Studying the nervous man in front of her moment she drapes an arm around him in what she hopes is an attempt to calm him down. "I'm sorry, it's just that the way you were acting while I was dozing in your lap, your very comfy and inviting lap, that I thought you may have wanted to go a bit further. You're always so stressed that I thought I could just help you alleviate some of that pressure."
Raising her free hand up she gently cups his face, again in a more soothing rather than outright seductive manner. "You can be disciplined while showing affection to someone else. I don't want to sleep with you just because I'm horny, I'm horny all the time. I want to sleep with you to help you relax, to make you make you feel good, and hopefully give you some good dreams afterwards... when was the last time you had a good dream?"
"...when was the last time you had a good dream?"
Years ago.
This time, Naberius does not instantly recoil at being touched, perhaps simply to prove himself that he is strong enough not to. He looks at Monday as squarely as he can, and answers, "So you say. I have learned my lessons, the hard way. Human interaction is based on self-interest. No relationship is based purely on altruism. Everyone in this world wants something from you, whether it is merely carnal pleasure, or knowledge, or wealth..."
Sullenly, he adds, "I do not know you. I do not trust you. Why would I bare myself to you? You might want to take my life, for all I know... If you need not consider such matters in your dalliances, consider yourself blessed."
Monday actually cocks her head to the side slightly as Naberius explains himself before tittering. "Your wound tighter than a Kuthinite cuckoo clock. And that's adorable. And no I don't want to kill you, I couldn't f@!~ you if I did so... well I mean I could, but I don't think you'd respond well to being reanimated. So what could I gain by killing you?"
Moving herself forward so that she's straddling the wizard she brings her face even closer to his. "I promise I'll make you feel safe, feel wanted. You don't have to be scared around me. Don't you want that?"
Naberius looks Monday in the eye, and opens his mouth as if to say something. Instead, he stays silent and peers over her shoulder at the unfinished scroll.
Finally he shakes his head and coughs, saying, "I... I really should get back to work."
Returning the wizard's gaze she lets out a sigh when he changes the subject back to his work, resting her head against his shoulder and nuzzling it slightly she lets out a defeated "... okay."
Nuzzling him once more she slides down off of him before curling up tight into a ball and laying her head in his lap. "I won't bother you anymore right now, but if you want to talk some more..." she drifts off as she shuffles a bit to get more comfortable.
Naberius glances at Monday strangely, and returns to his scribing. He does not initiate further conversation, but he makes no more attempts to chase Monday away either. By the time he starts his second scroll, he seems to have relaxed somewhat. Clearly the practise gives him some comfort.
When Mera is informed of the failure of Thesing she can't help but join in the laughter. She takes their warning in stride, unable to fathom the possibility that the man is intelligent enough to pose a real threat to anything.
Mera spends the first half of the day attending voice lessons and practicing various stretches and dances for exercise.
[ooc]
Still sore from her "performance" with the hellknights from the other day though, she is left with a rather mediocre product. Everyone kept informing her that Seoghal, the man whom wishes to be her betrothed, was searching for her relentlessly and she should find him immiedately. When she catches sight of him entering she quickly ducks out the back and moves off to hide.
I am not ready to face him yet.
She spends the remainder of day hiding in plain sight doing what she does best, socializing with the aristocracy. She attempts to see if anything exciting is floating around in the rumor mills but unfortunately comes up with nothing interesting.
Finished with her day she returns to the hideout to discover Tal waiting to discuss things with her.
I suppose he should have been with me today, hmmm.
Mera calls Tal aside and asks to speak about his responsibilities and hours. "My last was absolutely dreadful and I forced to let him go. Terrible really, he was such a nice man but at the heart of it he was dull as rock. He simply could not do anything that I asked. So tell me, have you already informed your other position you will not be returning? Are you ready to begin today?"
As Mera had left befo Tal could connec twitch her and find out his duties it semed that he was free for the day. Making the most of it Tal goes to the smith that Ermolos works at and delivers the armors and weapons for sale. While there he also goes about fitting himself for the fullplate and seeing about them taking all distinguishing marks off so he is not as easily identified.
Once his fitting is finished Tal escorts Lily home and then proceeds to his former employer to inform him that Tal was no longer available for service as Tal's services were recently acquired at a higher wage. Finished with that happy task Tal returns home to relax and wait for the proper time to go to the meeting.
You all start to arrive at the safehouse along with the supporters. Dinner is made for those that haven’t eaten. It is a meager, but tasty beef stew served with a potato. Janiven arrives carrying a box marked with grapes against the sun.
Ermolos will approach Tal and say that him and his master have been busy with the armor and are making great headway to make it unrecognizable as Hellknight armor.
Amaya will ask Tuesday if he would like to join her for dinner by the fire. She will say that she regretted not speaking too much to him yesterday and hopes that they can converse until Janiven pulls him away.
Morosimo will greet Raveen with a Hi-ya Brother! and ask how he did when he delivered Janiven’s message to him.
Tarvi will shadow Naberius until he notices her and when he does she will ask him, Master Naberius, Is there any tome you might recommend for one who wishes to study magic or better yet, do you have one I can borrow?
Vitti will follow Vasco around flapping his arms and going Kaw! Kaw!
Rizzardo will approach Monday and with a toothy grin whisper so Tuesday does not hear, If you be wantin’ someone to carry you to bed tonight, you ain’t got to look no further than me. I have…uh…great endurance.
Having spent most of the day morosely wandering around within the boundaries of his Tether like a dog in a cage while Monday spent time with Naberius, Tuesday's expression greatly shifts when Amaya approaches him. Happily bowing and collecting food and drinks he meets her over by the fire.
At Rizzardo's suggestion Monday tilts her head to the side while brining a finger to tap against her cheek, hmming and hawing all the while looking him up and down. After a lengthy visual inspection she'll grab tightly inbetween his pants for a moment before pulling away.
"Noted." she says in a half-bored tone before turning and sashaying away towards the dinner table.
As Monday moves away Tuesday quickly snaps his head about to give the other man a dagger throwing glare before returning his attentions back to Amaya.
Arael will arrive soon after Janiven looking much better than he did yesterday. Seeing Mera, he will go over to her. Looks like your friend Thesing unwittingly gave you all an alibi. Yes, I did hear about his 'grand peformance' last night, and I also heard about his animosity towards you. Do you think he will be a problem? The half-elf says as he opens Janiven's box, pulls out a bottle, retrieves two cups and pours himself and Mera some wine.
Mera graciously accepts the wine and takes a long sip. "Ah! The day I had, you wouldn't believe! Simply exhausting, you're such a darling!"
