Pass on what you have learned IC

[Irrealist]

After a walk of a little more than a half-hour from Suzail, you arrive at the main gate of the university, where you are greeted by a guard wearing a chain shirt and carrying a longsword and a truncheon at his belt. After verifying that your name is on his list, he gives you directions to dorm I.

Map of the campus: http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/2964/uniroughkg6.th.png (http://img211.imageshack.us/my.php?image=uniroughkg6.png)

You stand in front of a wide two-storied stone building. Walking left along the outer wall you pass an exquisitely ornamented three-storied building with a shimmering transparent roof. On every corner there is a small pedestal with a statue on it halfway up the wall and from the imagery you can deduce that this is a temple of Mystra. You turn left after the temple and between the chapel and the next building you catch a glimpse of a plastered place which featured the famous double-towers of the universities library on the north end and a fountain in the middle. In the fountain is a 30-foot-high realistic image of a brilliantly shimmering dragon fighting some kind of sword-wielding demon. The dragon is raking his claws across the demons chest and multicolored rays of light shoot out if its mouth to engulf the demon.

You stare fascinated at the image for a short while, then move on past another large octagonal building and see the dorm I in front of you on the left. You spot a door, walk towards it, and are greeted by a young man in blue robes and bright blue eyes. You walk down a hallway to a rather large common room featuring four tables with chairs and another small table surrounded by comfortable-looking sofas while he introduces himself.

"Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?"

He looks up your name in a list and selects a small key from a chest on the table.
"Let me show you your room", he offers. You both walk down a hallway lighted by everburning torches at the wall. There are doors on both sides in regular intervals. You stop in front of one door. He opens it with the key. The room is about 20ft. by 20ft, with two windows on the opposite side. In front of each window is a desk and a chair, and on the left and right walls is a nice bed in a corner. Next to one bed is a door and a wardrobe. "This is your room. You can put your luggage here, then I show you the rest of the building. Through this door is the bathroom." He opens it, and you see a room about half the size of yours with a wooden bathtub and a laundry tub. "You share it with the room next door", he points to the door opposite the one you stand in, then takes you back to the common room. "This is the common room, the kitchen is through this door. You share it with 30 other people, so please use it responsibly. The kitchenware and dishes are property of the university. If there are any problems, please discuss them with your floor before taking them to the administration. You saw the dining hall on your way here, opposite the chapel. They serve three meals a day, which are already included in your fee. Breakfast is before class, lunch between noon and 2 pm. Dinner is in the evening between 6 and 8 pm. The chancellor will give a welcome speech at 3 pm in the large auditorium of the arcane college, the northernmost of the three big buildings, and tonight at 8 pm there will be a floor meeting at which you can get to know the other students and switch rooms if you want to. Do you have any questions? Anything pertaining to your studies will be explained to you tomorrow, there will be a note on the black board in the common room where you have to go."

Layout of the dorm:
http://img47.imageshack.us/img47/1689/unidormnu1.th.png (http://img47.imageshack.us/my.php?image=unidormnu1.png)

[Lochar]

Confirming Spellgifted yes.

Emmis

Thirty minutes my foot. Emmis thought to himself. Well, I guess for the tall people it would be. They never do think of those of us with shorter legs.

As he walked up to the gate, Emmis was glad he hadn't shaved, as the last time he had, he'd been mistaken for a human child. Granted, it hadn't lasted long, a good swift talking to had actually left the lady apologizing, but Emmis had laughed it off. He'd taken advantage of it before, but today he needed to be recognized as an adult.

"Good day, sir. I'm Emmis Minas, and I'm here to begin at the college." Emmis says to the guard. After waiting the prerequisite time as the guard looked him over, "I'm a gnome, which is why I'm short." he answers the unasked question, before getting his directions to his dorm.

As he wandered in the general direction of the dorms, he stops for a moment at the entrance to the temple, sketching a bow towards it. Grant me you strength while I am here, Lady Mystra. he prays to himself, before continuing on, making sure to make a mental note to check in with them, see the layout of the church.

As he passes by the fountain, Emmis stops and lifts himself onto a nearby bench or onto the lip of the fountain itself to get a better look. "Oh wow. That's just awesome. I wonder how they got the illusion to hold so well. Someone must have spent hours studying the models to get the shades and glows just right. I have got to talk to whoever did that. Maybe they could even introduce me to the models!" Emmis hangs around the fountain for a few more minutes, looking at it from all sides, even jumping up a couple of times to try to get a look from a higher vantage point. Even if it was only a few inches higher point. Finally, he remembers that he was supposed to be going onto his dorm. The fountain would be here later for further study.

Several minutes after that realization, Emmis finally does manage to pull away and head for Dorm I. After introducing himself to the keyholder, Emmis keeps track of the lefts and rights they go as they walk towards the dorm rooms. "Slow down a bit, please." Emmis huffs, having to jog to keep up with Gorlon. "Your legs are almost as long as I am tall, and this pack is heavy. I'm having a hard time keeping up."

Once they get to the room, Emmis wastes no time slinging his pack down next to the wardrobe, before looking around. "No questions about the room, but can you tell me who made the fountain? I'd love to meet them, and the models for it."

[Daryk]

"Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?"

Atan

"Atan Istaya," the elf said with a sidelong glance at his sister. The walk from their parent's lodgings in the city proper took considerably longer than he would have preferred, but then, Minya had never been able to keep up. The geas their father had laid on him prevented him from leaving her behind, or avoiding the school altogether. The hardest part was the stony stare she gave him the entire trip. She was still furious he had "driven" their parents to this extreme. The last thing she had actually said to him were bitter words about being "exiled" so far from home. That had given him pause. In the decades growing up together, Minya had had many good reasons to be angry with her brother. But the longest she had been able to keep up the silent treatment before had been a mere two weeks. It had been over a month now since she'd said a word to him directly.


He looks up your name in a list and selects a small key from a chest on the table.
"Let me show you your room", he offers.

"Sure, thanks," Atan replied. He gave Minya a weak smile before following after Gorlon.


"...Do you have any questions? Anything pertaining to your studies will be explained to you tomorrow, there will be a note on the black board in the common room where you have to go."

As his Uncle Vanya had taught, Atan took in his surroundings as Gorlon showed him around. It at least kept his mind off the misery of being so far from the High Forest. Atan was so absorbed in his thoughts, he almost didn't hear the assistant's question. "Oh, uh, yeah. Is there a practice range anywhere?" he asked.

[Irrealist]

Gorlon apologizes to you for his oversight."It is impressive, isn't it? The dean of Illusions created it. Sculpting illusions is his hobby, and he has produced some very nice pieces, although they usually aren't permanent. He says that is an integral part of the art, something about the inherent ephemeralness of beauty. I take it you are an Illusionist, too? "


__________________

"An archery range, you mean? The guards and the weapons classes usually just go outside into the forest. More space and less chance of accidentally hitting someone. They have set up a range a few minutes from the employees gate." He looks a little uncertain. "Do you two want to room together? The floors are mixed, but mixed rooms are ... unusual?"

[Lochar]

Emmis

"Don't worry about it. I was told it was a thirty minute walk here, but they never thought about my short legs then, either. I figure I might as well get used to it. Or at least not get upset about it."

Emmis nods when questioned about his magic. "That's what I'm here for. I love illusions. You can make brand new things, or recreate things from history. They're grand. Does the dean of illusions teach classes to first years? I'd love to see how he teaches."

[Trulhammaren]

Smidge

Walking up to the college Smidge took in the sites again, even though he had been there several times the last few days 'procuring' a spot in the school the large buildings were still so strange looking to the killoren. Making his way to the gates he noticed that the guard he usually had to deal with was not at his post.
Oh goody, a new person to toy with.

Changing his walk just a bit in order to add a rather comical looking swagger to his step he walked up to the gate. When the guard started to take a good look at Smidge's hair coloring he piped up.

"Don't you know tis quite rude to stare, sah." Smidge's comment as well as the strange accent that he spoke in seemed to startle the guard a bit, but with a professional aire returned to a usual placid expression and asked for Smidge's name.

"Don't suppose my name will be on the list, late registration ya know. Name's Smidge however so you might take a gander at your list anyhow."

His name indeed wasn't on the list and as such he was about to turn Smidge back, when yet again Smidge spoke up.

"I don't suppose good ole Barquad, or whatever his bonce calls himself is about, it might make the next few moments easy on yourself, sah."

As soon as Smidge mentioned the man's fellow guardsman he knew exactly what was going on, his brother Barclay had told him all about the person that stood in front of him. Wanting to avoid the kinds of things that had happened to his brother the guard gave the directions and waved Smidge through.

"Good show sah, well off I go to give the ole footpads a break and pay a visit to whats his face...Gorgon, or some such." Facing the guard Smidge gave a sharp salute and turned about still speaking up. "Chin up, chest out and all that, wot.

He already knew the way to the dorms and figured that he might as well take a gander around campus. On second thought, giving ole Gorgon a good what-fore seems the most appropriate thing to do right about now.

Upon entering the dorm he saw that Gorlon was not present to meet his arrival. "I suppose he heard I was coming and ran off, ole stiffback has no manners, no sah." His intended target not being where he expected Smidge decided to take a walk through the hall possibly to catch his adversary unawares. Rounding the corner Smidge spots Gorlon addressing Atan and his sister.


"An archery range, you mean? The guards and the weapons classes usually just go outside into the forest. More space and less chance of accidentally hitting someone. They have set up a range a few minutes from the employees gate."

"Do you two want to room together? The floors are mixed, but mixed rooms are ... unusual?"

"Now now Gorgon, no need to get your feathers in a bundle I'll keep an eye on this whippersnapper, let the lady have her space and all, wot." Smidge made his way closer to the trio of people, Yah got to keep us outdoors types all in one place yah know, else we might get lost in these here buildings totally unnatural space, makes no sense, wot. Directing his attention to the two other students Smidge introduces himself, "Name's Smidge, by the by."

[Randel]

Weston


"Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?"


"Weston Fontane" the young man replies. His backpack full of odds and ends.

As he is shown the various rooms and places, he nods and makes mental notes. Upon noticing the alchemical labs and item creation buildings he takes special note of them. Maybe he could make use of the schools equipment to work on some of his projects.

He finally selects a room and sets down his bag of things. Alot of the things he brought would be reduntant in this place... but its always good to be prepared.

He waits till the 3 o'clock speech in the auditorium.

[AngelForm]

Azurous (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54994)

Azurous marched up to the gate, showing no signs of tiring despite having been walking since dawn. Approaching the guard he notes that he gets the “usual” look, going first to his odd hair, but moving on unusually quickly, them moving to the ferret about his neck.
He must thinks I’m barely old enough to be out alone, even if I am probably as old as he is.
After getting directions to the dorm he makes his way with his customary determined walk, pausing only to admire the dragon-image and the spell work it must have required. Coming to the dorm he sees a young man looking as if he had just escaped a minor tragedy.



"Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?"


"Azurous, son of Merithra and Nihil" he said, once again regretting that there was no family name.



"Let me show you your room", he offers.

During the tour Azurous got the impression that this task had been repeated to often recently and was beginning to wear at Gorlon’s nerves. He did seem to be making an effort to hide it however and Azurous found himself liking the man.



"Do you have any questions? Anything pertaining to your studies will be explained to you tomorrow, there will be a note on the black board in the common room where you have to go."

"No I think that covers all I need to know. Thank you for the tour, I hope to see you around.” he said smiling. Returning to his new, or at least current, room Azurous sat down on the bed to relax.

Two hours for a meal. How could anyone need two hours for a meal! Still more time to practise I suppose. As he layback thoughts seemed to appear in his mind. Not in any language ever used but coherent and with meaning. A rough translations would be “Scrya go scout?” A smile spread across his face as Azurous replied, in the same fashion, “Ok but no intruding and no deliberate spying, we are among friends.” Never one to waste time Scrya scampered off to explore. In a few hours a mental map would have formed showing Azurous the layout of the complex.

“Well guess I should go meet my peers.”

[TwoCents]

Minya


After a walk of a little more than a half-hour from Suzail, you arrive at the main gate of the university, where you are greeted by a guard wearing a chain shirt and carrying a longsword and a truncheon at his belt. After verifying that your name is on his list, he gives you directions to dorm I.

Minya arrived at the gate red-faced and puffing. She stubbornly ignored Atan's offers to help carry her things as she strode forward. She was angry. Angry that his legs were longer and she could never keep up. Angry that his back was stronger and she could barely carry her own bags. Angry that she had been ripped away from Waterdeep to attend this teeny tiny unimportant brand new never even heard of before upstart school in the wilderness. She was also tired, hungry, and sweaty, and it was barely after breakfast. This day was going just as badly as she expected and it was All His Fault, As Usual. Part of her wanted to walk as slowly as elvishly possible, just to annoy Atan, but part of her wanted to outrun him and make him struggle to catch up, as impossible a dream as that was.

Minya mopped her face gently with a lace handkerchief, and then smiled her thanks to the guard for his directions. Hoisting her bag back up with a snarl for her brother, she marched up towards the dorm. She stopped dead when the fountain came into view, ignoring the muffled curse from behind her as Atan avoided running her over. With loud thumps, her bags dropped unnoticed to the ground and she stared at the architecture. "How did they build that?, she muttered in Draconic, forgetting that she wasn't speaking to her brother. "Perhaps this place won't be such a total waste of my time after all..." Taking a deep breath for energy, she picked up her bags again and continued towards the dorm, moving much slower as she looked about at the sights.


You spot a door, walk towards it, and are greeted by a young man in blue robes and bright blue eyes. You walk down a hallway to a rather large common room featuring four tables with chairs and another small table surrounded by comfortable-looking sofas while he introduces himself.

"Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?"

Minya looked happily around the room, her eyes picking out a corner of one of the sofas which appeared perfect for nestling into with a good book. This room had promise. Realizing that her brother had finally stopped nattering on about archery ranges, she smiled at Gorlon and said, "My name is Minya Istaya."


[Gorlon] looks a little uncertain. "Do you two want to room together? The floors are mixed, but mixed rooms are ... unusual?"

"No, thank you," Minya said stiffly, ignoring her brother. "I would be happy to share a room, but not with Atan. My parents have not imposed that burden upon me."


"Do you have any questions? "

"This dorm is very nice, Gorlon. Where does the senior student live? Are you he, or will someone else be in charge of the building? Or will there be someone from the faculty living here? Also, what are the rules on library use?"


"Now now Gorgon, no need to get your feathers in a bundle I'll keep an eye on this whippersnapper, let the lady have her space and all, wot." Smidge made his way closer to the trio of people, Yah got to keep us outdoors types all in one place yah know, else we might get lost in these here buildings totally unnatural space, makes no sense, wot. Directing his attention to the two other students Smidge introduces himself, "Name's Smidge, by the by."

Minya looked him up and down, and then turned back to Gorlon, "How secure is the building?" Waiting for his answer, she muttered to her brother, "The LEFT one, Atan."

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Leaving his father's stables behind was freedom. The main gate of the university, rearing up higher as he approached, was heaven. I'm going to have to work to keep my scholarship every year... that means I'm going to have to be better than the best and brightest. Tasks don't grow small around here. He stood before the gate and nodded to the guard, "Liam Robartson. " The guard checked his list and nodded. "Just go in, turn right at the mundane college, left between the temple of Mystra and the dining hall. Jog a bit to the right and go between the College of Universal Magic and Dorm III, and you will see Dorm I ahead, and to the right." Liam nodded, "Thank you for your assistance." He hastened to follow the directions, and walked toward what seems to be the main door of Dorm I. A young man in blue robes, with bright blue eyes stepped forward as he approached. "Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?" Liam smiled and nodded, "Liam Robartson." Gorlon looked at a list in his hand and took a key from a chest on the table. "Let me show you your room." Liam followed the young man, walking down the torch-lit hallway. Stopping in front of a door, Gorlon opened it with the key. Gorlon said, "This is your room. You can put your luggage here, then I show you the rest of the building. Through that door is the bathroom. You share it with the room next door." Liam followed Gorlon back to the common room, watching and listening. "This is the common room, the kitchen is through this door. You share it with 30 other people, so please use it responsibly. The kitchenware and dishes are property of the university. If there are any problems, please discuss them with your floor before taking them to the administration. You saw the dining hall on your way here, opposite the chapel. They serve three meals a day, which are already included in your fee. Breakfast is before class, lunch between noon and 2 pm. Dinner is in the evening between 6 and 8 pm. The chancellor will give a welcome speech at 3 pm in the large auditorium of the arcane college, the northernmost of the three big buildings, and tonight at 8 pm there will be a floor meeting at which you can get to know the other students and switch rooms if you want to. Do you have any questions? Anything pertaining to your studies will be explained to you tomorrow, there will be a note on the black board in the common room where you have to go." Liam chuckled, "How many times have you repeated that speech today?" Gorlon smiled and shrugged, "Too many, welcome to the University." Liam looked around, "It looks impressive... I hope I can give it the same impression that it gives me." Gorlon raised an eyebrow speculatively, "Only time will tell, but I hope you fare well, Liam." Liam smiled, "Thank you!"

[Daryk]

Atan

Shocked speechless by his sister's first words directly to him in a month, Atan's jaw dropped slightly even as his left hand dropped to the ornate leather knife sheath at his left side. There was a matching sheath on the right as well. Uncertain as to what exactly had provoked Minya, his eyes shifted from Minya to the fey who had seemingly come out of nowhere. As his sister waited, he glanced at Gorlon, then turned slightly to the fey and asked, "I'm sorry. Did you say something?"

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

Walking up to a gate is a sight that no ones expects for an arcane college. A shorter than normal human in green fatigues and leather armor carrying a spear approaches the gate. He has a backpack but it seems fairly light compared to the other students arriving. The guard takes a long look at him before asking his name and business.

"Ah. Yes. My name is Trahone Korth. I am from the 23rd division of the Dalelands army. I am hear to train to become a greater asset." Trahone gathers himself to attention and gives the guard a shrt salute. The guard is about to ask if he is at the right school when he spots his name on the list. He then lets him in and tells him where to go. Just before Trahone goes through the gates, the guard suggests that he only says his name to others if he wants to fit in better. "Thank you for the advice."

Trahone wanders through the campus. He passes by the chapel with little interest. But the fountain catches his eye immediately. The battle scene appears so life like that he almost believes it to be real. Battle. Fight for survival. Using tactics to surprise the enemy and give yourself the advantage. If the lessons will be similar to this scene, then I think I might be able to survive. He tears himself away from watching the fountain to go in search of his dormitory.

Finding the building, Trahone meets Gorlon in the common room. "My name is Trahone Korth. I am from ... Dalelands and hoping ... to learn ... more about my talents." Gorlon looks at him and notices his appearance and shakes his head. He then finds his name and takes him to his floor. After listening to all the information given, he shakes his head and says "No questions about the rooms necessarily. However, could you tell me who is on my floor? I know that I will meet them tonight but I like to get to know my fellow floormates beforehand. Maybe introduce to a few students who have already arrived?"

[Lochar]

Emmis

Wandering out of his room, intent on something else, Emmis starts at the others. The small gnome's light blue eyes touch upon everyone quickly. "Oh, hi. I'm Emmis." He looks at the others. "And there's nothing unnatural about a building. Well, unless it's an illusion that you don't see through. Then it's not really a building I guess. But anyways. How are you all?"

[Secret Agent Man]

"Farewell, father," Emilius said softly as his father walked off into the distance, going out on another one of his soon-to-be-famous travels. He quickly collected himself and headed towards the gate. The guard at the gate greeted him and asked for his name.

"Emilius Fae, son of the great Francilus Fae," Emilius responded proudly. The guard seemed puzzled at the mention of some "great" man he's never even heard of before, but nevertheless proceeded to look up Emilius' name. found his name and let him in, giving him directions to the dormitory. Emilius marvelled at the two library towers and the amazing illousion in the fountain, but didn't dawdle too long. He made it to the dorms in about 40 minutes.


"Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?"

