Way of the Wicked (Inactive)

Game Master Aku Warashi

Dramatis Personae; Loot Log; map;

Balentyne Info; Planning; Dwarven Map

Party Health
Hound------54/62
Mysty-------26/26
Nahia-------26/31
Rose--------44/54
Seren-------35/35


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Male Viper Familiar [HP 21/21 | AC 19 | T:15 | FF:15 | CMD:11 | Fort:+1 | Ref:+5 | Will:+6 | Init: +3 | Perception:+13 | Stealth: +15 | Sense Motive:+1]

Andros, smelling the scent of fear, nods his head towards a section of wall and wiggles with excitement and curiosity.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

He did not resist when you grabbed him, but when you dragged him over the hack, he yelled, cried a lot more, and got you dirt all over.
"Mom! I don't wanna die! Please Mitra! Why must I be made to suffer like this?" you can discern from his crying and sobbing.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

Nahia giggles when she knows that Andros has found something. She turns to the others and says "There is something here, a secret door or passage. Zerick, care to open our little hidden treasure trove and see what gift lies on the other side?"

- - - - -

Nahia nuzzles her serpents head, whispering to him "Good job. I knew you could do it!"

Seeing the trembling youth, Nahia smiles at first, and seeing his reactions to his fear she frowns a bit, telling him "Come now, at least have some dignity. I know that we can be scary but that is no excuse for... this. What kind of man are you?"

Nahia will walk away, leaning against the cool stone wall near the door. She'll look at her companions and say "Eh, I've done this before, but more for fun, not information. Does one of you want to take care of it?"


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

Seren steps out, a wicked smile on her face as Eric forces the child onto the rack.

"Mitra stopped looking at this place long ago child." Seren threatens.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22

"you were put here for a reason, tell us why." She casually states, pulling a dagger from its sheath. There must be something that we are supposed to get out of him. Blood, knowledge, spell materials. Whatever it is I will find it.

I have no intention of going over specifics of torture, unless requested. how do you want to handle this DM.Aku?


Male Human Anti-Paladin 4| HP 42/42| AC 21(19no shield)(T10/FF21)|CMB +9; CMD 19| Saves Fort+8 , Ref+4 , Will+9 (*+1 vs all Divine Spells)| Initiative +2, Perception +3, Sense motive +7, Bluff +7

Intimidate Aid Check for Seren: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (1) + 14 = 15

"Tell you what you little wretch. You can pray to Mitra and see if she comes to save you. Or, you can submit to the will of Asmodeus and follow us until the end of your days. What's it going to be?" says Eric, ignoring the filth and grime.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

The lad, if that is even possible, seens to have soiled himself even more.

"Pl...plee.. I.. I... tell... thin... Mitr...die..." this time, is almost impossible to understand him between his sobs.

Sorry if it get's boring this part. I never saw anyone being tortured or scared to death. No reference point there to make it more realistic. xD


Ogre

Hearing the commotion inside, Grumblejack will look at the scene, then to the Dagger in Seren hand, the dirt all over the youth and Eric, and with a villainous wicked grim, he walks over the lad, grabbing his head in one hand, the face closer to the terrified squire.
”Best do what they say. Grumblejack tell you so. Grumblejack is so very hungry… days without any childling food!” whisper the ogre and the he bite the air, just beside the lad head, to illustrate what he meant.
Aid other Intimidate: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (4) - 1 = 3 +7 coolness bonus! :D


Male Human Anti-Paladin 4| HP 42/42| AC 21(19no shield)(T10/FF21)|CMB +9; CMD 19| Saves Fort+8 , Ref+4 , Will+9 (*+1 vs all Divine Spells)| Initiative +2, Perception +3, Sense motive +7, Bluff +7

"Alright you little worm. Tell us everything you know about why you are here, who brought you, and anything else that you think we want to know. Otherwise, we are going to have play time and then when we get bored, feed you to our big friend Jack. Now spit it out!"

It's okay. I've seen plenty of horror movies. If it comes to the torture, then I'll just assume it happened like one of those and skip posting anything other than "we torture him." :) And normally, I'm the moral compass of the group...


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

Going to wait to see response to Eric yelling before I continue with my torture... Seren couldn't imagine not using the rack to torture the boy. Asmodeus needs a new follower, and torture quickly ruins a person's faith in their current god.


Male Half Orc Ranger/4 (Urban) (HP 41/41 | AC/T/F:14/14/14 | CMB +7 | CMD:21 | Fort:+7 | Ref:+7 | Will:+5 | Init:+3 | Per+11 | Stl+10 | Climb+8 | DD+10| Handle Animal +6 | Heal+8 | Int +10 | K(Dung/Geo/Local)+4 | Ride+7| Surv+11 | Swim+8

"Damn it boy! Just tell them what they want to know. Your god has abandoned you and will not help you. How do you think this will end? How long do you think it will go on? It will not be minutes, it will not be hours or days. It will be weeks and months. They will torture till you beg for death but stop before you are. Then heal you just enough so that they can continue, never stopping until you are naught but a broken shell." he says angrily.

"Just tell them." he says almost pleading and then walks out of the room unable to bear the torture chamber any longer.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

Nahia will watch Zerik step out of the room.

Hmm. I wonder what is wrong with him? Some past trauma? Or is he just a bit soft for this? Maybe the big bad killer isn't so bloodthirsty after all?

After a bit, Nahia will also leave the room. She will walk a short way down the hall, wordlessly taking a spot near Zerik, eyes closed.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

The youth, wide eyed, seems surprised with Zerik, he stops crying, but you know he is more scared than before.
"I'll tell you everything I know!" says the squire.
"My name is Timeon of Balentyne. Sir Balin’s squire. They fell upon us at the same time. That horrible woman! he takes a deep breath and continues "When I awaked up, I was not in this room, but somewhere else. A man attacked me, hurted me, but I was able to flee and hide in this room. I heard him searching for me, talking to a woman. But Mitra be praised, he did not found where I was hiding."
"I don't know where I am now. But I was near the watchtower of Balentyne. My family has a state there. We were hunting in celebration of Sir Balin choosing me as his squire."
"Let me see..." he thinks for a bit then says "Sir Thomas is angry because the mad old fool don't leave the rookery, he is afraid if needed, it will not be in good condition to use it." after some more moments "I know that Captain Eddarly is having an affair with Captain Mott’s wife and I can draw a map from the tower. I've been to the place and talked with Lord Thomas. There's about a hundred soldiers in the watch tower, guarding it all times." he seems lost in thought, and then he hears Johan question, "Ah, they said there are vicious metal cobras in a nearby room and a secret door across from the stairs hides the way out. They said a shrieker screams when there is light or movement nearby too and that four drowned men rise when the shrieker cries. I don't know where Sir Balin is kept. I hope he escaped this terrible mad house!" he says lastly.
"Why has Mitra deserted me?"
"Why Am I made to suffer so?"
he pleads.

