anything about the priest with us. We are not your enemies. I'm just curious what kind of man he is.

For a fellow deity, the sight of a god's power joining them is rather unmistakable. ^^ So, yes, that's a very reasonable assumption to make.

The two priestesses looked at you for a few long moments, though only one of them spoke. "He's a great man." she said loyally. The door opened a minute or so later as the priest in question came in, setting a scorched-looking human soul onto the table before he took a seat.

"This is what's left of one of the most promising initiates we've had in decades." he explained. "He died retrieving the orb for our temple so that we could study it and use it for the glory of Sarenrae." he added conversationally. He sighed a moment later. "Yet nothing I've seen leads me to believe you two hold malice, or intended to make light of the sacrifices we've made, and the Dawn brings new light." His mouth twitched slightly as he quoted one of the favored lines of the church. "Truthfully, I only wish I could have gotten there sooner. That troglodyte would not have escaped, and I would love to be able to question him."

This man made a great sacrifice. I know he is now happy seeing the true light of the Dawnflower for the first time. I wish I had more to tell you. In time maybe I will. Trust us Priest we are friends of this church. That servent of Moloch seems a step ahead of us. I fear we should rush to the church of Irori. They too have found an artifact. We may have slown him down and gained the advantage, but that can't be known. Priest, please let us be on our way. We will share what we find with you if it helps. You are welcome to come with us incase the troglodyte does show if that would please you.

"I'm sure that if I study the powers within me, I should find a means of binding him to one spot. Or rather, do you know how I might prevent him from displacing himself to a new location? And if you came, you could assist us in our venture to find him and stop him. We would most appreciate it."

"The Dimensional Anchor spell would undoubtedly be enough to pin him in place." the Head Priest said calmly. "I've already prayed for the Dawnflower to grant it to me, and she has consented. If that beast returns, I will be able to pin him down. Nevertheless, that's exactly why I must remain here - I heard you did well enough in driving him off, but I will not leave the children here at his mercy if he returns while I'm out. The most I can offer you is scribing a scroll with that spell... in return for a suitable donation to the church, of course." They did have repairs to make - and such services, outside of actual donations, were one of the primary sources of income that each faith had.

We don't have much in the way of coin, but I'm sure we have something to donate. Orithos perhaps the gift from the elder would be a good trade. Do we have anything else of value?

"I am in possession of a scroll of invisibility, and a scroll of cure moderate wounds."

The gift from the elder is significantly more valuable as a trading item than the cost of a spellcaster's services - even one in a position like the High Priest's, since it's not exactly high-level magic. It was meant as an item to help you gain entry, and this might not be the best time to trade it away - and if you can't afford the right donation to the church right now, then you may simply have to do without. If you can catch that troglodyte quickly enough, you might just be able to bring him down before he can cast the magic to get away. Speaking of, there is still that rumor of a power held within the other major temple of the city...

The Priest himself merely shook his head a bit at your words. "Not everyone has something, even in this city." he said quietly. "That, too, can be a challenge from the gods. When they do not provide for us, we must take matters into our own hands."

I understand, may the light of Sarenrae be with you father. Thank you. I fear we must get to the other temple. It seems that creature is a step ahead. This time I would like to beat him there. Orithos you ready?

"Yes, I am ready."

Turning to the high priest, Orithos said, "I will return when I can to assist in the healing of your associates. I apologize, again, for the harm that come upon them."

The Priest merely arched an eyebrow as one of his associates opened the door. At his level of authority, it was doubtful that he'd need to do more than channel some positive energy to have all the injuries taken care of...

And for just a moment, you feel a stark reminder of what this world is really like. There was a time when people relied on you throughout their lives, hoping that you would set everything right for them... but now? Now they hardly care about you at all, often seeing you as no more than a face in the crowd. There's little trust, little hope, and a sense that they'll still be able to get by... but that's certainly no reason to give up. You've already recovered a small part of the power you'll need, and if you can just manage to regain enough of it, then you could very well become important to the mortals once more.

First, though, you'll have to prove you deserve it... and Irori's temple could be very interesting indeed for anyone who truly wants to better themselves.

