Although Zorestar has asked permission from Lord Varn for his daughter's hand in marriage, the wizard has not actually proposed. Here is the retcon of that moment.
Zorestar takes Alicia out to a secluded spot under a tree at the edge of the lake just outside of Evergreen. They sit for a while enjoying each others company, when Zorestar suddenly stands and says "Hmm? What is this in my pocket, my dear? I believe this is for you."
Using his mage hand, Zorestar takes a golden gem encrusted ring (which he procured from a trader from Brevoy) and gently floats it over to Alicia. "My dearest Alicia. Will you accept this ring along with its many sides, as a symbol of my love for you. With it, I offer you my hand with a promise of holy matrimony, if you so desire my company for the rest of our lives?"
Alicia is taken-aback by this but smiles widely towards Zorestar.
"Of course my love. I would be honored." she smiles as she accepts the ring. "My father will be so thrilled!"
Carina giggles as she watches Zorestar dedicate the new Lebeda Library. She then turns to Bron: Do you think we will ever see him in the Castle again?
Alicia smiles to Carina
"He better be." she says with a wide smile and looks back at how her love seems to be so swept away with the prospect of a library. A citizen has asked to look over the library. He's a elf who appears to be far older than other elves you've seen before with his wirey white hair and wrinked complexion. He claims to have been a librarian for many years back in Kyronin, but he wanted a chance of scenery. Not to mention, to witness the birth of a new house of knowledge where all races (he stresses mostly on the human and non-elf races) can learn and better themselves. Becoming more civilised and perhaps winning wars with pen and paper instead of blood and steel.
"I do not doubt or deny it, lord Lebeda. But she knows her father's followers better than us and can anticipate their reactions. We need to come out of this meeting as fair but firm - not too agreeable but not too stingy. It goes almost without saying that this meeting will set the precedent for all our future dealings."
"Very well, Sir Bron. I will endeavor to set the best precedent possible. As I reflect upon my own qualifications for this work, I cannot deny that Alicia is far more charming than me, and I will welcome her company in the appointed task."
Alicia smiles and nods at this.
"I have already requested my father to bring over as many books as possible from my personal library." she smiles to to the group whilst sitting next to Zorestar and slyly holding his hand under the table. "He has promised to make his way down our new road that connects to his kingdom. He assures me all is good at the moment between us and the swordlords, however he said he will help if things up north grown too desperate." as she says this she has a determined look in her eye and a hand on her lump.
After listening to Bron's advice, Zorestar goes back to his office to compose his poetry to present to Alicia. Once evening after a lovely dinner, the wizard presents his poem to Alicia.
"Alicia, my darling, I wish to express how I feel about you, but I have borrowed some of my mathematics to assist in this endeavor. Please forgive me if this does not come across clearly, but know that in my heart it is true."
Zorestar clears his throat and proclaims,
U plus me together equals forever. Me minus you equals never.
U minus me equals lonely .
U plus me equals a love that will never die or turn cold.
Me minus you equals what is not ever meant to be
Your hand plus my hand equals something I will always hold.
If we have a problem ...just give me a pencil and a paper and I will work it out .
My heart plus your heart equals a love so rare. Your heart minus my heart equals a tragedy we are never destined to see. Your dreams plus my dreams equals a reality.
And a love that will always be .
Do the math add it up and you will see.
Zorestar bows and then waits to see how Alicia reacts.
Alicia laughs, but blushes too at this display of effection. She moves close and kisses him on the lips softly.
"That was so cute of you Zore." she smiles and looks him deep in the eyes "It was a little cheesey, but I think it's adorable."
"No" she says simply before moving up closer and wrapping a arm around him quickly in a surprise. "I love being with you." she laughs as she could tell Zorestar looked a little hurt for a moment."[/b]
A flood of relieve comes over Zorestar face as a warm smile spreads wide. "You really do love being with me?" Zorestar asks incredulously.
Alicia wrote:
"I have wanted to tell you for some time, but I was uncertain as you had no problem giving me my space. Last man who acted so kind to me...well. He preferred the company of other men."
"Well, you can certainly rest assured that I much prefer your company to that of other men! However, I guess I just wanted to make sure that you were comfortable with me! I confess that I have never had anyone ever take an interest in me as you have. I also admit that most females find me rather strange and eccentric. I just can't really believe that you would be interested in somebody like me! However, to know that you do, fills me with a great joy that I can hardly describe with words!"
Zorestar simply gazes back with a happy expression on his face, but is unclear what to do next. All he can do is beam with joy!
Anyone else checking the discussion thread? Discussing what building the group wants to build next. So far we have a few votes.
Alicia smiles, lost in the moment, waiting for him to do something, but instead he just talks and she then presses her lips against his. As she pulls back she puts a finger to his lips.
"Please, talk a lettle less." she says in a playful way.
When other duties do not call her, Carina frequently can be seen sitting by the shore of the lake staring south and wondering what she is. Wondering whether the dreams are true or not. While she has not been haunted for the past few weeks, she is sure that when tough times come back to the party, the dreams and the witch doctor and the horrid hag will all return as well.
As you sit by the water you notice a tankard. It appears to be flawless, yet somewhat well used at the same time. Upon it is a symbol of Cayden Cailean. It appears like it must've drifted down the river, but it must've drifted quite far to get here and so unscathed too. There are also markings upon it:
"Though darkness approches, I laugh and go down swinging as I know I will be drinking either at a tavern or by the drunken hero's side."
