During the Scourge, the Adepts of the Kaer of Esopus became arrogant and tyrannical. They gave themselves more honors and rights as time progressed, with no way for the ordinary citizens to stop them – after all, it was the Adepts who kept the magic and kept the Kaer safe. By the time the Scourge ended, the Adepts ruled over their fellow name-givers as slave-masters for several generations – complacent in the belief that it was their right. It was this complacency that lead to their downfall – within a year of the Kaer opening, the populace rose up and slew them all. So determined were the townspeople not to allow this to happen again that, as the subsequent generations were born, those in whom Talent appeared were given a choice to undergo a renaming ceremony and renounce their abilities or be exiled.
It has been over a hundred years since the Kaer opened and they have remained safely hidden in their valley, with no Adepts among them.
You have recently come to realize that you possess these forbidden Talents, although so far you have been able to keep them a secret. You know that you will choose exile over giving them up and long to further develop them, but also realize you lack the skills that would allow you to survive in the wilds that surround your valley (perhaps this is why none of the exiled Adepts have returned). Gathering others “of your kind” to leave together is your best bet – but it increases the odds of detection and exile or worse if the town elders decide your conspiracy has other motives….
Remember - if you see the word "show" in a box, don't read it unless you are that character or you make the required check. Also, in your posts, please use the formatting conventions that are shown below in "How to format your text".
Winters in Esopus are rough – farms can be isolated for weeks at a time. The size of the town more than quadruples as many farmers that own little livestock simply move to small houses on the edges of the town from after harvest until the first thaw. Those who can’t move - the dairy farmers primarily - hope that the weather will allow travel to town for the mid-Winter Festival. For three days the town is ringed with bonfires, cider flows freely and animals are slaughtered for feasts. It is one of the five times a year the entire valley gathers together. Elections for the Duzine are held, the Duzine meets and changes in laws are announced, wedding contracts are negotiated (most weddings are held during the Spring Festival).
Those of you who stayed in town have noticed that Delamater, the old blacksmith, is out and about more than he was last year and has a surprising spring in his step for someone considered old even by dwarf standards. His mood has been downright jovial – well, jovial for a dwarf.
Delamater has been in and out of the forge since you began your apprenticeship ten years ago. You have found him to be pleasant and knowledgeable – a grandfather figure almost. Your boss (and his former apprentice), Laran, have a good relationship, with Delamater offering suggestions and Laran feigning indignation at the idea that he didn’t know his stuff. Laran has told you privately that, in spite of his age, Delamater could still be running the shop, but had stepped aside when he felt Laran was ready.
The day before the Winter Festival began, Delamater entered the smithy shortly after Laran left on an errand. As you stoked the fire, he leaned over and spoke in a quiet voice “I’ve been watching you. You have much talent in smithing.”
“Tomorrow night just after moonrise, take the trail down towards the fisherman’s hut – and I will share what I know, for, like you, I am an Adept. For obvious reasons, I ask that you not share this.” He stood, and said in a louder voice “You do a good job, my apprentice did well to choose you for his.” As he finished, Laran entered. He chuckled at Delamater “Still checking up on me, old man? Shouldn’t you be at the inn getting drunk?” Delamater smiled in return “Just wait until you are an old man and need your ego stroked. You will take great pleasure in having an apprentice pretend to listen to your advice as intently as she does mine. Although perhaps not quite as intently as my advice is certainly superior.” He grinned wickedly at Laran, nodded at you, and left before Laran could come up with a retort.
Four years ago, Crispell approached your hunter father with a suggestion that you had promise and asked if he would allow her to mentor you. She taught you the woods, the weather and the game. For the first couple years you looked at her with something between hero worship and a crush. Even after you outgrew those feelings, you continued to respect and like her. You hunted together frequently until she joined the Duzine, after which she seldom had time for anything beyond that. She is focused on doing the best job she can and representing the hunters well.
The day before the mid-Winter Festival began, you were checking some traps – although with some recent heavy snow, you aren’t expecting much. Crispell appeared beside you without a sound. She spoke quietly “Tomorrow night, just after moonrise, take the trail north toward the fishermen’s huts. There are things you must learn – and I can teach you as I am an Adept as well. I’m sure I don’t need to ask that you not repeat this.” On that revelation, she slipped away into the trees.
The day before the mid-Winter Festival began, Dorran (your master) was out at the tavern having a long, drunken lunch while you rushed to finish up the last of the many orders that were due the following day. A blast of cold air told you someone had opened the door to the shop and you pushed through the curtain, hoping it wasn’t anyone wanting to pick up early. Instead, Delamater stood there and gave you an appraising look for a moment. Then he nodded and said “I can help you – indeed, there may be no one else in the valley who can. Tomorrow night, as soon as the moon rises, you will take the northern path towards the fishermen’s huts. You will be met. Do not speak of this to anyone. Your word, please.” After you gave your word, he nodded, turned and left.
Festivals were one time you regretted being on the Guard. They were the times when drunken fights were more likely to break out so there even if you weren’t scheduled to be working a shift, there was no drinking AT ALL during the entire Festival for any Guard member. Consequently, there was a Guard tradition of a huge party the night before at the tavern. The two of you had been partaking, although, for whatever reason, not as heavily as some of your compatriots, and stepped outside earlier than rest to head back to the barracks. The air was cold, and the wind biting, so you were eager to get back inside. You started as Crispell appeared in the alley just before the barracks, gesturing you to join her. Given her position on the Duzine, you could hardly refuse, but you glanced longingly at the door only 10 feet ahead of you. If her request startled you, the additional presence of Delamater in the alley confused you.
Crispell said “You will follow his directions as if they came from the Duzine.” She then moved to stand at the end of the alley, scanning the street.
