Legend of Hyboria: Storm of Might and Magic (No SV, travel the Path of Power and Sorcery in the Hyborian Age)

[Cyberphilosipher]

To Travel to Distant Lands

[X]Alatu and the Iron Corsiers: Know this O Prince…. Of the Time Alatu went treasure hunting with some Argos Pirates looking for some old Atlantian Ruins to plunder and well, met some rather intriguing people and monsters along the way. (Alatu Travels to the City of Venzia, five months following his battle with the Vampire)

Take Up Noa's Offer for Making Love?
Rolled: D100 => 82
Effect?: D100 => 9(No Pregnancy)

Alatu Travel Check: Argos Travelogue DC 20/40/60/80/100,
Rolled100 => 85+16=101

Random Event Roll: D100 => 50 (Nothing has been encountered)

(Alatu POV)

You sighed as you looked at your ax as you prepared your pack.

"Can't sleep" Noa said covering herself with the bed sheet in what remained of the Inn Emia's coven had based themselves out of.

"I'm too restless, can't stay, I've got freedom and I'm going to use it." You said. "All I've ever wanted…was to travel."

She smiled. "Going to Messentia to look for something?"

"Going there to see what can be found, Maybe find the tale of an artifact or two, Search for a Preist of Iblis or something, maybe write a book." You said.

She rubbed your back with the back of her hand. "Peace and safety than on your journey. The Thieves guild there won't be as welcoming, but they will at least protect you. Should the need arrive?"

----------------------------------------

The Road to Messentia was silent, as you wandered the Road, though nothing would bother you on the road…

The Chaos and the need to restart trade had seen the big flows of Trade on other roads.

You then stopped and sighed. "So this is Freedom…"

Time to make the most of it .

--------------------------

???100 => 73

You walked into the City avoiding the market stalls and many passersby that made up the bustling port cities inhabitants.

Among the things to do now…is choose.

What do you Do?:

(Choose 2)

[]Find Lodgings: You will need Shelter, hopefully, someone's kindness or the homeless camps will help.

[]Look into the Local Temples: You are going to see what temples (Besides Mithra) exist, this is a port city, and small little shrines are in hidden places.

[]Find that Guild: Noa Mentioned a Thieves guild…best to find them and give homage or find a job.

[]Go to an INN:Yeah, you're going to get a drink, you need one.

[]Visit the Port: Best look for Rumors from the Sailors…they tell many tales.

[]Look for a Job: Your going to need a sustainable income for this.

AN: Welcome to the Capital of Argos…

Enjoy.

Also...

Can you all find the time to vote on this?

“Holding out Hope and Better Times” (No SV, Hold out until the Hero Arrives in Outer World) Sci-Fi

Halcyon's luck finally ran out, after having avoided the worse of the rest of Human idiocy, its lack of care has caused Halcyon to have a little bit of a rebellion problem. Don't worry your not them your the Rebels... In a decaying Colony slowly falling into complete collapse...when is the...

forums.sufficientvelocity.com

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

The City of Trade and Secrets Part 1

Messentia was the sort of city spoken of in Poems, cries, and stories. It was a splendorous place where wine flowed like water and water was salt.

It was a modern city, an epitome of the great shining western civilizations that called this land home, Hyperborea's legacy was made of stone and marble.

It was home to the great temple of Mitra and the great court of courtly law that all aspired to be within the priesthood. The Great Docks brought trade goods from the Black Kingdoms, the Far North and even the wild Pictish lands, mostly slaves and precious stones.

You passed the slave market and saw half a dozen men, looking broken and beaten after a long journey in a hold…nothing could be done.

You weren't strong enough to force such things…not in this life at least.

[X]Find Lodgings: You will need Shelter, hopefully, someone's kindness or the homeless camps will help. Rolled: D100 + 16 => 79

You looked at the older man as he tapped your shoulder with his cane. "You will work?"

"For lodging and food, if your kindness extends to that extent." You said as the older man, adjusted the ax on your shoulder strap.

He sat in quiet, chewing on a mint leaf as you sat in his open yard.

He nodded. "I will not pay you, but the roof is open, and you will do as I order should the need arise."

Ahh, lodging, best keep an ear to the ground to what he wants and or needs.

Reward: You have lodging, keep an eye out for "Help the Old man" actions so you don't get kicked out.

[X]Look for a Job: Your going to need a sustainable income for this. Rolled: D100 + 16 => 115

The Preist of Mitra looked at you as you were judged by the Nobleman, apparently, your work ethic got someone's attention.

This was one of the merchant oligarchs of the city, lesser than the High Preist or the King, but still noteworthy and powerful enough in one's own right.

"I am told you are a man of letters?" the woman said calmly as her guards glared with the priest judging your every words.

Holy power was radiating from him, and he was seeing into you.

"I know the letters of Two Nations, Aqualonian Common, and High Stygian." You said. "I also know math."

She nodded pointing at the Ax. "And can you use that?"

"Should the need arise." You said.

"Good, I have need for such a man of talent, in Three months' time I will be taking a small merchant fleet to the west for a trade run to Zingara. Hopefully, you pull your weight." She said.

You feel very uncomfortable with this.

But the money was good.

Reward: Gain Job, Supply Manager for the Argos Trade Ship "Alpin Albatross"

-----------------------------------------

You have 10 gold to your name.

---------------------------------

Diplomacy: Talking your way out of a beating wasn't really your style, but it worked…twice.
(Choose 1)

[]Influencing people: The path to success is connections. Be careful who you trade favors with. Cost: 0, DC:??? Reward: You meet with people and try to see what can be done.

[]Chat in the Market: The Market is as always a Social Hub, lets go and talk. Cost: 0, DC:10 Reward: You talk with people and enjoy the company.

[]Talk to your Employer: You didn't even get a name, all you got was a vague sense of who she was. Cost: 0 DC:70 Reward: Properly Meet your employer.

Martial: You have an Ax now..how do you use it.
(Choose 1)

[]The Guards and the Rounds: You are going to study the Guards and their Rounds. Cost:0 DC: 10 Reward: learn the Guards and their Rounds.

