Gentik Academy Of The Arts [IC]

[JNAProductions]

You arrive at the gates of Gentik, full of hope and naïve exuberance. There's a small crowd of what seem to be other students, waiting for your arrival, and right at the front of the gates, an androgynous-looking elf. "Good day to you, our newest arrivals!" they call over. "I am Strix. I won't be your teacher-I'm much too busy with the sporting events-but I hope I'll be seeing you all more than just today. Welcome to Gentik Academy of the Arts! Come now-introduce yourselves, to me and to one another."


OOC Thread (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?636661-Gentik-Academy-Of-The-Arts-OOC)

[moonfly7]

The massive, golden furred bugbear steps forward. He's out of place here among these fancy geniuses and he knows it, his first stained garb and lack of a wand or pointy hat is proof enough of that. Best to get this introduction over with immediatly than put it on much longer, lest they realise he was nothing more than a kungfu toting naturalist who barely had a grasp of magics finer points. Not that he really tried to hide it.

"I am Qrr-Sath, but my people call me Qrr-sath True-Bear"

[MrAbdiel]

Next comes a young woman, tall in as much as that counts for humans - which is very little, next to the bugbear. Or then again, maybe not entirely human: keen eyes can make out the tell-tail gold flecking in hers, the faint silvery impression of celestial script glimmering just under the surface of her skin around her eyes and across her lips, and the tell-tale conspicuous perfection with which platinum blonde waves fall just-so. A flower with blue petals and dull gold leaves accents her hair, perched just above the right temple. Her midriff bares a tabard with a stylized icon of the same flower, replicated in metallic relief on certain plates of her armor, at the pauldrons and over the breastbone. She doesn't carry the physicality of someone outrageously strong, but in such a world as this, it's not unusual to find strength hides in the blood, and not just the muscles. Most strikingly, her eyes are as blue as the flower in her hair, and her smile as warm and friendly as one might ever hope to see - the kind of expression that goes a long way to disarming the discomfort her irrepressible loveliness might evoke, in shy hearts. She lifts one hand to wave, in an undulation of slender, leather clad fingers. Her voice in not precisely melodic, but not unpleasant; huskier and dryer to the ear than her saccharine presentation might suggest. She offers first the introduction requested.

"I'm Euraylia Midday. I'm hoping to major in External Powers, or Pact Disambiguation." And then, unprompted: "I like music, and sports, and...All kinds of things, I guess." And then, when it would seem she is finished and should pass on her moment to the next person, a small brown and white hawk with a flamboyant red crest of feathers descends to her shoulder, and scribble-scrabbles to find perching purchase on her pauldron until she offers it her forearm. "And this is Sosthenes." She concludes with pride, and even joy.

Sosthenes is not joyful. He has the burdened, judging demeanor of an animal that knows it is cute, but wants to be ferocious. His contribution is brief, accompanied by a posturing flutter of his wings.

"*Quiet screech.*"

https://www.udrop.com/file/5Wqn/Euraylia.jpg

[Waistcoatwill]

A small, slight young man walks up to the gates of the school. He is wearing common clothes, spotlessly clean but worn and patched in many places. An old and chipped icon of the Goddess Circe hangs around his neck. His long dark hair is pulled unto a tight ponytail for neatness, but even then it is clear he cuts it himself. He has a wary look upon his face but his chin is held high as he approaches.

Luther sighs to himself as he approached the gates, far more ornate than than those of the nobles at home than had scoffed at his dreams of attending Gentik. It didn't look like there would be much chance of finding any trustworthy common folk in somewhere that grand. At first glance the well-heeled mass standing at the gate does little to reassure him. He looks slightly intimidated at the glamour of Euraylia's armour but is trying to hide it. Luther relaxes slightly at the sight of Qrr-Sath, maybe they wouldn't all be hoighty toighty posh types after all.

"Ey up, name's Luther, Luther Lockwood. Ah'm from the Western Dalelands. Ah'll be dual-majoring in theological and arcane studies with a minor in dance." His look around the crowd was half a glare, daring anyone to laugh. "Pleasure to meet thee Strix. Do folk get much time fer playing games around 'ere? I'd assumed we'd be too busy studying."

[JNAProductions]

There's a quiet snicker when Luther mentions dance. Strix doesn't glare-they simply turn for a moment and look at the snickering student. He stops laughing immediately.

Turning back to face you all, Strix's face lights up into a smile towards Luther. "I've a talent for dance myself, or so my mother used to say. The ol' dancing shoes might be a bit faded and worn with age, but I, for one, would be glad to see you dancing in the stadium."

[moonfly7]

Qrr-sath grunts in agreement, or at least that's why he made the noise, who knows how it sounded to others. His eyes take in the thin man who had stepped up. Slim, but well muscled. Lithe and dexterous. Qrr silently pats the drum hanging from his belt, recalling the whirling and fast paced dances of the Savannah, danced to the beat of his instrument. Perhaps he would not be alone here in his appreciation for the simpler things?

[Lord Foul]

Cale'Anon Vaty bounced in excitement. He was a thin and energetic, well groomed young elf, though not visibly wealthy, his outfit was colorful and clean "I am Cale'Anon Vaty, spellsword extraordinaire, I've got a declared major of tactical metaphysical applications, but I'll probably change it. I want to learn everything there is to know. I was raised in the circus, so right now most of what I know is how to put on one hell of a show" he says with a grin. He stands up and gives a bow with a flourish "and this Templeton. My familiar" he says with pride to reveal a smooth black furred ferret, a little on the pudgy side

[MrAbdiel]

Sosthenes immediately focuses on Templeton, regarding him henceforth as is some offence has been taken. Euraylia doesn’t seem to notice.

[JNAProductions]

Strix's grin extends to the rest of you. "Excellent! You'll do well here, I know it. Now, follow me," they say, turning and walking down the main hall.

"You'll likely be starting somewhere here in the Halls," Strix tells you. "It's a big place, but luckily, there are always servants ready to help. To summon one, all you have to do is tap three times on one of these runes," they say, gesturing to a rune on the wall. You've seen it several times already, and can see it more throughout. "Some students also get personal runes for use, but I wouldn't expect that any time soon. Now, allow me to demonstrate."

They tap with their knuckles on the rune thrice, and you see a faint force make its way out. It's got the vague shape of a small humanoid, but is blurry, indistinct, and partially see-through. "These are similar to the Unseen Servants you may have worked with before-but called forth by the magic of Gentik. They respond to simple requests, and can even talk! They're usually addressed as simply 'servant', sometimes with the area you're in added on. Like so-hall servant, could you lead us to where the new students will be residing?"

"Of course," the servant says, its voice faintly echoing and rather quiet. It starts to move forward, and takes a left, moving slowly enough for you to all keep pace.

"You'll learn your way around without them eventually, but never be afraid to ask for help," they tell you. "You'll be in an area that has a few students already-some of them have been here a while, so ask them for advice too. I myself have to be going-got a few things to manage. Good luck!"

You follow the force as Strix departs, and eventually (after a few flights of stairs going up and down) arrive at a simple door. "Residency 45-Beta," the servant tells you, and vanishes. There is another rune next to the door, but before you get a chance to even so much as knock, the door opens. "Cale, Qrr, Euraylia, and Luther! It's great to meet you!" a tall female air genasi says as she opens the door. She's dressed in a voluminous cloak, tunic, and pants. "I have foreseen your arrival, and I am excited!"

She gestures you all in, and you see about a half-dozen other students. "I am Marly," the genasi woman introduces herself. "And these are the rest of the people you'll be with for now! Go on, introduce yourselves!"

"Erm, hey," a slender, brown-skinned human man says. "I'm Rodriguez. I've been here about eight years now, and work closely with Doctor Birch."

A rather grumpy-looking orcish man adds "Gruk," and nothing more.

"Arma," the next person introduces herself. She's not quite as tall as Marly, but close, and is thick with muscle. You can't quite tell what race she is, try as you might. "And don't worry about Gruk-he's just not a people person."

"I'm Gerba!" the shortest one says-a 3' tall gnomish woman. "Don't touch Arma without my permission."

And the last one, an elvish man of average height, says "Cornell Gembright. It is... An event, meeting you."

[moonfly7]

"Guess we should introduce ourselves" The 7'10 Bug Bear rumbles, stepping forward with the distinct lack of any clinking or other sounds associated with loose items. The lean but heavily muscled goblinoid wore nothing save a simple orange dyed tunic like piece of clothing and good leather sandles. He carried no luggage but the bag of coins at his waste, a Bull Oak wood staff slung on his back, and a surprisingly small napsack that looked like something you would camp in, not something you would bring to a boarding school.

"I am Qrr-Sath True-Bear, Disciple of Natures Path. I hale from the savvanah of Ltt'tter-kani, and I have come to this honored place of study to hone my severely lacking talent and knowledge of practical magics, so that I might advance to the next rank among my people. I have not yet decided upon a...Major? As you call it."

[JNAProductions]

"You'll figure it out," Arma tells Qrr. "We can help you find what you want to study. Rodriguez is probably your best bet for combing the lists-he's got the head for that."

Rodriguez sighs, but doesn't say anything, while Gruk, seeing that introductions have finished, heads into one of the doors at the back of the main living area and closes it behind him.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia carries her blue silk sling bag and matching blue leather guitar case into their shared room, and repeats her introduction to the roomies (almost verbatim), and with just as much refulgent je ne sais quoi. Her eyes follow Gruk as he shuffles off to privacy, and her lips purse a little in curiousity - but it sets the precedent that there is infact privacy available, which is more to her immediate interest. She gravitates to Marly, whose temperament seems to most closely match her own. "Hey! Thanks for being so welcoming. I have so many questions." She lifts a hand, fingers splayed, palm up, and strums her fingers one at a time with the thumb of her other hand. "Do we get our own rooms, or are we sharing? What kind of sports does the college do? How many students are on this campus? Aaaaand..." She delays, clearly trying to think of a fourth question as she strums at her pinky, perhaps just for the completion of the questioning phalanges. Her cornflower blue eyes roll up for a moment as if searching the ceiling for an answer, then snap back to focus on the genasi when she finds it. "And how good are the campus wards? I mean, we have to be able to summon and banish inside the grounds or else there'd be no conjuration school at all. But I figure they need failsafes against... you know, bad bindings and broken circles."

[JNAProductions]

Marly replies, saying "We've got our own rooms. You've each got one of the free rooms back there," she gestures to the area Gruk vanished to, "and can decide amongst yourselves who gets which one. Sports-"

"Tons," Arma says, cutting off Marly. "Not all of them popular, of course, but Strix knows basically anything competitive, and is happy to try and get it off the ground at least."

"What she said," Marly continues. "I don't actually know how many students we have here, other than lots. And the wards are pretty impressive-for what you're talking about, you'll need specific areas to do any outside summoning."

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther whistles in excitement when Strix demonstrates the servant rune. "By gum, if we all had them at home life would be right different!". He feels pang of guilt as they follow along through the halls, he wouldn't be using his unseen servant or prestidigitation to help out with the chores at home any more...

His eyes goggle slightly looking around at Residency 45-Beta and his new roomies. "How do! Thank'ee fer the welcome! Nice that there are other folk close by, so it don't feel lonely. I ain't 'ad a room of my own afore, I'll tek the smallest!"

Luther's momentarily distracted gaze flicks back to Germa and Arma. "What's thou mean, I don't right know why we'd touch anyone without permission from tha' person being touched?"

[Lord Foul]

Cale'Anon is amused at having to introduce himself again so soon after the last time "Cale'Anon Vaty pleased to meet your acquaintances, I am here to train in the magic needed to fight demon lords and liches and all manor of arcane evils that threaten the common man, to be the hero of a thousand tales" he says with a boisterous voice before relaxing and giving a wink and a smile, a teasing lit to his voice "wouldn't it be more arma's permission I'd need, not yours? Or is there something more fun going on that you're advertising."

[JNAProductions]

Gerba grins devilishly. Arma leans down and whaps her across the back of the head. "Play nice, Gerba," she says.

Cornell looks and rolls his eyes at those two. "They've been 'dating' ever since they met," he says.

You get the feeling that Cornell's not well-liked here.

In fact, you feel like Gruk, despite being an apparently antisocial misanthrope, is still better liked than Cornell.
Everyone seems pretty forthright, at least.

Although you have a hunch that there might be more than meets the eye to Gerba...

[Waistcoatwill]

"What majors are you all studying? Will we be workin' together at all?"

Sorry, realised that was both too brief and nonspecific. Luther is trying to get more info out of the Residency 45-Beta dwellers in order to start up more of a conversation.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia's eyes flicker imperceptibly between the remaining members of the welcoming team - reading some of the subtlety in their interactions - but then, she doesn't exactly know the others who walked in with her terribly well either! "Well, it's great to meet everyone. I'm gonna go get set up." She gives them all a delightful smile, and heads off to claim a room, and populate it with her stuff. Sosthenes elects not to follow, fluttering from her shoulder to perch on a coat rack, glaring imperiously at Templeton.
She's also keeping an ear out for whatever Gruk is up to, in case there's some audible clue now that she's in the living quarters. Perception: [roll0]

[JNAProductions]

"What majors are you all studying? Will we be workin' together at all?"

Sorry, realised that was both too brief and nonspecific. Luther is trying to get more info out of the Residency 45-Beta dwellers in order to start up more of a conversation.

Marly answers first. "I'm currently working on my prophecy thesis. It's kinda the capstone of the divination course, and that's where my focus has been. Rodriguez, if I remember, you're working on planar studies with Birch?"

"Yeah," he says. "We've found-well, 98% sure we've found-some kind of demiplane or planar rift that shouldn't really exist. We've yet to access it, but we're working towards that as best we can."

Arma nods. "You've mentioned that to me-said you wanted more security, right?"

"For whenever we make it through," Rodriguez clarifies.

"Makes sense," Arma says in response. "I'm actually on loan from a kingdom as a sort-of ambassador? I dunno, the diplomats handled the details, and I just went along with it. And Gerba is an enchantment and transmutation specialist-not her majors, though. She's trying to broaden her horizons."

There's a pause for Cornell to speak. He declines.

"Well... Gruk," Marly says, "is a theological mage, specializing in healing, communing, and experimental deities. If you ever need help from on high, he's the one to ask."



Euraylia's eyes flicker imperceptibly between the remaining members of the welcoming team - reading some of the subtlety in their interactions - but then, she doesn't exactly know the others who walked in with her terribly well either! "Well, it's great to meet everyone. I'm gonna go get set up." She gives them all a delightful smile, and heads off to claim a room, and populate it with her stuff. Sosthenes elects not to follow, fluttering from her shoulder to perch on a coat rack, glaring imperiously at Templeton.
She's also keeping an ear out for whatever Gruk is up to, in case there's some audible clue now that she's in the living quarters. Perception: [roll0]

You faintly hear pages turning and ruffling every once in a while. If he's doing anything besides studying or reading, you can't tell.

[moonfly7]

Qrr-Sath enters into one of the rooms at the back and carefully sets his single bag down, his staff and other items are still on him when he returns, a question on his strange, furry features.

"It has occured to me that I neglected to ask where the rest of you draw your magic from. You said your less than social friend is a Theurge, so arcane and divine, but what of the rest of you?"

He poses this question not just to these new people, but also those he entered with.

I myself draw my powers from the natural world, the animals teach me their secrets, and the plants grant me their insight. I believe folk far from the Savannah call us Druids? Of a sort at least, few of those gardeners seem capable of gicing a solid punch. As basic form, anyways."

He says this all matter of factly, no judgement in his tone, only a question, and then after followed by pure matter of fact. He has no questions about the others because they do not interest him. Although he does smile unnoticeably at the dancer, and his eyes take a proffessional gaze at the other two, his performers intuition telling him he might be among kindred spirits with these 3.


Perception: To see if they have instruments
[roll0]

Insight: To see if they perform
[roll1]

[JNAProductions]

There's a flute on a counter, kinda tucked in the back. Not hidden, just not obvious.
In addition to what was said above, you get nothing new.

"Ooh, we really shoulda gotten Gruk to stay," Marly says. "This is kinda his area, out of us," she adds, and goes to his door. She doesn't knock, but does speak quietly through the door.

Cornell smiles at Qrr's words, and says "I personally have studied hard-the only right way to learn the art of magic, or anything at all, really. I understand your connection to the natural world, my lanky friend, though perhaps you should consider civilizing yourself a little more."

"Yeah..." Rodriguez says. "Or Qrr can just come with me to the Gardens sometime. I bet you'd like it there, big guy-lots of trees, lots of plants, though not so much in the way of fauna-not within the school's bounds, at least. I bet Doctor Birch could help you learn to focus your energies better. You know, be more efficient with your energy and all that."

[moonfly7]

That would be....Most helpful"

He says shifting slightly

I find myself slacking in the magical department, and certainly with my control. And finesse."

[Waistcoatwill]

"Well yer an impressive lot and no mistake, and I'm not excludin' ma fellow newcomers neither." He turns to reply to Qrr. "Ah suppose I'm a theurge meself, some of me power comes from devotion to Circe and belief in the positive potential of arcane magic to improve the world we live in. Ah've also taught myself some basic wizardry an' bladedancin' through studyin'. In a way I see that as another blessin' from Circe, all folk have some potential for magic if they can but learn it."