Zorestar Lebeda wrote:
Zorestar spends the month aiding in all areas that he can. He will assist architects with various plans in their castle building. He will discuss the need for education and an academy for learning in the capital city. To keep up with his own learning, he will study mathematics and arcane studies. However, when has any other free time, he chooses to spend his time with Alicia Varn. He loves to take walks with her in the evenings and come back and play a game of Sjakk by the fire. He loves to listen to her play her harp and he always takes an interest in what she does during her days. Taking his time in the relationship, Zorestar always gives her a good deal of space, but thoroughly enjoys her when they are together.
One night, as they are sitting by the fire, Zorestar asks, "Alica, my dear, do you enjoy being with me? I don't seem too eccentric for your tastes do I?"
She sits there to contemplate the question for a moment, looking into the fire.
"No" she says simply before moving up closer and wrapping a arm around him quickly in a surprise. "I love being with you." she laughs as she could tell Zorestar looked a little hurt for a moment.
"I have wanted to tell you for some time, but I was uncertain as you had no problem giving me my space. Last man who acted so kind to me...well. He perfered the company of other men." she shrugs not understanding it entirely "I enjoyed this time we had together. I love our little talks and games of Sjakk." as she says this she locks eye contact with Zorestar, keeping her smile.
something seems to be weird with the threads. If you guy's haven't realised, stuff has ben going on in Discussion as kingdom building has started there. Your first month has gone off without a hitch and a very nice roll from Carina has given you all 8 BP ontop of what you currently have.
Also I meant if anyone wanted to do roleplaying, talking with family members, sending messages, persuing a romance, yadda, yadda. All to be done here. just love how your characters work off each other.
Alicia nods to Zorestar, but she gives a warm smile.
"Best not to worry. If anything causes any trouble I'm sure a handsome hero will save the day." as she says this she gives a wink towards Zorestar.
Zorestar will pass the evening having a lovely dinner with Alicia followed by a game os Sjakk. During one of the games, Zorestar turns the conversation to the recent events of their travels with a simple question.
"Alicia, my dear, what do you know about unicorns?"
1d20 ⇒ 20
Alicia thinks for a moment
"I know a bit." she smiles with a shrug "They're intelligent creatures that can talk to humans and have fur coloured a brillian white. They hate evil and can be fierce under the right circumstance. They combat evil creatures when they face them and have been known to befriend women of exceptionally pure virtue. They use their spells through their horns and evil creatures value the horns as reagents for healing potions or any kind of dark rite the creatures wishes to perform. I have heard that a single powdered unicorn horn can be worth 1,600 gold in value of components for creating healing magic, but the entire horn is kept in one peice for, legends say, some of the darkest of evil rites, but it's only stories I've heard and books I read." she gives a soft blush then "I was fascinated with unicorns when I was a little girl. I swear I saw one once, but it was probably just my imagination as a child." she laughs it off before looking back at Zorestar "Why do you ask?"
"I was so worried for you. Have you finished mapping the land?" she asks with a smile and at that confirmation from Zorestar gives him a hug.
"Yes, Alica, I believe that finishes the mapping of the area. Mind you, you need not have worried. My friends are rather adept at fending off foes, Istikali is rather perceptive, and besides, I have a few of my own tricks up my sleeve should I need them." Zorestar replies with a grin as he returns her embrace. "So, how have things been here? I trust all has been well for you."
Perception 1d20+2
Noticing Ganit and Gwen sharing strong words, Zorestar thinks to himself. Hmm? Ganit seems to be getting himself into a little trouble already. I must remember to make a good effort at communication to avoid such misunderstandings. I certainly do not want any misunderstandings with dear Alicia.
"So next, I hope we will be able to return to the Stag Lord's fort by the lake and survey the surrounding land to be sure that this will be our optimum location for our castle. If you are not too busy, perhaps you will be willing to accompany us?"
"We've all been getting to know each other and hearing about what you have all done." she gives a warm smile "I've also been sending letters to my father. He's tied up with business after he had an issue with Ettercaps. Some were kidnapping farmers so he has driven them off. Saving his people is what he cares about, more then hunting down the intelligent creatures. He said they ran into the mountains so all he cares is that they are far from his people and won't trouble them." you can tell she clearly looks up to her father as a compassionate hero.
”I found a few things up north you may find interest in. Too many eyes out here, I’ll leave them in your quarters later.”
"Thank you, Master Ganit! I will look forward to reading them. Just remember that my quarters will now be in the back of my caravan!"
Hmm? I think I lost some ground with Carina, but Ganit actually nodded at me! I've never seen that before. Maybe I am making some progress out here!"
Zorestar notices Bron visiting with James, but instead of interrupting them, he seeks out Alicia. "Well, the others have returned. Things will feel differently around here now that they are back. Unfortunately, I will need to leave with them tomorrow. Due to the nature of this exploration they have proposed, I'm afraid you will likely need to stay here. I look forward to the completion of the castle when we can all stay together under the same roof with the comforts of home. However, in the meantime, it will be safer for you here. Alicia, my dear, I will miss our walks, talks, and games of Sjakk we have played together. Will you be ok here at Oleg's on your own for a little while?"
"I will be fine. I have been speaking with Svetlana and getting along well with her so we can keep each other occupied." at the mention of the castle she smiles brightly. "Indeed, I look forward to it too. If you continue your adventures out here you can decorate it with stuffed creatures you manage to defeat. I've learned that many nobles do it, but most only get it for hunters."
