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I'm back! I looks like you found the ghost!
Fellow gamers, we're going out of town for a week, I should be back and able to post next Saturday!
Round 28
Hahahaha.
I spent a Feat on the Elven Curve Blade.
Ok, I have Vaëlorin finished in Hephaistos, I'll get him moved over into this profile either today, or tomorrow. Holiday today, and weekends in general are filled with family stuff for me.
I can store him there, I believe, and just do my rolls and such here.Yeah, that's fine. Is your profile here accurate? I copied that for my DM reference. It's not. I've been fiddling with Hacks, and Spells and such.
Ok, I wrote up some about New Castrovel, and about Vaëlorin. I can edit that, to accommodate however we fit into the Fleet.
We'll go through when the portal opens wide enough.
"Ah, of course," Cimrôdel responds, his tone thoughtful as he considers Saria’s question. "A careful examination of the fountain’s properties is certainly warranted before we make any assumptions." He pauses, his mind working through the process as he begins to explain. "First, I would propose that we approach this methodically, as any good experiment would demand. To start, we could collect a small sample of the water—just enough to work with without disturbing the fountain itself. However, we would need to ensure that the water we collect is untainted, so that it is representative of the fountain’s true properties." Cimrôdel’s hands begin to gesture, as if outlining the steps in the air. "Next, I would set up a controlled experiment. To ensure the water’s effects are consistent, we would need a control group, of course. If there are any creatures or objects we can safely test on—preferably ones that could withstand the process without immediate harm—we can compare their responses to the effects of the water." He rubs his chin, considering the possibilities. "We could also use ourselves as a secondary test group, provided we are all willing to subject ourselves to potential risks. If we each take a small, measured amount of water, we could document any healing or restorative effects, as well as any side effects. A comparison of before-and-after status, in terms of health and well-being, would be crucial." "We must, of course, take every precaution," he adds with a more serious note. "We should make sure that we aren’t inadvertently invoking any other magical effects in the water, like enchantments or curses, before we ingest it or apply it in larger quantities. Magic often has unintended consequences if not fully understood." Cimrôdel looks to the group, his brow furrowing slightly as he concludes. "I would advise we proceed with caution, but with careful experimentation, we should be able to understand the true nature of this fountain in six to ten years. And, as you mentioned, Saria, if it proves useful and safe, then we could even collect some of the water for future use."
To my fellow Pathfinders, adventurers, and companions in storytelling, On this Thanksgiving Day, I want to take a moment to wish all my fellow countrymen and gaming friends a wonderful holiday. Whether your celebrations are grand feasts with family and friends or quiet moments of reflection and gratitude, may your day be filled with joy, warmth, and, of course, delicious food. I am thankful for this shared journey of imagination, camaraderie, and the epic tales we create together. Here’s to more adventures, victories, and memorable moments to come! Happy Thanksgiving!
To my fellow Pathfinders, adventurers, and companions in storytelling, On this Thanksgiving Day, I want to take a moment to wish all my fellow countrymen and gaming friends a wonderful holiday. Whether your celebrations are grand feasts with family and friends or quiet moments of reflection and gratitude, may your day be filled with joy, warmth, and, of course, delicious food. I am thankful for this shared journey of imagination, camaraderie, and the epic tales we create together. Here’s to more adventures, victories, and memorable moments to come! Happy Thanksgiving!
Kolaiah is a towering minotaur, standing just over 7 feet tall. Her powerful frame is clad in shiny plate armor, meticulously polished to reflect the light, though it bears the marks of many battles. Her skin is a deep bronze, contrasting with the white streaks that adorn her mane of brown and white hair, which curls slightly at the tips. She wears a large earring in her left ear, a symbol of both her strength and her connection to the labyrinths she holds sacred. Her broad, muscular arms are visible beneath the armor, and her snout is pronounced, with two large tusks protruding slightly from her lower jaw. Her eyes, keen and intelligent, are the color of polished amber, reflecting a sense of both determination and reverence for the paths she walks. The enormous greatsword she carries hangs over her shoulder, with the hilt extending above her shoulder and behind her head, the blade running straight down her back, ready for action. Kolaiah proudly wears the emblematic badge of The Balanced Coin on her chest, signifying her membership in the adventuring group that shares her quest for exploration and discovery. Her presence in the Yawning Portal speaks of an adventurer who has seen many lands—yet none more enticing than the winding, mysterious maze of Undermountain.
