<![CDATA[RPG Solo Forums - Unplugged]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/ Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:23:29 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Thanksgiving 2025 - One Page Holiday]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Thanksgiving-2025-One-Page-Holiday Wed, 26 Nov 2025 20:10:36 +0000 Teviko604]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Thanksgiving-2025-One-Page-Holiday I was looking for a nice, relaxing, short game to play and post for Thanksgiving this year.  What I found instead was One Page Holiday by M. Kirin.

One Page Holiday is a drawing game where you are trying to escape a holiday-themed killer who is stalking you in your dreams (nightmares). Throughout the game, you will be creating a collage of your encounters based on randomly generated prompts.  Let's get started!

Starting with a blank letter-size sheet of paper, I pick a number between 1 and 6 and write it in a box in the middle of the page.  This is my Lucky Number. I chose 3, for the trinity.  Whenever I roll it, I draw a Symbol of Luck on my page.  I can choose whatever I want for this symbol, and I choose a cross.

I start the game with one Symbol. Whenever I am prompted to X a Luck, I cross out a Symbol.  If I accidentally write over something that I already drew on my page, I cross out a Symbol. If I want to change the number I roll by 1, I can cross out a Symbol of Luck to do so.  If I ever need to X a Luck but don't have a Symbol available . . . Well, that's something I'd rather not think about.

[Image: Start.jpg]

Next, I create my character by rolling two d6 dice (all rolls will be with a d6).  The premise of the game is that my character has a flaw, and this roll will determine what it is. 4: I Lied . . .   1: About the end of the world.   Okay, I can have fun with this.  I'm a member of a doomsday cult. I need to write this on my page.

[Image: character.jpg]

I don't think this needs to be said, but I think it's clear from scripture that if Jesus didn't know when the world would end (Matt. 24:36), we won't either . . . nor does my pastor.

Finally, I need to create the killer, also known as the Spirit of Thanksgiving.  Referring to the correct month (November), I roll one die for their mask or disguise (6: Turkey) and one for their weapon (3: Knife and fork).  Turn the page around and draw the killer.

[Image: spirit.jpg]

I fall asleep and enter the spirit realm.  On the page, I write down my last thought before going to sleep.

[Image: Last%20Words.jpg]

From now on, I roll a die, write the number in the margin of my page, read the prompt, and draw/write what it tells me to.

[5] You dream of the ruins of humanity. There is no life in sight. Everything is eerily quiet. Inside an abandoned building, you find boxes upon boxes of holiday decorations. In marker, overdraw a large box the size of your hand. (I made a fist to make it smaller.)

[Image: 5.jpg]

[6] X one luck. You fight back against the Spirit—and you’re hurt! Roll 1d6, then in red draw that many splotches of blood.

[Image: 6.jpg]

[3] You dream of yourself outside a house. You look through the window to find people in hoods standing in a circle. Slowly, one of them turns to see you. In marker, overdraw a cross that spans the entire page.  (I rolled a three, so I draw another Symbol of Luck cross. Also, this prompt instructs me to "overdraw".  Whenever I am told to "overdraw" or "overwrite", I can cross over a previous item without having to X out a Luck.)


[Image: 3.jpg]

[4] You dream of being trapped inside a box. You cannot breathe. You panic. You are afraid—and yet, this feels like a fitting punishment for someone like you. Draw a long box and then fill it with your thoughts. (Fun fact: This is one of my greatest fears.)

[Image: 4.jpg]

In retrospect, I missed a great opportunity here to relate my thought to my character's flaw.  "The world is actually ending . . . for ME!"

[2] You dream of the perfect holiday with family and friends… until something tragic or simply horrible happens. Write or draw what ruined this holiday for you.

[Image: 2.jpg]

A few things happen on this next roll.  I roll a 6. Since I've already rolled a six, I add a 6 and read [66]. That prompt doesn't thrill me, so I X my last Symbol of Luck and drop the roll down to 5.  This is my second 5 of the game, so I read [55].

[55] You dream of the wasteland. You spot another survivor in the distance, you run to them—only to see them die at the hands of the Spirit. Using your non-dominant hand and in red, write the dying words of that survivor.

[Image: 55.jpg]

[22] Everywhere you go you see the holiday. Everyone is happy and celebrating—but you can’t handle seeing it. In marker, overdraw a symbol of this holiday; making sure it’s as big as your hand. (Second 2 and I can overdraw.)

[Image: 22.jpg]

[555] The person you love most is dying in your arms. In their final breath, they warn you that you must kill the Spirit or else everything will end. In marker, draw the only weapon that can kill the Spirit.

[Image: 555.jpg]

[5555] (I know what die to grab if I ever need to roll a 5.) In search of the weapon to kill the Spirit, you dream of a bunker. You see a clock ticking down with no way to stop it. Time is running out. The end of the world is coming. In red, draw the countdown clock or write how much time you have left. 


[Image: 5555.jpg]

[44] No matter how far you run, you relive your failures and mistakes one after another. The Spirit appears suddenly, walking you into a corner. Overdraw a large circle on one corner of the page.

[Image: 44.jpg]

[444] The Spirit catches you and takes you into a dream filled with endless torture. They hurt you over and over. Using your non-dominant hand, write the words that escape your lips in between cries of pain.

[Image: 444.jpg]

[55555 – Apocalypse End] You failed to stop the Spirit and your nightmare is about to become reality. You wake up to a world engulfed in chaos. What ended life as you knew it? Roll 1d6: (5) Creatures from beyond the darkness of space invaded.  You are not dead. Not yet. In red, overwrite or overdraw what you see now: at the beginning of the end.

[Image: 55555.jpg]

And here is the full collage, turned one way, then the other.

[Image: End1.jpg]
 
[Image: End2.jpg]
Happy Thanksgiving!

_______________
Philippians 4:5b-6
]]> I was looking for a nice, relaxing, short game to play and post for Thanksgiving this year.  What I found instead was One Page Holiday by M. Kirin.

One Page Holiday is a drawing game where you are trying to escape a holiday-themed killer who is stalking you in your dreams (nightmares). Throughout the game, you will be creating a collage of your encounters based on randomly generated prompts.  Let's get started!

Starting with a blank letter-size sheet of paper, I pick a number between 1 and 6 and write it in a box in the middle of the page.  This is my Lucky Number. I chose 3, for the trinity.  Whenever I roll it, I draw a Symbol of Luck on my page.  I can choose whatever I want for this symbol, and I choose a cross.

I start the game with one Symbol. Whenever I am prompted to X a Luck, I cross out a Symbol.  If I accidentally write over something that I already drew on my page, I cross out a Symbol. If I want to change the number I roll by 1, I can cross out a Symbol of Luck to do so.  If I ever need to X a Luck but don't have a Symbol available . . . Well, that's something I'd rather not think about.

[Image: Start.jpg]

Next, I create my character by rolling two d6 dice (all rolls will be with a d6).  The premise of the game is that my character has a flaw, and this roll will determine what it is. 4: I Lied . . .   1: About the end of the world.   Okay, I can have fun with this.  I'm a member of a doomsday cult. I need to write this on my page.

[Image: character.jpg]

I don't think this needs to be said, but I think it's clear from scripture that if Jesus didn't know when the world would end (Matt. 24:36), we won't either . . . nor does my pastor.

Finally, I need to create the killer, also known as the Spirit of Thanksgiving.  Referring to the correct month (November), I roll one die for their mask or disguise (6: Turkey) and one for their weapon (3: Knife and fork).  Turn the page around and draw the killer.

[Image: spirit.jpg]

I fall asleep and enter the spirit realm.  On the page, I write down my last thought before going to sleep.

[Image: Last%20Words.jpg]

From now on, I roll a die, write the number in the margin of my page, read the prompt, and draw/write what it tells me to.

[5] You dream of the ruins of humanity. There is no life in sight. Everything is eerily quiet. Inside an abandoned building, you find boxes upon boxes of holiday decorations. In marker, overdraw a large box the size of your hand. (I made a fist to make it smaller.)

[Image: 5.jpg]

[6] X one luck. You fight back against the Spirit—and you’re hurt! Roll 1d6, then in red draw that many splotches of blood.

[Image: 6.jpg]

[3] You dream of yourself outside a house. You look through the window to find people in hoods standing in a circle. Slowly, one of them turns to see you. In marker, overdraw a cross that spans the entire page.  (I rolled a three, so I draw another Symbol of Luck cross. Also, this prompt instructs me to "overdraw".  Whenever I am told to "overdraw" or "overwrite", I can cross over a previous item without having to X out a Luck.)


[Image: 3.jpg]

[4] You dream of being trapped inside a box. You cannot breathe. You panic. You are afraid—and yet, this feels like a fitting punishment for someone like you. Draw a long box and then fill it with your thoughts. (Fun fact: This is one of my greatest fears.)

[Image: 4.jpg]

In retrospect, I missed a great opportunity here to relate my thought to my character's flaw.  "The world is actually ending . . . for ME!"

[2] You dream of the perfect holiday with family and friends… until something tragic or simply horrible happens. Write or draw what ruined this holiday for you.

[Image: 2.jpg]

A few things happen on this next roll.  I roll a 6. Since I've already rolled a six, I add a 6 and read [66]. That prompt doesn't thrill me, so I X my last Symbol of Luck and drop the roll down to 5.  This is my second 5 of the game, so I read [55].

[55] You dream of the wasteland. You spot another survivor in the distance, you run to them—only to see them die at the hands of the Spirit. Using your non-dominant hand and in red, write the dying words of that survivor.

[Image: 55.jpg]

[22] Everywhere you go you see the holiday. Everyone is happy and celebrating—but you can’t handle seeing it. In marker, overdraw a symbol of this holiday; making sure it’s as big as your hand. (Second 2 and I can overdraw.)

[Image: 22.jpg]

[555] The person you love most is dying in your arms. In their final breath, they warn you that you must kill the Spirit or else everything will end. In marker, draw the only weapon that can kill the Spirit.

[Image: 555.jpg]

[5555] (I know what die to grab if I ever need to roll a 5.) In search of the weapon to kill the Spirit, you dream of a bunker. You see a clock ticking down with no way to stop it. Time is running out. The end of the world is coming. In red, draw the countdown clock or write how much time you have left. 


[Image: 5555.jpg]

[44] No matter how far you run, you relive your failures and mistakes one after another. The Spirit appears suddenly, walking you into a corner. Overdraw a large circle on one corner of the page.

[Image: 44.jpg]

[444] The Spirit catches you and takes you into a dream filled with endless torture. They hurt you over and over. Using your non-dominant hand, write the words that escape your lips in between cries of pain.

[Image: 444.jpg]

[55555 – Apocalypse End] You failed to stop the Spirit and your nightmare is about to become reality. You wake up to a world engulfed in chaos. What ended life as you knew it? Roll 1d6: (5) Creatures from beyond the darkness of space invaded.  You are not dead. Not yet. In red, overwrite or overdraw what you see now: at the beginning of the end.

[Image: 55555.jpg]

And here is the full collage, turned one way, then the other.

[Image: End1.jpg]
 
[Image: End2.jpg]
Happy Thanksgiving!

_______________
Philippians 4:5b-6
]]> <![CDATA[Pathfinder 1E using Chatgpt - Adventures in Osirion]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Pathfinder-1E-using-Chatgpt-Adventures-in-Osirion Sun, 27 Aug 2023 14:00:52 +0000 AcidTab]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Pathfinder-1E-using-Chatgpt-Adventures-in-Osirion
Combats were fully ran by me using Foundryvtt and the combats are fully written in italics while everything i wrote to the ai in is bold.

My character is a Human Whirling Devish Swashbuckler who worship Serenrae named Qasim. I'll maybe post his backstory (which i fed the ai beforehand).

Also, english isn't my native language so sorry for any grammar mistakes or anything of the sort.


CHAPTER ONE - Rashid's Trail

As the scorching sun casts its golden rays across the sprawling desert landscape of Osirion, the city of Sothis stands as a beacon of civilization amidst the vast sea of sand. Qasim, your Swashbuckler character, finds himself in the heart of the city, amidst the bustling streets filled with market stalls, merchants haggling over prices, and travelers from all corners of Golarion.
The city's central square is dominated by an impressive statue of Sarenrae, her arms outstretched in a gesture of compassion, her radiant visage providing shade to those who seek solace beneath her gaze. The scent of exotic spices wafts through the air as Qasim navigates the crowded market, the sun beating down on his back.
As you wander through the square, a commotion draws your attention. A small crowd has gathered around a makeshift stage where a street performer is attempting to dazzle the onlookers with a juggling act. The performer's colorful clothes and twirling movements create an atmosphere of amusement, but it's clear to your keen eye that this isn't just entertainment. Hidden beneath the performer's showmanship is a masterful pickpocket, deftly relieving unsuspecting bystanders of their belongings.
The crowd seems captivated by the spectacle, but a few distressed faces catch your eye. A young mother clutches her empty coin pouch with a worried expression, and an elderly man pats his pockets frantically, realizing he's been robbed. What would you like to do, Qasim?

Qasim will try a perception check to see what is really happening and try to notice pickpockets amongst the crowd, i rolled a 15 on the perception check, what do i see ?

With your perceptive eyes scanning the scene, you notice the subtle details that most others might miss. As you focus on the street performer's act, you begin to pick up on the telltale signs of pickpocketing. The performer's hands move in calculated patterns, synchronizing perfectly with the distractions caused by their acrobatics and juggling. It becomes evident that this is a coordinated effort to relieve unsuspecting spectators of their valuables.
Amidst the crowd, you spot two individuals who seem to be working in tandem with the performer. They appear to be taking advantage of the distraction, slipping their nimble fingers into pockets and pouches with practiced ease. One of them is a wiry figure with a sly grin, and the other is a young woman with a deceptive air of innocence.

Qasim will approach the man with the sly grin and confront him, saying: "You might want to give these back, i'm not looking for a fight but i saw what you and your little friend over there are doing, and i want you to stop at once."

As you confidently stride towards the man with the sly grin, your voice carries a firm tone that demands attention. The man's grin falters for a moment as he meets your gaze, clearly taken aback by your direct approach. The bustling sounds of the market seem to fade into the background, leaving only the two of you in a tense moment of confrontation.
He raises an eyebrow, feigning innocence, but the nervous flicker in his eyes gives away his true intentions. "I'm not sure what you're talking about, friend. I'm just enjoying the performance like everyone else."
However, your words and unwavering presence have caught the attention of those around you. The young mother you noticed earlier is now watching with a glimmer of hope in her eyes, and the elderly man who was robbed seems intrigued by your intervention.
The man's attempt at denial is flimsy at best, and it's clear he's on the defensive. How would you like to proceed, Qasim?

Qasim will then say "Listen, i'm not here to fight like i said, but i won't hesitate to make your face meet the ground if you don't give these back." Qasim will then turn to the other pickpocket, the woman, and say "This is also about you, although i wouldn't want to strike a woman."

Your words, laced with a mix of determination and restraint, hang heavy in the air. The man's bravado seems to waver further as he assesses the conviction in your stance. He glances at the young woman next to him, a silent exchange passing between them.
Seeing that their ruse is unraveling, the young woman's façade of innocence crumbles. She steps closer, her eyes locked onto yours. "Fine, fine," she mutters with an exasperated sigh, her fingers discreetly returning a few stolen items into her pouch. "We were just trying to survive, you know?"
The man lets out a resigned sigh, then begins to produce the ill-gotten gains he had managed to collect. "We ain't got no quarrel with you, stranger. Just thought we'd take advantage of the crowd."
The scene unfolds as the two pickpockets begrudgingly return the stolen belongings. The young mother approaches with gratitude, her eyes brimming with thanks, while the elderly man chuckles softly, clearly impressed by your actions.
As the tension eases, the street performer finishes their act, unaware of the unfolding drama. The crowd applauds, and a small shower of coins lands in a hat at the performer's feet.
You've managed to defuse the situation and recover the stolen items without resorting to violence. The market's hustle and bustle resumes its normal rhythm, the sun continuing its relentless journey across the sky.

Qasim will then approach the two pickpockets and say "There are other ways to survive around here, other ways to make do, i know poverty, if the two of you are willing, i'm looking for a team to go looking for ancient artifacts in the nearby pyramids and ruins."

The pickpockets exchange surprised glances, clearly taken aback by your unexpected offer. Their expressions shift from skepticism to cautious interest as they contemplate your proposition. The young woman crosses her arms, her gaze narrowing thoughtfully, while the man scratches his chin, seemingly lost in contemplation.
After a moment of silence, the young woman speaks up, her voice tinged with curiosity. "You're serious? You want to take us along on your treasure hunts?"
You nod, your gaze steady and earnest. "Indeed. I've seen your skills in action, and I believe that your talents could be put to better use. There's more to be gained from unearthing history and artifacts than resorting to theft."
The man chuckles, a mixture of amusement and disbelief in his voice. "You're asking us to go from sneaking around pockets to sneaking around pyramids? That's a whole different level, you know."
You offer a reassuring smile. "It's a path that offers redemption and purpose. We can leave behind the shadows and embrace the light of Sarenrae's teachings. Together, we can uncover the mysteries of the past and make a positive impact on the world."
The two pickpockets share another glance, the weight of your words clearly sinking in. After a brief hushed conversation between themselves, they turn back to you.
The young woman extends a hand, her expression a mix of determination and newfound hope. "Alright, stranger. You've got yourself a deal. But remember, if this is just some fancy talk, we won't hesitate to disappear into those shadows again."
With a firm handshake, the pact is sealed. It seems that your journey has taken an unexpected turn, as you've gained two unlikely companions in your quest for ancient artifacts. The sun continues its descent, casting long shadows across the city as you contemplate the adventures that lie ahead.

Qasim will then say "Please, tell me your names, i am Qasim."

The young woman offers a warm smile as she introduces herself, "I'm Leena. You've got yourself a couple of partners in adventure, Qasim."
The man with the sly grin chuckles and extends a hand, "And I'm Malik. Well then, Qasim, it looks like fate's taken us from the streets to the sands."
As the three of you stand amidst the bustling market, a newfound camaraderie begins to form. The sun dips lower in the sky, casting the city in a warm, golden glow. The promise of ancient ruins, untold treasures, and the opportunity for redemption beckons, and your path forward is filled with the anticipation of the adventures to come.

Qasim will now say to his new companions: "Let's not dwell on here too much then, time to go looking for information at the nearest tavern, always a somewhat reliable source of information for treasure huntin' heh"

Leena and Malik share a chuckle at your suggestion, nodding in agreement. "You've got a point, Qasim," Leena says with a grin. "Taverns have a way of attracting all sorts of characters with interesting tidbits of information."
Malik adds, "And who knows, maybe I can even strum up a tune that'll get folks talking. Let's find ourselves a place to gather some leads."
As a group, you make your way through the bustling streets of Sothis, your destination clear in your minds. The sun sets behind the desert horizon, casting the city in the cool hues of twilight. Eventually, you come upon a tavern known as "The Oasis Rest," its doors inviting and its sounds of laughter and conversation spilling into the streets.
Stepping inside, the aroma of spiced food and the sound of lively chatter greet you. The tavern's patrons range from weary travelers to boisterous locals, and the atmosphere is one of camaraderie and shared stories.
What would you like to do in the tavern, Qasim? Are you looking to gather information, strike up conversations, or perhaps perform something to draw attention?

Looking at Malik's flashy clothing and demeanor, Qasim will tell him: "Malik, you seem good at talking am i right ? How about you try to dig something up while i buy us a round of ale ?" and with that Qasim will ask for 3 pints of ale to the bartender

Malik grins at your suggestion, adjusting the collar of his colorful shirt as he responds, "Ah, you've got me pegged, Qasim. I'll see what kind of tales I can spin out of these fine folks."
As Malik sets off to engage in conversations, you make your way to the bar. The bartender, a middle-aged woman with a friendly demeanor, nods at your request and expertly fills three pints of ale. Placing them in front of you, she says, "On the house for you and your friends, stranger. What brings you to The Oasis Rest tonight?"
Taking a sip of the cool ale, you respond, "Just a bit of relaxation after a day in the city. But I also heard that a well-traveled place like this can sometimes hold the keys to certain... endeavors."
The bartender chuckles knowingly, wiping a mug with a cloth. "Aye, you're right about that. If it's tales of adventure and hidden treasures you're after, you've come to the right place. Folks from all walks of life gather here, and you never know who might have a bit of juicy information to share."
As you take in the tavern's atmosphere, you notice Malik weaving his way through the crowd, his melodious voice and charismatic presence drawing the attention of curious patrons.
What would you like to do while Malik strikes up conversations and gathers information, Qasim? Is there anyone in particular you'd like to approach or anything else you'd like to investigate?

Qasim will slide 3 silver pieces on the bar and say "It is of no use to be that generous of you, now would you know of any erm... Person ? That could... Maybe point us in the direction of some freshly discovered ruins ?"

The bartender's eyes catch the glint of the silver pieces as they're placed on the bar. She offers a grateful smile and nods in appreciation before leaning in slightly, her tone lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "Well, you know, there's been talk of a group of explorers who came back from the Wadi of the Dawn, not too far from here. They were whispering about a hidden entrance they stumbled upon in one of the ancient ruins. Word is they found something valuable, but they're keeping hush-hush about the details."
She glances around, ensuring no one's eavesdropping, before continuing. "If you're looking to track them down, you might want to keep an ear out for a fellow by the name of Rashid. He's been seen with them a few times around here, though he's known to be a bit secretive himself."
As she finishes, she straightens up and adopts a more casual demeanor. "But hey, that's just the gossip that floats around these parts. Might be worth looking into, if you're feeling adventurous."
As you ponder the information, Malik joins you at the bar, his usually animated expression now a mix of intrigue and excitement. "Qasim, my friend, you won't believe the stories I've uncovered! There's talk of ancient tombs and lost artifacts aplenty. Our fellow patrons are practically bursting with curiosity and tales."
With this new lead and the excitement in the air, what's your next move, Qasim?