Emilius profoundly announced his name, as he did with the guard. The lab assitant nodded and led Emilius to his room. Upon seeing the windows, he thought to himself: Great. Perfect for letting Fury out whenever he wants too. The two continued with the tour of the dormitory. As the assistant gave him dates and times of specific things, Emilius quickly tried to commit them to memory to no avail. After asking the assistant to repeat himself two or three times, he ended up writing all of the information down. Having no questions for Gorlon, he headed back to his room, let Fury out, and finished unpacking his things.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam finishes unpacking his stuff, unconcerned about which room he is assigned. He goes into the bathroom and freshens up, then steps out into the hallway and walks down to the common room. Might as well wait there until lunch, since the Chancellor's speech is directly after... this would be a good time and place to greet my fellow classmates for our cohort of the university. I wonder if we'll all graduate together, or if some will fall on the wayside. He enters the empty common room and seats himself at a table. He opens a basic textbook on conjuration and begins perusing it. I know so many aspects of magic, but so little about the mundane; beyond the stableyard anyway... and so much of it is intertwined.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil Wyche

Aarenil approaches the gates, hand on his sword pommel, the other in the strap of his backpack, just in time to see a man with a spear head inside. He greets the guard with a smile and a salute. "Hello there friend, I hope that I have not arrived late. I am Aarenil Wyche, son of Estrianna and David Wyche. How do you do this fine day?"

After exchanging pleasantries with the guard and thanking him for the directions, Aarenil allows himself to be lead inside. He whistles upon seeing the statue and blows an errant lock of blonde hair out of his face as he looks up, but pays it less attention than did his comrades. Rather, he looks about at where people are gathering or would gather and tries to find suitable practice space, both for his sword and his books. As he reaches the dorms, he feels a swell of pride. Maybe my father once entered these very doors. He takes only a moment to appreciate that before entering the dorm.


"Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your name?"

Aarenil grins, teeth showing. "Hello, Gorlon. I am Aarenil Wyche, son of Estrianna and David Wyche. I believe my father attended this fine school in his younger years." As he listens to Gorlon's speech, he nods and occasionally replies in the affirmative. "I will look forward to the meetings! I have only one simple question: Where is the library? I fear I may be spending a large amount of time there."

When Gorlon has showed him his room, he carefully places his bag upon his bed and begings unloading his meager number of possessions, save those he keeps in the bag for emergency purposes. Thanks, mom. And then he goes about introducing himself to the others. (If he sees her,) He first begins with Minya. He approaches her smiling, and takes a deep bow, blowing the fallen lock out of his face as he rises. "Hello, my lady, it is a fine morning to begin a new day, is it not?"

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

In his room, Trahone unpacks his limited supplies. He puts his armor and weapons away in his closet. No reason to have those one me. After a brief pause, he reconsiders and keeps his dagger on him but out of sight. But wariness can keep a man alive.

Once he is finished, Trahone leaves his room and finds a group of students in the hallway. He reaches the group in time to hear the gnome state his name. "Illusions, huh? Other than they have many uses, I do not know much about them. I did enjoy the fountain illusion as I made my way here. How about you? My name is Trahone, by the way, from Dalelands. The hike from town invigorated me, reminded me a little of home." He offers his hand to the gnome.

[Lochar]

Emmis

The gnome nods, grinning as he shakes Trahone's hand. "Beautiful work. Apparently, the dean of illusions created it. I'm hoping that I get to meet him and learn from him. He looks to be a master. I'm from the Green Hills in the Heartlands, by the way. Father sent me here when he heard about this school opening, and saw how adept I was with our own little abilities."

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

"You fancy illusions to be your specialty? Very interesting. I have no idea what I am talented with. All I know is that weird things have happened to me in the past. Then one of my commanding officers told me that it was magic. He then asked if I want to learn more. I decided that I would be a better asset to my squad if I did learn more. So he pulled a few strings and I was able to come here." Pausing, Trahone realized that he just told everyone that he was from the army. Idiot. I am an idiot. I was warned not to mention that. A worried expression appears on his face.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Struggling undedr the weight of his pack the halfling trudges up to the Gate. As he approaches the guard he sets his bulging pack down with a clink of glass and crockey. Good morning sir. I'm supposed to report here for schooling. I believe this is the college of magic?
-----------------
After being shown the way he trudges up into the building and meets the lab assistant. Well met isr, sorry I am late. My parents loaded me down with more junk than I may need but, you know how parents can be. He follows Gorlon through the tour and into his room where he gingerly sets his pack down. He then shrugs off the weight and rolls his shoulders around a little. He then follows the assistant through the tour comments on the quality of the facilities and accomodations. Once finished he returns to his room and carefully packs away his gear. He double checks his portable brewery and stows it for later. Washing his face and hands from road dust, he quickly changes into cleaner clothes and sets the traveling clothes out to wash them later.
------------------

Stepping out into the hallway to explore a little more on his own he approaches the knot of students and says cheerily Afternoon everyone. I see that we are all new here. I'm Lirt Lagerhome, of the family that makes the Lagerhome Brew.

Catching the drift of the conversation It was a very nice fountain, too bad about it not being real. Water like that makes for some realy fine beers.

[AngelForm]

Leaving his room much as he found it Azurous enters the corridor to see a group of people he assumes are students. Walking towards them he overhears that one of them seems to be from the military. Nice to have someone else around that knows what to do in a fight, not that we should need it.

Catching the topic of the conversation he says politely “The fountain is indeed a master peace, however I myself am more interested in the spell work that created it than the art itself. I have seen much of dragons.” He shrugs almost apologetically.


Deciding it would be best to have an extra pair of ears Azurous calls out for his familiar, fortunately scrya was still in the dorm and quickly returned, climbing to his customary place about his masters neck.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil Wyche

Though Aarenil tries to pay attention to what the others are saying, he can clearly see that Minya is not happy, and does not think anyone should be so on their first day at school, so he engages her in conversation. He notes to anyone who approaches him that he feels that though he knows a fair amount concerning the magical arts, he has yet to really practice any of it, but he is ready to get started.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Interesting, he thinks as he reads his book and half-listens to the conversation in the corridor outside. We have a common room, and most of our cohort prefers to meet in the hallway. He chuckles slightly to himself. Perhaps when lunch is served that will change.

[Lochar]

Emmis

Done talking to the others for the moment, Emmis nods to them and wanders out of the dorm room.

He goes to the temple to pay his respects, before going to the fountain again and sitting there, watching it and taking notes on the illusion.

[Greyen]

Lirt

The small slighty beer smelling halfling says Well looks like we have some time to kill. Anyone up to go wander the grounds and explore a little bit? I want to get a feel for this place before we get to much going on. Lirt waits a moment for a response then heads outside wether or not anyone is with him.

He goes outside and marks his place on the grounds in relation to the other buildings well. It was never wise to get lost, especially in regards to where you sleep. He begins to wander the grounds meeting the employees and mages, looking at the buildings and getting a good feel for where everything is before the next

[Randel]

Weston

After getting his things in order, Weston checks the time and decides to explore the grounds for a while. Not quite sure why the school put off the welcoming speech until so late in the day, he figures he might as well kill some time making sure he knows where everything is.

"I just hope our classes aren't this far-between." he says to himself. "I'm paying enough for this schooling I should at least get something from the staff here."

He walks by the illusion again, frowning a little as he looks at it. "Hmp. An illusion? Why can't they just make statues like normal people?" Despite his frown he has to admit that its a good illusion... captures the moment nicely. But making images out of... well... nothing more than an image just grates on him for some reason.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

"I might explore the grounds in a little while. But for now, I wonder if there is anything to drink in our lounge." Trahone leaves the group in the hallway and heads to the common room. He stops by his room to pick up his mug. He then wanders into the kitchen to and finds that the only thing available to drink is water. Better than nothing, I guess. He fills his mug and wanders through the door to check out the lounge. Startled by the presence of a student already there, Trahone spills a little bit of his drink onto the floor. "Oh. Hello. I did not think that anyone else was in here. My name is Trahone." He approaches closer to the man sitting at the table to offer his hand. "What are you reading?" He asks and then takes a sip from his mug.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

The man who is reading here looks up and smiles, "Hello, my name is Liam." He sets the book aside and stands, holding out his hand and giving Trahone's a firm shake. He gestures to another seat at the table, "Please join me. I thought I'd get some reading in on Basic Conjuration while I was waiting for lunch, and consequently also get a chance to meet some of my fellow students before Lorelion's meeting." He resumes his seat, "So, are you from around here, or did you travel to join the University?"

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

Taking the offered seat, Trahone responds, "Conjuration? Is that your specialty?" After taking another sip, "I am trying to get to know some others as well. And no, I from Dalelands. How about yourself?" First illusion. Now conjuration. I do not even know what I am capable of. I wonder if I am truly cut out for this place. A worried look comes and goes from his face, as Trahone takes another sip.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam chuckles and shakes his head, "No, no specialty... yet anyway. All magic fascinates me. I suppose I've accumulated as much arcane knowledge as any beginning generalist might know at this point, but no one area has called to me yet." He looks thoughtful for a moment, "That's good though, don't most specialists have to give up certain schools of magic to focus on their speciality? I can't imagine wanting to give up any of them." He leans back in his chair, "What is it that draws you to magic - or what magic do you draw to yourself?" He looks at you with frank and curious interest. I wonder what I said to draw such a sour expression from him... he looks like I feel when I'm about to take a test that I'm not sure I studied enough for.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

"I can understand that sentiment. I, however, know little about magic and the study of it. I will go along with your suggestion that there are limits if you specialize. It makes sense and I have seen that happen with other things in my life." Trahone pauses to finish the rest of his mug as Liam asks his question. The drink seems to relax him a little and he actually seems a little cheerful.

"That is a very interesting question. I am not sure if I am drawn to magic or it draws me. But a few things have happened in my life that can only be explained with magic. Nothing major mind you, but enough that a man I respect and trust thought that I should learn about my potential."

That is better than the hallway. Tell the truth but not the whole truth. But this seems like a decent fellow. I should not keep lies from him. I will tell him the truth. Just ... not... now. Who knows? He might be willing to help me if I have trouble with my studies.

"Tell me Liam, have any strange things with magic happen to you? I mean that I know that magic is powerful and can make the unexpected happen. But anything truly strange? Like knowing something you have no way of knowing? Or trying to doing something that you should ... not be able to?" Cursing a bit too loud, "I do not think I am getting my point across." After taking a deep breath to calm down, Trahone apologizes for his language.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil Wyche

Oh, she must be terribly busy. I fear I have interrupted. After Minya returns his greeting, Aarenil turns away and heads for the lounge to find others. Maybe she will come find me when she is done unpacking.

His furrowed brow and down-turned mouth quickly become a bright white smile as he sees the two gentlemen in the lounge. "Hello there! Mind if I join you?" Bah, why didn't I think to leave my sword and armor in the room. These people must think me some meat-headed warrior. Mysha's magical orbs! Sorry, mother. Aarenil waits for them to offer a place in the conversation before sitting.

At the mention of specialties, he leans forward, a glint in his eye. Then he quickly sits back, pondering. Whew, I have a lot of catching up to do here. When there seems to be a lull in the conversation, he asks, "How long did you gu... gentlemen practice the arts before coming to the school? I'm afraid I, like you, have very little experience in actual practice and have just been confined to the study of books."

But reconsidering, he shrugs, smiles, and asks a new question. For that matter, what are your names? I am Aarenil Wyche, but you can call me Aaren or what have you.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam considers Trahone's question, but shakes his head with a lopsided grin. "No... nothing ever happened to me with magic, not through lack of desire." He leans back, tilting his chair a bit, "You see, my father always told me my mother was a sorceress, and I believed him. I saw her magic as an escape from a rather mundane, and to me, hopeless life. I so wanted magic, that I read everything I could about it. It was rather like an obsession with me." He shakes his head, "But I had no magic in my blood... and it was shortly after I realized that that I came to understand that didn't mean I couldn't have magic in my life. Some of the greatest minds of magic have no inherent sorcery; but rather years of study and work..."

Liam pauses, tilting forward again as another student walks into the room. "Hello, to you. Please, do join us." He nods to the new fellow, "Aarenil, I am Liam, and this is Trehone." He gestures to the other student as he says his name. "Sit down if you wish, we were just getting to know one another while awaiting lunch. To answer your earlier question, before I came here I studied at the School of Magic in Suzail which opened in the same year as this University. In a few short years we covered the basics of magic and spellcraft, so I can cast a few simple cantrips only at this point." He glances between the newcomer and Trehone, letting the conversation develop. I think I won't prod Trehone about whatever his "experience" was. It doesn't seem to be something he would likely want to talk about in a crowd; perhaps I'll ask him about it later.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil

Relieved to have met such fine fellows, Aarenil presses on. "I, myself, have no magical blood either. And though my mother's kind have long since been practiced at such things, my father is the one who trained me. But like you said, it takes years, and as of right now, I cannot manifest a thing. I assume, from what my father has told me, that it will be some way into our second year before I have mastered even the basics, so it seems that you have an edge on me, Mr. Ravenquill, or can I call you 'Liam'?" As he talks, Aarenil fingers the hilt of his sword, feeling its reassuring cool metal, tracing the designs as he has done since he was first given it.

He twists his mouth to the side. "I admit, I am already anxious for class to begin. I do hope they offer something to do with the ethics of magic. The subject fascinates me, especially concerning the use of divination and illusion in criminal trials."

He shrugs again and pauses.

OOC: Sorry for interrupting the conversation, it appears that Aarenil does not seem to gather that something of a 'mystery' had passed between the two interlocutors.

And I guess Aarenil just forgot momentarily which college his father went to. I must have misread the age of this one! Haha, no matter.

Also, is there a set class schedule, or are we free to choose our own?

[Greyen]

Lirt

Wandering around the grounds, getting lost a little bit tankes a short time for the halfling. He quickly finds his way back to the central fountain. He approaches the gnome studying the fountain. Good morning sir. I noticed that you are on my floor with the other new students, but I didn't catch your name. The dark haired halfling sticks his calloused and stained, but clean, hand out to shake I'm Lirt by the way.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

"Nice to meet you Aaren. My name is Trahone, Liam. Not Trehone. But it is an honest mistake. I guess I have a little bit of magic in my blood. But I am not sure. The whole idea of me being a mage is still new to me." Trahone places his mug down on the table. "If you do not mind me asking Aaren, why are you wearing armor and a sword? I did not think that mages could be so proficient in melee combat. At least they are not where I am from."

[AngelForm]

Following the general move Azurous enters the common room in time to catch the end of the end of a conversation. He also sees that one of the students is fully armed, odd to be so equipped in a collage.

“Greetings all I am Azurous, son of Merithra and Nihil. Having innate magic is no great advantage, in my opinion it only limits your potential as your powers are preset. Those who push back the boundaries off magic are those who earn it not those who are given it!" realising his tone he considers for a moment, guess its best to say now than later, then continues in a less sour tone. “My apologies but all my siblings have power in there blood that I lack and…” Shrugging Azurous wonders if they will comment on his attitude, his hair or on scrya first.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil

"Oh yes, these. Well, I've been training with them for some time now, so I hardly remember I am wearing them. I merely forgot to take them off as I..." Aarenil turns in the middle of the answer to his question to note the newcomer's entrance. Again his face moves from the scrunch of trying to answer the question to a smile.

He waits for Azurous to finish and then interjects rapidly. "No, no, I am entirely in agreement with you. It is the study of an art, the practice and refinement of an art that makes it truly beautiful...er, that is to say, magical. Because, as both my parents have said in their own different ways, it is not our destination, but the path we take which matters most. I can kill an opponent with this sword, but inherent in my training is a basic desire not to do so, and that is the truest art." Aarenil pauses and takes a deep breath, then smiles again, bashfully. "Heh, sorry, is any of this making sense? I fear I spend a lot of time with the philosophy of a thing. Oh, and I, by the way, am Aarenil Wyche." He takes as much of a bow as he can while twisted around in his seat.

And then his eyes widen. "Oh, is that your familiar? What's his name? Is he any fun? Father's owl was always such a bore."

[Lochar]

Lirt

Wandering around the grounds, getting lost a little bit tankes a short time for the halfling. He quickly finds his way back to the central fountain. He approaches the gnome studying the fountain. Good morning sir. I noticed that you are on my floor with the other new students, but I didn't catch your name. The dark haired halfling sticks his calloused and stained, but clean, hand out to shake I'm Lirt by the way.

Emmis

The gnome looks away from the fountain for a moment. "Emmis Minas. Pleased to meet another person I don't have to look up at." He grins at that.

[AngelForm]

Azurous

A bright smile spreads across Azurous face, relived they had not taken offence.
“Glad to meet you Aarenil, yes this is Scrya my close friend and familiar.” Scrya then jumps onto the table to inspect the others more thoroughly, “he seems to think I’m blind and deaf and is determined to make up for it.”
“Do any of you have a familiar, or picked an animal to become one?”

[Irrealist]

In the door to the common room appears a roast chicken in midair, headless and flapping what used to be its wings.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil

"Have a seat Azurous. I've always been a cat person my..." Aarenil looks confusedly at the chicken. "What is that?"

[Irrealist]

The roast chicken flaps away into the corridor.

[Daryk]

Atan and Minya

As the silence stretched uncomfortably between Gorlon, the fey, his sister, and himself, Atan noticed another human approach and try to say something to Minya. Since no one had said anything, Atan backed away from Gorlon and the fey.

"Well, it seems you two have something to discuss," he said, by way of farewell. Heading back to his room at the far end of the top floor, he tried to draw Minya after him, despite the fact Gorlon and the fey were standing in front of her room. She had spoken to him for the first time in a month! The pointed glance she shot him, then her door, prompted him to help her stow her luggage first. As she shut the door, he said, "Minya, I--"
"Don't think I'm not still mad at you," she said, cutting him off.
"Uh, ok..."
"No matter how mad you make me, you're still my brother. And I think we need to stick together. But don't think I'm happy about being a thousand miles away from my friends."
"Look, I'm sorry. But you know I'm not cut out for this. And Mother and Father know it, too, even if they won't admit it."
"Why couldn't you have been first, then I wouldn't have to deal with this."
"Oh come on! It was two minutes!"
"Tell them that!"
Well into rehashing a century-old argument, the siblings had it out for a few minutes before reemerging from Minya's room and heading down to the common room, Atan trailing behind his sister.

The conversation between Minya and Atan was worked out off thread. Don't try this at home! Just say "no" to god-modding!
As far as rooms, if I'm wrong about mine being on the second floor, please let me know.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil

"Anyone?"

As the two newcomers enter, Aarenil's mouth still hangs open. "Did you two pass a flying roast chicken on your way here?" And then his face turns bright red as he notices who has entered. He stands ceremoniously. "May I offer you a seat, my lady?" And pulling up a chair, he offers a seat to the man as well.

Bowing, he introduces himself again, and then goes to find a chair for himself.

OOC:
Sorry for the wealth of posts today! It was a particularly slow one!

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Azurous looks in shock at the apparition, his bewilderment amplified by Scrya’s own coming across the empathic link. Recovering slightly he says “Must have been an illusion.”
Meanwhile Scrya follows the chicken, possibly checking it for edibility.

[Wiz]

Liam (not Ravenquill yet, so I'll take that out - just call him Liam)

Liam looks thoughtful, "Interesting... I'm not sure what it was exactly. Though there are a number of magical effects that might have emulated it, illusion seems the most likely." He nods to the newcomer and his familiar, "Greetings, Azurous... Scrya." His eyes seem far away for a moment, "I actually raised several pet ravens at home, but didnt' bring any to the college. I've read so many arguments for and against the bonding of familiars that I thought I'd give matters a little time before finally deciding."

[Irrealist]

In the hallway, near the exit door stands a grinning Gorlon. The broiler flaps towards him, then disappears without a trace. "It's lunchtime. Are you ready for something to eat? I am starving, but then I've been up all day awaiting the firsties." Next to him stands a barefoot, shy-looking halfling with curly brown hair, wearing a dark brown tunic. He grins awkwardly at you, but doesn't say anything.