He rounds on Cornell, stepping up beside Qrr. "However, the studyin' ent any harder than the devotion, just dif'rent. Even them born wi' power or connected to nature 'ave to work at it. I know some even get gifted with power from others, don't mean there ent strings attached. In my experience, folk that look down on others don't understand 'em an' their struggles and rarely try to. Especially one's what pride themselves on bein' more 'civilised' or 'proper' than others...fer all that they ne'er even seem to know 'ow to be polite. I 'ope that ent you Cornell. If 'tis, don't worry, if thou does some of tha' hard studyin' I'm sure thou can learn."

Luther watches Cornell's reaction, trying gauge if he is anything more than the arrogant elitist snob he appears to be. Then he takes himself off to move his meagre possessions into his new digs.

[moonfly7]

Qrr waves one massive hand

"It is fine, friend luther, although the quick defense is much appreciated. But I would not have lasted long in my home if the ignorance of others could offend me. It has been long since such words have bothered me."

[JNAProductions]

Cornell gives a "Hmph!" and stalks off to his room.

Marly returns at this point, without Gruk, and appraises the situation. "Ah... Sorry about that. Anyway, let's help you all get settled in!"

There's a brief flurry of activity as you get situated in your rooms. You talk to each other and to your new roommates, minus Gruk and Cornell, and eventually, the conversation turns to food. Marly leads you a short distance to a communal kitchen, where you're able to cook for yourselves. "Larders refill automatically. There's a bigger mess further down the Halls, but that's enough of a trek to not be worth it all the time. Plus, cooking is a good skill to have!" she says.

You chow down, head back, and eventually, after some more conversation, turn in for the night.

The next morning comes, sunlight streaming in through your windows. You now notice that the windows are opaque-letting the sunlight in, but nothing else. You head from your room, and see Rodriguez engaged in a debate with Gruk, the two of them pouring over some parchment. "I don't quite see what you're getting at there," Rodriguez says.

"I'm not entirely sure either-but I know it's right," Gruk replies.

Rodriguez sighs and says "Right-but I can't take a hunch to Birch, no matter how solid it might be. I'll look into this on my own-and if you find anything more, let me know, okay?"

Gruk nods, and then spots whoever came out first. "Morn," he says briefly. "Sorry about last night. I'm not the best with groups talking. I'll get food now-you want any?" he asks you and Rodriguez.

"Something savory," Rodriguez tells him. "Oh, and good thing you're awake! You got a letter from Gentik. There's one for you and all the rest of the new folk."

An excellent first day was had, and many more excellent days lie in wait! But to get started right, one must start with the beginning.

And the beginning begins with me today! Come to my Introduction To Spell Theory And Theurgy class at ten-thirty today, for a taste of what Gentik has to offer.

-Prof. Slivux

[moonfly7]

"Huh, was wondering when the actual school portion of this school would start." Qrr says with a shrug

There wouldn't happen to be quail in the larder would there?" he asks hopefully. Quail is native to his home, and he finds himself missing the often a tad greasy game bird. And it's only been a single day, maybe he isn't cut out for this after all. Oh well, he's here now.

[JNAProductions]

"Huh, was wondering when the actual school portion of this school would start." Qrr says with a shrug

There wouldn't happen to be quail in the larder would there?" he asks hopefully. Quail is native to his home, and he finds himself missing the often a tad greasy game bird. And it's only been a single day, maybe he isn't cut out for this after all. Oh well, he's here now.

Gruk shrugs. "I'll check for you-maybe not this one, but you can put a request in."

[moonfly7]

Qrr shrugs again, it seems to be his default motion.

"It would be nice to have some, but i's not a necessity. I've gone without more for longer without an issue. I'm sure whatever we have is fine."

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia does not appear to have a casual setting; or atleast she hasn't accessed it yet. She eats with the other students, conversational and cheerful, artfully keeping attention on her superficial, and deflecting inquiries to the others. At seven thirty, she excuses herself to clean up her dishes, vanishes into her room, and apparently sleeps through for a solid eight. The petulant, low key trill of a hawk trying not to wake everyone up might well wake everyone up, at precisely 4 in the morning. Spare a thought for those who occupy rooms left and right of her, and pray that they aren't light sleepers - because Euraylia inaugurates what will become a daily routine of early rising, devotional reading, indoor stretches and exercise (to be augmented with a run around the grounds, once she's more familiar with them), and donning her armor for the day. This morning, she keeps to herself in her room, and only emerges after the sounds of conversation are burbling in the main areas. Henceforth however, she intends to nail down her schedule: by 6am, she's in the common area, breakfast made and eaten and washed up; the woman herself gleaming in her regalia and smelling of flowers, radiating both an almost overwhelming morning person energy, and also a buffering wave of personal magnetism that insulates her against those who enjoy the lesser hours less than she does.

But for now, she reads her copy of the letter. Her lips move a little to loosely match the words as she reads them - not traditionally a sign of a deeply gifted student. "Spell Theory and Theurgy? That sounds... really general, right? I hope it's an intensive. I could stand to knock a credit out early in the year, before the hard stuff hits."

[JNAProductions]

"Slivux is pretty good at tailoring the content to the class. It is a general course," Rodriguez tells you, "but it's a good intro to the kind of stuff that'll be learned here. You can talk to him afterwards, if you feel you really don't need it, but definitely attend the first class. Even if you don't learn a single new thing, Slivux is a good guy to get to know-he knew Genos, after all."

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther eyes up the larder, somewhat disbelieving what he's seeing. He let's out a cackle as he finds a small pot of beef dripping that he gleefully smears on a hunk of bread for his tea.

He turns in slightly later than Euraylia, sleeping happily through her infernal alarm clock. Heavy sleeping is a particular skill of his, honed by sharing a bed with most of his family since he was little.

The next morning he rises early for stretches, light dance practice and reading the about Tosca (the near legendary founder of the bladedancers).

He nods a greeting to Gruk, "Don't fret lad, I'm often the same meself."

Luther appears slightly giggly as he sprinkles currants onto porridge that he's made with milk and sugar. "So it really refills every day like? I ent et like this since the last feast day!"

Finally peeling himself away from brekkie he reads the letter. "That's a fine way to start the term tha' is, makes sure we're all on't same page. Ah can't wait to 'ave a chinwag wi' this Silvux."

Normally having porridge with water and salt is a Scottish thing, but it seems more austere if that's what he's used to.

[moonfly7]

Qrr's awakening is similare to their aasimar companions, but all contained to the small room near soundlessly. Push ups, pull ups, shadow combat, meditation for several hours, and then finally leaving for breakfast. a whee of Cheese, a loaf of bread, and dried meat acompany a mornings mug of ale.

"Hrr" he grunts thoughtfully in response to Luther and Euralyia

"To be honest, I'm not quite sure where this fits into my work, as I've never fit in the arcane or theurigical truly, but every bit helps I suppose. And the experts are surely to no better than me on that matter."

[MrAbdiel]

"I suppose, even if you're not likely to end up projecting classical arcane or divine magic, you're almost certainly going to encounter its wielders on the other side of a magical conflict. The better I grasp someone else's magic, the better suited I am to unravelling it, I guess." The blonde hums speculatively, as she feeds strips of shaved mutton to Sosthenes; tossing them at him one at a time as if she expects him to start catching them. His actual responses range from watching them hit the table, and pecking them up, through to being bopped on the head, flailing in disproportionate alarm, and then pecking them up.

[moonfly7]

"I suppose that tracks" Qrr says as he wripps a chunk of bread off with his teeth, but chews and swallows before continuing "But in my personal experience few magics of any kind stand up long underneath a volley of well-placed blows from a trained hand. Divine or Arcane, most magicaly inclined folks never take a good punch well. Although there are exceptions, like the Monks of my home, or the Elves with the Song of Swords."
he stops and then adds "And Battle priests now that I think on it, most of those can give as good as they heal."

[MrAbdiel]

The Paladin laughs warmly, and bounces her eyebrows in amused receipt of the point. “It ain’t untrue. Nothing disrupts your conjugation of the draconic Ur-words like a mouthful of your own broken teeth.”

[moonfly7]

Qrr chuckles back "No, I suppose nothing else is quite like that."

[Waistcoatwill]

"Tha' might actually improve me pronunciation! As I understan' it the bladedancers prefer to avoid bein' hit altogether rather than being able to take a good whack. I do recommend dance shoes as a method for toughenin' up though, they're ruddy murder on the toes!"

[JNAProductions]

As the others begin to wake up, you finish breaking your fast. You've got a little time before ten thirty arrives, but knowing you've still got a lot of campus to navigate, you decide to leave a touch early. You exit the room and touch the rune, summoning another servant, and ask for directions to Slivux's Introduction To Spell Theory And Theurgy class.

You arrive at about twenty past ten, and see a few other students there. Some are studying, some are doodling, and one is asleep near the back of the room. You see no sign of the professor, but there is a large brown pot on the raised platform, filled with some kind of strange green goo. You find spots, and wait patiently for class to begin.

At ten thirty on the dot, the pot of goo begins to bubble. A small face, lacking much detail, forms and rises out. "Good morning, class. Welcome to Spells 101-Intoduction To Spell Theory And Theurgy. Now, can anyone tell me what magic is?"

There's a brief moment of silence. "That's okay-I can't really either! But in this class, we'll at least get you closer to answer. We will not be doing any casting in the first few classes, so put those foci away-this is theory, not practice, right now. A spell is a discrete..." he begins the lecture.

It lasts for about an hour and a half, with Slivux periodically asking questions, inquiring about the experiences of the students in this field, and making sure everyone is up to speed. You feel like a lot of this is stuff you already knew, but perhaps would've had trouble articulating. While you might consider testing out of this course, if that's possible, it's certainly not useless to be here.

At the end, Slivux says "And that will be all for the day. If you have any questions, stick around-and I'd like for Cale, Qrr-Sath, Euraylia, Luther, and Pebbles to stay behind for sure." Most of the students leave, though three stick around. Two of them approach Slivux, and ask for clarity on a few points. He helps them, and sends them on their way. The last one besides you all staying is the sleeping student, who has only periodically awoken.

"Pebbles... Pebbles... Gods damn it all, Thaumaturgy... PEBBLES!" Slivux yells.

"Huh, wha, yeah?" the student, a short and stout human (or tall dwarf) lets out.

"This is why you failed last year. I am a patient slime, but said patience is not infinite. Shape up, or ship out," he says.

Pebbles nods, nervously. "You may go," Slivux says. "As for the rest of you... Welcome! We usually get our influx of students a month or two ago, so they have time to acclimatize before starting courses. Your applications and whatnot got a little screwy, so you came late, but we're still happy to have you. I know Strix gave a little welcoming, but I'd like to extend a warm pseudopod of friendship as well."

[moonfly7]

Qrr-Sath nods once.

"It is appreciated."

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia is as confused as anyone by the slime-professor’s initial appearance, but won over by the goo’s charm.

Without thinking about it, at what might well be Slivux’s merely metaphorical prompt, she extends her hand to shake an extrusion she seems to think is forthcoming.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther furiously takes notes in extremely tiny hand writing during the lecture and joins the others with the tiniest hint of sweat on his brow.

"Thank'ee kindly Professor, tha' were right interestin'! Ah can't wait fer the next one." Luther's eyes follow Pebbles out of the lecture theatre. "Were tha' lad alright? Seems fair strange to still be sleepin' at this hour."

[JNAProductions]

Euraylia is as confused as anyone by the slime-professor’s initial appearance, but won over by the goo’s charm.

Without thinking about it, at what might well be Slivux’s merely metaphorical prompt, she extends her hand to shake an extrusion she seems to think is forthcoming.

Slivux takes a beat, but then extends, in his own words, a warm pseudopod of friendship. His grip is surprisingly firm, and doesn't leave behind any residue of slime or anything.


Luther furiously takes notes in extremely tiny hand writing during the lecture and joins the others with the tiniest hint of sweat on his brow.

"Thank'ee kindly Professor, tha' were right interestin'! Ah can't wait fer the next one." Luther's eyes follow Pebbles out of the lecture theatre. "Were tha' lad alright? Seems fair strange to still be sleepin' at this hour."

"Pebbles... He's gifted. Extremely so-natural born sorcerer of considerable power. But he's lazy. Born wealthy, born powerful, never had to struggle... He could be someone great, if he applied himself, but I don't know how to get him to do so," Slivux says. "I wasn't actually joking about shipping him out-if he hasn't done SOMETHING to improve by the end of the year, that's it. He's gone."

His head bobs a bit in a shake, and he continues. "Enough of that, though-you need not trouble yourself with faculty concerns. I know that catching up when the others have already gotten their courses figured out will be difficult, but I have strong faith in you all. Cale, I see you've expressed interest in... Well, just about everything! While your enthusiasm is noted and appreciated, I think you should try to narrow your focus down a bit. I can help with that. Qrr-Sath, from what we know of you, you're more a physical man than a mage. I would recommend you spend some time in the Gardens-our Doctor Birch is an excellent source of advice, and you might be interested in the Oaken Speakers as well. Euraylia, I think you should speak with Volgrazuth-owing to your, ah, situation, I think she would be most helpful. And Luther, I'd make your way to the Stadium. Talk to Strix and LeTem-you've already met Strix, and LeTem is our local cheerlead for the sporting events. She's a dancer by habit and nature, and I think with just a little persuading, you could get something more than just propping up the sports teams to happen."

"Don't feel you have to follow my instructions-I'm merely offering advice here. But if you do listen to the words of an old slime, I think you'll do well-though that might just be my bias speaking."

Splitting the party! I've made a thread for each of you, assuming you follow Slixuv's advice. If not, I can edit.

Cale's Journey (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?636919-Luther-s-Journey&p=25210262#post25210262)
Qrr-Sath's Journey (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?636920-Qrr-Sath-s-Journey&p=25210263#post25210263)
Euraylia's Journey (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?636921-Euraylia-s-Journey&p=25210266#post25210266)
Luther's Journey (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?636922-Luther-s-Journey&p=25210270#post25210270)

[moonfly7]

Qrr-sath nods awkardly, this is all much out of his element, but if the professor says he needs to go to this grove and speak with this man, then that's what he'll do. Far be it from himself, truly a "More Physical Man" to decide the best way to elarn magic of all things.

I shall follow your advice, professor."

He says in a gruff but non-confrontational tone, and nods before wavin ga n awkard hand of goodbye to the others and setting off.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther sighs inwardly about Pebbles and resolves to very much let him be someone else's problem.

"Much obliged professor, I'll go t'stadium now."

[MrAbdiel]

There’s a flash of shame and awkwardness in her cornflower blues as Slivux alludes to her “situation”, but since no one picks at it, she takes the chance to nod with subdued enthusiasm.

"I’ll go see her right now. Thanks, Professor."

[MrAbdiel]

Following the path back, first to Volgrazuth's office and then toward the student accommodation, Euraylia began to doubt. For a start, 'Volgrazuth' doesn't sound like a dwarven name. But maybe she doesn't know much about dwarves and it is? Maybe she should have been more evasive about the nature of her patron. Iyanairah would be furious if whatever the dwarf has planned is presumptuous or interfering. But then again, Euraylia came here hoping to gain the knowledge to meaningfully oppose her - how could that work, if someone here didn't have the knowledge she was banking on to succeed? Elements of the encounter continued to make her uncomfortable without resolving into a complete formatted reason why it made her uncomfortable; and she dwelled inside her own head, eyes down on the path until a towering shadow blots out the sun and she looks up.

A golden furred bugbear is the sun-theif; though by no intention - the Aasimar had been walking with such convicted brooding she almost collided with him. In an almost imperceptible moment, she banishes her expression of self-doubt and replaces it with a countenance of radiant kindness.

"Qrr-sath!" She says, her accent torqueing the name's pronunciation noticably, but not disagreeably. "I guess you were assigned a... an academic guide, too? Mister Birch, right? How'd it go?"

[moonfly7]

"I'm done already, yes. It was informative. I received some sound advice on keeping my movements down to only the required levels."
He decides pointedly NOT to bring up his encounter with Ka-We. He smiles awkwardly at her.

"how was your one on one? Was it helpful to you?"

[MrAbdiel]

“Ah…” she begins, falling into step beside him, clutching her notefolder to her armorer chest, and glancing skyward thoughtfully. “I don’t know yet. I think so. I hope so. The staff at this place certainly seem… interested in our little group of latecomers. I hadn’t imagined the experience here would be so… personalised.”

[moonfly7]

“Ah…” she begins, falling into step beside him, clutching her notefolder to her armorer chest, and glancing skyward thoughtfully. “I don’t know yet. I think so. I hope so. The staff at this place certainly seem… interested in our little group of latecomers. I hadn’t imagined the experience here would be so… personalised.”

He pauses and looks at her, a frown on his face.
"I don't think it is normally. Something feels... he waves a hand in the air "...Off about this. Is it me, or are you getting the feeling that maybe we weren't brought here just to learn magic? Maybe they picked us late ones up for something else?"

[MrAbdiel]

Her expression darkens to a near frown, then she shakes her head and smiles again in a halo of electrum blonde waves. “We’re probably just being paranoid. It’s the first day. We don’t know anything. It’ll probably all make sense when we’re a few weeks in, and we’ll feel dumb for having thought it was a big deal.”

