Istas Alone

Game Master therealthom

Stannus nods grimly. "Roust out Lily and her crew. They woke the dragon. Show them where you found tunnel and have them sweep the area again. Tell the grounds crew to clean up the area and get the grass trimmed shorter. Then get that wound checked for poison and get some sleep. I'll get this filth ~toes the body scornfully~ prepped. When you wake up, we'll interrogate him."

Stannus nods grimly. "Roust out Lily and her crew. They woke the dragon. Show them where you found tunnel and have them sweep the area again. Tell the grounds crew to clean up the area and get the grass trimmed shorter. Then get that wound checked for poison and get some sleep. I'll get this filth ~toes the body scornfully~ prepped. When you wake up, we'll interrogate him."

"As you wish," Istas inclines her head in deference to her superior, though inwardly she struggles to summon up the energy for another trip to Potter's Ward. 'Is it the poison making me feel this way?' she wonders, 'Or did the battle with the derro really take that much out of me?'

Leaving Stannus, the priestess then consults once more with the acolytes to determine Lily's whereabouts. When she finally locates the girl, Istas explains the situation and then waits until her fellow-Pharasmen gathers her things. On their way to pick up the rest of Lily's crew, she attempts to offer what advice she can.

"By the time we get there, I suspect there won't be much daylight left," Istas tells her, "But I'll ask the groundskeepers to stay on and light the entrance to the burial mound so they can trim back the weeds hiding the derro's tunnel. You'll need to light your way inside, though. And stay vigilant, for I encountered at least one trap while down there."

"Are you familiar with the derro?" she asks. Assuming Lily has never met one, Istas describes the creature's physical characteristics. "They're tough adversaries as well," she warns, "The one I faced took several blows to bring down. And it summoned an unnatural darkness to stifle my light during its retreat. You may want to prepare for that in case you find more of them."

She then leads Lily back to Potter's Ward, pointing out the burial mound and the tunnel entrance. She locates the grounds crew and solicits their aid as planned. "I won't be staying to help you any further," Istas shares, "Stannus intends to speak with the recently-parted spirit of the slain one while Pharasma yet holds him in her Boneyard. So I wish you luck and the blessings of Pharasma in life and death. Take care, Lily."

Then, quite weary, Istas sets off for Dawn Hall again, using the setting sun to guide her steps. Once she arrives at the temple, she goes to her room. She carefully removes her armor and dresses the wound in her leg.

Heal check... 1d20+9=26

Satisifed she's treated as much of the poison as she can, the priestess then retires to her bed, hoping she'll feel better after a full night's rest. Despite the prospect of facing Stannus again in the morning, she somewhat looks forward to the experience of speaking with the dead to learn more about the derro's purpose in Potter's Ward. But for now...sleep awaits...

Alas, your clock runs too fast. It is merely early afternoon. Although he didn't say so, Stannus probably expects you at dusk. When no doubt everyone will be ordered on night-time patrol, again. On the plus side it does add up to a couple of hours extra sleep today for Istas.

Lily's and her three team members are not thrilled to be awoken early from their rest, but are glad to hear there was something out there. "I checked for undead 3 times. No wonder I didn't find any."

After your sleep, an acolyte wakes you at dusk. "Prepare your self. Stannus expects you within 4 candle stripes in the common mortuary."

The temple uses long-burning candles to mark time. They are marked with stripes at roughly 20 minute intervals. The common mortuary is down the hill near the gates to the city in everyman's ward.

Alas, your clock runs too fast. It is merely early afternoon.

Aaack! I thought that might be the case, but then when Stannus said he'd see Istas after she slept, I just assumed it would be nightfall by the time Istas took Lily's crew down to Potter's Ward and returned. No biggie. I'll roll with the change.

Although he didn't say so, Stannus probably expects you at dusk. When no doubt everyone will be ordered on night-time patrol, again. On the plus side it does add up to a couple of hours extra sleep today for Istas.

Before taking her nap, Istas considers the carefully wrapped vials of shiver she keeps in the desk by her bed. Ever since coming to Korvosa, she had felt an especial kinship with Pharasma...goddess of death, and to a lesser extent...dreams, as well. The Lady of Graves had surely stood by her in Potter's Ward and against the derro defiler. That must mean she continues to take an active interest in Istas' life.

'Perhaps now is an appropriate time to dream again and discern what Pharasma has in store for me?' Istas ponders. She holds the dreamer's drug up to the light. The people of the street use the euphoric substance to escape the drudgeries of their everyday lives. But Istas uses it to come ever closer to her mistress...to learn any prophecy she might have for the times to come.

The sound of acolytes passing her door in the hallway reaches her ears and Istas hides the shiver once again among her things. 'Not now,' she decides, 'I'll need to be sharp if I must deal with Stannus tonight. He wouldn't understand my dreams anyway.'

After your sleep, an acolyte wakes you at dusk. "Prepare yourself. Stannus expects you within 4 candle stripes in the common mortuary."

Istas rubs the sleep from her eyes and crosses to the wash basin to splash cool water on her face. Taking a deep breath, she mentally prepares herself for the task ahead. She offers up a short prayer to Pharasma, then gathers her gear...armor, weapons, and all...before setting off into the nightlife of the city streets enroute to the mortuary.

Oops. My bad. The mortuary is on the Gray side of the gate between Gray and Midlands.

Stannus looks you over on your arrival. "Good. Let's go." The air is cooler inside the mortuary. The stone mass of the building still resists even several days of very hot muggy weather. You go down into the basement to a closed chamber with several work tables. The derro is laid out naked on the farthest. Stannus locks the door behind the tow of you when you enter.

"Here, what do you make of this?" Stannus picks up the derro's right hand. Tatooed on the inside of the wrist is a scythe slicing a bird. "Check his other hand and feet." On his other limbs the scythe slices a longbow, a moth, and a heavy door. "What do you make of that?"

"Here, what do you make of this?" Stannus picks up the derro's right hand. Tatooed on the inside of the wrist is a scythe slicing a bird. "Check his other hand and feet." On his other limbs the scythe slices a longbow, a moth, and a heavy door. "What do you make of that?"

Knowledge (religion) check... 1d20+8 = 23

"Curious..." Istas tilts her head as she examines each tattoo, "The scythe is a repeating pattern in each design." She considers the possible ramifications of that for a moment before answering more fully. "The scythe must be more representative of where this derro's true allegiance lies," she surmises, "And that is the favorite weapon of the foul, disease-ridden goddess Urgathoa and those who worship her. I know not why a derro would curry favor with She-Who-Fled-Pharasma's-Judgement. But they do tend towards madness, do they not? What better patron then than a goddess so insane that she embraces the living dead?"

"If the scythe is representative of Urgathoa," Istas continues, "Then perhaps these other symbols represent something she...or these derro...oppose, namely other institutions and churches that support Korvosa? The bird, for instance, could indicate either a whipoorwhill...one of the primary symbols of Pharasma's favor. Or perhaps, Gozreh, and a connection to the seagulls of the beach. I did find that this derro had killed such a bird and taken it into the tunnels with him, leaving a trail of blood and feathers behind."

