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  1. - Top - End - #61
    Ettin in the Playground
     
    NecromancerGuy

    Join Date
    Oct 2011

    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Alpha, in his childlike state, leaps forward and pulls a card before any of the others respond. "I wanna go!!!!"

    Before Alpha even gets a chance to look at it, Omega smacks him in the back of the head with a quick strike. "Be patient. You don't even know what's going on." After taking a moment, and deciding otherwise, he goes after Alpha, grabbing his card next.

    Delta grabs one next, and gestures to Gamma, who draws the next one, and finally Beta grabbing the last, all wordless.
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  2. - Top - End - #62
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Alpha takes his card. From a gambler's standpoint, it is a 5 of Diamonds. Harrow-wise, it is from the suit of shields, and this time it is the picture of a grizzled man in rustic garb and a walking stick standing on a mountain.

    "The Mountain Man. This signifies an encounter with a physical power outside of one's control. This giant could personify an authority, an army, an earthquake ... just about anything that appears to be a monolithic problem. Acceding to the force might be wise, but surviving it is paramount. I can tell from your impulsive nature that this card ... suits ... you."
    ..................................................

    It is Omega's turn. The card he pulls is a 5 of Spades. It is the third Shield card in a row. In this, an emaciated man lies in a bed in what is obviously a hospital ward. "The Sickness," says Zellara quietly. "This card represents plague, pestilence, famine, and disease. It can also indicate corruption of the soul or of a multitude of souls. This is an ill card, but The Sickness might indicated a chance to stop such a disaster. I believe you have the lack of complication in your morals to be able to meet what challenge lies ahead without fear."
    ................................................

    Delta is next, and likely respectful buy cheery, but as with his other two fellows is quiet. "The Survivor," she says, drawing a 5 of Hearts, which is yet another Shield card. The picture is that of a mixture of fallen men and monsters. The man is on his knees, holding his sword up but with point down, and gives the sense that he is not praying, but recovering from a massive battle. "This represents a person who has been through an ordeal of some kind. Surrounded by his fallen comrades, the man represents someone or something thought lost forever, but found once more. It can also represent rebirth."

    She looks up to Delta again. "Normally a good card ... if you work alone. Not so good if you have friends."
    ..................................

    Delta gestures to Gamma, who grabs the next one, which is a Jack of Spades, and has the Harrow suit of ... you guessed it ... the Shield. The picture is that of a woman holding her ears, mouth open in a scream, and a poor form of drawing that makes it somewhat spiral. Vellara sighs and looks at the card for several seconds, then at Gamma. "I am sorry, warrior and healer of Iomedae, for this is the Waxworks, and represents everything you would despise. The Waxworks is a place of helplessness and physical entropy. The mind might be willing, but the flesh is frozen in this place of horror. It is also the card of torture and imprisonment, signifying literal inability to move or a paralysis of a more prosaic kind. But show the valor known your faith, for this card might also indicate an abundance of energy at a crucial moment that changes all."
    .......................................

    Beta, the sixth to draw, takes his without comment of word or expression. It is a 5 of Clubs, and of course is of the Shield suit. It is the picture of a coppery-red dwarf with flaming hair and beard, surrounded by enemies whose weapons break in attempting to strike him. "The Brass Dwarf," chuckles Zellara, "strange that the dwarf did not receive this one. This is a dwarf-like creature of hardened skin from another world .... known as an azer. He represents invulnerability to a current danger. Although others might fall, he remains hale and strong. But he is not quite the same as you may think you see of him in what you would see of yourself. He can also mean a failure or dark fate for you, which in turn might save all others around you from a greater danger."
    ..................................

    The ghostly figure of Zellara looks around. "As you can see, all six of the cards thus far are Shield cards, and I would not doubt that the others are as well. The Shield cards all represent Health, Home, and Pain.

    "Six of you have chosen - Paxre, and the five strangers. As I told you at the beginning, there are seven Chosen, and two cards are discarded. Where is the seventh of you?"

    ......................................

    Ishani Dhatri gingerly comes forth to Zellara. "I must tell you, this strange magic is frowned upon by Abadar. But if by some twist of the Keeper's Key I have found myself here to be chosen, I accept it as my deepest honor."

    He grabs a card ... or at least tries to. The instant his hand touches the card it discorporates, only to reform once Ishani tries again twice more. Three times he tried, and three times he is met with frustration.

    Zellara smiles, and not with a mean "spirit." "Abadarian, you are the most powerful one in this room, for you know mysteries of your faith that the dwarf does not. Your heart is pure and kind, full of compassion; and to attempt to use natural healing herbs shows a way both to honor your faith by not forcing a mercenary action, but being able to prolong life in another. You, sir, are a good man. Sadly ... you are not the man. You are not the Seventh."

    Disappointed, the priest goes back over to the child to tend to her with his infusion.

    "Now," Zellara takes focus again. "Where is the seventh? For without he, she, or it ... the road that the fates are setting you upon may well crumble under your feet. With teeth and tail and a form most strange for any normal hero. Where is't? Show, or be shown."
    Last edited by lostsole31; 2015-03-21 at 01:45 AM.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
    Show
    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  3. - Top - End - #63
    Ettin in the Playground
     
    NecromancerGuy

    Join Date
    Oct 2011

    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    After a moment where nobody else comes forward, Delta steps out of the room, and a little over a minute later, he enters again, followed by a slightly larger...creature. The two share a similar looking rune on their foreheads, with the latter being a largely serpentine creature, slithering past Delta it reaches out with one of its unusual arms to try and grab a card without a word.
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  4. - Top - End - #64
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    There is a gasp from Ishani, who stumbles backwards onto the girl's bed by her feet. "Wha-what is that thing!?"

    Idell moves forth sinuously, its equally serpentine hands sliding forth to take one of the cards ... and his hand goes through it, as it did for Ishani Dhatri. But it doesn't understand beyond what it was told to do, and practically paws at the card, and several more times in some confusion. He could not take the card as his master wanted.

    "How interesting," says Zellara. "Teeth, tail, an unusual form. But, not the teeth, not the tail, and not that form. The Chosen are separate, but that creature is tied to your own soul, almost as if it is an extension of yourself. Now, where is the Seventh?"

    "Crap!" Paxre hears in his mind. "Well, I guess that's it, then. I swear to Calistria, if any of them decides to ... advertise ... I'm going to stick them in the neck. Let's see if we can't have a little fun, just to see which of these gentlemen are more susceptible to being spooked."

    Here and there there are faint scratches, scrawlings, almost like a ghost or something, which terrifies the stuffing out of Alpha! Then appearing from beneath Paxre's blousy breeches is a curious creature. It is hard to tell if it climbed down from hiding, or if it simply appeared. It's body is the size of a very small housecat, but with a tail twice the length so it is 3' overall. It is dark green at the tail and topside, with a light green underbelly, quickly becoming dark red at the head and crest, with pale blue eyes. There are dark red flecks throughout. There is something about it, something you can't quite put your finger on, that despite its dark but colorful scales, part of it almost drinks in the light ... oh, so faintly. The scales, though colored, reflect no light (yes, color itself exists, but for the scientists out there, it practically has no albedo), and its small, scalloped wings are the same in color and light absorption. It's snout includes two little teeth sticking out and down and at the end of its lithe tail is a barbed stinger.

