This is where you will post your actions. I will then summarize everything in a turn recap to be posted in the Gameplay Thread.
Character Sheets
Alright everyone, welcome to the game; let’s make it one of those memorable ones.
I’m in the process of setting up a little website to support the game. I think it will only be used as a file repository. In there, I’ve already placed your character profiles and the first turn.
I’ve also uploaded a sample character sheet in the 'PBEM General' page that I want you all to download, fill out, and email back to me (fabian.benavente AT gmail.com) at your earliest convenience. This is important to me because I print them out so I can have everyone’s stats in the same place for ease of reference.
We don’t need to finish the character sheets to start roleplaying and I’ve provided some suggestions to get us started in the OOC part of Turn 001.
Other than that, please ask me anything and everything and I hope you enjoy this gaming style. Remember that this is your game as much as mine so please feel free to invent characters, places, etc. I’ll let you know if you ‘step on my toes’ but I doubt this will be the case.
Let’s have fun.
Game on!
Naomi released a breath, she barely realized she was holding as the other groups slipped away one-by-one once their names were recorded. Crowd dispersed, the tiny woman looked around at those who remained. Eyes so brown they were nearly black took in two halflings, a solidly-built human northerner, and a local man with elven blood. Wouldn’t you know?, she thinks to herself. Five of us and I’m actually taller than a pair of them. There’s something new. Perhaps the Lady of Graves is feeling sorry for my poor neck.
The Garundi woman with flowing black garments with brilliant red and silver chasing on the loose sleeves raises a hand in greeting. "Hello, I was a little late to register, but they told me there would be more of us. I guess the Lady has fated us to be the last team. I am Naomi Zeitoun." She nods toward Nakht Shepses, a holy symbol of Pharasma swinging with the motion. "Til yesterday I was a holy warrior under his command. He’s not very happy with me right now, but with the Necropolis opening I had to come. There are souls there who need shepherding to the Spire."
tag: all
ooc: I feel like I missed a post about this someplace, but I think we’ve come together right now versus the evening before. That seems appropriate for Naomi since she struggled about declaring for the lottery right up until the last minute.
Standing in the square as he listened to the priests make their proclamations, Boram took a swig of his waterskin as he attempted to find a higher spot to see. Pushing past the sweaty bodies, his feet moving across the hot ground, Boram was happy he had decided to wrap his feet after arriving in Osirion as he had yet to grow accustomed to the hot climate. Finding a place he could easily scale, he readjusted the pouches of vials he wore around his body before scaling. Taking his time, he carefully made his way to the low roof of one of the nearby buildings where he got a good view of the plaza.
Listening intently to the rules, he nodded in approval as he thought, I will have to be careful in how I use by bombs, but at least it will spare what architecture remains intact. That was one of the reasons he had come here after all. After arriving in Garund, he had heard wonders of what Wati had to offer. Of particular interest was the stories of the advanced alchemy that existed before the Plague of Madness existed. Unsure of which stories were actually true, even if he did not find any evidence of this alchemy, as least he would be able to study the interesting architecture. And of course, any relics that could provide funding for his experiments was always welcome. Seeing the plaza clear, Boram made his way off the roof, joining the others still standing in the plaza.
Those who notice the halfling will note the light, leather armor and the various instruments and pouches that hung from his belt. He has the bearing of a traveler, his skin tanned by the sun and a short walking stick strapped to his small pack. His dark hair cut short, there were patches missing on the side of his head, as if the hair had been burned off.
“Well, some interesting rules and what not. No? Interesting place as well. Are you all here to take part in this lottery that they were talking about?” Boram spoke cheerfully, the usual smile and easy manner that most halfling have evident on his small face.
TAG ALL
ooc: I feel like I missed a post about this someplace, but I think we’ve come together right now versus the evening before. That seems appropriate for Naomi since she struggled about declaring for the lottery right up until the last minute.
OOC: The timeline is Day 1 of Rova is for registering the groups, which is the scene your are roleplaying now. You will be able to roleplay the PCs meeting during the afternoon and anything else you care to do during the evening/night until dawn of the next day.
It would be interesting to know how you will spend the night before the actual lottery. Like where you are staying, with whom, etc.
Remember to feel free to make up NPCs, places, etc. or expand on what's provided in the Player's Guide.
Day 2 at dawn is when the first sites will be drawn and assigned to each group. After you have your site assigned, you can go exploring whenever you are ready.
Other questions?
Game on!
The young half-elf's brow had been steadily sinking since entering the crowd gathered before the Grand Mausoleum, and it wasn't just due to the people and their omnifarious odors. Although it had to be said that the dwarf next to him, clearly a foreigner unaccustomed to the heat, had a musk that could charitably be called gamy. No, Rubani was frustrated because of the speaker now addressing the assembly.
"Remember How This Came to Pass," the priest started. "The Plague of Madness was unleashed upon the city of Wati while religious authorities were engaged in infighting. This rule..."