"This one," she says, gesturing toward the longbow, "Would seem to indicate Erastil...god of hunting, trade, and the family. Many in Korvosa revere him. With the scythe slicing through the longbow, it would mean these derro oppose the benevolent influence he has over families and homes throughout the city."

"The moth," she explains, "I'm less sure about...but perhaps it's meant to be a butterfly? For Desna? A goddess of dreams, travelers, and good luck. Many Varisians living here in Korvosa worship her. I have a friend in the Shingles who does so. If this scythe is meant to cut the moth...or butterfly...then the derro must stand in opposition of that faith and the Varisian culture."

"And lastly, the heavy door..." she finishes, "Is meant to protect something...the entrance to a vault, I would assume. And Abadar, the most prominent faith of Korvosa, is considered the Master of the First Vault. For the scythe to cut through such a door, it would mean the derro intend to strike at the very heart of Korvosa. That they seek the blessings of Urgathoa herself on their efforts. And so they transcribe these symbols upon their bodies...not unlike those that some of my people use to ward away evil spirits..." Istas lifts her hand and shows the tattoes upon her own wrist as an example.

"This is troubling," she admits, "For a creature with a shattered mind full of madness and spite, these symbols seem very precise. Orderly. Focused, even. Someone marked him. That means he's probably just a foot-soldier in something larger. Perhaps we can discern what that is by seeking Pharasma's aid in questioning his spirit while it yet dwells in her Boneyard?"

"Do you intend to perform such a ceremony?" she asks.

"This is troubling ... he's probably just a foot-soldier in something larger. Perhaps we can discern what that is by seeking Pharasma's aid in questioning his spirit while it yet dwells in her Boneyard?"

"Do you intend to perform such a ceremony?" she asks.

You don't need a religion check. You got it all just fine. Maybe I was a bit too heavy handed.

Stannus taps a scroll lying on the next table. "Yes. We'll be able to ask three questions. Suggestions?"

You don't need a religion check. You got it all just fine. Maybe I was a bit too heavy handed.

No. I don't think you've been heavy-handed with anything. I relished the opportunity to use her skill in that situation. If I'd rolled any lower, I would have roleplayed Istas struggling to interpret the symbols a bit more and looked to Stannus for help. It's nice to see that Istas is standing fairly tall on her own, though. Maybe she'll impress Stannus at some point? After all, there's a reason she's a hero (or PC) in this story...

Stannus taps a scroll lying on the next table. "Yes. We'll be able to ask three questions. Suggestions?"

"Perhaps we should start with asking him about these tattoos and what affiliation they signify?" Istas suggests, "Just to confirm our suspicions." She glances over the derro's body again, contemplating what other questions they might ask...and in a manner by which they could glean sufficient answers. After all, Pharasma's power might enable them to speak with the derro's spirit, but that didn't mean such a conversation would be welcomed.

"Next, we should probably ask him if there are more of his kind in the Boneyard...or at least, with whom else he might have aligned himself," she says, "We can probably adjust that question depending on how he answers us about the tattoos."

"Then, maybe we can ask by what means he and his allies expect to accomplish their goals?" Istas finishes, "If we know that, maybe it will give us enough information to look for ways to oppose them...or at least, warn those who might be harmed by them."

Stannus considers your choices and nods. "Fair enough. Can you read the scroll, or must I?"

Activating a scroll (p 359) -- You're the right class. Wisdom is high enough. You need to make a "caster level check" DC = caster level+1 in this case at least 6. Do you want to risk it? What is a caster level check? D20+level?

Stannus considers your choices and nods. "Fair enough. Can you read the scroll, or must I?"

Activating a scroll (p 359) -- You're the right class. Wisdom is high enough. You need to make a "caster level check" DC = caster level+1 in this case at least 6. Do you want to risk it? What is a caster level check? D20+level?

If I'm reading the rules correctly, Istas would also need to decipher the spell scroll first...as she's never seen or used speak with dead before. If she had read magic prepared ahead of time, she could easily decipher it. But without that orison, she would need a successful Spellcraft check (DC = 20 + spell's level = 23). Istas has Spellcraft +8...which means she'd need to roll a 15 or higher just to understand the spell.

Spellcraft check... 1d20+8 = 10

Istas takes the scroll and studies it for several moments. Finally she announces, "I'm sorry. This ceremony is beyond me. And even if I did comprehend it fully, I would hate to risk a mistake and waste the scroll. Perhaps you should read it instead? And in doing so, I'll learn it all the better through practical observation."

CrimsonDM wrote:

Stannus considers your choices and nods. "Fair enough. Can you read the scroll, or must I?"

Activating a scroll (p 359) -- You're the right class. Wisdom is high enough. You need to make a "caster level check" DC = caster level+1 in this case at least 6. Do you want to risk it? What is a caster level check? D20+level?

If I'm reading the rules correctly, Istas would also need to decipher the spell scroll first...as she's never seen or used speak with dead before. If she had read magic prepared ahead of time, she could easily decipher it. But without that orison, she would need a successful Spellcraft check (DC = 20 + spell's level = 23). Istas has Spellcraft +8...which means she'd need to roll a 15 or higher just to understand the spell.

Spellcraft check... 1d20+8 = 10

Istas takes the scroll and studies it for several moments. Finally she announces, "I'm sorry. This ceremony is beyond me. And even if I did comprehend it fully, I would hate to risk a mistake and waste the scroll. Perhaps you should read it instead? And in doing so, I'll learn it all the better through practical observation."

Ahh, I looked past the spellcraft check, assuming you'd take 20. Which brings up a good question, should take 20 be allowed for this type of check? And how long should it take. I think your point of view is right. Players should have to roll, else the check becomes simply spell level v. spellcraft bonus . But d20 is so variable. Sometimes I long for 3d6 checks.

Way to work in the flattery. Got to go to work. I'll try to post at lunch.

Way to work in the flattery. Got to go to work. I'll try to post at lunch.

FYI...I'm still hanging around and ready to continue.

[FYI...I'm still hanging around and ready to continue.

Ohh, dude, I am so sorry. Work got crazy that day and I forgot about the lunch post. Since then I've been looking, noticing that I was the last poster and wondering where you were. Again, sorry.

Stannus nods grimly. He lays his greatsword on the table beside the corpse's and picks up the scroll. "He looks at you over the top of the parchment, "Ready?"

***

He takes a deep breath and begins to read slowly and carefully. He slips a little on some of the pronunciation and rythm, but his reading is passable. On the final syllable a spark runs over the corpse: torso to head, back through the torso to the wrists and ankles. The body jerks into an upright sitting posture. The derro's scratchy tenor says, "Who bids me speak?"

Stannus nods at you.

Stannus nods at you.