[]Areana Fighting 101: Ah the Local fighting Pits, you remember many a slave being killed for the training of your masters men, you hope this more civilized place can teach a lession or two, they teach anyone that can pay. Cost: 100, DC:50 Reward: You learn how to Fight Properly or at least in an Areana,

[]Meat, Mead and Melee: Fuck it all your going to drink and probably get into a fight, it is the way of things.Cost: 0, DC:70 Reward: Go Drinking in a Bar, and hope to win the ensuring Bar Brawl.

Stewardship: Counting Money…one of the Few Joy's in life.
(Choose 1)

[]Run Errands: Your going to work for the People, do the Odd Jobs, and get paid.Cost: 0, DC??? Reward: DO Errands, Receive Money!

[]Account the Ledgers: You are a Supply master now...you must look into the ledgers and Sort the Boxes. Cost: 0 DC: 50/60, Reward: Do your Job get paid.

[]Go Shopping in the Market: Now that you are with Coin, now it is time to see what you can afford. Cost: 0 DC:25, Reward: Go to the Market and see what you can afford.

Intrigue: Must stay away from Slave Hunters…MUST stay away from slave hunters.
(Choose 1)

[]Listen fo rumors: Listen to the people as they talk around town. The whispers in taverns and market squares may hold something of value. Cost: 0, DC:?? Reward: You talk wait and listen before doing anything.

[]The Thieves Guild: Ahh, Noa mentioned that they exist, best to see if they are open to talking. Cost: 0, DC:?? Reward: You talk to the guild if it exists.

[]The Whispers and the Listeners: The Walls have ears, and for the right price they can speak to you. Cost: 50, DC:50 Reward: Rumor Mill for the City Unlocked, on a Crit over 100 a chance for a Kingdom wide Rumor mill, though be aware, you arn't the only one using it.

[]Cover all bases: You do not want to be caught, but plans go ary, plan to run if you canCost: 0, DC:60 Reward: You take precautions.

Learning: You know how to read…and are expanding your mind.
(Choose 1)

[]Read a Book: Well, time to see if the Library of Argos exists, and they have a fee, Cost: 10, DC:70 Reward: You Read a Book.

[]Discuss Philosophy: Argos's capital is known for its vigorous debate square, on the nature of life and Mithra, throw your penny into the square. Cost: 0, DC:5 Reward: You debate the philosophers and beggers of Argos.

[]Learn Stories of the Past: You can read, but you want to learn the stories of the past, and how sometimes they can effect the Future. Cost: 0 DC:40 Reward: Learn the stories of the past.

Piety: Gods are dead Fuck them
(Choose 1)

[]Beg: Mayhapse is a Show of piety, or a show of desperation, but kindness may exist in this place however little there is.Cost: 0, DC:40 Reward: You Beg for Coin, and hope for kindness...and meet someone.

[]Go to the Temples: Mithra's Temples and Judges sit, waking and wonderous, mayhaps you will give them a chance. Cost: 0 DC:50 Reward: Go to the Grand Temples to Pray.

[]Iblis's Tales: You want to know more about the Religion of Iblis, and the God they pray to, its...something you want to look for. Cost: 0, DC:???? Reward: Learn the Myths of Iblis.

Occult: Power is a Road without end…How far you get is up to you.
(Choose 1)

[]Feel for Power: There is an energy in the air...you will identify it, as one should, its probably nothing but after the vampire you just want to be sure. Cost: 0 DC:??? Reward: Sense the energy of the Universe.

[]Search for Clues and Signs: Mages, Sorcerors, and Warlocks are always hidden in places that fear them, this isn't Stygia or Great Khatai, they arn't the ruling class. Perhaps one of these hidden sorcerors can be found…or the remnant of one.Cost: 0, DC:??? Reward: Search for the Hidden Places of Power.

Quests: Quests are Short Adventures that give you rewards, stat boosts or Information, these can be ignored or you can add them to the Plan so we can do it.

To be revealed....

AN: Welcome to the Capital of Argos.

 

[Tabascoheath]

A Tale of Two Wanderers​

The tavern is a small and dingy place, isolated from the rest of the city, and filled with the quiet, the far too drunk, and those just looking to get off the street. Alatu found this place almost by accident, stumbling in while looking for a place to sleep, and found that the small clientele and halfway decent drinks were worth remembering.

The first time he came here it was near empty, and the bar tender looked more tired than anything, but it was a quiet little place away from the noise of the city and the people there didn't look at him with any real suspicion, so all told it was one of the better taverns he'd found here in Messentia. But as he drank in silence and in the peace of this decent tavern another wanderer, and one far more well-travelled than him.

The wanderer ducks through the door as he enters, a cloak obscuring his face and a pack over his shoulder, he makes his way to the bar as the eyes from around the tavern find him striding and finding a seat next to Alatu in the time it takes for the others to return to their drinks. Here again his hand engulfs a tankard where Alatu's merely grips its handle, and he joins in drinking in silence.

For a time, it remains as such, quiet and drinking and a mutual respect of both from these two storied people, until the wanderer speaks from below his hood.

"What was it?"

"I'm sorry?"

"What was it that you killed, and made you a warrior?"

Then there was listening, and some of the others feared violence to come from the two and ruin the night. However, Alatu was surprised at how acute this stranger was and when he recovered himself, he answered.

"It was a monster, a vampire, had his coterie that I killed with blade and my own might."

Here there was silence again for a time, as the wanderer sat in thought before speaking.

"A good kill then, to have made yourself strong with victory."

"And what of you, to know so much of killing and monsters?"

Here again the wanderer waits, as if savoring the pause for a delicacy. And when he speaks again, he pulls back his hood to reveal long hair bound in a circlet, framing a strong scarred face, and eyes that no man could mistake.

"I am Conan, killer of the Thulsa Doom and many others still, and I have seen you to be a warrior but I have not your name."

Now the tavern stood shocked to hear a name that all had heard at least in passing, cutting through many a drunken torpor they all sit in rapt silence.

