4/14/19

Endrite: Now what about this plan: we just abandoned Vardian's Tomb and set up our labs in the City of Brass. devil's fav demon (GM): I don't see any immediate downsides. dys: did you get your new keyboard johns johns (GM): yes Beardbeard: kweh Endrite: Oh shit are we playing today? johns (GM): >:| Endrite: I'm supposed to go on a three month plane trip in 2 minutes! johns (GM): Well, RIP. I have added a handout to the top of your journal containing the wares, their equivalent cost in vis, and Le Friendly Merchant's offer. Endrite: Oh no, is he French? johns (GM): He's a Jinn Endrite: Phew. Hmm. The Centaury of Virtue is also Herbam Vis, right? johns (GM): Rego, actually Endrite: >:( johns (GM): Techniques are better than form! Endrite: lmao the Eye of Vecna returns! dys: the eye of vecna ftw Endrite: Let's all fight each other over having our eyes torn out. johns (GM): What is the eye of Vecna? Beardbeard: the head of vecna devil's fav demon: good q Shauncat: Can't bllight techniques devil's fav demon: lets go get the old slave woman dys: on the one hand, slavery is immoral. on the other hand she is worth 150 pawns of vis johns (GM): there's one downside to forming a covenant here idk if ive made clear: the forces of law and justice are omnipresent Rosario of Flambeau: do it without Rosario trying to free her from slavery. Challenge run. Alphubel ex Merinita: Here's the thing: if this jack-off has all of these amazing items, I bet there are other traders with even more powerful wares. Gah! Shauncat: What was the Church saying about slavery around this time? Alphubel ex Merinita: Law and justice! johns (GM): This selection represents a cross section of merchants Alphubel ex Merinita: My one weakness! moe: salaam i apologize for my tardiness it's been a wild day Alphubel ex Merinita: IF I WERE COMPELLED TO BE A HERMETIC CRIMINAL WHICH, UNLIKE MY TWO PREDECESSORS I AM NOT. johns (GM): It just so happens Ihab's credit is good all over town. Ok lads.. When last we left off you'd just heard Ihab's offer -- get him back the slave girl who is now serving girl to the Malik's daughter. Guy of Bonisagus: its free magic items Alphubel ex Merinita: Now here's a question that you shouldn't be compelled to answer: are there actually stats for the Zilant? johns (GM): You are also still looking for the "Arcana Centrum" Haha, no. Guy of Bonisagus: we can trade alphubel for the slave girl johns (GM): That's why I made it an egg so I could put off statting it up. Rosario of Flambeau: lol smart johns (GM): It would probably be something like a Drake in the end. Alphubel ex Merinita: Drake pointing and smiling: "No stats for me." Rosario of Flambeau: Let's create a fake person using magic and pull the old switcheroo. that's probably pretty hard. So how did he lose this slave girl anyway? Just sold her to the Malik? Alphubel ex Merinita: Here's an even more clever idea: we return his slave girl and then immediately free her once we have fulfilled the precise terms of the deal. Rosario of Flambeau: That's an extremely good idea. johns (GM): Not sold -- the Malik asked for her, and the merchant could not turn down the chance to do a favor to the Malik. Rosario of Flambeau: We should also buy our items first. Ihab Ia’ara: Counting your Zigants before they hatch? moe: get all the items before permanently breaking the questline clerver Alphubel ex Merinita: His credit is good all over town, we can just buy other stuff once Johns has statted up another shop's worth of astounding and mystical items. Rosario of Flambeau: Quest Order imo is 1. find a way to leave the city of brass. 2. get the jinns slave back. 3. buy items. 4. kidnap slave girl and leave the regio the arcana centrum, haha, can, hahaha, wait Alphubel ex Merinita: I think we should figure out some clever way to free the slave girl with a bargain. That seems like the way to do things here. Guy of Bonisagus: we already did we trade alphubel for her Alphubel ex Merinita: That doesn't seem like a fair trade. I have the Gift, after all. Rosario of Flambeau: lets trade Lavinia to the malik for the slave girl. just have to get her here Dusan of Criamon: I also feel it is in the spirit of this place to do some trading to get the slave girl i assume we won't be getting out safely until we chat up some locals Alphubel ex Merinita: I think we want to avoid the mistake that Mont Mercure made. GM: me listens to chill Arabic music. Alphubel ex Merinita: You know, the one where they had Wanted Statues built of them. Guy of Bonisagus: the first and last time anyone has wanted quercus or linf Rosario of Flambeau: Insulting wanted statues, no less. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Traditional Arabic music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYX6Wv1LWuw Guy of Bonisagus: lets all get shantae wives Fiorella of Jerbiton: Let's GM: good jam Rosario of Flambeau: "Let's do what we can to find out the rules of this place before we go engaging in heroism." "I wouldn't want to have to fight a whole city." Archibald of Guernicus: "Don't lose sight of what brought us here. Whatever those fools at Mont-Mercure did to become enemies of the Malik, we shouldnae repeat it." Alphubel ex Merinita: "That's a smart idea, I'm impressed with the wisdom of whoever thought it up." Rosario of Flambeau: "Perhaps they stole a slave girl from her daughter." his daughter. or maybe the malik is a babe idk. Alphubel ex Merinita: I bet not. Rosario of Flambeau gazes at the statues Rosario of Flambeau: "It might be neat to have a statue made out of me. It can't be all bad, if they got away safely." Archibald of Guernicus: Did their notes on the place mention Grerr getting owned GM: No, you didn't get the City of Brass notes Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok, I have another question about the Wares of the City of Brass: what kind of flight do the Stymphalian Wings grant? Bird-style flight where you don't have your arms free to do casting gestures? GM: Your arms are still free Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Still pretty expensive... Archibald of Guernicus: flight is pretty cool Rosario of Flambeau: a lot of these items are very neat. Alphubel ex Merinita: Does the current theory of Hermetic Fertility Magic extend to non-humans? Rosario of Flambeau: i really want the ghost dog though because it would be cool to have a Battle Familiar that can sniff out invisible enemies for Rosario. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Depends what you want to do with fertility magic GM: another breakthrough needed i think Archibald of Guernicus: list of magi in the order of hermes who can fly now that corpus and aurum are destroyed: Fiorella, Rosario of Flambeau: lol Guy of Bonisagus: aristocritus zita Fiorella of Jerbiton: Animals don't have human souls, which are touched by the divine, so it's easier to create them. Guy of Bonisagus: well no, zita is in hell so fiorella and aristocritus Fiorella of Jerbiton: I use my talisman to transform Alphubel ex Merinita: "Fertility Magic" i something of a misnomer, it can't create life, it can only work on existing pregnancies. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Anyone can potentially do it, I just have an easier time turning into a bird particularly than most Alphubel ex Merinita: Or eggs if there's another breakthrough. GM: the target is the Mother using Corpus iirc? Fiorella of Jerbiton: There's a section in Hermetic Projects on animal husbandry Guy of Bonisagus: ill bet there is GM: well you could always give Fertility Magic on a cross-realm hybrid a shot and let the gm roll the dice to see if you get a monstrosity or not Fiorella of Jerbiton: As far as a faerie goes well if they're mimicking human life they're human enough to be targeted by such spells Rosario of Flambeau: brb im going to put laundry in Fiorella of Jerbiton: Same with magic beings of the humanoid variety GM: do Fae have virtues and flaws? or qualities Alphubel ex Merinita: Hermetic Fertility Magic is a breakthrough that allows you to target the baby separately from the mother. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Fae have virtues and flaws But not qualities Alphubel ex Merinita: Without Fertility Magic the mother and baby are too closely linked to allow you to target the baby separately. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Fae have to pay virtues for their Might score, Magic beings are arbitrarily assigned Might based on how powerful the GM will let you make them. Guy of Bonisagus: the adventure is going well so far Fiorella of Jerbiton: That's a good point Endrite, the real innovation of Fertility magic is letting you target babies GM: im having a good time you can always take the lead, guyh Fiorella of Jerbiton: Our next target will be babies Alphubel ex Merinita: That's already a target I have. Practically, there's not a lot of use for it. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Sounds like you're all set Alphubel ex Merinita: Except for creating super babies and 100% safe abortions. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Virility magic is a better breakthrough Archibald of Guernicus: Well technically bloodline is a bit different but i guess it does let you target a baby Fiorella of Jerbiton: The breakthrough from MoH that lets you stay virile with a longevity ritual. Alphubel ex Merinita: Bloodline doesn't let you target a baby separately from the mother. So it isn't useful for things like the magical forceps that shrink a baby, eliminating the risk of childbirth. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Babies aren't distinct enough from the mother without the breakthrough I mean, fetuses Alphubel ex Merinita: This is a fruitful digression from the fact that I want a dragon egg. Oh speaking of, what happens if you make an immature animal a familiar? Fiorella of Jerbiton: I think they'd continue growing the way all magical animals do Guy of Bonisagus: phillipe: i want a dragon http://photos.wikimapia.org/p/00/04/50/26/79_big.jpg GM: Like apprentices you'd just keep in mind its characterstics are lowered while as a child Fiorella of Jerbiton: Magical animals already mature quickly and then stay locked at the peak of adulthood Alphubel ex Merinita: It seems like a cheap way to get around the size penalty to the required lab score. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Getting a dragon egg seems hard enough that I'd allow it if you managed it GM: bind it to its full strength and size regardless of its infancy GM bangs gavel Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok let's do it, let's become white slavers. GM: Off to see the Malik's court then? Fiorella of Jerbiton: Slaves aren't a very renewable resource Dusan of Criamon: So it is. Fiorella of Jerbiton: I mean they are, but its SLOW Alphubel ex Merinita: No, I think we should find Jawal al'Ifrit first. See if we can get some more information on this merchant. Fiorella of Jerbiton: They're a great way to make some side cash if you already won a battle or something GM: Any Jinn in town can direct you to Jawal's tower. Archibald of Guernicus: Yeah let's find our best friend Alphubel ex Merinita: Nice. GM: A tall minaret with open windows far above street level, made of glittering brass. You see no doors or windows on street level. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Try Second Sight I'll cast Piercing the Magic Veil if someone doesn't SS Dusan of Criamon: I can absolutely SS Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Someone should try shouting. Guy of Bonisagus: screaming and shouting GM: Roll SS, Moe Dusan of Criamon: rolling 1d10+4 ( 6 ) +4 = 10 before aura Fiorella of Jerbiton: If that doesn't work I'll cast Piercing the Magic Veil (To moe): There is no evident door or entryway here. The whole tower itself is a Vestige to another thing or place GM passes a note to a player (To Shauncat): There's no additional regios here. You can sense there is something strange about the whole tower but your current Hermetic spell can't discern it. Dusan of Criamon: "This feels like something out of Archibald's part of the tombs." Rosario of Flambeau: i got really hungry after i went downstairs and also made oatmeal. lemme read up. rip Fiorella of Jerbiton: "Ok so the doorway isn't a regionne border." Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Dusan of Criamon: "The entire tower is a door, somehow. Where it leads, I do not know." Alphubel ex Merinita: "How does it open?" Guy of Bonisagus: "Fascinating." I walk up and open the door. Dusan of Criamon: "Also unclear!" let me check somethign Fiorella of Jerbiton: "Archibald, can you make us a door?" Alphubel ex Merinita: [O]pen tower GM: There is no door. You manhandle solid brass. You get your fingerprints all over it. Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Dusan of Criamon: I cast Eyes of the Hawk Alphubel ex Merinita: What about the other towers in the city, do they have doors? Dusan of Criamon: it's InIm Archibald of Guernicus: "Not without a ritual, Fiorella, if indeed it is a regio." I'll SS it too Dusan of Criamon: no Corpus req Archibald of Guernicus: rolling 1d10!+3+3+8 ( 6 ) +3+3+8 = 20 Second sight w/ aura included Rosario of Flambeau: "One of these days we should invent a version of Archibald's spell that opens metal." Fiorella of Jerbiton: Are there any open windows above street level? Rosario of Flambeau: I knock on the tower and shout "Hello? Is anyone in there?" GM: The towers in this city are Vestiges, representations of things that exist in the mundane world. One adept in the ways of the Magic Realm could potentially use the vestige to travel to its Mundane counterpart. Yes, Fiorella, about 50' off the ground Dusan of Criamon: I use Eyes of the Hawk to look up GM: A bolt of flame zooms out a window, circles the tower thrice, and lands at your feet, forming into Jawal. Dusan of Criamon: is is there a door up there somewhere? Alphubel ex Merinita: There he is. GM: Just big open windows, Dusan. Jawal al'Ifrit: "Salaam!" Dusan of Criamon: "There's our entrance! All we need is to fly." Rosario of Flambeau: "Hello, friend!" "We were hoping to see you!" Fiorella of Jerbiton: I think about flying in but right about then the NPC interaction commences so I do not do it. Jawal al'Ifrit: heh Rosario of Flambeau: Glad you didnt get hit by that bolt of flame. Jawal al'Ifrit: "Well, here I am, at home to stay. Lots of work to catch up on here from all those times people pulled me out into your world." "Busy busy Jawal is." Alphubel ex Merinita: He is. Archibald of Guernicus: "Jawal, do ye have any advice for meeting with the Malik? The place we seek is still beyond here, he should be the best source for knowledge on it." Rosario of Flambeau: "In that case, I'm sorry to distract you. A certain merchant has offered us a deal, and we were curious if you knew his reputation." "That too." c'thinker (GM): salve Dusan of Criamon: salve amici Alphubel ex Merinita: Ciao. Jawal al'Ifrit: "Easy question Rosario! There are no cheats in the City of Brass. A deal is a deal is a deal, and the Malik's eyes watch them all." "Oh yeah... So the Malik certainly knows that you're here too." Rosario of Flambeau: "The deal is stealing something that he fairly traded to the Malik, in exchange for chits to spend at the bazaars." Guy of Bonisagus: "Now, I don't recall the word steal being used." Rosario of Flambeau: "I suppose I should assume it is a trick." Jawal al'Ifrit: "'Stealing'? Hoh, then your friend will have nothing above the neck shortly!" "The Malik is... The most honorable, righteous ruler any land could have. What more can I say! Those who are righteous will feel right at home in his court!" Rosario of Flambeau: "It is very nice here, yes." Alphubel ex Merinita: Ack, the one time I don't have any Traits! Rosario of Flambeau: "Well, Archibald, I suppose the best way to meet the Malik is to walk up to his palace and say hello." "He sounds like a really nice guy." Jawal al'Ifrit: "Oh, no, no no no no." "That would be boring." Rosario of Flambeau: "Oh?" Jawal al'Ifrit: "You got to make an impression if you want his interest. You'll see what I mean." Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Well, I can make a show of smoke and flames but that probably wouldn't be too interesting unless I could figure out how to make it sexy. Dusan of Criamon: Smoke and flames in an ignem aligned regio sounds pretty par for the course to be honest Guy of Bonisagus: i can throw pila Rosario of Flambeau: "I suppose I will. Thank you for your help, my friend. I won't bother you again." Guy of Bonisagus: lets use aquam magic. that will stand out haha Dusan of Criamon: exactyl! And whoops, blight Fiorella of Jerbiton: Hermetic breakthrough https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D4IpgqEXoAMnOk_.jpg:large Rosario of Flambeau: lets find uhh, an arena, or uh, some sort of race lol Dusan of Criamon: lmao Rosario of Flambeau: the things we lost when vardians tomb destroyed herrison's garden.... Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Rosario of Flambeau: orb corn... Dusan of Criamon: we can rebuild it Alphubel ex Merinita: Well, I think that something interesting would be something the Malik hasn't seen before. Dusan of Criamon: we have the hermetic theory Alphubel ex Merinita: What kind of magic does everyone have? Rosario of Flambeau: did Guy bring the horseshoe Fiorella of Jerbiton: Bird and bird accessories Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Flaming birds you say... A column of flaming birds is a good start. Guy of Bonisagus: lets say we did bring the horseshoe because that sounds like a smart idea Alphubel ex Merinita: Why? Fiorella of Jerbiton: Making a phoenix is something I thought about but never did Dusan of Criamon: you know perdo ignem Guy of Bonisagus: it provides us mobile protection Alphubel ex Merinita: The horseshoe is only interesting from a Hermetic perspective. Dusan of Criamon: i could make a place really pleasantly cool Guy of Bonisagus: oh it wasnt for the interest factor Fiorella of Jerbiton: Well I thought about making Bird of Abysmal Flame but it was decreed that it wouldn't work without Vim so I scrapped that idea Guy of Bonisagus: unless the malik has never seen a horse with shoes Rosario of Flambeau: hmm c'thinker: a horse with shoes! what will they think of next Rosario of Flambeau: somewhere in rome, a grave stirs The Malik's palace is a wide structure, flanked by minarets, atop a flat plain of gold bricks. Many open doors and windows let in air and light. Squads of jinn patrol the grounds. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lmao Alphubel ex Merinita: Any current shows of wonder going on? Archibald of Guernicus: A lot of my spells are based around mentem or vim which are not very flashy at all. I could show off with my Orb Rosario of Flambeau: "What if we gave him a pile of dirt? That would be ironic and funny, right?" Guy of Bonisagus: "Or hurled a ball of mud in his face." Jawal al'Ifrit: Outside the palace it's pretty quiet, but you hear a din of activity inside. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: what if we dropped his palace into a gigantic pit Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Guy of Bonisagus: malik meets malach Alphubel ex Merinita: How do we gain entrance? Just walk in? Archibald of Guernicus: "An insult like that would likely have us thrown out at best. Let's avoid all-out battle against the jinn through such foolish acts." "He may not be able tae guide us tae the arcana centrum, but he's the best lead we have at the moment." Rosario of Flambeau: "Smart, yes." "Maybe he'll be interested that a merchant jinn schemes against him." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "Let's keep our heads on our shoulders, for the moment." "Where's Derfel when you need him?" Rosario of Flambeau: "Hah" Archibald of Guernicus: "He should know already, should he not? The Malik sees all, they say." "So either he truly does, or believes he does. If we tell him that he's missed something, he'll be offended." Alphubel ex Merinita: "He probably only sees all within in the City of Brass." Archibald of Guernicus: "Aye, and that's where the merchant is too." Dusan of Criamon: "A master of his domain." Guy of Bonisagus: "I am not certain we have anything of true interest to him." Dusan of Criamon: "Perhaps the key to the door we're looking for!" "Did we not bring at least some of our Roman quisine? Food is usually a good tribute." Rosario of Flambeau: "Does anyone know any good jokes?" Guy of Bonisagus: "Well, we could bring the primus of Tremere here. But that would, on a technicality, be a major crime." Jawal al'Ifrit: Nothing of your original provisions survived a month in the desert Alphubel ex Merinita: We definitely didn't bring food. Dusan of Criamon: I could cast Taste of Spices and Herbs Alphubel ex Merinita: "Well, I suppose we could always declare Wizard's War on him." So how do we get into the palace? Rosario of Flambeau: "We could try knocking again." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i will deploy the gentle gift Dusan of Criamon: Worst case, we could try a feat of arms Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "Excuse me!" Dusan of Criamon: "Gladiators have always been popular with crowds." Guy of Bonisagus: lets show him rusticani magic th efire bubbles GM: A floating jinn gateman regards Gulielmus. Guy of Bonisagus: behold! a norman! Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "My rufaqa and I are wondering what kinds of things visitors have done to make a positive impression on the Malik." Rufaqa is Arabic for sodales. Alphubel ex Merinita: I nod knowingly. Dusan of Criamon: Ah, so that's how it is understand at all Gulielmus of Pure Reason: a civilized tongue for a civilized kingdom. GM: "Name it's and it's been done." "Song, dance, food, drink, dueling, magic, glassworking..." "You don't look like nobles. You get to try with the rest of the courtiers." Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. We don't. Rosario of Flambeau: "Should we look like nobles?" I ask my sodales. Alphubel ex Merinita: We can also deduce that insulting the Malik has been tried, to little success. Guy of Bonisagus: however, we should still give it a try. alphubel specifically Fiorella of Jerbiton: "Looking noble is a pretty low level spell." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "I see, I see. Thank you for your assistance." Fiorella of Jerbiton: "I believe i know it." Alphubel ex Merinita: "I think the Malik would be able to see through such a crude deception." Dusan of Criamon: "True, but would he be insulted, or intrigued?" Gulielmus of Pure Reason: we'll take a really difficult test on magical plants, like meng hao. Fiorella of Jerbiton: "Deception? I'm of Zeno birth." I'll put up Aura of Ennobled Presence on myself Dusan of Criamon: "I am also thinking about perhaps brewing up a little Kvas. Maybe the man hasn't had any yet so far." "Also I could cast a spell to change the taste and smell of any food to anything I choose. I again don't know if he would be more intrigued or insulted." Archibald of Guernicus: "Perhaps they carry different definitions of nobility. But I havenae a clue how tae pass ourselves that way." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: we'll convert him to Christianity. what's everyone's Theology score GM: "Uh, sorry ma'am. Just that your outfit looked a little ragged is all." Guy of Bonisagus: show him something he hasnt seen before: a DEO directly to his face Alphubel ex Merinita: He's DAMN right. GM: "And these are your servants I take it?" He looks at the rest of the party. Rosario of Flambeau: I roll my eyes. Alphubel ex Merinita: "A simple mistake, but I am in fact a magus of Hermes." Dusan of Criamon: "We're a sort of philosophers." Fiorella of Jerbiton: I'll point out the grogs and support personnel Those are the servants Alphubel ex Merinita: AFK a sec. Rosario of Flambeau: "I'm a hero and enemy to demons." GM: "Follow," he beckons. Dusan of Criamon: "Always good to have a hero around." Loading ... Guy of Bonisagus: alright. good luck,m everyone else Gulielmus of Pure Reason: there she is. cyra flambeau Rosario of Flambeau: rolling 1d10+1+1 ooh lore + flambeau spec ( 7 ) +1+1 = 9 Guy of Bonisagus: byra Rosario of Flambeau: do i recognize her GM: You are shown into a magnificent great hall, crowded with hundreds. The Malik is unmistakable as the largest and most imposing, seated upon a throne of Red Carnelian. A string of other nobles and important people are seated to either side, with a few in particular taking the spots of important -- a wizened looking jinn who whispers into the Malik's ear; a tower, muscular warrior with a sword as long as you are tall; a woman whose beauty is only offset by being 10' tall and having 4 arms-- attended by a human in red robes (To Rosario of Flambeau): Never seen her before in your life. Rosario of Flambeau: "An interesting collection of attendants." GM: Crowding around the edges of the hall are hundreds of courtiers and petitioners waiting to be noticed. In the middle of the hall in front of the Malik is an open space. Currently two parties stand within: The first is reading off some report about mining revenue; The other, and the one who is apparently getting more of the Malik's attention, are juggling flaming torches and singing a rousing spirit song. Dusan of Criamon: Very different approaches to the same problem. GM: The two parties' voices bellow as they fight to be heard over the other. Dusan of Criamon: Very niche attack vector: mining minutiae GM: The Jinn who lead you in disappears without a word, leaving you among the throng of petitioners. Dusan of Criamon: So what's our plan here We have a hero Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok I'm back. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: guy will summon a demon and rosario will slay it, saving the malik Guy of Bonisagus: puy Alphubel ex Merinita: Mining revenue? How much can I hear about that? Gulielmus of Pure Reason: aristocritus would have loved this Archibald of Guernicus: 'a woman whose beauty is only offset by being 10' tall and having 4 arms' offset?? Rosario of Flambeau: lol Gulielmus of Pure Reason: let's never leave the city of brass is there anything identifying the flambeau as a maga besides her nametag Rosario of Flambeau: lets marry that woman not the mag a GM: to each their own, archibald Gulielmus of Pure Reason: let's all marry that woman. GM: A gilt Flambeau symbol on her elegant robes. Dusan of Criamon: goddamn monster musume fuckers vile Endrite: There's a 12 foot tall giantess in Traveller and no one has tried to fuck her yet. GM: Fools! Dusan of Criamon: gulielmus however has a point, we should move the covenant to the city of brass and profit off the insane aura Guy of Bonisagus: does rosario recognize cyra yet Alphubel ex Merinita: But for real, I want to hear more about this mining revenue. GM: Ok. Rosario of Flambeau: i dont never seen this particular flambeau before. GM: You learn there are extensive mines under the city, manned by slaves, that dig up the precious jewels and gold required to maintain the streets. Alphubel ex Merinita: Very interesting. Do I get an inkling of how large these mines are? Rosario of Flambeau: I wave to Cyra after noticing her hourglass robes. GM: She regards you coldly. Rosario of Flambeau: Sheesh. Alphubel ex Merinita: How much does the Malik appear to be enjoying the jugglers? A column of flaming birds might actually work. Dusan of Criamon: How much does he enjoy the mining report, for that matter? perhaps he has mapgamer brain disease Alphubel ex Merinita: He seems disinterested. GM: He likes the jugglers! Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Interesting. Archibald of Guernicus: Does anyone have any particularly entertaining spells? Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh, I've got it. Dusan of Criamon: Key of Theodorus maybe? Archibald of Guernicus: Regretfully mine are very much practical effects Dusan of Criamon: if we have a nice lock. Alphubel ex Merinita: We do magic but also weave in a story of thrilling heroism. Dusan of Criamon: Taste of Spices and Herbs Rosario of Flambeau: I can glow extremely bright. Dusan of Criamon: We could do a slapstick routine using Unseen Porter Oh! Dusan has planets in his shadow. That's pretty cool. Rosario of Flambeau: nice Guy of Bonisagus: i can throw pila and see entrances to infernal regiones Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh, here's another straightforward idea we could try if you don't want to tell a real story of adventure and intrigue: we could do certamen. Rosario of Flambeau: is the flambeau waiting to be seen or is she working here? Alphubel ex Merinita: But I think the heroic story of how you slayed the Spider could be good. GM: She is attendant to Amina. Rosario of Flambeau: Hmm./ We must save her. GM: You see her refilling the Jinnesse's wine cup and such. Rosario of Flambeau: I wonder if this is the lady the merchant wanted us to save. steal. Guy of Bonisagus: lol lets keep a hermetic maga enslaved Gulielmus of Pure Reason: owned. well, see ya cyra Dusan of Criamon: Rosario should gallantly stride forward and ask how she fucked up to be enslaved Rosario of Flambeau: lol Dusan of Criamon: Or someone with gentle gift Rosario of Flambeau: I might! Dusan of Criamon: Thank you! Go Rosario! Archibald of Guernicus: We have a Gentle Gift magus with 5 COM with us, and yet he isn't introducing us. Rosario of Flambeau: He's also a demon. Alphubel ex Merinita: Well, we don't want to interrupt the jugglers without a clear idea of what we want to do. Guy of Bonisagus: yeah Gulielmus of Pure Reason: hey baby. what's a girl like you doing in a state of chattel servitude like this. Guy of Bonisagus: also i think were waiting for our turn Archibald of Guernicus: "Guy, perhaps ye should speak for us when possible, yer Gift is inoffensive. Gulielmus also, he even speaks the language." Rosario of Flambeau: I will try to nudge through the crowd to get closer to Cyra. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "That is all too frequently an advantage." Dusan of Criamon: 9:43PM Rosario of Flambeau: He's also a demon. Guy of Bonisagus: "That's fine, but what is our plan?" Dusan of Criamon: let he who is without infernalism cast the first stone GM: A few guards try to block Rosario, but Amina waves them away, thinking you are trying to talk to her. brb Dusan of Criamon: "We can mingle for a little while. Malik is busy, and there's a lot of people vying for attention." "For a while we can enjoy the calm of anonymity." Archibald of Guernicus: throws a rock at u Alphubel ex Merinita: "That's a smart plan, Dusan." "We should learn the rules of the court before we act." Archibald of Guernicus: "Aye, perhaps. For the moment." Guy of Bonisagus: "My ability to work magic is severely incapacitated. At best I could participate in a short-lived certamen exhibition." "Does anyone have a better idea?" GM: how is it incapacitated Rosario of Flambeau: I will bow to Amina and compliment her on her servant. Guy of Bonisagus: i cannot cast spontaneously and i know a grand total of 10 spells right now 8 of these i have known since chargen Amina: She laughs. "What a strange man you are! To approach so boldly when others tremble, but your flattery is second rate." Fiorella of Jerbiton: "I can cast a variety of spells. How impressive they are is subjective, of course." Remarking to Guy Rosario of Flambeau: "I'm sure you've heard about your beauty many times before." "But you tamed a Flambeau! Impressive!" Guy of Bonisagus: "I could hurl pila at your birds like some sort of contest archer, but I think the act would make us both a bit uncomfortable." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i can cast a large number of spells, which i have saved in a text file and have not yet posted in the thread. Amina: A courtier whispers somethign to the Vizier, who whispers something to the Malik, and the Malik raises a hand. The performers stop and scuttle off the stage. Rosario of Flambeau turns to his sodales and winks Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "The dignitary from Jinnistan come forth!" he summons. Fiorella of Jerbiton pulls a messenger dove out of her hat like a stage magician Alphubel ex Merinita: Jinnistan? Wow. That's all the way in Asia. Dusan of Criamon: "If it is not disgusting to Fiorella, a pilum from Guy could turn a flying bird instantly into a meal, I would then cast Spices and Herbs to make it palatable." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: A noble looking jinn takes the stage and begins orating a flowering diplomatic greeting. Dusan of Criamon: "A show and a meal!" Guy of Bonisagus: well i guess guy could participate in certamen actually hes got enough to not instantly die the moment the ignem attack is soaked Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: Now when you say it's "flowering" do you mean that metaphorically or literally? Fiorella of Jerbiton: Does Certamen look cool and flashy to observers? Amina: To Rosario, "Oh, you're too kind. She's just a gift from daddy -- he spoils me!" Guy of Bonisagus: very Rosario of Flambeau tries not to look at the pussy mound at head height Fiorella of Jerbiton: I'll do a danmaku with Guy then Amina: lol Archibald of Guernicus: lol Amina: "Cyra," Amina beckons her servant, "show him a trick." Guy of Bonisagus: we should coordinate ignem vs animal to be the finale, or near the finale GM: Cyra bows and traces a flaming bit of arabic calligraphy in the air for you. Fiorella of Jerbiton: We could just keep resetting the fight so we can keep using ignem and animal Alphubel ex Merinita: Wow! Rosario of Flambeau: I smile. Fiorella of Jerbiton: One use of an art per battle seems only necessary if it actually needs to be "fair" Rosario of Flambeau: "Nice finesse." Guy of Bonisagus: i think for performance's sake we should probably do a proper certamen especially since there is a potentially unfriendly person who recognizes certamen here Fiorella of Jerbiton: I don't remember how to play the houseruled certamen Alphubel ex Merinita: I do. Rosario of Flambeau: Does Cyra write anything important in the air? Fiorella of Jerbiton: Alphubel can do it then Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i don't know how to play any kind of certamen at all Alphubel ex Merinita: You switch off attacking and defending with your arts. Amina: You cannot read Classical Arabic, so no. Rosario of Flambeau: Gah. Alphubel ex Merinita: Once you've used an art you can't use it again. Also some arts are weak to other arts. I think our two strongest magi should do it. Fiorella of Jerbiton: I don't need an explanation, I've used the rules once during Frisia Amina: "You're clearly not from around here. What do they call you?" Fiorella of Jerbiton: What I mean is I don't care to remeber them because I don't really like them. Dusan of Criamon: if all else fails i can make chicken kiev Rosario of Flambeau: "You're the Malik's daughter, then? I see why others would be intimidated. Beauty and power in combination is too exciting for some people." Archibald of Guernicus: I think you really do just pick two arts by RAW, cant remember since ive only read the rules once and we use a homebrew Amina: She laughs. Rosario of Flambeau: "I'm Rosario of Flambeau, from Rome." Amina: Then she frowns and rolls her eyes. You feel a towering presence behind you. Rosario of Flambeau: lol. Alphubel ex Merinita: The full certamen rules are really fun for the two people doing it. Afdal-Kathir: "Is this person.. bothering you... Amina?" Growls the giant jinn. Rosario of Flambeau: lmao the eyes Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: She's got your number. Fiorella of Jerbiton: I prefer the RAW certamen in that I think focusing on two forms and two techniques produces more tangible characters than rewarding an even spread of XP across all 15 arts Dusan of Criamon: mean muggin' Rosario of Flambeau: I turn and size up the jinn. He's pretty big! Guy of Bonisagus: i dont know the raw certamen rules Rosario of Flambeau: "I hope not, my large friend." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: size 0.9 size 1 Alphubel ex Merinita: lol Fiorella of Jerbiton: A guy optimized to win Sawyer Certamen doesn't really do anything else but I guess open hermetic arts without giving the apprentice flaws Rosario of Flambeau: lol Fiorella of Jerbiton: They can spont a lot of sub level 5 effects I guess Alphubel ex Merinita: Generalist magi are good. Guy of Bonisagus: the houseruled certamen is unfortunately how certamen works in the world now after quercus became primus Archibald of Guernicus: His greatest crime Alphubel ex Merinita: It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right. Amina: Amina says something sharp to the towering jinn in Arabic you don't pick up, and he glares at you angrily before backing off. (To Rosario of Flambeau): Regardless you can feel his eyes burning into your back from the other side of the Malik's throne. Rosario of Flambeau: I bow my head to Amina in thanks. Archibald of Guernicus: Archibald would be good at Certamen if he didnt have -2 presence to lower his damage, its the characteristics that are the part you need to optimise for at chargen. Amina: "My cousing, the Malik's champion. What a tiresome boor.." Dusan of Criamon: Updating my journal Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm, fucking his daughter is sure to get the Malik's attention, so I say we let this play out. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: wait a minute, that token Rosario of Flambeau: "I'm sure he's nicer than that. Why, we probably have more in common than any of us think! Ha ha!" Rosario is covered in goose pimples and sweating, but luckily the armor is keeping people from noticing. Dusan of Criamon: Ah, the sin of lust (reminisces wistfully for Zakhar) Rosario of Flambeau peeks over his shoulder Amina: RIP. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: rip zakhar. Rosario of Flambeau: "You could call me the champion of my covenant, in a sense." I gesture to the other magi. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: you had a run almost as good as "blind man" villano Cyra Flambeau: "Your father will want to meet these Magi, mistress." Rosario of Flambeau: "We're trying to reach the Arcana Centrum and save all of magic!" "But I must admit I've become distracted." I look up at her eyes. lol. Cyra Flambeau rolls her eyes. Dusan of Criamon: niiice Guy of Bonisagus: do these jinn speak latin Cyra Flambeau: Amina is happy to play along, regardless. Latin, Greek, and Arabic all seem to work around here. Dusan of Criamon: we're saving the world but i'm gonna take a detour for _you_ smooth Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: Very classy court. Rosario of Flambeau: works ever time Fiorella of Jerbiton: My Arabic is only level 3 so I'll speak Latin to all who understand. Amina: "Mm.. Daddy usually kills most of my suitors but maybe you'll do better. Oh, father?" she calls to the Malik. Rosario of Flambeau: Encouraging to hear. Alphubel ex Merinita: Exciting. Rosario of Flambeau: im trying the Hafl Method on this adventure Archibald of Guernicus: [always sunny theme playing] Rosario Starts A War With The Jinn Rosario of Flambeau: well, i'm not a teenage girl. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: The Malik cuts off the Jinnistan dignitary, asking him to take a seat at the table with the other various VIPs. Rosario of Flambeau: so it's like a Half-Hafl. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Magi of Hermes, step forth." Archibald of Guernicus: Seduction is a valid approach. Your weapon is choice. Guy of Bonisagus: i step up Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok, here goes. I, as well. Archibald of Guernicus: I step up with the others Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Rosario of Flambeau: oh hell yeah Alphubel ex Merinita: Three eyes, you say? Rosario of Flambeau: that guy looks badass. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: nice. Alphubel ex Merinita: Wait, should we bow or what? Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Who has Etiquette? Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i do. Guy of Bonisagus: "Salve, great Malik! It is an honor simply to gaze upon the wonders of your city, let alone your court." Rosario of Flambeau: better question, who has Ettiquette (Islamic). Guy of Bonisagus: i do not Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: sorry. i have1 xp in etiquette (peasants) Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: nice Gulielmus of Pure Reason: rolling 1d10!+2+0 presence/etiquette ( 5 ) +2+0 = 7 Alphubel ex Merinita: 1 XP isn't enough to have an Etiquette skill. (To Gulielmus of Pure Reason): Bowing seems smart. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: yes it is. Guy of Bonisagus: i will attempt to make a good First Impression rolling 1d10!+5 ( 4 ) +5 = 9 thats charm probably not useful like etiquette here but, Gulielmus of Pure Reason: I will bow before the Malik. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Nice, gulielmus has broken the ooh by acknowleding a noble as his superior and must be immediately executed. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: these things happen, you know Guy of Bonisagus: not just a noble. a walking sack of ignem vis who thinks itself to be a noble Rosario of Flambeau: I have no Charm but I'm hoping the giant scary woman doesn't care. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: what's this guy's might score. like 15, 20 at most Alphubel ex Merinita: Executing a guy might be interesting to the Malik. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Yeah that's probably right Rosario of Flambeau: oh my gofd Alphubel ex Merinita: Let's just keep executing people. Rosario of Flambeau: i do have charm lmao Guy of Bonisagus: i think hes seeen plenty of good executions in his time are we going with the certamen plan Alphubel ex Merinita: It sounds like you're volunteering for the top of the list, Guy. Rosario of Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+1+1-2 charm + spec in talking about myself + comm ( 10 + 9 ) +1+1-2 = 19 Alphubel ex Merinita: We should tell him why we're here, first. Rosario of Flambeau: HELL YES Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol Guy of Bonisagus: lmfao Rosario of Flambeau: HELL. YES. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: nice Alphubel ex Merinita: Is this a stressed roll though? Rosario of Flambeau pounds chest THIS. IS. A. HOMEBOY. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: It should be, because Rosario's life is on the line. Alphubel ex Merinita: lol Rosario of Flambeau: ^^^ Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: thinking for a sec Guy of Bonisagus: ok Gulielmus of Pure Reason: al-malik 'izz-doresh al-dahish ibn el-a'mash al-'afrti: Wow I'm really impressed. Ok you can fuck my daughter. Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. i was charming her, not him! Alphubel ex Merinita: Another successful quest. Guy of Bonisagus: the malik takes rosario as his new wife Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Magi of Hermes... Men of the world of the mundane. You have undergone an ordeal to make it to my city. I -- Al-Malik 'Izz-Dorech al-Dahish ibn El-A'mash al'Afrit -- recognize you and welcome you." You are mobbed by jinn servants who try to press golden goblets of wine into your hands. Dusan of Criamon: The sin of monmusu Guy of Bonisagus: I will smile and accept a goblet. Alphubel ex Merinita: I'll take a goblet of wine and then stutter, "T-thank you," while looking at the floor. Archibald of Guernicus: I accept Rosario of Flambeau: "Hey, thanks!" Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Oh yeah I forgot this was stupid of me. Alphubel ex Merinita: I guess I'm more muttering. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: there's a powerful constant mentem effect going on here. Rosario of Flambeau: oh, lol. Alphubel ex Merinita: Makes sense. Rosario of Flambeau: thats probably important. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Penetration 57 sorry 67 Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. Guy of Bonisagus: ok that gets everyone Dusan of Criamon: I'm temperate so I accept the goblet but I don't drink unless others do Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: anyway, all of you were afraid to approach the malik until he beckoned you. haha. Alphubel ex Merinita: That hits me. Archibald of Guernicus: 42 mentem MR base, 59 in this aura Guy of Bonisagus: ah Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: The Malik emanates an aura of awe and fear. This must Penetrate, and those who are affected to refuse to approach him unless they make a successful Brave Personality trait roll against an Ease Factor of 12. Alphubel ex Merinita: I mean, we already were. Archibald of Guernicus: is it really 67, jesus Rosario of Flambeau: oh, damn. good thing i tried to approach his daughter instead. Dusan of Criamon: I mean this guy runs a city that's literally paved with gold Gulielmus of Pure Reason: blimey. Dusan of Criamon: he clearly put work in Gulielmus of Pure Reason: is the aura still 17 Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: yeah 24 for ignem Rosario of Flambeau: lol Gulielmus of Pure Reason: guy cant even afford an elevated vestige score in his throne room. Rosario of Flambeau: thats so high. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lets find a cooler malik. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: the whole city is his vestige Gulielmus of Pure Reason: whoa that's pretty cool. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Once, those of the Magi of Hermes came here, arrogant and proud. Now they come before the Malik, humble and respectful." Rosario of Flambeau: "Thank you, Malik. It has been a wonderful experience to meet the fine people here." Alphubel ex Merinita: We did it, magi. Rosario of Flambeau winks at Amina. Guy of Bonisagus: "Your hospitality is truly grand, great Malik. We would forever shame ourselves if we did not offer the proper respect." Dusan of Criamon: We're all about respect and humility -- Dusan's thoughts, completely oblivious to reality Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol Rosario of Flambeau: lol Guy of Bonisagus: "As such, we would like to offer you a performance. You know of the art of Certamen practiced by those in our Order, yes?" Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: The Malik perks up slightly. Still a horrifying, awe-inspiring monster, but now more interested. "This certamen is new! Demonstrate it, forthwith!" Guy of Bonisagus: "Very well! Fiorella, if you will." I take a spot on the carpet before the Malik's throne. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Okay Though I think we should have Alphubel play and demonstrate their prowess vs Guy Dusan of Criamon: (mentally preparing Spices and Herbs if a plan B is required) Rosario of Flambeau: ol Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "What are the stakes?" Archibald of Guernicus: Guy, externally: Let's put on a funny show Guy, internally: i can cast a spell on fiorella if i win and its legal Alphubel ex Merinita: My arts are quite poor. Rosario of Flambeau: lmao archibald. Guy of Bonisagus: "An explanation first, great Malik. Certamen is a competition of magical might, that two magi might demonstrate who has the greater mastery over the arts. The effects can be quite spectacular, as you will see." Fiorella of Jerbiton: My arts are heavily specialized in birds Archibald of Guernicus: "Aye. A legally binding certamen must have the stakes stated before it begins." Fiorella of Jerbiton: If Guy wins he becomes consul Guy of Bonisagus: "True. Let's not skip tradition." lol fine with me what if fiorella wins Gulielmus of Pure Reason: ok. who's going to help fiorella cheat Alphubel ex Merinita: "B-but, uh, does is uh, need to be binding?" Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "That's the most important part of our ancient tradition, passed down to us by Tremere the Founder himself." Endrite: Thanks to Traveller, I've reached new levels of halting and saying "uh" while talking. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: lol Rosario of Flambeau: "Cyra there is a hermetic magus, the attendant you gave your fine daughter. I'd bet she would be fun to watch in such a contest." I say with compulsive honesty. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Does Guy need to stake anything? Certamen is a dispute resolving mechanism, not a betting ame. Endrite: You try saying this outloud: Pyuimmissep haso yuneda sustseldsits aitsbetnaytmayts uhmyum el um aeldbyathikubup othyuayrmurte il oneddyudmadvop. Rosario of Flambeau: hah Dusan of Criamon: I shall not! Guy of Bonisagus: we could just wager something meaningless Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Hmmm, interesting." Alphubel ex Merinita: Wait, shouldn't Rosario compete to show off his prowess? I bet that would impress whatsherface. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Yes, it would be good to see them against my champion." Fiorella of Jerbiton: Our covenant is communal, we don't own anything worth trading except on the rare occasion our labor has value to others. Guy of Bonisagus: when he says champion does he mean cyra Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Yes. Guy of Bonisagus: oh i missed what rosario said Fiorella of Jerbiton: And I'm not a bonisagus so my labor isn't valued highly at all Rosario of Flambeau: "I could, I guess. I'm not really a certamen kind of guy. Haven't done it since I learned how!" Fiorella of Jerbiton: "None of us are Tremere, I don't think any of us are at an unreasonable advantage. Dusan of Criamon: In the most insane twist, the covenant of VT is a model communist commune Fiorella of Jerbiton: "Rosario is an ideal candidate really, Flambeau can stake their reputation in ways others cannot." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "So long as my beloved daughter has no objections... ?" Guy of Bonisagus: I will move aside to allow Rosario to take his position. Rosario of Flambeau: gah Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Nice Rosario vs Cyra Alphubel ex Merinita: Nice. Guy of Bonisagus: someone should spont muto vim to make the effects stand out more or something like that Alphubel ex Merinita: Even less player participation. Rosario of Flambeau: Great. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: I'm excited. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: does someone want to play cyra. Rosario of Flambeau: i, irl, dont remember how to play this Gulielmus of Pure Reason: we can have them stand in a circle of The Brushstrokes Revealed Alphubel ex Merinita: I don't think it would be fair, since we have a vested interest in making her lose. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: I, the merciful GM, can walk you through it. Guy of Bonisagus: https://badgame.net/index.php?topic=26550.msg7556328#msg7556328 Rosario of Flambeau: i guess most of it's on the board Alphubel ex Merinita: Yeah, you just need the cards. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: which, uh, makes images so vivid that you can see individual atoms i will prepare the circle immediately. Guy of Bonisagus: thats cool guy can be the announcer Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "Allow me to prepare the arena." Alphubel ex Merinita: ENTER THE ARENA! Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Before we assign who is White and who is Black, each player can propose an art that the other must use in the first round. GM: And each player in turn has a chance to veto. That art can be what they attack or defense with in the first round. Rosario, you challenge, so you can propose an art first. Rosario of Flambeau: "Perdo." GM: Cyra accepts Cyra proposes Auram wait. Alphubel ex Merinita: The basic strat is you want to catch them out on defending with their weakest art while you attack with the art that is strong against it. GM: There is no auram. haha. Alphubel ex Merinita: Bwahaha. Rosario of Flambeau: Gahaha. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i have oversold the brushstrokes revealed but it should still make the fight look cool. Alphubel ex Merinita: Yeah. GM: Hmm So with the arts thus aligned, should Mentem have a bonus against Animal? Or does Mentem's bonus not matter anymore? I think the latter is easier Rosario of Flambeau: same GM: In which case, she proposes Muto Alphubel ex Merinita: Yeah, I think the bonus would just not work. Rosario of Flambeau: "Sure." GM: now we roll initiative -- Finesse + Quickness Alphubel ex Merinita: Now I have a quick "q" here. If you have Faerie or Infernal magic can you use the forms that don't work anymore? GM: rolling 1d10!+3 ( 10 + 7 ) +3 = 20 No Certamen is strictly a magic thing Alphubel ex Merinita: That would break Certamen pretty hard. Rosario of Flambeau: rolling 1d10! ( 6 ) = 6 lol. GM: Cyra is primus, Rosario is secundus Alphubel ex Merinita: Since you could just defend until your opponent runs out of arts. Cyra Flambeau: "You should not have come here, magus." Early defense, Rosario? Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i will roll the necessary Concentration checks. Rosario of Flambeau: Nah. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: rolling 1d10+2+2+1 ( 1 ) +2+2+1 = 6 Cyra Flambeau: oh why did you put a card down then Rosario of Flambeau: I thought we both were forced to put the cards down Guy of Bonisagus: i believe you mean rosario is the "niger" Cyra Flambeau: No Rosario of Flambeau: since we called out the first round. whoops. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: hmm. Cyra Flambeau: First, you as secundus can declare an early defense You don't know if Cyra is oging to attack with Perdo now or defend with Perdo on your turn. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: if that's not stressed it's impossible to fail the ring concentration so i can make an arbitrarily-sized ring Rosario of Flambeau: Oh, in that case no, I am not declaring an early defense. "I'm afraid I had no choice." "Magic must be saved." "And we're the ones to do it!" Cyra Flambeau: Then Cyra will attack with Rego no Perdo. Rosario of Flambeau: Noice. Cyra Flambeau: Declare your defendign art Alphubel ex Merinita: Muto is strong against Perdo. Rosario of Flambeau: I will defend with, uh, Terram. Alphubel ex Merinita: Also you need to say it and do the hand gesture. Cyra Flambeau: Yes. Say it Irl and do the gesture... I command it. Alphubel ex Merinita: You might want to save Terram since no art is strong against it. Rosario of Flambeau: I think Rosario is still stupid. Cyra Flambeau: haha. Rosario of Flambeau: Also I'm stupid. Alphubel ex Merinita: lol Cyra Flambeau: Ok, rolling attack Guy of Bonisagus: wait a minute, these gestures are inaccurate isnt ignem meant to be the fig Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+1+18 Attack ( 1 ) +1+18 = 20 rolling 2d20 ( 4 + 4 ) = 8 rolling 2d10 ( 2 + 5 ) = 7 No botch. Still lame. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: add the Vestige dice. Alphubel ex Merinita: No, that's the Infernal wading gesture. Cyra Flambeau: Oh Do those apply to certamen? Gulielmus of Pure Reason: idk probably not are you benefiting from the aura Alphubel ex Merinita: I mean, they'd apply equally to both players. Rosario of Flambeau: i was about to ask Cyra Flambeau: Nah Rosario of Flambeau: am i rolling with the aura added Cyra Flambeau: No Rosario of Flambeau: k Cyra Flambeau: Just art + perception Rosario of Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+1+6 ( 7 ) +1+6 = 14 ouch. Cyra Flambeau: oh, +1 because you're defendign against a technique Guy of Bonisagus: 18 perdo with no aura bonus Rosario of Flambeau: nice. Guy of Bonisagus: criminy Rosario of Flambeau: She's a Flambeau, I wanted to force one of her strongest arts first. Guy of Bonisagus: rosario is fucked Rosario of Flambeau: if Perdo isn't one of her strongest, yes, I'm fucked. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 20-15+5+2 Weakening Total 20-15+5+2 = 12 Your resistant total is Stamina + Parma score Rosario of Flambeau: 9 Guy of Bonisagus: this archmaga got herself enslaved and is going to murder rosario Alphubel ex Merinita: I mean, losing at Certamen isn't the end of the world here. Cyra Flambeau: You lose a fatigue. Ok, now it's your turn to attack. Cyra can declare early defense, thinking... Rosario of Flambeau: My floral arrangement-shaped rock pile crumbles into dust. Cyra Flambeau: Early Defense, Rego Archibald of Guernicus: She can cast a free spell on Rosario if she wins, though. Rosario of Flambeau: Attacking with Muto, since I must, I think. rolling 1d10!+8-1 ( 3 ) +8-1 = 10 lol. Guy of Bonisagus: peme spell to make rosario impotent for moon Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+10-1+3 Def ( 7 ) +10-1+3 = 19 Round 2.. Cyra is Primus again. You may declare Early Defense Rosario of Flambeau: Sure. Archibald of Guernicus: oh my god. its the primus of flambeau. Rosario of Flambeau: lmao that would be epic. I will defend with Perdo. Dusan of Criamon: it's decided the winner will be primus of flambeau Guy of Bonisagus: remember: rosario can conf Rosario of Flambeau: yeah Cyra Flambeau: Ah. So can Cyra. Guy of Bonisagus: cheaty gm cheaty gm! Cyra Flambeau: Hahaha. Alphubel ex Merinita: If she has any left after being a genie's slave. Cyra Flambeau: Is it? Attacking with Muto, Conf Rosario of Flambeau: nice. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+1+10+5+3 attk ( 1 ) +1+10+5+3 = 20 Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 2d10 ( 1 + 7 ) = 8 lmao. Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. Rosario of Flambeau bites into apple Cyra Flambeau: Botch! 0 attack! Epic fucking fail! Rosario of Flambeau: owned! Alphubel ex Merinita: Bullshit! Ultra Failed Attack! Cyra Flambeau: ummm Alphubel ex Merinita: Cyra totally sucks at Certamen. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: she's a noob. Cyra Flambeau: early defense, animal Gulielmus of Pure Reason: although you should return her confidence point. Guy of Bonisagus: you should not it was declared beforehand Gulielmus of Pure Reason: as you cannot spend a confidence point on a botched roll Cyra Flambeau: is that true? You may choose an art and attack, Rosario Rosario of Flambeau: ok. I will use Rego. rolling 1d10!+12+1-1 ( 6 ) +12+1-1 = 18 conf. 21 bb. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: A player may decide to spend the point after the dice are rolled and the putative result of the action is known. He may not spend Confidence on a roll that botched, but he may spend it on a roll of zero which was not a botch. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+7+3-1 ( 10 + 4 ) +7+3-1 = 23 Gulielmus of Pure Reason: it's forbidden. Alphubel ex Merinita: You should use the star brush to mark which arts have been used. Rosario of Flambeau: gah!!! Alphubel ex Merinita: Also there should be a star brush. Cyra Flambeau: should Round 3 rosario can declare early defense Rosario of Flambeau: Rosario tries to do the crushing your head gesture but fails. I will not this time. Cyra Flambeau: Then i shall attack with Imaginem. wAIT. No. Vim. Rosario of Flambeau: ok., is vim an elemental? Cyra Flambeau: yea Rosario of Flambeau: oh i could just look at the cirlcle ok i will use imaginem. ha ha. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+12+1+3 attack (Conf) ( 7 ) +12+1+3 = 23 Guy of Bonisagus: too bad te isnt available Alphubel ex Merinita: Confy. Rosario of Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+1+4 rofl. damn. fuck me. ( 6 ) +1+4 = 11 oh also thats a 10 not 11 Gulielmus of Pure Reason: vaporized. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 23+2+5-11 Weakening total 23+2+5-11 = 19 Guy of Bonisagus: rosario is going to die Rosario of Flambeau: 10 Gulielmus of Pure Reason: straight up. Rosario of Flambeau: "What a skilled magus!" Cyra Flambeau: That's 2 fatigue bringing you to 3 total Rosario of Flambeau: yep. Dusan of Criamon: brutal Cyra Flambeau: Cyra contemplates early defense.. Rosario of Flambeau: maga. gah. Cyra Flambeau: Early defense, Imaginem. Rosario of Flambeau: gah... ok i will use Creo. rolling 1d10!+11-1-3+1 ( 2 ) +11-1-3+1 = 10 smh. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+5-1+3 ( 9 ) +5-1+3 = 16 Gulielmus of Pure Reason: spend a benny to reroll Rosario of Flambeau: lol. Cyra Flambeau: Early defense on next round, Rosario? Rosario of Flambeau: yeah sure i'll use intellego. rofl. Cyra Flambeau: Terram +1 to technique rolling 1d10!+10+1+1 Attack ( 1 ) +10+1+1 = 13 rolling 2d10 ( 10 + 9 ) = 19 Guy of Bonisagus: lmdao0 Cyra Flambeau: What are the odds. Well aynway Guy of Bonisagus: youve got this rosario Rosario of Flambeau: rolling (1d10!+1-3+2)/2 (( 10 + 6 ) +1-3+2)/2 = 8 rofl. still got me. but i think i can resist it. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 13+5+2-8 Weakening total 13+5+2-8 = 12 Rosario of Flambeau: maybe? nope. Guy of Bonisagus: why are you dividing by 2 what happened Rosario of Flambeau: because I have Deficient Intellego. Guy of Bonisagus: do you divide the entire total? Archibald of Guernicus: lol Rosario of Flambeau: yes lol. Guy of Bonisagus: thought it was just your in score Rosario of Flambeau: nope. Guy of Bonisagus: jesus Cyra Flambeau: Early defense, Creo Guy of Bonisagus: shes going to finish rosario with a full blast pila i can feel it comign pilum Rosario of Flambeau: hmmm Guy of Bonisagus: or freeze him solid Alphubel ex Merinita: This is exciting. Rosario of Flambeau: i will use Ignem. Cyra Flambeau: Oh no the forbidden technique... Alphubel ex Merinita: Hey, is Cyra the woman on the Creo card? She kind of looks similar. Cyra Flambeau: I don't know -- ropekid made the cards and I forget where cyra's art came from. also this is not her original token, idk what grafe used Gulielmus of Pure Reason: pretty rough being enslaved for a century Rosario of Flambeau: rolling the dice... rolling 1d10!+11-1-3 ( 10 + 1 ) +11-1-3 = 18 great. good explosion. Alphubel ex Merinita: Grafe used Balls. Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+7+1+3 Defense ( 10 + 6 ) +7+1+3 = 27 Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. Alphubel ex Merinita: lmao Cyra Flambeau: lmao. Rosario of Flambeau: what in the world. Alphubel ex Merinita: Very nice. Archibald of Guernicus: wait, thats grafes pc? lol Cyra Flambeau: There's only 3 arts left by my count Rosario of Flambeau: grafes pc is strong. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: look on the bright side. Cyra Flambeau: So her attack, then your attack, and that's the end Rosario of Flambeau: yeah i think she's going to beat me on her next attack. sadly Gulielmus of Pure Reason: you keep picking arts that are bigger than hers, and then she rolls 15 higher than you Rosario of Flambeau: i tried my best. Guy of Bonisagus: dont get killed rosario Cyra Flambeau summons all her spirit energy, memories of who she once was eons ago... Cyra Flambeau: And pauses, while Rosario considers an early defense. Rosario of Flambeau: I will use Mentem, and try to survive to blast her with Vim next round. Alphubel ex Merinita: Nice. Archibald of Guernicus: if she fails to knock you out its at least a draw Rosario of Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+3+1+3-4 rip everyone ( 5 ) +3+1+3-4 = 8 rofl. Rosario of Flambeau steels himself for the incoming triple exploding roll Cyra Flambeau: rolling 1d10!+10+1 Attack ( 4 ) +10+1 = 15 Alphubel ex Merinita: That's another +1 from Ignem being Elemental. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: rip Rosario of Flambeau: rip. MEDIOCRE Cyra Flambeau: rolling 15+2+5-8 weakening 15+2+5-8 = 14 Rosario of Flambeau: even if i conf defense im pretty sure she still kos me Guy of Bonisagus: alright. what kind of spell is rosario getting hit with Gulielmus of Pure Reason: you could cheat. eat that vis. Cyra Flambeau: haha. Rosario of Flambeau: wait can you eat vis in certamen? lmfao Cyra Flambeau: He should have announced that before rolling defense though Rosario of Flambeau: i should have. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: well yes. Rosario of Flambeau: rip something to remember for next time. Cyra Flambeau: Rosario's illusion is overcome by a whirlwind of fire. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: it's parma dropping time. Rosario of Flambeau: "Wow, that's hot!" I say as I fall over. Guy of Bonisagus: "And the knight Rosario is down! The great Malik's servant is truly powerful, as expected." Cyra Flambeau: Cyra casts a spell on Rosario. Those with Magic Theory can attempt to discern it using Dusan of Criamon: I pick up my good friend, Rosario Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok. Dusan of Criamon: I do so. Int? Alphubel ex Merinita: I will/ Rosario of Flambeau: If i only could have made it to that last round... Cyra Flambeau: Per + Awareness vs. 15 - magnitude Guy of Bonisagus: rolling 1d10+2 ( 5 ) +2 = 7 Archibald of Guernicus: rolling 1d10!+3+2 ( 1 ) +3+2 = 6 Alphubel ex Merinita: Wait, Awareness or Magic Theory? Archibald of Guernicus: rolling 2d10 ( 7 + 6 ) = 13 Dusan of Criamon: rolling 1d10+4 ( 8 ) +4 = 12 Alphubel ex Merinita: rolling 1d10 + 4 ( 1 ) +4 = 5 (To Archibald of Guernicus): Intellego + Mentem Alphubel ex Merinita: Gah! (To moe): Intellego + Mentem Cyra Flambeau passes a note to a player GM: The rapt crowd bursts into applause. Rosario of Flambeau: ty dusan, my friend GM: Cyra politely bows to the Malik and takes her place by Amina once more. The Malik himself stands and applauds, the act shaking the earth beneath your feet. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Stupendous!" Dusan of Criamon: Ha! Well that spell will have no effect on Rosairoi he has the best possible defense against that Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "A thousand different combats I have witnessed but never one such as that!" Alphubel ex Merinita: Did he have a spell of impulsivity cast on him? Rosario of Flambeau: lol Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: A Creo AIDS spell./ Rosario, you have taken rolling 69d10 ( 2 + 10 + 4 + 1 + 8 + 8 + 6 + 4 + 4 + 2 + 4 + 9 + 3 + 2 + 4 + 8 + 6 + 3 + 5 + 2 + 10 + 1 + 3 + 10 + 7 + 5 + 7 + 7 + 10 + 1 + 9 + 2 + 6 + 7 + 1 + 9 + 2 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 6 + 6 + 10 + 1 + 10 + 5 + 9 + 4 + 3 + 4 + 5 + 9 + 6 + 2 + 6 + 6 + 7 + 1 + 7 + 4 + 10 + 2 + 2 + 5 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 4 + 7 ) = 354 Aids points Rosario of Flambeau: Oh jeez. That's a lotta AIDS. Guy of Bonisagus: oh no. rosarios aids level has risen by runs abilities scale calculations 1 Alphubel ex Merinita: lol Archibald of Guernicus: lol Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: The Malik eases into his throne once more. "Your man is dead? No matter, he fought valiantly." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: how many aids points does rosario have to gain each day to maintain his current aids points/day Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: he has to live in a Strength 420 AIDS regio or wither into nonexistence Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. Guy of Bonisagus: is rosario actually dead did he die lol Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: He's tuckered out. Guy of Bonisagus: ok Rosario of Flambeau: I'm resting. Alphubel ex Merinita: "Uh, he isn't dead," I mumble while looking at the floor. Archibald of Guernicus: "That should have gotten the Malik's attention, at least." Amina: "My servants can tend to him, Father." Rosario of Flambeau tries to angle his view up Amina's skirt as he comes to Amina: Cyra and some Jann pick up Rosario and start dragging him off. Rosario of Flambeau: lol. Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh la la. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: Farewell. Rosario of Flambeau: Don't worry, I'll find my way back to you all. (To Rosario of Flambeau): Rosario comes to in a posh room where Cyra apologies, tersely congratulates him for lasting as long as he did in battle, and says she has looked in his mind to see why the party really came here. GM passes a note to a player (From Rosario of Flambeau): "I told you why we came here!" Guy of Bonisagus: "I am honored that you enjoyed the performance, great Malik. I am sure there is an interesting tale behind how such a powerful maga came to your court." (To Rosario of Flambeau): She asks you what's become of Mont Mercure. GM: "She was a gift, from the merchant Ihab Ia'ara. He like all merchants of the city constantly try to outdo each other in the acquisition of exotic wares." (From Rosario of Flambeau): "And thank you. You're quite skilled. Serves me right for neglecting my arts. Mont-Mercure has been abandoned, but several of the magi of the covenant hold great power in the Order." (To Rosario of Flambeau): She asks, Why haven't they come to rescue her yet? (From Rosario of Flambeau): "It was a shock seeing a statue of the Primus of Tremere in the plaza. I think they may all be wanted criminals here." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "It may surprise you, in a city of such life, and such ebb and flow, that the greatest change can come from such little mortal beings passing through out gates." Alphubel ex Merinita: I can see why she's worth 150 vis. (To GM): "The primus????" (To Rosario of Flambeau): "Venzi is the Primus???" Dusan of Criamon: Like ants beneath a man's feet Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "For such a fine show, certainly I, Al-Maliki (etc.) can offer a finer boon than an old story. What would you have? Gold? Jewels?" (From Rosario of Flambeau): "A jinn asked us to bring you back to him, now that you mention being rescued. Ihab, maybe? I'm not good with names. Anyway, if we find a way out of here, we'll do our best to bring you home. And yes! He's quite infamous." Alphubel ex Merinita: We should take THUSANDS of mythic pounds worth of gold and then wander away. Guy of Bonisagus: im not sure were going to be able to get the maga out of his court Alphubel ex Merinita: We could just ask for her. Guy of Bonisagus: unless we just spirit her out of the city completely (To Rosario of Flambeau): She hisses, "He was the one who tricked me into this damn city! The Malik's goons won't let me leave, the contract is binding.." Guy of Bonisagus: we could, but we also need to get to the arcana centrum Gulielmus of Pure Reason: eyes on the prize. Alphubel ex Merinita: That's another thing we need to do. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: let's proceed directly to the 200-might final boss Alphubel ex Merinita: Our interests intersect on that issue. Archibald of Guernicus: "We've come here on a quest to stop a great evil at the heart of magic. Already several forms are blighted and destroyed, countless beings of the magic realm gone." Alphubel ex Merinita: So we could simply try to work together. Guy of Bonisagus: its PROBABLY easier to get information on the centrum without the maliks help hell cyra might even know Archibald of Guernicus: "We're seeking a path tae the arcana centrum, the centre of magic." murmurs Archibald of Guernicus: We could free her by arguing that we need her to find the arcana centrum, perhaps (From Rosario of Flambeau): "The more I learn about this Quercus, the more I dislike him. He's wanted here as a criminal, perhaps we can negotiate an exchange. You wouldn't happen to have an Arcane Connection to him?" Guy of Bonisagus: oh thats a good idea Alphubel ex Merinita: We were just given a boon, we could just take her. Archibald of Guernicus: by arguing that its in his own best interests as the death of ignem is his own death too Guy of Bonisagus: she would be genuinely useful in a fight Archibald of Guernicus: Depends if she even helps us though, we should focus first on a path to the centrum, then a trick to get a magus out of slavery and in our debt Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "And just when I, Al-Malik (etc.) thought you had no surprised left in store! You fascinate me, mortal men." He leans forward. "You speak of the great deluge, that wipes our kind from existence." Guy of Bonisagus: "Ah, so even here you have felt its effects." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "The deluge strikes from beyond the horizon and stars. Even the mighty captains of my Honor Guard know to fear it." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "It will surely destroy us as well, if it is not stopped." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Yet you think yourselves powerful to end it?" oh btw cyra was a slightly adjusted Hugh of Flambeau from MoH. hth (From Rosario of Flambeau): "Why do you think the jinn merchant who brought you to the Malik wants you back? I have to say I didn't consider it, but maybe he's in league with Mont-Mercure." Rosario smiles hopefully. Rosario of Flambeau: nice Alphubel ex Merinita: Trans of Flambeau (To Rosario of Flambeau): She explains that she used to make magic items for him. Also no she doesn't keep an A/C to venzi. Rosario of Flambeau: gah. just got bad news. Archibald of Guernicus: "We have tae try. The consequences otherwise are too grave to imagine." is it related to her reading your mind Rosario of Flambeau: no Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "It is our duty." Rosario of Flambeau: its related to Cyra not having an A/C to Venzi to give me. Archibald of Guernicus: lol Uh Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "So, you have come to ask me guidance to this quest?" Archibald of Guernicus: isnt the name Venzi at least a sympathetic connection? "Aye. We travelled here believing it would be a path tae the centrum, and it seems so far that is true." Guy of Bonisagus: "If anywhere would have a connection, surely the greatest city there is would. And if anyone would know the way from there, surely you, great Malik." (From Rosario of Flambeau): "Well, that's a petty reason. You know you're worth 150 vis to him?" Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "There is a place, beyond these walls. A wild, untamed, and uncivilized place, the place you call Magic." (To Rosario of Flambeau): She is slightly flattered. Alphubel ex Merinita: "I do call it that," I whisper to Dusan. (To Rosario of Flambeau): "I must be the only one of my kind here though. Venzi and Linf must've warned people not to come here, right?" Archibald of Guernicus: "We have amongst us scholars who may be able tae navigate it, if ye would share the way to this place with us." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: He sighs. Dusan of Criamon: "Definitely what we came here for" I sidewhisper back to Alphubel Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "You will need to travel through the endless desert, but it is death to those of your kin." (From Rosario of Flambeau): "...In a sense. It sounded like a very exciting adventure to me. If there are other magi than you and my sodales here, I would be surprised." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "I suppose... With my Champion's aid, you might live." (From Rosario of Flambeau): "Perhaps you can escape with us into the Arcana Centrum." Archibald of Guernicus: "What horrors await in the desert?" Rosario of Flambeau: lol. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: "Heat and light beyond your comprehension. The very air and sand turned against you. Wild, mad jinn who make Sorash look weak." "No non-Jinn has ever tried to cross and returned. Ever." Dusan of Criamon: "I hate to say it but that sounds familiar." (To Rosario of Flambeau): She shakes her head. "The Malik sees all in the streets and the palace. He can hear us right now, I'm certain." Alphubel ex Merinita: Do NOT insult the XX Might beings who wrote this adventure. (From Rosario of Flambeau): "He thought I was dead earlier! He must have a sense of humor." Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: In the desert is the classic Old World of Darkness version of Cain Archibald of Guernicus: the gm has 69 might Dusan of Criamon: I LOVE familiarity Rosario of Flambeau: cain killed abel. killed him with a stone. Archibald of Guernicus: Nice. If we cast a bloodline spell on Cain we can cause the world of darkness to happen Dusan of Criamon: I jump up in front of my computer and yell I KNOW THAT when it happens Gulielmus of Pure Reason: we could also use the tower vestiges to dump ourselves directly into the twilight void and travel to the centrum from there. Archibald of Guernicus: that was hafls plan once Rosario of Flambeau: lol Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: well, he's offering his help escorting you across as his Boon to you. for putting on such a cool show. Alphubel ex Merinita: Are we ready to go? Archibald of Guernicus: hm Fiorella of Jerbiton: Ok Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Are you sure that's the Boon you want? Rosario of Flambeau: It seems like a good boon. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: it does. Archibald of Guernicus: the trials hes mentioning sound like things we can already deal with. we did pretty good on the way here, and we didnt even know about half the things we'd encounter. Alphubel ex Merinita: Ask for half of his kingdom. Guy of Bonisagus: we wanted a way to get to the arcana centrum, and to free cyra this boon is both so i like it Archibald of Guernicus: id rather have the pillum-thrower Dusan of Criamon: on the one hand he seems strong Archibald of Guernicus: oh by champion he already means her Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: The boon is not both. Archibald of Guernicus: lol okay then oh Dusan of Criamon: on the other he implies even he can't stand the desert Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: He meant his Jinn. Alphubel ex Merinita: Yeah. Afdal-Kathir. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i assume the champion is the gigantic jinn. Guy of Bonisagus: ohhh Rosario of Flambeau: oh that guys a dick devil's fav demon: ask if you can bring his daughter Guy of Bonisagus: i feel like we would insult him to request cyras aid instead Archibald of Guernicus: Well Guy of Bonisagus: but well we should PROBABLY free cyra Archibald of Guernicus: We could make the argument that Cyra will be more useful in the battle in the centrum, which is true, as his jinn are already scared to go there Rosario of Flambeau: hey, i pretty much soloed the obstacles on the way here and cyra jobbed me out in a second shes pretty strong Alphubel ex Merinita: I don't know. Guy of Bonisagus: we can also make the argument that its easier to coordinate with a fellow hermetic maga Dusan of Criamon: she's clearly really good Rosario of Flambeau: maybe. Alphubel ex Merinita: Afdal is probably the strongest jinn. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: He's the champ! Alphubel ex Merinita: Also he has a home field advantage. Dusan of Criamon: It would also probably be a good move to imply with humility that we can't take Malik's very own champion Rosario of Flambeau: Afdal is probably pretty strong since staring at me really hard penetrated my Parma earlier. Alphubel ex Merinita: Also we know he won't betray us. Dusan of Criamon: we'll settle for i don't know, (looking over crowd) that woman Gulielmus of Pure Reason: freeing cyra so we can return her to being the merchant's slave Archibald of Guernicus: My reasoning is: I think that the obstacles he describes could be overcome with magical aid and planning, and Afdal presumably will not enter the centrum to do battle with whats inside it while Cyra would Rosario of Flambeau: if we free cyra we're just going to leave with her and go back to rome Alphubel ex Merinita: Also, absconding with Cyra would be breaking the deal we have with the Malik, which would mean we could never come back. Guy of Bonisagus: we could just free her and buy the magic items we want, while having a favor owed to us by a powerful hermetic maga Rosario of Flambeau: hey, that's cool. hmmm Guy of Bonisagus: we dont have to abscond with cyra Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i doubt we can do battle with what's inside the centrum ourselves Guy of Bonisagus: we could just ask for her freedom Alphubel ex Merinita: Wow that's a great idea, Guy. Rosario of Flambeau: i dont know if i want to break the deal with the malik because i want to have sex with his daughter. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: afdal can take you to the edge of Twilight but no further Archibald of Guernicus: That's a sound argument, Rosario Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: see, Rosario has goals and ambitions Guy of Bonisagus: freeing slaves is already a time-honored tradition in islamic culture Alphubel ex Merinita: I think Rosario might be able to get Cyra depending on how well his seduction of Amina goes. Guy of Bonisagus: especially among nobility Archibald of Guernicus: I think what this comes down to is, what do we think is a greater threat? Do we think the Endless Desert or the Arcana Centrum is the true danger here? Guy of Bonisagus: the centrum imo endless desert should be fine Archibald of Guernicus: That's also my feeling on the matter Guy of Bonisagus: weve got good wards Rosario of Flambeau: Afdal will be useless against Big Corn (To Alphubel ex Merinita): As a reminder, the moment you stepped off the dirt road earlier in this adventure, you got blinded by light. Guy of Bonisagus: cyra can help us against anything in the desert AND against the Large Cob Gulielmus of Pure Reason: can we take an ac to the city out of the magic realm Archibald of Guernicus: We can prepare for the desert before we cross it, we have time to invent any new wards or effects we deem sufficient Alphubel ex Merinita: I mean, the Endless Desert is definitely going to be orders of magnitude stronger than the mundane desert. Remember when I tried to touch the cactus? I almost died. Archibald of Guernicus: He mentioned theres mad jinn in there but I could make yet another staff that controls jinn So we'd turn this danger into a boon Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: No Gulielmus Gulielmus of Pure Reason: hmm. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: No A/C persists between magic realm travel Gulielmus of Pure Reason: well, we've physically been here, so we'll always have that bonus to returning via the void Archibald of Guernicus: Perhaps we should have... a vote! Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: i need to double check something about using the towers the adventure book seems to suggest that they take you through the twilight realm but then right back to the mundane counterpart idk if you can go "off road" so to speak once you start that way Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok. Guy of Bonisagus: i definitely vote for freeing our fellow hermetic maga Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: ok, I think you can my notes say: While in the void, a character can attempt to go off their set path to explore something different by rolling Twilight Comprehension modified: Intelligence + Enigmatic Wisdom + Stress Die vs. Warping Score or (Might Score / 5) + Stress Die Dusan of Criamon: I agree with the idea of freeing a magus Archibald of Guernicus: I've set up little voting boxes at the bottom Gulielmus of Pure Reason: a particular vestige serves as an AC to, uh, that vestige Alphubel ex Merinita: Does severing Arcane Connections also prevent you from being hit by a Bloodlines spell cast from outside the Realm of Magyyik? Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: I think so Archibald of Guernicus: Fiorella? Rosario? Fiorella of Jerbiton: Once I've been to the magic realm I can make rituals to create and revisit animal vestiges Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Without a Minor breakthrough, Hermetic magic can't affect things in the Magic Realm from outside the realm Fiorella of Jerbiton: But I can't do that if I haven't adventured there first Archibald of Guernicus: So is there another way from the city to the realm of Magic itself? I thought we already were in the magic realm right now Er, nvm Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: this is a little trick The city is inside the Realm of Magic Guy of Bonisagus: weve got majority in the cyra pool Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Beyond the desert is the Twilight Sea Gulielmus of Pure Reason: hmm Alphubel ex Merinita: Let me just get all my stuff for doing Minor Breakthroughs, they're down these stairs behind my couch. Archibald of Guernicus: Whats the stuff with the towers guli is talking about Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: the city is part of a Boundary that includes the City, the Road, and the Desert The towers are vestiges to things in the Mundane world. It's possible to travel from a vestige to its munder counterpart Strength of vestige (0-10) represents connection to magic realm. 0 strength vestige cannot be used for travel. Average is 4. Vestiges exist inside the boundaries Vestige Travel: stress die + Perception + appropriate Ability + Form bonus vs. ((10 –level of the vestige) x 3) – Familiarity modifier Rosario of Flambeau: oh so thats how we leave Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: You know what, I have anothe rmap Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: I might as well throw up here one sec Gulielmus of Pure Reason: but we can use the vestiges of mundane things for realm travel? Archibald of Guernicus: Oh right, another point: Cyra can ALSO assist against our long-term foes at Mont-Mercure she probably hates them for leaving her here for a full century Alphubel ex Merinita: Are we sure that's what happened? Guy of Bonisagus: i would assume that no flambeau would become slave to a simple jinn merchant Archibald of Guernicus: well they havent rescued her in all this time, have they Guy of Bonisagus: and then get traded away Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: Here is what my book says about the towers, Cumthinker Alphubel ex Merinita: Ah, so it's like that, huh? Dusan of Criamon: OK so Guy of Bonisagus: we could bring her back and have her kill quercus Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: A second option for returning home is to use one of the buildings of the city, most of which act as Vestiges, and access the Twilight Void to then exit into the mundane realm. The characters return at the location of the bottle the Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: building is linked to. This can be hazardous, not only because of the dangers of navigating the Twilight Void, but because Because why??? Well I'll let you think about it. haha. Alphubel ex Merinita: Then you're coming out of a genie bottle. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: our friends the order of solomon probably have the bottle. Dusan of Criamon: i see a lot of connections to the mundane world on that map but non to arcana centrum Gulielmus of Pure Reason: bottles. Alphubel ex Merinita: That's never a good iea. I mean "idea." Guy of Bonisagus: the bottles could be in oos hands or at the bottom of the ocean Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: You have no idea where the bottle is back in the realm world yeah The classic story afterall is a fisherman pulling one from the ocean Alphubel ex Merinita: What is the Basalt Pillar? Gulielmus of Pure Reason: that was our friend the penitent jinn Alphubel ex Merinita: Right. Al-Malik ‘Izz-Doresh al-Dahish ibn El-A’mash al-’Afrit: That was the guy trapped in rock wailing about his punishment. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: and the cactus Archibald of Guernicus: Alright. Well here's a tentative suggestion in the meantime before we ask the boon: we should ask to speak with Cyra and see why shes here and if she will help in exchange for her freedom. If so, then we go with that. Dusan of Criamon: smart mingle some more Gulielmus of Pure Reason: so the jinn can't actually take us to the centrum, right Archibald of Guernicus: we shouldnt ask to speak with her as the boon tho. aha. he cant cross the border GM: Nope! You're on your own once you get into the Twilight Void. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: which we can already enter, through the towers. Alphubel ex Merinita: How do you get out of the Twilight Void? Archibald of Guernicus: thats why im arguing for Cyra over Afdal. the latter helps us overcome the lesser of our problems. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: what's Dusan's enigma GM: When you enter the Twilight Void, you do so with a destination already set (in the case of the vestiges, the bottles; in the case of the void at the edge of the brass desert, the real desert) Though you can change your destination once you'r ein there with the help of an Enigmatic guide. Dusan of Criamon: my EW was around 7 last time i checked GM: If the Arcana Centrum works like a boundary, then you can get home just by thinkign of home before jumping into the Void. Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok. Rosario of Flambeau: sweet Alphubel ex Merinita: Then heck, I'll change my vote to Cyra, though I do think we should see if Rosario can't get her first. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: we know the name of our destination so that's a familiarity modifier of 8. Rosario of Flambeau: Sweet. moe: posting this as player not character, because what i'm about to say needs to be clearly delineated: i'm retarded so just give me the math what's my probabilities here GM: Don't worry about it yet. The roll for travelling only matters in determining how long the voyage takes. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: The Western Egyption Desert GM: Unless you horribly botch, you will always make it there eventually. Rosario of Flambeau: BRB folks. Alphubel ex Merinita: I know, it's should be "The Western Egypshun Desert." Dusan of Criamon: Ok that calms my nerves somewhat i'm also going to brb for a minute Guy of Bonisagus: whos goign to hold rosarios hand in the void we should bring the nice crusader with us too Alphubel ex Merinita: He would get Extremely Killed by all the magic in the Twilight Void. Guy of Bonisagus: oh. didnt we also leave our grogs in the marble palace? where did we leave those grogs GM: They're with you Guy of Bonisagus: ok well GM: Just hanging around Guy of Bonisagus: we need to get them out Fiorella of Jerbiton: Grogging it up GM: Alright, Archibald wanted to talk to Cyra? She's tending to Rosario atm so that's easy to set up. Dusan of Criamon: ok back GM: DFD can recap everything she said once he get sback. haha. Dusan of Criamon: rosario is a goddamn genius losing the battle winning the recuperation Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh i was wrong. you don't add up familiarity bonuses Dusan of Criamon: rosario has blown my mind two sessions in a row now Archibald of Guernicus: Yeah I think we should see if the Cyra option is doable if not, Afdad is still a fine boon but if we can convince Cyra to assist she'll be a far greater help at the actual problem of defeating a Corn (Large) also if shes grafes magus iirc her big trick was teleporting then fireballing people so shes probably really pissed that corpus got blighted and she cant do it anymore Alphubel ex Merinita: Also we can bribe her with balls. Archibald of Guernicus: jetta lottery mordred Rosario of Flambeau: hm GM: If you choose Cyra I reserve the right to inflict a boss fight on you in the desert. Alphubel ex Merinita: That is your right. GM: I already closed the wordpad doc I had but for reference her stats are those of Hugh of Flambeau with Pre +1, Per -1, and a couple extra points in each Technique Hugh +45 yrs that is. Rosario of Flambeau: uhhh, she said that she was very surprised about quercus and that he was the one who brought her here. She used to make magic items for the jinn merchant. Um, let me see what else. Dusan of Criamon: I keep thinking the words "nuclear option" Guy of Bonisagus: i might drop theres a storm and the cable just cut out GM: yikes Alphubel ex Merinita: Farewell. Guy of Bonisagus: its through the same provider as my internet so Rosario of Flambeau: Venzi and Linf were apparently expected to warn people not to come here. rip Alphubel ex Merinita: So how did Quercus end up selling her to the jinn? Dusan of Criamon: stay safe beardbears Rosario of Flambeau: i didnt pry. Archibald of Guernicus: Let's pry Guy of Bonisagus: im charging my phone now so worst case scenario i can tether in for a bit GM: Here's Cyra's story Cyra Flambeau: She came here with (The bad boys of Mont Mercure) -- they had come into possession of the sarcophagus lid to the King of Kush's tomb, and ghosts asked them to help return the King to his resting place. While here, she bought a nice fire-proof cloak from a friendly merchant, with a caveat that if the cloak ever saved her life, its contents would become the merchant's property. Well she assumed he meant the pockets, and also since she is immune to fire she figured it would never come up anyway and accepted. Then the Mercurians made a big stink in the Malik's court, one of them got killed, and the rest fled. Rosario of Flambeau: lol Dusan of Criamon: oh lmao Guy of Bonisagus: did grafe drop i nthe middle of the saga or somethign Cyra Flambeau: Some time later, Cyra was on an unrelated adventure when she had to flee an angry mob of peasants stirred up by demons looking for witches to kill. She pull the cloak up around her to hide her face as she slipped by. She had barely stopped to catch her breath when she found herself back in the City of Brass. Yes. Alphubel ex Merinita: lol Owned. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: cranked. Guy of Bonisagus: ok it was not raining 2 minutes ago and now there is a pool of water at least an inch deep that i can see good storm incoming Archibald of Guernicus: poor grafe Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok here's my plan. Rosario of Flambeau: owned grafe Archibald of Guernicus: was this a funny thing done when he left or did BR do that to him in-game Cyra Flambeau: She studied magic while making magic items for her new master -- good aura! But eventually was relegated into beign a maidservant and doing feeble minded tricfks for the Malik's spoiled daughter. Also cleaning up after her father executed her suitors. (To dys): I made it up Alphubel ex Merinita: We declare Wizard's War on Quercus, hide out in the City of Brass for a month, then tell the Malik Quercus' name. Cyra Flambeau: The Malik knows Quercus/Linf's names, though its an offense to His Majesty to speak them. (according to Cyra). Oh, she's sorry she was kinda rude earlier, but thought you were idiots or plunders who were going to make thigns worse, before she scried Rosario's brain. Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: Nice. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: rosario's -1 int brain Archibald of Guernicus: She thought we were idiots, until peering inside Rosario's brain...? Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm, how can we sell out the Primus of the Tremere to this guy. Yeah, we all must look like geniuses to him. Hmm. Does she have any idea how Rosario can win the Malik's daughter's favor? Cyra Flambeau: She has inferred that at some point before she was forced back here, The Loathesome and hated Magi (it sounds better in arabic) came back here, turned the ghostly soldiers of Kush against the Malik, and threatened to ravage his city unless the King was freed. Oh, he's got that in the bag already Alphubel ex Merinita: Nice. Noice. What would she do if she were free? Cyra Flambeau: "Kill those who left me for dead here." Rosario of Flambeau: Sweet. Guy of Bonisagus: hell yeah Rosario of Flambeau: mandy soundtrack intensifies Archibald of Guernicus: Are we all talking with her now or just Rosario still Cyra Flambeau: All of you Alphubel ex Merinita: Nice. Well, I recommend we free her. Archibald of Guernicus: "Aurora of Mercere, Linf ex Misc and Quercus of Tremere. Those 3, aye?" Alphubel ex Merinita: Gah! I attack the wood block! Archibald of Guernicus: oh my god It's the wood block thats causing the true blight Dusan of Criamon: It was him all along! Cyra Flambeau: "Aurora was never a part of our adventures here that I remember.. Labrat, you know." Dusan of Criamon: Get him! Cyra Flambeau: She looks at the Bonisagus. Rosario of Flambeau: oh my god its growing! Guy of Bonisagus: "Salve." Archibald of Guernicus: the climax of this saga is a jrpg boss battle against a corn monster and then as it dies it screams out 'face my true form!' and becomes a wood block Gulielmus of Pure Reason: the city of brass has sustained a level 4 wood block event. all non-essential jinn evacuate immediately. Archibald of Guernicus: lol Guy of Bonisagus: it becomes a larger block of corn Alphubel ex Merinita: Corn Block Guy of Bonisagus: destroying the corn monster and entering the portal to samnia left behind in its wake Gulielmus of Pure Reason: the universe is saved when beardbeard steps on the corn Cyra Flambeau: lmao Gulielmus of Pure Reason: is any warrior mighty enough to stop him? "We know the type, yes." Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok, so it really looks like Cyra is going to be worth a lot. What was our deal with the merchant? Guy of Bonisagus: store credit Gulielmus of Pure Reason: return her to slavery Guy of Bonisagus: we could just buy the items we want Cyra Flambeau: Cyra becomes his slave again, instea dof Amina. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: we can come back presumably Cyra Flambeau: True. You have 286 pawns of magic vis in stock atm. Alphubel ex Merinita: Ugh, buying things is so pedestrian. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol. Cyra Flambeau: Equivalent to 19 Store Credits. Archibald of Guernicus: "We came here on a journey to prevent the death of all magic, and we have our own quarrel with the magi of Mont-Mercure. Will ye assist us, if we freed ye from this place?" Rosario of Flambeau: yeah! lets just spend precious vis! Guy of Bonisagus: its not like hes going to refuse to sell to us just because we free cyra instead Rosario of Flambeau: on cursed items! Guy of Bonisagus: hes still a merchant, and still in the same situation he was in oh yeah he sells cursed items Alphubel ex Merinita: HE might, but other merchants wouldn't have a problem with it. Guy of Bonisagus: so his store credit is worthless Gulielmus of Pure Reason: let's buy the cursed vegetable garden Alphubel ex Merinita: We should see if any of the other merchants have anything they need from the Endless Desert. Cyra Flambeau: The bargain was CLEARLY stated. Cyra just has Flambeau level Intelligence. Alphubel ex Merinita: Yeah. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh. Alphubel ex Merinita: The cloak wasn't cursed at all. Guy of Bonisagus: flambeau-like critical thinking skills detected Gulielmus of Pure Reason: that's why she was impressed by rosario Cyra Flambeau: "That sounds stupid, honestly." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: she has -3 int Cyra Flambeau: "Why get yourself killed doing somethign impossible?" Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "Isn't that the Flambeau way?" Dusan of Criamon: "I thought chivalry was your bread and butter!" Cyra Flambeau: "How much house acclaim did I get for a lifetime of imprisonment?" Archibald of Guernicus: "It isnae impossible." "And if it is, then at least I die a magus instead of a mundane wreck in a dead world." Gulielmus of Pure Reason: "Knowing a way into the realm of Magic is worth quite a lot of acclaim these days." Guy of Bonisagus: tornado warning near me Cyra Flambeau: jesus Guy of Bonisagus: should still be fine Archibald of Guernicus: winds howling Cyra Flambeau: lol Gulielmus of Pure Reason: one among you will shortly perish Rosario of Flambeau: Archibald of Guernicus: winds howling Cyra Flambeau: "I guess the least I can do is try to make sure you guys don't kill yourself." "But it's still stupid. You can put that on record." Dusan of Criamon: beardbeard: willing to make the ultimate sacrifice, for the game Rosario of Flambeau: "Gladly." Dusan of Criamon: we're not even doing the satanic jack chick thing just the gaem Alphubel ex Merinita: How is Rosario doing? Cyra Flambeau: im assuming certamen uses long term fatigue it doesnt say otherwise so he needs a night to recover Guy of Bonisagus: oh wait its just a tornado watch for my area Gulielmus of Pure Reason: afraid of a little wind Cyra Flambeau: Ok. GM: Recuperate, then head out into the desert? Alphubel ex Merinita: I suppose so. (To Rosario of Flambeau): Roll Stamina + corpus form bonus (+ toughness if you got it) Alphubel ex Merinita: So remind me again how you get out of the Twilight Void? Archibald of Guernicus: Oh, are we crossing the endless desert now GM: Well, no rush. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: you need a vestige of something in the physical world GM: Also I hope you dont mind but the Twilight Sea itself has plenty in store. haha. Archibald of Guernicus: I figured with how dangerous it was it might have been better to prepare with the knowledge of what dangers it has. This time around we made general preparations that made this possible. But now we know that we need wards against sandstorms, light, and a way to control hostile jinn Rosario of Flambeau: (To GM) rolling 1d10+3+3 ( 4 ) +3+3 = 10 GM: you could even... do seasons of labwork rolling 1d10!+5 ( 5 ) +5 = 10 Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i invented some of those. (To Rosario of Flambeau): You incur no wounds from your nightly rendezvous with a 4 armed woman. Rosario of Flambeau: heehee Archibald of Guernicus: I've made an item to control spirits before so with similar spell bonus and my very high ReVi I could make an insane jinn-stomping device that only needs to last 7 years or so Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i feel like i should hold off on using them because i didn't actually do the seasons until halfway through the adventure but a spell to control a jinn would be a reasonable thing to have in preparation for a trip to the brass city Archibald of Guernicus: it would be extremely reasonable GM: Here's what my book says -- You can get this from your Clever Investigating skills If characters stray off the path into the endless desert, they are blinded by the sun’s glare and suffer +6 heat damage per round. They also run the risk of being attacked by wild ‘afarit or GM: other creatures that have strayed into this regio from the Magic realm or are traveling to the City of Brass. This is in addition to all the regular desert crap you encountered so far (heat, quicksand, sandstorms) Gulielmus of Pure Reason: can we not just go out the way we came in Archibald of Guernicus: A ward against the light and a way to control jinn, and a protection from magical sandstorms, and we should be golden. GM: You are safe when you are on the Dusty Road. So you can backtrack to the Brass horseman statue. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: our friend the knight couldn't get back to the palace but we're wizards. unless i'm misremembering (To Gulielmus of Pure Reason): He doesn't have Second Sight. (From Gulielmus of Pure Reason): thats what i was thinkin. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh right. if we make it back to the horseman we are in the regular world, just in a regio Rosario of Flambeau: The next day, Rosario rejoins the group. He's grinning and looks flushed. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: so we just need to see the exit and walk out Rosario of Flambeau: Sounds easy enough. GM: This map doesn't show it exactly but: There are two horsemen -- one in the Magic Realm and on in a Regio. When you triggered the one in the Regio it didn't move -- you in fact were all moved itno the magic Realm. Guy of Bonisagus: ok im back are we freeing cyra Archibald of Guernicus: Yeah We chose to free her as our boon Guy of Bonisagus: nice Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh. Guy of Bonisagus: the tornado siren stopped going off so i think ill be fine but the winds howling and so is the rain Archibald of Guernicus: though we might need to prepare first before setting out into the endless desert, unless gulielmus has retconned enough tricks to help us Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i will consult my list. Rosario of Flambeau: rosario made a successful roll in secret and was not injured having sex with Amina, so this adventure has been a complete success. Alphubel ex Merinita: So I need to know before we move on, did Rosario fuck Amina? Guy of Bonisagus: lol Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol Rosario of Flambeau: lol. Dusan of Criamon: nice Gulielmus of Pure Reason: the spirit-binding spell is also a formulaic so it might not have enough pen behind it to work on something strong Alphubel ex Merinita: If you make an item then you can jack up the penetration. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: yeah. ok my relevant spells are: GM: If you pursue this, I think it is best to actually stop the expedition here, return to Rome, and return in Spring of next year. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: is it winter? GM: Mid Autumn. And there is a Tribunal in Winter. Alphubel ex Merinita: Well, we should figure out what other kinds of things we can trade in the City of Brass. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i would like to put a teleport in my talisman but that'll take 3 seasons Alphubel ex Merinita: Also I want that dragon egg. Archibald of Guernicus: The eye of vecna is cool Gulielmus of Pure Reason: - spell to create a stone half-dome - spell to command a magic spirit - spell to strip 10 might from a magic spirit - spell to create a pillar of variable size at my feet (aristocritus would have loved this) - ward against dust (probably the most dishonorable spell but i had a surplus ReTe total and needed a cantrip) Fiorella of Jerbiton: [Nicholas Cage voice] I want that cake GM: Using vis, could Archibald or Fiorella manage a circle range teleport spell ceremonially to return you to this area later? Archibald of Guernicus: That's a pretty immense spell isnt it? thats level 40 i believe Rosario of Flambeau: i still want the ghost dog even if its cursed. Fiorella of Jerbiton: I can only Leap of Homecoming birds Archibald of Guernicus: I could in theory but lemme see how many seasons itd take Gulielmus of Pure Reason: is a circle teleport a valid use of ffm? i think that's come up before Fiorella of Jerbiton: What if Mercere, hahahaha, wasn't antagonistic and, lmao, we worked with them to build a portal here? Archibald of Guernicus: Wait, is circle just 1 higher than personal? Alphubel ex Merinita: Yes. Archibald of Guernicus: I know Leap of Homecoming so I think I could It would be a powerful enough effect to make Dusan twilight tho Alphubel ex Merinita: lol Well, that's his problem. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh it would be a change of Individual to Circle and Personal to Touch Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: We could also come up with a way to get to the City of Brass mundanely. Rosario of Flambeau: rip Gulielmus of Pure Reason: so that's two parameters Archibald of Guernicus: oh, so not doable then its level 45, yowch Gulielmus of Pure Reason: ind/circle are the same level though Alphubel ex Merinita: Or you know, not with just one spell. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: let's modify the whale to swim through the sands GM: That'd be cool Or give it giant wings to fly. Alphubel ex Merinita: The big problem were the jinn guardians. Would they attack us again? Archibald of Guernicus: Couldn't we make a flying carpet if we made it out of animal material GM: Yeah Fiorella of Jerbiton: Hmmm GM: however, I was looking this up earlier in hermetic projects Archibald of Guernicus: If we warded it against sandstorms we could travel safely GM: and the level is annoyingly high for a carpet to hold just a few people Archibald of Guernicus: dang Fiorella of Jerbiton: Let me see if I survive Tribunal. If I do, I'll make it my goal to give the whale wings GM: a spell to animate a carpet is better tribunal is also a chance to trade for spells and materials Rosario of Flambeau: good point. Fiorella of Jerbiton: If magic to make the whale winged falls inside my focus, I could probably manage it Guy of Bonisagus: bird leaves Alphubel ex Merinita: It's just whale-shaped. Dusan of Criamon: Hello you good people of the tribunal. You may have heard we just barely scraped by a full covenant march. Anyway I was hoping me and you could trade some materials GM: No need to be dramatic -- with Mortis dead it's only one person on trial. Rosario of Flambeau: we can probably fully blame it on him if we're lucky GM: Regardless, it sounds like planning and allocation of time is on the menu for sure? Dusan of Criamon: Taking one last hit for the team Fiorella of Jerbiton: I might just make a ritual to create the corpse of a rukh and then make an item to animate it and carry people around. Alphubel ex Merinita: Well, I want to at least buy the dragon egg while we're here. How large does it grow? GM: 1 sec Fiorella of Jerbiton: Making a live, obedient Rukh is actually harder. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: the homunculus sounds really cool. Rosario of Flambeau: ditto with the dog, if everyone is ok with that. maybe i can have Sabino teach me Animal Handling Gulielmus of Pure Reason: but i'm worried that if i make it a familiar it will die to blight Rosario of Flambeau: i thought you would have gone for the salamander. GM: If an animal gets sick you can always heal it with creo magic or medical aid Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i wanted to but the homunculus is 100% on brand GM: lol Gulielmus of Pure Reason: - plants - hedge wizardry - alchemy Rosario of Flambeau: nice Alphubel ex Merinita: A Homonculus. The perfect familiar for Gulielmus. Archibald of Guernicus: a homonculus Gulielmus of Pure Reason: gah GM: Endrite: It grows to -2, one size larger than a cockerel Rosario of Flambeau: a homo's culo. Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: let's buy the stymphalian wings and then sell them for 20 pawns of vis. Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. See here's the thing, my mother has a full-sized drake for a familiar. GM: one more thing, i mentioned this in thread already -- if you set up a good magic way to get to this city and back you can add Precious Ingredients to your lab score Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i'm also interested in the enriched centaury seeds GM: oh regarding enriched seeds: the effect WON'T work on hermetic magi -- because they're penetration 0 Alphubel ex Merinita: Bwahaha. Rosario of Flambeau: pwned. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: b'taim. Alphubel ex Merinita: Are the gourd pixies fairies or magic pixies? GM: A magus cannot usually benefit from an Enriched Thing of Virtue: even without his Parma Magica, his Forms give him a Magic Resistance of at least zero. Fae Rosario of Flambeau: I wish I wasn't sterile from a longevity ritual. After it's gone I'll have to come back here. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: that is of course in direct contradiction to the core book, which the supplement authors never read Rosario of Flambeau: rofl. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: the core book authors never read the core book either though so GM: lol. Good point actually. haven't we already established in house rules you can get No Pen with lowered parma? Guy of Bonisagus: doesnt the longevity ritual render you permanently sterile even after it ends Gulielmus of Pure Reason: yes Rosario of Flambeau: does it? rip lmao Archibald of Guernicus: It does. Fiorella of Jerbiton: Yes Rosario of Flambeau: rosario's bloodline ends here. good thing he has no idea who his family is and has no living relatives. Alphubel ex Merinita: But being sterile doesn't mean you can't get a boner Archibald of Guernicus: It's why Fiorella put hers off Alphubel ex Merinita: So you can still have sex with a genie. Rosario of Flambeau goes back to bust inside some more Fiorella of Jerbiton: It's why I took Difficult Longevity Ritual, I thought my noble birth might lead to an arranged marriage someday But now I'm approaching menopause Gulielmus of Pure Reason: gulielmus is still fertile. ladies Fiorella of Jerbiton: Magical Focus: mpreg Rosario of Flambeau: time for fiorella to tear her way through the men of the covenant Gulielmus of Pure Reason: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh here's a question: do people with Second Sight just see familiar cords floating across the sky when magi are parted from their familiars? GM: Yeah Alphubel ex Merinita: Dope. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: people with second sight see a ton of stuff Archibald of Guernicus: We be seeing shit Dusan of Criamon: It's a curse, but sometimes a blessing Archibald of Guernicus: I believe the only magi with it are me and Dusan. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: because animism is real and every single object an event inside an aura is tended to by a low-might spirit or angel Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. Archibald of Guernicus: Well you can see the blight happening. The miasma it generates. So Archibald has had to live with that for the last decade or so Gulielmus of Pure Reason: the authors do not attempt to reconcile this with any other facet of mythic europe in any way. Fiorella of Jerbiton: The cords look like colorful ribbons and that's why sometimes someone sees Aurora Borealis in a kitchen Alphubel ex Merinita: So it would be 45 lab total to get a drake familiar similar to Varkos. Guy of Bonisagus: ok tornado warning seems to be canceled Rosario of Flambeau: nice GM: mundanes with second sight are all probably locked up in asylums then or, their SS is so weak that it's not enough to see things inside Dominion aura It's getting late lads... are you headed back to Rome for now? Alphubel ex Merinita: I guess, with the proviso that we have things we want to buy. GM: Or throwing caution to the win and facing the unknown as you are? Archibald of Guernicus: sounds like it. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: yeah. Archibald of Guernicus: I think we should prepare. GM: Ok. Archibald of Guernicus: It's apparently insanely dangerous, no point dying here and failing everything after all we've done Gulielmus of Pure Reason: can't we crack the centauries of virtue open for vis Alphubel ex Merinita: 45 lab total is achievable, so I might just get the Gourd of Pixies. GM: so the egg and dog each are worth 30 pawns the gourd is worth 15 as are the herbs Alphubel ex Merinita: Definitely worth it. Rosario of Flambeau: thats a lotta vis. Alphubel ex Merinita: The Centaury seeds will pay for themselves in 15 years. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: what about the mandrake GM: You make 18 pawns of Magic vis a year Gulielmus of Pure Reason: Pure profit. Rosario of Flambeau: i still need to put stuff in my talisman and bind this dog so we should do our best to get more vis. pure pazaak. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i want that mandrake. Rosario of Flambeau: you know what's cool? you met several homunculus magi with mandrake bonds in an earlier adventure but then they all died. those green guys. ghost dog way of the samurai ftw. i should stream that GM: lol, that was cool. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: those guys were faeries though. Rosario of Flambeau: they weren't. i mean, metaphorically, sure. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: well not the people themselves but a homunculus magus is an ungifted person with a faerie that emulates the gift Alphubel ex Merinita: I think I'll skip on the Zilant egg. I need to have a familiar that is at least as impressive as my mother's. I don't know where I'd even begin to look for a drake, though. Rosario of Flambeau: ohhh i see Gulielmus of Pure Reason: are the green boxes ones we have income in Rosario of Flambeau: i should run the volcano adventure eventually. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i think we shouldn't spend rego here, since rego is great Rosario of Flambeau: i was going to have Fire Celeste be the hook but then i decided she just died. GM: the green items are vis sources that are increasing Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh, here's a question: do they take Demonic Vis? GM: and you need to spend 90 Nope magic only Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i'll put down 15 perdo Rosario of Flambeau: dont spent muto either i need it Alphubel ex Merinita: I said I'm not buying the Zilant egg! GM: Oh Gulielmus of Pure Reason: specifically rego is great on our blighted forms GM: I statted it up entirely with Endrite in mind :( Alphubel ex Merinita: UNLESS it has a particularly interesting power that would make it cooler than a flying dragon. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: does it kill anyone who tries to form a familiar bond with it GM: It is a flying dragon Yes Alphubel ex Merinita: Hmm. I'm going to have to ruminate on this. GM: Okay Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: I can always enchant it to make it bigger later. GM: I dont know what your guys projects are I know that lavinai needs rego (beardbeard immediately zsooms in to say you should spend every pawn) Guy of Bonisagus: you should spend every paw n Alphubel ex Merinita: I just want to pimp out my lab and get a familiar. Archibald of Guernicus: I already enacted my big project lately nothing in the works right now Alphubel ex Merinita: Then figure out how to fight my enemy. GM: By a stroke of fortune the egg will remnain an egg even if you leave and dont return here for years. Alphubel ex Merinita: Well, it IS the Magic Realm. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: the magic realm is truly mysterious Rosario of Flambeau: i want to max out my talisman slots with corpus related buffs and other things Alphubel ex Merinita: Do I know anything about Zilants? Rosario of Flambeau: probably a super high pen bovf GM: Do you have Magic Lore? Alphubel ex Merinita: I'll roll Faerie Magic + Int. GM: They are something between a Dragon and a Wyvern Alphubel ex Merinita: Faerie Magic can sort of be used as a lore skill. Hmm. rolling 1d10 + 1 + 2 ( 5 ) +1+2 = 8 moe: let me say this: the house is empty and i have no obligation to go to sleep, but i have grown hungry and somewhat tired i'm gonna brb and maybe not be back GM: tis late aye Rosario of Flambeau: ya good game moe: i want to say i enjoyed this sesh as usual, i laughed a lot GM: I'll post a recap tonight Guy of Bonisagus: g GM: also im going to stream more Monks i nabout an hour. Archibald of Guernicus: gg moe: thank you for the game, GM also note: I had a hard time looking for the list of things at the brass city market i know it was somewhere on the forums anyway i'm going to binge on bread and mustard and cheese directly before bed now wish me luck Alphubel ex Merinita: It's the first handout in the character pane. So what was the word on the jinn guardians? GM: Sorash knows not to mess with you Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok, what if we send representatives to trade with the City of Brass? GM: Then you could do some good business Alphubel ex Merinita: Ok. Hmmmmmmmm. We could also do vis trading to trade expensive vis for cheaper vis, since the merchants of the City of Brass don't seem to care what kind of vis it is. Also, we have a bit of an inside track on trading our blighted vis away, since we know when the blight is going to end. GM: hehe. no one will get mad that you're hiding that secret. Rosario of Flambeau: lol Alphubel ex Merinita: Mortis would have loved this. Rosario of Flambeau: The Tomb Gets Marched For Insider Trading Alphubel ex Merinita: What's the vis price on blighted vis? GM: Can't be bought Alphubel ex Merinita: Right but what if we sell it? GM: worth enough to warrant in-game handling Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh la la. Ok then I think we can potentially do some good deals. GM: As you prepare to leav ethe city you find th eMalik has arranged several camels for all of you, their saddlebags loaded to the brim with gold jewelry. Alphubel ex Merinita: We should definitely unload our blighted vis before we end the blight. Wait why? GM: Why not! Alphubel ex Merinita: Good point. GM: The Malik's generosity is great. Rosario of Flambeau: What a nice guy! Guy of Bonisagus: he seems like a nice man Rosario of Flambeau: And such a nice family! Alphubel ex Merinita: What kind of jewels are we talking here? GM: if you have heard of them, they're in there Guy of Bonisagus: how much is the lamp i want it Alphubel ex Merinita: 45 vis. Guy of Bonisagus: jesus GM: It uses Soqotran magic. Alphubel ex Merinita: I also assume it has no penetration. GM: Correct Guy of Bonisagus: oh nevermind Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i have sent my personality quiz answers to johns. GM: You can use it as long as you lower Parma I see now -- thank you. Alphubel ex Merinita: What was the personality quiz about? Guy of Bonisagus: does the crucible only work with weapons? GM: Yes The quiz's purpose will become clear later, endrite but also I hope you liked a chance to think about your character. Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh wait a minute. Guy of Bonisagus: hmm Gulielmus of Pure Reason: i hope the answers are satisfactory. Alphubel ex Merinita: Quercus is just going to kill Cyra immediately once he finds out she's alive. Rosario of Flambeau: Why would he do that? Guy of Bonisagus: could the crucible be Studied to incorporate similar effects into hermetic magic effectively creating things without spending vis could be useful Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh do we use the weird magic realm xp rules GM: It's breakthrough points, yeah Alphubel ex Merinita: You can already create things with Rego Craft Magic. Guy of Bonisagus: it costs vis to make permanent things GM: But you'll want to find more Soqotran magic items to fully integrate it Alphubel ex Merinita: Not if you use Rego to change existing things. The crucible uses bits to make the weapons. Guy of Bonisagus: the crucible can make scraps into full items rego magic needs the full amount of materials GM: well, actually. You can combine Breakthroughs with original resaerch, but I don't recommend it -- original research is a mess Alphubel ex Merinita: Yeah, you can make scrap into weapons. GM: Integrating is also ... a weird system, but more straightforward. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: oh Alphubel ex Merinita: It just needs to be the right amount of scrap. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: we can also create the hermetic magic realm breakthrough now Alphubel ex Merinita: What is that? Guy of Bonisagus: i want to make the mirror from i shall seal the heavens and the crucible has a similar effect Alphubel ex Merinita: What is that? Guy of Bonisagus: i want to buy the crucible. id like to get the lamp too as it is soqotran but that would be a lot of vis its a mirror that copies anything placed on it Gulielmus of Pure Reason: Alphubel ex Merinita: What is that? you can create spells to interact with vestiges and things, even from outside the magic realm GM: Ease Factor 21: Non-biological things regrow their lost parts. The item must be placed next to another item made of the same substance, from which it gradually absorbs material during the process. Characters require a GM: different spell for each substance or for each type of object. Objects that contain both biological and non-biological substances are repaired with this level of spell. Alphubel ex Merinita: Oh wait a minute, the crucible uses mercury. Gulielmus of Pure Reason: but it's a breakthrough and you can't even start on it until you have first-hand experience with vestiges. Guy of Bonisagus: i want the crucible GM: I've updated the post in the thread that has the wares to include their price so you can think about it over time catch you guys later. moe: i return after the late night binge Alphubel ex Merinita: See ya. moe: i wish you all a restful night of undisturbed sleep johns (GM): rolling 1d8 nap ( 2 ) = 2 rolling 1d8 zach ( 6 ) = 6 rolling 1d8 tunde ( 8 ) = 8 rolling 1d8 particella ( 4 ) = 4 rolling 1d8 violante ( 8 ) = 8 rolling 1d8 ariam ( 4 ) = 4 johns (GM): rolling 1d8 ioseph ( 4 ) = 4 rolling 1d8 sofia ( 1 ) = 1 timestamp
 * enough
 * object and event