Sonja Velfieren's page

"As you can see, we're not in the best of conditions....."

That's an understatement if I've ever heard one. This group seems to be ripping apart at the seams. Those who seem good in character are reckless, and those who are composed seem either evil or complacent! Well, I must make the best of the situation...

"Very well, then. I will do my best to ensure that you will not die. As we will be resting soon, I will use whatever remaining magic I have to heal us to our full capacity, including Je'grik, just before I go to sleep. That will ensure that everyone is in good health for the arduous tasks ahead."

Sonja grimaces in all the appropriate places during Dmitri's speech. He was dangerous. While he worshipped one of the notably... darker gods, Sarenrae had come together even with The Prince of Darkness himself to vanquish the evil Rovagug. She is about to reply in an even-keeled manner when-

"Oh and Apollo is going to die tomorrow. That might also be a problem." he points out in all seriousness.

"I'm sorry, he's going to what?!" is her worried gasp of a reply. Whirling towards the ranger, she exclaims, "Have I missed something? Is he joking? Are you ill?"

She really does not want to lose the one member of this party that she seems to get along with. The rest seem to carry rather... murderous personalities.

That's weird, the statblock for Sonja on my computer is different from the one on here. I must have posted an earlier build for her on accident. I'll replace it with the correct one.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Kori. I assume that the current chief is a bit of a tyrant, then? But if so, do we know if his successor will be any better? Salamanders are hardly hospitable creatures, and while I'd love to give an alliance a chance, I'd hate to perpetuate the power of creatures as foul as the gnolls we fight."

"But I forget myself. Do not mistake me: I do not mean to criticize the plan. It is a sound one, and one that can most likely be achieved, given our numbers and, from what I can tell," she gives an indicative glance towards Apollo and his saurian companion,"diverse skill sets. I am simply stating that we should perhaps be ready for a double-cross should the creatures not be as worthy of our alliance as we'd hope."

Did you catch a glimpse of any other openings into the House of the Beast around here? We've already tried going through the front gates and that was.....risky.

Sonja follows with Apollo, still wary of the scythe-wielding man who spoke in riddles of weapons' wills and intents, but glad to have him in a more amiable mood.

"Alas, no. The main fortifications were the primary reason I sought another entry into their stronghold. Even with more support in an assault, one still has a high probability of heavy losses. As every life is sacred to the Dawflower, it behooves me to seek more practical approaches for my compatriots."

Upon hearing the talk of dealing with Salamanders, Sonja tilts her head, as if trying to put together a puzzle that has been presented for the first time.

"Pardon my interruption, but do I have it right that you have achieved a diplomatic solution? With Salamanders?! And they will allow you a passage into the Gnoll-lord's lair? I am indeed impressed! But what is this talk of killing, er... I apologize, but I do not yet know your names madam Drow, nor you, sir, with the wand."

HI GUYS!
After about a week of terrible stuff and a short hospital stay, I'm BACK! Will post in a little bit after I've caught up.

Hey guys,

Unfortunately I've come down with an extremely bad case of the stomach flu, so I'll be all but unconscious for the next few days. Just letting you know that my posting rate will be decreasing due to excess vomiting, not due to lack of interest... or choice in the matter.

"Velfieren Sonja... A bit high in birth to be bowing down in the desert."

"I find manners often become a woman of the cloth no matter what her setting, sir. Pardon my presumption, but may I ask your names as well?"

"Our friend on the ground here has been with us for the past year or so and with your aid, he might just make it."

Holding his left hand out, he then gestures a handshake to the young woman.

"If you aided this guy off your own back, you're no enemy of mine." he says with a friendly smile.

Sonja is about to take his outstretched palm, when she is rudely cut off by Tempest's blade. Her face betrays a look of consternation that is quickly quelled, but takes a small step back nonetheless.

"My scythe will know if you are to be trusted, so, do please hold still." he says as the soft, chilled blade attempts to touch her scimitar if she draws it. "Draw your weapon and touch it to my blade." he asks.

"Fear not, good sir," she says, looking at Apollo, "For I fear not the lack of a blade. A scimitar is but a weapon of earthly power, wielded and powered by man. I, however, am but an instrument wielded by the Light Herself. Take my blade, whatever your reasons, for she shall protect me. I am never false, for to be so should disappoint She who governs me."

After popping the blade from its sheath with small movement of her thumb, Sonja gently grasps the pommel of her hilt by her thumb and forefinger. She holds far away from her person with the point facing down, as if it were a used tissue, and drops it to the ground.

"As for my reasons of travel here, I also wish an end to the Carrion King's reign. I was sent here to gather information by the Dawn Vigil of Solku, may they forever be victorious, but if we share a common goal... it may be possible to quell this nest of evil without needing to deplete Solku's defenses with a crusade."

"That is," she continues, "If you will take this humble priestess into your ranks for the time being."

She bows once more, but keeps her eyes upon Dmitri.

There are many madmen in the wastes... she thought, I would be loathe to fall victim to one now.

"Yes good sir, I do believe I- ODDS BODKINS, WHAT IS THAT?!?"