"Then I am Alatu, slayer of vampires and hero of great Argos, fried to witches and acolyte of a great and might tradition!"

"… and layer of women."

A moment passes, then another, and the patrons wonder if Alatu had riled Conans legendary rage. But before the first man can stand to leave the tavern Conan bursts into a torrent of bellowing laughter, as he slaps a few more coins on the bar and the others begin to chuckle he manages to say.

"Now that is something I can drink to, to Alatu the layer of women!"

And the tavern takes up the cry, much to Alatu's surprise.

Many stories will be told far and wide and for many years to come of how Alatu and Conan met, and the tale of them speaking and drinking in a nameless and run down tavern will be lost and forgotten by most for those that speak instead of the slaying of monsters, but there are those that still whisper over candle lie nights in a small tavern still, of how two heroes came to meet, and drank more than their fill.

(This was a little more difficult than I had anticipated, but I hope it is enjoyed all the same. Longer than my last one for this quest but I think I'm getting the hang of writing dialogue. /J)

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

The City of Trade and Secrets Part 2

-[X]Chat in the Market: The Market is as always a Social Hub, lets go and talk. Cost: 0, DC:10 Reward: You talk with people and enjoy the company. Rolled: D100 => 96+19=125

You looked at the market gossipers as you smiled. "What exactly is the mission of the "Alpin Albatross?"

"Ahh you must be new here…a new hire?" the Merchant said as you nodded.

"The fiery woman's a nut of sorts, believes Mithra speaks to her in dreams and works feverishly to bring her both profit and good fortune." He said "Zelelle rose from a mere Merchants wife to one of the Nine Oligarchs of the city and has greater ambitions if the truth be told."

So that was her name…the platinum blonde woman with striking blue eyes hired you for…what?

"I need specifics." You said. "If I'm going to give my all, I need to know."

"I can't…she has eyes everywhere, in her mad desire to stay on schedule to meet the holy dates, she's got whisperers and even birds at her beck and call. She believes that-"

A handful of women walked by as he silenced himself.

"Please, I cannot just tell you."He said "I've already given much to support others like you without her knowing."

"Please." You said. "Something my friend, anything."

You were desperate…you didn't even know what you were getting yourself into.

"You are a Seeker and Born of power …no wonder she hired you…guard your soul. For even the brightest lights cast shadows that blot the world."

"I will." You said as the Merchant smiled. "Go, the Preists are making their rounds, they don't hate your kind, merely make their intolerance known in other means."

"Ibis gives you knowledge and safety." You said, parroting an old saying from older priests from before Thoth Amon ruled.

"Asuara give you the strength to move forward to the end child." He said.

Reward: Alatu gains the Trait: Religiously Tolerant (Gods of Man): The Gods of Man, be it Mitra, Ibis and Crom, are not different, merely interpretations on how to live, they are not evil like Set and others, why let petty differences tear us apart, the world is too dangerous to be divided in ways so petty. (+3 Diplomacy and Piety, +10 to all diplomacy rolls with most worshipers of gods of men, -10 to diplomacy with "Dark God" worshipers)

-[X]The Guards and the Rounds: You are going to study the Guards and their Rounds. Cost:0 DC: 10 Reward: learn the Guards and their Rounds. Rolled: D100 => 42+18=60

You learn their routines and routes every night…and now it is open to you.

Reward: +5 to Combat and Theivery Rolls in the City.

-[X]Account the Ledgers: You are a Supply master now...you must look into the ledgers and Sort the Boxes. Cost: 0 DC: 50/60, Reward: Do your Job get paid? Rolled: D100 => 7+16=23

Your employer was disappointed in you. She was furious and indignant at your lack of progress.

"You failed to balance the ledgers and supplies, we are on a schedule…Alatu. DO not fail again, or I will not be so lenient."

Reward: You are not paid and your boss is annoyed with you.

-[X]Cover all bases: You do not want to be caught, but plans go ary, plan to run if you canCost: 0, DC:60 Reward: You take precautions. Rolled: D100 => 63+16=79

You made a plan of escape…hopefully it's not necessary.

Reward: +10 to escaping Slave Catchers and Guards.

-[X]Discuss Philosophy: Argos's capital is known for its vigorous debate square, on the nature of life and Mithra, throw your penny into the square. Cost: 0, DC:5 Reward: You debate the philosophers and beggars of Argos. Rolled: D100 => 43+23=66

You looked at the old beggar as you sat with him, having offered a mat for the both of you to sit on.

"You are a wanderer without a home, drifting upon the tides and the wind to nowhere." He said without sparing a glance to you as he made his begging motion.

"I don't have a family, not anymore." You said.

"Family is not a place…it is those you love and cherish in your heart even as they are gone." He said. "They could be anyone, from the members of a Tribe to a good friend to sit by you on a fire."

"You search for that…sense of belonging and control…be weary that it does not become a desire corrupted by greed." He said.

"I will, I only hope that I can recognize who I am when my journey is over." You said.

"We seldom do I'm afraid," He said. "But that is life…to change from one form to another."

"Be well Alatu…know that in despair you are not alone in the Dark World we inhabit. Friends will be gained and lost, but they will never truly be gone.

Reward: Alatu gains a bit of wisdom and hope from the market gutter.

-[X]Iblis's Tales: You want to know more about the Religion of Iblis, and the God they pray to, its...something you want to look for. Cost: 0, DC:???? Reward: Learn the Myths of Iblis.Rolled: D100 => 100+6=106

You looked at the Old man and cried in agony. "I thought I was alone!"

"Scattered, lost and forgotten across foreign lands…but never alone." A strong voice said.

"Send a Letter to Kalanthes…we found another lost child of Ibis."

(Continued in: Family, Tribe and Home)

-[X]Search for Clues and Signs: Mages, Sorcerors, and Warlocks are always hidden in places that fear them, this isn't Stygia or Great Khatai, they aren't the ruling class. Perhaps one of these hidden sorcerors can be found…or the remnant of one.Cost: 0, DC:??? Reward: Search for the Hidden Places of Power. Rolled: D100 => 86 +14=100

A Hidden place…filled with knowledge.