After getting back to the streets Hadran will again ask a local to please point the way to the temple.

Come on Orithos we need to be quick about this. The creature could already be there for all we know. I hope we hurt him bad enough to delay him if this was his plan.

Hadran takes off for the temple moving through the crowd quickly but also trying to be polite and not running anyone over.

Orithos follows suit.

The monastery of Irori - which, incidentally, has no official name - is a fairly busy place, but the crowds seem normal enough... if perhaps a bit dense, since the building right next to the temple is the Hall of Writs, an important locale for people seeking permission to buy land or get a commission for a trade caravan. However, the space just around the temple itself is still - the citizens seem to avoid walking too close, and even from here, you can see a number of monks meditating out in the yard on their journey towards self-perfection. One of them, the closest to the gates, was wearing a simple loose blue band around his neck - the temple's equivalent of a doorman, perhaps.

Hadran makes his way through the crowd toward the monk.

Greatings to you monk. My name is Hadran, this is my friend Orithos. We heard stories of they artifact your temple found. We were wondering if we could see such a thing as we our seekers of knowledge.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27

He bows awaiting the monks reply.

Following suit, Orithos bows as well, for if he understood correctly, this was how you addressed men who's bodies were weapons.

After a few moments, the monk turned to regard you, his movements unhurried and smooth... yet not wasted at all. "Our home is not a showcase, or a venue for the public." he explained courteously. "Irori welcomes all who seek to improve themselves, but those who come here are already testing themselves against temptation and distraction, and we do not add to their challenges. If it is knowledge you seek, perhaps you should visit the great libraries instead."

If it is a test that must be passed then I will meet the challenge. I respect Irori and wish to improve myself. Whom better then his followers to do so agains. I meant no disrespect. Please allow me the oportunity to prove my worth.

"Don't hurt him, Hadran. He may be a monk and wonderfully trained, but you are also stronger than the average man. Wouldn't want anything to happen to a fellow man of inner peace."

The monk looked somewhat unimpressed at the conversation that was happening right in front of him. "No visitors. No exceptions." he explained. "You are free to talk with the monks that are out in the city, and even to challenge them, but these halls are a place of contemplation for those who have dedicated themselves to the path of the Master of Masters... and you will not find what you seek within its doors."

You misunderstand me brother. I am but a lost soul in this grand world. I have inner demons that I struggle against. I seek to be free of temptation and to enlighten myself. I have heard or Irori and what he offers his followers. I am but lost and seek a direction. What must I do to join in your ranks and find the peace you have?

Within himself, Orithos thought, Didn't I inquire upon him joining the militia? Well, I guess this would suffice.

The monk seemed to relax slightly, propping himself up with his staff. "You cannot reach enlightenment as long as you seek it." he explained. "But if you're ready to stop looking, visit one of our smaller temples. You will advance when you are ready to." the monk smiled. "Still, I do not think you would enjoy the life of a monk, or remain there for too long. After all, you are looking for this, are you not?" His fingers spun around rapidly, and a moment later, he was holding the hilt of a broken sword. It wasn't entirely clear where he'd pulled it out from, but he did look mildly amused. "A most curious object, this one. I must admit that I've never seen its like."

The item in question seemed to be one solid piece of metal - from the wrappings to the decorations, all of it was hard and unforgiving, yet possessed of a certain... deadness. There was no great power here.

I am unfamiliar with what that is brother. Perhaps you could explain. Is that broken sword of some significance to Irori?

Orithos will be watching and listening to the conversation since this he feels is a personal event for Hadran. If something happens that requires assistance, Orithos will step in, though.

Orithos is welcome to join in at any time.

"It only has the meaning one gives it." the monk answered, slowly turning it around so it could be easily examined. "The Master of Masters has no need for weapons, and doesn't encourage us to rely on them, only to use them as aids for training our bodies." he smiled slightly. "The people of this city are obsessed with the gods - if Irori had touched it, they would hail it as a blessed artifact, completely overlooking how meaningless such a thing would be. What is right for one man is not always right for another." He put the hilt away again. "It is true that it once held power, but this has since lost its shine - for whatever reason, the energies have become one with Brother Feroze." Somehow, the monk managed to give off the air that this conversation was happening precisely the way he wanted it to. "Would you like me to call him out?"