[moonfly7]

"maybe, but the monks always told me to trust my gut. And it's saying something isn't right"

[MrAbdiel]

“…Well, we’ll have to talk to Cale and Luther. See if they have the same impression. If there’s something weird going on - well, it’d be good to watch each other’s backs. We’re all kind of alone here, except for each other.”

[moonfly7]

"might be nice regardless. I can only speak for myself, but I'm no dab hand at making friends. At least you folk seem nice enough."

[MrAbdiel]

She looks at him with exaggerated empathetic woundedness. “Qrr-Seth! I don’t believe that for a second. You seem perfectly charming to me.”

It was the best kind of half truth; the kind that the hearer knows is half true, but can easily intuit the greater message of the statement: in this case, that whatever Qrr’s trouble making friends before, Euraylia herself is perfectly willing to begin balancing the scales by offering her friendship. And then she is smiling again, looking up at the sky, and the jealous form of little Sosthenes gliding high overhead.

"Hey... D'you mind if I ask you something that's going to make me sound ignorant?"

Then, presuming no strenuous objection:

"What manner of creature are you? The realm I come from hasn't anyone who even looks like you. We barely even have elves, and I'm given to believe they're just about common in the big wide everywhere."

[moonfly7]

Qrr chuckles, a deep and warm sound that shakes his barrel chest.
He shakes his head with a smile.
"It is fine, where I am from there aren't many of me either." he says still chuckling softly to himself.
"I am a Bugbear, my friend. We are goblinoids, related to goblins and hobgoblins, our species thrives in tall mountains and thick forests, but I myself have not seen one in some time. Some people think us and our brother species as raiding and savage monsters, a prejudice that is not illfounded, but I think rather rude to apply to my race as a whole. After all, Im certainly not a raging mountain beast" the humor still remains in Qrr with that comment, clearly it's been very long since this has bothered him.

[MrAbdiel]

"Well, I've read about goblins. And you sure don't look like one, even to be a cousin-race; but I guess I ain't the one writing the taxonomy of species." With Qrr taking her question in the light spirit it was intended, she lapses back into comfortable silence as they approach the student accommodation.

[JNAProductions]

You arrive where you left at the beginning of the day. Cornell is the only one in the main living area, idly perusing a book at the table.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther catches up to the other two just as they get back to the residence.

"Ey up! That were right peculiar. Ah thought it were gonna be about studyin' an' instead ah may have volunteered t' set up a dance show and or competition. Still, owt is better than nowt so they say. How'd yours go? Get sucked into extracurricular stuff like me?"

Luther goes quiet at the sight of Cornell, waiting to see how things stand after the last encounter and see what he's reading.


Insight
1d20+6

Perception
1d20+6

[MrAbdiel]

"Ey up! That were right peculiar. Ah thought it were gonna be about studyin' an' instead ah may have volunteered t' set up a dance show and or competition. Still, owt is better than nowt so they say. How'd yours go? Get sucked into extracurricular stuff like me?"


Euraylia stares at him for a moment, smiling with bewildered good nature.

“…What?”

But then seems to catch up.

“Oh! Not exactly, but - a dance show, huh? What kind of dancin’?”

[JNAProductions]

Cornell seems bothered by Luther's very voice. He grabs his studies, wordlessly, and moves back to his room.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia watches Cornell’s display of palpable distaste, and frowns a little as he retreats. She abandons on own question to Luther before he can answer, glancing back at Luther and Qrr with look that conveys ‘let me see if I can figure this out.’

She raps her knuckles on Cornell’s door, and begins the overtures of her intercession.

“Hey, Cornell? It’s Euraylia. You don’t have to, but you seem like - did you want to talk, maybe?”

[roll0] with the ol’ Midday charm.

[JNAProductions]

The door opens. Cornell looks rather peeved, standing there. "A country bumpkin and an uncivilized mongrel walk into a room. Accompanying them, for some strange reason, is a young lady, who looks like she might have class. But then, one learns, that this 'lady'," he says with scare quotes, "is simply a cheater. Do not bother me again!" he finishes, slamming the door.

[moonfly7]

Qrr puts a hand on Euryalias shoulder.
"Calm friend. Some people must maintain their prejudice and false superiority at all times lest their walls crumble. It is a painful state that only ones self can save you from." his voice is calm and steady, no anger at being called a savage, and no malice at the man in his words, just plain speech that holds true belief.

He turns his head to Luther.

"Dancing You say? These long limbs don't move to a rhythm much I'm afraid, but perhaps you could use some musical accompaniment? I have been told I have a deft hand for rhythm in the past."
He says, patting the drums at his belt.

[MrAbdiel]

Blinking at the door slammed in her face, she remains shocked at the rudeness through Qrr's reassurance, before her left eye twitches, and she might be heard to utter in a hardline reversion to an accent otherwise only hinted at in her normal speech:

"Boy needs t'be put in his place, tell you -hwhat-..."

She breaks off from her unrequited act of kindness, and turns her attention again to Luther and Qrr; but it's not hard to see the gears clicking away behind her eyes, planning... something in response to that rejection.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther smiles warmly at Euraylia's mimicry. He rolls his eyes at Cornell's antics.

"Well I don't right know yet. Any dancin' really. Maybe we could get folk to do bits of dance or song an' music from their homes, showcase diffrent cultures like? Maybe we could show that bein' a bumpkin or a mongrel ain't no bad thing, or at least 'ighlight 'ow ignorant some folk are about 'em." This last he addressed to Cornell's door.

"If'n any of you fancy gettin' involved I'd proper appreciate it. We could teach other folk the dances or songs if there's stuff yer don't fancy doin' on stage yerselves or need more bodies fer. LaTem is a great dancer and is well keen, I'm sure she can help us find other like minded folk. Somebody named Linda might be able ter help too. It ain't up Sytix's alley but they said they'd 'elp out if they can."

[moonfly7]

Qrr nods at that.
"I would be more than willing to offer what help I can. It's certainly something to occupy my time with, and it sounds interesting enough."

[JNAProductions]

Gruk comes in. He looks at you all, and mutters a quiet "Just getting my books," and heads for his room.

[moonfly7]

Qrr waves with a smile but doesn't engage. Gruk seems like a nice sort, if quiet. That can be respected.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther sees Euraylia simmering and makes placating motions to her. "Ent no sense lettin' 'im get to thee, he's neither use nor ornament. I don't understand what he meant callin' thee a cheater, but ah don't believe a word of it, no matter what's going on."

Luther joins Qrr in waving at Gruk.

"Ey Gruk, thou wouldn't be interested in a cultural.dance and music show that I'm accidentally puttin' on would thou? Or know anybody 'ou would?"

[MrAbdiel]

With both Luther and Qrr encouraging her to let it go, she lets it go.

She absolutely has not let it go, and is planning… something.

[Lord Foul]

Cale'Anon kicks in the door with his new mandated friend behind, "this is the room. Oh hey guys!" He says, waving to his roommates as he approaches

[moonfly7]

"Ah, friend Cale, how has your little journey been today?" Qrr asks with a wave to come join them.

[JNAProductions]

"None too good, apparently," Pebbles, who is Cale's new companion, says. "Already having a rough go of the learning."

As the door is swinging shut, you hear a faint "Yeep!" from outside. "Gerba, we are in public!" Arma says from outside.

"And...?" you hear Gerba say, before she opens the door. You see Arma adjusting her pants as the two walk in.

[moonfly7]

Qrr purposefully ignores the obvious awkwardness over their, and turns to examine Pebbles
"Ah, I see our friends path has crossed with yours! It's nice to formally meet you. I am Qrr-Sath True-Bear, it is good to make your aquaintance."

[MrAbdiel]

The Aasimar's eyes flick to Arma and Gerba's not-inconspicuous entrance; the audible preable to which is sufficient to distract her from whatever remnant of brooding was within her mood. She gives the pair a smile that is fabricated to suggest she did -not- hear that preamble. Now with Arma, Gerba, Cale, Luther, Qrr, Pebbles and Euraylia in the main room, it begins to feel some what full. She crosses the room to open a window, and Sosthenes descends to perch on the sill and meet her. He offers an interrogative trill, to which she snorts once, then looks guilty.

"Hey, I think they might have answered this on the orientation day, but is there some kind of gymnasium, or training ground here? I've been so focused on mystical things I'm afraid I'm letting the martial stuff lapse."

[moonfly7]

I think they mentioned something like that, would you mind a bit of sparring? I haven't had the privellege of fighting someone versed in heavy weapons and magic before. It seems like a good opportunity to expand my horizons and loosen some muscles. And perhaps we might let out som e aggression while were at it." As he says this he stretches his long arms and offers a sharptoothed grin to the others.

[MrAbdiel]

This piques her interest, and she returns Qrr's toothy grin with a mischievous, lopsided one of her own. "Sounds alright. There's a little bit of day left yet; might as well spend it getting our butts whooped. Who's up for it? Or at least to come by and watch?"

[JNAProductions]

"Yes please," Arma says. "Too many folk here keep it all up here," she points to her head, "and not enough motion!"

Pebbles declines with a shake of his head. "Some of us have more brains than brawn, you know."

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther's eyes widen as Pebbles enters their room and the smile he was directing at Cale falters slightly. Then Euraylia and Qrr throw him a wonderful lifeline.

"Ah'd been thinkin' 'bout what you both said earlier about takin' a punch. May'ap you lot can 'elp me wi' that. If not, tha' footwork LaTem showed me might help me avoid it. What about the rest of ye?"

He pretends he is momentarily deaf and blind in regards to Germa and Arna's affections, that had worked qell enough at home, but includes them and Pepper in the invitation.

"'Ere Pepper, has thou ever tried practical spellcastin'? Ah found me grasp of Shield got way better wi' the threat of a clip round the lug'ole. Brains do well wi' proper encouragement like. Don't have to get up close an' personal."

[moonfly7]

"Luther is not wrong. Many a mage has made a breakthrough in their methods when a fist is whirling at their head."
Qrr then fetches his quarter staff from his room and returns to the others.

"Shall we be practicing with weapons and magic, just weapons, or just our fists? I warn you that I have an advantage "bear" handed." Qrr can't help his laugh at his own little joke, even if the others don't have the context to catch it.

[MrAbdiel]

"I mean... most of us are competent healers, I think; and we're not so prideful not to know when to say we're licked. I had an instructor who used to say 'train for the fight you want to survive'. I trust y'all not to go for the throat with live steel and spellfire."

[moonfly7]

"good advice. The monks had a similar saying: practice as you plan to fight. The number of times I have had my boned reset because of that philosophy has taught me many lessons over the years. Chiefly, that bones being broken is not enjoyable."

[JNAProductions]

Arma says "They've got a bit of a procedure for duels here. Usually happens in the Stadium, and is till first hit, first blood, and technically, death-though that last one hasn't been done that I've heard of in recent memory, at all. Won a fair few of these myself-and I've whooped a half dozen people at once with Gerba helping out."

Gerba blushes, just a touch. "Thanks. It helps that the duels allow a minute or so to cast your spells before you start."

Pebbles rolls his eyes, but says "I guess it'll fun to watch."

For these duels, first hit would be whoever lands a hit at all. Not commonly done.
First blood is first to half HP.
Death is, well, death.

I have just statted up Arma and Gerba for a four-on-two, if you guys want. :)

[moonfly7]

"I'm not incredibly used to prep-time, but it does sound like a good thing, even if it's not normally the case before a combat. Though I would say we should likely try till first blood, I should think the faculty might be unhappy if we were to kill each other so soon after our arrival."

[MrAbdiel]

"Sounds like a plan!" Euraylia moves toward the door for a moment, considering summoning a servant to lead them to the stadium - but Arma and Gerba know the way, so she slows halfway and offers a 'lead on' gesture to the pair. "I wouldn't dream of breaking up your team; but the rest of us can draw straws for partners when we arrive."

[moonfly7]

"Unless one of you has a preferrence, I am good to work with anyone."

Qrr says as he cracks his exceedingly long spine and twists out a few knots in his shoulders.

[Waistcoatwill]

"Ah'm happy t' spar wi' anyone. Unless you two old hands want t' put us'ns through our paces?"

Luther appears a little nervous at the prospect of first blood clearly his self-directed training was less brutal than the others' instruction. Despite that , he drops off his notes from earlier and gets ready to head back to the stadium with an air of excitement.

Young bloods vs old guard sounds like great fun to me!

[JNAProductions]

Arma takes point, clearly looking forward to this. Gerba seems to be mulling something over, but whatever it is, apparently her decision doesn't lead her to say anything. And Pebbles follows along, hanging by Cale.

"Partners? I don't think I was clear," Arma says as you all walk. "All you against me. Who knows, maybe I'll be the one getting my butt kicked today-but given the general caliber of newer students, not so sure."

You arrive at the Stadium. Luther, who was there earlier, sees a few less people-mostly just individuals, rather than teams now. Strix is helping someone stretch, but does give a wave. Once they're done helping, they head over. "Good to see you all! Pebbles, you finally gonna join a sporting team?"

"Nah," he says. "Just want to watch some fighting."

"You're always welcome if you change your mind. So!" Strix says. "Did someone offend someone else's honor, and you're settling it with a duel? Or are we just doing it for fun?"

Arma chuckles, and says "They were talking about sparring, and one thing lead to another..."

"Of course, of course. Arma, you know how to set up-I'll explain the procedures to them," they say. Arma heads to a coiled red rope, and begins to lay it out. "The duels here are simple-you'll fight to first hit, or first blood. Arma favors the blood, but don't feel you have to. Since there are multiple participants, you are out the moment you get bloodied or hit-no more interfering from then on. And, something that those who favor casting over combat have instituted, you get one minute before the match starts to cast your spells on yourself-but NOT your opponent. That includes countering anything they do-not allowed till the minute is up. Any questions?"

If there are none, Strix leads you to where Arma has finished laying out the rope. It's set in an 80' diameter circle. "This is where the fight is done-no leaving the circle unless you want to forfeit," Arma tells you. "We can start at opposite ends, or one group can be in the middle and the other on the edge."

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia nods along, eyes steeled with the intensity of competition. She keeps her eyes on Arma, but glances to Strix occasional so not to be mistaken for truly distracted. She asks, as her hands migrate to hook thumbs in the band of her belt near the whip and morningstar on opposite hips. "What's the rule with, ah, alternate forms, and suchlike? If someone polymorphs into some kinda beast, does that beast's first blood count? And while I'm asking, familiars - do they retire from the battle when blooded, or not count at all?"

Beyond those questions, the blonde looks ready to rumble; the very tip of her tongue bit visibly between her pearly teeth in some kind of artefact of her concentration, her plans of action spooling up behind her eyes.

[moonfly7]

Qrr cracks his kuckles and stretchesn for a few moments, before touching his focus and muttering a spell, his body seems to thicken and his skin almost seems to take on a leathery quality as he casts Enhance ABility: Bears Endurance.



[roll0]



"Are we allowed to activate spell like abilities before the combat? And is there healing allowed while inside to avoid being bloodied?" as he asks, his eyes are locked on his opponent, and to the observers eye, it almost looks like Qrr has already shifted forms, as he takes the heavy, swaying posture of a bear on two legs, his long arms swaying and increasing the illusion.

[Lord Foul]

"Ah, friend Cale, how has your little journey been today?" Qrr asks with a wave to come join them.
"it's been going exelently friend Qrr, I've talked to many people and made a potential friend and study compatriot!" he says, gesturing to pebbles

Luther's eyes widen as Pebbles enters their room and the smile he was directing at Cale falters slightly. Then Euraylia and Qrr throw him a wonderful lifeline.

"Ah'd been thinkin' 'bout what you both said earlier about takin' a punch. May'ap you lot can 'elp me wi' that. If not, tha' footwork LaTem showed me might help me avoid it. What about the rest of ye?"

He pretends he is momentarily deaf and blind in regards to Germa and Arna's affections, that had worked qell enough at home, but includes them and Pepper in the invitation.

"'Ere Pepper, has thou ever tried practical spellcastin'? Ah found me grasp of Shield got way better wi' the threat of a clip round the lug'ole. Brains do well wi' proper encouragement like. Don't have to get up close an' personal." "oh yes I have a good grasp of the more martial magics" he says, summoning a rapier to his hand "one of the easiest ways to keep some dark sorcerer from conjuring up all manor of demons is interrupting to his chanting with a few feet of steel through their stomach, or at least that's how it works in the stories" he says, considering things

[Waistcoatwill]

"Nice one Cale, ah can't wait t' see thee in action!"

Luther does a bit of stretching and puts on his dancing shoes before drawing his sword.

"May Circe guide us and Tosca inspire us." Luther intones clutching his symbol of the Goddess of Magic. "Looking forward t' seeing an experienced student too Arma, best o' luck."

Luther casts Mage armor at 1st level, and Bless (targeting all four of our team) and Spiritual Weapon at 2nd level. He also activates bladedance.

[moonfly7]

Qrr's fur shakes and ripples, muscle growing and shifting as a large brown bear takes the place of the Bugbear, his clothes and staff molding onto his form, his body rippling with muscle and confident ease, the Bear before them stands on two legs, and assumes a combat stance, steady, like a trained martial artist.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia huddle up with her team mates; a hand on each of Luther and Cale's shoulders, gathering in Qrr's mighty shadow. She looks keenly between each of the lad's faces and murmurs in preparatory conspiracy. It's fair to say in this context, her demeanor has somewhat hardened.