Yes, yes, yes. No fighting between parties. That much is obvious. Wouldn't want the poor tomb raiders to get hurt. Get to the important part, old man, thought the younger man. He had no patience for this. What about the sanctity of the graves?
"Every Slave's Hut is a Memorial: (YES! Here we go!) Every structure within the necropolis is a testament to the people who lived and died in the city. Explorers must not..."
Alright. Alright, I can get behind that. No vandalizing.
"Honor the Departed: the dead should be treated with dignity and respect. If the interred..."
Okay, good. Treat the graves right and leave the dead be unless absolutely necessary. That's good. This is good. All I wanted, really. You might win me over on this treasure seeking malarkey yet. So, how do you intend to enforce these rules?
"Failure to comply with these rules can result in, but is not limited to, expulsion from the necropolis, a ban on continued exploration, seizure of recovered valuables, and arrest and prosecution."
Wha... THAT'S IT?! It's too late to punish the pagans after the fact! The damage will already be done! What are you thinking?! This can't be our Lady's will!
But aside from instructions on how to enter the lottery the next day the clergy had nothing more to say. Rubani just stood there in shocked silence as groups of adventurers were registered and then quickly left the plaza. Among them was one party that consisted of nothing but halflings on riding dogs. Bloody halflings on bloody riding dogs. That really said it all, didn't it? Giant dogs carrying halflings would be stomping around the burial grounds, digging for ancient bones and urinating over hundred year old graves.
"May the Mother have mercy on our souls..." the exasperated pharasmin half-elf sighed.
“Well, some interesting rules and what not. No? Interesting place as well. Are you all here to take part in this lottery that they were talking about?”
Rubani was brought out of his busy headspace by the friendly voice of a halfling, standing just a few feet from him. The half-elf had been too preoccupied with his own thoughts to have noticed the man until just now, although halflings tended to disappear easily among crowds. That being said this particular halfling might stand out clearly amongst his peers, due to the spattering of burn marks on one side of his head.
"Ah... I... Yes. Yes, I'm afraid I am."
Rubani chuckled to himself. Pharasmin priest and grave robber. Now wasn't that a sorry job description? He dusted of his old beige travel robes, although it was really too late to make a good first impression with appearances, and offered the halfling an outstretched hand.
"My name is Rubani Madu, cleric. Pleased to meet you. And you are?"
This halfling might just be one of these foreign opportunists here to desecrate the dead for all Rubani knew, but that was no reason to abandon basic manners. Let it never be said that the osirians are inhospitable.
It was at this moment that the half-elf realized that there were very few of them left here in front of the Grand Mausoleum. Only some five, in fact.
"Um... you wouldn't happen to be here on your own, would you?"
Thane is dressed in loose robes like most of the local men wear. His studded leather armor is strapped on over the white inner robe, with the black outer robe worn over that. His head scarf is worn wrapped loosed around his neck and it is easy to see from his features that he is a northerner. He has another scarf wrapped around his waist as padding for his broad leather belt. A battleaxe hangs from the left side of his belt, balanced by a war hammer on the right. One of the curved daggers carried by the locals is thrust under the scarf in front. He carries a large northern style sword slung across his back.
Thane watches as the crowd slowly disperses as the groups register for the lottery in the morning. He had been hoping to find a group in need of an extra sword but hadn't found one this morning. Eventually there are just four others in the square before the Mausoleum besides himself. He recognizes one of the Halflings and the priestess of Pharasma but the others are strangers to him.
"Hello, I was a little late to register, but they told me there would be more of us. I guess the Lady has fated us to be the last team. I am Naomi Zeitoun."
Hello priestess. Thane says in response to Naomi's greeting. My name is Thane. I have seen you in the Market place a few times. I came this morning looking to join one of the groups entering the lottery, but wasn't able to find a place. Since there are five of us left, maybe your lady has decided we should be a group. Thane says with a shrug. Isn't it a little strange for a priestess of Pharasma to be looking to plunder tombs?
She nods toward Nakht Shepses, a holy symbol of Pharasma swinging with the motion. "Til yesterday I was a holy warrior under his command. He’s not very happy with me right now, but with the Necropolis opening I had to come. There are souls there who need shepherding to the Spire."
In that case you won't mind if I keep your share of any treasure we recover. Thane says with a grin at Naomi.
OOC: Great start everyone. I'll prod the roleplaying along as much as I can but the end result of this 'encounter' is the group formed, named, and with a leader (even if it's temporary).
IC: Another one of those adventurer types stumbled towards the mausoleum. The man carried a curved sword in a well-worn leather scabbard but his colorful clothing gave him away as foreigner to Wati. He reeked of hard-liquor even before he neared the group. The newcomer looked them over, taking a little a bit longer on the two halflings, shrugged his shoulders, and in a heavy accent stated, "Yees fellows wanna sign me up for 'em tomb treasures?"
OOC: Knowledge local (DC=15) to know he's been seen with the local thugs.
No we don't want to sign you up for the tomb treasures. Thane says to the man in a cold voice. Not drunk as you are, and definately not knowing the company you keep. Why don't you turn around and stagger back the way you came.
