Catching up now... we found a lovely home to rent in a good school district. Should have a post tonight. Oh, now on PST btw (in case I failed to mention that).
Tabar looks pointedly at the man's jacket, then smiles as he looks back at him. "Oh, that... yes, that was unpleasant. I had to ensure that a friend of mine actually received his food. Poor servant was heading in the completely wrong direction." He chuckles ruefully. "As for the Princess and her speech, I actually found it to be... well argued. I might not be quite as progressive as her Royal Highness is, but I found her logic to be sound. Which is more than I can say for some of the arguments I have had lately, I might add." He looks in the direction of the man in the breastplate as he says this but not directly at him. "Still, her argument had much going for it. It pulled upon the grandness of our Empire, historically, yet showed what could be possible with change, as demonstrated by the test beds of our former states. They would have no claim to greatness if not for our empire and the gifts we gave them. Some would say that anything that they have done since that time is unimportant and not worth study. I disagree. They have taken our common starting point and run in different directions. Some of their paths have been successful, others less so. I say that it is our Imperial right... nay, our Imperial duty to study what they do that works, what they do that does not work, and what they do that we can do better as befitting our birthright." Smiling, he looks directly at the man once more. "Although I gather you must have differing views on the matter... I would love to hear you express them."
Tabar smiles in a polite, but firm, manner at the servant with the chemical. "It is Baron Okerra. He needs... well, I shouldn't say it out loud here," Tabar looks around as if the walls themselves might be listening, "but he has a need that must be met immediately. Here, I will take that from you for now, you go see to his situation." He holds out his hand expectantly, with hopefully just the right sense of impatience.
Tabar turns to the armored figure and raises his eyebrows. Hm... can't get a read on him, beyond that he seems to want to debate me on this topic... well, this should help get the good Baron's notice if I play it correctly. He gives the man a polite smile and salutes him with his wine glass. "Very good point, sir. No, the armies of our glorious nation were indeed instrumental in the securing of our greatness, and far be it from me to suggest otherwise. No no, I do not mean to disparage our brave soldiers, past or present." He takes a sip of the wine after raising the glass in a salute to their soldiers. "That being stated and set aside, however, it is worth noting that our military is as well trained and funded as it is precisely because of the rules and decrees of our beloved Emperors and this venerable body. The incentives, the pays, the rewards for service.... all laid out and hammered into existence on this floor." Once again, he raises his glass in a salute, this time to senators past, taking a sip afterword. "No, these educated 'philosophers', as you put them, were smart. They knew that our nation needed to maintain its army to the highest possible standards if we were to become the empire we were promised to be. The nobility that walked these hallowed halls knew that showing our armies that they were valued and respected was the surest way to ensure that our great nation would prevail in the conflicts we faced at all sides. And while it is very true that the army is the reason why our law is enforced and order is maintained, both at our borders and within them, it is the works of the dignified gentlemen within these halls that allow us to have any laws to enforce in the first place. They provide the grace that separates the order maintained within a civilized nation and that of a petty warlord's pathetic spat of land."
I will be stationary for this week, traveling again on the weekend. I will be doing things with the family (probably go to the zoo etc) but I am not having to drive multiple hours each day.
A deity's wishes are misinterpreted by their follower, so typical. XD Of course wearing or not wearing the mithral aren't against Milani's wishes so Vixen gets no feedback. I'm going to have to do something with that angelskin now. Indeed, especially since I am going to be attempting to divine its' history... probably it is next, unless we a) find something more important first, or b) Vix wants me to read her boots first, given she is wearing both.
So I will be posting this in all my games: I am moving from EST to PST finally (this was kinda expected but has been in limbo due to the pandemic). The movers will begin being at my house tomorrow, with final pack out day being Thursday, after which time I will begin to be on the road. I am not making a straight shot, as it were, across the country. I will have a few rest periods to see family on the way. I expect that I will finish the cross country period mid OCT, after which time I begin the house hunting phase in earnest. I should be able to keep posting during this time period, but some days (especially any that I am driving) are probably going to be limited in quantity (though hopefully not quality) of posts. That said, feel free to bot me in combat it necessary to keep things moving.
Holding my action to see if it is necessary. So I will be posting this in all my games: I am moving from EST to PST finally (this was kinda expected but has been in limbo due to the pandemic). The movers will begin being at my house tomorrow, with final pack out day being Thursday, after which time I will begin to be on the road. I am not making a straight shot, as it were, across the country. I will have a few rest periods to see family on the way. I expect that I will finish the cross country period mid OCT, after which time I begin the house hunting phase in earnest. I should be able to keep posting during this time period, but some days (especially any that I am driving) are probably going to be limited in quantity (though hopefully not quality) of posts. That said, feel free to bot me in combat it necessary to keep things moving.