Delamater gave you an appraising look for a moment, then nodded and said “I require your assistance in a very delicate matter. Tomorrow night, as soon as the moon rises, you will take the path north towards the fishermen’s huts. You will be met. Do not speak of this to anyone. Your word, please.” After you gave your word, Crispell glanced at him and he nodded.
“You may go now,” she stated.
In these last several years you’ve gotten to know the “regulars” as well as Schoonmaker – Dorran (the tailor) the town guardsmen, Delamater (the old blacksmith), Dewitt (one of the shoemakers), and, during the winter, Dubois.
Delamater is an amazing character – he must be almost 120, but is still sharp and healthy. He knows more history and more legends than anyone else – sometimes you buy him drinks for all the stories he’s shared with you. Lately, however, he’s been giving you strange, appraising looks. The day before the mid-Winter Festival, you left your “room” to see him sitting at a corner table – much earlier than he usually appeared. He waved you over and you crossed the empty room and sat down. “You wish to learn some fascinating information? Tomorrow night, as soon as the moon rises, head north on the trail toward the fishermen’s huts. You will be met. Until then, I would like your word that you will speak of this to no one.” After you gave it, he grinned broadly as he stood, “I guarantee you will not be disappointed.” With that he turned and left the inn.
You must admit, the one good thing about your father is that his position on the Duzine means that you HAVE to spend the winter in town. You work extremely hard to keep the farm in good shape, because if he loses much more property, he’ll be off the Duzine - which means months stuck on the farmstead (there’s no way he’d spend the money for a place in town if he didn’t have to) with only him and the rest of the family.
In town, there is enough bustle that you can occasionally slip away and get some privacy. It was during one of these escapes – the day before the mid-Winter Festival began, that the most astonishing thing happened. You were in the back of a loft in a warehouse behind several stacks of flour bags when you heard someone enter. You stayed quiet, but weren’t worried, as anyone retrieving flour would take from downstairs first. The footsteps, however, paused, then climbed the ladder and moved slowly but surely directly towards you. As you tried to find a hiding space or some other escape, a voice called out. “You’ve found yourself a good hiding place, lass. Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone else, but I do wish to speak to you.” The voice speaking human, but with a slight dwarven accent and was unfamiliar, but something about it convinced you not to flee. A moment later, the footsteps turned the corner and you saw Delamater – the positively ancient dwarf who was a blacksmith until he retired and who served on the Duzine when your father was a child. He smiled at you and looked around the small area you’d arranged for yourself. “It is good to have a place that you can be alone – at least until stubborn, old dwarves come bothering you, eh? “ He paused then continued. “Crispell and I may be able to help you. Tomorrow night, as soon as the moon rises, you will take the path towards the fishermen’s huts on the north side of town. You will be met. Do not speak of this to anyone. Your word, please.” As you promised he gave you an intent look. He then turned and trundled away, muttering to himself. [b]”Should have waited until she was headed back home, I’m getting too old to climb ladders.”
For game-flows sake, I’m going to make certain assumptions on a few of your reactions. If you choose not to do something that I’ve implied you will – like actually complying with the request for your vow of secrecy – go ahead and post it and I’ll go back and we’ll play it out accordingly. I’ll try not to do it except when I’m fairly confident of your reactions, but if I wait three days for everyone to say “sure, I promise” we’ll never get anything done.
'Well that was certainly an odd drop-in,' Valsera thought to himself as he continued to work diligently through the stack of orders for the following day. 'I wonder how Delamater knows of my night terrors, or what an aging dwarf blacksmith can do for such things?'
Valsera shrugs, dismissing his musings. He'd given his word, and he'd be visiting with the old dwarf at moonrise the following day.
"Delamatar will explain what he will, tomorrow." said Valsera to the empty room.
Delamater has given me some very interesting stories. The more interesting the more coin I usually earn when I pass them on. Sounds like there might be a way to where I can create my own. Tomorrow night? I'll look forward to it, but before then I better get to earning my keep. I look at my shoes, which are worn thin. Hopefully, I can earn enough coin to get my shoes repaired before tomorrow night. Won't do me any good if I have to walk barefoot during the winter.
I take out mu juggling equipment and get to work. As I begin, I try to think of a tale worthy for the day. My mind though is still on what Delamater said. He's got me curious. I better concentrate on what I'm supposed to be doing.
(Rolled for juggling: 2D6 = first roll 6 and 2 + additional 4 total 12)
Ooh! A mission!!
Maybe tomorrow won't be such a drag after all.
As Delamater climbed back down the ladder, Maizi shivered. It was the same kind of trill she felt in her bones whenever a storm was coming, or the wind was about to make a serious change in direction...
How did he find me here? And what does he mean "he can help me"? I hope he's not trying to arrange a marriage for me. I- I don't think so. I mean his great-grandchildren would be too old for me. And he is a dwarf. But if not marriage, then what? He couldn't possibly mean...
...What are you staring at, you Meddlesome Cat? Why don't you go catch a rat? That's your job isn't it? Go on, git!
The cat named Meddlesome because it always seemed to be lurking where it shouldn't, gave Maizi an intense stare, and then leapt away into the shadows. Which left Maizi alone with her whirling thoughts.
As Delamater says the word Adept, it's as if Dwee's heart stops, but no, more that her whole world freezes in place. The echo of the hammer on the axe she was working still rings in her ears as Uncle Del finishes his mock speech.
I know he's right. I've felt it when the fire is hot and perfect. I can see new things, I feel...tall, like a giant, like I could fill the whole smithy with the piece I'm creating and I am an extension of that piece and it's me.