Extending his small hand upwards and outwards, Boram smiled as he said, “Pleasure to make your acquaintance. My name if Boram Tuffot, all ranging traveler, admirer of architectural wonders and alchemist extraordinaire. I am a pretty decent cook as well, if I may say so myself. I am here to see what these tombs have to offer.” Releasing the man’s hand, the halfling goes about stuffing a small pipe with some sort of tobacco and pulling out a tindertwig as he continued, “As to the current whereabouts of my compatriots, I was hoping to find them among those remaining here now. You don’t mind if I smoke...do you?” Even before Rubani was able to respond, the halfling struck the twig against the metal of his belt, and gave a few puffs as he lit his pipe. His voice now slightly muffled as he gripped the pipe between his teeth, Boram added, “Don’t worry though, I am not one to defile corpses and destroy ancient walls. Just going to take a few notes and make away with just enough to support my research. How about you? What reasons do you have for plunging into the depths of these crypts?”
TAG Rubani
In response to Akbar’s words, Boram jumped a little, surprised that another halfling would attempt to talk with him. He had tried to make friends with the halfling outriders earlier, but they spurned him, saying something about how the smell on him made the dogs uneasy. Well, if they can’t stand the smell of blasting powder and catalyst, then he would not want to speak with them anyhow. At the halflings words, he said “Excuse me” to Rubani before turning to the other halfling and saying in Halfling “Un salin ta! Tá mé Boram. Int farrn tal naweigin di balin. Uln ibd fair sibben ir dun. Id irn forn. Diln up si comm, ver up si coon?”
TAG Akbar
Especially as it seems something interesteing could be coming of that "discussion" Boram thought. He was not familiar with the drunk man, but the fact that he was shouting, and the big barefoot was responding in kind, meant some fun was likely to come of it.
No we don't want to sign you up for the tomb treasures. Thane says to the man in a cold voice. Not drunk as you are, and definately not knowing the company you keep. Why don't you turn around and stagger back the way you came.
The drunk man scoffed at Thane, "No need to gets... mad." He looked for the two halflings that were there only a moment ago. Only finding one of them, he stated, "You gonna trust 'em little fellows to cover yer back? I hear is nasty in the necro..., in the necro..., in 'em tombs." He belched. "That's... fine. I'll offer my sword to others here."
He turned to the woman as if seeing her for the first time. "How 'bout yee, little lady. You wanna sign me up for 'em tomb treasures?"
OOC: Please write in past tense; it makes easy for me putting together the turn recap.
“Pleasure to make your acquaintance. My name if Boram Tuffot, all ranging traveler, admirer of architectural wonders and alchemist extraordinaire. I am a pretty decent cook as well, if I may say so myself. I am here to see what these tombs have to offer.”
Boram and Rubani shared a handshake and the halfling immediately set the cleric's mind at ease, when he explained that his fuzzy feat had led him here moreso for research than for looting. Rubani could appreciate that. He had no doubt that the masters of Ancient Osirion had much to teach people today.
“As to the current whereabouts of my compatriots, I was hoping to find them among those remaining here now."
Really now? Well, that was interesting. So Rubani wasn't the only one here simply hoping to find a group to join. And Boram wasn't even all that undesirable an adventuring partner (even if the smoke emanating from his pipe smelled almost, but not exactly, nothing like tobacco). The half-elf had expected to be paired up with ruffians; the kind of people that he would have to distract from random acts of vandalism. This halfling though, with his "admiration of architectural wonders", was quite likable. Boram had that easy charm to him so indicative of the halfling race.
"How about you? What reasons do you have for plunging into the depths of these crypts?"
By way of explanation Rubani pulled out his holy symbol from out under his heavy robes where it hung around his neck. It was a plain old thing, just a polished wood disk inlaid with pretty, but worthless, dark blue stones in a spiral pattern.
"I am a cleric of Pharasma. I traveled to Wati to see the city my Lady saved and watches over still, but..."
A twinge of frustration passed over the half-elf's face.
"But having gotten here I heard about the lottery and could hardly believe it a cause sanctioned by the church. I cannot fathom what the local priests are thinking. Heh. Excuse me. I shouldn't speak ill of my own order. Suffice it to say that if this has to be done I want it done right. I'm here to make sure the dead do not suffer any unnecessary indignities."
TAG Boram
Just then a small, even for a halfling, man butted into the conversation and engaged Borum in what Rubani thought was Halfling, though he couldn't be sure. They spoke too quickly. The half-elf let them talk. Perhaps they knew each other. Wait, was that racist; thinking that all halflings knew one another? Rubani was sensitive to these things, being a half-elf himself...
It really wouldn't be a good idea taking this one along. Thane said as he turned back to Naomi He has a lot of bad friends. Just the type that would let others go into the necropolis, run the risks, and do the work. Then rob them when they come out. And as drunk as he is he is more likely to hurt himself with that sword than anything else.