"Well, Malik, let's bring Leena her pint of ale so that we shall discuss of our findings together, i also heard some interesting news that might pick your ear."

Malik's eyes light up at your suggestion, and he nods eagerly. "Sounds like a plan, Qasim! I'm sure Leena will be quite pleased with our discoveries."
You pick up the three pints of ale from the bar and make your way to a corner table where Leena is waiting, her eyes already flickering with curiosity. As you join her, Malik takes a seat as well, his enthusiasm palpable.
Setting the pints on the table, you begin to share the information you gathered from the bartender about the explorers and the hidden entrance in the Wadi of the Dawn. Malik, in turn, regales you and Leena with the stories he gathered from the tavern's patrons – tales of forgotten crypts, untold riches, and the thrill of discovery.
Leena listens intently, her natural stealthiness making her adept at absorbing the details. "So, we've got a name – Rashid – and a potential lead in the Wadi of the Dawn," she muses. "Seems like our next step is to track down this Rashid and see what he knows."
Malik nods in agreement, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. "And with your acrobatics, Qasim, and my gift of gab, we're bound to make quite the impression on whoever we meet."
As you discuss your plans and share your excitement, the prospect of unraveling the mysteries of the Wadi of the Dawn and the hidden entrance beckons. Your trio of unlikely companions, brought together by fate and circumstance, now stand on the cusp of a grand adventure.

Qasim will finish his pint and say look out, how late is it ?

As you glance out of a nearby window, the sun has already dipped below the horizon, leaving behind hues of orange and purple in the sky. The desert night is beginning to cast its cool embrace over the city.
"It seems the day has turned into night, my friends," you announce with a satisfied smile. "Our next steps await us, but perhaps it's best to rest and prepare for what lies ahead. Tomorrow, we embark on a new journey."
Leena stretches her arms and nods in agreement, her rogue instincts reminding her of the importance of a well-rested start. "Agreed. We'll need our wits about us if we're going to navigate those ruins and find this Rashid."
Malik finishes his ale and stands up with a flourish, a mischievous glint in his eye. "And who knows, maybe we'll even find a way to make the night as memorable as the day."
With a shared sense of purpose and a hint of excitement in the air, you and your companions settle your tab and make your way to lodgings for the night. The city's sounds slowly fade into the backdrop as you look forward to the adventures that await you in the days to come.

"Let's all meet here at dawn friends, and pack some food and drinks."

Nods of agreement follow your suggestion. Leena gives a curt nod, her expression determined, while Malik's grin widens. "Dawn it is, Qasim. I'll be sure to have a song ready to welcome the day."
With your plans set, the three of you disperse for the night, each finding rest and preparing for the journey that lies ahead. The desert stars twinkle overhead as the city sleeps, and the promise of a new day filled with adventure and mystery looms on the horizon.
As dawn approaches, the anticipation in your hearts grows stronger. The Oasis Rest will once again become a gathering point for your trio of companions, bound by fate and a shared quest. The sun will rise over the city of Sothis, and your journey will begin anew, in search of ancient ruins, hidden entrances, and the secrets that lie beneath the sands.

As Qasim wakes up from a short night, he starts packing everything he needs and heads straight to the Oasis Rest to meet up with his new companions, are they here when he arrives ?

As the first light of dawn filters through the windows, you rise from your brief rest, a sense of anticipation propelling you forward. You gather your belongings and make your way through the quiet streets of Sothis. The city is just beginning to stir, its residents slowly awakening to the new day.
Upon reaching The Oasis Rest, you find that the tavern's doors are already open, its interior softly illuminated by the early morning light. The scent of fresh bread and brewed tea fills the air as the tavern's staff goes about their preparations for the day.
As you enter, you see that Leena is already there, sitting at the corner table you occupied last night. She's sipping on a cup of tea, her gear neatly arranged beside her. She looks up as you approach and offers a nod of acknowledgment.
Malik, on the other hand, seems to have embraced the morning's spirit. He stands by the open window, his fingers gently strumming a lively tune on his lute. The music dances on the cool morning breeze, infusing the room with a sense of energy.
Seeing you, Malik turns with a flourish and grins. "Qasim! Rise and shine, my friend. I thought I'd greet the day with a melody to set the mood."
With your companions gathered, the sun begins to rise in earnest, its warm rays filtering through the tavern's windows. The day stretches before you, full of promise and adventure.
What would you like to do now, Qasim?

"Let's head for this... Wadi of the Dawn was it ? Anyway we should first look for Rashid i reckon." After a brief pause, Qasim will continue "Does anyone of you know what this Wadi of the Dawn is exactly ?"

Leena takes a sip of her tea before responding, "The Wadi of the Dawn is a stretch of desert not too far from here. It's said to be dotted with ancient ruins and tombs, remnants of civilizations long gone. The name comes from the way the sun's first light hits the dunes, creating a breathtaking spectacle."
Malik chimes in, his fingers idly plucking at his lute strings. "Legends speak of hidden chambers and forgotten treasures within the wadi's depths. If we're going after Rashid and the entrance he knows of, we might find ourselves navigating those very sands."
Leena nods in agreement. "And as for Rashid, we might need to inquire around town, see if anyone knows where he frequents or if he's been spotted recently."
With a plan forming and the knowledge you need, your trio sets its sights on both Rashid and the Wadi of the Dawn. The city's morning activities are in full swing outside the tavern's windows, but inside, a sense of purpose and adventure prevails.

Does Qasim know about any black market kind of area in the city ? Illegal places to get information ? I rolled a 10 on my knowledge (local) check.

With your roll of 10 on the knowledge check, you recall that Sothis, being a bustling and diverse city, likely has some underground or black market establishments where one could acquire information that might not be readily available in more public places. While you might not have specific details, you're aware that such places tend to cater to various unsavory activities, including information brokering.
You share this thought with Leena and Malik, and they both seem to agree that looking into the black market might yield some leads. "It's worth a shot," Leena says, her tone suggesting that she's no stranger to the darker side of the city. "Rashid might have connections to people who know their way around the secrets of this place."
Malik nods thoughtfully. "And if anyone knows where to find the elusive Rashid, it's likely those who thrive in the shadows."
With a direction in mind, your trio leaves The Oasis Rest, ready to explore the less savory corners of Sothis in search of information about Rashid and the entrance to the Wadi of the Dawn. The city's underbelly awaits, promising intrigue and perhaps some challenges along the way.

Qasim will turn to Leena and say "Lead the way, i believe you know where to find the black market."

Leena nods in response to your request. "I've heard whispers about a place called the 'Shadows' Embrace,' a known gathering spot for those looking to deal in secrets and information." She glances at Malik and you. "It's a bit hidden and not exactly advertised, but if we're looking for the right kind of connections, that's where we should head."
Guided by Leena's knowledge and instincts, your trio sets off through the streets of Sothis, navigating through alleys and backstreets that are less traveled by the average citizen. After a series of turns, Leena brings you to a nondescript building, its facade unremarkable and inconspicuous.
With a quick glance around to make sure no one is watching, Leena leads the way to a seemingly ordinary door. She knocks in a specific pattern, and after a moment, a small slit opens, revealing a pair of cautious eyes. A few whispered words are exchanged, and the door creaks open, revealing a dimly lit interior.
Inside, the atmosphere is hushed, with low conversations murmuring in the background. The space is filled with a motley assortment of individuals – hooded figures, shady-looking traders, and even a few mercenaries nursing drinks.
As you step inside, Leena turns to you and the others. "Let's be discreet and keep our purpose low-key. We're here for information, not to stir up trouble."

"Leena, do you recognize anyone here, a friendly face with whom we might engage in a conversation, potentially leading us to Rashid ?"

Leena scans the room, her eyes narrowed in concentration as she searches for any familiar faces or individuals who might be open to sharing information. After a moment, her gaze settles on a figure seated at a corner table – a weathered man with a scar across his cheek and a patch over one eye. He seems engrossed in conversation with a few others, occasionally casting a sharp glance around the room.
Leena leans in slightly to speak to you and Malik. "See that man with the eye patch? That's Aric. He's got a reputation for knowing more than he lets on. If anyone's heard of Rashid or the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn, it might be him."
Malik's fingers tap lightly on the table, his thoughtful expression matching the seriousness of the situation. "All right, then. Let's approach him carefully, gather what information we can, and see if he's willing to share."
With a shared nod, your trio makes its way towards Aric's table. The Shadows' Embrace continues its low-key activities around you, the atmosphere thick with tension and the unspoken promise of hidden truths.
As you approach Aric's table, what would you like to say or do, Qasim? How do you plan to initiate the conversation and inquire about Rashid and the entrance to the Wadi of the Dawn?

Qasim will calmly approach Aric and say "Are you Aric, my name is Qasim, i'm looking for information and i've got some coin."

Aric's one-eyed gaze shifts from the conversation he was engaged in to you, assessing you and your companions with a mixture of caution and curiosity. He takes a sip from his drink before responding, his voice a low, gravelly rumble. "Qasim, huh? Coin can be a convincing conversation starter, but it depends on what kind of information you're after."
He eyes you expectantly, his eye patch lending an air of mystery to his already weathered appearance. The surrounding murmurs of the Shadows' Embrace continue, seemingly indifferent to the exchange happening at Aric's table.

"I am looking for a certain Rashid, and indirectly some information on some ruins down in the Wadi of the Dawn."

Aric's remaining eye narrows as he listens to your request, his scarred face unreadable. He leans back slightly, as if assessing your sincerity and intent. "Rashid, huh? That name holds its own share of secrets," he muses, taking another slow sip of his drink. "And the Wadi of the Dawn... Well, that's a place where even shadows have their stories."
He seems to be testing you, gauging your reaction to his words. It's clear that Aric is not one to give away information easily, even with the promise of coin.
Malik, sensing the need for a more subtle approach, steps forward with a charming smile. "My friend, we're seekers of adventure, of stories that few dare to tell. We're not here to cause trouble, only to uncover the mysteries that lie beneath the sands. If you know anything about Rashid or the secrets of the Wadi, your insights could be greatly rewarded."
Aric studies Malik for a moment, his scarred features softening ever so slightly. "Coin can open doors, but trust opens hearts. If you're truly seekers of truth and not just mercenaries after treasure, then perhaps we can find some common ground."
The tension in the air seems to ease as Aric leans forward, his one eye locking onto yours, Qasim. "Tell me more about your intentions and why Rashid's trail has led you to the Wadi of the Dawn."
What would you like to share with Aric to convince him of your sincerity, Qasim? How do you plan to open up and build that trust he's seeking?

"Saying that this isn't about the coin would be lying and i am no liar, but i am not a mere coin-chaser. My heart burns with a desire for discoveries, see, when i was a few years younger, i found a book in some deprecated ruins... This book was the very book that taught me swordsmanship, it taught me a way of life. I am here for the coin yes, but for the knowledge first."

Aric's eye remains fixed on you as you speak, his expression thoughtful as he weighs your words. The background noise of the tavern seems to fade away, leaving just the two of you in a moment of connection.
As you finish sharing your story, he leans back in his chair, his demeanor somewhat softened. "A book that changed your life, hm? You've got fire in your words, Qasim. I can appreciate that."
He gestures to the empty chair across from him. "Join me, both of you. If you're truly seekers of knowledge and not just looking to fill your pockets, then I might have something for you."
You and your companions take the offered seats, the tension in the air dissipating further. Aric regards each of you in turn before continuing.
"Rashid is known to deal in artifacts, relics of ages past. He's been seen around here, whispering of secrets and hidden treasures. But he's a cautious one, doesn't give much away." Aric's gaze turns toward the dimly lit corners of the tavern. "The Wadi of the Dawn... It's a place where the sand has preserved the past, and where danger and reward go hand in hand."
He leans in, his voice lowering even further. "If you're set on finding Rashid and delving into those ruins, there's a contact he's known to meet – a woman named Zara. She's got her fingers in more than one pie and could point you in the right direction. But tread carefully, for there are those who would rather see such knowledge remain hidden."
With this new lead and Aric's cautious advice, you realize that your journey is far from over. The challenges and dangers of the Wadi of the Dawn await, but so do its secrets.

"Well, Aric, it was nice meeting you" Qasim says, giving him 10 silver pieces, he then turns to the group "Let's find this Zara, shall we ?"

Aric accepts the silver pieces with a nod, his eye crinkling at the corners in what might be a faint smile. "A pleasure, Qasim. Remember, knowledge can be a dangerous currency, but it's worth the risk if you seek the truth."
Leaving the dimly lit interior of the Shadows' Embrace behind, your trio steps back into the bustling streets of Sothis. The morning has progressed, and the city is now fully awake and alive with activity.
Leena adjusts her gear, her eyes focused on the task ahead. "Zara, then. Let's see if we can track her down and gather more information about Rashid and the entrance to the Wadi of the Dawn."
Malik strikes a chord on his lute, the music harmonizing with the city's energy. "Indeed! The threads of this tale are beginning to intertwine, and it's up to us to follow them."
With a shared sense of purpose and newfound knowledge, you and your companions set out to find this woman named Zara. The city's streets stretch before you, each step bringing you closer to the next chapter of your adventure.
Where would you like to start your search for Zara, Qasim? Are there any particular areas or methods you'd like to employ to track down this key to Rashid's whereabouts?

"Alright, let's all separate, ask around town for this Zara woman and then let's meet up at the Oasis Rest !"

Leena and Malik both nod in agreement, understanding the plan. "Sounds like a solid approach," Leena says, her instincts already guiding her thoughts. "We'll canvas the city, ask discreetly, and hopefully gather enough information to pinpoint Zara's location."
Malik's lute slung over his shoulder, he adds with a wink, "And if anyone has information, a catchy tune might make them more likely to share."
With your plan set, your trio disperses into the bustling streets of Sothis. Each of you sets out on your own path, weaving through the city's diverse neighborhoods, markets, and gathering places in search of any whisper or clue that might lead to Zara.
Hours pass, and as the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, you find yourselves once again outside The Oasis Rest, the designated meeting place. Leena arrives first, followed shortly by Malik, both wearing expressions that suggest they've gathered some information.
As you all gather, Leena speaks first. "I managed to find a merchant who mentioned Zara. Seems she has a hand in acquiring and selling various goods, legal or otherwise. She's known to frequent the trade district, often around the cloth merchant stalls."
Malik follows up, a twinkle in his eye. "And I chatted with a street performer who had crossed paths with Zara. Apparently, she's quite the enigmatic character, known to strike deals under the guise of trading secrets."
With the pieces of information gathered, your quest for Zara's whereabouts progresses. The sun casts long shadows as you stand before The Oasis Rest, the anticipation of your next move palpable.

"Let's go there right now, did any of you get a physical description of what she looks like ?"

Leena and Malik exchange glances, and Leena nods at your question. "I managed to gather a general description. Zara is said to be a woman of average height, with a scarf often wrapped around her head and a tendency to wear vibrant clothing that draws attention."
Malik chimes in, "And rumor has it that she's got a way with words, persuasive and shrewd. We'll need to keep our wits about us when we approach her."
With the description in mind, your trio sets off toward the trade district, the sun now casting a warm, golden light over the city. The bustling market area is alive with activity, vendors hawking their wares, and shoppers bustling about.
As you walk through the market, your eyes scan the crowd for anyone who matches the description of Zara. It doesn't take long before Leena's keen senses catch a glimpse of a woman with a scarf wrapped around her head, standing near a collection of vibrant fabrics.
Leena subtly gestures in Zara's direction, catching your attention.

Qasim will approach Zara, a bit unsure of himself and then finally discreetly say "Why hello there, might you be the one named Zara by any chance ?"

As you approach Zara, she turns her attention toward you, her gaze assessing. Her scarf, colorful and eye-catching, frames her face, and her expression seems to hold a mixture of curiosity and caution. She's surrounded by bolts of fabric, her presence both blending into and standing out from the vibrant market surroundings.
At your question, Zara raises an eyebrow, her lips curving into a faint smile. "Well now, who's asking?" Her voice is smooth and measured, each word carrying a weight of hidden intent.
Leena and Malik remain nearby, ready to provide support if needed, but also ensuring they don't appear overtly connected to your conversation.

Qasim will ease up the conversation, trying to be as diplomatic as possible: "My name is Qasim, a humble ruin-seeker and desert dweller. I happen to be looking for information. You see i have a deal to strike with a fellow named Rashid, whom from what information i possess, you might know." I rolled a 21 on my diplomacy check.

Zara's expression shifts slightly, her curiosity piqued by your words. She studies you for a moment, seemingly assessing the authenticity of your demeanor and words. Your approach appears to have struck a chord, and her guarded demeanor softens just a touch.
"Well, Qasim, a ruin-seeker you say?" She seems to weigh your words carefully. "And Rashid, hm? He's not an easy man to track down, let alone strike a deal with."
Her eyes seem to hold a glint of challenge, as if testing your resolve. "But you strike me as someone not easily deterred. If you're after information or perhaps something more, you might just have my attention."
The market bustles around you, the rhythm of the city carrying the weight of your conversation.

"I also know that you deal in secrets, but what will it take to convince you to share some information with me ? Coin ? Secrets ? Something else entirely, a service ?"

Zara's gaze remains fixed on you, her contemplative expression giving away little. She seems to consider your words carefully, weighing your offer against her own interests.
"Secrets are my trade, Qasim," she responds, her voice holding a note of intrigue. "And while coin can be persuasive, it's not always the most valuable currency in my line of work."
She steps closer, her presence drawing you into her confidence. "Rashid's dealings are known to me, but they're closely guarded. If you truly seek the path he walks, you must understand that the information I possess is precious."
She leans in slightly, her words carrying a weight of challenge. "Tell me, Qasim, what secret of your own are you willing to share? Sometimes, it's the offering of trust that opens the doors we seek."
The bustling market seems to fade into the background as you stand before Zara, your intentions and her interests colliding in a delicate balance.

I would like to attempt a sense motive check to try to know what kind of secrets is she after specifically, i rolled a 14 on my sense motive check, what do i learn ?

As you carefully observe Zara's expressions and listen to her words, you sense that she's looking for more than just a simple exchange of information. Her demeanor suggests that she's interested in a deeper level of trust and connection, perhaps a personal revelation that would demonstrate your sincerity and commitment to the cause.
The subtleties in her gaze and the way she holds herself lead you to believe that she values authenticity and a genuine willingness to open up. It's less about the content of the secret itself and more about the act of sharing something meaningful and personal.
With this insight, you understand that Zara's request for a secret isn't necessarily tied to a specific type of information, but rather to your willingness to demonstrate trust and vulnerability.
How do you plan to respond to Zara's challenge and secure her cooperation in revealing information about Rashid ?

"Well, i have no secrets in the proper sense of the term, but stories i might provide. I could tell you about my life, i was born in this very city, in a modest family of swordsman and performers who all worshipped the Dawnflower. I followed her teachings of good-doing and helping the ones in need while also snooping around forgotten ruins where only corpses where left, some inanimate, some very much animated. In one of those ancient temple i found a book about an ancient style of swordsmanship that had been lost to time and practiced everyday what i could understand from the old leatherbound tome. This tome is still in my possession and is the key to the secrets of my swordsmanship."

Zara's eyes remain fixed on you as you share your story, her gaze unwavering. The bustling sounds of the market seem to fade into the background, leaving just the two of you in this moment of connection.
As you speak of your upbringing, your devotion to Sarenrae, and your discovery of the ancient swordsmanship tome, you see a flicker of interest in her eyes. She listens intently, seemingly drawn in by your words.
When you finish, there's a pause, a weight of consideration in the air. Zara's expression shifts, a glint of something like approval crossing her features. "Your story holds its own kind of secrets, Qasim. The path you've walked, the knowledge you've uncovered – these are the kinds of truths that resonate with those who value both history and the present."
She takes a step back, her demeanor returning to its guarded state but with a hint of warmth. "Rashid moves through shadows and whispers, but you've shared a part of yourself that few might know. For that, I'm willing to give you a glimpse into his world."
With a subtle motion, Zara produces a small piece of parchment from within her garments, handing it to you. "This is the location where Rashid is rumored to make his dealings. Approach with caution, for the path you tread is not without its risks."
As you take the parchment, your gaze meets hers, a mutual understanding passing between you.

I turn back to Leena and Malik, parchment in hand "We got ourselves our lead, let's find Rashid, this is our new order of business."

Leena and Malik nod in unison, their expressions determined and ready for the next step. "Finally," Leena says, a hint of excitement in her voice. "We're closing in on Rashid and the secrets he holds."
Malik strums a chord on his lute, the sound harmonizing with the energy of the moment. "Indeed, the threads of fate are converging. Let's make our way to this location and see what unfolds."
With your trio united once again and a new lead in hand, you leave the vibrant market behind, the anticipation of the unknown ahead. The city of Sothis seems to hold its breath, the sun casting long shadows as you set out to find Rashid and uncover the mysteries of the Wadi of the Dawn.
As you head toward the location mentioned on the parchment, your journey continues, and the path you tread becomes more intricate with each step.