I'm so afraid, as I see Laren that I look away and put the axe in the water. Too soon, too soon, the metal weakens instead of solidifying, but instead of breaking, I see it mend itself in that way I've seen before, that others don't seem to notice. I keep my back to Laren, as much to hide my face, as to block the sight from him. I know he can't see it. I did this exact thing in front of him when he was first teaching me. I wasn't sure if he saw it or not since he said a bit of light flashed in his eyes. But since he said I was lucky the sword didn't break, I knew he hadn't seen it. I saw it break...
Dwee calmly puts down her tools and lifts her protective goggles, exposing the tattoo where her right eyebrow should have been. She starts to take off her heavy gloves as she takes a deep breath and turns to Laren to say,
Laren, I have an errand to run later. If it's ok with you I'm going to finish and clean up now so that I can get going.
Kiranov is surprised by her sudden appearance but recovers and responds simply, "I'll be there." As she walks off, Kiranov's mind is racing.
After you’ve gone about a quarter mile down the path, Crispell steps out and points off to a deer trail off to the left “Head down that way a little longer. Delamater is there and I’ll catch up.” You head another 50 yards into the woods and step out into a clearing. A large tent is pitched in its center and you push open the flap. Delmater sits on a large log at the opposite side and several other logs are arranged so you can sit and see him. While there is no fire or heat, the canvas of the tent keeps out the wind.
“We are waiting for a few others, until then, I will answer no questions.” Delamater’s voice is quiet, but firm.
While you wait, you can’t help but notice that Delamater seems restless and excited.
Within a few minutes, several others have joined you in the tent – most of whom you know only vaguely – Valsera - the tailor’s apprentice, Kiranov & Evaine – two of the hunters, Xyanna & Ereine – two of the town guard, Dwee – the blacksmith’s apprentice, Greyson – the entertainer at the tavern and Maisi – one of Dubois’ daughters. What you all might have in common is beyond you.
Delamater gives you each an intense, disconcerting stare, stands and begins to speak. His voice remains quiet and you almost have to strain to listen:
“Before I go any further, I must have your solemn oath that you will not repeat or discuss anything that you have or will see this evening with anyone who is not currently present. Additionally, I would ask that you not speak until I have finished – after which I will answer questions as best as I may.”
He turns to each of you and says “Repeat after me: I swear that I will do my best to ensure that no one in the Valley outside this gathering learns of it, learns who was present or what was discussed. I further swear that even if I am discovered I will not reveal anything I learn here tonight.”
When you promise, he continues: “I am uncertain as to the extent you are fully aware, but I believe you all have some suspicions. Each of you is an Adept, as am I. Any one of us who is caught would be exiled, but if the Duzine were to discover a “conspiracy” amongst Adepts in their midst, I suspect the penalty would be a public execution.”
If you are going to interrupt him in spite of his request, do so and don’t read Delamater’s story, otherwise, go ahead and read.
“I was 15 when the kaer opened. My older brother, Kirran, was 25. He had been identified as a troubadour Adept only a month before the kaer opened. In spite of the pressures to leave his family behind, he would sneak away from the Adept housing meet me in the woods to visit. Several months later I realized, I, too, was an Adept. I met Kirran in the woods and told him – I wanted him to be the first to know."
“Unlike the rest of the Adepts, he noticed the anti-Adept sentiment that was rising in the kaer and felt it intensify upon moving into the Valley: indeed, he had tried to warn them and was rebuffed. He was, in fact, so concerned that he had started to create a hidden stash of books, scrolls and magic items back in the depths of the kaer. He showed me its location and asked for my word to guard it against those who might try to destroy it. He also asked – no, begged – me to keep my discovery of my Talents to myself until he told me otherwise. I laughed, thinking he was being overdramatic – a tendency he had – but gave my word. I must admit, I resented it almost immediately – he was living in the Adept housing with the best food and beds while I slept on a straw mat in the back of the blacksmith’s shop that our parents ran. I did not, however, resent it for long. It was under two months later that the uprising took place and he was dead while his insistence on my silence had saved my life.”
“Traumatized by the violence and realizing how narrowly I had escaped, I completely hid my abilities and did not use my Talents for more than a decade. After that, curious, I snuck into the kaer and began to look through the things that Kirran had saved. I found ways to obtain training to advance in my Discipline and did so in secret, hoping for a day I could leave the Valley. However, the more I read, the more I realized that the world outside the valley was likely to be extremely dangerous and the adepts that were being exiled were likely dying quickly. Leaving alone would be suicide. The only hope would be to find a group of others, all at once and before they were discovered by the Duzine and escape with them. Decades passed without my finding any other Adpets before the Duzine did. I am ashamed to say that during my tenure on the Duzine, I forced others to choose between exile and re-naming while remaining safely hidden. I wanted to help, but I knew that even if I shared the things I saved, one person – even an Adept – would have little chance to survive and the knowledge would be forever lost. Finally, five years ago, I obtained a high enough Circle to be able to use the magic items that were hidden away. I had identified their properties and uses long ago, but did not have the Talent to access their abilities. One of the items enabled to me to sense the Astral plane – which allows me to “see” the identities and Disciplines of those who are Adepts. I identified Crispell first, several others whom” he paused “I did not approach and yourselves. Shortly after the Harvest Festival, I realized that I probably had found as many of you as I safely could and began to plan this meeting.”
“I am now too old to attempt a journey out of the valley however I would like to offer my assistance to you. If you wish to remain in the valley, I will keep your secret and aid you in any way I can. If, however, you wish to leave and to become more than Esopus will allow you to, I will help you retrieve the papers and items that I saved in the kaer and help you acquire supplies for your journey without arousing suspicion.”
“I bring you together now to give you hope – and a reason to keep your secret – through the winter.