You can drag the boy into Asmodeus worship, but torture is not the way to do it. It's hard, but you can convince him with time and some good rolls in diplomacy. If you want to set the boy in The Fallen one service, tell me here and we'll move 'foward' this part.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Ops, forgot about the K:Checks

It's different info, you need to beat the test three times to know about all of the info.

K:Local or Nobility DC 15:

He is a knight of the Alerion order and is personally famous for hunting followers of Asmodeus. More than that, he is the one responsable for the capture of some of you. If he is not directly responsible, he is part of the same military force.

Local or History DC 15:

The watchtower of Balentyne is a fortress that wards the good folk land from the savage north.

K:Local or Nobility DC 15:

Sir Thomas Havelyn or Lord Thomas Havelyn. For decades the savage north is trying to enter the good folk land, but the watch Tower is in the way. And it has been harder in those last years. Ever since Lord Thomas Havelyn has been set as commander, every attempt has met a gruesome end. His name is both a curse and a bad name to scare little monsters in the savage north.


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

Know(History): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20

Seren pouts a little as the boy spills all of his knowledge. "We'll that's a killjoy. What use is someone that gives everything away with just the threat of a little fun." She moans. "Oh well... I guess we know what is behind the last door."

Maybe he'll be more secretive about his master. Still some hope.

"Tell me what you know about this Sir Balin. Abilities, weaknesses, mother's location. Anything and everything." Seren growls, dragging the flat of the dagger slowly along the boy's body.

Seren has no interest in dragging him into Asmodeus' service after his quick telling of all his secrets.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

No real chance there Seren. The boy is terrified, and don't even has a class yet. Call him commoner 0.

"He is a powerful warrior, specialized in heavy blades. He always is wearing his armor, a full body armor and his shield. He is a devout Mitran."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

Lol, all good.
"Seriously? Even about your master?" Seren cries with disgust.

"Sit here and wallow knowing you are the cause of Sir Balin's death. By the Gods, your ineptitude has led me to worry about your family line." Seren adds shaking her head.

She chews a nail in contemplation, an evil grin spreading on her face.
Timeon can't be that common of a name around the watchtower of Balentyne, shouldn't be that difficult to locate your family. Best of luck young one, hopefully they shall be more fun." Seren threatens, heading for the door after her speech.
Seren has no plans to return. She is perfectly willing to just leave the boy attached to the rack forever.

In the Hallway
"Zerik be ready, I'm sure this squire's master is our final challenge, some Sir Balin. Expect a fully armed warrior to be in that final room."


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

I'm assuming that since I wasn't in the room that I wasn't there to hear the boys information.

Nahia will step away from the wall, stretching her arms and looking at her companions. She will say "Well, if that is the case we should head to the last door and spend some time preparing ourselves. No reason not to be ready for a fight, because there was no way that he failed to hear that mushroom."

Assuming that we do...

Nahia will look at Seren and say "So, care to divide the load of getting everyone ready? You bring the insight and I'll sharpen their focus?"

If Yes:
Seren casts guidance? I'll cast resistance on the party in this order: Myself, Seren, Eric, Zerik, Grumblejack

If No:
Nahia will frown a moment before saying "Ok, fine then."

Real team player that one...

I'll cast guidance on the party in this order: Seren, Myself, Eric, Zerik, Grumblejack


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

"I could help. Need to give this Sir Balin a talk about the quality of squires he seems to employ, and perhaps show him the error of his loyalty to Mitra."

Seren feels the comfortable tingle as her magic flows through her. "Let us get back into that room with those undead before we start the process. These buffs won't last long once the combat starts. Best to get the full use out of them."

Once everyone is ready, and in front of the last door. Seren will cast guidance in this order: Herself, Nahia, Grumblejack, Zerik, Eric.
Prior to opening the door, Seren will also use her Scroll of Protection from good on herself.


Male Human Anti-Paladin 4| HP 42/42| AC 21(19no shield)(T10/FF21)|CMB +9; CMD 19| Saves Fort+8 , Ref+4 , Will+9 (*+1 vs all Divine Spells)| Initiative +2, Perception +3, Sense motive +7, Bluff +7

I may try to take the little sap under my wing. If he fails, well, we can kill him later.

"Contemplate on the blessings you have received today. We are going to see what this 'Sir Balin' is made of. When I return, you will have a choice to make: A swift death for your cooperation or follow us and serve the Fallen One, Asmodeus. The way I see your choices, you can keep praying and see if Mitra will save you here in this forsaken place and maybe die a martyr for one that never cared about you, or you can pray to our Lord and be free to live a little while longer," says Eric.

He leaves the boy attached to the rack, but does not torture him. Once with his companions, he retrieves the key.

"I'm ready to finish these trials whenever you all are."


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

The door is wooden and reinforced with iron bands.
It is locked. It bears an inscription: “Serve thy master well and be rewarded.” Hanging beside the door on a peg was a heavy iron key that
unlocks the door, Eric got that key.

When you open the door, just inside it you see a male human using a full body armor, sword and shield ready. He wears around his neck a sunburst of silver and sapphire -- a holy symbol of Mitra.

He see you, the Asmodeus Symbol and yell "You'll be dealt with, scum!"

Nahia: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
Eric: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15
Seren: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (2) + 0 = 2
Zerik: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13
Big G: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (6) - 1 = 5
Sir Balin: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 1 = 8

The last trial

Round 1-

Ordered Initiative-

Eric ⇒ 15
Zerik ⇒ 13
Nahia ⇒ 9
Sir Balin ⇒ 8
Big G ⇒ 5
Seren ⇒ 2

Active Effects-

Map-

Link

Notes-

Action-


Male Half Orc Ranger/4 (Urban) (HP 41/41 | AC/T/F:14/14/14 | CMB +7 | CMD:21 | Fort:+7 | Ref:+7 | Will:+5 | Init:+3 | Per+11 | Stl+10 | Climb+8 | DD+10| Handle Animal +6 | Heal+8 | Int +10 | K(Dung/Geo/Local)+4 | Ride+7| Surv+11 | Swim+8

Zerik attempts to leap past and around the knight trapping him between Erik and himself. He spins around as he turns to face his foe, the greatsword rushing towards it's target.

Acrobatics: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22
Power Attack: 1d20 + 6 + 2 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (20) + 6 + 2 + 2 - 1 = 292d6 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (6, 3) + 9 + 2 = 20
Confirmation: 1d20 + 6 + 2 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (9) + 6 + 2 + 2 - 1 = 18

Movement W, NW.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Zerik, you was able to move, but you still could not prevent an opening in your fighting stance. Sir Balin took this opportunity to attack you with his sword.