"The path to his dealings is rumored to be a precarious one, just like Zara said. I say we go to the tavern and try to get another member in our party, sharing the loot between four persons isn't that hard and i think we might be needing some help"

Leena nods in agreement. "Another capable hand could prove invaluable, especially if we're entering potentially dangerous territory. Let's head to the tavern and see if we can find someone with the skills we need."
Malik adds with a grin, "And who knows, they might have their own stories and secrets to share."
With your decision made, your trio turns and makes its way back to The Oasis Rest, the bustling sounds of the city filling the air. As you enter the familiar tavern, you scan the room for potential recruits, seeking a new companion to join your quest for Rashid and the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn.

Qasim will turn to Malik "Malik, could you perhaps use your social skills to try and find someone suitable to accompany us in this quest ?"

Malik nods in response to your request. "Of course, my friend. Leave the social navigation to me."
With a confident stride, Malik approaches the tavern's patrons, his charming smile and easy demeanor making him a natural at striking up conversations. He engages in discussions, listens to stories, and scans the room for individuals who might be suited to join your quest.
After a little while, Malik returns to your table with a satisfied expression. "I've had a chat with a seasoned tracker named Ramiel. He's got a knack for navigating the wilderness and uncovering hidden paths. He's intrigued by our quest and seems willing to join forces."
Leena leans in, intrigued by the development. "A tracker could be just what we need, especially if the path to Rashid's dealings is as treacherous as we've heard."
Malik nods in agreement. "Indeed. I've arranged for him to meet us here tomorrow morning. We can discuss the details of our quest and see if our goals align."
With a new potential companion on the horizon, your trio's circle expands, and the possibilities for your quest become even more intriguing.

"Then let's head to bed for the night, tomorrow we speak with Ramiel and if he agrees to accompany us, we'll be departing to see Rashid"

With your plans set for the next day's meeting with Ramiel, your trio finishes up at the tavern and heads to your respective lodgings for a well-deserved night's rest. The city of Sothis gradually quiets down as the moon rises, casting its gentle light over the desert landscape.
The anticipation of the coming day's events lingers in the air as you settle into your bed. Thoughts of the path you've walked, the secrets you've uncovered, and the challenges that lie ahead fill your mind.
As you drift into sleep, the promise of a new dawn and the continuation of your quest await.
The next morning, you awaken with renewed purpose, ready to meet with Ramiel and discuss the potential partnership that could shape the course of your adventure. The city of Sothis wakes once again, and the sun begins its ascent over the horizon.
Your journey continues, and the story of Qasim, Leena, Malik, and now Ramiel, unfolds with each step.

I will meet with Leena, Malik and Ramiel around a meal at the Oasis Rest

As the morning sun bathes the city of Sothis in a warm glow, you and your companions gather once again at The Oasis Rest, ready to meet with Ramiel. The bustling sounds of the city filter in through the windows, creating a lively backdrop for your discussions.
Leena, Malik, and you sit at a table, anticipation in the air as you wait for Ramiel's arrival. The scents of breakfast waft from the kitchen, mingling with the sounds of distant conversations and the occasional clatter of dishes.
Not long after, the tavern's entrance swings open, and a figure steps inside – Ramiel, the seasoned tracker. He scans the room briefly before spotting your table and making his way over. His attire is practical, his gaze steady, and a faint air of wilderness surrounds him.
"Good morning," he greets with a nod as he takes a seat. "I've heard from Malik about your quest. It's not often I come across opportunities that mix adventure and purpose."
Leena smiles, extending a welcoming hand. "We're glad you're interested, Ramiel. We believe your skills could be a valuable asset in our pursuit of Rashid and the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn."
Malik chimes in, his lute leaning against his chair. "Indeed, the threads of fate have brought us together, and with you on board, our chances of success increase."
Ramiel's expression is thoughtful as he considers your words. "I've spent my life navigating the deserts and uncovering the hidden paths they hold. If there are secrets to be found, I've got a nose for them."
With introductions made and the potential for partnership on the table, you find yourselves at a crossroads – the opportunity to discuss the terms of Ramiel's involvement and solidify your party for the journey ahead.

Qasim will finish up his meal, get up with his hand on his belt holding his scimitar and say "Then let us discover what information Rashid can offer us" At the same time, Qasim will read the exact instructions on where to find Rashid

As you rise from your meal and place your hand on the hilt of your scimitar, a tangible sense of determination fills the air. Your companions follow suit, their readiness evident in their expressions.
With the parchment in hand, you unfold it and read the instructions carefully. The message is succinct, detailing a location outside the city walls where Rashid's dealings are rumored to take place. It's a spot known to be remote and discreet, fitting the enigmatic nature of the man you seek.
Leena, Malik, and Ramiel gather around as you read, their attention focused on the details. After you finish, Leena nods in agreement. "It seems we're about to embark on a path that's both challenging and potentially rewarding. Let's not waste any more time."
Malik strums a soft chord on his lute, his fingers dancing over the strings. "Indeed, the road ahead is calling, and we're ready to answer."
Ramiel's gaze is steady, his rugged demeanor a testament to his experience in the wild. "I'm in. If this Rashid holds secrets, then he's piqued my interest."
With your team united, the next steps are clear. The desert awaits, and the mysteries of the Wadi of the Dawn beckon. Your party's purpose is defined, and the journey you're about to undertake holds the promise of discovery, danger, and the forging of bonds.

"Well, if everyone is ready, i propose we leave at once, time is of the essence and we've already lingered in here for too long. The proper adventure is finally starting !"

With unanimous agreement, your party rises from the table, the anticipation of the adventure ahead palpable. You step out of The Oasis Rest and into the bright sunlight of the desert city. The bustling streets of Sothis seem to fade away as you set your sights on the path that awaits.
As you leave the city behind, the desert stretches before you, its golden sands and endless horizon a canvas for your journey. With Leena, Malik, and Ramiel by your side, each step carries you closer to the enigmatic Rashid and the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn.
The sun hangs high in the sky, casting a warm light over the desert landscape as you travel. The road is open, the winds whispering tales of past and present. Your party's purpose is clear, your determination unshaken, and the path ahead filled with challenges and possibilities.
As the first leg of your adventure unfolds, the destiny you seek to shape moves ever closer. What lies beyond the dunes? What secrets will you uncover? The story of Qasim and his companions continues, and the desert sands carry your footsteps toward the unknown.]]>
Combats were fully ran by me using Foundryvtt and the combats are fully written in italics while everything i wrote to the ai in is bold.

My character is a Human Whirling Devish Swashbuckler who worship Serenrae named Qasim. I'll maybe post his backstory (which i fed the ai beforehand).

Also, english isn't my native language so sorry for any grammar mistakes or anything of the sort.


CHAPTER ONE - Rashid's Trail

As the scorching sun casts its golden rays across the sprawling desert landscape of Osirion, the city of Sothis stands as a beacon of civilization amidst the vast sea of sand. Qasim, your Swashbuckler character, finds himself in the heart of the city, amidst the bustling streets filled with market stalls, merchants haggling over prices, and travelers from all corners of Golarion.
The city's central square is dominated by an impressive statue of Sarenrae, her arms outstretched in a gesture of compassion, her radiant visage providing shade to those who seek solace beneath her gaze. The scent of exotic spices wafts through the air as Qasim navigates the crowded market, the sun beating down on his back.
As you wander through the square, a commotion draws your attention. A small crowd has gathered around a makeshift stage where a street performer is attempting to dazzle the onlookers with a juggling act. The performer's colorful clothes and twirling movements create an atmosphere of amusement, but it's clear to your keen eye that this isn't just entertainment. Hidden beneath the performer's showmanship is a masterful pickpocket, deftly relieving unsuspecting bystanders of their belongings.
The crowd seems captivated by the spectacle, but a few distressed faces catch your eye. A young mother clutches her empty coin pouch with a worried expression, and an elderly man pats his pockets frantically, realizing he's been robbed. What would you like to do, Qasim?

Qasim will try a perception check to see what is really happening and try to notice pickpockets amongst the crowd, i rolled a 15 on the perception check, what do i see ?

With your perceptive eyes scanning the scene, you notice the subtle details that most others might miss. As you focus on the street performer's act, you begin to pick up on the telltale signs of pickpocketing. The performer's hands move in calculated patterns, synchronizing perfectly with the distractions caused by their acrobatics and juggling. It becomes evident that this is a coordinated effort to relieve unsuspecting spectators of their valuables.
Amidst the crowd, you spot two individuals who seem to be working in tandem with the performer. They appear to be taking advantage of the distraction, slipping their nimble fingers into pockets and pouches with practiced ease. One of them is a wiry figure with a sly grin, and the other is a young woman with a deceptive air of innocence.

Qasim will approach the man with the sly grin and confront him, saying: "You might want to give these back, i'm not looking for a fight but i saw what you and your little friend over there are doing, and i want you to stop at once."

As you confidently stride towards the man with the sly grin, your voice carries a firm tone that demands attention. The man's grin falters for a moment as he meets your gaze, clearly taken aback by your direct approach. The bustling sounds of the market seem to fade into the background, leaving only the two of you in a tense moment of confrontation.
He raises an eyebrow, feigning innocence, but the nervous flicker in his eyes gives away his true intentions. "I'm not sure what you're talking about, friend. I'm just enjoying the performance like everyone else."
However, your words and unwavering presence have caught the attention of those around you. The young mother you noticed earlier is now watching with a glimmer of hope in her eyes, and the elderly man who was robbed seems intrigued by your intervention.
The man's attempt at denial is flimsy at best, and it's clear he's on the defensive. How would you like to proceed, Qasim?

Qasim will then say "Listen, i'm not here to fight like i said, but i won't hesitate to make your face meet the ground if you don't give these back." Qasim will then turn to the other pickpocket, the woman, and say "This is also about you, although i wouldn't want to strike a woman."

Your words, laced with a mix of determination and restraint, hang heavy in the air. The man's bravado seems to waver further as he assesses the conviction in your stance. He glances at the young woman next to him, a silent exchange passing between them.
Seeing that their ruse is unraveling, the young woman's façade of innocence crumbles. She steps closer, her eyes locked onto yours. "Fine, fine," she mutters with an exasperated sigh, her fingers discreetly returning a few stolen items into her pouch. "We were just trying to survive, you know?"
The man lets out a resigned sigh, then begins to produce the ill-gotten gains he had managed to collect. "We ain't got no quarrel with you, stranger. Just thought we'd take advantage of the crowd."
The scene unfolds as the two pickpockets begrudgingly return the stolen belongings. The young mother approaches with gratitude, her eyes brimming with thanks, while the elderly man chuckles softly, clearly impressed by your actions.
As the tension eases, the street performer finishes their act, unaware of the unfolding drama. The crowd applauds, and a small shower of coins lands in a hat at the performer's feet.
You've managed to defuse the situation and recover the stolen items without resorting to violence. The market's hustle and bustle resumes its normal rhythm, the sun continuing its relentless journey across the sky.

Qasim will then approach the two pickpockets and say "There are other ways to survive around here, other ways to make do, i know poverty, if the two of you are willing, i'm looking for a team to go looking for ancient artifacts in the nearby pyramids and ruins."

The pickpockets exchange surprised glances, clearly taken aback by your unexpected offer. Their expressions shift from skepticism to cautious interest as they contemplate your proposition. The young woman crosses her arms, her gaze narrowing thoughtfully, while the man scratches his chin, seemingly lost in contemplation.
After a moment of silence, the young woman speaks up, her voice tinged with curiosity. "You're serious? You want to take us along on your treasure hunts?"
You nod, your gaze steady and earnest. "Indeed. I've seen your skills in action, and I believe that your talents could be put to better use. There's more to be gained from unearthing history and artifacts than resorting to theft."
The man chuckles, a mixture of amusement and disbelief in his voice. "You're asking us to go from sneaking around pockets to sneaking around pyramids? That's a whole different level, you know."
You offer a reassuring smile. "It's a path that offers redemption and purpose. We can leave behind the shadows and embrace the light of Sarenrae's teachings. Together, we can uncover the mysteries of the past and make a positive impact on the world."
The two pickpockets share another glance, the weight of your words clearly sinking in. After a brief hushed conversation between themselves, they turn back to you.
The young woman extends a hand, her expression a mix of determination and newfound hope. "Alright, stranger. You've got yourself a deal. But remember, if this is just some fancy talk, we won't hesitate to disappear into those shadows again."
With a firm handshake, the pact is sealed. It seems that your journey has taken an unexpected turn, as you've gained two unlikely companions in your quest for ancient artifacts. The sun continues its descent, casting long shadows across the city as you contemplate the adventures that lie ahead.

Qasim will then say "Please, tell me your names, i am Qasim."

The young woman offers a warm smile as she introduces herself, "I'm Leena. You've got yourself a couple of partners in adventure, Qasim."
The man with the sly grin chuckles and extends a hand, "And I'm Malik. Well then, Qasim, it looks like fate's taken us from the streets to the sands."
As the three of you stand amidst the bustling market, a newfound camaraderie begins to form. The sun dips lower in the sky, casting the city in a warm, golden glow. The promise of ancient ruins, untold treasures, and the opportunity for redemption beckons, and your path forward is filled with the anticipation of the adventures to come.

Qasim will now say to his new companions: "Let's not dwell on here too much then, time to go looking for information at the nearest tavern, always a somewhat reliable source of information for treasure huntin' heh"

Leena and Malik share a chuckle at your suggestion, nodding in agreement. "You've got a point, Qasim," Leena says with a grin. "Taverns have a way of attracting all sorts of characters with interesting tidbits of information."
Malik adds, "And who knows, maybe I can even strum up a tune that'll get folks talking. Let's find ourselves a place to gather some leads."
As a group, you make your way through the bustling streets of Sothis, your destination clear in your minds. The sun sets behind the desert horizon, casting the city in the cool hues of twilight. Eventually, you come upon a tavern known as "The Oasis Rest," its doors inviting and its sounds of laughter and conversation spilling into the streets.
Stepping inside, the aroma of spiced food and the sound of lively chatter greet you. The tavern's patrons range from weary travelers to boisterous locals, and the atmosphere is one of camaraderie and shared stories.
What would you like to do in the tavern, Qasim? Are you looking to gather information, strike up conversations, or perhaps perform something to draw attention?

Looking at Malik's flashy clothing and demeanor, Qasim will tell him: "Malik, you seem good at talking am i right ? How about you try to dig something up while i buy us a round of ale ?" and with that Qasim will ask for 3 pints of ale to the bartender

Malik grins at your suggestion, adjusting the collar of his colorful shirt as he responds, "Ah, you've got me pegged, Qasim. I'll see what kind of tales I can spin out of these fine folks."
As Malik sets off to engage in conversations, you make your way to the bar. The bartender, a middle-aged woman with a friendly demeanor, nods at your request and expertly fills three pints of ale. Placing them in front of you, she says, "On the house for you and your friends, stranger. What brings you to The Oasis Rest tonight?"
Taking a sip of the cool ale, you respond, "Just a bit of relaxation after a day in the city. But I also heard that a well-traveled place like this can sometimes hold the keys to certain... endeavors."
The bartender chuckles knowingly, wiping a mug with a cloth. "Aye, you're right about that. If it's tales of adventure and hidden treasures you're after, you've come to the right place. Folks from all walks of life gather here, and you never know who might have a bit of juicy information to share."
As you take in the tavern's atmosphere, you notice Malik weaving his way through the crowd, his melodious voice and charismatic presence drawing the attention of curious patrons.
What would you like to do while Malik strikes up conversations and gathers information, Qasim? Is there anyone in particular you'd like to approach or anything else you'd like to investigate?

Qasim will slide 3 silver pieces on the bar and say "It is of no use to be that generous of you, now would you know of any erm... Person ? That could... Maybe point us in the direction of some freshly discovered ruins ?"

The bartender's eyes catch the glint of the silver pieces as they're placed on the bar. She offers a grateful smile and nods in appreciation before leaning in slightly, her tone lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "Well, you know, there's been talk of a group of explorers who came back from the Wadi of the Dawn, not too far from here. They were whispering about a hidden entrance they stumbled upon in one of the ancient ruins. Word is they found something valuable, but they're keeping hush-hush about the details."
She glances around, ensuring no one's eavesdropping, before continuing. "If you're looking to track them down, you might want to keep an ear out for a fellow by the name of Rashid. He's been seen with them a few times around here, though he's known to be a bit secretive himself."
As she finishes, she straightens up and adopts a more casual demeanor. "But hey, that's just the gossip that floats around these parts. Might be worth looking into, if you're feeling adventurous."
As you ponder the information, Malik joins you at the bar, his usually animated expression now a mix of intrigue and excitement. "Qasim, my friend, you won't believe the stories I've uncovered! There's talk of ancient tombs and lost artifacts aplenty. Our fellow patrons are practically bursting with curiosity and tales."
With this new lead and the excitement in the air, what's your next move, Qasim?

"Well, Malik, let's bring Leena her pint of ale so that we shall discuss of our findings together, i also heard some interesting news that might pick your ear."

Malik's eyes light up at your suggestion, and he nods eagerly. "Sounds like a plan, Qasim! I'm sure Leena will be quite pleased with our discoveries."
You pick up the three pints of ale from the bar and make your way to a corner table where Leena is waiting, her eyes already flickering with curiosity. As you join her, Malik takes a seat as well, his enthusiasm palpable.
Setting the pints on the table, you begin to share the information you gathered from the bartender about the explorers and the hidden entrance in the Wadi of the Dawn. Malik, in turn, regales you and Leena with the stories he gathered from the tavern's patrons – tales of forgotten crypts, untold riches, and the thrill of discovery.
Leena listens intently, her natural stealthiness making her adept at absorbing the details. "So, we've got a name – Rashid – and a potential lead in the Wadi of the Dawn," she muses. "Seems like our next step is to track down this Rashid and see what he knows."
Malik nods in agreement, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. "And with your acrobatics, Qasim, and my gift of gab, we're bound to make quite the impression on whoever we meet."
As you discuss your plans and share your excitement, the prospect of unraveling the mysteries of the Wadi of the Dawn and the hidden entrance beckons. Your trio of unlikely companions, brought together by fate and circumstance, now stand on the cusp of a grand adventure.

Qasim will finish his pint and say look out, how late is it ?

As you glance out of a nearby window, the sun has already dipped below the horizon, leaving behind hues of orange and purple in the sky. The desert night is beginning to cast its cool embrace over the city.
"It seems the day has turned into night, my friends," you announce with a satisfied smile. "Our next steps await us, but perhaps it's best to rest and prepare for what lies ahead. Tomorrow, we embark on a new journey."
Leena stretches her arms and nods in agreement, her rogue instincts reminding her of the importance of a well-rested start. "Agreed. We'll need our wits about us if we're going to navigate those ruins and find this Rashid."
Malik finishes his ale and stands up with a flourish, a mischievous glint in his eye. "And who knows, maybe we'll even find a way to make the night as memorable as the day."
With a shared sense of purpose and a hint of excitement in the air, you and your companions settle your tab and make your way to lodgings for the night. The city's sounds slowly fade into the backdrop as you look forward to the adventures that await you in the days to come.

"Let's all meet here at dawn friends, and pack some food and drinks."

Nods of agreement follow your suggestion. Leena gives a curt nod, her expression determined, while Malik's grin widens. "Dawn it is, Qasim. I'll be sure to have a song ready to welcome the day."
With your plans set, the three of you disperse for the night, each finding rest and preparing for the journey that lies ahead. The desert stars twinkle overhead as the city sleeps, and the promise of a new day filled with adventure and mystery looms on the horizon.
As dawn approaches, the anticipation in your hearts grows stronger. The Oasis Rest will once again become a gathering point for your trio of companions, bound by fate and a shared quest. The sun will rise over the city of Sothis, and your journey will begin anew, in search of ancient ruins, hidden entrances, and the secrets that lie beneath the sands.

As Qasim wakes up from a short night, he starts packing everything he needs and heads straight to the Oasis Rest to meet up with his new companions, are they here when he arrives ?

As the first light of dawn filters through the windows, you rise from your brief rest, a sense of anticipation propelling you forward. You gather your belongings and make your way through the quiet streets of Sothis. The city is just beginning to stir, its residents slowly awakening to the new day.
Upon reaching The Oasis Rest, you find that the tavern's doors are already open, its interior softly illuminated by the early morning light. The scent of fresh bread and brewed tea fills the air as the tavern's staff goes about their preparations for the day.
As you enter, you see that Leena is already there, sitting at the corner table you occupied last night. She's sipping on a cup of tea, her gear neatly arranged beside her. She looks up as you approach and offers a nod of acknowledgment.
Malik, on the other hand, seems to have embraced the morning's spirit. He stands by the open window, his fingers gently strumming a lively tune on his lute. The music dances on the cool morning breeze, infusing the room with a sense of energy.
Seeing you, Malik turns with a flourish and grins. "Qasim! Rise and shine, my friend. I thought I'd greet the day with a melody to set the mood."
With your companions gathered, the sun begins to rise in earnest, its warm rays filtering through the tavern's windows. The day stretches before you, full of promise and adventure.
What would you like to do now, Qasim?

"Let's head for this... Wadi of the Dawn was it ? Anyway we should first look for Rashid i reckon." After a brief pause, Qasim will continue "Does anyone of you know what this Wadi of the Dawn is exactly ?"

Leena takes a sip of her tea before responding, "The Wadi of the Dawn is a stretch of desert not too far from here. It's said to be dotted with ancient ruins and tombs, remnants of civilizations long gone. The name comes from the way the sun's first light hits the dunes, creating a breathtaking spectacle."
Malik chimes in, his fingers idly plucking at his lute strings. "Legends speak of hidden chambers and forgotten treasures within the wadi's depths. If we're going after Rashid and the entrance he knows of, we might find ourselves navigating those very sands."
Leena nods in agreement. "And as for Rashid, we might need to inquire around town, see if anyone knows where he frequents or if he's been spotted recently."
With a plan forming and the knowledge you need, your trio sets its sights on both Rashid and the Wadi of the Dawn. The city's morning activities are in full swing outside the tavern's windows, but inside, a sense of purpose and adventure prevails.

