Quest-Givers [IC]

[Milo v3]

Eli had considered going into the Blood Archive itself, as his familiar Waltev suggested, but searching through books for days on end at the same time as risking of being identified would be far too annoying. It was a research organization which catalogued and detailed the ancestry of all major bloodlines that possessed inborn magical talent. This started when the ruling class of the city wanted to have a concrete idea of exactly who would be next in the leadership, as Silveroost was founded by a silver dragon and all it's upper class requires heritage from it's founder, but currently it has knowledge of all sorts of bloodlines from origins, from dragon to fiend to fey, but most importantly elemental.

With the assistance of a ghoulish drow outlaw he "obtained" while in the Underdark, he was able to kidnap and magically interrogate two minor Blood Archive scholars and quickly learned of Darris. He appeared to be an individual who was able to memorize half of the archives information, at least, that's what many in the archives claim.

Leaving the scholars corpses in the abandoned building (though, they had been sculpted to possess the appearance of the other individual.... Eli got abit... bored waiting for night-time...), the dhampir waited outside the Blood Archives atop his immense flying fox for Darris to exit. After only twenty minutes the man exited the building and appeared to be travelling home. Silent, the bat steed followed the scholar under Eli's instruction until Darris entered what must of been his home. The ratling and master dropped from the flying fox onto the homes wall. Using the magic of his shoes getting down to a window was rather effortless, though Waltev didn't need shoes to walk on walls of course. The window was open slightly, though only enough for creature maybe an eighth of his size.
"Displeasing." Eli muttered in infernal. The dhampir loathed squeezing through small gaps, but slowly the dhampir was able to pass through such a diminutive space. Once inside he widened the window, allowing his compatriot to follow. Darris saw the two rather swiftly, his face showing immense alarm, he was about to shou-
But by then, magic had already dripped from eli's tongue. It flowed into the scholars heart and twisted his mind. The blood mage enjoyed this approach so much more than just flipping through books.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

Along the seas past the mini-continent of Thalmandas, a ship sails to the mainland. Among them is a Half-Dragon named Sveargith and her sister, Arytiss. They were looking over the map, deciding their next location. "If we land here, we should be able to cause some havoc for the tyranical empire here after a few days travel."

"True, but currently, Thalmandas would have no deniability. We we have been given permission to attack them, I would love to, but right now, I think we land here and enjoy ourselves for the time being while we search for people who need our help."

"Alright, I'll inform the captain."

[Toxic Mind]

T'val looks across the surface world, even now tinted dark by the glasses she almost perpetually wore. It had been a grueling journey out of the Underdark, and in all likelihood her acts against House Auvry'Val had already been discovered, and all manner of assassins and other servants of the Drow Noble Houses were being mobilized to hunt her down. They could try.

T'val rests a hand on the sword hilt across her back. The gesture was unnecessary, as a thin line of fabric had been cut from her traveling cloth and through the scabbard so that a part of the sword always touched her flesh. Where are we tasting blood next? The though cuts into her consciousness. Sakenomi. The blade was her truly ever-present companion, for no matter how her allegiances shifted, Sakenomi was always there. Always waiting, always thirsting to drink. Of late the blade had become much more vocal, particularly after the Matriarch's death. Then again, it made sense. She had become more powerful, and the blade grew with her. "Where the path leads us" she said in response, though no words ever pass her lips.

"Speaking of paths." she turns to her current companion, the drow next to her. "Where does ours lie? Of a surety, we cannot stay here." T'val's long standing habit of carrying the conversations in her mind into the real world was well known by now, though no less annoying.

[Hamste]

Yes, Chemosh I packed food. I shouldn't be gone very long. It is just dealing with some bandits. Now remember, if Dnarys gives you any trouble on security consider if it is a good idea before telling her to stop. I know it can annoying but sometimes inconvenience is necessary for security. Pyrom said before hugging Chemosh good bye. Afterwards Chemosh signed the requisite forms and Pyrom went down to the armory to pick up the leave helmet. The helmet was made with special symbols on it that allowed the wearer to leave and enter the city with out setting of the traps at the gates. He also got the code to enter and leave the place. If he forgot the code or lost the helmet it would take weeks of heavy searching and questioning to get back in again.

Pyrom walked down the clean streets of the holiest of cities, heading towards the infirmary to donate some last healing before leaving. The majority of those in the infirmary were those sick with illness as only so many clerics could remove diseases magically leaving the rest to be treated by more mundane ways. Even the lightest of colds were treated here with the victim not being able to leave the quarantine zone until the clerics felt they were healthy again. Thankfully, do to this heavy quarantine it was difficult for disease to take hold anywhere. Pyrom walked towards the few remaining injured, presumably those who arrived late for when the clerics were channeling energy and therefore missed getting healed until the next group came in. Anyone who was not critically wounded were put into a thirty foot room to allow for maximum healing from channels. He channeled some of his weaker energy and their wounds sealed up easily. They thanked him and left to return to what ever they did on their free time. Smiling he continued on his way.

As he walked several guards patrolling the street said good bye or asked him some final question they didn't want to ask Dnarys. The guards always walked in groups of threes which was deemed most economical, there were two clerics and a paladin in every group with any one who didn't show at least some divine power from the high Blup not being allowed to be guards. There were two types of guard groups. Moving guards and corner guards. Corner guards kept various detect spells up and stood on corners waiting in case someone needed them. The moving guard as the name suggested moved around on patrol for those who broke laws. Their were some odd similarities to all the moving guards. The paladin was always mounted and so was one cleric. Only paladins that could summon a mount rode in the patrols to cut down costs. All were adept with knowing when people were sick or not and those who were found to be sick were escorted to a corner guard who then sent one of their men to escort the sick to the infirmary. The one on foot was adept at telling when someone was lying. was often highly charismatic and wore only the light armor. The ones on the horses always seemed to know when someone was evil or using spells. While neither was illegal if either was true they demanded to know where you lived often requiring you to lead them to it and a locket of your hair for future divination purposes. Those who came up evil often found themselves jailed for even the slightest breaking of the rules however.

After answering what what questions he could he finally made it to the gates. After speaking the code to the guard and putting on the helmet to avoid the traps he was finally outside. Farmland surrounded the city for many kilometers and he steeled himself for a boring days trip to the outer edges of their domain. The bandits in reality were not that bad but this gave him opportunity to get some news from the outside world and allowed him to check on the farmers a bit more, see what their life was like.

[Vhaidara]

Jason approaches the City. It was somewhere he had never been before, and he had heard interesting rumors about the place. He felt no need to change his appearance for this journey, but the woman at his side hardly shows her true colors. Light blonde hair to her waist and green eyes belie the beast that dwells within.
Before coming to the gate, Jason slows their pace to consult with her.
Setis, I'm going to ask you again. Reconsider coming with me. It's dangerous for you. This city is supposed to be a holy capitol. I don't think they will take lightly to you.
You worry too much, lover. Where you go, I go. Can't have you plotting where I an't see you. Or at least, drive you away from long term allies. Besides, if they can sense me, they can sense Natalshin, and I'm not letting you get him killed.
I've told you not to call me that. Alright, just please don't kill anyone this time. You know that you can use your powers for good. You make people happy. You just need to learn to stop before you kill them with it.
The succubus laughs.
You are as naive as ever. Fine, if it makes you happy, I won't finish anyone off unless they ask for it.

With that, the pair approaches the gates.

[IZ42]

Vaerthes stands on a rise, looking at the golden hued spires in the distance, leaning on his staff and pondering the city he was travelling towards. Straightening for a moment, he calls out to the woods bordering the road. "Ye can come out, Koroth, there is no one here." Moments later, what appears to be a large tiger appears from within the woods, seemingly out of nowhere. A heavy and growling voice, but not malevolent rumbles, "Aye, I suppose that is true. So, Cub, is that the city ye are heading towards?". "That t'is, old friend, and before you inevitably ask, I do not know why. You may travel with me into the city, but do please be sure to avoid scaring the residents.". With this, Vaerthes and the tiger walk down the rise, headed towards the city.

[Gintash]

*In the City*

Isabelle paced as she dried her hair from her shower earlier. She hated the feeling of blood on her body but with what she was doing she had no choice but to get a little dirty. The man she had just tortured for information had given her nothing that she could use to find more of the people who were torturing others around the city. She had no idea where to go next, nor what her next step should be. She hated the fact that she had killed all those who gave her slithers of useful information. However, she was happy that they had finally gotten what they all deserved after what they had done to all those people.

"Stop pacing girl. It is neither good for your health, nor those around you who get infected by your worries." Said a familiar voice coming from in front of the fireplace. Rantock had obviously been napping there, enjoying the heat until Isabelle started pacing and woke him up.

"Sorry. I just don't know where to go from here and without a trail to follow I have no idea who else has been torturing those poor people which put me behind in stopping them." Isabelle said as she looks out an open window to the city outside.

"Well your not going to find anything new out by pacing or looking out that window so why not come over here, sit by the fire and get yourself warm before thinking about saving anyone else. Even heroes need a break sometimes." Rantock said as he curled up once more. Isabelle walked over smiling at him. He knew she hated being called a hero but loved to tease her about it. However, he was right either way. Worrying would get her nowhere, so she took his advice and sat near the fire. Half to dry herself off, half to enjoy the warm glow of it before she had to get up and get herself ready for a walk around the city.

[Xunthrae]

Izzdar was not happy with the last part of their trip. He was definitely not used to 'roughing it' in any sense of the word. He was dirty, sweaty and tired, but eventually, after squeezing himself out of one final crack in a cave wall they could see the burning brightness of the daytime surface. T'val, his Kayal companion, had gone ahead already since she wasn't averse to physical activity. Before reaching the surface he made sure to don his protective glasses. They shield his eyes from the harsh light of the sun.

Izzdar squints at the landscape. He wasn't impressed, though the surface always made him uneasy. He feels like something is going to come out of the the sky and whisk him away. He glances over at his companion, his Lenses of Darkness covering his eyes. "Well, let's find some people and find out whats around here. But first..." He begins casting a several spells, two summon spectral four legged animals. Izzdar's mount reflects his heritage. It's skin has a chitinous sheen and a spider head on its horse-like frame, while his companion's is simpler, the generic outcome of his spell. He knows she prefers it that way.

Next, he creates a set of four royal looking guards on mounts similar to his companion's. They were equipped with slender looking full-plate colored purple with red accents, Auvry'Val's house colors, and wicked and jagged looking spears, obviously meant to rend and tear flesh.

"Now that we properly attended, Let's find those people." With a wicked grin Izzdar sets off, keeping his mind occupied mostly with maintaining his spell. T'val was a much better watcher than he was, so she can take care of that.

They spend the next several hours traveling past what he could only guess are trees. He has never traveled to the parts of the surface that has them. They're like mushrooms, but less.... squishy. Also, during those hours he made a game of having the guards talk to each other. Manipulating his illusion for his entertainment. He had them speak in all manner of accents, voices, tones. Izzdar doesn't think T'val is amused with it, but the illusionist is having fun with his figments.

Eventually they found a road. It is deserted, but that may be because of a group like them is such an impressive sight. The other travelers obviously got out of their way to show respect. There is little sign of other people until the pair encountered a cart overturned on the side of the road. There are a pair humans, one an older man the other a younger one, probably his son, in quite a disgusting set of clothing. Izzdar knows humans are distasteful, but really. They are so incredibly filthy, even the mage himself had time to clean himself with magic while on the road. Pitiful.

The peasants are blatantly in awe and fear of his entourage. They are quite an impressive work of magic if he does say so himself. He holds up his hand in a fist, stopping his illusion at the same time as letting his companion know to stop.

"M'lord! May we please beg for your aid? One of our cart's wheel's broke and fell over. Please, will you help us?

The drow looks at the pair, looks at the few, meager possessions they have and knows they had nothing to offer. Izzdar looks to his companion and decides to make a game out of it. "I don't know. What do you think? Should we help them, my friend? They are in need of some assistance, guess."

T'val looks the pair over, scoffs and merely turns her mount down the road as answer. "well, I guess that answers that." With a chuckle the drow follows suit.

The pair seemed surprised at the denial of assistance. The younger man, flustered and stunned at their callous dismissal shouts after them, "What do you mean you won't help us! We are people in need of help! That's supposed to work, people are supposed to help each other, not just leave them to suffer!"

The older human swears and shouts out "Attack them anyway!" At that command many other humans swarm out of the tree-line with swords and a few with crossbows. Their first volley and set of attacks went after the royal guard, many missing them and other bolts and swords merely slashing through the illusions.

Izzdar was surprised at the human's gall to attack him. No matter, he lets go of his concentration of his illusions, letting them now distract the humans in combat. His mind no longer distracted by maintaining the guards he lets loose another illusion, this time it seems as if the Hell's themselves are seeping through into the plane centered on himself. It may be prudent to leave some of these humans alive, so they may serve him. They seem to have the tenacity for it.

[Hamste]

Jason and Setis
You see three guards standing behind the close portcullis wearing breastplates and shields with short swords at their waist. Near them there is also a few longspears. On the walls sits several more guards each also wearing breastplates but instead of shields and short swords they hold crossbows and have longspears. The walls are about thirty feet high. When you reach about 60 ft away one of the guards standing on the inside of the closed portcullis stares at you. A few seconds later one of the other guards who seemed a whole lot less interested tapped the man on the elbow. He whispers something off to the side out of sight before yelling.

Strong. Many. A second later there is the sound of a horse galloping away.

Halt. What is your business here. We have sent someone to deal with the bandits if that is your problem.

Vaerthes and Koroth

The scene is very similar to the one Jason and Setis face however an old lady joins the guards at this entrance. She seems to be yelling at them about proper procedure and about how they shouldn't have turned their back on the gate even to greet her. The guards seem to be on edge and when they notice the tiger they only get more nervous. When you are with in 60 ft one of the guards perks up. The guard seemed indecisive trying to decide whether to touch the old lady or another guard. He ultimately decided to tap the elbow of the other guard. The other guard nodded and whispered off to the side.

None, Many. Then there is a scribbling noise.

See, now you idiots are getting it. When I visit you do not break procedure. Always stick to procedure no matter what. Now what do you want. The old lady said turning around to squint at you. Her eyes look cloudy and she leans heavily on an old stick. She seems completely unfazed by the tiger.

Pyrom

So much boredom. Talking to the townsfolk was nice and all but the scenery was so boring. Fields and more fields. There was nothing to do he couldn't even day dream because he had to keep focused on his detect evil. Soon he would get to the forest and then he would be able to deal with them. After that he would be able to talk with the townsfolk some more. That would be interesting at least. Pyrom thought to himself as he entered the forest.

[Toxic Mind]

T'val sighs. A quick gesture and a secondary bubble of force appears around her, deflecting the few arrows that managed to even get close to her. She vaults off the horse and draws Sakenomi in one fluid motion. Another hand along the edge of the sword, and it shimmers, it's edge now looking wicked enough to slice through the light itself.

The illusionary soldiers may have been faked, their armor and weapons little more than figments of Izzdar's imagination, but as the bandits would soon discover, she was very real, and very deadly. By now, the quickest among the company had reached the two "travelers" and, thinking that all of Izzdar's guards must be illusions, they ignored her.

The results were decidedly fatal. It only took one. One of the bandits, a gruff man carrying an axe, ran by, ignoring the woman completely. Right up until the dueling sword took off his head. Blood sprayed across the dusty earth, and the battle stopped dead in its tracks. "They killed Xander!" One of the bandits screams. Oops. Probably a relative of the fellow.

"Cease your squabbling! You cannot defeat me. Surrender, and I will spare you. Otherwise you can join your family member in death. The bandits stop, many of them thinking it over. "If you work with us, you will be paid, and you will all live. The choice is yours. T'val stares at the bandit leader, daring him to disagree. Then, after a long few seconds, he bows his head. T'val sheathes her sword and looks at Izzdar, who had apparently been channeling his own illusion, which may have broken the minds of a few of their new converts. Oh well.

[Vhaidara]

I think they're on to something. Whispering about us already, and not the kind I normally here. At least, without context

Jason looks up at the men. Not overly surprising that they would be suspicious
We are simply travelers, wandering the world. We wish to spend this night with roof above our heads. May we enter your city?

[Hamste]

The guard seems somewhat confused by the question. One does not simply enter the Healthiest of Cities. It takes many weeks of questions and tests after which you are a citizen forever and may only leave with permission. Disease must be kept at bay and those who wish to destroy us must be purged from those who wish to enter before we can allow entry. If you wish you can continue about a half a days journey that way. Some...oh what were those things called again? The jolly little smelly people? They were so annoyed we thought they were small humans...hmmmm, Dwarves I think it was? Anyways they said they were going to set up an inn at the foot of the mountains when we turned them away ten years ago. They made it pretty far into the program but they just wouldn't accept the High Blup into their hearts. If you wish to become a citizen of our Fairest of Cities we will just need to get the judges together but we do have some rooms for those who wish to live among us. Pyrom isn't here but he is sure to be back by the time the judging is to be done. The guard said gesturing towards some mountains off in the distance when mentioning the inn. He tries to put on a relaxed demeanor but it is obvious to all that he very on edge about something.