Please do. This is a fascinating story. I would like to meet this man. He must truly be enlightened to be chosen by such a power.

This was so much easier when people worshiped and respected me. I will bite my tongue for now and let this monk spin his tale.

"Wait here." the Monk said, making his way further into the temple. After a few moments, you realized that a number of the monks in the yard were discreetly looking your way - none of them seemed outright hostile, but they were certainly watching to be sure that the sanctity of the temple wasn't violated. In time, however, he did return with another monk - a younger human, entirely bald (right up to and including his eyebrows), who looked a little perplexed at being called out to the gates in order to meet strangers.

"Who are these people, teacher?" he inquired hesitantly.

"Travelers, who have an interest in the toy you found." the older monk said, tossing the odd object to the younger monk. He caught it almost without noticing, then looked over to both of you.

More than anything else, however, he seemed... nervous. Certainly not as confident as the older monk, nor as experienced with the ways of the world. He didn't look like he really wanted to talk, either, but...

What is this? I feel it. Is this part of my power? It feels as it is, but why does it pull away?

Hello brother Feroze. Your teache here told us a tale. I can see you seem nervous of me. Please we are friends here. I mean you know harm. We are but simple travelers trying to find our own path to enlightenment. Irori seems to be a teacher that can help with that. When we heard of the artifact that was found, we decided to come and see for ourselves. What is the power like? Can you tell me anything you have found out about it.

I wonder if I touch him if the power will flow to me. Could it be his soul is some how keeping it from me. I can't slay this boy here. He has done nothing wrong. It is that kind of brutality that got me in this trouble.

Brother can I approach? May I have your permission to examine you? I may be able to help with what your feeling or going through. At least help you understand it better.

<Stay away from me, failure.> Feroze's mouth moved, but he didn't seem like he was in control of it - but he didn't seem to be trying to stop it, either, and the voice that came out was entirely unlike his. In fact, it rather resembled Hadran's... as he might be in the midst of a battle while shouting orders to a celestial army. Feroze dropped back slightly, into a guarded stance, as he regained control of his mouth. "I don't know who you are or what you did..." he said. "...But I don't think it wants to be part of-" <-someone who failed even when we were together!>

As the voice - or possession, or power, or whatever it is - speaks, a few details are starting to reveal themselves. Among them is a major consideration for gods - if a deity is a collection of power, what would a fragment of that power cut off for thousands of years become? Perhaps not a demigod, not if it wasn't worshiped in its own right, but... Orithos' power, too, seemed to be somehow self-aware, doing everything it could to push away a foe and resist corruption while trying not to harm anyone or anything else. The power and its thoughts are one and the same.

Hadan stops as the voice speaks. He takes a step back after its done.

It is ok Reroze. I will come no closer. One day I will help you understand what has happened here. For now guard this power. Let it aid an guide you in your journey. It seems I am unworthy. I will continue to test myself and become what I once was. You are blessed my boy. Be safe.

Hadran turns to Orithos.

I think it is time we leave here my friend. Perhaps we have some things to talk over as well.

Turning back to the monks.

Watch over your student brother. He will do great things and make you proud as a master. We will leave you now.

Hadran bows and turns to walk away.

Orithos, who had been sitting on a rather comfortable barrel a few yards away, heard the route the conversation took, and figured this'd be when he would step in. With a heave and a sigh, the fiery one walked slowly over to Hadran, and replied, "Give me a moment. I will be right with you. And, no, I won't be doing anything foolish."

Continuing his pace over to the priests, Orithos took a moment to collect his thoughts, and then said, "If one can surely find the point where differing waters meet, they will then understand the harmony between. If you understand what I have just told you, then you have no reason to be angry with my friend. There are many faults he has wrought, and though they weigh heavily on his shoulders, he has already taken steps to redeem himself.

Holding up a simple hand to silence any replies, Orithos looked the student straight in the eye and said, "You do not know him as I do. You will never know him as I do, unless you see for yourself what he has accomplished in my company. Until then, the judgement you place upon him will forever be a marred and mired facet of your reality. Though today might not be the day you see him for his true self, I will leave you with this. A danger is in the city that might come after you if you continue to show your capabilities. This danger has already attacked Hadran and I twice, and I do not wish for you to encounter it."