Does Qasim know about any black market kind of area in the city ? Illegal places to get information ? I rolled a 10 on my knowledge (local) check.

With your roll of 10 on the knowledge check, you recall that Sothis, being a bustling and diverse city, likely has some underground or black market establishments where one could acquire information that might not be readily available in more public places. While you might not have specific details, you're aware that such places tend to cater to various unsavory activities, including information brokering.
You share this thought with Leena and Malik, and they both seem to agree that looking into the black market might yield some leads. "It's worth a shot," Leena says, her tone suggesting that she's no stranger to the darker side of the city. "Rashid might have connections to people who know their way around the secrets of this place."
Malik nods thoughtfully. "And if anyone knows where to find the elusive Rashid, it's likely those who thrive in the shadows."
With a direction in mind, your trio leaves The Oasis Rest, ready to explore the less savory corners of Sothis in search of information about Rashid and the entrance to the Wadi of the Dawn. The city's underbelly awaits, promising intrigue and perhaps some challenges along the way.

Qasim will turn to Leena and say "Lead the way, i believe you know where to find the black market."

Leena nods in response to your request. "I've heard whispers about a place called the 'Shadows' Embrace,' a known gathering spot for those looking to deal in secrets and information." She glances at Malik and you. "It's a bit hidden and not exactly advertised, but if we're looking for the right kind of connections, that's where we should head."
Guided by Leena's knowledge and instincts, your trio sets off through the streets of Sothis, navigating through alleys and backstreets that are less traveled by the average citizen. After a series of turns, Leena brings you to a nondescript building, its facade unremarkable and inconspicuous.
With a quick glance around to make sure no one is watching, Leena leads the way to a seemingly ordinary door. She knocks in a specific pattern, and after a moment, a small slit opens, revealing a pair of cautious eyes. A few whispered words are exchanged, and the door creaks open, revealing a dimly lit interior.
Inside, the atmosphere is hushed, with low conversations murmuring in the background. The space is filled with a motley assortment of individuals – hooded figures, shady-looking traders, and even a few mercenaries nursing drinks.
As you step inside, Leena turns to you and the others. "Let's be discreet and keep our purpose low-key. We're here for information, not to stir up trouble."

"Leena, do you recognize anyone here, a friendly face with whom we might engage in a conversation, potentially leading us to Rashid ?"

Leena scans the room, her eyes narrowed in concentration as she searches for any familiar faces or individuals who might be open to sharing information. After a moment, her gaze settles on a figure seated at a corner table – a weathered man with a scar across his cheek and a patch over one eye. He seems engrossed in conversation with a few others, occasionally casting a sharp glance around the room.
Leena leans in slightly to speak to you and Malik. "See that man with the eye patch? That's Aric. He's got a reputation for knowing more than he lets on. If anyone's heard of Rashid or the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn, it might be him."
Malik's fingers tap lightly on the table, his thoughtful expression matching the seriousness of the situation. "All right, then. Let's approach him carefully, gather what information we can, and see if he's willing to share."
With a shared nod, your trio makes its way towards Aric's table. The Shadows' Embrace continues its low-key activities around you, the atmosphere thick with tension and the unspoken promise of hidden truths.
As you approach Aric's table, what would you like to say or do, Qasim? How do you plan to initiate the conversation and inquire about Rashid and the entrance to the Wadi of the Dawn?

Qasim will calmly approach Aric and say "Are you Aric, my name is Qasim, i'm looking for information and i've got some coin."

Aric's one-eyed gaze shifts from the conversation he was engaged in to you, assessing you and your companions with a mixture of caution and curiosity. He takes a sip from his drink before responding, his voice a low, gravelly rumble. "Qasim, huh? Coin can be a convincing conversation starter, but it depends on what kind of information you're after."
He eyes you expectantly, his eye patch lending an air of mystery to his already weathered appearance. The surrounding murmurs of the Shadows' Embrace continue, seemingly indifferent to the exchange happening at Aric's table.

"I am looking for a certain Rashid, and indirectly some information on some ruins down in the Wadi of the Dawn."

Aric's remaining eye narrows as he listens to your request, his scarred face unreadable. He leans back slightly, as if assessing your sincerity and intent. "Rashid, huh? That name holds its own share of secrets," he muses, taking another slow sip of his drink. "And the Wadi of the Dawn... Well, that's a place where even shadows have their stories."
He seems to be testing you, gauging your reaction to his words. It's clear that Aric is not one to give away information easily, even with the promise of coin.
Malik, sensing the need for a more subtle approach, steps forward with a charming smile. "My friend, we're seekers of adventure, of stories that few dare to tell. We're not here to cause trouble, only to uncover the mysteries that lie beneath the sands. If you know anything about Rashid or the secrets of the Wadi, your insights could be greatly rewarded."
Aric studies Malik for a moment, his scarred features softening ever so slightly. "Coin can open doors, but trust opens hearts. If you're truly seekers of truth and not just mercenaries after treasure, then perhaps we can find some common ground."
The tension in the air seems to ease as Aric leans forward, his one eye locking onto yours, Qasim. "Tell me more about your intentions and why Rashid's trail has led you to the Wadi of the Dawn."
What would you like to share with Aric to convince him of your sincerity, Qasim? How do you plan to open up and build that trust he's seeking?

"Saying that this isn't about the coin would be lying and i am no liar, but i am not a mere coin-chaser. My heart burns with a desire for discoveries, see, when i was a few years younger, i found a book in some deprecated ruins... This book was the very book that taught me swordsmanship, it taught me a way of life. I am here for the coin yes, but for the knowledge first."

Aric's eye remains fixed on you as you speak, his expression thoughtful as he weighs your words. The background noise of the tavern seems to fade away, leaving just the two of you in a moment of connection.
As you finish sharing your story, he leans back in his chair, his demeanor somewhat softened. "A book that changed your life, hm? You've got fire in your words, Qasim. I can appreciate that."
He gestures to the empty chair across from him. "Join me, both of you. If you're truly seekers of knowledge and not just looking to fill your pockets, then I might have something for you."
You and your companions take the offered seats, the tension in the air dissipating further. Aric regards each of you in turn before continuing.
"Rashid is known to deal in artifacts, relics of ages past. He's been seen around here, whispering of secrets and hidden treasures. But he's a cautious one, doesn't give much away." Aric's gaze turns toward the dimly lit corners of the tavern. "The Wadi of the Dawn... It's a place where the sand has preserved the past, and where danger and reward go hand in hand."
He leans in, his voice lowering even further. "If you're set on finding Rashid and delving into those ruins, there's a contact he's known to meet – a woman named Zara. She's got her fingers in more than one pie and could point you in the right direction. But tread carefully, for there are those who would rather see such knowledge remain hidden."
With this new lead and Aric's cautious advice, you realize that your journey is far from over. The challenges and dangers of the Wadi of the Dawn await, but so do its secrets.

"Well, Aric, it was nice meeting you" Qasim says, giving him 10 silver pieces, he then turns to the group "Let's find this Zara, shall we ?"

Aric accepts the silver pieces with a nod, his eye crinkling at the corners in what might be a faint smile. "A pleasure, Qasim. Remember, knowledge can be a dangerous currency, but it's worth the risk if you seek the truth."
Leaving the dimly lit interior of the Shadows' Embrace behind, your trio steps back into the bustling streets of Sothis. The morning has progressed, and the city is now fully awake and alive with activity.
Leena adjusts her gear, her eyes focused on the task ahead. "Zara, then. Let's see if we can track her down and gather more information about Rashid and the entrance to the Wadi of the Dawn."
Malik strikes a chord on his lute, the music harmonizing with the city's energy. "Indeed! The threads of this tale are beginning to intertwine, and it's up to us to follow them."
With a shared sense of purpose and newfound knowledge, you and your companions set out to find this woman named Zara. The city's streets stretch before you, each step bringing you closer to the next chapter of your adventure.
Where would you like to start your search for Zara, Qasim? Are there any particular areas or methods you'd like to employ to track down this key to Rashid's whereabouts?

"Alright, let's all separate, ask around town for this Zara woman and then let's meet up at the Oasis Rest !"

Leena and Malik both nod in agreement, understanding the plan. "Sounds like a solid approach," Leena says, her instincts already guiding her thoughts. "We'll canvas the city, ask discreetly, and hopefully gather enough information to pinpoint Zara's location."
Malik's lute slung over his shoulder, he adds with a wink, "And if anyone has information, a catchy tune might make them more likely to share."
With your plan set, your trio disperses into the bustling streets of Sothis. Each of you sets out on your own path, weaving through the city's diverse neighborhoods, markets, and gathering places in search of any whisper or clue that might lead to Zara.
Hours pass, and as the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, you find yourselves once again outside The Oasis Rest, the designated meeting place. Leena arrives first, followed shortly by Malik, both wearing expressions that suggest they've gathered some information.
As you all gather, Leena speaks first. "I managed to find a merchant who mentioned Zara. Seems she has a hand in acquiring and selling various goods, legal or otherwise. She's known to frequent the trade district, often around the cloth merchant stalls."
Malik follows up, a twinkle in his eye. "And I chatted with a street performer who had crossed paths with Zara. Apparently, she's quite the enigmatic character, known to strike deals under the guise of trading secrets."
With the pieces of information gathered, your quest for Zara's whereabouts progresses. The sun casts long shadows as you stand before The Oasis Rest, the anticipation of your next move palpable.

"Let's go there right now, did any of you get a physical description of what she looks like ?"

Leena and Malik exchange glances, and Leena nods at your question. "I managed to gather a general description. Zara is said to be a woman of average height, with a scarf often wrapped around her head and a tendency to wear vibrant clothing that draws attention."
Malik chimes in, "And rumor has it that she's got a way with words, persuasive and shrewd. We'll need to keep our wits about us when we approach her."
With the description in mind, your trio sets off toward the trade district, the sun now casting a warm, golden light over the city. The bustling market area is alive with activity, vendors hawking their wares, and shoppers bustling about.
As you walk through the market, your eyes scan the crowd for anyone who matches the description of Zara. It doesn't take long before Leena's keen senses catch a glimpse of a woman with a scarf wrapped around her head, standing near a collection of vibrant fabrics.
Leena subtly gestures in Zara's direction, catching your attention.

Qasim will approach Zara, a bit unsure of himself and then finally discreetly say "Why hello there, might you be the one named Zara by any chance ?"

As you approach Zara, she turns her attention toward you, her gaze assessing. Her scarf, colorful and eye-catching, frames her face, and her expression seems to hold a mixture of curiosity and caution. She's surrounded by bolts of fabric, her presence both blending into and standing out from the vibrant market surroundings.
At your question, Zara raises an eyebrow, her lips curving into a faint smile. "Well now, who's asking?" Her voice is smooth and measured, each word carrying a weight of hidden intent.
Leena and Malik remain nearby, ready to provide support if needed, but also ensuring they don't appear overtly connected to your conversation.

Qasim will ease up the conversation, trying to be as diplomatic as possible: "My name is Qasim, a humble ruin-seeker and desert dweller. I happen to be looking for information. You see i have a deal to strike with a fellow named Rashid, whom from what information i possess, you might know." I rolled a 21 on my diplomacy check.

Zara's expression shifts slightly, her curiosity piqued by your words. She studies you for a moment, seemingly assessing the authenticity of your demeanor and words. Your approach appears to have struck a chord, and her guarded demeanor softens just a touch.
"Well, Qasim, a ruin-seeker you say?" She seems to weigh your words carefully. "And Rashid, hm? He's not an easy man to track down, let alone strike a deal with."
Her eyes seem to hold a glint of challenge, as if testing your resolve. "But you strike me as someone not easily deterred. If you're after information or perhaps something more, you might just have my attention."
The market bustles around you, the rhythm of the city carrying the weight of your conversation.

"I also know that you deal in secrets, but what will it take to convince you to share some information with me ? Coin ? Secrets ? Something else entirely, a service ?"

Zara's gaze remains fixed on you, her contemplative expression giving away little. She seems to consider your words carefully, weighing your offer against her own interests.
"Secrets are my trade, Qasim," she responds, her voice holding a note of intrigue. "And while coin can be persuasive, it's not always the most valuable currency in my line of work."
She steps closer, her presence drawing you into her confidence. "Rashid's dealings are known to me, but they're closely guarded. If you truly seek the path he walks, you must understand that the information I possess is precious."
She leans in slightly, her words carrying a weight of challenge. "Tell me, Qasim, what secret of your own are you willing to share? Sometimes, it's the offering of trust that opens the doors we seek."
The bustling market seems to fade into the background as you stand before Zara, your intentions and her interests colliding in a delicate balance.

I would like to attempt a sense motive check to try to know what kind of secrets is she after specifically, i rolled a 14 on my sense motive check, what do i learn ?

As you carefully observe Zara's expressions and listen to her words, you sense that she's looking for more than just a simple exchange of information. Her demeanor suggests that she's interested in a deeper level of trust and connection, perhaps a personal revelation that would demonstrate your sincerity and commitment to the cause.
The subtleties in her gaze and the way she holds herself lead you to believe that she values authenticity and a genuine willingness to open up. It's less about the content of the secret itself and more about the act of sharing something meaningful and personal.
With this insight, you understand that Zara's request for a secret isn't necessarily tied to a specific type of information, but rather to your willingness to demonstrate trust and vulnerability.
How do you plan to respond to Zara's challenge and secure her cooperation in revealing information about Rashid ?

"Well, i have no secrets in the proper sense of the term, but stories i might provide. I could tell you about my life, i was born in this very city, in a modest family of swordsman and performers who all worshipped the Dawnflower. I followed her teachings of good-doing and helping the ones in need while also snooping around forgotten ruins where only corpses where left, some inanimate, some very much animated. In one of those ancient temple i found a book about an ancient style of swordsmanship that had been lost to time and practiced everyday what i could understand from the old leatherbound tome. This tome is still in my possession and is the key to the secrets of my swordsmanship."

Zara's eyes remain fixed on you as you share your story, her gaze unwavering. The bustling sounds of the market seem to fade into the background, leaving just the two of you in this moment of connection.
As you speak of your upbringing, your devotion to Sarenrae, and your discovery of the ancient swordsmanship tome, you see a flicker of interest in her eyes. She listens intently, seemingly drawn in by your words.
When you finish, there's a pause, a weight of consideration in the air. Zara's expression shifts, a glint of something like approval crossing her features. "Your story holds its own kind of secrets, Qasim. The path you've walked, the knowledge you've uncovered – these are the kinds of truths that resonate with those who value both history and the present."
She takes a step back, her demeanor returning to its guarded state but with a hint of warmth. "Rashid moves through shadows and whispers, but you've shared a part of yourself that few might know. For that, I'm willing to give you a glimpse into his world."
With a subtle motion, Zara produces a small piece of parchment from within her garments, handing it to you. "This is the location where Rashid is rumored to make his dealings. Approach with caution, for the path you tread is not without its risks."
As you take the parchment, your gaze meets hers, a mutual understanding passing between you.

I turn back to Leena and Malik, parchment in hand "We got ourselves our lead, let's find Rashid, this is our new order of business."

Leena and Malik nod in unison, their expressions determined and ready for the next step. "Finally," Leena says, a hint of excitement in her voice. "We're closing in on Rashid and the secrets he holds."
Malik strums a chord on his lute, the sound harmonizing with the energy of the moment. "Indeed, the threads of fate are converging. Let's make our way to this location and see what unfolds."
With your trio united once again and a new lead in hand, you leave the vibrant market behind, the anticipation of the unknown ahead. The city of Sothis seems to hold its breath, the sun casting long shadows as you set out to find Rashid and uncover the mysteries of the Wadi of the Dawn.
As you head toward the location mentioned on the parchment, your journey continues, and the path you tread becomes more intricate with each step.

"The path to his dealings is rumored to be a precarious one, just like Zara said. I say we go to the tavern and try to get another member in our party, sharing the loot between four persons isn't that hard and i think we might be needing some help"

Leena nods in agreement. "Another capable hand could prove invaluable, especially if we're entering potentially dangerous territory. Let's head to the tavern and see if we can find someone with the skills we need."
Malik adds with a grin, "And who knows, they might have their own stories and secrets to share."
With your decision made, your trio turns and makes its way back to The Oasis Rest, the bustling sounds of the city filling the air. As you enter the familiar tavern, you scan the room for potential recruits, seeking a new companion to join your quest for Rashid and the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn.

Qasim will turn to Malik "Malik, could you perhaps use your social skills to try and find someone suitable to accompany us in this quest ?"

Malik nods in response to your request. "Of course, my friend. Leave the social navigation to me."
With a confident stride, Malik approaches the tavern's patrons, his charming smile and easy demeanor making him a natural at striking up conversations. He engages in discussions, listens to stories, and scans the room for individuals who might be suited to join your quest.
After a little while, Malik returns to your table with a satisfied expression. "I've had a chat with a seasoned tracker named Ramiel. He's got a knack for navigating the wilderness and uncovering hidden paths. He's intrigued by our quest and seems willing to join forces."
Leena leans in, intrigued by the development. "A tracker could be just what we need, especially if the path to Rashid's dealings is as treacherous as we've heard."
Malik nods in agreement. "Indeed. I've arranged for him to meet us here tomorrow morning. We can discuss the details of our quest and see if our goals align."
With a new potential companion on the horizon, your trio's circle expands, and the possibilities for your quest become even more intriguing.

"Then let's head to bed for the night, tomorrow we speak with Ramiel and if he agrees to accompany us, we'll be departing to see Rashid"

With your plans set for the next day's meeting with Ramiel, your trio finishes up at the tavern and heads to your respective lodgings for a well-deserved night's rest. The city of Sothis gradually quiets down as the moon rises, casting its gentle light over the desert landscape.
The anticipation of the coming day's events lingers in the air as you settle into your bed. Thoughts of the path you've walked, the secrets you've uncovered, and the challenges that lie ahead fill your mind.
As you drift into sleep, the promise of a new dawn and the continuation of your quest await.
The next morning, you awaken with renewed purpose, ready to meet with Ramiel and discuss the potential partnership that could shape the course of your adventure. The city of Sothis wakes once again, and the sun begins its ascent over the horizon.
Your journey continues, and the story of Qasim, Leena, Malik, and now Ramiel, unfolds with each step.

I will meet with Leena, Malik and Ramiel around a meal at the Oasis Rest

As the morning sun bathes the city of Sothis in a warm glow, you and your companions gather once again at The Oasis Rest, ready to meet with Ramiel. The bustling sounds of the city filter in through the windows, creating a lively backdrop for your discussions.
Leena, Malik, and you sit at a table, anticipation in the air as you wait for Ramiel's arrival. The scents of breakfast waft from the kitchen, mingling with the sounds of distant conversations and the occasional clatter of dishes.
Not long after, the tavern's entrance swings open, and a figure steps inside – Ramiel, the seasoned tracker. He scans the room briefly before spotting your table and making his way over. His attire is practical, his gaze steady, and a faint air of wilderness surrounds him.
"Good morning," he greets with a nod as he takes a seat. "I've heard from Malik about your quest. It's not often I come across opportunities that mix adventure and purpose."
Leena smiles, extending a welcoming hand. "We're glad you're interested, Ramiel. We believe your skills could be a valuable asset in our pursuit of Rashid and the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn."
Malik chimes in, his lute leaning against his chair. "Indeed, the threads of fate have brought us together, and with you on board, our chances of success increase."
Ramiel's expression is thoughtful as he considers your words. "I've spent my life navigating the deserts and uncovering the hidden paths they hold. If there are secrets to be found, I've got a nose for them."
With introductions made and the potential for partnership on the table, you find yourselves at a crossroads – the opportunity to discuss the terms of Ramiel's involvement and solidify your party for the journey ahead.

Qasim will finish up his meal, get up with his hand on his belt holding his scimitar and say "Then let us discover what information Rashid can offer us" At the same time, Qasim will read the exact instructions on where to find Rashid

As you rise from your meal and place your hand on the hilt of your scimitar, a tangible sense of determination fills the air. Your companions follow suit, their readiness evident in their expressions.
With the parchment in hand, you unfold it and read the instructions carefully. The message is succinct, detailing a location outside the city walls where Rashid's dealings are rumored to take place. It's a spot known to be remote and discreet, fitting the enigmatic nature of the man you seek.
Leena, Malik, and Ramiel gather around as you read, their attention focused on the details. After you finish, Leena nods in agreement. "It seems we're about to embark on a path that's both challenging and potentially rewarding. Let's not waste any more time."
Malik strums a soft chord on his lute, his fingers dancing over the strings. "Indeed, the road ahead is calling, and we're ready to answer."
Ramiel's gaze is steady, his rugged demeanor a testament to his experience in the wild. "I'm in. If this Rashid holds secrets, then he's piqued my interest."
With your team united, the next steps are clear. The desert awaits, and the mysteries of the Wadi of the Dawn beckon. Your party's purpose is defined, and the journey you're about to undertake holds the promise of discovery, danger, and the forging of bonds.

"Well, if everyone is ready, i propose we leave at once, time is of the essence and we've already lingered in here for too long. The proper adventure is finally starting !"