"I'll make you bleed sinner!"

Atk(Power attack): 1d20 + 12 - 1 ⇒ (18) + 12 - 1 = 29
Dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18

Hitting Zerik for a nasty swordblow, and a deep injury for 18 dmg.

But Zerik too was able to hit him with a powerful strike.
It was not a critical. But damn! That hurt!

Eric, don’t forget that Zerik moves after you, so you don’t get any flanking bonus.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

Nahia smiles when she sees Sir Balin and takes a step back to give Grumblejack room.

And we have found both our prize and our reward. He is much stronger than the boy. Even after a couple of days here in this cell his faith and might does not wane. His heart must be full of courage. It will be... delectable.

Nahia will begin to coo at him, her voice lilting and soft, as she speaks, "You're so brave, and so full of strength. You've shown that now. Rest. Rest and receive your reward. Your Mitra is waiting for you. Rest and be in his company."

5' step back and using my slumber hex, DC 14 will save or sleep for 2 rounds.


Male Human Anti-Paladin 4| HP 42/42| AC 21(19no shield)(T10/FF21)|CMB +9; CMD 19| Saves Fort+8 , Ref+4 , Will+9 (*+1 vs all Divine Spells)| Initiative +2, Perception +3, Sense motive +7, Bluff +7

Gripping his sword tighter, Eric rushes towards Sir Balin.

"The flames of Asmodeus will burn all traces of you Mitran scum!" shouts Eric as he charges. He channels his dark powers to smite the knight Swift Action, Smite Good.

Whether he is good or not, Eric is using his smite good ability. If he is not good then I guess I just wasted it.

Charge w/ Power Attack + Smite: 1d20 + 8 + 2 - 1 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 8 + 2 - 1 + 3 + 1 = 18
Damage: 1d8 + 7 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 7 + 3 = 16 If he is happens to be a pld or clir or one of those other good things, it will deal and extra +3 damage

Eric's Ac 18/8Touch/18Flat-footed or ifSir Balin is good: 21/11/21


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Will: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20 x DC 14

"Mitra protects me, your witchcraft will not work!" he says to Nahia.

Eric attacked, but it was not enough to hit Sir Balin. Giving Eric a you-are-the-next-kind-of-stare he attack Zerik again.

Atk(Power attack): 1d20 + 12 - 1 ⇒ (19) + 12 - 1 = 30
Atk(Power attack): 1d20 + 12 - 1 ⇒ (5) + 12 - 1 = 16 critic confirmation
Dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13

Hitting him with a nasty blow in the chest. Zerik drops to the ground again, dying and Sir Balin screams "You'll all die here!"


Ogre

Grumblejack moves into the room, not even caring to defend himself from Sir Balin.

Sir Balin AoO(Power attack.): 1d20 + 12 - 1 ⇒ (8) + 12 - 1 = 19
Dmg: 1d8 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14

"It's your death time tin can! Grumblejack will kill you this time!" yells the ogre.

Grumblejack will attack.
Atk: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28
Atk: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28 critical confirmation
Dmg: 2d8 + 7 ⇒ (4, 2) + 7 = 13 x2 = 26 dmg

With a nasty and fearsome blow, Grumblejack almost crushed Sir Balin's head. He is badly hurt, but still alive.

Dice roller, the anti-climax machine. :(


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

Zerik is at -8 correct. 18 damage from first attack, 13 from second so... 23-31=-8?

Seren lets out a little whoop at Grumblejack's massive attack.

This fighter took out Zerik quickly...Time to finish this.

Seren steps up to beside Eric and reaches towards Sir Balin, a black mist swirling angrily along her arm. "Feel the power of Asmodeus."
Attack(Touch): 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 3 + 1 = 19
Inflict Light Wounds: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Will: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24 x DC 16

Looking more dead than alive, Sir Balin took Seren attack. It appears impossible that he would still stant, but standing he is, rage and fury in his eyes.

The last trial

Round 2-

Ordered Initiative-

Eric ⇒ 15
Zerik ⇒ 13
Nahia ⇒ 9
Sir Balin ⇒ 8
Big G ⇒ 5
Seren ⇒ 2

Active Effects-

Map-

Link

Notes-

Action-

Eric Action now.


Male Half Orc Ranger/4 (Urban) (HP 41/41 | AC/T/F:14/14/14 | CMB +7 | CMD:21 | Fort:+7 | Ref:+7 | Will:+5 | Init:+3 | Per+11 | Stl+10 | Climb+8 | DD+10| Handle Animal +6 | Heal+8 | Int +10 | K(Dung/Geo/Local)+4 | Ride+7| Surv+11 | Swim+8

Constitution Check: 1d20 + 3 - 8 ⇒ (14) + 3 - 8 = 9

Zerik lies on the floor unconscious, bleeding out, not for the first time in this dungeon.

(Thank god for the rubbish crit confirmation. I'm surprised I'm not dead with his bloody crazy attack bonus. Sorry Erik, you lost your flanking bonus.)


Male Human Anti-Paladin 4| HP 42/42| AC 21(19no shield)(T10/FF21)|CMB +9; CMD 19| Saves Fort+8 , Ref+4 , Will+9 (*+1 vs all Divine Spells)| Initiative +2, Perception +3, Sense motive +7, Bluff +7

It's okay. Though, it also hinders my, "I'll make you submit to me." plan...

Power Attack: 1d20 + 8 - 1 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 8 - 1 + 3 = 27 Attack, PA, Smite.
Damage: 1d8 + 7 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 7 + 3 = 18 Add another +3 from smite for the 1st successful attack if he falls under the specfic conditions. Damage could be 21.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (11) + 13 = 24 Swift Action for the Omen trait 1/day to demoralize enemy in combat.
"Mitra holds no power here! Only Asmodeus!" growls Eric as he tries to avenge Zerik. Not that you are dead, yet.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

Assuming Sir Balin is still up:
Well, not much for me to do. Also, time to stop preparing sleep.

Nahia will walk forward, speaking, almost giggling, to Sir Balin as she does, "Oh, you are a strong one! Don't worry, you will get your reward and we will see to your eternal rest. Rest well knowing that you failed, that Mitra didn't protect you, and that your failure will allow us to bring about his fall.."

When Nahia gets behind Eric, she will stop, place her hand on his shoulder, and say "You can do this. Strike him down. Strike him down that he may tell Mitra of the fate that awaits his followers."

Moving 10' forward and casting guidance on Eric


If Sir Balin is down:
Nahia will walk forward, almost giggling, and will kneel down to speak to the Sir Balin's Body. "Oh, you were a strong one. But not strong enough. Rest the rest eternal, knowing that you failed. And please, go to your reward, see your God, and tell Mitra of the fate that awaits his followers.