Mera waves a hand and looks the other way. "Who, Thesing? Please. He can't make it out of his own way. I mean, did you hear about the horses?" She lowers her head and laughs at the thought. After thinking on her brief chat with him yesterday she ponders. "Well, he is a scorned man. I suppose I shouldn't put it past him to attempt to personally discredit me in some way."
Looking around for Tal she adds, "But I have some personal protection. At least, I am supposed to. Has anyone seen Tal?"
You all start to arrive at the safehouse along with the supporters. Dinner is made for those that haven’t eaten. It is a meager, but tasty beef stew served with a potato. Janiven arrives carrying a box marked with grapes against the sun.
Morosimo will greet Raveen with a Hi-ya Brother! and ask how he did when he delivered Janiven’s message to him.
The man arrives late in another disguise via another road--for some ironic reason, the mask over his face was what identified him--that and the hand-mirror.
He entered with a fairly bulky satchel under his arm, waving his hand against dinner, "I've already eaten," he said.We must establish a pass-word--I am not the only one who can infiltrate this place, he thought in an internal singsong voice, before Morosimo approached him.
"Very well," he said affectionately, ruffling the kid's hair. "Did you watch out for yourself, little bro?"
He then sought out Janiven and Arael once he noticed them, speaking to them privately for a short moment in the empty priest's room.
He asks them for a moment alone after the discussion, and pulls posters from his satchel, pinning them against any present ruined tapestries, as well as several papers, laying them upon the desk orderly in six stacks until the meeting starts.
A half-sun against the Pegasi Bridges, with three stylistic lines:
'Racker's pride was first.
The Bastards of Erebus are next.
Enemies of our Mother, beware.'
The poster is of a beautiful middle-aged woman minding a child, and looking in pain. The child, however, is not in pain, but is holding a knife against the woman's back, hidden in shadow. The edge of the poster holding the knife also has silhouettes of several horned creatures in black fire, the closest creature is a Shadowbeast.
Each stack of papers are (apparently authentic) identification papers. Although the name and occupation are off (in some cases, the occupation is currently blank), they seem to have backgrounds on each current member of the group.
He will wait in the room until Janiven invites everyone inside, reading from a small booklet in his pocket with a Tian title.
Tarvi will shadow Naberius until he notices her and when he does she will ask him, Master Naberius, Is there any tome you might recommend for one who wishes to study magic or better yet, do you have one I can borrow?
Finally noticing he is being tailed, Naberius stops. Listening to Tarvi's request, he sighs and smooths down his coat, looking contemplative. Finally he questions the young woman, rather tersely, to see if this is worth his time. He asks, "How far are you in your studies? Have you been taught? If yes, by whom? Are you actually able to cast anything?"
TAl arrives a few minutes early with Lily as they both are wearing heavy cloaks to ward away the slight chill. Giving the required knock for entrance Tal allows Lily entrance first. When he steps in he immediately sees the large frame of Ermolos coming towards him. Hearing the report of the armor being on schedule tAl claps the man on the back. Tha is excellent news. Just let me know when it is ready and I will come pick it up. Once it is finished then that will give us another set of armor to use during sparring. It may be a good idea to get a couple of shields as well. I will have to keep that in mind for next time.
Hearing the melodious voice of Mera Tal turns to see her looking for him. Excuse me Ermolos but I believe my employer is looking for me. Perhaps if there is time after the meeting we can spar some more?
Approaching Mera Tal nods to her to get her attention. I am here should you need me. You left so soon this morning that I was unsure of my duties. Instead I took the opportunity to sell some of the equipment that we acquired yesterday. I will divide it out once we are in the meeting.
Mera nods to Tal, "My apologies, I did not think of that until I had already left for the day. We shall work out the details after our meeting this evening. Let's have you start moving forward tomorrow then, does that work?"
Tal nods his head in agreement. Yes that should work. I may need to head over to Ermolos sometime tomorrow or the following day to pick up my armor.
"Very well," he said affectionately, ruffling the kid's hair. "Did you watch out for yourself, little bro?"
The youth looks at the masked man and with a wide grin says, Always!
"How far are you in your studies? Have you been taught? If yes, by whom? Are you actually able to cast anything?"
Tarvi stumbles over the onslaught of questions until she takes a deep breath and calmly answers, I am at the very beginning of my studies, Master Naberius and all self-taught. Unfortunately, a light spell is the only thing I can cast. Will you teach me?
After a lengthy visual inspection she'll grab tightly inbetween his pants for a moment before pulling away.
"Noted." she says in a half-bored tone before turning and sashaying away towards the dinner table.
Rizzardo stands there stunned, but after a moment says to no one in particular, I like that woman!
"Well, he is a scorned man. I suppose I shouldn't put it past him to attempt to personally discredit me in some way."
We'll keep an eye on him The half-elf says as Mera turns to find Tal.
Tha is excellent news. Just let me know when it is ready and I will come pick it up. Once it is finished then that will give us another set of armor to use during sparring. It may be a good idea to get a couple of shields as well. I will have to keep that in mind for next time.
Ermolos smiles and says, Yes, I'd like to keep sparring. I want to be of use to the cause!
After dinner, Arael and Janiven will call the main group to the priest's office. Amaya asks Tuesday if he really needs to go as she is quite enjoying his dinner company and has some new songs she would like to sing to him. Once everyone is gathered in the room and the door is locked, Arael again thanks the group for saving his life. Businesslike, he wastes no time. He asks Tal to disburse the funds from the proceeds of their little adventure. He will discuss the situation with Thesing and how he provided everyone with an unintended alibi. He will then remark how much he likes the posters and he will ask Raveen if he can procure more. He envisions them being placed throughout the city until the Hellknights tear them down. He will ask Raveen to explain the papers on the desk and finally ask if anyone else has any new business.
"Nah, he's fine, I'll just take some notes for him." Monday happily calls out to Amaya from across the room, much farther than normal hearing would suggest. Coyly waving to the two she moves into office with the others.
Don't make her sad now.
I don't know whether to hate you or thank you right now.
Waving in thanks to his sister he turns back to Amaya with a pleasant smile on his face, politely offering his hand for her to continue.
Mera speaks up, "Well, I was quite curious about this business with the Bastard's that was spoken of yesterday. Will be getting to that?"
"Yeah, Those are some-- ooh, pretty posters-- vermin that really need to be taken care of."
With Ermolos, After the meeting if it does not get too late then we can spar together you and I. I will let you choose what you wish to work on tonight, offense or defense and go from there.