Giving a huff, Tabar nods. "Very well, very well. I expect you to use some of those more expensive oils on my boots. I have an audience with my fiance's parents for dinner soon to discuss... well, I suppose the sordid affairs of the nobility would bore you at best. Suffice to say, between your shine and the new suit waiting for me at the tailor over yonder," he gestures to the Thread Rare idly with his cane, "I should be set to be a rather wealth man." He gives them both a smile. "Wealthy enough to afford those 'pricey oils' you two are so worried over. So don't skimp. Show me what you have and what it can do."
Maura sighs and stands up. "So much for hospitality of the house we just kicked our way into." As she speaks she notices the Baroness multiply. Cute trick. Too bad there is only one mind in all of that mess... Focusing on the Baroness, Maura attempts to overwhelm her with thoughts and feelings, probing her mind for ways inside.
"You might want to stay down before my friends make worrying about finding transportation the least of your worries."
Because I know it comes as a bit harsh, I wanted to clarify that neither Maura nor I have any real problems with Vix. She is IC annoyed and concerned with her. I happen to like her, even her impulsiveness. So... nothing personal, but she had to express her thoughts on the matter. ;)
I second Adonara's sentiments. I would not scream at you if you felt the need to drop out (for real life issues or if you just don't feel like you fit) but I will say that your character has the potential to grow into our group dynamic. You are just at a bit of disadvantage is all: Adonara, Kira, and I are the remnants of the original group... as such we have an existing dynamic that is somewhat strong. Ryker has an advantage on you in the sense that his character is pretty much filling in the party's role of Mike from Breaking Bad. He doesn't have to say much, and he can react in his head to the crazy ideas we are having. I guess what I am trying to say is that I understand your frustration, but I encourage you to continue to try to break into the dynamic in a way that feels natural. We want you to play here if you want to come on this wacky journey with us. In the mean time, don't beat yourself up over not breaking in instantly. Perhaps in the down time once we get back to the Nest we can get to know each other better IC.
Pellius looks at the now drooling form of Wex. "Well... it seems any... remaining questions are now likely moot." The somewhat hoarse singer sighs and turns to Adonara. "Glad to see you... as you again. And sorry again... about trying to force your will. I just... didn't want you... to end up..." the singer trails off as he gestures to the broken tinker before them. "... like that...." He shakes his head and walks away from the broken form of a man. Mustering just enough spittle, he spits on one of the broken pieces of the cursed blade. "May you never be reassembled. May your God suffer a similar fate."
Think you had the wrong character name, Dak plays Lily. Mercifully I do not have the COVID... but I wish Dak the fastest recovery.
So I am just going to say... that cylinder is f'ing insane. Between the mummy and the requirements, yeah... just look at that aptly named "Wall of Failure" if you don't agree. (Twice I was one roll off of the 5 in a row needed, only to get an 18 or 19. FML.) So, yeah... if this is just being used to secure someone's family recipe for eggs on toast, I will likely throw it into the first volcano we find. ;)
Things have finally been mostly resolved on the homefront (positive new, thankfully) and I am trying to get spun back up on my games. I will spend the weekend catching up on the game play and (assuming I am still welcome) will try to get Chad back on the table. In the meantime, here are a few videos that I saw on my hiatus that made me think of you y'all:
I should have things sorted out mostly now. Positive outcome, all told. I am going to read the gameplay thread and see how best to post (assuming I wasn't killed, ;) )
Posting in all games (again). Thank you for all the prayers, thoughts, wishes, and good vibes. Things are... improving... between me and my wife. (Not through the woods yet, but I have a lot more hope that we will get through than when I posted last.) I am not quite ready to catch up and post again, but I am hopeful that I can be soonish. I will keep you posted as I can. Again, thank you for your understanding and patience.
Vivi pulls out his carpet. "I can fly as well, though I cannot say that I am... proficient... at doing so."
