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>>5603889
Having depleted their capable warriors in the struggle against the Malarites, those few adults who remain have little in the way of combat capability. With the mage's concentration consumed by his work, the burden of slowing the advance of the Thousand Scars falls to Luaue, yourself, and Alantha, should it come to that. For the displacer beast's part, she seems to implicitly understand that she cannot defeat the orcish warband by her lonesome, though your attempts to elaborate on the specifics of your escape plan are mostly lost on her.

The three of you enter the now-emptied rotunda, where the stark statue of Moradin yet stands proud, as if in defiance of the incursion of his hated enemies. Outside, across the partially demolished bridge, the orcs and their ogre allies mobilize. Heeding the commands of their leader, indistinct from this distance, they are assuredly already preparing to execute a concrete plan. The half-breed sighs and sizes up the opposition, placing her hands confidently at her sides.

"You have the most experience with this sort of thing, sis-" she catches herself. "Sindiira. What do you suggest?"

You may choose no more than three.
>Luaue has a bow, she must know how to use it. She should harass them from here.
>[Intellect] A well-constructed barricade is a worthy first line of defense.
>Alantha is unpredictable, though we can put that to use. I shall allow her to act freely.
>[Will] I am not one to plead with the gods, but cannot hurt to beseech Moradin for aid.
>[Agility] Let us see if I cannot find a way to disrupt their efforts myself...
>[Write-in.]

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>>5603893
Previous Adventures:
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=Forgotten+Realms+Adventures

The Rules™:
https://pastebin.com/VRQHDHSr

Jezyrene's Abilities:
https://pastebin.com/0kjsLuHW

>>5603893
>>5603893
>[Intellect] A well-constructed barricade is a worthy first line of defense.
We and anyone strong enough can do that while..
>Luaue has a bow, she must know how to use it. She should harass them from here.
(If we can only do one, barricade)

>>5603893
Good to see you again, GW.

>Luaue has a bow, she must know how to use it. She should harass them from here.
>[Intellect] A well-constructed barricade is a worthy first line of defense.
>[Will] I am not one to plead with the gods, but cannot hurt to beseech Moradin for aid.

Might as well see how bad our standing is with the Soul Forger. He might appreciate some orc blood spilled for him, at least.

>>5603943
Support

For those that didn't see: "You may choose no more than three."
>Luaue has a bow, she must know how to use it. She should harass them from here.
>[Intellect] A well-constructed barricade is a worthy first line of defense.
>[Agility] Let us see if I cannot find a way to disrupt their efforts myself...

Being harried by a displacer beast is a hell of a thing, but when those orcs will most likely be advancing lockstep, a formation is more than enough to ruin the advantage of not appearing where you truly are, especially when lacking maneuverability due to being on a bridge. Begging for divine intervention uses up one of our 3 choices, and I'd rather pick something that isn't so transient. Would really love if Lael had a shatter on hand, but somehow I doubt it.

>>5603893
>Luaue has a bow, she must know how to use it. She should harass them from here.
>[Intellect] A well-constructed barricade is a worthy first line of defense.
>[Agility] Let us see if I cannot find a way to disrupt their efforts myself...

>>5603893
And we're back! Hell yeah

>Luaue has a bow, she must know how to use it. She should harass them from here.
>[Intellect] A well-constructed barricade is a worthy first line of defense.
[>[Will] I am not one to plead with the gods, but cannot hurt to beseech Moradin for aid.

My thought process is that well, ranged attacks are good, letting Alantha go wild risks her being left behind and she's a useful asset (who would probably die alone). As for pleading to Moradin, I got the implication there might have been some divine providence involved in Moradin letting the Elistraeans finding this place as succour, so hopefully it's not that crazy.

I don't suppose anons feel like doing a Malar showdown repeat and challenging the Twice scarred to a duel?
Admittedly, we got very, very luck that time.

>>5603893
>>5604057
Actually, changing my vote to this write in:
>Utilize racial spellcasting to cast darkness upon the bridge.

I'm assuming that as the bridge is partially demolished, there are holes in it. The orc's cannot safely pass the bridge if they cannot even see where to go on the bridge, and risk falling to their doom.

>>5604325
Fairly confident we can't do that due to neglecting our practice for decades.

>>5604334
Here is a pertinent quote from greenwood on the subject:
>Jez can cast faerie fire, dancing lights, and darkness (there is even a fighting style revolving around this one) like any other drow, but she is a poor spellcaster and her already deficient ability has atrophied from disuse. It would take practice for her to employ them in any meaningful capacity, and attaining highborn magic would be even more demanding.

Luckily, Jez isn't the only person here. I'm sure that with all the drow available they could blanket the bridge in darkness, making it nigh impassable.

>>5604342
Hm... Not a bad idea. However, is it impenetrable magical super-darkness? Orcs have Darkvision.

Better to have people cast light spells to dazzle/blind them, perhaps?

>>5604432
It's impenetrable magic super darkness, darkvision only works for an absence of light, not magical darkness.

>>5604342
you want the people who are evacuating to cast spells en masse? Pretty much all of whom are surface dwelling drows who probably have an even weaker connection to their subterrenean innate magic than Jez does?

>>5604476
Would only need a couple of Drow to do it, and it's a matter of lineage rather than connection to the faezress of the underdark currently as the whole surface issue was fixed in the 1360s. Just bring maybe 1 or 2 over as darkness should last for 10 minutes.

There seems to be a discussion happening, so I'll let the vote go on for a bit longer than normal.

Half orc barbarian 23 STR also I am allowed to use shadow weave sorcerer spells up to level 5 because of a pharmaceutical experiment I was a part of

I immediately attempt to locate and rape Mystra

>>5603893

>>5603937
Changing this vote to:
>Alantha is unpredictable, though we can put that to use. I shall allow her to act freely.
>[Agility] Let us see if I cannot find a way to disrupt their efforts myself...
>Have our Drow use magical darkness to cloak our attack and to delay retaliation by the Thousand Scars while the vulnerable escape

>>5604914
Could you elaborate upon the condition of the bridge? Would it be possible to cast darkness upon areas filled with holes, if said holes even exist?

>>5604945
>Could you elaborate upon the condition of the bridge?
Like most of the fortress, the structure was in excellent condition. Lael's spell has left a gap that makes it impassable on foot, though a daring individual might be capable of leaping across.

>Would it be possible to cast darkness upon areas filled with holes, if said holes even exist?
If anons think that having someone cast Darkness over the area is the best course, I don't see why not.

Right, so if their only way to get over is a leap, and by covering it in darkness they would have no way to properly judge where to leap. I highly recommend that people change their votes to reflect this as this is a means to prevent their egress at little to no danger to Jez and her charges.

>>5603893
>[Intellect] A well-constructed barricade is a worthy first line of defense.
>[Agility] Let us see if I cannot find a way to disrupt their efforts myself...
>Have our Drow use magical darkness to cloak our attack and to delay retaliation by the Thousand Scars while the vulnerable escape

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We've got a bit of a predicament here. The vote is divided enough that I might consider a runoff.

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>>5606437
Taking into account my vote change and that other anon's (>>5604325 and >>5604940), picrel's what I've got. I'll change my Alantha vote to
>Pray to Moradin
and thus break the tie

>>5606459
All right, we'll run with it. Vote closed.

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>>5604325
But before anything else, even though this option did not come through, it was a close vote and I feel that the write-in is clever enough to merit Fortune.

You're going to need it, ho ho.

Well at least we got a fortune out of it. Really don't see why people didn't want to go the darkness route, it's a really simple method of preventing attack.

>>5606901
It was a clever idea. Default options often just win. Maybe we can try it out next fight?

Rolled 5 (1d20)

(Intellect 14) Success on 14 or lower.

We are fortifying this position.

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>5607291
(Will 13) Success on 13 or lower.

Moradin, save us!

>>5606901
For a write in to be succesful, you generally have to post it among the first replies so it sets the tone from the get go. That's my experience.
Especially when it's posted in relation to a weekend. Folks ain't going to look back during those days, generally.
And with a write in you generally need to motivate it more/better. Here the eventual effects and likelihood of success were fairly unclear until some additional information was given, some time later. And even then anons might judge that as less useful than say, waking up an avatar of a god, or whatever they are reading in.

Well at least it could be a perfect method of retreat. In the event that Jez needs to run away from the Orc army, she need only jump over the gap and then use darkness like a squid inking itself.

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>>5603943
>>5604013
>>5604113
>>5604256
>>5604325
>>5604940
>>5605795
Communicating how you intend to stymy the efforts of the Thousand Scars proves troublesome at first, as you explain that constructing a fortification would be a simple and effective means of barring their path, but cannot quite find the word for this. "A barricade!" Announces Luaue, intuiting the meaning behind your words. It still bothers you that the half-breed is more familiar with an illogical barbarian language than a civilized one which makes sense, but you've no choice but to overlook this for now.

"There are still some furnishings in here. Everyone can do something." She turns and begins marching for the banquet hall. "We have prevailed against danger before. I know if we just work together-" you seize Luaue by the shoulder, pulling her back. "No. You have a bow. Stop them from coming," you instruct. The both of you look out to the orcs across the bridge and note that they are repositioning to make room for arrival. The half-breed looks back to you and nods.

"You can count of me."

"Alantha, follow!" You order, breaking into a sprint for the banquet hall. Luaue, meanwhile, nocks an arrow, wetting her lips as she finds an ideal position from which to shoot. Emerging from behind the orcish mass to take its place at the front of their formation is a creature which, from this distance, superficially resembles an ogre. Yet, it differs from the primitive giant-kin in that its skin possesses a unique teal tinge.

Luaue looses her arrow, the projectile catching the creature unawares, lodging itself in the giant-kin's knee. Contorting as its leg gives way, the ogre accidentally collapses over the edge, plummeting toward the magma river. Without a moment's pause, her assault continues, as she unleashes a salvo which murders unprepared orcs in serial, forcing them into a temporary retreat. Despite her muddied heritage, you can at least breathe easy knowing that she is a talented warrior like yourself.

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>>5608742
Defense is not a great strength of the Ilythiiri way of war. The emphasis on stealth and superior mobility leaves maintaining battle lines to traps, slaves, and the extensive list of horrible beasts at your disposal. Still, you assemble those adults and the older children who are capable of working with their hands, and set to work constructing a makeshift fortification from whatever furnishings can be appropriated from your surroundings. Even Alantha assists, putting her tentacles to use by hauling objects too heavy for humanoid arms to lift.

The priestess also contributes her fair share, having done her part to delay the enemy's approach. Thanks in no small part to your ingenuity, you are able to fashion a sturdy barricade which obstructs entry into the rotunda, and not a moment too soon; reemerging on the other side of the gap is a group of orcs who hurl a hail of javelins your way as you scramble to further reinforce the barrier. Thankfully, the crude light spears prove no match for dwarven craftwork, colliding with the stone furniture to no effect. The half-breed wipes the sweat from her brow, well aware that she would have been skewered were she slower to retreat.

As the Eilistraeans filter back into the banquet hall, anxious to be free of this ruin, you peer through a gap in the fortification to monitor the progress of the Thousand Scars. Their leader returns with another blue ogre following close behind. With a gesture, he issues a command to the ogre in the primitive orcish tongue, prompting it to initiate a series of gestures whilst reciting curious words of power. It is a magic spell, and through it, the ogre manipulates the stone of the bridge as though it is clay, extruding one side of the central gap and seamlessly merging it with the other.