Sonja is just able to finish her Cure spell before Apollo approaches her behind. The sight of Nom is alarming, to say the least. She backs up a few steps and rests her dominant hand upon her sword handle.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21

But seeing a lack of agression on Apollo's face, she lets her fingers drop from the pommel.

"My apologies, good sir. I'm afraid your... creature... surprised me. I am Sonja Velfieren: Cleric of Sarenrae, and humble servant of Solku, forever may it stand," She ellicits a deep bow towards Apollo, like one might see towards a noble in court. It seems almost anachronistic out here in the rugged wild.

"I had just finished casting a healing spell upon your arrival, and I do hope your friend here does wake soon from it. I hope that I had not arrived too late."

Also, what's up with y'all? Sonja?

Apologies for the delay, it's been a crazy week and my other campaigns have been somewhat demanding (including one IRL). Now that I've posted in the gameplay thread, however, it'll be much easier to keep up with LoF. In hindsight, I probably should have just dotted the gameplay thread to begin with.

Sonja, you'll probably have read up on it by now, but Dmitri actually turned a important Sarenrean woman named Lyssandra (A sorcerer that followed the faith closely within Kelmerane) into a worshiper of Lilith. He doesn't dislike any religions, really, but he dislikes people that get in the way of his habits and tastes.

That said, she too, was an Aasimar, so expect to have that lovely little bit of faith tested. Though honestly he'll likely do what he can to follow your whims and treat you like gold.

Oh, I know. In fact, I'm counting on that. I think Dmitri will find a very different character in Sonja than what he's accustomed to...

Hi there, guys! Thanks so much for including me in this wonderful campaign!

I'll be closely monitoring the Gameplay and Discussion boards, so just let us know when our entrance is to be made!

One Sonja, being a Cleric around militaristic Paladins for the vast majority of her career, has acted as a counselor for many a war-wounded soul. Apollo's compulsion for revenge and hatred of Gnolls is something that she's extremely familiar with. That kind of hatred consumes people, twists their otherwise good intentions into something... darker.

While Apollo is convinced that he needs to end Ghartok's life with his own two hands, Sonja will attempt to council him towards fulfillment in where he is rather than on what could be. Does she think that The Carrion King needs to die? Yes. Ending unrepentant evil is one of Sarenrae's most important commandments in a harsh place like the Katapeshi frontier, but more important is preventing the pure of heart from stooping to evil deeds. For her, the ends do not justify the means. Ever.

Two Just as she might act as a counselor for Apollo, Sonja will often end up as the open ears of the group, attempting to resolve the internal conflict between characters. When this proves impossible, as it may be between Dmitri and Apollo, she may also be the one who needs counseling and questions her convictions. Sonja is strong, but hardly invincible.

This is Tassadan, and this alias is my submission. Sonja Velfieren is a caring and experienced healer who would be attempting the same goals as the current players: infiltrating the House of the Beast and defeating these Gnolls by disrupting their organization at its source. She could easily be exploring these tunnels at the same time as the PCs, only coming from a slightly different entrance, and will most likely help all of them to the best of her ability upon meeting them... until she ferrets out Dmitri's true nature and alliances. After that point, she will most definitely try to win over the Antipaladin with her words and actions, all the while steering clear of the corruption he represents.

Also, Sonja was originally part of a LoF game that never made it past Howl of the Carrion King. Feel free to look at her previous posts to get a handle on how she'll play.

Yeah. I sent a message to MPL a while ago and haven't received a response. I'd offer to DM it myself, but that would be my fourth campaign to DM. Sadly, I have a life.

"I heartily concur." Sonja replies, glad to have an end to the awkward silence. "Let us venture to Almah and inform her of these developments."

She sets off for Almah's tent, fully intending to announce these "Pugwampis" as the culprit, but only if Almah trusts Dashki's story.

Sense motive against Dashki: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
"I believe you mean that he's the primary suspect Mr. Badi," Sonja quickly corrects. "And indeed, we mean no offense Mr. Dashki. We only want to ensure the continued safety of everyone in this caravan, including yourself. We would never do anything to harm you. Even if we suspected you in this incident, which in all ways appears to be an accident, we would not decide your fate. That is Lady Almah's job and forever will be. You have nothing to fear from us, sir."

Diplomacy towards Dashki: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17

No prob. Real life always takes precedence over game. I'm just glad to hear that we're slowing down for a little while and not stopping altogether. I'm involved in a few other campaigns at the moment that look like they're coming to a screeching halt.

"We should tell Almah this right away," Sonja replies. "Dashki, would a creature like this continue to follow the caravan? Can we track it? If these things are so cursed that they can cause someone's death, then we'll want to deal with it right away."

"I'm sorry, a what?" Sonja replies incredulously.

"Well if there's no signs of foul play, perhaps the cause of the fire was magical and not physical. Badharkan, why don't I see if there are any significant magic auras in the area."

Sonja then recites "Godess, make known the unknown and the unseen seen." She then smoothes her brow with both hands.

Sonja casts detect magic

She then walks around the camp, being sure to sweep every bit with her 60' cone of awareness.