At the meeting,
Tal hands out 4 bags of coins to each of the others in the group. Here is the money from the sale of the ambush yesterday. This along with the sale of the horses gives us a decent amount with which to equip ourselves for the next phase. Of which I am assuming is the Bastards that Areal mentioned last night before we adjourned. I kept the potions and did not sell them so if anyone wants one of the curative potions here they are. There are 9 left and we should divide them before we get too far along.
When the talk of the posters comes up Tal raises a question to the group as a whole but mainly directed towards Areal and Janiven. How aggressive are we going to be in advertising ourselves? Yes we wish to gain support from the people but if we grow too fast too quickly are we not going to attract the attention before we are able to handle that attention. As of right now we are hiding in the shadows still.
Tarvi stumbles over the onslaught of questions until she takes a deep breath and calmly answers, I am at the very beginning of my studies, Master Naberius and all self-taught. Unfortunately, a light spell is the only thing I can cast. Will you teach me?
"You wish me to teach you?" he asks, appearing to be both surprised and not too enthused about the prospect.
"Of course, there is only so much you can learn from books without proper guidance, but I am afraid I would not be a good teacher... I do assume you have no other options if you are coming to me for help..."
Naberius crosses his arms and studies the aspiring wizard for a moment. Finally he says, "Very well. I suppose could teach you, if you insist... But I have a few conditions."
"As long as you remain under my apprenticeship, you must obey my every word. If I give you an errand, you must do as I say without complaint. You must not question that which you are given, or you will receive nothing. I have no patience for insubordination, and no taste for meting out punishment. I will simply cease to teach you. If you find these terms acceptable, I will instruct you."
After dinner, Arael and Janiven will call the main group to the priest's office. Once everyone is gathered in the room and the door is locked, Arael again thanks the group for saving his life. Businesslike, he wastes no time. He asks Tal to disburse the funds from the proceeds of their little adventure. He will discuss the situation with Thesing and how he provided everyone with an unintended alibi. He will then remark how much he likes the posters and he will ask Raveen if he can procure more. He envisions them being placed throughout the city until the Hellknights tear them down. He will ask Raveen to explain the papers on the desk and finally ask if anyone else has any new business.
Naberius looks at the posters appraisingly, nursing a mug of wine as if he were looking at priceless paintings at an esteemed art gallery.
Finally he opines, "Hm, passable. I can appreciate the symbology... Do we have a method of producing them at a large scale without arousing suspicion?"
Once everyone entered the room, the masked man shut his booklet with a snap, raising his eyes to the group.
"Shanwen left Citadel Rivad today," he started as everyone settled in the room.
"He was punished for losing before us," he said, wagging a finger as a hint. "Leaving him shamed has shamed all the Rackers--we should be vigilant of him in the future."
"For that case," he said, straightening himself. "I have been considering contingencies we foresee--at the worst-case scenario. Although this Thesing fellow apparently gave us alibis, we should not wish for Lady Desna to grace us with good luck every time. Let us hope these will not be necessary"
He approached the papers, and removed them from the desk, heading to grant a set to each member of the group.
"Your alternate identities, pass-port, and travel papers. They are up-to-date for the next year or so," he said neutrally. "Each of you has a different name, a (slightly) different appearance (nothing a little makeup cannot fix), and arranged (and secure) passage out of the city at a moment's notice to Absalom, to whom Cheliax is a suspicious and ill-willing ally, from there, you may procure a ship for your freedom if this all so fails, your contact is at . He can get you a place on any ship or barge leaving the city--you will require 5 gold, which I provided. Guard them well--they are my gift to you all."
He himself has no travel papers.
"Well, I was quite curious about this business with the Bastard's that was spoken of yesterday. Will be getting to that?"
"Soon," he said, preferring to leave his findings to support Janiven's.
"How aggressive are we going to be in advertising ourselves? Yes we wish to gain support from the people but if we grow too fast too quickly are we not going to attract the attention before we are able to handle that attention. As of right now we are hiding in the shadows still."
"As of now, we offer naught but promises and dreams," the man said, approaching the poster and tracing the beautiful (if tortured) face of Mother Westcrown absentmindedly. "A thousand states stood with no a shadow of power--built on but words and a shell of authority. It does us good to be spoken of often--even if we offer only meager victories. Attention we cannot handle is attention we shall allow to grow," he said, smiling as he turned back, pointing at his mask.
"The masks are more than just a fashion statement: against the sprawling spider of Thrune, traditional rebellious groups will not go far without being infiltrated; we need to make this into a public movement--a wave that we should not attempt to directly command, but guide according to our plans: that means having to sometimes allow others to speak in our name.Everyone is able to pick up a mask and fight--without our permission...and we shall let them, so long as they perform aptly and do what is supposed to be done. However," he adds sternly. "Those who show promise are not inducted into our cell before Janiven and I study them--and you (all) approve of. I would prefer to keep such promise working alongside us, not under us."
[spoiler=Question: "This might lead to problems--if everyone who wanted to became a 'Child of Twilight' outside our organization"]"It is--but the people are not foolish. Those touched by tyranny are very sensitive to ploys, and will realize a Thrune trap-cell, a government terrorist organization, or cunning gambit. If they do not--we shall act and remind the people their interests without getting sidetracked. Any cell we believe is betraying the spirit of the revolution, we shall act with accordingly."[/spoiler]
"Hm, passable. I can appreciate the symbology... Do we have a method of producing them at a large scale without arousing suspicion?"
"The Printing Press," he said simply. "Thank Abadar for civilization! Although most scribes do not regularly employ them, the Order of the Rack has an extensive collection to replace its so-called 'faulty histories' every few years.
Otherwise, we must acquire a printing press--perhaps a few, actually. I am familiar with their working--so training will not be an issue."
1: Is Arael well? (Check)
2: The Bastards of Erebus and how Arael ended up with Hellknights. (Soon)
3: Disgraced nobility (soon)
4: The next mission.
5: Masked & Cloaked being our Modus Operati.
6: The Morale Stance: Posters and Propaganda. We need experienced underground leadership. (Check)
6: The Financial Stance: The end of this month is a week away, and the tax caravan is probably laden with goods. Cathas wishes to strike it.
7: Harmony: Personality assessment for Lily, and confidentiality test. (Check--somewhat)
8: Jobs
He approached the papers, and removed them from the desk, heading to grant a set to each member of the group.
"Your alternate identities, pass-port, and travel papers. They are up-to-date for the next year or so," he said neutrally. "Each of you has a different name, a (slightly) different appearance (nothing a little makeup cannot fix), and arranged (and secure) passage out of the city at a moment's notice to Absalom, to whom Cheliax is a suspicious and ill-willing ally, from there, you may procure a ship for your freedom if this all so fails, your contact is at . He can get you a place on any ship or barge leaving the city--you will require 5 gold, which I provided. Guard them well--they are my gift to you all."