“I do not ask you make decide tonight, you may send word to either Crispell or I of your decision before the Festival ends. We will give you further details when we hear from you.”
“Crispell has opted to remain here – with my amulet and her position on the Duzine – we may be able to save other Adepts from the choice of renaming or exile.”
He pauses then gives each of you the same disconcerting look that he began with.
He nods, as if to himself.
“For those of you planning to leave, I believe that departing directly from there will be your best bet. Among other reasons, the timing will give you plenty of good weather both to put a safe distance between you and the valley and to find a place to spend the winter. However, it is VITAL that you leave before you are discovered – there will be no way to take these items with you if you are found out and if they are found they will be destroyed. As I pointed out earlier, any whiff of a conspiracy amongst Adepts will result in our deaths. Additionally, it will result in the destruction of all the knowledge that I have preserved for over a century and reinforce the general population’s belief that Adepts are evil. These last two are as unacceptable to me as the first. Consequently, when you leave, you will not give any indication that you are Adepts, merely discontented youth.”
"I know I have given you much to think about. I will answer questions now if you like or you may go and reflect."
So, what do you do? Do you decide on the spot and give him an answer, or are you too stunned to think about it? Do you attempt to deny your abilities?
Making the brash assumption you will at some point choose to leave, let me know what, if anything you will do differently over the rest of the winter in preparation.
Per target 15:
Per target 12:
Per target 5:
At the accusation of being an adept, Xyanna gasps, but allows Delamater to continue. After the story concludes, she says,
Show me some adept-y thing, so we know this isn't a witch hunt.
Assuming he complies, Xyanna jumps up and says,
I'm in!
in the most charismatic and socially aware manner known to Esopus-kind. However, she is aware of nothing else that has occurred in the room. She acts excited (and relieved?), but there does seem to be a shadow of melancholy about her as she introduces herself to the other folks in the room.
If we are allowed to ask questions:
So, what sort of dangers do you refer to in the valley? Exile is suicide, really?
and
What of the adepts you did not approach? How many adepts are there?!
Afterwards, as she steps to exit the tent, she pauses and mutters,
my parents are going to kill me...
then takes a deep breath and steps into the cold.
During the course of preparations, her demeanor changes. Usually a cheerful, carefree, happy go lucky sort, she seems agitated and short tempered. Perhaps has had a few minor scuffles in the tavern.
If she knows anyone who was in the meeting fairly well (Ereine?), they might realize this is largely an act so that the impending departure isn't so out of left field. She is spending more time with her family... in a cranky teenagery sort of way.
At Xyanna's request, Delamater smiles broadly "An abundance of caution - good. Let me think - most of what I can do is not readily visible." He considers for a moment, then glances around. Noting Eriene has a bow, he speaks to her.
"Take out an arrow and ensure it is a good one that will fly straight." Delamater takes the arrow and holds it for a moment then hands it back.
"And now?"
Perception target 12
Perception target 15 (forgot about this one)
Perception target 5
Kiranov nods and responds, Thank you for the assistance. It has been a struggle trying to get familiar with the changes I have been experiencing. Is there anything we should know now about controlling our abilities? (Kiranov will wait for Delamater to respond before continuing)
I am not eager to leave, but I also know I don't really have a place within the valley any longer. I will be there as you request. We should probably not gather again until we meet at the kaer. Does anyone need me to help them prepare anything before we meet again?
"Xyanna, exile for a single person would almost certainly mean death - even without the Scourge. The most dangerous of the local animals are only dealt with by groups of hunters, not individual ones - to come across one in the wild on your own, with no one to get help from if you were injured, would surely be a death sentence. While I do not know for certain what dangers lie beyond the valley, I know that those who formed the kaers seemed to think that anything the Horrors touched would have been twisted and warped - dangerous, some with powers that can reach into your minds and cause madness."
"There were another three or four Adepts who are unaware of the basis of their skills - they believe the Passions have blessed them. One of them has talked about the need to explore beyond the valley - when I asked what would happen if the explorers encountered Adepts, they replied "We'd kill them, of course." I decided that bringing them in would be far too risky for all of us."
"Kiranov, you are fortunate in that Crispell is the type of Adept as you are - she will find a time during the winter to give you some basic training - as I will do with Dwee. The rest of you will receive that training at the kaer before you depart. In the meantime, I would simply say that you should resist giving in to any impulses to try new things in public. "
"I have some thoughts on various things that will help prepare, but I would prefer not to remain gathered here longer than strictly necessary. If there are any other general questions, ask them now. Otherwise, while we will not meet as a group before we meet at the kaer, there may well be a "chance meeting" or two with Crispell or I."
I go to my stash and pull out a silver coin or two. I haven't bought a pair of boots in so long I think I may have forgotten how much they are. Then I remember my Mother always made sure that I had new boots to wear. I miss them dearly. Enough with the remembering. It's high time I take care of this myself. I go to the cobblers and enter his shop.
"How can I help you?" the cobbler asked
"I need a good pair of boots that will last me through the winter."
"I have several here." The shop keeper takes me over to a shelf and shows me several pairs.
"How much are they?" I ask.
"This pair is 4 copper. They are for riding. Do you have a horse?"
"No. so I guess I don't need those."
"Might I suggest this soft pair," the cobbler states. "These are only a copper. These may even be your size."
"Will they last the winter?" I ask.
"They should."
"What about that pair?"
"Planning on climbing a mountain?" the cobbler asks
I give out a nervous laugh. "I'll take the soft pair," I reply.