GM1: So my party found out about the Dottari holding Hellknights, so they approached and proceeded to murder everything room by room like a bunch of murder hobos. GM2: Everything? Even the prisoners? GM1: To quote their leader, "He was convinced they might be holding coins or magical weapons in their 'prison pockets' or something." GM2: Ew, gross. My party managed to bluff past the front guard but then ended up fighting most of what was inside. Made it out ok at least.... Daniel, are you ok? You have been silent this whole time with a shellshocked look on your face. GM1: Yeah, what gives man. Wasn't your party around this part too? DP: <sigh> They are still plotting on how to get in. Both GM1 & GM2: What? DP: They spent a week bluffing the front guard and asking him questions pretending to be journalists... GM1: Journalists? GM2: Is there such thing in Kintargo? DP: Well, if there isn't they bluffed the front guard into thinking there was. They have since left and have been concocting this elaborate scheme on how to get in and get everyone out without any fighting. GM1: No... no fighting? Like, at the door? Or just until they have the prisoners freed and armed? DP: No. As in, they go in, get everyone, and leave with the guards all alive. <small pause> Although they do have a back up plan for fighting if their scheme goes awry at least. GM2: How elaborate are we talking here? Like the first prison break level of distract while others free, or... DP: Worse. They are forging documents, planning on using magic, making multiple trips... GM1 and GM2: MULTIPLE trips!? Are they crazy? DP: I have considered that possibility...
In all seriousness, I love planning these things... I know that one day (hopefully not today) our luck will turn south on one of these encounters... but there is something personally satisfying about fooling the forces of hell with not much blood shed.
Vivi sees Ameiko walk, albeit a bit shakily, into the room and at once he is overcome with emotions of shame, gratitude, and relief. "神々に感謝します. おかえりなさい." Minkain:
"Thank the gods. Welcome home." Giving her a bow, he walks around the bar. "I hope it is to your liking. I tried to make the stew the way you would, though it has been a long time since I..." the monk stops as he chokes up on tears, seemingly overcome with emotions. "I am sorry. I thought I... we lost you. I was hardly myself. I should have been better prepared." Vivi is almost sobbing out each word, tears flowing freely. "It should have been me. Not you. Me."
"Giants. Great. We should try to take one alive. Get more reviling... regaling... no... revealing, yes, revealing.... information from them. Like if they were able to get that stone in the raid."
Vivi isn't much of a potion person. The carpet would make sense, but would also force me to pick between the headband and the slippers.... and would require the fly skill, albeit it does give a +5 circumstance bonus the roll. F' it. Going for the 5 by 5 carpet. Air monk incoming.
Two 500 GP animated portraits (one for me of Ameiko and the other of me as a gift to Ameiko). A campfire bead (for ease of setting those in the future). And 1K for boots of the Cat (in case I fall off or jump off my carpet). I think that leaves me with 135.7 GP left... open to suggestions or to leaving that in "the kitty" for future upgrades.
Inside the Rusty Dragon, Vivi wordlessly goes to the kitchen and washes up. Satisfied that any grime or grit won't come off and affect the food, the monk begins to prepare potatoes, onions, carrots, and other vegetables that he can find for a stew by washing and cutting them. Any offers from assistance from Ameiko's staff are met with silent shakes of his head 'no'. The monk also prepares herbs and spices for the meal as Ameiko had shown him during their time together. Finally, the monk takes a shoulder of beef from the larder and prepares it as well. Normally he would not have done this part, given his views on the consumption of meat, but he tries his best to estimate how the one time adventurer turned innkeeper would cut them. Taking a large iron pot, the monk adds water, wine, and the vegetables that would take the longest to cook, and places it over a fire. "She is coming back. She will want food. More to the point, she will want others to have food." The monk repeats this to himself a few times as he cooks... it is not clear if this is to convince himself of that fact or others.
Because I was curious, I updated the list posted by Archlich. Note, I only looked at posts after his listed post to make the updates, not prior. (Translation: if you were missed or wrong on that list and not corrected in a post afterwords, you are still missed or wrong now.) Player - Character - Aasimar Type - Class/Concept – Trait (KingHotTrash) - Ranek - Idylkin - Bloodrager - Stolen Fury
Personal preference would be to go through them, though perhaps a bit quicker. Otherwise we will always know (at least out of character) that something is about to happen, and that kinda ruins the surprise. Maybe hand-waive a bit if we have several days in a row of nothing happening, just to keep things moving. My two cents on the matter. Will abide by whichever route you pick though.
Vivi is about to drop into a crouch to attempt to take on Sunday when Jessica stands before him. Something about this isn't right. Why are my friends not seeing what should be obvious? Maybe it is because.... The monk closes his burning eyes and attempts to focus within himself, as he once did long ago.