Looking over to the priest beside him, Orithos continued. "Please, spread the message among your fellowship alone, that a creature is stalking and preying on those of great power. It has a means of traveling between distances, so counter it the same you would for stopping a ship at sea. Also, its hide is only harmed by tools that match those of pure heart. Lastly, if ever you need Hadran's or my assistance, send a messenger to one with flaming hair. Everyone will know what that pertains to, and I'm sure you can find me through those means."

With a bow, Orithos finished with, "My apologies for taking so much of your time. Things to do, hearts to mend, you know the drill." As he had said all that he needed to, Orithos turned back around and followed Hadran into the streets of the city.

The streets of the city are much as they were when you stepped off of them earlier - crowded, noisy, yet surprisingly clean overall. Part of the riches of this city - the gleaming white buildings, the fragrances, the decorations everywhere you look - seem to have gone into a solid public works plan. More importantly, however, you're going to need to decide what to do now - on the bright side, at least, there are some options open to you, including some of the possibilities you looked into before.

Thank you for the kind words my friend. I feel like we should monitor the temple, but we have know way of knowing if the Trog will show again. For now we will do what good we can here. We know that merchants are still hiring to explore the citadel. Perhaps they feel there is more to find there. The monk said they lost many in there exploration. We should go secure the citadel and make it safe for the people. What do you think?

"I agree. Maybe, then, we can make a reputation for ourselves and finally get our footing."

Ah yes I guess it wasn't very clear.

Alright then lets go find the merchants. We should have them hult on sending any others until our return. I don't want to endanger more lives. You Sir. Can you tell me and my friend here the way to the merchant district. Hadran listens as the man explains and then thanks him.

Let us go Orithos.

Sorry I was waiting on Rednal b/c I failed to reread my post and orithos's together :)

The entire city is arguably a merchant distract, but most of the transactions take place towards the waterfront, where it's easier to move things back and forth. Before too long, however, you've managed to locate one of the merchants hiring for expeditions - a man who has clearly enjoyed more than his fair share of the dinner table, but has yet to reach the level of truly phenomenal riches that this city is known for. "Just the two of you, huh?" he asked... and he eyed Orithos for a moment before nodding. "Aye, a flame-kin would do wonders for this. Three centuries ago, the archdevil Moloch, preaching surrender to the desert heat, suddenly became the rage. Qadirans walked into the desert just to die just as if the heat was their paradise. The most devout sought out the hidden Citadel of Flame, where a fearsome bull-headed idol of Moloch judged them and sent the worthy to Malebolge, the sixth layer of Hell. No surprise that Sarenrae’s priests launched a mighty crusade to demolish the citadel. After two weeks, a great sandstorm swallowed the expedition — and, it seemed, the citadel and its idol. Nothing more was heard from either."

He paused for a moment, allowing you to digest the information.

"Until ten days ago, that is. Sandstorms regularly scour the highlands, and this time they emptied an entire valley of dunes. Poking out of that valley, visible only to those soaring above — such as a flying wizard, like the one who brought this information — was the lofty spire of a fortress: the Citadel of Flame, presumably."

"I am expecting trouble — who knows what’s infesting that citadel? Get in there fast and find that idol — it could be the key to the entire cult. It’s likely statue-sized, maybe as big as me, and should have a bull’s head on it. The Church of Sarenrae posted a reward centuries ago for anyone who could recover the statue so they could destroy it, and I aim to collect on that. If you succeed in getting the statue for me, you'll get a generous part of what they're offering. I'll provide something to transport it with, and I'll register that you're working with me at the church. Any questions?"

Muloch, what are the chances. This has to be more than coincidence.

We will take the job. Only if to save the lives of others that are trying. How far is it to this Citadel? Do you have a map. Also can you provision us with food and horse maybe. We gave what we had to a village to the south. You can take it out of any payment we are given. I have no other questions but my friend may.

Orithos will wait for a reply.