I hand over one of the silver and the cobbler hands me back some copper. He gives me the boots. My feet actually will be most grateful once I have them on my feet. I leave and return to my small quarters off the common room in the Tavern. I look through my belongings and I realize I have very little, just the things my Aunt and Uncle have provided. Then I turn my thoughts toward the decision. I think about the stories that I do know, and I realize there aren't that many. I'll probably start repeating them and that could mean less coinage. I need a new source. Well, here goes nothing. Looks like I'll have to tell Shoonmaker that I have an appointment to keep. He might ask me who it is. I'll just say it's an old friend. Looks like I'll be contacting this Crispell and visiting the old Kaer. I wonder if there's some old stories in there. And maybe it will give me a chance to brush up on my acrobatics. Haven't been able to practice those as much as I like. I must be out of my mind. Mom, Dad, wish me luck.
After Delamater's story, and with realization of how everyone in the group has been maneuvered into a box, Valsera blurts out, "Adepts? Where? You mean us? You? But none of us have horns, or breath fire." Valsera continues to splutter, winding down to a withdrawn and stunned shell. As others react loudly, enthusiastically, and in other ways, Valsera looks on in shock.
When a lull develops in the conversation, Valsera interjects, "This... renaming... can you do it privately, without our being exposed to all of Esopus? How would it change me?" Valsera listens to the responses intently. He is obviously thinking it through - torn. Uncertain. "So I wouldn't be the same person - I'd be transformed in spirit? I might be a different kind of Adept? Or similar to me, but no hallucinations? no dreams?" Again, Valsera listens, and he seizes on something in the discussion.
"We are special, aren't we. I've never been special. In fact, I've always been sub-standard. Not fast, or strong, or good at hunting. Maybe a bit clever. But nothing that will prevent me from becoming an old bachelor tailor in a hard scrabble village."
"I think keeping this would cause me to lose my mind. I have been fearful of that for several months, and I didn't even understand what was happening to me, never mind trying to repress it or hide it." Drawing a deeper breath, "Renaming would put the essence of my self at risk. It would not necessarily work - I might orient to a different Adept pattern. And for what? A quiet life of poorly recognized and under appreciated service to clan and village, with little prospect to establish a family or garner the admiration of my comrades. Sewing and embroidery are a staid, respectable, steady, and necessary occupation - but not one to inspire blind devotion of amorous attention."
~~~~ Valsera follows the conversation for some time, rather than lead it ~~~~
"So you think they're right? You think we should be cast out into the wilds? To die? I know you say it will be different in a group, with preparation. But what do we know about what we can find there?"
Valsera listens to discussion, retorts. It appears he has made his determination, but is interested in taking in more information, and gauging his colleagues. His colleagues that he is seeing in a new light.
"I will undertake this initial adventure. I will depart as disaffected youth for a winter, and learn what I can from your ancient materials. I fear this will cost me my life, or my sanity. If, after the winter, I am alive and not entirely out of my mind, I may choose to opt for a private Renaming." Sensing perplexity, Valsera attempts to explain, "I am frightened. To death. I have been for months. Now I know options. None of them are particularly attractive - execution, solo exile, risk all that I am for a quietly desperate sinecure, or a the sanity challenging task of internal wrestling with the greatest demons of our generations - myself as an Adept. It is insane. Everything I've learned screams that it's evil. But the alternatives are worse."
"So I'll take my chances on flight. I may fail and choose a coward's option. But I will try to transcend."
Delamater frowns slightly. "Do you mean you wish to spend the winter in the kaer reading and doing research?"
"While I do not object to the desire, I have logistical concerns. I do not want anyone to go to the kaer while there is snow on the ground - not leaving tracks across the open field to the entrance is next to impossible - so you would have to at least hold off until the thaw we usually get in another few weeks. Assuming you go during then, there will still be another 8-10 weeks of winter. How will you eat and stay warm without giving away the fact that someone is at the kaer." He trails off for a moment, eyes lost in thought "Actually, staying warm may not be an issue, I could probably explain how to do that. But food is another story. You would have to take enough with you to sustain you for the entire time - and gather it without arousing suspicions."
He nods his head. "Fortunately, we do have a few weeks until the thaw to work out the details if you truly are committed to this path."
Delamater gives Valsera is a compassionate look and adds "While some Disciplines thrive on being flashy, Nethermancers do not. Instead of exhibiting bravado or showing off their Talents, they were just quietly self-assured to an extent that it seemed like they were frightened of nothing." He grins wryly. "They terrified me. Yes, of all Adepts I imagine your Discipline is the most frightening with which to deal without training."
Maizi's mind whirls like Valsera's, but more quietly. All these people are ADEPTS? *I* am an ADEPT? That can't be right. I've known them all my life, kinda. They're not monsters.
... I am not a monster!she accidentally blurts her thought aloud. Embarrassed, she continues softly. I think you've made a mistake. I- I am not... that. But I won't say anything to anyone. I promise. I'm just going to go home now.
Maizi tries to slip out, unnoticed
Crispell follows Maizi. "I had the same reaction you did. The more I thought about it, though, the more I realized that there were things I understood and could do that folks around me couldn't. You are, perhaps, particularly good with plants and understanding the weather?"
"I don't mean to push you - you are free to go, but think - even if we DID make a mistake you could use this as an opportunity to escape. If you change your mind, you know where to find Delamater."
She then turns and heads back toward the others.
I look down at my new boots. I am standing at the back, hearing the conversations. Adept, Me? That might explain some things, how I'm good at juggling, even all the acrobatic moves that I know. I feel so much more alive when I do them and something else. It's hard to explain. The story telling as well. I've noticed how much people are drawn in. It is as if I have them . . . spellbound? Is that possible? I wish I knew more. My uncle told me once knowledge is power, but also dangerous. My aunt and uncle has always encouraged me, and yet they have also cautioned me to be careful. Now I wonder what they knew that I did not Were they aware that I might be . . . It seems unlikely . . . and yet I wonder . . . wonder why they would even consider if it could mean . . . An image of being put to death comes to my mind and I shudder. Then an overwhelming sadness comes to me, realizing what would be lost . . . the stories. who would tell them? And to know more . . . But . . . Delamater is correct, to go to the kaer now would amount to admitting you were one . . . An Adept. It would not be an easy task to accomplish without leaving tracks and someone was bound to notice. Questions that could not be easily explained.