"Just drop off your bag and join us, I'll give you the talk after lunch.", Gorlon says to him. "This is Elda Tealeaf, necromanceress-to-be. Why don't you introduce yourselves on the way to the dining hall?" The halfling blushes a little and tries desperately not to stare at the floor. Only now that he mentions it do you recognize that "he" is actually a young woman.

Gorlon pins a note to the dorm door that reads "I am at lunch. Be back at 13. Come to the dining hall or wait in the common room. - Gorlon, the Introducer" There is a tiny script at the bottom of the note that you can't read from afar. (If you want to read it, look inside the spoiler)
you get closer to the note and read: "explosive runes... just kidding"
Gorlon can't suppress a grin as the first of you squints to read the fine print. "Let's go", he says and leads you to the dining hall.

The dining hall is a huge hall, a square almost a hundred feet each side. Tables stand in five orderly rows, sitting five people at each side. At next to the doors that presumably lead to the kitchen, a buffet stands on tables covered with a clean white tablecloth. Stacks of plates and baskets with knives, forks and spoons are at one end, where a four elder students stand in line for bowls of hot vegetable soup, plates of steaming cabbage, carrots and even a few slices of meat.

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/7871/unidiningrq6.th.png (http://img255.imageshack.us/my.php?image=unidiningrq6.png)

[Wiz]

Liam

The tall, gangly black-haired fellow rises and is the first to squint at Gorlon's second joke, shaking his head at the self-proclaimed "Introducer." He nods to the halfling with a smile, "Good day, Miss Tealeaf, I am Liam.. Robartson." There is only the slightest pause as he uses the surname that identifies his father.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil

With a sigh, Aarenil gets up for lunch. Well, I may never get a chance to talk with her. Either way, he ends up quite engaged with Liam's latest inquiry, and he discusses it in length on the way to the dining hall. "Now that is a very interesting train of thought. I wonder if my father ever wrote anything about familiars. I have not yet been able to read all of his books. He is quite verbose, and that translates well in his writings." He looks over at his companions and shrugs, raising two arms in the air. "Well, I'd say they seem to enjoy it. Look at Scrya there. I don't see a problem with it, so long as they are treated well. What say you, Trahone?"

Again forgetting himself, he finishes by introducing himself to the halfling girl, and flashing her a smile.

[Irrealist]

She looks at each of you in turn and brings up the resolve to say "Hi, I'm Elda. Nice to meet you." without opening her mouth much. At a loss at what else to say, she seems to shrink back a little and her eyes wander to the floor. Sweat starts to form on her forehead and she unconsciously rubs her palms against her tunic.

[Lochar]

Emmis

A light rumbling comes from Emmis' stomach, and he laughs. "I think I'm hungry. Come on Lirt, let's go see what's cooking in the dining hall."

[AngelForm]

Azurous

“Having an empathic bond is an amazing experience, but I would advise you to make sure you like an animal before you bond with it.” Laughing Azurous continues “My sister Tyrygosa keeps threatening to cook here current familiar.”

Azurous heads out and towards the dining room. Scrya emits an almost human “eek” as his master translates the smaller pictures as the image of an explosion in his face.

Bowing to the shy halfling Azurous names himself “Nice to meet you Elda Tealeaf my name is Azurous, son of Merithra and Nihil. I hope we can be friends.” Adding in the semi privacy of his head, you look like you could use one.

Following Gorlon he says in a conspiratorial tone “I would be wary, my familiar has been known to take revenge for pranks without my knowledge.” Looking at his face it is impossible to see if he is being serious or playful.

[Wiz]

Liam

The tall, dark Chondathan looks thoughtful, "If I wanted a familiar, I would pick a raven, I think. Likely one I'd raised myself. I know a bit about training animals, though ravens are so smart I hesitate to classify them as simply animals. I've always identified with them... the only creature I know who is simply too smart for their station in life." He pauses, realizing he's being self-aggrandizing.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt says to the gnome Yup, us little folk have to stick together sometimes. He pauses sniffing I think I smell food, you want to go check it out?

[TwoCents]

Minya

A book nestled under one arm, Minya walked down to the common room, hoping a few minutes of pleasant reading would calm her nerves, roiled up as usual by conflict with Atan. She stopped suddenly at the sight of the chicken rolling towards her. Laughing gaily, she said, "Look, brother! The cook has a sense of humor! I wonder if this will be test of our creativity; 'First, catch a chicken' as the famous recipe begins." Still giggling like the teenager she was, Minya neatly skirted the bird and then walked into the common room. She paused at the entrance when she noticed the crowd, and blushed shyly.


Aarenil
As the two newcomers enter, Aarenil's mouth still hangs open. "Did you two pass a flying roast chicken on your way here?" And then his face turns bright red as he notices who has entered. He stands ceremoniously. "May I offer you a seat, my lady?" And pulling up a chair, he offers a seat to the man as well.

Bowing, he introduces himself again, and then goes to find a chair for himself.

Minya turned quickly to get out of the way of whoever was behind her, only then realizing that Aarenil meant herself. "Oh, no, 'my lady' isn't really appropriate, Aarenil," she said, blushing hotly, "Mother would be Lady Istaya; just call me Minya. Oh, and this lunkhead is my brother Atan. He likes trees." She eagerly sat down in the seat Aarenil suggested and then continued, "Yes, I did note the chicken. It looks like this will be an interesting place to study." She paused for a moment, a distant look on her face and then went to open a window. Soon, a raven flew in and landed on the table. In a grumbling voice, he screetched at Minya in Draconic:
"I don't know what your problem is, Missy! This is a very nice place. One of the gardeners even gave me a juicy grasshopper. You need to stop being so picky--" "Shush! Scold me later, you." "Ohhhh, making new friends already, I see. So much for 'nobody there will ever like me', hmmm? Fine, I can wait."

After a short dialogue, the bird settled down to preening, after a beady-eyed glance and a collegial nod towards the weasel.

At Gorlon's invitation, Minya scrambled up and followed them to lunch, after quickly putting her book back in her room. She wished she'd had a chance to bathe first, especially as she felt especially dusty and sweaty, but she was hungry. She stopped for a moment to read the note, blanched, and then giggled again. She raced a bit to catch up with the group.

"Ah, everyone? I am Minya Istaya, and this is my friend Cerpe of the sharp tongue," she said, indicating the raven now perched on her shoulder. "Atan is my brother, and we are from Waterdeep." She turned to Elda and said, "It's wonderful to meet you. I'm more interested in evocation spells myself, but I do think necromantic spells have their place in magic. Like all spells, it is not the necromantic nature of the spell itself that determines the 'good' or 'evil' of an act, but rather the use and intent of the spellcaster... Oh, sorry," she said, blushing again, "I'm going on rather a lot, aren't I. Oh, look, the dining hall!" she finished, brightly, hoping no one would notice her lapse into pedagogy.

Apparently, this morning was a particularly bad time for the computer to get the hiccups. Things are zipping along!

[Wiz]

Liam

Liam nods to the young lady and her bird, "Good day Minya... Cerpe..." He smiles, "I think all schools of magic have their uses for good or ill, but it seems human nature that we sometimes ascribe darker import to the arcane arts that are more... disturbing to our sensibilities."

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Stopping to let Scrya return to his neck Azurous hears a young elf introduce herself.
“Greetings Minya and Cerpe, I am Azurous, son of Merithra and Nihil, this is Scrya. It is nice to know I’m not the only one with a familiar.”

“I my self prefer not to sacrifice diversity for power, but I know that doing so can have its advantages.” Both Scrya and Azurous’s own stomach make it clear that they have a preference to further conversation. “Could we talk more over lunch? I would be interested to know what branches you gave up.” This question is directed at both Minya and Elda.

Azurous then continues towards the dining hall.


Has been a lot of posting today, just glad my collage is out or I would never have been able to keep up :smallwink:

[Lochar]

Emmis

"Sure. Let's go." Emmis will head towards the dining hall.

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan scowled as Minya introduced Cerpe before him, and all the other students said hello to the stupid bird. It had been bad enough over the last month having to speak through the raven if he had anything to say to his sister. Now he was somewhere behind it in the social order.

He'd left his bow and sword in his room, but kept the matched knives at his belt, and remained dressed in his leathers. School or no, they were comfortable, and he'd feel naked without them. Lost in thought, and ignored by his sister's new acquaintances, Atan strode to the dining hall, unaware of how far behind he'd left the rest of the group until he arrived at the door and found himself alone. He paused for a moment, considering, then entered the hall and queued up behind the four apparent upperclassmen. As he worked his way down the buffet, he piled his plate high with as much meat and vegetables as he was allowed, and balanced a bowl of soup in his other hand. He selected an empty table, and tore into his food. Arguing with his parents in the morning had killed his appetite for breakfast, and speaking with his sister for the first time in a month had restored it with a vengeance.

[The_Snark]

Nuale

She had arrived slightly early, rather than later. Lateness was not a habit permitted in a slave. She was her own person now, of course, but after careful consideration, she'd seen no reason to stop being punctual. It was a good habit to have, especially for somebody fending for herself; she needed to carve out a solid life for herself in the next few years. Which meant working hard here; she'd be better off for it.

Early or not, the assistant (an older student, she wondered?) was already greeting people. She introduced herself (simply Nuale; she hadn't taken a surname yet, and wasn't sure if or when she would), and inspected the room, which was perfectly livable; like the room of an inn, and a nice one at that. Given that it was costing less than taking an inn room and meals for the same amount of time, that was quite good. Quite good. Unpacking her belongings hadn't taken more than a few minutes; she was used to travelling light. What magic she had—a few parchments' worth—went in the desk drawer.

And of course, once she was asked whether she had any questions, she found she didn't have any. Nuale was sure there were things she would think to ask later, but actually being asked seemed to wipe them from her mind. Funny how that happened. After a moment of thought, she'd simply said, "I'll ask later if I think of anything. For now, I think I'll look around the campus."

And that had been that. It was another of her habits to know her way around the place where she'd be living, and given how much she had moved around, she was pretty good at that. She liked the campus, which was neatly laid out and easier to keep track of than part of a city was; the walls would make it easier to find individual buildings, she thought. And after a few minutes, her loop around the campus brought her back close to the dining hall just as a group of people was entering from the direction of the dorms, the lab assistant (Gorlon) among them. Time to eat, and to start meeting people, I suppose. I'll be living near them, so I had better.

She follows the others in at the tail end of the group, speaking up as they move towards the buffet table. "Are you all new to the school, then?" she asks, drawing attention to herself. It was always a little tricky to meet a group of people all at once, especially if they all knew one another—but she'd caught the tail end of an introduction, so perhaps they didn't.

[Wiz]

Liam

The tall man doesn't have to strain much to see over the group and catch sight of some others. I thought she had merely been speaking of her brother, but that must be him. There also was another girl, quite comely, but perhaps shy like the halfling who was attatching herself to the back of the party. "Atan... Nuale, I am Liam. Welcome to our cohort of the univeristy." He drops back in the newly forming line, positioning himself next to Nuale. "I think we are all new here, I'm here to study general magic... no specialization. What of yourself?" He smiles at the girl.

[The_Snark]

Nuale

She mulls over how to answer that. "I suppose you might call it theoretical magic? I know enough to puzzle out most spells, but it takes me a while, and casting them doesn't really interest me." She shrugs; that was probably a definite minority opinion here. But it was good to have her guess that they were also new students affirmed. Although come to think, even if they were older, they'd still have been neighbors and fellow students. "It's good to meet you, Liam." She hesitates over whether to offer a hand in greeting, then does so anyway, erring on the side of politeness.

[Wiz]

Liam

Liam takes the proffered hand and smiles, "Actually, that's one of my main areas of interest. Studying arcane lore and the power of the Weave, which underlies all magic." He shrugs, "Though I have to admit, I do like spellcraft as well." He looks at Nuale, "So, where are you from? I'm actually from this area myself... my father has his business in Suzail."

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt and the gnome walk toward the dining hall easily catching up with the rest of the group which while filled with taller faster races is a larger group and everyone knows that large groups travel slower than anything else, much like a caravan. As the passel of new students push their way into the dining hall a small but loud a clear voice calls out cheerilyExcuse me! Clear the way! Women and small folk first! This is punctuated by the swift jabbing of a small finger into a knee or thigh. As you turn to see what it is a small mop of darkbrown hair swiftly scoots by you with a barely audible Thank you.

As the halfling skirts and pokes his way to the front of the food line and collects himself a tray of food, you see him point at one of the over large casks of ale on the back wall See that one, don't drink that one. Their hops have 'black flake' a nasty hop fungus. He points at the next keg This one is good stuff, but its impure. The last word is said like a curse They use corn malt to give it that extra bite, impure. The next keg mark is eyed critically Nothing wrong with the Golden Forest brews, just boring and weak, but nothing wrong.

Ahh, I knew it was there. See that next one, that's mine. He points to a cask with symbol of a simple house with 2 crossed stalks of barley behind it. I knew they wouldn't be paying me tutition with just gold. Ol' Master Thomil wouldn't let them, no way.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

The sudden noise and increase of population in the common room seemed to have made Trahone fall silent. He nods his greetings to each newcomer. This is slightly too many people to meet at once. I would much rather meet them in smaller groups. About the size of my scout group is good. Two to three of us. That is really good to gather information. Was that a flying a roast chicken? Man, I am so hungry I must be hallucinating. Or maybe it is another illusion? Why can't it be like back at the fort, let out a holler to let people know food is ready?

The movement out of the room wakes Trahone from his thoughts. Answering Aaren "Familiars do seem nice. I am not sure whether or not I want one though." He sees and listens Gorlon introduce the new student. At least I am not the only one scared about this experience. Thankfully my training has helped deal with fear better than others. I should help her since it seems she has not had that training. After most of the group heads toward the dining hall, Trahone approaches the new student.

"It is fine to be nervous or scared about a new experience. I know that I am. This is all very new to me. My name is Trahone. Let me help you with your bags and then we can head to the dining hall."

[Randel]

Weston

Weston entered the dining hall and got out a plate. Then, he filled his plate up with vegetables and fish and a large glass of green tea.

To be honest, he didn't like the taste of vegetables or tea for that matter... like many people he had a good fondness for sweets and meaty foods like mashed potatoes and gravy... or sweet juices or other things.

But his mentor had insisted that anyone who wishes to practice the magic arts has to have a vitamin-rich diet. Vegetables are brain food and a wizard needs brains to practice his craft... and tea helps keep you young and healthy.

Looking down at the unappetizing dish of flavorless 'health food' he cracks a little smile... the same smile his own mentor had cracked when he had first set him down to eat a meal with him.

"Prestidigitation." he says and waves his hand a little over the plate of vegetables and fish then a little over his tea.

With a fork he stabs a bit of spinach now turned a golden brown like steak. Plopping it in his mouth he savors its flavor and takes a sip of green-tea now cooled, flavored, and colored like red wine.

[Irrealist]

When Trahone helps her with her bags, she looks up at him. "Thank you, you are very nice."


Bowing to the shy halfling Azurous names himself “Nice to meet you Elda Tealeaf my name is Azurous, son of Merithra and Nihil. I hope we can be friends.”
Thank you, I'l like that too., she replies. She even joins your discussion of necromancy, using a short pause to throw in "Actually, I wanted to be a healer. But my father said every fool can be a cleric, because it doesn't take brains to believe, and I should use my talents better." She beams widely, obviously proud at her achievement.

She gets in line with you, stepping on the small bench set before the buffet so people her size can reach the food, and fills her plate. She seems to have a healthy appetite for someone her size.

Gorlon excuses himself: "I'll just go over and sit with my friends. Enjoy yourselves and see you later at the dorm."

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan cracked a smile as one of his fellow students 'prepared' his food with a little magic. While he appreciated the trick, he had learned to live without it essentially to spite his parents. Certainly, Uncle Vanya never used magic for such trivialities. Food was food. In his current ravenous state, the school's kitchens were more than sufficient. Even if he could have cast the spell, he wasn't sure he would bother. Now that he stopped to think about it, the food was actually quite good. The meat was a bit sparse, but the carrots and cabbage were cooked just enough to be tender, and the soup was well seasoned. The tea wasn't his mother's particular blend, but it was more than passable. As he finished his plate, he moved to fetch another. Joining the line at the end, he noticed some of the crowd from the dormitory, chatting among themselves.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil

My, but it's getting crowded now! Aarenil stops mid-sentence as Liam slips to the back to meet the newcomer, and then changes his line of thought to engage Minya, Atan, and Elda. "Oh! Are you interested in the morality of magic too? I've always found the "magic is a tool used by its wielder" metaphor to be apt, but there has been some excellent scholarly work done on the subject of necromancy showing that it does indeed draw from some evil source to work..." His face turns red again. "Err... Mind you Elda, that wanting to be a healer is a noble goal indeed. The healers in my part of Silverymoon have saved my mother quite often." And besides, what do I know? Dragon crap.

Aarenil sits at the table closest to the buffet line, waiting to see who sits with him. A slow grin spreads across his face. "Hey! Did anyone else realize that there isn't any chicken today! And I got all hungry for that too." As he adjusts his sword again, he remembers the first thing he has to do after lunch. He waves Liam and Trahone over as they enter, and welcomes any one else who wishes to sit with him.

[harmonictempest]

Epsun Penderdark

Gnome legs were short enough before the weight of the breastplate. Still, slow and steady lasts a lot longer than quick and stupid, and he was here now, and without serious mishap. After a quick nod to the guard, he was through, and surveyed the campus with an appraising eye. With a shrug of approval and a bow toward the temple of Mystra, he headed across the campus, pausing in front of the image.

That's the sort of beasts I'll be fighting some day, Mystra willing. He clutched the hilt of his mace, and studies both figures for a moment, hoping to remember them if he manages to see them in a library book later. Well, better get to the dorm before I'm any later.

When he ushered into the building, he politely interrupts halfway through the man's obviously rehearsed introduction. I'm sure you've done this a dozen times already - if you'd rather just point me in the direction of the room, I'm sure I'll figure it out fast enough. With a quick grab, he snatches the keys out of the air with a smile, and strides down the hall to his room.

No use wasting any time here - let's see who else has shown up so far. He thankfully shed the breastplate, weapons, and pack, and splashed some water on his face in the bathroom. Catching sight of his face in the mirror, he grimaced. Here's hoping people I meet see more than that scar, he thinks, fingering it thoughtfully, then heads out into the hall. Following the general crowd, he soon ends up in he dining hall. Falling in behind two fellows about his own height, he catches the tail end of their exchange.

"Well, far be it from me to slight the family brew. Let me buy one for you two, if that's not...well, a little backwards or anything." He ends with a slight laugh.

OOC: talking to Lirt and the gnome (sincere apologies that I can't remember your name!). Your first impression would be of a dark-haired gnome with a ragged red scar running down his left cheek.

[Lochar]

Emmis (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54165)

"Just one, between the two of us? I do hope you'll at least spring for a second mug so we can split it properly then." Emmis laughs, holding out his hand. His eyes sit on the scar for a moment, before dismissing it. He could ask later, when there weren't a dozen other people around. "Emmis Minas, I'm here to hopefully have a bit of fun and a good deal of learning, mostly illusions I would hope."

[The_Snark]

Nuale

"Out east. Not from around here at all," she says with a slight smile, not bothering to expand upon exactly where. The memory of one particular night at an inn had stuck with her; she'd somehow mentioned that she was Thayan to the innkeeper's wife, and then felt as if she needed to defend herself by mentioning that she was a slave, not a citizen—Thayans were not popular in Aglarond. The woman had been immediately sympathetic; irritatingly so, in fact. Nuale had been bustled into a better room than she'd paid for, bathed, and practically spoon-fed. It had been embarassing, and convinced her that she was probably better off not flaunting her past. Not in front of a whole crowd of people, at any rate. "You probably know your way around here, then? Good; I've only been in Suzail a couple months, and I don't know it very well."

The next minute is spent filling her plate with food and moving to her seat, standing for a second in that peculiar awkwardness one feels when not quite sure where to sit until someone beckons Liam over; she follows, nodding to the others as she sets down her food. "I'm Nuale," she introduces herself, sitting. "New here, like you. I'll be in the first dorm." She glances about to see which of them were to be her closest neighbors for the next few years.