The light slowly fades from the monk's closed eyes. The runic scar on his chest also begins to cease its glowing, though slower... like a fire that has not fully gone out, but no longer has the fuel it needs to burn at its previous intensity. Opening his eyes again, the monk lets out a breath slowly. "Thank you, Jessica-sama," the monk says weakly, the earlier yelling clearly having done a number on his vocal chords. "I do not know what came over me. Forgive my anger. And my apologies to you as well, Delendir-san, Daud-san. I was... having trouble seeing things clearly." A nagging voice seems to whisper to him from within his mind briefly just before the scar ceases to glow, Or perhaps you were seeing clearly for the first time.... He shakes the thought away. "Lead on. We should learn where those that retreated fled to. Without their dragon I imagine they will not be eager for our second encounter."
Vivi at first cannot comprehend the news. "Well his royal pompestorousness... pompinarian... pompousness, yes that is the word... had better spring the funds to heal them. Fat lout's armies were as useful as...." he trails off as he notices the others' reactions and looks. "No. That is not possible. She just needs healing, right? Right?" Turning to Delendir he asks, softer, "Right?" Seeing the look in the Father's eyes, he collapses to the ground. "No...." The brand on his chest begins to glow. Its fire spreads to the monks eyes, making them look momentarily as if they were burning coals. "NO! NO, NO NO NO NOOOOO!!!" He screams in fury and rises to his feet, his recently healed wounds threatening to reopoen in the violent effort. "I will kill him. I will KILL him for this! I promised him... I swore he would DIE if he failed this town!" The monk begins to look for his gear like a man possessed, his scar and eyes burning away merrily the whole while. "He dies. That infernal, ineffectual, effervescent bloated old fool!" While he has not directly said it, it is somewhat clear that Vivi intends to march to Magnimar to slay its Mayor.
I am sorry this has been taking so long... inspiration took a bit to hit. After much deliberation based on what we were lacking and what would be fun I decided to cook up a human tattooed sorcerer with the stormborn bloodline (and conveniently the blood of the storm campaign trait). Still fleshing some things out (spells, equipment, backstory) but I have made enough progress to at least present you with: Vanir Restha The basic idea I have is that he was the son of Varisian travelers that (due to his grandparents being exposed to some forces in Priden's Hearth decades ago) suddenly started manifesting powers he was unable to control. The fortune teller and a cypher mage in the group were able to help him gain control by binding the power into tattoos on his chest, arms, and back. One of these is able to manifest itself in the form of a raven that Vanir has named Valis. After a few harrowings, the fortune teller pointed him in the direction of this effort to colonize the area... hence his traveling with you all. Personality wise I view him as being mostly happy-go-lucky.
Sorry to see that you guys lost more folks. I previously played this game with the old DM, dropped for personal reasons when we had to swap... no hard feelings on either side. The remaining players are all a good bunch, and I am sure that DM Delmoth has been running a fun table. Anyone who gets in should be in for a good game!
... so yeah... I am going to dot in, but honestly (assuming you don't mind the guy who wrote this thing playing with you) I think I might get outclassed on this one. Won't stop me from applying though... no sense in not providing some competition.
Vivi runs at the head of the his group of friends toward the bridge, reaching it after a good sprint. Giant:
"Come on over you ugly malformed sons of ogres! I have some welcome presents for you." Twirling one of his chain kama by the chain, the monk waits for either the giants to cross or his companions to catch up.
Happy birthday to him! And happy All Hallows Eve (AKA Halloween) to everyone as well. Will be taking my 3 year old trick or treating tonight while the wife hands out candy with the baby boy.
Vivi's eyes are fixed on Ameiko's feet. "Well, thank you. That was the best sleep I have had in months, and was better than I deserved. I am sorry for the burden I placed on you again." He gives her a bow and raises, his eyes finally meeting hers. "I wanted to find you before the attack begins in earnest. I know you can take care of yourself, but please... be careful. I wish I had the time to explain what happened over the past few months... and why I had to leave so suddenly. Assuming we both survive, I promise that I will."
Once again, posting in all my games: Baby boy was born yesterday afternoon! 7 lbs 4 ozs. Mom and baby are doing fine, but won't be ready to come home until tomorrow. Thanks for all the well wishes!
Posting in all my games: my wife will be induced sometime tomorrow if she has not gone into labor by herself by then. Second kid, kinda know roughly what to expect, but I will probably be a bit silent for a few days after that starts. Bot me as needed.
Well, knocking on wood but it seems to have passed us with not too much damage. We got a decent amount of rain and the winds caused us to lose power for about 5 or 6 hours (not too bad restoral times under the circumstances) but we are back up and running again now. Thanks for the well wishes.