[Vhaidara]

Jason's eyes narrow.
Now, why is it that you would not allow the citizenry to leave? I cannot think of many reasons for that, and none of them are holy.
Setis, meanwhile, closes her eyes and hums a little tune to herself.

She is using her Detect Thoughts SLA. No verbal or somatic components to notice, Will save DC 20 to negate. Going for the surface thoughts (3 rounds, 18 seconds) of the guards within 60ft.

[Hamste]

A few of the guards look a bit suspicious but say nothing.
Wonder what is going on. I never saw them send out a horse before. Maybe they are enemies of our faith? Everyone is healthy, protected and well fed. How could this no be holy? One of the guards on the wall was thinking.

I really hope they get here soon. Don't know how we would deal with two people this evil. I kind of wonder why evil seems to scale with strength. Couldn't weaker people be evil? I really don't like that I have to offer them a chance at citizenship in our fine city but I'm sure they won't make it. Bah, makes sense those that revel in evil will think what we do is not kind. The guard speaking to you thinks.

These guys must be pretty rich with all those magic items on them. I would be pretty nervous myself if I had to deal with people this rich. I wonder what they do to make so much money. I wonder why they think staying forever in the city would be a bad thing One of the other guards behind the portcullis thought.

The High Blup had decreed that we must work to stop disease and starvation. If we let people leave forever we abandon them to a life of poverty, sickness and death. If we let them leave even temporarily we risk the threat of disease into our Kindest City. As it is we are being generous with letting others...even those that are evil into our city. The guard says staring pointedly at you two.

Not lying, evil people could theoretically enter our city. There is no laws against evil. Sure it has never happened but they could.


They all have intelligence 10 except the guard speaking to you has an intelligence of 7.

[Vhaidara]

They detected our auras. And they are all idiots who are convinced this place is paradise.

So once an individual has become a citizen, they surrender their freedom to leave?
Jason glances off in the direction the horse went.
So, who are we waiting on? I would guess that horse went to one of your superiors.

Setis, meanwhile, decides to have some fun. She keeps humming as she works a little bit of her magic
Now then, is it really fair to treat people differently just because they have done things in the past?

Tt is going to be shorthand for "Telepathy to".
Suggestion to treat Jason and Setis with less suspicion, DC 21. Again, SLA, no external sign

[Xunthrae]

Izzdar is dissapointed at how quickly the bandits gave up. He wanted to make them relieve themselves in their trousers. He had this whole plan to make himself look like a demon and convince them that he pulled a part of his Hell into the prime material and that their souls were his, but oh well. T'val was just as effective, if less fun.

"Now then," He waved his hand, dismissing the very real and convincing illusion of the hells. It probably helps he's been there. "Take us to your encampment. I will evaluate each of you and then assign you your tasks and duties."

The mage has them all walk infront of himself and T'Val. It's much easier to destroy them if they are all nice and clumped together.

The group walk for roughly an hour before they reach a clearing with the bandit's encampment. There were a few people scattered about the camp, even a few children, but nothing that stood out to Izzdar. "Good work following directions. Now," He pauses, turning his head slowly while his gaze slides over the camp. "Prepare the camp for an inspection. Tomorrow, Myself and my companion here will see to it you all become more than mere bandits in the time ahead, but first we must take stock in what you all actually have." The contempt in his voice with undisguised at the end. It was obvious he did not hold them in high regard.

The noble pushes his Spider-horse phantom to move to an opening near the center of the camp before stopping. He dismounts and begins a ritual. Slowly pieces of wood, grass and mud build up in front of the drow. Minutes pass by and a shelter is taking shape, and after ten in total a cottage made of mud, grass and wood stands in the small opening between the bandit's tents.

The sun has begun to set by the time Izzdar's shelter is finished. The drow commands the closest human to bring their leader to him. The young man hustles back with their commander in tow. Izzdar beckons the man inside., a sly smile on his coal black skin. "Please, come in. We have much to discuss." It was obvious the former leader was uncomfortable. "Please, relax. You have nothing to fear from me." A smile graces the illusionists face. It was plain the man didn't believe him fully, but he had no other choice but to comply.

Once inside Izzdar faces the dirt covered man and incants a spell, a simple charm spell to make him more pliable to the drow's plans. The noble watches the spell wash over the captain... and fail. This irks the drow. Something deep inside wants him to lash out and punish the lowly human for the impudence to resist his spell, but prudence and restraint win out and he stays his hand.

The former leader turns and tries to escape the shelter, only to find out that the door locked behind him. While the panicked man tries to get through the barred door, Izzdar attempts once again to place the man under his control, this time the effects are obvious. The man relaxes and turns around, a smile on his face. "My friend! It's so great to see you!" The older man rushes in and embraces Izzdar, much to his dismay. "What did you need me to do?"

After Izzdar extricates himself from the hug, he asks the former leader to go back into the camp and convince his former bandits to follow the instructions they've been given and to perform their best, since their new leader will turn their luck around and set them on the path to wealth and influence.

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom and T'val

For her part, T'val has little patience or taste for the particular manner of persuasion that Izzdar employs. So she ventures beyond the confines of the small forest hamlet that the bandits call home. For T'val, it is not about mounts or worries that her safety or her honor might be in danger. She simply wandered off, with the knowledge that Izzdar would be working at his 'tasks' for some time. In the dappled shade of the forest, she could remove her lenses and put them away with only a small amount of discomfort, most alleviated if she avoided the sunbeams.

It was not long before she ran into him. Wandering through the forest, he seemed to be headed in the direction of the bandit camp she had recently left. "Hello there sirrah. What brings you to these woods?" she asks cordially enough to Pyrom, though the other would notice that her hand was never far from her sword, and her eyes constantly darted to his weaponry.

[Milo v3]

With the now dominated Darris, Eli could gain the information much faster. The afflicted sat comfortably in a relatively large chair near the scholars fireplace, a bottle of wine floating beside him slowly started to pour into his glass. Wasn't the best wine, but darris wasn't nobility he supposed.

Conveying orders to his new slave through his familiar, he was abit annoyed the man did not seem to understand fiendish tongues or draconic. After two hours of questioning, it appeared Darris did possess the knowledge he desired.

"The bloodline we have been searching for still exists, currently the family possessed the name of Windbreaker. Though most of the Windbreaker family appear to have been killed, leaving most of the families power to a non-relative widow." Waltev translated the information.
"Do the records state where said widow lives?"
"Currently.... hmm..... the City."
"Which. City." He was swiftly getting impatient.
"The Holiest of Cities on this plane, Eli."
"Oh... the one you were mentioning last week. That is... unfortunate. Don't they have paladins on every street?"
"Rfa sis to nee" The dominated scholar said, though Eli isn't really sure what he was responding to and Waltev appeared to be annoyed at whatever it was.
"Ahem... yes. That place."

Six hours passed, and the dhampir was already heading to the city. The dominated Darris was instructed to stay indoors until he had run out of food, while the ghoul Solinid rode atop the monstrous flying fox. This megabat flew within the canopy, following the immense spirit wolf.

Gnora was annoyed, he could run so fast, and yet the Cruoromancer that rode him would not let him. Apparently the feeble dire bat could not keep up..... Only nine more hours.

[Hamste]

Jason and Setis

A look of extreme rage shows in the guard's eyes for a second before he calmed himself. If I act in a way that you don't expect they have done something to me. They seem to be able to speak into our minds who knows what else they can do. Crossbow men prepare to shoot if they move any closer. The guard starts yelling. The crossbow men look confused for a second before shrugging. They pull out their crossbows and prepare to fire. A few men down the wall react. There are a few shouts in both directions and they move in a bit closer.

Dnarys is coming. We are going to need you to move back sixty feet. Please, keep your hands where we can see them. I don't know what you tried to do to me but casting magic on someone without permission or a warrant is illegal with very few exceptions. We are going to have to ask that you stay here until they arrive.

T'vall
This was exactly why he constantly kept his detect evil up. Sure knowing if your opponent was wielding strong magical powers was good but knowing you have a possible opponent was much more.

Looking for some bandits that took up residence around here. You wouldn't happen to know where they are do you? I can't help but notice your interest in my sword you want to see it. Beautifully made thing could slice your head right off it could. Absolutely vicious as well. Pyrom pulls out the sword holding it up for inspection. Cuts right through evil creatures, I hear it drains their very life away. Quite a beautiful thing it is and right now it wishes for bandit blood. Woe to anyone who would wish to stop it from attaining its righteous wrath.

[Vhaidara]

Setis, what did you do?
Me? Why do you always suspect me? These people are mad, and clearly oversuspicious of us! Teach them respect, Jason!

Jason doesn't step forward, but neither does he make any motion back.
Sir, I suggest you think twice before accusing us. The lady and I are simple travelers. I myself am a healer who wished to offer my services here. Do you truly wish to turn us away simply because of your prejudice against outsiders?

Setis simply smiles softly, still humming to herself.

Setis used Suggestion on Jason.
Jason Intimidate: [roll0], gets another +3 if the guy would be attracted to him (go essence of the succubus!)

[Hamste]

...outsider? What the **** is an outsider? Lower your weapons men. The guard at the gates said looking slightly nervous at the implication that he might be wrong. The men looked at each other and ignored him resolutely following his order to not listen to him if he acted in an odd way. I will not open the gate though. What ever you do to me is not worth betraying my beloved city for. He says not at all happy with his situation. Some loud clomping his heard through the street and four more guards appear on horseback. All the guards carried short swords and shields as well as the standard armor but two carried saps as well. In the distance the sound of marching can be heard.

What's going on here. One of the new guards said.

Two strong tried to enter the city by using magic on the guard. They claim to be none who are just outsiders what ever those are. No idea how that relates to our detection spells. The acting commander is on her way. The relieved previous speaker said.

What do you have to say for yourself? Also back up sixty feet. Standard procedure for spell casters. Refusal to back up results in immediate firing of the crossbows. The new speaker said turning towards you.

I figured with how long we have been talking it was reasonable for two of the patrols to have heard about it by now as well as some of the corner guard (Who being on foot take a bit longer to get there)

[Toxic Mind]

T'val stands, looking unimpressed, as the shadows play across her face. Her skin is alabaster white, no efforts made to disguise it. Her eyes, the right one hidden beneath a cascade of silver hair, glow a dim red in the failing light. She is not tall, as far as humans go, but her posture is unbowed, and the ghost of a smile seems to play across her face. The outline of the woman seems to fade in and out of the shadow, making her looks over his blade. "I've seen sharper" she said, with an expression of boredom. "But since you seem to need to compare things, as men are wont to do..."

T'val draws her sword. The blade is blacker than the darkest shadows, seeming to drink in the light itself. "This is Sakenomi. She says hello, and asks what you taste like. She's rather less polite than most civilized folk, but then again, it seems that most of the people I've met care little about manners, so she should feel right at home." This said with one eyebrow raised at him. The not so subtle threats had clearly not gone unnoticed. "Do you know what her name means? I'm sure you don't. It is an ancient language, lost to the world now, even she only knows the meaning of her own name. Drinker. She drinks life."

T'val looks around. "I have no interest in fighting you, and there are clearly no bandits here." T'val looks to the left and the right. "I came from the west, and there were no bandits for a mile in that direction. I would search to the east or the south. There is a cave to the Underdark several hours ride to the west if that's more up your alley. Perhaps the drow are raiding from there and the citizens mistook them for common bandits."

T'val is not lying, however she is also not telling the truth. The bandits are to the North, however, none of her statements are direct lies, simply lies of omission. Up to you Hamste if you think Pyrom would not believe her.

[Vhaidara]

Jason nods, and steps back. Setis follows suit, keeping Jason between her and the guards.

I simply wished to visit a new place, and perhaps help some people in need. The lady has been my travelling companion for some time. This man accused us of attempting to invade his mind for no reason that I could detect.

Setis simply continues her humming, turning her spell upon the newcomers.

The Detect Thoughts is now on the new guards. Or at least, whoever they are now 60ft from. Also, I just realized she has passive Detect Good. So, aura strengths?

[QuidEst]

Kyoni travelled in style. She reclined in a palanquin draped in red and gold was carried along on the shoulders of six acolytes robed in dark grey with red lining. Another pair walked out ahead with incense, and behind there was a collection of some two-dozen more carrying supplies and the like. Beside the silk-covered platform, a fox the size of a horse trotted along, occasionally stopping to look the acolytes over, growling now and then at any stragglers.

It was the fox who spoke first, addressing Kyoni. "We're nearing the city. It might be best to proceed on foot. The acolytes can set up camp well away, while we go on ahead."

Inside the palanquin, Kyoni sighed, and rapped on the wooden edge. The acolytes stopped, and she slid out onto the ground. "Yes, yes, fine. But go back to your real form, Noli. I don't want anybody seeing you like this either."

Dutifully, the fox closed its eyes, and in a blur that was a little unsettling to look at directly, shifted into a half-elf in thick robes. "Conwell, get up here!" she snapped, and a lean priest stepped forward. "The spells."

Conwell nodded dutifully, and accepted a rod from Noli. He chanted briefly, first over Noli and then Kyoni. His work finished, he handed the rod back before bowing deeply and returning to the entourage.

"That's the fall-back. We won't register for two days. Obviously your own magic will be far more effective, Mistress," Noli said. "Those in the city watch outsiders who appose their little god with a great deal of suspicion, after all."

"Mmm. I do hope there will be as many recruits as you think there will be," Kyoni replied, examining her nails idly. "It would be a pity to go to all the trouble and get nothing from it, after all."

Noli nodded, well aware that there would be very little pity involved if she were wrong about this. "Yes, it is oppressive, restrictive, and walled off from the outside. There will be many in the city who wish for more than the table scraps of their little god. But will you be working your magic now?"

"I already did. Have a look."

A short chant let Noli see the layers of magic overlaying the world. While no expert at reckoning their precise meaning, she was familiar enough to recognize that both their auras had been greatly simplified. Layers of magic of different schools were replaced by just one. It was never convincing to be free of magic- amateurs concealed everything- but most items were transmutation. Redirecting the spell to an amulet or belt was far more effective. Noli nodded, satisfied that the spell held up to her cursory examination. If it couldn't do even that, then something had gone quite wrong.

There were a few last minute preparations to be made, orders to be given, and clergy to be directed. Kyoni left such things to Noli while she started out, leaving her high priestess to catch up. It was an hour's walk for them. When they arrived at the gate, however, there seemed to be something of a commotion.

Kyoni smiled. She was fond of commotions. "Hail!" she called, waving as she approached the group at the gate. "What seems to be the trouble?"

Noli hurried up behind, keeping quiet and hoping not to mess up whatever it was her divine mistress was doing.

Kyoni and Noli both have Conceal Alignment up for two days. They also have nine hours remaining of Misdirection. They both detect like their magic belts- non-evil, and minor magic of the sort of transmutation that just about any adventurer would have.
In addition, Kyoni has nine hours of Glibness remaining. She's rocking a +40 +45 to bluff right now. Detecting lies or forcing her to tell the truth requires a CL 25 check.

EDIT: Updated bluff modifier. I forgot that The Liar grants +2 as a seance bonus, and The Rakshasa grants +3 to all skills as a spirit bonus.

[Hamste]

Jason, Setis, Noli and Kyoni

The detect good shows three of the six that were in range on the wall detect as faint good, two do not show up and the remaining person on the wall detects as moderate. The three guards behind the portcullis register as moderate good. The guards that just came haven't been in sight for 18 seconds yet when you move back though it has been long enough to know the number of good auras increased by five when they arrived. If you followed the man's orders you should now be out of range of close range spells and detect thoughts.


If you wish to contest the charges we have two clerics coming that can sort things out. They have a thing for telling when people lie or not. You could even say it was magic...because it is. If either of you refuse to submit to the truth detection magic we will assume both of you are guilty but you may wish to do it if you have broken any other laws. The guard says. The marching continues to get louder. At this point the man notices the two newcomers.

I suggest you two go to a different gate. This one is closed until this is sorted out. If you are willing to wait it will take just a few minutes. He says gesturing to Noli and Kyoni.

Seeing she has cast other things I assume she is recasting detect thoughts (Which isn't a problem at all because it is at will just matters for success and failure for the others who already have in the area) though you do need to get in range again. Also important to note, some of them may be LN. A cleric pings as their deity's alignment (Aura class feature) even if they don't match up exactly. Also is it ok if I change one detail? I want all four of the patrollers to have saps instead of just two with the High Blup's favored weapon being a sap. I have been going with one round of talking=1 round so after them giving you final warning that puts them in sight for 12 seconds.