Naberius stares at the papers, concealing a sudden rush of eagerness by hiding his face with his mug, taking a long sip of wine before looking through the documents with more care.
A way out. I could leave this accursed place and never return...
"The Printing Press," he said simply. "Thank Abadar for civilization! Although most scribes do not regularly employ them, the Order of the Rack has an extensive collection to replace its so-called 'faulty histories' every few years.
Otherwise, we must acquire a printing press--perhaps a few, actually. I am familiar with their working--so training will not be an issue."
Still absently looking through his papers, the conjurer looks up and answers, "Hm? Is that your idea of 'not arousing suspicion?' Certainly, such a device would be useful, but even if such priceless pieces of technology were not heavily guarded, they would be extremely cumbersome to relocate. Hardly an inconspicuous operation, and the more delicate equipment could easily be damaged if not handled with great care..."
"The masks are more than just a fashion statement: against the sprawling spider of Thrune, traditional rebellious groups will not go far without being infiltrated; we need to make this into a public movement--a wave that we should not attempt to directly command, but guide according to our plans: that means having to sometimes allow others to speak in our name.
Everyone is able to pick up a mask and fight--without our permission...and we shall let them, so long as they perform aptly and do what is supposed to be done. However," he adds sternly. "Those who show promise are not inducted into our cell before Janiven and I study them--and you (all) approve of. I would prefer to keep such promise working alongside us, not under us."
Ambitious... Far too ambitious...
"What you speak of is the beginnings of anarchy..." says Naberius, furrowing his brow disapprovingly, "Are you certain you want to create something you can not control? Look to Galt before you set the precedent for such ochlocracy. We can not possibly hope to deal with everyone who decides to use our image for their own personal gain. You know they will, if we allow them..."
Still absently looking through his papers, the conjurer looks up and answers, "Hm? Is that your idea of 'not arousing suspicion?' Certainly, such a device would be useful, but even if such priceless pieces of technology were not heavily guarded, they would be extremely cumbersome to relocate. Hardly an inconspicuous operation, and the more delicate equipment could easily be damaged if not handled with great care...""The Printing Press," he said simply. "Thank Abadar for civilization! Although most scribes do not regularly employ them, the Order of the Rack has an extensive collection to replace its so-called 'faulty histories' every few years.
Otherwise, we must acquire a printing press--perhaps a few, actually. I am familiar with their working--so training will not be an issue."
The man smiled mysteriously, and said, "I shall take care of that. You need only worry with the results--and the theorem."
"We can not possibly hope to deal with everyone who decides to use our image for their own personal gain. You know they will, if we allow them...""
"You are absolutely correct--but one rarely deals with all who uses their name in the first place! It is inevitable that one has less power over their own reputation than they have over their choice of cuisine, but the power of trends and convention are the strongest forces under the heavens!" said the man calmly, lowering the mask, revealing a confident grin.
"In effect, all that I am doing, is making our use intentional and controlled. We shall be aware of who use our name, and soon, we shall (in effect) need to do nothing but control how the wheel moves--but that comes later."The man's use of the word 'control' seemed to be directed the wizard.
"What you speak of is the beginnings of anarchy...Are you certain you want to create something you can not control? Look to Galt before you set the precedent for such ochlocracy."
"Ah, the Enemy! The Illusion of Separation*!" the man said slowly, putting his mask back on. "Anarchy, my dear friend, is simply a different type of order. Anarchy stands more on connections and the motion of public sway, rather than a system of checks and balances. Answer me this, if you please. Who truly rules the mob and seats of Galt?
"None but the bloody Gray Gardeners, of course!" he answered after a pause, looking to the rest, extending the question to them as well. "Let me ask another question, O Children of Twilight! Give a mercenary a blade, and place him before five. A king, a priest, a merchant, a friend, and a lover. Who determines who lives and dies? Who has true power over the man? Is it the power of the Realm? The Gods? Money? Friendship? Love?"Unlike his previous question, the man does not answer this, preferring to hear the esteemed wizard's answer.
It is believed to have originated from Tian Xia or the Runelord of Pride's teachings.
The school of thought teaches that the greatest illusion in the world is that many things that are thought to be separate and different, while they are in fact the same.
"In effect, all that I am doing, is making our use intentional and controlled. We shall be aware of who use our name, and soon, we shall (in effect) need to do nothing but control how the wheel moves--but that comes later."
The man's use of the word 'control' seemed to be directed the wizard.
"Ah, the Enemy! The Illusion of Separation!" the man said slowly, putting his mask back on. "Anarchy, my dear friend, is simply a different type of order. Anarchy stands more on connections and the motion of public sway, rather than a system of checks and balances."
Naberius scoffs, "Theories spun by those who cared more about the impression of power than actually having it. Do not let them fool you as they fooled themselves. Order is Order and Chaos is Chaos. Trying to control that which is, by definition, uncontrollable, is like riding a wave at sea. A skilled sailor can navigate the fiercest storm, but he can claim no ownership over the waters, nor can he command the winds to cease blowing. You seem to believe you can sail right through the Eye of Abendego unscathed, while even the bravest Shackles pirate only dares to skim the edges. If the ship sinks, you will take all of us with you..."
"Answer me this, if you please. Who truly rules the mob and seats of Galt?"
"None but the bloody Gray Gardeners, of course!"
Shaking his head in disgust, Naberius says, "Bloody, indeed... Even if those butchers truly exert any true measure of control over that piece of Abyss of Golarion, they are hardly worth emulation. I have no desire to cause such waste."
Continuing to push the issue further, he goes on, "Have you asked yourself, what comes after? Without a strong leadership and an unified idealogy, how are we supposed to bring anything but misery and death to the people of this city? Such an eventuality that this campaign leads to a change of government, as unlikely as it is, should be our main concern from the very beginning. Otherwise, what are trying to achieve? Destabilisation without a hope of regaining order is pointless."
"Let me ask another question, O Children of Twilight! Give a mercenary a blade, and place him before five. A king, a priest, a merchant, a friend, and a lover. Who determines who lives and dies? Who has true power over the man? Is it the power of the Realm? The Gods? Money? Friendship? Love?"
"That depends entirely on the mercenary in question..." says the wizard, smiling dryly. He glances meaningfully at Tal.
Crossing his arms, he fixes Raveen with a cold stare, and counters, "Let me ask you a question instead. An exceedingly simple one, since you have obviously studied the theory of illusions: in the days of Ancient Thassilon, which mortal sin was associated with that school of magic?"