OOC: I'm not picky so either one is fine with me just as long as I can tell the difference. I just write 'OOC' because it's easier for me.
Being such an active group, I will probably recap more often than twice per week depending on my time. I'll probably recap tonight but leave the scene open to continue roleplaying.
Game on!
Turn 002 is up.
Please let me know if you have any questions, comments, and/or suggestions.
Game on!
OOC: Just letting you know that with the Thanksgiving holiday coming up, my posting will be more erratic.
OOC: Just letting you know that with the Thanksgiving holiday coming up, my posting will be more erratic.
OOC: That's fine. I'll be home for the holidays so I do have time to continue the game but I understand.
We started with a flurry of posts which is typical for games at the beginning. However, I would like to settle on at least two turn recaps per week (Wednesday and weekend) so you will all have to post at least on Monday-Tuesday and Thursday-Friday. Needles to say, the more posts, the more interaction, the better game.
Game on!
OOC: Then wait no more. I mean wait but continue roleplaying a scene afterwards.
IC: The drunk man stumbled back out, all the while mumbling to himself, and headed towards the Golden Lake, which separated the Grand Mausoleum from the Sunburst Market. This artificial pool took its name from the coating of gold dust that was cast over its surface each year on the Day of Bones. The lake also housed a rare breed of white crocodiles that were sacred to Wati's Pharasmin church.
Regularly fed and cared for, these long-lived cousins of the more dangerous crocodiles found in Osirion's rivers posed little threat to tourists or residents.
Nonetheless, the crocodile keeper firmly ushered the drunk who was reaching in to the lake to 'pet the little crocs'.
The five left on the mausoleum steps shook their heads and continued their conversation...
OOC: If one of you wants to start a scene after the 'meet and greet' scene, I would be fine with that as well. Just make some educated guesses as to the outcome and go for it. We can always edit things in the turn recap. For example, it's a pretty sure bet that you will all have some time before meeting back at dawn for the lottery drawing so go ahead and start writing 'the evening/night scene'.
Questions?
Game on!
“In that case you won't mind if I keep your share of any treasure we recover?”
"Nice try Thane. I'm quite confident the Lady will guide me in the disposition of my share."
Naomi spits in the sand at the drunken man's question. "Begone. There will be no befouling of the sacred tombs of Wati with your tainted breath!"
She shakes her head to see the drunk approach the sacred crocodiles and laughes ruefully. "I must say that there's a little part of me that would have appreciated the irony had the crocodiles decided to take matters into their own teeth. Oh well. All who live must face her judgment."
Turning back to the others she eyes Rubani, "You think the local priests are any happier with this than you or I?" With a glance at the temple she adds, "Well. A few might be. But most would rather have seen Wati's tombs remain sealed. It has been a heated debate, but one with a singular conclusion. It was choose the circumstances or watch helplessly as that unwashed rabble ran rampant over everything. Praise the Lady that the four of you sound like you all intend to show the respect the deceased deserve."
It seems we all intend to be in the lottery tomorrow and are all in need of a group. We could stand here in front of the Mausoleum and discuss forming a group or we could go to my home. I don't live far, just a little north of the Sunburst Market. I am sure my wife will invite you all to share our evening meal. We can work out the details of our group in comfort. Thane waited for the others to agree, then led the group around the Golden lake and through the market. He stopped at several stalls in the market to purchase food items. Fruits and vegetables from one, loaves of flat bread from another, a small round of cheese, and a bottle of wine.
Sarenei will kill me if I show up with guests but nothing to feed them. he explained.
Rubani watched with some relief as the bum was directed away from the Golden Lake. The poor sod was so drunk that if he were to actually fall in the water Wati might soon have a problem in the form of an intoxicated alligator population.
Speaking of said drunk the half-elf's attention was now directed towards the two people who had sent him packin': a tanned man about his own height but far broader and with muscles that shamed the cleric's thin frame, and a woman who was either a very short human or a very tall halfling. Rubani wasn't about to ask. She was, however, a local and a member of the Pharasmin clergy here at that, capable of answering the question he had voiced earlier.
"You think the local priests are any happier with this than you or I? Well. A few might be. But most would rather have seen Wati's tombs remain sealed. It has been a heated debate, but one with a singular conclusion. It was choose the circumstances or watch helplessly as that unwashed rabble ran rampant over everything.
"I... I'm afraid I don't understand. You speak as if the church's hand was forced. Whose decision was it to open the necropolis for exploration?"
But even as the question left his lips things fell into place in Rubani's mind. There weren't many who could give Wati's Grand Mausoleum a direct order. Had the government really...?
"Praise the Lady that the four of you sound like you all intend to show the respect the deceased deserve."
"It seems we all intend to be in the lottery tomorrow and are all in need of a group."
Oh? It seemed that these two had already decided that the five of them should enter the lottery as a group. Well, the cleric certainly wasn't opposed. These four were far more respectable than the riff-raff he had expected to be paired up with. Heck, there was even another faithful in the party.
Rubani graciously accepted Thane's offer for supper and followed his dark mane to the barbarian's house.