With unanimous agreement, your party rises from the table, the anticipation of the adventure ahead palpable. You step out of The Oasis Rest and into the bright sunlight of the desert city. The bustling streets of Sothis seem to fade away as you set your sights on the path that awaits.
As you leave the city behind, the desert stretches before you, its golden sands and endless horizon a canvas for your journey. With Leena, Malik, and Ramiel by your side, each step carries you closer to the enigmatic Rashid and the secrets of the Wadi of the Dawn.
The sun hangs high in the sky, casting a warm light over the desert landscape as you travel. The road is open, the winds whispering tales of past and present. Your party's purpose is clear, your determination unshaken, and the path ahead filled with challenges and possibilities.
As the first leg of your adventure unfolds, the destiny you seek to shape moves ever closer. What lies beyond the dunes? What secrets will you uncover? The story of Qasim and his companions continues, and the desert sands carry your footsteps toward the unknown.]]> <![CDATA[Halloween 2022 - Whispers in the Walls]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Halloween-2022-Whispers-in-the-Walls Sun, 30 Oct 2022 00:59:07 +0000 Teviko604]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Halloween-2022-Whispers-in-the-Walls It’s Halloween 2022, which means it’s time for me to post my annual Halloween Solo Journaling Game. This year I am playing Whispers in the Walls by Pandion Games and written by Andrew Boyd.  Whispers in the Walls is available on itch.io.  In Whispers, you are investigating a crime or event. Many of the clues you find are discovered by listening or watching what the walls and rooms tell you.

The game is played using a standard 52-card deck with 2 Jokers.  Following specific guidelines, you create a nine-card deck that will reveal the prompts for each page of your journal. The first card/journal entry sets the location for your story.  The remaining eight cards prompt you as you visit different rooms in that location. The final card also doubles as the prompt for ending the story.

I began by drawing my first card to set my location. Then, before writing the first journal entry, I developed a background of events that led to my being in that particular location.

One last word before the story begins. I am formatting this adventure a little differently than my past journaling posts.  Instead of listing the prompts with each post I will be presenting the narrative of the story first. Then, when it is complete, I will post the prompts I drew for the game and any other notes I want to share about the experience.


WHISPERS IN THE WALLS: HALLOWEEN 2022

Background: I used to work for the insurance company of Madison and Baines as a claim investigator looking into supposed medical injuries. I would interview neighbors, take pictures and videos, and watch claimants. While I would occasionally reveal a true case of insurance fraud, most of the time the company would simply use the information I gathered to reduce the payments of legitimate claims by as much as possible. It was slimy work, but I was good at it.  Some said I had a sixth sense to just know when something was off, or compared me to a bloodhound because I could “sniff out” lies and deceptions.

After four years of working for M&B I’d had enough of their greed and decided to strike out on my own. Okay, to be fair, while their underhandedness was a factor, the real reason was that I wanted more exciting cases. I wanted crime, missing people, and cheating spouses.  The juicy stuff. My shingle had been hung out for barely a week when a middle-aged woman walked into my one-room office. I’d like to say she was an attractive blonde in a tight dress with mysterious eyes and a husky voice, like in those old detective noir films. But she was nothing like that. She was of medium build and wore jeans and a solid purple sweatshirt. Her dull brown hair was frazzled and unkempt. She wore no makeup, revealing dark circles under her eyes. Needless to say, she was a bit distraught.

Her daughter Karin was missing. The police were convinced she was a runaway. Single parent home, the father left years ago without a forwarding address. Mother working two jobs to make ends meet, leaving the daughter alone to fend for herself. Poor grades. Sketchy group of friends. All the classic signs.

But her mother wasn’t convinced. For all their troubles, she assured me they had a happy home life. Karin had plans. She was looking at colleges, even though she was still a junior in high school.  She even hoped to start a summer job waiting tables at the Pork Pit, the local BBQ restaurant. Her daughter wouldn’t run away. Something must have happened to her.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have much to go on. I asked my client a lot of questions, developed a list of people to talk to, then went and asked them a lot of questions. While no one knew where Karin was, a common statement was that her favorite place was South Creek Elementary School, where she was a student during some of the happiest years of her childhood. The school was closed several years ago after a newer facility was built. It was sold to a developer, but so far nothing had been done with it. The building and surrounding area were falling into disrepair.

Whenever Karin was depressed or wanted to be alone, her friends said she would go to the old school, sneak inside, and spend hours there alone. Of course, the police searched the building when she was reported her missing, but they found no sign of her . . . alive or dead. Still, something may have been overlooked, so that’s where I’m going to search next.]]> It’s Halloween 2022, which means it’s time for me to post my annual Halloween Solo Journaling Game. This year I am playing Whispers in the Walls by Pandion Games and written by Andrew Boyd.  Whispers in the Walls is available on itch.io.  In Whispers, you are investigating a crime or event. Many of the clues you find are discovered by listening or watching what the walls and rooms tell you.

The game is played using a standard 52-card deck with 2 Jokers.  Following specific guidelines, you create a nine-card deck that will reveal the prompts for each page of your journal. The first card/journal entry sets the location for your story.  The remaining eight cards prompt you as you visit different rooms in that location. The final card also doubles as the prompt for ending the story.

I began by drawing my first card to set my location. Then, before writing the first journal entry, I developed a background of events that led to my being in that particular location.

One last word before the story begins. I am formatting this adventure a little differently than my past journaling posts.  Instead of listing the prompts with each post I will be presenting the narrative of the story first. Then, when it is complete, I will post the prompts I drew for the game and any other notes I want to share about the experience.


WHISPERS IN THE WALLS: HALLOWEEN 2022

Background: I used to work for the insurance company of Madison and Baines as a claim investigator looking into supposed medical injuries. I would interview neighbors, take pictures and videos, and watch claimants. While I would occasionally reveal a true case of insurance fraud, most of the time the company would simply use the information I gathered to reduce the payments of legitimate claims by as much as possible. It was slimy work, but I was good at it.  Some said I had a sixth sense to just know when something was off, or compared me to a bloodhound because I could “sniff out” lies and deceptions.

After four years of working for M&B I’d had enough of their greed and decided to strike out on my own. Okay, to be fair, while their underhandedness was a factor, the real reason was that I wanted more exciting cases. I wanted crime, missing people, and cheating spouses.  The juicy stuff. My shingle had been hung out for barely a week when a middle-aged woman walked into my one-room office. I’d like to say she was an attractive blonde in a tight dress with mysterious eyes and a husky voice, like in those old detective noir films. But she was nothing like that. She was of medium build and wore jeans and a solid purple sweatshirt. Her dull brown hair was frazzled and unkempt. She wore no makeup, revealing dark circles under her eyes. Needless to say, she was a bit distraught.

Her daughter Karin was missing. The police were convinced she was a runaway. Single parent home, the father left years ago without a forwarding address. Mother working two jobs to make ends meet, leaving the daughter alone to fend for herself. Poor grades. Sketchy group of friends. All the classic signs.

But her mother wasn’t convinced. For all their troubles, she assured me they had a happy home life. Karin had plans. She was looking at colleges, even though she was still a junior in high school.  She even hoped to start a summer job waiting tables at the Pork Pit, the local BBQ restaurant. Her daughter wouldn’t run away. Something must have happened to her.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have much to go on. I asked my client a lot of questions, developed a list of people to talk to, then went and asked them a lot of questions. While no one knew where Karin was, a common statement was that her favorite place was South Creek Elementary School, where she was a student during some of the happiest years of her childhood. The school was closed several years ago after a newer facility was built. It was sold to a developer, but so far nothing had been done with it. The building and surrounding area were falling into disrepair.

Whenever Karin was depressed or wanted to be alone, her friends said she would go to the old school, sneak inside, and spend hours there alone. Of course, the police searched the building when she was reported her missing, but they found no sign of her . . . alive or dead. Still, something may have been overlooked, so that’s where I’m going to search next.]]> <![CDATA[Delve - A Map-Drawing Game]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Delve-A-Map-Drawing-Game Wed, 22 Jun 2022 02:27:03 +0000 Teviko604]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Delve-A-Map-Drawing-Game Delve. 

]]> Delve. 

]]> <![CDATA[A faerie court visitation]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-A-faerie-court-visitation Mon, 18 Apr 2022 12:49:57 +0000 n1mrod88]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-A-faerie-court-visitation This is a playthrough of A Faerie Court Visitation I played over the course of a few days.

--Prologue--

My mother always told me about the bargain an ancestor of our family made with the fae.
They would give him great fortune, enough wealth to keep our family standing for years to come.
In exchange, my ancestor offered one of his descendants as a marriage candidate for a future fae royal.

I always thought of this bargain as a simple story that has been passed down through generations. After all, my mother said the bargain was struck 100 years ago.

At least, until today.

It all started when I heard my mother telling me someone was waiting for me outside the house.
Of course, I did as my mother asked and went outside.
And then I realized that the story my mother used to tell me was more than a simple story.

The first thing I saw was a girl around my age. She was dressed like a princess from a fantasy novel. Fancy dress and all.
She introduced herself to me as Lymselia, princess of the summer court.
Lymselia told me that she has come to claim my hand in marriage, as my ancestor promised her parents 100 years ago.

I was confused at first. Why did Lymselia choose me as her husband? I've never done anything important in my life.
I guess Lymselia noticed the confused look on my face, because she gave me an offer.

I was to stay a period of two weeks in the summer court, acting as part of their consort. After these two weeks, I could either take Lymselia's hand in marriage, or make an alternative payment on my part and go my own way.
I chose to accept Lymselia's offer. After all, I had to fufil my and of the bargain.

Before deprating, Lymselia gave me some time to pack my bags for the trip. I decided to take my backpack, phone, headphones and power bank. I didn't really need anything else for the trip.

After I was done packing up, I told Lymselia I was ready to go visit the summer court.


--Day 1--

Lymselia took me to visit a place known as Mirror Gorge. The water there is almost invisible to onlookers, hence the name.
What peaked my interest the most were the shadows moving across the water's surface.
According to Lymselia, the shadows I saw were Aquawings, a race of winged merfolk who live in lakes across the Faewyld.
The two of us simply sat by the lake and watched the Aquawings swimming around.

[Card drawn: 8 of clubs. Keeping a respectful distance, you watch finfolk by the lochs dart about in their underwater world.]

--Day 2--

I was on my own today, so I decided to pay a visit to the summer court's library.
Since I myself was part of a bargain from 100 years ago, I decided to spend the day researching about fae deals and trades.
Turns out that offering one of your descendants to the fae as payment is surprisingly common among humans. I don't know how do I feel about this discovery.

[Card drawn: Jack of diamonds. You visit the local library to research fae deals and trades.]

--Day 3--

It's safe to say that today was quite interesting, if not a bit awkward.
Lymselia and I went on a walk in a nearby forest. I'm not the type of person to enjoy outdoor trips, but I really enjoyed the view.
After we spent a few hours in the forest, we started to head back to the palace.

And then, without any warning, it started to rain.
It's a good thing Lymselia used her magic to create a small hut for us to take cover from the rain in.
We spent the time waiting for the rain to end by exchanging stories from our lives.
Lymselia told me about the time she helped finding her mother's personal steed after it ran away from the royal stables.
As for me, I simply shared some of my experiences playing TTRPGs over the years.

We wouldn't have to spend the night in Lymselia's improvised shelter, as a group of fae knights found us in the forest after about a few hours and escorted us back to the palace.

[Card drawn: 8 of hearts. Caught in torrential rain the faerie royal improvises a shelter to keep you warm and dry. You exchange stories to pass the time until the sky clears.]

--Day 4--

Lymselia decided to show me the various islands in the Faewyld.
When she told me the trip would be by sea, I was expecting we would go on a boat trip.
Instead, Lymselia and I went around the Faewyld riding on the backs of giant swans.
To be honest, each island I saw today almost felt like I was looking at an entirely different world.

I made sure to take as many photos as I was able to during the trip.

[Card drawn: queen of hearts. The faerie royal takes you to as many islands as the day holds time for, showing you the sights and salutations of the faeries inhabiting each one.]

--Day 5--

As it turns out, today is the Moonlight festival in the Faewyld.
Lymselia was busy with setting up the celebrations in the palace.
I wanted to help Lymselia with her tasks, but she told me she was fine on her own.
So yeah, I had the whole day to myself.

I decided to visit the royal stables, as they were close to where my room in the palace was.

When I arrived at the stables, I noticed some of the stalls were empty.
One of the stablehands, an elf called Tialha, told me that some of the animals ran away from the stable and asked me to help her retrieve the lost animals.
I was told to act as part of the royal consort, so I agreed to help Tialha out.

At one point, I had to calm down a pegasus which was flying in the air without falling off its back and get it to land back on the ground so Tialha could lead it back to the stable.
We managed to return the missing animals to the stables in the end, but it took Tialha and I most of the day to do so. Lymselia also lended us a hand in rounding up the animals.

Also, Lymselia saw me trying to calm down the pegasus and was impressed by how determined I was despite the fact I was really scared.
After we returned all the animals to their stalls, Lymselia asked me if I want to perform with the summer court's sky knights during the Moonlight festival.
I wanted to refuse Lymselia's offer, but I didn't want to let Lymselia down, so I accepted her offer.

In my opinion, the best part of the day was the Moonlight festival itself.
The festival started with an aerial show by the summer court's sky knights, which I took part in.
After that, Lymselia and I spent the rest of the day hanging out in the festival.

Before returning to the palace, the captain of the sky knights, Elora, said she was impressed with how I handled my pegasus during the show despite the fact I only learnt how to ride a pegasus today.
Elora asked me if I want to join the sky knights for real. I told Elora that I'll take her offer into consideration.

After that, Lymselia and I returned to the palace.

[Card drawn: joker. Each joker represents a holiday in the court, which I can spend in any way I want.]

--Day 6--

After what I've been through yesterday, I told Lymselia that I'll be staying in my room to take a rest for the day.
It's a good thing I took the day off, because today my online TTRPG group is meeting up for another session of Griffons and Grimoires.

Like always, I made sure to log into the voice chat before the beginning of the session.
I did tell the group that I'd be forced to join the voice chat from my phone during this session and the next one, as I would be far from home during that time.

The session started out quite tense. Our last G&G session ended with the party fighting the members the Dark Iron cult.
My character, a Darkin Soul-weaver, was on his last few hit points with most of his mana points being depleted from the amount of spells I had to use during the encounter.

We started the session with the turn of the Dark Iron cultists, and the rest of my party was as desperate as I was.
The cultists started attacking the party, trying to wear us down. Luckily, our Oracle still had a single use of Vision left, which turned a critical hit into a fumble, saving our warrior.
It seems luck wasn't on our side, as most of our turns were nothing but missed attacks and failed spells.
Soon it was the cult leader's turn, and he decided to finish off my character, seeing as my character used to be a member of the Dark Iron, but was exiled from the cult.

The GM rolls for the leader's attack. It hits. If I had enough mana to cast Soul Barrier, that would be a miss.
He rolls for damage and I'm brought down to 0 hit points.
At this point, I know I'm doomed. I've been playing my Soul-weaver for the past year, and I really enjoyed playing him.
The GM tells me to make a death saving throw. I roll the dice and fail the saving throw. I'm not dead, but I will be on my next failed death save.
The GM describes as the cult leader pulls out his ritual dagger, ready to claim the soul of the one who betrayed the Dark Iron and offer it to the cult's deity.
Before the GM can finish the leader's speech, he's interrupted by someone.

Suddenly, I hear Lymselia's voice in the call, telling the GM that she still hasn't taken her turn yet.
The GM realizes this mistake and apologizes to the group, telling Lymselia to describe what her character is doing.

Lymselia describes as the cult leader's right hand man, a NPC our party knows, casts Soul Barrier on my character, right before the leader strikes my character down.
Not only that, she uses the NPC's Necrotic Blessing trait and restores my character's hit points and mana.

The cult leader, enraged by the sudden action of the NPC, asks him what was the reason for his action.
Lymselia describes as NPC tells the cult leader that he had enough with the way the Dark Iron cult has been acting over the years and have forgotten their true purpose.

The battle continues with our party gaining the upper hand over the cultists, ending with the defeat of the cult leader.

After the battle, the GM describes the campaign's epilogue and the fate of each of our characters.
When it comes time to my character's ending, the GM describes how my character became the new leader of the Dark Iron cult.

I was glad that my character got to the end of the campaign, but I was a bit confused as of how Lymselia was able to join the voice chat.

Lymselia entered my room after the session ended and I asked her why did the GM let her play as the cult leader's right hand.

As it turns out, after I told Lymselia about my group's G&G campaign, she was interested in joining the group.
I told Lymselia that I'm okay with this, but she should speak with our GM and the rest of the group before she can join.

While I was busy with helping Tialha with getting the lost animals back in the stable before the Moonlight festival yesterday, Lymselia talked with our GM and asked him if she can join the group.
The GM agreed to Lymselia's request, but he had a feeling today's session will be the end of the campaign, so he let Lymselia take control of the NPC instead of having her create a character just for this session.

Lymselia also told me that the GM explained to her about my character's backstory and why he was exiled from the Dark Iron cult.
The GM also shared the NPC's backstory with Lymselia, which was just a bunch of small notes and told Lymselia that she's free to interpert these notes however she likes.

Overall, it has been an exciting day for me.

[Card drawn: 7 of hearts.  When the faerie royal stops by to check up on you, they find you spending time engaging in a hobby. Intrigued, they are keen to join in.]

--Day 7--

After the G&G session we had yesterday, the GM asked the rest of the group if they agree to let Lymselia join the group. They agreed.
Since I was going to run the next campaign, I decided to help Lymselia with creating her character.

I thought it wouldn't take more than a few minutes to help Lymselia create her character. I was wrong.

Just taking a look at the ancestry and class sections of the core book gave Lymselia a lot of ideas for her character.

Eventually, I offered Lymselia that I'll roll on the NPC creation tables in the GM's guide to help her come up with a character concept.

We ended up with a Florai Pyrodancer with the former cultist background.

Lymselia suggested that her character was exiled from the Dark Iron cult due to her uncontrollable fire magic.

It took us about an hour before Lymselia's charcter was finally done.

After that, I ran Lymselia's charcter through a solo adventure to help Lymselia learn the rules of G&G and to also flesh out her character's backstory.

[Card drawn: 7 of diamonds. The fae royal admires you at work on one of your crafts. They take the time to sit beside you and watch intently.]

--Day 8--

Today the summer court had a dancing ball in the palace.

I don't really enjoy going to parties, but I felt like I had to participate.

Most of the day wasn't anything noteworthy, except for the end of the ball.

At some point during the evening, I heard someone calling my name from the balcony.
Lymselia was busy dancing, so I went alone.

When I arrived at the balcony, I was met by a cloaked figure. I couldn't see their face.

They introduced themselves as one of the bargained, people who were traded away to the fae by various bargins.

They have been aware of my arrival to the Faewyld ever since the first day.

The figure reached out into their cloak and pulled out a book. Just before they handed me the book, I heard Lymselia's voice calling out for me.

The figure quickly fled, and I was soon left alone with the book.

Lymselia asked me why did I left the entrance hall. I replied with saying someone called to me and showed Lymselia the book.

I noticed Lymselia was suspicious upon seeing the book, as she soon casted a spell on it.

Turns out I've been given a grimiore of black magic, which could bring ruin to the Faewyld if it was ever used.
I have no idea why was I given this grimiore. Did the bargained see me as a pawn for their own goals?

Come to think of it, I've been in the Faewyld for about a week now. Maybe I should ask Lymselia where can I learn how to cast spells.

[Card drawn: queen of spades.  A sinister figure approaches you at the end of one of the court’s events, about to slip something into your hands before the two of you are interrupted.]

--Day 9--

Lymselia and I went on a riding trip outside the palace today.
There weren't many animals in the stable today, so we had to share a horse together.

We decided to take a rest at a nearby lake.

While looking around the lake, something caught my eye. A lone horse was standing by the lake.
It had a black fur and a long, flowing mane. It even wore a saddle and tack.

I asked Lymselia if I could go explore the lake on my own for a while, and she agreed.

I decided to take a closer look at the horse. Maybe its owner went missing and the horse was left behind.

The horse looked friendly when I arrived. I was able to pet it without getting bitten or kicked.

I figured that since this horse was all alone, I might as well take it with me for the rest of the trip.

I decided to climb onto the horse's saddle and before I could grab the reins, the horse started running as fast as it could around the same spot.

I tried to get off the saddle before the horse would run away, but I couldn't get off the horse.
I thought I could grab the reins and pull the horse to a halt, but I wasn't able to get a hold of the reins.

Soon the horse started running towards the lake and I started fearing for the worst.

But then I heard Lymselia calling out to me, and the horse soon came to a halt.

Lymselia dismounted her horse and walked towards where I was. She spoke with the horse in words I couldn't understand, and I was able to get off the saddle.

Lymselia told me that the horse I saw earlier was actually a kelpie, a mischivious water spirit living in the lakes of the Faewyld.
The kelpie didn't realize I was traveling with Lymselia, and thought I was a simple traveler. The kelpie then apologized to me for almost dragging me to a watery fate.

I accepted the kelpie's apology, knowing that it couldn't recognize me and Lymselia from far away.

Afterwards, Lymselia and I rode back to the palace. Of course, I apologized to Lymselia for being reckless and having my guard down near the keplie.

[Card drawn: 10 of spades. A lakeside stroll takes a dangerous turn when you are almost eaten by a kelpie. The fae royal swoops in to rescue you just before you are dragged into the depths.]

--Day 10--

Lymselia was busy helping her parents today, so I decided to take a walk in the woods by myself.

After my encounter with the kelpie yesterday, I figured it's best to just do the trip on foot.

Thankfully, nothing really happened during the trip.

As the day drew to a close, I started making my way back to the palace.