"The Citadel is a few days away from here - my team can guide you there and back again." he said, clasping his hands together. "Food is included with the hire, so don't worry about that. After all, I do want you in top condition before you head in!" He grinned widely. "You look much more capable than some of those other louts I've seen. Your escort will be ready to go as soon as you are - head here and give them this token." he passed over a small, hand-drawn map and a somewhat battered iron disc that was stamped with a complex seal.

Will do. Thank you for this. Orithos do you have any questions before we go?

Hadran waits on his friend, after that the two head to meet the guides.

"I have none. Let's see this through."

The man nods, and you're soon on your way. After a swift voyage by boat to Sedeq and a tiring trek through the endless Qadiran dunes, the sun beats down on a maze of red slickstone, with delicate arches and towering columns called hoodoos dotting the landscape. Somewhere within this expanse lies the Citadel of Flame and within, the idol of Moloch.

The path descends through a maze of cliffs, opening into a slot canyon of smooth red stone surrounded by towering hoodoos. At the far side, two hoodoos carved into enormous bull-headed men leer down on the canyon, while those nearby look like stylized flames. To either side, the canyon walls rise steeply in a series of rough ledges to the clifftops above. Brass doors on a massive wall of baked gray mud can be seen through an arch at the far side of the canyon.

Even as you approach, however, roars can be heard from the sides of the canyon as two creatures made of flame jump down into the canyon to block your way - and they don't look friendly at all.

Initative (Enemy): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14
Initative (Hadran): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24
Initative (Orithos): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19

New map at the top of the screen. You're just inside the left entrance - the elementals are about 20 feet ahead of you, blocking the underpass forward.

Fire creatures at the Citadel of Flame. Seems about right. Lets take them down Orithos.

Hadran moves with speed up to one of the creatures. Drawing the massive blade he spins and slashed through one of the creaturs.

Attack: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25
Damage: 2d6 + 10 ⇒ (5, 1) + 10 = 16 Arcane Strike.

The blade enters the fire and encounters little resistance, just enough to know it is a living flame.

Charging the one to the left, Orithos lets cry the sound of battle with a swing of his rapier.

Attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Damage if hit: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

Hadran's hit was a solid one, cutting deep into the creature of flame. It wasn't quite enough to dispel its body, but the creature had clearly been harmed - and Orithos' foe was likewise injured by the attack. Without hesitation, the two manifestations of flame lashed outwards.

Slam (Hadran): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22 for Damage: 1d6 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5 + Burn (Fire Damage): 1d6 ⇒ 2 + Reflex (DC 14): 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (16) + 14 = 30 Success
Slam (Orithos): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25 for Damage: 1d6 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4 + Burn (Fire Damage): 1d6 - 5 ⇒ (1) - 5 = -4 No save needed - your fire resistance (which, incidentally, should probably be listed up with your other defensive abilities in your profile) is enough to completely nullify the burn effect.

7 Damage to Hadran, 4 Damage to Orithos, I believe.

Somewhat impressively, both of their blows were solid hits, and additional flames licked at Hadran as the elementals assaulted the intruders.

Attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7
[ooc]Natural One. If I may, I'm going to add an extra roll.[/dice]
Nat 1 Roll: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Orithos stumbles on the next swing, but regains his balance enough not to lose his sword.

Sorry guys was traveling for the holiday's this past weekend.

attack: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14
damage: 2d6 + 10 ⇒ (2, 2) + 10 = 14 Arcane Strike

Hadran recovers from the slam of the fire creature and slashes it again destroying it. Probably missed though :)

Neither of the elementals were hit by the attacks, and simply laughed in Ignan as they continued their attempt to drive the intruders away from the area.

Slam (Hadran): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16
Slam (Orithos): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17

...On the other hand, perhaps they should have spent a little less time laughing and a little more time actually focusing on hitting their targets, because neither of the beasts managed to effectively strike out.

Incidentally, if you think you'll do nothing but basic attacks for awhile, you're always welcome to roll several turns worth at once. That can help speed up combat by quite a bit. ^^ It's up to you whether or not to do that, though.

1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
2d6 + 10 ⇒ (2, 6) + 10 = 18

laugh that one off beast!