[Greyen]

Lirt (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54629)

The halfling quickly shakes teh newly arrived gnomes hands. Carefully balancing his tray on a hand as they walk he slips his hand into his pockets and slips out a couple of wooden tokens. No need to buy for me. I got plenty of free beeer coming. In fact here's one fer each of you. he drops a token onto each of their trays as they all sit down on the edge of the rest of the group of tall folk from the dorm. Grandpa came up with these. Basically at any inn that has served my families brews from a while now will accept them. They are a free beer token. Good for the innkeeper to redeem for free beer from the family, or a discount or some such.

Lirt sees the new halfling, female even and shoots here a wink and a grin. You want to come down here and eat with the regular sized folk?

[Wiz]

Liam

Liam nods to Nuale's responses, and following her in line fills his plate rather full, for such a thin and gangly seeming fellow. He takes a seat at the table and nods to everyone, making sure to note anybody new. "I'm Liam." He smiles and starts in on the fare, which is not-surprisingly better than anyone's cooking he's had before: his fathers, his brothers, or his own.

[harmonictempest]

Epsun (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54494), whisper gnome archivist

Well, I'd assumed that "each" was assumed easily enough, but fortunately we won't have to split hairs, not with these tokens. Name's Epsun Penderdark. Illusions, eh? I've heard of them pulling some pretty neat stunts in the hands of a creative spellcrafter, but I must say I prefer spells with a more reliable punch. Actually, I haven't had much experience with arcane magics at all - my interest tend more toward scribing and defining divine magics actually, so I suspect I'll be in a bit of a minority here.

At least the food's not bad, if a bit plain. All you folks in Dorm I, I presume? Someone had already set some belongings down in my room, so I guess my roommate's already arrived.

[OneFamiliarFace]

Aarenil (http://www.coyotecode.net/profiler/view.php?id=4134), Half-Elf Fighter

Aarenil sits straight, his back flush with the chair. He eats with an angular motion of his arm, hand steady. As the people begin to sit, he waves his spoon in the air and greets them. "Ah, good morning, Nuale. Or is it afternoon by now? I have quite lost track of the time. Anyway, for those I have yet to tell, I am Aarenil Wyche, son of Estrianna and David Wyche, and I've yet to truly begin practicing, rather than studying, the arts. So I, for one, am looking forward to our first year."

As the coin hits his plate, Aarenil smiles. "Ah thank you, generous friend, but I am afraid I can't accept today. 'Never let your senses be dulled by drink or dame.' Mother always was a practical one, though I suppose she was not always polite in her word choice." Of course, a 'dame' would not go unwelcome about now. I am not getting any younger after all. Aarenil smiles wider and holds up the wooden coin to inspect it. "Still, there will come a day when we have no classes, and then this may come in handy. I owe you one." He slides it into his pouch and winks at Lirt, thanking him again.

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
Nazeem was not normally one to be late, but the carriage had run into difficulties with a pothole on the way, and he had quietly slunk into the dining hall - though it was hard to miss him, what with the large turban perched on his head. That, and the falchion hanging on his left.

After taking a moment to find the other new students of his cohort, he sat down in the closest open spot, his player having been unable to discern which seats exactly weren't taken, with a bowl of vegetable soup and a couple of slices of meat on top.

"Good Morning - or would that be afternoon? I got caught up on the way." he to the group, as he takes his seat with a warm smile. "So, I'm Nazeem, and I'm new this year." he says, holding out a hand to shake.

[AngelForm]

Azurous (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54994)

Azurous collects his meal just after the apparent brew master. Taking far more food than should be needed by one human, all of it simple and filling. Sitting at the edge of the group he begins to eat. He eats with a furious intensity, quickly devouring his massive meal. Every few seconds there is a pause while a choice peace of meat is handed to Scrya who maintains a watch while his master is engrossed in his food.

It is clear to any onlooker that this is a well practiced system, eating in as short a time as possible while keeping an eye on there surroundings. Perfect for the wild, not quite so appropriate in a collage.

More new people now, came from Scrya. I think I would rather not speak to such a large group and anyway I have introduced my self enough this morning.

Azurous notes one of the other students using magic on his food and shakes his head slightly, waste of power and resources. On reflex he runs through the spells still available to him, a small but satisfying list. Guess I should try and stop thinking like this, I’m not in the wilds anymore. A slightly chiding answer comes as simply always predators everywhere.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone, Human Warmage

After collecting his food, Trahone decides to sit on the end opposite of Azurous and Scrya. He eats efficiently and stays alert with the rest of the table. He has some trouble following the conversation so he stays silent. He then notices how the two across from him share the food. For friendship and out of curiousity, Trahone takes a small piece from his meal and offers it to the animal. "Here you go Scrya. You can some from my plate if you want. I am not used to being allowed to take so much."

Then looking up to Scrya's companion, Trahone takes a sip from his mug. "I am sorry if you already told me this but I have a slight habit to forget at times. Do you have a school of magic that want to specialize in? Or do you want to have knowledge in all fields?"

[AngelForm]

Azurous (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54994) Human(-ish) wizard

Scrya accepts the offered food before continuing his vigil. Azurous pauses in his meal, “No I have no specialisation. It is my belief that each school of magic offers something that none of the others can, so ignoring any means that there are things you can never accomplish.”

“You said you where in a military did you not? Do you have much combat experience?” While waiting for an answer Azurous, with Scrya’s help, finish there food clearing the plate with almost frightening speed.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone, Human Warmage

"I have seen a few battles. Never really been in a truly big one. But that is more because of my role than anything else. With my body, I may have the heart of a soldier but the strength of a pup. So I have been trained as a scout. I am usually ordered to run." Trahone pauses to take another bite. "But that does not mean that I always take the quickest route away." He continues with a grin.

He looks at Azurous' plate and shakes his head. "You are going to make yourself sick if you eat any faster. Do you always finish meals so quickly?" To help put his point across, Trahone takes a good size bite and chews it slowly with another grin.

[AngelForm]

Azurous (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54994) Human(-ish) wizard

Azurous matches Trahone’s grin and replies “I spent a lot of time in the wild with my family so we learned to eat what we could when we could. On top of that I’ve got a trace of dragon blood, all it gives me is the hair and eye colour and my appetite” Seeing something of a kindred spirit in Trahone he continues, “As to your size, don’t worry. All my siblings have natural magic or are true half-dragons, but I will still surpass them just as you will surpass most solders.”

“No big battles, well from what I’ve seen the bigger the battle the more likely it will all come down to which side has the more powerful god like being on there side.” Having finished his meal Azurous prepares for what looks like being a long wait. “I still can’t believe they give two hours for each meal. Wonder when the chancellor will get here?”

[The_Snark]

Nuale

"Just before noon last I checked," she replies wryly to Aarenil, nodding a greeting to the half-elf before picking up her fork. She ate at a slower pace than she was used to, out of politeness; meals had always been something to be eaten quickly, lest they be interrupted. So far as she is any judge, the food is fairly good, but she isn't picky about food. Filling was more what mattered to her. Given slightly above-average height and a frame that couldn't really be called slender, the amount she has on her plate, and her appetite, isn't really surprising.

Slow or not, a good deal more of her plate was visible when the newcomer introduced himself, in vaguely familiar accents. Another easterner, Mulhorandi by the look and sound of him. "I believe we all are," she answers Nazeem politely. "Nuale. Did I miss something mesmerizing between the dormitories and the dining hall?"

[Wiz]

Liam

As he eats, he hears the conversation between Azurous and Trahone. He looks up, hearing one particular phrase. "Azurous... out of curiosity, and holding no ill-feelings toward whatever your own faith might be, I have to ask about what you said. God-like beings? Is it your personal belief that the Gods are not in some way... well, truly Gods? As for myself, I've come to religion later in life because Mystra is so bound up in everything that I study - it's hard to deny the Goddess of the Weave when the Weave is what powers everything we do." He looks at the self-proclaimed half-dragon curiously.

[Irrealist]

After you finish your meal you continue talking for a while, until Gorlon slenders over to you. "Looks like you're all set. I'm going back to the dorm to pick up the latecomers. Are you coming?"

You walk leisurely back to the dorm, where a circle has formed in front of the door. A dwarf is holding back another dwarf, who is shouting insults in dwarven at an arrogantly smiling elf. Three other elves watch the scene with mixed feelings on their faces. One of them is whispering insistingly to the first elf. A little off, two humans a traveler's clothes talk to two other humanoids, one of whom would look like an elf were it not for the shimmering scales covering his skin, the other has a blueish skin, and his hair seems to be moved by wind even though the air is calm. As you come closer, you can see a pixie flying in the middle of the second group.

Gorlon slumps a little. "I've been gone for barely an hour, and of course that's the time when everybody shows up. Why don't you go have a look at the campus while I take care of things here? We'll meet in front of the Arcane college before three, so we are in time for the cancellor's speech.", he proposes to you and walks towards the squabbling elf and dwarf. "What's going on here? You know what, I don't even wanna know.", he cuts off both of them when they start to answer him. "Let's all go inside and I'll show you your rooms." As they vanish through the door, he draws a deep breath. "Hello and welcome to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Gorlon, one of the lab assistants. May I ask your names?"

[Lochar]

Emmis (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54165)

Emmis boggles at the squabbling people, before laughing quietly as he walks away. He motions to Lirt. "Probably my last day to get in trouble before they give me the spells to really do so. Let's go see where around here is the best place to hide until a storm blows over."

[harmonictempest]

Epsun (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54494), gnome archivist

Heh, that's a stiff insult, even from an elf, Epsun chuckles as they walk away. I guess we'll be seeing much more interesting fights than that once we all have something more serious to throw around than words.

As Emmis and Lirt seem to be the first leaving, he follows them. Can't be too hard to find a decent layaway in a place this big. I'd imagine the library's a good bet - even if someone catches up to you there, they can't yell at you.

[Lochar]

Emmis

"That's a good idea. Besides, it's probably big enough for us to easily get 'lost' in as well."

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Hearing Liam’s question Azurous considers his answer carefully. “Perhaps I could have worded it better, god like power maybe. The gods are indeed an embodiment of something but they are not all-powerful and some other immortal or near immortal beings command comparable strength. I have seen a great wyrm on the war path, the gods may be stronger but in comparison to most beings there is little difference. Any creature that works hard enough and long enough can attain such power but few ever live that long.”

Following Gorlon out and seeing the mob at the dorm Azurous announces “Well I think I will avoid that turmoil for now. Time to get the lay of the land.” Almost at once Scrya asks now can I go scout? I thing we will scout together this time. “Shall we explore the collage while we talk?” he asks Liam and Trahone.

[Wiz]

Liam

Liam nods to Azurous as the group walks out of the dining hall. Watching Gorlon with the other newcomers, Liam just nods to himself. "Well, I think I'll walk around the campus to get a feel for the place until three o'clock. Anyone want to go along?"

[Greyen]

Lirt


The beer makers wanders onward following teh two gnomes. The library sounds like fun to me. Always a good place to get some quiet work done. You can hear the off target sarcasm in his voice hinting at something else.

[Lochar]

Emmis

"We are learning to be mages, which will require a good bit of study Lirt. I doubt that they'll want your beer formula as an entry fee." Emmis grins at the halfling as they continue to walk towards the library.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Oh they can't have MY formula yet. Its not ready yet! And besides they wouldn't want a little apprentice brewer's recipe anyway. They already tried to get teh family recipe and grandpa said no.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

Finishing his meal just Gorlon speaks, Trahone nods in agreement while he takes his final swallow. When the group returns to the dorm, the amount of new students and their variety puts him on guard. He quickly agrees to join Liam and Azurous with exploring the campus. He follows their lead on where to go.

[Wiz]

Liam

As Liam wanders toward the library, Trahone is following. Once they've broken away from the group, Liam looks at Trahone curiously, "So, what is it that caused your superiors to see you as benefiting from magical training? If you don't mind me asking..."

[Irrealist]

You enter the library through the closest door and stand inside a large hall. The walls are covered with shelves, and freestanding shelves form corridors throughout the hall. A few are empty, some have books on them, but seldom covering more than half their width. A rather young dark-haired human greets you in a lowered voice. "Welcome, you must be the new ones. It's good to see you found your way here so quickly. In the afternoon I will give an introduction into our indexing system for the first-year students. In the libraries, the books are sorted by topic. The topics are indicated by these signs here, so this tells you that you are in the 'Cormyr' section, and there is a reading room in the center of each floor. Please don't take any books out of the library. For now, you can have a look around, but please keep your voice down if you must talk. If you have any questions, please ask."


http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/9754/unilibwd0.th.png (http://img266.imageshack.us/my.php?image=unilibwd0.png)

[Lochar]

Emmis

Quickly looking at the pointers, Emmis asks a question. "Do you have Traveling in the shadows of the Underdark? I can't remember the author, but I was reading it at my papa's house before I left for here. It was a history and geography book about the Underdark. The author was an illusionist mage, I think."

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

"I am not quite sure why they thought I would do well with magical training. I mean, I have told them experiences. I think they sense that I have some talent. But I would have never thought that to be true. Honestly, if I did not trust and respect him, I would have laughed off his advise." Trahone answers as he looks around the library.

He wanders through the Dalelands section and a small frown appears. I would have thought there was a little more information about my homeland. He picks up a book about the military and flips through it quickly. He stops through it about halfway, shocked. Wait. I thought I knew about everything about this battle. But it says here that we used a different tactic than our records show. Trahone finds another book and checks. This one shows what he originally knew. Apparently the two strategies are similar. Let me see. Ah. Here is the difference. It is what you do with the archers and such. Placing them on one side instead of the back changes the whole plan and effects. As he places the book back, Liam hears Trahone mutter "I should remember that."

He then meanders downstairs into the Arcane section. He then enters the Spellcraft area. Standing in the doorway between the two, Trahone whistles. "That is a lot of books for these two subjects. I thought most spells were very similar. And how to use them. But there is an entire shelf dedicated to just wands. I think I am going to spend a lot of time in this building."

[Wiz]

Liam

The tall student nods, "There is a lot to know about every field of magic."

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Arriving at the library with the others and hearing the librarians instructions Azurous decides to explore the rest of the grounds before looking closely at any one building. Keeping his voice low he tells his companions, “Ill see you at the Arcane college a little before three.”

Ok Scrya you have a look around the walls and work in while I check the buildings, lets see what’s to find. Scrya Jumps from his perch and makes for the front gate as Azurous heads for the large building east of the library and enters.


Assuming the map on page 1 is set to “north = up” so am heading for the collage of universal magic.

[Daryk]

Atan

With nothing better to do, and the possibility of a brawl no longer on offer, Atan wandered the grounds. He saw several of his fellow students head for the library, but felt it just wouldn't interest him. Returning to the fountain that had so fascinated his sister on the way in, he spent a few moments contemplating the imagery, and the skill of its creator. Shrugging, he decided he'd never quite understand, and returned to drifting aimlessly about the campus, getting the lay of the "land".

Is there a clock on campus, say, affixed to one of the towers?

[Irrealist]

Azurous enter the building and finds himself in a small auditorium about the size of his room at the dorm. Right next to the door through which he came stands a large table, at the wall behind it a blackboard. Facing the board are four rows of eight smaller tables each, with a chair behind each table. Apart from that, the room is empty, and he tests the door on the opposite wall. It opens into a hallway of about ten foot width, with doors on both sides. To the left he can see the first steps of a stairway leading upwards. The door on the opposite side has a sign that says "please check with a lab assistant before using the labs" in neat handwriting. Just as you think about where to go next, you hear a bell strike three times.

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/1934/unicollegeunivdr4.th.png (http://img300.imageshack.us/my.php?image=unicollegeunivdr4.png)

OOC: There is no clock on campus, but there is a bell on top of the mundane college building that tolls each hour.

You all hurry to the arcane college, where at the southeast side two doors stands wide open. The group of latecomers that stayed at the dorm is just filing in, and you follow them into a fairly large auditorium that has room for about three times the number of people that are inside now. The chancellor is nowhere to be seen. Gorlon sits in the back row, joking with a rather pretty girl, and is paying you no attention. A middle-aged man is sitting in the middle of the first row, which has a small wooden sign on each seat and seems to be reserved. He is scribbling something in a notebook.

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/5456/unicollegearcanehi7.th.png (http://img231.imageshack.us/my.php?image=unicollegearcanehi7.png).

While you are still deciding on the best seats, one of the doors in the back opens, and two elves and one human, all wearing academic robes, enter and occupy the rightmost seats in the first row.

[Lochar]

Emmis

At the tolling of the second hour past noon, Emmis will make his way out of the library and to the auditorium to explore that place. At the third tolling, he finds attempts to find a seat that has been raised up so he can sit and still see the front. If he can't find one, he'll check the tags on the reserved seats, praying they thought about the shorter ones and saved them a seat.

If not, he'll sit down on the ground next to the front row seats.

[TwoCents]

Minya (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=12615) Istaya, elf from Waterdeep

Minya ate a hearty lunch, chatting with her neighbors and trying to get an understanding of who everyone was. Now that the initial excitement of arrival was over and she had a moment to breathe, Minya realized just how nervous she was. Cerpe ate a little from her plate, and then flew up to explore the rafters.

After lunch she returned to her room and completed unpacking. She noticed Nuale's things on her side of the room, but saw no sign of the girl herself. "Maybe I can find her in the library. At least, we can talk after the chancellor's speech. At least I hope we can. They do seem to keep us very busy."

The library sucked her in, and she soon found herself on the third floor, happily reading Khanneck's Guide to Materiel Strengths and Weaknesses. She noticed a bell tolling in the distance, but ignored it. When it tolled again, Minya heard footsteps retreating down the steps and realized it was time for the chancellor's introduction. She carefully replaced the book back in its place on the shelf, and raced downstairs, nimbly whipping around the corners in her haste. "This is probably against the rules. Well, I can always plead youth and enthusiasm and beg to be let off with a warning..."

Once in the room, Minya looked around. She wanted to be in the second row behind the reserved seats. Not too close to the front, not too far in the back. Second, she would like to sit near some of those she had met in the dorm. Spotting Emmis, she waved, hoping he would find a seat to fit. Once she had picked a seat, she looked around and waited, excitement roiling her stomach. Cerpe perched on the back of her chair, uncharacteristically quiet.

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Azurous spends the remaining time familiarising him self with the ground.
Hearing the bell he proceeds to the arcane college, collecting a grumbling Scrya on the way. Go scout, don’t go scout, lets both go scout, can you make up your mind? Seeing people already going in Azurous enters and takes a seat near the back. If he sees Liam or Trahone come in he beckons them over.

He then awaits the chancellor while Scrya, out of habit, keeps a watch on the entrances.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt tools around teh library wandering the aisles looking for nothing in particular but getting the lay of the library and the locations of where the likely librarians will be.

[Wiz]

Liam

Liam was wandering through the library, getting a feel for it when he heard the tolling of the three-o'clock bell. He hurries over to the arcane college and enters the auditorium, taking an empty seat. I wonder what Lorelion will have to say to us all?

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

Browsing through the library, Trahone does not try to keep track of the time. When the bell starts striking, he thinks that it is only two past noon. That is until there is a third bell toll. He then races out of the library and towards the auditorium. He gets in just before the door closes. He looks for a seat and finds one next to Azurous. "Thank you for saving me a seat. Lost track of time." Trahone whispers to his friend right when the speaker gets to the podium.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Hearing the bell Lirt breaks into a careful run into the auditorium slipping into a seat with a grin at whoever is next to him just as the speaker walks on.

[The_Snark]

Nuale

She'd already done a circuit of the campus and unpacked, so Nuale was left without much to occupy herself in the time between lunch and the chancellor's welcome. She spent it on another slow circuit, wandering into the open buildings and taking a quick look around some of them before leaving again. Empty buildings with nobody to welcome or even tacitly allow her presence by not requesting her to leave made her feel vaguely as if she wasn't supposed to be there.