"I don't think any of us knows the how to unthread a spell in motion yet. When that day comes, the four of us will thump -anyone- who thinks they don't even need to have numbers on their side, tell you -hwhat-. But for now, we gotta be tricky. If I'm two mages' four, I'm trying' to get them to cluster so I can hit 'em all with a fireball right at the jump, and I'm probably invisible or at least illusioned in some way when I do; so if anyone's got something than can punch through a hidin' spell, I'd have it warm and ready. They're too far for us to bumrush, so we ought to scatter as even as we dare to begin, then keep ready for blasts and whatnots. I'm thinkin' Cale an' me up the middle, with Qrr and Luther on the wings. There's just two of 'em, so anything y'got that dazes or stuns or puts them on their butts is the money. No shame in losin' to more experienced folks, but you can butter my butt and call me 'biscuit' if we're all goin' down in a four-to-two. Ready, boys?"

As they huddle, Sosthenes departs from his perch, flaps into the air, and vanishes.

Sosthenes turns invisible, and moves to hover airborne 45 ft above their starting mark. As a matter of efficiency, I might suggest that familiars act immediately after (or ideally before, since they are typically best used setting up a trick for the caster) their owners in the initiative order rather than generating their own? Less likely to require a person to post twice in short order just to keep the flow going.

Seeing that 'Bless' is already covered, Euraylia casts no spells in the prep-phase.

EDIT: You know what? Shortly before the prep-phase ends, she's going to cast Thunderous Smite and keep coiled up in her striking arm.

[JNAProductions]

Strix answers each question as they come. "It only counts when YOU are bloodied, not any alternate forms. Healing is fine."

Arma and Gerba stand in the middle as the countdown begins. Gerba casts a spell, and a shimmering field of energy surrounds her body. She casts another, and a slight fane of ice forms around Arma. As the time ticks down, she casts a third, and three duplicate Gerbas appear. And then, in the last moments, she casts a fourth spell, with no visible effect.

While Gerba's been prepping magically, Arma simply strips down a bit, leaving herself in her underclothes. She waits a bit, drawing and appraising her large blade, and then in the last moments, lets loose a war cry.

Initiative time!

[roll0] Arma
[roll1] Gerba
[roll2] Luther
[roll3] Euraylia
[roll4] Qrr
[roll5] Cale

[Waistcoatwill]

"Great plan! Ah'm ready"

Luther spreads out from the others after casting bless. Bouncing gently on the balls of his feet in anticipation.

@MrAbdiel - Didn't mean to step on your toes with bless, I could wait til we start to cast a concentration spell and go for Bane instead if you'd rather? Or maybe we can save that for post walloping analysis.

Edit: Definitely leaving discussion about who casts bless to post match discussion now.

[MrAbdiel]

When the moment comes, Euraylia rushes forward with an explosive burst of speed, up the radial line with eyes locked on Arma. The young woman's large blade, stripped armor and warcry suggested to her a warrior used to making her way in combats with power and perhaps even bloody minded toughness. But even if she wasn't the tougher target and therefore the natural first rush for the competative Aasimar, Gerba's dancing images suggested engaging her was a protracted endeavour - one better engaged when her partner was eliminated.

It's clear that she won't cross the full distance in the first rush; but as she nears the girl-gladiators, Euraylia jukes in her gate in what might seem to be a spinning heel kick woefully short of target; but with ten feet of braided leather whip unspooling from one hand, its slashing ribbon of force careens around her body in a whistling arc.

Sosthenes, in his avian form, blooms into visibility them; shooting past Arma's face and away again just in time to veil the final movements of the whip, carving down at her with blistering torque and sputtering divine power.

Sosthenes moves to within 5 feet of Arma (not Gerba), and reveals himself by taking the help action to benefit Euraylia's coming attack.

Euraylia charges up 30ft, and attacks Arma at the extreme range of her whip. Attack bonus is +6, with a 1d4 Chaser from bless. Advantage from the help action.

[roll0] + 6 + [roll1]
[roll2] + 6 + [roll3]

[MrAbdiel]

Presuming that 22 hits, It's gonna be...

[roll0] Slashing
[roll1] Thunder
and for good measure, a level 2 smite
[roll2] Radiant.

She'll also want to make a DC 15 Strength save, or be punted back 10 feet and knocked prone.

[JNAProductions]

That's a hit. [roll0] plus [roll1] Strength save

-12 HP on Arma

And take 15 cold damage, Euraylia. Armor Of Agathys is rough.

As the whip snaps towards Arma, empowered by multiple smites, she feels the bone-numbing chill of the now-broken armor leech back onto herself.

[MrAbdiel]

The whip finds its mark, and the divine power is visibly detectible coursing down the straightening loop of the whip to vent itself into Arma - but likewise, a jarring streak of misty blue reprisal races down the same extended length of leather in the same instant of impact.

It rocks into Euraylia's body and she lets out a pained scream at the shocking intensity of it, tapering off into a teeth chattering hiss as she slumps and takes a knee. The armor's countersting hasn't let her blood, by a technical standard - but it's certainly incapacitated her severely enough that that her instinct as a woman of honor compels her to yield. She sags onto her back on the grass, eyes shut, skin and armor rimmed with frost; lips blued and limbs shivering. But she manages to project an arm up from her straight up from her supine position and gives a thumbs up, lest her allies fear her condition worse than it is; and finally she tucks her arms close to herself and concentrates on keeping warmth in her core. Sosthenes quits the combat at the fall of his mistress, landing on the grass just at the edge of her halo of frost-webbed electrum blonde tresses; tottering around on his little avian legs with wings flapping in petulant implied threat at anyone who gets too close.

[Lord Foul]

Cale'Anon grins as he summons up fire to smack into the backside of the one that had already been attacked "don't worry friend, I shall avenge you!" He says, charging forward, sword in hand

[JNAProductions]

Arma lets out a small grunt of pain as the fires impact her, but still stands tall.

Luther is up next.

Arma is at -18.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther executes a series of twirling deer leaps as he circles around behind Cale. As he dances his rapier flicks like a conductor's baton and the pearlescent wand he had previously summoned lunges at Gerba, or one of the many versions at least.

When he has a clear view of Arma he pirouettes on the spot, his blade flashing out at the end of the spin and unleashing a torrent of clinging light in matching shimmering hues. Then rolls forwards, aiming to end adjacent to Arma whilst staying away from the fire.

Spiritual Weapon attack on Gerba:
[roll0] for [roll1] Force damage. Apologies for forgetting to describe it earlier.

Guiding bolt attack on Arma:
[roll2] for [roll3] Radiant damage.

Using the rest of his now 40 foot move speed to get within melee range if he can having gone slightly wide for a clear shot.

Edit: That's embarrassing, no previews on dice rolls is killing me, sorry JNA productions.

Also Luther will cast Shield if successfully attacked by the pair (AC currently 20 with bladedance) or Absorb Elements if hit with elemental damage.

[JNAProductions]

Gerba and her duplicates weave and bob, avoiding the weapon with ease.
Arma, meanwhile, holds the flat of her blade against the bolt, and takes it without harm.

She begins moving with surprising care, always keeping her more armored sections facing your weapons, as she slashes out towards Luther, stepping away from the flaming ball. Gerba keeps pace with her, moving to stay right by Arma.

The first paragraph is just descriptive bits-there was no special reaction about blocking Guiding Bolt with her blade, it just looks cool.

Two attacks, on Luther! If he gets bloodied in one, then the second on Cale.

[roll0] plus [roll1] Attack Roll
[roll2] Slashing damage

[roll3] plus [roll4] Attack Roll
[roll5] Slashing damage

[Waistcoatwill]

A dome of rainbow colours explodes around Luther. He breathes a very heavy sigh of surprise and relief to still be standing. "Phew, thank'ee Circe and me siblings fer all those times they pelted me wi' stones t' practice tha'!"

Luther casts Shield, bringing his AC to 25 for the round thanks to bladedancing and mage arkor in the buff minute. Hopefully he can redeem himself next round.

[moonfly7]

Qrr, in bear form, drops to all fours and swifter than anyone can move is in front of Gerba, on two legs again the bear that is not a bear begins its assault, each blow carefully placed and timed as Qrr surrenders to his training and moves with grace this form should not have. One swift bitan is followed by a sweeping paw swipe, and then two swift fur covered knees to the gut.


Bite:
[roll0]
Damage:
[roll1]

Claw:
[roll2]
Damage:
[roll3]

1 ki spent.
Flurry:
[roll4]
[roll5]

[roll6]
[roll7]

Note: if by some miracle I bloody Gerba and gave attacks left, I still have enough movement to reach Arma, and I'll use the others on her.

Edit: if any flurry hits she'll need to make a save for my Open Hand ability. Which I'll decide on which if any hit.

[JNAProductions]

[roll0] 6+ to Duplicate.
[roll1] 6 or 8+ to Duplicate
[roll2] 6, 8, or 11+ to Duplicate

The first blow seems like it would strike true, but Arma intercepts the claw. The second one hits Gerba... or rather, an illusory duplicate. The third blow misses entirely, and the fourth another duplicate, leaving only two Gerbas.

Arma is at -23. And I believe Gerba is up!

[JNAProductions]

Gerba's hands glow, one with soft, golden light; the other with a more menacing purple.

The golden light on her left hand shoots into Arma as Gerba calls a word, while the other hand reaches out to strike Qrr.

[roll0] Healing on Arma.

[roll1] plus [roll2] Attack Roll
[roll3] Slashing damage

Also, I forgot to reduce the damage Arma took by 3 for one of her actions, so she's actually at -20 before healing.

-13 on Arma now.

[Lord Foul]

Cale grins and gestures with his free hand, the ball of fire ramming into the same woman he had previously rammed it into and uses the distraction of that blast to attempt to strike out at her with his sword, the edge coursing with green flame

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[JNAProductions]

Arma parries the flame-imbued sword, and moves quick enough to avoid taking any real harm from the sphere.

Luther! Your turn.

[Waistcoatwill]

"Thou can parry well wi' that blade, but can thou stop all of these?" Luther pants at Arma.

With a flick of his blade Luther calls the spectral wand to lunge towards the tall warrior's back. With this distraction he plants his own rapier in ground, leaping off it into a straddle jump. Motes of purple energy blast from each hand and foot, each spiralling towards Arma from different angle.

Wrenching his sword from the ground upon landing, Luther sways from side to side waiting for the inevitable counterstrike.

Fame jump, boom!

Bonus action Spiritual Weapon attack on Arma, followed by a second level Magic Missile

[roll0] plus [roll1]
[roll2] Force damage.

[roll3]

[Waistcoatwill]

[roll0]

That turn was better than Luther's last. Hopefully bless will help Cale as well.

[JNAProductions]

Arma shifts, putting her more armored sections in the way of the spiritual weapon and the missiles... But it's not enough. She stops, clearly injured. Gerba stops as well, saying "Right-I'm out too. No way I can handle the bear."

"Damn..." Arma says. "You guys are better than I thought." She takes a few deep breaths, and then smiles. "Hey, good job, all."

It is now you realize you've accumulated a bit of a crowd. A little more than a half dozen people are there, and they start applauding. There's a chorus of "Damn, nice!" "They beat Arma and Gerba? Who are they?" "Hey, congrats!"

Pebbles seems pretty impressed, and is clapping with the rest of the crowd. Strix starts coiling the rope back up, and calls over to you. "Engle's on his way, to help patch everyone up."

Arma dresses again, and takes a seat on top of a few mostly-empty boxes. "Gotta say, didn't really expect you to hit that hard-any of you, honestly. New students don't usually pack a punch like that."

"Yeah, one blow to punch through the armor... That's impressive," Gerba adds. "As a reward, you shall-" she starts, but is cut off by Arma punching her shoulder. "Eep!"

"Quiet, you," Arma says jokingly.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia watches from the ground, propped up on one elbow, as her schoolmates - hell, let's be honest, friends already - rush in, take a battering, but respond with martial skill and spellcraft that indeed avenges her honor (insomuch as it was fictitiously wounded in the game.) She lets out a hoarse whoop that trails off into a fit of coughs, and eases back to her feet.

Having lain on the turf for a bit and letting her body recover from the frost-shock, she spools up her whip and icon-chain, and hustles over to join the aftermath gathering as quickly as she dares. She fusses with her hair with one hand, but once she's satisfied that her flower is situated, she's as perky as before Arma kicked her ass. She seems to hold the appropriate amount of anger for being the only one of their team to get walloped - precisely none. And, commensurately, has no problem basking in the applause and absorbing her apportioned fourth of the glory.

"An' I wasn't expecting to get rumbled when I opened up on you, Arma. I had a whole scenario planned in my head where I aced you out of the ring, but it were not to be. Figured I wasn't actually bleedin' none, but I know when I'm licked. Good to have a team. Hey, maybe next time we can rope Marley or Rodriguez in and level it out some at a four-on-three." And then, in an appeal to the crowd, "Hey! Anyone want to verse the winners? Is there some kind of tournament?"

She is very clearly drunk on the wine of victory; not a bad winner in the way that grinds a defeated opponent down, but plainly giddy with the headrush of accomplishment.

[moonfly7]

Qrr shifts back into a bugbear, his fur recedes and muscles thin until he's only slightly taller and furrier than the average person. He shakes his head as Euralia eggs on the crowd, but with a warm smile on his lips.
"Surely one unexpected victory is enough for one day, my friend?" he asks with a chuckle.
Then he turns and nods at Arma and Gerba.
"You were both very impressive opponents. You've given me a new respect for what this school can teach us. Especially in your teamwork, I would have sworn I had you with that first strike, Gerba, but then Arma came out of nowhere like lightning." he casts a look at the others and says, almost to himself
"Perhaps one day, our team work can be this good?"

In Qrrs eyes, these are friends now. The best kind: friends you've fought with. Even if it's just in a controlled match, he has a new appreciation for each of them.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia’s response is a lilted on a tone of feigned offence.

“What do you mean, ‘Unexpected’?”

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther gives Euraylia an encouraging pat on the back as she joins them. "That were a might impressive strike thou did. Hope the chill is wearin' off a mite."

Beaming round at the others, Luther nods along with Qrr's remarks. "Ah hope so indeed, it were some mighty impressive co-ordination!" Luther looks thoughtful for a second. "Ah recon we should 'ave a brew and talk tactics, must be some synergies between the lot o' us."

[JNAProductions]

Strix is smiling, listening to you young 'uns talking tactics and teamwork.

The crowd disperses a bit, moving back to their former activities. Engle, the healer of the Heights, makes his arrival. He heads for Euraylia first, and hands her a warm canteen. "Hot cocoa-good for the chills," he tells her. "Anyone else need much attention?" Arma nods, and Engle looks surprised. "Really now? I'm impressed-usually you'd be the one doling out the pain. Where does it hurt, Arma?"

Engle provides anyone else who needs it with a touch of healing, both magical and non, and then heads over to talk to Strix for a bit.

Regain all HP, from Engle's ministrations.

Pebbles looks at Luther. "Damn good show, there. Shame you didn't bet anything on who was gonna win."

[Waistcoatwill]

"Well that's kind of thee. The match were it's own reward though. I learned some valuable lessons and got closer t' friends. Why would I ruin that wi' gambling? I ent got money t' waste besides."

Luther looks genuinely puzzled at Pebbles' words.

[JNAProductions]

Shaking his head, Pebbles mutters something.

"Damn fool, you are."

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther'ssharp ears catch Pebbles's reply and he can't help but respond.

"Fer not gamblin' or fer takin' enjoyment in somethin' fer its own merits? Wi' the latter I can't help thee, soft in't head if'n thou can't do tha', but here's some perspective fer the former.

Ah could cast Find Familiar, got the materials, but I ent. Fifty days wages they're worth, hard graft an all, so I can't risk it 'til ah know it won't get wasted. Ent fair on me family what worked so 'ard tha' ah could 'ave it. Hence waitin', hence watching what others do wi' their familiars. What little ah got is too precious t' risk. The materials are also o'er double the worth o' what I got left, so what exactly could I use t' bet in first place? Seems like common sense t'me, not foolish"

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia submits herself lambishly to Engle’s ministrations, and comes away with a new lease on life. She thanks the healer, and begins paying attention to the group again; though first her eyes go by way of Gerba and Arma. She wonders about the thing Gerba said - something about a reward, truncated by Arma’s hushing - but she decides not to pick at it. Instead, she chimes in a beat late to Luther’s remarks about finding a familiar.

“They’re certainly helpful to me. Thought my particular training means I get more out of them than most casters do. But they’re neat as hell out of combat, and a fine little assistant in a scrap. Soft as soup, though.” She scritches Sosthenes’ neck. “Aren’t you? Soft as soup.”

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther listens attentively to Euraylia.

"Tha' point where thou turned 'im invisible was really impressive, didn't e'en see the casting. Mist be great for keeping 'im safe. Can anyone train up t' do it?"