It was beautiful…

(Continued in: Family, Tribe and Home)

Disaster Roll: D100 => 99

*Trigger Warning*: Alatu suffers abuse in the worse way possible...the R-Word and Defilement

Spoiler: Trigger Warning Spoiler

You were being held down by three men "LET ME GO YOU BITCH!!"

Zelelle said nothing…as she unclothed "You are as my lord has told me…you will give me what he demands."

The Preist hit you and prayed a holy hymn of sorts…he was praying for forgiveness for himself.

What the hell is going on…oh god…Hide, HIDE HIDE!

---------------------

You looked at your Soul Flame. "I'm…so sorry."

"Why?" you whispered.

"WHY DID SHE DEFILE ME!!"You shouted.

"I don't know…and I don't think I want to know." He said.

You sat down. "She will burn for this."

"Aye, but not by your hand, Ibis hates kin slayers more then Mitra." He said.

"Reward": Alatu has been defiled….-20 to all rolls next turn. Zelelle is on the shit list, but you need answers first before considering pressing charges and getting the priesthood involved.

AN: I know this looks bad, but understand, the mature tag exists, do not report me.

----------------

A Cimmerian Tale of Men and Madness: Cimmeria hears the Tale of one of their missing kinsman and wonders what the hell happened to make them Miss this. (Alatu's Tale Spreads to Cimmeria, where a handful of Sages talk about what to make of these rumors.) Rolled: D100 => 86

"Tiber Tallonson!" The Sage said. "You have been given your task to guide a wayward soul home!"

He nodded. "IT SHALL BE DONE!"

Reward: Temporary Party Member Tiber Tallonson will arrive in one turn .

Mana Replenishment: D8 => 4

AN: ALot of good and a Bad.

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

Family, Tribe, and Home

(Alatu POV)

You sat in the old man's home shivering slightly as the phantom of what had occurred lingered over you.

A betrayal, likely to show power and dominance over another, you've seen it in the slave pits but you've never…

Never expected it to be done to a freeman.

You looked at your hand and felt it shake slightly as you remembered the feeling, it was good, but in the context, it was as terrifying as a slave beating.

You were no stranger to human misery, and having misery caused by other people. It was life, it was cruel and kind in equal measure, and nothing could change it; not even your spellcasting.

Nature could not change…

You sat by the fire watching it burn as you tried to remember the flames that burned the
Fields and grasslands.

The fire was comforting and cruel, much like company and life.

The Old Man smiled. "I see that you seek the wisdom of the flames?"

"Its been a long day." You said. "I'd rather not talk about it."

"Talking about things has its ways of easing things, that is the way of things." He said.

"You wouldn't understand." You said.

He nodded, understandingly "I've lived a great deal of time in my life Alatu. I've done and had good and evil done to me in equal measure, you can't trick an old man by hiding your pain."

"What could you do if someone powerful took advantage of you on a deep level?" You asked.

"Endure, observe, and strike." He said. "It is the way things strike too early, and you get killed in haste. Strike too late? You have only anger and hatred left."

You sighed and got up to stretch your legs. "I'm going out…do you need anything?"

"Nothing as of late, only that you come back, good help is hard to find." He said.

------------------

Messentia was a city of eternal contrasts, you learned, with all the wealth power, and influence…need was something that on the surface seemed something a payment of coin could fix.

But under it all, the deeds and the men who did them remained the same, the honest men of the plains, and the pits are replaced by greedy men who have wants to indulge in, what was once a luxury to be savored was nothing more than an addiction to sate.

You smelled the meat scraps being fed to attack dogs as you passed hearing the barking behind stone menses and walls.

You knew at this hour the only ones here were thieves and cutthroats, and those who also want to walk the streets.

The Contrasts of the Night Fires of Mitra's temples brazers and the shadows that dotted the city showed all the duality of man…good and evil, light and shadow.

So this is what it feels like to see the world in lines…

"A Coin for an old beggar?" an older-looking man said.

He was the same one from the market. "Have you been following me?"

He shrugged. "An old man begging for the coin, following a younger man asking for kindness? Is that a crime now?"

"Seemingly everything is one in this city if you're not rich enough to bribe or avoid the consequences." You said with a laugh.

"I've got ten coins…split a flagon and some meat?" You offered.

The older man smiled. "How about I take that offer and I leave you with a question? What god do you pray to?"

You shrugged as you marched to the nearest inn, "I have no fondness for gods, but Ibis is the one I beleve has done the least to make my situation worse…and I consider myself a seeker of the universe."

He nodded. "Ahh, I believe we are very much alike…in that knowledge is the goal in life?"

"A goal, no, a means to enjoy, yes." You said

"You are still young and lack the wisdom to appreciate it." He said. "But before I take up your offer-"

He placed a hand on your heart "Forgive me for this. The Scale of Judgement!"

---------------------------

You sat in a dark void looking at a great scale.

"Do not lie, or the scale will judge you unworthy?" He said as you looked at your hands.

Like your soul's…you and your soul were one due to this spell? What the hell?

"What the hell is this?!" You screamed as you tried to tap into your mana in fear.

"Are you with Thoth Amon?!" He ordered firmly. "Do not lie or you will be destroyed and cast into the void."

Thoth Amon? Thoth Amon…

"Who the Fuck is that!" You said as the scale seemingly moved towards truth.

"END THE SCALE!" He shouted.

-------------------------

You were sitting in front of a fireplace, on a chair. "Ohh my head."

"Forgive the feeling it will pass." He said.

A Hidden place…filled with knowledge.

It was beautiful…

You looked behind you, seeing a small conclave library, with a large ibis bird man looking down with symbols and protective charms.

You looked at the Old man and cried in agony. "I thought I was alone!"

"Scattered, lost and forgotten across foreign lands…but never alone." A strong voice said.

"Send a Letter to Kalanthes…we found another lost child of Ibis." He finished.