Waving in thanks to his sister he turns back to Amaya with a pleasant smile on his face, politely offering his hand for her to continue.
Amalya claps her hands and giggles gleefully. Here! Listen to this song and let me know what you think. She says as she starts singing ‘West of Westcrown’.
How aggressive are we going to be in advertising ourselves? Yes we wish to gain support from the people but if we grow too fast too quickly are we not going to attract the attention before we are able to handle that attention. As of right now we are hiding in the shadows still.
Arael ponders the question. That is a good point, and one I don’t have an answer for. I do think eliminating the Bastards will go a long way to gaining us allies, especially since they have been robbing the merchant class and the merchant class means money.
"As long as you remain under my apprenticeship, you must obey my every word. If I give you an errand, you must do as I say without complaint. You must not question that which you are given, or you will receive nothing. I have no patience for insubordination, and no taste for meting out punishment. I will simply cease to teach you. If you find these terms acceptable, I will instruct you.”
Tarvi can hardly believe her good fortune to find a teacher as skilled as Naberius, who himself was taught at an academy. Yes, Master Naberius! I will do whatever you say! I promise! What would you like me to do first?
@GM: I've been thinking...we have two methods to use this information: A: Steal printing presses from Hellknights (either by force or trickery), or B: Have them unknowingly print out the posters along with their normal documents (invisible ink/illusion/etc., and steal it from them en route.
This can be a good side-quest or a mission for any 'strike teams', actually.
After new business has died down, Arael will rise and say, Now the moment you all have been waiting for. Here is what we know of the Bastards from what we have been able to gather and our own observations.
This group known as the Bastards have only been around a few weeks, but have already created quite a resume. They operate mostly around the old city with at least one double murder to their credit, the poor couple I was telling you about last night. From what we can gather they are made up of entirely tieflings living in a ruined part of the city. They always leave behind a wooden token showing a devil's head in profile at the scene of each of their crimes. I met with a vagrant who lives in the ruined part of the city who saw quite a few tieflings around an old temple to Erastil there. I was on my way to check out his information when I was detained. Janiven went out today to scout the temple and confirmed the beggar's story.
They never attack two nights in a row, and most attacks are anywhere from 3 to 7 days apart. There have been eight attacks in the past 3 weeks. They rob places with small, portable valuables such as a gemcutter, but one was a moneylender and of course, the weaponsmith. Twice they’ve scrawled their name on the building’s front door with a sharp object. He looks at Raveen. I guess we are not the only group that believes in publicizing themselves. They’re sneaky and skilled at picking locks, for none of the robberies resulted in broken doors or windows, and they even relock the door after leaving. Given the small size of the shops, the number of tieflings involved in a single break-in is probably very few—no more than about four or else there wouldn’t be room enough for them to move around. Janiven has confirmed that there are more than four tieflings involved as she saw more than that at the temple.
I counted at least ten, but there might be more inside. Janiven interjects. They have a lookout in the old bell tower, but I did not see any patrols in the three hours I was scouting.
Arael will continue, Thanks to Raveen, we know that the leader of the Bastards is named Palaveen.
Apparently Palaveen is trying to gain favor with the Council of Thieves – if you believe that group actually exsists.
Nibbling on her papers out of boredom while the men did posturing equivalent of who seeing who had the biggest philosophical dick she stops as Naberius brings up Sin magic. "Oh! Oh! Oh! I know that Necromancy was associated with Gluttony! Let's see, going off that it's kinda simple to narrow them down; Transmutation, changing things to better suit you, Greed. Illusion," she looks at Raveen, "altering your perceptions to pretend you have what you want, Envy. Enchantment," she turns to Mera, "making others desire you, Lust. Conjuration," to Naberius, "making others work for you, Pride. Evocation," she stops to think of Tuesday, "is all about destruction and force, so Wrath. Divination," to Janiven, " attempting to see and change the future to your liking, would be Sloth I guess... I don't know what Abjuration would be, since it's all about protection." As she brings up the last school she looks to Tal.
While Monday goes off on her tangent Tuesday settles in as Amaya begins performing for him, a faint smile on his face as he listens to her song.
Tarvi can hardly believe her good fortune to find a teacher as skilled as Naberius, who himself was taught at an academy. Yes, Master Naberius! I will do whatever you say! I promise! What would you like me to do first?
Still wondering if this was a wise idea, Naberius grabs a piece of paper and scribbles down some book titles that would be appropriate for an apprentice.
Well, at least I will have something to do... And an assistant to help me with my own research, should I need one...
"Marvelous. Your first errand is to go buy us some teaching materials..."
Naberius counts out fifty gold coins. He hands the purse to Tarvi, along with a list of books to purchase.
Nibbling on her papers out of boredom while the men did posturing equivalent of who seeing who had the biggest philosophical dick she stops as Naberius brings up Sin magic. "Oh! Oh! Oh! I know that Necromancy was associated with Gluttony! Let's see, going off that it's kinda simple to narrow them down; Transmutation, changing things to better suit you, Greed. Illusion," she looks at Raveen, "altering your perceptions to pretend you have what you want, Envy. Enchantment," she turns to Mera, "making others desire you, Lust. Conjuration," to Naberius, "making others work for you, Pride. Evocation," she stops to think of Tuesday, "is all about destruction and force, so Wrath. Divination," to Janiven, " attempting to see and change the future to your liking, would be Sloth I guess... I don't know what Abjuration would be, since it's all about protection." As she brings up the last school she looks to Tal.
Nodding amicably, Naberius expounds, "Hmm, not entirely correct, but close. I am impressed you know as much as you do. I think some of the answers might surprise you. Raveen?"
This group known as the Bastards have only been around a few weeks, but have already created quite a resume. They operate mostly around the old city with at least one double murder to their credit, the poor couple I was telling you about last night. From what we can gather they are made up of entirely tieflings living in a ruined part of the city. They always leave behind a wooden token showing a devil's head in profile at the scene of each of their crimes. I met with a vagrant who lives in the ruined part of the city who saw quite a few tieflings around an old temple to Erastil there. I was on my way to check out his information when I was detained. Janiven went out today to scout the temple and confirmed the beggar's story.
Naberius mutters, "Bah, tieflings. Pathetic wretches..."
The conjurer leans against the wall and crosses his arms, pondering for a moment before posing the following:
"Hmm, it is a curious name these vagabonds have picked for themselves. 'Bastards of Erebus,' correct? Erebus is the Third Circle of Hell. That is the realm of the archdevil Mammon, also known as the Argent Prince. He is the patron of avarice, which I suppose is fitting for a group of thieves. Do you know if there is any signifigance to the name, or did they just choose it to frighten the ignorant masses? Might we be dealing with some sort of an infernal cult?"