T'vall
I would presume I taste rather bitter. Anyways I doubt the drow would be raiding us. I can see bandits being that dumb but I can't imagine anyone even remotely organized would want to anger a city full of paladins and clerics. Though it is good to know they are there. Nah, I would go with it being bandits. So are you haven't seen any bandits? Pyrom said keeping his blade out.

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom

"Are you daft? Did I not just say that? You know, they should really train warriors from this City of yours to better pay attention." T'val says, angry now. As dusk truly falls in the clearing, T'val becomes even more difficult to see, her body blurring in a strange way that made it hard to focus on. Without a light, the paladin would find it hard to see, whereas T'val saw better. "You might wish to make camp before night truly falls, sir knight. You never know what might find you in the darkness."

[Vhaidara]

Jason nods.
We have nothing to hide.

Well hello there beautiful. We didn't perchance meet sometime in the past, did we? No need to speak, I can hear you if you want me to.

[QuidEst]

"We have no reason not to wait," Kyoni answered the guard with a smile.

A voice entered her mind. Something of a surprise, but she took it in stride. If you're talking to me like this, I assume you do have something to hide. I've warded myself against their magic, but I can't do a much more than vouch for you at this point. If your business here is anything less than urgent, we might just travel together instead. If it is urgent, I'll see what I can do. She decided the last bit on a snap judgment. New recruits were certainly important, but powerful allies were a much greater asset.

[Vhaidara]

Jason and Setis simply wait. Inwardly, Setis is smiling.

Oh, pay no attention to Jason. He's sweet, but ignorant. As far as business here, I don't even think we have any. Jason just has a bleeding heart and a wandering soul. In more ways than one.
She ends with a chuckle.

Lover boy, we've got company. And I think she could be interesting to meet.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni waited as well for the clerics to proceed with the inquisition. Noli, unaware of the conversation going on, kept quiet and did her best to think of any last-minute changes to their plan- a plan that hadn't accounted for the guards being on even higher alert than their usual background xenophobic paranoia.

Mmm. I wouldn't mind a taste to see just how sweet. Well, if you have the situation under control, I won't be interfering. Do let me know if you'd like any help, of course. I'm Kyoni, by the way. It's a rare pleasure to be able to talk like this, although I'm sure you're used to it by now.

[Vhaidara]

I'm Setis. And I could use a hand. The guard's mind turned out to be stronger than I expected. And in city like this one, I think the two of us could have some real fun.

[Hamste]

T'val

Hmmm, who says I'm a paladin? Clerics can wear some pretty heavy armor if they put their mind to it. Also no, you did not just say that you just said there were no bandits a mile that way. Anyways, you live around here? If you don't you might as well stay here for the night. There are bandits about after all. Pyrom said. He started to look for wood to start a fire carefully listening to hear if T'val leaves or not.

Jason, Setis, Noli and Kyoni

Finally, the troops causing the sound of the footsteps arrive. Three of them appear to be out of breath from running from wherever they were guarding. Like all the other guards they are wearing the same armor and carrying the same weapons as the patrollers. However, two of them wear chainshirt instead of the standard armor and they seem fine.

There you are. Now open the portcullis and get testing on those two.

They appear to be about to open the portcullis when a tapping sound is heard. The guards look nervous straightening up and getting into attention.

You dolts, never open the gate. Standard procedure. I don't care if ogres are murdering kittens out there. If they don't have the cap, the password and an explanation you do not open it.

What is an ogre? One of the guards whispers to the other who just shrugs.

Make them come over here put the cap on the tester and have the tester reach through the bars to touch them. Do not open the gate. The old lady turns to you four squinting but her murky eyes don't apparently see anything.

Hmmm, you come closer. We have to test both of you but can't have both of your approach can we. Only the person I point to come to me. The guard that was speaking said pointing to Jason. Any declaration of immunity to mind affects or otherwise unwillingness to participate? We expect you to not resist having the spell cast on you. Silence or resistance of the spell will be assumed to be an admission of guilt.

[Vhaidara]

Setis chuckles at the guard's question as Jason steps forward.
Of course. As I said, I have nothing to hide.

Jason will be fine. Unfortunately, I don't have his protection from magical lie detection. Any chance you could help me out?

Jason is lying now, Bluff rolled in the OoC.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni's mind raced, at last settling on a course of action.
This won't be pretty, but I need you to instruct Noli to come over and hold me and have her mind open to me. She should act like I regularly have brief lapses. Tell her I said 'pomegranate'. Then I'm going to possess you. If you don't let me in, this whole thing fails and you're on your own. It will be for a few seconds while I cast a spell from your body. Then I jump to her and do the same, since we weren't expecting interrogation this thorough. You can trust me because your friend there is very good looking and I would be quite put out if I missed a chance to get to know him better.

She smiled, nodding as well. "Nor do we."

Kyoni is casting Illusion of Calm on herself to avoid giving things away when she drops. Psychic spells are purely mental, so it doesn't show. There's no save to disbelief without attacking her. Casting it takes one use of mythic power since it's from The Twin, which she doesn't have active. No spell slot used, though.

[Vhaidara]

Your mistress says "pomegranate". Open your mind to her, hold her, and act as though her lapse is normal.
It is done. And you have no idea how much fun he can be.
I've got it under control, go ahead loverboy.

[QuidEst]

Noli put her arm around Kyoni.
Cast Marionette Possession on Setis. Cast Glibness. Cast Marionette Possession on Noli. Cast Glibness. Dismiss Marionette Possession and stand up. None of this was visible, so we should be okay.
Ugh. That was not as easy as it looked. Oof… you owe me one. But it's done. Submit to the spell, and you can say whatever you like. They're not likely to spot your lies by conventional means, either.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

Sveargith and her men arrived in the city, well, at least near it. She had heard there was a lengthy process before the Captain could dock, so Sveargith and her men would have to wait. "Here we are, sis, City, the place where the biggest walls is red tape bull****. I say we look around and see if someone needs some help. If not, lets find the best tavern and drink til we can't remember a damn thing." she said.

"Or till I beat up half the patrons."

[Hamste]

One of the guards puts on the helmet and carefully sticks her hand through the gate. The image of an archon appears for a second before disappearing. There were some whispers just explaining the situation up to here. Did you or your companion defined as the lady you traveled with attempt to cast a spell. Do either you or your companion have the ability to teleport, read minds, control, charm, go through walls, create illusions, go invisible and or create undead? If so which ones? Did you list them all? Any other powers that you feel could be used in a way contrary to our laws and believes? If so which ones? How could they be used for contrary to our beliefs? Do you or your companion have a past in which you wronged a lawful authority? If so how? Have either you or your companion done one or more of the followings crimes? Murder, theft, arson, cannibalism as defined as eating the corpse of a sentient being, mugging, assault or treason. If so which ones. What race are you and your companion? Is that race in bad standing with the elves, halflings or humans? If so why? Do you or your companion carry a disease with the express purpose of spreading it? Are you aware of any disease you or your companion might contain? Do you or your companion have any spell casting ability or spell-like ability? Is it divine, arcane, spell like or another type we did not list? Did you or your companion cast a spell on someone unwilling in the last 24 hours? If so who and for what reasons? Is this body being controlled or compelled by a force not original to the body that is not the spell cast by me? Do you feel like you have withheld information? Do you feel like you have mislead or twisted your words? Do you feel you have tricked us? Yes or no, do you feel proud of yourself for tricking us? The cleric says in an almost sing song voice, it appears they had to remember this by heart.




For the sake of not making a million posts I will ask these questions all at once. There is time to answer between each question. If you say yes to the you or your companion questions the follow up question is you or your companion. Even if the question doesn't seem to make sense after your answer they will ask it anyways.

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom

"Very well then, sir Cleric. As for your question, I do not live around anywhere. I am merely a traveller, passing through these parts on my way elsewhere. I am unfamiliar with these parts, I must admit, and know little of the surrounding area. You, on the other hand, seem rather familiar with this area. Care to tell me what is nearby? Other than these bandits you claim to be seeing." T'val has little traveling gear with her, most of it is with Izzdar, but this fool of a holy warrior could not know that. He was fun to play with, and she was bored. It would be a shame to have to kill him, of course, but she was certain she could do it. After all, night was falling, and the darkness was her element.

[Vhaidara]

No. No. No. Yes. No. No. No. No. No. No. Human and human. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.

Setis steps forward as Jason finishes.
No. No. No. Yes. No. No. No. No. No. No. Human and human. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.

[Hamste]

T'vall

Farmland...a lot of farmland. There is an old inn some dwarves set up some years ago. Last time I checked it was abandoned though. Some mines and what not. The city of course. Other than that not much. Pyrom says. He then tries to make a fire from twigs.

He is taking 20 on making a fire.

Jason, Setis, Noli and Kyoni

The guard that you tried the suggestion seems about ready to pop with rage but doesn't disturb the proceedings. How ever the old women also stares at Jason oddly. She whispers to Jason before he moves away.
I don't know what you did to bypass the truth spells but be warned: If you do something to harm this city I will hunt you down and kill you.

After Setis was done answering questions for a second before speaking up.
Standard procedure is done. The spell says they are innocent so we shall let them go. Any last business from the two of you? The old lady says.

Well that is done. What can we help you with. The patrolling guard said brightly to Noli and Kyoni.

[Vhaidara]

Setis adopts Jason's voice for her mental communication.
I had naught but the best intentions. But I suppose your people won't want us.

Jason turns and begins to walk away, Setis following behind him.

We'll wait for you down the road, if you want to join us. I'm sure we could find something to...discuss.

[Hamste]

Dang it keep forgetting to mention this and it is mildly important.

Up close to the portcullis there appears to be hundreds of small carvings that glow ever so slightly with magical power. There is also a few holes in the ceiling that could not be seen from far away. You can also see a drawbridge over an interior moat that is currently down.

[QuidEst]

Don't suppose you could have settled on that before I shifted through two bodies? Well, I can't say I really mind after seeing this place up close.

"Oh, ah, yes. Well, see, we just wanted to report that we'd overheard a cloaked man in the back of a tavern down the way saying that he'd worked out a hole in the sewer security here. Couldn't catch much more without him realizing I was listening, but there was something about rats, some sort of fever, and 'next month'. Figured somebody should let you know," Kyoni said, nodding as if quite satisfied. That bought her enough time to complete the spell. "Well, that's all!" she declared, turning around and following after Setis and Jason. Noli scurried along behind, in no small amount of consternation at all her work being thrown out, but familiar enough with Kyoni not to let it show.

Bluff: [roll0]

Spend another point of mythic power to cast Misdirection. The captain of the guard will detect as a chaotic evil outsider for the next 12 hours to anybody who fails a DC 18 will save.

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom

"City?" T'val said with an interested glance. "As I said, I am not from here. My once-home lies far from this plane. Yet you speak of it as if it had no name, and it was something that all would recognize. Not as a city, but the city. Tell me of it. " As the fire is lit, T'val gestures with her hands, and the fire, as well as the sticks, moves up and away from the woman, and towards Pyrom, setting itself gently down. Once more, T'val's face is drowned in shadow, with only momentary glimpses as firelight flickers across it. "I assume you'll be up all night keeping watch, as I am an untrustworthy soul?" T'val says, a glimmer of a smile playing across her face, yet no sign of worry. She seems remarkably unthreatened by the prospect of such an arrangement.

[Vhaidara]

Setis stops Jason once they are out of sight of the gate, and they wait for Kyoni. Setis is grinning as Kyoni approaches.
That was a nice touch, beautiful.
Jason looks confused.
Did I miss something?

[QuidEst]

Kyoni grinned back. "Oh I couldn't resist. The part you missed? The captain will be detecting as you for the next half-day. It's a pity they didn't work out what you were, or they'd never believe he wasn't you in disguise." She waited to see how the casual mention registered. "In case you're curious, I worked it out when I was in you. Most people don't see 'goodness', and from there, it wasn't much of a challenge to work out."

[Vhaidara]

Setis shrugs.
Not surprised you figured it out. After all, how many creatures are telepathic and this beautiful.
Jason puts his hand over his face.
Really? You found another one Setis? Don't you make my life hard enough? I'm only trying to do what's best for you.

[QuidEst]

"Mmm, true, but the 'beautiful' bit was very distracting you know," Kyoni answered. "Especially with him standing there as well," she added with a quick glance at Jason. "But introductions are in order, I suppose. I'm Kyoni, and this is Noli. Incidentally, Noli, I'll need to to fly back to the faithful tomorrow and let them know that plans of changed."

[Vhaidara]

I am Jason Corian, and from the way your acting, it seems you have met Setis already. Now, before anything else, what are you?
Setis looks Kyoni over.
Honestly, I'm in agreement with Jason on this. I felt a lot of power when you possessed me. More than I'v felt since the last time I was home.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni's form began to shift, her mouth spreading into a toothy maw as fine orange fur sprouted along her skin. A fox tail poked out from the side of her dress, and ghostly pale blue flames flickered around her. " 'Demigoddess ascendant' would be the most technically accurate. Noli here is my high priestess. The term demigoddess might be a little misleading, admittedly- the 'ascendant' bit is to indicate that I wouldn't be worth the notice of, eh, what were they called? The ones from the Abyss?"

"Nascent demon lords," Noli provided helpfully.

"Right, that's it. Wouldn't hold a candle to them, just for example. But in the sense of priests being able to pray to me, yes." She gave a dismissive wave and the blue flames disappeared as she resumed her human form.

[Hamste]

T'val

I never sleep if I can help it so yes I will be keeping watch. You can watch as well if you care to. The City is my home. Founded by Chemosh years ago in the name of the High Blup. A bastion of safety in the sea of danger. Disease is quickly becoming a rare occurrence, wounds are fixed efficiently and death while still serious can at least be cured. You would be surprised the number of lives you can save when even one percent of the fighting population can bring back the dead at no cost. Particularly with disease, crime and wound death being at an all time low. Even food concerns are much rarer now with Chemosh's new "A plot for every farmer" initiative. Pyrom says casting a spell on himself.


Casting keep watch, I believe you auto make the spellcraft roll for that. Notably clerics can't cast it :P

[Vhaidara]

Jason rolls his eyes.
Setis, couldn't you find an angel or something once in a while?
But Jason, I was an angel once. And so was Natalshin. So I guess you are part angel yourself!
Not what I meant, Setis.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni laughed. "Oh, any comparisons to demon lords are purely to give your fine fiendish friend a proper sense of scale. I'm much friendlier than they are. But I will let you know if I see anybody else at least as angelic as yourself around," she replied as sweetly as she could. "Natalshin?"

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom

"Sounds like a grand place. I think I'd stand out." T'val says offhandedly as she walks up next to Pyrom, looking out into the darkness. She is silent for a moment as she scans the darkness, then sighs. "Paladin" she turns sharply to him before he can open his mouth. "I saw that spell. That is no cleric spell, no matter what you claim." She turns back to the forest. "I can take you to what you search for, but I will not do so without your promise that you will not do harm to myself, or any under my protection. A binding oath, sworn on your honor as a paladin and upon your god. I know what it means to have a code to follow, to be bound by oaths and honor. If you will do this, I will guide you." T'val takes a step back, and turns to face Pyrom, her form blurry. "If you will not agree, I will take my leave. You can attempt to follow me, but as I'm sure you have guessed, it is rather hard to track Kayal in the darkness. The night is my shield, paladin, not yours. I do not wish to fight you, but neither will I allow harm to come to my charge through my negligence to bind your desire to harm him." Sakenomi rests in T'val's hand, ready to be used should the paladin decide that force is a better means to his end. "If you take this oath, I will in turn swear that none will harm you while you remain under my charge, and that I will defend that promise with my life. There is no oath more sacred amongst the Kayal." T'val stares at Pyrom, waiting for his response.

[Vhaidara]

An old friend of hers.
Yours too, Jason.
I hardly call him a friend.
Setis sighs and focuses her attention to Kyoni.
Natalshin is an incubus, and one of my oldest lovers. He and Jason are far more intimate than even I want to be.

[QuidEst]

"Mmm. I see," Kyoni said, nodding. Probably best to not mention that this wasn't her body, then- not with Jason present, at any rate. "As Setis at least has probably guessed, I have a bit of experience with possession myself, although I suspect this is a very different sort than the temporary affairs I can arrange. Nevertheless, it is a pleasure to meet, at least in part, all three of you. Have you any particular destination in mind?"