I soon spotted a distant figure dressed in moss disappearing between the tress. I could go after the figure, but it was getting late.

But then I noticed something on the ground: A book of some sorts.

I picked up the book and made my way back to the palace. I'll show this to Lymselia once I'm able to do so.

[Card drawn: king of clubs. Walking through the woods as the sun goes down, you notice a figure cloaked in moss and foliage disappearing between birch trees.]

--Day 11--

Since my stay at the summer court will be over in a few days, I decided to pay a visit to the library again.
This time, I decided to read on the Faewyld's history.

Turns out the Faewyld is divided two opposing factions: the Seelie Court and the Unseelie Court.

I also learnt about how deals with the fae actually work.

Each deal struck with a faerie is enforced by a powerful magic. Should that deal be broken, the one who violated the terms of the deal is cursed.
The curse of the punishment depends on how significant was the price paid by each side, as well as the nature of the deal itself.

There may be ways to violate a deal without getting cursed, but it depends on how the deal was worded in the first place.

I spent a few hours in the library while doing my research.

[Card drawn: jack of clubs. You visit the local library to research fae deals and potential loopholes.]

--Day 12--

During my trips outside the palace, I met a dryad called Galloris in the woods.

When I met Galloris today, I told her about how my experience so far in the Faewyld and my recent interest in learning magic.

To my surprise, Galloris had the same idea too. After Lymselia told Galloris that I came from a world without magic, she thought teaching me a few magic spells may be a nice gesture on her part.

I spent the day learning a few spells from Galloris.

The spells I learnt weren't that powerful. Most of them are common utility spells used in the summer court.
I also learnt a few offensive spells and a minor healing spell in case I'll need to defend myself.

[Card drawn: queen of diamonds.  A dryad you have started to befriend offers to teach you a little magic found in the trees.]

--Day 13--

We had a few guests from the Blizzard court in the palace today.

They came for a meeting with Lymselia's parents regarding a peace agreement between the two courts.

One of the guests, prince Alred Oloris of the Blizzard court was quite arrogant.

He kept telling stories about his heroic deeds in the Faewyld, how he fought countless battles against the Unseelie court.
Alred also mentioned that he came to the summer court after he heard that Lymselia is searching for a partner.

I mostly remained silent during Alred's speech, but then he said something that caught my attention.
"Of course, I do believe I am a better match for princess Lymselia than this human can be."

At this moment, I just wanted to stand my ground against Alred, but I didn't want to escalate the situation.

I simply said that I agree with Alred's opinion. I'm just not fit to rule an entire kingdom.
The rest of the meeting was as usual. Alred kept bragging about his exploits while Lymselia and I listened.

[Card drawn: 2 of spades.  While sharing scones with visitors, an argument breaks out. The fae royal gives you an apologetic look as they attempt to restore peace... until a snide comment about their choice of consort is made.]

--Day 14--

Today is the last day of my trail period, so Lymselia decided to do something special for me.

She decided to take me on a trip to one of her favorite places in the Faewyld, the Lilypad Expanse lake.
As we rode towards the lake, we came across a lone horse.

We stopped near the horse and got off our saddle. Lymselia decided to talk with the horse, as it seemed stressed.

That horse turned out to be a kelpie serving the Blizzard court. It fled from a nearby castle that was recently damaged in a battle with Unseelie soldiers.

We decided to split up. Lymselia will check near the castle for any remaining Unseelie soldiers while I'll search the ruins for any survivors.

After we made our decisions, Lymselia mounted her horse and rode towards the field while the kelpie led me to the castle ruins.

I dismounted the kelpie and entered the ruins on foot, searching my surroundings for any survivors.

It seems we arrived at the castle too late, as all I could find were the bodies of defeated Blizzard court soldiers, broken weapons and torn banners.

I spent a few minutes investigating the ruins just in case I missed something.

To my surprise, there was something hidden in the ruins: A letter.

I put the letter in my backpack and prepared to return to Lymselia, when I suddenly heard her scream from outside.

I rushed towards the entrance of the ruins and noticed Lymselia being surrounded by a group of cloaked figures.
Lymselia wasn't alone, as I could spot prince Alred standing guard over Lymselia's unconcious body.

The moment the figures noticed my presence, one of them attacked me.
I tried using the spells Galloris taught me to fend off the attacker, but my spells were negated. I had to resort to physical combat, but I was forced to use my fists since I didn't have any weapons.

Eventually, I did manage to defeat my attacker, but I saw Alred being overwhelmed, so I had to help him as well.

It was a tough fight, but the figures soon fled from the ruins.

I stayed near Lymselia to make sure she wasn't hurt during the fight.
Of course, Alred bragged that he didn't really need my help defending Lymselia, saying that he had taken part in battles on a larger than scale than this one.

Lymselia eventually returned to conciousness, although she was exhausted from the fight.

I helped Lymselia stand up on the ground before asking her what happened.

Turns out that a group of assassins from the Unseelie court attacked the castle in an attempt to destroy the Blizzard court.
After the initial attack, some of the assassins set up an ambush for any reinforcements that may arrive at the scene.

The assassins waited until Lymselia and I split up, attempting to capture Lymselia once there was no one to protect her.
Alred arrived at the castle when he recieved a message from the castle's general, arriving only to find Lymselia being under attack.

I decided to search for Lymselia's horse, as we needed to return to the palace.
I wasn't able to find Lymselia's horse anywhere. I guess it ran off during the ambush.

Fortunatly, the kelpie from the Blizzard court was still around, so Alred brought it to us.

Alred told Lymselia he'll take her back to the summer court palace and inform her parents what happened.
When Lymselia asked what about me, Alred replied saying that getting Lymselia back to her parents is more important than getting a simple human like me back to the palace.
Lymselia told Alred that I arrived at the Faewyld as part of the summer court's consort as part of her offer to me two weeks ago.

Alred simply scoffed at the idea that Lymselia even gave me that offer in the first place.

I told Lymselia that she should just go back to the palace with Alred, as Lymselia returning to the palace was more important than getting me back to the palace.

Lymselia refused Alred's idea, saying that she's not leaving without me.

Alred made a few more attempts to convince Lymselia to come with him before finally giving up on the idea. He simply mounted the kelpie and started riding away from us.

I asked Lymselia why she didn't go with Alred. She said she didn't want to leave me here all by myself.

I knew we wouldn't be able to make it back to the palace on foot before the sun goes down.

I decided to take a look around the ruins now that we were alone. Maybe I could find a few mounts for us to return to the palace faster.
After a few minutes of searching, I wasn't able to find anything.

Just as I decided to give up and tell Lymselia we'll have to make camp here for the night, I heard the neigh of a horse.

To our surprise, a pair of pegasi were grazing nearby the castle, so I told this to Lymselia.

As we approached the pegasi, I recognized one of them as the pegasus I rode on during the Moonlight festival last week.

Without any time to waste, Lymselia and I got on each of the pegasi and made our way back to the palace.

As we flew closer to the palace, we overheard Alred talking with Lymselia's parents, saying that he would be glad to lead a search party to find Lymselia in the ruins he left us at.

Before Alred was able to exit the palace, Lymselia and I made our entrance.

The moment Alred noticed us, he immediatly stuttered. Saying that Lymselia managed to rescue me from being buried in the ruins after they collapsed.
I was confused, as I was able to leave the ruins without any issue.

Turns out that Alred was lied to Lymselia once he arrived at the palace.
He said that Lymselia refused to leave the ruins without me and told Alred to head back to the castle to request a search party to find me at the ruins while she searched for herself.

When Lymselia mentioned the pegasi she and I rode on to get to the palace, I noticed that Alred paused for a bit.
Alred said he knew Lymselia and I would have to walk all the way here if the search party did not arrive in time, so he ordered two of his soldiers to leave their pegasi near the ruins just in case we'd need a ride back to the palace.

Lymselia and I knew that Alred was lying. The pegasi arrived long after Alred left the ruins, I even mentioned that one of the pegasi was the same one I rode on during the Moonlight festival.

Alred apologized to Lymselia and her parents for coming to false conclusions and left the palace soon after.

Before heading to my room, I showed Lymselia's parents the letter I found at the ruins.

The letter was written in the faerie language and mentioned a deal between a part of the Unseelie court and another benefactor which Lymselia's parents could not recognize.
However, I was able to recognize the name mentioned in the letter: Zack Digger, the CEO of Black Hat Media located in my home city.

[Card drawn: king od spades. Taking a chance to explore nearby castle ruins you become separated from the faerie royal. As you search for them, you find a trail of blood leading around a corner and the sound of a scythe being sharpened.]

--My decision--

After spending two weeks as part of the summer court, I had to make a choice regarding Lymselia's offer.

I told Lymselia that I don't wish to accept her marriage proposal, as I don't think I can rule an entire kingdom.
Lymselia told me she understands my choice and that she actually enjoyed spending time with me.
I thanked Lymselia and told her that if she ever needs my help, she can always call me.

Before I left the Faewyld to return home, Lymselia gave me a gift to serve as a reminder of my time in the summer court.
The package contained the costume I wore for my performance with the sky knights at the Moonlight festival, as well as a basic spell book.

After that, I left the palace and returned to my own home.

[Final choice: ace of clubs. While you do not wish to accept the faerie royal’s marriage proposal, you decide to stay in the court and offer your friendship and assistance.]]]> This is a playthrough of A Faerie Court Visitation I played over the course of a few days.

--Prologue--

My mother always told me about the bargain an ancestor of our family made with the fae.
They would give him great fortune, enough wealth to keep our family standing for years to come.
In exchange, my ancestor offered one of his descendants as a marriage candidate for a future fae royal.

I always thought of this bargain as a simple story that has been passed down through generations. After all, my mother said the bargain was struck 100 years ago.

At least, until today.

It all started when I heard my mother telling me someone was waiting for me outside the house.
Of course, I did as my mother asked and went outside.
And then I realized that the story my mother used to tell me was more than a simple story.

The first thing I saw was a girl around my age. She was dressed like a princess from a fantasy novel. Fancy dress and all.
She introduced herself to me as Lymselia, princess of the summer court.
Lymselia told me that she has come to claim my hand in marriage, as my ancestor promised her parents 100 years ago.

I was confused at first. Why did Lymselia choose me as her husband? I've never done anything important in my life.
I guess Lymselia noticed the confused look on my face, because she gave me an offer.

I was to stay a period of two weeks in the summer court, acting as part of their consort. After these two weeks, I could either take Lymselia's hand in marriage, or make an alternative payment on my part and go my own way.
I chose to accept Lymselia's offer. After all, I had to fufil my and of the bargain.

Before deprating, Lymselia gave me some time to pack my bags for the trip. I decided to take my backpack, phone, headphones and power bank. I didn't really need anything else for the trip.

After I was done packing up, I told Lymselia I was ready to go visit the summer court.


--Day 1--

Lymselia took me to visit a place known as Mirror Gorge. The water there is almost invisible to onlookers, hence the name.
What peaked my interest the most were the shadows moving across the water's surface.
According to Lymselia, the shadows I saw were Aquawings, a race of winged merfolk who live in lakes across the Faewyld.
The two of us simply sat by the lake and watched the Aquawings swimming around.

[Card drawn: 8 of clubs. Keeping a respectful distance, you watch finfolk by the lochs dart about in their underwater world.]

--Day 2--

I was on my own today, so I decided to pay a visit to the summer court's library.
Since I myself was part of a bargain from 100 years ago, I decided to spend the day researching about fae deals and trades.
Turns out that offering one of your descendants to the fae as payment is surprisingly common among humans. I don't know how do I feel about this discovery.

[Card drawn: Jack of diamonds. You visit the local library to research fae deals and trades.]

--Day 3--

It's safe to say that today was quite interesting, if not a bit awkward.
Lymselia and I went on a walk in a nearby forest. I'm not the type of person to enjoy outdoor trips, but I really enjoyed the view.
After we spent a few hours in the forest, we started to head back to the palace.

And then, without any warning, it started to rain.
It's a good thing Lymselia used her magic to create a small hut for us to take cover from the rain in.
We spent the time waiting for the rain to end by exchanging stories from our lives.
Lymselia told me about the time she helped finding her mother's personal steed after it ran away from the royal stables.
As for me, I simply shared some of my experiences playing TTRPGs over the years.

We wouldn't have to spend the night in Lymselia's improvised shelter, as a group of fae knights found us in the forest after about a few hours and escorted us back to the palace.

[Card drawn: 8 of hearts. Caught in torrential rain the faerie royal improvises a shelter to keep you warm and dry. You exchange stories to pass the time until the sky clears.]

--Day 4--

Lymselia decided to show me the various islands in the Faewyld.
When she told me the trip would be by sea, I was expecting we would go on a boat trip.
Instead, Lymselia and I went around the Faewyld riding on the backs of giant swans.
To be honest, each island I saw today almost felt like I was looking at an entirely different world.

I made sure to take as many photos as I was able to during the trip.

[Card drawn: queen of hearts. The faerie royal takes you to as many islands as the day holds time for, showing you the sights and salutations of the faeries inhabiting each one.]

--Day 5--

As it turns out, today is the Moonlight festival in the Faewyld.
Lymselia was busy with setting up the celebrations in the palace.
I wanted to help Lymselia with her tasks, but she told me she was fine on her own.
So yeah, I had the whole day to myself.

I decided to visit the royal stables, as they were close to where my room in the palace was.

When I arrived at the stables, I noticed some of the stalls were empty.
One of the stablehands, an elf called Tialha, told me that some of the animals ran away from the stable and asked me to help her retrieve the lost animals.
I was told to act as part of the royal consort, so I agreed to help Tialha out.

At one point, I had to calm down a pegasus which was flying in the air without falling off its back and get it to land back on the ground so Tialha could lead it back to the stable.
We managed to return the missing animals to the stables in the end, but it took Tialha and I most of the day to do so. Lymselia also lended us a hand in rounding up the animals.

Also, Lymselia saw me trying to calm down the pegasus and was impressed by how determined I was despite the fact I was really scared.
After we returned all the animals to their stalls, Lymselia asked me if I want to perform with the summer court's sky knights during the Moonlight festival.
I wanted to refuse Lymselia's offer, but I didn't want to let Lymselia down, so I accepted her offer.

In my opinion, the best part of the day was the Moonlight festival itself.
The festival started with an aerial show by the summer court's sky knights, which I took part in.
After that, Lymselia and I spent the rest of the day hanging out in the festival.

Before returning to the palace, the captain of the sky knights, Elora, said she was impressed with how I handled my pegasus during the show despite the fact I only learnt how to ride a pegasus today.
Elora asked me if I want to join the sky knights for real. I told Elora that I'll take her offer into consideration.

After that, Lymselia and I returned to the palace.

[Card drawn: joker. Each joker represents a holiday in the court, which I can spend in any way I want.]

--Day 6--

After what I've been through yesterday, I told Lymselia that I'll be staying in my room to take a rest for the day.
It's a good thing I took the day off, because today my online TTRPG group is meeting up for another session of Griffons and Grimoires.

Like always, I made sure to log into the voice chat before the beginning of the session.
I did tell the group that I'd be forced to join the voice chat from my phone during this session and the next one, as I would be far from home during that time.

The session started out quite tense. Our last G&G session ended with the party fighting the members the Dark Iron cult.
My character, a Darkin Soul-weaver, was on his last few hit points with most of his mana points being depleted from the amount of spells I had to use during the encounter.

We started the session with the turn of the Dark Iron cultists, and the rest of my party was as desperate as I was.
The cultists started attacking the party, trying to wear us down. Luckily, our Oracle still had a single use of Vision left, which turned a critical hit into a fumble, saving our warrior.
It seems luck wasn't on our side, as most of our turns were nothing but missed attacks and failed spells.
Soon it was the cult leader's turn, and he decided to finish off my character, seeing as my character used to be a member of the Dark Iron, but was exiled from the cult.

The GM rolls for the leader's attack. It hits. If I had enough mana to cast Soul Barrier, that would be a miss.
He rolls for damage and I'm brought down to 0 hit points.
At this point, I know I'm doomed. I've been playing my Soul-weaver for the past year, and I really enjoyed playing him.
The GM tells me to make a death saving throw. I roll the dice and fail the saving throw. I'm not dead, but I will be on my next failed death save.
The GM describes as the cult leader pulls out his ritual dagger, ready to claim the soul of the one who betrayed the Dark Iron and offer it to the cult's deity.
Before the GM can finish the leader's speech, he's interrupted by someone.

Suddenly, I hear Lymselia's voice in the call, telling the GM that she still hasn't taken her turn yet.
The GM realizes this mistake and apologizes to the group, telling Lymselia to describe what her character is doing.

Lymselia describes as the cult leader's right hand man, a NPC our party knows, casts Soul Barrier on my character, right before the leader strikes my character down.
Not only that, she uses the NPC's Necrotic Blessing trait and restores my character's hit points and mana.

The cult leader, enraged by the sudden action of the NPC, asks him what was the reason for his action.
Lymselia describes as NPC tells the cult leader that he had enough with the way the Dark Iron cult has been acting over the years and have forgotten their true purpose.

The battle continues with our party gaining the upper hand over the cultists, ending with the defeat of the cult leader.

After the battle, the GM describes the campaign's epilogue and the fate of each of our characters.
When it comes time to my character's ending, the GM describes how my character became the new leader of the Dark Iron cult.

I was glad that my character got to the end of the campaign, but I was a bit confused as of how Lymselia was able to join the voice chat.

Lymselia entered my room after the session ended and I asked her why did the GM let her play as the cult leader's right hand.

As it turns out, after I told Lymselia about my group's G&G campaign, she was interested in joining the group.
I told Lymselia that I'm okay with this, but she should speak with our GM and the rest of the group before she can join.

While I was busy with helping Tialha with getting the lost animals back in the stable before the Moonlight festival yesterday, Lymselia talked with our GM and asked him if she can join the group.
The GM agreed to Lymselia's request, but he had a feeling today's session will be the end of the campaign, so he let Lymselia take control of the NPC instead of having her create a character just for this session.

Lymselia also told me that the GM explained to her about my character's backstory and why he was exiled from the Dark Iron cult.
The GM also shared the NPC's backstory with Lymselia, which was just a bunch of small notes and told Lymselia that she's free to interpert these notes however she likes.

Overall, it has been an exciting day for me.

[Card drawn: 7 of hearts.  When the faerie royal stops by to check up on you, they find you spending time engaging in a hobby. Intrigued, they are keen to join in.]

--Day 7--

After the G&G session we had yesterday, the GM asked the rest of the group if they agree to let Lymselia join the group. They agreed.
Since I was going to run the next campaign, I decided to help Lymselia with creating her character.

I thought it wouldn't take more than a few minutes to help Lymselia create her character. I was wrong.

Just taking a look at the ancestry and class sections of the core book gave Lymselia a lot of ideas for her character.

Eventually, I offered Lymselia that I'll roll on the NPC creation tables in the GM's guide to help her come up with a character concept.

We ended up with a Florai Pyrodancer with the former cultist background.

Lymselia suggested that her character was exiled from the Dark Iron cult due to her uncontrollable fire magic.

It took us about an hour before Lymselia's charcter was finally done.

After that, I ran Lymselia's charcter through a solo adventure to help Lymselia learn the rules of G&G and to also flesh out her character's backstory.

[Card drawn: 7 of diamonds. The fae royal admires you at work on one of your crafts. They take the time to sit beside you and watch intently.]

--Day 8--

Today the summer court had a dancing ball in the palace.

I don't really enjoy going to parties, but I felt like I had to participate.

Most of the day wasn't anything noteworthy, except for the end of the ball.

At some point during the evening, I heard someone calling my name from the balcony.
Lymselia was busy dancing, so I went alone.

When I arrived at the balcony, I was met by a cloaked figure. I couldn't see their face.

They introduced themselves as one of the bargained, people who were traded away to the fae by various bargins.

They have been aware of my arrival to the Faewyld ever since the first day.

The figure reached out into their cloak and pulled out a book. Just before they handed me the book, I heard Lymselia's voice calling out for me.

The figure quickly fled, and I was soon left alone with the book.

Lymselia asked me why did I left the entrance hall. I replied with saying someone called to me and showed Lymselia the book.

I noticed Lymselia was suspicious upon seeing the book, as she soon casted a spell on it.

Turns out I've been given a grimiore of black magic, which could bring ruin to the Faewyld if it was ever used.
I have no idea why was I given this grimiore. Did the bargained see me as a pawn for their own goals?

Come to think of it, I've been in the Faewyld for about a week now. Maybe I should ask Lymselia where can I learn how to cast spells.

[Card drawn: queen of spades.  A sinister figure approaches you at the end of one of the court’s events, about to slip something into your hands before the two of you are interrupted.]

--Day 9--

Lymselia and I went on a riding trip outside the palace today.
There weren't many animals in the stable today, so we had to share a horse together.

We decided to take a rest at a nearby lake.

While looking around the lake, something caught my eye. A lone horse was standing by the lake.
It had a black fur and a long, flowing mane. It even wore a saddle and tack.

I asked Lymselia if I could go explore the lake on my own for a while, and she agreed.

I decided to take a closer look at the horse. Maybe its owner went missing and the horse was left behind.

The horse looked friendly when I arrived. I was able to pet it without getting bitten or kicked.

I figured that since this horse was all alone, I might as well take it with me for the rest of the trip.

I decided to climb onto the horse's saddle and before I could grab the reins, the horse started running as fast as it could around the same spot.

I tried to get off the saddle before the horse would run away, but I couldn't get off the horse.
I thought I could grab the reins and pull the horse to a halt, but I wasn't able to get a hold of the reins.

Soon the horse started running towards the lake and I started fearing for the worst.