Funnily enough, when I was a player in part 2 there was a random encounter with a Wyvern and we got the city people to haul it back and stuff it to have in the throne room.
"Why would you need such a thing? I thought you enjoyed living rough with this group out in the wilderness? surely your bedroll wasn't that uncomfortable, was it?"
"Well, Alicia, I have enjoyed getting to know my new friends here in this land. Furthermore, I admit that I do enjoy being out in the woods, getting to see the natural wonder of this place. However, I also don't see why we need to suffer to enjoy it! I figured that there was no harm in having a comfortable feather bed to ease the pain of my back when I've been lying on rocks and roots too long. I also figured that I could use the caravan as a mobile workshop for my work. I can keep it stocked with material components, as well as my books, tomes, and scrolls. I hope to put a board on the wall to write my equations up with chalk, and I also hope to install a table that can double as a Sjakk board. I figure this will aid me in my travels until my workshop becomes set up at the new castle we are planning to build. Tell me, Alicia, how are you faring this far from the comforts of civilization? Are you finding yourself comfortable in this new home?"
"I see." she smiles as she thinks about this and can see how it makes alot of sense. I can see how it can be very useful, but it will need some work to become a true mobile workshop and there is always the fear that an attacking group might set it alight." she points out, wondering what his idea on that would be.
"I'm afraid I didn't know about that tactic. I'll keep it in mind next time we play, good game."
"Forgive me, Alicia. Perhaps I have read far too many books on the subject and pursued it to such an extreme degree. There are just so many intricacies and possibilities in the game. I do hope you will still be willing to play another game of Sjakk with me in the near future. I sometimes take these subjects far too seriously and become slightly obsessed with them. I really do need to try and keep some balance in my life. Perhaps you would you like to join me for a walk next?"
As the days pass while Carina, James, and Ganit are away, Zorestar spends his free moments visiting with Alicia (and occasionally with Bron). He takes walks, listens to her practice her harp, plays games of Sjakk with her and simply takes an interest in everything about her. When she is busy, he spends time reading books and experimenting with various arcane arts. He finishes mastering the spell Rope Trick as well as Invisibility which he inscribes into his book. When he is too busy with his work, he sends his familiar, Istikali, to check in on Alicia to make sure that she is doing well.
"How are you today, Alicia? Did you sleep well?" He asks one morning. "I believe my companions should be coming back very soon. Furthermore, I am hoping that they will be bringing with them a four wheeled, horse drawn caravan to house a new featherbed for me. It will be like my traveling home that I can bring with me on my adventures!"
"You need not worry. As I said, I will keep that move in mind for next time." she smiles as she enjoys how he carries on about things and admits that he becomes obsessed with certain things he studies. At the invite of a walk she nods her head politely and offers her hand for the walk.
Alicia enjoys her time with Zorestar and everyone else at the trading post, getting to know Svetlana and Oleg, hearing all the stories of how they saved this place from bandits and then hunted down Svetlana's ring and making peace with the kobolds after ridding the area of the Mites. Even the tale of the Tatzlewyrms with the mount on the wall with the three heads and Tuskgutter's tusks, held for trophy to prove the size of the pig.
Alicia smiles, getting used to the outdoors and making sure to meet Zorestar first.
"I slept well, thank you." she smiles as she looks out, expecting the members of the group to arrive at any moment. "Why would you need such a thing? I thought you enjoyed living rough with this group out in the wilderness? surely your bedroll wasn't that uncomfortable, was it?"
"That's a nice board, Zores. What's it, checkers?"
"No, my dear Bron." Zorestar replies as he inwardly sighs at the interruption from this wonderful moment he shares with Alicia Varn. "This is a game for Kings and Queens! I am not sure if you have ever played it before, but it requires a great deal more intellectual thought than most games. It is wonderful for developing your spatial reasoning, logic, calculation, and memorization skills. Furthermore, with all of the books that have been written on the subject, you could dedicate a life to learning its intricacies."
Alicia wrote:
"Beautiful bird, aren't you?"
"Be careful, Alicia! Don't give her too much attention or she may like it too much and then she'll never leave you alone."
Zorestar continues to search the board for a move to take him out of his precarious position.
Knowledge, Sjakk 1d20+9
After several moments, he finds the tactic he is looking for. Moving his knight out to the edge to threaten Alicia's Queen, he reveals a check from his rook. With this double attack combination he forces a significant win in material.
"Are you familiar with the tactic known as discovery? Please do not feel bad, for you are truly a formidable opponent on the Sjakk board, my dear. However, with this move I think I have just saved my game!"
Alicia gives a smile and a laugh.
"I don't mind giving her the attention she wants." she smiles, clearly enjoying the bird's company. She turns her attention to the board and looking at Zorestar's moves she shakes her head. "I'm afraid I didn't know about that tactic. I'll keep it in mind next time we play, good game." she gives a smile as she couldn't see an escape route from that particular move.
"You heard of the nation of Thuvia far to the south? It is said the nation was struggling until an alchemist created the Sun Orchid Elixiar. It's a vial that, when imbibed, can reverse the age of time on the drinker."