At the bell, she hurries to the auditorium, taking a seat in the middle of the hall that wasn't next to anybody at the moment. Not much to do but wait and see if the chancellor's speech was useful and informative, or just a plain welcome. She could do with useful and informative; she was sure there were a number of facets of life here she was ignorant of. But if the chancellor didn't address those, she'd find out elsewhere.

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan heard the first strike of the bell, and hurried to the auditorium. Fortunately, he was relatively close, so he found himself at the door before the third strike. Picking his way forward, he found a seat near the middle and settled in for what he expected to be another boring lecture. His parents had often dragged their offspring to various colloquia and other academic functions, but Atan had never failed to feel out of place. He watched as his sister took her usual seat in the second row. She always seemed to enjoy these things. At least she seemed to be fitting in, so that was something. And really, four years wasn't that long a time. He'd been grounded for two, once, after all. This was only twice that, and involved being away from ever present parental authority, so maybe it wasn't all bad. Maybe.

[Irrealist]

Noticing Emmis look around, Gorlon yells "They're in the cabinet." and points him to one. Opening the door, Emmis finds a stack of seat raisers to put on the chairs. Elda spots them when you take one out and gets one for herself, too.

Between the third strike of the bell and the arrival of the first group of professors, several minutes pass. Azurous feels a tap on his shoulder, and turns to face a grinning Gorlon. "Hey. It's great that you're all trying to be punctual, but there's really no need to. Since there is no reliable way of telling time for most people, when I said we meet at three, I meant *** tempore, so that you would have time to get here after you heard the bell. If somebody wants you to be punctual, they'll say 'at exactly three' or write s.t. for sine tempore, but that rarely happens. Be sure to pass the word, ok?" With that, he returns to the girl.

Several Minutes later, a the door opens again for a middle-aged balding man wearing a blue academic hat and a blue robe, trimmed with white and silver, and adorned with the seven stars of mystra on the chest. He is accompanied by two elves wearing robes of a darker blue, one trimmed with black, the other with gold. They also take seats in the front row, and chat amongst themselves. Shortly after them follow, also in the dark blue robes of the faculty, a gnome and another elf, whom Liam recognizes as the chancellor. The gnome stands in front of the audience and announces "Please close the doors.". Guards, who have waited outside, and who must have arrived after you since you did not notice them before, close the doors, but stay outside. He waits until this has happened and until Trahone has found his seat, then continues: "Please welcome Chancellor Lorelion." Everybody rises from their seats, and the elf who entered last walks up to the front.

OOC: I'll assume everybody has made it into the room by now, because you won't be let in after the doors are closed.

[Lochar]

Emmis

Emmis stands in his chair for the Chancellor.

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

Lost in a book on magical creatures, Epsun nearly misses the third bell, arriving at the auditorium just before they close the doors. Slipping in to a seat near the back, he finds it most prudent to remain standing as the chancellor enters the room.

Apologies for the delay - I'm on a business trip where I'd assumed internet wouldn't be a problem. >.<

I should have regular Internet tomorrow during the day, though.

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
Nazeem, who had been caught up in the frenzy of fellow new students (and had more or less been thrown about the campus itself through the deluge of conversation and mingling), eventually made his way to the hall, where he spotted the others and rejoined them.

"Many apologies," he said, in slightly off Chondathan "The events of today have had me in a great muddle."

He doesn't get much further before everyone is asked to stand - a instruction he follows after taking a moment to recenter himself.

[Irrealist]

The chancellor steps behind the table in the front, on which a small lectern sits. He does not carry any notes and starts immediately, speaking slowly and firmly, and commanding your attention from the first word. "Welcome, new students, to the Suzail University of Magic. I am Chancellor Lorelion and it is always a great pleasure for me to see eager young wizards and other casters, aspiring to be one day counted among the best of their field. And that you will be, for although this institution is only in its fifth year, it already has a reputation that reaches far beyond the borders of Cormyr. A reputation for ingenuity, for studiousness, and for excellence. And you will be demanded to meet this reputation.

Wizards have a reputation for being queer hermits, mad with a lust for power. We strive to transform this image. You will be imparted with knowledge not only of all things magical, but you will have to choose another subject to broaden your horizon. You will travel Faerun and maybe even beyond that, you will learn about the world, and I want you to use your knowledge to transform it into something better. Stand in the middle of society, share your knowledge. The power you will gain is not an end in its own, you can use it to accomplish something. This is my vision of magic, and I share it with a growing number of spellcasters.

Now you have other concerns though. The method of teaching magic at a university is completely new and you are among the first to enjoy it. It will free apprentices from the arbitrariness of their masters, who teach when they are in the mood, and share what they feel like. It will provide a sound and consistent education on the field for all. People will know what they can expect from a magister artium magicae when they call on your services, and call on them they will, kings and commoners alike. Now you will lay the foundation for your later life, and all the effort you invest now will pay off eightfold. Today is your first day here, and the first day of your new life. Enjoy it; tomorrow your classes will start. I congratulate you on your decision to come here, you will not regret it once you have your degree."

He goes to sit down in the middle of the front row. The gnome stands up and turns to face you. "Now to organisational things. My name is Lokan Hilston, I am the dean of the arcane college. I will briefly introduce the heads of the institutions to you. High priest of Mystra is the Blessed Ormred Honand." The middle-aged man with the symbol of Mystra on his robe rises, turns to you, bows slightly, and sits down again. "Head of the college of universal magic is dean Cirduin." The elf with the black-trimmed robe next to the high priest rises, bows to you and sits down again. "Dean Finlas of the college of magical foundations." The elf with the gold-trimmed robe repeats the gesture. "Amrul Dontur, dean of mundane lore." The middle-aged man who has been scribbling into his notebook for the whole time looks up, then rises, bows and sits down again. "Miriel, the head librarian." An elderly elf with long white hair flowing down his shoulders greets you. "Gambald Bighat, the head of the magic item creation department." Gambald is a rather young human, with a wide smile, who also repeats the gesture of his predecessors. Dean Hilston pulls out a scroll of a pocket and unrolls it. "I will now read the names of the students of each college. Students of the arcane college are:
Aelian
Atan Istaya
Azurous
Elda Tealeaf
Emmis Minas
Ermus Rodmund
Golo Verort
Iolyn
Kawyn Arkell
Leon Morund
Liam Ravenquill
Lirt Lagerstone
Minya Istaya
Nazeem Sural
Ruasil
Shirla
Please be in the big auditorium of the arcane college tomorrow at eight.

The students of the college of universal magic are:
Elurin
Epsun Penderdark
Ganel Turis
Haldur Lunek
Philomelin
Simaith
Thonar Hammerhead
Tiadul
Trahone Korth
Please be in the big auditorium of your college tomorrow at eight.

The students of the department of item creation are:
Arin Grigori
Nuale
Ulf Ironbeard
Please be in the big workshop of your department tomorrow at nine.

If any of you have any questions, please do not hesitate to consult with a lecturer of your college. Most of them have their office doors open unless they don't want to be disturbed. Thank you for your attention. I wish you all the best for your time here."

[Lochar]

Emmis

Emmis nods politely at each name, grinning widely at his own. When the dean finishes, Emmis speaks to himself, but at a normal tone of voice. "I've got questions. Like can you teach me to make that image on the fountain." He grins to himself, thinking on it. He hops down from the chair once dismissed, replacing the riser before leaving.

If possible, he'll try to catch Dean Hilston afterwards. He approaches with a big smile, eyes alight with possibilities. "Did you create the fountain? I've never seen such detail, even from other wizards that came by Green Fields. Where did you find the models, and how did you manage to get them to hold still long enough to study them to that level of detail?"

Emmis is fearless in his questioning, but still attempts to be respectful even as he rapidly fires off his questions.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

Turning to face Azurous, "I guess that answers the question of studying together or not. I wonder what the difference between the colleges are." Trahone then rises and follows the crowd out of the auditorium. I should remember all of those names. They could be very helpful. Especially my dean. Magic Item creation department sounds interesting also. I should look into that latter. Turning to face Liam and Azurous, "Do you suppose we are assigned roommates or we get to choose them? And what else should we do now that our lecture is over?"

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

Universal magic, eh? Well, here goes nothin'.

He leaves his seat, keeping his thoughts to himself unless spoken to, and returns to his room to prepare for classes on the morrow.

[AngelForm]

Azurous

After passing on Gorlon’s message Azurous listening to Lokan Hilston’s speech making sure to memorise all the names. Hearing Trahone’s question he replies “Just being in different collages dose not mean we cant help each other, good question about the difference between the collages though.”

Following the crowd out he continues “We probably get to chose given the amount of freedom they seem to be giving us. As to what we should do, I intend to finish looking around then get some practice at spell casting in before resting in preparation for tomorrow.”

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan had tuned out most of the chancellor's speech, but casually counted the names as they were read. When the list ended well short of the available space in the dormitory, he smiled to himself. He wasn't sure what use the extra rooms would be put to, but looking around his fellow students, he was sure if the college didn't come up with something, they would.

[TwoCents]

Minya Istaya, Elf Evoker

Minya became more and more excited as the chancellor spoke. By the time he finished, she was practically bouncing up and down in her seat. The university sounded very promising; it even seemed as if her training would move with what old Master Fangandaya would call "indecent haste and a lack of respect for tradition." Good!

She noted the names of the various deans and department heads carefully, trying to memorize faces to go with the names. When the class was dismissed, she bounced to her feet and hustled out the door. Minya intended to become completely familiar with the arcane college building before morning, even if it meant missing dinner. She walked over to the building and began exploring.

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural

Nazeem watches the proceedings silently, a smile forming on his face as his name was called. He was here. He had made it. And there was no stopping him now.

As the group leaves, he stands and follows the others.

"So what are you all specialising in? I myself am going to become an evocationist."

[Wiz]

Liam

Liam nodded to himself. A smaller field of competition than I feared. Hopefully, it will mean an easier time keeping my scholarship.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt stands and walks from the auditorium thinking.

He responds to Nazeem half thinkingly, Oh, summoning is my specialty. He is only half paying attention to anyone else as he walks toward the library once again.

He goes back to the library for a quick research trip walking up to the librarian or the assistant Sir, is there a book or scroll on the by-laws of the college?

[Irrealist]

Dean Hilston turns to Emmis. "Yes, I created that indeed, and I consider it one of my best works. There were no models for this, although I consulted some drawings in the library. The sculpture is merely a symbol for the eternal fight of all responsible mages against evil. If you come to my advanced class next year, we will cover sculpturing realistic illusions in some detail."

The librarian ***** his head at Liams question. "By-laws? Those are simple: The chancellors word is the law here." He thinks for a minute. "If that's what interests you, I could show you a copy of the treaty between the crown and the chancellor that established this university and set its status in relation to Cormyr."

On the next morning, you assemble for your first classes. You are introduced into your respective schedules; everybody has to take Arcane Theory, which takes place in the same auditorium as the chancellors speech and has the largest audience of any lecture, Arcane Applications, and a secondary subject from the catalog offered by the College of Mundane Lore. The Wizards of the Arcane College all take Arcane Spells, the various mages of the College of Universal Magic some equivalent. Apart from that, you are free to choose among the various lectures and more experimental classes offered by any institute.

The first lectures mostly cover things you already know, but tries to build them systematically on each other and offers you a new perspective on the basics of your field. The material gets harder after the first season and even those not used to it have to work to keep up. After the second season, you are being tested on your three major classes. Each exam takes two hours, and while you answer the first questions easily, the second half of the test is very challenging, introducing topics new to you and asking you to apply what you learned to it. Many of your fellow students walk out of the room with hanging shoulders, but the other two are no easier than the first one. In the warm evening, many of you sit frustrated outside of the dorm, holding a bottle of mead or thanking Lirt for his generosity.

On the next morning you go to your arcane theory class as usual. Towards the end, someone knocks at the door to the auditorium, and you are surprised to find dean Hilston entering the room. He addresses you all: "You have all studied very hard for these exams. You spent long hours bent over books or discussing problems from your classes. Now, I believe that there is more to a mage than book-learning. Nothing can replace practical experience." The lecturer nods in agreement. "So next week, you will all leave this campus to gain some. We have put together three groups of students who will go on this field trip together. Learning to work in a team will be another result of this experience. As mages, you are very specialized and you work best as part of a goup, where everybody can contribute according to his strengths and where his weaknesses are covered by his comrades. You will not be accompanied by senior mages, so you will learn to rely on yourselves and not look to others for guidance. The first group consists of

Atan Istaya
Azurous
Emmis Minas
Epsun Penderdark
Liam Ravenquill
Lirt Lagerstone
Minya Istaya
Nazeem Sural
Nuale
Trahone Korth

Your advisor is dean Bighat of the item creation department. You meet tonight at six in the meeting room in the lab building.

The second party consists of:

Arin Grigori
Elda Teeleaf
Elurin
Iolyn
Philomelin
Ruasil
Shirla
Simaith
Tiadul

Your advisor is professor Elowyn of the abjuration department. You will meet tonight at six in his office. The third group is under the responsibility of the Blessed Honend, and consists of

Aelian
Ermus Rodmund
Ganel Turis
Golo Verort
Haldur Lunek
Kawyn Arkell
Leon Morund
Ulf Ironbeard
Thonar Hammerhead

You will meet tonight at six here in this auditorium. Your advisors will be able to answer all your questions. Thank you for your attention. Please continue."

He leaves the auditorium The lecturer declares the lesson over, due to the ensuing discussions and speculations on what all this is about.

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/4700/uniitemcreatke9.th.png (http://img144.imageshack.us/my.php?image=uniitemcreatke9.png)

In the evening, you meet with dean Bighat in the common room on the ground floor of the alchemical lab building. You all sit down in comfortable chairs, and he starts to explain.
"As you have no doubt been told in your lectures, magical components are often unnecessary for spellcasting. This does not mean that they cannot be helpful at all. Some creatures accumulate magic within their bodies which can be used to augment spells. One such creature is the shocker lizard, whose skin can be used advantageously as a component in spells that employ electrical energy. Several of these creatures live in the Hullack Forest, and I want you to go there and bring some of them back here.

I have booked passage for you on a merchant ship that passes by the forest, but after you are dropped off there, you are on your own. Don't worry, if there is an emergency, you can use these." He hands you two wooden rods marked with arcane symbols. "Each of them contains a single teleport spell for up to five people. If you hold hands and break it, you will be transported back to the campus. Don't form a circle or more than five people, I don't know what would happen then. Use it only in an emergency, or you will have to refund the department for it."

"You would do good to do some research before heading out. The day after tomorrow will be a free day, so you can go to Suzail and buy whatever you need for the expedition. Do you have any questions?"

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
Nazeem sits upright in his seat as he listens, and pauses to think about their task.

"How long is our expedition going to be?" he asks, wondering exactly how much the school was expecting of them. "And how are we going to be graded on this?"

[Lochar]

Emmis

"Did you just want the skins, or do we have to bring them back alive?" Emmis asks.

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Having had problems in the exams due to his haphazard training Azurous was relived to learn they would be working in the field for a time.

He listens to dean Bighat’s instructions and considers what equipment he would need, I hate giving up gold, can always get more was the comforting reply from Scrya. And what spells were likely to be most useful, given the number of us we should be able to cover more or less everything. Something occurs to him “Are there any especially dangerous or aggressive creatures in Hullack Forest?” while waiting for a reply he dredges his own knowledge.

[Greyen]

Lirt


Lirt scribbles notes in his little book of the names of his new partners in the field. he then scribbles some more calculations, he raises his hand About how long are we supposed to be abroad? In days?

Lirt thinks to himself I need to know how much beer to bring.

[Daryk]

Atan

Overjoyed at the prospect of leaving the classroom behind for a time, Atan smiled hugely and listened to the questions the others asked.

Edit: Got distracted while posting, and found my question had already been asked by the time I did.

[Irrealist]

Bighat seems to think in response to Nazeems question. "The forest is about 240 miles from here by water and about 150 miles by land. That means over one week to get there and roughly one to get back here again. Then you need some time to find the lizards, so I'd calculate at least three weeks, plus maybe one for safety."

He smiles at the next question. "You should have some trouble bringing them back alive. The skin is enough, and you don't have to skin it professionally in one piece if you don't know how to do that. And yes, there are more than enough dangerous creatures there, better get some information on them."

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan smiled and asked, "Professor, by dangerous creatures, you mean the ones aside from the orcs and goblins, right?"

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

The student looks thoughtful, "How are we to equip ourselves? Are there any funds available to assist us buying food and equipment?"

After getting his answer, Liam goes to the Lecturer on Religious Knowledge to report as requested. "You wanted to see me, sir?"

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

The young archivist nodded thoughtfully, allowing the eagerness of others to ask the immediately obvious questions. Taking his leave, he walked back to his room and began to gather his belongings together. Leaving the less obviously useful notebooks behind, he carefully wrapped his notes from his Magical Theory and Beasts of Magic classes, as well as his prayerbook. In addition, he took his breastplate and weapons from the corner of the closet where they had been carefully stored during the term. After the meeting, he left for the library to research what he could.

[TwoCents]

Minya

The evening after the exams Minya dragged herself back to her room and huddled under the covers. She skipped dinner and the "beer fest", and left her bed again only long enough to lock Cerpe out of the room. Any attempts at communication were met with silence.

Minya slept in the next morning, missing breakfast as well. It took a lifelong respect for learning to force her to dress, albeit haphazardly, and wend her way to the classroom. She arrived uncharacteristically late and huddled in a seat in the back corner, far from her usual second row center. After a few minutes she sat up and took out her books, the habit of long years taking over.

When Dean Hinton arrived and began talking about a field exercise, Minya turned to a fresh page and began making notes. She wandered over to the library and searched for any information about past student excursions, stopping only when Miriel threw her out and sent her to dinner.

She was one of the last to arrive at the evening meeting, and barely managed to get there before Dean Bighat. She took notes of what he said and the other questions, finally asking a few of her own.

"Dean, is the merchant vessel putting us off at a village or just beaching on the river? Will it wait for us, or do we have a scheduled rendezvous for our return voyage? Will we be provided with a mule or are we to pack the skins out in our backpacks?" She waited until the last question had been answered, making notes as she listened.

[Irrealist]

"Well yes, goblins and orcs can always be encountered when you stray too far from civilization. I'm afraid you will have to provide your equipment yourselves, there are no funds intended for that. Is that a problem?" He looks at Liam.

"The ship will only drop you off. You have to provide your own food, and after that you are on your own. How you accomplish your task and get back here is entirely up to you. If you want to buy a mule or horses, we might be able to negotiate with the captain of the ship to take them on board, too."

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt sits through rest of the meeting with the Dean. He then goes back to his room to pack and get ready. The next morning he goes through his classes like clockwork. After the classes he rushes back to the kitchen of the dorm where his micro-brewery has been set-up for some time now. Not being addressed necessarily in the by-laws or the contract with the governement didn't mean that brewing was allowed or not on campus, but Lirt didn't want to break rules or get into trouble. He was very careful about his brewing activities. Only using beer to ease the stress at the end of the day and never making enough to really make a party go too far.

He goes into the kitchen first and looks in on the current brewing projects. Deciding that he needs to unleash some of the unfinished beers into the drain and cleaning up his area. He sets a few barrels of nearly done brew to the side, marking them as "Early Morning Brew". He checks on the 2 barrels of finished brews, marking them as Lirt's Latest XXII and XXIII respectively. He makes notes in his notebook/spellbook, as to the exact composition and recipe of the brew. He then takes all of the early stocks and mashes in the works and hauls them out to the cesspit for disposal. He harvests all of his yeasts and sets them aside for later. Lastly he goes through all his glassware and cleans it, with the help of an unseen servant and packs it into the cupboards for storage. The only evidence of his brewery is the few marked barrels and the yeast jars.

Lirt takes the jars of yeast into the alchemy labs to find one of his favorite teachers, along with the last small cask of beer from the previous months brewing. He asks the master of alchemy and herbalism if he can keep the yeast for him, and if he could possibly see about finishing this last cask of beer "so it won't go sour" while Lirt is away for a month or so.

Beer responsibilities taken care of Lirt goes back to the room late and packs up his meager possession for the trip, planning on taking along the 4 barrels of beer if possible. Or trading one of the barrels to a mule trader for an animal.

