You feel air rush into your lungs. Breathing, that's something you haven't had to do for a while. It burns like life often does. Black is all you see as you remember that you used to own eyes. You open them and see a room. The walls are covered in trinkets and tapestries, Arcane symbols can be seen on the ceiling if front of you. You try to move, to stretch your aching muscles. You find that you can't, your arms are restrained , your legs as well. You look to your sides and find that there are 4 others in a similar predicament as you. All of them are unconscious, straining against their bonds as if stuck in a bad dream. You crook your head forward and at the end of your toes you see a beautiful woman sitting behind a desk writing. She has blood red hair strewn about her body wildly. Dressed in a barely there white gown she looks up and smiles at you. You catch a glimpse of white feathered wings attached to her back. She keeps smiling, a smile you know well, an evil grin....
Welcome, I'll be right with you all
She goes back to writing.
Nicolae struggles against his bonds. He looks down at his hands and sees a set of claws. What is wrong with my hands? He strains his eyes harder. Are those scales?
He tries to speak, but has forgotten how to use his vocal chords. As he finally finds them, he speaks in a deep, raspy voice that sounds almost like a lion's roar. What is the meaning of this? Whose voice is that? In the same voice, Let me up!
Gideon speaks through clenched teeth, though surprisingly calm. "Free me, Wench!"
Thinking ::Was that my voice? What's going on here?::
Escape Artist
Lying on the table Gideon begins to take note of how his body feels. He notices an extra appendage. A tail. Straining against his bonds he attempts to look at his tail. In doing so he knocks his head on the side of the table. Not his head...something is on his head, though it doesn't feel as though he's wearing a helmet. He also felt his ear brush the table. It's a lot more ear that he's used to having. Straining he glances down and sees a tail coming from under his rear. He concentrates and it twitches, though it too is securely held in place by a band near the tipped end.
::My skin is brown! WHY AM I BROWN!:: More of the gravity of the situation coming to him ;;I HAVE A TAIL!! WHY IN THE BLOODY HELLS DO I HAVE A TAIL!!::
No longer calm Gideon raises his voice, "WOMAN, Tell me why I am strapped to this table and why by the howling winds of pandora DO I HAVE A TAIL!" Gideon says emphatically.
Nicolae hears a voice and looks to the right at the tiefling struggling against his bonds and then back at himself. We are changed. These are not our bodies. Suddenly, he feels the power of his new form. Adrenaline pulses through his veins as he feels more life in his new body than he has ever known. He looks around again and the once dim room comes into full view. Even the darkest corners are clearly visible in black and white. He looks up at the arcane symbols and attempts to decipher them. Who is this woman? Why are we here?
Knowledge Arcana:
Akiz is woken up by the shouting man next to him. The man had changed? Weird. He then looks at himself but finds there is a yellow-ish beak obstructing his view. He was still black as before, but his fur changed to feathers and he almost doubled in size. "How odd. I did not see this coming at all. Miss, would you be so kind as to explain our predicament?" There was no point in being rude to those near death. "Oh, and how come he gained a tail while I lost mine. It's quite a handy tool if I may say so."
Enisald awoke quietly and looked around the room. So there were others, eh? Oh well, no matter. The first thing he noticed after waking up was that he felt odd, as though he was covered in hair. After hearing the others talking of tails, he couldn't help notice that he had one as well. For several moments, he watched it swish back and forth, in awe of how easily he could control it.
As the others began to grow anxious, Enisald decided to do his part to calm them. He announced loudly, "I am Enisald the Purifier, the greatest leader of the Rhondskald, unless someone better followed me, which I doubt. I was much less furry then, a half elf. Who are all of you?"
Nicolae - The design is a biscected triangle with a circle around it. multiple spirals filled with arcane symbols shoot from the outer edge of the circle. You recognize some as conjuration power symbols.
Akiz - She looks like a bralani Azata to you, however she brought you of all people back from the dead. She's probably not good at all, but the only evil you know that looks like that is an erinyes, and she is definitely NOT one of those.
Akiz completely ignores the talking monkey, "How quaint. Miss, may I ask you what a Bralani is doing with the likes of me, or by the sounds coming from my colleagues, us? I don't think we are the regular crowd for your kind to mingle with." Least of all the kind to bring him back from the dead.
That, in fact, was even stranger. When he died his soul should have gone to his, probably former, master Apollyon and would most likely be consumed. Yet here he was, clearly with an unconsumed soul.
In his deep (almost roaring) voice, I am alive! Release me to reign hell on my enemies! Nicolae looks left and then right. I am Nicolae. We must have been chosen.
Nicolae takes a closer look at himself. He appears to be a mix between the human he once was and a golden reptile. What am I?
Perhaps I'm not a Bralani then. She says, her voice light as a feather on the breeze brushes against your ear. She goes back to writing.
Release yourself why don't you I won't stop you. I just have a bit more to write here She rubs her left temple as she continues writing.
Calming himself a bit Gideon again tries to slip free of his bonds.
Escape Artist
Escape artist:
Escape artist:
Escape artist:
Escape artist:
Escape artist:
As Dardlara opens her eyes and takes her first breath since her execution. she thinks to herself,
::The communications I received thru the astrol plane has came to fruition......Plus I am completely tied up! This is the best rebirthday present one could ask for::
She slightly writhes against her restraints not in an attempt to free herself but just enough to cause pain in her extremities as they rub against the leather restraints.
::It's utterly delightful to once again enjoy the all the pleasures of the flesh::
As Dardlara frees here mind from her self absorbed, narcissistic tendencies she begins to take in her surroundings. She feels the decor is a bit tacky and cliche but realizes this is not the time to assert herself. Instead she looks over at the other 4 restrained bodies and wonders why someone of her stature would be restrained individuals of lesser lineage.
::I assume these others have been brought here for the same reason as myself but one should not assume anything. If not then I will just keep my mouth shut and wait until further instructed::
Cast: Detect Good
Escape Artist:
Escape Artist: 1d20+9
Dardlara - you detect no good here.
Gideon and Nicolae - you eventually get out just as the Woman stops writing. She looks up gazing at all of you with a warm smile. Blue eyes filled with kindness.
Welcome to life. I'm sure you are curious as to why you are here and why you are all wearing the same clothing
You notice you are all wearing white and gold robes with a symbol marked on the chest. Well all except Akiz, who is dressed in tattered linens.
You have been summoned here to help me with a little task. This world has been out of balance for almost 2 millennium. The powers that be have used coercion, diplomacy, and in the distant past incredible force to shape this world into something awe inspiring. This place is populated by nothing but free, peaceful, GOOD natured individuals. You five here are the only source of proper Evil thinking left. I have brought you here to help turn the tides, to work at the edges of this affliction of Peace until we can strike the heart and bring Evil back to these people lives. It's quite despicable how they live now, no inspiration is left, no strife to spark the greatest of poems, no murder to create fear and the oh so wonderful chemicals experienced while running from the darkness. These things are missing, and I believe you are the perfect people to usher in a new paradigm.
I have also been fortunate enough to have found some interesting bodies for you as well. You three were all great warriors of the order. Indicating everyone but Akiz and Dardlara. Dardlara, you have the true gem. Your body is one of many clones of the woman who first raised praise to Peligree. Her clones are now local priestesses for all of the cities. I'm sure you can see where it's advantages lay. And you Akiz, You I found dying in the woods. Well your body at least. Now are there any questions?
Gideon examines his body as he moves. bending at the waist and stretching his fingers before forming a fist.
"This body seems to remember motions that I have never used. It is (thinking a moment) excellent."
Turning to the woman. "Are you as angelic as you seem or are you something else? Surely an angel wouldn't bring evil into the world."
I am no angel. That is for sure. oh yes I almost forgot
The restraints release and you are all free.
Akiz gets up the moment he is released. "That would explain the rags. Any idea as to cause of death of this poor sap?" It clearly wasn't disease, there would have been pock marks and his clothes would be whole.
"I have a faint feeling that something is missing, or at least that's what I get from this body. It's incomplete somehow." Why did he get saddled with the runt? At least the form was limber.
Gideon examines his new body and looks into something reflective to see his new face. After a moment of examination he asks,
"I seem to be in the body of a pit touched . How exactly does one with demonblood blend into a population full of good people?" Thinking a moment, "For that matter if the world is as you say how will we not simply be pointed out and destroyed in force if even a single paladin chooses to detect our aura? Don't misunderstand I'm all for sewing chaos and destruction back into the world, but presumably there is some sort of plan beyond random wanton destruction."
This world is accepting of all types. Your demon heritage is just another thing. Noone hears of demons, noone fears them. Your connection will be seen as nothing but asthetic, and perhaps a bit practical in regards to your tail. I'd image most paladins, should any remain, forgot long ago the reason for that spell. But just in case I have some stones that will protect you from their gaze. They are in another room, that we will be seeing shortly.
Nicolae continues to inspect himself. He stretches and wings expand from his thoracic spine. What of this body? What is it...er was it? It appears as if it was touched by the dragons of old, but those were just stories. Is this form normal in this world?
As Dardlara slowly sits up, admitting to herself that she is slightly disappointed that her capture did not take advantage of her in her vulnerable state, she examines her new body which instantaneously brings an overwhelming sense of self-loathing since she realizes she is no longer of a noble status. But she quickly gets a moment of inspiration in thinking of all the new ways in which mutilate her current form.
With little patience for formalities Dardlara decides to speak for the first time, Le...Lets..... her voice doesn't want to respond. Now the frustration is building even more inside of her as her new body is inept at performing the most basic of functions. clearing her throat and letting out a loud cough Dardlara gives it one more shot:
Quite the philanthropological & noble cause but let's cut all the formalities. I am not here to inspire petty peasants to write thought provoking poems or paint expressive art.
sense motive:
"Indeed, I have no interest in restoring a balance. You knew what you had when you sought me out. When I lived before, my tribe shook the foundations of 'civilized' society. We forced them to grow strong or be crushed under our boots, and I intend to do nothing less than that here."
Before continuing, he paused and looked himself over, then said, "But why am I an ape? Creatures such as this were valued companions, and smart enough to be taught to fight, but they certainly could not speak."
"You're an ape because some of us need things to experiment on." Akiz attempted humor but sadly the sound of his new voice wasn't the same as his old one and nuances sounded slightly different. "But do tell me, is there truly no evil here? Not even the horsemen trying to usher in the apocalypse? No disease, no plague, no famine? No war? Is there death at all?" Plans were already starting to take shape in his head. Plans that could make great use of his new "allies", or at least some of them.
"I for one rather like this shape, assuming the people in this world still see ravens, crows and other corvids as ill omens."
Balance is not my goal. You will do something here, that I know what it is will be up to you but It will something this world has not seen for ages. Your bodies are tools if you wish them to be. The name Medaglia holds much weight here. Nicolae, you are a catch in line with Dardlara's body. You are a descendant of a great golden dragon who lived in the greater city of Boston. Your kind, Half-Dragons, are quite common here. They come in all colors as all dragons revere Peligree. Enisald, you are no mere ape, you are one of the noble Vanara. Their kind immigrated from the far south where jungle rules the landscape. Many of your kind are among the noble order of holy knights. Your body was one of them. Until it made it's way to me that is.
chemical memories of this superstition still exist Akiz. If you have interest in bringing them to the surface I believe you will find your form quite suited to it. The horsemen have no power here. Their tactics are unfortunately too aggressive, always charging in spreading plauges and wiping of towns. They would be stopped and exiles quickly and they know it. Death is all that remains for people here, though none know the feeling of steel taking it's toll. All die of old age or accidents, there hasn't been a murder in 1200 years. I do hope we can break that streak.
Old age? That meant Charon still held sway here, whether they liked it or not. He had always been patient and persistent. But he wouldn't be able to actually cash in and take their souls. A niche, or multiple ones. The soul trade would be virtually non-existent here. "I'm sure that, in time, their memories will refreshed. But first things first: I need my lab, ramshackle though it may be. Without it I'm afraid my options are limited."
Peligree? Is that some form of deity in this world?
If you wish to work in the lab, please make yourself at home. Out through that door and simply walk my halls with intent to get there and it will find you. Pelligree is the only deity in this world. Her order is the one responsible for it's current state. It is her holy symbol on the cloth that you wear. Your bodies were once her servants in peace. Now I hope you will find much better use for them.
As Dardlara finally starts to become familiar with her new form in this world she begins to run her hands all over her body, feeling the curves of her hips and working her way up to her breasts. In the same manner a carpenter would inspect his tools of his profession.
::Physically I am no longer of a noble order, but this body will suffice for weak minded, impulse driven men & women::
Placing her right hand on her chin she stares off into the nether and begins to pace as everyone is talking. She would quickly glance at each individual in the room, not in an attempt to create a genuine interaction, but to quickly size them up.
As others conversations begin to echo in her thoughts, Dardlara, begins to think of all evil ways in which to distort this world. what has happened in the past to create this world and what series of events would be the unraveling.
::the last murder was 1200 years ago? i faintly recall the events surrounding the event::
Knowledge History:
My first order of business is to try to reestablish myself as the Priestess of a local city. Do you have any suggestions as to an easy in or will I have to sleep my way to the top again?
Gaining some momentum Dardlara's thought process is starting to spiral. She quickly turns to the Tengu and states....
Akiz, why don't we both establish ourselves in the same city for our base of operations? Once I have access and privileges you will be able to set up your own permanent lab for you to operate.
Dardlara takes a few quick steps back to address the whole group....She begins to speak with a confidence in her tone beyond that of a mere half elf. although her physical form is no longer noble she realizes she has a deeper spirit of nobility that transcends planes.
In fact I believe we all need to stick together. 'e pluribus unum' We are going to turn this world inside out. We are going to turn neighbor on neighbor, sister on brother, father on infant! We will spread disease, pestilence and disorder! We are going to unleash a Hell unto this world beyond biblical proportions! I WANT THEIR FLESH!!!!!!!
"That sounds like a plan." Gideon says with a grin
Enisald watched the woman incredulously. People such as this were considered to be his equal? He dismissively replied, "Spending too much time in one place breeds stagnation and weakness. I can't support such an idea for any longer than required. Still, there is value from gathering resources in one place and then moving on."
Enisald turned his attention toward their odd benefactor. "Tell me, does this body I inhereted have servants, or followers. The first among many that can form a new Rhondskald?"
"I'm not sure you'd like me around miss, your congregation would shrink quite rapidly with me around." And he wouldn't be able to guarantee she didn't catch anything.
"Breeds stagnation and weakness" But that is exactly what he was after. "Even if it had monkey boy, you're dead aren't you? Any followers would have moved on by now. Besides, do you really think people in a mellow, peace-loving world would follow you?" Either the man had always been thick or they put him into an actual monkey instead of one of those humanoids. Hominid and humanoid were quite similar verbally, it would be an easily made mistake.
The ape would be trouble, just like the woman. Neither of them seamed capable of long term plans, both striving for instant gratification of their superiority complexes. Then again, that would make it hilarious if they ended up contracting some disfiguring disease that would leave them wrecked.
Then again, this place was devoid of the horsemen, with the exception of some lingering influence from Charon. He could, in fact, take upon him all four roles. He turned to the "brelani" "Miss, do you have a map or something of this world? Preferably one that shows where the most food is produced and what kinds of food they produce wear." Perhaps he wouldn't need to attack the populace directly. Attacking their livestock was less conspicuous and had the same effect in the long run, maybe even more.
Enisald snarled at Akiz, "I was asking about the previous occupant of this body, little bird," He snapped. He calmed immediately, and then continued, "No, I have no expectation that any of my people are still alive, or that this was ever my world." He was apparently content to ignore the question about who would follow him. Enisald knew that his followers would be those strong enough to embrace their true, feral nature once confronted with it. If the scavenger didn't understand that, Enisald didn't feel overly inclined to educate him.
His ears perked up when he heard the Tengu ask about food production. A malicious smile crossed his face as he said, "You wish to poison the weak, then? I could be of assistence in that endeavor. Though I wonder, what would you do with those strong enough to survive the infection?"
You body was priestess in a town called Arcata. You can see it here on this map.
Some tapestries part and covering a wall is the map of the known world.
Going back to Arcata might bring questions you are not prepared to answer. That said is it not a bad idea either, especially with these two interested in food supply. The entirety of the west coast is an organic farm. They grow massive amounts of produce and bring it through a teleportation circle here in San Francisco to Boston here. The rest of the food is coaxed from natural sources in the south east. There is a powerful druid there who molds the land and protects it.
Sadly Ensilad, your body was the follower. A holy warrior completely conviced of the ways of peace. Ha, no longer I imagine.
"If there are any strong enough to survive it I have failed and must start over. That is, unless they end up killing each other over what is left of their food supplies. Even the strong will be overcome by grief or anger and, in time, will succumb. I am patient." The monkey didn't quite understand the meaning of his words when it came to his followers. Predictable. The ape was sure to be a pain but could also be very useful.
"I was a master magus. In my former body. What can you tell me of this pit touched body? I am unacustomed to having a tail, but this one seems rather useful."
Gideon says even as he stares at his tail as he moves it to and fro.
If any one can appreciate pure evil it is Dardlara. A slight smirk comes to her face as she listens to over exuberant warriors wanting to wield their weapons against the population. But she has experience ruling a nation and understands that pure evil is beyond what can be driven into by flesh.
what we need to realize is that disease and famine inflicted on a population would definitely be tragic, but with out a meaning it will not alter the population. What we are talking about here is more of a psychological war. If we want to send this world in chaos we are going to need to recruit the entire population to turn on themselves. We are talking about creating a collective societal paradigm shift. This will not be easy. People tend to not resist change especially when living in a peaceful, complacent world. We need an event with the magnitude of pearl harbor to shake the foundations of society
For a moment Dardlara gets distracted by a reflexion she catches of her new face, but only for an instance. She looks back at the group and continues......
what do you believe poisoning a population of people with good faith would do? These people will work together and probably become closer as a society. But if we starve the people but in the context that god is not happy and that people need to become 'better' Followers of the faith we will soon be able to pit neighbours against neighbours in the name of righteousness.
Turning away from the group Dardlara starts to chuckle to herselve.
::this brings back memories::
so please do as you please. I will applaud all of your mischievous undertakings. I would just like to use your enthusiasm to have greater societal ramifications. I am going to begin planning a false flag terrorism operation, this is going to take much planning. The concept is to create a trajedy so great that the population will be in an emotional state. Like children lthey will look for answers and we will be there to provide those answers. This is going to take time. Need to establish ourselves, gather resources, espionage, influencing prominent leaders, etc....
would you know the circumstances sorrounding this bodies death?
gideon, your body is that of a holy warrior. One who has perfected the mind and in doing so the body. They are known for their ability to strike once at jut the right moment.
She looks a dardlara as she speaks devious glint in her eyes. She smiles at the question of death.
who said your bodies were dead. I certainly didnt have any casue to restrain you 5. It was fun watching Medaglia cry and beg and plead. She was so cute.
She looks a dardlara as she speaks devious glint in her eyes. She smiles at the question of death.who said your bodies were dead. I certainly didnt have any casue to restrain you 5. It was fun watching Medaglia cry and beg and plead. She was so cute.
Gideon smiles wickedly "I'm liking you more and more."
Then turning to Dardlara"So we need to remove hope and instill fear. My talents lie in spellcasting and wanton dectruction. You may consider them at your disposal if the plan is to bring this world to it's knees."
An even bigger grin grows on the face of Dardlara, she quickly turns her back to the group and starts to slowly pace away while addressing the group in a louder volume.
So then it is.....I will begin my journey to back to my home city of Arcata and retake my rightful place as priestess. Gideon, if you will be by my side for the journey I have several uses for you. And if any of you are interested in coming to Arcata with us on the journey or meet up with us once we have established ourselves your evil is more then welcome. if not this is the last I will see of you for awhile and I bid you farewell until we meet again.
Turning back and looking directly at her new mother Dardlara asks.....
What details can you give me about the disappearance of my current form? Did the people in the town know she was taken? Do they assume she is dead? Any information you give me now will only make it easier to establish myself.
An even bigger grin grows on the face of Dardlara, she quickly turns her back to the group and starts to slowly pace away while addressing the group in a louder volume.
So then it is.....I will begin my journey to back to my home city of Arcata and retake my rightful place as priestess. Gideon, if you will be by my side for the journey I have several uses for you. And if any of you are interested in coming to Arcata with us on the journey or meet up with us once we have established ourselves your evil is more then welcome. if not this is the last I will see of you for awhile and I bid you farewell until we meet again.
Gideon puts his feet together as he puts a closed fist to his chest in a salute. Then adds "Sounds like fun."
The golden half man-half dragon looks to the half elf, Dardlara, I would like to come as well. I have a silver tongue and may help you convince the citizens to follow. If that does not work, you have my sword. I would love to be one of your statesmen and later the military head of your army.
Oh wow, those two fools were already subjecting themselves to the pompous, aristocratic wench. Hopeless. "I will not join you in Arcata. I will find myself a quieter place to set up, though that area does offer me what I need right now. You'll probably find me in a small town somewhere south of it." Small towns were perfect for the first part of his experiment, especially since everyone thought they knew their neighbours and the people were more likely to focus inward and ignore news of death and destruction in the big city. Simply put, it was a nice, quiet place to contemplate his ideas. "If you could get your hands on a map of any underground area in Arcata I'd be very much interested."
Those who have been cloned from Medaglia are known to take pilgrimages from time to time. The body you now rest in as well as Nicolae, Gideon, and Ensilad's forms were beginning a pilgrimage together when they happened upon my forest. What drew them here was certainly puzzling but who am I too turn down wonderful gifts like that. It gave me hope that my first experiments were working, so I captured them, asked them some...questions, yes, and then found you five floating all over the aether just oozing sweet sweet....EEevviiill.
She starts staring off into the distance after the mention of gifts. She licks her lips once twice, three times as she finishes speaking. She shakes her head a bit them turns back to Dardlara.
What was the question again. Ahh yes, I imagine Arcata will be glad to see you home. When they ask you of your journey; well that is a STORY for you to tell. I should warn you all however. Arcata, in fact the whole west coast, I mean honestly the entire continent absolutely loves to smoke Ganja. It's one of the main control mechanisms for the church. Arcata Is one of the largest producers for the whole country. There are literal forests of the stuff surrounding the city center. I warn you because on your arrival home you will be expected to smoke quite a lot. I suggest being well prepared mentally. Your body will have the tolerance but I am not privy to your past chemical usage.
She turns her head to Akiz.
I cannot help you much in regards to the underground near Arcata. I can tell you that you will have no trouble finding a place to set up. The whole west coast is full of hippies who just set up camp in the trees or wherever they damn please. They don't really care, as most people are too damn stoned to care about "property man" The last bit is said in her best hippie voice.
" Then they sound ripe for conquest. You are correct in saying that poison and starvation are not enough, they are just the catalyst." Enisald's eyes took on a faraway look, and his lips curled into a small smile, apparently the memory was a pleasant one. "I came to a city once, walls as thick as you can imagine. They said it would never fall. I had my army camp outside long enough for starvation to set in, I think we destroyed their food supply first, no sense in drawing it out. After they were all good and hungry, I offered an invitation: anyone that slew their neighbor and made it through the gates would eat well for as long as they were worthy of being called Rhondskald. We didn't even have to attack that city, it tore itself apart so completely."
::Sensimilla...::
The once promising look Dardlara had on her inherited face slowly started to sour. She is very familiar with the chemical scene. Having dabbled in every substance that she had access to. Recalling wild nights of chemically induced orgies, blood letting & snuff. But the effects of cannabis was quite different from the other mind altering substance that leaves you in a state between intoxication and plunder. The effects of this drug tends to allow individuals to separate their ego from their soul.
After loosing track of the conversation, from her internal noise, inside these echoed chambers Dardlara turns to her feathered acquaintance....
Akiz, then we will go our separate ways for now, but lets please stay in contact. I will need your assistance in creating a hybrid concentrated version of Dabs and your efforts will be fully rewarded & compensated financially and thru the pleasures of flesh.
Breaking eye contact with Akiz, Dardlara opens up to address the rest of the group....
By which means shall we travel? By which means shall we Navigate?
Then looking at her mother with the endearment an evil child has for her wicked step mother, Dardlara asks in the politest voice an individual who murdered her owns parents at 12 could could use,
Is there anything in the form of gifts you have to offer us before our journey? then stating in a light hearted, sarcastic tone A pipe?
Chemical use? Good. These people came with their own delivery system. "Oh don't worry, I'll keep in touch. Just make sure not to kill my little birds when one lands on your shoulder. Besides, I think we'd best travel together and only separate just outside the city walls."
At her mention of gifts he once more turns to his hostess. "Yes, please. I think we need some equipment. While I can use the lab here I still need my own field kit for emergencies. Oh, and I still feel this longing coming from this body, a nagging feeling that something is missing. Did you take anything from him? Or perhaps found something near him?"