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

If Sir Balin is still alive disregard the below actions.
However, If Sir Balin is not dead but just unconscious, Seren may have plans for him and that torture room, Her revenge on the church that condemned her to death not quite at a satisfactory level. so I would ask for a moment to RP in that case before the below happening. He seems like a far better candidate than his squire, unless the party objects. If he is truly dead then skip directly to the actions below.

Sir Balin Dead:

Seren will walk over to Zerik and pull out the wand of cure light wounds. Getting Zerik back up on his feet.
CLW: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9
CLw: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Eric hits the knight with a well placed blow, it falls dead in the spot.

Sorry Seren, he droped to -19 hp :(


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Sir Balin Gear:

Combat Gear: potion of cure light wounds
Other Gear: longsword, dagger, cloak of resistance +1, masterwork
full plate, heavy steel shield, silver and sapphire holy symbol
of Mitra.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

Nahia, kneeling at the body of Sir Balin, will take the holy symbol off of him and toss it to Eric. She will then smile at the others and say "Good job everyone. It looks like we've got what we're looking for. Does anybody else have something they want to do before we leave?"

Assuming not...

Nahia will say to her companions, "If the rest of you want to continue, go on. I'll be done here in just a minute."

Warning: Semi-Graphic Description:
Nahia will loosen the breastplate covering the ex-Sir Balin's chest. She will reach to the sickle on her pack and bring it forward and with a quick utterance and a sharp motion she will cleave open Sir Balin's chest. Reaching into the wound with her hands, she will pull forth his heart and, after spending a few moments muttering under her breath, devour it, bite by bite.

Finally, tearing a scrap of cloth from Sir Balin's clothes, Nahia will clean the blood from herself.


Ogre

Grumblejack watch the scene with glee.

Then the sits beside Nahia "Was it good elfy? Tasting un' flesh. The warm blood in your mouth. The tender flesh while you chew." he get up then and says "Grumblejack is hungry now. There's still that little un' to be dealt with. Want Grumblejack to finish it?"


I'll fast foward things a little here. if you still want to say something about the lessons, just put an "Earlier-" mark up.

Adrastus sits in his study seeming almost as he has moved not an inch from where he gave you your orders at dusk. “You’ve returned.”

Assuming you give him the pendant.

The high priest holds the trinket and pauses as if in deep contemplation. He watches the holy symbol glitter in the light. “A pretty enough thing, eh?” he muses. “This is a holy symbol of Mitra in particular the sort favored by the Knights of the Alerion. Perhaps you already knew that.

“Remember this symbol. This is the mark of those who destroyed our faith and sought to banish all trace of the worship of our Father from these shores. These, my friends, are your enemies.”
He tosses the holy symbol to whoever gave it to him.
“Keep it. It may aid you in disguising yourself.”

He smiles. “You have done well. Escaping from Branderscar, slaughtering Sir Balin … yes, you are worthy. Now, let us complete your training…”


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Thorn is not always with you and it soon becomes apparent that you are not the only ones being trained. The former “White Ravens” under Elise Zadaria are also receiving the Cardinal’s attentions.

Okay! You got five months worth of time to describe! Do your best! RP to your heard content. The others are still in the manor. You can talk to then when every you want.


Male Human Anti-Paladin 4| HP 42/42| AC 21(19no shield)(T10/FF21)|CMB +9; CMD 19| Saves Fort+8 , Ref+4 , Will+9 (*+1 vs all Divine Spells)| Initiative +2, Perception +3, Sense motive +7, Bluff +7

After Balin dies:

Eric catches to symbol that Nahia tosses to him. Then, he helps Nahia relieve Sir Balin of his equipment. He watches for a moment as Nahia removes the heart and before remembering about the squire.

"You know, there is something I want to do before we go. Let me go check on the kid," says Eric taking the breastplate section of the fullplate armor. "I'll be back to help carry the rest out."

Discussion with the squire:

This is assuming the squire has not found a way to escape.
Eric walks into the room, a quiet confidence in his stride. He stops a few feet away from the squire still bound to the rack and dangles the Balin's holy symbol in front of him. Cocking his head to one side, Eric tosses the section of Sir Balin's armor at the squire's feet. He stands there a short while in perfect silence.

Eric slowly removes pieces of his own armor as he speaks. "Tell me, Timeon of Balentyne, have you had time to reflect? Your master, Sir Balin, fell quickly to the power of our Father. Know this, he did not beg. He did not cower. If anything, he died for his faith and I applaud him for that. When my time comes, I shall do the same as my faith is absolute. You are young. Yet, here in the city of your god and again in this dark prison you find yourself in, your god has left you. Like me, Mitra never smiled upon us. Like me, Mitra abandoned you. When I knew the truth, I went looking for one that could understand my pain. Understand my suffering. In the lonely abyss that was my life, Asmodeus found me." Eric then shows the brand of the forsaken upon his back to Timeon. He keeps his back turned as he continues. "When I was taken, I did not beg. I did not resist. I let them take me. I had desecrated Mitra's temple, and wrote our father's name on the walls. I wanted them to know. When they threw me in that hell hole known as Banderscar, I prayed to Asmodeus. I told him, 'Free me and I shall forever be your servant, your instrument of destruction. Free me and I shall forever seek to undo the injustice done unto us. Free me and I shall bring them all to their knees.' Then he freed me and the others."

Eric turns to face the boy once more. "You can choose to die here. Die a fool. Die for a cause and a god that never wanted you. A god that showed you neither favor nor mercy. Or, you can live. Devote yourself to a god that does care. A god that understands your pain. A god that will grant you the power to face the injustices in this world. The power to bring about change for what we truely need. Now choose, Timeon of Balentyne. Choose!"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11 Hoping the theatrics will give me a litle bonus here. But I'm sure that with his starting attitude, I rolled way too low...Should have went with intimidate.

I will post more here after abit. Gotta get some work done. Will come back to work on the manor stuff and more of this if ready.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

Earlier - Grumblejack comment:
Nahia's face will flush as she finishes her meal and she will be quiet for a moment, eyes closed, breathing deeply. When she comes out of it she will smile at Grumblejack and say "Mmmm, the heart of a courageous man is always a good treat. Just usually hard to find, especially one as convicted as he was. Ahhh, it has been too long since I've had one of those."

Seeing Eric head for the squire, Nahia will nod to Grumblejack and say "It looks like Eric is not done with the young one yet, but I am done with this one, if you'd like the leftovers."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

RP will come up in a later post where I can get the necessary RP in. Just wanted to mention the Seren wants that cloak off of Sir Balin if no one objects, her reflex and will saves are brutal, and she knows it.