"I am curious as well, but . . . I would not want to get caught inside the kaer. I might be able to explain, make up a story, after all that is what I do . . but . . . It might not be enough to save me or any of us. Waiting for the thaw might be the safest way. At least when the Festivals begin, the village will swell with people. They may not notice of a few of us are missing."
Delamater listens to Grayson and nods
“If you all were to vanish in the middle of winter, people would search – leaving the valley at this time of year is almost impossible and with the ice and snow on the rocks any path would be clear. They would think of the kaer and all would be lost. If it is a question of just Valsera, a search would be made, but it would not be as extensive and, at some point, there would be an assumption that he froze to death or was drowned." He looks at Valsera, “Quite honestly, though, I was hoping to use you and your position to ensure that there are enough good wool travel cloaks for everyone who is going. Kiranov is probably the only one who has one now. Dorran spends most of his afternoons in the tavern in the winter so you would be able to work without his knowledge. If you go to the kaer, I will probably still ask you to do it, but you won’t have as many supplies available and no way to get more.”
During the winter several of you have a few specific things occur. For all of you who have not yet given it to me - I’d like an idea of what you will be doing over the rest of the winter.
A few days after the Festival, Laran & Delamater return from lunch at the tavern in a good mood. Laran turns to you and with mock pity says “One of the town guard is coming by in a couple days and Delamater’s going to show you how to sharpen a blade – apparently I have ‘failed in my instruction’.”
The day arrives and Laran holds off going to lunch until after Delamater arrives. Just as he is leaving, Xyanna enters the forge. Delamater waves her in. “Let’s see that blade. Shouldn’t take more than a few hours to deal with. Why don’t you wait outside for it?” His voice drops “And give us a little warning if anyone approaches, eh?”
The next few hours pass quickly – not only does he teach you how to forge a blade using your Talents, he teaches you other Talents. He also talks about what it means to be Weaponsmith and things you will learn later.
A few days after the meeting, you are walking down the street and see Delamater and Laran heading your way. Laran nods in your direction, but Delamater stops.
“It is Xyanna, is it not? May I see your blade?” He inspects it and Laran looks on.
“It needs a better edge.”
Laran raises his eyebrows “It doesn’t look that bad to me.”
“I obviously failed in my instruction then." He looks back at you. “When is your next day off?”
When you reply, he says “Come by after lunch and I will see to it personally. You” – he glances at Laran- “Can take the afternoon off and I will teach your apprentice what you have failed to learn.”
Laran laughs “Have you forgotten it’s my forge now, old man?”
Delamater sighs “You will deny an old man – very possibly in his last winter – a little pleasure?”
“Fine, fine, let Dwee experience the joy of your tutelage. He rolls his eyes. As they walk off you hear him continue, “Last winter, my foot. You’re probably going out live us all – too damn ornery to die."
You arrive at the forge just in time to hear Laran say “Good luck, Dwee. I imagine you’ll be much more grateful to have me as your master by the time the day is over.” He smiles pleasantly at you and heads towards the tavern.
Delamater waves you in. “Let’s see that blade. Shouldn’t take more than a few hours to deal with. Why don’t you wait outside for it?” His voice drops “And give us a little warning if anyone approaches, eh?”
No one approaches and you can’t help but think that spending several hours on special guard duty doesn’t really qualify as a “day off”.
When they are finished, Delamater hands you back your blade, and says “Much better now.” You test it, and are briefly surprised at how much better it is. Delamater winks and you realize that it must not be entirely natural.
During the short mid-winter thaw, Crispell once again finds you checking traps. “Today I will train you in the basics of our Discipline. I’m sorry for the lack of advance notice, but with the Duzine, I had to take the day when I could get it – and needed a day without snow do reduce the ease of anyone tracking us.” With that, she leads you away from the traps.
The day before you are to meet at the kaer, she finds you again and the expression on her face worries you – has something happened? Someone been caught? Seeing your concern, she manages a wan smile. “Sorry to scare you. Everything is fine. I won’t be at the kaer tomorrow, so I came to say goodbye.” Her weak smile disappears again. “You have come so far since I began training you, and now you will go so much farther than I ever will.” Frustration crosses her face. “And because of the circumstances, you won’t even be able to come back and tell me tales – I’ll never see you again.” Her voice catches slightly and her eyes are moist. “Live well.” She leans over, gives you a peck on the check and leaves.
In the days immediately after the meeting, you see Crispell and Delamater each speaking with your father. Apparently buttering him up – his mood and temper are both far more bearable thereafter. You wonder why – were they afraid you’d tell? Were they hoping you’d change your mind? Or – you recall Delmater’s words "If you wish to remain in the valley, I will keep your secret and aid you in any way I can." – were they just keeping their word?
"Master Delamater I will surely do as you recommend, and help in the way you propose."
Delamater nods at Valsera. "Thank you. I will bring by the cloth and we can arrange days that I ensure Dorran stays at the tavern for the afternoon - as well as days that he returns sober enough to be of use in the regular work - we can't have the brides at the Planting Festival without their dresses now, can we?" He gives a slight smile. "Hopefully the knowing of your dream origins will help make them more endurable for the next few months. I wish I could do more to help."