It seems we all intend to be in the lottery tomorrow and are all in need of a group. We could stand here in front of the Mausoleum and discuss forming a group or we could go to my home. I don't live far, just a little north of the Sunburst Market. I am sure my wife will invite you all to share our evening meal. We can work out the details of our group in comfort.
Naomi looked around at the now cleared plaza, "I'd been planning to see about a room at the Tooth & Hookah, but a home cooked meal sounds infinitely better. I accept." The Pharasmin priestess joined Thane and the others on the short walk to the Market.
As always, the sights and smells of the Sunburst Market took her back. A young girl...holding hands with her dark-robed mother...nervous in the bustling crowd...but also excited for the treat her mother promised... She turned to Thane, "I'll meet you at Irsu's date stand in ten minutes. It wouldn't do to show up empty-handed the first time I meet your wife." She nodded to the east. "If any of the rest of you want to come along, I promise I won't make us late for that meal."
Slipping away through the crowd summoned its own memories. The darkened space between the moon pillar and Sitra's kohl tent...Raia slumped before the swarthy punk...the young girl's nose bleeding all over her white healer's robes...Aunty Jehuti on the other side of the market...and the satisfying crunch of the punk's bones when Naomi tackled him and beat him to a pulp. Almost as good a memory as that first sweet sip of Sabu's sugar cane juice.
Naomi smiled as Sabu's familiar cart came into view. A fresh coat of crimson and gold paint covered the well-worn wheels that Naomi had teased him about last time. She raised a hand and waved, "Hey Sabu!" then watched as Sabu's sun-weathered face crackled to life, his now salt-and-pepper beard seeming to spring up around a mouth filled with a fraction of the teeth present when they first met. The sugar cane juice was easy on the palette, but not so much on the teeth. She was sure to squirm a little as Sabu enveloped her in his now wizened frame, knowing the old man still thought of her as the little girl and not the warrior-priestess she had become.
Releasing the hug, Naomi is quick to speak before Sabu can release his own torrent of news, "Not much time for a social call Sabu. Got some new friends I promised to meet for dinner and I'll need two large gourds of cold cane juice. Two silvers for your old friend?"
Sabu's smile turns to a mock frown as he sputters, "Two silvers? Trying to rob an old man girl? I know the Voices don't pay well, but surely better than that!"
Naomi shrugs, "Not anymore Sabu. Nakht isn't very happy with me. I decided to enter the lottery."
Sabu blanches as his jaw drops and he unconsciously reaches for the golden scales hanging from a leather thong around his neck, "Say it isn't true Naomi. That place holds nothing for you." He spits in the sand, "Bad enough that fool Pharaoh opens the Necropolis."
Naomi turns her eyes to the sand, tears welling up in her eyes. Bad enough that Nakht and the Three are furious with me...now Sabu? She trembles as she feels the old man gather her into his arms again and he whispers, "It's your mother isn't it child? I don't know if I should pray that you find her or pray that you don't." She stiffens and breaks the embrace. Tears suddenly dried. "I will find her Sabu. And the one who took her from me." The moment's weakness burned away, Naomi suddenly commands far more presence than her four foot nine inch frame would seem to contain. "Now about those gourds."
Sabu nods silently, "I understand, but I don't have to like it. Abadar's Vault itself couldn't keep you out if you thought she was there. Maybe it is a good thing they're opening the Necropolis. You probably would have broken in yourself. Here." He hands her two of the gourds. Intuiting the purpose of the dinner he adds, "I hope your new friends know what they're getting into."
Unsure of how to feel about the exchange, Naomi slings the gourds over her back and hurries off into the market, heading for Irsu's date stand.
Turn 003 is up.
Please let me know if you have any questions, comments, and/or suggestions.
Game on!
Thane was pleased that Sarenei took his showing up with four guest with such good grace. to make up for it he helped her with the cooking. Something he normally did anyway. He cut up the ingredients according to her instructions. Thane's home was a modest two story stone house a few streets away from the market. Thane and his family's bedrooms were on the upper floor. The lower floor was one large room that was kitchen, living room, and dining room all in one, so Thane was able to continue discussing the lottery with the group while helping Sarenei with the food. The house's funishings are simple but well built. The dishes and cutlery are wooden and fired clay. They are good quality but inexpensive.
Thane's mother-in-law Thea had fallen ill shortly after the death of her husband a year before. The disease left her weak and she often tired quickly. That evening though was a good evening and she sat at her loom working on a rug while the meal was being prepares. Thea was gratified to have two priests of Pharasma in her home and greeted her son-in-laws new companions warmly. Thane makes it clear that the others should consider his home as their home, and that any who are in need of a place to stay that night are welcome to sleep in the main room if they wish.
The next morning Thane left most of his weapons and armor at home. He reasoned there was no need to immediately rush off into the Necropolis once they received their site. They would have time to collect their gear and purchase any other equipment they would need before going into the Necropolis, so there was no need to lug around all that weight in the hot sun. He had only worn the weapons the day before to make himself appear mor formidable to potential employers.