Apparently Palaveen is trying to gain favor with the Council of Thieves – if you believe that group actually exsists.
Raising an inquisitive eyebrow, Naberius asks, "And what is this 'Council of Thieves?' Forgive me, I am not local..."
"Theories spun by those who cared more about the impression of power than actually having it. Do not let them fool you as they fooled themselves. Order is Order and Chaos is Chaos. Trying to control that which is, by definition, uncontrollable, is like riding a wave at sea. A skilled sailor can navigate the fiercest storm, but he can claim no ownership over the waters, nor can he command the winds to cease blowing. You seem to believe you can sail right through the Eye of Abendego unscathed, while even the bravest Shackles pirate only dares to skim the edges. If the ship sinks, you will take all of us with you..."
"We shall come to this soon," he said softly.
"Bloody, indeed... Even if those butchers truly exert any true measure of control over that piece of Abyss of Golarion, they are hardly worth emulation. I have no desire to cause such waste.
"Have you asked yourself, what comes after? Without a strong leadership and an unified idealogy, how are we supposed to bring anything but misery and death to the people of this city? Such an eventuality that this campaign leads to a change of government, as unlikely as it is, should be our main concern from the very beginning. Otherwise, what are trying to achieve? Destabilisation without a hope of regaining order is pointless."
"Almost there." he added, smiling.
"Let me ask another question, O Children of Twilight! Give a mercenary a blade, and place him before five. A king, a priest, a merchant, a friend, and a lover. Who determines who lives and dies? Who has true power over the man? Is it the power of the Realm? The Gods? Money? Friendship? Love?""That depends entirely on the mercenary in question..." says the wizard, smiling dryly. He glances meaningfully at Tal.
"And we meet," the man said, smiling serenely. "Power is with whom the mercenary believes it belongs to. If he believes it falls to the gods, so be it. If he believes otherwise, it shall be so. You will find that what people believe is oft more important than what truly is--the dealings of mortals rarely fall into absolute Chaos and Order, although your studies may have focused on that aspect of our cosmology."
Crossing his arms, he fixes Raveen with a cold stare, and counters, "Let me ask you a question instead. An exceedingly simple one, since you have obviously studied the theory of illusions: in the days of Ancient Thassilon, which mortal sin was associated with that school of magic?"
Nibbling on her papers out of boredom--
Before Monday began explaining what she knew of Sin magic, he said weakly, "Please don't damage the papers--you might need them later."
"Hmm, not entirely correct, but close. I am impressed you know as much as you do. I think some of the answers might surprise you. Raveen?"
"If it comes as a surprise at all, the answer is Pride: the mother of all sins, and the ruination of the state of Azlant," The man said, smile souring.
Is this what you think of me? he thought, internally sighing. But truly--if I must admit a sin, it might as well be the greatest of them all.He began observing his gloves, and said, "Speech of Galt and over-sized whirlpools notwithstanding, the idea is quite achievable, efficient, and realistic: we shall indeed provide both leadership and ideology, but for our own protection and for the success of our movement, we must primarily act with a guiding hand, and not centralize our influence. We shall provide the speeches, imagery, and do the greatest deeds ourselves, and our cell will be the greatest and truest of them all.
We mustn't...gift-wrap the extraction of House Thrune's claws--else the people will not be prepared to remove another oppressor later. Surely you agree with me on that point, at least. You, of all people, realize that micro-managing entries will not go smoothly with all our applicants. Considering our resources, we go through getting--" he began, counting quickly the group, including Janiven and Arael. "Seven...Seven skilled people to function as a unit is sometimes hard enough," his voice trails off.
"But truly, Naberius," he said neutrally. "Talk of handling the movement in its full zenith is before its time. This topic, at least, we can address more fully in its appropriate time."
They operate mostly around the old city with at least one double murder to their credit, the poor couple I was telling you about last night. From what we can gather they are made up of entirely tieflings living in a ruined part of the city.
They never attack two nights in a row, and most attacks are anywhere from 3 to 7 days apart. There have been eight attacks in the past 3 weeks. They rob places with small, portable valuables such as a gemcutter, but one was a moneylender and of course, the weaponsmith. Twice they’ve scrawled their name on the building’s front door with a sharp object.
Given the small size of the shops, the number of tieflings involved in a single break-in is probably very few—no more than about four or else there wouldn’t be room enough for them to move around. Janiven has confirmed that there are more than four tieflings involved as she saw more than that at the temple.
I counted at least ten, but there might be more inside.
They have a lookout in the old bell tower, but I did not see any patrols in the three hours I was scouting.
"Quite," the man nods, affirming the information and acknowledging Naberius's 'Pathetic Wretches' comment. "I have not, and I regret to say," he said with a grimace. "Amassed enough intelligence to make an assault plan yet, but I would advise splitting their numbers and striking them as they are split without warning, rather than barging through the front door, shouting challenges."
"Hmm, it is a curious name these vagabonds have picked for themselves. 'Bastards of Erebus,' correct? Erebus is the Third Circle of Hell. That is the realm of the archdevil Mammon, also known as the Argent Prince. He is the patron of avarice, which I suppose is fitting for a group of thieves. Do you know if there is any signifigance to the name, or did they just choose it to frighten the ignorant masses? Might we be dealing with some sort of an infernal cult?"
"I suspect they, as Tieflings, chose the name to denote their bloodline--perhaps they claim a connection to the archdevil?" he suggested softly. "As-is, such lore is hidden from me."
"And what is this 'Council of Thieves?' Forgive me, I am not local..."
The man remained silent, thinking how best to explain.
"You will find that what people believe is oft more important than what truly is--the dealings of mortals rarely fall into absolute Chaos and Order, although your studies may have focused on that aspect of our cosmology."
Naberius shakes his head, saying, "Long ago, I chose to forgo illusions in favor of manipulating more tangible forces. There is power in figments, but such might is fleeting. True power comes through domination, not deception. You would do well to consider carefully before you build your empire on lies, lest it come crumbling down around you at a crucial moment..."
He adds, "As for Order and Chaos, it is true that an individual soul is a fickle thing, yet we are not as far from the Cycle as we would like to think. It is in situations such as these when spiritual potential is compounded. A lone lunatic is a drop in the ocean, but a mob of revolutionaries is a flood... A flood that we might very well be unable to control once it is released."
"If it comes as a surprise at all, the answer is Pride: the mother of all sins, and the ruination of the state of Azlant," The man said, smile souring.