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>>5608747
You have witnessed your fair share of magical displays over the years, and oft you are left wondering how they can ignore immutable principles of reality such as the very nature of stone. Twice-Scarred and his lackeys cross the newly-mended bridge, javelins at the ready should any Ilythiiri emerge to harass them. Together with Luaue and Alantha, the three of you position yourselves at the end of the rotunda opposite the barricade, guarding the path leading to the banquet hall. With any luck, the barricade should hold.

Refusing to be denied, the savages throw their strength against your hastily-made fortification, hellbent on deconstructing it. Yet the obstacle withstands more punishment than any could have anticipated, a testament to your resourcefulness. Regardless, you know that it cannot stand indefinitely. "Moradin!" You shout at the statue, impassioned by your unfavorable circumstances. You are not one for prayer, although... "Do... something!" No response. Could it be that such a simple plea is not enough to motivate the dwarven god to intercede on your behalf?

A quick glance at the banquet hall reveals that Lael's magics are manifesting in the form of a lustrous silver arc on the floor, gradually taking the shape of a full circle. He has been at work for perhaps three or four minutes now, meaning you have not escaped danger just yet...

With this in mind, you reason that the spell is more or less a third of the way toward completion.

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>>5608752
The barricade crumbles, its crash resounding throughout the fortress like an admission of its defeat.

Entering the rotunda with an assertive gait is a burly figure clad in dark armor draped in black fabric. His face is obscured by an iron mask, fashioned in the style of a humanoid skull, and in his left hand he carries with him a vicious double-axe. The blue ogre, along with the orcs in his company, arrange themselves in a circular formation with him at the center. This is indisputably Wurgoth Twice-Scarred, orcish warlord and uncontested leader of the Thousand Scars.

"I admire your tenacity, dark elves. Few possess the will to resist us, and fewer still the might," he applauds with a baritone voice accompanied by a metallic reverb. His knowledge of the human language, it seems, exceeds yours, demonstrating unusual intelligence for a member of his race. He paces back and forth, wordlessly sizing each of you up. Luaue has broken into a sweat, unsure of whether to ready an arrow or draw her sword, whilst Alantha emits a low growl and remains at your side, her hesitance to attack indicating that her fear of him exceeds her hatred.

"When my eyes looked over the remains of my dead warriors, I recognized their wounds as the handiwork of a drow. It was no small task for my scouts to follow your tracks, but the rewards are worth the challenge. You have brought us to our prize, and for this, I offer each of you the privilege of a quick death." He pauses to afford you the chance to respond.

Select however many seem appropriate. But be reasonable.
>Who are the Thousand Scars, really, and what is this this 'prize' they pursue?
>[Intellect] Perchance I could start a philosophical discussion to waste his time?
>I would instead demand the privilege of a duel. Or is he afraid that I will be victorious?
>Luaue is better with words than I. She should say something to distract them.
>[Agility] I know this one mesmerizing trick that I can do with my sword...
>I know that I will regret asking this, but... why does he wear the mask?
>[Write-in.]

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>>5608755
>I know that I will regret asking this, but... why does he wear the mask?
>[Intellect] Perchance I could start a philosophical discussion to waste his time?

>>5608755
>I know that I will regret asking this, but... why does he wear the mask?
>I would instead demand the privilege of a duel. Or is he afraid that I will be victorious?
>Try to communicate to Luaue to cast darkness between Jez and the teleportation circle. There is no doubt that the ogre would interfere with Lael's casting, or dispel his work outright once it finishes. Breaking line of sight in this manner should prevent that.

The spell is a third of the way towards completion. Jez just needs to pull out all her tricks and stall. The real issue is the ogre mage. It just takes one casting of counterspell or dispel magic to completely remove the Eilistraean's means of escape. However, as spells typically depend on line of sight, using darkness should throw a wrench in that. Of course, whether or not the orcs even allow that is a different question.

>>5608755
>I know that I will regret asking this, but... why does he wear the mask?
>[Intellect] Perchance I could start a philosophical discussion to waste his time?

>>5608755
>I know that I will regret asking this, but... why does he wear the mask?
>I would instead demand the privilege of a duel. Or is he afraid that I will be victorious?
>Try to communicate to Luaue to cast darkness between Jez and the teleportation circle. There is no doubt that the ogre would interfere with Lael's casting, or dispel his work outright once it finishes. Breaking line of sight in this manner should prevent that.
Supporting >>5608806

>>5608755
Does our Feat "Mage killer" provide any insight on defeating the ogre magi? (cool to see one btw!)

>I know that I will regret asking this, but... why does he wear the mask?
>[Intellect] Perchance I could start a philosophical discussion to waste his time?
>I would instead demand the privilege of a duel. Or is he afraid that I will be victorious?
>If plausible, convey to Luaue a means of casting darkness to veil the teleportation circle (if this wouldn't make Lael's job difficult. I'm not sure if half elves have the same night vision?)

If a fight starts, I suggest we use our fortune point to toss the acid flask on the big chief or the mage (if it's a big fight). Mage is maybe a better idea since I think it would do damage him each "turn" which would make spellcasting for that creature difficult/impossible. What do you guys think?

"Do you know the difference between an error and a mistake, Twice-scarred? An error only becomes a mistake if you refuse to correct it. I have been told that you have refused to change in the face of the new ways taken up by that other group that call themselves the Thousand Scars. Why is that?"

Alantha talked about how The twice scarred leads a group of tradionalists who cling to old orcish ways, whereas another group is taking up new ways of hunting/warfare inspired by surface world gods. It's a topic that dips into philosophy

Also, surprised Jez only said "that" to Moradin given the roll. We shall see...

>>5608755
>[Intellect] Perchance I could start a philosophical discussion to waste his time?
>I know that I will regret asking this, but... why does he wear the mask?
>Try to communicate to Luaue to cast darkness between Jez and the teleportation circle.

>>5608985
>I'm not sure if half elves have the same night vision?
I explained this earlier, but darkness is essentially completely opaque. Like, imagine a sphere that creates a complete void of light that is impossible to be seen through. That's darkness. It's magical, you can't see through it with darkvision, and nonmagical light can't illuminate it. The purpose of darkness is only to break line of sight in order to prevent dispel magic or counterspell, or at least use up slots, if you were to focus on using game terms.

>>5609143
Fair, thank's for repeating.

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Rolled 12 (1d20)

(Intellect 14, +3 Elf Dilettante, -3 Skeptical Audience) Success on 14 or lower.

Let's see if Jez has the gift of gab.

I probably should have expected a certain option to win, but it's still strange that every single voter picked it.

>>5609510
Nice. The Great Jezby.
Just thought i'd mention that I think the dwarven crossbow is missing from our character sheet, I believe we kept it?

Sadly we chose the option that didn't give us shot on the run, though what we chose was superior imo.

>>5609510
No 4chan board is going to a miss a chance to banepost

>>5609897
I mean, to be fair, it is legitimately an interesting question why an orc boy wears a mask like that. More interesting than asking bane who just needs it to live.

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The update will be here within the hour. But first, some answers.

>>5608985
>Does our Feat "Mage killer" provide any insight on defeating the ogre magi?
Jez doesn't know much about this particular creature. Though the bonuses would still apply against it.

>Alantha talked about how The twice scarred leads a group of tradionalists who cling to old orcish ways, whereas another group is taking up new ways of hunting/warfare inspired by surface world gods.
This might be Alantha's quirky beast speak or maybe me poorly conveying my intent, but what I was trying to get at is that the Scars led by Twice-Scarred are the unorthodox ones, and they have been subjugating other communities of orcs.

>>5609719
>Just thought i'd mention that I think the dwarven crossbow is missing from our character sheet, I believe we kept it?
This is true. I just forgot to add it because it wasn't on my mind at the time.

Since Jez now has her first ranged weapon, I will elaborate a little on ranged combat. Unlike melee weapons which always work the same, there is a penalty for shooting at a close distance, a penalty for shooting into a melee, and various situations in which shooting will be done at a penalty, such as if a target is behind cover. There is no limit to the number of Banes a roll can have, so line up those shots carefully! On the other hand, ammunition is not tracked for my own sanity.

Anyways, update soon.

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>>5608790
>>5608806
>>5608919
>>5608927
>>5608985
>>5609060
"Why do you wear that?" You inquire, gesturing at your face. You, of course, refer to his mask, although this is merely a means of stalling for time as Lael works his magics. The warlord must be confident that he has you cornered, or mayhaps he is in no hurry to see you dead, as he decides to entertain your question. Letting the shaft of his weapon res on his shoulder, he adopts a more relaxed posture and and inclines his head slightly. His minions must be well-disciplined, for they show no intention of attacking without his direction.

"It is a reminder of the price I have paid for strength, a tax of flesh and blood and health. Cruel are the lessons of Realms, yet they are gainful for those willing to learn them. Twice was I was I taught the meaning of suffering, once by orcs, and again at the hands of humans. Twice was I scarred, and twice did I take my revenge." He adjusts his posture and returns his attention to you.

Curious. Orcs have no stigma against physical disfigurements, none that you are aware of, and even take pride in displaying battle scars. Was the marring of Wurgoth's body so horrific as to merit concealing it? It is impossible to know. That said, the warlord's eloquence is such that he would run circles around you in a debate. But in that lies an opportunity, so long as you select the right words to keep him talking...

>>5612017
"But you are an orc. No lesson will make you better than us, the Ilythiiri," you proudly assert. "Sis- Sindiira, don't provoke them!" Grumbles Luaue with a hushed yell. Yet it is true - however much physical prowess he has attained, even the mightiest orc warrior is cursed with a pitiful lifespan and a meager intellect, to say nothing of their culture, or really, the lack thereof. You would almost pity their miserable race, were they not so stubbornly belligerent.

"You think yourself my better?" Queries the warlord, chuckling to himself. "The drow hide away in caverns for fear of the sun, unable to provide for themselves unless by theft. You cow behind your slaves in battle, and your men are so pathetic that your women take up arms and command in their place. Everything we own, we have earned through iron and muscle. We carve out our place in this world, as is our birthright, while you squander your lives fighting amongst yourselves."

"I know we are better," you insist. Grappling with the limits of your grasp on this foreign language, you go on. "The Ilythiiri made art, history, and cities from nothing in the wild Underdark. Our trade, warfare, and magic get better every year. You are still the same as two hundred years ago. We are greatness. You are savages."

Twice-Scarred bellows mightily, losing himself entirely to laughter.

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>>5612019
As this goes on, you attempt to communicate to Luaue that she should cast a spell of darkness over the entrance to the dining hall, silently mouthing the words at her in Ilythiirra. Admittedly, know absolutely nothing whatsoever about spellcraft - the arcane secrets never took hold in your young mind - though you fear that the blue ogre might somehow possess the means to disrupt Lael's spell, and intend to prevent this.

Her brow furrows thoughtfully, and she mouths back; apparently, she is not actually capable of doing this. What good is it to be of Ilythiiri descent if she cannot put the acceptable half of her being to use? Then again, you are in no position to criticize, given that you have seldom made good use of the magics at your disposal. Doing so would restrict your movement and consume your focus considerably, and you are liable to cut your own hand off if you were to attempt the necessary gestures in a melee.

The priestess looks over her shoulder, here eyes lighting up as she spots Chessayne observing the situation from afar. Wordlessly, they stare at one another, until the elderly woman seems to acknowledge Luaue's intent and stretches her arms, weaving a curtain of sable darkness that engulfs any and all light. If the blue ogre saw this take place, it does not seem to have agitated him in the slightest.