When the group name was called Thane mounted the dais and waited while the acolytes drew the token identifying the groups site. Once he received the token he bowed his head respectfully to the high priestess and returned to the group.
We have been assigned the Tomb of Akhentepi. he said when he reached the group. It looks to be on the north east side of the Necropolis. Anyone know anything about it?
OOC: Good post; I like to RP decisions but the OOC summary works as well.
I need a group name! :)
The Player's Guide has some suggestions and there's a whole thread here.
"You say that some of the symbols decorating the walls of the Necropolis denote death gods other than Pharasma? I had no idea. That's fascinating."
"Oh yes, dearie, and what's more..."
Rubani was having a very informative after-supper chat with Thea, Thane's mother-in-law. Being a new-comer to the city he very much appreciated having found an experienced resident to learn from. He wanted to learn more about Wati, it being so tied to his own faith. At the same time the half-elf was conscious of the fact that Thea was no spring chicken; lovely company though she was, the woman's health was clearly flagging and Rubani made sure not to exhaust her.
That's not to say that the cleric was all that lively either. A good supper always made him somewhat languid, not being used to regular meals, and this had been a fine meal indeed, a fact which Rubani made sure to remark upon as he thanked the master and mistress of the house for their hospitality. The dinner company had been pleasant too, at that. Rubani found that he quite liked the members of their improvised group, something he hadn't been expecting when he first decided upon joining the lottery.
The cleric gladly accepted the three rules Thane proposed for their expedition, and appreciated the concessions he extended to the two Pharasmin priests. It seemed the group was well on the way. There was one thing missing though: a name for said group. Rubani wracked his little Pharasmin-addled mind for a suggestion.
The Grave Guard?
Death's Dignity?
The Guardians of the Grave, perhaps.
The Catacomb Crusaders? No, that's awful...
The Mausoleum Monarchs?
The Tranquil Tomb?
Am I too focused on the whole 'death' thing...?
I'm not sure I understand what you men here; please explain.
I dismissed the check because it was an unimportant NPC. However, do keep rolling or telling me to roll for skill checks and/or other rolls.
I may roll some checks to speed up play but I will post whatever rolls I make for you guys.
I was just poking fun at how every suggestion for a party name in my previous post is based around alliteration. I love me some alliteration. Mmm mmm. It makes for memorable names.
And thanks for clarifying that roll. I'll remember that in the future. Heck, you've practically answered my original question, as what I was hoping to learn was whether or not this random drunk held any greater importance.
OOC: I know we had the holiday weekend and all but I hope I didn't lose anyone!
The turn has been out for more than 3.5 days and we only got two 'decent' posts. Where's everyone else?
Remember that although I'm not expecting a post every day, I do want a 'decent' post every 48 hours.
If anyone has changed their mind about the type of game we are playing, just let me know.
Game on!
The Drunk
Watching curiously, Boram too decided to see how the talk folk dealt with their own before deciding if he would actually think of joining them. Watching the scene unfold, he didn’t respond to the drink man, soliciting something betenn a grin and a grimace form tha man as he decided if the Halfling was on his side or not. Determining that Boram was not, he shrugged before wandering off.
Response to Thane’s INVITATION
At the barbarian’s invitation, Boram gave a knowing look to Akbar, that said “might as well” without uttering a word. Looking to Thane again, he said, ”Decent idea, but I am not one for entering a man’s home without exchanging pleasantries first. Shall we chat as we walk?” Falling in line next to Thane, he craned his head up and said in a Chelaxian accent, ”The name is Boram Tuffot, self-aclaimed cook and purveyor of stable and unstable alchemical products. Anythign the nets me some decent food, especially local fare, if a fine proposition to me.”
Upon arriving at Thane’s home, he gave a similar introduction to Thane’s wife before adding, ”If you would like any help in the kitchen, then just let me know. I have known to make the occasional delicacy in my time. Might not be able to get my hands on all the right ingredients for Chelaxian fare, but I am sure I can improvise.” Putting himself to use, he offered to make a cool soup of turnips and other vegetables that was not quite cool enough to fight the heat and not quite tasty enough to want to keep eating. Only those who really enjoyed the intense taste of salt would be able to handle one bowl…Boram served himself up 3.
While the rules that the group came up with made sense, they had yet to tackle the real question of interest to the small alchemist. ”But what will our name be?”[b] Boram exclaimed as he plucked a piece of fruit form the plate and wiped the now salty wood of his bowl before plopping it in his mouth. Barely swallowing, Boram continued, [b]”Maybe we could be the Tossers 4…wait, but there are 5 of us. Hmm, what about the Bombers? Or the Tomb Scroungers?” While the conversation leading to Thane’s house with the halfing was interesting, demonstrating the little one’s intelligence, as Boram continued to rattle off names, it was obvious that his alchemical inventiveness didn’t translate to other areas of creativity.
After the meal and logistics had been worked out, Boram retired to his place at the Spirit of the Sand inn to rest up and prepare for the location naming ceremony in the morning.
