You have been called to many a gathering in the training field just behind the citadel that overlooks the city of Ilizmagorti below, but this is the first time where the Blood Mistress herself would be addressing the crowd. Today was the anniversary of the Crimson Citadel being built after the Red Mantis had been infamously exiled in 2560 after their involvement in what is now called the Oath Wars. One this day it is custom for the sitting Blood Mistress to address Achaekek's servants.
This is also the first time you have seen Vela, Captain of the Blood Watch of Ilizmagorti, outside the city. She is a battle hardened Captain formally of the Cheliax Empire. She and her honor guard await amongst the faithful to hear the Blood Mistress speak.
The sea breeze is salty and chilling as the Blood Mistress steps on to her balcony and removes her Sacred Mantis Helm. Her image is blurred, as if under a spell, and it is hard to discern her features. Sisters and Brothers of the Blood, I Blood Mistress Jakalyn appear before you in all the glory and splendor granted to me by our Lord, He who walks in Blood! Praise Achaekek! Recite your vows with me!
The Blood Mistress and the faithful raise their voices reciting the tenants of the Red Mantis.
Kill by righteous decree
None who rule by divine right are marked by the
Receiving gifts for our abilities is our right
Strike in silence and in night
Walk in the blood of others, not our kin
The Blood Mistress bows her head in a brief moment of silence, then continues to speak
I decree there shall be three days of pleasure starting today. The Sivlamlik shall be opened for this time and servants will cater to every whim of our righteous sisters and brothers. On the fourth day I will send a group of new recruits to the Pagoda of the Mantis to make our offering of thanks.
"Three days of pleasure...such a waste."
Areum watches with mild contempt as the crowd largely moves to the middle layers of the Citadel, and she makes little attempt to mask her disgust at those "faithful" who practically run to the carnal delights. To call them insects would be a slight to the Mantis God, but despite her devotion she can not help but draw the parallel; they are as ants swarming upon a dropped candy, eager to sate their gluttony and lust.
With a grimace, Areum turns to where the Blood Mistress had addressed the crowd. It was promising to see Captain Vela; perhaps her presence added more to the debauchery of the ceremony. She was not, however, impressed with her leader.
"The Blood Mistress chooses to remain veiled even during such a celebration. This is a sanctified occasion!"
Areum spits on the ground, and then gasps, turning swiftly to the nearest icon of the Mantis God, and, bowing, folds her hands in prayer:
Penance made, Areum rises, and adjusts her headband, working on regaining her composure. She looks upon the few remaining followers still present before making her way forward; the savory aroma of various meats has grown stronger, and even the devout need sustenance.
"Perhaps they'll have some chamoe..."
"Watch the guards. Alert. Ready. The mistress lethal and careful even with power. Identify, body type, voice, muscle tone, signs of age, skin, race, marks. Lack of facial profile, minimal obstacle.......Stop it, by the mantis your home. The only true home, safety like no other. Relax while you can, once you leave it's back to bloody business. Three days of paradise, of peace. Let's not let it go to waste shall we."
Rakus shook his head, old habits are hard to change. Even if change and adaptability are in themselves a instilled habit. He takes a deep breath, no where else in the world could those that follow the mantis god be truly free save here. There was no telling when he would enjoy that sort of comfort. Then again he had old comforts to indulge in while he was at it. He smoothed his blood red robes with the symbols of his faith embossed about it. Then walked towards the pleasure gardens. He would have tomes, fine drink, and woman.
A sudden thought struck him and he produced a small red book with black trim. Producing a quill from one of his many pockets he thumbed through it for another moment before stopping on one of it's pages.
"Hmmmm I wonder if I will find one."
His brow was tense with concentration as he looked over his wishlist of bedding partners. No small amount of checks and details with in it's pages yet many left blank yet to be filled. He scoffed at inaccurate fools that dreamed of elven maidens and sylph dancers. If one could not tell the difference between a Ekujae or Malenti then they should abandon such pursuits. Refinement was key, even in one's seeking of pleasure. Retrieving a second seemingly identical book he wonders if the gardens have a library with the complete works of Soreth the drake expert. Perhaps with luck he could check off two items on both list at the same time.
Kayla wandered about the grounds. she tried to keep a low profile, avoiding trouble. she knew she was an outsider and never truly a welcome sight.
still she knew this place would be her new home. she was not welcome in her old one anymore.
The Blood Mistress made her announcement, Kayla listened but really did not fully become engaged in what was unfolding. she was not a fully welcomed presence here, at least by some.