[MrAbdiel]

She pauses, her lips moving and betraying the possibility that she's holding something back, before giving Luther a warm smile and at least a half-truth. "Wish I could claim I was that good. That's all him. But only the real clever ones can do it."

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles shrugs. "To each their own, I guess."

I think that's about wrapping up time for this scene-but where would you like to go from here?

[Lord Foul]

"Yes! Let none underestimate the unstoppable valor of Cale'Anon Vaty!" He says, swinging his sword to write his name in sparkling light using a trivial illusion, adding 'and co' to the end with one swing "still, you put on a good show yourselves, you showed that we have much to learn yet too"

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther nods at Euraylia, thinking he understands. "Oh, so e's like a magical bird thou bonded wi' rather than a conjured spirit? Tosca apparently did summat similar wi' a winged cat. Must be scary though, I didn't think it were possible t' bring 'em back if they get killed?

Too right Cale. Ah've a spell tha' hurts folk if they move. Ah reckon it'd work right well wi' thou's fire spell."

Just wanted to follow up with a bit more questioning for Euraylia

[MrAbdiel]

"No, he's... Well, he's a special familiar. Different familiar spirits have different capacities. I knew a guy who had a familiar that he manifested as a dragon he could ride! Compared to that, invisibility is a..."

The blonde gesticulates, intones some verbal components, winks, then snaps her fingers... And she's gone. Sosthenes caws, looks up at Luther accusingly, and then also vanishes. The faint chff chff chff and shh shh shh of boots on grass and chain mail hissing off itself suggests she's making her retreat back to the student accommodation. Why, she's just so playful and flippant. Never mind her.

[roll0] to come off as pleasantly wacky, and not at all suspicious. You can decide if your character buys it.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther looks on after Euraylia's strange departure for a few seconds, highly confused and slightly worried for her.

"Were that right strange t' anyone else? I 'ope she's alright...Any 'ow, ah'm famished, let's get some tea."

Insight:
[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

You head back to your rooms in high spirits. Marly is there, working on some books, and when you tell her about your victory, she smiles broadly. "Awesome! That's... Really impressive."

"Yeah-I need to train harder. Getting too complacent," Arma says.

"Well, I hope you don't mind, Arma, Gerba, if we celebrate a bit?" Marly asks.

Arma shrugs, and Gerba says "It's a mark that we're respected that it's worth celebrating a victory."

Marly grins again, and says "Great! Let me see who else wants to join!"

She gathers Rodriguez, Gruk (who looks a little nonplussed, but is willing to go along for a bit at least), and does the polite thing by asking Cornell. He refuses. You head for the main dining area, and on the way, run into LeTem. She asks Luther "Where you all going?" and when you explain, she thinks a moment. "Hells, I've got nothing to do right now. Mind if I join you for some of the celebrating?" You accept, as new friends (or reinforcing friends, in Luther's case) is hardly a bad thing. Luther and LeTem explain how they met, when Luther went to the Stadium to see about working up a dancing event.

In the main dining hall, you're able to request just about anything your heart and stomach desire. You cavort and party, eating good food with good friends, for a few hours. Gruk leaves about half an hour in, with a simple "Thanks for inviting me."
Rodriguez, meanwhile, leaves about an hour after Gruk. Birch came to collect him, saying there was something important he needed Rodriguez for.
And Pebbles leaves maybe five minutes after that, with no explanation.

When the festivities are winding down, and you four are the last remaining people from your group there, you decide to head back together. You feel a little bloated, having had perhaps a touch too much to eat, and perhaps even a bit drunk, if you decided to imbibe in alcohol. You start walking back.

My dear... you hear your grandmother's voice in your mind. I applaud your victory today. I would have asked this earlier, but I care for you. I wanted you to enjoy your celebration. But Rodriguez and Birch remain busy, with their... Oh so important task. You should ask them if they need help.
You look up, at one point, for whatever reason, and see Ka-We. He looks disgruntled, but waves to you, gesturing that he needs to talk.
Given what Slivux said, you did keep an eye on Pebbles. You find it a touch suspicious when he left, especially without a word given how social he was earlier.
You had a real nice time.

There's a cat in the rafters above you, waving down to your group.

Wait, no, just waving at Qrr.
Pebbles seemed really focused on something when he left.

[moonfly7]

Qrr nods and politely excuses himself. Following the feline professor cautiously but with a clear head, he has of course, had nothing to drink.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther has had a wonderfully jolly evening. Between the victory and excess of food and drink on offer he's been quite giddy. He's put away three or four pints of bitter, normally only having at most a pint or two if drinking at all, and he is definitely feeling it. He tried to talk theology with Gruk before he left, laughed heartily at everyone's jokes and stories, and by the end of the evening had begun recreating moves from the fight to show LeTem. He hadn't quite reached dancing on the tables stage at least.

As they wander back Pebbles's exit sticks in Luther's mind.

"'Ere, did anyone else notice tha' Pebbles lad leavin' wi' a proper bee in his bonnet? Wonder what tha' were about? 'E seems an alright sort, far better 'an tha' Cornell and no mistake. Ah 'ope ah didn't get on the wrong foot wi' him earlier. Should ah go find 'im and set things right?"


He's certainly tipsy but not steaming drunk. Con save if required:
[roll0]

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia flinches as Luther speaks, as if he startled her out of some reverie; and for a fraction of a second those cornflower blue eyes have the aspect of huntedness to them. But she shakes her head, as if clearing unseen cobwebs and also responding in the negative to Luther's comment.

"I didn't see him leave. But there's definitely something off, with him; he clearly both wants to be here, but can't muster himself to the study. Maybe he's losing his sleeping hours doing something unproductive. He was dozing off in class, right?" She reaches over to give Luther's shoulder an encouraging squeeze. "You're a patient guy, Luther. If anyone can help that kid out while sidestepping his attitude, it's you. I'd go with you; but I remembered I have to ask Doctor Birch something and it'll keep me up if I don't. Gonna see if I can find him before it's light's out. You boys were amazing today!" She takes off at a jog toward the nearest bank of servant runes, turning in her stride to backpedal and reconfirm with a radiant grin. "Amazing!" And with that, she skips off into the night, leaving Cale and Luther to wander home without her.

[roll0] Deception to run out the half-truth that she 'forgot to ask' Birch something. She's be failing her deceptions pretty hard, so if she beefs this one, I'm confident saying she's been acting suspect enough for anyone who cares to confront, conspire or take some kind of action.

...Then conjures up a school servant, and asks it to take her near to Doctor Birch - or his office, if they can't track individuals. When no one can see her, she allows her smile to melt away.

I'm doing it. I'm going right now.

[JNAProductions]

Qrr begins to follow Ka-We, who has so far avoided the notice of anyone else.
Euraylia finds herself following behind Qrr, as the servant appears.
Luther and Cale recall seeing Pebbles get a servant to go to the Gardens, which is where the others are heading.

Those of you who did not notice the cat are a little surprised when a large orange tabby drops from above, looking exasperated as only a cat can. You then hear him speak, in all your minds. Really now? Really? You're all involved in this? Well, I suppose there's nothing for it...

[moonfly7]

"What's going on professor? Does this have to do with what you said before? "

[JNAProductions]

I'm not a professor, Ka-We says. But take a wild guess, Qrr. And word of advice? Hurry.

[moonfly7]

"Hurry with what? What in Tuloks grungy undergarments is going on here Ka-we? And why on earth are you trying to get newly admitted students to solve a problem that's obviously a serious issue? You said you weren't sure who could be trusted, so why trust me? You know even less about me than anyone here."

Qrr paces now, face pinched in concentration

"if I can help you I want too. But I've no head for puzzles and riddles. Speak plainly so that I can help you."

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther is startled by the sight of a talking cat and pinches himself to make sure he hasn't drunk even more that he thought he had.

"What on earth is goin' on 'ere? Euraylia's bin actin' strange enough an' now thou's chattin' t' mysterious talkin' cats Qrr? Ah'll 'elp if someone needs it like, but I'd like a clue what we're gettin' into at least!"

Insight for Euraylia
[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

Sighing, Ka-We takes a moment to collect himself. He appears absolutely loathe to speak plainly-but the situation has forced his hand. Birch's current project leads to what is thought of as a new plane-it's not. The one who uplifted me, the Archmage Dreln, he continues, sounding actually respectful of his old master, worked closely with Genos, who founded this academy. Genos vanished, early in my life. This is where he vanished to-or, at least, that's what Dreln thought. He spent a long time trying to find Genos, before he passed. He didn't find much-but what was found is something everyone will want. This... This place has such a vast reservoir of magic and resources that it will turn Gentik from a place of learning, where the outside kingdoms will try to barter with or coerce occasionally, to a warground the likes of which you've never seen before.

This is my home. I will not stand for it to be done away with, he says, sounding determined and worried.

[moonfly7]

"Birch is opening Pandora's box and he doesn't even know it." Qrr asks, his eyes widening.

"You want to stop the Academy from being destroyed by warring forces. And guessing how "secret" secret information stays, others know of this already or at least suspect it. They're probably already here, hunting. Spying. You need to stop them and possibly Birch too..." Qrr trails off as he rubs his chin.

"That still begs the question why us? Why not others who feel as strongly about this place as you do? And perhaps more importantly, how can I help?"

[MrAbdiel]

The situation develops much faster than Euraylia can keep up with. Suddenly they’re all here, but before she can defend herself from Luther’s wild, wild accusations, Ka-We blows the lid off something bigger. But was she being led here to help open the way to this realm, or thwart it? She couldn’t know - but she knew the way the wind was blowing, and that would have to count for something even if ‘the right thing’ couldn’t be enough in its own.

“Well, Hell’s Bells, Ka-We! Why are they gonna believe us over Doctor Birch? And over you? You and Birch clashed over this already?”

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther clutches his head, now regretting the excesses of thr fight and after party both. He stares at the cat for a moment, trying to judge if he is being genuine with them.

"Oh no! We're gonna be expelled after this fer sure. Ugh, still, nowt t' be done I suppose. Ah'm pretty much here t' try an make the world better wi' magic, might as well start at 'ome. I 'ope this ent why Arma is 'ere, though ah'm pretty sure it's why Pebbles is.

Point us in the right direction Ka-We an' we'll do our best."

Insight:
[roll0] minus [roll1]

[Lord Foul]

Cale'Anon was enjoying himself at the party, drinking and eating and feeding his little weasel familiar from his own plate, telling tales he learned from the circus he grew up in, but when he spots pebbles slinking off he excuses himself, and goes to check out what pebbles was doing, trying to not look suspicious himself while he does so

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia hears Luther fortelling expulsion, and frowns as she allows that real possibility to take root in her imagination. But quickly resigned to it, she nods, and reaches over to give Luther’s shoulder a squeeze.

As she does, a gentle ripple of benign power radiates out from the touch, warms him, then fades with clarity in its wake.

Spending 5 points of Lay on Hands to cure poison!

[JNAProductions]

Ka-We is being honest. Details left out are likely more a matter of time than anything else.

You pick up the pace, leaving the summoned servant behind as Ka-We takes the lead. Soon, you're entering the Gardens, which are right now lit by gentle moonlight. As Ka-We leads onwards, you see the occasional flash of what looks almost like lightning-but it seems to be coming from the ground, rather than up above.

Ka-We stops. Move carefully-there might be danger ahead.

There's some trees.

And some bushes.

And Pebbles, hiding behind a bush, a decent distance ahead.

And Cornell, further ahead, perched in a tree.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther is jolted back to sobriety by Euraylia. Unfortunately, between this unusual sensation and unfamiliar surroundings, he can't see the dangerous secret demiplane for the trees.

"Ta Euraylia, tha's much better! Which way we goin', ah can't see nowt!"

[MrAbdiel]

"Ta Euraylia, tha's much better! Which way we goin', ah can't see nowt!"

She responds with a hushed voice.

“Ain’t nothing at all. And you boys can call me Lia, if you’re lookin’ to spare a mouthful. But hey-”

She indicates with a pointed finger a bush a hundred feet or so up the way, and then at a tree another thirty or so in front of that. “Looks to me like Pebbles up there in that bush, and Cornell trying’ to be real clever in the tree ahead of him. Like they both snuck up to watch what’s ahead. They’ll spoil our approach for sure. Watch my body a moment; and touch me if something happens.”

The last sentence makes no sense initially, but then Sosthenes reminds everyone he exists as he glides silently past Euraylia’s shoulder, and vanishes from sight. As he does, the blonde hunkers down on the balls of her feet, and rolls her eyes up beneath fluttering eyelashes in surrender of her senses.

Looking through Sosthenes’ eyes as he gets closer to see what’s up ahead, before risking a heavy armored stealth check! Lia will quietly relay anything she sees that needs immediate announcement verbally, but without her own hearing or sight for the moment she’s limited to receiving feedback from the guys in the form of some kind of touch to alert her.

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles seems to be creeping ahead, slowly and stealthily. Cornell is occasionally looking back at Pebbles, and moves ahead only when Pebbles is somewhat nearer to him.

They do not seem to have noticed you.

[MrAbdiel]

"Damn..." She intones, eyes still fluttering in disassociation. "They're creeping forward real careful-like; maybe in cahoots, but obviously not welcome with whatever they're sneaking up on. I can't see what they're approaching at this range. I'll have to send Sosthenes without me."

Her eyes snap open as she abandon's the familiar's senses with her last mental command she can give while he's in 100 ft - go on ahead and find what they're sneaking up on, take a look at who and what's there, then come back to report as quick as you can.

"Alright. If we're gonna close the gap, we either gotta be sneaky or prepared to maybe lose our cover in a fight against two students more senior than us. I don't suppose anyone's got any ideas beside 'try to be quiet'?" She looks despairingly down at her chainmail.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther scans about, trying to make sure they aren't ambushed whilst waiting for the scouting party to finish.

"Ah could make an area of Silence t' help us sneak? Could even be on those two if thou likes?"

Perception [roll0]

[MrAbdiel]

Her pale eyebrows shoot upwards with interest at the suggestion; then level out thoughtfully. She bites her lip as she gazes out ahead at the two sneaking students.. and what other challenges lay beyond.

"Luther, that's a heck of a spell. But I figure if we're planning like we're going to have to step into the middle of some kinda ill-advised ritual being perpetrated by a professor of this school, having a spell like that is one of the best cards to have in your pocket. I don't understand why Cornell and Pebbles are here, and.. workin' together, I guess. I'd wager Cornell was pullin' the dwarf's strings, but it's a world of difference if Cornell is just bein' a nosey parker, or if he's workin' with someone else, and lookin' to poach this secret bounty. If Sosthenes comes back without a helpful report, I think we're just gonna have to move up on 'em and confront 'em, and trust they don't want to be seen by Birch and the others to keep 'em quiet."

[moonfly7]

"If push comes to shove, we likely can take pebbles. Don't underestimate him surely. But I wager cornell is the bigger threat."

[Lord Foul]

Cale'Anon frowns "I don't want to hurt pebbles though. Do any of you have any nonlethal magics? Sleep maybe? Or hold person?" He suggests/asks

[Waistcoatwill]

"Not that I reckon would help. Could just talk to 'im. I can give thou a measure of protection if thou wants t' try?"


Sanctuary on a person or familiar could be good for a parley.

[JNAProductions]

Sosthenes makes his triumphant return, and quickly relays what he saw.

Past where Pebbles and Cornell are coming in, there's a rune-inscribed metallic circle at the base of a clearing. Birch is directing Rodriguez and Engle with various reagents and artifacts, and some sort of planar rift is appearing-currently, it's barely visible, an occasional flicker of somewhere else. But it seems to be growing.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia relays the description as rapidly as she can, but seems to be grow more frightened at the sound of the rift that’s growing.

She looks between Qrr, Cale, and Luther with helplessly flashing through her eyes. They had no way to know what Cornell and Pebble’s intentions were, and couldn’t without atleast talking to them, and can’t talk to them without possibly alerting the research group. The time had come for bold action and calculated risk; and there was nothing to do but rip the poultice off.

“Hope to talk, prepare to fight. I’m gonna drop a little distraction on Cornell and we’ll see how it all unfolds after that. Pebbles is gonna have to stand down quick or risk getting’ a smack. Stay with me!”

Of course, no one had put her in a leadership position. Such an assumption of that role might warrant some discussion - but then she’s off, in loping strides through the dark, pulling left on the path they’re on and intoning the verbal components of a spell as quietly as she can.

Euraylia is moving up with her move and trying to keep a little leftish on their path to the ritual place. She’s casting light but preparing an action to finish the spell when Sosthenes moves. Sosthenes, 100 feet ahead and invisible, is going to prepare an action to move past Cornell’s tree, brushing the leaves, and the trigger for that move is when Qrr, Cale and Luther have had their moves!

So the plan is that we’ll all move up, maybe casting a round of prep spells, then Sosthenes will stealth-buzz Cornell’s tree and be the delivery boy for the Euraylia’s light spell… that will at the very least draw some eyes to Cornell, maybe panic out of Cornell, and provide a certain amount of distraction as our party moves up. In the following turn, we’ll see how the scenario changes and see what we can do about Pebbles peacefully!

[JNAProductions]

Delivering the spell, Sosthenes does his work admirably. Cornell doesn't realize what's happening till he's lit like a blazing tree, and you can see him startle. Pebbles likewise is put on alert by the sudden light.