Seren walks up to Sir Balin, removing his cloak and attaching it to her back. She looks down at his beaten corpse. "It's a pity you didn't survive, there was such fun to be had." She whispers to him before turning and heading towards the entrance to the trials.

Edit: Assuming I took cloak as I'm adjusting profile for new level so going to add in its stats during that time.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

I don't mind if you take it.

Dark Archive

Over the next several months Zerik experiences an intense level of training he has never known before. Armed with his faith in Asmodeous he pushes himself further and harder than ever before.

His time spent is extremely disciplined. The physical training is grueling. Mounted combat, combined with further acrobatic combat and feats. Running ledges, balancing on ropes. On a few occasions it went to far. He would fall and injure himself, even breaking bones on two occasions but the magic had him back in no time, practicing once again.

He spends weeks blindfolding to sharpen his other senses. He stumbles around at first looking like a fool, wondering if he is being mocked but he persists. He learns his way around the mansion and the grounds. How many steps from his room to the stairs. How many paces from the stairs to the kitchen.

Zerik spends time watching Erik, impressed by the man's faith. He emulates him in his prayers, wondering if he will ever attain such a level of devotion. He continues to train with Erik the both of them pushing each other. He works with Grumblejack as well starting to grow more fond the giant ogre. He was not faster and more precise than he had been, more sure of his own physical prowess, which was good, since he could sense there were great challenges ahead.

He also finds that Nahia and Seren are growing on him. They do not wield weapons as he and Erik do but they are as powerful, just in different ways. They have their magics. Very useful and very dangerous and Zerik recalls the many times that magic has saved.

He spends time talking to Seren about her past and her heritage. He has never encountered another of his kind, another Aasimar. He watches her work with Ogre wondering if she wasted her time, wondering if he should not have decided to train him in martial arts of combat.

Zerik spends time with Nahia as well. He practices enduring magic, learning how to resist her spells. Though still at the mercy of the magic, he learns to lessen the effect it has on him. Nahia seems more than overjoyed to submit Zerik to her magics and toy with him, watching him suffer when subjected to her more powerful spells, though never causing any irreparable harm.

I may add more, but that's what I have for now. I have no issue with you keeping the cloak. I'm assuming Erik will keep the MS Full Plate, it's pretty perfect for him and he's the only one that can use it.


aka Alina | Female Changeling Witch 7 [HP 43/43 | Bust: 32C | AC:17 | T:15 | FF:16 | CMD:13 | Fort:+4 | Ref:+5 | Will:+8 | Init:+2 | Per:+9 | Sense Motive:+2 | Bluff:+19 (+2 sexy bonus) | Diplomacy:+12 | Intimidate:+10 | Spellcraft:+14]

I cast Summon Giant Wall of Text V!
It’s a five month training montage!

At first Nahia seems to enjoy the training. She is is a bit wary initially when she sees that Cardinal Thorn will be training them but gets excited soon enough, finding him to be an excellent teacher. She tries her best and seems genuinely disappointed in herself when she fails and almost childishly excited when she accomplishes something particularly difficult.

When it comes time to work as a team, she mostly takes a support role. It is obvious that she is physically weak, barely able to carry her training gear, though she does seem hardier than she would initially appear. Her direct combat abilities are minimal at best, and despite her rather sharp nails that she uses in hand-to-hand combat, her melee performance is abysmal.

That said, her knowledge and support spells are commendable, as is her ability to tell convincing lies. However, while she is quite adept at telling lies, she is not the most perceptive and has trouble telling when she is being lied to.

Where Nahia does seem to shine is in preparation. Given the time and a bit of warning, she prepares the group with alchemical concoctions, potions, spells, and even minor enchanted items to help them meet their objectives. Of course, she can’t predict everything, but she does her best.

Outside of the training, Nahia relaxes and consumes: consumes knowledge, consumes strong drink and fine food, and, to relax, consumes bawdy novels (in surprisingly large quantities). When the training is physically intense, she recovers with hot, scented baths and massages from the servants. When it is mentally exhausting, she lies about, drink in hand, having the servants perform music.

- - - - -

As the training continues, however, her excitement dies down quickly enough. Nahia feels stifled, repressed by the training, and it shows in her face, in her demeanor, though not necessarily in her performance. She seems to be getting frustrated by Cardinal Thorn’s harshness when she fails, frequently thinking to herself “Is that really necessary? What happened to lesson four? ‘Reward those who serve thee well’ and ‘be ruthless to thy enemy’? Am I the enemy now? Am I not deserving of reward, or at least some measure of tact?”. Of course, the fact that Nahia may share this same trait with Cardinal Thorn, treating her own servants the same way, never even enters into her mind.

When Nahia fails, it infuriates her, and when she succeeds, it doesn't seem to satisfy her. Sometimes, her anger helps her to succeed. Most of the time, it causes her greater failure. Still, her skills are improving, though it is difficult to tell if her melancholy is helping or hindering.

Even Nahias demeanor outside of training changes. While she still does have her hot baths and her fine food, she spends a majority of her time training. During the day, she is in her lab, working with raw materials, studying their properties and honing her ability to manipulate them. At night she can often be found on the manor grounds working on her magic, chanting, talking to (seemingly) no one, conditioning her agility.

At one point she will even start coming to training with small bandaged wounds on her arms, legs, or hands, usually waiting until after training to heal them, if she has the spells left. This habit comes to a point when she shows up to training with a bandaged wound on her neck and her blood loss obviously slowing her down.

After training, Cardinal Thorn confronts Nahia about what is going on, where Nahia reveals to him that she has been using her own blood in experiments to try and unlock more power within herself. At first, Cardinal Thorn sees this simply as foolish, scolding Nahia for jeopardizing her training, telling her that for the events ahead, she, like the rest of the team, will need all the training that they can get. Nahia tries to better the situation and reports that while it was not the effect that she wanted, she did find something: the ability to learn spells from the blood of a spellcaster. Cardinal Thorn congratulates her on finding such an ability, but that doesn't excuse her from her responsibilities and warns her that if her research ever affects her training again that Tiadora will be forced to make Nahia reconsider her priorities.

Though, from that point forward, Cardinal Thorn does teach Nahia a secret of the blood: how to give it in Sacrifice to their lord Asmodeus. Nahia learns this eagerly, happy to know more ways to both please Asmodeus and to further herself and her research. If Nahia continued her blood research after that discussion, it isn't obvious, and never affects her training again.

- - - - -

In the last half of the training Nahia has another transformation. She seems to have honed her anger and frustration into focus. She thinks she has figured out Cardinal Thorn, believing that he is being this harsh with a purpose, because considering the danger in what they will be doing, failure will most likely mean death. And, having convinced herself of this, Nahia finds new strength in his criticisms and anger, seeing it as almost paternal. And it is in this state of mind that Nahia starts to truly advance.