The wizard nods gravely, and says, "The ruination of great many rulers during history. Lessons you would do well to take to heart..."
Turning to Monday, he smiles amusedly and adds, "As for conjuration: Sloth. Would you believe it? 'The ability to conjure otherwordly beings to do your bidding, and to create all that you could need out of thin air.' Foolishness. In their decadence, the Thassilonians never reached the true potential of the summoning arts..."
He began observing his gloves, and said, "Speech of Galt and unnatural whirlpools notwithstanding, the idea is quite achievable, efficient, and realistic: we shall indeed provide leadership and the unified ideology, but for our own protection and for the success of our movement, we must primarily act with a guiding hand, and not centralize our power. We shall provide the speeches, the imagery, and do the greatest deeds ourselves, and our cell will be known as the greatest and truest of them all.
Surely you agree with me on that point, at least. You, of all people, realize that micro-managing entries will not go smoothly with all our applicants. Considering our resources, we go through getting--" he began, counting quickly the group, including Janiven and Arael. "Seven...Seven skilled people to function as a unit is sometimes hard enough," his voice trails off.
Naberius sighs, "What you see as realistic, I see as needlessly foolhardy. Yes, we can not hope to control everything, but we should seek to be as involved as we possibly can. As I have suggested earlier, all information should be on a need-to-know basis. The people at the bottom should not know who we are, but we should be able to use them as needed... Rather than being allowing them to run free. The hierarchy should be loose, so that expendable cells could be cut off if needed. Yet, there needs to be some sort chain of command between us and the others. We can not trust the mob to run where we want it to without a confirmed sense of loyalty and commitment to the cause. If you want to lead, you need to accept some measure of responsibility. These people can not lead themselves. Otherwise, they would not need us."
Raising his hands in a conciliatory gesture, he says, "Do not get me wrong. I admire your dedication, and I have faith in your talents. However, you are still young. I only seek to advise caution because I have witnessed many of my colleagues succumb to their hubris before they could reach their full potential..."
"But truly, Naberius," he said neutrally. "Talk of handling the movement in its full zenith is before its time. This topic, at least, we can address more fully in its appropriate time."
Taking a sip of wine, the conjurer answers just as matter-of-factly, "No, I think it is good we talked of this before it is too late. Please, consider what I have said."
"I suspect they, as Tieflings, chose the name to denote their bloodline--perhaps they claim a connection to the archdevil?" he suggested softly. "As-is, such lore is hidden from me."
Naberius thinks on the matter for a second, but then shakes his head, saying, "I find the latter unlikely... Though perhaps their roots are in the dark depths of Erebus. It does not matter much, in the end. They are a mere mockery of the infernal form, and the fiends will not mourn their passing any more than any mortal will..."
Beaming as Naberius compliments her until he raises the question of Summoning and Sloth. Tilting her head from side to side in thought she comes out of her query slightly shaking her head in the negative. "On a simple glance on what it could do I could see people believing that, but no, I'm going to have to disagree strongly. Calling forth outsiders and others to do your bidding and whims and binding them to your will requires a vast amount of willpower and drive, something the lazy do not possess."
"What you see as realistic, I see as needlessly foolhardy. Yes, we can not hope to control everything, but we should seek to be as involved as we possibly can. As I have suggested earlier, all information should be on a need-to-know basis. The people at the bottom should not know who we are, but we should be able to use them as needed...
Aye...and we all know how that proposition ended for us, he thought, continuing to observe his gloves. There will be other even less willing to compromise--and for once, we shall have no guarantee they do not pose a mortal threat.
--rather than being allowing them to run free. The hierarchy should be loose, so that expendable cells could be cut off if needed. Yet, there needs to be some sort chain of command between us and the others. We can not trust the mob to run where we want it to without a confirmed sense of loyalty and commitment to the cause. If you want to lead, you need to accept some measure of responsibility. These people can not lead themselves. Otherwise, they would not need us."
"Quite--but those are but details to the idea," he said softly, speaking finally. "The difference between our approaches appears only in the later stages, and is not clear at first sight. What shall you do if a so-called 'common man' wears a mask like ours and acts in the interests of Westcrown in our name? Would you invite him to join us, or have him instead form his own cell under our direct or indirect supervision?
Ideology oft makes a mountain from an anthill and differences out of nothing: we are not that different...at least not (again) at first sight--our actions seem to be more or less the same: encourage sedition, give alternatives, and empower the populace--whether they report directly or indirectly to our agents is but a detail that requires little altercation."To name a goal for our little group," he said, turning to Janiven and Arael the first, and then the rest, he said. "Westcrown as an independent city-state seems like a fair deal to aspire to. Overthrowing all of Thrune would be by investing in like-minded allies or inspired populace in other cities--perhaps even aiding them locally by relocating or disturbing government centers.
But of course," he said with a small grin at the wizard. "That much can wait until later. The Bastards are our tickets to the next level."
"Do not get me wrong. I admire your dedication, and I have faith in your talents.
"Likewise," the man said softly.
"However, you are still young. I only seek to advise caution because I have witnessed many of my colleagues succumb to their hubris before they could reach their full potential..."
Oh, don't worry about me, he thought with a secret smile. I have a good teacher.
But it sadly shows: foregoing illusion as a discipline has dire ramifications. How much do you really have control over, Naberius, of House Unknown? How much masks do you need to stay safe--and how much fail without you knowing they failed? he thought, face and voice unreadable behind the mask.
He expects to discuss the matter of direction with the rest (as well as Janiven and Arael) once the Bastards are dealt with: A: An empowering political wave we direct and encourage, or B: A loose hierarchy that can afford to cut off members that do not conform.
Tal looks bored as Raveen and Naberius start talking semantics of magic while Monday joins in as well. Not even bothering to concern himself with that talk he tries to focus in on the task at hand. the 2 issues that Tal sees is the Bastards of Erebus themselves and how to deal with them along with keeping this group grounded as to the realities of our efforts.
Chiming in a bit Tal sees Naberius's side of things clearer perhaps that Raveen's take. While I don't get into the philosophy of it as much as you 2 do I tend to agree with Naberius. If we are to popularize this group, which I dislike at this point in time, then we must be extremely careful about who uses our name. If we are to make lasting change then the decisions we make here and the actions that we take must have a specific purpose. This can not be achieved if we let the masses adopt us while at the same time letting those masses perform activities that we do not sanction. The masses will distort our purpose as there is no one that can control them.