Still she had "friends" here, if anyone here could truly be called a friend.
The place of pleasure was not a place for her. she enjoyed her sweets of course, and that is where she would go; to find cake, or biscuits, or her favorite, Red bean buns
Instead of the pleasures others would seek, Kayla would slip off to secretly watch the Red Mantis practice with their swords. watching their movements, observing their techniques. It is here she would make her way toward, after something good to eat of course.
Elliana stood to the back of the crowd, arms crossed across her chest, listening intently as the woman known as the Blood Mistress finished her speech. With a sigh she rolled her head from side to side and stood up away from the wall, reaching up and cracking her fingers above her head. 'Three days to just relax and do nothing? No instruction, no missions, no nothing? What...?' She stared around, blinking large blue eyes in confusion, before shrugging and beginning to move with the crowd, heading towards the Pleasure Gardens in search of some wine and a quiet place to sit and think.
As she walked she shrugged uncomfortably in the silk shirt and fine trousers she had bought for the festival. She felt naked out of her armor, worse, she felt like she had left her skin behind! She shuddered slightly and sighed as she walked slowly through the crowd, slipping past people with grace and ease. She was glad to have some time to herself in the city, she supposed. It would be nice to do something that was not focused on her training or on revenge.
"Who knows... maybe I'll meet some new people!"
Unlike her soon-to-be compatriots, Zaphani had no difficulty engaging in every pleasure the festival had to offer. She'd been a slave for so long, first in Katheer and to some extent even here, that it felt fitting to, for once, be catered to by someone. However, her pleasure didn't necessarily come in a physical form, but more in making other people do as she wished and make them impress her. It was nice for once to have people getting things for her with the threat of death to back it up. She wouldn't bed any of these men, but it was fun to make them think she would.
Still, in the back of the Vishkanya's mind was the test that awaited them. It had never been explicitly said that's what the pilgrimage was, but then again, what wasn't a test when it came to the Mantis. Every training exercise, every sparring match, and every conversation was a test. With trained killers around every corner, every minute of every day was a test. Somehow Zaphani had curried some level of favor, but that just made her keep her guard up even more.
Vela is constantly looking over the crowd during the speech. When it is over she gives the necessary exchange of pleasantries and orders her honor guard to move out.
"Back to the city men! We have much to prepare."
not much of this information is concerning to Kayla, at least not right now. and she continues on her search for treats and then on to observe the training.
You all benefit from a Hero's Feast Granting you 18 temporary hit points which should last until you reach the pagoda. You are given a final warning about some of the dangers that exist on the road to the City including Assassin Vines, Dinosaurs, and Monkey Goblins.
Rakus stretches before picking up the chest with the symbol of the mantis god upon it. Finely made it is covered in detailed designs with ruby gems and serrated trim. Were it unwieldy he would be opposed to carrying it but priestly duties and what not none the less. He takes in the others for a moment, scanning them with a trained eye before speaking.
"I am Rakus Satash, priest of Achaekek and brother in blood. May I know who accompanies on this scared duty?"
He gives the sense of wondering weather his words are sincere or mocking. But his expression gives nothing away.
Areum smirks as she is examined by Rakus; her minor joviality fading to a grimace as she hears him speak. Removing the scarf to reveal her third eye, she approaches the priest, scrutinizing him with deliberate thoroughness.
"Hail, priest," her frown increases, as her tone drips with scorn, "May you know the blessings of the Mantis God, as you facilitate His sacred offering. I assume you understand the sanctity of this rite."
She makes a similar inspection of the rest of her new colleagues, moving from the Drow, to the Gnome, to the Human as she continues to address the group. "Let us all be mindful of our duties. We take oaths not to an order, but to a God. He Who Walks In Blood cares little of your mortal failings; He seeks not pleasure in this world, but to uphold the pure rite of Assassination. We did not enlist in an agency of spies, nor are we inclined to deceive with half-truths and warped words."
Pausing before the Vishkanya, Areum pauses in her sermon, looking over the woman curiously and with a hint of a smile, before completing her circuit and stepping back, casting her gaze over all gathered. "No, these things are not for us, for we are Red Mantis! We pride ourselves on our talents, and on the swift, direct execution of death. Let us rejoice, sisters...", she pauses, throwing a glance at Rakus, "...and brothers, for with our work comes glory, and the blessings of the Mantis shine upon us!"
"Never forget, however, that He is watching. The Mantis sees all, and will brook no heresy. I, Weon Areum, am His claw. I see you, too." Replacing her scarf, careful to align the Holy Symbol of Achaekek above her third eye, Areum stands with hands above her sabers, "And I carry out the will of Achaekek."