OOC- If anywhere in this process someone interupts or needs Lirt for a meeting he will pause in his work and come back to it. Beer can be patient but not for more than a day.

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
Nazeem nods silently, and scribbles in his notebook, before looking up at his turban and tapping it with his pen.

"Not now, Max! Can you not see I am asking about something very important?" he hissed at his turban. It moves again, almost comically, as if to accentuate the fact that whatever was inside was responding.

"What? Yes, of course it is very important! Would you prefer to be stuck in the middle of nowhere without any food?"

The turban moved again.

"Then be quiet and we can go to the cafeteria later."

The turban moved a little once more, then stayed silent.

"Better." Nazeem looked back to the professor. "So how much are we expected to bring back?"

[AngelForm]

Azurous

After dean Bighat answers all the questions and dismisses them Azurous return to his room and reviews his small horde of gold. When the free day comes he heads to Suzail to purchase basic survival gear, a small crossbow and a dagger, even if we can blast through most enemies with magic I world rather have a backup.
He then arranges for two weeks worth of trail rations to be ready on the day of departure. I can keep myself in food well enough in the wild but I cant feed a group that large, Scrya points out that maybe others are predators but nether want to rely on that.

Before they leave Azurous makes sure to ask all of the people in his group what spells they can and cannot cast. So he can better prepare his own in the coming weeks.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

During the entire meeting with the dean, Trahone sits quietly and listens. I hope this exercise can improve my grades from those exams. A shiver runs up his spine from the memory of taking them. Thankfully no one notices. After the meeting, Trahone returns with Azurous back to their room. He opens up his closet and pulls out his armor and spear. He then the rest of the evening sharpening his dagger, spear, and crossbow bolts. He and Azurous have a pleasant conversation talking about everything, from shocker lizards to known spells to girls.

After classes the next day, Trahone decides that he needs to search for something different than the usual means. He decides to go and talk to Dean Bighat. If his discussion ends in a failure, he then makes the needed arangements for the trip.

Azurous
You can look at the warmage spell list to see Trahone's spells. He knows all the spells for the levels he can cast.

[Irrealist]

"The skins of two or three such creatures should be sufficient, but he won't be punished if you bring back more. You will be required to write a report on your expedition, but there will be no grades. This is either pass or fail, but no team has ever failed." He winks at you.

"Well, if there are no further questions... oh, i almost forgot. The guards are going to the archery range in the afternoon the day after tomorrow. If you come back from Suzail before the 4th hour, you can join them and get some practice and maybe even advice if you ask nicely. The fourth-day is free so you can go equip yourselves, and on the other days the lecturers will be forgiving if you don't show up. Usually they cover only light topics in this week, things that are not essential for their class. I know that lecturer Adams will skip scroll-writing and dedicate this week to alchemy and show some colorful experiments." He leans back in his chair, smiling inwardly.

"That would be all then. You can always come back if you have more questions. If not, I'll see you to your ship on the next first-day."

[TwoCents]

Minya Istaya


"Well yes, goblins and orcs can always be encountered when you stray too far from civilization. I'm afraid you will have to provide your equipment yourselves, there are no funds intended for that. Is that a problem?" He looks at Liam.

"The ship will only drop you off. You have to provide your own food, and after that you are on your own. How you accomplish your task and get back here is entirely up to you. If you want to buy a mule or horses, we might be able to negotiate with the captain of the ship to take them on board, too."

Minya stood up and spoke. "Sir, with all due respect, I have no intention of going into the forest to starve. I do not have the funds to purchase forty days of food, nor do I have the strength to carry 50 pounds of food and water in addition to my spellbook, my weapons, and other necessary gear to sustain life in the wild. I believe that you may, in fact, be testing our willingness to act blindly without thinking. I prefer to think."

"I am willing, eager even, to test my meager knowledge. I am happy to join my fellow students on this expedition; they seem as excited at the prospect as I feel. But our price for fetching back this spell component for you is sufficient food and pack animals to make this task something other than a test of our ability to endure hunger." She looked nervous at her defiance, but determined.

[Irrealist]

Dean Bighat seem a little taken aback by your reaction, gut he recovers quickly. "Why don't you sit down first, young lady." He waits a moment until you have done so. "I can assure you that I am not trying to send you to your certain death." He holds up a hand to keep you from interrupting him. "Now let me address your points. First you claim that you don't have the strength to carry this much, yet a few seconds later you already provide a solution to this apparent obstacle. So it seems it comes down to the precious metals. Now while I do not think you are in the place to demand gold from the university for something you perform as part of your education, a lack of gold should be no hindrance to your education. You can ask our cooks to come up with some rations, although I am not sure if they can provide with food for the entire time. So I will make you an offer. If you agree to write a few scrolls for me in your free time after you come back, I will give you as much money as you need to purchase equipment now. He sighs. Oh yes, I know. You want exact numbers. Fine. My offer is ten gold pieces for a scroll of comprehend languages, and another ten for a scroll of mage armor. Materials will of course be provided to you. If you don't know a spell, I can give you a book to look it up. 20 gold should be enough for the rest of the food and the rent of a mule. Oh, and before I forget it: The captain will drop you off at a small village, but I can't recall its name."

[TwoCents]

Minya Istaya

Minya sat down as directed, a bit puzzled but obedient. Maybe that's my problem? What means one thing at home means something different here? I suppose I will figure it out, eventually. She nodded at Dean Bighat's offer and tried to inconspicuously indicate enthusiasm.

Later, after the meeting, she walked over to the kitchens and asked to speak to the Head Cook. "Hello, um, you probably know the firsters are going on expeditions next week. Anyway, we need food for a month and I know most of us didn't bring enough cash to buy that much trail food. So, um, Dean Bighat suggested I talk to you about rations?" she asked, hopefully. "Maybe we could work out a deal for enough for everybody? I doubt there's anything you need that a firster can help you with, but I'm open to suggestions."

[Irrealist]

The door to the kitchen opens, and a large, middle-aged woman wearing an apron stands in the door. Behind her, you can see a bustle of activity. Dinner is just being served. "Oh, I'm afraid the head cook is busy. Maybe I can help you?" She listens to your request, then takes you by the shoulders and pulls you firmly inside. "You poor girl. Here have a seat, and eat something first." She guides you to a chair and presses a large bowl of hot soup and half a loaf of bread into your hands. "I can't believe they would make you go all alone into the wild and not give you anything to eat. Go on, you can eat it, you look like you need it.", she encourages you, pointing to a spoon on the table in front of you. "You can take the rest to your dorm, and there's more if you're still hungry after that." She looks at you and smiles as you hesitantly guide the first spoonful to your mouth. "We have some dried meat, and cheese, and bread. And fruit of course. Mmmh. Do you like cabbage? When are you leaving? I am sure we can prepare you something, but it won't last for four rides. How many are you?"

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
Nazeem scribbles something else down on his notepad, and looks up again.

"The university is going to provide our bedrolls and tents, yes?"

[Irrealist]

"No, you will have to provide your personal equipment yourselves."

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
"I am failing to see how this is supposed to assist our education. But I am yet to fully comprehend the ways of a wizard. Very well. I have my own purse from father's last letter. Good day, Mr. Bighat."

Nazeem stands, bows curtly but respectfully, and follows the others from the room.

No time to continue at present - I'll post again ASAP with what he does later.

[Irrealist]

The dean seems to recieve your curtness not well at all. "And I fail to see why this institution should provide everything for you. If we ship you there, provide for your food and tents, sponsor pack animals, and ship you back here, we might as well provide you with a guide and turn this into a picnic. You might have had rich parents, but you are on your own now. This is not purely an educational journey, it will prepare you for life after you leave here, and I would not say that you are prepared if you never went out and bought your equipment yourself. And there is a difference between me giving you money and telling you to go buy yourself something nice and you using your own. If you don't need your tent anymore after the trip, you can sell it again, I don't care." He stops, seeming a little short of breath. "And if you plan to get snippy every time you don't get your way, you will run into quite a bit of trouble in your life", he adds, getting out a handkerchief to wipe some sweat off his forehead.

[Lochar]

Emmis

Emmis shrugs at what's been said so far. "Since we only have two of the teleport sticks, I assume you don't want us to split into more than two groups. Since these lizards, as I recall, can generate enough electricity to kill if there are two or more together, I think that's a fair idea. Do you know how plentiful the forest is with these things? Should we go expecting to run into multiples of them at once?" His voice is calm, trying to redirect the dean onto a different thread of questioning.

[Irrealist]

The dean looks a little irritated at your interruption. "What? Oh, yes. Well. Mating season should be over by now, so I would think the chances of encountering more than one at a time are slim. And you are right about not splitting up too much. That can be dangerous. When you go out into the wild, you have to rely on your companions. Your strength lies in cooperation." He nods affirmatively, having regained his composure.

[Lochar]

Emmis

"May I be excused then? I have the feeling I'm going to want to dig up some very good maps, hopefully with known nests. I don't want to run into a momma and babies. Imagine, death by baby shocker lizards."

[Daryk]

Atan

After the others had left, Atan approached the Dean with a smile he couldn't suppress. "Thank you, sir. I really can't thank you enough for this opportunity," he said, trying hard not to be too happy. "I'll do my best, really!"

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam goes into town and purchases a few items for the trip, making the most of what he has available. He frowns when he realizes he really doesn't have enough for a tent, not that he is particularly happy with how much even a two-man tent weighs. As for the weight of the rations, that was a self-correcting problem. After getting the best deal he can on his money, he goes to the library and plans out several questions he wishes to research over the next few days. At each mealtime he is open to conversation to any of his classmates, but being used to tackling problems on his own he doesn't overtly seek advice from others.

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
"I have heard this said many times in my youth, and I am unsure as to why you take such umbrage at such a simple observation. Rations and bedrolls are not so great an expense. But you have named your terms, and I shall endeavour to succeed."

Nazeem leaves Bighat to his simmering fury and retired to his quarters to plan his next moves. Seemingly the dean was more interested in contracting indentured students than in the principles he'd just proclaimed. But that was of little issue.

He still had his Falchion in case the need for self-defence came up, even if he wasn't much good with it, and he could make do without a tent.

It was no great expense, though 20gp was a costly amount regardless.

As he listed off the things he would buy in town, Arin returned from his own meeting.

"So Arin, what has Professor Elowyn assigned you as your task?"

[Irrealist]

"If you don't have any more questions, you are free to leave. I'm sure of that. I can imagine that you're happy to get some time outside.",he replies to Atan, winking at him.



Arin sits on his bed, scribbling away into a notebook. "We're supposed to get some material components. Can you believe that? I mean, my job is creating items, why do I have to go on some expedition I couldn't care less about?" He looks a little frustrated. "Why can't I be in your group? You have my prof as an adviser. I bet you got some awesome task."

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan laughed on his way out the door, narrowly avoiding a collision with the door jamb in his haste. He could barely contain himself on his way back to the dorm and whooped as he dashed up the hall to his room. Gathering up his bow and other gear, he ducked out the door nearest his room, and lit out for the forest in the gathering gloom, waving to the gate guard on his way past. Once among the trees, he paused and took a deep breath, letting the evening air wash over and through him. It felt good to be hunting again, even if he would have to return to the college later in the evening.

[pingcode20]

Nazeem Sural
"I wish I were so fortunate. Bighat has told us to go north and catch shocker lizards for spell components. What of yours?" replies Nazeem with a sigh.

"Do you have to pay for your food and equipment also? Mr Bighat insisted that we must buy our necessities from our own pouches."

[Irrealist]

"Yes, us too. I don't get it. If we stay here, we get everything for free, so why do we have to pay for our trip?" he replies, with an accusatory undertone.
(OOC: enough of that, let's move on. Forward two days.)


On the fourth-day, those of you who want to go buy equipment join the other students on their trip to Suzail (http://www.garstor.com/images/Suzail.png).

Suzail - capital of Cormyr. Those of you who have never been there are impressed by its 80 feet high city walls, sturdy towers overlooking the land the massive Field Gate through which you enter the city. The guards at the gate wave you through, obviously recognizing you for what you are. The streets bustle with activity, and a line of carts has accumulated from the gate to where one of then lies with a broken axis, shortly before the market. People have gathered around it and shout helpful advise while trying to get it off the road. Looking for the shop that was recommended to you, you pass the market and turn left at the shortly before the Crying Witch tavern, and again shortly before the Golden Goblin. In the side streets, there is significantly ledd traffic. After a few yards, you stand before a large house on the right-hand side that sports a sign depicting a campfire hanging out into the street. Another sign over the door informs you that you are about to enter "Eryas equipment emporium". An attractive red-haired woman greets you. "Hi, my name is Erya. You must be the wizards from the university. I have just what you need for your expedition, at prices you won't find anywhere else in this town. Have a look around, and call me if you need anything."

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Since the incident of the test where a Liam's stylus broke and he called to a Raven at the window (apparently one he had raised in his barn, which had flown from home and taken up residence in one of the University towers) which flew to him and he plucked one of its feathers for a quill, he has been going by the name the students started calling him by. Apparently he preferred it to his former surname. He's been dressing more in black, apparently to create a new image to go with the name, as well as cutting his hair in a crest that appears feathered.

The young man in black smiles to the woman whom he apparently knows, or at least seems familiar with, "Good Afternoon, Erya." Liam sorts through various materials to finally produce a pile of goods: trail rations, a backpack, a waterskin, a bedroll, a tinderbox, an oil lamp, and three flasks of oil. He lays them all out. "How much?"

The book price is 17 gold.

[TwoCents]

Minya (in the kitchens)

Minya tried to interrupt the flow of food, but fails. Eventually she gave up and just savored the soup and bread, since soon enough it would be time for dried meats and trail rations.

"Thank you! Ten of us are to go into the forest in search of shocker lizards. It sounds terribly educational, and, well, scary." Minya dropped her voice to a whisper at the last. She leaned in and continued in a confessional tone. "Am I terrible for being this excited about it? The only thing is, Father and Mother were always concerned with logistics and things and we have to have the food. Anything you can spare from stores that will keep for a month would be really, really helpful," she finished, wringing her hands.

Minya blushed bright red with embarassment as she continued, "Oh, and, uh, one other thing and please don't laugh at me. I don't know how to cook, well, anything." Words tumbled forth, "I can barely keep up with my studies as it is and I never had time to learn any of the useful things and I just know I'll bollocks it all up. Could you, maybe, show me how to boil rice? I thought if we bought a big bag of rice we could use it to stretch the rations..."

(around campus)
Later, Minya found Gorlon and asked if she could speak to him. If he agreed, she asked him if he had been on one of these expeditions, and if so, if he had any advice to give her, or in fact, any advice at all about being a student at the University.

At some time while she was not buried in her school books, she asked the librarians for any old expedition reports she might be able to read. If necessary, she searched the archives herself.

(shopping)
With Atan's list and the 10 gp advanced by the University, Minya began a careful purchase of what she thought she could not do without on the expedition.

[Irrealist]

You are able to make your purchases at satisfactory prices. It seems the recommendeation by your fellow students was justified. After a short visit at Talahon's rental yards to make reservations for the mules, you return to the campus grounds.

Minya finds Gorlon, and he is happy to talk to her. "Advice about the expedition? It's really not a big deal, you just go there, find whatever you need and bring it back here. It's more to make sure that everybody has seen more of the world that his home and this place here." He looks at you and smiles. "About being a student? This is about the exams, right? You shouldn't worry too much about them. The first exams aren't really fair. They put questions about stuff they haven't covered yet in there, so there's always an element of chance. If you pass here, you'd probably get an A at another place. I think it's partly about how you cope with failure, because persistence in the face of failure is important for a mage."

Most of you spend the next days in the library, bent over books and trying to find the answers to the questions you consider most important with respect to the upcoming expedition. The routine is somewhat interrupted by some commotion at the arcane college on the morning of the eighth-day. You inquire after the reason, and are told that the results of the exams are posted.
Inded, inside the hall, you find a small crowd of students around the notice-board. Peering over the crowd, or squeezing between their legs, you can read the lists of grades.

Arcane Theory

{table=head]Name | Grade
Aelian | A+
Atan Istaya | D
Azurous | C-
Elda Tealeaf | C
Emmis Minas | C
Ermus Rodmund | C
Golo Verort | C
Iolyn | A
Kawyn Arkell | A
Leon Morund | C
Liam Ravenquill | A+
Lirt Lagerstone | A+
Minya Istaya | C
Nazeem Sural | B
Ruasil | B
Shirla | A+
Elurin | B-
Epsun Penderdark | A
Ganel Turis | B
Haldur Lunek | C
Philomelin | B
Simaith | B
Thonar Hammerhead | C
Tiadul | B+
Trahone Korth | C+
Arin Grigori | B
Nuale | A-
Ulf Ironbeard | B+
[/table]

Mundane Lore

{table=head]Name | Grade
Aelian | A
Atan Istaya | B
Azurous | C
Elda Tealeaf | B+
Emmis Minas | B+
Ermus Rodmund | C
Golo Verort | B+
Iolyn | C
Kawyn Arkell | C
Leon Morund | B+
Liam Ravenquill | B-
Lirt Lagerstone | B
Minya Istaya | A
Nazeem Sural | C
Ruasil | B
Shirla | A
Elurin | B+
Epsun Penderdark | A
Ganel Turis | A+
Haldur Lunek | B
Philomelin | A+
Simaith | B+
Thonar Hammerhead | A
Tiadul | C
Trahone Korth | C+
Arin Grigori | B
Nuale | B
Ulf Ironbeard | B
[/table]

Magical Applications

{table=head]Name | Grade
Aelian | B
Atan Istaya | F
Azurous | C-
Elda Tealeaf | C
Emmis Minas | B
Ermus Rodmund | B
Golo Verort | A
Iolyn | A
Kawyn Arkell | B
Leon Morund | B+
Liam Ravenquill | C
Lirt Lagerstone | A
Minya Istaya | C
Nazeem Sural | B
Ruasil | A
Shirla | A
Elurin | B+
Epsun Penderdark | A
Ganel Turis | B+
Haldur Lunek | C
Philomelin | A
Simaith | A
Thonar Hammerhead | B
Tiadul | A
Trahone Korth | A
Arin Grigori | B+
Nuale | B
Ulf Ironbeard | C
[/table]


The pixie Shirla beams at her result in arcane theory. "Oh, that's marvelous. I never thought I would do so well." Then she flies on the the next list and looks in disbelief at what is written. "Surely that must be a mistake.", she whispers. She takes out her little quill and adds a small '+' to her grade before flying on to the last list. Again she looks twice, and squints before looking again. Another mistake? How can anybody be so sloppy?", she asks insecurely before correcting this mistake, too. Then she looks at her result, and beams again proudly. "That's better now.", she adds and flies off. The other students look at each other in disbelief

[Lochar]

Emmis

Emmis coughs into his hand, laughing slightly as he uses his innate abilities to make his own changes. Slowly, the top and bottom parts of the + erase and become minuses.

Prestidigitation for the win!

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam raises an eyebrow at the pixie's actions. "Some people can't accept failure or mistakes... except of course, we learn more from our failures than our successes. I think if I ever doubted that, Shirla's proved it true for me."

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

After finishing his purchases, Epsun spends most of his time in the library, reading up on the questionshe didn't understand on the exams. When he hears the bustle, he finishes the chapter, then reluctantly heads to over to read the board.

Having arrived a little late, Epsun barely has time to start reading the board before Shirla pulls her antics. Nudging Lirt, he begins "Geez, you'd think she'd be proud enough of those grades - it's few people who got all As to begin with", before stopping short to chuckle appreciatively at whoever is changing her grades again for her.

[Daryk]

Atan

This is kind of a duplicate post, but I think it fits better here now that the grades are actually posted.

Atan wiped a bead of sweat from his brow as he scanned the first list, and even smiled a little at the second. When he saw the third, though, the color drained from his face a bit. "Two out three ain't bad," he muttered. Looking around at the others, he declared, "I don't know about anyone else, but I need a drink!"