"If Dashki is a suspect, I shall go ask him a few questions. What does he look like, and where may I find him?"

"Erm... I can certainly try." Sonja says. She looks over the body with a certain degree of discomfort. She is obviously not one accustomed to death.

Perception 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15

"I'm sorry, Nasir, but I can't tell anything from this. There's just too much... damage. Excuse me."

Sonja walks over to Garavel, hoping to get away from the sickening sight and scent of burnt flesh.

"Garavel, what can you tell me about the members of this expedition? Is there anyone you can think of whom we might suspect of foul play? Is there a high chance that this wasn't an accident?"

If Sonja has to choose, she goes to Zastoran rather than Treviss and Kellien.

"I'll go speak to Zastoran, Kellien, and Treviss. Perhaps they can illuminate the circumstances before the fire."

And Sonja does just that. As soon as the discussion breaks, she goes over to each the trio and asks them individually "So how did the fire get started in the first place, anyway? What was going on before we got here?"

"I am so sorry for your loss. Listen, I'd like to talk more if that's alright, but it seems like Alma needs me right now. I'll be back as soon as I can. And you two..." she turns and points to Kellien and Treviss, "Get plenty of water, food, and rest. Magic isn't the only thing that heals. If you should need my assistance again, or if you have remaining wounds of any kind, don't hesitate to come to me. I'm always happy to help."

With that, Sonja gives a short wave and farewell, following Garavel back to Almah's abode.

Speaking to Treviss, and then Zastoran: "Are you going to be alright? And who is... erm... was Eloais?"

She doesn't look towards Garavel, but it is obvious that she heard Alma and expects the summons at any moment.

Hah, Sonja is not a very "book smarts" cleric and has Kn: Religion untrained.

"Thank you Zastoran. And yes, I have much to spare for both of them, as I believe Kallien is still suffering from some remaining burns as well."

At that, Sonja grasps her holy symbol and concentrates deeply. Not a moment passes before a wave of positive energy bursts from her person, healing all living things in it's path.

Sonja uses Channel Positive Energy, healing all living things 1d6 hp within 30 feet of her person.

1d6 ⇒ 4 hp restored

"And how's that? There's more where that came from if needed."

Also a perception check on the general state of things: how the animals got out, whether they need Sonja's assistance at the fire, how the fire started, etc.

Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19

Sonja immediately moves to the dying man and a gentle light shines from her fingertips.

"By the Power of the Dawnflower, feel thy wounds close and thy life return."

Sonja casts cure light wounds, spontaneously sacrificing one use of Murderous Command.

1d8 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

Edit: Cannot sacrifice Burning hands as it is a domain spell, despite my archetype.

"Ah! So you're the young Paladin they told me about! No need to stand on such ceremony, Nasir! I'm Glad to have you here. I may be no amateur in combat, but one can never be too careful. And yes, Mr. Badi, we should get better acquainted. All of us." She directs her words toward the young girl, whom Sonja has been eyeing with some concern: "Young lady, would you care to join us? I didn't catch your name."

"Thank you for the advice Mr..." she struggles with the long name,"Erm... Mr. Badi. I'll be sure to stay away from desert flowers. Or bushes. Or both. I honestly wasn't sure what you were saying there except that it meant to stay away. And you sir," she turns to the bald man in brown armor,"Have just asked what I believe we all have been thinking. I am not Garavel, and this poor girl certainly isn't. Mr. Badi has introduced himself, and you are certainly not Garavel seeing as you are searching for him. Unless our silent friend here with the two scimitars is Garavel, I believe the man has yet to arrive."

A young woman wearing a lightweight white cloak over a suit of gleaming scale mail graciously accepts the help of the servants as she enters. They do their best to brush the caked grit from her boots and long skirt, and insist upon taking her hood and cape. She relents and agrees. handing her newly bought mantle away. This reveals not only her wooden, angel-shaped, holy symbol, but her long black hair falls upon her back and shoulders as well. Hanging lazily from her belt, a scimitar's scabbard gleams in the lamplight, while a crossbow and large wooden shield hang from her back.

She notes the three men who now adorn the room. A visible discomfort and sadness crosses her face as she observes the collar around the flute-cleaner's neck. Her eyes then turn to the host, and she says, somewhat embarrased, "Thank you for your hospitality and your staff's... assistance." She walks over to sit upon a series of cushions near the younger girl. "I've never been in such a dry place before, you see, and I hadn't had the opportunity to buy anything new since I left Varisia. Everyone says there's no place like the Katapeshi market stalls, so I felt I had to see them for myself. I'm called Sonja Velfieren. And you all are?"

Thanks so much, MPL, for the invite! I anticipate great things upon the horizon! Nice to meet you all.

There is still time. I'm not restricting anyone to only one submission. If anyone wants to make multiple submissions in an attempt to increase their chances, please do so.

In that case I'd also like to submit dear Sonja, here, a Human Theologian Cleric of Sarenrae. She'd be taking the Missionary trait. (This is Tassadan, btw, who is also submitting Targ Graklak) All info is in her profile.