[Hamste]

I never said I wasn't paladin just that clerics could wear heavy armor and that you shouldn't assume I was a paladin. The behavior of a cleric and a paladin can be vastly different particularly in a fight. Even now you assume I'm not one of my inquisitor brethren. Much rarer where I come from then clerics or paladins but they still exist. I'm not but I could be. Of course that is exactly what an inquisitor would say. I'm going to need more than that to make an oath. A guarantee you and they won't break the laws of the City even outside of the City jurisdiction with the condition that the breaking of one oath breaks the other. If you wish I can list the City's major laws seeing you haven't been to it. I'm not one to make oaths I don't plan to keep and my most important oath is to uphold the justice of the High Blup above all others and justice is the City's laws. To be honest though, if I had to make a guess seeing you are focused on protecting someone and are worried that I will hurt them if you led me to the bandits I would say they are either west or north leaning towards west. Seems like a good way to stage an ambush sending me to look for Drow instead of bandits. Find some people wounded in the middle of the road claiming something attacked them and when I go to help attack me hopefully taking me out quickly lowering the death toll.

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom

"You wish me to swear never to break the laws of a city that I have never heard of, to whom I have no allegiance? Laughable. I am willing to trust your honor to keep your oath, yet you will not trust mine? Simply because my aura reads as evil? I drove my sword through the heart of a Drow matriarch who had my parents assassinated and for that my soul was branded as evil." T'val's eyes veritably pulse red with anger. "I am sworn to protect the son of a noble family, and if your reaction to my aura is any indication, I cannot allow you near him without assuring that you will not harm him. Just as your oath would bind you to his safety, my oath would bind me to yours. If you would prefer to wander through the forest for days attempting to find your quarry, you may be my guest." T'val stares at him, an interesting prospect, as one of her eyes was still shaded by her hair. "If I wanted you dead, I would not need an ambush to do it. I would have killed you as night fell."
If Pyrom has truth detection, everything she says reads truth

[Vhaidara]

Well, those pompous bastards told us about a dwarven inn nearby. It seems we aren't the first people who disapprove of their entry practices. I was thinking we would go by there.
I might just try going back into that city later on. I still want to mess with those fools.
As she speaks, Setis changes her appearance. She grows a few inches, her hair goes up to shoulder length and turns red. She blinks, and her irises have turned violet.

[Hamste]

T'val

If it is bad enough to brand you as evil in the High Blup's eyes then I must accept his decision. He shows people are evil so that we may be wary and therefore I must be wary. We must allow evil among us as evil may be redeemed but do not trust them for they sow distrust and sorrow where ever they go. If you do not wish to follow the laws of my City then I can not accept any condition you set out.

[QuidEst]

"Ah, good. I could certainly use a drink or drinks after that little encounter." She watched as Setis changed her appearance, and smiled. "Would you mind a little company when you do? We could make it a girls' night on the town."

[Vhaidara]

Setis laughs out loud.
I'm sure you'll be fun to play with.
Jason glares at Setis.
Just remember you promise.
She gives him a pouty look.
You never let me have any fun.

Does she count as people?
Still being debated.

[Xunthrae]

Bartholomew, the bandit leader, left Izzdar's cottage feeling positive about the new arrivals. Things could be looking up for them with these new people. They are powerful, and with power comes influence. They are of races he has never seen or heard of before, but the dark skinned one looked like a short elf. He'd encountered a few elves in the northern reaches of the forest. They are a bizarre people, clothed in leaves and vines, unlike this one. Maybe its a different kind of elf, like the difference between one of those desert dwelling human's he's seen traveling in a caravan. Bartholomew feels like he can trust him.

Nearly everyone is in the mess tent when he arrived. The tent is short in height and long in length so it could accommodate many while still being compact when stowed. Many of the faces in the crowd looked worried and scared. He knew he had to do whats best for them, and that was getting them to follow the dark elf.

My friends, brothers and sisters. We all decided to walk down this path together so we could feed ourselves and our families. The City turned us away because of what they deemed us diseased. They thought that just because some of us have a constant cough or break out in hives whenever we touch or eat certain plants that we are unclean; that we are unworthy of being in their 'perfect' city Bartholomew's face scrunches together and he spits at the end of his words. "They condemned us! They forced our hand so we could live. These two newcomers can lead us to become even greater. Together, we can establish a place where we are in charge of our own destiny. No longer will we have to worry about a paladin or cleric of the 'High Blup' turning us away. Together, we will create our OWN land. During the speech, the gathering's agreement was bubbling. They were tired of being cast out. They were done with the City and its rules. By the end they were in an uproar of agreement.

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom

"Capable of seeing through all the half-truths yet you cannot see the lie that suffuses your life." T'val takes two steps away backwards, so no light touches her flesh. She is almost invisible, yet her eyes glow still, red in the darkness. "Turn back, Paladin. If you try to chase us, I will kill you. On that, you have my word." With that, she steps one more step back, into the deep shadow of a tree. The sword whips through the air and into its sheath. She points one finger, slowly, first at Pyrom, then it moves down and to the right, pointing at the fire. A beam of frost blows from it, and rockets into the fire, extinguishing it and throwing the clearing into absolute blackness. Before Pyrom can even cast a light spell, T'val disappears.

Cast: Ray of Frost
Cast: Shadow Walk (SLA)
If Pyrom can manage to create a light within 5 seconds, he would see only a blur of shadow where T'val once stood, which instantly moves, headed West.

Izzdar

T'val went west for 10 seconds before cutting north. If the paladin saw her leave, he would believe she headed west. It took T'val a little over a minute to travel the mile back to the camp, stepping through the Shadow Plane, and another 30 seconds to walk the distance that her Shadow Walk had shunted her off. Travel through the Shadow Plane was never the most accurate. T'val strides back into the bandit encampment. Even now, Izzdar and his pawn of a bandit leader have just finished some speech rallying the bandits to their cause. "Break camp!" T'val barks as soon as she reaches the center of the camp. "There is a paladin a mile south of here. I have laid a false trail, but it may not take him long to discover the falsehood. We must leave. Now."

The camp is silent. She had been with Izzdar, but obviously was not him, and not vouched for. She looks around at the people not moving, noticing that many of them are women, and children, the families of the bandits. "If you value your family's lives, MOVE! You know the city cares for nothing beyond their jingoistic rules. They will slaughter you all to satisfy their rightousness. Come. Izzdar and I will lead you through the forest." At this, the camp comes alive. Fires are doused, tents struck, gear gathered and placed on floating disks that Izzdar has summoned, 9 in total. The picture of efficiency, the camp is struck in record time, and the bandits erase all signs that they had been there.

They travelled North for 4 hours before stopping, without light to give them away. It was only Izzdar and T'val's sight that kept them on course and out of danger. They made camp after the jounrey, though it was swift, and easily broken in case of need. T'val and Izzdar spend a brief moment discussing plans with Bartholomew, and the three agree that come dawn, they will head West in truth, to reach the sea. Bartholomew told tales of an island off the western coast, upon which rested a port city famous for its skilled ship captains and its corpulent, despotic leader. An ideal place to begin their work in truth upon the surface world. With the watch set, T'val and Izzdar sleep to recover their strength and wait for morning.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni smiled a vulpine smile. "Oh, I'll certainly try to be. I do hope we get along well."

~~~

The remaining journey was not a long one, but they took it at a leisurely pace. Setis and Kyoni traded banter and dragged a reluctant Jason into the midst of it. Noli mostly kept quiet, following along behind. At last they reached an old in. It looked like it had seen better days, but also like it had seen worse. There was a certain air of concerted improvement about it, with visible recent repairs scattered here and there and even a few in progress.

"Well, better than that city," Kyoni said resolvedly, and held the door open for the others. Normally she'd be having Noli do that, but she was making a bit of an effort to make a good impression on Jason. Sure, she could be a little more direct, but she wanted to sort out things with Setis in the meantime.

The person behind the inn counter was not a dwarf, but a plump smiling human with neatly combed black hair. A plump muskrat poked its head out from over his shoulder. "Good evening! I'm Muji. Don't mind Mori here, he's just my familiar. What can I get you ladies and gentleman?"

[Hamste]

Pyrom shrugged. He really needed to learn a light spell some time. He went back to the remains of the campfire to relight it. If they were setting up an ambush it didn't matter where he was and if they fled the problem was solved with out aggression. Either way problem solved. He would check in the morning just to see if they were lying or not about whatever those things were they said were to the west.

[Vhaidara]

Jason nods his head as Kyoni holds the door.
Thank you, Milady.
He takes a seat at the bar.
Pleased to meet you. The name is Jason. Water please.
Setis simply sits down beside him, placing a hand on his arm as she begins to look into the minds around her.

Beginning Detect Thoughts, mostly for the man and the muskrat, but after getting a read on them, she will sweep over Kyoni and Noli.

[IZ42]

Vaerthes pauses about 20 feet back from the door, Koroth moving up to stand at his side. He says in a strong voice, "Hail, guards. I have come seeking entrance to this city, to stop and rest, before I continue. May I be allowed entrance?" He then gestures to Koroth and says "This is my companion, Koroth. I would also request that he receives entrance to this city." Koroth, then pinning the main guard with a gaze rumbled, "And before you go referring to me as 'that beast' or somesuch, know that I am an intelligent creature, the same as you."


Vaerthes: [roll0]
Koroth: [roll1]

[QuidEst]

Muji is a little annoyed/disappointed that Jason and Setis are just ordering water and nothing, and not taking advantage of the wide variety of exotic food and alcohol flavors that he can prestidigitate. He's not registering any particular interest in the group beyond waiting for orders.
Mori is very sleepy, and is considering how long it is until his cleaning prestidigitation runs out and should be renewed.
Kyoni is hungry, and wants to have a few drinks. She's idly curious about what the bartender would taste like if she ate him, but not interested in acting on it. She wants to get a room, and wonders if there's any feasible way to get a room with the three of them, or failing that, a room with the four of them.
Noli is hungry, and waiting until Kyoni orders before saying anything. She's wondering if it would be better to order the same thing or something different. She's also going over the route here so she can fly back and lead Kyoni's worshipers to the area.

"Hmm. What do you have for beer?" Kyoni asked.

"Well, it's all the same standard stock, but it can taste like anything I've tried before. I've sampled a considerable variety of flavors in my time, and it's all the same price," Muji said proudly, wiggling his fingers a little bit to indicate magic.

Kyoni looked mildly intrigued. "Well, bring me your four favorites. And some liver."

Noli glanced at Setis, confirming that she wasn't having anything before she ordered herself. "Just whatever stew you have. A large bowl."

Kyoni smiled and took the seat next to Jason and across from Setis, while Noli took the remaining chair.

[Vhaidara]

Setis gives Kyoni a sly smile.

Unlikely. Jason doesn't like to indulge.

Jason sips his water and addresses Kyoni.
So, what brought you two to that awful City?

[QuidEst]

Pity. I suppose we'll just need to get a room to ourselves, then. Listening in, are we? Well, I appreciate being informed at any rate. Do tread gently in there. I'm not to be taken lightly.

Kyoni waved at Noli to explain. The priestess sat up a little straighter before beginning. "We were planning on finding new recruits. The place seemed miserable, and I thought that it would be rife with people who would follow a deity that could speak a little more directly than Blup and his countless enforcers. It was mostly my idea, since Kyoni leaves such details to my care."

Muji came by, dropping off four mugs of beer and a bowl of stew. "The liver will be ready shortly," he said before trundling off to the kitchen again.

[Milo v3]

The group had finally reached the forest that lay north of the City, Waltev informed Eli it was known as the Dead Forest in a scroll he once read. Solinid and Eli could see why it had such a title.

As they travelled everything looked sterile, it was still the wilderness covered in plants but many vermin seemed to fly and skitter. But, there were no animals. No wolves, no birds, no dorfa, no rats. Not even a dead rat. It was quiet aside from the wind blowing through the trees and the insects.

"Elves." The ghoul sighed as he said the name.

[Vhaidara]

Just a little. And of course we can share a room. Would your priestess like to come along, or is she going to be busy?

Jason sips the water that was brought to him. Not that he needed it, but it was polite.
So how did the two of you meet? It seems an odd choice, being the high priestess of a "demigoddess ascendant".

[QuidEst]

Only natural. You've heard of not mixing business and pleasure, I'm sure? While I doubt it ever applies to you, humor a planar native like myself as far as the concept is concerned. Noli is business. So it will be a room to ourselves- a pleasure, I'm sure.

Noli smiled broadly. "Kyoni found me, saw potential in me, and granted me power that I might serve as her high priestess. To be personally chosen by the divine is an honor, and much more so when it is in person. Those who serve gods already ascended can offer only paltry services. In serving her, I can provide true service as she comes into her own might."

There may have also been a bit more than that. A soul graft large enough to overpower her own psyche, for instance. It's been sinking down roots nicely. I did mention I've had a bit of experience with possession.

[Vhaidara]

I suppose that is true. So, what exactly are you an ascending goddess of?

Setis motions to Muji
A glass of your strongest, please.

[Xunthrae]

Wood Elves

Sharla'Von watches the trespassers as they move through the forest. Her magic'd boots and armor of leaves help her stay silent and move undetected among the trees. At first, she thinks they are mostly harmless. Just a few travelers passing through, nothing to be overly concerned about, but that was before she notices one of her darker cousins. Nothing good can come from a group associating with them.

The elven Watcher slips away through the trees and canopy, heading to the nearest outpost. She needed to recruit more Watchers, just in case the intruders began doing more than permitted.

[Milo v3]

Although the afflicted human spoke in the tongue of the dead, the ghouls bat mount could understand eli's commands without issue.
"Sir flying fox, search the surroundings for food. We need enough for you and waltev." and with that, the megabat went into the deeper woods, the ghoul on his back annoyed that he wasn't the one instructed, as if he was just a tool.

Seeing the dire beast swiftly fly away, eli began preparations for a structure. He didn't like the idea of being out in these woods in the day with these "elves", not just because of the lack of wildlife but also since his memory on the subject seemed fragmented. All he could recall was that they were related to the drow in some way, maybe they are enemies, perhaps one created the other or... something. Likely why Solinid could identify that the creatures lurked in this forest.

Standing at a clearing by a stream, Waltev skittered across the ground, and started to gather a few bits of wood, sand, and stone from the area. He knew what eli was going to do through the empathic link. Eli's hand lay on the surface of the stream, the other awaiting the components the ratling was collecting. Once the natural elements lay in his palm, small amounts of eli's blood started to trickle down from his palm into the water and he started to mutter words of magic.

As the blood flowed through the water, it twisted and grew denser until it was solid. Slowly these sanguine tendrils spread through nearly area of the stream and grew into the mud and earth like roots. The tendrils started to grab mud and sand from the streams base, and move it onto the top of the stream. A solid bridge of sand was starting to form at the surface, though the magic still seemed to be gathering more.

Starting the casting of Secure Shelter which will take 10 minutes. Also, the ghoul and dire bat are searching for food so that might take a while.

[QuidEst]

Muji returned with both the liver for Kyoni and a glass of dwarven spirits, often humorously referred to as "diamond polish", for Setis. The demigoddess dug in with gusto, relishing every bite.

"Mmm. Nothing like a good liver, although I can't say it's a popular choice. But I am the demigoddess ascendant of the short paths from wanting to having. Charm, chance, force, and deceit- and don't look at me funny for that, how do you think your friend got past that lie detection spell?" she added, directed at Jason. "And how about you two? What do you travel around doing?"

[Vhaidara]

Jason just shakes his head as Kyoni describes her portfolio, but Setis gives Kyoni a glare
Sounds like you two are perfect for each other. As far as us...I suppose we bicker.
He chuckles.
I know it's silly, but it's true. We go from place to place. I help people, and try to stop her from hurting anyone. She hurts people-
Hey! They enjoy it!
She hurts people and tries to stop me from helping anyone.

No magic! I'm trying to work an old fashioned free will corruption here, and don't need some trampy wannabe demon lady coming in and messing it all up!

[QuidEst]

Kyoni couldn't help but chuckle. "Like an old couple, you two. It's sweet, really!" She took a long swig from a mug, finishing it off and grabbing another. "Can't help but thing Heaven and the Abyss have a standing bet. It's the sort of thing that makes you glad to be immortal so you can see how things turn out." She flashed a toothy grin and settled back in her chair with the fresh mug. "So, her I get- it's her nature. What about you, though? Why so altruistic? If you don't mind my prying, of course. It's just an interesting story."

No need for name-calling. I haven't tossed so much as a first-rank charm in his direction. Gods know I'm not usually this restrained, but call it something like professional courtesy. If you want to things the slow way, I won't go throwing magic around for my own gratification. Or any of my… influence. You'd be surprised what I can do with a minute or two of directed conversation. All I ask is the same courtesy extended to myself. You want me to do something, you can tempt me the old-fashioned way too. I promise I'll be much more receptive.

[Vhaidara]

Jason gives her a weak smile.
Isn't it obvious from what you've heard? I've got an incubus grafted to my soul. And so I have believe anyone can be redeemed. Even you, I feel.
He takes another sip of his drink
After all, if you all can't be saved, what hope is there for me?
It doesn't help that, after he and Natalshin met, he was taken in by a paladin who had been hunting us for years.

There is the mental equivalent of a few seconds of heavy breathing.
You're right, I'm sorry. I've been working him the hard way for four centuries is all and didn't want to risk someone coming along and ruining what little progress I've made because she wanted to take the easy way. Abyss knows I usually end up being the one who kills other succubi we meet. Can't let them have a shot at him with their magic.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni shrugged, taking another deep drink. "Oh, I won't argue with you there. I've got a very long time ahead of me, and I can't say what I'll be like in ten years, let alone another century. I don't think I'll be redeemed, but who can say. On the other hand, I believe the reverse is also just as true. People change." As Setis spoke, Kyoni pulled a face. "Ech. My sympathies there… No flexibility or perspective. Not just a matter of their disagreeing with me either- any so-called 'blackguards' will have quite a time getting so much as an orison from me."

There, see? You just had to ask. I'll even lend a hand if you'd like. I would just love to be there when you break him. How long have you been at it?

[Toxic Mind]

Izzdar and T'val

With the immediate threat of the Paladin dealt with, the camp breaks at dawn and begins to move out. The group continues west, traveling well north of the entrance to the Underdark that T'val and Izzdar had exited only a day ago. The journey to the fishing village took the better part of the day, and the sun was just past its zenith when they arrived. The small village of Portton featured little beyond its ability as a port-of-call to ships traveling along the Western Coast, particularly those that wished to avoid the City. It was here that T'val and those with her would find the ship to take them to the Bijou islands and the town of Gisann. Change was coming to Gisann, the city just didn't know it yet.

Arranging for a ship to take them to the island was not overly difficult. A schooner had just docked, unloading its cargo of ocean fish. With Izzdar's money it was not hard to convince the greedy captain to take the two, and their bandit allies, to the island. The trip across the ocean takes just under two days more. The schooner is cramped, and smells heavily of fish, but T'val is used to enduring discomfort, and she endures this as well. Soon enough, they reach Gisann, and land at the port.

T'val meets with the captain in his quarters. "Now I believe you owe me the thousand gold pieces I was promised for this venture." T'val smiles coldly. "I have a counter offer. Your life." The man's face turns red with rage. "You bitch, I'll take my fee from your hide!"" T'val sighs, and Sakenomi appears in her hand.

T'val walks down the gangplank, striding to catch up with the group already working their way into the city as the ship bursts into flames behind her. It would burn down the the gunwales in the harbor, though of the captain, no trace could be found.

[Vhaidara]

Jason scowls
Not all paladins are like that. Roderick wasn't. He could have killed me and Natalshin with me. But instead, he took me under his wing and trained me.
Setis laughs
You are such a child Jason. Are you ever going to grow up and realize that people like Kyoni and I do mean the best?

Four hundred years, give or take a few decades. He's immortal because of Natalshin's spirit, and he also inherited my lover's stubbornness.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni started on the third mug, pausing to enjoy the new flavor. "Ah, wonderful! Then you and I should get along just fine. I, too, have not killed you. I have not killed the bartender." She gave a cheerful wave to the bartender. "Also didn't kill Noli, and I took her under my wing and trained her too. I don't think you deserve to die, so pardon me if I'm not impressed that his conscience agreed. It happened to you, so it's a big deal. I can't argue with that. Naturally, I never met him, so I can hardly judge his character one way or the other."

There was the mental equivalent of a low whistle.
Mmm. That is some finely aged wine there, my friend. I can see why you're so careful that it doesn't get spoiled. When you do crack it open, I hope you don't mind sharing a glass once you've had the first taste.

[Vhaidara]

Jason sighs, and tries to think how to explain.
Tell me, do you have any enemies?

Of course. And I welcome help in getting him to break, so long as you don't use any magic to influence him directly.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni smiled, waiting to see where Jason headed with this line of discussion. "I think the suitably dramatic thing to say would 'I don't have enemies, just bodies' or something like that. But I'm hardly that dramatic in real life, so yes, I do. They're amusing diversions for the most part, and fun to collect."

I suppose it will be good practice to do things the hard way. Just so long as you're willing to not use magic to influence me directly.

[Vhaidara]

Jason continues his hypothetical situation.
If you found your greatest enemy, one who you have been trying to kill for a large portion of your life, helplessly bound within an innocent man, and by killing that man, you could kill that enemy, would you?

Of course I wouldn't. That would just be rude.

[Xunthrae]

Izzdar knows what T'Val is doing. He's actually proud of her. Why pay coin when killing them works just as well?

The first order of business for the drow is to find out as much information as he can about the leader of this place, but he doubts anyone will talk with him, being such a peculiar sight as he is. He weaves an illusion over his body, making him look much more like on of the natives. He lightened his skin to their dirty brownish color, rounded his ears and eyes, taking off their regal edge.

With his elven heritage disguised, Izzdar heads into the dock taverns and the wharf, searching for information. He spends the next hour brushing elbows with some of the most rancid people, other than slaves, he's ever encountered. For all his effort, he gleans some useful information.

The ruler of the island is generally referred to as Lord Vine, and he is not held in the highest regard by the people of the docks. They see him as wasteful, ponderous and arrogant, but he brings in profits so they overlook his many, many flaws. Several customers in a tavern, made jokes that he was called Lord Vine because he loves grapes and wine.

With that information, Izzdar spends some times finding T'Val and their people. They found a decent tavern, low quality by the drow's standards, but good for their own.

He finds T'Val and informs her of his discovery. A favored food or drink is the perfect way to introduce poison.

[QuidEst]

"I get the thrust of your argument, but I think it fails on two points. One being that, no, I wouldn't kill them." She paused for a moment, reconsidering with the aid of another drink. "Hmm. I suppose I can't say that universally. There are a few cases where I might, depending on circumstances. But no, having them harmlessly bound to somebody would be far preferable to having them dead. The other point being that you and I are probably talking about very different types of enemies. Enemies you hunt down for the better part of your life aren't worth having. That's not healthy, and whatever you want to accomplish, there's going to be a better way to do it. I have enemies over petty slights like them offending me or trying to kill me or what have you. Stuff I can let go of if I need to."

Well then, I'll see what I can do to help. If nothing else, I can learn from a more experienced expert on a difficult challenge.

[Vhaidara]

Well, your first point is only partially valid, since the weakness is temporary.And while Roderick may have been a little...obsessive, the point still stands that he could have ended his hunt. But instead, he saw fit to try and save my soul. So the least I can do is try my best to save Setis.
Setis blows him a kiss.
He's such a sweet, sappy idiot.

So, do you have an easy way into that city? I can teleport myself there, but I can't bring you along.

[QuidEst]

"Apparently a substantial enough 'temporary' to get the two of you this far," Kyoni pointed out with a shrug. "But you were spared and you were shown mercy. That's what matters. Anything else I did better when I didn't even consider killing Noli before training her. It's you that's important, and I admire that."

Way in, certainly. Easy way in, not quite. 'Teleportation' isn't particularly aligned with my portfolio, as it were, but I can manage it over short distances with line of sight for a minute. It does mean devoting the bulk of my resources for the day to doing it just once or twice, though, and the next day won't look so great either.

[Vhaidara]

Jason shakes his head.
If it weren't for Roderick's training, I would have given in long ago. But I refuse to let him loose.

Hmm..You might still be able to get in through the front. Either way, I'm going to need to find a snack in the next few days.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni nodded. "Mmm. Fair enough- he took efforts to contain his enemy. I'd probably try to do the same thing. Well, likely with different methods, but yes. I'll stand by the rest of it, though," she declared, happily drinking more of her beer.

Our initial plan was to go to the processing holding area. Noli would turn into a mouse, and I would teleport out and change my body for our stay. My followers will be able to help with some wards against detection, and I can do a few myself.

[Milo v3]

It wasn't long before the bat and corpse returned with some food for the dire beast, Solinid quickly noticed that a lodge formed of mud and sand appeared to have be conjured atop the stream. Leaving the flying fox outside, he entered the arcane dwelling.
"We could only find fruits and berries, though that beast seems to have enjoyed them. The elves around here seem quite good at hiding the animals from people.... ridiculously so. Most the time I've seen they couldn't hide all the birds."
"So magic twig wearing people, rather than just twig wearing people?"
Yet again today the ghoul sighed.
"Hmm..." The blood mage started to count on his fingers, then muttered arcane words.
"Ahem. So, magic twig wearing people, rather than just twig wearing people?"
"Yes. It seems they must have magic at their disposal."
"Better."

The ghoul waited through the day, keeping watch over the shelter as the three slept. He was curious though.... would the elves consider his undead presence to break one of their laws, or would they hide as cowards and hope we just left swiftly?

[Hamste]

Vaerthes
The guards look a bit nervous about the talking tiger. However, the old woman speaks up instead of the guards here.

Do you wish to live here forever? If not you may not enter. Only citizens and a few others may enter. If you need to stay somewhere some nice dwarves set up an inn over at the base of the mountain a few years back. They may still be there. She says looking at you through clouded eyes.

Sveargith

After several weeks of questioning, tests and physicals where you and the rest of the crew were kept in an underground bunker underneath the city you finally get permission to go into the city. During the time you and the crew were being tested a cleric also explained the laws around the City. Most of them are pretty standard with a few oddities like if you become ill for any reason even if you are pretty sure it is nothing you are required to go immediately to an infirmary. Failure to do so and discovery you knew about the illness would result in large fines and possibly a year in jail. Another law is not to climb to the top of the platforms you see around the city as they are dangerous. They also suggested to not blasphemy the High Blup particularly not to snicker at the name. While not actually a law many of the people in the city followed him and would talk incessantly about him if you suggested he was not perfect. Most people find that annoying so all new-comers are warned about it. Any wounds or disease that may have been contracted are also cured by the clerics during this period. A place to sleep while the ship is finished being searched and unloaded is being provided by the ship owner as the City has only one inn and that can hold only four people at a time.

Upon enter the city you see several things. The city itself is rather clean, it looks almost like the cobblestones of the main streets were scrubbed clean and they very well may have been. The buildings themselves are nothing particularly exciting though some of them have large platforms on them. It appears to have a slight cone at the top obscuring the view of what is on the platform. As you watch a low flying bird gets too close and a volley of arrows come from the cone hitting the bird. Before the arrows hit the ground there is the sound of a rope snapping taut and they stop dangling. The bird slowly slides off the bloody arrow followed by a loud noise as if a winch is being turned and the arrows quickly move up disappearing back into their cone. A man as if listening specifically for that firing sound moves into view heading towards the carcass with rag in one hand and a bucket of water in the other.

For those interested in the exact mechanics, the arrows fire waits six seconds and then reloads


Outside the bar you see three guards just standing there looking around, not an uncommon sight around the City but worth noting anyways. The inside of the bar is very clean with out a speck of dust to be seen. There is a board with some prices and notices on them. The prices are extremely cheap for the drinks though there is a notice stating that there is a limit of three pints tonight as well as a warning that any unattended drinks would be dumped out. The prices for food however are slightly more expensive than normal and you notice no one in the bar has a meal in front of them. The halfling barwomen sits behind the bar on a large stool with a wide array of glasses more than she could ever reasonably need behind her. The bar has only four patrons when you enter, a guard still in their armor with a half empty glass in front of them, two males playing darts and a female drinking in the corner.


Pyrom

At day break Pyrom headed west to go investigate again riding on his horse and concentrating on his detect evil spell. He briefly wondered what in the world a drow actually was. Maybe a large type of bug? Matriarch sounded kind of buggish. Hopefully, if they existed he would recognize them when he saw them.

[Vhaidara]

Jason just sighs, and looks over at Muji
So, what brought you here? We were told this inn was established by dwarves who got impatient with the City.

Sounds workable. Could I perhaps swing by your followers and pick up some of those detection wards myself? That was always more Natalshin's specialty.

[QuidEst]

Muji nodded enthusiastically, swinging by to pick up the growing collection of empty mugs in front of Kyoni. "Established, certainly. They still own it, technically, but I run the place. Dwarven fare doesn't always sit as well with those of… less robust constitutions, so they weren't getting enough business to keep the place open. I've got a little magical talent, which goes a long way in the business, so I just needed a somewhere I could work. This place seemed like a good place to get a start, at least until I can afford to open my own. Now, will you be needing any rooms?"

Kyoni nodded, speaking up. "Three rooms, please," she said. Noli fished around for her coin purse to pay the innkeeper.

Certainly. I'll be getting my own refreshed as well before we go in anyways. Now… if you're not too hungry, perhaps a little fun tonight?

[Vhaidara]

Jason stands and puts a few coins on the table.
I'm going to go for a walk before bed. I'll see you ladies in the morning.
He heads towards the exit.

So, have you decided?
Fill up. You could have picked worse.

Of course I'm not too hungry. Like I said, it just needs to be in the next few days. I'm sure this will be exciting.

[QuidEst]

"Noli, you have your own room. Have a word with me in the morning about what to tell the faithful- we may be modifying your earlier plan a little bit." Kyoni smiled, standing up and sashaying her way towards her own shared room.

Mmm. Well, you coming?

[Vhaidara]

Jason heads out, and walks towards the nearest patch of woods.

Setis stands and walks towards Jason's room first.

I'll be right there. I want to get changed.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni breathed an inward sigh of relief, and began pulling her glamered armor off. It was a bit of a mood killer to take a minute pulling off what was an opulent dress only to have it turn out to be bunch of cumbersome metal.

Whenever you're ready…

[Vhaidara]

Setis grins as she reverts to her natural form. Her wings unfurl, her tail whips out, and her crimson eyes come forward. She walks over to Kyoni's room and quietly opens the door.
Hello gorgeous.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

"Coming here was a mistake, sis." Arytiss complained after getting done with all that red tape bureaucracy. Sveargith felt the same way, her bodyguards felt the same way, and even the traders who got the most out of it felt the same way. "Still, we're here, so we best enjoy the bar and such." The Half-Dragon siblings began to notice more and more bizarre bureaucratic dragoncrap. They then began to fear the bar would be less fun than it should. Their fears were soon realized when they saw the bar.

"3 drinks only? Well, if I get three of the strongest dri... then again, their strongest probably is as strong as a squirrel." Sveargith knew she ****ed up. Landing in a demon worshiping kingdom would have been better. At least there they can have fun by going cultist slaying, even if it may start a war. "I think we are leaving now."

[Xunthrae]

Wood Elves

Sharla'Von was worried. No ordinary travelers had undead companions. She was conflicted. They obviously had power at their disposal, and they may just be passing through, so no threat to her people. But they also might be planning something insidious for the forest as undead were want to do. She had heard stories from the elders of undead infecting forests, twisting them into hideous places filled with horrors and beasts changed by their taint. They did teach that not all undead were inherently evil. Some can naturally occur, but that they are few and far between.

For now, she and the other Watchers will do just that. Watch, wait. Plan their attack should it be necessary, but hopefully it won't. Her people are already few in number. Losing a few to a pointless attack is futile and too costly.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni looked Setis's true form up and down approvingly. Her own features became more vulpine as she let her true self show through the body she used for convenience. "Hello, gorgeous yourself. I don't know where Jason gets his willpower, or why he bothers."

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom - The Drow

If Pyrom had not been detecting evil, he would have passed the entrance by without ever seeing it. Cleverly disguised so that even the most observant of travelers might miss it. Fortunately for Pyrom, 3 evil auras were emanating from the entrance. Once you notice the entrance, it is easy to pick out, and judging by the way the aura's were acting, they had not discovered Pyrom's presence.

[Vhaidara]

Setis chuckles as her clothing vanishes, replaced with a gleaming pair of bracers.
He gets it from Natalshin. Always did like to tease me and torment me.
Setis steps forward to embrace the goddess.

[Gintash]

Isabelle gets up, having fallen asleep in front of the fire, and stretches before heading into another room for a few minutes and getting changed into more suitable walking around clothes. "I'm going out for a walk Rantock, you coming or are you going to stay here by the fire?" Sarah asked as she tied her hair back, double checking that the weather was still good.

"Na, I think I'll stay here and nap some more. Unlike you humans we dragons enjoy the smaller comforts more freely, especially lazing around all the time" Rantock said as he moved a little closer to the fire.

"Yes, and getting fatter and fatter all the while." Isabelle replied as she walked over the staircase. "I'll be back before it gets too late and if your good I'll bring back a fish or something for you." Isabelle called out as she walked down the stairs and out the front door. She enjoyed talking to new people to the city and travelers sometimes so she headed towards one of the gates to the city as there would likely be farmer selling crops and meat cuts and many of them would be from poorer families in need of some coin. She often did this in order to help those less fortunate than herself, but also to spite the salesmen in the cities markets who would buy produce dirt cheap from the poorer families and sell it for many times more than they brought it for.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni wouldn't have been Kyoni if her dress couldn't be arranged such that it took more than a particular shrug and flick of her tail to leave it pooled around her feet. "For shame, tormenting a pretty face like that." She stepped into the embrace with a low, rumbling purr.

[Vhaidara]

Setis' voice is smooth. She knows this part of the game.
Oh, it makes it more fun when I finally do get my way.
She leans in to kiss Kyoni.

You know the drill on this one. If she takes the kiss, take a negative level and make a DC22 Will save or get tagged by Suggestion.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni nodded. "I'm sure it will." She didn't resist as Setis leaned in and kissed her. She could feel the energy flowing out of her, but couldn't resist going back for another, deeper kiss. But not without a fight.

Mythic point to cast Charm Monster at +2 CL. DC 23 to resist, and I already rolled for SR. If it goes through…
No draining me, love. And please, no magic.
The Liar means Kyoni automatically wins the opposed charisma check.

[Hamste]

Drow

Pyrom looked down at his extremely shiny heavy armor and back up at the cave. Then down at his heavy horse then back to the cave. Well no point in trying to be stealthy. Might as well get closer and see if they will surrender. Pyrom moves closer drawing his weapon.

Whatcha doing? No banditry I presume?

[Vhaidara]

It was ambrosia. After a week without feeding, tasting the soul of this arrogant godling was a feast Setis could not resist. Mentally she was grinning a truly wicked grin as she felt the other woman's mind give way, deepening the kiss, deepening the feast.

Well, another round another level. Saves again.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni was finding it harder to resist- or want to resist- the succubus's embrace. She pulled closer, making a feeble attempt to gain some purchase on Setis's mind, but the magic just washed over her. Being the demigoddess of desire, it was difficult to turn down something so desirable.

[IZ42]

Vaerthes

"If ye are to refuse a traveler stay in your assuredly excellent city, then I suppose I will take my talents and task elsewhere, as I am sure you do not harbor fiends or any of their ilk, nor know of such activity. However, that Dwarven tavern ye mentioned sounds nice, perhaps they will harbor a tired old soul for a night or two. Come Koroth, leave these guards, let us find these dwarves."

Vaerthes turns, signaling to Koroth to do the same, but not before Koroth gave one last growl to the guards in attendance.

Rolling intimidate. Total, because I forgot all the stuff is 13(base)+4(mythic)+4 (size difference) so 21.

[Vhaidara]

Setis' could feel Kyoni's power coursing through her. She kept draining, drinking in the power, reveling in the sensations.

Third verse, same as the first.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni wasn't going to stop now, not when it felt as wonderful as this. She waited for just the right moment to slide the spell past the shifting defenses, but it still failed to get past the succubus's cunning mind. She panted for breath before taking another long kiss.

Defeated, she mustered what last bits of mental presence she could manage to pull around her.

Kyoni's mental voice managed to present more confidence then she felt. Noli can restore me… not cheap, and I'm at the limits of her powers now… but wouldn't it be nice to do this regularly?
Standard to Beseech Rakshasa. +3d6 on her diplomacy check.

[Toxic Mind]

I don't believe Pyrom speaks Undercommon.

Pyrom approaches the entrance to the cave, and the drow whip around. Two males, their skin ashen, draw swords and step in between Pyrom and the third drow. At their sides are hand crossbows, and the edges of the swords, rapiers Pyrom can easily identify, glisten sickeningly. Poisoned, no doubt. The third drow, a woman, draws no weapon, but merely takes a small step back. She wears no armor, like her companions, but her aura shines far brighter than the other two. It is also telling that she is the one to speak.

The woman looks at him, a confused look on her face. The two guards look askance at each other, shrug, and go back to watching the paladin. The woman speaks in halting common, her command of the language clearly learned from books, rather than experience. "We are no bandits. Now be on your way. Our affairs are none of yours, human."

Drow Woman Casts Detect Good

[Vhaidara]

Setis pauses for a moment, then break off the kiss.
Good point, my pet. But first, I shall need some insurance against any retribution.
Setis locks eyes with Kyoni.
Don't you love me, my pet?

Charm Monster, DC22.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni hardly made an effort to resist the spell. "Mmm. As if that weren't already obvious. And what's there to claim retribution for? I tested myself, and I failed. You're letting me live. I'm grateful. And if you don't mind restraining your hunger this time, I can show you just how grateful I am…"

[Vhaidara]

Setis kisses Kyoni's head, not draining any energy this time.
I am offering you a gift, pet. It will give you strength, and will mean you are never far from my thoughts. In exchange, you will let me feed from you. I promise not to suck you dry, but you are simply too delicious to not sample again.

[QuidEst]

"The so called 'profane gift'. I'm well aware of everything it entails," Kyoni said with a wry smile. "But very well, so be it; so long as you're willing to hold by our earlier agreement." She had tested herself, and had fallen short of what she'd thought to be a realistic assessment of herself. This would serve to strengthen her.

[Vhaidara]

Setis smiles.
Would I break my word to you?
This time, as Setis descends upon Kyoni, the fox woman can feel some of the demon's strength flowing into her. As the light dims, the two women her an exasperated voice in their heads.
I hate both of you.

[Hamste]

Vaerthes


The guards appear to be very nervous about the tiger though the old lady doesn't seem phased at all.

Assuredly not. Though you might be interested in hearing two very strong people showed up on our detect evil earlier when they tried to enter the city. Most likely clerics of some foul god but could be something you are looking for. We pointed the inn out to them earlier. A reminder though, if you do find them and you wish them harm, murder is illegal without a fair trial for all regardless of what they did or what they are unless it is in self defense. Have a fine day. The old lady says surprisingly cheerily. She turns away from you and resumes yelling at the guards about a variety of things.

Drow

You are currently on the City's land with what appears to be poisoned weapons. It is my duty to make sure you won't be killing my people with those poisoned weapons. Also to be absolutely clear, are you Drow or some sort of dark skinned elves? Pyrom says uneasily.

[IZ42]

Vaerthes

The half-elf turns around, interest piqued. "Did they go to this inn, or are they currently residing in your city? Also, do not worry about murder, I will deliver justice, if I feel they deserve, it in a place where I feel it is appropriate to do so."

If they were paying attention to Koroth, they might see what passes for a grin at the guard's discomfort briefly.

[Hamste]

The old lady actually looks quite happy about this proclamation of justice. Let them in? We do not just let anyone in. Like I said only permanent residents and certain others get in. They are lucky they weren't sent to outer jails for those shenanigans they pulled with that guard let alone get in. She mutters something under her breath about cheating the system. If they didn't want to sleep in a corn field then they slept at the inn.

[Milo v3]

Thankfully Eli didn't oversleep, having your bed de-materialize above a river wouldn't be amusing. Within an hour the group was ready to leave, though while Eli waited he started to kill a few spiders, he was curious about whether their exoskeletons could support the negative energy and create skeletal arachnids. Being early evening the sun still stung the afflicted's eyes.

As they travelled through the woods, the elves could hear some banter between the group... It wasn't the highest of calibre.
"Ugh... I really should remove that damn disk some day."
"You could just get something to just reduce the light around your eyes."
"... I would... But you know my proficiency with shadow magic."
"I think the vermin refers to smoked goggles."
"Goggles are hideous. An arcane infusion of shadow magic would be much more."
The spiritwolf mount did not look pleased.

[Toxic Mind]

Drow

"I have never heard of these 'drow' that you speak of. We are not citizens nor subjects of your city. Your concerns are noted. We are hunting two murderers, however, a pursuit which all those who pursue justice should aid in." The woman looks at Pyrom, one eyebrow raised. She has by now taken in the heavy armor, the steed, the holy icons.

[Hamste]

Drow

Haven't heard of them at all? Odd the person I talked to was very specific that something called Drow live in a cave that fits this description. Hmmm, it get very big in there? Maybe you just don't know about them. It is really too bad you don't know who the Drow they are. I met someone who claimed they killed someone or something called a Drow Matriarch. Probably a totally different person though seeing you haven't heard about Drow. Pyrom said.

[Vhaidara]

Jason, rubbing his temples as he tries to block out the "show" that Setis is projecting into his mind, wanders down the road in the direction of the city. The least he could do is act as an unofficial patrol.

[Toxic Mind]

"Drow Matriarch? They said those words specifically?" The cleric looks at Pyrom, her eyes narrowing. "We are mere elves, not drow. But I assure you, the person you spoke to was undoubtably the murderer we seek. Were they with another person? There should be two, we were told they were traveling together. You, sir, have let a cold blooded killer walk free. Were you in our kingdom, you would be clapped in irons for such negligence."

[MichaelGoldclaw]

It was definitely quicker to leave than it was to enter. They had finally got out of that hellhole after they did some minor double checking for contraband and the like. Once they were out of the gates, she noticed someone, a half-elf, was having trouble getting in. She walked forward, curious to what the problem is. "What's going on?"

[QuidEst]

Kyoni woke up with the queen mother of headaches. For a moment, her mind went back to the beers. But no, she'd only had four, and it would take at least twice that for her to so much as notice. An alternate explanation- along with Setis's sleeping face- presented itself when she opened her eyes. Right. She'd failed to resist any of the succubus's charms, and hadn't managed to land a single one of her own. She'd been forced to ask, some might even say beg, for her life. She'd let a demoness into her soul, with only her questionable word as any sort of protection. Kyoni smiled contentedly. If all lessons in humility were that fun, she might see where Jason was coming from. Slipping out of bed, she dressed for the day, and went over to Noli's room. This hangover at least had a direct cure.

"All the spiritual fortification you can spare," she told Noli, who had clearly been up for some time already. "And keep plenty of the components on hand. Things didn't go quite as planned, but we've reached an agreement of sorts. Let me know well in advance of when we run out."

Noli looked decidedly non-plussed at the turn of events, but spent a minute funneling power into Kyoni to regrow the newly missing portions of her soul. "Thank you, Noli. Don't look so glum. I'm learning. Now, go get some breakfast brought up for me. Lots of meat. I'm starving."

She walked back into her room, her mind brushing against Setis's.

Good morning, beautiful. I hope you enjoyed that as much as I did.

[Vhaidara]

Very much lover, I'm still tormenting Jason with them.

Setis stands, stretching her wings as they shrink down. Today, she decides to go with dark. Dark skin, black hair, dark green eyes. Touching her bracers, she is suddenly garbed in a dark violet gown.
You really were delicious. I haven't had a meal like that since Natalshin was free.

[QuidEst]

Oh, good. Just so he knows what he's well aware of what it is he's passing up.

"Mmm. The best in four hundred years? You do know how to flatter a girl. Certainly, it will be a privilege to get to do that more than once," she replied, watching as Setis transformed. Kyoni didn't usually bother changing her own appearance without reason. She was rather fond of how she looked, and saved other forms for when she needed them. "We are still rather close to the city, and the guards seem very quick to use truth magic. I'd rather not have to do anything to an innkeeper who makes such good beer," she pointed out to Setis. "Not that I mind a little variety, but if we're paying them a visit at some point, I'd rather it be as clandestine as possible."

[Hamste]

Drow
So you have heard of the Drow? Interesting in my kingdom a cold blooded murderer would never have made it out of the City. Quite probably, a cold blooded murderer would be caught before they even had a chance to do anything. Either way looks like you will be required to bring me along. Can't have three armed and dangerous persons running around now can we. Particularly three evil non-citizens one of which is a caster. Being evil is not illegal but I'm not letting you run around seeking justice with poisoned weapons with out supervision.

[Vhaidara]

Well, what mortal could expect to compare to the soul of a goddess?

Setis gives Kyoni a concerned look.
They nearly caught us. I feel I would be less suspicious in a different form. Especially if your little priestess is able to conceal my aura this time.

[QuidEst]

Souls, technically. You're not the only one who enjoys a snack now and then, although I suspect I get a little more use out of my meals.

Kyoni shrugged. "All right. Just figuring for the purposes of consistency, you might want to wait until we head out. Oh, and Noli isn't the one who does that. I have a priest for that long-term, and I can manage it briefly. We'll meet up with him nearer the city. When we're ready to go, Noli will fly ahead."

[Vhaidara]

I'd say being able to maintain my strength is a fair bit of benefit

Lover, the lady and I are going into town. Do you want me to pick anything up? Perhaps a nice virgin to warm you up for me? Shouldn't be too hard to find one in there.
You always are insufferable after you've eaten.

Well, I have nothing else to wait on, if you're ready to leave. Or do you need to eat actual food?
Setis runs a hand down Kyoni's arm.
I filled up last night.

[Toxic Mind]

Pyrom

"Who hasn't heard of the drow at least in passing legend?" The woman looks to her two guards for a moment, and a silent conversation of looks takes place. "Very well." She says finally. "You may accompany us on our hunt and if you prove useful, perhaps you may even be rewarded. Now prove your usefulness. Where has our murderer gone?"

[QuidEst]

I keep mine in service. My concealment spells, for instance- fueled by a spy I caught.

"I was planning on it, yes. I'm glad you don't need to feed quite as often as I do, though- gives me a chance to recover. There's also my morning ritual to attend to. If you'd care to join me for it, there are a few minor benefits."

There was a knock at the door, and Kyoni opened it to let Muji deliver the food. "Excellent timing. I trust Noli took care of the payment? Good."

Hour-long seance (:smallannoyed:) for primary Demon's Lantern, secondary Liar. If she joins, +2 to Sleight of Hand and Bluff. We can just skip over it to save time.

[Vhaidara]

Well, Jason didn't say no to me picking him up a nice virgin.

Gladly. Your talents intrigue me.
She blows a small kiss to Muji as he delivers the food.

[QuidEst]

Well, we'll have a look around then, shall we?

Muji strolled out without seeming to notice Setis's attention.

After the meal, Kyoni seated herself on the bed. "Just hold my hand, and don't interrupt."

~~~

Kyoni opened her eyes at last. "Thank you for your patience. Keeping souls around this long isn't without drawbacks- there's a certain amount of marshaling that has to be done regularly. Are you ready to go? I'll let Noli know to fly ahead and inform my followers to be ready."

[Milo v3]

Gisann
The Lord of Vines sipped from his gold-plated goblet. His steward was telling him of recent events from his subjects.
".... and apparently, a ship exploded. Well... ignited may be more accurate."
"So there is a dangerous pyromancer on the island? Purchase some items of fire protection, an amulet maybe. Hmm... could you infuse wine with flame resistance?"
"We can try sir."

[Vhaidara]

Ready when you are, beautiful.
Setis makes her way towards the door.
So, I know you said that you have no desire to be with your priestess at night. Does that mean that she is off limits to all?

[Hamste]

We haven't heard of them. Seeing they weren't lying about the cave being here I would say they were north of my camp. From there you could probably track them. Pyrom says. Chasing after the bandits wasn't Pyrom's first choice but there was no way he could just ignore these people.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni followed along with Setis, stopping only to let Noli know to fly to the others. "Let Conwell know to stay there with a few acolytes. The rest of them should head down here."

Noli nodded, then took on the form of a bird and off at full speed.

"Hmm? Oh, no, she's not, but no feeding. It will be pricey enough as it is, and I want to be the one enjoying it. Unless you want to foot the bill, of course, in which case just don't break her. Why, are you getting tired of me already?" she teased.

[Vhaidara]

Setis laughs
Hardly. Remember, pleasure is my business, so it is part of my business to know who I can safely provide with pleasure. Being stuck with Jason makes it a lot harder to reach my quotas.

[QuidEst]

"Ah, I see. Well, I'm glad I can provide a little relief there, and all without upsetting his delicate sensibilities too much," Kyoni answered. "Now, before we go much further, let's just get something out of the way. If they have any more questions for us, I'd like to be prepared rather than hopping bodies at the last minute again. The spell lasts for hours, so there's no harm getting it out of the way. Do you mind?" she said, rummaging through her accessories as she did. "Ah, hold this too," she added and handed over an ornate rod.

Casts Glibness on herself, pulls out a Metamagic Rod of Extend.

[Vhaidara]

Setis takes the rod.
So, what are you doing for preparation? I have the options of jumping to the Ethereal plane for a quick stroll out of town and, if that fails, simply teleporting back to the inn.

[QuidEst]

"Being rather more bound to this plane, I have fewer options." A pale, ghostly wisp appeared in her hand, and flew forward at great speed. "It's a great deal of strain, but I can take on a form like that for a short span. In addition, I don't have to take on the form where I am- I can assume it where that is," she said, gesturing at the barely visible wisp, now some two hundred feet away. "Crude, I'll admit, but like I said, it's not exactly the sort of thing my portfolio deals with. Now… give me a moment."

She lay down on the grass by the road so that when she moved into Setis's body, her own wouldn't injure itself falling over. A moment later, she was standing, now looking down at where she'd been. She took a moment to run her new hand over her body.

I can think of a few entertaining things to do when you're not feeling too hungry, by the way.

A moment later, she cast the spell, deposited the rod back on her person, and dismissed the possession.

Not using a mythic point for the possession spell, just channeling The Rakshasa as a move action.

[Vhaidara]

Setis' lips twitch into a smile.
What a dirty goddess you are.

[QuidEst]

"Glad you noticed. Just a pity you can't trade as well… Hmm. I suppose there's always shapeshifting, but it wouldn't quite be the same. I couldn't manage the real you. Still, are you ready? I'll change as well." Her clothes shifted to simple grey robes with a wide leather belt, while her form became taller and a little broader. Her hair lighted to brown. "Suitably drab for entering that city, you think?"

[Toxic Mind]

T'val and the Master of Vines

When Izzdar presents the information he has found, T'val weighs it over, then takes a single dose of drow poison from him. "I am going to meet with the master of this city. If I can eliminate him, I shall. If I can subjugate him, all the better. Either way, I will learn what I can." T'val leaves the tavern, but not before throwing across herself a concealing illusion. Her hair became common brown, her eyes green and unremarkable, her skin darkens to a brown of sun-kissed islands. Only her sword remains at her side unchanged. She found it was best to keep the alterations subtle, the more they changed, the more likely people noticed.

T'val walks through the town, moving quickly towards the master's mansion/castle at the top of the hill. Typical humans, always clawing towards the sky as if being the highest afforded them some more prestige. Disgusting. It does not take T'val the space of 15 minutes to reach the gates. She introduces herself as a traveling merchant who has brought a shipment of fine wines the master may find of interest. To the guard: "Will he see me?" She carries a bottle of cheap wine in an unmarked bottle, already shifted by her prestidigitation to taste like an old vintage from the Shadow Plane of her youth.

Pyrom

"Very well then. Lead on to this Northern Camp. We will follow." The woman nods to her guards, who walk a short distance back into the cave and bring back 3 lizards, which they quickly mount.

[Vhaidara]

Setis nods, shifting back to her dark skinned form, but this time with more commonplace clothing, similar to what Kyoni is wearing.
So, shall we go and corrupt heaven on the material?

[Milo v3]

T'val and the Master of Vines
The guards received their answer swiftly, they were hardly surprised.
"You may enter. Word to the wise though, remove your shoes and wash your feet before you enter the main chamber. Doesn't like his stupid carpets being ruined."

[QuidEst]

"Oh, yes. And remember to keep your eyes out for any virgins Jason might like." With that, she started down the road once more. "We'll be heading a ways west of the city first, just so we can get our long-term concealment spells taken care of."

[Vhaidara]

Setis follows her along.
So, how did you end up in that body of yours?

[QuidEst]

"Well, I ruled a small nation for a while. A bit more of a city-state, really, but nothing like as obsessively self-contained as this one. That went along nicely for some time, give or take a few assassination attempts- where I've collected more than a few of my souls, incidentally. Well, eventually they gave up on the direct stabbing approach. Which was a pity, since I could heal that. With no small amount of necromantic magic, they bound my soul in a gem. I don't really know what happened after that, since I was in a rock, but one hundred thirty-eight years later, a woman by the name of Adraya happened on the stone in her line of work. From there, it was just a matter of winning her trust- nothing more than procuring a dance at the ball- and permission to use her body to do one thing. Specifically, carry out the ritual sacrifices necessary to completely suppress her and leave me in control. She's still asleep under all that. There's a tidy amount of my power tied up in keeping her that way, but it's well worth it," Kyoni explained at length. "So when I say I have some experience with possessions, I'm not just tossing that around casually."

[Vhaidara]

Setis laughs when Kyoni describes taking over Adraya's body.
I do just love how easy it is to manipulate mortals. Maybe someday you could possesssomeone else and we could let Adraya out for some fun. I'm sure a more willing host would tie up less of your power, and I'm very good at making people willing to do things that aren't the best for them.
The last line is delivered with the same wicked grin the wore the previous night.

[Toxic Mind]

Master of Vines

T'val walks through the gates and into the manse, looking at her surroundings as she did, taking note of guards, of walls, of any wards she can detect and any defenses she can see. She does not deviate so as not to appear obvious, however. [Cast: Detect Magic] When she reaches the door, she removes her boots, and with a quick wave of prestidigitation, cleans her feet. No sense in making a bad first impression. She opens the doors and walks in to see the Master of Vines for herself.

[QuidEst]

"Oh, I wouldn't say that. I had the best time last night, after all," Kyoni replied playfully. "Don't think I haven't thought about finding a new hostess, though. It's a lot harder to move once you've taken up residence. I was fortunate that the person who found me was not bad-looking, if a little short. Obviously, hosting me has done no small amount to alter things for the better here and there. But if you find a good candidate, I'm more than happy to look into it."

[Vhaidara]

Setis' smile remains.
Oh, I didn't necessarily mean anything long term. Clearly you can jump bodies short term. So we find a pretty young thing, you jump into the new toy, we have some fun with Adraya, and the next morning you jump back into a much more satisfied body with a happier mind. Besides, I would have thought you would want to thank her for being so accommodating.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni nodded in realization. "Ah, I see. In that case, we don't even need to find somebody. I can just build myself a body for temporary use. Mmm… if you wouldn't mind modeling, you might even get a little fun out of it. Obviously, it would be be nothing on the original, but it would be novel at least." Kyoni's eyes glinted as she considered the various arrangements.

[Vhaidara]

The succubus raises an eyebrow
Modelling? I haven't done that in centuries. What do you have in mind?

[QuidEst]

"Well, I create a minor simulacrum of you with you there to model so it turns out well. Charm it, possess it, and let Adraya out in my body. And you can turn into me with your shapeshifting. Sound like a diverting evening?" Kyoni suggested with a wicked grin.

[Vhaidara]

Setis suddenly embraces Kyoni.
Fantastic! And we could do this with different models of me, right?

[IZ42]

Vaerthes

"Thank ye miss, with that information, I will be off. Cone Koroth, and stop pestering those bumbling guards."

Vaerthes and Koroth turn, and set off towards the tavern.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

Either she was ignored or the half-elf didn't bother to respond after getting the information need. The half-dragon just walked away after that. She began to plan out where to go, perhaps some place fun so they can get proper R&R.

[QuidEst]

"Oh, certainly," Kyoni said, enjoying Setis's embrace and the sense of pride at coming up with something that could surprise a succubus. "I can't turn into your natural form, so I would like to give that a try first. But if, say, you wanted to arrange for you and me to be enjoying some quality time with 'Jason', that could also be arranged. I don't suppose I could convince you to help finance the little project? Simulacri take rubies, after all."

[Vhaidara]

Setis + Kyoni

Setis gets an evil look in her eyes.
Oh, I was going to be Jason. I was going to model his first love for you.


Jason

Meanwhile, on the direct road from the City to the inn, Jason has found himself a spot of trouble. He had found an overturned caravan and, while checking for survivors, had been jumped by a bone devil. He quickly disengaged and managed to get clear, and is standing about twenty feet from the monster when Vaerthes and Koroth come into view.
"Pathetic puppet! I will destroy you for my lord!"
As it yells, it jumps forward and strikes at Jason with its stinger. Jason sidesteps the blow, and steps back, spinning as he does, a dagger appearing in his hand. Two knives fly true, burying themselves in the creature's shoulders. As they do, bursts of light emit and the creature screams in pain. However, as he goes to throw a third dagger, his foot catches in a wagon wheel, he tumbles onto the ground.

[IZ42]

Koroth/Vaerthes

Koroth, seeing one of his ancient foes attacking someone, immediately pounces, aiming for the devil, Claws and teeth flashing with arcane power as Vaerthes casts a spell, enchancing his natural weapons.

[QuidEst]

"Ooh… I like it. We don't even need the simulacrum for that. It will be much more realistic if I turn into her myself. That sounds like something you want the details perfect for. I suppose we'll just have to make a list, won't we?" Kyoni suggested, already looking forward to it.

[Vhaidara]

Jason

The devil reels back as the beast slams into it, claws and teeth tearing in. It retaliates with an unholy fervor, lashing with a vile rage at the tiger beast. This, of course, distracts it from it's original prey. Three daggers fly from Jason and, between their blows, sever the monster's head. It falls to the ground with a loud thump.

Jason stands slowly, placing a hand on his ankle.
Thanks for the rescue. That could have been pretty ugly.


Setis

Good idea. Jason is going to either hate me or love me for this.
She laughs
If I'm lucky, it will be a lot of both.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

After a few minutes planning from just outside City, Sveargith knew what she would do. "Alright, I think we head to Whitemoon. There we can take a ship to Haven and enjoy ourselves till the Dragon cup." she said while looking over the map. Whitemoon is a port city in the Holy Galvastian Empire, a pious nation and allies to the Kingdom of Thalmanadas. She hoped to find some familiar faces on the way. Once she arrived in Haven, the city where the laws can be summed up by just saying "Do what you want, just don't prevent others from doing the same," she would plan on enjoying the pleasures there. Arenas, beer, men, women, you name it. Come time for the Dragon cup, she'll be at the castle, being the host of the contest this year.

After gathering her bodyguards, she headed for Whitemoon. On the way, she noticed a fight going on. She and her sister rushed toward it, but she knew it might be over by the time she got there. She was right. The fight was already over, and considering there was a dead devil on the ground, it looked like it was no big deal. "Looks like you didn't need me."

[Gintash]

Isabelle got to the entrance of the city only to see it basically empty. It then hit her of course, she remembered that she was no longer in her home city. She had moved here to appease her husbands family and they did not allow farmers to sell there wares at the entrance of the city so it was very barren. Isabelle saddened for a moment, she enjoyed talking to all of those nice people. While it was 'undignified' to talk with a filthy 'peasant' according to many of the richer families. Isabelle enjoyed it as they had funny stories to tell and they were a lot nicer than the richer or more wealthy people in any city she had visited. They always loved to chat and something as small as giving a child a copper coin made not only the child's day, but the parents as well who got to see their child happy again. Not like many of the richer families and their children, nothing seemed to please them other than picking on poorer children and the family said it was just children being children.

It took a little while but Isabelle realized she had zoned out a bit and was standing there in a daze which sent her bright red as she looked around. There was really not many people around so she instead decided to go to the marketplace in the city to get some food from the shopkeepers who stole from the poor. She hated them but she had basically no other choice.

[QuidEst]

"We'll win him over yet," Kyoni said confidently. "In the meantime, though, let's get moving. We're almost there."

~~~

When they arrived, Conwell was waiting there with Noli perched on his shoulder as a crow. Kyoni handed over the rod, and he began casting immediately. Finally, he concluded his work, bowed low, and stepped back. "Well, there you go," Kyoni said. "That will be good for two days now."

[Hamste]

Pyrom leads them to his previous camp and starts to go north from there. We probably should be able to see what ever remains of their camp but keep an eye out in case.

[Milo v3]

T'val

There was a large amount of paintings and tapestries that radiated magic, all but two seeming to be transmutation based, there were many, none of the walls or doors seemed to be enchanted. The main door guards armour seemed to be magical in nature.

The lord of vines, a pale skinned man with red hair and a small beard, sat in a regal throne at the end of a long wooden table. The whole room was pristine, not a speck of dust, though the lighting was much darker than most surface dwellers prefer. As you enter he lowered his goblet down onto the table, and the wine within it seemed to evaporate.

"So, you trade in fine wines?"

[Vhaidara]

Fantastic. That will be highly convenient.
Setis glances towards the City.
So, are you ready to head in?

[Toxic Mind]

Master of Vines

"I trade in many things, rare liquids simply being the most noticeable among them. Your love of rare vintages is the talk of the town. I had thought to introduce myself, having recently arrived in port." T'val surveys the room. Portraits enhanced with magic. Preservation, or wards? No way to easily tell. "The quickest path to riches is in the favor of those who have them. Which in this case, I would presume to be you."

[QuidEst]

"One last thing," Kyoni said, taking a moment to redirect their auras to the magic of her belt, common enough that it wouldn't merit any attention.

"That's all. Lead on," she said, bowing and gesturing for Setis to go ahead. Soon, the massive city gates loomed overhead, and they were at the gate once more.

[Vhaidara]

Setis walks towards the gates, ready to lie her way into the city.

[Milo v3]

T'val
"A wise stance. So, what is your offer?"

[Toxic Mind]

Master of Vines

"My partner and I have run afoul of the City and its draconian laws. Even now I suspect they attempt to hunt us down. I ask your protection, and in return the choicest of wines, the cream of the crop, are yours. I am skilled with magics, and could also be of great personal use." T'val extends her hand. "Do we have an accord?"

[Hamste]

Though different guards are here the set up is essentially the same as before. When you get with in 60 ft on of the guards taps the shoulder of the other lightly.

None, One. The guard whispers off to the side.

Hello, business? The guard says smiling widely.

[QuidEst]

Two women dressed in simple grey robes approached the gate, looking much like any other lower-class peasants who had lost family to disease and sought to remove themselves from such a possibility. From what Noli had found out about the place, it sounded like the main (and in Kyoni's mind, only) reason that people came to the city. Kyoni still refused to think of it in capital letters; naming a city "City" was rude and inconvenient. For all its authoritarian, racist, self-aggrandizing nature, it was still the best place to come to avoid disease if you weren't rich or well-connected with the gods yourself.

"We've come to The City to begin our probationary period and, your permission willing, join The City," Kyoni said, managing to add that little note of hope. She felt that really sold it.

[Vhaidara]

Setis nods, letting Kyoni take the lead. Wouldn't want to complicate her story unnecessarily.

[Hamste]

Hang on a second. We will get the social contract. The guard says. The sound of several gates closing can be heard as well as several doors closing and locking.

Ah, here it is. Come over here. Read them carefully before signing. The guard says cheerily grabbing something out of sight. He sticks on a helmet and holds them out through the portcullis with a quill and some ink.


The contracts are in very dense legalese but the summation appears to be that you sign away any right to privacy for the duration of the testing period. Any discovery of trying to obscure information can result in any thing from a small fine to execution.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni read over the papers with at least a cursory glance. It was remarkable just how comfortable they seemed with all this. Hmm. What would her reaction be? Determination, likely. Certainly, the mention of execution would frighten her purported self, but it was to keep her safe, and she had nothing to hide. On the last sheet, she signed a name, then handed the papers back. "Th-thank you," she said, dipping her head respectfully.

I'm Lorena for the next little while, in case it comes up. Who are you signing as?

[Vhaidara]

Setis also takes the forms, and signs them. She changes her voice before speaking.
Thank you all so much.
She bows her head as she hands back the form.

Corriana

[QuidEst]

Lorena and Corriana, then. Speaking of names- what was the name of Jason's first love? You might tell me a little about her while they're dealing with paperwork.

[Hamste]

The guards looks at the forms for a second before saying. Don't be worried. I'm sure you will get in just fine. Ok, put on this helmet and walk slowly through the gate. As you enter the wall it becomes clear literally every path that didn't lead where you are supposed to go is blocked off. This way friends. He says cheerily walking towards the only iron door that is open.


The door swings shuts behind you three and there is a loud clicking noise and a thud as if a bar is being placed. Their is a set of wide stairs that lead downwards. There is another door right before the bottom of the floor which the guard takes about fifteen seconds to open. At the bottom there is a wide cavernous room covered in a large highly realistic painting of the sky and many wooden doors embedded into it. Your rooms are over there. For the sake of your health you are required to be in your rooms for ten hours of the day with us giving the signal when the times change. It is highly suggested that you sleep during that time as your days will be busy. The itinerary is in the bedrooms. If you have a question feel free to ask your personal watcher. They are there to help and make sure your needs are taken care of. The guard says pointing to a set of rooms with iron doors on them. Two women come out of a door and start to come over. That is them now. If you will excuse me I have to go back to my post. The guard says cheerily. The loud click of the locks can be heard as leaves.

[Vhaidara]

Setis bows to the women.
Hello, I am Corriana. May I ask your names?

Her name was Katarine. I can show her to you after we leave the city. Speaking of which, the watchers might make this trickier.

[Milo v3]

T'val
"The City hunt you? They do make enemies quick don't they.... Fine. We will grant you sanctuary. But it may be withdrawn if the hunters are too immense in number of course. Though, with them staying in their walls all the time, I doubt many would venture into my fine lands."

[QuidEst]

Kyoni followed along behind the guard along with Setis.

Katerine? I'll get it in mind. Watchers, and we're underground. I thought it was going to be some sort of cell, not a dungeon. Hmm. You can get out all right, but I need line of sight to get anywhere. I'll come up with something, though.

She bowed along with "Corriana", smiling at the two watchers. "And I'm Lorena."

[Toxic Mind]

Master of Vines

"You have my thanks. My partner and I will return tomorrow with our first gift, a token of our gratitude." T'val bows, and turns to leave. After exiting the mansion, she returns to Izzdar, informing him of her progress.

[Hamste]

I'm Korrista and this is Maggy. We will be your watchers. Do you have any questions you need to ask? We need to get you to the health staff to make sure you are not suffering from any disease. Korrista said walking towards one of the wooden doors in the wall.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni took a deep breath, looking a little nervous and apologetic. "Umm… are we going to be down here the whole time?" she asked. "I mean, I can do it! It's worth it. It just… seems like a long time without sunlight."

[Vhaidara]

Setis nods.
I also would not like to spend so much time without sunlight. But we should get to the medics, if there is any risk.

[Hamste]

Afraid not, we have to make sure no one breaks into the city. Therefore the entire testing period happens under ground for the safety of everyone. Maggy says. The room they led you to is filled with many implements and several chairs. A man with a large pair of goggles and a beaked mask is there as well as a small women with a beaked mask as well.

What would follow is an extremely thorough examination as well as diagnose disease and an extremely full body search for any contraband (Not exactly obvious that is what it is seeing it is put under the guise of medicine but that is a portion of what they do). Any disease or wounds you may have will also be cured assuming no contraband is on you and nothing shows from a physical search. Also before I forget Setis has a constant detect good correct? The only person down here who has an aura that appeared on it has been the female in the beaked mask with a moderate aura.

[Vhaidara]

Setis lets out a breath as the doctor finishes.
Well, that could have been worse. Good to know I'm healthy.

[QuidEst]

Freaks. No sunlight for weeks? That's a nuisance. We've got a little less than two days until the spell wears off and they detect us. Well, all my direct plans are scrap. That leaves charm, compulsion, killing everyone, you opening the doors from the outside after teleporting, replacing somebody, or rather improbably staging a revolt with only the people who are trying to get into the city. Your thoughts, dear?

Kyoni was, unsurprisingly, in good health, so the medical examination didn't take too long. "Thank you. It is good to be in such capable hands."

Gods and fiends, this place makes me want to set loose a swarm of plague rats.

[Toxic Mind]

The Drow

The three Drow follow Pyrom to the north until they come across a clearing. As the two guards look around in vain for signs of where the group might have gone, the cleric has much more success. She looks, and returns, saying "it seems that there was a group of people here, then they headed to the West. It has been many days since they were here"


[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[Hamste]

Drow

Ok, let us go then...I take it you do not know what is west of here? I do not tend to go out this far. Also do you need to report to your superiors first? Pyrom says looking west.

Setis and Kyoni
Now that is done, you have about three hours free time before you it is bed time. The real testing starts happening tomorrow. You are probably hungry. The other soon to be citizens are probably in the cafeteria as well. Sadly, there is only two others but I'm sure you will get along just fine. Maggy says leading to another wooden door.

[Toxic Mind]

"I have no superiors."The woman says crossly. "And no, I do not know what lies to the west. You claimed these as your lands, yet you do not know their make?"

[Hamste]

So...what happens if you died while searching for them? Wouldn't it be hard to resurrect you? Wouldn't it be hard to continue the chase? Anyways, my City claims everything a days ride from us. This is the very outer edge and as such we do not claim the area west from here. I will be the first person from the City to step out of our lands for many many years and others ignore us if they can help it. The only contact we have is through the few diplomats and traders that do come in. Pyrom says.

[QuidEst]

A revolt with two others, it seems. I can't say I'm surprised.

Kyoni nodded as she followed the two watchers. "Very! It's been a long day."

[Vhaidara]

Not the best way things could have worked out. Do you by any chance have an emergency escape method?

Setis also nods, ready to follow.
I would love to meet our fellows.

[QuidEst]

For the most part, you just heard them. I suppose I can manage an illusory duplicate for a little while, if that helps. I just need to be able to get line of effect to the outside world, and then I can do a few rapid jumps and evade any guards.

[Hamste]

Setis and Kyoni

The cafeteria is clean like just about everything in this place. There are a few cafeteria workers there. Oddly enough they look rougher than the others and a few watchers stood behind them not doing anything other than watching. There is a couple there chatting with a few more watchers. Oddly enough there are considerably more watchers than could reasonably be needed for so few people wanting to enter even if taking into account for their suspicious nature. Even as you watch a few leave through a metal door on the other side of the room from where you entered. The couple seem to be relatively young elves though the male seems to be suffering from some sort of condition. He is extremely gaunt with almost no meat on him and the white parts of his eyes are tinged blue. His face seems to be almost triangular. He is lying on a floating disk made out of force. Something the female elf said made him laugh and it ends with a large wheeze.

Hello there. The women says cheerily waving towards you two.

None of the people here ping on detect good.

[Vhaidara]

Setis looks at the man, then to Maggy
Should he be in here? What if he gets us sick?

Can you change you shape while in here? If we can get control of our watchers, we might be able to make a run for it.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni shook her head. "I'm sure they know what they're doing. We'll be fine." She smiled and waved back. "I'm Lorena."

I should be able to control half a dozen people or so today without running dangerously low on contingencies. I think that's what it's going to be. How many can you handle if it comes to that?

[Vhaidara]

Full control? One at best, unfortunately. I'm better with manipulation and direction.

[Hamste]

Ah, should have clarified that before coming in here. It is not a disease but a rare hereditary trait that is not contagious at all. We were very thorough with our checks on it. Him and some of his family suffers from very weakened bones and the inability to produce ligands. Maggy whispers before you move.


I'm Mandy and this is Josey. Becoming new citizens as well or more watcher recruits? The female elf says before gesturing to the sick elf.

[QuidEst]

Kyoni nodded, not particularly concerned what ligands were or whether or not the sick-looking man could make them. She smiled at the question. Well, they were certainly interested in recruiting a few watchers. "New citizens, yes. Do they really need more watchers? It doesn't look like they're understaffed."

Mmm. I do prefer things that way too, but what can I say. Sometimes bending somebody isn't going to be enough, and you have to break them to get what you want. If they weren't so curséd paranoid and let in just a little light, I wouldn't have to do this. Ooh… we did promise to pick up some virgins for Jason, though. I'll be sure to ask them after.

[Vhaidara]

So, how long do you think we have here, and who are our priorities to get control over? I'd say our watchers first.

Oh, I'm sorry. That was horribly insensitive of my.
She looks at the poor elf.
That is horrible. Is there nothing they can do for you?

[QuidEst]

Let's wrap this up once we eat. Err… can you do eating material-plane style? Certainly, we need our watchers. If we can get the medical examiner, that would be good, but harder. Presumably they had a magic-worker for that position. In a pinch, a guard helps. Sound good?

[Hamste]

Heh, not with out killing me first and they need a druid on hand first. Surprisingly, there is a fund they have set up for situations like these. They are estimating it will take a year to get the funds for it and to find a druid strong enough seeing they are not very common around here but until then I have all the healing I need. They always seem to be recruiting. Josey said coughing.

There are a few other caverns down here they watch and take care over to make sure that no one uses them for other purposes such as hiding contraband or to leave the city. One of the watchers says.

While not false this is no where near the whole truth for why they are down here.

[Vhaidara]

Can you distract them for a moment? I want to get a look in their minds.

[QuidEst]

"Ah, that explains it, then. There must be a lot of duties for all of you, then. I was surprised to see so many! But it is good to know that the city is safe," she said, nodding. "Safe, and able to help people out like this."

Let me know when you need their thoughts directed at something in particular.

[Vhaidara]

As Kyoni begins to distract everyone, Setis takes a seat, leans back, and closes her eyes, focusing the energy into her natural magic, trying to pass it off as a stretch.

Casting Detect Thoughts, as usual, no somatic, verbal, or material components. Any Bluff to pass it off as a normal activity is automatically made, unless they can beat a 48 (Glibness is still in effect, so she has a +47)

[Hamste]

They don't get their save so I will be giving the intelligence but do you want to try and read everyone's mind or just certain specific people. It matters as a few people may react (Even not knowing who did it) if they make their save.

Anyways the intelligences are all around 10s for the watchers but the cooks have intelligence between 8 and 9 except one who has a 12. The female elf has 17 intelligence and the male has 22. Just going to note I gave the male a 16 in intelligence before modifiers instead of the standard 15 for the highest stat and lowered a few of his physical stats more than they needed to be.

[Vhaidara]

I'm going to go with just scanning the watcher who speaks in pink for now

Okay, go ahead and start directing them towards anything we want to know about.

[QuidEst]

"It's a lot of responsibility, though, isn't it?" Kyoni asked.

[Diachronos]

Katie yawns as she walks down the cobblestone road, brushing her unkempt blonde hair out of her face. "Remind me again why we had to get up so early..." "Because I've been looking at the sky since last night, and it looks like it's going to rain soon." "So? We've camped out in the rain before, Taria, it's no big deal..." "It's going to rain hard, Katie. Harder than that little tent can handle."

Katie grins and puts her arm around the aasimar's shoulders, pulling her close and nuzzling her cheek. "Oh come on, you know I'll keep you warm if it gets too cold..." Taria blushes and gives her a nervous grin. "I know that, but 'warm' and 'dry' are two separate things. I don't like being soaking wet." After a moment she adds with a sigh, "Don't you say a word."

"What? I wasn't going to-"
"Yes, you were. I know exactly what you were going to say, and you know exactly what I meant by what I said."
Katie sighs. "You're no fun sometimes, you know that?" She looks around, then starts fishing through her bag for the map they kept. "Where are we, anyway?"

[Milo v3]

Dire Bat, Eli, Solinid, Waltev
After many days travelling through the Dead Woods and the surrounding area, the group eventually reached the northern area above the City.

[IZ42]

Vaerthes


"It is of no consequence. I am Vaerthes, Fiend Hunter and this is Koroth, my lifelong companion. Might I know your name?"

As he walks over to greet Jason, Vaerthes waves his and a light spills out of his hand, soiling across the tiger and closing wounds.


Casting rejuvenate Eidolon on Koroth

[Vhaidara]

Jason looks warily at the "Fiend Hunter"
Jason Corian, wanderer. And still, your arrival was timely. Without your pet's distraction, I wouldn't have had time to aim properly.
His hand glows and his ankle twists back into position.

He doesn't mean any offense, but as far as I can tell Koroth looks like a normal (possibly bigger and scarier) tiger, with no outward display of intelligence when not speaking

[MichaelGoldclaw]

"I'm Sveargith Silverstrike of Thalmandas. Firstborn daughter of the Duke of Verintar, but you can forget the noble treatment. Next to me is my sister, Arytiss." she gestures to her sister, who adds

"Pleased to meet you."

"And back there is my bodyguard "regiment." 12 of my best men. Enough to scare away bandits, but little enough to cause a diplomatic incident."

Knowledge: Nobility or a high roll on Religion would give you a rough idea on who they are.

[Hamste]

Yep, you would be surprised how many people try to hide contraband in these caves. Maggy says.

That doesn't cover the half of it but at least she is not lying. No need to worry them about it. They will find out when they are citizens anyways. The other one thinks.

[QuidEst]

As Setis relayed the watcher's thoughts, Kyoni nodded. "Really? What sort of stuff is down there?" she asked. After a pause, long enough for any reactive thoughts to trigger, she looked apologetic. "Oh, I mean what do people try and sneak in? It seems very foolish with so many of you to check! Who would try?"

[Vhaidara]

Jason

Jason looks up.
I'm sorry ladies, I didn't even see you there. Pleased to met you ladies.
He begins to stand, testing the leg he had sprained.


Setis

Setis simply stays quiet, relaying thoughts to Kyoni, playing the role of the quiet one.

[Hamste]

Have to be prepared and prevention is the best treatment. Wouldn't want to be caught off now would we. Maggy says.


Prevention is king. They must never catch us off guard and we must be prepared.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

"Are you alright?" She asks as she sees him testing his used leg. "We Half-Dragons are strong. We should be able to carry you with ease."

[QuidEst]

Fiendishly clever. The city employs ignoramuses who never have any useful thoughts as a defense against mind readers.
"So do you do any of that work while we're here, or are you stuck in here so long as we are?" Kyoni asked innocently. So long as they had any reason to leave, she didn't care much what it was.

[Toxic Mind]

Drow/Pyrom
We are self-sufficient teams. The price for failure is clear to us. No one will resurrect us. Failed servants are of no use to our people. The group Ravens west, and within a day, they see a port city, really more of a finish village. Perhaps someone there would know about the bandits?

T'Val
Haven't heard from Xunthrae in a while so I'd like to continue without him. Not sure about that vampire now, so I may be altering the plan somewhat.
T'val spends much of her time among the city folk now. Always in her human disguise, of course, or at the very least altering her appearance. It would not do to have the Master of Vines become suspicious. T'Val provides the promised wine, and becomes somewhat of an expert in the various wines of the world, and forging them with magic. Their bandit troupe spreads out through the cit, many joining ship crews or taking jobs in Gisann. Izzdar had disappeared, but T'val was sure he was off creating some focal point on the island or excavating something of interest.

Among the townsfolk, T'val always keeps her ear to the ground for information that could be useful in overthrowing the Master of Vines, and whenever she meets with him, she observes everything she can for any weakness or vulnerability.
[roll0] Perception
[roll1] Knowlege Local

[Vhaidara]

Jason

Jason shakes his head.
No, I was able to heal the sprain. Careless of me, tripping like that.
He walks over to the fallen devil and begins to examine it.
We've got trouble. I was just waylaid by a bone devil. A couple of adventurers came along and helped, but it might have had time to contact others. What is your status?
Not ideal. This city has about a month long line in isolation to enter. Kyoni and I are plotting a jailbreak though.

Setis

Never thought I'd mind brainless people. They're usually easy to control. By the way, we might actually be safer here than outside. Apparently there are devils hunting, possibly for Jason and I.

[IZ42]

Vaerthes
[it would probably be best to mention Vaerthes speaks in a really archaic accent]

Vaerthes turns and inspects the Half-Dragon, devoid of any surprise at her race, before speaking out.

"If I might be so bold as to inquire, what is your name, madam?"

[QuidEst]

Oh well. We can just go with the mind-control route, and then they'll answer any questions we want. Now, if we could just get the paladins and the devils to go at each other, that might simplify things. If we're going to stay a little while, I guess we'll be doing something other than lighting a lot of fires. Pity.

[Hamste]

Setis and Kyoni

Oh no, We didn't work with that group. We generally make sure everything is nice and clean so if someone comes we are nice and ready. Maggy says smiling.

Thank goodness we got the good jobs. We don't have to deal with them at all.

Drow

Really? So they just have to kill three of you? I guess we ask around the village then. I should probably do the talking. Pyrom says heading towards the village.

[QuidEst]

Useless. You want to try asking something? I'm not used to getting people to think answers.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

Sveargith raises an eyebrow as he speak. The accent was very strange to her. Still, she has seen and heard of weirder, so she ignores it. She replies to him. "As I said, I am Sveargith Silverstrike of Thalmandas, firstborn daughter of the Duke of Verintar, but again, you can forget the noble treatment."

"And I am her sister, Arytiss Silverstrike. Pleasure to meet toy."

[Diachronos]

Taria sighs and pulls the map out of Katie's bag, mumbling something about how she's always losing things. "Well, we just crossed the Dellun River about a day ago, so..." Her finger traces the roads on the map, and she points to a forest they can see in the distance to the north. "That must be the Dead Woods over there, which means we're north of The City."

"Which 'city'? There are a lot of cities."
"I mean The City. The one that's literally just called 'The City'."

Katie thinks for a moment. "You mean that place that's supposedly paranoid as all Hell about people getting sick and won't let any of them leave?" Taria nods. "Yep, that's the one."

Katie sighs and hangs her head, though she perks up a little bit at the sight of travelers on the road ahead. "Hey, maybe they know a place where we can stay and get out of the rain. Wanna ask them?" Taria hesitates, before finally nodding. "We might as well, it's not like it's going to hurt anything to just talk to them.

[Vhaidara]

Setis

As much as I hate to admit it, I agree. These are little more than mindless drones. Shall I pretend to be tired so that we can get some alone time with our watchers?

Setis lets out a yawn.


Jason

Jason walks over and offers a hand to the ladies.
So, what brings two noblewomen to this place? Investigating this abomination of a city?

[QuidEst]

All right, that sounds good.

Kyoni gave a yawn as well. "Goodness. I must be more tired than I thought. We have a busy day tomorrow, it sounds like, and we were up early. Could you show us to our rooms? I don't want to walk in on the wrong one," she said, stretching.

[MichaelGoldclaw]

"Well, adventuring, basically. I accidentally chose City to dock into because it was nearest. I made a mistake. Now I am just heading to Galvastia up north before heading home for tournament. If you would like, I would be happy to put you in."

[Vhaidara]

Jason looks pensive.
What kind of tournament is this? I'm no great warrior.

I've met a few individuals who seem interesting. But they would probably object to you. On a more violent level than I object to your new girlfriend. Perhaps we should part ways for a time, at least until you get out of the City.