"Pharasma's faithful would know your secrets, spirit," Istas smoothly replies even as a chill runs down her spine at the sight of the animated corpse, "Before you go to your judgement in the Boneyard of the Lady of Graves, we shall question you."

"These tattoos upon your hands and feet, what organization and purpose do they signify?" she asks.

After waiting for an answer, she continues. "What allies joined this cause and now lead these efforts?"

Lastly, Istas finishes with her final question. "By what means do they expect to accomplish these goals?"

OOC: I've gone ahead and listed the questions in order, though I might want to tweak the second or third question depending on how the previous answers come out.

CrimsonDM wrote:

Stannus nods at you.

"Pharasma's faithful would know your secrets, spirit," Istas smoothly replies even as a chill runs down her spine at the sight of the animated corpse, "Before you go to your judgement in the Boneyard of the Lady of Graves, we shall question you."

"These tattoos upon your hands and feet, what organization and purpose do they signify?" she asks.

After waiting for an answer, she continues. "What allies joined this cause and now lead these efforts?"

Lastly, Istas finishes with her final question. "By what means do they expect to accomplish these goals?"

OOC: I've gone ahead and listed the questions in order, though I might want to tweak the second or third question depending on how the previous answers come out.

The derro's head swings to stare rather blankly at you. It answers in a flat husky voice, "The tatoos are the sigils of the Wakers, those dedicated to serving Urgathoa by releasing her chosen from the prison of dreamless slumber."

The head swivels back to stare at Stannus.

Can I have a spellcraft and sense motive check please?

The derro's head swings to stare rather blankly at you. It answers in a flat husky voice, "The tatoos are the sigils of the Wakers, those dedicated to serving Urgathoa by releasing her chosen from the prison of dreamless slumber." The head swivels back to stare at Stannus.

Istas' eyes narrow as she contemplates the stated connection to Urgathoa. 'It is as I feared,' she thinks, 'The mistress of undeath seeks to pervert the sanctity of Potter's Ward and the Grey District.'

But left unanswered is the nature of the Wakers themselves. Perhaps the next question would shed more light on that...

Can I have a spellcraft and sense motive check please?

Spellcraft check... 1d20+7 = 23

"What allies joined this cause and now lead these efforts?"

Spellcraft check... 1d20+7 = 23
Sense Motive check... 1d20+7 = 24

Even as Istas asks the second question, something is bothering her. There is a longing in the derro's eyes as it looks at Stannus, a hunger. He stands transfixed.

At the question's completion, the corpse swings its gaze back to Istas. The eyes stare dully at her as the inflectionless tenor scrapes, "Our numbers are legion. Silent Red Death stalks the streets. Death rules in Korvosa. Even now the Priestess Scythe comes with death of bile and blood. "

It's gaze swings back to the priest. It's soft contralto whispers quite clearly, "Stannus, you I ken. I remember." His brow furrows in consternation.

It's apparent to Istas that this corpse is far too animate, but not uniformly so. It seems more dead when facing you. And the voice addressing Stannus is much changed and has a spark of -- not quite life.

Is the third question the charm?

Even as Istas asks the second question, something is bothering her. There is a longing in the derro's eyes as it looks at Stannus, a hunger. He stands transfixed.

Istas notes the unusual demeanor of the derro. 'This isn't how I've heard the legends speak of interrogating the dead,' she muses, 'What manner of spell has Stannus cast, exactly?'

At the question's completion, the corpse swings its gaze back to Istas. The eyes stare dully at her as the inflectionless tenor scrapes, "Our numbers are legion. Silent Red Death stalks the streets. Death rules in Korvosa. Even now the Priestess Scythe comes with death of bile and blood."

"Bile and blood," Istas whispers to herself, "What form of death would bring that upon Korvosa? This priestess Scythe must also follow Urgathoa. And she must be powerful indeed for this derro to take such faith in her ability."

Its gaze swings back to the priest. Its soft contralto whispers quite clearly, "Stannus, you I ken. I remember." His brow furrows in consternation.

Istas' brow matches the consternation of the derro. "You...know...this thing?" she looks askance at her superior. Before he answers, however, she poses the last question to the corpse.

"By what specific means does this Priestess Scythe, the Wakers, and your Red Death expect to accomplish such goals?"

"Bile and blood," Istas whispers to herself, "What form of death would bring that upon Korvosa? This priestess Scythe must also follow Urgathoa. And she must be powerful indeed for this derro to take such faith in her ability."

...
"You...know...this thing?" she looks askance at her superior. Before he answers, however, she poses the last question to the corpse.

Stannus, steps rapidly backward. He bumps into the table behind him. His head shakes side to side.

The corpse extends an arm toward him. The contralto voice whispers "Return to Us, Stannus. Return ...." It's interrupted by the third question.

"By what specific means does this Priestess Scythe, the Wakers, and your Red Death expect to accomplish such goals?"

The head swivels back toward Istas. Its face slackens. The tenor scratches out, "Our favored daughter comes bearing disease, deliciously, fatally, foul. The Red Ones wield the long knife by day and night. The Wingless Wyrm rules by terror. And the Wakers shall raise for Us a horde of true followers born of Our dominion."

Stannus, steps rapidly backward. He bumps into the table behind him. His head shakes side to side. The corpse extends an arm toward him. The contralto voice whispers "Return to Us, Stannus. Return ...."

Dismayed and disappointed at Stannus' lack of fortitude in facing the animated corpse, Istas seeks to distract it and regain its attention while the power of Pharasma still holds it. She asks her third question.

"By what specific means does this Priestess Scythe, the Wakers, and your Red Death expect to accomplish such goals?"

The head swivels back toward Istas. Its face slackens. The tenor scratches out, "Our favored daughter comes bearing disease, deliciously, fatally, foul. The Red Ones wield the long knife by day and night. The Wingless Wyrm rules by terror. And the Wakers shall raise for Us a horde of true followers born of Our dominion."

"Your dominion?" Istas verbally retaliates with utter conviction in the faith of her goddess, "Your Pallid Princess holds no dominion over the dead, coward. And your Priestess Scythe will face the full might of the Pharasmen who will diligently oppose her plans."

She moves in closer to snarl angrily at the corpse. "Now go, foul creature!" she demands, "To your only just reward for the evil you once served. Pharasma's Boneyard awaits! And may your judgement with the Lady of Graves be swift indeed!"

Once the derro falls back and its spirit departs, Istas avoids looking at Stannus. Inwardly, she seethes with anger at the man...not simply for his irritating demeanor towards her in the past, but rather because of his weakness in dealing with the derro...and whatever familiarity such a monster would have with him. The priest is much diminished in her eyes and Istas no longer fears his authority over her.

"I will dispose of the body," she tells him, swiftly taking leadership while his seems lacking, "Go and inform Bishop Keppira. He must know of the danger posed to Korvosa by these foul followers of Urgathoa. Let him know they intend to spread illness in the city. We must be vigilant and guard against it."