It is now impossible to tell by sight how close the spell is to completion.

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>>5612021
The warlord approaches your group gingerly, evaluating the threat each of you poses to him. Luaue nocks and arrow and levels her weapon at him undaunted, though he pays her little mind, unimpressed by her bravado. Alantha similarly whips her tentacles at him and snarls, her eyes filled with fear and loathing, and while he does stop a moment to inspect the displacer beast, he moves along, viewing her as nothing more than a natural curiosity.

That leaves you. You are a seasoned combatant and have managed to survive two hundred years and more of turmoil. In the past, you have fought against countless opponents, orcs among them, and emerged victorious. Though surrounded and outnumbered you may be, you feel fairly confident in your chances of making it through this situation with your life. Granted, he does not know any of this, but he seems to recognize your ability from your posture.

You envision him smirking beneath his mask as he relaxedly brings his weapon to bear, his voice taking on an amused inflection. "My patience has worn thin, dark elf. Make peace with your gods." His statement rouses his lackeys into action, eagerly moving forward to join the warlord on the offensive.

Your move, Jezyrene. Pick one.
>The battle is on! The three of us will fight them, together.
>[Will] Perchance if I am loud enough, I could keep him arguing for a few moments more?
>I challenge him to a duel! He had best find the courage to face me alone!
>It would be incredibly convenient if Moradin did something right this moment!
>[Write-in.]

>>5612023
>>[Will] Perchance if I am loud enough, I could keep him arguing for a few moments more?
"If orcs are superior why do they smell so bad huh? Checkmate atheists."

>>5612023
>I challenge him to a duel! He had best find the courage to face me alone!

He could very well just laugh and say no, after all why toss a clear victory away.

>>5611974
Thanks for the explanations!
>>5612023
Oh boy, now we can't track when the circle is done. However I guess if 3-4 minutes is a third, we need to stall for about 12-16 minutes. So 15 minutes in total. If each turn has taken up an equal amount of time we should be two thirds through now.
>I challenge him to a duel! He had best find the courage to face me alone!
"Prove it! I have battled the dangers of the Underdark for centuries, lead armies to victory and slain more of your kind by myself than there are followers in your army. I earned the favor of Malar by slaying his head priest. And you think yourself better than me? Prove it! By dent of steel and blood in hand."

Although, I really don't want Jez to die. Is a group fight the better choice?

I kek'd at the Moradin option btw. It would be incredibly convenient.

>>5612023
>>The battle is on! The three of us will fight them, together

>>5612023
>>[Will] Perchance if I am loud enough, I could keep him arguing for a few moments more?
I'm not confident that we could take him on alone without an underhanded card to play

Speaking of dirty tricks, don't Drows apply poison to their weapons?

>>5612023
>I challenge him to a duel! He had best find the courage to face me alone!
>It would be incredibly convenient if Moradin did something right this moment!

>>5612567
Pick just one anon

>>5612023
>It would be incredibly convenient if Moradin did something right this moment!
ANY TIME NOW, MORADIN

>>5612023
>It would be incredibly convenient if Moradin did something right this moment!

Is there any particular reason that people think Jez is worthy of divine intervention at this very moment? Especially considering who she is? The Eilistraeeans are literally squatters at best, even if they're respectful about it. Trying to bank on literal divine intervention when not a follower of the deity you're trying to call on is really quite silly, and it's even worse when you can only pick ONE option.

>>5612788
Changing to the Ben Shapiro option
>[Will] Perchance if I am loud enough, I could keep him arguing for a few moments more?

>>5612639
Ah, fair play. Changing from >>5612567 to

>>5612023
>Moradiiiiiin! Heeeelp!

>>5612023
Switching from
>>5612084
to
>>[Will] Perchance if I am loud enough, I could keep him arguing for a few moments more?

Rather try for a duel to keep him occupied, but anything is better than blindly expecting divine intervention.

Rolled 7 (1d20)

(Will 13) Success on 13 or lower.

We have chosen to trust in the heart of the dice.

>>5612545
They do. Drow are some of the best poisoners in the Realms, though the Eilistraeans shy away from using them because of their more benevolent attitudes. Jez is a bit of an oddity - the reason why she doesn't is because she belongs to a minority of drow who prefer heavier armaments.

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We've been unreasonably lucky so far. I'm glad that the quest has dice to show this.

>>5613256
Waukeen instead of Tymora?

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>5613256
To be fair, we need to be lucky almost every time, our opponents need to be lucky only once or twice. We have next to no room for failure.
Our luck will run out soon.

>>5612039
>>5612102
>>5612110
>>5612482
>>5612687
>>5612883
>>5612896
>>5613168
"Nau! Zexen'uma tarthe d'jal! Vith'ir dos waele iblith!" You stomp and scream until the fortress is flooded by a deluge of rants. Despite your insistence that you are the his better, competing against the warlord in single combat is a gambit that you would prefer to avoid. Not that you are afraid that the outcome would be in his favor, however. Surely not! That would be unthinkable. No, definitely not.

Most unexpectedly, Twice-Scarred stops in his tracks. With a wave of his hand, his obedient minions come to a halt. Luaue and Alantha, orcs and ogres all, stare at you dumbfounded as you throw the most unholy temper tantrum in the history of the Realms. Moradin's stone-faced visage, dour and unmovable, oppresses you with the gaze of quiet judgement. It is as though all the planes have been overtaken by the echoes of your ravings, given no choice but to suffer the cacophony that is your mighty fulmination.

... And it dies the very moment that the remaining supply of air in your lungs is depleted. Awed by your uncontained ferocity, none find it within themselves to act, let alone speak. Desperate to respire, you gasp for air, shaking as you look over those present, ally and foe, all of whom remain as still as the ancient masonry of the fortress.

>>5616344
Not a second later, an ear-splitting crackle erupts from the dining hall behind you, the agonizing cry of space itself being mercilessly shredded, causing the fortress to tremble and groan. Briefly, a wave of dull blue light washes over reality, a byproduct emitted by the exercise of potent arcane energies. Lael, finished with his incantation, wastes no time in commenting on the outcome. "Ooh, that... doesn't usually happen. Erm, never mind! Everything is under control! Everybody step into the circle!"

Simultaneously, you flee with the priestess for the only chance you have at deliverance, with Alantha catching on and speeding past the two of you. Quicker to react than his servants, the warlord breaks into a sprint, hellbent on seeing at least one of you dead. Yet good fortune strikes at unexpected moments - the statue of Moradin, centerpiece of the grand rotunda, is knocked from its base by the localized earthquake, its weight threatening to reduce the orc to a bloody smear across the floor. His good sense wins out over his bloodlust, and he rapidly changes course. The graven image slams into the ground, barring the warlord's path and gifting you precious seconds.

Is it blind luck, or did the mirthless dwarven patriarch take pity on your kin?

Chessayne's shroud of darkness dissipates, just in time for the three of you to rejoin the others. Together, the mage and the elder usher the Eilistraeans through a luminescent circle on the floor. Instantaneously, those who enter seem to wink out of existence once their bodies have crossed the threshold, a disturbing sight. You have witnessed many spells, and even experienced the effects of some yourself, but the thought of being flung from one location to the next in the blink of an eye is... unnerving.

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>>5616347
"Hurry it up, Sandra! You're taking a tenday and a half too long!" Barks Lael at you, as he seals the entrance to the dining hall behind you with a barrier of silken webs. You possess not the will, the time, or the breath to retort, lagging as those with you pull ahead. Together with Chessayne, they step into the circle and vanish, leaving only yourself and the mage here in the fortress.

Abandoning any concern over whatever ill effects you may soon be subject to, you recklessly cross the thin boundary between the spell and its surroundings. For a fraction of a second, your body ceases to exist, depriving you of all senses as the sights and sounds of the ruin become empty void. You are a soul, immaterial energy shot across the planes at a speed that exceeds time. This is nothing like Amaranth's portal, a gateway leading from one location to another; you are experiencing the instant transmission of your body, true teleportation.

You are not in control of Lael's unstable magics. But you seem to possess some limited influence over where you will arrive.
>Am I... falling, into the light?
>My body is descending into darkness.

>>5616350
>My body is descending into darkness.

>>5616350
>Am I... falling, into the light?

>Sandra
There will be a reckoning. It's interesting how Jez has some influence at all, I take that this is due to Lael's odd casting then.

>>5616350
>>Am I... falling, into the light?
Sandra who?

>>5616350
>Am I... falling, into the light?

>>5616350
>>My body is descending into darkness.

>>5616350

>Am I... falling, into the light?

Would rather fall into light than land on our ass here.

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Vote closed.

>>5616716
Well...

>>5616365
>>5616371
>>5616382
>>5616412
>>5616488
>>5616716
The universe is light, and you have been caught in the gravitational pull of its very core. The world's omnipresent glare swallows you, scorching your eyes and roasting your skin as your physical form materializes. You are descending gently toward the center of an infinitely vast emptiness... or so you would believe. An invisible force tugs subtly at your body, pulling you away from the great mass further ahead. It is at this moment that you experience a most terrible epiphany. Until now, you have not been descending, but ascending, upwards into the air.

And now you are falling.

Abject pain joins a series of awful cracks in concert as your backside collides with the ground. The atmosphere becomes hostile, growing so thick as to stick to your throat and irritate your eyes further. Blind and suffocating, you thrash violently whilst cursing your ill luck. How could it be that you have snatched victory from the jaws of defeat and journeyed so far across foreign lands only to die such a pathetic death?

Yet a glimmer of hope reveals itself in your weakest moment. Steadily, your vision returns to you, and you are able to manage a few labored breaths. The world of light recedes, revealing to you a midday sky, broken up by the wood spires that take the place of mushrooms on the surface. You rest on a path of tightly packed sand.

A cloud of the grainy substance, kicked up by your sudden impact, disperses, providing you with full visibility once your vision has adjusted. This is a familiar place - the southern road leading to Everlund, the very same that you walked when you first emerged from the Underdark. Which would mean that you have spent the past several minutes clumsily flailing around in the dirt.

None must know of this.

>>5618269
You rise to your feet and dust yourself off, spitting up a gob of sandy mucus. A cursory examination of your surroundings reveals the presence of no individuals in your immediate area. The teleportation spell, evidently, was not perfect, though you managed to arrive with all of your limbs attached. You cannot say the same for the Eilistraeans, however. It must be that they were sent to some other location nearby.

Indeed, you are not separated for long. Further down the road, the Eilistraeans congregate around Everlund's gate. Chessayne and the other adults have their hands full trying to keep the children together, counting heads to ensure that none were left behind as Luaue tries to reason with the guards posted at the city's entrance. Hoping to spare your aching back further anguish, you take your time, and approach at a leisurely pace.

"Look, I'm real sorry, m'lady. I already asked, and we have our orders. No drow. And no... uh, monsters," explains one of Greycastle's underlings, nervously eyeing Alantha, who amuses herself by poking her tentacles through the gate's iron grid as if she were going to kill him. His fellows keep their weapons angled at the displacer beast, though her posture indicates that she does not see them as a threat. "Oh, you're fine though, m'lady." He clears his throat and nods toward you.

>>5618270
"Are you daft?!" Shouts the half-breed, extending an open hand in your direction as she argues against him. "Why is she allowed in, but not us?! Do you expect these children to fend for themselves?!" Clearly distraught, the man wipes a bead of sweat from his brow and sighs. "I- I don't have the power to make these decisions! Please, understand!" He pleads, yet the half-breed will have none of it. "No, you understand! We..." she cuts herself off and shakes her head, drawing a heavy sigh.

"I'm... sorry. I shouldn't be like this." Luaue pivots to face you and folds her arms. "For now, we will return to the Silverwood. With the followers of Malar gone, we will finally have the chance to mourn our dead. I know that you said you would convince these people to come to our aid," she huffs, glancing at at the anxious guardsman as Alantha gleefully torments him, "but you are welcome to join us, sis- Sindiira. We have the supplies to make it through the better part of a tenday, so there is no need to rush."

Well?
>I will see about speaking with the council right this moment. I can convince them, somehow.
>Right now, I must rest. I shall see about this council business tomorrow, in the morning.
>Heavens know why they care so much about the dead, but I suppose I shall accompany them.

>>5618272
>I don't think it will be easy convincing the council, but I better start right away. Hopefully it will be done before the tenday is over. No doubt some tasks will have to be done. I will speak to my abban, Amaranth. If all goes well we can provide some aid to you in the forest meanwhile.
>Assuming you feel you can make it to the Silverwood on your own

Basicly, Jez is aware this will be a process requiring politics and no doubt quests, better get to it asap. Meanwhile we have some connections and gold, which can hopefully be used to maintain some safety or supplies to them outside the city walls until/if we manage a proper agreement with Everlund.
Maybe we could get a few guarsd/mercenaries to help guard the refugees while they are in the silverwood, until something better is setup.

However, it would have been cool to see Luaue meet the body of her mother the cleric with that magical sword. If that is where they are headed.

>>5618272
>Right now, I must rest. I shall see about this council business tomorrow, in the morning.
Need bath. Need bed.

>>5618272
>>5618334
Support.

I really would rather Jez speak with her allies before anything else, her having friends in the council and the Mielekki priesthood should be utilized before meeting with the council itself. Both for pertinent political guidance and resources to shortly sustain the Drow population if possible. Though I imagine Amaranth would be far more important than Willow in this regard, Willow doesn't exactly strike me as the most politically oriented.

As for the council itself, Jez is probably going to have to end up doing favors for Brandt Greycastle, Rupert Tenpenny, and Sten Silvershard. Dulnar and Arara are likely going to refuse to do anything regarding the Eilistraean refugees. I seriously hope that Tenpenny doesn't require much, haven't forgotten about his general.... everything, along with how he groped Jez. Furthermore, I can't imagine Sten would care for any favors that would be done for Tenpenny or Greycastle, as said favors are probably highly illegal, and he's still a paladin of Helm.

Man, I hope this doesn't end with all the Eilistraeans being slaughtered by the gnomish stalking artifice or whatever, or other Drow interceptors that are still after Jez. Also, where the heck is Lael?

>>5618272
>>Right now, I must rest. I shall see about this council business tomorrow, in the morning.
We are overworked and we need to zzzzzzzz

>>5618272
>I will see about speaking with the council right this moment. I can convince them, somehow.
Is Lael dood?

>>5618334
+1.
>I’ll let Willow know you’re here, too. She and her forest friends made sure to reinforce your temple grounds against Malarite reprisals. She’ll be happy to know you’re back.

>>5618664
>>5618272
Just in case votes need to connect to the option posts for it to count.

>>5618334
Supporting

Vote closed.

>>5618334
>>5618336
>>5618386
>>5618461
>>5618616
>>5618664
>>5619121
"You go. I will speak with the council." Though it has been at least a tenday since your last bath and your encounter with the orcish warlord has no doubt cursed you a several strands of yellow hair, you feel that this is a task best done sooner rather than later. "It will not be easy to make them help you." Luaue offers a reaffirming smile and shakes her head. "Even if you do not succeed, it warms my heart to know that you will try."

Waving to get the attention of the other adults, she steps away from Everlund's gate. "We spent a long time in hiding, but these woods were our home, once. We should be able to find our way with no trouble." Ready to depart, the Eilistraeans fall in behind the priestess. "Thank you, Sindiira. Goddess light your path." What a peculiar thing to say. There is plenty of light all about, and any more would most definitely cause your eyeballs to melt.

Scanning the faces of the crowd, you cannot help but notice the absence of the mage whose magics flung you across the Realms. "Where is the half-breed boy?" You ask Luaue, who seems mildly irritated by something you've said. Electing to disregard it for the moment, she sighs, her voice conveying genuine concern despite her previous quarrels with him. "Truth be told, I thought he would be with you. We managed to find everyone else. You don't think..." she trails off.

>>5620703
You shrug. The boy is not your burden to manage, and his 'unique' proclivities have earned him no pity from you besides. "He must be fine," you remark nonchalantly, inclining your head southward to indicate that the Eilistraeans should be on their way. Wishing you the best, they set off on their journey to the Silverwood, returning to the forest that was once theirs.

Of course, the unorthodox Ilythiiri are not the only ones to part ways with you. Alantha, growing bored with her game of frightening the unfortunate human male, stretches her limbs and sets out for the open wilderness without so much as acknowledging you. This outcome was to be expected, you reckon; the displacer beast is still a wild animal, albeit a remarkably intelligent one. She cares little for the conventions of sapient beings, and as a devout follower of Malar's precepts, would fare poorly in a large city. Still, you get the distinct impression that you will be seeing her again someday.

Thus, you are left to your own devices. Your first thought is to visit the Evergreen Hall, Mielikki's shrine here in Everlund, to consult with Willow, though she is nowhere to be found. The few volunteers tasked with staffing the temple explain that she and her fellows are preoccupied with undoing the harm dealt by the Malarites to the Silverwood. What this means is unknown - you cannot say that you understand the mechanisms at work in nature, much less how they might be damaged.

You suppose, then, that the Eilistraeans and Mielikkians will be having their reunion without you. For the time being, you must decide on your next course of action.
>Ilanis knows this city and its people. She may be able to offer me some insight into convincing the less cooperative members of the council.
>I should speak with Amaranth. It could very well be that he is the only member of the council who would care to aid my people.
>The Hall of the Elders might contain some knowledge that I could leverage to my advantage. Thus, my search begins there.

>>5620708
>I should speak with Amaranth. It could very well be that he is the only member of the council who would care to aid my people.
Despite what we think of his student, we should at least inform Amaranth what happened so he can check up on him. As well as recommend that Lael is assigned a book report on the biggest book of elven etiquette we can find in the tower.

>>5620708
>I should speak with Amaranth. It could very well be that he is the only member of the council who would care to aid my people.

>>5620719
Support. Shit-talk Lael to his mentor, 100%.

>>5620762
No shittalking, as we don't want to suggest that Amaranth is at fault for his student being a breast ogling troglodyte. Just offering a recommendation, in case he decides to try those moves on a Lolthite next time.

Also, we need confirmation that he's never going to introduce Lael to Ilanis, they might make naive love/boob crazed babies.

>>5620708
>>Ilanis knows this city and its people. She may be able to offer me some insight into convincing the less cooperative members of the council.

>>5620708
>I should speak with Amaranth. It could very well be that he is the only member of the council who would care to aid my people.

>>5620719
I'll support this!
We can still talk to Ilanis afterwards, but just in case Lael, Amaranth's asset is in danger, well, it's only right to treat our best ally with respect
Also I unironicly think Amaranth has got to be the nicest person in this setting so far

>>5621377
I'd say it's a competition between Ilanis and Amaranth... but then again Amaranth did play a large part in raising Ilanis.

>>5621406
That's fair. Ilanis somehow seems born more of childlike innocence (even if she's more a teenager) if the distinction makes sense, whereas Amaranth just seems to have that kind of enlightened "kindness" or perhaps empathy is the better word, from a life long lived (where blood spilled has been seen).

>>5620708
>>I should speak with Amaranth. It could very well be that he is the only member of the council who would care to aid my people.

Vote closed.

>>5621491
It's hilarious that this is said about someone who's around a century old. At least, I'm pretty sure Ilanis is somewhere around that age, iirc Greenwood gave a comparison for Ilanis in that she was in her 20's, as compared to Jez's 40's when compared to human lifespans.

>>5621827
Considering how Jez has been spending a decent amount on makeup, perfume and dresses, including a literal princess style dress, I'm not sure she has any right to criticize Ilanis' naivete.

>>5621840
Jez knowing what's best in life is the farthest thing from naivete! Though it would be nice if Jez spent some of her hard earned coin on actual armor rather than creature comforts... unless actual armor provides an agility penalty, still don't know about that.

>>5621846
There are some armors with a static Defense that have no Agility bonus and some with a partial Agility bonus, and of course ones with the full bonus like the bustenhalt. The obvious advantage of heavy armor is being able to forego investing in Agility, although having an Agility bonus of zero has certain benefits as well.

>>5621840
We're j-just trying to fit in!

>>5621864
If Jez were to wear armor that provided no agility bonus, would she face a penalty in regards to some agility checks? Or would there be a more narrative penalty, in that some choices simply aren't there anymore? I.E. being able to dodge the huntlord when he charged at Jez, climbing stuff, etc.

>>5621827
I assume mental development varies somewhat with species longevity. And who knows, Ilanis could be especially childish, I've met 50 year old who behave like teenagers, though rare. Could also be residual effects of mana leakage from growing up around her mage father, Amaranth the standin father and the high priestess of Corellon whose name I forget this exact moment.

>>5622191
Biological development for elves occurs at the same rate as humans for the most part. The whole bit about elves being adults at 100 is a cultural thing stemming from their long lives. It's not a matter of mental development anyway, elves as a species are simply more passionate in general. This is demonstrated in plenty of splatbooks, or any general sourcebook that mentions elves. Now, if you're talking about mental development that is completely removed from the biological component, then yeah it takes a while for them to stop being ridiculously impulsive compared to other races. Or perhaps they never stop being impulsive, really depends on the person. Some elves live far longer than other elves for a reason after all.

Also, not sure where that whole mana leakage bit is coming from, unless I'm really off base, that isn't really a particular thing in the forgotten realms universe, as spells are cast via interacting with the weave. Perhaps if Amaranth was creature like a dragon, as dragons are sort of walking talking bits of "stitching" in the weave (I forget the exact terminology, one splatbook referred to dragons as basically knots, or bunched up fabric, etc in the weave or something), and actively leak out magic to the point that they get lair effects. For instance, Amaranth has been stated to be around the same age as Jez by Greenwood, but is physically in his 30's as compared to Jez's 40's. Why? No clue really, but I imagine a early mid 200's year old wizard would eventually get their hands on some form of longevity magic.

Also, funnily enough according to Ed Greenwood,
>Such potions were once far more common than they are today (someone in the failing days of Netheril was making and selling lots of them), because magic was once more widespread and better understood than it is now. People have been drinking them, but there are still a lot of them out there, hidden in dungeons not yet fully plundered.
Some crazy ass alchemist was going around flooding the market to the point that people are STILL finding the potions of longevity from one guy in particular. That's a little over 2000 years ago, and people are STILL finding his shit in particular. Holy shit.

>>5622553
>mana leakage
I appreciate the thought you put into this, but I was just making a silly joke, anon!

Also, I like the idea of "Ra's al ghul" the crazy alchemist who decided to drown the market in supply and probably killed it forever. Assuming that's what happened. Also impressive that the potions are viable 2000 years later after just presumably hanging out in some derelict ruin

>>5622560
The failing of Netheril was due to the Phaerimm, the Sharn, and most specifically Karsus being a dumbass and trying to steal Mystra's godhood. Issue is, Mystra is the one who's holding magic together, so Karsus ended up causing nearly all of the floating cities of Netheril to fall and break into pieces. Furthermore, thanks to the Netherese Empire being THE big magic empire of the time, a lot of knowledge was lost, such as knowledge regarding potions of longevity. Plus, the "common" potions of longevity actually suck in regards to efficacy compared to other canon examples that aren't in loot tables. Really, whoever the mad alchemist was, their biggest achievement was probably figuring out the secret to an insane shelf life.

Honestly there was probably way better stuff in Imaskar, till they got in a fight with the gods from Earth due to stealing humans to use as slaves (specifically people from Indus Valley Civilizations and Egypt), which lead to the gods creating physical avatars to travel to Toril's crystal sphere in order to punch out all the mage kings in the area.

>>5621864
Penalties would depend on the particular set of armor, though Jez has feats that mitigate some of those drawbacks. And, she'd never have trouble performing acrobatic stunts in heavy armor.

>>5622560
We have to populate random dungeons with loot somehow...

>>5622553
>For instance, Amaranth has been stated to be around the same age as Jez by Greenwood, but is physically in his 30's as compared to Jez's 40's. Why?
Sun elves tend to live longer than their dark elf cousins.

>>5620719
>>5620762
>>5621087
>>5621253
>>5621377
>>5621570
Enlisting the help of Amaranth Cywir seems the most logical course of action, in your mind. Heavens know why, but his behavior is most un-darthiir-like. If there is one individual who would be willing to speak on behalf of the Eilistraeans, it would be him. And, you suppose you could do him the favor of informing him that his apprentice has gone missing.

Retracing your steps through the city, you find your way to the alley in which the brass bell that opens the portal to Amaranth's spire resides. Forming a fist, you rap its surface, the object emitting its unnatural hum in response to being struck. A rift in the fabric of reality appears, a window into Amaranth's retreat, and you step through. Unlike the volatile magics of Lael, the energies of the High Sorcerer's spells possess a certain quality of calm and stability. The underlying cause of this amorphous feeling is a mystery to you, though you are willing to attribute it to a difference in personality.

The refreshingly pure atmosphere of the mage's home expunges the unpleasant air which your lungs took in when you first passed over the magma river in the now-distant dwarven ruin. Your boots leave tracks of dust across the immaculately clean floor, a reminder both of the length of your journey and the artificial cleanliness of this place. Amaranth is nowhere to be seen - but you soon discover that you are not alone here.

>>5626223
"Well, well, well. If it isn't Samira! Couldn't wait to see my handsome face again, hmm?" Descending down the nearby spiral staircase is none other than the mage's apprentice, Lael, who munches on a strange orange vegetable the length of your forearm. Lacking any care for manners whatsoever, the boy chews and speaks at you at the same time, pointing the vegetable toward you in an accusatory fashion as he goes on. "You know, it wouldn't kill you to knock before you break into somebody's home."

"I need to see High Sorcerer, boy," you reply bluntly. That he arrived here before you means that he must not have been flung too far from the intended destination of his spell, and he seems no worse for wear. He clicks his tongue, and smirks at you, waggling the vegetable as he speaks. "The Council of Elders is busy right now. You know how it is - budget this, election that."

Making a series of odd gestures with his hands, the apprentice speaks a word of power and rises above the floor, inclining his body until he appears to be laying flat in midair. "Ah, but how could I have forgotten? I never introduced myself to you." In a fashion most obnoxious, he takes another bite of the vegetable and smacks his lips as he chews.

"Lael Lathalas, at your service."

You may choose no more than three.
>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
>Maybe he could provide me with some insight into convincing the elders?
>He is going to explain exactly how he tracked me down. Now.
>What can he tell me about Amaranth? Not that I want to know the mage better, of course...
>Let us say that, hypothetically, I wanted to learn some magics. Is there any advice he could offer?
>[Write-in.]

>>5626224
>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
>What can he tell me about Amaranth? Not that I want to know the mage better, of course...
>Let us say that, hypothetically, I wanted to learn some magics. Is there any advice he could offer?

Lael is a wild mage, so I really doubt he'd have anything to really offer Jez, but I really just want to light a sword on fire.

>>5626224
>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
>What can he tell me about Amaranth? Not that I want to know the mage better, of course.
>Does he know if Amaranth is discussing he Eilistraeans at this meeting, or even knows of their refugee status?

>>5626224
>>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
>>What can he tell me about Amaranth? Not that I want to know the mage better, of course.
>>Does he know if Amaranth is discussing he Eilistraeans at this meeting, or even knows of their refugee status?

>>5626224
>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
>What can he tell me about Amaranth? Not that I want to know the mage better, of course...
>Does he know if Amaranth is discussing he Eilistraeans at this meeting, or even knows of their refugee status?

I don't think that Lael has anything to teach us in terms of mage as a wild mage. Plus, priorities. Amaranth has already said he will test us

>>5626224
>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
Oh thank Moradin, he’s not going to breed with Ilanis.
>What can he tell me about Amaranth? Not that I want to know the mage better, of course.
>Does he know if Amaranth is discussing he Eilistraeans at this meeting, or even knows of their refugee status?

>>5626224
>>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
>>What can he tell me about Amaranth? Not that I want to know the mage better, of course.
>>Does he know if Amaranth is discussing he Eilistraeans at this meeting, or even knows of their refugee status?

>>5626224
>'Lathalas?' Is he related to Ilanis, by any chance?
>Maybe he could provide me with some insight into convincing the elders?
>Does he know if Amaranth is discussing he Eilistraeans at this meeting, or even knows of their refugee status?

Vote closed.

>>5626457
It didn't stop Jez. Who knows how far these crazy elven women will go to satisfy their deviancy?

>>5627074
Man, I hope Tatherin is ok.

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>>5626242
>>5626275
>>5626297
>>5626309
>>5626457
>>5626563
>>5626903
"Lathalas? Like Ilanis?" You ask, appraising the boy. Last you heard, the girl's mother is dead, and her father missing. Moreover, it does not require a mage to discern that she is a full-blooded darthiir, whilst this one is a half-breed. Granted, it is not uncommon for two individuals to share the same family name, nor is it impossible for them to share a distant ancestry, but...

"Huh! I suppose it is! The thought never crossed my mind!" He declares, feigning surprise. Jabbing the carrot through the air in your direction, he adopts a more serious demeanor before responding. "I could hardly believe it myself, when I first found out. And by that, I mean that I wasn't surprised at all! It turns out we really are siblings, her and I, although I told her that the gods accidentally delivered me to the wrong household all those years ago."

"She believes this?" You query, elevating a skeptical eyebrow. Not even Ilanis would be so naïve as to uncritically accept that ridiculous explanation. Drawing the vegetable back to his mouth, he timidly chews at its surface as he stares into the distance meaningfully. "The right spell can work wonders if you know how to use it. Honestly it's better for her this way - juuust trust me," he sings.

"What about Amaranth?" You ask. What are you to make of this? The half-breed has gone out of his way to obfuscate the truth of his heritage from the girl, but you doubt the archmage would be vulnerable to the same trickery. He bites off a chunk of plant matter and shrugs. "Good Master Cywir knows what I told him, and so do you, which is more than enough. Now, let's talk about something else, Sofia."

>>5628219
You will not be getting anything else from him on the subject. Thus, you steer the conversation in a direction more relevant to your concerns. "Does Amaranth know about the Eilistraeans?" Making a sweeping motion with his free hand, Lael rotates until he appears to be lying flat on his stomach, swallowing a mouthful of orange mush with an audible gulp. "No. They're in the middle of a meeting, so I'd bet that Greycastle is the only one who knows right now."

'Why?' You think to yourself, your facial features conveying your vexation. He manages to intuit the cause of your expression, and clarifies. "You must not know how the Council of Elders really works, Samantha. Unless there's hard evidence that one of them is crooked, the six tend to avoid meddling in another's business. The Keeper of the Bridges is responsible for regulating who comes and goes in the city, the first to know if someone shows up at his gates. And, if he decides that telling the others about your friends isn't worth his time..." The boy trails off, giving you the opportunity to draw your own conclusions.

It is little wonder Ilanis seemed reluctant to speak ill of Greycastle when you first met, then. The Keeper is a man who can exert powerful influence in subtle ways. Collecting taxes, managing trade, directing the city watch, deciding who may enter and who may leave, all with minimal oversight from his peers... even an aged matron mother could only dream of wielding this much authority over an entire city. He may not be able to prevent his peers from learning of Luaue and the others, but it is within his means to withhold this information from them.

Filled with false modesty, the boy smiles and waves the vegetable about as if it were a wand. "Of course, I'd detail every moment of my heroic rescue efforts to ol' Master Cywir myself, but I've been banned from the Hall of Redress for calling the Master of Guilds a fat manlet. So, I suppose we'll have to wait," he huffs.

'Man-let?' Is that some sort of surfacer dish?

>>5628226
>"Is 'Manlet' what people call diseased lepers up here?

>>5628226
After this half-breed's egregious displays of unfettered flippancy, you do not expect him to divulge any meaningful information to you. However, there is something - rather, someone - you have been wondering about. Who better to ask, than the man's apprentice? The High Sorcerer is a reclusive man, but his apprentice must interact with him regularly. "Tell me about Amaranth," you demand.

"What is there to say? He's an elf. Single, prefers women. Collects books, loves tea..." You grin at the half-breed and form a fist. Reminded of what happened during his previous encounter with Luaue, he is quick to change his tune, eager to discuss something more substantial than the High Sorcerer's hobbies.

"Don't let the old man fool you. He's an even better magician than I am, and I'm definitely one of the best. I heard he used to be a stone-cold killer when he was younger. It really makes you wonder what made him become so... boring." Snapping his fingers, the rift that connects this place with Everlund is opened anew. The half-breed mage devours the remainder of his vegetable and lowers himself until his feet are planted firmly on the ground.

"Anywho, I'm headed off to the Stag to celebrate my unrewarded bravery and kindness. Try not to wreck the place while I'm gone. Toodles!"

Without a care in the world, Lael crosses over into Everlund and seals the portal behind him, leaving you alone.
>I suppose I shall have to wait here until the council's meeting is concluded.
>Amaranth will not mind if I took a look around, so long as I do not touch anything...
>There is no helping it. I will take the time to rest and return in a few hours' time.
>Perchance I could visit Ilanis in the meanwhile. Not that I want to see the insipidly cheerful darthiir girl, obviously.

>>5628234
>Amaranth will not mind if I took a look around, so long as I do not touch anything...

Darn, I really want to visit Ilanis considering how that vote is worded, but speaking with Amaranth is important. Plus, seeing as Amaranth sent Lael to track Jez down, he needs us for something anyway.

>>5628234
>I suppose I shall have to wait here until the council's meeting is concluded.
Naptime!

>>5628234
>I suppose I shall have to wait here until the council's meeting is concluded.
Let's do some research on Moradin. Gotta see if earthquakes could be considered signs of good fortune, and what other gods and goddesses they worship.

>>5628234
>>There is no helping it. I will take the time to rest and return in a few hours' time.

>>5628283
Moradin doesn't worship other gods, hell he's the chief deity of the dwarven pantheon, the Morndinsamman. At best you could say that he's subservient to Ao, though that isn't saying much seeing as all gods are subservient to Ao in some manner in Realmspace, and the various other general crystal spheres involved in the known multiverse. As in I'm fairly certain Ao is the overgod of Realmspace, Greyspace, and Krynnspace.

I take it back, Ao is forgotten realms only, he doesn't touch greyhawk or dragonlance.

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>>5628283
Sorry, I already know, should have changed "they" with "the dwarves".

>>5628234
>>Perchance I could visit Ilanis in the meanwhile. Not that I want to see the insipidly cheerful darthiir girl, obviously.

>>5628234
>I suppose I shall have to wait here until the council's meeting is concluded.
>>5628283
agreed
I forgot the name of the book but there was one on religion Amaranth said he could leave out for us to read.

>>5628234
>>Amaranth will not mind if I took a look around, so long as I do not touch anything...

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>>5628234

>There is no helping it. I will take the time to rest and return in a few hours' time.

Lets have a bath and find some wine while we're at it.

Vote closed.

You know, I wonder how old Lael is. Ilanis is around 100, and specifically said that Amaranth used to give her magical trinkets when she was little. Then at some point Korfel disappeared to have Lael, seeing as he's a half elf and all.

>>5628234
>https://pastebin.com/VRQHDHSr
>>5628251
>>5628259
>>5628283
>>5628297
>>5628853
>>5628869
>>5629009
>>5629141
>>5629165

What is all this?

No one wanted to take a bath or even a quick wash before meeting the fancy magic man?

The meeting will take at least another hour or more!

>>5629633
I wanted to

>>5629633
Too sleepy. If he complains, he can prestidigitation our clothes or come bathe with us

>>5629633
I'd rather discuss the Orc horde now inhabiting a Dwarven fortress with some connection to demons with our wizard pal first. That seems important.

>>5629646
https://youtu.be/8MNXw_fGPTc

>>5629738
I'm sure he'll like an incest loving drow

>>5629738
Ah, I see.
He's a Greek homosexual.

That explains the boitoy Lael.

>>5629868
See, Jez has the mage killer feat for a reason. Clearly she must utilize this feat to power attack his prostate.

>>5629881
>>5629738
>>5629765
Kek.

>>5629868
Can't be, Lael confirmed he prefers women.

Wait... "Prefers?" Amaranth, you sly bi son-of-a-bitch.

>>5628251
>>5628259
>>5628283
>>5628297
>>5628853
>>5629009
>>5629141
Whatever the reason, you have made conversing with Amaranth your highest priority. Finding a place near his lectern, you sit cross-legged on the polished floor and prop yourself up against the wall. Retrieving Demihuman Deities, the book which the High Sorcerer gifted you before you last left Everlund, you decide to pass your time by skimming the entry on Moradin. Despite being a staunch opponent of your people, the dwarven patriarch saw fit to take pity on the Eilistraeans in their time of need.

Moradin, the Soul Forger, Dwarffather, the All-Father, or the Creator, is the chief deity of the dwarven pantheon. A strict adherent to the principles of lawfulness and integrity, the All-Father is a stern judge who assesses mortals not only by the goodness in their hearts, but also the success of their endeavors. Harsh but fair, Moradin prefers to intervene through manifestations rather than avatars, appearing as a white radiance that envelopes either a being or an object...

The lids of your eyes grow heavy as you leaf through the entry pertaining to the Soul Forger, signaling your transition from the waking world to the world of slumber. Though you did not overexert yourself today, your body has yet to fully recover from the stress of travel. No matter how doggedly you resist the specter of sleep, the world around continues to blur and dim until you are fully unconscious.

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>>5630632
The tap of dignified footsteps wakes you. Sluggishly, you stand upright and stretch your limbs, the twilight filtering through the windows far above indicating that your 'nap' stretched the duration of hours. Yawning, you make for the entrance to meet with the spire's new arrival. Amaranth, visibly enervated after sitting through the council meeting, trudges along with his lengthy hair tousled and his shoulders slumped. "Abban," you proffer in greeting.

"Sindiira?" He wonders aloud, caught off guard. Strange - despite sending his apprentice after you, it would seem that he did not expect you to be here. "I knew that someone had gone through the portal, although I mistakenly believed that it was Lael." Looking you up and down, his features soften as he comes to notice your disheveled appearance. "Did something happen?"

You may choose no more than three.
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.
>Sending his apprentice to my aid saved my life. Is there a reason why he did this?
>I found a strange obelisk whilst I was out adventuring, and it had a word that looked like this...
>Politely, I will suggest that he give Lael several painful lessons in etiquette.
>I would like to know more about my lessons in... whatever it is that magicians do.
>[Write-in.]

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>>5629868
>>5629881
>>5630080
Time for some cut content. If Lael were the protagonist, there would have been an option to aggressively flirt with Amaranth when they first met, although Cywir would politely reject him.

>>5630634
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.
>Sending his apprentice to my aid saved my life. Is there a reason why he did this?
>I would like to know more about my lessons in... whatever it is that magicians do.

Yeah, Jez has a poor aptitude for magic... but I don't want to lose this opportunity.

>>5630645
Then it falls to Jez to open his heart. And his legs.

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>>5630634
>Sending his apprentice to my aid saved my life. Is there a reason why he did this?
>Politely, I will suggest that he give Lael several painful lessons in etiquette.
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.

Plenty of time for scholarly efforts later.

>>5630634
>Sending his apprentice to my aid saved my life. Is there a reason why he did this?
>Politely, I will suggest that he give Lael several painful lessons in etiquette.
>Anyway, about the plight of my people...

>>5630634
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.
>Sending his apprentice to my aid saved my life. Is there a reason why he did this?
>Politely, I will suggest that he give Lael several painful lessons in etiquette.
Only minor tortures, though, like candlewax burning and small drops of acid on places that could be easily healed and hidden. Otherwise he wouldn't be able to learn any manners.

>>5630634
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.
>I found a strange obelisk whilst I was out adventuring, and it had a word that looked like this...
>I would like to know more about my lessons in... whatever it is that magicians do.
I'm also assuming that telling Amaranth about the twice scarred/orcish horde situation falls under plight of my people
Also good gods anons you don't have to romance literally any person that is kind to you
>>5630645
Classic Lael! It makes sense that a Wild mage (inherently chaotic) would go both ways

>>5630817
>literally any person
Nah, just Amaranth. He's also stable, influential, magical (the only kind of male Jez has inherent respect for) and has a sick-ass crib.

>>5630634
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.
>Sending his apprentice to my aid saved my life. Is there a reason why he did this?
>Politely, I will suggest that he give Lael several painful lessons in etiquette.

>>5630817
>Classic Lael! It makes sense that a Wild mage (inherently chaotic) would go both ways
What to linear, hes clearing floating in three dimensions as demonstrated earlier.

>>5630634
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.
>I found a strange obelisk whilst I was out adventuring, and it had a word that looked like this...
>Politely, I will suggest that he give Lael several painful lessons in etiquette.

>>5630634
>Before anything else, I must speak with him about the plight of my people.
>Sending his apprentice to my aid saved my life. Is there a reason why he did this?
>I found a strange obelisk whilst I was out adventuring, and it had a word that looked like this...

Vote closed.

>>5630817
>Also good gods anons you don't have to romance literally any person that is kind to you

Too late, I've wanted to fuck Amaranth ever since I first saw him

>>5630817
>Also good gods anons you don't have to romance literally any person that is kind to you
Extremely high libido is a drow racial trait

>>5630651
>>5630659
>>5630663
>>5630709
>>5630817
>>5630886
>>5630976
>>5631344
From the beginning, you detail your search for the Eilistraeans, and the massacre you chanced upon along the way. How you journeyed to a secluded dwarven ruin in the Underdark and narrowly avoided death at the hands of the Thousand Scars. You recount how Lael's timely arrival facilitated your escape, and explain that Luaue and the young Ilythiiri were turned away at Everlund's southern gate.

The High Sorcerer is caught unawares by the revelation - the hypothesis of his apprentice proven absolutely correct. "Of course it would be Brandt who would do something like this, and to learn that this has happened once before reflects on his character," he says with gentle remonstrance. "The Keeper's men delivered a message to him during the meeting. All of us have our own individual duties to which we must attend; we thought nothing of it at the time."

Straightening his hair, Amaranth inhales soberly and takes a moment to consider his approach to the situation. "The High Sorcerer's stipend is enough for my studies, although supporting an entire community is far beyond my means." Pacing back and forth until he is able to formulate a satisfactory course of action, he inclines his head toward you and sighs.

"It would be irresponsible of me to make any guarantees, but I should be able to provide them temporary shelter if you would kindly send them my way. A more permanent arrangement would first have to be approved by the Council of Elders," he explains. Convincing the High Sorcerer's peers will be an arduous task, yet you have prevailed against more formidable foes. Having already given your assurance to Luaue, you feel confident that, by hook or by crook, you will see the deed done.

>>5634402
With the matter settled, you change the subject. "I ask you, abban. Why did you send your apprentice to..." briefly, you consider awarding even the most miniscule grain of gratitude to Lael for coming to your aid, ultimately judging it preferable to deny him even this. "... find me? Do you need me to kill someone? Protect you?" You inquire, well aware that such favors are given with the intent of receiving something in return.

The archmage places his hand on his chest, shaking his head while enjoying a sensible chuckle. "No, nothing of the sort!" He affirms. "My, I am not in the habit of discussing myself, though I suppose I should explain. I am something of a seer; the trait is common among all of Cywir descent."

'Seer?' Such curious folk were mentioned in passing in The Syl-Pasha's Nubile Slave, though you believed them to be purely fictitious at the time. "You know the future?" You ask skeptically, narrowing your eyes as you study his reaction. "No, no, no. I am no Alaundo the Wise. What we feel cannot be called 'foresight.' The closest idea that I could liken it to would be what humans call 'intuition.' I have a feelings about what to do, which I can choose to act on. It... is difficult to describe to those not already familiar with the Art."

Furrowing his brow, Amaranth approaches the lectern and leans up against it. "Pleased as I am to see that you are unharmed, I truly had no idea that you or the followers of Eilistraee would end up in mortal peril. Asking Lael to seek you out was merely a way for me to assuage my unpleasant thoughts, nothing more." Laughing softly, Cywir looks back to you. "I never could have imagined that he would end up saving so many children. It was very courageous of him to take the initiative in that situation."

>>5634405
You can scarce believe what you are hearing. That half-breed was quick to demand a reward before offering his assistance, and only begrudgingly came to your aid at Luaue's insistence. Clicking your tongue, you interject. "Maybe. But you should make him... be better," you advise, not wanting to imply that your ally is at fault for the eccentricities of his subordinate. "Mother hit me with an iron rod to teach me. Children must learn how to act."

"Sindiira, that-" he cuts himself off mid-sentence, waving his hand dismissively. "I... appreciate your advice. I understand that you want what's best for Lael, but he is at the age where he has to learn his own lessons. Young as he is, he is already an accomplished magician, experience and all. My role is only to offer advice and prepare him for the day when he succeeds me as High Sorcerer."

With your immediate concerns addressed, you look upwards and note that the day is coming to its close. What will you do?
>This was an enlightening chat, but I must speak with Ilanis before night falls. For purely practical reasons, of course.
>It could not hurt to remain here a while longer. There is still the matter of the obelisk to discuss, and much more.
>I really should be going. If I do not lie in a bed soon, my back will kill me long before I am slain in battle.

>>5634406
>It could not hurt to remain here a while longer. There is still the matter of the obelisk to discuss, and much more.

Fuck, I really want to talk with Ilanis, but talking about the obelisk could be potentially relevant.

Also, it's interesting how he's grooming Lael for his position, given Amaranth's heritage. Definitely a good thing to do, but wouldn't Lael be likely dead before Amaranth was ready to retire? Half elf vs elf lifespan and all. Nothing wrong with him retiring with Jez to a love nest early though.

>>5634406
>It could not hurt to remain here a while longer. There is still the matter of the obelisk to discuss, and much more.
>”I feel you should at least assign him some required reading on etiquette, Abban. Particularly any sections about not letting his eyes wander below the shoulders when meeting new women.”

>>5634406
>>I really should be going. If I do not lie in a bed soon, my back will kill me long before I am slain in battle.

>>5634406
>It could not hurt to remain here a while longer. There is still the matter of the obelisk to discuss, and much more.
>”I feel you should at least assign him some required reading on etiquette, Abban. Particularly any sections about not letting his eyes wander below the shoulders when meeting new women.”

Come on guys, Lael still saved Jez's life, and Amaranth has already acknowledged the matter. Pushing like this is a bit much.

>>5634464
Who says we need to be polite? We're from a society built on spite. We're being remarkably nice by Drow standards.

>>5634472
I want Jez to be polite because I want Jez to worm her way into Amaranth's heart and do....things. And in order to do that, Jez must first be cordial.

>>5634490
Being blunt, weird, and assertive is part of Jez's charm. If wooing Amaranth relies on our tact, politesse, and discretion, we have already lost.

>>5634464
Considering Lael first reaction to meeting an unknown half-drow priestess was to stroke her cheek and try to flirt with her, he got extremely lucky that Luaue’s an Eilistraean, and only punched him. Jez might not like him, but she knows Amaranth finds him useful, and that’s enough for her to recommend ways to not get his apprentice killed by any Lolthite Priestesses who may or may not be related to us.

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>>5634490
Esteemed members of the Council of Elders, you are witnessing firsthand the evil and degeneracy that is congenital to all members of the Dhaerow race! Nothing short of immediate and permanent expulsion of all Dhaerow will deliver us from this threat against our morals, our cultures, and the continued existence of our harmonious society. The mere thought of this monster defiling an exemplary specimen of the People with her vile bedroom arts is enough to make my stomach churn. All folks who have witnessed the rapacious cruelty of the dark ones firsthand know in their hearts that redemption for their past atrocities lies far beyond their ken. We cannot afford to squander our compassion on the Concubine of Lolth when the tired and needy of the Realms have greater need and want of our goodwill. Send this one away, and see to it that she never returns! Do you hear me, Dhaerow?

GET YE GONE!

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>>5634543
“…Aradoness, you brought us out here to witness them holding hands?”

“Nae e’en finger interlockin’ style, ya daft bint.”

>>5634543
I want Jez to stick her tongue down Amaranth's throat right in front of Arara.

>>5634406
>It could not hurt to remain here a while longer. There is still the matter of the obelisk to discuss, and much more.
Best to just tell all in one go and get it over with. Then we can rest and later pursue talking to whoever we want, if we so want

>>5634406
>I really should be going. If I do not lie in a bed soon, my back will kill me long before I am slain in battle.

>>5634558
Why Amaranth though?

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>>5634409

Vote closed.

So when are we going to meet the other potential MC, Sam?

>>5635012
He was met in either the first or second thread, I don't remember which. He was the rogue who warned us about our employer at the time being affiliated with the Zhentarim if I remember correctly.

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>>5635033
Hmmm. Can't believe I've forgotten already.

>>5635012
I want to meet or have background info about our brother.

>>5635397
I think he's dead. Just a personal suspicion.

>>5635407
Fake and gay.
Then it justifies all the options we chose not picking to learn more about him as it would have been a waste.

>>5634409
>>5634433
>>5634438
>>5634449
>>5634639
>>5634692
"Fine. But teach him how to act with a female, abban. He is always looking here," you demand, slapping your palm against your only-somewhat-deficient chest. Momentarily dropping the pretense of respect for Lael, you spiral into a rant. "And touching, too! He is lucky. The half-breed girl only hit him. Males who want to be with every female are the worst!" You bellow, shaking your fist aggressively. "If he puts his hands on me-"

"Sindiira," interjects Amaranth, softly placing his hands on your shoulders. His touch inexplicably squelches the fire of rage that you had been stoking seconds prior. The act startles you, though he withdraws before you can react properly. "Lael is young, but he is not a child, however juvenile you or I feel he is. He is an adult, and the world must be his teacher."

Shutting his eyes, the mage continues with a grimace, his tone somber. "I will do the utmost to prepare him to take my place; but learning maturity is a burden that falls squarely on his shoulders. It is far too late me to impart the lessons he should have been taught earlier in life."

>>5636487
The atmosphere grows intolerably heavy as silence overtakes the conversation. You shift your weight awkwardly, craning your neck slightly as to remove the High Sorcerer from your view. This is the first time in your life that you have had such a discussion, and you haven't the slightest clue as to how you are meant to proceed. "I found a word in the ruin," you announce, hoping to steer the subject to something less difficult.

Setting a quill pen and paper out on a table nearby, he asks you to replicate your discovery. Doing your best to illustrate the ancient word from memory, you describe the obelisk and what little information you were able to derive from it in the meanwhile. As expected, Cywir's recognizition of the term is instantaneous.

"That word is 'mythal,'" he explains. Your deadpan expression betrays your incomprehension, prompting him to elaborate further. "A sort of powerful effect that can permanently alter the magic of an area. Much more potent than any individual spell, and magnitudes more difficult to create. The circumstances must have been exceptional indeed if magicians of that caliber were ready to provide the dwarves with such power..."

>>5636488
The late evening's light illuminates the High Sorcerer's face as he leans over the table and speaks at length about the history of mythals, the distinctions between different types of mythals, the etymology of the word 'mythal' across the ages, all infused with wizard jargon which serves to confuse you further. You are no uneducated commoner - on the contrary, you consider yourself quite intelligent for an Ilythiiri. Yet, you cannot help but feel lost as Amaranth blathers on about mythal trivia, a sure sign that all of this is far beyond your ken.

Instead, it is Cywir who has captured your interest. Having had the time to form your own opinion, you look upon the High Sorcerer and conclude:
>He is okay. A darthiir.
>I tolerate him so long as he benefits me and would not do so otherwise.
>Amaranth's merits have earned my respect. He is an 'honorary Ilythiiri,' so to speak.
>He is a reliable sort, and pleasant enough to be around. Not that he is a friend to me or anything, ho ho!
>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me. I need to be near him more, to, erm, protect him.
>Truthfully, I do not yet know enough about him to make up my mind.

>>5636494
>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me. I need to be near him more, to, erm, protect him.

Y E S

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>>5635012
>>5635397
I have entertained the thought of a thread where we control a different character, but I can never justify it to myself. This quest is moving along at a decent pace, and I have other quest ideas.

>>5636494
>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me. I need to be near him more, to, erm, protect him.
Backlink to >>5635407

>>5636494
>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me. I need to be near him more, to, erm, protect him.

>>5636494
>>Amaranth's merits have earned my respect. He is an 'honorary Ilythiiri,' so to speak.
This is going to end in heartbreak

>>5636494
>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me. I need to be near him more, to, erm, protect him.

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>>5636501
>Brother escapes misandrist society
>Hear sister has left the underdark and may be searching for him
>Brother packs up and runs for another city
And so begins the cat and mouse game....

>>5636494
>Amaranth's merits have earned my respect. He is an 'honorary Ilythiiri,' so to speak.

>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me.
But we are to busy to do that..... Its just our opinion.

>>5636494
>>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me. I need to be near him more, to, erm, protect him.

>>5636494
>Amaranth's merits have earned my respect. He is an 'honorary Ilythiiri,' so to speak.
>>5636841
I guess I would support this reasoning too. It makes sense for the drow mentality
It might be odd to realize since this quest is not that far off its one year anniversary, but not that much time has progressed in world since Jez emerged in the surface world

>>5636930
Well you see there is this time dilation field here in the corner.....

>>5636975
You know, I think there might actually be time manipulation related mythals

Vote closed.

>>5636494
>As a male, he requires the protection of a strong female - like me. I need to be near him more, to, erm, protect him.

>>5637153
Too late, though you'll be happy to know that this option won.

>>5637168
I wanted a bit of a mixed of the two....

>>5637282
I'd hardly call your vote a mix, seeing as you left the important part out.

>>5637324
We are not gonna be a "dere"

>>5637341
A lot of vote options seem to disagree with you quite often

>>5637352
What?

>>5637431
For example, this vote:
>Perchance I could visit Ilanis in the meanwhile. Not that I want to see the insipidly cheerful darthiir girl, obviously.

And there's plenty like it all throughout the quest. It's too late, Jez is already cute.

>>5637439
>>5637341
I, for one, embrace our degenerate, tsundere, secretly feminine musclebabe protagonist.

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>>5637439
But that coulda been taken either way!

Jez ain't a Lez!

>>5637482
>secretly feminine musclebabe protagonist.

>>5637566
That's not what the vote is implying? Jez refuses to call people friends, and her language doesn't even have the word, with abban being the closest thing (and even that is... eh).

>>5636499
>>5636514
>>5636715
>>5636803
>>5636808
>>5636841
>>5636855
>>5636930
>>5637153
"... although, in the current year, it would be written like so," he explains, masterfully demonstrating how one writes the word 'mythal' in the modern day, committing ink to paper with practiced perfection. Unhurriedly, your eyes wander from the tips of his fingers up to his diligent visage. The dull glow of his cyan eyes, the delicate curve of his disarming smile, the sheen of his reddish hair that is as fire when struck by the evening sun's radiance, all work in tandem to distract you.

The specter of fear creeps up from behind you, infiltrating your unguarded thoughts. There are many who work magic in the Realms, and many more still who would call themselves your ally, or at least pretend the part. Yet there is but one Amaranth Cywir, and you know for certain that there are none who could replace him. Should anyone even entertain the thought of harming him, you know that you will be there to vanquish them. What you must do is protect him, as a reliable ally should.

"Sindiira?" He asks, rousing you from your reverie. It is at this moment which your brain recognizes that Amaranth has been staring back at you for quite some time. "You seem exhausted, and my lecture must be dreadfully boring. Lael and I will investigate this mythal further, and we can discuss it at some other time."

"Yes," you nod. "Yes." Your body is quick to take him up on his suggestion. The truth of the matter is that you are road-weary and aching from the amount of walking you have done as of late. Parting ways, you return to the streets of Everlund and make for the Dreaming Dragon at the behest of your sore muscles, which threaten to rebel against you if they are not allowed to rest soon.

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>>5638105
"Nice night for a walk, innit?" Comments a rough-sounding male from behind you. Drawing your weapon, you swing your body around and level the blade in his direction, correcting its angle as you realize that the unknown individual stands at less than half your height. Unfazed by your magic steel, this halfling shrouded in dark fabrics rests his back against the wall of a nearby building and crosses his arms. Did he sneak up behind you, or was he hiding here while you were with Amaranth?

Identifying him as the 'friend' you encountered during your previous adventures, you return the Dark Fantasy to its scabbard, although you do so warily. "Sakphul," you intone dryly, resting your hands at your sides. Recalling that he is a professional burglar, you are sure to remain aloof and vigilant as you address him, skeptical of his motives. "What do you want?"

"A little birdie told me that you might be tryin' to get the council to come 'round to your way of thinkin'," he states. Impossible - this half-man can also speak with animals? "Now, that ain't none of my business. But, I do be knowin' someone who's got so 'nuff dirt on fat old Rupert to grab him by the curlies an' make him squeal, if you're interested." Once again, you are having a difficult time following what he is saying in the awful dialect of surfacer-speech that he uses.

"I be sayin' that I know someone who gots his worst secrets, Darkie," he clarifies for your benefit, "an' I be willin' to tell you who that someone is, for a small consultation fee of two-hundred gold pieces." So, he knows someone who could blackmail Tenpenny, and his goal is to sell you that information. "And this person will tell them to me? All of his secrets?" You ask, not quite sold on his offer. "Might. Maybe. This is a big name we're talkin' 'bout, Darkie. Probly gonna have to do some persuasion on your part, if you gots the guts."

"So what'll it be? Deal, or no deal?"
>[Pay 200 GP] Deal.
>No deal.

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>>5638112
>[Pay 200 GP] Deal.
From 622 to 422. Plus, fuck Tenpenny anyway, I haven't forgotten how he groped Jez. Can't help but feel like whoever Jez talks to next is going to have an even greater consultation fee. And I really want Jez to get some actual armor. (And how the bustenhalt somehow had better stats than Jez's previous armor is insane)

>Unhurriedly, your eyes wander from the tips of his fingers up to his diligent visage. The dull glow of his cyan eyes, the delicate curve of his disarming smile, the sheen of his reddish hair that is as fire when struck by the evening sun's radiance, all work in tandem to distract you.
>Yet there is but one Amaranth Cywir, and you know for certain that there are none who could replace him.

pic related

>>5638112
>”Short and curlies? I think we might be thinking of different people, Sakphul, Tenpenny’s hair is thinning and greasy.”
>”Deal.”

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>"You seem exhausted, and my lecture must be dreadfully boring. Lael and I will investigate this mythal further, and we can discuss it at some other time."

Oh Amaranth, I could watch you lecture forever.

>>5638112
>>[Pay 200 GP] Deal.

>>5638112
I'm gonna be real with you guys, I don't think bribing ONE sleazy councilmember is the way forward for us to guarantee a safe and secure society where our dark elves are welcomed. Tenpenny seems like he would take offence
>>5638112
>I'll think about it, no deal for now. No offence, but I need to think about it a bit for that much money
>Meanwhile, you got any other jobs lined up? I need coin to help my people

>>5638112
>>I'll think about it, no deal for now. No offence, but I need to think about it a bit for that much money
>>Meanwhile, you got any other jobs lined up? I need coin to help my people

>>5638112
>”Short and curlies? I think we might be thinking of different people, Sakphul, Tenpenny’s hair is thinning and greasy.”
Kek
>”Deal.”

>>5638112
>>[Pay 200 GP] Deal.

>>5638112
>>No deal.

Vote closed.

>>5638122
>>5638127
>>5638164
>>5638194
>>5638280
>>5638294
>>5638528
>>5638727
"Fine." Counting up two-hundred gold pieces, you reluctantly surrender your hard-earned currency to the half-man. Whether or not you will walk away from this encounter with buyer's remorse, you cannot be sure. Appraising the coins to ensure their authenticity, you are just barely able to make out the slightest grin forming beneath his hood. "Hehehe! Thank you." In one blink, your payment appears to evaporate into thin air, presumably sequestered away in some pocket or purse hidden on his person in the instant that your eyes were shut.

"The person you be lookin' for is Emitia Rouzet. But you didn't hear nuffin' from me. You're just about the luckiest woman in Everlund, I'd wager - this be the kind of secret what's worth more'n everythin' you've ever had in your entire life, Darkie, 'n' I just sold you the name of its owner for pocket money. G'night." Waving you off, the half-man intends to go his own way to tend to his business.

"Sakphul," you say with simple directness, stopping him dead. "My people need money. You know what I can do," implying that you want to participate in his next caper. Offering to risk yourself further for the Eilistraeans is distinctly unlike you, although you can ill account for all of the bizarre whims you have had as of late. Then again, one can never have too much money,

"Luv, you ain't gots the wits to be a buttock and file, 'n' I ain't lookin' for no colts, neither. But if you think you gots what it takes to be a proper gallows bird, I'll put in a good word for you with ol' Dimber Damber. He'll find you, 'n' you didn't hear nuffin' from me, got it?" You nod, still unable to derive any meaning from the half-man's garbage feral accent. Unceremoniously, he takes a leisurely stroll around the corner of the building, vanishing from sight.

The sun is setting, and you are alone in the streets of Everlund. Where to next?
>The Dreaming Dragon.
>The Phantom Knight.

>>5639930
>The Dreaming Dragon.
ILANIS

>Luv, you ain't gots the wits to be a buttock and file, 'n' I ain't lookin' for no colts

Yeah, Jez would be a terrible common pickpocket as she stands out a lot. But I'm sure Jez has the wits for it though!

>>5639940
A "buttock and file" is a prostitute who steals from their clients, anon. He was insulting her intelligence.

>>5639930
>The Dreaming Dragon.
Lets relax with our peeps and share the latest
I don't understand what the hell mister halfling pipeweed is saying but he's lucky Jez doesn't either
>>5640024
and there's the explanation. Very lucky.

>>5639930
>>The Dreaming Dragon.

>>5640024
Ah, I just assumed it meant common pickpocket, and that she lacked the street smarts. Nevermind then.

>>5639930
>The Dreaming Dragon

>>5639930
>The Dreaming Dragon.

>>5639930
>>The Dreaming Dragon.

>>5639930
>>The Dreaming Dragon.

>>5639930
>The Dreaming Dragon.
How rude, we must teach the half man some correction next time

Vote closed.

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>>5639940
>>5640035
>>5640074
>>5640244
>>5640284
>>5640346
>>5640412
>>5640486
Confident that you can muster the energy to be out and about for a few hours more, you decide that you will shed your travels with your first decent meal in quite some time. And, you suppose, you will chat with Ilanis. It has been at least a tenday since you have met with the girl, if not longer, and it is likely that she will have something to say which might make the visit worth your time.

A slow trickle of pedestrians flows into Everlund's streets as the working day comes to its conclusion. Shuffling your feet to the Dreaming Dragon, you find your way through its entrance and take in the atmosphere. Darthiir and half-men all about, as usual, yet the population seems to have increased perceptibly since your last visit. Energetic as ever, Ilanis' eyes light up the very second she spots you. With no hesitation, she leaves behind her place behind the bar and rushes to your side.

"Sindi! Sindi, look! Come look at this! You were in the news!" She hollers, seizing you by the arm before you can react. With alarming alacrity, the girl drags you over to the bar and shoves a chapbook in your face, pulling it back slightly once she recognizes that you cannot view it properly with its pages pressed up against your nose. Taking up more than its fair share of the page is a bawdy illustration of an Illythiiri warrior woman clad in scanty armor. Presumably, this is supposed to be you, although her outrageous womanly proportions are the stuff of pure fantasy. Enthusiastically, Ilanis points out the important excerpt from a nearby article for you.

"Malar came to see his werebeasts hunt. He did not think that I was stronger than them. He was in awe," claims Sindiira Torani, a drow reported to have met with the avatar of Malar himself and lived to tell the tale. Sindiira, an adventuring mercenary who traveled to the Silver Marches to seek her fortune, singlehandedly ended the Malarite threat by besting the Beastlord's priest in single combat. "I made them pay. For the suffering of [Eilistraee's] followers, my people," she said, apparently retaliating against Malarite aggression.

In other news, a man suspected of being Alustriel Silverhand's newest lover was spotted conversing with her sons earlier this tenday...

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>>5641929
The report leaves you flabbergasted. Never have your deeds earned much in the way of acknowledgement. Rare is the Ilythiiri who survives to make a name for themself, and rarer still is the one whose name receives recognition - rather, favorable recognition. One could pen a book of those who have died infamous or ashamed. You may not be Sindiira Torani, but before your eyes is a record of your accomplishment.

Clapping the chapbook closed, Ilanis slips it into one of her pockets and smirks, extending her arms. "Can you believe that?! You're, like, literally famous!" Twirling in place, the girl surveys her establishment and strokes her chin. "And, all that business you brought me is pretty sweet too..."

"So anyway, what's up?"
>I return from a difficult journey. Thus, we must exchange the latest gossip.
>Does the name 'Emitia Rouzet' mean anything to her?
>So. Lael. What can she tell me about him?
>I never did get around to asking - what, exactly, are the Zhentarim?
>We must discuss a member of the Council of Elders... [Who?]
>Talk about... [Write-in.]

>>5641932
>I return from a difficult journey. Thus, we must exchange the latest gossip.
>Does the name 'Emitia Rouzet' mean anything to her?
>I never did get around to asking - what, exactly, are the Zhentarim?

>>5641932
>I return from a difficult journey. Thus, we must exchange the latest gossip.
>Does the name 'Emitia Rouzet' mean anything to her?

>>5641932
>I return from a difficult journey. Thus, we must exchange the latest gossip.
>Does the name 'Emitia Rouzet' mean anything to her?
>I never did get around to asking - what, exactly, are the Zhentarim?
Also, check the name of the reporter and artist. The reporter in case he could help us to sway local opinion towards the Eilistraeans in exchange for an interview with either us or Luaue, and the artist to see if he had drawn any pictures of Amaranth in any previous reports.

So we can protect him better. Yes, really.

Why are you snickering?! It's true!

>>5641932
>>I return from a difficult journey. Thus, we must exchange the latest gossip.
>>I never did get around to asking - what, exactly, are the Zhentarim?

>>5641932
>I am pleased you are still alive and remain a healthy female ally in these god awful times
>In a low voice: "Who is Emitia Rouzet?"
>I want your help. My people are exiled to the woods now. How would you suggest I convince the Council to help me-, them? And don't say dancing, girl!
As someone who has been reading up a lot on forgotten realms setting books thanks this excellent quest, I appreciate the reference to Alustriel taking on another lover. Good lord, I don't know what fetish Greenwood was thinking of, but it's amusing in the first quest part Jez assumed Alustriel was the equivalent of a Drow matriarch. Alustriel certainly produces babies like a drow, she has a dozen half elves by one man alone apparantly. Crazy

Also, if we have the time, I wonder if anons would be up for us selling our dwarven crossbow and buying the wristed mounted crossbow (plus silver bolts) that was on salone in part 2 of the quest? I think that might have a greater tactical utility given Jez fighting style is more melee oriented.

>>5642279
>crossbow selling
I’d be for it (not that I think it’ll be worth much), but first I think we’ll be needing it to show to the council as physical proof of our journey. Dulnur, as much of a prick he is, would probably recognize the craftsmanship despite the poor maintenance the orcs provided it.

>>5642288
An excellent point! Frankly I just suggested selling it for inventory management, not like we need the gp for the purchase.

>>5641932
>>I return from a difficult journey. Thus, we must exchange the latest gossip.
>>Does the name 'Emitia Rouzet' mean anything to her?
>>I never did get around to asking - what, exactly, are the Zhentarim?