What do you do now?:

[]Read a Book: OH BOY BOOKS! You can read this!!

[]Ask about something: You have so many questions now.
-[]Line Tail up to three questions

[]Learn a Spell: They know spells, protective Charms…and more.
(If you choose this please choose 1)

[]The Wings of Ibis: The Wings of an Ibis are weak for a man, but have many forms and functions, and if high enough can allow the glide across the water. (DC to Cast:85%-10(memory-5 (Erudite)=70) Mana Cost: 6

[]Summon Familiar:The Ability to summon a familiar from the Outer Dark, a piece of yourself onto the physical plane. (DC to Cast:45%-10(memory-5 (Erudite)=30) Mana Cost: 2

[]The Moon Cycle:The moon, is the Sign of hope, energy and power, perhaps it can be used for something? (DC to Cast:95%-10(memory-5 (Erudite)=80) Mana Cost: 7

[]Talk to the Old Man:You want to talk to the old man, why did he go through all this trouble?

AN: ENJOY!

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

Family, Tribe, and Home Finale

[X]Talk to the Old Man:You want to talk to the old man, why did he go through all this trouble?

(Alatu POV)

You gave a bow to your elder as he smiled and waved you into the room "I hope I'm not interrupting your day."

"No, the company is appreciated, it has been far too long since we've found yet another worshiper of Ibis, even one who doesn't know it. And one so young as well." He said tending to a small candle.

"Is it surprising?" You said.

"Very, most men your age would have gone fully into Set's sway for power and influence as your father and his father did…as it is, most don't know any other world." He said.

"Well lets just say that my father and Set and I are no longer on any speaking terms, if there ever were any terms at all." You said.

"You already are acquainted with our world's oldest culture…" He said.

"The Slave Pits and their ways, yes, its the only life I know, and they wanted to kill me for inborn power in exchange for their freedom." You said.

"Ahh, a Sacrifice as well, no wonder you left, if death for another's gain was all that life had for you, wasn't-even as life at all." He said.

" I know…" You said.

He smiled. "Yet you did not embrace death, the Cimmerians would be proud of what you did."

"Yeah…They would." You said. "Are you skilled in the art of Magic?"

"I'm nothing more then a Preist, but I dabble from time to time, we've only got a handful of true Sorcerors and Mages within our Temples, but they are few and we work well to protect them." He said.

"I understand." You finished.

"We begin in three days. Rest and Prepare for what will be a long deal of time, the rest of your stay here." He said.

"Who even are you?" You said. "We've barely met and you've already decided I'm going to be an apprentice sorcerer for you?"

"Not exactly, but I am at least going to keep you from killing yourself with that primal power." He said smiling. "After all, its rare that one with power is not scooped up in another's game, like within the Order of the Black Hand…Believe me, this will be far safer for you."

"I don't even know you, or even trust you." You said. "I've heard all of this before in the pits."

He gave a weary smile. "Sometimes the only thing to do is have a little faith."

Reward: Gain Apprenticeship to Elrin the Undevided. New Actions available.

Spoiler: Elrin

Name: Elrin the Undevided.
Age: 65
Health: 4.0
Fertility: 70%
Mana: 15/15

Stats:

Diplomacy: 10 (Well mannered if shy, he is a gentleman…)

Martial: 15+8=23( He is a Journeyman Sorceror and a former Sailor, he is a tough man)

Stewardship: 15 (He can manage his finance well)

Intrigue: 15 (He has hidden his people for years. Well enough)

Learning: 6+1+4+8+2=22 (He is a Preist of Ibis, his knowledge of the world is impeccable)

Piety: 12+2=14 (He is a Preist and a fair and pious one.)

Occult: 20+2+8=30 (He is trained and knowledgeable in the higher mysteries of the world.)

Traits:

Ibis's Wisdom: You have gleaned a glimpse of higher wisdom born from Iblis. The God of Knowledge has not marked you, but he has at least given you a sense of direction. (-5% DC difficulty on casting Spells +1 Learning)

Priest of Ibis: You are a Preist of the Stygian God of Knowledge Ibis, and have devoted your life to the Study of the World and Higher Mysteries. (+4 Learning, +2 piety, +2 Occult)

Sorceror (Rank: Journeyman): You are a Sorceror a Master of the Arcane Mysteries of the World, powerful, and well respected, they have powers that are beyond mortal men, but lesser than gods. (+8 Learning, Occult, and Martial +20 to all spellcasting rolls)

Erudite: You are a Scholar in all but name, though your education is…patchwork. (+2 Learning, +5 to all learning checks on adventure…you are a milksop!)

AN: Enjoy.

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

The City of Mystery and Serenity Part 1

(Alatu POV)

You looked at the house of the kind man that you were staying with and bid him a fine morning.

It was hard enough to feel the contrasts between the city now , with the theives and now a small sect of men who know knowledge to guide them to a brighter future.

You were going to like it here.

-----------------------------------------

You have 10 gold to your name.

---------------------------------

Diplomacy: Talking your way out of a beating wasn't really your style, but it worked…twice.
(Choose 1)

[]Influencing people: The path to success is connections. Be careful who you trade favors with. Cost: 0, DC:??? Reward: You meet with people and try to see what can be done.

[]Chat in the Market: The Market is as always a Social Hub, lets go and talk. Cost: 0, DC:10 Reward: You talk with people and enjoy the company.

[]Talk to the Old Man: Elrin was peculiar as he was sensible…how the hell do you work with this?Cost: 0, DC:10 Reward: You talk with the older man.

[]Talk to your Employer: She defiled you, all you want to know is why?! WHY! Cost: 0 DC:50 Reward: Why the Fuck are you even talking to her…?

Martial: You have an Ax now..how do you use it.
(Choose 1)

[]Areana Fighting 101: Ah the Local fighting Pits, you remember many a slave being killed for the training of your masters men, you hope this more civilized place can teach a lession or two, they teach anyone that can pay. Cost: 100, DC:50 Reward: You learn how to Fight Properly or at least in an Arena,

[]Meat, Mead and Melee: Fuck it all your going to drink and probably get into a fight, it is the way of things.Cost: 0, DC:70 Reward: Go Drinking in a Bar, and hope to win the ensuring Bar Brawl.