"Very interesting, Alicia! My, you never cease to surprise me with your vast knowledge. Every moment I spend with you, I feel I learn a great deal of new things. This Sun Orchid Elixiar certainly sounds very interesting. Just when the body starts to fail due to the aging process, it suddenly reverses its direction and grows younger, but at a much accelerated pace. This is like reversing time, but it is not exactly that. It sounds like it actually only affects the physical body. Now, I wonder what happens to all of the wisdom and knowledge accumulated over the course of a life time. Do you start to lose any of that as you quickly grow younger. I also wonder about your memories and if they all stay intact through the transformation. The other factor that one would need to consider is that of your life partner. It would not do to have one growing older as the other instantly grows younger. I suspect that if you wished to grow older together with your life companion you would need also need to grow younger with them as well."
"Alicia, what do you think of the idea of growing older and then younger with a life partner?"
"He seemed as wise as he ever was." she shrugs as she mentions this and then takes a moment to listen to what he has to say, mulling it over for a moment before shaking her head. "No, I'd like to just life my life happily with my partner and let what comes naturally, come naturally. It wouldn't matter to me if me and my partner were old or young, as long as we love each other I believe that's all that matters." as she says this she makes another movement on her turn. "Check." however the game wasn't over.
"You shouldn't wish for us to become too much like them, but to heed their lessons as warnings. We need to respect the fey around us and never raise up against them. They deserve our respect."
"I cannot agree with you more, Alicia. Trust me, when we are out here in the woods as we are, I have a great deal of respect for the fey. I should certainly not like to get on their bad side in any way. I just hope we do not do it accidentally without be aware."
"I'm glad. I have only heard storied of what happened to the others who tried to settle these lands. Either barbarians killed them or dragons or some say the forests just swallowed the nations whole." she explains whilst moving another peice into play, almost getting lost in the conversation "From every story there is a grain of truth. I'm certain they may had displeased the fey and that is why the land turned against them."
Zorestar Lebeda wrote:
Alicia wrote:
"It is a lot to think about but I guess only the gods really know what infinity is. Those who buy the Sun Orchid Elixiar don't understand."
"Forgive me, Alicia, but I do not know of your reference. What is the Sun Orchid Elixiar? What does that have to do with the concept of infinity?"
She gives a nod as she thinks back for a moment.
"You heard of the nation of Thuvia far to the south? It is said the nation was struggling until an alchemist created the Sun Orchid Elixiar. It's a vial that, when imbibed, can reverse the age of time on the drinker." she points out knowledgably "One man I met had bought one at their auctions, costing him most of his family's fortune. Before he drank the potion he was a old man of eighty, barely able to walk but then when he returned he was a youthful man of twenty-eight! Many people continue to buy the elixiar because it turns back your age, but it doesn't keep you there as you age normally again and some people who drink it do not gain so many years back. Eitherway, it is a treasure of the nation that had no natural resource to say afloat and now it thrives from commerce of the stuff."
"I find mathematics intriging, but the study of arcana I love. Especially the mentions of Azlant and Thessalon and how their magic was beyond what we call magic by a longshot." she states as she smiles brightly, enjoying this topic. "It's a pity most of the Azlanti empire is beneith the waves."
"Indeed it is curious how advanced the Azlanti were. No doubt they were a remarkable civilization. One that I hope our own will aspire to become like. As for the mathematics, I mention it simply because I believe they are connected, and like the concept of infinity, I am convinced that there is not limit to what may be accomplished through you mind and the study of arcana. In fact, it is my hypothesis that whatever you believe you can accomplish, and creatively dwell upon within your mind, will come to pass. I am convinced that it is the act of believing that makes it possible. However, we must remember that the creativity becomes an integral part as well, especially as you explore the means for making it happen! For the unbelievers it may appear as the impossible, but for those who creatively explore, you begin to realize that nothing, I repeat nothing is impossible unto you!"
Zorestar cannot help but smile at Alicia, as he shares his hope filled thoughts.
"They went into a time of decadance and were destroyed by the Aboleths unfortunately." she states, shaking her head. "You shouldn't wish for us to become too much like them, but to heed their lessons as warnings. We need to respect the fey around us and never raise up against them. They deserve our respect." she states simply as she looks to Zorestar seriously.
"But, that's something I believe you and your group have taken into consideration and will do. Last thing we wish to do is harm our neighbors." she considers what he mentions and nods her head. "That is a interesting thought that it could be powered by belief. Clerics and other spellcasters of the divine are based on belief too. It is a lot to think about but I guess only the gods really know what infinity is. Those who buy the Sun Orchid Elixiar don't understand."
"It seems so hard to find someone who understands you and you can talk with intellectually, you know?"
"Perhaps you just haven't found the right one." Zorestar replies with a curious smile. Looking around the place, the wizard understates the obvious, "But I hate to say it, but I'm also not sure that your prospects are going to improve by coming out to a remote wilderness setting like this."
Zorestar smiles, and tries to find the words to express what he is feeling, but the silence lingers a little too awkwardly as he comes up with his next question.
"Alicia, my dear. I do not know how to ask you this question, but I will just give it a try. I'm just wondering how you, uhm, feel about mathematics and the study of arcana?"
She gives a smile and a nod to that, though about the wilderness she just shrugs.
"It won't just be wilderness. It'll be a civilisation here soon too." she reminded him of this "Me and my father have every confidence in you all."
When Zorestar struggles with the question she waits, but then seems a little deflated when the words finally come out.
"I find mathematics intriging, but the study of arcana I love. Especially the mentions of Azlant and Thessalon and how their magic was beyond what we call magic by a longshot." she states as she smiles brightly, enjoying this topic. "It's a pity most of the Azlanti empire is beneith the waves."