But then I heard Lymselia calling out to me, and the horse soon came to a halt.

Lymselia dismounted her horse and walked towards where I was. She spoke with the horse in words I couldn't understand, and I was able to get off the saddle.

Lymselia told me that the horse I saw earlier was actually a kelpie, a mischivious water spirit living in the lakes of the Faewyld.
The kelpie didn't realize I was traveling with Lymselia, and thought I was a simple traveler. The kelpie then apologized to me for almost dragging me to a watery fate.

I accepted the kelpie's apology, knowing that it couldn't recognize me and Lymselia from far away.

Afterwards, Lymselia and I rode back to the palace. Of course, I apologized to Lymselia for being reckless and having my guard down near the keplie.

[Card drawn: 10 of spades. A lakeside stroll takes a dangerous turn when you are almost eaten by a kelpie. The fae royal swoops in to rescue you just before you are dragged into the depths.]

--Day 10--

Lymselia was busy helping her parents today, so I decided to take a walk in the woods by myself.

After my encounter with the kelpie yesterday, I figured it's best to just do the trip on foot.

Thankfully, nothing really happened during the trip.

As the day drew to a close, I started making my way back to the palace.

I soon spotted a distant figure dressed in moss disappearing between the tress. I could go after the figure, but it was getting late.

But then I noticed something on the ground: A book of some sorts.

I picked up the book and made my way back to the palace. I'll show this to Lymselia once I'm able to do so.

[Card drawn: king of clubs. Walking through the woods as the sun goes down, you notice a figure cloaked in moss and foliage disappearing between birch trees.]

--Day 11--

Since my stay at the summer court will be over in a few days, I decided to pay a visit to the library again.
This time, I decided to read on the Faewyld's history.

Turns out the Faewyld is divided two opposing factions: the Seelie Court and the Unseelie Court.

I also learnt about how deals with the fae actually work.

Each deal struck with a faerie is enforced by a powerful magic. Should that deal be broken, the one who violated the terms of the deal is cursed.
The curse of the punishment depends on how significant was the price paid by each side, as well as the nature of the deal itself.

There may be ways to violate a deal without getting cursed, but it depends on how the deal was worded in the first place.

I spent a few hours in the library while doing my research.

[Card drawn: jack of clubs. You visit the local library to research fae deals and potential loopholes.]

--Day 12--

During my trips outside the palace, I met a dryad called Galloris in the woods.

When I met Galloris today, I told her about how my experience so far in the Faewyld and my recent interest in learning magic.

To my surprise, Galloris had the same idea too. After Lymselia told Galloris that I came from a world without magic, she thought teaching me a few magic spells may be a nice gesture on her part.

I spent the day learning a few spells from Galloris.

The spells I learnt weren't that powerful. Most of them are common utility spells used in the summer court.
I also learnt a few offensive spells and a minor healing spell in case I'll need to defend myself.

[Card drawn: queen of diamonds.  A dryad you have started to befriend offers to teach you a little magic found in the trees.]

--Day 13--

We had a few guests from the Blizzard court in the palace today.

They came for a meeting with Lymselia's parents regarding a peace agreement between the two courts.

One of the guests, prince Alred Oloris of the Blizzard court was quite arrogant.

He kept telling stories about his heroic deeds in the Faewyld, how he fought countless battles against the Unseelie court.
Alred also mentioned that he came to the summer court after he heard that Lymselia is searching for a partner.

I mostly remained silent during Alred's speech, but then he said something that caught my attention.
"Of course, I do believe I am a better match for princess Lymselia than this human can be."

At this moment, I just wanted to stand my ground against Alred, but I didn't want to escalate the situation.

I simply said that I agree with Alred's opinion. I'm just not fit to rule an entire kingdom.
The rest of the meeting was as usual. Alred kept bragging about his exploits while Lymselia and I listened.

[Card drawn: 2 of spades.  While sharing scones with visitors, an argument breaks out. The fae royal gives you an apologetic look as they attempt to restore peace... until a snide comment about their choice of consort is made.]

--Day 14--

Today is the last day of my trail period, so Lymselia decided to do something special for me.

She decided to take me on a trip to one of her favorite places in the Faewyld, the Lilypad Expanse lake.
As we rode towards the lake, we came across a lone horse.

We stopped near the horse and got off our saddle. Lymselia decided to talk with the horse, as it seemed stressed.

That horse turned out to be a kelpie serving the Blizzard court. It fled from a nearby castle that was recently damaged in a battle with Unseelie soldiers.

We decided to split up. Lymselia will check near the castle for any remaining Unseelie soldiers while I'll search the ruins for any survivors.

After we made our decisions, Lymselia mounted her horse and rode towards the field while the kelpie led me to the castle ruins.

I dismounted the kelpie and entered the ruins on foot, searching my surroundings for any survivors.

It seems we arrived at the castle too late, as all I could find were the bodies of defeated Blizzard court soldiers, broken weapons and torn banners.

I spent a few minutes investigating the ruins just in case I missed something.

To my surprise, there was something hidden in the ruins: A letter.

I put the letter in my backpack and prepared to return to Lymselia, when I suddenly heard her scream from outside.

I rushed towards the entrance of the ruins and noticed Lymselia being surrounded by a group of cloaked figures.
Lymselia wasn't alone, as I could spot prince Alred standing guard over Lymselia's unconcious body.

The moment the figures noticed my presence, one of them attacked me.
I tried using the spells Galloris taught me to fend off the attacker, but my spells were negated. I had to resort to physical combat, but I was forced to use my fists since I didn't have any weapons.

Eventually, I did manage to defeat my attacker, but I saw Alred being overwhelmed, so I had to help him as well.

It was a tough fight, but the figures soon fled from the ruins.

I stayed near Lymselia to make sure she wasn't hurt during the fight.
Of course, Alred bragged that he didn't really need my help defending Lymselia, saying that he had taken part in battles on a larger than scale than this one.

Lymselia eventually returned to conciousness, although she was exhausted from the fight.

I helped Lymselia stand up on the ground before asking her what happened.

Turns out that a group of assassins from the Unseelie court attacked the castle in an attempt to destroy the Blizzard court.
After the initial attack, some of the assassins set up an ambush for any reinforcements that may arrive at the scene.

The assassins waited until Lymselia and I split up, attempting to capture Lymselia once there was no one to protect her.
Alred arrived at the castle when he recieved a message from the castle's general, arriving only to find Lymselia being under attack.

I decided to search for Lymselia's horse, as we needed to return to the palace.
I wasn't able to find Lymselia's horse anywhere. I guess it ran off during the ambush.

Fortunatly, the kelpie from the Blizzard court was still around, so Alred brought it to us.

Alred told Lymselia he'll take her back to the summer court palace and inform her parents what happened.
When Lymselia asked what about me, Alred replied saying that getting Lymselia back to her parents is more important than getting a simple human like me back to the palace.
Lymselia told Alred that I arrived at the Faewyld as part of the summer court's consort as part of her offer to me two weeks ago.

Alred simply scoffed at the idea that Lymselia even gave me that offer in the first place.

I told Lymselia that she should just go back to the palace with Alred, as Lymselia returning to the palace was more important than getting me back to the palace.

Lymselia refused Alred's idea, saying that she's not leaving without me.

Alred made a few more attempts to convince Lymselia to come with him before finally giving up on the idea. He simply mounted the kelpie and started riding away from us.

I asked Lymselia why she didn't go with Alred. She said she didn't want to leave me here all by myself.

I knew we wouldn't be able to make it back to the palace on foot before the sun goes down.

I decided to take a look around the ruins now that we were alone. Maybe I could find a few mounts for us to return to the palace faster.
After a few minutes of searching, I wasn't able to find anything.

Just as I decided to give up and tell Lymselia we'll have to make camp here for the night, I heard the neigh of a horse.

To our surprise, a pair of pegasi were grazing nearby the castle, so I told this to Lymselia.

As we approached the pegasi, I recognized one of them as the pegasus I rode on during the Moonlight festival last week.

Without any time to waste, Lymselia and I got on each of the pegasi and made our way back to the palace.

As we flew closer to the palace, we overheard Alred talking with Lymselia's parents, saying that he would be glad to lead a search party to find Lymselia in the ruins he left us at.

Before Alred was able to exit the palace, Lymselia and I made our entrance.

The moment Alred noticed us, he immediatly stuttered. Saying that Lymselia managed to rescue me from being buried in the ruins after they collapsed.
I was confused, as I was able to leave the ruins without any issue.

Turns out that Alred was lied to Lymselia once he arrived at the palace.
He said that Lymselia refused to leave the ruins without me and told Alred to head back to the castle to request a search party to find me at the ruins while she searched for herself.

When Lymselia mentioned the pegasi she and I rode on to get to the palace, I noticed that Alred paused for a bit.
Alred said he knew Lymselia and I would have to walk all the way here if the search party did not arrive in time, so he ordered two of his soldiers to leave their pegasi near the ruins just in case we'd need a ride back to the palace.

Lymselia and I knew that Alred was lying. The pegasi arrived long after Alred left the ruins, I even mentioned that one of the pegasi was the same one I rode on during the Moonlight festival.

Alred apologized to Lymselia and her parents for coming to false conclusions and left the palace soon after.

Before heading to my room, I showed Lymselia's parents the letter I found at the ruins.

The letter was written in the faerie language and mentioned a deal between a part of the Unseelie court and another benefactor which Lymselia's parents could not recognize.
However, I was able to recognize the name mentioned in the letter: Zack Digger, the CEO of Black Hat Media located in my home city.

[Card drawn: king od spades. Taking a chance to explore nearby castle ruins you become separated from the faerie royal. As you search for them, you find a trail of blood leading around a corner and the sound of a scythe being sharpened.]

--My decision--

After spending two weeks as part of the summer court, I had to make a choice regarding Lymselia's offer.

I told Lymselia that I don't wish to accept her marriage proposal, as I don't think I can rule an entire kingdom.
Lymselia told me she understands my choice and that she actually enjoyed spending time with me.
I thanked Lymselia and told her that if she ever needs my help, she can always call me.

Before I left the Faewyld to return home, Lymselia gave me a gift to serve as a reminder of my time in the summer court.
The package contained the costume I wore for my performance with the sky knights at the Moonlight festival, as well as a basic spell book.

After that, I left the palace and returned to my own home.

[Final choice: ace of clubs. While you do not wish to accept the faerie royal’s marriage proposal, you decide to stay in the court and offer your friendship and assistance.]]]> <![CDATA[The Quill Shoebox]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-The-Quill-Shoebox Thu, 08 Oct 2020 16:59:18 +0000 Teviko604]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-The-Quill-Shoebox Quill is a different kind of solo RPG game. In Quill it is your character’s job to write a letter -- yes, an actual letter -- and the better the letter the greater chance your letter will be received favorably.  

To play Quill you first need to pick a character from the available archetypes.  Each archetype has three Stats: Language (how well your vocabulary is), Heart (how much emotion you write with), and Penmanship (how visually pleasing is your letter). Each stat is assigned a number of six-sided dice. Additionally, you get to choose 1 skill which you can use once per letter.

Next, you pick a scenario. Each scenario provides all the information you need to write your letter. First, it has a Profile, which explains to who are you writing, the reason for the letter, and what you hope to accomplish by writing. Next, you are given any specific rules that either need to be followed or might offer you an advantage. Third is the Inkpot. This is a list of words (both inferior and superior) that you will choose from. Finally, each scenario has a list of consequences, or reactions to your letter, based on your final score.

You will need to write a five-paragraph letter. For each paragraph, you will choose one word from the inkpot to include. The rules for choosing your word are as follows:

1. Decide if you want to add flourish (or additional description) to your word. If so, roll your heart dice. If one of the dice is 5 or 6, you may add flourish. This is an optional choice as the flourish may help or hurt your score based on the next roll.

2. Roll your language dice to determine if you can choose a superior word or if you have to settle for an inferior word. Once again, a 5 or 6 lets you choose a superior word and you gain 1 point. If you added flourish to the superior word, you score 2 additional points. However, if you decided to add flourish and the word is inferior you lose 1 point.

Once you have finished your paragraph you roll your Penmanship dice to see how visually pleasing your writing is. If you roll a 5 or 6 you gain 1 point. When all five paragraphs are complete, add up your score and compare it with the Consequences list for the scenario to determine what result your letter has.

In reality, what you actually write has no bearing on the result of the game since everything is determined by random dice rolls. However, if you are creative it is a nice writing exercise that can be fun and gets the creative juices flowing.

If anyone wants to try Quill I would invite you to post your letters here in this thread (hence the name, Quill Shoebox, since it is common to collect letters in a shoebox). I will start it off with a letter of my own.]]> Quill is a different kind of solo RPG game. In Quill it is your character’s job to write a letter -- yes, an actual letter -- and the better the letter the greater chance your letter will be received favorably.  

To play Quill you first need to pick a character from the available archetypes.  Each archetype has three Stats: Language (how well your vocabulary is), Heart (how much emotion you write with), and Penmanship (how visually pleasing is your letter). Each stat is assigned a number of six-sided dice. Additionally, you get to choose 1 skill which you can use once per letter.

Next, you pick a scenario. Each scenario provides all the information you need to write your letter. First, it has a Profile, which explains to who are you writing, the reason for the letter, and what you hope to accomplish by writing. Next, you are given any specific rules that either need to be followed or might offer you an advantage. Third is the Inkpot. This is a list of words (both inferior and superior) that you will choose from. Finally, each scenario has a list of consequences, or reactions to your letter, based on your final score.

You will need to write a five-paragraph letter. For each paragraph, you will choose one word from the inkpot to include. The rules for choosing your word are as follows:

1. Decide if you want to add flourish (or additional description) to your word. If so, roll your heart dice. If one of the dice is 5 or 6, you may add flourish. This is an optional choice as the flourish may help or hurt your score based on the next roll.

2. Roll your language dice to determine if you can choose a superior word or if you have to settle for an inferior word. Once again, a 5 or 6 lets you choose a superior word and you gain 1 point. If you added flourish to the superior word, you score 2 additional points. However, if you decided to add flourish and the word is inferior you lose 1 point.

Once you have finished your paragraph you roll your Penmanship dice to see how visually pleasing your writing is. If you roll a 5 or 6 you gain 1 point. When all five paragraphs are complete, add up your score and compare it with the Consequences list for the scenario to determine what result your letter has.

In reality, what you actually write has no bearing on the result of the game since everything is determined by random dice rolls. However, if you are creative it is a nice writing exercise that can be fun and gets the creative juices flowing.

If anyone wants to try Quill I would invite you to post your letters here in this thread (hence the name, Quill Shoebox, since it is common to collect letters in a shoebox). I will start it off with a letter of my own.]]> <![CDATA[[Fantasy AGE] The Beastkin Lair Adventure]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Fantasy-AGE-The-Beastkin-Lair-Adventure Thu, 20 Aug 2020 15:21:43 +0000 Atanakar]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Fantasy-AGE-The-Beastkin-Lair-Adventure Part 1: Rescuing the Mayor
Three intrepid heroes have been sent to find and rescue the mayor of Daggenberg. According to a witness he was ambushed by Beastkins on the road to the town. Magda the rogue, Farrdim the elf mage and Pardriss the warrior have managed to follow the evil creature's tracks to a cavern complex.

Blog: Solo Dungeon Crawl : Rescuing the Mayor


I wrote the above adventure in July 2019. In August (2020) I've continued the adventure with three more entries. You can follow them by clicking on the continue to read link at the bottom of each page or click on the links below. Really having fun with this. Already looking forward to playing part 5.


Part 2
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...art-2.html



Part 3
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...art-3.html



Part 4
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...art-4.html]]> Part 1: Rescuing the Mayor
Three intrepid heroes have been sent to find and rescue the mayor of Daggenberg. According to a witness he was ambushed by Beastkins on the road to the town. Magda the rogue, Farrdim the elf mage and Pardriss the warrior have managed to follow the evil creature's tracks to a cavern complex.

Blog: Solo Dungeon Crawl : Rescuing the Mayor


I wrote the above adventure in July 2019. In August (2020) I've continued the adventure with three more entries. You can follow them by clicking on the continue to read link at the bottom of each page or click on the links below. Really having fun with this. Already looking forward to playing part 5.


Part 2
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...art-2.html



Part 3
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...art-3.html



Part 4
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...art-4.html]]> <![CDATA[Galactic Frontiers • A Mari Usque Ad Mare • Part One]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Galactic-Frontiers-%E2%80%A2-A-Mari-Usque-Ad-Mare-%E2%80%A2-Part-One Fri, 12 Jun 2020 14:12:37 +0000 Atanakar]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Galactic-Frontiers-%E2%80%A2-A-Mari-Usque-Ad-Mare-%E2%80%A2-Part-One
Part One: Follow the adventures of Sebastian MacCann and his crew:
http://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/0...-mare.html]]>
Part One: Follow the adventures of Sebastian MacCann and his crew:
http://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/0...-mare.html]]> <![CDATA[[Romance of the Perilous Lands] Solo Hex Crawl Quest]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Romance-of-the-Perilous-Lands-Solo-Hex-Crawl-Quest Mon, 25 May 2020 12:56:51 +0000 Atanakar]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Romance-of-the-Perilous-Lands-Solo-Hex-Crawl-Quest
Just started a solo hex crawl quest using Romance of the Perilous Lands as system. Using The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox (D&D5e), Forbidden Lands random tables and my own solo rules to run the quest.

Here is the link to my blog:

Solo Hex Crawl Quest - Perilous Lands [Initial Set Up]
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...lands.html]]>
Just started a solo hex crawl quest using Romance of the Perilous Lands as system. Using The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox (D&D5e), Forbidden Lands random tables and my own solo rules to run the quest.

Here is the link to my blog:

Solo Hex Crawl Quest - Perilous Lands [Initial Set Up]
https://marccsolottrp.blogspot.com/2020/...lands.html]]> <![CDATA[[Superheroes] Gorilla My Dreams]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Superheroes-Gorilla-My-Dreams Mon, 26 Oct 2015 02:13:21 +0000 Kipling]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Superheroes-Gorilla-My-Dreams ICONS for the actual task resolution. For those following along at home, I chose a character I had created for a challenge over on RPG.net, Haemophile, and a villain I had done for something else, Ape X. (Ape X is essentially Gorilla Grodd.)

Haemophile

Origin Birthright
Name Haemophile (Chloe Grace)
Prowess 5 Intellect 3 Determination3
Coordination 3 Awareness 3 Stamina10
Strength 5 Willpower 5
Specialities:Martial Arts, Stealth
Powers Invisibility Good 5
Strike (Slash) Great 6
Extra: Secondary Effect: Affliction Amazing 7
Qualities
Idealizes "normal" because she's a mutant
Mid-level assassin for a shadowy agency
No one but her builds up immunity

Ape X

Origin Transformed
Prowess 5 Intellect 7 Determination –
Coordination 4 Awareness 4 Stamina 13
Strength 6 Willpower 7
Specialties Athletics, Mental Resistance Expert, Technology Master, Wrestling 
Powers
Super-Senses (Enh. Hearing, Enh Smell) 2
Telepathy 7
Extra: Mind Control 7

Qualities
Genius Gorilla
Hatred of Humans
I Will Do What's Best Even If They Hate Me

The laundromat was a slice of normalcy for Chloe: it and the library were the things that kept the rich filling of weirdness from staining her... She couldn't figure out what the end of the metaphor should be, except that life was truly a weirdness sandwich. She found that last bra and threw it in the washing machine, then carefully counted out the quarters. She looked at the remainder and counted them. She wouldn't have enough to dry everything. She turned to the woman at the counter--

Everyone turned into a gorilla.

Chloe checked her arm--not hairy.

So everyone had turned into a gorilla except Chloe.

And they didn't notice. The woman (woman-gorilla) at the counter was still flipping through her tabloid.

Chloe looked around. One of the gorillas noticed her and the eyes started to widen--

And then the change flickered off. Everyone was human. The woman rubbed her eyes and went back to chatting with her friend.

And except for Chloe, no one seemed to notice. 

This was something beyond her ken: either insanity or a plot. She stepped outside to a private place to make two calls. The first was to Dr. Jessop, her government psychologist. (Killing was hard for Chloe, even though it was her job.) Chloe felt out Dr. Jessop to find out if she--Chloe--was due for hallucinations.

"I think we'd better see you this afternoon. I can stay late tonight." Dr. Jessop had a warm voice, like honey, and Chloe agreed. After that call, she tapped the phone against her thigh. Then she called her agency handler.

"Everyone just turned into a gorilla," she said, without preamble. "I already called Dr. Jessop. So if I'm not crazy?"

"I didn't notice anything," he said. His voice was scratchy and high.

"No one did."

He paused a moment and then gave her a name--Dr. Timothy Coop--and an address. "He does all that Kirbytech stuff for the university. He has clearance. You can talk to him."

Chloe went to the counter. "I'm sorry, but I have to get my kid from the sitter," she lied. "He's throwing up. My basket's right there. If someone needs the machine, I don't mind if they put the clothes in the basket." The woman waved her hand without looking up from her tabloid.

* * *

Dr. Coop's office was cluttered, decorated with tall piles of books and printouts, and a few dusty pictures of the family. Dr. Coop was sitting at his desk between two pillars of paper and putting away a small flask.

Chloe introduced herself, using the cover name that the agency had given her. "What do you know about gorillas?"

He looked straight in her eyes. She could smell the booze. "Nothing," he said slowly. "Biology was my wife's area."


"Because earlier today, I saw everyone change into a gorilla."

His shoulders sagged. "Thank god. I thought I was the only one. You're a mutant, right?"