[]The Basics of Battle: The Arena has a Lower Bracket for up and coming fighters, you don't think its good but you'll try.Cost:0, DC:50 Reward: You fight in the Lower Brackets.

Stewardship: Counting Money…one of the Few Joy's in life.
(Choose 1)

[]Run Errands: Your going to work for the People, do the Odd Jobs, and get paid.Cost: 0, DC??? Reward: DO Errands, Receive Money!

[]Account the Ledgers: You are a Supply master now...you must look into the ledgers and Sort the Boxes. Cost: 0 DC: 50/60, Reward: Do your Job get paid.

[]Go Shopping in the Market: Now that you are with Coin, now it is time to see what you can afford. Cost: 0 DC:25, Reward: Go to the Market and see what you can afford.

Learning: You know how to read…and are expanding your mind.
(Choose 1)

[]Read a Book: Well, time to see if the Library of Argos exists, and they have a fee, Cost: 10, DC:70 Reward: You Read a Book.

[]Discuss Philosophy: Argos's capital is known for its vigorous debate square, on the nature of life and Mithra, throw your penny into the square. Cost: 0, DC:5 Reward: You debate the philosophers and beggers of Argos.

[]Learn Stories of the Past: You can read, but you want to learn the stories of the past, and how sometimes they can effect the Future. Cost: 0 DC:40 Reward: Learn the stories of the past.

Piety: Gods are dead Fuck them
(Choose 1)

[]Beg: Mayhapse is a Show of piety, or a show of desperation, but kindness may exist in this place however little there is.Cost: 0, DC:40 Reward: You Beg for Coin, and hope for kindness...and meet someone.

[]Go to the Temples: Mithra's Temples and Judges sit, waking and wonderous, mayhaps you will give them a chance. Cost: 0 DC:50 Reward: Go to the Grand Temples to Pray.

[]Iblis's Tales: You want to know more about the Religion of Iblis, and the God they pray to, its...something you want to look for. Cost: 0, DC:???? Reward: Learn the Myths of Iblis.

Occult: Power is a Road without end…How far you get is up to you.
(Choose 1)

[]Feel for Power: There is an energy in the air...you will identify it, as one should, its probably nothing but after the vampire you just want to be sure. Cost: 0 DC:??? Reward: Sense the energy of the Universe.

[]Train with Elrin: You are going to Train with Elrin on the Higher Mysteries of this world and actually FEEL like a sorceror! Cost: 0 DC:??? Reward: Train with Elrin on something.


Quests: Quests are Short Adventures that give you rewards, stat boosts or Information, these can be ignored or you can add them to the Plan so we can do it.

[]The Storm Rider's Last Voyage: You have called out to do a brief fishing voyage for the Fishing ship Storm Rider, a simple Week of fishing for a small profit and salting the rest.
Quest Difficulty: Easy
Reward: A small reward of 300 Coins, as the Storm Rider has a rather negative reputation.

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

The City of Mystery and Serenity Part 2


-[X]Chat in the Market: The Market is as always a Social Hub, lets go and talk. Cost: 0, DC:10 Reward: You talk with people and enjoy the company. Rolled: d100 => 62+19-20=61

Despite your misgivings about the Markets you did in fact gain some form of Good Company.

You mostly browsed and dealt with the dangers of bad haggling.

Reward: You don't get much done, but you enjoy your wandering all the same.

-[X]Areana Fighting 101: Ah the Local fighting Pits, you remember many a slave being killed for the training of your masters men, you hope this more civilized place can teach a lession or two, they teach anyone that can pay. Cost: 100, DC:50 Reward: You learn how to Fight Properly or at least in an Arena, Rolled: D100 => 91+18-20=89

In the Arena, you saw the talent on display and made something of it, seeing several fights and working to deal with the mess of the competition.

You didn't maim but hurt them and they were receptive of that and taught you the showmanship of it, while also teaching you how to properly do it for real.

Reward: Gain +1 Martial, New actions while in Combat available.

-[X]Account the Ledgers: You are a Supply master now...you must look into the ledgers and Sort the Boxes. Cost: 0 DC: 50/60, Reward: Do your Job get paid. Rolled: D100 => 96+16-20=92

If there was one thing that you could in some way respect from your employer is the amount of money she made from her trips.

It was…almost as if someone was practically giving her a fortune.

And some of that you'll take for yourself.

Reward: +100 Gold coins, and a bonus of 50 more via embezzlement.

-[X]Learn Stories of the Past: You can read, but you want to learn the stories of the past, and how sometimes they can effect the Future. Cost: 0 DC:40 Reward: Learn the stories of the past. Rolled: D100 => 4+23-20=7

There is no time to enjoy stories!

Failure, you learn nothing of the past.

-[X]Ibis's Tales: You want to know more about the Religion of Iblis, and the God they pray to, its...something you want to look for. Cost: 0, DC:???? Reward: Learn the Myths of Iblis. Rolled: D100 => 9+9=18-20=-2

"Alatu, I understand that you want to understand the fundamentals of your religion, there is time enough for that, NOW we have to deal with other things!" Elrin said.

"Like what!" You shouted.

"LIKE THE GOD DAMN PROBLEM WE'VE SOMEHOW stumbled into." He shouted as the ship was buffed around in the storm.

Critical Failure: Life is getting in the way of storytime…as it were.

-[X]Train with Elrin: You are going to Train with Elrin on the Higher Mysteries of this world and actually FEEL like a sorceror! Cost: 0 DC:??? Reward: Train with Elrin on something. Rolled: D100 => 92+14-20=86

"Feel the energy within flow like water, the water of life quenched by the great flame of the soul. FEEL!" He said as you meditated beneath the gaze of Ibis.

"How can one feel flowing water when the heart is aflame?" You said.