Xyanna, though originally bored/annoyed, now raises an eyebrow and looks at Dwee and Delamater with a little extra respect.
this is gonna be pretty cool
After Valsera speaks, she says,
I'm sorry to hear you're having trouble, Valsera, but I'm relieved that someone is thinking of the practical side of things. Del, uh, Delamater, what kinds of things should each of us collect in the time we have? I'm sure you've already thought about my ability to make weapons for some of us, but I'm not sure where I would get the materials to do so for everyone here, or even if everyone can use a weapon.
Dwee stops for a moment and looks very concerned, sighs, and then continues.
I know that my brother and father take packs with them when they go on extended hunting trips, but I don't really know what goes in them besides some food and a bed roll. Will you help us with all of those things too?
Dwee, I can help with some of that and I can give you a list of some basics you'll need. Most important is some sturdy warm clothes. If you freeze to death it doesn't matter how much gear you've packed.
If Kiranov can find a scrap of paper he'll write up a quick list of some basic camping gear Dwee will need.
Delamater nods approvingly at Kiranov. "Excellent point. There is much in the kaer that is in good shape, and you don't want to raise eyebrows making purchases. If you have a good backpack, a spare set of warm clothes and a decent pair of boots," he smiles at Grayson at this, "it would be a good start. If you have a weapon of choice, bring it by the forge after about two weeks and Dwee will ensure it has a good edge. If you don't own a weapon, but there is one you can use, let Crispell or I know and we'll make certain there is one for you when you arrive at the kaer. Kiranov, perhaps you will help Crispell get a little extra small game that can salted or smoked as part of the provisions."
He glances around the tent. "Are there any other questions while we are here? It may be hard to talk freely again until we meet at the kaer."
Maizi replies softly to Crispell Well I'm a farmer's daughter. I'm supposed to have a little sense of weather and plants, right? Her voice sounds more pleading then certain.
Then Maizi will dawdle in the back of the room. I-I'm not an Adept. But, those old books in the kaer sure sound interesting. It wouldn't hurt anybody if I read a book or two, would it?
"I'm a juggler, at least that's part of what I do. If I had a set of knives I could juggle them as well as throw them. Anything that I can juggle I can throw. Plus, I am an acrobat. There's got to be some way I can use that." Grayson says. "Leaping over someone's head and being able to twist and turn not only can add a bit of excitement to an act, it could come in handy in a fight."
I think about my Aunt and Uncle and how they encouraged me to continue with those talents. I think my parents would be proud of me that I'd be using what they taught me for something good.
"And maybe there could be some very interesting stories in the kaer that no one has heard in a very long time. Someone has to retrieve them or they will never be told."
Crispell smiles and says "Of course you should. Perhaps some of the books in the kaer will allow you to have even a better sense."
I would like everyone to give me two willpower and perception tests.
Willpower: 1D8 = 6
Willpower: 1D8 = 7
Perception: 1D12 = 10
Perception: 1D12 = 9
I read that as two willpower and two perception. Of the perception, take the higher of the two. I think I was only suposed to role that once, but it wasn't clear. And my browser is slow in responding sometimes.
Okay, I'm still learning how to format.
Perception total 21
Perception
Willpower total13
Willpower
Perception
Perception
Willpower + total 12
Willpower
Sorry,
Perception Check for the arrow:
Eriene took the arrow back without comment and sat down again, listening to the other conversations. An adept? Leaving to explore a kaer and then leaving the valley?
She looked at Xyanna, who she thought might just sign on for this adventure. Breaking up the occasional tavern fight and helping with the occasional wild animal might be a fine life for some of the guards, but Eriene knew a few who wanted more excitement than that.
Pity I'm not one of them. Oh well. If I am an adept... no. No ifs. It's true, if Delamater's word carries the same weight as the Duzine's. And if it's true, there's no possible way I'll be able to hide it forever, not from the other guards. I'm not about to let all of these folks go without some extra protection, either. Somehow, I bet the town will get along just fine without me.
Decision made, she got up, putting the arrow back into the quiver. "I'll spend the rest of the winter the same way I usually would. When you're ready to leave, I'll be there."
I am going to try to role those again the proper way.
Per.
Per.
Will.
Will.
Perception
Perception
Will
Will
Eriene:
W:
W2
P:
P2:
You all make it through the winter without giving too much away. Several of you get comments from people who assume your odd demeanor is a result of a young love. You do nothing to change people’s minds – better they believe that than the truth.
”Where are you, girl?” Your father was bellowing. “I saw you come in here. Don’t think that – even if you are knocked up – I’ll let you marry him and leave the farm. And you, boy, I’ll figure out who you are and if you don’t stay away from her, I’ll kill you.” The door banged again as he left.
You sat there, stunned for a moment. You slowly remembered your mother and siblings concern and their probing questions since the meeting with Delamater.
I’m just a farmer’s daughter, you had said to them. If your father had his way – and he always did – that was all you’d ever be. You hadn’t actually given Crispell or Delamater a decision and you hoped that it wouldn’t be a problem when you showed up at the kaer in the morning.
The day before the Planting Festival finally arrives. Luck, perhaps helped by some effort by Delamater & Crispell, was with you and you encounter no one on the trip to the kaer entrance. As you arrive, Delamater smiles and tells you to go inside and wait for the others.
He smiles extra broadly when he sees Maisi. "Happy you decided to join us, lass."
When everyone has arrived, Delamater joins you. It is the first time you have been in the kaer – due to the “taint” of Adepts, it is shunned almost as thoroughly as the barren scorched areas of the valley that were found when the kaer opened.
Small light quartzes still dimly light the corridor where they were embedded into the rock hundreds of years ago.