Well, knocking on wood but it seems to have passed us with not too much damage. We got a decent amount of rain and the winds caused us to lose power for about 5 or 6 hours (not too bad restoral times under the circumstances) but we are back up and running again now. Thanks for the well wishes.
Well, knocking on wood but it seems to have passed us with not too much damage. We got a decent amount of rain and the winds caused us to lose power for about 5 or 6 hours (not too bad restoral times under the circumstances) but we are back up and running again now. Thanks for the well wishes.
As he departs, Vivi calls after the giant. Giant:
"Pray to whatever gods you believe in that our paths never cross again, Barl. I will personally be sending you to see them if they do." Reading the note with the others, Vivi goes cold. "Ameiko-chan...." Turning to the remaining companions, he looks down at Val's dead form, resting peacefully once more. "I am sorry. I cannot repay my debt to you." Looking up, he addresses the rest. "I will be understanding if you decide to take her to Magnimar to bring her back. If the attack were aimed anywhere else I would follow you. But I cannot let the attack happen without trying to prevent it... or at least trying to aid in the defense. I might die doing so... but I must try at least."
Seeing and hearing the body of Valonia rise from the dead sends chills down Vivi's spine. No... this isn't right. Ignoring the lamia's taunts, he rushes down to put Val back to rest. Closing the gap with blinding speed, his first swing is a bit wide. But the two after connect with the dead woman's form, setting off flashes of fire and freezing cold as they do. "I am sorry for this. Go back to sleep for now," he says the to dead woman's form as he retreats back. Turning to the seated form on the throne, he snarls at him mockingly in his own tongue. Giant:
"Go on and sit there like a coward. We will be with you presently." Crunch:
Sorry to hear your troubles (both of you) and hope that things go better soon!
The bard looks around as they approach, seeing if anything strikes him as noteworthy.
As the guard answers, Pellius levels his most imperious glare at the man, holding his gaze until the silence is almost awkward. "You had best rectify whatever inbred errors are lodged within your skull, dog, and learn to recognize your superiors on sight." Turning to Kira, he bows apologetically. "My deepest apologies for this offense. If you demand it I will see to it personally that he is branded and sent to the capital to toil in whatever pit you deem appropriate." Turning back to the man. "What is your name, worm? And where is your captain that I might put you on report for," he sniffs, "drinking, disrespecting a noble, and treason?"
Have fun... ironically, that is my birthday... so treat yourself to something nice in celebration on your way back, ;)
It's my head getting the voudvile treatment... I say have fun. :)
So... think I have everything ready to roll. If anyone wants to give my sheet a once over to see if I missed/misunderstood anything I would (as always) be appreciative. One other thing: as I am a male playing a female for this game I would ask that folks who are female try not to eye roll too much if I sound like I am. I am not trying to be offensive as a general rule... if something I say or do proverbially rubs one of you the wrong way though, please feel free to call me out on it (in discussion or in PM, whichever way you feel more comfortable). For the record, I see Malarra as being straight... but also (as I said to Erisa earlier) as being not interested in relationships in general just based on who and what she is. Hell, it will probably take some time for her to get used to having companions in general, let alone ones that might be friends.
Hm... well, since we are on the topic of triggers... I seriously doubt that this will come up, given this isn't an evil campaign (ex: Hell's Vengeance, Way of the Wicked) but I have issues with rape and sexual assault. I know that our GM has put in a strict no-pvp clause in the game (with the penalty being she takes control of your character and you get booted) but I will happily make my last act at the table be attempting to run your character through with a sword conjured from the shadow plane if you cross that line. Not that I think anyone will, mind you... or even will likely be in a position to try... I just want everyone to know how serious I take that trigger. Personally I am not bothered by V's flirting, at least not yet. That said, I cannot speak for everyone... just putting my two cents into the open.
So unless I am greatly mistaken, that would put the votes in favor of the eighth player as 4 to 2 with one uncast, yes? Yeas:
Nays:
Uncast:
@Erisa: Not what I am signing up for either. Without her memories, Malarra is somewhat confused as to why she needs to avoid contact with most folks (she legitimately does not remember at this point what a drow is or why folks fear/hate them) she just instinctively is doing so. And once she gets her memories back, I doubt that would improve things much. I kinda envision her as being ... uninterested in relationships in general. Besides, anyone who has watched a horror movie knows that the first people to go off and f*** are usually axed first. ;)
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