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt walks up to the growing crowd and carefully makes his way to the lists. He scans the lists and lets out a loud whoop of joy. Alright! Last keg being tapped before the field trip! You kow where to find me. He quickly heads back to the kitcen of the dorm and pops the bung on one of his freshly finished brews. Taking the first cup he sits on the counter and relaxes, awaiting the growing party to come.

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Azurous comes to the notice-board just in time to see the alterations being made to Shirla’s grade. After reading his own grade he shrugs. Speaking in draconic, as he often does when he want to speak but is unsure if he wants to be heard, he says “Es würde mehr bedeuten, wenn sie praktische Prüfungen gewesen waren, welcher Gebrauch einen magischen Flugkörper werfen kann, wenn Sie nicht den Bann verwenden können?”

Translation for those that speak draconic, and I think that’s everyone

It would mean more if they had been practical exams, what use is knowing how to throw a magic missile if you cannot use the spell?


Suspicious of mages being that trusting Azurous casts Detect magic and attempts to find out what is going to happen to the pixie and Emmis for tampering.


Maintaining for 3 rounds if I find any magic and spellcraft if I find a spell on the notice-board

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

Arriving to the grade posting, Trahone looks at his grades. "I did not do too bad but not really well. Apparently, Application is my strength." He then notices Azurous is staring intently at the lists. He moves closer and asks how he did and if he has seen Liam. While waiting for his reply, he scans and reads his two close friends grades. I have to get Liam to help me on magical knowledge. I just can not get that down. Maybe I could help him with application in return.

[TwoCents]

Minya

Minya didn't want to look at the list, but hope dragged her there. She knew she had left too many questions blank and given ridiculous answers to others, but perhaps, just perhaps, it would work out anyway.

She blinked furiously as she read and reread the grades posted. It was bad enough that she had failed, but to have it revealed publicly was almost too much to bear.

Ah, well. Atan will be happy to go home. She turned and smiled weakly at her friends. "Congratulations, Lirt. Well done, indeed." With that, she turned and wandered over to the library. Like a homing pigeon returning to her roost, Minya went to her favorite work table in one corner and began to compose the letter she had promised her parents. It was important to be honest, but if there was a way to delay the inevitable, she hoped to find it.

After wasting an hour on a futile task, Minya gave up. Father would find out about the inadequate performance anyway, so there was no sense in trying to whitewash things, even if there was enough whitewash in the universe. He would come to Suzail, pull them from the University and send them somewhere else. Worse, he would probably blame Atan, and Minya knew this wasn't her little brother's fault. Minya's only hope was to delay sending the letter until after the expedition; perhaps a month in the woods would help her find a way to salvage the situation.

She finished her letter, and wandered over to the common room. "Hello, Lirt. Is the invitation still open?" She quickly drained a large flagon of beer and began to sip her second, sharing it with Cerpe. Soon the two of them were singing together in Draconic. Neither was well trained, but they were certainly enthusiastic, especially while ad libbing verses to "What do you do with a drunken magus?" and other rowdy pub songs.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt watches Minya enter and says Invitaions always open for beautiful girls. You know where the cups are and where the donation box is. Lirt shakes a rough wooden box with a slot on the top for collecting donations for continued beer production. Lirt was always free with the beer, but making stuff costs money. Donations helped offset the costs and as any first year student knows...money is tight when you don't have an income. Lirt might have been able to charge money for some of his brew but that went against his nature and position here in the dorm.

[The_Snark]

Nuale

Nuale accepts the extra cost without comment when she sees the professor's attitude towards complaints, though it rankles a little. She had enough saved up, but she'd worked for that. It was true that it didn't make sense for the school to baby them through this—she especially appreciated that—but it was also an extra cost, one which they hadn't told the students about before they entered. Had she not sold off one or two of the scrolls she'd brought with her from Thay, she might have been in dire straits about now. She hadn't expected most of the others to have the same difficulty—many had wealthy families—but maybe their families hadn't sent them with money to spare.

(over the week)

She reluctantly takes a single day off class, right before the shopping day, to see what the library had about shocker lizard habits and behavior; otherwise, she is as diligent as usual in attending them. At one point, she offers to help Minya with scribing the scrolls for the Dean, saying that she needs the practice anyway.

(the day of the exam results)

Nuale looks up her own name with mixed feelings. She thought she'd done all right... she thought. She wasn't sure, which made her uncomfortable. It was a relief to see she'd done at least acceptably, if not well, on the tests. She needed to learn, she didn't need to excel; as long as she could stay at the school, she'd be all right.

Feeling faintly guilty, she looks for her roommate's grades; Minya had come back from her exams looking like she'd just done a day in the fields during summer. Oh. Well, it could have been worse. I always thought she was better at practical application than I was—maybe the departments have different exams...

She stops by the common room after a little while, since by the sound of it Lirt has succeeded in getting people to gather, and takes a mug for herself before retiring to sit up against one of the walls to watch the other students mingle. She keeps an eye on Minya as she begins to sing, too. It seems awfully early in the day to be drinking that much—and I would have thought she'd want to be studying. Maybe she just wants to forget about it for a little while...

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan dug in his pouch when Lirt shook the donation box. His remaining four coins weren't hard to find among the scant contents. Weighing how much he intended to drink, he dropped the sole silver piece into the box, returning the gold and two coppers to his pouch. Beer wasn't his preferred poison, but proper liquor was rather beyond his means. As he drank away the hours, he was uncharacteristically quiet, in stark contrast to Minya. Not even her renditions of his favorite drinking songs were able to bring him around. Frowning at his surprisingly unhelpful beer, he set it down, and slunk away to his room. Gathering his gear, he returned to the forest to clear his head, just wandering under the trees instead of stalking game.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt cracks the box handing the silver back to Atan, Copper only please, this isn't the good stuff. Lirt chuckles. Plus you may need that for the up coming days. I know after shopping for the field trip I'm broke too, but I'm not making drinks for money.

[Daryk]

Atan

"Well, if you insist. But I think I'll be drinking quite a bit," Atan said exchanging the silver for both of his coppers.

When he's dropping coins in the box, he doesn't know he won't be drinking as much as he intends. Thanks for the refund, btw... :smallsmile:

[TwoCents]

Minya

"Thanks, Lirt," Minya blushed at his compliment. She turned and put a coin in the donation box and grinned at him. "I know all about it. I think the dean is a little mad at me, too. I wasn't complaining, really I wasn't. I thought it was another test. I guess I'll never get the hang of this place," she mumbled into her mug.

When Atan arrived she tried to drag him into song, "Oh, come on, brother, you know the words. You taught me thissh one." She poked him in the ribs and demanded, "Don't look so glum! By this time next season you'll be back in the forest with Uncle Vanya and shtu-shtu-studying what you love. Drink and be happy! Here, I'll pay for you, if you want. FFather prolly won't even look at your grades once he shpots mine, anyway."

Minya waved at everyone who came in, complimenting the successful students and commiserating with the rest, and continuing to drink. And sing. And drink some more. Eventually Atan, possibly with Nuale's help, poured her into her bed and carried Cerpe, who was too drunk to fly, back to his perch.

In the morning, hungover and desolate, Minya dragged herself to the baths and then to class. By lunchtime she was close enough to normal to participate in class as usual.

[Wiz]

Liam pokes his head into the common room and nods at Lirt. "Congratulations on the exams. Might I beg a little credit for a pint, I'll be glad to pay you back at a later point, but at the moment, I don't have a copper to my name."

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Disappointed that the grades had been left unguarded Azurous returns to his studies.
Later Azurous attends the celebration/commiseration. Entering he announces to the room at large “If were all going to get eaten by monsters in a few weeks we should enjoy ourselves now.” As he heads for the drinks he hands a silver peace to Scrya who delivers it to the collection box, before Lirt can object he says “For me Liam and Trahone.” It was fairly well known that Azurous had coinage to spare and that he rarely gave any of it up without a very good reason, one good reason was Lirt’s brews.

Azurous drinks more than most, although not as much as Minya, but as always seems little affected but it. In addition to never being ill Azurous has an immense tolerance to alcohol and never gets hangovers.
When Minya starts singing he adds his own contribution. As he cannot sing to save his life he employs Ghost sound and Prestidigitation to the same effect.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt waves away an apology from Liam, and hands him a mug. With a wink he says You know its free anyway. No payment required. Go drink be merry, and all that jazz.

Lirt pours Azurous a generous cup with a knowing wink Keep an eye on the lass, you seem a good sort, lets make sure she makes it back to her room safe.

Anyone watching Lirt sees that he drinks only a few small mugs of beer, keeping his wits about him. He makes sure there are no problems with people through judiscious use of rudeness and cut off anyone who is drinking too heavily. He allows anyone to get drunk but not stumble drunk.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

Entering in time to see the donation by Azurous, Trahone walks into the lounge with his personal mug. "Thank you Azurous. You are too kind." With that, he fills his mug and offers a toast to the adventure ahead. Then to seal the toast he skulls his mug and fills it again. He then joins Azurous and Liam and enjoys their company.

Being from the military means that Trahone has some experience with beer but never a lot. He drinks a little too much during this celebration. Somehow he manages not to vomit though. He does join in with the singing even though he does not know the song. Instead, he tries to sing a different song to the same beat but fails miserably. It brings a laugh from everyone and then Trahone almost collapses in a chair. On the verge of passing out, his two friends help him to his bed.

The next morning is not pleasant for Trahone. He has a serious headache and everything is too loud. He skips breakfast to get extra sleep and to soothe his head. He stumbles to his morning lecture about 10 minutes late from his extra sleep.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

After a few toasts to everybody, Liam spends a bit of time aside with Azurious and Trahone, as the three have been hanging together more and more often. They have a quiet drunk together, and Liam ends up back in his room being only slightly hungover for the next day.

[harmonictempest]

Epsun Penderdark
Chatting amiably with Simaith about the stickier parts of their exams, Epsun waits until the crowd thins slightly before pushing forward. Perusing the list thoroughly, he grunts in slight surprise. Huh...didn't expect to do that well. Must've picked up more than I thought reading those old stories. Hey, not bad yourself, Sim. Nothing below a B, eh?

As they walk back toward the dorm, Epsun asks So, you excited for your trip? They have you doing something more exciting than hunting down a few lizards, I trust.

As they see the party in the kitchen, Epsun moves toward it, whether or not Simaith follows. All right, he exclaims with satisfaction upon seeing the tapped keg. I guess he's lightening up the pantry before it goes bad while we're on the road. Oh, that reminds me, he says out loud. I weaseled a great big cherry tart out of one of the cooks the other day, for snacking, right? But it's definitely going bad if we don't finish it before heading out, so have at it. Hefting the impressively large pastry (size of a large pie) out of the cupboard, he places it on the counter near the beer, happily accepting a small mug.

He hops up on the counter to better see around the room, and settles down with a happy grin. Chuckling, he says jokingly to Lirt What, you couldn't fit the brewery on the back of a mule and take it with you? I thought you'd at least have the dedication to try.
I paid 3 silver for the tart on my char sheet - is that enough?

[Daryk]

Atan

After several hours alone in the forest, Atan returned to campus and stowed his gear in his room. He still wasn't his usual cheerful self, but some of the gloom had lifted. Returning to the party in the common room, he saw his sister deep in her cups, and helped Nuale pour her into bed and a similarly inebriated Cerpe onto his perch.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Oh, I can get the brewery on a mule. But any brews that are only half fermented, you really don't want to be moving around. Remember that mess I was moppong up last week, that fragrant mess? Yeah, that was what happens when you move a barrel under pressure from fermenting beer too much. No problems though. I'm really thinking about getting into alchemy, I think I want to brew a hangover free beer...that may be the key. I know I'd make a killing doing that.

[Irrealist]

Later during your party, Elda comes in. Almost unnoticed, she tries to hide in a corner with a mug of beer. Slowly, as she becomes more inebriated, she loosens up more, and she stays until the party is over, seeming hesitant to go to her room. She'll confide to Minya that she's "sick of that stuck-up forest-sprite", immerdiately afterwards covering her mouth as if she'd said something bad.

The two dwarfs join your party with already red noses and an inability to speak without being loud. Most of the other students take a peek and a sip or two, but don't stay that long. Most of them tell you that they are going out to Suzail for the evening. Ermus and Kawyn are a noble exception, and join the competition for the most dissonant voice. Ermus loses badly, some might even surmise that he has enjoyed some training in the vocal arts. At some time, he goes to his room and returns with a lute, playing a few popular folk songs for you and encouraging everybody to sing along.

The next morning brings a common room that looks like a troll lair, a brighter-than-usual sun, and rumors of "a druid who casts neutralize poison for 200 golden lions" and the consideration that you'd only have to scribe 20 scrolls for this. Somehow most of you make it through the day alive, and are glad that the next day is a tenth-day, so you can sleep in. Nazeem, however, is not as used to drinking as you are, and spends most of the day in bed.

The next day, he looks even worse, developing high temperature, and sweating a lot. Since the Blessed Ormred Honand is away on important business, another priest, an elf going by the name of Azurien, tends to him. He diagnoses Nazeems illness as not very dangerous, and recommends a few days of rest. He later returns, at the request of dean Hilston, and prays for Nazeems early recovery, surprisingly without result. Baffled by this, he admits that there is nothing more he can do for Nazeem before the Blessed returns next week, and that Nazeem will miss the expedition. He reassures you that this disease is not contagious, it must be something that was simmering inside Nazeem for a while and has now broken out. In the evening, the remaining nine of you pack your gear, check your equipment, think about which spells best to memorize, and go to bed early.

The first-day of this month's last ride, you rise with the sun, get an ample breakfast and, heavily laden with your equipment, meet dean Bighat at the main gate. Five guards stand to the side, holding a good number of horses. "Good morning, all", he greets you. "I see you are well-prepared. I was not sure you would be punctual, so I had ordered a few horses saddled. No harm in using them now, even if we'll be a bit early. You can give your backpacks to the guards, they will load them onto the two pack horses. Here is a writ from the university, signed and sealed, and stating that you are not to be impeded on your assignment. It will serve you as a replacement for a charter on your trip. Any questions? Well then."

The guard show those of you who have never ridden a horse before how to get up and stay up, and you ride at a placid trot to Suzail. After picking up your mule, you make your way to the dock, where a cog is being loaded. Four men stand there, watching the procedure. They turn upon your arrival, and one of them speaks up: "You must be the young wizards. Welcome, and I'm glad you're early. I am Captain Shaul. We'll be ready to leave as soon as these last barrels are aboard. Why don't I show you the ship, now that everybody's here." He takes you aboard and shows you the cabins, small rooms not even eight foot to a side, with two stacked berths taking up most of the space, barely leaving room for a small locker for every passenger. "That's the king's suite. Six to a room, the other one looks just the same. Enough room for twelve people, I reckon. Share them any way you want, as long as there's some quiet in the night." He gives the two ladies a sleazy grin. "Make yourselves at home, I'm needed on deck." The shortest of the three merchants that were accompanying you takes the chance to greet you. "Good morning, honorable wizards. My name is Elizar Dayen. These two are Lorack Burne and Tomna Finbar. We are merchants on the way to Arabel. If you don't mind, we would like to be together in this cabin. Any of you can join us." He blushes slightly as his gaze falls on the two ladies. "That's not what I meant. Not that we would mind your company, of course. But I am convinced that you are a virtuous as you are beautiful." He bows gentlemanly.

Your conversation is interrupted by a triple "Anchors aweigh!" - "Anchors aweigh!" - "Anchors aweigh!", and you feel the ground below your feet start to move.



Azurous does not detect any magic on the board with the grades.

[TwoCents]

Minya

Before they left the grounds of the University, Minya raised her hand shyly. "Ah, who has the emergency return devices?" She glared at Cerpe's raucous squawk, and growled at him in draconic,
"Just because some of us can fly home if we need to doesn't mean we all can, feather-head."

"Good morning, honorable wizards. My name is Elizar Dayen. These two are Lorack Burne and Tomna Finbar. We are merchants on the way to Arabel. If you don't mind, we would like to be together in this cabin. Any of you can join us." He blushes slightly as his gaze falls on the two ladies. "That's not what I meant. Not that we would mind your company, of course. But I am convinced that you are a virtuous as you are beautiful." He bows gentlemanly.

Minya looked over at Nuale. "What do you think? You, me, and Atan with these gentlemen? I doubt we'll have problems in either cabin, but this one might be quieter," she added.

[Lochar]

Emmis

Emmis grins at the ship as they board. "Ought to be fun. Thankfully I float, since I don't swim very well.""

Sorry, I've had odd internet access since Thursday due to traveling and being at the hospital for my fiance's father.

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

Yeah, you'd make a killing all right...squished flat by the stampeding hordes trying to get their hands on it. Espun finishes a few more before the party ends, but keeps it moderate. Watching his classmates the next day, he has plenty of cause to thank Mystra for tough gnomish heads that don't get easily hung over. More alert than most, he puts care into his packing, making sure his possessions are stored neatly and easily retrievable. Leading a rather balky mule who answers (occasionally) to Trimble, he trots aboard, handing off the mule to the crewmen in charge of the animals.

Quietly following the others, he surveys their meager accomodations. Should be plenty of room - at least for the smaller folk. Answering Minya, he says I've got one of the return devices, as well as the writ to serve as our charter. Didn't see who had the other one, though. He presents both briefly before carefully replacing them in the center of his pack, where they will be well cushioned on all sides.

a) I don't think anyone already said they took the teleport sticks, so Epsun has one, and there's still one unaccounted for.

b) Epsun *bought* a mule, and mentioned to a few people during the shopping day that he'd be willing to share the mule in return for a spot in someone's tent. Sooo....speak up, and my mule can be the one lugging your tent around instead of you. :smallbiggrin:

[AngelForm]

Azurous

Azurous rouse early on the day of departure to prepare his spells properly, in deference to his trust in Trahone’s power he only prepared a single offensive spell, in deference to not being an idiot it is his best offensive spell.

Azurous dons his new travelling gear and shoulders his pack, as the weight is already considerable Scrya is forced to walk. He leaves his crossbow and bolts in the pack for his time on the boat. He then heads out to the gate. Hearing Minya’s questing he says “I have one of the devises.” Azurous produces said item for the group to see before returning it to his pack.


If someone else wants the stick I have no particular objection. Btw anyone know the weight of a ferret? Wiki says 2lb, this correct?


When they reach the boat Azurous, Trahone and Liam stand slightly apart from the rest, clearly still part of the group but equally clearly in a group of there own.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

On the morning of the trip, Trahone is roused when Azurous prepares his spells. Motioning that it is no trouble to being awake an hour early, he checks over his equipment again. He then reviews what spells he was taught. I hope that I will be able to help my friends. I am very limited when it comes to magic. Azurous has such a variety that he can adapt to the situation.

Trahone is quieter than usual on the way to the boat. He seems to be concentrating on the mission. When the news of sharing rooms was mentioned, he awoke from his daze to truly see his fellow travelers. Upon hearing Minya suggestion on rooms, "That sounds like a decent arrangement." With that he turns and goes above deck. Trahone stands at the rail and watches the dock slip farther and farther away from the cog.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam agrees with the arrangement of cabins and carefully stows his equipment in his locker and goes back up to the top. He walks forward to the officer of the watch (whether it be one of the mates or the captain) and waits respectfully until he is acknowledged.

When whatever officer in question indicates he has a moment, Liam steps forward and bows his head slightly. "Your pardon, sir. I've been cooped up with my studies for several weeks now, and I've nothing that needs to be done til we arrive. I've worked my whole life in a livery, and I'm not a stranger to hard work. I would just as soon volunteer to help with the crew as be an idle passenger, if you can use an untrained hand, that is."

[The_Snark]

Nuale

Nuale nods, smiling slightly at the last comment. "That suits me. Thank you for the offer, master Dayen." They would be sharing the cramped rooms either way, after all, and the merchants were polite enough that she wouldn't worry about them.

She removes her pack, placing it in the locker carefully. Or rather, she would have been careful, if the pack weren't rather bulky and the locker cramped. She returns briefly to the deck to reassure herself that the mules and their packsaddles had been brought aboard. Don't be silly; we've set out already and the dean wouldn't forget and walk off with most of our supplies.