"Questions that are meaningless in the end, you are yourself energy, what is water and fire if not two forms of energy. It is how you can control fire and lightning in one hand and light in another. It is energy!" He said.

"Energy is energy…and like all things it can be used." He said. "It is a resource without end, and beginning."

"I understand that, I felt it in the fields, my life was over and the end." You said.

"Was but a beginning." He said.

Reward: Energy is Mana, and Mana is energy…neat. +1 Occult, Alatu feels more at home in his own skin.

-[X]The Storm Rider's Last Voyage: You have called out to do a brief fishing voyage for the Fishing ship Storm Rider, a simple Week of fishing for a small profit and salting the rest.

One week of fishing, good weather and training, nothing can ruin this.

The Weather turned quickly…

You and your big mouth.

(Continued in The Last Voyage of the Storm Rider)

Disaster Roll: D100 => 97

The Hurricane was new, as you have never felt the sheer terror of the damage that wind and water was doing.

"BRACE YOURSELF SON! IT IS HERE! THE SHADOW OF WRATH! NATURE IS HERE!" Elrin said feeling more at ease then you.

"And witch God seemingly wants to kill me now for existing!" You asked over the roar of the waves.

"Probably Dagon…or perhaps Jhuil, air or water at this rate!" He said.

"OH COME ON!" You said.

Reward: Its Hurricane Season… good luck.

AN: Four Months of Meditation leads to this, enjoy.

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

The Last Voyage of the Storm Rider Part 1: The Storm

The Storm Rider got its name from the ability it is claimed by its captain and crew, to outrun any storm that had long been a frequent sight in the fisheries sorted by Argos and Messentia own fisherman braved its wrath for food, riches and trade many times.

The Storm had a reputation for a crew and captain as daring as the mighty navy that battled the Iron Corsairs themselves.

Or it would live up to the splendor of its stories if it were not the home of yourself and Elrin for the next week or so, and you had found that it was…just a normal ship, not a grand palace or with a crew as stern as iron, just… a fortunate ship that managed to gain a reputation.

You sat looking at the ledgers of the ship, everything seemed to be in order and the captain never skimped on payments, which was nice for a change.

"Suprised at how normal things are?" Elrin said handing you a cup.

You took a drink from it. "This is my first normal job, the only ship that isn't bought by the woman who… defiled me. And the first one where I set my own hours, so, really this is the newest experience I've had since being free."

"The winds are blowing from the east meaning that we won't need you with the rest of the men on any oars, so…it will be a calm few days for us all." He said.

"Could do with my own room?" You said. "It's more cramped down there than a slave pit's ass."

"That's being on a ship for you…you'll get used to it." He said. "We all do."

He tapped your shoulder before going off to retie knots and climb the rigging.

"I have got to learn how to do that one day." You said as you smiled before a splash of salt water hit you in the face and you started trying to wipe the salty taste from your nostrils,

========================

The Changing of the Weather came as a shock, it was late autumn, the worst of the storms wouldn't come for another month the mariners and star watchers had said.

They were once again fucking wrong…as all things were when betting against the gods.

Now I'm starting to realize that the Cimmerians might have the right idea on what a God is or rather isn't.

You nodded as the captain gave a speech.

"Men the Gods have seen once again to test the swiftness and versatility of our craft and crew, I have full confidence that we will once again outrun it and return to our city with pay and the foodstuffs to pay our lot." He started.

"And we will make those mudslingers of the Zelelle Cartel will rue the day of our return once again, we do not bend to her, and we do not bend to anyone in the GREAT COUNCIL'S Free Men, and Free Work built us and we bend to no man's whims!" He continued.

"When we made the challenge to keep her from our sails,we made it so by our own efforts, not the gods and not her…WE DID!" He finished as the crowd erupted into cheers and celebration.

The Captain must know Cimmeria well, if he's talking to the gods like that.

You smiled and continued to cheer, a confidence you could only dream of in this day and age.

---------------------

"Come child, it is time for your first true lesson." He said as you climbed to the top of the ship and watched the stars above.

Learning/Occult: A Lesson with Elrin
DC: 100/125/150/200
Rolled: D100 => 99+15+5 (Erudite) +23+5(Erudite)+22 (Elrin Learning)+ 30 (Elrin Occult)=199
Crit!100 => 82
Total: 281! (Massive Critical Sucess)

Occult Stat Growth: D12 => 11
Learning Stat Growth: D12 => 7

In a Moment in Time, there would be men who would know the world instinctively…from the passing of energy from the Sun and the Stars to the Earth.

Energy would become a reaction of forces that would form the Gods who would take shape within this world to build and create.

And by creating there would be Dreams, and from Dreams come the Power of Imagination itself.

Imagination would create the ambition of men, the greed of empires and the desire for an illusion.

An Illusion of a Peaceful World, where men can grow old and die.

You will learn many things in this world…How to see through this illusion and desire, is a lesson without end.

You will know in time.

Reward: You have gained 11 Occult and 7 Learning.

SPELL Learned: Dream Sight: The Ability to Astral Project yourself into your own and other people's dreams while sleeping.(DC to Cast:45%-10(memory)=35) Mana Cost: 4

---------------------------------

The Hurricane was new, as you have never felt the sheer terror of the damage that wind and water were doing.

"BRACE YOURSELF SON! IT IS HERE! THE SHADOW OF WRATH! NATURE IS HERE!" Elrin said feeling more at ease than you.

"And witch God seemingly wants to kill me now for existing!" You asked over the roar of the waves.

"Probably Dagon…or perhaps Jhuil, air or water at this rate!" He said.

"OH COME ON!" You said.

"Don't worry, I've seen worse." He said.

"Seriously! Do you want to tempt the Gods more in this storm?!" You said.

"I wouldn't presume to know what the gods think. Thank you very much. Just focus on getting out alive." Elrin said.

"Wonderful; my life just has to be interesting." You said.

" Look on the bright side, at least you won't die of boredom," Elrin said half frowning as you continued to panic.

"I'd rather NOT DIE!" You said.