OPENING CEREMONY
Standing in the market square, Boram shaded his eyes as he started moving through the crowd in search of his new comrades. Identifying Thane by his lighter skin and broad shoulders, he meandered over and said ”Well how goes it, ready for this to…” Boram stopped mid-sentence as the ungliest half-orc he had ever seen turned and looked down on him. Pausing in embarrassment, the alchemist squeeked ”My mistake,” before scooting off. Finally finding Thane and the others, he said his hellos and made friendly conversation with a pair of gnomes who were trying too hard to see what he knew about the tombs…which at that point, was very little.
With the arrival od Sebti however, Boram immediately grew silent as he listened to what the Priestess had to say and waited to see which lot their group drew. Seeing Thane approach the dias, take the map and return, the Halfling waited with baited breath for the barbarian’s words.
The Tomb of Ahkitepi eh? Can’t say I am too familiar with it. I might be able to dig up a bit on it with the proper research. Though if it has any interesting architecture, then it shouldn’t be too difficult to identify. May I see the map? Maybe I can identify any patterns in the layout that might help us.”[/b] Then, his chaotic mind switching tracks rapidly as he perused the map, he continued ”I have most of the essentials I need. We will want to make sure we bring along a few braces, in case the walls start to give. And plenty of food and water of course.”
OOC: OK, my 'whip cracking' got a couple of more posts. :)
Seriously though, I want this game to be interactive so when I post:
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Let’s roleplay these scenes. Suggestions for ‘actions 3’ include:
- Head over to the site;
- Buy supplies;
- Find out info on the site; and
- Other?
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It really means that 'you' need to tell me what you will do next. All I got so far is Thane and Boram 'talking' about it (which is good). I'm ready to set up another scene tonight but I don't know what.
BTW, I see a couple of you are 'tagging' to get others PCs involved in the action/conversation; please keep/start doing that.
Questions?
Game on!
From the crowd Rubani the cleric looked up at Sebti the high priestess. He had never felt so cut-off from his own faith. It wasn't just the difference in elevation between the two, with the half-elf in the smelly, rowdy crowd and Sebti in the decorated raised canopy with the rest of the clergy. Nor was it simply the clear difference in status between the two, with the priestess wearing her authority with ease while Rubani could only be said to be wearing a ratty cloak in need of some new stitching. No, it was the fact that even with Naomi's explanation of the church's hand being forced in the matter he still didn't approve of this glorified game of seek and find.
Granted, Rubani had always been something of a freelancer within the Pharasmin faith. Being a wandering cleric by his own free will first and vocation second, the half-elf had never had much contact with the organized Pharasmin church. Nevertheless he had always considered them his allies and peers. It felt awful being here, at this lottery, in such blatant opposition to his own church.
Ugh... let's just get this over with. And why am I even considering my own position here? What about Naomi? She was part of the Voices of the Spire and gave it all up just to be here. Man... Wonder how she's feeling?
The ceremony wasn't too lengthy and before long Thane returned to the group; they had their site.
We have been assigned the Tomb of Akhentepi, he said. It looks to be on the north east side of the Necropolis. Anyone know anything about it?
"I'm afraid not, although the simple fact that the grave is actually named should tell us that it has some significance."
Although at a loss regarding the history of Wati's Necropolis the cleric was happy to find that he could contribute to the points raised by their resident halfling alchemist.
”I have most of the essentials I need. We will want to make sure we bring along a few braces, in case the walls start to give. And plenty of food and water of course.”
"We won't have to worry about water, my friend. The first orison any cleric in Osirion learns is that which blesses us with water. Thirst will not be the end of us, the Mother will see to that. But um... braces?"
Rubani could not help thinking back on his father's death; he had met his end in a collapsed mineshaft. The half-elf had never considered that these ancient tombs could topple together over him, giving the son a similar end.
"The burials have been standing for over two thousand years. Surely they will withstand our gentle touch?"
local knowledge=21
OOC: Two sources are identified.
Namrut: a well-to-do male collector who has a sizable collection of books and antiquities; and
Usur-kau: an old female soothsayer who some think has more teeth than wits (and she doesn't have many of those left). :)
If talking you want to talk to any of these, let me know and I'll set up a scene (or you can go ahead and set up the scene). You'll then roleplay and roll your 'interaction' dice (bluff, diplomacy, intimidate, etc.). needless to say, the better you roleplay the higher bonus you get on your dice roll. I'll then post the NPCs 'reaction' (information provided, etc.)
Questions?
Game on!
Thane looked at the other members of the group and saw that they knew no more about the tomb of Akhentepi than he did. He stood frowning with his head bowed in thought for a moment. Namrut! He may know something about Akhentepi. He is a collector. I have worked for him before as a courier and he has done business with my father in law. He has a big house over by the gate into Morning Sun. Let's go pay him a visit. As Thane led the group through the streets of Midwife to Namrut's home he admitted there might be someone else that could tell them something about Akhentepi.