You do not perceive any response from the ritual-doers.

Surprise round! Pebbles and Cornell are unable to act in this round, so post when you get the chance.

[Waistcoatwill]

As Luther pelts up alongside the others he reaches out a hand to Cale , who feels a calm warmth within him.

"Ah reckon if anyone can get 'im ter back down or join us tis thee!"

Luther casts guidance on Cale to help him end this semi peacefully if possible.

[moonfly7]

"Bears Endurance" Qrr mutters as the spell washes over him. At the last few words of the spell his voice grows deep and gutteral as his fur once again shifts and melds, as he shifts into bear form mid stride.
He moves towards pebbles and Cornelle, but is going to wait to do anything until he sees if cale can persuade them. But he moves so that he can be in range in an instant if he has too.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia is acting last in the order, but I'm posting now since it's a surprise round and the conditions are unlikely to change. But her Bless sadly won't kick in until after Luther and Cale have acted.

Euraylia is at a solid jog now, her right hand hovering near to the spooled whip at her hip; her left coiling the three feet of glimmering silver chain at the end of which hangs the coin sized silver disc and embossed flower icon. With a few inches of that chain swinging, she intones some celestial casting words, and thee small embers of golden light spiral rapidly out from the icon to dissipate into bolstering warmth upon her companions. Sosthenes, stealthy as ever, flits off forward to see if the ritual field has greatly changed in the last few seconds, but remains close enough to Cornell that he will be able to move and engage him when called on.

Sosthenes (who precedes his mistress) flies 50 ft ahead to scout the ritual site. Euraylia moves up 30 (putting her 40 from Pebbles and 70 from Cornell), casts Bless on her friends (the three targets should still be within 30 ft of her at this stage).

[Lord Foul]

Cale'Anon steps forward, hand upraised partially in greeting partially in a gesture intended to be placating "hey pebbles. Uh. What are you doing there. It looks like major workings, can you stand down and explain to me why you're doing this, and what you're doing?" He says, his other hand halfway to mating a gesture to shield himself with magic if needed

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles looks royally peeved. "Get the light off Cornell!" he says, angrily but hushed. "And stand the hell down!"

He's mad.

He also knows something about what's going on. Apparently more than Cornell.

And there's something... Sinister. Not anything out-and-out menacing, but a slight edge to the voice that's... Otherworldly. And not in a good way.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther detects somethingstrange in the young Dwarf's words.

"Careful there Cale lad, he ent right that one. Not 'oley what 'e seems at any rate."

He turns his gave to Pebbles.

"Can thou give is a good reason t' back down? Our pal Rodriguez is down there, we don't want 'arm coming to 'im!"

[moonfly7]

Qrr Grunts agreement in his barritone bear growl. in the strange light provided by the spell, with him standing at the edges, he seems like a predator in the woods.

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles mutters "Sod it all," and starts casting a spell.

A bubble of darkness expands from him, as he moves towards Cornell. He whisper-shouts to the elf, saying "Get in the darkness, it'll stop that light!"

Luther is up next.

[Waistcoatwill]

At Pebbles's action Luther springs into his bladedancing form and shifts forwards, trying to keep ahead of the creeping blackness and get in Cornell's way.

"Now Cornell lad, we ent had the best start like but ah've no wish t' harm thee. Let's all have a natter and talk this out like I can't let you get in tha' darkness though, ah need a show o' good faith. Does thou even know who or what Pebbles is?"

A sonorous hum surrounds Luther's rapier as he readies himself to impead Cornell.

He activates bladedance as a bonus action and uses his increased movement speed to get in Cornell's face, casting booming blade as a readied action to smack him if he tries to move away/past.

Attack roll in case he tries to move past.
[roll0] plus [roll1] to hit for [roll2] piercing damage and [roll3] thunder damage.

[JNAProductions]

Cornell looks like he might be reconsidering several life choices at the moment. "I..." he says. "Look, I'll just leave." He holds his hands up, unarmed, and moves slowly, away.

You can hear Pebbles cussing up a storm from within the darkness, directed at Cornell.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia nods approvingly at Cornell’s decision, and with it - perhaps naively - she allows the light that is exposing him to harm to lapse.

She does narrow her eyes at the Pebbles-dome, however; and reaches out with her instincts…

Using Lia’s action to activate divine sense. It should tell me if there is a fiend, celestial, or undead within 60 ft (for example, possessing pebbles); and also warn me of extreme concentrations of evil and good nearby. Depending on the result, she’ll do something with her bonus and move actions!

[Lord Foul]

"We're not fighting for its own sake. We want to know what the ritual is" Cale claimed, somewhat undercut by the sword still in hand "if you're up to know good, get to the monologue, if not, I'm sure you have a reasonable explanation"

[JNAProductions]

Going with something that's not fully RAW here, but feels appropriate.

You don't sense any outright possession-not a true outsider. But there's a stink within that darkness-a taint of something sinister.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia is channeling something, as she narrows her eyes; a little flicker of the angel-blood in her gives her gaze a lambent accent as her expression harden a little. She doesn't roar out a challenge to an otherworldly spectator, but she certainly looks ready to give up on the fully peaceful resolution. Eyes locked on the darkness dome, she lets the whip unspool in her right hand and lay menacingly uncoiled beside her. Without looking, she speaks over her shoulder. "Good idea, Cornell. Best you be leavin', afore the rest of this gets goin'."

And then, to Pebbles: "I ain't know who you work for Pebbles, but you shoulda stood down when you had the chance."

No viable bonus action. Ends turn menacing from just outside of the darkness sphere, awaiting Sosthenes return and ready to join in the combat next turn!

[MrAbdiel]

Cale, reluctant to draw first blood on an “enemy” who might just be a friend under some kind of control, produces his rapier defensively and moves into the darkness sphere. He makes a few halfhearted warding strikes in the dark.

Cale’s going to use the help action on Qrr, hoping to give him advantage on one of his flurries to cancel the disadvantage of the darkness and maybe get off a stun.

[moonfly7]

Qrr charges into the shadows, his arms striking as best they can at what he hopes is the right sihoulette in the darkness.


Bite, disadvantage:
[roll0]

[roll1]

Damage:
[roll2]

Claw, regular because help action:

[roll3]

[roll4]

Ki point pop for flurry of blows:
[roll5]

[roll6]
2nd flurry attack:
[roll7]

[roll8]

[JNAProductions]

[roll0] vs. DC 10

Pebbles grunts in pain as the claw hits him. A gout of fire, invisible in the darkness, hits Qrr's bear form as Pebbles says a horrid word.

The bubble of darkness moves a bit, opening space between Qrr and Pebbles, and then Qrr feels a force slam into him.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther leaps into the darkness, thrashing around with thunderous energy coating his blade once more. He desperately hopes he doesn't hit Qrr or Cale I'm the process!

Lower of [roll0] or [roll1] plus [roll2] to hit.
[roll3] piercing damage plus [roll4] thunder damage if Pebbles moves.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia steeled her resolve, and tried to predict by sound alone how best to engage alongside her companions. One after another, they launched into the darkness; the whistle of blades and blows striking air and sometimes flesh and fur telling a story of fury blunted by imprecision. The whip in her hand would much more likely strike friend that foe if she lashed at the darkness; and there was no proceeding without plunging in herself and praying to the Hebdomad's glory that she could find her mark. Whip returned to hip, and the morning star filled her grip; less swing, and less chance for catastrophic error as she plunged into the darkness, howling out a challenge as much to warn her friends of her approach as to strike fear into Pebble's heart.

{Step left.}

Aborting her charge, Euraylia juked left; and felt the brush of Qrr's ursine bulk surge past and lash out with a storm of disciplined, but blind attacks.

{Duck low.}

She hit the ground and rolled on one shoulder, as an eldritch blast scythed past her, and a humming rapier whisked through the space she once occupied.

{Rise and strike, toward my voice.}

An avian shriek sounded in the dark; and pushing up from the ground with all the strength in her body, she swung her morning star in an upward arc that glimmered with divine light, drowned in the wicked dark.



Sosthenes returns. Unimpeded by the darkness because of his devils' sight, he enters the globe of darkness and hovers 5ft above Pebbles' head. His action is to assist Euraylia's attack, and he has no bonus action to take.

Euraylia swaps her whip for her morning star, and moves into the darkness. Her bonus action is to command Sosthenes to attack; her action is to attack with Sosthenes' assist action, which levels out the disadvantage of the darkness to an even roll.

Euraylia's attack: [roll0]
Sosthenes' "bite": [roll1]

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles is laughing now, giddy at how useless your attacks are, by and large.

Sosthenes, meanwhile, conveys a strong sense of urgency to Euraylia about the ritual up ahead.

[MrAbdiel]

"We have to leave him! We're going to miss the ritual!" Euraylia calls out in frustration, as her blow misses in the dark. "But I hate leaving a snake at our back!"

Cale'Anon also isn't a great fan of treachery - especially from someone he genuinely tried to help, and gave so many chances to. Volunteering to be the rearguard as the others withdraw and promising to be right behind them, he puts away his rapier, fighting in the dark now with shield and spellfire. Since it's dark as hell anyway, he uses his most accurate form of attack, and aims low to earth the fire so not to cause collateral in case of a miss.

Cale goes to shield-and-spellbook (which he can't read in the dark, but still), and uses firebolt. Since he's at disadvantage anyway, he might as well! Lower of [roll0] or [roll1]; potential [roll2] fire damage.

[moonfly7]

Qrr waves the others with one paw and then renagages the darkness, once again wading in and attempting an assualt on the Dwarf hiding inside.


All with disadvantage:
Bite
[roll0]
[roll1]

+

[roll2]

Damage:
[roll3]

Claw

[roll4]
[roll5]

+

[roll6]

Damage:
[roll7]
Martial art bonus action attack:

[roll8]
[roll9]

+

[roll10]

Damage:
[roll11]

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles has stopped laughing now, as the bear Qrr hounds him. He steps back again, trying to open more distance between him and Qrr, but is still close enough to be in swatting distance if Qrr moves up. He then opens fire.

[roll0]
[roll1] Advantage
[roll2]

[roll3]
[roll4] Advantage
[roll5]

[Waistcoatwill]

"Ta muchly, Qrr. We can't let this wazzock hold us up any longer!"

With stirring music empowering his steps Luther speeds towards the ritual, bounding towards the nearest available cover to it.

Luther dashes 80 feet towards the ritual.

Perception to see what's going on [roll0]

[MrAbdiel]

Audibly growling with her reluctance to quit the brawl, Euraylia staggers out of the darkness and beats feat after Luther, stowing her morning star to give her arms full freedom to pump along with her stride.

Sosthenes remains, the “hawk” a capable partner for the bear in the blind brawl. He makes a habit of shrieking as he buzzes around the dwarf, pecking and scratching and offering Qrr a minimum of combat orientation.

Sosthenes follows Pebbles, hovering above him and using his action to provide the help action to Qrr’s next claw strike.

Euraylia dashes, 60 ft toward the ritual; and uses her bonus action to compel Sosthenes to attack. [roll0] vs AC16.

[JNAProductions]

As best Luther can tell, the ritual seems to be going south. He can see Birch and Engle doing emergency work, in the distance, while Rodriguez seems panicked.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther surveys the scene, not fully comprehending what's going wrong, but decides there's no point in hiding if he wants to help. He waves to Rodriguez and tries to yell over over the chaos.

"Oi! Rodriguez lad, Professors, looks like this project o' yours is becomin' a right dogs dinner! What can we do t' 'elp?"

Arcana on the off chance he can spot something useful he can do to help as well.

[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles' darkness drops, leaving him in short distance of an angry (bug)bear. He yelps, and frantically traces a sigil in the air, which becomes a maw that swallows him up. It closes too quickly for Qrr to go through, even if he'd want to.

The others, confident in their friend's ability to handle Pebbles, dash on ahead towards the ritual. You can see cracks and fractures forming at the center of the ritual circle, though some spread beyond. Things are visible through the fractures-things with a lot of teeth, and motion that doesn't feel right. But at the very center, a whole rift opens, and out comes a tentacular horror-easily 8' tall, thickly muscled with veiny, disgusting brown and black tendrils. Birch forcibly grabs Rodriguez and yanks him back, as Engle shouts a word of power and a blast of light emits from him. The tentacular mass seems unabated by the threat-but you hear from behind it a voice that's more akin to a storm than vocal folds. "You hurt her, you bastard!"

A man comes barreling out with the tentacles, a few thin ones wrapped around his legs. He's almost as tall as the tentacled horror, and is absolutely going to town on it-his fists like thunder as they crack into the flesh. Engle maneuvers himself out of the way as you all come closer, and motions for you to stand the hell back. A few items fall from the various cracks around, perhaps shaken by the man's stupendous voice, and after perhaps ten seconds of bloody fighting, the man stands victorious. He whirls to face Engle, Birch, Rodriguez, and you all, but Rodriguez throws his hands up. "Friends! Friends, not foe! No harm!"

The cracks begin to fade, leaving their detritus behind. The man seems willing to take Rodriguez at face value, as a woman staggers through, looking harried and bleeding. She's of average height, with pale skin and a ceremonial-looking outfit. Engle slowly approaches, saying "I am a healer. Please-allow me to tend to her."

The last of the fractures vanish. Engle lays hands upon the woman, and the man slouches in relaxation, dropping at least a foot in height from the pose. Birch and Rodriguez look at you four. "Are you hurt?" Rodriguez asks.

"Injuries first, right," Birch says. "Then, what are you doing here?"

There's a lot of odd objects around-a child's doll, a spool of yarn, a pouch full of seeds. Mostly from the cracks in reality, but possibly some ritual items too.

You can see, faintly, that reality looks strained here. No visible cracks, but... Something feels off here. No idea how long it'll last.

That doll moved.
Birch is pissed.
Engle is worried about others.

Nothing new.

Birch's anger is more for show than genuine. He seems more curious about what you knew than truly mad.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia doesn't really have a reason to lie. Namedropping Ka'We would probably be enough to get them off the academic hook. But something in her compels her to do it anyway; and she presents a believable half-truth:

"We had just finished celebrating a win on the duelling field. Pebbles has been with us, but left abruptly; and we decided to follow him. We found him peeping on all -this-, and doing so with an unsavoury air."

It's barely a lie at all, when you think about it.

Deception Roll [roll0] pleasedontfail
Also, Euraylia is going to use her divine sense here, next to the ritual ground and with all the participants nearby. Or she will, if such a thing is a subtle as I think it is.

[JNAProductions]

Birch nods, anger abating. "And where is Pebbles?" he asks, after a moment when he realizes that the dwarf is nowhere in sight.

[MrAbdiel]

“We tried to talk him down, but he brawled with us back there. It seemed like things were coming to a head over here, so we chanced running past leaving Qrr to hold him off. He’s…”

She looks to Qrr. Although an invisible hawk is relaying the battle’s outcome to her now, her cornflower blue gaze consults the Bugbear for confirmation about Pebbles’ fate.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther scans around trying to catch sight of Pebbles or his remains. He also mentally puzzles over why Lia would fail to mention their feline guide. Not that it mattered now though, not with a couple of villains at large.

"Don't forget that Cornell, he were there too. Didnt fancy scrappin' with us though, or seem too 'appy with the situation in general. He ran off but can't be far. Can one o' them servants find 'im?"

[MrAbdiel]

“Good idea. Although he almost seemed… coerced. Strange seeing Cornell robbed of bluster, but… please, professor Birch, what happened here?”

[JNAProductions]

Engle finishes healing the woman.

Birch looks over to Engle, and sighs. "This... Is not something I would expected to be talking to first year students about. Or to have gone so wrong." He starts to talk about some rather technical and arcane details, but Rodriguez, after a few moments, cuts him off.

"Doc, I think I should explain it. The minutia isn't important to them-not right now," he says.

"I suppose so," Birch replies. "Go ahead."

Rodriguez nods, and says "We've been studying planar rifts, boundaries, subspaces... All sorts of stuff. And there's some kind of undiscovered, up to this point, plane. It's not small either-it's substantial. So tonight, we were trying to make some form of contact. And it looks like we succeeded-speaking of which," he adds, turning to face the two people who came from the rift. "Um, mind if we ask a few questions?"

The man stares at Rodriguez, unmoving. The woman, though, nods, and speaks, her voice like a melodious flute. "We'd actually like to ask some questions ourselves-like where are we?"

[MrAbdiel]

"A long way from home." She offers, a subtle barb of suspicion loaded in her words as she eyes the woman. But then the Aasimar becomes self conscious for speaking so much, and keen not to present herself as needlessly hostile, becomes a shade more helpful: "A lesser material junction realm known principally for Gentik Academy, founded upon it. You're... safe here. But the nature of your arrival, and your attacker, is..." She trails off, and gestures to the tentacle pile.

[JNAProductions]

"Dead," the man says. His voice is much quieter now.

The woman nods. "We were traveling back to the safety of the church when the cracks started forming. It seemed to agitate the fauna, as most things do, so when we started getting overwhelmed, we went through it in hopes it'd lead somewhere safe. It seems we were right."

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia’s mouth opens, and then closes without comment. She is visibly suspicious of the arrivals, and of the ritualists; but she is just a gatecrasher, along with her friends. The right of interrogation is not hers, neither is the power to offer these interlopers sanctuary. She looks to the university staff deferrently, and then turns her attention to the odd planar detritus ejaculated into the world by the now sealed rifts.

[JNAProductions]

Engle looks them over. "We'll have to discuss where we can fit you, but sanctuary is certainly something we can do. I am Engle. This is my comrade, Birch; and some students of ours, Rodriguez, Luther, Cale, Euraylia, and Qrr-Sath," he says, gesturing to each person in turn. "Birch, if you would help me escort them to a safer place..."

"Right. Normally I'd ask for a clean up of the ritual, but that's something that can wait. Rodriguez, the rest of you... You should go to bed for now. If you're concerned for your safety, you can stay with us, but with the ritual no longer active, there should be no danger," Birch says. "I expect you all to stay silent on this for the moment. We'll meet tomorrow to figure out what exactly to do about... Well, all this."

Speaking of which, if there are no objections, I believe it might be best to skip to tomorrow morning, when you get called to a faculty meeting.

[moonfly7]

Qrr lopes over, morphing into bugbear form as he does so, in time to hear his companions question about Pebbles fate.

"He's gone, when his darkness fell the coward did...something rather than fight me one on one. A strange maw came out of nothingness, wrapped around him, and pulled him away. I'm not the best judge, but we studied a bit of religious texts at the monastery, it looked Demonic. That I'm certain of. Whatever Pebbles was doing here tonight, well, I reckon he was in too deep into some bad lion crap."

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther looks between his companions.

"I suppose thou has a point Lia, Cornell wasn't his usual delightful self at all. Bein' forced into it some 'ow would make sense. Pebbles was proper laughin' though, if 'e's in o'er his head I reckon its cos 'e jumped in t' the lion crap of 'is own accord.

Any 'ow, I'm glad everyone is safe and that thing won't bother anyone any more!" He gestures towards the tentacled beast. "I'd be right interested in hearin' about where you two came from, but maybe tha' can wait til we've all 'ad a good rest."

[JNAProductions]

You feel the exhaustion of the day settling in. While victorious, you're still tired, and you head back with Rodriguez. While worries might keep you up a bit, you conk out pretty quickly.

Morning comes, a little later to wake than usual, and as you ready for the day, Rodriguez motions you over with a letter. "Got this when I woke up. We've got time to eat, but walk with me when you're done, okay?" You break your fast, and get ready to go.

Rodriguez takes you all deep within the Halls. There appears to be a normally off-limits area, attended by a halfling at the door. "Morning Rod," he says. "What brings you here? Doesn't Birch have an office in the Gardens, or at least someit like that?"

"Business with all of the faculty, actually," he replies, and shows the letter. "Mind letting us in?"

The halfling looks over the letter. "Alright. Behave, you all, okay?"

Rodriguez nods, and you enter as the halfling unlocks the door. Once inside, Rodriguez summons a servant to lead further. "Not usually in this place, so... Best not to get lost."

Shortly, you arrive at a medium-sized meeting room. Inside is Slivux, Birch, Engle, Volgrazuth, Madam LeSham, and Fimir, as well as the two newcomers. The new woman is the first to spot you, and says "The students are here."

The room quiets down, not that it was particularly loud before, and there's a moment of awkward silence. "Erm... I'm Sarv," the woman says by way of introduction. "And my friend is Ruv. You didn't get our names last night, and the rest of them here know already, so..."

Birch nods, and says "Right. Names are good. Rodriguez, the rest of you, we've been discussing the safety of the school with one another so far. This should not come as a surprise, but we are not going to be continuing the planar project for the moment-too dangerous. But, Qrr, you mentioned some kind of maw that swallowed up Pebbles? Can you describe it more fully?"

Qrr nods, and explains as best he can what the maw looked like. Volgrazuth, already frowning, has her face deepen further. "Birch," she says, "Were the normal wards intact? To prevent interlopers?"

"No-that would've prevented our project from working," he replies.

"That at least explains how Pebbles escaped. This does not sound like the work of a full demon lord or anything-but perhaps some minor, fledgling demonic force, looking to establish itself? The good news is they're unlikely to be strong, the bad news is they're likely to be unknown," Volgrazuth continues.

Slivux nods, and says "We shouldn't worry them too much with this-their job is to learn. Ours, to keep them safe and teach them. But, pertaining to that... Talk to us. I understand last night was... Eventful, to say the least. Speak your mind, and hopefully we can assuage your worries."

[moonfly7]

Qrr wastes no time in getting directly to the point.

"I don't know much about this project of yours, but enough to know it's dangers. We've been told about what you think you've found, this other dimension, it sounds like a danger more than a benefit, a risk to the school as a whole. And having to take down the wards to do it, well, folks want into the school anyways, I can't be the only one who thinks thats a big risk.

And then there's Pebbles, he's considered lazy sure, a slacker and unmotivated. But not a single person suspected him of anything? Ever? That's either a load of dung and someone was bating him out, risking student lives in the process, or Pebbles was so good at his lies and his act that not a single of the professors noticed a thing. And that means he managed to fool an entire academy of the finest mages, some of whom I'm sure speciliaze specifically in unraveling truth."

Qrr sighs

"I'm not trying to be angry or accusatory here, but this place is supposed to be safe and secure. And not two days into our time here a demon reveals itself, ropes in one of our dormmates, and tries to interefere with some kind of planar summoning event carried out by faculty. That does not inspire confidence."

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia is gloomier than normal all that morning; the planar shenanigans weighing on her for personal reasons. She holds her wrist behind her back, standing at-ease through the faculty's explanation and probing; and watching Qrr beside her as he lays down the law. When he's done expressing his carefully moderated outrage, she can't think of anything she could add to that subject. But the subject of Pebbles is something she can speculate on, for sure; and when she does, in this calm and academic atmosphere, her rural accent is almost gone entirely; with even a touch of the formal celestial brogue creeping into her voice.

"It's hard to know if Pebbles has been a long-term infiltrator or has been flipped recently. My guess is the latter. He's been flunking out of his basic classes, which is only going to draw attention to him from the faculty. That's not something a good plant would want, nor have to suffer. More likely he came here to study, found he lacked the aptitude, and turned to easy gain like so many before him. He's a warlock, that's not hard to put together; his use of a darkness-dome isn't condemning alone, but his ability to fight in it without trouble has few alternative explanations. It's hard to say how Cornell got pulled in, but it's unlikely to have been fully informed. Once the situation got dangerous, he buckled and left. As for our worries..." She glances to her friends, and then down a little toward the floor. "Well, let me speak just for myself, and say I don't make a habit of trusting visitors - be they apparent refugees, or not - from other realms. But I know I'm just a small fish here; a freshman who just put quill to paper at all. This is all bigger than me. Still, I think I can speak for all of us when I say we're a little invested in this now, and more than a little curious about what's come forth out of this strange realm, and why a demon would be going out of its way to have eyes on it. So if you need a few extra hands in the operation to uncover this, then..." She slows at that point, glancing to Cale, and Qrr, and Luther just to make sure she's not over-assuming. "...I'm sure we could be persuaded, with course credit."

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther nods encouragingly to Cale.

"Well a wouldn't blame anybody fer trusting someone actively trying t' pull the wool over their eyes. Bein' trustin' and thinkin' the best about folk is somethin' ah wish I were better at.

Ah am concerned about what happened wi' reality bein' thinned. Will i' get worse? Ah reckon fixin' tha' is a priority fer all out safety."

Lia's words ring true as she speaks for the group.

"Ah can't agree more. We can't forget about this now like. We'd all be more'n happy t' wi' investigatin' this further."

[Lord Foul]

Cale shrugs, his gaze distant, lost in thought. "It's not my job to decide who deserves help. I'm just going to help whoever needs it. It's my job to be strong enough to help and strong enough to deal with people who take advantage of it"

[moonfly7]

"They are right, no matter what comes of this, we're in too deep now to just back out. And-well, I don't normally make a habit of presumptions of my own skill, but I think together we've proven to be capable of handling ourselves in unexpected scraps. Each of us is, I've found, born of steel just as much as Magic. If this mystery comes to blows again, and I believe it very likely will, I believe together we can handle it."

[JNAProductions]

Slivux speaks first, in response. "We messed up. No bones about it-we made mistakes here. Some of the faculty thought Pebbles was looking into some darker lores, but none of us knew how deep he had gone. We might not have caused the danger, but we damn well should've been more aware to it, at a minimum."

Birch nods. "That's actually what we're going to do now-Slivux, Engle, and I are going to strengthen the wards and... Restructure reality properly. Volgrazuth is going to continue her research into what exact entity might've lured Pebbles in. LeSham and Fimir are going to be having a long, long talk with Cornell. Rodriguez, I could still use your help..."

"It's alright, Doc," Rodriguez says. "I know you'd never intentionally put my in harm's way. I... I will confess, I'm a little scared. But you gotta face your fears, right?"

Sarv asks "Should we go with? Or stay here? Or... Well, what should we do?"

"Your knowledge might come in handy-if you'd be willing to join us at the ritual site?" Slivux asks in turn. Sarv nods, and elbows Ruv, who nods after a moment. "It's settled, then. And, to all of you... Thank you for being understanding. Thank you for not being angry-I can't say I'd be able to hold back in your circumstances."

You set off with the three faculty members and the two strangers, as the others depart for their destinations. Engle says "We'd like this to be kept relatively quiet, by the way. Don't go telling everyone. We won't ask you to lie, but we'd like to keep it to this: Birch's project went awry, and we're working on cleaning it up." Before you get a chance to respond, you exit the faculty section, and there are enough other people about that discussions might not be prudent.

Eventually, the Gardens are reached. "Rodriguez, if you can lead the others in clean-up," Birch asks. "We'll get started for restructuring." Rodriguez nods, and helps while directing what needs to go where. He's not entirely sure what to do with the detritus, but Birch says "Keep that-it may come in handy."

Luther's in charge of it, and there's little enough that it fits in a single pack he slings across his back. "Give us some space," Slivux says. "This is going to be quite potent."

Rodriguez leads you all back to a safe distance. Sarv seems quite curious, while Ruv is content to slouch and laze. The restructuring starts, and while the actual visual display isn't much, you can feel the energy in the air. Such is the potency of it, that you fail to notice Marly until she's virtually on top of you.

"Hey guys!" she says. "I thought I'd... Um... What are they doing?"

[MrAbdiel]

“Marley! Hey!”

Euraylia is on it like a bonnet, bright with a smile and plausible explanation.

“Oh, it’s gross, trust me. After our little victory party our little freshman crew went on a slightly inebriated wander and Luther tried to ritually bind one of the rune servants to a cask of drink to make what he called a ‘Noble Djinn and Tonic’, but it went about as bad as it had any right to, and we were pretty sick afterward. We’ve been made to clean it up post haste or it’ll mark our record. It’s mostly decontaminated now, but you missed out on some unforgettable smells. Hey, I wanted to talk to you about capture the flag…”

She attempts to steer Marley away from the site, interrogating her about the campus’s capture the flag activities.

Deception, using that inspiration! [roll0]
[roll1]

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther masks his reaction to Lia's fabrication by sticking his head in the bag of detritus, poking around for anything interesting from the other plane.

Investigation [roll0]

Arcana [roll1]

He'll do a ritual detect magic laterif they get some privacy.

[JNAProductions]

Marly is happy to talk to Euraylia, and doesn't seem bothered by being lead off.

A few minutes pass, without much talking. Luther pokes around the debris, examining it thoroughly.

They're definitely objects.
Nothing seems overtly magical-the main two objects of note would be the seed pouch, given that you've never seen the type of seeds before (though that might just be inexperience, not anything extraordinary) and the doll. Something about the doll just seems... Off.

Rodriguez says "So... We probably shoulda asked how long this would take, come to think of it. If you want to go, I can keep an eye on it."

[Waistcoatwill]

"Don't worry about it, we're 'appy t' 'elp. We've found a couple o' interestin' things. Ah've not seen nowt like these seeds. Know anyone we could ask about 'em?

Ah also don't like the look o' this 'ere doll. What do the rest of you think?"

[moonfly7]

"it....disturbs me"

Qrr says, clearly disconcerted.

[MrAbdiel]

“Hey. Sorry, close one.” Euraylia jogs back to the group after her aside with the genasi. “I don’t like lying to Marly; she’s been real sweet and accomodating. But we gotta do what we gotta do. And that doll… it ain’t look wholesome; but I suspect it may have use later down the line as some kind of focus, or something, if we have to prepare more for this rift-realm. But Volgrazuth seems to know the most about the hazard realms - maybe she’d know atleast where to start, with this stuff.”

She crouches down to touch the earth where the other world cracks from the night before had vanished, reaching out with her divine senses in forlorn hope to learn something more.

“That Volgrazuth does seem to know a thing or two about outsiders. It’s funny to me, since I never thought of dwarves as interested in the wider world much.”

[JNAProductions]

The doll is saying something, ever so faintly.

[Waistcoatwill]

A lookbof absolute horror crosses Luther's face as he makes out the sift sounds coming from the doll.

"Now tha' ain't right! It's speakin', I swear to thee!"

Luther alternates between holding it at arms length and next to his ear in rapid succession.

"Sorry Rodriguez, ah think we might need t' leave thou t' this fer a bit after all. Let's go see what Volgrazuthmakes of this...thing"

Insight check to see what the doll is saying. [roll0]

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia doesn't need to use her divine sense to know that's just straight up bad juju.

"Well don't listen to it! It could be... you know, trying to drive you crazy, or something!"

[moonfly7]

"Indeed. The Monastary has this haunted table, bad things went down on it apparently, and it is not safe to be around. It's wood creaks with evil. I suggest we report this, then burn the doll."

[JNAProductions]

You hurry to find Volgrazuth, shoving the doll deep in the pack so as to not listen to a word it speaks.

In the bowels of the Halls, you see her office. The door is firmly shut, and it takes several minutes of insistent knocking to get her to poke her head out. "What?" she asks, annoyed. "Oh. You all," she adds, less annoyed. "What is it?"

You tell her about the doll, not taking it out yet. "Ah," she says. "I see. Don't burn it-it might destroy the trapped spirit. It might release it. Give it to me, and I'll make sure it stays safe. I have plenty of ways to contain a malicious entity."

With that, you take the doll out and hand it over. "Oh, and Euraylia?" Volgrazuth says. "I've made some progress on your end. Not much-but a little."

[MrAbdiel]

She gives a cautious nod, although the wheels in her mind are already whirring. Malicious entity? Could the doll not be haunted, but possessed? As she often does, she leans on her divine senses for a moment to see what ‘pings’ she gets.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther narrows his eyes at Volgrazuth's comment to Lia. He bides his time as they walk back, waiting until they won't be overheard before speaking up.

"'Ere Lia, what were tha' about wi' "progress on your end"? Everything right wi' thee?"

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia is anticipating this question. She sweeps an electrum-gold lock of hair behind her ear, sighs a little, and answers truthfully.

"Well, you know I'm not exactly human. Where I come from, I'm called a Nephali; but the more well travelled term is Aasimar. Means I got some ancestry that comes from the upper planes, and Volgrazuth volunteered to help me research that line a little."

Well. Perhaps not truthfully. Factually; but not truthfully.

[roll0]. <--- Insight DC to know for sure she's hiding something.

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther's cheeks redden slightly in embarrassment at his suspicions being unfounded.

"That sounds right interestin', hope thou find out summat. Sorry, didn't mean t' pry. Just a bit jumpy wi' all that's bin goin' on is all."

[MrAbdiel]

She emancipates him from as much as the shame as possible, giving him a smile that suggests she hasn't for a moment noticed that he is trying to peek behind her carefully curated curtain, and therefore is unlikely to think any less of him for it.

"Ain't a problem, Luther; and I reckon we can all afford to be a little jumpy, with Pebbles in the wind and Cornell... Hell, I don't know; compromised? Maybe we ought to check in with him - though I think I wanna get a chance to snoop around Pebbles' room before it gets cleaned out. Whether he's a pawn or a plant, I'd like to know a little more about what he's been up to."


Lia is restraining herself, but at some point in the conversation with Volgrazuth - just as they handed over the bear - she became deeply, if quietly, disturbed by the dwarf; something like fear or shame hiding in her eyes that has to do with her reaction to the that particular staff member themself.

[JNAProductions]

After some talking, Qrr and Euraylia figure they can do some good by heading to Pebbles' room, snooping around a bit. That leaves Luther and Cale to interrogate Cornell.


Pebbles' Pursuit
The two of you find a living arrangement not too dissimilar from your own. It's not precisely the same, but has the same general living area, and many offshoot rooms. The only occupant of the main area is an earth genasi, who seems pretty surprised to see guests. "Do I know you?" he asks.


Cornell's Conflict
The two of you head back to your living area. You pass Gruk, who's heading out to somewhere else on campus. He nods to you by way of greeting. Inside, Cornell's door is tightly shut, with no clear sign if the elf is in.

[MrAbdiel]

“Oh, I don’t think so. I’m Lia, this is Qrr-Sath. We’re in some classes with Pebbles.”

This, Euraylia knows, is going to require some lying; and she begins to feel a stab of nausea at how often that is becoming the easiest solution to thinks. She avoids it for a moment, hoping Qrr-Sath had an out of the box idea she doesn’t. For now, she stalls.

“Is Pebbles in?”

[Waistcoatwill]

On the walk Luther looks thoughtful.

"Now Cale, thou knows ah've not got on so well wi' Cornell. Can thee start the conversation fer us? Ah might be able to get into 'is room if need be, but ah don't want it ter come t' tha'. Might as well see if 'e's in first though "

Luther presses an ear to the door, hoping to detect some trace of movement within. Failing that he examines the door carefully for a key hole, peep hole or other way he can get a glimpse of inside.

Stealth to get close to the door [roll0]

Perception to listen to see if he's in his room [roll1]

Investigation to look for a way to see into his room enough for a potential misty step [roll2]

[JNAProductions]

Pebbles' Pursuit
"Nah. Haven't seen him in for at least a day. Probably getting into trouble somewhere," the genasi says. "I hope he hasn't made your lives too miserable."


Cornell's Conflict
Luther moves to the door, and can hear Cornell's voice inside. "Dammit, dammit, dammit," he's muttering. "Stupid, stupid, stupid," he adds, as well as the scritching of a quill.

There does not appear to be any way to teleport in, at least not as long as you need line of sight.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia glances to Qrr, then back to the Genasi. “Not too miserable, but without a shortage of misery. He has something that belongs to me, and didn’t give it back before he vanished. I figure I’ll grab it from his room before the faculty starts grabbing things and using psychometrics. Privacy, you know? Which is his room?”

She begins moving toward a door, waiting for correction toward Pebbles’ room; having used the aikido of disassembly to pass of this invasion as the defence of privacy.

[JNAProductions]

The genasi ***** an eyebrow, not believing you. "Right... Want to try that again?" he asks.

It was Deception, since that's a lie. I don't think you gave anything to Pebbles.

[moonfly7]

"Actually, no. I don't think we do."

Qrr-Sath rumbles in a deep tone Lia hasn't heard before, is this Qrr...angry?

"This whole "little" problem has caused me no end of trouble today, and now it is cutting into my free time. Free time I was going to spend napping in a warm patch of sun. Which I will not get to do if you continue to block our path for inconsequential reasons. And when I miss my small windows of relaxation in between training I become very Agitated."

[JNAProductions]

It was only +2.

The genasi sighs. "I get it. Pebbles pisses people off. He's a lazy jerk who we'd be better off done with. But don't get mad at me because he did something annoying," he says. "So please, don't act like him too." He doesn't seem bothered at all by Qrr's attempt at intimidation, but his voice is sympathetic towards Qrr's plight.

[MrAbdiel]

A more direct approach then, without the forbidden truth.

“Look, he’s mixed up in some shady nonsense that we’re not allowed to talk about; but that we can’t not investigate. You seem like a nice enough fella, so I imagine you tried to offer him a minimum of kindness and got squared off for your trouble. If you don’t care about him, then you might as well let us pass because we’re new here, and we’d love to make a new friend. And we treat our friends right. But if you do give a half a damn about Pebbles even after he’s frosted you, you’re only increasing his chances of getting understanding and fairness if you show us which room is his. I’m Lia, this is Qrr. What’s your name, and how did Pebbles piss you off?”

She extends a hand, adding that much effort to this take-two introduction.

[JNAProductions]

"Kondo," he says. "And... Well, I get you can't tell me what exactly he did, but was anyone hurt?" he asks. "I didn't like Pebbles-stole my food, cracked a few of my crystals, but I wouldn't've pegged him as anyone really bad, just... Annoying."

He shrugs. "I can't actually let you in his room anyway-it's the third on the left, but if it's locked, I don't have a key."

[MrAbdiel]

"Stole your food? That's weird. The place gives out food for free. What a jerk." She shakes his hand, with an appreciative, firm grip. "Nice to meet you, Kondo. We owe you a drink. This one?" She approaches the door indicated, looking back to Qrr-Sath with an unspoken sense of success in her eyes. Once at the door, she'll look at the handle, offer a minimum of casting gestures and murmured celestial, and begin all the investigation she can muster.

Step 1. Cast Detect Magic, so she can see if there's any nuisance spells left on the door like alarm, arcane lock, or what nots. She can also detect magic for 30 ft, and unless the door is lined with lead it won't stop it; so she might get a sense of what's in there.
Step 2. If there's no surprises, check the handle, just in cast it's left unlocked. Wouldn't that be something.
Step 3. Cast Detect Evil and Good, which will give her a sense of aberrations, celestials, fey, fiends, and undead within 30ft, also consecrations and desecrations, and anything else the DM believes might come up under such a spell's power. Same penetrative value as Detect Magic.

[JNAProductions]

There's a strong background of magic suffusing the whole academy. It's like looking, briefly, into a bright light, before the Detect settles down and lets you perceive more normally. The door is not locked or trapped by any spells, as far as Euraylia can see.

The handle doesn't turn, though-locked.

When she casts her second spell, she does not get the background like she did with Detect Magic. Gentik is not suffused with outsiderness in the same way it is magic. There's a faint stink beyond the door, but nothing concrete-remnants of a ritual, perhaps? But nothing massive.

[moonfly7]

"I think I can get us in,
Maybe"
Qrr says before taking a step back, and then focusing. The bugbear form shifts and shrinks and whirls as his snout elongates and a tail grows from his behind, will the while he shrinks and shrinks until he is but a small golden furred Mouse on the floor. He then shimmies under the door and unlocks it from the inside.

[MrAbdiel]

Euraylia watches this transformation with growing delight. She swivels her gaze to Kondo and wiggles her eyebrows, as if to say, 'Pretty good, huh?'

[JNAProductions]

I'm going to assume you'll take all the time you need on Investigating the room.

Kondo shrugs, not having been paying much attention.

Qrr unshifts inside, and opens the door, revealing a rather messy room. It doesn't look like the beds been properly slept in for a while.

You close the door behind you, leaving you a little close to one another, but begin your investigation in peace and quiet. It takes some twenty minutes of hunting to be sure you've found it all, but with that done, you're confident in your search.

You find...
-Sixteen platinum pieces
-A journal, written in cipher
-A sealed box, with three locks on it. It's very heavy for its small size
-A small pile of dead mice

[MrAbdiel]

They look over the finds together.

Sixteen Pieces of Platinum

"I don't really want to loot the place exactly, so I'm inclined to leave that there for the staff to find. It's not a small amount of money; although maybe a little bit weird for someone to be walking around with platinum without a big purchase in mind, it doesn't tell us much on its own."

A Ciphered Journal

"Now this is what I'm interested in. We'd better take that, and apply our full collected brainpower to crack the cipher. It might be the key to everything."

A Box With Three Locks

"Weird. Who needs three locks on a box? And what's in it, I wonder? I'll carry that when we go."

A Pile Of Dead Mice

"That's... Strange. I guess he either needs them for whatever ritual he's been doing to contact his fell masters, or he has a snake familiar we didn't know about. Not the most enchanting centrepiece to one's living space."


After they go over the stuff together, Euraylia is keen to take the Journal and the Box Of Locks back to their dorm, taking a moment to talk to Kondo again on the way out and promising to invite him to the next party they have at their own accommodation.

Unless Qrr has any on-site insights about the mouse pile or any of the other things, I'm happy to wrap up this little venture here and kill time while the other two do their thing by RPing Qrr and Lia chatting on the way back. Getting one-on-one chats in all our groups' combinations is key to making our team super extra memorable!

[moonfly7]

Qrr nods.

"The Mice are disturbing, thats for sure, but should we really remove anything? The staff might be beter off looking at this box than us."

[MrAbdiel]

She's already picked up the box, but at Qrr's question, she puts it down and stands shoulder to shoulder with him, folding her arms and looking at the items on the table. She's quiet for a while, before she speaks.

"I... don't know which of the staff to trust. Qrr-Sath... did you know that Volgrazuth is a fiend?"

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther unexpectedly feels a pang of concern in his chest for Cornell. Whatever his role in this it clearly sounds like he made an error and is regretting it. Maybe this is an opportunity to show solidarity for a fellow being and try to Bury the hatchet?

Luther retreats a short distance, offers up a prayer to Circe for aid, then gently taps on the door.

"Cornell? Is thou alright? Ah'm sorry about what happened las' night and ah'm glad it didn't come t' blows. It looks like something bad was going on wi' Pebbles and we'd like to talk wi' thee about it."

Persuasion with guidance [roll0] plus [roll1]

[JNAProductions]

Cornell stops his muttering. The door opens, and you can see him, disheveled, tired, and bleary-eyed. "What?" he asks, none of the usual snark present. "What do you want?"

[Waistcoatwill]

Luther steps back half a pace, taken aback by Cornell's change in appearance and demeanour.

"Ey up. We wanted t' talk t' thee about a couple of things. We chatted t' the staff and they think Pebbles's was drawin' on some kind o' demonic power in our little scrap. Helpin' 'im see through darkness an' such. I don't know if thou's heard but 'e managed to escape through some kind of portal that looked like a giant demon's mouth were swallowin' 'im.

Didnt expect that o' him. Ah think he fooled the lot of us, all the faculty included mind. Might even be foolin' himself if 'e's tanglin' wi' fiends. Can thou help us figure out what's going on wi' 'im? What were the two of you doing out there last night? How did he get thee involved anyway? Drawin' power from fiends don't sound like somethin' you'd approve of!

We'd like to help if we can. Is there anything we can do fer thee? If thou thinks Pebbles is in o'er his head then we'll do what we can fer 'im too, but any information thou can give us would be a great help in tha'."

[JNAProductions]

He looks at you. "I don't know if I want to tell you. You can tell Slivux or Birch or whoever that I can talk to them, but... You're just some first year student who stumbled into this."

[Waistcoatwill]

"Well that not quite true. Cake here was tasked by Silvux t' help Pebbles cos he were worried about him and we agreed t'help. This is part o' that.

What's more, the staff seem like a good lot fer the most part, but their loyalty is t' the school more than individual students. Many's the small folk crushed by a big organisation in the name of progress.

We 'ent beholden t' the school like they are. We're just tryin' t' do the right thing. An' by Circe ah think thou could do with some folk on thine own side if this business wi' Pebbles is half as dodgy as it seems. Ent tha' right Cale?"

Luther looks towards his comrade for support.

Persuasion [roll0]

He'll add a guidance if that isn't something that is totally obvious for [roll1]

[moonfly7]

She's already picked up the box, but at Qrr's question, she puts it down and stands shoulder to shoulder with him, folding her arms and looking at the items on the table. She's quiet for a while, before she speaks.

"I... don't know which of the staff to trust. Qrr-Sath... did you know that Volgrazuth is a fiend?"

"No, I did not"
He says softly.

He thinks for a moment, then says In a similare tone

"did you know, Lia, that I am a bugbear?"

His voice sounds completely serious, but it is obvious he chose her exact words on purpose.

[MrAbdiel]

Lia expresses a smile she is trying to swallow, and snorts a bit as she looks away; trying to be serious but is amused in spite of herself. As always, when she is impassioned about something, her accent becomes remarkably more chicken-fried.

"I'm serious, Qrr! The denizens of the outer planes ain't like mortal races with their prejudices and cultural what-nots. Angels can fall and demons can rise, but when they do it's a powerful, rare thing that fools only would take light. Fiends are born from the universe exaggeratin' what's worse about mortals, like firelight throwin' your outsized shadow big and spooky behind you. They're evil, and you oughta require more than a couple days harmlessness before you let your guard down around one."

She rakes a hand back through her hair, looking up at the ceiling and biting her hip as she senses that she's not conveying herself very well; pivoting on the heel of one sabaton and finally facing Qrr again with an expression that implies tentative apology, and a desire to clarify again. She lifts a hand, and gently bunches the tabard over her breastplate in one loose fist. The stylized blue flower there - like the one in her hair, and on display on the icon she produces when she casts - remains in display, above her grip.

"I've made a sacred oath, Qrr. The Order of the Watchers exists to defend the realms of men - and bugbears - from the powers to which we are pawns, and food. D'you understand?"

Her eyes have become big, almost frantic, burdened with embarrassment that she has kept mostly contained to this point.

"The first tenet is Vigilance, because the threats we face are cunning, powerful and subversive. And the second tenet is Loyalty, to accept no gifts nor favors from fiends or those that truck with them. And on the second day, they send me to this woman who looks like a dwarf, and who asks..." she hesitates, and then splutters a bit, "intimate questions and offers to help, and I didn't even think to..."

She trails off there, a faint quaver working its way into her voice suggesting if she goes much further it's going to crack and compromise her composure more fully. But she settles herself, looks back to the desk, and takes the ciphered book into her hands again, turning it over in slim, gloved digits.

"I'm a trustin' gal, Qrr. It gets me into as much trouble as I deserve. And I trust men, and elves, and dwarves, and genasi, and bugbears until they give me a reason not to. But it'll take a long, long, long time for me to trust a creature that crawled out of a damn..." She flaps a hand expressively, as she marshals a suitable generalization, "lake of fire, and existed for a thousand years snorting the souls of trusting mortals before deciding it wanted to teach. I'm grateful they took me in to Gentik, but I don't trust fiends, and I don't trust those that trust them. And I ain't willing to wait for that to change to chase the mystery of what happened with Pebbles."

Once more, finally, she looks up at the bugbear. Her cornflower blue eyes are settled now; less emotional than they were during her exposition, but clearly searching him for assurance that he understands her plight. She goes as far as to ask as much, repeating the question she didn't give him time to answer earlier:

"D'you understand?"

[moonfly7]

"I do, Lia. I do. But it is against my nature and my oaths to judge based on race or birth. Where I am from, goblinoids are seen as feral, evil, baby eating monsters, they are seen that way because sadly, most are."

He sighs and wipes his furry brow

"Are most fiends evil and conniving? Yes I have no doubt. But despite this oversight with pebbles I very much doubt the school would allow a threat into the school to teach. Remember how they said pebbles benefactor must have been weak to not be detected? I very much doubt the professor is. Meaning he has not been fooling anyone, they know what he is, and I very much doubt the Holy followers here throughout the ages have not seen him for what he is. You do not have to trust him yes? In fact it is good to have someone who doesn't. But trust at least that if he is a threat, he would be an idiot to act overtly on a piece of evidence related to hostile fiends when the academys faculty is on high alert."

[MrAbdiel]

She looks disappointed, but not wounded by Qrr's attempt to meet her halfway. She gives her head a little shake, and folds her arms in front of herself as she regards the objects again. After a long pause, she offers in resignation:

"Not like we have a way to open the box anyway. I guess we'll keep our eyes out for three keys, but leave this for the faculty. But I want first try at understanding this." She scoops up the journal again, and stashes it away on her person. "I won't hide it from them; I just don't want it hidden from me. They can have it soon enough. Alright?"

As they wrap up in the room, Euraylia finds a loose piece of paper from Pebble's academic junk, and produces an inkwell and pen. She incants quietly to herself as she scribbles a note.

To everyone who sees it, the message is clearly written: 'Pebbles, you were supposed to be better than this. Please turn yourself in.'

To Lia, and Qrr who watched her cast, and importantly to Pebbles, the secondary, illusory message is also present: 'Let's make a deal. - Euraylia.'

She puts away her components, and leaves the ensorcelled note on the table with the box. "It's a long shot, but I'd sneak back into my room to get back my platinum if nothing else. Maybe we'll get lucky and he'll take the bait."

Casting Illusory Script, designating Qrr and Pebbles as the excluded parties. I forgot to buy the spell components at character creation, so I've retroactively deducted some gold and added them, if that's alright.

[JNAProductions]

Guidance is obvious. So 17 only.

Cornell sighs. "Come in, then. Just... Don't judge, okay?"

You step inside, and close the door as he gestures you to do so. His room, which you've seen inside before briefly, is much messier than last time. "I too wanted to help Pebbles. My family has strong ties with our dwarven friends, and while Pebbles is not of their family, I still felt a kinship. I knew he had talent-if he would just apply himself, he could do great things. I've been trying to get him motivated since late last semester, and he started spending time at the library. I thought I had made a breakthrough-he was even requesting very specific tomes and books! But they refused him access-so, I asked myself and loaned them to him, being a better student and being allowed access. I didn't pay much attention to what the books were-and I see now I should have. But something about him... He lured me in. His honeyed words were enough, and there may well have been magic laced into them, but I found myself drawn into his web of danger."

[Waistcoatwill]

A look of sympathy rather than judgement crossed Luther's features as he sees Cornell's room.

"Pebbles convinced a lot of folk, staff included. No matter 'ow it ended up thou was doin' a good thing, remember tha'. Pebbles 'imself might a had something wi' a silver tongue whisperin' in his ear too. Could thou help us get a list of the books 'e was lookin' at? Might help us figure out what kind o' entity we're dealing wi'. The profs thought it must be a relatively minor power t'ave escaped detection.

What did he 'ave thee doin' in this web 'o danger? An' what are thee up t' now? Back t' studying or also tryin' t' make sense of things? Anything we can 'elp with?"

[JNAProductions]

Cornell looks still hesitant to really talk to you, but begrudgingly speaks. "Obscure tomes. I remember most of the titles-but I didn't read them myself. That was mostly what I was doing, until last night..."