“In spite of your educations, Adepts did not cause the Scourge. It was, however, Adepts who figured out how to protect people from it. Apparently, there are cycles in magic – times when it is almost non-existent to times when it is all over the place. When it is very high, the border between Astral space and this world weakens and allows Horrors to enter this world. Horrors are, well, much as the name suggests – big, bad nasty things. Some of these Horrors just like to kill things, but most like to cause a lot of pain first. When everyone sealed themselves in the kaers, it was presumed that after several hundred years, the magic levels would return to what they had been before and it would be safe to come out. However, the level reached a certain point and stopped going down. After about a century, we gave up and figured that it was never going to return to normal and emerged. No one knows why it didn’t end, but it probably means that there are still Horrors around. We never had any attempt to enter our kaer, so I can give you no ideas of what they look like or are capable of – although the scars on the land should be a clear warning.”
“Training to be an Adept requires someone to teach you. For Dwee and Kiranov, this was easy enough, but it will be different for the rest of you. You will have to learn as I have – through a Ghost Master. There is a special ritual which allows someone to bring back the spirit of one who has died and receive training in that way. Fortunately, to train to first Circle, only requires part of a day – to progress to subsequent Circles requires a full two weeks. You should spend the night here tonight and leave at first light. While most people will be down in town for the Festival, your absence will likely have been noted and you need to be gone before anyone begins to look for you.”
After what seems like an hour, he reaches what seems to be a dead end at a roughly hewn wall. He turns to the left and pushes several rocks that are jutting out. You jump slightly as you hear a grinding sound and a door that you swear was not there before, opens in front of you.
Delamater smiles wryly as you startle. “Even after Kirran showed me, it took me a few tries to get it open.” He steps into the very large chamber on the other side and gestures you all in. The room has two cluttered tables and a bookshelf crammed with scrolls, but other than that is empty.
He gestures to one of the tables “These are items that I have gathered that you may wish to take on your journey, although you may not be able to carry all of it. Some are magical in nature – I’ll explain how they work in a bit. Since both Dwee and Kiranov have already trained, they can spend their time working with me on organizing the supplies and learning other information that they can share with you as you travel.”
GENERIC STUFF
2 tents
6 backpacks
4 sacks
5 bedrolls
Thick woolen cloaks for everyone
4 fur-skin blankets
6 water/wine skins – 3 filled with wine
8 weeks trail rations
Three 50’ lengths of rope
1 hooded lantern
1 bullseye lantern
Flint & steel
Healer’s kit (10 uses)
3 scroll cases
5 sheets of parchment
1 vial of ink
Overview map of Barsaive
Overview map of immediate area around valley
MAGICAL STUFF
3 booster potions
2 healing potions
1 Keila’s poultice
1 Keila’s antidote
1 last chance
Spellbooks w/1&2 second circle spells for Illusionist, Elementalist & Nethermancer
2 Firestarters
Hot Pot
2 Light quartz lanterns
After he goes over the magical items, he points to several weapons that are also on the table. “Dwee and I spent some time over the winter forging these weapons so that they have a better edge than the average ones. Xyanna already has hers, so these are for the rest of you. I believe we ensured that we have weapons similar to the ones you currently use.”
“Now, it is time for your training. I have managed to find a description of the Ghost Master Ritual for each of your Disciplines. I have set up rooms for each of you with the necessary items to perform the ritual. Just follow the directions – from my own experiences and discussions with my own Ghost Master, those that inhabit this kaer will be more than willing to help you on your way. It may be frightening as you begin it, but you will not be in any danger. If you will follow me.”
He leads each of you to a room and hands you a scroll then leaves.
This is the moment of truth. If you aren’t actually an Adept, the ritual will have no effect. You stare down at it for a moment then begin preparations.
As you begin to follow the steps, you feel the air begin to crackle. A figure, surprisingly substantial, appears before you. It smiles, introduces itself and welcomes you as a fellow Adept. Over the next few hours you learn the basics of magic and your discipline.
When you finish, you make your way back to the room where you left Dwee and Kiranov.
He goes heads back down the corridor and ducks into a small room. He does not turn to face you as he speaks. “For the rest of them, I have fewer words, but for you…” He stops, as if uncertain as to how to proceed. “As an Adept in hiding, I dared never marry lest I give myself away – the forge became my wife and child. I was still fairly young when Laran was my apprentice, it was only as I aged that I began to have regrets. When he chose you, you were a light in my life. Even before I knew you were an Adept, you held a place in my heart as if you were my own child” His voice catches slightly, he clears his throat and continues. “Once I realized you were also a Weaponsmith, well, helping you has made my choices both more and less bearable. More, because I can give you the chance I never had. Less because, I’ll miss you, daughter of my heart.” He pauses for a moment and clears his throat again. “Go on back now, lass, I’ll catch up in a few.”
Delamater is absent when you return to the large room, but when you are all gathered, he comes to the doorway. He looks very tired, which in turn makes his age more evident than it has been before.
Perception
Perception
I am going to miss Delamater. His stories were always the favorite of the crowds. There was a lot of wisdom in what he shared. I guess from here on out, I will be creating my own.
Dwee keeps her head down-even she realizes this seems silly for a dwarf-and tries to sniffle quietly while Delamater speaks, but when he turns to go, she rushes up to him and gives him a big hug, whispering something in his ear and giving him a peck on the cheek. Then she turns back and rejoins the group, eyes just as red as when she came in, but now slightly damp too. She bites her lip, and then swings her pack on her back and heads toward the door out.
Thank you Uncle Del. I'll miss---
She stutters and sniffles, and then continues.
Tell my family---<sigh>--take care of Father and Delario for me.
It was bad enough to have to leave the house this morning without saying anything to anyone. I didn't think about leaving Uncle Del too. I can't understand how my mother did this.