Looking at Naberius and Raveen with surprise when they start talking about cell groups. I can't believe what I am hearing. You two are some of the least trusting individuals I have ever met. That is perhaps not a bad thing currently but how can we talk about adding other groups of people when we ourselves have just met and are still trying to figure out how to work with each other. Not only does that add an added risk but does Areal and Janiven have the resources currently to even think about this.
I know we are all eager to see change but we must temper ourselves as Naberius says before we extend our necks too far and the axe falls. It has been 1 day, 1 day since we acted to free Areal and you make it sound as if the entire city is behind us and willing to do whatever it takes for us. This is not an activity where we will have a line of people applying for positions. Turning to Janiven and Areal, How long did you research us before you approached us?
I am not saying that your ideas are bad just I don't know if the timing is right. Strike while the fire is hot is apply stated but we have just started a small fire of kindling and if we take a wrong move then we can be snuffed out in short order.
"Quite right. As I said before, this talk is quite before its time," The man agreed with Tal.
Mera admires the papers and listens to what Raveen has to say and offers.
Impressive.
When he mentions the printing press her eyebows shoot up.
And perhaps a smidge overly ambitious.
Mera follows along with the conversation for the most part, having picked up tidbits of this in her education. She elects to not participate in the conversation and sip her wine instead.
Obviously these people are quite passionate about this topic, best ot let them get it out.
From what we can gather they are made up of entirely tieflings living in a ruined part of the city.
Mera wrinkles her knows and makes a pained face, "Gahh, tieflings? Really? I can't stand fiends!"
Mera twitches as a shiver shoots down her body.
"Bah, tieflings. Pathetic wretches..."
With a heavy sigh she turns to Naberius and nods, "My sentiments exactly. Father always has said they are a necessity in this cursed city."
"I suspect they, as Tieflings, chose the name to denote their bloodline--perhaps they claim a connection to the archdevil?"
Mera finally speaks, "Quite right Raveen. I've the pleasure of actually hearing of Palaveen before. He has staked a claim that he is the great-grandson of the arch-devil Mammon."
Turning to Naberius, "Which would be in line with your reasoning."
"I find the latter unlikely... Though perhaps their roots are in the dark depths of Erebus. It does not matter much, in the end. They are a mere mockery of the infernal form, and the fiends will not mourn their passing any more than any mortal will..."
Rasing her class to a mock toast she says, "Here here."
"Amassed enough intelligence to make an assault plan yet, but I would advise splitting their numbers and striking them as they are split without warning, rather than barging through the front door, shouting challenges."
On the topic of an actual plan however, she refrains from commenting quite yet.
Chiming in a bit Tal sees Naberius's side of things clearer perhaps that Raveen's take. While I don't get into the philosophy of it as much as you 2 do I tend to agree with Naberius. If we are to popularize this group, which I dislike at this point in time, then we must be extremely careful about who uses our name. If we are to make lasting change then the decisions we make here and the actions that we take must have a specific purpose. This can not be achieved if we let the masses adopt us while at the same time letting those masses perform activities that we do not sanction. The masses will distort our purpose as there is no one that can control them.
Naberius nods in acknowledgement of Tal's support, but says no more on the subject.
Looking at Naberius and Raveen with surprise when they start talking about cell groups. I can't believe what I am hearing. You two are some of the least trusting individuals I have ever met. That is perhaps not a bad thing currently but how can we talk about adding other groups of people when we ourselves have just met and are still trying to figure out how to work with each other. Not only does that add an added risk but does Areal and Janiven have the resources currently to even think about this.
"Quite right. As I said before, this talk is quite before its time," The man agreed with Tal.
Somewhat annoyed by the younger men's dismissiveness, he nevertheless agrees, "Yes, yes. It is early. Still, it is good to consider these things before they become current. We must be prepared..."
Beaming as Naberius compliments her until he raises the question of Summoning and Sloth. Tilting her head from side to side in thought she comes out of her query slightly shaking her head in the negative. "On a simple glance on what it could do I could see people believing that, but no, I'm going to have to disagree strongly. Calling forth outsiders and others to do your bidding and whims and binding them to your will requires a vast amount of willpower and drive, something the lazy do not possess."
With a shrug, Naberius muses, "The ways of Ancient Thassilon are still mostly a mystery to us. I know that Sin Magic is corruption of an even older tradition, perhaps going back to Old Azlant. Mayhaps they thought their rest well-earned, since they had reached it through hard work and dedication... Yet, complacency is the death of ambition. One should always keep working towards something greater."
Tilting his head at Monday, he asks, "Where did you learn of the subject? Some Varisian folktale?"
While the latter question might be taken as condescending, he appers genuinely curious.
Mera finally speaks, "Quite right Raveen. I've the pleasure of actually hearing of Palaveen before. He has staked a claim that he is the great-grandson of the arch-devil Mammon."
"Truly? How quaint..." the conjurer jeers, amused by the claim.
Taking a sip of wine, he ponders out loud, "I suppose this Palaveen has at least some passing knowledge of the Infernal Order, however. Interesting."
Tilting his head at Monday, he asks, "Where did you learn of the subject? Some Varisian folktale?"
Monday simply grins. "No folktale, from what little I know The Tyrant ruler of Ustalav did pursue the Runelord of Gluttony's knowledge in the Necromantic arts, and it all trickled down from there."
Appearing thoughtful she adds, "Now that you mention it though, the traveling Varisians do group magic similarly, maybe that part of Thassilon's culture continued in that regard."
Monday simply grins. "No folktale, from what little I know The Tyrant ruler of Ustalav did pursue the Runelord of Gluttony's knowledge in the Necromantic arts, and it all trickled down from there."
Naberius frowns slightly at the thought. Some things would be better left forgotten...
Appearing thoughtful she adds, "Now that you mention it though, the traveling Varisians do group magic similarly, maybe that part of Thassilon's culture continued in that regard."
"Indeed. I once spoke to a transmuter who was studying the magical tattoos some Varisian sorcerers use to bolster their spells, and found some interesting similarities between their designs and Thassilonian runes. Quite fascinating. Unfortunately, he had some difficulty receiving any funding for his research due to..." stopping to consider for a moment, he concludes, "Well, there were multiple reasons."
"Like?" she lets her single word question hang in the air, her curiosity piqued.
"Like?" she lets her single word question hang in the air, her curiosity piqued.
Thinking how best to word his explanation, the wizard finally answers, "The general unwillingness by possible funders to spend their money on any serious research of native cultures in Varisia. The transmuter's own ethnic background, and his conduct while seeking financial support. I admit I was tempted to look into the subject myself after he failed, but for me, historical studies are merely a diversion. An interesting diversion, but one nonetheless."