The theater room of Heidmarch Manor buzzes with a palpable energy as the gathered Pathfinders await the ceremony. Four rows of comfortable chairs face a raised dais at the front, illuminated by a combination of flickering torches and soft magical lights, casting a warm glow throughout the chamber. The scent of burning wax fills the air, mingling with the faint whispers of anticipation. At the dais stands Sheila, poised and confident, flanked by Koriah Azmeren and the ever-reliable Sebastian, who stands slightly behind the new initiates on stage. In the audience, familiar faces mix with those of unknown Pathfinders, their expressions ranging from curiosity to admiration. Ghaernan occupies a seat among them, watching the proceedings with a proud smile as he anticipates the acknowledgment of his comrades. Sheila clears her throat, and the room quiets, all eyes fixed upon her. “Welcome, esteemed members of the Pathfinder Society, and those who stand upon the threshold of initiation,” she begins, her voice resonating with authority. “Today, we gather at dusk—a time rich with symbolism, marking the passage from the known into the unknown. As the sun sinks beneath the horizon, we embrace the mysteries that lie ahead, honoring those who have proven themselves worthy through action, courage, and dedication to our cause. Though this Field Commission is a nonstandard way of entering our Society, the initiation is no different than that undergone by so many of us in Absalom itself.” She glances down at the scroll in her hands, her expression turning serious. “Gundar Ironbeard, Caius Emberborne, Khalid Vasari, and Verilich, you have each undertaken important tasks in service to our Society, demonstrating the very essence of what it means to be a Pathfinder.” As she reads their names, Sebastian steps forward behind each initiate and places his hand on their right shoulder, a silent indication of his guardianship of them in this place. With a nod of approval, Sheila continues. “I now call upon current Pathfinders to vouch for each of you.” Ghaernan rises first proudly, declaring, “I vouch for Gundar!” Andel Gesseran rises, his voice clear. “I vouch for Khalid!” Koriah Azmeren follows suit. “And I for Verilich!” Finally, a previously unnoticed figure from the back rises and announces, “I will vouch for Caius!” It is Leftenant Kasadei, her presence commanding respect, despite her diminutive form. Ghaernan takes a good look to confirm it is her. Kasadei:
Leftenant Kasadei stands with an air of practiced authority, her presence commanding in the worn but meticulously kept armor of Magnimar’s guard. Now revealed as a member of the Pathfinder Society, she wears her dual allegiance openly. Her Pathfinder Wayfinder, crafted from polished brass and inlaid with swirling etchings of silver, hangs from a leather bandolier across her chest. The device dangles just below her left shoulder, gleaming faintly in the light and marking her as a Pathfinder of notable experience.
Pinned prominently beside it is a finely crafted emblem depicting the Glyph of the Open Road, but with an intricate overlay indicating her position within the Society, Venture-Lieutenant. The insignia catches the eye, and paired with her uniform, they are an unmistakable signal of her steadfast commitment to both Magnimar’s safety and the Society’s pursuits. Her expression, stern yet edged with a hint of dry humor, suggests both pragmatism and a deep, if reluctant, respect for the responsibilities her Society rank entails. Kasadei’s eyes flicker with shrewd intelligence as she regards her surroundings, ever alert, as though constantly assessing the balance between her two worlds—the city she defends, and the secrets she helps uncover. With a solemn air, Sheila addresses the candidates directly. “As you stand before me, candidates of the Pathfinder Society, you are about to embark on a noble journey. This is a moment to solemnly pledge your dedication to our mission and to each other. Are you ready to make this pledge?” The four glance back and forth at one another, questioning with their eyes, and nodding. Finally, they all turn towards Sheila and announce their readiness. She gestures for them to take a deep breath. “Prepare to speak the words that will bind you to our esteemed Society. Repeat after me:” “I, [insert your name], do solemnly swear to uphold the tenets of the Pathfinder Society.” “I pledge to Explore, to venture into the unknown, to uncover the secrets of the world, and to bring to light the shadows of history.” “I pledge to Report, to document my findings with diligence, to share knowledge with my fellow Pathfinders, and to contribute to the greater good of our Society.” “I pledge to Cooperate, to stand united with my comrades, to honor our bonds of fellowship, and to work together for the preservation of our shared legacy.” “In this oath, I commit myself to my fellow Pathfinders, to the Society, and to the pursuit of knowledge itself. I further pledge to follow the rules of the Society and submit to the authority of the Decemvirate and its Venture-Captains. May my actions honor this pledge, and may the wisdom of our endeavors illuminate the path for those who follow.” “As I take this oath, I will hold ever before me the noble example of the Pathfinders who have come before, their courage, their sacrifice, and their unwavering dedication to the pursuit of truth and knowledge.” “With this oath, I pledge to uphold the tenets of the Pathfinder Society and to honor my commitments to my fellow Pathfinders and to the pursuit of knowledge. Should I fail to uphold this sacred oath, may I lose the use of my legs, that I may no longer explore; lose the use of my mouth, that I may no longer report; and lose the use of my hands, that I may no longer cooperate. In this way, I shall receive the righteous scorn of my peers and become a pariah among the Pathfinders.” “By the light of knowledge and the bonds we share, I commit myself to this oath.” With the final words of the oath hanging in the air, Sebastian steps forward, his hands dangling several large amulets. “As a symbol of your pledge to the Society, the Lodge in Magnimar gifts each of you with a Wayfinder,” Sheila explains. “This magical device serves not only as a beacon for lost adventurers but also as a testament to your commitment. It grants you the ability to find your way through the darkest of paths and to illuminate the truth hidden in shadows.” One by one, Sebastian hands each initiate their Wayfinder, returning to stand behind them with an air of pride. Each Wayfinder is unique in its markings, filigree, and other details, not mass-produced items. As Sheila concludes the ceremony, she looks around at the gathered crowd. “Let us continue with the mission of the Society!” The room erupts in unison as everyone responds, “Explore, report, cooperate!” After the ceremony, Pathfinders, both familiar and unfamiliar, begin to congratulate the new members, welcoming them warmly into the Society. Laughter and camaraderie fill the room as the new Pathfinders feel the weight of their new responsibilities but also the joy of newfound friendship and unity. As the revelry continues, toasts are made, and the atmosphere is filled with cheer. Kasadei, who has been observing the celebration with a reserved smile, makes her way over to Ghaernan. She regards him with a mixture of professional respect and her usual touch of sarcasm, saying, “Lady Heidmarch would like a word with you and your companions in her study.” She pauses, arching an eyebrow with a glint of amusement. “I’ll wait while you gather the others. And perhaps,” she adds with a smirk, “once that’s settled, maybe I’ll finally get that performance you’ve been promising.” With a nod, she steps back, arms crossed, waiting for Ghaernan to round up the group and head toward the hall leading to Lady Heidmarch’s study. Kasadei leads the newly initiated Pathfinders and Ghaernan through the grand halls of Heidmarch Manor. The soft glow of lanterns casts elongated shadows along the polished marble floors. As they approach a pair of ornate wooden doors carved with intricate depictions of legendary explorations, Kasadei pauses. She turns to the group, her eyes meeting Ghaernan's with a hint of mischief. “Lady Heidmarch awaits you inside,” she says smoothly. With a subtle wink directed at Ghaernan, she adds, “Don’t keep her waiting.” With that, she pivots gracefully and strides back down the corridor, leaving them at the threshold. Entering the study, the group is greeted by an atmosphere of scholarly opulence. The room is expansive yet intimate, illuminated by a grand chandelier hanging from the vaulted ceiling, its crystals casting a constellation of lights across the space. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves line the walls, laden with leather-bound tomes whose spines bear titles in countless languages—some ancient, some arcane. Scroll racks hold rolled parchments secured with ribbons, hinting at maps of undiscovered territories and treaties with distant cultures. Exotic artifacts adorn the room: a preserved griffon's wing mounted above the hearth, a crystalline globe swirling with an ever-changing mist, and a set of mysterious runed tablets displayed on a pedestal. Suspended from the ceiling are delicate models of celestial bodies and airships, slowly rotating as if moved by an unseen breeze. The rich scent of aged paper, polished wood, and a hint of incense fills the air. Sheila Heidmarch stands near a large mahogany desk cluttered with quills, inkpots, and scattered documents. She greets them with a warm smile, her eyes reflecting wisdom and curiosity. “Welcome, please come in,” she beckons, gesturing toward a comfortable seating area arranged with plush chairs and a low table. An assortment of fine wines rests atop it, their crystal decanters catching the chandelier's light. “May I offer you some wine? I have a robust Andoren red, a delicate Kyonin white, and a sweet mead from the lands of the Linnorm Kings.” As everyone settles in with their preferred beverages, Sheila takes a seat opposite them, her demeanor both gracious and attentive. She folds her hands lightly in her lap. “Now that the formalities are behind us,” she begins, her tone inviting yet earnest, “I am eager to hear about your plans moving forward. You've proven yourselves capable and resourceful. How can I assist you on your next endeavor?” Sheila's gaze moves from one face to the next, genuinely interested in their responses. The ambiance of the study—the flickering fireplace, the whispers of pages turning in the slight breeze—creates a haven of focus and camaraderie, perfect for plotting the adventures that lie ahead.
With the battle raging around him, Paritosh steels himself and locks eyes with the nearest skeleton, its bones rattling ominously. "You think you can intimidate me with your clattering?" he taunts, charging forward with renewed vigor, his khopesh gleaming in the dim light. He lunges at the skeleton, but his strike goes wide, the blade slicing through empty air.
Undeterred, Paritosh quickly adjusts his stance and prepares for another strike. "Let this one find its mark!" he shouts, swinging the khopesh again with determination.
"Of course it's a trap! We should assume that, and head on over, right?"
Best of luck in your future endeavors!
Paritosh chuckles softly to himself as he watches his companions give heed to the birds' chatter. He shakes his head with a knowing grin. "Ah, talking birds," he says, his tone a mix of amusement and caution. "It is a wonder how easily folk forget the oldest warnings. Among my people, it is said that listening to a bird's words is like whispering secrets to the wind—'tis a sure way to invite trouble." He pauses, looking at the birds with a raised brow, then recites with the rhythm of an old rhyme: "Feathers that speak, bring havoc to the weak.
Paritosh taps his nose knowingly. "Mark my words—birds are tricksters, and those who listen too closely might find themselves following false winds into a storm. Back home, there is a tale of a man who followed a raven’s advice and ended up in a snake pit! There was no saving him after that." He chuckles again, waving dismissively at the birds. "No, no. Better to trust your camel than a bird. A camel may spit, but at least its words are silent."
"Apricots are bad luck. Do your folk not know this? Their sweet taste is a lure to get you to eat them and invite their curse upon your body."
We’ll bot you as needed!
Paritosh too will sleep, but will have nightmares about second mouths!
Paritosh will commence tying a rope around her, so we can haul her out of here.
Vandomir is fond of rabbits, but only because Roci likes to eat them.
I'm back!
Back. Let me see what I've missed.
Ok Heroes, today begins the last of great adventure of my summer. I'm off to Summer Camp with the Scouts BSA Troop today for a week. That will be immediately followed by my family's reunion. I should be back online and ready to continue saving, or subjugating, the world on 19 July.
Ok Heroes, today begins the last of great adventure of my summer. I'm off to Summer Camp with the Scouts BSA Troop today for a week. That will be immediately followed by my family's reunion. I should be back online and ready to continue saving, or subjugating, the world on 19 July.
"Why magically lock a room full of nothing?"
Heroes, I’m hopping on a family cruise for just over a week. I should be back online on 22 June. Bot me as needed.
Brother Hawthorne makes sure he has the magic beans, errr, ring of power, err Shannara's sword, Ark of the Covenant, whatever the thing is that needs to be bathed in dragon's fire. When all are in readiness, Brother Hawthorne will take 10 on his performance check and blow the horn. He'd get a 27 on the check.
"If there is time, I'm game."
Alright! I took Scouts to Ohio this weekend (we're in Virginia), to watch the eclipse. I'm back, and ready to save the world!
"Ahhh! Another glorious day of not being paralyzed!"
"Honestly, that had always been my assumption as to the explanation of Sheikh's horrible looks, a wish gone bad." Paritosh laughs so hard, that he ends up choking a bit.
Paritosh nods, "as I have said repeatedly, creators such as these are often talked about by my people as tricksters, who will turns your words against you, following them exactly, but not your intent. If, as Fadilah suggests, a humble wish is less likely to be subverted, what about an altruistic wish, such as one that has your very touch be a curing touch, to heal the body, or to cure disease? Surely, that is a wish that one could not interpret as being greedy or self serving."
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