She is a fortune teller or something, her name is Usur-kau, she can usually be found around the golden lake, but she is crazy.
When they arrived at Namrut's home Thane knocked loudly on the door. After waiting a few minute with no response Thane knocked again louder than the first. A few moments later a thin shrewish woman with a kerchief around her head answered the door. What do you want? She hissed.
Go tell your Master that Thane Blackwolf, son-in- law of Khair Qeshyahar would greatly appreciate a moment of his time. Thane replied in a calm voice. The woman disappeared back inside leaving Thane and the others on the doorstep. Ten minutes later the door opened again, this time there was a tall thin Osirioni man wearing richly embroidered robes on the other side.
Thane! he said as he clasped the northman's hand. It is good to see you. Come in all of you. Namrut stood aside and waved the party in through the door. He closed it behind the last and then led the group to a richly appointed sitting room where the shrewish woman was laying out honey cakes and cool fruit juices. Namrut sat on a cushioned Divan and waved for his guests to seat themselves. Thane took a seat to Namrut's right hand.
I was so sorry to hear of Khair's death. He said to Thane as the others were seating themselves. He was a good man.
Yes he was. Thane replied nodding. Thea was so glad you came to the memorial. It ment a lot to her considering how much respect Khair had for you.
Master Namrut, my friends and I were wondering if you could tell us something about Akhentepi, and his tomb? We drew that site in the lottery this morning and we know nothing about it besides its location in the Necropolis. I can offer you first chance at any antiquities we recover in exchange for any information you can give us? What do you say?
Alright everyone Turn 004 is up.
Let me reiterate my expectation from you here so there are no misunderstandings. I expect you to post a 'decent' post no later than 48 hours after I post.
I do other things other than just roleplaying and the turn recaps for these games (I host two games) do take up a fair bit of my time so I like to get on a schedule.
I will post turn recaps on Wednesdays and on the weekend so this means that you need to post Thursday-Friday and Monday-Tuesday. Like I said before, the more (sooner) you post and involve other people, the better game for everyone. Of course, there will be times when this won't be possible (even for me) but try your best to let the group know when you won' be able to post.
I'm sorry if I seem harsh here but I like for everyone to know what they are getting into when they join. And although, we haven't had any combat turns, four turns should be enough to let you know what this game will be like.
Once again, please evaluate your time and interest and see if this is the type of game that you will enjoy.
Still with me?
Game on!
Rubani followed Thane to the residence of Namrut, a contact of the barbarian's who he thought might know more about Akhentepi and his tomb. The half-elf felt that Thane really was proving himself a resourceful and remarkable man, especially for a foreigner. Surprisingly well spoken too, when he put his mind to it. Having reached the house Thane deftly navigated the social niceties required of the situation, and even managed to find a potential buyer for any items they might find at the site. Namrut just had one condition.
"What you find in Wati stays in Wati. You come to me and I'll give you the best price, yes? Besides, those foreign vultures have no respect for our traditions."
This latter sentiment was one which Rubani appreciated enormously.
What of your associates? How do they feel about Osirion culture?"
How do I feel about Osirion culture? Sir, I worry about what YOU will do with any artifacts we bring you. That's how I feel.
Rubani held his tongue, however. He honestly wasn't entirely comfortable with selling off anything they might find. Any artifact from the glory days of Ancient Osirion should be placed on a pedestal to be honored, or left be as far as he was concerned. But he realized that this was not exactly what his new compatriots were hoping for, and they were certainly entitled to a compensation for their hard work. Besides, better this Namrut than some foreign opportunist. The man seemed to be a patriot, another sentiment that he and Rubani shared.
One member of the party that did not hold his tongue, however, was Akbar. The usually so quiet halfling spoke up as Namrut questioned them, defending the party and the integrity of its members. Rubani was struck with the sincerity of his voice, and his appeal carried an additional poignancy due to his race. Hearing a halfling, a race often unfairly maligned as thieves, argue for the honor of his non-halfling companions seemed almost poetic.
Namrut seemed convinced as he quickly found the information the party was looking for.
This Akhentep was a military commander? Not a soul anyone should disturb then... lest they regret it.
"It looks like you got lucky, Thane. You'll get to explore a real tomb and not just some abandoned building. You should do just fine with regards to antiquities... but be careful..."
"Careful?" Did this man know any particulars about the tomb? "Do you refer to any specific danger associated with this grave?"
Suddenly the small halfling spoke up, louder than any had heard him before. Actually projecting his voice at normal levels! [dice=Diplomacy]1d20+8"I'm not a native here, but Wati has been very good to me. I see no profit in dealing with foreign traders. I have watched and listened to these others, and they are very respectful towards the dead and local custom. It seems like they've all been here longer than me, so I'd be your chief concern. And all I have to say about me is I'm not here to cause anyone problems."
Namrut was impressed and he scanned the other people as the halfling spoke about them, "This is good to know. Respect is all we ask from everyone, not just foreigners." He scratched his beard, "I don't recognized the accent; where do you call home?"
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