    It takes 4 full rounds for Alpha to compose himself, and that is when his scholarly mind takes over. (Hystically, there were three natural 20's, and a natural 19 rolled on Will saves.)
    Spoiler: Alpha and Omega (no, not everything in-between because of that phrase, just those two guys)
    Show

    This creature is a pseudodragon, a type of distant off-shoot of true dragons but a dragon nonetheless. Though the Tiny size of the creature means it is an ineffective combatant against most humanoids, likely to being swatted away if it tries to close in, for creatures of its own size it is likely quite tough, quick, surprisingly insightful regardless of native intelligence, has excellent senses and flight, and is even probably immune to magical sleep effects and paralysis, and possess reflexes and a resilience of mind and body that can help defend against many dangers. They often only vocalize in chirps, hisses, growls, and purrs, but they can communicate telepathically with any intelligent creature.

    Pseudodragons are carnivores, devouring insects, rodents, small birds, and snakes, though they sometimes eat eggs, and most also enjoy butter, cheese, and fish. They either hunt on the ground like lizards or look for prey on the wing like a raptor. They are wary of evil folk but can bond with sorcerers and wizards as familiars. Pseudodragons often also bond with those whose company they enjoy or who have proven themselves true friends. A pseudodragon might follow another character in this manner for days, weeks, years, or even a lifetime if the creature is treated well, provided with food, and generally well-loved.

    The stinger contains a venom with a moderately capable anaesthetic that can drop a normal man for three to five minutes. This is its only real defense or hunting tool, as these creatures possess neither breath weapon nor spells.

    There is definitely something different than what you'd read about, or seen in the skies above Korvosa, for they are not uncommon in the city's night skies, and this is the first time you get to see one up close and personal in full light. At least, one that was alive.

    "Sting-bats," "scale-bats," "fairy dragons," ... the list goes on, and there are all manner of ideas of what they might be. Some see them as vermin, or at least "creepy" things, others see them as better mousers and bug catchers than cats or spiders. A way to adopt one or two into one's attic, as long as attention is not brought to their presence, are little pats of butter or cheese. They are too small to be seen in the sky most nights, but every so often there seems to be this massive battle that takes place in the skies over Korvosa between these creatures, and horrid, winged, scaly humanoid creatures of the same tiny size. Other than the shrieks and skies filling with chaos at these times, all that is left behind are the corpses as from a battle .... but not enough to litter the streets, per se.
    Spoiler: Delta
    Show
    The creatures in questions are imps. One of the graduation tests of a student of the Academae is the calling of an imp. Since the creature is called and not summoned, they are usually just let go in the city. However, these creatures are wicked and these scale-bats are sort of a natural predator against these hell-born devils.

    The creature moves towards Zellara. It is not very fast (15'), but it hustles over quickly enough. It chirps twice and ***** its head both times as if to decide what to do. It then flies up to grab a card; it has to bite onto it and hold it, and steady it with its foreclaws. The card is solid in its grasp, and it flies down to the ground. It's the Jack of Hearts, Shield suit for Harrowing, of course. The picture is that of a powerful, green-skinned, bald humanoid with white wings at its back. It is blowing into a large silver trumpet. The drawing has the trumpet stylized to be larger than it should be to draw focus to it.

    "The Trumpet, a declaration of power. This creature is one of heaven known as an archon, who wades into the direst situations without hesitation in the cause of right. But beware, little one, for you are capricious and self-serving; this trumpet may regard something that is not noble, bringing injury and crumbling strength. This card grants all ... or nothing at all."

    The little creature goes speeding back under Paxre's legs, curving around him with body and tail like a cat looking for protection from its alpha.

    Everyone notices that the cards are no longer in their hands (or on the floor). "Now, it is time for the Choosing. Your chosen card may help you at a specific crucial time, as Desna sees fit. The Spread, however, gives you a chance at any point to help your own fate when situations are most dire. Who shall be first?"
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
    Show
    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  5. - Top - End - #65
    Ogre in the Playground
    Join Date
    Feb 2012
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    Bristol, PA

    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    "Yes!" Paxre says excitedly. "My reading gave me some much needed speed when dealing with the past month."
    Current Games
    Curse of the Crimson Throne: Dušana Essert(Zeta), & Fathi (Phi) and Hülya (Eta) Sharif of House al-Din
    Legacy of Fire: Water Prince Rafiq Karim
    Rise of the Runelords: Keghart Valdemar & Valbard the Velociraptor
    Savage Tide: Rabbi Eliezer "Lazer" Whuraili Cohen ben Mordechai of Clan Ironoath of Oriadeth
    Serpent's Skull: Harsk! (yes, that one)
    Shattered Star: Lilim
    Strange Aeons: Dorn

  6. - Top - End - #66
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Spoiler: Role Cards
    Show
    Paxre = Tangled Briar
    Alpha = Mountain Man
    Omega = Sickness
    Delta = Survivor
    Gamma = Waxworks
    Beta = Brass Dwarf
    Little Scale-Bat = Trumpet

    Zellara is about to correct Paxre about this, but lets him be to his own interpretation. She shuffles the cards thoroughly and removes nine cards at random. She then places three in a vertical column, followed by another three to the right of that, and another column for the last cards. She explains the basics to all. "The first column on the last is of the past, the middle of the present, and the right of the future; the top row are things of weal, the middle is unclear, and the bottom show darker possibilities."

    Lawful Neutral Chaotic
    Good Positive Past ...
    Playing Card: 4-Spades
    Suit: Book
    Card: The Idiot (NE)
    Positive Present ... 3-1
    Playing Card: Jack-Hearts
    Suit: Shield
    Card: The Trumpet (LG)
    Positive Future ... 1-4
    Playing Card: 7-Clubs
    Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Forge (LN)
    Neutral Unclear Past ...
    Playing Card: 9-Clubs
    Suit: Star
    Card: The Eclipse (LE)
    Unclear Present ... 1-7
    Playing Card: King-Clubs
    Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Fiend (LE)
    Unclear Future ... 4-1
    Playing Card: 10-Hearts
    Suit: Book
    Card: The Hidden Truth (LG)
    Evil Negative Past
    Playing Card: Joker-Prime
    Suit: Star
    Card: The Owl (N)
    Negative Present ... 2-1
    Playing Card: Queen-Hearts
    Suit: Key
    Card: The Dance (LG)
    Negative Future ... 3-7
    Playing Card:
    Suit: Shield
    Card: The Tangled Briar (LE)

    Spoiler: Zellara's Tutorial in Harrowing, Using Paxre's Reading
    Show
    "I shall only explain the cards and suits once as they show, so you understand their importance, but unless there is something truly strange like a misalignment, I won't need to repeat again on future readings.