Detect Good/Chaos/Law/Evil
Detect Good/Chaos/Law/Evil
Detect Good/Chaos/Law/Evil
Detect Good/Chaos/Law/Evil
Detect Good/Chaos/Law/Evil
Perception- Elliana is wearing a holy symbol of Besmara around her neck, along with a holy symbol of Achaekek.
Sense Motive- Elliana is not impressed, not by you nor by the Priest. She is devoted to the causes of the Mantis but does not think that the Devoted of Achaekek, such as Weon or Rakus are any better than she or the others. She bears you no ill will and is mildly amused by you.
Elliana rolls her eyes and shakes her head softly, a small wry grin crossing her face. 'And so the show boating begins. Don't they know that the dog that barks loudest is not the one to be feared? It was inevitable I suppose, that this should be the way we begin. We need to know who is in charge, clearly!' She sighed, rolling her shoulders slightly and flexing, before reaching up to press the tips of her fingers against the hilts of the Saw-tooth Sabres that jut up over her shoulders.
When the Priestess finished speaking, Elliana smiled and nodded to the woman, before glancing around. "Well how to follow such... stirring words? I can not claim to have any divine connection to the Mantis above, not like our Brother and Sister here, but I am no slouch when it comes to the use of our holy weapons." She gestured to the Sabres, before shrugging. "And I am not afraid to use them." She smiled slowly, a cold smile that never reached her eyes.
"Elliana d'Illaise. A pleasure!"
Perception: You get the faintest smell of red wine, parchment, and cherry blossoms from him. A single oddity catches your notice, Rakus is alert and well groomed. Very strange for one that has spent three days in the pleasure gardens.
Knowledge Local: Little is known of Rakus, which if anything says he is effective in his chosen field. He is not native to Mediogalti and was recruited by the blood mistress on the main land.
Detect Spell: You get a faint aura of law and nothing else.
Rakus does not react to the eye, the brutish tactics, or the spells she cast. He merely chuckles at it all.
"Brash. Emotional. Restricted. She watches you but not her surroundings. A dog with only the scent of her prey, unaware of the hunter stalking her. Duty. Honor. Faith. Overlooked but in our hands. Safe. Careful. Alert. We do not fail, we watch, we wait. Glory unwanted or sought. He knows, all that is needed."
With a hint of a smirk he speaks.
"We all do Achaekek's will, otherwise we would be dead at best. As for his approval, while I can speak for no others. My power is dependent on it, if he disapproved of me in any manner. I wouldn't be one of his priest now would I."
His face grows slightly colder for a moment.
"Unless you claim to know better then his priesthood or perhaps Achaekek himself. That to me sounds a little too prideful, far more like heresy in fact. Something rather unneeded in his servants, for what purpose does pride hold. If only a weakness to be exploited, are not those hunted by the mantis god guilty of no greater pride then thinking themselves divine."
As the edge crept into his voice like the serrated blades they nearly all wore. He sheathed it with a lighter tone in his next words. The teeth retracted from the soft flesh.
"Well truth be told I get enough religious debate among my own. I miss it not a bit, we are a rather active lot after all. Weren't we on introductions, if I may be so forward I would ask with respect that it be kept short from now on. Unless we move along while doing so, then I encourage you all to be as long winded as you wish. Deadlines must be considered I think."
He gives a courteous smile while inching in the direction of their destination.
Perception: not much about her to perceive, she is lightly armored, she does not have the traditional sawtooth sabers. She is kind of cute like a child.
Sense Motive: She carries herself like an outcast, she probably believes she does not belong here, but at the same time is thankful she is still alive.
Knowledge local: Kayla is a Dread gnome. the type of gnome that dwells in shadows. there are stories of another assassin organization comprised of dread gnomes. and that one of them actually managed to infiltrate the Red Mantis. a remarkable feat indeed. could this be that gnome?
Kayla says very little as the introductions go around. she seems a little defensive in her body posture. she likely feels she does not belong among the group.
She does not carry the trademarked weapons of the Red Mantis.
eventually, mainly because she has no choice, I am known as... Well I was once known as, The Black Scorpion. But now I am just known as Kayla.
She remains vigilant for betrayal, as she keeps a careful eye on all those present.
The gates open for you at dusk, a holy time of day for Achaekek. The orange/red sky looks like a giant floating wound above you.
The winding trail that leads to the city is narrow, but can fit two abreast with ease. There is a large drop off to the right of the path that does not curve along the citadel that falls about 100' into a thick bog. You hear the sound of traps disarming on the side that hugs the citadel, allowing you to pass.
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Monkey goblins? What in the nine hells is a monkey goblin
Zaphani, bedecked in traveling clothes and red studded leather armor, seemed a bit absent while the others were introducing themselves and giving the seemingly customary staredown. Instead she was checking her gear, making sure everything was where it should be. One of the more important things she learned serving a merchant prince was the value of being prepared.
She made a point in being a bit more discrete when studying her "comrades". It wasn't her strong suit anyway, killing was. When the time came, she was confident she would hold her own with this group. So confident she was willing to take the lead when the time came to leave.
[b}"Name is Zaphani. Anyone else care to join me up front, particularly one of you more perceptive types?"[/b]
As Zaphani took the lead, Kayla joined her. though she attempted to move further ahead I'll scout ahead, you relay messages back as I inform you. she says trying her best to "fit in"
Kayla moves on ahead scouting the road for signs of danger.
(penalty for movement)
Elliana fell in step with Zaphani, frowning slightly in confusion as the shortest member of their group headed off to "scout ahead" (a process which would probably involve her being out paced by their longer legs). She shrugged and kept silent, choosing instead to take this moment to familiarize herself with at least one of the members of the party. She turned to Zaphani and glanced at the woman before speaking slowly.
"So Sister, how long have you been in the Citadel, if that is not too impolite of me to ask?"
As Areum falls into line, keeping pace with the Gnome in the rear, she regards Rakus with obvious disdain, "Need I remind you that power is graced to me from the same source? You would be a fool to not notice among us those who do not worship the Mantis, even as they adhere to His philosophy. It is your job to promote His teaching and spread the faith."
She maneuvers her pack onto one shoulder, using her free hand to poke at her chest as she speaks, "And it is mine to ensure that you do."
Without turning around Rakus replies with the casualty of teaching a child.
"Yet a priestess you are not. In fact you serve much the same as the countless assassins of the mantis. Only with less direction in your targets in my view. Interesting that you are not granted his full will. What do you lack then."
He waited a breath before he continued.
"The answer is clear enough, understanding and insight. Zeal and blind faith are not enough for he who walks in blood, at least not for those that work his will closely. You are impotent to me, more a danger to yourself truth be told. But perhaps I have said to much, apologies for that."
Again that sharp cold creeps through. His lesson at an end apparently or just so.
"But make no mistake, my job is just that. Mine, no one save my superiors in the church, tells me how or when to do it. Not that they ever have, certainly not you. Now stop barking or strike me down for taking the word of fool for naught. I would be most amused at your fate and have nothing to fear of my own."
Bravado was one thing, ordering a priest of Achaekek was another. His manners only held up for so long outside a mission at such things. Death held no surprises for him, his god was one of death after all.
Rakus faith in Achaekek is absolute, he lacks fear of any kind concerning death as a result. Yet it is clear he has no death wish or reckless tendencies. Seemingly a contradiction, he is a complex person.
Without missing a beat he turns towards Xalyth, speaking in a conversational tone and a smile.
"So your one of those drow, dark elves from below that caused a big deal a few years back. How did you get here of all places? Does Achaekek have a fallow in the darklands?"
As the day goes on, about 20 mins down the path the Citadel is behind you. You are beginning to pass through a thicker part of the jungle.
Suddenly, a small dinosaur leaps out in front of Zaphani and Elliana.
Kayla walked in silence. Areum walked beside her but was to engrossed in religion "conversation" Kayla merely listened and observed.
Making mental notes of the actions and attitudes of those around her.
None wished to know more about her, which was fine by her. the less they know probably the better.
Elliana glanced back just in time, from talking to Zaphani, to stop herself from collapsing over a thick tree limb that lay across the road. She caught her breath and bit back an oath, as the dinosaur burst from the undergrowth.
"Long enough to know that it's a better life than what I had in Katheer. Anything would be better than that."
Zaphani would continue on with polite small talk until...
...she avoids the same branch by a slightly larger margin, but is startled by the lizard beast thing.
Dinosaur 21
, , *Miss
Zaphani 15+
Elliana 15
Xalyth10+
Kayla 10
"How very interesting. How did you come to be among the mantis?"
The answer would have to wait as something burst for from the jungle before them.
Zaphani mutters a Vishkanya curse as the lizard creature tears into her. Assuming her compatriots will fight like, well, assassins, Zaphani pulls a sabre and readies for when one moves into a flanking position.