She listens for his departure, but before Stannus leaves, she asks one question of him while staring down at the corpse. Her voice holds the same steel and steadiness she used with the derro's spirit. "What did he mean, Stannus? Why did he implore you to return...and to whom?"

["Your dominion?" Istas verbally retaliates with utter conviction in the faith of her goddess, "Your Pallid Princess holds no dominion over the dead, coward. And your Priestess Scythe will face the full might of the Pharasmen who will diligently oppose her plans."

She moves in closer to snarl angrily at the corpse. "Now go, foul creature!" she demands, "To your only just reward for the evil you once served. Pharasma's Boneyard awaits! And may your judgement with the Lady of Graves be swift indeed!"

"Pharasma is not fit to judge Us." The contralto whisper wisps to Istas' ear. "And her pawns may not turn The Pallid Princess' devoted against their Mistress." The derro hitches itself toward the edge of its table. It screams in frustration. "Too weak. A feeble vessel this. " Behind the derro Stannus is reaching for his great sword.

Its voice becomes imperative. "Stannus! Return to Us now. Slay this wretch." It points a bluish grey finger at Istas.

Beautifully written as the second half of your post is, I must supercede it. Please roll initiative.

Oh, and despite it's apparent frustration and protestation of weakness it is obviously mobile and strong enough to kill.

Beautifully written as the second half of your post is, I must supercede it. Please roll initiative.

Okay. Maybe we can still salvage that last part if and when this confrontation is over.

Initiative... 1d20+2 = 4

Well, crap...this should be fun. ;-)

"Pharasma is not fit to judge Us." The contralto whisper wisps to Istas' ear. "And her pawns may not turn The Pallid Princess' devoted against their Mistress." The derro hitches itself toward the edge of its table. It screams in frustration. "Too weak. A feeble vessel this. " Behind the derro Stannus is reaching for his great sword.

Its voice becomes imperative. "Stannus! Return to Us now. Slay this wretch." It points a bluish grey finger at Istas.

Completely surprised by the lack of control Stannus or the ceremony holds over the derro's corpse, Istas is slower than normal to react. She hesitates, unsure of whether to restrain the creature, back away, or guard herself against any treachery that might be forthcoming from Stannus.

The derro pushes off the table toward Istas. Its arms describing great powerful arcs as it swings at the cleric.

Behind it, Stannus's sword clears its scabbard and is raised high. "Never again!" cries Stannus and the great blade streaks down, cleaving the derro from shoulder to hip. Incredibly it still lurches toward Istas, shouting, "The Pallid Princess is the Mistress of the Dead, to order them as she will. Did you think your feeble ritual could control one such as me?"

Initiative :

overly animated zombie 10
Stannus 5
Istas 4

your go.

The derro pushes off the table toward Istas. Its arms describing great powerful arcs as it swings at the cleric.

Behind it, Stannus's sword clears its scabbard and is raised high. "Never again!" cries Stannus and the great blade streaks down, cleaving the derro from shoulder to hip. Incredibly it still lurches toward Istas, shouting, "The Pallid Princess is the Mistress of the Dead, to order them as she will. Did you think your feeble ritual could control one such as me?"

Istas clutches the holy symbol of her goddess' comet and thrusts it forward as her single best weapon against such a creature.

"I'll show you who has power over the dead! Your Pallid Princess fled Pharasma's judgement!" she cries, "You shall do so as well or wither and burn!"

Channel positive energy... 1d6 = 6 damage
OOC: Turning attempt. DC 13 Will save for half damage. If he fails, he must also flee or cower for... 1d4+2 = 4 rounds.

"I'll show you who has power over the dead! Your Pallid Princess fled Pharasma's judgement!" she cries, "You shall do so as well or wither and burn!"

The derro simultaneously staggers back and begins to disintegrate into a cloud of dust, as it falls, some dust rises up trying to coalesce into a humanoid shape. A raging face and twisted limbs can be briefly seen before it collapses onto the top of the heap of dust on the floor.

Silently, Stannus carefully wipes the full length of his sword.

good play with the turning, and a lucky roll.

good play with the turning, and a lucky roll.

Yeah. I agree. I think Istas has channeled energy twice so far in the game, and both times it came up for maximum effect...healing of 6 hp once...and now damaging the zombie for 6 hp. Kind of makes up for those minimum damage rolls while trying to catch the derro in those tunnels. ;-D

The derro simultaneously staggers back and begins to disintegrate into a cloud of dust, as it falls, some dust rises up trying to coalesce into a humanoid shape. A raging face and twisted limbs can be briefly seen before it collapses onto the top of the heap of dust on the floor....Silently, Stannus carefully wipes the full length of his sword.

I'm going to try and salvage some of the earlier commentary before you had to supercede my last post.

Once the derro falls back and its spirit departs, Istas breathes a sigh of relief that Pharasma's hold over the dead proved stronger than Urgathoa's. 'Whose dominion, indeed?' she tells herself, confident that her faith proved stronger in the end.

Her eyes flicker briefly to note Stannus cleaning his sword, but she purposefully avoids looking at his face. Inwardly, she seethes with anger at the man...not simply for his irritating demeanor towards her in the past, but rather because of his weakness in dealing with the derro...and whatever familiarity such a monster would have with him. The priest is much diminished in her eyes and Istas no longer fears his authority over her.

"I will dispose of this mess," she tells him, swiftly taking leadership while his seems lacking, "Go and inform Bishop d'Bear. He must know of the danger posed to Korvosa by these foul followers of Urgathoa. Let him know they intend to spread illness in the city. We must be vigilant and guard against it."

She listens for his departure, but before Stannus leaves, she asks one question of him while staring down at the corpse. Her voice holds the same steel and steadiness she used with the derro's spirit. "What did he mean, Stannus? Why did he implore you to return...and to whom?"

Her eyes flicker briefly to note Stannus cleaning his sword, but she purposefully avoids looking at his face. Inwardly, she seethes with anger at the man...not simply for his irritating demeanor towards her in the past, but rather because of his weakness in dealing with the derro...and whatever familiarity such a monster would have with him. The priest is much diminished in her eyes and Istas no longer fears his authority over her.

"I will dispose of this mess," she tells him, swiftly taking leadership while his seems lacking, "Go and inform Bishop d'Bear. He must know of the danger posed to Korvosa by these foul followers of Urgathoa. Let him know they intend to spread illness in the city. We must be vigilant and guard against it."

"Good idea. I'll do that. " But he does not immediately walk away. Instead he swings his sword slowly up over his head and down as if rehearsing his stroke on the derro. He mutters slowly as if chanting prayers, "Guide my hand. Slay my foe." He repeats the motion one more time.

She listens for his departure, but before Stannus leaves, she asks one question of him while staring down at the corpse. Her voice holds the same steel and steadiness she used with the derro's spirit. "What did he mean, Stannus? Why did he implore you to return...and to whom?"

"Not he. And never again."

"Not he. And never again."

'Urgathoa?' Istas mentally ponders Stannus' reply, 'The dust of the derro's corpse certainly seemed to half-form into the visage of the Pallid Princess. Was it she who also spoke through her follower...in order to deliver a message to...Stannus?'

With that thought, she turns to look for her sword-wielding colleague...but he's already gone to deliver their warning to Bishop d'Bear.

"Hmmm..." she mutters aloud and then quietly thinks to herself, 'If Urgathoa sought to have Stannus 'return' ...that would imply he somehow served the Pallid Princess in some capacity before joining Pharasma's clergy. I suppose we all have skeletons in our closets. But this day has been most enlightening regarding both the source of Stannus' strength...and his potential weakness in leading the Pharasmen during the Bishop's absence. His determination 'never again' to serve Urgathoa blinds him to any other ministry we provide as Pharasmen. Perhaps I should speak with Father Arbus about this?'

She looks back at the pile of dust.

"Right after we get you cleaned up," she frowns.

Istas diligently sweeps the dusty remains of the derro back into the sackcloth she used to transport his body when bringing it to Stannus. Then she carries it from the mortuary back to Dawn Hall so she can store it in a proper urn for safekeeping.

'Better not put this back into any of the graveyards...tainted as it is...' she surmises.

Finally, she asks about for the only advisor among the Pharasmen, aside from Bishop d'Bear himself, that she fully trusts. Finding one of the acolytes, she asks, "Have you seen Father Arbus, by chance? I would like to seek his counsel if he's not too busy..."

Istas diligently sweeps the dusty remains of the derro back into the sackcloth she used to transport his body when bringing it to Stannus. Then she carries it from the mortuary back to Dawn Hall so she can store it in a proper urn for safekeeping.

'Better not put this back into any of the graveyards...tainted as it is...' she surmises.

Wisely done

Finally, she asks about for the only advisor among the Pharasmen, aside from Bishop d'Bear himself, that she fully trusts. Finding one of the acolytes, she asks, "Have you seen Father Arbus, by chance? I would like to seek his counsel if he's not too busy..."

For future reference, Bishop Keppira d'Bear is a woman.

"Father Arbus recently returned from the Castle. He is probably asleep in his chambers."

just let me know if you wake him right away or let him sleep. In any case his greeting is the same.

Arbus pulls open the door to his cell and greets Istas in his customary manner, "May Istas smile on you, child." The 'child' is not meant derogatorily, nor as a way to put Istas in her place. The old man has seen two generations pass and is working on a third. He addresses almost everyone he meets as child, with the known exceptions of the Bishop and Stannus. "Come in. What may I do for you?"

For future reference, Bishop Keppira d'Bear is a woman.

Really? You know, it never says in the Player's Guide for CotCT. But I recently bought the Guide to Korvosa and you're right. He's a she! How appropriate. ;-D

"Father Arbus recently returned from the Castle. He is probably asleep in his chambers."

"From the castle, you say?" Istas frowns, "Thank you."

She walks halfway to Arbus' chambers before rethinking the need to speak with him immediately. 'If he's just returned from the castle, he must be exhausted,' she thinks, 'Stannus has gone to speak with the Bishop. So the important message about Urgathoa should reach the right ears first. Any counsel I seek from Arbus regarding Stannus can probably wait until the morning.'

'Besides,' she realizes, 'I really am feeling rather worn down myself. Crawling through burial mounds in tunnels too small to breathe. Poisoned by a derro's trap. And having to kill him a second time after Urgathoa animated his corpse again. All that takes a bit out of you, I guess. I'll check with Arbus tomorrow.'

Istas retraces her steps and then seeks out her own bed. Whether it's the events of the past few hours, the need to find something to help her combat the poison, or just a growing addiction, she decides to take one of her prized doses of shiver. After all, Pharasma had a tendency to reveal things to Istas through her dreams. And shiver certainly seemed to magnify those dreams and the clarity of such messages.

Taking the small glass vial in her hand, Istas gulps it down and then climbs into bed, pulling her blankets around her.

OOC: It's up to you if you want to use these shiver-induced dreams to play up anything for Istas. I won't pre-suppose to include visions or dreams of the future on my own. That's for you to share if you're inclined to do so. And feel free to make them nightmarish or timely, at your discretion.

-----------

The following morning, Istas groans and struggles to open her eyes. Her sleep hadn't been particularly restful given the vivid dreams produced by the shiver, but at least she physically feels better from fighting off the poison.

I'm assuming with only 1 point of temporary Con damage, Istas would heal from that overnight.

She vaguely realizes she wore her armor to bed and pauses to strip it off. Crossing to one of the wash basins, she splashes water on her face and combs out her hair, pondering her schedule for the day. Despite whatever agenda of tasks Stannus may have assigned her, she fully intends to seek out Arbus and discuss the previous night's events first, shirking her duties, if necessary. After donning a new robe, she quickly packs away her things and goes to her mentor's chambers.

Arbus pulls open the door to his cell and greets Istas in his customary manner, "May Istas smile on you, child." The 'child' is not meant derogatorily, nor as a way to put Istas in her place. The old man has seen two generations pass and is working on a third. He addresses almost everyone he meets as child, with the known exceptions of the Bishop and Stannus. "Come in. What may I do for you?"

I think you meant, 'May Pharasma smile on you...' but I get the gist. ;-D

"Good morning, Father," Istas replies, "I'm sorry to call on you so early this morning. I heard you had returned from Castle Korvosa yesterday and...well, much has happened in that time. May I come in?"

Once Arbus allows her to enter and closes the door, she relaxes as she ponders how best to explain everything. "I've come to ask you about...well, a great many things. Stannus sent me to investigate Potter's Ward yesterday. Lily's crew thought they'd spotted some movement there during the night, and he feared it might be more of the walking dead."

"Unfortunately, it turned out to be something worse," she says, "I found a tunnel in one of the burial mounds...and within it, a derro. I slew the defiler and returned with his body to Stannus. Both of us were interested in learning more about where the derro came from...and why he was there. So we performed the appropriate ceremony to ask such questions of his spirit."

"And that's when things got worse," she goes on, "Something unusual happened with the ceremony. Instead of simply answering our questions, something else animated his corpse. It attacked us again, citing Urgathoa as the source of its ill intent for Korvosa. But before that...while answering our questions...it also called to Stannus, asking him to 'return' and even compelling him to slay me. Now obviously, Stannus did no such thing. But the words emanating from the corpse unnerved Stannus. I've never seen him react in such a way. By calling on Pharasma, I managed to defeat the creature a second time...blasting it to dust...but even as it perished under the might of the Lady of Graves...the dust itself half-formed into an angry, evil image that I can...well, I can only imagine it was the very visage of Urgathoa herself."

"Tell me, Father," she implores him, "What does this mean?"

Taking the small glass vial in her hand, Istas gulps it down and then climbs into bed, pulling her blankets around her.

Istas dreams. She must be a pseudodragon flying through the city, rushing with incredible speed down the streets, soaring up to bank and turn, then diving back down to rush between the buildings again.

She turns and starts to fly east down the Strait of Alika. On her left is the island of Old Korvosa; on her right, the mainland portion of the city. As she flies a red mist creeps from the strait and winds into the city on both banks. When she reaches the main channel of the river she can see the mist flowing into Theif camp on the far bank.

Black smoke pours from Castle Korvosa. It forms a dense cloud dropping lower and lower toward the buildings. The smoke obscures Istas' vision making it too dangerous to fly and she perches on a convenient gargoyle. Through the mist and smoke barely seen red insectile forms flit. A wing here, a leg yonder, there a wickedly serrated claw.

Istas launches again. Circling upward through the smoke until she breaks into bright sunshine. Higher and higher she climbs until she can see that the whole of the city is consumed by mist and smoke. Just above the cloud she spots a small moving form, an imp. She stoops to attack, wings folded talons extended. Just as she's about to strike the imp rises to meet her and grows, stretching incredibly into a great blue dragon. Lightning lances toward Istas and she knows no more.
-----------

The following morning, Istas groans and struggles to open her eyes. Her sleep hadn't been particularly restful given the vivid dreams produced by the shiver, but at least she physically feels better from fighting off the poison.

I'm assuming with only 1 point of temporary Con damage, Istas would heal from that overnight.

Correct, despite sleeping in armour and vivd dreams.

I think you meant, 'May Pharasma smile on you...' but I get the gist. ;-D

So I did.

Once Arbus allows her to enter and closes the door, she relaxes as she ponders how best to explain everything. "I've come to ask you about...

"Unfortunately, it turned out to be .... So we performed the appropriate ceremony to ask such questions of his spirit."

"And that's when things got worse," she goes on, "Something unusual happened with the ceremony. Instead of simply answering our questions, something else animated his corpse. It attacked us again, citing Urgathoa as the source of its ill intent for Korvosa. But before that...while answering our questions...it also called to Stannus, asking him to 'return' and even compelling him to slay me. Now obviously, Stannus did no such thing. But the words emanating from the corpse unnerved Stannus. I've never seen him react in such a way. By calling on Pharasma, I managed to defeat the creature a second time...blasting it to dust...but even as it perished under the might of the Lady of Graves...the dust itself half-formed into an angry, evil image that I can...well, I can only imagine it was the very visage of Urgathoa herself."

"Tell me, Father," she implores him, "What does this mean?"

Arbus listens attentively without interrupting. At Istas' query, he stirs. "First, Istas, you must not discuss Stannus with anyone save the bishop, Stannus, or I suppose, having given me your confidence once already, myself. Stannus is cursed to be desired by the gods, like a child might desire candy -- or better analogy yet, like a craftsman covets a fine tool. "

out of time more later

Correct, despite sleeping in armour and vivd dreams.

Yeah, another unintended benefit of selecting the Endurance feat for Istas is that she can sleep in light or medium armor without becoming fatigued. I thought that would be very appropriate for a Shoanti...and assumed it meant she could gain a full night's rest even if she went to bed still wearing her armor.

Arbus listens attentively without interrupting. At Istas' query, he stirs. "First, Istas, you must not discuss Stannus with anyone save the bishop, Stannus, or I suppose, having given me your confidence once already, myself. Stannus is cursed to be desired by the gods, like a child might desire candy -- or better analogy yet, like a craftsman covets a fine tool. "

"I'm not sure I understand, Father," Istas replies, "Why would Stannus be desired by the gods more than any other? Did he once serve another cause? Is that why Urgathoa would seek to have him 'return' to her fold?"

Istas listens patiently for his explanation, because she truly does have misgivings about her fellow Pharasmen. Finally, Istas shares the next most troubling thoughts on her mind.

"Also, Father," she tells him, "I've had another dream. And it worries me in light of what we learned from the derro's spirit before it tried to attack us. Stannus left to inform the Bishop about our findings, but this derro claimed it belonged to a group known as the Wakers...presumably some religious cult devoted to Urgathoa intent on rousing more of the walking dead to plague Korvosa. But he also told us of another group he called the Red Ones wielding long knives by day and night...and a Priestess Scythe who is some favored daughter of Urgathoa...and lastly, a Wingless Wyrm that rules by terror. The derro bore markings on his hands and feet of Urgathoa's scythe diminishing our faith in Pharasma and also that of Abadar, Desna, and Erastil. When we asked how the derro's masters intended to harm the city, he told us that they would unleash an illness upon Korvosa...a silent Red Death."

"I tell you this, because last night I had a dream...a vision, I believe...from the Lady of Graves," she explains, "I soared above the city and across the river...only to see a red mist flowing from the water and onto the banks of Old Korvosa and Thief Camp. I saw black smoke over Castle Korvosa...a dense cloud dropping lower and lower over the rest of the city's buildings starting to obscure them from view. But before it did, I could make out insects...red ones...like a pestilence crawling through the city streets. And when I finally flew higher to once again reach the sun above the smoke and clouds, I faced a terrible, terrible creature...a great blue dragon. Lightning shot from its maw and then...then I awoke!"

"Father, I believe the red mist is the illness the derro's masters will use to infect Korvosa," she goes on, "I believe it will come upon the water...but whether by drinking from the river...swimming within it...or eating the fish that live there...I do not know. Something else...something terrible must be fated to happen at Castle Korvosa...so dangerous that it will sweep down into the city itself. The red insects must represent the Red Ones and the Red Death the derro described. And the great blue dragon...well, it can only be the Wingless Wyrm meant to terrorize Korvosa. Don't you think?"

"It's a prophecy, Father!" she urges him, "Pharasma speaks to those who place their faith in her, right? I think she's trying to speak through me!"

"I'm not sure I understand, Father," Istas replies, "Why would Stannus be desired by the gods more than any other? Did he once serve another cause? Is that why Urgathoa would seek to have him 'return' to her fold?"

"I don't know why Stannus garners the attention he does. You'd have to ask the gods. He served Urgathoa once. I don't know how. But, that service left him with a great hatred of the Pallid One. "

Arbus shifts uncomfortably. "This is just conjecture, mind, and between you and me. I think Stannus still serves other gods. Gorum and Calistria among them. Have you never wondered at that great sword he carries? Or ... well that's too much like gossip."

"It's a prophecy, Father!" she urges him, "Pharasma speaks to those who place their faith in her, right? I think she's trying to speak through me!"

"It may be true prophecy, daughter. Pharasma does speak to her faithful. Or it may be the power of suggestion. You just outlined the dream from the derro's responses. You went to sleep with them burdening your mind. The dream could have been conjured from your own anxieties."

"Also, consider this, the ritual went wrong somehow. Urgathoa, or one of her minions may have invested the body. Can you trust any answer the derro gave?"

Arbus reaches for a cup on the desk, takes a sip. "Prophecy or mere dream. Real answers or deceit. Your course is the same. Pray to Pharasma. In time the truth will find you."

"I don't know why Stannus garners the attention he does. You'd have to ask the gods. He served Urgathoa once. I don't know how. But, that service left him with a great hatred of the Pallid One. "

Arbus shifts uncomfortably. "This is just conjecture, mind, and between you and me. I think Stannus still serves other gods. Gorum and Calistria among them. Have you never wondered at that great sword he carries? Or ... well that's too much like gossip."

"I'll make no secret of it to you, Father," Istas shares, "But I don't care for Stannus. He's the most callous, narrow-minded Pharasmen I've encountered since coming to Dawn Hall. He refers to me as a Shote girl...an insult that would have him burned alive in the Cinderlands by my people if that tshamek ever ventured there spouting such words."

"I respect his authority, Father," she conveys, "But having seen him last night...and now knowing these things about him...well, it makes me...question his choice as the one to lead us while Bishop d'Bear is away. If we were called upon to fight back and contain the walking dead of Grey District, I would certainly want Stannus at the forefront. But in terms of shepherding our devotions, caring for the sick, and divining Pharasma's will...you are far better suited than he for those tasks."

"Why...if I may ask...does Bishop d'Bear spend so much time at Castle Korvosa these days? And you, too, Father? What could be more important than our duty here at Dawn Hall?"

Later:

"It may be true prophecy, daughter. Pharasma does speak to her faithful. Or it may be the power of suggestion. You just outlined the dream from the derro's responses. You went to sleep with them burdening your mind. The dream could have been conjured from your own anxieties."

"I see..." Istas nods, somewhat disappointed that she hadn't considered that possibility. Father Arbus always seems so much wiser than she. But still, did the shiver only magnify what the derro told her and warp the information into her dreams? Or was Pharasma merely confirming what she learned from him? The dreams were so vivid. So real. Like the vision that led her to Korvosa and away from the Skoan-Quah. 'Surely it has to be more than that,' she wonders silently.

"Also, consider this, the ritual went wrong somehow. Urgathoa, or one of her minions may have invested the body. Can you trust any answer the derro gave?" Arbus reaches for a cup on the desk, takes a sip. "Prophecy or mere dream. Real answers or deceit. Your course is the same. Pray to Pharasma. In time the truth will find you."

"Yes, of course," Istas nods again, still somewhat preoccupied by her own thoughts, "Of course, you're right as always, Father. I will seek the truth from Pharasma...in all things. Especially if Urgathoa and her minions seek to deceive us or do us harm."

"Thank you for taking the time to converse with me," she finishes, "I know not what action Stannus' message to Bishop d'Bear last night may have started. But I'd like to look into this matter further. I'll ask him about it later. After morning victuals, of course."

I'm not sure where to take things next. Is this presumably the day the others go after Gaedran Lamm? I'm hopeful I can join the main group sometime soon...not that I don't enjoy the one-on-one story development, though. This is a blast! Easily one of the most interesting early character development exercises I've done via play-by-post. :-)

I think I've laid all the groundwork I intended for Istas too. I'll try to post answers to your last questions tomorrow. Barring someone's objection, I've put the PCs to bed and will open with the Queen's audience tomorrow sometime. Then a brief meeting to get their first assignment and they meet you.

I think I've laid all the groundwork I intended for Istas too. I'll try to post answers to your last questions tomorrow. Barring someone's objection, I've put the PCs to bed and will open with the Queen's audience tomorrow sometime. Then a brief meeting to get their first assignment and they meet you.

Sounds good.

"I'll make no secret ... I don't care for Stannus .... I respect his authority, Father, But ...question his choice as the one to lead us while Bishop d'Bear is away. ...you are far better suited than he for those tasks."

"Why...if I may ask...does Bishop d'Bear spend so much time at Castle Korvosa these days? And you, too, Father? What could be more important than our duty here at Dawn Hall?"

"I may be better versed in the scriptures and rituals of our goddess' faith. I and others here might even stand higher in her favor than Stannus. But I have not the will, nor the desire, to rule. Stannus does, but he must be groomed to that role. Hence, he leads while d'Bears is away."

"We perform our duty at the Castle." Arbus leans in, lowers his voice. "I know you will keep this quiet. The King's sickness has taken a terrible turn. It looks like leprosy, but responds to no treatment nor to entreaties to Abadar, Sarenrae, and Pharasma. In the last few days his symptoms have actually worsened. He looks a monster, and it seems his organs are failing now. If he has not improved overnight, we may ask the Temple of the Iron Fist to send Ornher Reebs. He is said to be very strong with The Tyrant." Arbus shudders. " I don't know if it would be worth the price, but we have grown desparate. Perhaps the Curse ...."

Later:

"Thank you for taking the time to converse with me," she finishes, "I know not what action Stannus' message to Bishop d'Bear last night may have started. But I'd like to look into this matter further. I'll ask him about it later. After morning victuals, of course."

"I will see you in the hall. I must prepare myself for the day first." Arbus shows Istas out.

"I will see you in the hall. I must prepare myself for the day first." Arbus shows Istas out.

"Thank you, Father...of course," Istas replies.

Once she departs, Istas wanders Dawn Hall for several minutes, lost in her thoughts and half-remembered images from the dream she experienced overnight.

'If the King suffers from an illness that responds to no entreaties to slow or halt its spread,' she wonders, 'Could this be the sickness Urgathoa's minions seek to spread?' The thought worries her considerably. And she decides it's even more important to seek out Stannus and learn what preparations the Bishop may have asked him to make to oppose the plans of their enemies.

She asks around for his whereabouts, consulting with any acolytes leaving the morning gathering. "Have you seen Stannus?" she asks, "Where'd he go after delivering the day's assignments? I must speak with him."

OOC: No major roleplay is needed for this...but given what Arbus shared about the King's illness, it seems logical Istas would try and connect that to the spread of disease the Urgathoans have planned. So she'll want to discuss it with Stannus in the hopes that he might raise her concern with the Bishop. I think it will also be interesting to relay to Stannus what her dream entailed...and how she believes it's a prophecy from Pharasma.

"Have you seen Stannus?" she asks, "Where'd he go after delivering the day's assignments? I must speak with him."

No one knows what his plans were. Someone saw him walking down the hill.

No one knows what his plans were. Someone saw him walking down the hill.

Istas goes in search of him, judging her revelations as more important than whatever duty he may have assigned her for the day.

CrimsonDM wrote:

No one knows what his plans were. Someone saw him walking down the hill.

Istas goes in search of him, judging her revelations as more important than whatever duty he may have assigned her for the day.

Do you take time to gear up?

Outside the scene is much like yesterday morning. A few clerics walk through the extensive grounds, tending their duties. Halfway down the slope the work party from yesterday is pruning a large tree.

Do you take time to gear up?

Not as much as the previous day. Istas always wears her studded leather armor under her robes...for safe travel through any part of the city...plus, it's just part of her Shoanti upbringing to always be ready. She leaves behind her spear and shield, though, unless she knows she's being asked to go on a patrol or assignment for the church. So, weapon-wise, she only has her ceremonial dagger and decorative, Shoanti-made warclub.

Outside the scene is much like yesterday morning. A few clerics walk through the extensive grounds, tending their duties. Halfway down the slope the work party from yesterday is pruning a large tree.

Already having developed a friendly relationship with the work crew...and knowing them to be a failry observing lot...Istas stops to consult with them, asking if they've seen Stannus.

"Tall, dark hair...heavily armored...scowls a lot...carries a big greatsword wherever he goes," she explains.

Already having developed a friendly relationship with the work crew...and knowing them to be a failry observing lot...Istas stops to consult with them, asking if they've seen Stannus.

"Tall, dark hair...heavily armored...scowls a lot...carries a big greatsword wherever he goes," she explains.

The foreman doffs his cap, "Morning, ma'am. We saw him pass by a few minutes ago. Looked like he was headed toward the gate into the city."

The foreman doffs his cap, "Morning, ma'am. We saw him pass by a few minutes ago. Looked like he was headed toward the gate into the city."

"Thank you," Istas offers over her shoulder as she hurries in the direction of the gate. On her way, she starts to wonder where Stannus would be going? 'Did the Bishop give him a new task after he gave her the news of the Urgathoans and the derro?' she wonders, 'Or has he decided to investigate things on his own?'

Istas will indeed venture into the city itself, searching for signs of Stannus along the way...and asking anyone she recognizes if they've seen the priest.

Thrice-cursed postmonster!!!

An acolyte on gate duty saw Stannus leave, going west on Last Way, then bearing lefter on Pillar Hill Boulevard. Walking westward up the hill on the boulevard it's easy to see over the low scattered houses of this working class neighborhood. On the right are the soaring otwers of Castle Korvosa perched on top of the massive cut-off pyramid called the Grand Mastaba. To the left is the Pillar Wall, another relic from the ancient civilization that built the Grand Mastaba. The base of the Wall is as tall as two men and 150' pillars are set on top of it. Before Gray and South Shore were enclosed, the wall marked the southern boundary of the city.

"Watch out, you, an ogre could ambush you. Have you truly gone tshamek?" Coming toward you is Kaddok "Thunder" Dharanok. Lost in comtemplation, you didn't notice him.

"Watch out, you, an ogre could ambush you. Have you truly gone tshamek?" Coming toward you is Kaddok "Thunder" Dharanok. Lost in comtemplation, you didn't notice him.

"Kaddok!" Istas smiles as she recognizes the gruff voice, "What are you doing here?"

"I was trailing after one of my superiors from Dawn Hall," she explains, "So, if he's my prey and I'm his predator, I guess I was too focused on finding him...and that makes me your prey."

She gives him a warm greeting and then a small hug. "I've missed you. What have you been up to?"

CrimsonDM wrote:

"Watch out, you, an ogre could ambush you. Have you truly gone tshamek?" Coming toward you is Kaddok "Thunder" Dharanok. Lost in comtemplation, you didn't notice him.

"Kaddok!" Istas smiles as she recognizes the gruff voice, "What are you doing here?"

"I was trailing after one of my superiors from Dawn Hall," she explains, "So, if he's my prey and I'm his predator, I guess I was too focused on finding him...and that makes me your prey."

She gives him a warm greeting and then a small hug. "I've missed you. What have you been up to?"

Kaddok wearing a heavy quilted leather suit and looks like he's put on weight. When Istas hugs him, he feels lumpy and hard. "Training. I have decided to experiment with armour. " He opens the coat to show that it is lined with many small pockets. From one of them he pulls out a small rectangular sheet of metal. "This jacket is supposed to weigh me down so that the armour will feel lighter. I'm almost ready to put in the thickest pieces."

"Tell me about your prey."

Kaddok wearing a heavy quilted leather suit and looks like he's put on weight. When Istas hugs him, he feels lumpy and hard. "Training. I have decided to experiment with armour. " He opens the coat to show that it is lined with many small pockets. From one of them he pulls out a small rectangular sheet of metal. "This jacket is supposed to weigh me down so that the armour will feel lighter. I'm almost ready to put in the thickest pieces."

"This seems heavy..." Istas notes, speaking to him in the Shoanti tongue since she so rarely gets to use it in Korvosa. She admires the way Kaddok carries the 'training' suit. Of course, she had always liked the Shundar-Quah even as a little girl when he sojourned with her own tribe. He always seemed so much more willing to try new things than her. 'Maybe that's why I like him?' she wonders, but then Kaddok interrupts her thoughts.

"Tell me about your prey."

Istas frowns as she's brought back to thoughts of Stannus.

"Oh, it's just a high-ranking servant of Pharasma," she tells him, "His name is Stannus. Not a very pleasant man at all. Quite intense in eradicating the walking dead. Normally, I'd consider that a good trait, given my upbringing among the Skoan-Quah. But he doesn't particularly care for Shoanti very much. And...well, he and I haven't seen eye to eye on much lately."

"I'm trying to find him so I can tell him about my..." Istas stops short, and then considers that she might as well tell Kaddok too, "...about my dreams. I believe I've had a vision. From Pharasma. A warning really. I think something bad is about to happen to Korvosa. An illness...a sickness...something that will sweep through the city and threaten everyone."

"Oh, it's just a high-ranking servant of Pharasma," she tells him, "His name is Stannus. ...

"I'm trying to find him so I can tell him about my..." Istas stops short, and then considers that she might as well tell Kaddok too, "...about my dreams. I believe I've had a vision. From Pharasma. A warning really. I think something bad is about to happen to Korvosa. An illness...a sickness...something that will sweep through the city and threaten everyone."

"Stannus is your prey? And serves Pharasma?" Kaddok whistles. "He's one of the best swordsmen in the city. I met him at Orsini's once. He came to demonstrate two-handed blade technique and tactics.

"You're lucky we met. I saw him go toward South Shore through the breach in the Pillar Wall."

"Stannus is your prey? And serves Pharasma?" Kaddok whistles. "He's one of the best swordsmen in the city. I met him at Orsini's once. He came to demonstrate two-handed blade technique and tactics.

"A swordsman?" Istas seems surprised, "Well...I suppose that makes sense. He's always carried that greatsword with him. But I just thought of him more as a priest with an eccentric past...part of which latched onto that specific weapon for some reason or another."

Istas draws her ceremonial dagger and shows it to Kaddok. "Pharasma favors this over a sword," she explains, "It's simple, quick, and sufficient for the Lady of Graves. And besides, not all power comes from a blade anyway."

"You're lucky we met. I saw him go toward South Shore through the breach in the Pillar Wall."

"South Shore?" Istas replies, obviously perplexed, "Whatever for?"

She puts away the dagger and then gestures with her chin towards the Pillar Wall. "Care to accompany me?"