    "The Suit of the Book concerns money, school, and literature. Positive Past: The Idiot, a picture of goblins having captured a foolhardy man, representing the knowledge that loss of dignity can precede loss of life. This card is misaligned, however, and may indicate feigning of idiocy to disguise one's gifts.

    "The Suit of the Star oversees ancient history, morality, and the gods. The Eclipse represents self-doubt and loss of purpose. This card afflicts those with faith in the divine, as their talents can wand under this stress. It can also indicate a loss of way along a path. That is the basic meaning of the card, but as terrible as that sounds, this card holds no power over you here.

    "The Owl represent the eternal wisdom of the natural order. It is the harsh realism that causes a pack of wolves to cull the weak in the herd. It is tragic for the culled deer, but through such actions the herd grows stronger. The needle The Owl holds binds life together, but just as easily can pick that life apart. This card, too, is meaningless here ... though that just as well might show a lack of wisdom.

    "Though another's role card, seeing a shield card at this time is most fortuitous, for it is a positive effect that will be needed; this is a partial match, and should be noted.

    "The Suit of the Hammer involves matters of war, battle, and honor. In this case, the card is The Fiend, with a depiction of a devil swallowing innocents. It can indicate the death of many in a great calamity. It could also indicate some sort of dark and intelligent creature is in the area, endangering the populace.

    "The Suit of the Key deals with trouble, children, and entertainment. The Dance is a rich and delicate framework that, like the universe itself, requires everyone within to abide by its rules, lest the entire constract collapse. It advises staying in perfect step, knowing your place in the greater good. Those who step out of the pattern do so at their peril. This is a rueful card here ... misaligned ... for the pattern may be hypnotic, but not to the good of all.

    "The Hidden Truth symbolizes the ability to see past the obvious and banal to a greater truth within. Sometimes this discovery is an esoteric one, sometimes it is a literal find, such as an item hidden within a room. Regardless, it is a card with the power to reveal secrets.

    "The Forge evokes strength through great diversity. The blacksmith represents those who can survive the mephits' trial by fire, but the forge's fire is so strong that it burns many to cinders instead. This card often represents a dangerous event that needs many sources of strength to overcome."


    With the very last card drawn, so is Paxre's role card. "The second shield in the spread, plus your role card, will be of great necessity to you, Paxre. But you must be warned: your future is dire indeed. Unless fantastic odds are overcome, you shall be lost or murdered. I am sorry, Paxre. You have been a service to me, personally; to the city; and, I am sure that you will give help before you are gone. I understand if you don't want me to actually discuss the rest of your reading with you."
    Last edited by lostsole31; 2015-03-22 at 02:14 AM.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
    Show
    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  7. - Top - End - #67
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Curiously, the little creature moves over to the cards once Zellara collects Paxre's. (Because I might as well do it now.)


    Lawful Neutral Chaotic
    Good Positive Past
    Playing Card: 2-Spades
    Suit: Crown
    Card: The Betrayal (NE)
    Positive Present
    Playing Card: King-Diamonds
    Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Big Sky (CG)
    Positive Future
    Playing Card: King-Spades
    Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Cyclone (CE)
    Neutral Unclear Past
    Playing Card: Queen-Diamonds
    Suit: Key
    Card: The Juggler (CG)
    Unclear Present
    Playing Card: Jack-Hearts
    Suit: Shield
    Card: The Trumpet (LG)
    Unclear Future
    Playing Card: 2-Diamonds
    Suit: Crown
    Card: The Courtesan (CN)
    Evil Negative Past
    Playing Card: 7-Diamonds
    Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Uprising (CN)
    Negative Present
    Playing Card: 9-Hearts
    Suit: Star
    Card: The Winged Serpent (LG)
    Negative Future
    Playing Card: 6-Clubs
    Suit: Key
    Card: The Locksmith (LN)

    Spoiler: Little Guy's Reading
    Show
    "The Positive Past introduces the Suit of the Crown, dealing with love, family, and politics. This is The Betrayal, selfishness incarnate. Worry not, little one, for the card is misaligned, so this card actually means self-sacrifice or turning away from the material world and its tempations.

    "The Juggler represents fate, the gods, or those who play with the lives and destinies of others. If this titanic Juggler can keep up his rhythym, he will achieve his goals.

    "The Uprising represents being caught up in the clutches of something more powerful than you. It is an overwhelming strength that often crushes what comes in contact with it. The crown held high signifies an overthrowing of a leader of some sort. In the position of this spread, it is minimal.

    "With the Positive Present, this card is The Big Sky, showing an epic moment as the slaves of a nation are freed. The slaves' freedom specifies momentous and powerful change, as old shackles are cast off in the light of day. This card is a partial match in this position, and is of great importance to what is happening at this time."


    Zellara pulls The Trumpet for the the little scaly creature. "As with Paxre, this is your role-card, but this is important in the present. Unfortunately, the cards are unclear. Either it is as before wherein great sacrifice is made by attacking with full force when needed, but it is also possible that motives are not quite so noble, bringing injury and crumbling strrength. You must decide where you are on this issue.

    "The Winged Serpent is a powerful being, but the card is misaligned. Here it means you are not seizing the moment, or doing so ill-advisedly.

    "The Courtesan is the card of political intrigue. Her mask involves the social niceties that must be followed. If it slips, negotiations can take an unexpected turn. This card can also indicate a woman of power who shapes events. How she is treated decides the outcome of the situation. This is the first True Match yet that has been drawn. This card is probably even more likely tied to your future fate than The Trumpet might be tied to your present,.

    "The Cyclone is a force that tears through whatever it meets. Because this card is misaligned, it will indicate renewal after a blustery trial. The fact that it is a partial match is also of importance.

    "The Locksmith presents the subject with the tools with the keys needed to unlock her destiny. He grants the tools to access a new location, clue, or treasure. He does not grant insight into how or where to use the tools granted. This card often represents a strange, ancient, or magical object. The Locksmith means little in this placement.

    "One shield card, but it is your role card. Use your talents wisely."
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
    Show
    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  8. - Top - End - #68
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Spoiler: Alpha's Spread
    Show
    Alpha's Reading ...

    Lawful Neutral Chaotic
    Good Positive Past
    Playing Card: 5-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Shield
    The Card: The Survivor
    (NG)
    Positive Present ... 1-7
    Playing Card: King-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Hammer
    The Card: The Fiend (LE)
    Positive Future
    Playing Card: 4-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Book
    The Card: The Inquisitor (LN)
    Neutral Unclear Past
    Playing Card: Queen-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Key
    The Card: The Dance (LG)
    Unclear Present
    Playing Card: 2-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Crown
    The Card: The Betrayal (NE)
    Unclear Future
    Playing Card: 4-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Book
    The Card: The Wanderer (NG)
    Evil Negative Past
    Playing Card: 2-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Crown
    The Card: The Courtesan (CN)
    Negative Present
    Playing Card: Queen-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Key
    The Card: The Juggler (CG)
    Negative Future
    Playing Card: Joker-Prime
    Harrow Suit: Star
    The Card: The Owl (N)

    The Survivor: Partial Match. As with Delta's role card, though not quite as strong as his. Since it is something good in the past, it means you survived some great ordeal.