"Well, life will not let you live without struggle." He said.

What to do now:

[]Go to the Captain: The Captain looked like he needed a Stronger set of arms at the wheel, this storm looked to be more then he could handle.

[]Help the Crew maintain control: The Crew was not looking enthused at the fact they were in a hurricane and were going to take it up with the captain… you like him, so they are gong to be meeting your Ax.

[]Climb the Rigging with Elrin: Umm follow what your mentor was doing, he seems to be doing well enough.

[]Pray to Mitra: "Mirta its me Alatu…if you could please be merciful…I don't want to die! I'm scared and want to try to be a good person!"

[]Pray to Ibis: "I wish I could read a book in the coven and make an offering, best I can do is pray like hell and offer a fish."

[]ROW!: That's it your going to help the rowers with dealing with these waves.

[]The Man from the Sea: "At last, it is a fine sacrifice to the OLD ONES…A Crew of sturdy men, a Journeyman, and a fool."

AN: You Rolled Guchi on those Adventure ROLLS!

Enjoy!

 

[Cyberphilosipher]

The Last Voyage of the Storm Rider Part 2: Within the Storm

[X]Climb the Rigging with Elrin: Umm follow what your mentor was doing, he seems to be doing well enough.

(Alatu POV)

"Master Elrin what's going-?" You started as the man said nothing and focused all on climbing to the top.

"Save your breath for what is to come, we are going to have to use all of our wits in order to see this through you understand me!" He shouted.

The order was simple, help or die.

"What about the others?"You said, somewhat concerned not for them but for the boat, as you would like to go home in one piece.

"Fuck them, I'd think have the damned crew worships whatever is attacking." He said.

"Well, I would prefer to come home in one piece!" You said.

Learning Check: Identify the Monster!
DC:???
Rolled: D100 => 1+30+ 22=53
L̷̬̺͊͌̇Ȯ̴̬͍͚̈́̾̾͊͌V̸̡̥̣͉͎̈́̔̂̽͜E̴̩͓̓̀̈̕C̶̨͎̗̈́͒R̴̨̙̣̘̽̑A̴̰͒͑̀F̴̗̩̏T̶̘͎͈̐͛͛͗͊͠Į̵̢̬͛̆A̶̭̲͕͓͌̔̄̍ͅN̷̬̞̈́͜͝ ̵̡̨͈̫̍́̂F̶͕̳̪͆̐͋̀̑̇A̸̮͓͚̬̕͝Ì̴̬̜͉͍̰̐͊͌̚ͅL̷̫̮̬̜̓̃̚͜͝Ụ̷͋̓̋̿̑͝R̴̙̦̜͕͇̤̐̉̏͐̒͘E̴̖͛͌̂̍͠!̶̢̲̦͍̠̆̋̏̇

The monster's Eyes were like an ape's, yet it had the body of a squid with the digits of a human hand with suction cups and slimy calamari folds that kept all matter of grabbing and of steel from piercing it.

It moved like a tadpole, grabbed like a man and was the size of a giant squid.

Something unholey, unfeasible your mind could not comprehend such terror and incongruent feeling.

Whatever it was it was not of this realm of man.

--------------

Morale Rolls
Alatu: D100 => 50-20=30 (You looked at the monster and got scared as hell )
Elrin: D100 => 95-20=75 (He didn't look at it, and sees the terror and maintains his composure)

The Crew: D100 => 38-20=18 (Most of them died immediately after seeing it)

----------------------

You screamed. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

"Calm yourself or you will join the crew in death!" Elrain said as he grabbed your shoulder and smiled. "You know the Spells that can kill it! Mitra's FIRE! CALL UPON THE FIRES OF HEAVAN AND BRING THE FORCE DOWN!"

Occult Check: Regain Composure
DC:20
Rolled: D100 => 35+26=61

And you counted to three.

One. You will not die at sea, not when the whole world was upon you…you had to live.

Two… You promised to live…long ago.

Three.

"I'll need help…I need to prepare it." You said. "I don't know if I have enough mana."

Elrain Occult CHeck:Spell: Pass the Power.
DC: 50-10
Rolled: D100 => 99+25=124 Overflow: D100 => 82

"In passing, I give thee Power to do upon the world what I cannot." He said smiling. "Within the Unpassing serenity, unbound by death…I give three the strength of Hundred Stars"

Reward: Alatu's Mana Restored. Mana Cap Raised by 3.

What is he doing…I feel stronger.

"And by my spirit, uniform, and release." He said. "Do the Spell."

Alatu Spell Cast: Mirta's Rain of Fire
DC:65
Rolled100 => 74 +5=79

You breathed in and looked the Monster in the eyes. "MIRTRA'S RAIN OF FIRE!"

Spell vs Beast
Beast: D100 => 4 Vs Spell: D100 => 67

Spell After Effect: D100 => 99 (The Entire Ship is now Ablaze in Recoil…)

And the Beast was set ablaze along with the flames igniting the Ocean, and the Ship.

The Storm Rider was lost…with the rigging ablaze, the ship would soon follow.

You felt foolish, you would get yourself killed again…by the same spell that freed you no less.

Elrian's Final Suprise: D20 => 20

"Ibis Wings… Take Flight…and cast adrift this soul upon the Western Winds, to safety!" He said.

And then you were engulfed in wings and feathers of light as he smiled.

"Don't give in, I always knew this would be how I died…" He was at peace, at a time like this!

"Elrain!" You shouted.

"Do try not to give Kalanthes too much grief. He's old enough to be sick of it." He said patting your shoulder.

"RELEASE!" He said as you were cast into the Sky!

And then the Last Voyage of the Storm Rider, came to an end.

Where do you land:

[]A Snow-Covered Place Surrounded by Glowing Ice: The First thing that aroused you from Slumber was the Cold, the Cold and the Ice.

[]A Great Mountain's Base: It was a Mountain that touched as far as the Eye could see.

[]A plains of sort, surrounded by tattooed men: Shouting, clanking Rock...Danger? Oh no...

AN: Life happened sorry for how short this is.