I not sure you caught on, but suiters are usually the guys who try to woo a lady for marriage, typically in noble families where many guys will be after the same girl.
I caught the reference, but I think Zorestar is trying not to think that far ahead!
Alicia wrote:
"Well there is one, but I'm not sure how he feels yet but he appears to be very intelligent and plays a good game of Sjakk."
Zorestar smiles and looks into her eyes with a glowing warmth.
"Hmm?" Zorestar replies with a curious smile as the light slowly dawns upon him. "Well, are those two qualities you hold in high esteem on your list of criteria? There are certainly not many Sjakk Tournaments out here in the Greenbelt."
Zorestar enjoys every moment with her, as his heart begins to race, but he is careful not to appear too forward too soon.
"Well, I'm sure we could always hold one once the city has been founded." she smiles to Zorestar lightly. "I'm sure we will find many interesting opponents in your new city."
Alicia wrote:
"I'm glad you feel that way."
Zorestar Lebeda wrote:
"Well, Alicia Varn, from what you have said, I am hypothesizing that you have had a fair number of suitors. What ever happened to them? Did you have any that were well . . . you know . . . suitable? or have you left a trail of broken hearts in the path behind you?"
She laughs lightly at the comment of leaving a trail of broken hearts.
"No, I don't lead anyone on in that way." she states as she thinks for a moment "Some were smarter, some were boastful. This one relative of house Lodovka would keep talking about how his family had lived for so mant centuries un-opposed and boasted the last man who talked back to him ended up with a table hurled at his face. Another from house Medvyed has the worst table manners. I swear the table was filthy from drool before the food arrived." she laughs but then sighs as she looks back to Zorestar "It seems so hard to find someone who understands you and you can talk with intellectually, you know?"
When I get a chance, I ask Alicia if we can speak outside for a few moments:
Once we are away from Varn and his men:
I do not know exactly why your father chose to venture to our new, and as yet unfounded, land. But in the short time I have known you, you have proven yourself to be a rather astounding woman. You skill with the harp is amazing, and you seem to have a fairly quick wit about you if you are able to understand Zorestar. I may make jokes about him, but it is all in good fun and he is a good man.
But, what I am truly interested in is whether you might consider staying here in the Greenbelt and helping us to build our land. This would strengthen the ties between Varnhold and this nation, while also giving you the chance to spread your wings and learn about governing people away from the watchful eyes of your father.
While you do not need to make an immediate decision, I would like my companions to be able to inquire about you staying here. Obviously this would require the blessing of your father. I was thinking that perhaps in the morning, Bron and James could go for a ride with your father to show him a little more of this land. And while out, they could broach the question with him.
And, if you are wondering, I thought that having you work as a diplomat, greeting and meeting both merchants and government officials from other lands would be a great position for you. While Zorestar, Bron or myself could also fill this role, there are other positions where our skills would be better utilized. As I said, this would allow you to gain experience that you are unlikely to receive with your father always looking over your shoulder. And, for both us and Varnhold, this will place a friendly supportive nation on one border, saving us both money and lives.
I look back at the building. And then giving her some time to think and respond, or not respond:
Perhaps we should return and make sure that the menfolk are not getting into too much trouble.
Alicia takes her time thinking over this decision and turns to Carina.
"I will be thrilled to help you with your kingdom and welcome any diplomats. I just don't know what to say." she states as she's shocked at being given such an offer. "I would like to get to know Zorestar more, he's quite fun to talk to until he starts talking about his school and indeph research on all kinds of creatures. I would first like to talk to my father about this before making any decisions. No father likes seeing his daughter go, especially without telling them."
She smiles and laughs at Carina's statement.
"I'm sure my father will behave, if I keep him from the drink." Alicia laughs but then stops herself."He's not a violent drunk, he just becomes too friendly and tries doing tricks with his sword. One time I thought he was going to cut off his fingers when he missed a catch on his sword."
Zorestar joins the applause, delighted with Alicia Varn's performance!
"Bravo! Bravo, my dear! Your playing is beyond this world and a wonder to behold. Indeed you have clearly demonstrated your passion and gift to this world. I cannot thank you enough. It's tender sounds will remain in my heart for many years to come and it will see me through whatever challenges arise in my future. You are indeed a blessing to us all!"
Alicia bows and her face seems flushed from all the praise she's getting, along with her father giving her some too on her wonderful skill.
"Thank you, everyone." she returns to her table with Zorestar. "I forgot to mention, my father does ask for my opinion on a choice and balances my own opinion against what others want to do. My vote is counted as I take part in our meetings."
Turning to Alicia: Yes, please let us hear you play. While these gentlemen are great traveling companions here in the wilderness, their skill with the arts is sometimes lacking.
Alicia seems a little surprised at being asked to play by so many people but she gives a nod.
"I was trained on a pedal harp years ago, but I have grown to play a easier to carry version of the harp." she smiles taking out her own which appears to be brand new and even guilded in gold and must cost a bit. She begins to string the harp, first checking that all the strings are in order as she gets up and finds a clear area to perform. The next thing you know, she starts stringing the harp and issuing out a beautiful song that everyone seems to pause and remain silent as she plays.
can't believe how long it took me to find the "perfect" song for this. I should've just said she sang rarther than harp :p eitherway, I enjoy this singer I just discovered.
After she finishes she sighs and relaxes as the men Varn brought with him clap their hands in wonderment at her singing.
Zorestar listens to Alicia incredulously. "He does not think you are responsible enough?! But you are his daughter and heir! I'm not sure it is wise to simply watch and wait until the time you come into your inheritance. Tell me Alicia, have you ever earned an education or ever been in a position to make decisions that affect the world?"
"I attended Vortexariun, a great school in Katheer dedicated to the arcane study of air elementalism. We always started small with the simplest of magic. However, we quickly learned that we were dealing with one of the most powerful forces in the universe. Furthermore, to employ the arcane spells we studied, we needed to practice, practice, and practice again. The only way to learn true spells was through the study of cantrips. I suppose it is similar to learning the calculus. First you must learn to do elementary arithmetic followed by the study of algebra and geometry and after studying and analyzing functions you may only then learn differentiation and integration. You see, the only way to learn is by doing."
As Zorestar catches himself talking too much, he stops, takes a deep sigh and says, "Oh dear, there I go again! Oh please forgive me, Alicia. Once I get talking about the arcane studies and mathematics, I cannot help myself. I'm afraid I've lost you in my extraneous ramblings. Please tell me, Alicia, what is your passion in life? I mean, what is it that you enjoy doing above all else?"
Alicia shakes her head.
"It is not that I am not worthy, but my father wishes me to observe and learn so that if I do take over for him I learn from his mistakes and what he did right." she smiles as Zorestar starts on about his schooling "I have no passion beyond my harp. I've always been talented in playing the harp and I have been learning how to play it well."
Zorestar tries to relax as he continues to converse with Varn's daughter.
Nevertheless, that is impressive that you got to meet the centaurs and start building positive relations with them. Tell me, Alicia, what position will you take in your father's new government? Is he the sort of ruler that will empower his daughter with an important role? I imagine you would make a very good diplomat. Well I am relieved to hear that you were unscathed from the encounter with the spiders.
"For now no, there is no position. He doesn't believe I have the responsibility and I agree, but reluctantly." she states, shrugging her shoulders "I'm his soul heir though and I've been meaning to watch how things are done so I can take over after him."
"Ms. Varn?!" Zorestar exclaims as his own face reddens. "I did not realize that you knew so much about centaurs! You certainly have a great deal of insight into animal behavior. Have you spent much time in the wilderness?"
"I admit I only learnt this from my father. He was the one he made peace with them." she states with a smile. "I know next to nothing about the wilderness, but I am slowly learning new things about the wildlife around us. We came across a giant spider on the way here, it was monsterous! We avoided it's lair, it had made a hiding places giving them the name "Giant Trapdoor spiders" and they move fast. We killed one, but avoided the area not wanting to attract any more out. Disgusting creatures."
"Alicia, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." Zorestar says with a warm smile on his face. "From what I understand of centaurs, you would have good reason to be concerned. Your father must be a remarkable diplomat. I've heard that many human settlers have had difficulty with the equestrian race. They appear rather aloof and I don't think they like humans encroaching on their land."
Zorestar tries to figure out what to say next. Finally, he decides to list some of the centaur facts he remembers reading in some of his textbooks at the Vortexarium. "I believe an average sized centaur weighs over two thousand pounds and like to eat over twenty pounds of oats each day. "
"So have you met any centaurs yet? Do you think they would ever let you ride on their back?"
looking at your hp you should be fully healed from all the resting.
Alicia seems to roll her eyes at Zorestay mentioning these facts about them.
"My father did say one of his men was tempted to ask, but he stopped them because Centaurs have self respect. I mean, afterall, would you like me riding you?" he face flushes red as she just realised what she sounded could be interpreted as "W-What I mean is, if you had the body of the horse and...I-I were on your back. I'm certainly you would not enjoy that at all."
"I'm sorry, mam, are you talking to me? Please call Zoree." Zorestar lights up as he warms up to Alicia Varn. "For me, it has been the call of adventure. You know, that feeling you get when you are out in nature pushing your own boundaries and getting just a little taste of danger. Besides, life on Lake Reykal was getting just a little dull. My father wanted me to stay on as head accountant. That was just too much for me. Well not that the mathematics of bookeeping was too hard. In fact it is mostly arithmetic and rather trivial. Add the deposits coming in, subtract the expenses going out on and on and on. Not only was this one of the lowest forms of math, it became a little too much like torture for me. No, as a graduate of Vortexarium in Katheer, I knew that there was much more planned for my life than that. My family was not pleased, especially my father! When I told them that I refused to run the books, we had a bit of a fight, well more of a falling out I should say. Many words were exchanged that probably shouldn't have been said. In the end, I simply packed up a few belongings and with my raven companion Istikali, made my way south to help with this charter. I think this really is for the best. I love the excitement of this new life I have created! However, the one thing I did not anticipate was the discomfort that has come along with traveling along in the wilderness as we do. Alas, I confess, I do miss my comfortable bed and the cleanliness that comes life in a mansion. However, I assure you, I am not about to give up! In fact, I am convinced more than ever that there is no reason I cannot have the best of both worlds, so to say. But enough about me, tell me about yourself, Ms. Varn, what brings you south away from the comforts of home?"
Alicia smiles as she sits next to Zorestar.
"Well, my reason was more simple. I wished to be with my father, oh and it's Miss Varn, but call me Alicia." she states as she looks over to see her dad enjoying in the powerful minty drink and paying for his men. "I had no idea about so many things. Back home they say that Centaurs are savage and will sooner kill you than talk with you, but my father has proven them wrong and reached an agreement concerning the land. I learnt they mean no harm, but believe their land to be sacred and protect it fiercely. It's silly, but I used to be always afraid of seeing one in the forest if I ventured too far from my home, but Issia is very far from the Nomen Heights."
Sitting next to Jerin, Alicia smiles warmly towards him.
"So why did you come down south if you are more comfortable at home in a warm feathery bed?" she asks as she wishes to change the subject from this boring trading business.
Full Name
Bunny Paras
Race
HP: 18/18 | AC 17 (T13, FF 14) | CMB: +2 CMD: 15 | F:+4 R:+5 W:+7 | Init +3 | Perc +3, SM +3, Bluff/Diplo/Intim +2
Bunny Paras
Female Kitsune Druid (saurian shaman) 3
LN Medium Humanoid (kitsune, shapechanger)
Init +3; Senses Low-light vision, Perception +3
------------------------------
DEFENSE
------------------------------
AC 17, touch 13, flat-footed 14 (+3 armour, +3 Dex, +1 shield)
hp 18 (3d8)
Fort +4, Ref +5, Will +7
------------------------------
OFFENSE
------------------------------
Speed 30 ft. (20 ft. in medium load)
Melee bite +2 (1d4)
Ranged MW sling +6(1d4)
Spells Prepared (CL 3rd, Concentration +6)
2nd––aggressive thundercloud, barkskin
1st—cure light wounds, cure light wounds, cure light wounds
0—detect poison, light, mending, purify food and drink
Note: Also likes: flurry of snowballs and stone discus
Spell-like Abilities (CL 3rd, Concentration +6)
3/day—dancing lights
2/day—charm person, disguise self
Offensive Abilities: +1 DC with enchantments
------------------------------
STATISTICS
------------------------------
Str 10, Dex 16, Con 10, Int 10, Wis 16, Cha 15
Base Atk +2; CMB +2; CMD 15
Traits Ancient Historian, Beast Bond
Feats Magical Tail
Skills Acrobatics +8, Handle Animal +9, Knowledge (nature) +8, Profession (rabbit breeder) +8, Ride +9, Survival +6
(5 points; 4 class, 0 INT, 0 race, 1 favoured class)
(check penalty: -3)
Abilities agile, change shape (human female), kitsune magic, low-light vision, nature bond (animal companion: parasaurolophus), nature sense, natural weapon (bite), orisons, spontaneous summon nature’s ally, totem transformation, wild empathy (+4, or +8 with dinosaurs and reptiles), woodland stride
Languages Common, Cyclops, Druidic, Sylvan
Special Abilities:
------------------------------
SPECIAL ABILITIES
------------------------------
Agile (Ex): Kitsune receive a +2 racial bonus on acrobatics checks.
Ancient Historian (trait): You are well acquainted with the lore of fallen empires. Choose either Knowledge (history) or Linguistics. That skill becomes a class skill for you, and you begin play able to speak and read one of the following languages: Ancient Osiriani, Azlanti, Cyclops, Jistkan, Tekritanin, or Thassilonian. (Linguistics, Cyclops)
Beast Bond (trait): You share a close bond with animals. You gain a +1 bonus on Handle Animal checks and Ride checks. One of these skills (your choice) is always a class skill for you.
Change Shape (Su): A kitsune can assume the appearance of a specific single human form of the same sex. The kitsune always takes this specific form when she uses this ability. A kitsune in human form cannot use her bite attack, but gains a +10 racial bonus on Disguise checks made to appear human. Changing shape is a standard action. This ability otherwise functions as alter self, except that the kitsune does not adjust her ability scores and can remain in this form indefinitely.
Kitsune Magic (Ex/Sp): Kitsune add +1 to the DC of any saving throws against enchantment spells that they cast. Kitsune with a Charisma score of 11 or higher gain the following spell-like ability: 3/day—dancing lights (caster level equals the kitsune’s level).
Nature Sense (Ex): A druid gains a +2 bonus on Knowledge (nature) and Survival checks.
Spontaneous Casting: A druid can channel stored spell energy into summoning spells that she hasn't prepared ahead of time. She can “lose” a prepared spell in order to cast any summon nature's ally spell of the same level or lower.
Totem Transformation (Su): A saurian shaman may adopt an aspect of the saurian while retaining her normal form. The druid may select from the following bonuses: movement (+10 enhancement bonus to land speed), scales (+2 natural armor bonus to AC), senses (low-light vision, scent), or natural weapons (bite [1d6], 2 claws [1d4] for a Medium druid, rake, +2 CMB to grapple). While using totem transformation, a saurian shaman may speak normally and can cast speak with animals (reptiles and dinosaurs only) at will. Using this ability is a standard action at 2nd level, a move action at 7th level, and a swift action at 12th level. The dragon shaman can use this ability for a number of minutes per day equal to her druid level. These minutes do not need to be consecutive, but they must be used in 1-minute increments. This is a polymorph effect and cannot be used while the druid is using another polymorph effect, such as wild shape.
Trackless Step (Ex): Starting at 3rd level, a druid leaves no trail in natural surroundings and cannot be tracked. She may choose to leave a trail if so desired.
Wild Empathy (Ex): A druid can improve the attitude of an animal. This ability functions just like a Diplomacy check made to improve the attitude of a person (see Using Skills). The druid rolls 1d20 and adds her druid level and her Charisma modifier to determine the wild empathy check result. The typical domestic animal has a starting attitude of indifferent, while wild animals are usually unfriendly.
To use wild empathy, the druid and the animal must be within 30 feet of one another under normal conditions. Generally, influencing an animal in this way takes 1 minute but, as with influencing people, it might take more or less time. A saurian shaman can use wild empathy with dinosaurs and reptiles as a full-round action with a +4 bonus.
A druid can also use this ability to influence a magical beast with an Intelligence score of 1 or 2, but she takes a -4 penalty on the check.
Woodland Stride (Ex): A druid may move through any sort of undergrowth (such as natural thorns, briars, overgrown areas, and similar terrain) at her normal speed and without taking damage or suffering any other impairment. Thorns, briars, and overgrown areas that have been magically manipulated to impede motion, however, still affect her.
Gear/Possessions:
------------------------------
GEAR/POSSESSIONS
------------------------------
Combat Gear masterwork sling, 20 bullets, wand of cure light wounds (39 charges), acid (2), holy water (2), smokestick (2)
Possessions carried by her: +1 leather armour, light wooden shield, backpack, bunny stuffed animal, traveller’s outfit, waterskin, wooden necklace (beads and charm with an image of a parasaurolophus playing with rabbits), cloak of resistance +1, wooden rings (2, painted brightly), wooden bracelets (2, carved and painted beads feature faces of parasaurolophus or rabbits, in an alternating pattern), wooden earrings (painted brightly), Paras' pink tutu, Bunny Paras' pink dress with white rabbits
Possessions carried by Paras: saddlebags, animal feed (5), bedroll, blanket, charcoal, journal, grooming kit, mess kit, rations (5), tent (medium), water dish
Carrying Capacity Light 0-33 lb. Medium 34-66 lb. Heavy 67-100 lb.
Current Load Carried 32 lbs.
Money 2,225 GP 3 SP 0 CP
New Purchases:
bucket
paper
paint supplies
sunhat with a yellow ribbon (2)
Initiate’s Edge: Tattoo of the Open Road - You have a magical tattoo of the Glyph of the Open Road, the insignia of the Pathfinder Society. As an immediate action, when you are struck by a critical hit or dealt at last 15 points of damage from a spell or supernatural ability, you can check the box that precedes this boon and expend the tattoo’s magic to gain 10 temporary hit points that last for 1 minute. During this minute, you also treat your Constitution score as if it were 10 higher for the purposes of determining when hit point damage would kill you.
Liar's Intuition: The more thoroughly you dupe your enemies, the more thoroughly you can see through their lies. For the duration of one scenario, you gain a +1 circumstance bonus on Sense Motive checks for 1 hour against any creature that you have successfully deceived using the bluff skill. For every additional successful lie you tell that creature, the bonus increases by +1 (maximum +5). You can only benefit from this boon against one creature at a given time. When this boon is used, cross it off your Chronicle.
The Many Fortunes of Grandmaster Torch: You owe Grandmaster Torch a favour (two of them)—which he plans to redeem in the future. When he calls in this favour, you are obligated to fulfill this request so long as it doesn’t violate any moral restrictions of your race, class, or alignment.
Master of Shadows: You gain a one-time +5 circumstance bonus on any knowledge check concerning the Shadow Plane and shadow magic. When this bonus is used, cross this boon off your Chronicle.
Prince of Wolves: your experience with the Sczarni of the Prince’s Wolves have give you insight into dealing with werewolves and other lycanthropes, and you are unphased by their bestial natures. You receive a +2 bonus on Diplomacy and Intimidate checks against lycanthropes. Additionally, the Intimidate DC for a lycanthrope to demoralize you is 2 higher than normal.
Revolutionary Bluster: You gain a one-time +5 circumstance bonus on any Disguise or Bluff check against someone from Galt. When this bonus is used, cross this boon off your Chronicle.
[X] [] [] Student of the Twelve Rites: You have recovered several tablets of the Twelve Rites from the monk Shinri and her agents. The blasphemous knowledge contained within these ever-shifting tablets is dangerous to ponder too long, but you can tap into it briefly to learn Shinri’s abilities.
You can use this knowledge to replace some of your own abilities with Shinri’s. You can check a box before this boon to retrain one of your feats with one of Shinri’s using the retraining rules from Pathfinder RPG Ultimate Campaign at a reduced cost. Retraining into one of the following feats takes 2 days, rather than 5: Combat Reflexes, Dodge, Eschew Materials, Improved Unarmed Strike, Mantis Style, Mantis Wisdom, Sorcerous Strike, Stunning Fist, or Weapon Focus. If you are a spontaneous spellcaster… N/A …Alternatively you can check a box before this boon to use feather fall as a spell-like ability, using your character level as your caster level. If you are at least 3rd level you can check two boxes to cast levitate, mirror image, or spider climb. If you are at least 5th level, you can check all three boxes to cast dispel magic.
Yagevna Blessing The Yagevnya family in Irrisen recognizes you as a close associate for freeing their daughter, Natalya, from her icy prison. When in Irrisen, you gain a +2 circumstance bonus on all diplomacy rolls when you mention the Yagevna family and how you assisted them.
About Bunny Paras:
Bunny Paras is a nice little kitsune with pink fur and eyes. She has a pet parasaurolophus named Paras. She has a farm where she breeds rabbits. She loves her pets. Her friend Senton works on her farm, too. She is a Pathfinder.