    The Fiend: Misaligned. Unlike the Fiend card previously, in this position it shows that in this present time you are or will have salvation from a great calamity.

    It is unclear at this time, but The Betrayal (Partial Match) may include the self-sacrifice mentioned before, or it just as possibly may indicate a person whose loveliness hides an evil heart.

    Negative Present: The Juggler, misaligned. The Juggler falters, and tragedy and failure are assured for those whose lives he meddles in.

    Positive Future: The Inquisitor. The Inquisitor accepts nothing save the truth. He represents immutable reality, that which cannot be fooled or swayed in any way. To attempt to go against this unchangeable object, person, or idea is to court disaster.

    Unclear Future: The Wanderer is a collector. This centaur appreciates what others think of as junk or trash. The Wanderer appears to those clever enough to find the true worth in something others ignore or treat as worthless.

    Negative Future: It wasn't until your very last card that you received a Star suit, relating to wisdom. And while the Owl is always a position of either-or and never misaligned, its position so far from its center point and regarding the future does not bode well, and may speak of dangerous foolishness on Alpha's part.

    OOC: In addition to your role card, you only received 1 Shield card in your entire spread, which isn't very good for you.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
    Show
    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  9. - Top - End - #69
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Spoiler: Delta's Spread
    Show
    Delta's Spread ....

    Lawful Neutral Chaotic
    Good Positive Past
    Playing Card: Queen-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Key
    Card: The Dance
    Positive Present
    Playing Card: Jack-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Shield
    Card: The Tangled Briar (LE)
    Positive Future
    Playing Card: 2-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Crown
    Card: The Courtesan (CN)
    Neutral Unclear Past
    Playing Card: 10-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Snakebite (CE)
    Unclear Present
    Playing Card: 4-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Inquisitor (LN)
    Unclear Future ...3-2
    Playing Card: 5-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Shield
    Card: The Survivor (NG)
    Evil Negative Past
    Playing Card: 9-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Publican (CG)
    Negative Present
    Playing Card: Jack-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Shield
    Card: The Waxworks (CE)
    Negative Future
    Playing Card: 9-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Lost (CE)

    The Dance of the Positive Past means that you stood fast under adversity, and the effects of this true match indicate that this will lead to a great boon.

    The Snakebite is a vile, poisoned weapon. Poison takes many forms -- not all of them physical. The poison on the assassin's blade represents the death of ideas and freedom, as well as the ability to turn friends against each other or poison the minds of the virtuous. Being unclear, though, this card could also mean a mental leap, a new frienship, or a discovery.

    This Publican is misaligned here. It represents refuge unfound or false information given at a crucial moment. This is an opposite match, and that does not bode well. Something truly terrible concerning falsehood likely has had a profound effect on you and has defined you to this day.

    The Tangled Briar here is actually misaligned. You are facing pain, but there is hope.

    The Inquisitor is a partial match, meaning that is more important than a normal read of this card concerning the present, but is too cloudy to define how or why. Ironic, given that the Inquisitor seeks to burn away to find the truth.

    The Waxworks is helplessness and entropy, and with a partial match it means that there is an issue even now that is causing great unease for you. But fear not too much, for as you have all seen, the cards overseeing the Shield suit will help you in the future, and you have already drawn two.

    The Courtesan here is a partial match, and you are likely to find political or feminine intrigue in the future, but you have a natural charm that may counteract or overborne that challenge.

    The Survivor!! You are the third of four that has their role card in their spread, and this rebirth through ordeal will have a great deal for you, but possibly with that ordeal being a pyrrhic victory wherein you come out well, but others fall.

    For yet another, the very last card of the negative future is terrifying. The Lost is the card of emptiness and loss of identity. The bodak shown is forever mad, lost in a world of lunatics, insane asylums, and mass killers. For those under its influence, the world makes no sense. It evokes times where all is babble, as when meeting someone who speaks only in another tongue.

    You may well overcome a coming ordeal that involves political or feminine ordeal, but the great cost of this survival wherein others do not may take your mind and your soul. But at least with three shield cards, one of which is your role card, there will be plenty of opportunities to help you out in darkest times.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  10. - Top - End - #70
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Spoiler: Gamma's Spread
    Show
    Gamma's spread ...

    Lawful Neutral Chaotic
    Good Positive Past
    Playing Card: 4-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Vision (CN)
    Positive Present
    Playing Card: 5-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Shield
    Card: The Brass Dwarf (LN)
    Positive Future
    Playing Card
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Foreign Trader (N)
    Neutral Unclear Past
    Playing Card: Joker-Prime
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Owl (N)
    Unclear Present
    Playing Card: 10-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Joke (CG)
    Unclear Future
    Playing Card:
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Eclipse (LE)
    Evil Negative Past
    Playing Card: 10-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Key
    Card: The Juggler (CG)
    Negative Present
    Playing Card: Jack-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Big Sky (CG)
    Negative Future
    Playing Card:
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Snakebite (CE)

    The Vision: Sometime in the past, you had arcane knowledge that took the form of madness or cryptic words. This card often means you had a brush with a crazy person, but in this positive position like this, it could also signify a brush with genius.

    It's hard to see in the past, but it seems you have already had a wisdom of the natural order.

    Sometime in the past, you had a problem wherein you failed, and it led to disaster for those whose lives in which you put yourself in ... perhaps meddled to far as a younger priest? Nonetheless, The Juggler is in its opposite position.

    You may well be invulnerable to a current peril, and with the shield card ... matching an outsider cousin of a dwarf-like creature, that is a good sign for you.

    The Joke shows a terror that must be overcome - but not by physical means. This monster can only be defeated by trickery or artifice. This card can represent the value of humor in finding the way past a difficult person or task. But beware, if often may signal the joke can be on you.

    The Big Sky in this position bodes ill for what is in your current state, what shackles you might be replaced with worse ones.

    With The Foreign Trader, there may well be an informative pact for you in the future.

    The Snakebite is a true match, and a terrible card for you, a priest. For once, a physical or spiritual poison may be what lays you low. Though you do have a Shield card in the mix, this is the most inausipicious card in your spread. Every card in past, present, and future is either misaligned, or aligned to the deepest evil.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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  11. - Top - End - #71
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Spoiler: Omega's Dark Spread - Perfect for Him
    Show
    Omega's spread ...

    Lawful Neutral Chaotic
    Good Positive Past
    Playing Card: 10-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Snakebite (CE)
    Positive Present
    Playing Card: 3-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Mute Hag (NE)
    Positive Future
    Playing Card: 4-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Idiot (NE)
    Neutral Unclear Past
    Playing Card: King-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Paladin (LG)
    Unclear Present
    Playing Card: Ace-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Bear (N)
    Unclear Future
    Playing Card: 7-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Hammer
    Card: The Forge (LN)
    Evil Negative Past
    Playing Card: Queen-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Key
    Card: The Demon's Lantern (CE)
    Negative Present
    Playing Card: 2-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Crown
    Card: The Marriage (LN)
    Negative Future
    Playing Card: 9-Clubs
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Eclipse (LE)


    In the past, you've managed, and you have taken knowledge of what is truly poisonous and through mental training you have turned into a tool that has worked well for you.

    The Paladin is partially aligned. The Card in general symbolizes standing strong in the face of adversity. The Paladin does not back down under any circumstances. It's hard to tell here with you past, though, you stayed the course or did what you know what was right, though it took a heavy toll .... though that journey might more foolhardy than brave with commensurate loss.

    The Demon's Lantern is the card of tricks and traps, sleight of hand and sleight of mind. These wil-o'-wisps and the man who sought their light represent an impossible or intractable situation that occurred.,

    The Mute Hag might be silent, but the eye she holds lets her see into the hearts of men, but your understanding of the darkness there gives you unshakeable loyalty and lucidity of speech.

    The Bear is a perfect match in an unclear present. It is pure strength. People often make the mistake that The Bear can be trained or tamed. When someone believes he has The Bear under control, that person eventually learns the error of his ways. Brute force might be required here, but the consequences of its use might be severe. This is an extremely strong concept for how you should handle your situations, but you must meter it with wisdom.

    You must be a truly amazing man, to carry so much darkness within you, and yet turn it to good purpose. It seems you have done so, you are doing so, and if you stay the course, you will consider doing so.

    The Idiot, as you know, is a point wherein you either know, or will come to have to do even if you are not familiar in doing so, the feigning of idiocy to hide your strange gifts. As with many of your friends, however, your reading ends with a dire card revealing self-doubt and loss of purpose. That, and there are no Shield cards anywhere in your spread means that the darkness from which you draw strength will give you little to no boon for even destiny itself may not understand you. Be careful that this darkness does not cause you to lose your way or you will indeed be lost forever.

    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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  12. - Top - End - #72
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Spoiler: Beta's Spread
    Show
    Beta's Spread ...

    Lawful Neutral Chaotic
    Good Positive Past
    Playing Card: 2-Hearts
    Harrow Suit: Crown
    Card: The Theater (NG)
    Positive Present
    Playing Card: Queen-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Key
    Card: The Demon's Lantern (CE)
    Positive Future
    Playing Card: Ace-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Shield
    Card: The Teamster (N)
    Neutral Unclear Past
    Playing Card: 6-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Key
    Card: The Rabbit Prince (CN)
    Unclear Present
    Playing Card: 10-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Book
    Card: The Joke (CG)
    Unclear Future
    Playing Card: Joker-Prime
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Owl (N)
    Evil Negative Past
    Playing Card: 3-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Star
    Card: The Mute Hag (NE)
    Negative Present
    Playing Card: 2-Spades
    Harrow Suit: Crown
    Card: The Betrayal (NE)
    Negative Future
    Playing Card: Queen-Diamonds
    Harrow Suit: Key
    Card: The Juggler (CG)

    The Theater is a new card of all the spreads. It is the card of true prophecy. The puppets act out a scene, just as the prophet acts out a scene in which she has no part. The prophet is the audience and the audience is the show. She has no influence on what she sees, and its importance is often not recognized until too late. A prophecy occurred in your past, even if you were unaware of it; it was reliable, and you managed to find your way.

    Ah, the Rabbit Prince. Hand-to-hand combat, just from the look of you, is a forte, but you have suffered and fallen in combat as well.

    The Mute Hag invokes blood pacts and poisonous secrets, the kind that turn brother and son against father. This is a card that performers loathe, as it leaves them stumbling over their words and songs. Either you fought against the like .... or you were a part of it.

    The Demon's Lantern is misaligned, and it looks like an opportunity or guide that is recently arriving at a perfect moment to show the way.

    The Betrayal is a perfect match in its position. Beware of selfishness at this time, or it may lead to ruin.

    The Owl is partially matched, as it often is, and wisdom or harmony of action in the future may lead to success. But ware that you do not try to enforce balance, for sometimes that harmony must come over time, and not in the visible span that we see.

    A fine card for you. The Negative Future card actually has turned into your favor. Fate, the gods, wisdom, prophecy, balance, all of the cards show that you know how to stay in rhythm, and that as long as you do so you will meet success. Of the seven here, it is as fated you should be the last to have your reading. It is likely that you are the one who has the means to keep everyone together and on the road to victory.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  13. - Top - End - #73
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    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    As the reading concludes, it is obvious that the Epsilon Elite have been communicating silently about their opinions on this subject. After a moment, Delta steps forward, allowing Beta, the last to have his reading done, to sit back down, and he addresses the spirit. "We thank you for this reading, and will see whether or not this will help us in the time to come." He bows towards the spirit and then turns to Paxre. "Whether or not what she says is true, she is right about one thing. This child's illness is likely the tip of the iceberg. While we, that is to say, the Epsilon Elite, are confident in our abilities to handle it, this spirit implied that you will take a strong part in what is to come. If it is to be believed, I would like to request you join us for the time being. If nothing else, until we are sure that the possible danger is averted. If you agree, do not resist what Gamma is about to do." He gestures to Gamma, who closes his eyes and focuses on Paxre. Assuming the bug man doesn't resist, he finds himself inexplicably linked to Gamma, and can suddenly feel a connection with every other member of the Epsilon Elite at the same time. "Now, I must inform you that the rest of the Elite answer directly to me, but i expect no such control over you, although I hope you listen should I make a request." Delta starts down the stairs, stopping to wait and hear Paxre's spoken responses, if any.
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  14. - Top - End - #74
    Ogre in the Playground
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    "Great!" says Paxre. "I'd love you to join me."

    Delta never quite made known what "joining" entailed.

    Will save (1d20+2)[10] (Well, I am sure that failed, so ...)

    "Ah! Ah! Something is mentally attacking me!" yells Paxre, holding his head. Then to the air he desperately shouts, "GET .... OUT .... OF ... MY ... MIND!"

    He then breaks down, flops on the ground and begins .... crying. "I think another entity is reaching out to infest my mind and thoughts. I will hear my voices, I am sure of it."

    He continues to cry, and then suddenly stops. He turns his head to the side, and asks in a manner as if he did not just suffer anything.

    "What's an iceberg?"
    Last edited by PSinger; 2015-03-23 at 12:37 PM.
    Current Games
    Curse of the Crimson Throne: Dušana Essert(Zeta), & Fathi (Phi) and Hülya (Eta) Sharif of House al-Din
    Legacy of Fire: Water Prince Rafiq Karim
    Rise of the Runelords: Keghart Valdemar & Valbard the Velociraptor
    Savage Tide: Rabbi Eliezer "Lazer" Whuraili Cohen ben Mordechai of Clan Ironoath of Oriadeth
    Serpent's Skull: Harsk! (yes, that one)
    Shattered Star: Lilim
    Strange Aeons: Dorn

  15. - Top - End - #75
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    As the readings went on, Zellara became increasingly fast and curt with her answers, though explaining as above. No sooner than the last word was out of her mouth, she disappeared instantly.

    "Well," Ishani sits thoughtfully. "A 'berg,' if I'm not mistaken, is like an Ulfen word for town. So, there is a place in the north called Iceberg, I guess? That, or since Delta mentioned the tip when we're discussing dangerous things, it could be an Ulfen weapon."

    So, now what? Remove disease on the child, a little bit of her CON was returned. And Tayce and Grau in the dark downstairs. Will anyone sit vigil with the child? Obviously, Paxre, when not using your item, you're just as likely to accidentally harm her giving her a handkerchief, so not you. At least, not for healing.
    Last edited by lostsole31; 2015-03-23 at 05:33 PM.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  16. - Top - End - #76
    Ogre in the Playground
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    "Sooo, this whole Eplipexy thing. Does it come with room and board?" Paxre asks hopefully.
    Current Games
    Curse of the Crimson Throne: Dušana Essert(Zeta), & Fathi (Phi) and Hülya (Eta) Sharif of House al-Din
    Legacy of Fire: Water Prince Rafiq Karim
    Rise of the Runelords: Keghart Valdemar & Valbard the Velociraptor
    Savage Tide: Rabbi Eliezer "Lazer" Whuraili Cohen ben Mordechai of Clan Ironoath of Oriadeth
    Serpent's Skull: Harsk! (yes, that one)
    Shattered Star: Lilim
    Strange Aeons: Dorn

  17. - Top - End - #77
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    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Delta watches the display momentarily, and then, after Ishani tries to answer, he speaks up once more. "Basically, what i mean is that this is likely just the beginning. There is probably much more to come. And we have a place we are staying, we may be able to get you a room with us. But no promises." Delta turns to Gamma afterwards. "You stay here with the child tonight, the rest of us shall return home. Be on your guard." With that, he takes his leave, allowing the others to follow after him as they make their way downstairs.

    Once downstairs, Delta turns to Grau and addresses him next. "She seems to have been cured of her disease, but Gamma will remain with her overnight to keep watch on her."
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  18. - Top - End - #78
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Grau and Tayce head upstairs immediately upon hearing the news and Ishani backs away from the bed so the family can move in. Tayce is overwhelmed. Brienna wakes up. She's slightly befuddled by the crowd (and truthfully, by the snake-thing hanging back (that Delta neither dismissed nor had follow him downstairs) a little nervous. Her coughing has stopped, and still a little confused, she asks her mother if lunch is ready yet. The party immediately becomes Tayce's personal heroes, and she proves very animated and affectionate in her thanks (few can hope to escape the relieved mother's hugs). [Limited monster trait: Thankful Mother Hug ... +30 on a grapple check for 1 round to hug unwilling "targets." ] Of course, she doesn't get near the creepy snake thing (she's not sure what it is, whose it is, or how it got there), and she neither knows about nor can she perceive the Lil' Guy. (In fact, nobody can.) Delta can't escape, either as she comes racing downstairs to give him the Thankful Mother Hug as well. Although the Soldados can hardly afford to compensate the party, Tayce is eager to prepare them a feast - a considerable reward, considering her cooking skill.

    The party has definitely left an impression on Ishani Dhatri. He suggests that some of his more charitable work sometimes requires the aid of those outside his church’s rigid hierarchies and asks if the Epsilon Elite might be amenable to him contacting them in the future. Soon after, he departs to attend to other duties, but he tells the party that he can be found at the Grand Vault of Abadar should they have any need of his god’s services.

    The assumption, of course, is that the party gives no offense (and quite enjoys) Tayce's hospitality.

    Are we clear to end the night back at home (sans Gamma, who is with Breeze)? If so, I need everyone who prepares spells, binds, veils, maneuvers, etc. to define them for me, please. But only if they differ from the normal. Obviously, Gamma, Breeze defininitely could use lesser restoration to help her heal faster .... but that's only a suggestion.
    Spoiler: Delta
    Show
    You know how you hear something without fully hearing it? It's like your ears pick up enough of the compression waves of sound for your eardrum's to note the presence, but not enough for your brain to define it into a "sound," per se. Well, on and off in the friendly meal, you think you hear that. A half-hour later, you definitely realize there is something there again, but this time, you hear what might be whispering or even snatches of a faint song. You get goosebumps, and the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Then, the sound is gone, and that is all.
    Last edited by lostsole31; 2015-03-24 at 10:19 PM.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  19. - Top - End - #79
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    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Gamma remains with the child, quietly praying for the better part of an hour, before casting another healing spell on the child, hoping to heal the damage done by the disease. Afterwards, he allows himself to fall asleep by the bedside, content that the child is safe.

    Spoiler
    Show
    Gamma spends an hour in prayer to swap out his spell for Lesser Restoration, and then casts it on her.
    Temporary ability damage healed (1d4)[2]

    For tomorrows loadout, he will retain his usual spells prepared, but only prepare one Bull's Strength, using the other slot for Delay Disease, just in case.


    Delta will dismiss Idell before they leave, and then the rest of them will head out back to their home, waiting till tomorrow to meet back up with Gamma.

    Spoiler
    Show
    The others will remain the same. Here's Delta's Daily binding check to bind Lady Jarah in the morning.
    (1d20+7)[9] retaining all the same choices, not taking the companion or an aspect
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  20. - Top - End - #80
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    (Assuming he heals CON, vice CHA...) Brienna is brought nearly up to full health, and by the next morning her health is fine (CON 9, full). But the real work is what Gamma does during those 18 hours with using Tayce's cooking instruments, hot towels, and the like for compressing parts of skin with heat, or lancing, etc. Because Brienna had full bed rest and Gamma did such a fine job, most of the unsightly buboes and the like are minimal (CHA 11 of 12).
    Spoiler: Delta's Pact
    Show
    Lady Jarah purrs seductively into Delta's ear. The latter was distracted from the strangeness of last night's noises that Jarah manages to wrench fully into Delta. "Isn't this better, though? Truly, you have not failed with me, but have my full beauty instilled into you. Surely, this is better than any of the inferior pacts you have learned."

    Physical Sign: You smell of flowers and a rare, expensive perfume. Whenever you activate one of Jarah’s granted abilities, your skin flashes with light like a mirror.
    Personality: Whenever you attempt to make negotiations with others you must try and garner something for yourself.

    Let me be clear on "Personality" ... it must be something commensurate to the undertaking (or more). Trying to get the thread off of someone's jacket or some other inane thing will receive the God-Hammer. I fully expected poor-pact personality practices to not be put into practice only partially, regardless of the fact he is an PC played by a player. RP it to the hilt, because that is what this binding thing is all about ... risk in bringing another sentience into your own psyche.

    Spoiler: Paxre
    Show
    You awaken with your joints stiff. The wound you had sacrificed to get the black bile to help heal Brienna since healed, yet your back hurts some, you have a strong headache and are fatigued. You find yourself scratching painully at your face... until you discover that it feels like a rash. Dehydrated, you get some water, and look timidly into the small table mirror. Sure enough, you have a rash and the beginnings of small blisters ... 1 CON .... and 3 CHA ... lost. Considering who you are and what you do, the second might be just as bad as the first.

    What do you do?
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  21. - Top - End - #81
    Ogre in the Playground
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    A scream is heard! Paxre comes running out and into whatever passes as a main room or something. He has blotches on his face. He coughes a little bit and whines, "I'm siiiiick! Omega, help!"
    Current Games
    Curse of the Crimson Throne: Dušana Essert(Zeta), & Fathi (Phi) and Hülya (Eta) Sharif of House al-Din
    Legacy of Fire: Water Prince Rafiq Karim
    Rise of the Runelords: Keghart Valdemar & Valbard the Velociraptor
    Savage Tide: Rabbi Eliezer "Lazer" Whuraili Cohen ben Mordechai of Clan Ironoath of Oriadeth
    Serpent's Skull: Harsk! (yes, that one)
    Shattered Star: Lilim
    Strange Aeons: Dorn

  22. - Top - End - #82
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    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Gamma, certain his work is done, takes his leave once he's sure the child is healthy. Meanwhile, after Paxre comes in searching for Omega, Omega comes in in response to the yells and takes a look at his face. "This looks similar to what that little girl had. DELTA!!!" He waits for Delta to enter before continuing. "Our new comrade appears to have gotten the disease the child had, You were right about it."

    Delta takes one look at Paxre, and sighs. "That means this will probably be spreading further. Don't worry, Gamma will return when he is done tending to the child, and we will get him to stall out the disease for you."

    Spoiler
    Show
    Omega does want to make a heal check and/or a perception check to make absolutely sure he is showing the same symptoms as Brienna did.
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  23. - Top - End - #83
    Ogre in the Playground
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Well, since you don't touch someone on the forehead with a pinky finger, Paxre definitely wants a physical in private.
    Spoiler: Do you have HMO?
    Show
    I imagine this will be like a doctor's office check-up. This is the point where all of the color patterns I mentioned in the original description are visible to Omega. I know it isn't an .... ummm ... complete physical. But it will be obvious that his abdomen juts out and there is a strange orifice of some type. It definitely isn't something humanoid. That's a nonsequeter, just bringing it up. I don't know yo' skills, homey.

    I'm pretty sure it's the same crap.

    Like a scared little (bug-)boy, he carries that strange meat-tenderizer-looking thing. But he just has that in his lap for now. He doesn't have irises or eyelids, so reading his facial expressions can be hard. It's hard to tell if he looks out the side of his eyes (or up or down just with his eyes) or straight forward.
    Current Games
    Curse of the Crimson Throne: Dušana Essert(Zeta), & Fathi (Phi) and Hülya (Eta) Sharif of House al-Din
    Legacy of Fire: Water Prince Rafiq Karim
    Rise of the Runelords: Keghart Valdemar & Valbard the Velociraptor
    Savage Tide: Rabbi Eliezer "Lazer" Whuraili Cohen ben Mordechai of Clan Ironoath of Oriadeth
    Serpent's Skull: Harsk! (yes, that one)
    Shattered Star: Lilim
    Strange Aeons: Dorn

  24. - Top - End - #84
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Spoiler: Omega
    Show
    There is a darkness - sin or otherwise, you cannot tell - that infests, inhabits, or otherwise is involved with Paxre. You barely notice it; it's extremely faint, but it's there.

    Spoiler: Delta
    Show
    As soon as Paxre gets out of his examination, he is staring at you. He might move his look away from you, but when looking in your general direction, you can sense those black eyes staring at you, practically looking into you, but definitely not through. That is when you notice the reflected light seems to form a shape; or, perhaps you notice something within the eyes trying to get out. But the sensation is that it is trying to get out to you. Faintly, in your mind, you hear what you heard last night, and there is definitely some terrible music, but as if sung by sick children. The shape is that of some type of lanky humanoid that as Paxre shifts his sight slightly, the shape actually becomes more gnarled and multi-limbed ... that of a terrible tree. Blinking your eyes, you realize that Paxre isn't staring at you, the reflection of the light has no form beyond the expected for curvature of an orb and light's reflection upon it.

    "Pay no attention to tricks of the mind, my sweet,"
    you think you hear from Jarah. "The stress of disease to overcome weighs heavily upon you. Think how my beautiful Delta would be marred by this terror ... but think, too, of the riches you could get if you can find a way to sell your people's services. If there is more of this to come. Your friends - and by extension and your leadership, my darling, you - fame and reward are due."

    Gamma returns ...
    Last edited by lostsole31; 2015-03-27 at 06:20 AM.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  25. - Top - End - #85
    Ogre in the Playground
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    Bristol, PA

    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    While waiting for Gamma, Paxre takes the cloak of his outfit, twists the end, and then places it in his mouth. He then moves little levers on the bloodletter, meat-tenderizer looking thingy and a score of little blades comes out. He puts them back, as if he were testing them. He then puts it on his leg, pulls the same little lever, and his scream is muffled as it bleeds away reddish-black fluid into a retaining vial in the tenderizer.
    Spoiler: Owie!
    Show
    Bleed (1d4)[1]
    Bleed (1d4)[3]
    Bleed (1d4)[3]
    Bleed (1d4)[1]
    Bleed (1d4)[3]
    Bleed (1d4)[1]


    Not all of that bleed, no more than 6 hps, but just curious how long it takes.
    EDIT: It took 3 rounds of bleeding, so 20 seconds.

    He then flips the little lever so the blades retract. A little more blood from the wound but it scabs over like any other wound (in D&D/PF). He takes out a small vial, opens it, and uses a button on the tenderizer to have a tiny spigot put that blackish stuff into the catch vial. He puts the tenderizer away, having already dropped his cloak. He concentrates on the vial and drinks it. Omega has already witnessed this ritual, but this is the first time Delta has seen it.
    Spoiler
    Show
    Lesser restoration, focusing on CHA, not CON. (1d4)[3]

    Though he still seems under the weather and fatigued, this blackish blood-potion he took from his own body takes away all of the scarrish and scary parts of the disease. The rashes and blisters go away, thought what might be lymph nodes still might seem swollen. He coughs as before. Omega saw yesterday how he (barely) helped Brienna with some health recovery, in this case Paxre seems to have vainly chosen looks over health.
    Last edited by PSinger; 2015-03-28 at 03:42 AM.
    Current Games
    Curse of the Crimson Throne: Dušana Essert(Zeta), & Fathi (Phi) and Hülya (Eta) Sharif of House al-Din
    Legacy of Fire: Water Prince Rafiq Karim
    Rise of the Runelords: Keghart Valdemar & Valbard the Velociraptor
    Savage Tide: Rabbi Eliezer "Lazer" Whuraili Cohen ben Mordechai of Clan Ironoath of Oriadeth
    Serpent's Skull: Harsk! (yes, that one)
    Shattered Star: Lilim
    Strange Aeons: Dorn

  26. - Top - End - #86
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Gamma, on your way back to Omega's house, there are a lot of people gossiping and rumoring fervently .... so much so that you, who weren't even trying to actively hunt down rumors, hear things on the way back.

    A royal bounty of 5,000 gp has been set for the capture of the king's assassin, Trinia Sabor. Wildly embellished news of the event spreads quickly to every corner of the city, leaving all to wonder why Korvosa's long-absent hero chose now to reappear and why he rescued a sentenced killer.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  27. - Top - End - #87
    Ettin in the Playground
     
    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Gamma listens intently as he walks, mulling things over in his head. As soon as he enters the home however, he comes across Alpha, who tells him immediately that they need his help with Paxre. He speaks quietly with Omega to catch up on what he has missed, then turns to Paxre and places his hands on the bug-mans shoulder. "This will not cure your affliction, but it should put it at bay for the time being. You will remain a carrier, so while I can't tell you to stay away from people, it'll be helpful if you try to avoid contact with them. We can go out and get a proper cure if you'd like. After he finishes with his spell, he reconnects himself with his party, and moves to start speaking with Delta.

    Spoiler
    Show
    Cast my prepared Delay Disease on Paxre. Thinking we should go pay a cleric to cast Remove Disease on him ASAP.
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  28. - Top - End - #88
    Colossus in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    There is a knock at the door. Upon answering, it is a youth with a card that hands it to the first person at the door. He scamper away without a word.

    "Orisini Fencing Academy ... Today at earliest convenience, but sooner preferred ... extremely important. "

    Paxre knows where Oris in I'm is.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
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    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

  29. - Top - End - #89
    Ettin in the Playground
     
    NecromancerGuy

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    After Delta gets ahold of the card, he looks around the room with everyone gathered and asks anyone if they know where the fencing academy is. Assuming Paxre speaks up, Delta organizes the party and heads out, allowing Paxre to lead the way. Delta keeps surprisingly quiet this time around, compared to normal, as if afraid of something unknown to the others.

    Spoiler
    Show
    I assume Paxre would tell us, and probably lead the way, but the EE, if we're on our way out, will be on their guard.
    Kitten: *bats around a mini a few times*
    DM: "Ok, it looks like Fluffy...err, 'The Tarrasque'...Full Attacks the Cleric"
    Cleric: "Full attack my a**, that was just two claw attacks!"
    Kitten: *starts gnawing on the mini*
    Cleric: "...nevermind."

  30. - Top - End - #90
    Colossus in the Playground
     
    lostsole31's Avatar

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    Default Re: Curse of the Crimson Throne: Seven Days to the Grave [IC]

    Actually, as a a guy who knows how to get his bearing in any city (and is familiar with Korovosa, anyway), as well as studying the Who's Who in Fightsylvannia, Paxre might know, but Omega is the one must confident with knowing the wearabouts of the Orisini Academy at 16 Hillcrest St., near the center of old Korvosa. The rest of the heroes likewise hear the same rumors about the 5,000 gp reward for the capture of Trinia Sabor.

    You get to the address, and a sign on the door says "Classes Cancelled Today." Whether you knock on the academy's front door or not, a serious-looking opens the door. He is a tall man of advanced years, yet with a twinkle in his eye and a bounce to his step that hints at a vibrancy and inner fire of a man under half his age. He wears his salt-and-pepper hair pulled back tightly into a bravo’s top-knot. His eyes are a cast of deep green like the ocean after a storm. He is of Old Chelish blood, and it shows. Orisini wears black leather gloves to ensure the oils of his skin don’t rust the pommel of his shining steel rapier. This rapier is his pride, and he speaks of it in tones normally reserved for a loved one.

    "Thank you for responding to my note. Hello again, Paxre, I am deeply honored." and at that he genuflects on one knee and bows his head, so that a tall human looking down wouldn't seem condescending, but in this case sincerely touched. "For in truth, for your service to our beloved city I no longer simply bow."

    He stands tall, takes the other five in visually, and gives you all a deep bow. As each person is introduced by Delta - or introduces themselves - he gives each a deferential nod, but he does not shake hands. Instead, he puts his hand over his heart as if deeply touched to meet each of you.
    Spoiler: Alpha, Beta, Paxre
    Show
    The two smaller fingers of his right hand never seem to bend.
    "My name is Vencarlo Orisini. I had heard that Paxre here had taken up with a new crew. My former pupil Grau said that yesterday your friends, Paxre, healed his niece of what seemed to be a deadly illness. He was once one of my most promising students. He is well on the road to the recovery at the citadel Paxre; of course, you hopefully saw that for yourself, yesterday."
    Spoiler: Omega (Paxre knew)
    Show
    Omega, you recall hearing something about some scandal involving Grau, Vencarlo, and Sabina Merren (the queen's bodyguard, handmaiden - and rumour purports, lover).

    The swordsman leads the group down a hall and into a study, the windows of which are tightly shuttered and curtained. He explains in hushed tones that he has an important task for the PCs, one that becomes obvious when he calls another guest into the room: Trinia Sabor.
    Spoiler: Trinia Sabor
    Show

    Wearing simple traveling clothes, the alleged assassin holds a wide-brimmed rider’s hat and a wig of long red curls—gifts from Orisini to use in her disguise. Trinia appears both nervous and excited, and upon sighting Paxre she smiles, saying, “Sorry about the trouble I gave you in the Shingles a few weeks ago.”

    Vencarlo then asks his guests to be seated—he remains standing as he speaks.

    “You were all at the Queen’s debacle, so I don’t doubt you recognize this charming young woman. I had only just reached my home the night of Her Majesty’s morbid gala when that rogue Blackjack and this startled woman arrived at my doorstep. The people’s hero and I have had some dealings in the past, but still, it’s been some years since I’ve seen the scoundrel. He was quick with his words, and soon swooped off—doubtlessly to right some other festering wrong—but not before entrusting Miss Sabor into my protection and care. Although I don’t know Blackjack’s motives or politics, I trust his judgment and have seen much right done by his blade. He says the girl is innocent of the crime she’s been accused of, and I’m more disposed to trust a hero of the city than the tantrums of some bloody-minded harlot playing at queen.

    “The matter is simple: Korvosa is no longer safe for Miss Sabor. I’ve arranged for friends in Harse—a couple of well-respected ranchers—to take in our beautiful renegade until this whole ‘assassination’ foolishness blows over. It's the first leg of the journey where we find our problem, though. Both the Korvosan Guard and the Sable Company have been searching for the young lady tirelessly—they’ve stopped by here three times so far, and each time I’ve only just barely been able to turn them away without inviting a search. My most reliable contacts have gone to ground in light of the recent uprisings, and Her Highness’ considerable bounty for Trinia’s capture makes the use of new agents inadvisable. Thus, after some time to let her trail cool, I turned to you resourceful lot. Paxre, would you and the Epsilon Elite care to escort a lady home?”
    Last edited by lostsole31; 2015-03-29 at 04:57 PM.
    20MAR2024: Completed reading Paizo's Pathfinder Campaign Setting: The Worldwound (2013, Jacobs, Keith, et. al.).
    28JAN2024: Completed reading TPK Games' The Deductionist (2013, Everhart). This source is authorized for playtest.
    Spoiler: Player Status
    Show
    bcool999: On hiatus through 01APR2024.

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