This new mindset does seem to have some effect on her demeanor as well. When they defeat practice foes, Nahia is far quicker to insult or demean them. When her comrades are struggling, she pushes them to try harder. And when she fails she feels compelled to try again until she gets it right. Some of the childlike excitement from early in the training will return, but her form seems better tempered, more in control.

Outside of training, Nahia strikes a better balance compared to the last few months. She enjoys the finer things but also practices diligently. Her practices are less combat oriented than they had been and are more about the conditioning of her mind and body. She takes up two new hobbies, in an attempt to help her better center herself.

Cooking, Nahia finds, is much like alchemy. She has spent lots of time sampling masterfully crafted foods, and now she wants to try her hand at them. She finds this enjoyable, an extension of the alchemy in which she finds far too few mysteries anymore. And with the plethora of servants to clean the dishes and utensils, she has plenty of opportunity to try. She manages to make some good initial success, her meals starting at a quality that would best be described as “sufficient”, and her ability quickly growing until she is making meals that would be quite welcomed at most tables.

Her other new hobby is singing. After spending her time with the girl Lysa, Nahia has been curious if the power of her voice could be put to other uses. Many nights after training Nahia will attempt to teach herself singing, and in response Andros can be found scurrying his way under her door to escape the screeching tones of Nahias normally intoxicating voice. But quickly enough Nahia finds her way with it, not being great, nor even necessarily good, but still better than most amateurs. And as her skill has grown Nahia has found the practice to be relaxing, centering, and a good way to calm her mind.

- - - - -

No matter her mood, Nahia will do a couple of things consistently: on the night of each full moon Nahia will again step out onto the manor grounds in her white gossamer gown, kneel facing the moon, and spend several hours still and quiet, holding her hands upwards, cupping her small serpent, his muzzle touching her forehead. And once again, at the rituals end, she will smile widely, nuzzling and kissing Andros.

Warning: Minorly-Graphic Description:
At each new moon, Nahia will do a different ritual. During this time she can be found walking out onto the manor grounds, this time wearing a black gossamer gown. She will find a spot of ground that is open to the sky, seeming to attempt to find the void of the moon. When she finds a spot, she will kneel, her knees slightly spread, and instead of looking up, she will lean forward. There, she will place Andros on the ground in front of her, giving him a kiss on the head before bringing to bear the sickle on her hip. She will spend a few minutes with her eyes closed, mumbling wordlessly.

She will then open her eyes and then her mouth, her tongue peeking out to appear from between her teeth. Slowly, she will bring the tip of the sickle up to the midpoint of her tongue and after a single heavy breath, begin to push the tip of the blade through it. Deep scarlet blood will trail in rivulets down the blade as she continues to pull it through her tongue, her breathing growing erratic and, despite her best attempts to stifle them, little squeaks of pain accompanying her breath. After several long seconds of this, the blade finally passes completely through her tongue, cleaving the tip of it in two. At first the blood gushes forth, pouring from her tongue and landing on the little serpent underneath her hunched form. But the blood eventually slows to a trickle, dripping in quick but consistent drops.

Nahia stays in this position, bloody sickle in hand, hands on the ground, eyes open, bleeding from the tongue, for several hours. Towards the end of her ritual, Nahias tongue begins to heal rapidly, the wound closing and the drips of blood slowing and then ceasing. When her tongue is healed Nahia will sit up, lick the drops of blood from her lips, and then lick them from the sickle. Andros, covered in her blood, will roll in the grass, getting mostly clean. Finally, Nahia will pick him up with a smile, kiss him on the forehead, and return to her room.

- - - - -

Nahia will be somewhat sociable as well. On occasion, Nahia will lay back on the manor grounds, taking in the sun, her little snake beside her, and just watch Eric and Zerick practice. As she watches the back and forth she thinks about her companions, “Ah, the two ham-fisted ones, taker of blows and masters of pointy metal. I’m glad that we have those two on our side but I do find it interesting just how different they are. Eric fights like half knight and half wild man, swinging his sword in heavy blows well suited to his very muscular structure, but hiding behind his shield to cover his graceless swings. I might find him attractive if he’d show some emotion other than anger, zeal, and confusion. Maybe he’ll grow on me. And then there is Zerick, the dark haired rogue. He’s quite the acrobat, and while not quite as muscley as Eric, he’s definitely chiseled. He seems like a good enough fellow, though I think he tries too hard to seem tough. But I guess I would too if I had a face that looked like I used it to smash down stone walls. Still, he’s quite skilled, especially his fighting and breaking and entering skills, and seems rather dangerous. I’ll have to remember to stay on his good side.

And when Zerik asks Nahia to help him learn to resist magic she is quite excited. It has been too long since she has had the chance to bring such a strong man under her will. While Nahia is sure that Zerik was wanting to resist physical magic, Nahia has never been one to learn such things, and will instead assault his mind. She will teach him to figure out when he is being affected, even when he can’t see that someone is casting a spell, attacking his mind without a single word, movement, or glance exchanged and even trying to affect him at random moments in the manor, when he might not be expecting it.

Zerick will find himself frequently falling asleep and waking in precarious positions or being awoken with a pin prick to the throat. Sometimes he will find himself doing chores for Nahia: moving heavy things, massaging her back and shoulders, washing her clothes, feeding her, dancing for her entertainment, even serving as a stool or step ladder, and then wondering about why he would do those things later. Sometimes, he will find himself thinking strange thoughts and only later figuring out that they were not truly from his own mind. He will find brief moments when he feels strongly attached to things or people, seeking to be near them, hold them, caress them, and then those feeling will vanish without a trace left behind.

But Nahia also teaches him how to understand what is happening and how to fight these manipulations. She will have him spend much time in meditation, thinking about who he is, why he does what he does, why he likes what he likes, to identify the patterns of his own thoughts, to trace out the construction of his own mind. And in time Zerik learns to resist these measures, to identify when someone has failed to manipulate him, and how to try and determine what thoughts are his and when his feelings are being manipulated.

- - - - -

Nahia will also spend time with Grumblejack, sometimes bringing him food and drink. The first time, in particular, will be special, with Nahia bringing a bottle of fine whisky and trying to surprise him by speaking in his native giant tongue. Sometimes she talks with him about nothing important, except the quality of the food and the niceness of the day and the softness of their respective beds. Sometimes they swap stories, Grumblejack boasting of fights he has won and Nahia telling stories of scamming, tricking or capturing arrogant men and women. And, on occasion Nahia will ask Grumblejack questions about himself: his past, what he likes, what he wants out of life.