She does it anyway, and then seeks out Minya again. "Do you remember where we were getting off? Somebody was going to bring a map from the library, I think, but I don't know who. I'm a little curious to see how we'll be getting there."

[Irrealist]

"Then it looks like we're settled", Elizar Dayen replies happily. He lets you choose your bunks, then the merchants settle in themselves. "So what is your business in Arabel, if I may inquire? Traveling by sea is a good idea, it's much safer than by land. Though I heard the pirates have been getting bolder", he half-whispers, not wanting to chance his luck.


On deck, the captain, standing at the rudder, grins at Liam's proposal. "It's good to hear that you are willing to work, but me and my lads have got it all covered. The ship's not very big. If something comes up, I'll let you know." One sailor is sitting in the crow's nest, right under the Cormyrian banner flying from the top of the single mast. Two more are climbing through the rigging. Two others don't look very busy, leaning against the railing and rolling some dice.

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan looked over the horse offered to him, and spared it his weight. As the group trotted along toward Suzail, he still had to restrain himself to avoid getting too far ahead.

Aboard the ship, he simply nodded his agreement to his sister's suggestion to share the cabin with the merchants. Arranging his gear in his locker, he made sure his fishing gear was accessible, and stacked his rations so the oldest would be consumed first.

To Nuale's question, he grinned and answered, "How we'll get there? By ship, of course..." He then lightly skipped back out of her reach, still with the grin on his face.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt moves along cheerfully with the rest of the group, falling in line as necessary. Once on the ship he uncorks a hidden bottle of beer for himself after he packs his stuff away. He'll sit quietly out of the way during the trip often seen working recipes and costs for a variety of things on an old scrap of parchement that he scrapes off every now and again.

[TKDfirefly]

Trahone

With a slight pang of sadness, Trahone turns away from the sight of the dock and looks out to sea. He tries to take in the vastness of the waters before turning back to the deck. He notices Liam talking to captain but does not go and investigate. Instead he joins the two playing dice. "What game are you playing?" Trahone asks with interest. He watches and listens, trying to learn the game without being explained the rules. I know some of the soldiers back home played dice games but I never paid much attention to them. Maybe I should have.

[The_Snark]

Nuale

Nuale rolls her eyes, swatting half-heartedly at Atan well after he dodges out of the way. "Thank you, oh master traveller, I would have forgotten. I meant what route the ship's taking, of course!"

She remembers the presence of the merchants about then, and straightens, voice going from playful to more formal. It wasn't embarassing to do that in front of strangers, it was just... well, a little embarassing. "Ah—we're not bound for Arabel, as it happens. We'll be heading on to the Hullack Forest after." Which reminded her why she wanted to know where the ship was going. Were they getting off at Arabel and going overland, or would they be staying on the ship?

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan winked at Nuale and replied, "Oh, that... let me think... I seem to recall we're to head East up the coast, then upriver to the Wyvernwater. They might drop us off before or after Arabel. I'm not entirely sure."

Atan seemed completely unfazed by the presence of the merchants. Who knew? They might actually know the route.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam bows his head to the captain again. "I'll be around if you need me, captain." He heads to the railing and leans there, out of the crew's way, watching the scenery.

I wonder how we'll do with this exercise... I wonder what the real point of it all is.

[TwoCents]

Minya Istaya

Minya giggled as Nuale and Atan joked. She looked better than she had since the day of the exams. Her scholar's robes left hanging in her room at the university, Minya wore a new set of explorer's clothes and well broken in boots. "At this rate, Master Dayen, you might want to move into the other cabin to get away from our noise. We are on an expedition for the University of Magic just up the road; it's a practical exercise as part of our education." Minya unpacked her baggage and placed it in the locker, hanging her sword and bow from a convenient hook near her bunk. Her spellbook stayed wrapped in canvas inside her backpack, ready in case she needed to debark quickly.

"I'm going upstairs for some fresh air," she said as she finished, and went to go find the captain. Carefully waiting until she was sure she wouldn't interrupt any of the mysterious happenings on board the ship, she asked, "Sir? Sir, is it all right if I climb up that pole thingy and up to the box doohickey up there?" Fluttery hand gestures made it clear she wanted to go up to the crow's nest.

[Irrealist]

The sailors look up from their game at Trahone's words. "Death's heads is the name of the game. Wanna join us? It's only a copper. "


Meanwhile, below deck, Dayen seems a little surprised at Nuale's statement. "Really? You're going to the Hullack forest? Well, you being more than a handfull of mighty mages, it might not be as dangerous for you as for us normal people. I guess you will leave us at Treefell, then? We will stop in Marsember, Wheloon and Hultail first, of course."


On the astern castle, the captain squints at Minya, with arms akimbo. "The crow's nest? Any reason in particular? There's not much room up there, and I don't want to fish you out of the water when you fall out of the rigging."

[AngelForm]

Azurous

After stowing his gear Azurous followed the others on deck. Feeling slightly out of place around so many strangers he finds a quiet spot near the bow, settling down he watches Trahone and the sailors playing dice. Azurous disliked games of chance generally and the risk of losing money specifically, however not all dice games involved much chance and there is never harm in knowing the rules of such games.

Meanwhile Scrya was climbing the rigging towards the crown nest to get a better look around.

Nether of the two had overlooked the ballista on the aft castle and Azurous wondered about the sailor’s ability to defend the cog from pirates and such, I wonder if the collage or the ship paid for this ship to give us passage.

[Lochar]

Emmis

The little gnome is quiet as he sits on the deck, looking out over the water as they go. After a while, he pulls his pack still with him into his lap and digs through it for a moment, coming up with a map. He looks it over a bit, attempting to recall where they were supposed to be docking at and comparing to where they would be entering the forest at.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt wanders the deck for a bit trying to get his sea legs. He looks a little "green around the gills" and uncomfortable. Eventually he sits downwind of Emmis and looks over the gnome's shoulder at the map. I don't think I like this whole ship travel part of this trip. What do you heve there?

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

After stuffing his pack into the tiny locker provided, Epsun walks up on deck, enjoying the breeze. He leans on the railing and watches the shore go past for a while, idly watching the activities of the others on deck.

[Irrealist]

"Lighthouse ahoy!", it sounds from the crow's nest.

A large part of the day has gone by eventlessly. You hung around the ship, chatting a little and passing the time. From the activity that ensues, and the talk among the crew, you can deduce that you will arrive at Marsember soon. Some of you gather on the forecastle to watch your approach to the city, and the three merchants join you. Elizar Dayen seems happy to talk to you. "I'm so glad we made it into port today. We'll be conducting business for the rest of the day, and the ship will stay here for the night. I think we'll enjoy a nice bed at the sleeping mermaid inn tonight. Are you spending the night on the ship or in the city? You should at least take the chance to visit the city in the afternoon, it's very nice there."

[Lochar]

Lirt

Lirt wanders the deck for a bit trying to get his sea legs. He looks a little "green around the gills" and uncomfortable. Eventually he sits downwind of Emmis and looks over the gnome's shoulder at the map. I don't think I like this whole ship travel part of this trip. What do you heve there?

Emmis

Emmis looks up at Lirt. "Hmm, this? I managed to dig up a rough map of the forest area. I was hoping we could possibly use it to just skirt the edges of the forest, if someone else knows about where we'd find the lizards. That way, we don't have to just wander aimlessly."

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Overhearing Lirt and Emmis, Liam steps forward. "I've heard a good area to look would be in the forest beyond the town of Treefell. Is that on your map?" He glances over Emmis' shoulder, "They like swampy areas and riverbanks for their nests."

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan landed his latest fish as the call came from the crow's nest. Fishing wasn't as satisfying as hunting, but it had its advantages. Looking in his bucket, he decided he'd caught enough for the day, and set about cleaning and preserving the fish for transport. Magic vastly simplified and shortened the process, and Atan had to agree his professors were right about that, at least. He still couldn't grasp the mindset of magic as "answer to everything", but supposed he never would and refused to worry about it. As his uncle had always said, magic was a tool, nothing more. What you did with the tool was the important thing.

[Irrealist]

Slowly, the misty islands of Marsember grow larger and larger, until you can distinguish first houses, then individual people on the streets going about their daily business. A small skiff appears, heading for you. you can distinguish three people on it. The barge closes, and one of the sailors throws a rope ladder down. After a few moments, a young man, wearing plain clothes, climbs on deck and heads for the astern castle. He exchanges a few words with the captain, and then directs him to a docking berth.

The captain comes over to where you stand. "We'll be loading and unloading now. You can stay aboard or visit the city. Just be sure to be back before nightfall, or tomorrow at dawn if you're staying at a place in the city. We will set sail again at sunrise. Don't be late."

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

The black clad youth looks around. "Anyone interested in hitting town as a group?"

[Daryk]

Atan

Atan laughed lightly and replied, "Not on my budget, Liam. I've barely got two coins to rub together."

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

The lanky youth chuckles, "And I've got exactly none..., but you don't have to spend money if you go ashore, there is the seeing of new things, getting to know new places."

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

The gnome hops lightly on the railing he is perched on. I'm in - it'll be nice to see a different town for a change.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt raises a wobbly hand from the rail. Anything to get off this cursed boat. He still does not look very well.

[TwoCents]

Minya

"Just so I understand, if we come back after nightfall we can't get onto the ship until dawn?," Minya asked, as Cerpe fluttered excitedly above her. Once she knew the curfew, she wandered over to the others.

"Brother, we can look around at least; it's good to see new places and meet interesting people. I'm up for the excursion. Let me get a few things from the cabin, first. Back in a minute!" Minya dashed away. She carefully checked the safekeeping of her spellbook, and slipped most of her gold into a spare sock in her backpack. After dithering for a moment, she left her bow behind but took the sword. A mere three minutes later, she ran back up the ladder to the others.

[Daryk]

Atan

Rolling his eyes, Atan said, "All right, all right. Let me get my sword and bow, though, eh? And we're definitely taking the permit or writ or whatever it is with us."

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam smiles, nodding. "Sounds good. Let's go."

[Irrealist]

The captain corrects Minya: "No, the guards would let you come aboard at any time; it's just that you really should not be out in the streets after sunset. The streets of Marsember can be quite dangerous when it's dark. If you want to stay the night in the city, remember that you have to register at the King's Tower."

Marsember is built on the boggy Dragonmere coast and a few island close to it. All the islands are connected by brigdes, but you see many people using small skiffs to navigate the canals between the islands. You leave the harbor area through one of the gates that separates it from the rest if the city and trot along the cobblestone roads, crossing a few bridges and taking in the atmosphere of the city, completely different from Suzail's.
Getting a few directions along the way, you end up at Morningmist Hall, one of the largest temples of Lathander in Cormyr, a masterwork of architecture and well known throughout the kingdom for its walls that glow in the dark and its slim towers that reach out for the first of the sun's rays every morning.

[AngelForm]

Azurous

“Well the town cant be as tedious as staying on the boat.” Azurous left the boat with the others, taking only his dagger and Scrya.

[Daryk]

Atan (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=12370)

Atan was non-plussed by the city. Having grown up in Waterdeep, he was no stranger to urban environments, despite the vastly different topography. Morningmist Hall was of mild interest, but Atan decided he'd rather see the ancient trees of Cormanthor he'd read about in geography class.

[Lochar]

Emmis

Emmis shakes his head. "If you don't mind, captain, I think I'll stay here on the ship. I saw plenty of merchant towns with my father, and your ship seems at least as interesting as the town."

Emmis then pats a little bag hanging from his side, and only a few clinks are heard. "Besides, I don't have the coin to stay the night anywhere decent."

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam walks with the others, looking around, getting a feel for the city. "This is fascinating, I've never been away from Suzail."

[TwoCents]

Minya

Minya stopped and stared at Morningmist Hall. She rummaged in her map case for a sheet of clean parchment and began to make notes. "Hmm. Hmm. Fascinating." She walked closer to get a better look at the stone themselves, and then looked for someone who could answer questions.

If she found someone, she walked up to him, shook his hand, and introduced herself. "Greetings. I am Minya Istaya, a student at the University of Magic in Suzail. I have a particular interest in architecture, and I wonder what you can tell me about this marvelous building." She picked her guide's brain for as long as she was able, and then gave a small contribution to the temple in thanks (3 sp). Once she had been given an opportunity to actually observe the glowing walls herself, Minya would cheerfully accept the group consensus, whether it be to go back to the ship or continue to tour the city.

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

Epsun eagerly joins the group, glad for a chance to stretch his legs. As they stop before the temple, the gnome murmurs in appreciation. The Morninglord... Then, c-ocking his head to the side, he stares studiously off into space and continues with a wry grin ...God of spring, dawn, birth, renewal, creativity, athletics and...well, a few more, I'm sure. Gods, I'm glad those exams are over. Anyway, his followers are often said to be great artists, so hopefully we'll see our fair share of that if we wander around long enough.

If others seem interested, he go explore the temple, but he's mostly following the group.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam stares at the hall, "It is beautiful."

[Irrealist]

You continue to wander the streets of Marsember for a while, returning to the ship before the onset of darkness. The sailor on watch lets you aboard and, somewhat tired, you have dinner and chat for a bit before crawling into your bunks for the night. The merchants join you when you are almost asleep, trying to be quiet after they enter, but you half-overhear what seems to be the end of an agitated discussion. It seems to be about trade, and you hear the name "Sembia" fall a few times.

[Daryk]

Atan (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=12370)

Atan hadn't quite drifted off into trance when the merchants returned, but he just couldn't interest himself in a trade discussion about Cormyr's mercantile neighbor to the east. His memory of the trees of the High Forest were far more attractive, and he let his mind wander there for a time.

[Irrealist]

You wake up the next morning to the sound of commands and confirmations being yelled back and forth. The walls of the room you are in are rhythmically moving up and down and swinging from side to side while they are at it. When you go to have a peek outside, the captain greets you with a smile. "We should be able to make some good speed today." The ship has just left port, sailing you closer to your destination.

[Daryk]

Atan (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=12370)

Atan stretched out the kinks from lying in a hammock for several hours, then strolled up on deck to resume fishing. His store of rations was growing by the day, despite his hearty appetite.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

The student wizard comes on deck and looks around. Watching from the bow for a while to look ahead to their destination. He waits til he sees some sailors who aren't busy and walks over to them. "Good morrow. Looks to be fair sailing weather. I don't know if you know our destination, but I was wondering if any of you might have heard of it... a place called the Hullack Forest?"

[TwoCents]

Minya (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=12615)

Minya strolled up on deck, a small roll of canvas tucked under one arm. She looked around the deck for a small area out of the way of the sailors, and eventually found a space. Unrolling the canvas to reveal a game board, she set up a set of draughts using pieces of wood and pebbles. "Anyone for a game?," she asked the group at large.

[Daryk]

Atan (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=12370)

Taking a strain on his fishing line, Atan said, "Not now, sister dear, I'm a little busy..."

[Irrealist]

The sun rises and sets again, coloring the sky blood red. The captain orders the crew to strike the sails for the night.

Then, a voice from above yells "Ship on starboard!"
"Which flag?", the captain yells back up.
"No flag!", the answer comes.
"Damn", the captain mutters, then draws himself up to command posture. "All hands on deck." He takes to the wheel again, trying to get the best speed out of his ship, but the two-masted pursuer closes fast. The sailor who is at the wheel when the captain is off-duty takes charge of the crew, ordering them to get their weapons and man the ballista. After sending the merchants below deck, he approaches you. "It's not safe up here for you. Better get your weapons and stay below deck. Follow the captain's orders, he's king on this ship."

SPLOSH - a heavy stone hits the sea, and a fountain appears about two dozen feet in front of your ship.

[Lochar]

Emmis

Flinching instinctively from the slash, Emmis nods. "Below deck sounds good, although if they get close enough, you've got nearly a dozen wizards aboard. I don't think any of us have training enough for the really powerful spells, but close range we could probably be of major help."

[Lochar]

Emmis

Flinching instinctively from the slash, Emmis nods. "Below deck sounds good, although if they get close enough, you've got nearly a dozen wizards aboard. I don't think any of us have training enough for the really powerful spells, but close range we could probably be of major help."

[TwoCents]

Minya, elf evoker

"Yes, sir, I'll go below if you order me to, but first: Atan and I have our bows and swords with us. We might be more helpful on deck." She waited a moment, to see if the crewman would change his mind, and then raced below for her weapons and wand. Either way, she would be ready.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt jumps at the sound of the splash and looks around. He sees the other ship and scampers into a hidey spot on deck where he is out of the way but still able to be involved. Once there he conjures an unseen servant.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam nods to the instructions and heads below.

[The_Snark]

Nuale

Nuale stares at the closing ship grimly. It didn't look as though they would be able to outrun it; pity it wasn't fully dark yet, or they might have been able to lose them. "I can help the people repelling boarders, with a little time," she offers, rising. "How long will it be until they board?"

[Daryk]

Atan

Looking at the first mate, Atan nodded his agreement with his sister. "I can hit them at this range, sir. Which one should I kill first?" Atan asked with more than a hint of bravado.

And he'll lead off with a True Strike to make good on that boast.

[AngelForm]

Azurous (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/view.php?id=54994)

Azurous is startled by the yell because Scrya was in the crows nest and should have seen the other ship as well, but Scrya doesn’t know the ship to be a threat so would give no warning, from Scrya sorrow-apologies.

After listening to the sailor’s instructions Azurous remarks "I’d rather fight than let them take the ship, but I won’t be much use till they get close and I will need my weapons.” He heads below to retrieve his weapons, reviewing his spells and calling Scrya to him as he goes. Seeing Liam he asks “Do you have any useful spells prepared? Where is Trahone, this is his area of expertise.”

[harmonictempest]

Epsun

Gritting his teeth, the gnome gives a nod to Minya's respectful request before darting below decks. There, he dons as swiftly as he is able his breastplate. Picking up weapons when finished, he comes back up the stairs. I can throw a blow where it may be helpful, captain, he gestures with his crossbow, and I've mastered a few minor healing spells that may come handy if this gets ugly.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam nods to Azurous. "I have a Mage Armor, and I can cast a Color Spray."

[Irrealist]

"I sure as hell won't tell you that you can't help defend the ship. There won't be any boarding if we can help it, but then we may not be able to." He stares at Atan with more than a hint of disbelief. "If you can pick off the man at the helm, than would be great. We just need to keep them off until the navy gets here." The crew at the ballista fires an arrow high into the air, where it explodes in a bright red flash before slowly tumbling downwards, trailing red smoke.

When Epsun gets back, the officer looks sceptically at his armor. "Are you sure you can swim in this?" The ship leans slightly to one side as the captain tries to curve away from the pursuing ship that is still closing fast. The sailors take cover behind the walls of the castles, crossbows loaded.

Daryk: Choose a distance at which Atan would like to fire, then roll attack and damage.

[Greyen]

Lirt

Lirt leans a little with the shifting deck, and gets to the side of the ship. He moves back toward Atan. He peers through a gap in the castle, not even knowing its called a castle. He looks back at the "boat driver" and says Where is their steering bit? I may be able to foul them for ten minutes or so, especially if Atan hits their driver.

[Wiz]

Liam Ravenquill

Liam looks incredulous, "You didn't think I came down here for my health did you?" He grabs his quarterstaff and spellpouch and chants a spell over himself.

cast Mage Armor

[Daryk]

Atan (http://www.thetangledweb.net/forums/profiler/view_char.php?cid=12370)

Nodding once at the Mate's assent, Atan dashed below and gathered his weapons. Returning on deck, he squinted to focus on the opposing helmsman to verify his target while Nuale completed her infusion over his bow. Sure of his man and his weapon, Atan drew back and muttered the words of a spell just before releasing.

Spot: [roll0]
To Hit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
Unfortunately, the Magic Weapon bonus doesn't stack with the Masterwork quality of Atan's bow, but it still gives a bonus to damage, so it's worthwhile.

Edit: With the theoretically confirmed critical, that would be 24 points of damage total. Not bad for 3d8+9... :smallbiggrin: