- Location
- United States
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[X] Review the cleric's archives
Sorta sucks to lose that arm, but they can be regrown with a lot of effort.
Sorta sucks to lose that arm, but they can be regrown with a lot of effort.
Araby Quest (Reboot)
- Thread starter Whynot09
- Start date
- Fantasy
If we want to regrow the arm then it would be better not be look without it, araby is not the empire but if you appear with a good arm afterward it would look....well suspitious we are corting some evil djinn, the four, nagash or skaven or whatever else.
Again this quest it getting the grimdark vibe, we barely doing stuff and we already lose and arm, like..damn
Vote closed
Turn Four: Madness in Mabbah (Samhures, 1 Wabsan 3990 B.A.) Pt. 3
Review Cleric's Archives
Theological Text: 95+17 (Learning)+5 (Theology: Cult of the Jinn)=117
You escaped the world into the one thing that you understood better than anything else. Reading. Reading was simple, easy. Only slightly tainted by the absence of your arm in those moments you attempted to reach for something only to remember and return to reality.
You fought the anger, hot and fiery, rushing in. Your hand curled into a fist and your breathing grew deeper and longer. Trying to keep it down. The treacherous parts of your mind and body rebelling.
You have suffered, but you are here. Let your anger come and flow. You are here. Remember that.
You let it come and flow. The anger burned bright, but it burned quick. A fire reaching its peak and turning to embers and dulling out into cold bits of char.
You returned to your reading. Ashar's theological collection was interesting, because it was just as focused as his arcane texts. Apotheosis or the concept of becoming a God was the central point of discussion in each book. Ashar had selected a variety of opinions. Some who argued no such thing existed. That it was a lie to hide the truth of posthumous consumption of mortal souls by the gods. Some argued it was possible with the presence of a divine being. Some argue it was possible through the correct execution of special rituals without the presence of a divine being.
Ashar annotated each text. The margins filled with his own thoughts and opinions. They built together a singular picture of Ashar's beliefs on the subject. It was not a pretty image.
Ashar believed it was possible. He even worked out a possible method to achieve it with three important components. An inconceivable amount of power and artifacts to resonante with the concept of ascension. The ritual had to happen at a point when the Veil between the material and the spiritual was at its weakest.
"The Evil Eye," you whispered. The Evil Eye or the Eye of Most Envious. The green twin of the white moon. The usurpation of the rightful place of the Sun's wife by His concubine. During this time, the veil was weakest, magic was strongest, and horrors rose from the depths of their hovels.
Review Archives:
Records DC 80: 71 + 17 (Learning)=88
You had Ashar's records brought before you. You ignored the stares from the crewmen. It did not matter. You had something to chase, and you would not let it slip through your fingers.
Ashar wrote out lengthy well-detailed descriptions of every event he officiated as a cleric. From births to marriages to deaths, all of it was explained down to what he used every single coin given as payment or donation for his services. Most of it went to funding his charitable endeavors or upkeep and expansion of the shrine. Apparently, he had a long-standing rivalry with his priestly colleague to see who could feed the hungriest or clothed the neediest. There was not a single aspect of his work he did not have written within the pages. Except for two. The arcane and theological texts were missing from his record.
Unless...
You grabbed a piece of paper and began running through the basic cypher taught to all members of the Cult and the Wise. It took a bit of time, but when you finished. You slumped into your chair.
"Oh, Ashar. You bastard," you whispered.
Ashar received the arcane as a payment and the theological as his task. Construct a ritual that could in theory achieve apotheosis. You grabbed the paperwork and ran to where Master Saleh was working.
He was working out of a house at the farthest edge of town. The main room had Akh and the Duo sitting, playing a game of cards while Master Saleh was eating a kabab. He threw said kebab down when you ran in.
"Naila, are you okay?" he asked.
"Master Saleh, read this," you said, pushing the papers into his hands. He gave you a look before reading over the notes. You waited before he looked back up at you.
"I see Jameel is a fan of the principle of the razor," he said after a moment.
"The principle of the razor?" you asked.
"The Philosopher of Tylos was attributed a quote, 'All things being equal, the superiority of a demonstration results from the fewest components,"
"What does that have to do with this?"
"Among the Wise, there is a tendency towards unnecessary complexity. Ashar was competent, but no more intelligent than the average person from what you've shown me here. Why would Jameel, a man whose ability and experience no doubt far exceeds Ashar's, require his intellectual inferior to create a ritual he could create by himself?"
"He used him as a comparison?"
"If Ashar's ritual is just as effective as his, but requires far less parts than his, then he'll use it. If not, then he has some assurance on the effectiveness of his own construction," he said, scowling fiercely at the paper.
"Master, we have a month before the Usurpation," you said.
Master Saleh did not say anything. He instead walked to the back. You, Akh, and the Duo followed him as he walked to the back where the chest was kept.
"Naila, you're the lead. You three, be ready for her commands. If it goes to shit, save Naila and yourselves. Understood?" he ordered with such intensity no one including yourself disagreed.
"What will you do?" you asked.
"I'll handle preparation and holding if things get bad," he said. The five of you went to work. Master Saleh wrote the dispelling incantations, a series of concentric circles of hieroglyphics expanding out from the chest. You steadied your mind, practicing your breathing, preparing your focus. The twin took their places around the largest circle.
"Ready?"
"Yes," you said.
(DC 100: 29+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+10(Preparation)+10 (Mercy of the Palm)+30(Trio)=101)
(DC 120: 89+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+10 (Preparation)+10 (Mercy of the Palm)+30 (Trio)=161)
(DC 140: 82+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+10 (Preparation)+10 (Mercy of the Palm)+30(Trio)=154)
You drew up your will into the sharpest blade. You began with the tiniest cut, slightly expanding, keeping an eye on the hieroglyphs. If they started to glow, you would immediately shunt it to Master Saleh to ground it. Gazing into the wound, your mouth almost dropped.
It was a masterpiece. Three series of spells, each interlocking with the spell before and after it and interlocking with the series before it and after it. This structure defeated normal methods of dispelling which were generally overpowering the spell with the oppositional element or grounding it. Doing that here would set off a cascade. It made activation an almost instantaneous affair and dispelling almost impossible. To dispel one spell requires you to be aware of the spell, the spell before it, and the spell after it and its place in the entire matrix. Failure would have not just been the death of you, Master Saleh, and the trio, it would have been the destruction of the entire town.
Wait...the principle of the razor. Did you have to dispel, or could you defeat it in another way?
"I'm going to draw out the power and shunt it to each of you. I need you to consume it. Understood?" you said to the trio. They nodded and you took a deep breath.
You can do this. Carefully with measured action, you can do this.
You cut into the first spell, as softly and shallowly as you could. Through this wound, you shunted it to Kabir who drew in the Air magic. You repeated this with the spells connected to it, shunting it to the other members of the trio. It was slow, tedious, and even one misstep would cost the lives of everyone around you. You kept looking at the matrix and each individual series. Selecting each spell with a specific focus, cutting gently, and feeding that power to the Jinn.
Keep going. Slow and steady. Keep going.
The sweat moved ever slowly down your forehead. A drop of sweat comes down over the crest of your eyelashes to crash against your eye. It stung, but you pushed it to the back of your mind.
You entered a fugue. A form of patience and dedication as the entirety of your will cut in and bled out power. You were a mosquito. So tiny, so unnoticeable, and in that was your success. You no longer felt the pain in your body. Your eyes ached, dried out, your back screamed, your hips and thighs reaching levels of agony unrecognized before, and the sole of your feet seemed to wear away to just bone scrapping against the ground.
None of that matter saved this moment, your task, and the diligent work necessary to succeed.
One final cut and the slow unraveling of the spell completed the task. You spat out the blood you had not noticed fill your mouth. You had bitten down on your tongue at some point. When did that happen?
Strong hands held you upright, pressing the sweat-drench fabric against your skin. You turned around to see Reza was here.
"After sundown, we came to check. We weren't sure what was going on, but we kept watch in case you needed us," he said. You looked and saw Master Saleh lying down. Dayiel passed him a waterskin that he drank restrained, careful not to risk water sickness. Akh by his side looking sluggish and dazed. The Twins were fat with power and dead asleep on Master Saleh's lap.
"Reza, what time is it?" you croaked out.
"It's midnight," he said.
That was eleven hours. You had been working for eleven hours.
"Take me to the chest," you asked. Reza nodded, adjusting to your arm over his neck and had his hand on your hip.
With his help, you opened the chest and filled the room with the sickly green glow of wyrdstone.
"Well, that's not a good sign at all," said Master Saleh, cradling the Twins as he walked near you.
"How bad are we talking about, Your Eminence?" asked Reza
"If I am right, we have a month till Pir Jameel becomes a god or explodes with enough force to destroy a mountain," you said.
Nobody said anything after that.
Gain Wyrdstone
Gain Trait: A Will Like Steel: +5 to all miscast and dispelling rolls.
Gain Twins (??/??)
Gain Akh-Saer (??/??)
Gain Deadline: 1st of Rubana
Theological Text: 95+17 (Learning)+5 (Theology: Cult of the Jinn)=117
You escaped the world into the one thing that you understood better than anything else. Reading. Reading was simple, easy. Only slightly tainted by the absence of your arm in those moments you attempted to reach for something only to remember and return to reality.
You fought the anger, hot and fiery, rushing in. Your hand curled into a fist and your breathing grew deeper and longer. Trying to keep it down. The treacherous parts of your mind and body rebelling.
You have suffered, but you are here. Let your anger come and flow. You are here. Remember that.
You let it come and flow. The anger burned bright, but it burned quick. A fire reaching its peak and turning to embers and dulling out into cold bits of char.
You returned to your reading. Ashar's theological collection was interesting, because it was just as focused as his arcane texts. Apotheosis or the concept of becoming a God was the central point of discussion in each book. Ashar had selected a variety of opinions. Some who argued no such thing existed. That it was a lie to hide the truth of posthumous consumption of mortal souls by the gods. Some argued it was possible with the presence of a divine being. Some argue it was possible through the correct execution of special rituals without the presence of a divine being.
Ashar annotated each text. The margins filled with his own thoughts and opinions. They built together a singular picture of Ashar's beliefs on the subject. It was not a pretty image.
Ashar believed it was possible. He even worked out a possible method to achieve it with three important components. An inconceivable amount of power and artifacts to resonante with the concept of ascension. The ritual had to happen at a point when the Veil between the material and the spiritual was at its weakest.
"The Evil Eye," you whispered. The Evil Eye or the Eye of Most Envious. The green twin of the white moon. The usurpation of the rightful place of the Sun's wife by His concubine. During this time, the veil was weakest, magic was strongest, and horrors rose from the depths of their hovels.
Review Archives:
Records DC 80: 71 + 17 (Learning)=88
You had Ashar's records brought before you. You ignored the stares from the crewmen. It did not matter. You had something to chase, and you would not let it slip through your fingers.
Ashar wrote out lengthy well-detailed descriptions of every event he officiated as a cleric. From births to marriages to deaths, all of it was explained down to what he used every single coin given as payment or donation for his services. Most of it went to funding his charitable endeavors or upkeep and expansion of the shrine. Apparently, he had a long-standing rivalry with his priestly colleague to see who could feed the hungriest or clothed the neediest. There was not a single aspect of his work he did not have written within the pages. Except for two. The arcane and theological texts were missing from his record.
Unless...
You grabbed a piece of paper and began running through the basic cypher taught to all members of the Cult and the Wise. It took a bit of time, but when you finished. You slumped into your chair.
"Oh, Ashar. You bastard," you whispered.
Ashar received the arcane as a payment and the theological as his task. Construct a ritual that could in theory achieve apotheosis. You grabbed the paperwork and ran to where Master Saleh was working.
He was working out of a house at the farthest edge of town. The main room had Akh and the Duo sitting, playing a game of cards while Master Saleh was eating a kabab. He threw said kebab down when you ran in.
"Naila, are you okay?" he asked.
"Master Saleh, read this," you said, pushing the papers into his hands. He gave you a look before reading over the notes. You waited before he looked back up at you.
"I see Jameel is a fan of the principle of the razor," he said after a moment.
"The principle of the razor?" you asked.
"The Philosopher of Tylos was attributed a quote, 'All things being equal, the superiority of a demonstration results from the fewest components,"
"What does that have to do with this?"
"Among the Wise, there is a tendency towards unnecessary complexity. Ashar was competent, but no more intelligent than the average person from what you've shown me here. Why would Jameel, a man whose ability and experience no doubt far exceeds Ashar's, require his intellectual inferior to create a ritual he could create by himself?"
"He used him as a comparison?"
"If Ashar's ritual is just as effective as his, but requires far less parts than his, then he'll use it. If not, then he has some assurance on the effectiveness of his own construction," he said, scowling fiercely at the paper.
"Master, we have a month before the Usurpation," you said.
Master Saleh did not say anything. He instead walked to the back. You, Akh, and the Duo followed him as he walked to the back where the chest was kept.
"Naila, you're the lead. You three, be ready for her commands. If it goes to shit, save Naila and yourselves. Understood?" he ordered with such intensity no one including yourself disagreed.
"What will you do?" you asked.
"I'll handle preparation and holding if things get bad," he said. The five of you went to work. Master Saleh wrote the dispelling incantations, a series of concentric circles of hieroglyphics expanding out from the chest. You steadied your mind, practicing your breathing, preparing your focus. The twin took their places around the largest circle.
"Ready?"
"Yes," you said.
(DC 100: 29+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+10(Preparation)+10 (Mercy of the Palm)+30(Trio)=101)
(DC 120: 89+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+10 (Preparation)+10 (Mercy of the Palm)+30 (Trio)=161)
(DC 140: 82+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+10 (Preparation)+10 (Mercy of the Palm)+30(Trio)=154)
You drew up your will into the sharpest blade. You began with the tiniest cut, slightly expanding, keeping an eye on the hieroglyphs. If they started to glow, you would immediately shunt it to Master Saleh to ground it. Gazing into the wound, your mouth almost dropped.
It was a masterpiece. Three series of spells, each interlocking with the spell before and after it and interlocking with the series before it and after it. This structure defeated normal methods of dispelling which were generally overpowering the spell with the oppositional element or grounding it. Doing that here would set off a cascade. It made activation an almost instantaneous affair and dispelling almost impossible. To dispel one spell requires you to be aware of the spell, the spell before it, and the spell after it and its place in the entire matrix. Failure would have not just been the death of you, Master Saleh, and the trio, it would have been the destruction of the entire town.
Wait...the principle of the razor. Did you have to dispel, or could you defeat it in another way?
"I'm going to draw out the power and shunt it to each of you. I need you to consume it. Understood?" you said to the trio. They nodded and you took a deep breath.
You can do this. Carefully with measured action, you can do this.
You cut into the first spell, as softly and shallowly as you could. Through this wound, you shunted it to Kabir who drew in the Air magic. You repeated this with the spells connected to it, shunting it to the other members of the trio. It was slow, tedious, and even one misstep would cost the lives of everyone around you. You kept looking at the matrix and each individual series. Selecting each spell with a specific focus, cutting gently, and feeding that power to the Jinn.
Keep going. Slow and steady. Keep going.
The sweat moved ever slowly down your forehead. A drop of sweat comes down over the crest of your eyelashes to crash against your eye. It stung, but you pushed it to the back of your mind.
You entered a fugue. A form of patience and dedication as the entirety of your will cut in and bled out power. You were a mosquito. So tiny, so unnoticeable, and in that was your success. You no longer felt the pain in your body. Your eyes ached, dried out, your back screamed, your hips and thighs reaching levels of agony unrecognized before, and the sole of your feet seemed to wear away to just bone scrapping against the ground.
None of that matter saved this moment, your task, and the diligent work necessary to succeed.
One final cut and the slow unraveling of the spell completed the task. You spat out the blood you had not noticed fill your mouth. You had bitten down on your tongue at some point. When did that happen?
Strong hands held you upright, pressing the sweat-drench fabric against your skin. You turned around to see Reza was here.
"After sundown, we came to check. We weren't sure what was going on, but we kept watch in case you needed us," he said. You looked and saw Master Saleh lying down. Dayiel passed him a waterskin that he drank restrained, careful not to risk water sickness. Akh by his side looking sluggish and dazed. The Twins were fat with power and dead asleep on Master Saleh's lap.
"Reza, what time is it?" you croaked out.
"It's midnight," he said.
That was eleven hours. You had been working for eleven hours.
"Take me to the chest," you asked. Reza nodded, adjusting to your arm over his neck and had his hand on your hip.
With his help, you opened the chest and filled the room with the sickly green glow of wyrdstone.
"Well, that's not a good sign at all," said Master Saleh, cradling the Twins as he walked near you.
"How bad are we talking about, Your Eminence?" asked Reza
"If I am right, we have a month till Pir Jameel becomes a god or explodes with enough force to destroy a mountain," you said.
Nobody said anything after that.
Gain Wyrdstone
Gain Trait: A Will Like Steel: +5 to all miscast and dispelling rolls.
Gain Twins (??/??)
Gain Akh-Saer (??/??)
Gain Deadline: 1st of Rubana
Last edited:
Depends on what you're referring to.
And quite honestly, it hard to see if that guy is sane, like the last time a mf try aposteosis it was fucking Nagash and it nearly drag everything with his spell.
Like....this is kinda bad, it can open a tear in the inmaterium or explode and made a chaos waste or what else.
Like....this is kinda bad, it can open a tear in the inmaterium or explode and made a chaos waste or what else.
Turn Five: Madness in Mabbah (Aybad, 1 Hanin 3990 B.A.)
You four stood around the table. A map of Araby laid out; the corners held down by cups. Master Saleh was chewing on the end of his pipe. Reza was focused on the map. Dayiel was scratching his beard. In the corner of the room laid on a blanket were the trio. Akh passed out on the walk back to the Shrine. You had to help carry her back. Part of it had been funny seeing the crewmen trying carry a god. What was the method to carry an unconscious person which also properly honored a deity is not a question everyone faces.
"Recent discoveries have placed a deadline on us. The first of Rabana is when the Eye of the Most Envious rises. Jameel is planning to carry out a ritual that will see him rise to godhood. If he succeeds, he will become something we have no knowledge of. If he fails, it may ruin Araby in such a way we might not be able to recover," you said.
"To help contextualize, the last time someone tried a ritual similar to this. It transformed the Old Empire into the Land of the Dead," said Master Saleh. Reza shook his head while Dayiel muttered a prayer and made the sign of the Sun. Thankfully, not spitting to the side this time.
"What about the wyrdstone? Can he still do this ritual without it?" asked Reza.
"It is unlikely that was the only wyrdstone Jameel had. He has more or if Fate decides to be capricious, our missing population comes into play," said Master Saleh.
"He kidnapped them?" said Dayiel.
"It would not be beyond him and to be honest, it would not be hard, and he gains much from it. One soul is a powerful amount of power. Two thousand souls? Just go in and brand them as slaves. Fake some paperwork. Let us not pretend the flesh-traders are the most discern or incorruptible segment of the populace,"
You had to agree there. The Bazaar of Tears was the greatest stain on al-Haikk, only beaten by the Market of Sorrows in Lashiek. Thousands upon thousands of souls from all over the known world came as people and left as property. The Most Merciful called it a sin and Her faithful worked to end it, but this was not the south. The knives of the faithful had not made the slave merchants pay for their sins. Yet.
"Does anyone have an idea on what we should do?" you asked.
"Contact Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and Lady Suzan. They should know and they will know how we should act," said Reza.
"In the meantime, Reza? Do we just wait while the doom of Araby commences?" asked Master Saleh.
"If this is as serious as you say, we risk much either way. If we act without forethought, then do we not risk bringing about said doom?"
"Forethought is one thing. Passivity is another thing,"
"If we must do something, let us keep watch on Pir Jameel. Do we know where he lives?"
"Pir Jameel has a tower, four days out from Gobi-Alain," you said, grabbing a small marker and placing it near where Ashar had said the tower was located.
"If we're near his home, why not try to sneak in," said Dayiel.
"Yes, sneak into the home of a pir. The man will have enough magical protections to stop an army,"
"Then what do you suggest, Master?"
"We burn his tower,"
"How would we go about that, Your Holiness?"
Master Saleh turned to you, eyebrow raised. You gave it a thought.
(DC 60: 56+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)=80)
"We could set up a ritual, using a replica of the tower as a symbolic focus, and increase the connection with the power of the wyrdstone available. By burning it, this would mirror onto the actual tower. It requires us to know what his tower looks like, but it could work. But what about his protections?" you said.
"Sympathetic magic incredibly difficult to protect against. There's a magical resonance that can't be denied. Not to say he wouldn't have something, but the wyrdstone will probably overpower it,"
"Probably?" Reza asked.
"Magickers are unpredictable,"
"What about the people, Master?"
"There could be a chance they are not there, but to be honest, even if they are. Jameel is too much of risk not to take it. Tragic, but it may be a price we have to pay,"
"What if he is not there?" Dayiel asked.
"We would have destroyed his ability to complete the ritual. Whatever happens afterwards, we can deal with it,"
"Master, he's a pir,"
"Then let us include Reza's plans. Write to Suza. We can plan the ritual, carry it out, and Suza can send reinforcements. We need definite action now. We risk too much to let him act without doing something," he said.
You considered the ideas. Reza was a normal man. His plan was the plan of a normal man in unfamiliar waters. Let those more experienced and better learned come up with the plan of action on how to handle this. Drastic action by the unexperienced and uneducated had a higher potential for ruin. For Master Saleh, Jameel had the possibility to be another Jaffar. That was a crime he could not allow to happen. To bring further ruin to Araby was the most grievous violation of the oaths and principles every magician swore to uphold. The penalty of which was death. You were not sure of Dayiel's plan, but perhaps he wanted to save the people of Mabbah and this seemed like the best option to achieve that.
Which plan do you support:
[] Reza's Plan: Contact Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and Lady Suzan, observe Jameel's tower, and wait for orders.
[] Master Saleh's Plan: Observe Jameel's tower, prepare a ritual, and burn the tower down.
[] Dayiel's Plan: Observe Jameel's tower, find a way to sneak in, and stop the ritual from happening.
[] Write-In
"Recent discoveries have placed a deadline on us. The first of Rabana is when the Eye of the Most Envious rises. Jameel is planning to carry out a ritual that will see him rise to godhood. If he succeeds, he will become something we have no knowledge of. If he fails, it may ruin Araby in such a way we might not be able to recover," you said.
"To help contextualize, the last time someone tried a ritual similar to this. It transformed the Old Empire into the Land of the Dead," said Master Saleh. Reza shook his head while Dayiel muttered a prayer and made the sign of the Sun. Thankfully, not spitting to the side this time.
"What about the wyrdstone? Can he still do this ritual without it?" asked Reza.
"It is unlikely that was the only wyrdstone Jameel had. He has more or if Fate decides to be capricious, our missing population comes into play," said Master Saleh.
"He kidnapped them?" said Dayiel.
"It would not be beyond him and to be honest, it would not be hard, and he gains much from it. One soul is a powerful amount of power. Two thousand souls? Just go in and brand them as slaves. Fake some paperwork. Let us not pretend the flesh-traders are the most discern or incorruptible segment of the populace,"
You had to agree there. The Bazaar of Tears was the greatest stain on al-Haikk, only beaten by the Market of Sorrows in Lashiek. Thousands upon thousands of souls from all over the known world came as people and left as property. The Most Merciful called it a sin and Her faithful worked to end it, but this was not the south. The knives of the faithful had not made the slave merchants pay for their sins. Yet.
"Does anyone have an idea on what we should do?" you asked.
"Contact Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and Lady Suzan. They should know and they will know how we should act," said Reza.
"In the meantime, Reza? Do we just wait while the doom of Araby commences?" asked Master Saleh.
"If this is as serious as you say, we risk much either way. If we act without forethought, then do we not risk bringing about said doom?"
"Forethought is one thing. Passivity is another thing,"
"If we must do something, let us keep watch on Pir Jameel. Do we know where he lives?"
"Pir Jameel has a tower, four days out from Gobi-Alain," you said, grabbing a small marker and placing it near where Ashar had said the tower was located.
"If we're near his home, why not try to sneak in," said Dayiel.
"Yes, sneak into the home of a pir. The man will have enough magical protections to stop an army,"
"Then what do you suggest, Master?"
"We burn his tower,"
"How would we go about that, Your Holiness?"
Master Saleh turned to you, eyebrow raised. You gave it a thought.
(DC 60: 56+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)=80)
"We could set up a ritual, using a replica of the tower as a symbolic focus, and increase the connection with the power of the wyrdstone available. By burning it, this would mirror onto the actual tower. It requires us to know what his tower looks like, but it could work. But what about his protections?" you said.
"Sympathetic magic incredibly difficult to protect against. There's a magical resonance that can't be denied. Not to say he wouldn't have something, but the wyrdstone will probably overpower it,"
"Probably?" Reza asked.
"Magickers are unpredictable,"
"What about the people, Master?"
"There could be a chance they are not there, but to be honest, even if they are. Jameel is too much of risk not to take it. Tragic, but it may be a price we have to pay,"
"What if he is not there?" Dayiel asked.
"We would have destroyed his ability to complete the ritual. Whatever happens afterwards, we can deal with it,"
"Master, he's a pir,"
"Then let us include Reza's plans. Write to Suza. We can plan the ritual, carry it out, and Suza can send reinforcements. We need definite action now. We risk too much to let him act without doing something," he said.
You considered the ideas. Reza was a normal man. His plan was the plan of a normal man in unfamiliar waters. Let those more experienced and better learned come up with the plan of action on how to handle this. Drastic action by the unexperienced and uneducated had a higher potential for ruin. For Master Saleh, Jameel had the possibility to be another Jaffar. That was a crime he could not allow to happen. To bring further ruin to Araby was the most grievous violation of the oaths and principles every magician swore to uphold. The penalty of which was death. You were not sure of Dayiel's plan, but perhaps he wanted to save the people of Mabbah and this seemed like the best option to achieve that.
Which plan do you support:
[] Reza's Plan: Contact Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and Lady Suzan, observe Jameel's tower, and wait for orders.
[] Master Saleh's Plan: Observe Jameel's tower, prepare a ritual, and burn the tower down.
[] Contact Lady Suzan.
[] Dayiel's Plan: Observe Jameel's tower, find a way to sneak in, and stop the ritual from happening.
[] Write-In
I wonder what happen to jaffar book, experiment and stuff, like the dude work with skaven and it seen he was a big dark wizard, Im not surprise if his stuff was "destroy" except not really.
[X] Dayiel's Plan: Observe Jameel's tower, find a way to sneak in, and stop the ritual from happening.
[X] Dayiel's Plan: Observe Jameel's tower, find a way to sneak in, and stop the ritual from happening.
Funny enough, a decent chunk of Jaffar's stuff were highly cherished artifacts given to him by the Wise that have never been recovered since his demise and remain one of the reasons why he is so hated. One of those artifacts being the Sword of the Sovereigns (Saif al-Muluk), the blade the Uniter himself made and used in his battles against the Sea Elves and Nehekhara.
Vote closed
Turn Five: Madness in Mabbah (Aybad, 1 Hanin 3990 B.A.) Pt. 1
(DC 60+20 (A Memory of Jaffar)=80: 36+15 (Diplomacy)+5 (Etiquette: Fakirs)=56)
(Saleh's Reaction: 90+20 (His Student)=110)
What was the right choice was something you would not know until it was done. This was one of the lessons both Master Saleh and Mama taught you. You could have the best intentions and greatest forethought. Yet at the end of the day, you had to make a choice, throw the dice, and see if they came up ones or sixes. What was it you wanted to do? You wanted to save lives. You wanted to stop the ritual. These were the goals.
"I think Dayiel's idea has merit," you said. Master Saleh scowled. Reza just looked confused.
"Naila, I understand that you want to save these people, but we do not..."
"Know if they are there or if we can, but Master. We don't know if any of these plans will succeed. Reza's idea might doom us just as much as yours, but we swore an oath to the memory of a man whose greatest achievement was freeing the peoples of this land. Would it not be a betrayal to that legacy if we did not try to save them?"
Your master smiles, a sad smile. The type of smile a parent gives a child when they say something sweet but stupid.
"The Uniter's legacy is many things, Naila. Liberator is one, but he was also a general. A general who made harsh decisions to achieve the best possible outcome," he said.
You were about to say something, but he raised his hand.
"If you can find a way into the tower, then I will support it, but if you cannot, we will go ahead with my plan," he said.
"Thank you, Master," you said.
"Don't thank me yet, Naila. Thank me if we achieve something," he said.
You head out to Pir Jameel's tower. Dayiel, Reza, you, and a small party of crewmen. Jameel's tower, which was more of a fort than a tower, was set on a hill. The tower was a cylindrical building made of light-brown brick with a turquoise painted roof. It was surrounded by a series of additional buildings and a wall. The wall and the buildings made of the same brick as the tower.
(DC 60: 80+12 (Intrigue)=92)
You were surprised to see the walls empty of guards. Every Pir was given a detachment of Black Guard to protect them. Yet, you could not see any sign of them. Perhaps it was a good sign. Jameel's detachment had remained loyal, but where were they?
Maybe...
(DC 60: 23+17 (Learning)=40)
"Dayiel, do you know anything about architecture?" you asked as you did not have anything in your mind on the subject.
(DC 60: 54+13 (Learning)+15 (Experiences)=82)
"A bit," said Dayiel.
"Tell me something. How likely is it for there to be tunnels underneath the tower?" you asked.
"Very likely. The tower has the look of being rather young. I would say no older than the 5th century. It's been the norm since then for there to be underground tunnels so the inhabitants can escape," he said.
"Any idea of where they could be?"
"They usually build them out to the sea," he said.
(What do you find: 90)
The ocean waves softly roared as they crashed against the shore. You walked down the beach. The crew of the Beloved searched the shore while the Twins flew above and Akh lounged in the water. Master Saleh walked with you, pipe in mouth. The smell of mint and smoke emanating from it.
"Over here!" came the shout. You rushed over. Master Saleh kept walking, feeling no rush. You saw Dayiel and a bunch of other crewmen wiping away sand, revealing a trapdoor.
(DC 60: 86+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+5 (A Will Like Iron)=108)
"Stop," you said, rushing forward. One crew member froze. You moved them away and began to analyze the magical overlays on the door. It was nothing compared to the protection that had been on the chest. Simple, but fine. Open the door without the right access code and it would explode in fire.
It took ten minutes, but you defuse the spell, attacking the spell's weakest part to collapse its stability, grounding the excess energy released. Some of the sand around turned to glass, but compared to the explosion that should have happened. It was nothing.
"Naila, you might be developing a rare skill there," said Master Saleh. You shrugged.
The tunnel was drab, big enough for you and the crew to walk through in a two-man file without issue. Red light shined down from a series of enchantments all along the roof of the tunnel.
"Do you think it's Jameel's work?" you asked Master Saleh. He looks up. Kabir and Sagheer on your shoulders. They were a bit bigger than normal. Akh was behind you two, carrying a bag of portable cannons.
"Good enough to be his work, but in all honesty, light enchantments are rudimentary enough you can't really add a personal touch to it. Well...maybe the color of the light," he said.
"You could control the level of brightness and maybe trigger if they see movement,"
"Naila, that's a level of pedant even the most reclusive magician wouldn't touch. Well, not the latter part. That's a good idea,"
"Master, I once saw you spend five hours tending to your forge just to make sure it was the proper temperature,"
"For my work, Naila,"
"You have Kasul. He literally lives in your forge,"
"Yes. An ifrit absolutely understands the concept of temperature control," said Kabir. You scowled down, but Master Saleh just shrugged.
"You could teach him. He is not stupid,"
"Naila, Kasul literally looks at the world in two ways. Food and not-Food," said Sagheer, scowling at him as well.
"All of you refuse to engage with him outside of that,"
"Why you are so defensive of the old snake?" asked Akh.
"I just feel everyone doesn't allow him the chance to be understood as anything else,"
"He's an eight-hundred-year-old fire spirit, Naila. Why does he need to be understood as anything else?" asked Master Saleh.
"I-" you stopped when Master Saleh raised his hand. You looked to see a staircase. Master Saleh turned around.
"Be ready. We're entering the lion's den, and this beast is a vicious one. Keep your eyes open and follow instructions when they are given. Is this understood?" he said, looking at each crew member directly in the eyes. Each crew member responding back with a nod.
"Good," Master Saleh taking the bag from Akh. He drew out one of his smaller portable cannons, handing it to you and another one for himself,
"Let's go,"
(What Room: 17)
(What Type of Protection Do You Find: 100)
You and Master Saleh went up first. Cannons raised as you walked step by step up, going around each curve one at a time. Master Saleh spinning around, cannon raised to catch any guard unaware. The staircase led you into a storage room, packed with boxes, burlap sacks, and barrels. Reza and a group of the crew moved boxes and other stuff to make space. You went to the door and looked out into a hallway. It was empty of decorations, color, and anything that would have told you someone lived here. The Twins flew in front of you, and both glowed the familiar blue-gray and gray blue of Air.
(DC 30/60/90/120: 45+20 (Twins Automatic Success)=65)
"Find anything?" you asked.
"The hallway breaks into two paths. One leads to a place of sorrow, voices repeating prayers and cries of help. One leading to a place drenched in Death, Fire, Earth, Water, and Air," said Sagheer. Kabir nodded.
"Master, the Twins say the hallway can lead us to the people and possibly Jameel," you said, walking back to him.
"I'll head towards Jameel," said Master Saleh.
"I'll go for the people," said Dayiel.
"I'll go with the one you don't go with, Your Holiness," said Reza.
Who do you go with?
[] Dayiel: Head towards the people
[] Master Saleh: Head towards possibly Jameel
(Saleh's Reaction: 90+20 (His Student)=110)
What was the right choice was something you would not know until it was done. This was one of the lessons both Master Saleh and Mama taught you. You could have the best intentions and greatest forethought. Yet at the end of the day, you had to make a choice, throw the dice, and see if they came up ones or sixes. What was it you wanted to do? You wanted to save lives. You wanted to stop the ritual. These were the goals.
"I think Dayiel's idea has merit," you said. Master Saleh scowled. Reza just looked confused.
"Naila, I understand that you want to save these people, but we do not..."
"Know if they are there or if we can, but Master. We don't know if any of these plans will succeed. Reza's idea might doom us just as much as yours, but we swore an oath to the memory of a man whose greatest achievement was freeing the peoples of this land. Would it not be a betrayal to that legacy if we did not try to save them?"
Your master smiles, a sad smile. The type of smile a parent gives a child when they say something sweet but stupid.
"The Uniter's legacy is many things, Naila. Liberator is one, but he was also a general. A general who made harsh decisions to achieve the best possible outcome," he said.
You were about to say something, but he raised his hand.
"If you can find a way into the tower, then I will support it, but if you cannot, we will go ahead with my plan," he said.
"Thank you, Master," you said.
"Don't thank me yet, Naila. Thank me if we achieve something," he said.
You head out to Pir Jameel's tower. Dayiel, Reza, you, and a small party of crewmen. Jameel's tower, which was more of a fort than a tower, was set on a hill. The tower was a cylindrical building made of light-brown brick with a turquoise painted roof. It was surrounded by a series of additional buildings and a wall. The wall and the buildings made of the same brick as the tower.
(DC 60: 80+12 (Intrigue)=92)
You were surprised to see the walls empty of guards. Every Pir was given a detachment of Black Guard to protect them. Yet, you could not see any sign of them. Perhaps it was a good sign. Jameel's detachment had remained loyal, but where were they?
Maybe...
(DC 60: 23+17 (Learning)=40)
"Dayiel, do you know anything about architecture?" you asked as you did not have anything in your mind on the subject.
(DC 60: 54+13 (Learning)+15 (Experiences)=82)
"A bit," said Dayiel.
"Tell me something. How likely is it for there to be tunnels underneath the tower?" you asked.
"Very likely. The tower has the look of being rather young. I would say no older than the 5th century. It's been the norm since then for there to be underground tunnels so the inhabitants can escape," he said.
"Any idea of where they could be?"
"They usually build them out to the sea," he said.
(What do you find: 90)
The ocean waves softly roared as they crashed against the shore. You walked down the beach. The crew of the Beloved searched the shore while the Twins flew above and Akh lounged in the water. Master Saleh walked with you, pipe in mouth. The smell of mint and smoke emanating from it.
"Over here!" came the shout. You rushed over. Master Saleh kept walking, feeling no rush. You saw Dayiel and a bunch of other crewmen wiping away sand, revealing a trapdoor.
(DC 60: 86+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+5 (A Will Like Iron)=108)
"Stop," you said, rushing forward. One crew member froze. You moved them away and began to analyze the magical overlays on the door. It was nothing compared to the protection that had been on the chest. Simple, but fine. Open the door without the right access code and it would explode in fire.
It took ten minutes, but you defuse the spell, attacking the spell's weakest part to collapse its stability, grounding the excess energy released. Some of the sand around turned to glass, but compared to the explosion that should have happened. It was nothing.
"Naila, you might be developing a rare skill there," said Master Saleh. You shrugged.
The tunnel was drab, big enough for you and the crew to walk through in a two-man file without issue. Red light shined down from a series of enchantments all along the roof of the tunnel.
"Do you think it's Jameel's work?" you asked Master Saleh. He looks up. Kabir and Sagheer on your shoulders. They were a bit bigger than normal. Akh was behind you two, carrying a bag of portable cannons.
"Good enough to be his work, but in all honesty, light enchantments are rudimentary enough you can't really add a personal touch to it. Well...maybe the color of the light," he said.
"You could control the level of brightness and maybe trigger if they see movement,"
"Naila, that's a level of pedant even the most reclusive magician wouldn't touch. Well, not the latter part. That's a good idea,"
"Master, I once saw you spend five hours tending to your forge just to make sure it was the proper temperature,"
"For my work, Naila,"
"You have Kasul. He literally lives in your forge,"
"Yes. An ifrit absolutely understands the concept of temperature control," said Kabir. You scowled down, but Master Saleh just shrugged.
"You could teach him. He is not stupid,"
"Naila, Kasul literally looks at the world in two ways. Food and not-Food," said Sagheer, scowling at him as well.
"All of you refuse to engage with him outside of that,"
"Why you are so defensive of the old snake?" asked Akh.
"I just feel everyone doesn't allow him the chance to be understood as anything else,"
"He's an eight-hundred-year-old fire spirit, Naila. Why does he need to be understood as anything else?" asked Master Saleh.
"I-" you stopped when Master Saleh raised his hand. You looked to see a staircase. Master Saleh turned around.
"Be ready. We're entering the lion's den, and this beast is a vicious one. Keep your eyes open and follow instructions when they are given. Is this understood?" he said, looking at each crew member directly in the eyes. Each crew member responding back with a nod.
"Good," Master Saleh taking the bag from Akh. He drew out one of his smaller portable cannons, handing it to you and another one for himself,
"Let's go,"
(What Room: 17)
(What Type of Protection Do You Find: 100)
You and Master Saleh went up first. Cannons raised as you walked step by step up, going around each curve one at a time. Master Saleh spinning around, cannon raised to catch any guard unaware. The staircase led you into a storage room, packed with boxes, burlap sacks, and barrels. Reza and a group of the crew moved boxes and other stuff to make space. You went to the door and looked out into a hallway. It was empty of decorations, color, and anything that would have told you someone lived here. The Twins flew in front of you, and both glowed the familiar blue-gray and gray blue of Air.
(DC 30/60/90/120: 45+20 (Twins Automatic Success)=65)
"Find anything?" you asked.
"The hallway breaks into two paths. One leads to a place of sorrow, voices repeating prayers and cries of help. One leading to a place drenched in Death, Fire, Earth, Water, and Air," said Sagheer. Kabir nodded.
"Master, the Twins say the hallway can lead us to the people and possibly Jameel," you said, walking back to him.
"I'll head towards Jameel," said Master Saleh.
"I'll go for the people," said Dayiel.
"I'll go with the one you don't go with, Your Holiness," said Reza.
Who do you go with?
[] Dayiel: Head towards the people
[] Master Saleh: Head towards possibly Jameel
Vote closed
New
Turn Five: Madness in Mabbah (Aybad, 1 Hanin 3990 B.A.) Pt. 2
New
"I'll go with you, Master," you said. Master Saleh nodded. The crew was divided into thirds. Two-thirds went with Reza and Dayiel while the remainder went with you. They shared nods while you and Dayiel shared blessings.
"May Her mercy be ever on your side," you said, touching your forehead as you spoke.
"May His light shine your way forward," mirrored Dayiel, making the sign of the Sun.
(Do You Notice DC 80: 60+17 (Learning)=5 (Lore: Magic)=82)
You followed Master Saleh down the hallway. A growing question building in your mind. The uniformity of the enchantment was impressive. While there was not much that could be done to a basic enchantment, it was also an odd thing to see someone kept to such a pattern. There should have been minute variations. Differences in the brightness and other factors. The level of specificity was not just the work of a meticulous mind. This was intentional.
"Master Saleh, stop. Look at the light enchantment," you said.
"What...that is quite odd,"
"Any idea as to its function or purpose?"
"For the former, I would say pathway. For the latter, I am not sure. A pathway acts as a guide for the proper flow of something but what could Jameel need with that inside his own home,"
You could see that.
"Let's go. Our honored elder is waiting for us," he said.
You continued forward until you reached an entrance filled with the Unquiet Dead. The same type of Undead you found in the Temple. Guarding a door layered with the same level of enchantment as the chest.
"Well, I see Jameel has prepared a welcome for us. Let's make sure our entrance fits our reception," said Master Saleh.
Akh placed the sack down. Akh grabbed up the cannon in the sack and its tri-prong stand. The iron behemoth had bronze bands along the back, middle, and right before the opening. The body of the cannon was inscribed with a strengthening spell. Each bronze band also had inscriptions, though they had more specific purposes. The back was to eliminate waste and residue, the middle and front was to ensure all energy was funneled forward. Further aided by its stand which was enchanted to redistribute the reactive energy and lessen the kickback. Nearly a decade's worth of work to create a cannon that fired farther and harder than even the ones kept on ships while still portable.
You thought to ask if a quieter method should be used, but you had never known Master Saleh to use subtlety when spectacle was an option.
Akh seated it on the stand as Master Saleh loaded the ammunition canister into the back-chamber. This was a secret mixture of Cathayan powder only he knew, but the ball was a special shot. It didn't just tear through targets; it exploded with heat and air into a cyclone of fire. He called it dragon's breath.
"Everyone, ten steps backward and cover your ears. Kabir and Sagheer, set up a shield," Master Saleh ordered. You all followed his instructions as the air circled around him and the cannon.
(Does It Fire: DC 95: 47+14 (Martial)+10 (Ranged: Cannons)+10 (Quality Materials)+20 (Magical Reinforcement)= 101)
(How Many Become Barbacoa: 10+54 (Cumulative Bonus)=64)
(Does the Door Hold: ??+?? (??)=93 vs. 67+54 (Cumulative Bonus)=121)
(How Big of a Boom: 57+54 (Cumulative Bonus)=111 vs. ??+?? (??)=107)
"Time to cry havoc and let fly the wolves of war as the northmen say," said Master Saleh. With a wave of his hand and a cry of wys, the world was consumed in the crack of thunder and the flash of lightning. Red Fire and yellow Earth and gray Air painted the surroundings for those blessed to see. The Dead in the path of the shot disintegrated as it went on its way to the door. Flesh, muscle, and bone turned into dust through the application of alchemy and enchantment. The door shone with its protection. The same masterful skill present, but the work of an artist mattered little if you had a big enough hammer. It blew apart and again red Fire and gray Air bloomed into life as heat and sound but dying just as quick, snuffed out by an iron will.
"Gentlemen if you would be so kind as to keep these eager folk busy. Akh, do them the privilege of your assistance," said Master Saleh.
"Any limits?" Akh asked, her smile displaying a mouth full of serrated fangs.
"None, but do aim for sensible," Master Saleh said.
"Wonderful," she said. Akh gave no speech. She simply charged forward, and the crew followed behind. Blades, hammers, axes, and whatever other naval tools turned weapons raised and striking down on the receiving undead.
"Naila, the Twins and I will be the distraction. Wait a few minutes and then go to work on the ritual," said Master Saleh as he drew out two portable cannons.
"Understood, Master," you said, following him around the fight.
(Dead vs. Akh & Crew: ??+??-??=30 vs. 34+20 (Akh)+10 (Crew)=64)
(Do Dead Dangers Discover Deception: ??-?? (Akh & Crew)=51 vs. 91+12 (Intrigue)=103 & 56+12 (Intrigue)=68)
The Dead had unnatural strength and speed to overpower the crew, but the crew had Akh. She had become the center of the battle, tearing apart corpses with her bare hands and teeth. Happy to stand and enjoy the visceral evisceration of her foes. A hand shot out to grab a nearby head and squeeze, splattering bone and brain like it was grounded meat. Another hand grabbed hold of a neck, tearing it off. She swung it down on the next one, echoing meaty slaps as she repeatedly introduced skull to body. The Dead rushed forward, trying swarm her. All it did was make her smile even harder.
It was nice to see her indulge herself. She never got the chance often.
Master Saleh stepped in the hole with the Twins. You waited as Master Saleh instructed, hiding nearby. When you felt enough time had passed, you headed in.
(1st Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+?? (??)=90 vs. ??+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)=84)
(2nd Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+?? (??)=61 vs. 49+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)=93)
(3 points of damage. Jameel drops to 7/10)
(3rd Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+?? (??)-15 (Injuries)=71 vs. 12+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)=56)
(2 points of damage. Saleh drops 8/10)
The room was scorched black and littered with ashes of burnt corpses. A short, doughy bald man with a permanent scowl wearing the blue and grey robe of a Rainmaker with gold trim to identify him an Elder of the Order. This had to be Pir Jameel. He...was not at all what you expected. Absent was the terrifying figure and standing in his place was a copy of Hassan-uncle. Blood poured from bullet wounds and his brow shined with sweat. He was breathing hard, but you could see Grey Air held around him, captured in the iron cage of his will.
Across from him was Master Saleh. His portable cannons smoking while Red Fire surrounded him like a cloak. The Twins sat on his shoulders, adding a gray trimming to the cloak. He wore his trademark smirk, but you could see him favoring his right side.
Neither had gone uninjured in their duel.
(Does Deadly Dotard Detect Deceit: ??+??-15 (Injuries)-?? (Saleh)=45 vs. 84+12 (Intrigue)=96)
(Inquisitive Ingenue Investigates, DC 80: 77+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+5 (Prior Evidence)=104)
You snuck around, moving quick towards the available hiding spot. An upturned desk stained black with fire damage. Pir Jameel paid you little attention, focused only on Master Saleh.
This left you the ability to look over the ritual site. Despite the damage and power unleashed in their battle, four altars stood undisturbed. Atop them were idols carved out of wyrdstone. A series of hieroglyphics engraved on them mirroring the hieroglyphics of the light enchantment. That plus being covered in blood and the shape of animals. A dog, a fly, a crow, and a snake.
Your second sight showed confluences of magic centered around the altars. The dog was covered in death magic held together through a band of Fire magic. The other idols repeated this, but with a different element in primacy. Fly was oddly enough Earth. The serpent was Water and the Crow was Air.
You were not familiar with who or what these idols referenced, but you understood their purpose. These were sympathetic objects, meant to act as primers. Part of you was in awe of Jameel's skill to achieve this. He had created four multipurpose primers and a method of delivery through a simple light enchantment. All of which combined to complete the ritual at once. He could activate the wyrdstone and tap into the power of these unknown entities. The level of complexity and technical skill necessary to achieve it was mind-boggling. This was doing surgery on different people at the same time. This was the work of a master. Someone who had both a rare talent and developed skill. A combination so potent it saw him rise to the highest ranks of the Wise and he was using his talent and skill to bring ruin to Araby.
And you had to stop this, but how? You could destroy one of the idols, but you assumed Jameel prepared for that. He seemed to have a tendency towards layering effects. If you destroyed one, it could trigger the ritual. Maybe if you found some way to isolate the idol, it would stop the trigger, but that was still just a guess. You thought about collapsing the magical matrix, but Jameel was not amateur in his construction. It would require a detailed analysis to see what a real part of the spell was and not a secondary trigger or redundancy.
Bleeding was possible in the abstract, but you did not have the conditions to achieve that. An active battle was not conducive for the level of focus required, and you need to redirect the energy into something.
Wait…you looked over the altars again. Was that what you think it was?
(2nd Round 1st Exchange: ??+??-15 (Injuries)=110 vs. 71+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-10 (Injuries)=105)
(2nd Round 2nd Exchange: ??+??-15 (Injuries)=37 vs. 23+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-10 (Injuries)=57)
(2 points of Damage. Jameel drops to 5/10)
(2nd Round 3rd Exchange: ??+??-25 (Injuries)=84 vs. 31+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-10 (Injuries)=65)
(1 point of Damage. Saleh drops to 7/10)
(Do You Get Caught Up: 90)
The flash of power sent you to the floor. You covered your head. Air and Fire roared into birth and motion, buffeting your hair into a mess only to die just as quickly as the sheer force of their combined willpower put to order the chaos of their exchange.
You did not look, staying hidden as the room was rocked with explosions, cannon-fire, and wind rushing to and fro. The air heated and cooled in such succession your sweat appeared and evaporated in the same moment. You could see the glow of Air, Water, and Fire. Power being channeled, shaped, and thrown.
Jameel, because you had heard Master Saleh scream before, let out a yelp of pain and indignation. You snuck your head around the corner to see Pir Jameel go flying past the broken doors. A limping Saleh hobbled behind, leaving a mess of used cannons, obliterated furniture, and pockmarked ceiling, revealing the sun had set and the moons had risen. The Twins flying support.
You ran to the closest idol, the fly. You looked over the inscriptions on the altar. It was the standard energy venting array. Set up usually in case of emergency or fears of a critical failure appearing in a magical experiment where large amounts of power were going to be used. Master Saleh had used a variant when you all opened the chest. The current structure of the enchantment was to deal with minor bleeds. Thank the goddess that focusing on safety was such a timeless part of magical education.
If this room was like the firing lever for the ritual, then all you needed to do was mess up the moment of ignition. If you messed up the fuse, then there would be no explosion.
Using sculpture, you began changing the specific limits of the venting. Increasing it to a drastic amount and add specific triggers and looping systems. Theoretically, you saw this playing out, but theory was never reality.
(Take the Shot, DC 60: 97+2 (Martial)=99)
You prayed to the goddess and ran to the door. Pulling out the portable cannon Master Saleh gave to you, you slide the powder pan open, cocked back the firing lever. You had fired Master Saleh's portable cannons before, but you had no great skill in them. Hitting three out of ten targets was your greatest achievement and that had been when you had two arms.
You raised it and took aim on the fly, took a steadying breath, and fired. The firing lever slammed down on the powder-pan. The ignite enchantment on the head of the lever activating. The powder lit up in a puff of gray-black smoke, both in the pan and barrel. Ten seconds later, your wrist snapped back as a lead ball flew out. You dropped the cannon, hiding behind the wall, muttering the worst curses you knew.
You heard wyrdstone breaking and the all-consuming sound of Pir Jameel's arcane workings activating at the same time as the emergency limits you added.
What felt like was an eternity, but realistically a second, you looked in the room to see all the idols destroyed and all the built-up power lost. You had done it. YOU HAD DONE IT. You defeated--
(3rd Round 1st Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+??-25 (Injuries)= 35 vs. 25+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-15 (Injuries)=54)
(1 point of Damage. Jameel drops to 4/10)
(3rd Round 2nd Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+??-30 (Injuries)=34 vs. 86+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-15 (Injuries)=115)
(8 points of Damage. Jameel drops to -4/10)
(Akh & Crew vs. the Undead: 70+50 (Cumulative Bonus)=120 vs. ??+??-??=10)
An explosion slammed you into the wall. Pebbles pelted you as you groaned. You looked to see Master Saleh standing upright with the aid of a crewman. The Twins laid out on the floor. Pir Jameel lay on his back, a bullet hole in his head and the ground around him was all torn up. Akh knelt, covered in blood, devouring one of the corpses. Her eyes were wide and filled with violent joy. The rest of the crew was picking through the uneaten dead for loot or moving them to the side where Akh was gorging herself.
You crawled to your feet, heading over to your master. Master Saleh turned to you, a weary smile on his face.
"Wonderful work, Naila. I would applaud, but our honored elder was frustrating in his refusal to meet the Most Watchful," he said.
"Master are the Twins okay?" you asked.
"They're fine. Just exhausted. Fighting a pir and then helping Akh. Well, that would put anyone on their back,"
"Good. Should we go check on Reza and Dayiel?"
"Give me a few minutes to catch my breath and collect the Twins, " He looked to Akh, mouth full of flesh, "We'll leave Akh. She never likes to be disturbed when she's eating,"
(What do you find: ??+?? (Cumulative Bonus)-?? (??)=10)
It took a bit of time to head where Reza and Dayiel had gone. Master Saleh had to take multiple breaks. His injuries made it difficult to move. Your own body was a carpet of bruises. Exasperated by those strange stabs of pain coming from your left side. The worst part was the stairs. You learned a new variety of curse words and heard Master Saleh swear an oath to murder the inventor of stairs.
When you reached the bottom of the stairs, you found a massacre. All around the entrance to the dungeon were corpses. Some were chopped to pieces while others had been torn apart. You saw the familiar look of Reza's saber. You moved to find it and just a few feet away was Reza himself. His eyes staring at you, empty of the thoughtful look you had seen just minutes before.
You reached over and closed his eyelids.
"Mother of Mercy, your daughter asks you to intercede on his behalf. He was loyal and true, well-practiced in courage and kindness. My Lady Most Merciful, guide him to his Lord's side so he may spend eternity celebrating in glory," you prayed. Reza did not belong to the Most Merciful, but you hoped your goddess would understand. He deserved better than to wait in the House of the Most Watchful.
You rose up and looked for Dayiel. The crew with you had gone to work. They separated their dead from the foe. The oldest of them, a hoary woman named Aliyah gave them final rites with Master Saleh.
"Sea-Father, welcome our fallen brother Hija to your side. Ten years did he sail aboard the Beloved. A wife wedded before your servant Reza. Two sons of his blood bathed in the water of your domain. Sacrifices and prayers sent to you in triumph and tragedy. Lord of the Waves, welcome him to your table. Dress him in glory and honor him as he honored you. This we ask, Great King," she said, before moving on to the next fallen member.
"May the Lords of the World carry you to your rest. May your memory be eternal," said Master Saleh, following Aliyah.
It took hours or felt like hours. To separate the dead and to give them final rites. Some of the crew looked through the tower and stole Jameel's sheets and robes. You wrapped the fallen in the fabric, carrying them up to where the rest of the crew was waiting. There, the survivors made silent prayers or looked on quietly.
In the dungeon you do not find the people of Mabbah, but you found their remains. It was inside that you also found Dayiel. At least, you found parts of him. His head and arms. You were not sure where his torso and legs were.
"Oh Most Merciful Goddess, aid my fallen friend to the side of his Lord. He sought to help the innocent to the cost of his own life. She-Who-Weeps, let your Holy Brother know Dayiel was true to his commands. That he brought the light to even the darkest places," you said.
The final count came to one thousand people, not including the crew members. No sign of where the rest were.
"Master, did we win?" you asked as you stared at the covered corpses. All lined up in neat and orderly rows, wrapped in whatever linen was available.
"Possibly. Only time will tell," he said. You wished he had said something else. Something affirming, but Master Saleh was never one to hide the truth from you. No matter how much you wish he would sometimes.
(Ata-ur-Manaf, DC 80: ??+??-??=89)
(Lady Suzan, DC 80: 43+??+??-??=95)
Master Saleh sent a letter to Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and Lady Suzan. The message took a day to send and a day to receive. Both were coming with their retinues.
You stood in the courtyard, your robes cleaned to the best of your ability. Master Saleh stood to your right. The Twins on his shoulders and Akh on Master Saleh's left. Aliyah who was the seniormost crew member remaining stood to your left. The crew right behind you.
Master Saleh sighed, looking around. You did not mind waiting. In all honesty, you were terrified. Lady Suzan and Lord Ata-ur-Manaf were caliphs. The highest rank of both the Cult and the Wise. When a caliph spoke, every magician had to listen and when a caliph gave a command, every magician had to obey. Your family name gave you consideration, but that was it.
"They're here," said Sagheer. You looked up. There slowly descending were four carpets. In the lead one stood two figures. One was a woman wearing a bright red and orange niqab. The niqab had the face of a fierce looking horned figure embroidered in thread-of-copper. These were images of Nasuh, the Greater Ifrit and partner of Lady Suzan. A ruby amulet hung around her neck and rings adorned each finger of her bronze-colored hands. Each ring had a different gem. Your second sight showing you each piece of jewelry had a different Jinn bound to them. As she stepped off, you could feel the very air getting warmer.
Stepping off after her was a man dressed in a fine if plain robe of red and gray. Jameel's robes had been far finer, but the wind did not swirl around him like it did Lord Ata-ur-Manaf. A keffiyeh of dark red covered his head with the head of a bright cobra looking at you. Master Saleh had told you the cobra was an aspect of Hamash, Greater Ifrit and Lord Ata-ur-Manaf's partner. You tried to gaze upon it with your second-sight, but the cobra stopped that with a gesture of its head. You decided to heed its warning. Hanging on his belt was a saddle hammer, Air running up and down its handle. When he stepped off, a breeze appeared sending everything fluttering.
Setting down right behind them were eight magicians. Six stood behind Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and two behind Lady Suzan. They wore a variety of robes, but each had the crossed spears to identify them as war-magicians. Experts in the knowledge and experienced in the execution of the most dangerous magics available to the Wise.
You and the crew knelt, even Master Saleh.
"Peace be upon you, Lord Ata. Peace be upon you, Lady Suzan," said Master Saleh.
"Peace be upon you, Saleh," said Lord Ata, his voice echoing as he spoke.
"Do rise, brave souls. No point for heroes to play the excess of humility," said Lady Suzan, far too light and cheery. An ill-fitting voice for the most feared magician in al-Haikk to have, but you kept that to yourself.
"The title of hero has to be awarded, Suzan," said Lord Ata. A warning in his voice.
"Now, Ata. Do be courteous. My own family and the scion of a storied lineage stands among them. Besides, have they fled into the night like thieves? Pockets fat with stolen gains? No, they stand before us as honor and duty demands despite the outrageous injuries they have borne in the completion of their responsibilities," said Lady Suzan.
"They have slain an elder of my domain. One whose rank was affirmed by me. I would call that insult and injury should the evidence prove unsatisfactory as to his malfeasance,"
Lady Suzan rolled her eyes, "Saleh, come. Lady Naila, if you will. The crew of the Beloved may retire. We will call for them if needed,"
Lady Suzan walked to the tower. Lord Ata catching up. Master Saleh and you followed ten steps behind.
Lady Suzan took command of Jameel's study. Every bit of wall was covered with bookshelves and every bookshelf was packed with books. A table of some unknown dark wood took up the middle of the room. She sat at one end of the table and Lord Ata sat at the opposite end. You sat at Lady Suzan's left and Lord Ata's right while Master Saleh sat at Lady Suzan's right and Lord Ata's left. The room was hot, and your forehead and armpits were so sweaty.
"Now. Ata, what do you want?" she asked in sharp contrast to the manner of speech she had outside. Simple, blunt, and empty of levity.
"Seventy-five percent," said Lord Ata. He had also stripped himself of his formality, though the echo still remained.
"Seventy-five? Ata, I would call you Estalian for demanding that much. Forty is more than fair."
"He was an elder of my domain. My reputation will be ruined--"
"Your reputation will be ruined because you failed to stop one of your pirs from following the path of our worst failure. I am more than happy to expend what I must to ensure such harm does not come to be, but I will not allow you to insult me by stealing from the magicians under my authority,"
"What say you, Saleh?" Lord Ata asked, looking at your master.
"I am Saleh-come-lately. It was my student who began the work that spared us from another Jaffar. I will not take away the spoils she won," he said.
That was not true. Master Saleh was the one who killed Pir Jameel. Why was he giving you the right of ownership over Jameel's belongings? Why was Lord Ata not demanding your account on what had happened?
"Lady Naila, the decision is yours," said Lady Suzan.
(Court Games, DC 50: 13+15 (Diplomacy)+4 (Ettiquette: Fakirs)=32)
You considered the players. Lord Ata-ur-Manaf was the weaker. He had failed in his duty. One of his own had gone rogue. His name was at risk. Lady Suzan was the stronger. It had been her magicians who handled the crisis. Yet, what did either of them gain from this discussion outside of the wealth and wisdom Jameel kept? Was is it as Lord Ata-ur-Manaf said a way to save face? If that was the case, then why did it seem there was an agreement in place for Lady Suzan to ensure that? Was Lady Suzan really doing this to defend you or was there something else she gained? Was she establishing herself as the senior between the two? Yet would she not get that from the agreement? Perhaps, it was just as shallow as it seemed. You just could not get a good hold of the stakes and the intentions of the players.
Lord Ata-ur-Manaf demands 75% of Jameel's belongings. No matter what the Tower will go to Lord Ata-ur-Manaf. This is for his stuff
[] Agree to his demand: Gain 25% of Jameel's belongings, +2 standing and +30 favor with Lord Ata-ur-Manaf, -2 standing with Lady Suzan.
[] Agree to Lady Suzan's demand: Gain 60% of Jameel's belongings, +2 standing and +30 favor with Lady Suzan, -2 standing with Lord Ata-ur-Manaf.
[] Write-In
"May Her mercy be ever on your side," you said, touching your forehead as you spoke.
"May His light shine your way forward," mirrored Dayiel, making the sign of the Sun.
(Do You Notice DC 80: 60+17 (Learning)=5 (Lore: Magic)=82)
You followed Master Saleh down the hallway. A growing question building in your mind. The uniformity of the enchantment was impressive. While there was not much that could be done to a basic enchantment, it was also an odd thing to see someone kept to such a pattern. There should have been minute variations. Differences in the brightness and other factors. The level of specificity was not just the work of a meticulous mind. This was intentional.
"Master Saleh, stop. Look at the light enchantment," you said.
"What...that is quite odd,"
"Any idea as to its function or purpose?"
"For the former, I would say pathway. For the latter, I am not sure. A pathway acts as a guide for the proper flow of something but what could Jameel need with that inside his own home,"
You could see that.
"Let's go. Our honored elder is waiting for us," he said.
You continued forward until you reached an entrance filled with the Unquiet Dead. The same type of Undead you found in the Temple. Guarding a door layered with the same level of enchantment as the chest.
"Well, I see Jameel has prepared a welcome for us. Let's make sure our entrance fits our reception," said Master Saleh.
Akh placed the sack down. Akh grabbed up the cannon in the sack and its tri-prong stand. The iron behemoth had bronze bands along the back, middle, and right before the opening. The body of the cannon was inscribed with a strengthening spell. Each bronze band also had inscriptions, though they had more specific purposes. The back was to eliminate waste and residue, the middle and front was to ensure all energy was funneled forward. Further aided by its stand which was enchanted to redistribute the reactive energy and lessen the kickback. Nearly a decade's worth of work to create a cannon that fired farther and harder than even the ones kept on ships while still portable.
You thought to ask if a quieter method should be used, but you had never known Master Saleh to use subtlety when spectacle was an option.
Akh seated it on the stand as Master Saleh loaded the ammunition canister into the back-chamber. This was a secret mixture of Cathayan powder only he knew, but the ball was a special shot. It didn't just tear through targets; it exploded with heat and air into a cyclone of fire. He called it dragon's breath.
"Everyone, ten steps backward and cover your ears. Kabir and Sagheer, set up a shield," Master Saleh ordered. You all followed his instructions as the air circled around him and the cannon.
(Does It Fire: DC 95: 47+14 (Martial)+10 (Ranged: Cannons)+10 (Quality Materials)+20 (Magical Reinforcement)= 101)
(How Many Become Barbacoa: 10+54 (Cumulative Bonus)=64)
(Does the Door Hold: ??+?? (??)=93 vs. 67+54 (Cumulative Bonus)=121)
(How Big of a Boom: 57+54 (Cumulative Bonus)=111 vs. ??+?? (??)=107)
"Time to cry havoc and let fly the wolves of war as the northmen say," said Master Saleh. With a wave of his hand and a cry of wys, the world was consumed in the crack of thunder and the flash of lightning. Red Fire and yellow Earth and gray Air painted the surroundings for those blessed to see. The Dead in the path of the shot disintegrated as it went on its way to the door. Flesh, muscle, and bone turned into dust through the application of alchemy and enchantment. The door shone with its protection. The same masterful skill present, but the work of an artist mattered little if you had a big enough hammer. It blew apart and again red Fire and gray Air bloomed into life as heat and sound but dying just as quick, snuffed out by an iron will.
"Gentlemen if you would be so kind as to keep these eager folk busy. Akh, do them the privilege of your assistance," said Master Saleh.
"Any limits?" Akh asked, her smile displaying a mouth full of serrated fangs.
"None, but do aim for sensible," Master Saleh said.
"Wonderful," she said. Akh gave no speech. She simply charged forward, and the crew followed behind. Blades, hammers, axes, and whatever other naval tools turned weapons raised and striking down on the receiving undead.
"Naila, the Twins and I will be the distraction. Wait a few minutes and then go to work on the ritual," said Master Saleh as he drew out two portable cannons.
"Understood, Master," you said, following him around the fight.
(Dead vs. Akh & Crew: ??+??-??=30 vs. 34+20 (Akh)+10 (Crew)=64)
(Do Dead Dangers Discover Deception: ??-?? (Akh & Crew)=51 vs. 91+12 (Intrigue)=103 & 56+12 (Intrigue)=68)
The Dead had unnatural strength and speed to overpower the crew, but the crew had Akh. She had become the center of the battle, tearing apart corpses with her bare hands and teeth. Happy to stand and enjoy the visceral evisceration of her foes. A hand shot out to grab a nearby head and squeeze, splattering bone and brain like it was grounded meat. Another hand grabbed hold of a neck, tearing it off. She swung it down on the next one, echoing meaty slaps as she repeatedly introduced skull to body. The Dead rushed forward, trying swarm her. All it did was make her smile even harder.
It was nice to see her indulge herself. She never got the chance often.
Master Saleh stepped in the hole with the Twins. You waited as Master Saleh instructed, hiding nearby. When you felt enough time had passed, you headed in.
(1st Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+?? (??)=90 vs. ??+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)=84)
(2nd Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+?? (??)=61 vs. 49+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)=93)
(3 points of damage. Jameel drops to 7/10)
(3rd Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+?? (??)-15 (Injuries)=71 vs. 12+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)=56)
(2 points of damage. Saleh drops 8/10)
The room was scorched black and littered with ashes of burnt corpses. A short, doughy bald man with a permanent scowl wearing the blue and grey robe of a Rainmaker with gold trim to identify him an Elder of the Order. This had to be Pir Jameel. He...was not at all what you expected. Absent was the terrifying figure and standing in his place was a copy of Hassan-uncle. Blood poured from bullet wounds and his brow shined with sweat. He was breathing hard, but you could see Grey Air held around him, captured in the iron cage of his will.
Across from him was Master Saleh. His portable cannons smoking while Red Fire surrounded him like a cloak. The Twins sat on his shoulders, adding a gray trimming to the cloak. He wore his trademark smirk, but you could see him favoring his right side.
Neither had gone uninjured in their duel.
(Does Deadly Dotard Detect Deceit: ??+??-15 (Injuries)-?? (Saleh)=45 vs. 84+12 (Intrigue)=96)
(Inquisitive Ingenue Investigates, DC 80: 77+17 (Learning)+5 (Lore: Magic)+5 (Prior Evidence)=104)
You snuck around, moving quick towards the available hiding spot. An upturned desk stained black with fire damage. Pir Jameel paid you little attention, focused only on Master Saleh.
This left you the ability to look over the ritual site. Despite the damage and power unleashed in their battle, four altars stood undisturbed. Atop them were idols carved out of wyrdstone. A series of hieroglyphics engraved on them mirroring the hieroglyphics of the light enchantment. That plus being covered in blood and the shape of animals. A dog, a fly, a crow, and a snake.
Your second sight showed confluences of magic centered around the altars. The dog was covered in death magic held together through a band of Fire magic. The other idols repeated this, but with a different element in primacy. Fly was oddly enough Earth. The serpent was Water and the Crow was Air.
You were not familiar with who or what these idols referenced, but you understood their purpose. These were sympathetic objects, meant to act as primers. Part of you was in awe of Jameel's skill to achieve this. He had created four multipurpose primers and a method of delivery through a simple light enchantment. All of which combined to complete the ritual at once. He could activate the wyrdstone and tap into the power of these unknown entities. The level of complexity and technical skill necessary to achieve it was mind-boggling. This was doing surgery on different people at the same time. This was the work of a master. Someone who had both a rare talent and developed skill. A combination so potent it saw him rise to the highest ranks of the Wise and he was using his talent and skill to bring ruin to Araby.
And you had to stop this, but how? You could destroy one of the idols, but you assumed Jameel prepared for that. He seemed to have a tendency towards layering effects. If you destroyed one, it could trigger the ritual. Maybe if you found some way to isolate the idol, it would stop the trigger, but that was still just a guess. You thought about collapsing the magical matrix, but Jameel was not amateur in his construction. It would require a detailed analysis to see what a real part of the spell was and not a secondary trigger or redundancy.
Bleeding was possible in the abstract, but you did not have the conditions to achieve that. An active battle was not conducive for the level of focus required, and you need to redirect the energy into something.
Wait…you looked over the altars again. Was that what you think it was?
(2nd Round 1st Exchange: ??+??-15 (Injuries)=110 vs. 71+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-10 (Injuries)=105)
(2nd Round 2nd Exchange: ??+??-15 (Injuries)=37 vs. 23+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-10 (Injuries)=57)
(2 points of Damage. Jameel drops to 5/10)
(2nd Round 3rd Exchange: ??+??-25 (Injuries)=84 vs. 31+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-10 (Injuries)=65)
(1 point of Damage. Saleh drops to 7/10)
(Do You Get Caught Up: 90)
The flash of power sent you to the floor. You covered your head. Air and Fire roared into birth and motion, buffeting your hair into a mess only to die just as quickly as the sheer force of their combined willpower put to order the chaos of their exchange.
You did not look, staying hidden as the room was rocked with explosions, cannon-fire, and wind rushing to and fro. The air heated and cooled in such succession your sweat appeared and evaporated in the same moment. You could see the glow of Air, Water, and Fire. Power being channeled, shaped, and thrown.
Jameel, because you had heard Master Saleh scream before, let out a yelp of pain and indignation. You snuck your head around the corner to see Pir Jameel go flying past the broken doors. A limping Saleh hobbled behind, leaving a mess of used cannons, obliterated furniture, and pockmarked ceiling, revealing the sun had set and the moons had risen. The Twins flying support.
You ran to the closest idol, the fly. You looked over the inscriptions on the altar. It was the standard energy venting array. Set up usually in case of emergency or fears of a critical failure appearing in a magical experiment where large amounts of power were going to be used. Master Saleh had used a variant when you all opened the chest. The current structure of the enchantment was to deal with minor bleeds. Thank the goddess that focusing on safety was such a timeless part of magical education.
If this room was like the firing lever for the ritual, then all you needed to do was mess up the moment of ignition. If you messed up the fuse, then there would be no explosion.
Using sculpture, you began changing the specific limits of the venting. Increasing it to a drastic amount and add specific triggers and looping systems. Theoretically, you saw this playing out, but theory was never reality.
(Take the Shot, DC 60: 97+2 (Martial)=99)
You prayed to the goddess and ran to the door. Pulling out the portable cannon Master Saleh gave to you, you slide the powder pan open, cocked back the firing lever. You had fired Master Saleh's portable cannons before, but you had no great skill in them. Hitting three out of ten targets was your greatest achievement and that had been when you had two arms.
You raised it and took aim on the fly, took a steadying breath, and fired. The firing lever slammed down on the powder-pan. The ignite enchantment on the head of the lever activating. The powder lit up in a puff of gray-black smoke, both in the pan and barrel. Ten seconds later, your wrist snapped back as a lead ball flew out. You dropped the cannon, hiding behind the wall, muttering the worst curses you knew.
You heard wyrdstone breaking and the all-consuming sound of Pir Jameel's arcane workings activating at the same time as the emergency limits you added.
What felt like was an eternity, but realistically a second, you looked in the room to see all the idols destroyed and all the built-up power lost. You had done it. YOU HAD DONE IT. You defeated--
(3rd Round 1st Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+??-25 (Injuries)= 35 vs. 25+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-15 (Injuries)=54)
(1 point of Damage. Jameel drops to 4/10)
(3rd Round 2nd Exchange Jameel vs. Saleh: ??+??-30 (Injuries)=34 vs. 86+24 (Saleh's Skill)+20 (Twins)-15 (Injuries)=115)
(8 points of Damage. Jameel drops to -4/10)
(Akh & Crew vs. the Undead: 70+50 (Cumulative Bonus)=120 vs. ??+??-??=10)
An explosion slammed you into the wall. Pebbles pelted you as you groaned. You looked to see Master Saleh standing upright with the aid of a crewman. The Twins laid out on the floor. Pir Jameel lay on his back, a bullet hole in his head and the ground around him was all torn up. Akh knelt, covered in blood, devouring one of the corpses. Her eyes were wide and filled with violent joy. The rest of the crew was picking through the uneaten dead for loot or moving them to the side where Akh was gorging herself.
You crawled to your feet, heading over to your master. Master Saleh turned to you, a weary smile on his face.
"Wonderful work, Naila. I would applaud, but our honored elder was frustrating in his refusal to meet the Most Watchful," he said.
"Master are the Twins okay?" you asked.
"They're fine. Just exhausted. Fighting a pir and then helping Akh. Well, that would put anyone on their back,"
"Good. Should we go check on Reza and Dayiel?"
"Give me a few minutes to catch my breath and collect the Twins, " He looked to Akh, mouth full of flesh, "We'll leave Akh. She never likes to be disturbed when she's eating,"
(What do you find: ??+?? (Cumulative Bonus)-?? (??)=10)
It took a bit of time to head where Reza and Dayiel had gone. Master Saleh had to take multiple breaks. His injuries made it difficult to move. Your own body was a carpet of bruises. Exasperated by those strange stabs of pain coming from your left side. The worst part was the stairs. You learned a new variety of curse words and heard Master Saleh swear an oath to murder the inventor of stairs.
When you reached the bottom of the stairs, you found a massacre. All around the entrance to the dungeon were corpses. Some were chopped to pieces while others had been torn apart. You saw the familiar look of Reza's saber. You moved to find it and just a few feet away was Reza himself. His eyes staring at you, empty of the thoughtful look you had seen just minutes before.
You reached over and closed his eyelids.
"Mother of Mercy, your daughter asks you to intercede on his behalf. He was loyal and true, well-practiced in courage and kindness. My Lady Most Merciful, guide him to his Lord's side so he may spend eternity celebrating in glory," you prayed. Reza did not belong to the Most Merciful, but you hoped your goddess would understand. He deserved better than to wait in the House of the Most Watchful.
You rose up and looked for Dayiel. The crew with you had gone to work. They separated their dead from the foe. The oldest of them, a hoary woman named Aliyah gave them final rites with Master Saleh.
"Sea-Father, welcome our fallen brother Hija to your side. Ten years did he sail aboard the Beloved. A wife wedded before your servant Reza. Two sons of his blood bathed in the water of your domain. Sacrifices and prayers sent to you in triumph and tragedy. Lord of the Waves, welcome him to your table. Dress him in glory and honor him as he honored you. This we ask, Great King," she said, before moving on to the next fallen member.
"May the Lords of the World carry you to your rest. May your memory be eternal," said Master Saleh, following Aliyah.
It took hours or felt like hours. To separate the dead and to give them final rites. Some of the crew looked through the tower and stole Jameel's sheets and robes. You wrapped the fallen in the fabric, carrying them up to where the rest of the crew was waiting. There, the survivors made silent prayers or looked on quietly.
In the dungeon you do not find the people of Mabbah, but you found their remains. It was inside that you also found Dayiel. At least, you found parts of him. His head and arms. You were not sure where his torso and legs were.
"Oh Most Merciful Goddess, aid my fallen friend to the side of his Lord. He sought to help the innocent to the cost of his own life. She-Who-Weeps, let your Holy Brother know Dayiel was true to his commands. That he brought the light to even the darkest places," you said.
The final count came to one thousand people, not including the crew members. No sign of where the rest were.
"Master, did we win?" you asked as you stared at the covered corpses. All lined up in neat and orderly rows, wrapped in whatever linen was available.
"Possibly. Only time will tell," he said. You wished he had said something else. Something affirming, but Master Saleh was never one to hide the truth from you. No matter how much you wish he would sometimes.
(Ata-ur-Manaf, DC 80: ??+??-??=89)
(Lady Suzan, DC 80: 43+??+??-??=95)
Master Saleh sent a letter to Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and Lady Suzan. The message took a day to send and a day to receive. Both were coming with their retinues.
You stood in the courtyard, your robes cleaned to the best of your ability. Master Saleh stood to your right. The Twins on his shoulders and Akh on Master Saleh's left. Aliyah who was the seniormost crew member remaining stood to your left. The crew right behind you.
Master Saleh sighed, looking around. You did not mind waiting. In all honesty, you were terrified. Lady Suzan and Lord Ata-ur-Manaf were caliphs. The highest rank of both the Cult and the Wise. When a caliph spoke, every magician had to listen and when a caliph gave a command, every magician had to obey. Your family name gave you consideration, but that was it.
"They're here," said Sagheer. You looked up. There slowly descending were four carpets. In the lead one stood two figures. One was a woman wearing a bright red and orange niqab. The niqab had the face of a fierce looking horned figure embroidered in thread-of-copper. These were images of Nasuh, the Greater Ifrit and partner of Lady Suzan. A ruby amulet hung around her neck and rings adorned each finger of her bronze-colored hands. Each ring had a different gem. Your second sight showing you each piece of jewelry had a different Jinn bound to them. As she stepped off, you could feel the very air getting warmer.
Stepping off after her was a man dressed in a fine if plain robe of red and gray. Jameel's robes had been far finer, but the wind did not swirl around him like it did Lord Ata-ur-Manaf. A keffiyeh of dark red covered his head with the head of a bright cobra looking at you. Master Saleh had told you the cobra was an aspect of Hamash, Greater Ifrit and Lord Ata-ur-Manaf's partner. You tried to gaze upon it with your second-sight, but the cobra stopped that with a gesture of its head. You decided to heed its warning. Hanging on his belt was a saddle hammer, Air running up and down its handle. When he stepped off, a breeze appeared sending everything fluttering.
Setting down right behind them were eight magicians. Six stood behind Lord Ata-ur-Manaf and two behind Lady Suzan. They wore a variety of robes, but each had the crossed spears to identify them as war-magicians. Experts in the knowledge and experienced in the execution of the most dangerous magics available to the Wise.
You and the crew knelt, even Master Saleh.
"Peace be upon you, Lord Ata. Peace be upon you, Lady Suzan," said Master Saleh.
"Peace be upon you, Saleh," said Lord Ata, his voice echoing as he spoke.
"Do rise, brave souls. No point for heroes to play the excess of humility," said Lady Suzan, far too light and cheery. An ill-fitting voice for the most feared magician in al-Haikk to have, but you kept that to yourself.
"The title of hero has to be awarded, Suzan," said Lord Ata. A warning in his voice.
"Now, Ata. Do be courteous. My own family and the scion of a storied lineage stands among them. Besides, have they fled into the night like thieves? Pockets fat with stolen gains? No, they stand before us as honor and duty demands despite the outrageous injuries they have borne in the completion of their responsibilities," said Lady Suzan.
"They have slain an elder of my domain. One whose rank was affirmed by me. I would call that insult and injury should the evidence prove unsatisfactory as to his malfeasance,"
Lady Suzan rolled her eyes, "Saleh, come. Lady Naila, if you will. The crew of the Beloved may retire. We will call for them if needed,"
Lady Suzan walked to the tower. Lord Ata catching up. Master Saleh and you followed ten steps behind.
Lady Suzan took command of Jameel's study. Every bit of wall was covered with bookshelves and every bookshelf was packed with books. A table of some unknown dark wood took up the middle of the room. She sat at one end of the table and Lord Ata sat at the opposite end. You sat at Lady Suzan's left and Lord Ata's right while Master Saleh sat at Lady Suzan's right and Lord Ata's left. The room was hot, and your forehead and armpits were so sweaty.
"Now. Ata, what do you want?" she asked in sharp contrast to the manner of speech she had outside. Simple, blunt, and empty of levity.
"Seventy-five percent," said Lord Ata. He had also stripped himself of his formality, though the echo still remained.
"Seventy-five? Ata, I would call you Estalian for demanding that much. Forty is more than fair."
"He was an elder of my domain. My reputation will be ruined--"
"Your reputation will be ruined because you failed to stop one of your pirs from following the path of our worst failure. I am more than happy to expend what I must to ensure such harm does not come to be, but I will not allow you to insult me by stealing from the magicians under my authority,"
"What say you, Saleh?" Lord Ata asked, looking at your master.
"I am Saleh-come-lately. It was my student who began the work that spared us from another Jaffar. I will not take away the spoils she won," he said.
That was not true. Master Saleh was the one who killed Pir Jameel. Why was he giving you the right of ownership over Jameel's belongings? Why was Lord Ata not demanding your account on what had happened?
"Lady Naila, the decision is yours," said Lady Suzan.
(Court Games, DC 50: 13+15 (Diplomacy)+4 (Ettiquette: Fakirs)=32)
You considered the players. Lord Ata-ur-Manaf was the weaker. He had failed in his duty. One of his own had gone rogue. His name was at risk. Lady Suzan was the stronger. It had been her magicians who handled the crisis. Yet, what did either of them gain from this discussion outside of the wealth and wisdom Jameel kept? Was is it as Lord Ata-ur-Manaf said a way to save face? If that was the case, then why did it seem there was an agreement in place for Lady Suzan to ensure that? Was Lady Suzan really doing this to defend you or was there something else she gained? Was she establishing herself as the senior between the two? Yet would she not get that from the agreement? Perhaps, it was just as shallow as it seemed. You just could not get a good hold of the stakes and the intentions of the players.
Lord Ata-ur-Manaf demands 75% of Jameel's belongings. No matter what the Tower will go to Lord Ata-ur-Manaf. This is for his stuff
[] Agree to his demand: Gain 25% of Jameel's belongings, +2 standing and +30 favor with Lord Ata-ur-Manaf, -2 standing with Lady Suzan.
[] Agree to Lady Suzan's demand: Gain 60% of Jameel's belongings, +2 standing and +30 favor with Lady Suzan, -2 standing with Lord Ata-ur-Manaf.
[] Write-In
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