- - - - -

Nahia was never one for religion, or at least, not for dedicating herself to a single one. But paying lipservice to the multitude of gods and goddesses does not teach one about their many finer points, and while hearing about any of the deities other than Mitra was unlikely in Talingarde, learning anything substantial about Asmodeus was impossible. So, considering the circumstances that she finds herself in, Nahia decided that it is time to learn more about their patron. As such, she approached Seren, asking to be taught about the deities, that she might better understand what they do, and what they face.

And of course, when Nahia finds herself bored with the stories and parables, she thinks about her teacher and team mate.

Seren, the decaying angel of Asmodeus. She is an interesting character, obviously knowledgeable and powerful. Her affliction seems to bother her, and I do have to wonder if it is self-inflicted, if she chose it, or if it was given to her. I wonder how it has affected her relationships in the past, or if she has even had any? She is a gorgeous woman, if you can get past the skin that’s falling off. I wonder how I would fare if I were in the same situation? Probably not as well as she has. I would probably become far more bitter and manic, because while I can sense that desire for power in her, I see a warmth as well, though well hidden beneath a cold exterior and a sharp tongue. I wonder if anything drives her other than her faith? Something that she wants for herself?

- - - - -

When it comes to learning from Seren, Nahia is a fairly good student, particularly enjoying the stories of the gods. She finds the stories of Arshea interesting, but conflicting, finding most of her proclivities intriguing, but she doesn't understand how she can feel that everyone deserves freedom and equality. Clearly, one should be able to ride as high as their skills, abilities, and ambition will carry them, even if it only carries them to the bottom. She finds the tenets of Cayden Cailean to be unhelpful, but the story of his ascension to godhood fills her with lofty dreams of doing so herself one day. Of course, this is mere fantasy, but one she quite enjoys. Lamashtu interests Nahia, not for herself, but how she is reminded of Anahita. Hearing of Lamashtus plans, methods, feelings about the world brings a tear to Nahias eye, with the remembrance of her mother's final plan, and final moments. And then the stories arrive at Calistra, a goddess that Nahia is rather familiar with, and, up until these most recent events, Nahias most revered deity.

And then there is Asmodeus. Nahia is surprised at many of the things that she learns about the Prince of Darkness: how He is directly responsible for the creation of the world, how He was responsible for stopping the beast of destruction and still protects the key that holds back that carnage, and that on the greater mainland there is an entire nation dedicated to His worship. When Nahia hears of His teachings, of His principles, she is amazed at how closely they fit her own and how much she identifies with Him and His ways. Never before has Nahia felt such a… calling to a deity before. Never before has she found a faith that touches her the way His does. Never before has simply hearing a name warmed her heart, sent it a flutter, and filled her with desire and fervor. Nahia has stared into the abyss of her soul and found Asmodeus staring back.

- - - - -

Assuming Trik would be up for this.
After Nahia spends her time learning from Seren, she will want to give the woman some space. Nahia doesn't want to burden Seren with her own training, consuming the women's free time, and Cardinal Thorn seems too busy to provide her more education than he already does. As such, Nahia will approach the only other "holy" person she knows, the priest Trik.

Nahia will ask Trik to teach her more about Asmodeus, about His holy days, His rituals, and His divine grace. Nahia will, once again, be an apt student, quickly taking to heart the lessons Trak teaches, and quite enjoying their discussions about their Lord.

If Trik would want any kind of payment or service for these lessons, just let me know and we can RP it.

- - - - -

Assuming that Elise will be available for this…

Nahia will also continue her… relationship with Elise. At first, Nahia will be passive in the pairing, letting Elise come to her to pursue things, but being very receptive. Though after a couple of weeks, Nahia will begin to approach Elise as well, usually after Nahia feels like she accomplished something big. Nahia will invite Elise to lunch or dinner most of the time, though sometimes she invites her to train together, for a picnic, or for the occasional game. When they spend time talking, Nahia will speak to Elise about Elise’s Patron, about her familiar, about her training, and, of course, about her likes, dislikes, and her hobbies (if any).

Just let me know if there are any specific events with Elise to RP, or if it would go differently than I put here.

- - - - -

After their last encounter, Nahia will avoid Trak, trying not to cause any more disturbances between the teams. She does not go so far as to leave a room should he enter, but she no longer provokes him either. She does her best to ignore the unnecessarily jealous man.

- - - - -

Once again, this is a general outline of the five months. Nahia will be, generally, open to speaking with anyone (except during her moon-oriented rituals and when she communes with Andros in the morning), though her exact reaction will depend on what she is doing and her mood at the time. I’m also perfectly willing to RP out the details of anything I might have smoothed over, either in thread or in PM.


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

Not to do with what I’ve done the last 5 months, but the repercussions of it instead and its impact on Seren. DM. Aku note - Seren is slowly shifting from Lawful Evil to Neutral Evil.

Seren stares down at the shattered mirror, the glass littered with her tears, a tiny skeleton rushing around retrieving pieces to meld back together. She knew the mirror would be repaired soon, one further torment from her dark god. She had always known there would be a cost for her power, but seeing it every night has been harder than she could imagine.

It feels as if death has literally seeped into Seren’s body. The sheer time and energy spent working the necromantic energy that the Cardinal has been teaching, infusing her with an innate darkness that she had only had inklings of prior to these last months. In public, her cherished circlet has kept her master and fellow friends (for secretly Seren has grown far more attached to those sword wielders and her witch then she cares to admit) from noticing the true cost of her training. Once in her room, with the magic of the circlet no longer masking her appearance she can see the true horror of her training. The tears come again, like they have every night for the last couple of months, as she stares at the desiccated image staring back at her through the mirror.

She knows now that it is only through Asmodeus divine energy that she still feels her strength and vitality. For her body is more rotted then alive in appearance. The white of bone all that remains of her fingertips, muscle and tendons sickly showing through the skin of her chest, and perhaps worst of all, small patches of hair all that remains of her once golden locks.

She takes a steadying breath. This is the cost of my power, and this is the choice I made. Whether it was the right one or not doesn’t matter at this point. Enjoy what you can, for your life is good now, regardless of the price Asmodeus has demanded from you.

-----------------------------
And now to what has happened the last 5 months

The training started cruely, the master bringing Seren close to death on a near daily basis. ”Better to understand death when you are close to it.” he would state as he forced her to bring herself back from the pain. Seren couldn’t see the value of this training but soon enough her small minions were becoming more capable, and her connection to them increasing. These were not favourable times for Seren and she saw little of the rest of her companions, as her days were spent either in recovery or it torment.

The training shifted subtly after the first couple of weeks, the near-death experiences lessened, replaced with books on necromancy, and the history of undeath and its nature. She was finally able to see her companions again, and she slowly resumed her training of Grumblejack in the divine arts.