Satisfied after her bout with the priest, Areum falls silent, content to listen to the others and observe their actions.
A frown crosses her face as she sees Elliana nearly fall over the most menacing tree limb on the path, but bites back her retort when the lizard creature appears, clawing at the leads.
"Oh ho! Our first challenge arises! With steel and speed, maidens of the Mantis! Strike it with your claws!"
As her allies leap upon the beast, Areum draws her dual blades, her posture loose and ready. All enmity is forgotten, her slight to the only male perhaps unintentional.
Initiatives
Dinosaur 21 surprise attack(pounce) on Zaphani and Elliana1d2 ⇒ 1
talons +5: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18 (1d8+2: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3,bite +5: 1d20 ⇒ 19(1d6+2): 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5, foreclaws +0 : 1d20 ⇒ 11 *Miss
Zaphani 15+ Attacks the Dinosaur and makes a solid hit
Elliana 15
Rakus 13
Xalyth10+
Kayla 10
Weon 9 Readies her blades
Animal. Simple. Instinctual. Tactical assessment is minor, requirement of brute force all that is needed. The usual role is recommended.
With no emotion he touches Xalyth beside him. Her vision is edged with red as warmth rushes through her whole body, adding fuel to the fire. He moves back to put distance between himself and the threat, yet remains in the range of the others should they need to move towards him or vice versa. Making sure everyone is with in his reach.
Elliana slides in around the beast and draws a sabre as she does, lashing out with lightning speed, sending the blade slashing towards the beasts throat.
[ooc]Attack + Flank-[ooc]
Her blade skips off the beasts shoulder, failing to bite in.
Elliana swears colourfully.
The beast seems to be attacked from all sides. Kayla looks for an opening, but at her distance it would do no good.
Kayla moves up to the beast unsheathing her smaller blade as she advances. looking for an opportunity to strike.
As she gets close, Kayla vanishes for a brief second. then in an instant reappears next to the creature.
Initiatives
Dinosaur 21 surprise attack(pounce) on Zaphani and Elliana1d2 ⇒ 1
talons +5: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18 (1d8+2: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3,bite +5: 1d20 ⇒ 19(1d6+2): 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5, foreclaws +0 : 1d20 ⇒ 11 *Miss
Zaphani 15+ Attacks the Dinosaur and makes a solid hit
Elliana 15 Sidesteps the beast and attacks it
Rakus 13 The road between the citadel and the city is through the medogalti jungle. They did warn you specifically about dinosaurs before you left.
Xalyth10+ Acrobatically flanked and striked the beast.
Kayla 10 Dimensionally striked the beast
Weon 9 Readies her blades
The beast howls and falls down dead.
Kayla delivers the killing blow. The relic in Rakus' hands grows red briefly, then fades back to normal.
Rakus traces the beast tracks and finds it's near by nest, along with it's prizes. He retrieves the trio and hands one to Kayla.
"For the killing blow."
He then hands over another to Zaphani.
"For blood sacrificed."
He pockets the last into one of his many inner folds. Sparing no words for himself.
"We should keep moving, the body will draw attention. How deep are your wounds Zaphani?"
He walks back towards the path as he speaks.
[dice=Survival vs DC 10]1d20+3
Kayla simply sheaths her blade and returns to her position in the marching order. As she goes, she stops and observes the ground.
Kayla survey's the area about the nesting location, others may be about, we should keep moving, best to leave the eggs. could be a way for the other ones to track us.
Kayla then urges the rest to move on.
Keeping her blades drawn, Areum nods in approval, her face losing some of its scowl.
"That was very well done. It is becoming more apparent that Achaekek looks upon the lot of you with favor. Let us be sure to uphold His teachings, lest His gaze turn to ire."
She gives a nod to the Gnome before gesturing towards Rakus and the purloined egg. "We haven't much to worry from the likes of these creatures, so long as The Mantis blesses us. Pocket the egg; do not feel ashamed, however, if the weight you carry becomes burdensome."
"And as a note to our front: it would be wise to mind the path ahead..."
With that, Areum will continue on.
You can see parts of the city poking out of the tops of the jungle ahead. You think it wont be long now. The jungle is starting to get very dense now though.
As you continue on through the thicker part of the last stretch
Rakus stops and puts out a hand to his side to block Xalyth.
"We have assassin vines up ahead. May want to avoid them."
Areum's pace is jarred to a halt with the sudden stop of Rakus; having met no threats since the lone dinosaur, she had allowed her mind to wander, and nearly paid the price.
"A keen eye, Brother Satash."