It was unexpected, but he was a good student. Not always capable of understanding all of what was being taught, but willing to learn and the potential could be seen in him that perhaps he may yet gain some control of divine powers. It came also as a pleasant surprise as Nahia began to attend some of their sessions, looking to further her knowledge of the gods. Seren was not the greatest teacher, always one to do rather than teach, but she tried as best she could to provide the answers to the questions asked by Grumblejack and Nahia.

She had little interaction with her other two companions in the beginning. The flurry of their training in swordplay foreign to her. Eric especially seemed distant to her, his devotion to Asmodeus seeming distinctly larger than even her own, and frankly it scared her a little bit. Asmodeus may be her benefactor and god, but even in the beginning she could see what his divine power was costing her.

Most of her interactions with them came with just watching, marveling at their martial prowess, trying to gain any knowledge that may help her own limited abilities. It was a little later that Zerik approached Seren, discussion about the training of Grumblejack, and their heritage burning the hours away. Seren found she liked Zerik, his discipline and confidence standing in stark contrast to her inner turmoil. The fact they shared a common celestial heritage bringing a sense of commonality to their discussion.

As her training continued Seren had to admit she was impressed with the Cardinal’s abilities to procure individuals during those last couple of months. For the skeletons needed to work her art did not just magically appear. The torture rack stained red with the blood of those she utilized for the required materials. The screams of the dying now filled her dreams, a pleasantly dark prayer to her art. Surely, the death laid out by her hand now marking her as one of the more prolific serial killers currently alive.

What had once been a minor ability was now becoming stronger, more powerful. Where once she was able to only create small minions of no value, she now raised the body of those who lived. Her sheer force of will and magic now capable of re-animating the dead around her. She still had a long way to go, her powers only able to keep the dead animated for a short time, but even that would not have been possible without the Cardinal’s help and tutelage.

More will be added later, with Discussions between characters, etc. But work is almost over and I want to get this out before I leave.


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

Earlier - Eric:

"I... don't want to die. Why Mitra has abandoned me? I was always a faithful. Why Sir Balin fell to the very ones he hunted down? I... I don't want to die..."

Eric, mostly I do not take into consideration a diplo check when you RP things in a convincing way. I liked your speech. It'll take time, but in the course of your training, you can convert him to a follower, and train him if you want.

Timeon has some training with blades (his bonus feat is weapon focus longsword if he has that proficiency or longsword proficiency if he does not.)

You can make up his character sheet if you want. A 15 point buy human.
Just remember you are limited to what you can teach him. If Nahia, Seren and Zerik helps your options are: Cleric, witch, fighter, Anti-Paladin, Ranger, Rogue.


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

With Grumblejack - approx 3 months into the training - Seren's Bedroom.

Seren stares on as the small stone begins to glow in Grumblejack's hand.

"Well done Grumble!" Seren states monotonously.

"That was the easy part. Shall we try something a little more difficult?" She asks throwing her mace to the large ogre. "Focus your power. Channel the dark energy into the weapon. Feel Asmodeus eternal darkness and harness it for your own ends." She commands, sweat dripping from her brow as she concentrates on helping Grumblejack to connect to their God.

At first nothing happens. Then slowly Seren watches as a darkness creeps up the mace, a black glow steadily growing from the head of the mace. "Excellent, Part one done. Now my turn."

furthering her connection with Asmodeus, Seren feels the power flow through her, a slight whimper escaping as she feel the skin on her fingers wither to dust. She feels a tear fall down her face as she feels more of her body rot from power. Pushing through the anguish, she forces the power into a pile of bones piled neatly in the corner. The energy hits them, flowing, merging, and organizing as the animation process begins. Moments later a skeleton arises. Seren chuckles as she tries to recall what the slave had looked like yesterday; when he was still alive and screaming. "Now let it fly." Seren orders, breathing heavy from the exertion required of her newly learned craft.

Attack: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21
Damage: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12

The skull of the skeleton explodes into dust as the heavy mace strikes perfectly, the skeleton collapsing back into bones as the power keeping it animated fails from the heavy hit.

She looks back at Grumblejack, The mace reappearing in his hand, a grin obvious on his face. Seren matches his grin and falls backwards into an awaiting chair. I didn't think he could actually do it.

"Fantastic Grumble! Your connection to Asmodeus is growing, but that weapon is far to small for you" Seren laughs. "I think it's time to continue your training with some who has some better martial prowess. Someone to show you how to use a weapon truly suited for you."


Ogre

After the initial burst of dark energy, the mace returning to Grumblejack's hand, in a rare display of happiness, the ogre hugs Seren, throwing her in the air as a little child.

"Grumblejack said he would learn!" says the ogre happily


Human Hero Killer1 / Holy Assassin1 / Deceiver2

@Nahia

Trik is an easygoing person. His jovial attitude, his always-smiling face. He welcomed you as if you were a long lost friend.
”Ah, Nahia! Beautiful Nahia, charming Nahia, dangerous Nahia! I have heard tons about you! Elise always talk about you in an almost febrile manner, Trak talks about you too, but in another febrile manner! However, do not mind those things! I am not the one to judge whom you sleep with and whom you toy with! I’ve been teaching Eric about our god, you are welcome to join us whenever you want.”
Even though he do not say anything provoking, you often get flushed talking to him. Sometimes you think how it would be good to play with him, bend him to your desires, other times you really do not know if he is the one doing it to you.
If you want to add something to this conversation, or continue to RP with him, just post and I will answer.

==//==

”Aren’t you a little devil. If I did not knew better, I would say you are a succubus!” says Elise.
She enjoys spending time with you, but she never talks about her training. You see her shudder every time you bring up this particular subject.
Like you, Elise likes to play with the others, but not with their mind, but their emotions and fate. You notice she is not one overly attached to expensive things. Her clothes appears to be what a barbarian shaman would use, often in white tones.
She enjoys telling you about Trak jealousy fits and when you told her about Trik, for a moment, you saw concern in her eyes, but then there was nothing else, and you could not be sure.


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 6 | HP 46/46 | AC 20 | T 10 | FF 20 | CMB+6 | CMD 16 | Fort +6(+10 vs. Disease) | Ref +3 | Will +5 | Init +0 | Perc +4 | SM +4 | Bluff +10
Abilties:
8/8 1st level; 7/7 2nd level; 4/4 3rd level; 9/9 Death's Touch

"That you did." Seren chuckles from within the hug. Her face a turmoil of emotions.

Don't notice, don't notice, don't notice. Oh god, why did he have to pick me up? He's sure to notice that I don't feel like my how I look. How am I going to explain the difference? He knows I'm rotting, but I'm sure none of them realize the extent of it.

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