"No, of course not. Why would you think that?" Chloe had known she was a mutant since she turned invisible at thirteen. The claws and the poisonous venom had only reinforced that.

"You're latent. That's okay." He looked behind her. "Shut the door." She did. "I'm a mutant," he told her. "It's a knack for technology. Put something in front of me, and let me touch it, and sooner or later I'll understand it." He smiled tightly. "Makes me good at my field. But I was teaching a bunch of first-years today, and they all turned into gorillas."

"So I'm not crazy."

"No, the Moreau ray is obscure but documented. Villain, early 1960s. His only affected one individual, though, and required a tremendous energy input. He stored lightning in capacitors-- Your power?"

"Claws." She didn't tell him about the others, and the claws were itching to come out. Side effect of feeling threatened. She slid them out, and then back.

"That's not a lot." She shrugged. "Okay. Where were you when it happened?"

"South side."

"It looks like it affected at least the city, perhaps more."

Chloe nodded and pulled out her phone again. "Can you cancel my appointment with Dr. Jessop? I'm not crazy. It looks like at least this city turned into gorillas. Check farther afield." She put her phone down. "If the area is big enough, it's not my problem."

"That seems rather un-hero-like."

Chloe laughed. "Trust me, I am not a superhero."

A light started to flash. "It's the vault," said Dr. Coop. "I store high tech items for study, and someone's breaking into it."

"The police--?"

"They'll be too late. Come on!"

* * *


They ran to the vault--and found a huge silverback gorilla tearing the door from its hinges.

-I'll find it easier to look at the contents without that door,- rumbled the gorilla. He glanced at both of them, and they froze, as if a force had paralyzed their bodies.

He left the vault with something the size of a shoebox that has a blue gem fastened on top. They "heard" him but his lips didn't move.

-I can't risk you breaking the power source. You'll stay like that for an hour. That should be enough time.- He looked them up and down. -Interesting. You remember everyone else changing. Well. We'll have to hunt you down once I'm done.-

About a minute after he left, Chloe tumbled to the floor. She helped Dr. Coop and then phoned her handler again.

"No, really," she said. "Now I have the need to know. Tell me everything in your files about the telepathic gorilla."

***

They were sitting in Dr. Coop's office. She had a mug of tea in her hands. "They claim they don't know where he came from, but he represents a troop of hyperintelligent simians." She saw his hand tremble as he reached for his tea. "You feeling better?"

Dr. Coop grimaced. "It's still an effort to move anything. Thank you for the tea."

She shrugged. "We were paralyzed by a telepathic gorilla. A cup of tea can't hurt. Hell, I'd drink if there were booze handy."

Dr. Coop reached into his desk and held out the silver flask. She waved it away.

"I think I have to be alert. What was the box thing he took?"

"I don't know yet. It came out of a crashed spaceship during the Kootlismik invasion. He, the ape, implied that it was a power source, and that's probably correct--I just haven't got to it yet because I have other things with more urgent deadlines."

"It takes you time? I thought you just, you know, understood things."

"I always check. I'm afraid that I'll interpret my understanding wrong because I lack the background. A radio is a radio, but if you don't know about radio waves, it's a murder weapon: you drop it in the bathtub with someone and it kills them."

Chloe nodded. "But you think this thing is a power source?"

Dr. Coop said, "I think he burned out his previous power source. Check for standard power sources. See if any of them went dead." Chloe just looked at him. "Can't you--?"

"I barely graduated high school," she said. It was a lie: she had never graduated high school.

"Right." He sat down at his computer. "My theory is that he's using some variant of the Moreau ray. Mutants like me--like us--aren't affected because the Moreau ray affects a specific allele, a marker. His ray triggers certain biological changes. Our allele is different...it's a marker."

"He's making everyone into mutant apes?"

"Sort of." He scanned the results on his computer. "He tapped into the power mains for the army base."

"How much more powerful is the thing he took?"

"Assuming it is a power source?"

"He thinks it is."

"Granted. The weapon it came from vaporized the entire hull of a tank in less than a second." He scribbled for a second. "Assuming that it does the same number of kilojoules with the same losses for efficiency... I think he could make the change permanent for the seaboard. Possibly the nation."

She chewed her lip. "Man, we definitely need real superheroes here."

"Mine is not really a fighting power."

"Mine is only a fighting power." Claws flickered out of her fingertips and then she withdrew them. "I hate it." She sighed. "Where is he now?"

"Who knows? Now he's freed from the need to tap into the power grid."

"But his lab had to be hooked up originally. The machine, the ray generator, is there. He's smart but he's not super fast."

"Mechanical lab space, not necessarily official lab space, where he can hook into the army base generators."

"That's going to be in or near the army base. They won't have lain cable outside the base."

"Then he's in the vehicle maintenance building or in the underground lab."

"The underground lab?"

"They have an underground lab. My wife--my ex-wife. She worked there."


"Of course they have an underground lab." She rolled her eyes. "It's that simple? Surely someone else has noticed this."

"Well, you have to have clearance and know about the underground lab." He printed off a map. "I don't know where the entrance is--I was blindfolded the only time I went there."

"Super." She looked at the map. "You're sure no other superheroes have responded to this?"

"They would come to ask me--I am the expert on rays that turn people into gorillas."

"I guess." She sighed. "I guess I'm going to an army base."

* * *

Chloe left her motorcycle outside the fence, out of sight of the gate. It had been so easy to walk into the army base that she wondered why they didn't have protection against invisible assassins. Really, she couldn't be the only one.

The blow was entirely unexpected and sent her sprawling along the ground.

More to come in part II.]]> ICONS for the actual task resolution. For those following along at home, I chose a character I had created for a challenge over on RPG.net, Haemophile, and a villain I had done for something else, Ape X. (Ape X is essentially Gorilla Grodd.)

Haemophile

Origin Birthright
Name Haemophile (Chloe Grace)
Prowess 5 Intellect 3 Determination3
Coordination 3 Awareness 3 Stamina10
Strength 5 Willpower 5
Specialities:Martial Arts, Stealth
Powers Invisibility Good 5
Strike (Slash) Great 6
Extra: Secondary Effect: Affliction Amazing 7
Qualities
Idealizes "normal" because she's a mutant
Mid-level assassin for a shadowy agency
No one but her builds up immunity

Ape X

Origin Transformed
Prowess 5 Intellect 7 Determination –
Coordination 4 Awareness 4 Stamina 13
Strength 6 Willpower 7
Specialties Athletics, Mental Resistance Expert, Technology Master, Wrestling 
Powers
Super-Senses (Enh. Hearing, Enh Smell) 2
Telepathy 7
Extra: Mind Control 7

Qualities
Genius Gorilla
Hatred of Humans
I Will Do What's Best Even If They Hate Me

The laundromat was a slice of normalcy for Chloe: it and the library were the things that kept the rich filling of weirdness from staining her... She couldn't figure out what the end of the metaphor should be, except that life was truly a weirdness sandwich. She found that last bra and threw it in the washing machine, then carefully counted out the quarters. She looked at the remainder and counted them. She wouldn't have enough to dry everything. She turned to the woman at the counter--

Everyone turned into a gorilla.

Chloe checked her arm--not hairy.

So everyone had turned into a gorilla except Chloe.

And they didn't notice. The woman (woman-gorilla) at the counter was still flipping through her tabloid.

Chloe looked around. One of the gorillas noticed her and the eyes started to widen--

And then the change flickered off. Everyone was human. The woman rubbed her eyes and went back to chatting with her friend.

And except for Chloe, no one seemed to notice. 

This was something beyond her ken: either insanity or a plot. She stepped outside to a private place to make two calls. The first was to Dr. Jessop, her government psychologist. (Killing was hard for Chloe, even though it was her job.) Chloe felt out Dr. Jessop to find out if she--Chloe--was due for hallucinations.

"I think we'd better see you this afternoon. I can stay late tonight." Dr. Jessop had a warm voice, like honey, and Chloe agreed. After that call, she tapped the phone against her thigh. Then she called her agency handler.

"Everyone just turned into a gorilla," she said, without preamble. "I already called Dr. Jessop. So if I'm not crazy?"

"I didn't notice anything," he said. His voice was scratchy and high.

"No one did."

He paused a moment and then gave her a name--Dr. Timothy Coop--and an address. "He does all that Kirbytech stuff for the university. He has clearance. You can talk to him."

Chloe went to the counter. "I'm sorry, but I have to get my kid from the sitter," she lied. "He's throwing up. My basket's right there. If someone needs the machine, I don't mind if they put the clothes in the basket." The woman waved her hand without looking up from her tabloid.

* * *

Dr. Coop's office was cluttered, decorated with tall piles of books and printouts, and a few dusty pictures of the family. Dr. Coop was sitting at his desk between two pillars of paper and putting away a small flask.

Chloe introduced herself, using the cover name that the agency had given her. "What do you know about gorillas?"

He looked straight in her eyes. She could smell the booze. "Nothing," he said slowly. "Biology was my wife's area."


"Because earlier today, I saw everyone change into a gorilla."

His shoulders sagged. "Thank god. I thought I was the only one. You're a mutant, right?"

"No, of course not. Why would you think that?" Chloe had known she was a mutant since she turned invisible at thirteen. The claws and the poisonous venom had only reinforced that.

"You're latent. That's okay." He looked behind her. "Shut the door." She did. "I'm a mutant," he told her. "It's a knack for technology. Put something in front of me, and let me touch it, and sooner or later I'll understand it." He smiled tightly. "Makes me good at my field. But I was teaching a bunch of first-years today, and they all turned into gorillas."

"So I'm not crazy."

"No, the Moreau ray is obscure but documented. Villain, early 1960s. His only affected one individual, though, and required a tremendous energy input. He stored lightning in capacitors-- Your power?"

"Claws." She didn't tell him about the others, and the claws were itching to come out. Side effect of feeling threatened. She slid them out, and then back.

"That's not a lot." She shrugged. "Okay. Where were you when it happened?"

"South side."

"It looks like it affected at least the city, perhaps more."

Chloe nodded and pulled out her phone again. "Can you cancel my appointment with Dr. Jessop? I'm not crazy. It looks like at least this city turned into gorillas. Check farther afield." She put her phone down. "If the area is big enough, it's not my problem."

"That seems rather un-hero-like."

Chloe laughed. "Trust me, I am not a superhero."

A light started to flash. "It's the vault," said Dr. Coop. "I store high tech items for study, and someone's breaking into it."

"The police--?"

"They'll be too late. Come on!"

* * *


They ran to the vault--and found a huge silverback gorilla tearing the door from its hinges.

-I'll find it easier to look at the contents without that door,- rumbled the gorilla. He glanced at both of them, and they froze, as if a force had paralyzed their bodies.

He left the vault with something the size of a shoebox that has a blue gem fastened on top. They "heard" him but his lips didn't move.

-I can't risk you breaking the power source. You'll stay like that for an hour. That should be enough time.- He looked them up and down. -Interesting. You remember everyone else changing. Well. We'll have to hunt you down once I'm done.-

About a minute after he left, Chloe tumbled to the floor. She helped Dr. Coop and then phoned her handler again.

"No, really," she said. "Now I have the need to know. Tell me everything in your files about the telepathic gorilla."

***

They were sitting in Dr. Coop's office. She had a mug of tea in her hands. "They claim they don't know where he came from, but he represents a troop of hyperintelligent simians." She saw his hand tremble as he reached for his tea. "You feeling better?"

Dr. Coop grimaced. "It's still an effort to move anything. Thank you for the tea."

She shrugged. "We were paralyzed by a telepathic gorilla. A cup of tea can't hurt. Hell, I'd drink if there were booze handy."

Dr. Coop reached into his desk and held out the silver flask. She waved it away.

"I think I have to be alert. What was the box thing he took?"

"I don't know yet. It came out of a crashed spaceship during the Kootlismik invasion. He, the ape, implied that it was a power source, and that's probably correct--I just haven't got to it yet because I have other things with more urgent deadlines."

"It takes you time? I thought you just, you know, understood things."

"I always check. I'm afraid that I'll interpret my understanding wrong because I lack the background. A radio is a radio, but if you don't know about radio waves, it's a murder weapon: you drop it in the bathtub with someone and it kills them."

Chloe nodded. "But you think this thing is a power source?"

Dr. Coop said, "I think he burned out his previous power source. Check for standard power sources. See if any of them went dead." Chloe just looked at him. "Can't you--?"

"I barely graduated high school," she said. It was a lie: she had never graduated high school.

"Right." He sat down at his computer. "My theory is that he's using some variant of the Moreau ray. Mutants like me--like us--aren't affected because the Moreau ray affects a specific allele, a marker. His ray triggers certain biological changes. Our allele is different...it's a marker."

"He's making everyone into mutant apes?"

"Sort of." He scanned the results on his computer. "He tapped into the power mains for the army base."

"How much more powerful is the thing he took?"

"Assuming it is a power source?"

"He thinks it is."

"Granted. The weapon it came from vaporized the entire hull of a tank in less than a second." He scribbled for a second. "Assuming that it does the same number of kilojoules with the same losses for efficiency... I think he could make the change permanent for the seaboard. Possibly the nation."

She chewed her lip. "Man, we definitely need real superheroes here."

"Mine is not really a fighting power."

"Mine is only a fighting power." Claws flickered out of her fingertips and then she withdrew them. "I hate it." She sighed. "Where is he now?"

"Who knows? Now he's freed from the need to tap into the power grid."

"But his lab had to be hooked up originally. The machine, the ray generator, is there. He's smart but he's not super fast."

"Mechanical lab space, not necessarily official lab space, where he can hook into the army base generators."

"That's going to be in or near the army base. They won't have lain cable outside the base."

"Then he's in the vehicle maintenance building or in the underground lab."

"The underground lab?"

"They have an underground lab. My wife--my ex-wife. She worked there."


"Of course they have an underground lab." She rolled her eyes. "It's that simple? Surely someone else has noticed this."

"Well, you have to have clearance and know about the underground lab." He printed off a map. "I don't know where the entrance is--I was blindfolded the only time I went there."

"Super." She looked at the map. "You're sure no other superheroes have responded to this?"

"They would come to ask me--I am the expert on rays that turn people into gorillas."

"I guess." She sighed. "I guess I'm going to an army base."

* * *

Chloe left her motorcycle outside the fence, out of sight of the gate. It had been so easy to walk into the army base that she wondered why they didn't have protection against invisible assassins. Really, she couldn't be the only one.

The blow was entirely unexpected and sent her sprawling along the ground.

More to come in part II.]]> <![CDATA[The Struggle]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-The-Struggle Tue, 01 Apr 2014 19:57:02 +0000 Taskmaster]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-The-Struggle
The bobber hit the water with a small splash, then floated to the surface and bobbed up and down until the ripples dissipated. He sat on the edge of the wooden pier with his bare feet dangling over the edge longing to feel the cool water over his feet, but the water was too far below him. He just let his feet sway freely as he leaned against a support post watching the various fish tempt fate by tasting the bait.

The sun shone down on him reflecting his image in the sparkling water as the breeze tousled his hair from time to time. The scattered clouds blocked the sun’s glare on the water beneath them, making the water dark and easier to see what was swimming there.

He wasn’t really interested in catching a fish today, but rather he was contemplating the meaning of life, and all that goes with it. He wrestled with his thoughts as they nibbled away at him inside like the fish were nibbling away the bait he had dangling from his fishing pole. Little bits and pieces of himself had been eaten away until now he felt broken and empty inside.

Why did some fish simply swim up to the bait, evaluate it, and without even a taste move on past? Why did other fish only cautiously nibble at the bait and as if sensing the hook embedded within resist taking a bite? Still other fish, so hungry as to be blinded to the danger, swallow the bait hook, line and sinker, as the saying goes. They are so intent on the lure of the bait that they forfeit their very lives just for a chance to taste it.

He watched the bobber dance upon the water, gliding over each swell and crest, dipping down at each nibble, only to quickly return the surface again. Fish of varying sizes all vied for their chance at the bait, like some chaotic and exotic dance.

“Of course”, he thought, “only the fish willing to take the risk and bite the bait, ever has a chance at the reward of having it, and there is the off chance of missing the hook or that the line will break before it is too late.”

Suddenly, as if knowing his thoughts, the bobber plunged under the water firmly and the line was pulled taunt. The bait had been taken but so had the hook, thus along with the pleasure would come the pain, only time would tell which there would be more of. He slowly reeled in the line enjoying the fight the fish gave him trying to undo its mistake.

He grabbed the line as the fish surfaced and held it up out of the water several inches letting the fish squirm and struggle without attempting to grab it. It might get lucky and free itself from the mess it was in. The fish’s mouth opened and closed slowly gasping in air as it tried to cope with being out of its element, appearing as dazed and confused as a fish can look. Again it struggled in vain to free the hook from its jaw by thrashing around wildly, but it was helpless on its own.

He carefully grasped the fish firmly so as to avoid hurting it further, and twisted the barded hook out from the fish’s jaw. He tossed the exhausted and scared fish back into the water where it floundered briefly then swam away into the darkness.

“I hope you learned a lesson about temptation” he scolded the fish that were still swimming in circles below waiting for the next baited hook. “That road will always take you farther than you wanted to go, and rarely do you get to return by the same road you took to get there.”

He tossed his fishing pole into the ocean blue, knowing he could never use it again, and watched it sink into the depths until it was out of sight. He walked slowly down the pier, the warm wood against his bare feet, wanting to turn back, but knowing that he couldn’t. And therein lay the struggle…]]>
The bobber hit the water with a small splash, then floated to the surface and bobbed up and down until the ripples dissipated. He sat on the edge of the wooden pier with his bare feet dangling over the edge longing to feel the cool water over his feet, but the water was too far below him. He just let his feet sway freely as he leaned against a support post watching the various fish tempt fate by tasting the bait.

The sun shone down on him reflecting his image in the sparkling water as the breeze tousled his hair from time to time. The scattered clouds blocked the sun’s glare on the water beneath them, making the water dark and easier to see what was swimming there.

He wasn’t really interested in catching a fish today, but rather he was contemplating the meaning of life, and all that goes with it. He wrestled with his thoughts as they nibbled away at him inside like the fish were nibbling away the bait he had dangling from his fishing pole. Little bits and pieces of himself had been eaten away until now he felt broken and empty inside.

Why did some fish simply swim up to the bait, evaluate it, and without even a taste move on past? Why did other fish only cautiously nibble at the bait and as if sensing the hook embedded within resist taking a bite? Still other fish, so hungry as to be blinded to the danger, swallow the bait hook, line and sinker, as the saying goes. They are so intent on the lure of the bait that they forfeit their very lives just for a chance to taste it.

He watched the bobber dance upon the water, gliding over each swell and crest, dipping down at each nibble, only to quickly return the surface again. Fish of varying sizes all vied for their chance at the bait, like some chaotic and exotic dance.

“Of course”, he thought, “only the fish willing to take the risk and bite the bait, ever has a chance at the reward of having it, and there is the off chance of missing the hook or that the line will break before it is too late.”

Suddenly, as if knowing his thoughts, the bobber plunged under the water firmly and the line was pulled taunt. The bait had been taken but so had the hook, thus along with the pleasure would come the pain, only time would tell which there would be more of. He slowly reeled in the line enjoying the fight the fish gave him trying to undo its mistake.

He grabbed the line as the fish surfaced and held it up out of the water several inches letting the fish squirm and struggle without attempting to grab it. It might get lucky and free itself from the mess it was in. The fish’s mouth opened and closed slowly gasping in air as it tried to cope with being out of its element, appearing as dazed and confused as a fish can look. Again it struggled in vain to free the hook from its jaw by thrashing around wildly, but it was helpless on its own.

He carefully grasped the fish firmly so as to avoid hurting it further, and twisted the barded hook out from the fish’s jaw. He tossed the exhausted and scared fish back into the water where it floundered briefly then swam away into the darkness.

“I hope you learned a lesson about temptation” he scolded the fish that were still swimming in circles below waiting for the next baited hook. “That road will always take you farther than you wanted to go, and rarely do you get to return by the same road you took to get there.”

He tossed his fishing pole into the ocean blue, knowing he could never use it again, and watched it sink into the depths until it was out of sight. He walked slowly down the pier, the warm wood against his bare feet, wanting to turn back, but knowing that he couldn’t. And therein lay the struggle…]]> <![CDATA[Six]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Six Fri, 28 Mar 2014 15:09:33 +0000 slaad11]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Six
At just over a meter from muzzle to hock, Six was only half the size of One. But what he lacked in size, he made up for in speed, cunning and sheer tenacity. One was still treating him like a lame cub, but after the deaths of Two and Three, the pack needed him. Four and Five often tried to re-establish their dominance over him, but Six fought like a ravenous tunnel viper, so Four and Five wore scars for every attempt.

This particular moment, however, was not the time for squabbling. One had caught the scent of a heard of crushers and the pack had not eaten meat for nine days. Six was ordered to take point while Four and Five circled around the right flank and One circled around the left. Five glowed a deep crimson, since the weakest was never sent on point and this meant that One had finally acknowledged the prowess of Six, but Five’s hunger was more urgent than his pride and he didn’t dare question One during a hunt. Six remained cold and calm as he moved silently through the dense foliage. He should have been glowing blue with joy at One’s decision, but he needed to blend and he needed to focus. He could feel the crushers grazing ahead and slowly crept to the edge of a clearing. He peered through the undergrowth and spotted the herd.

There were two males, one adult and one calf. They would be off limits, since males were rare and the pack wouldn’t want to remove this herd from the menu. The herd was led by a particularly large matriarch. Her broad shoulder blades stood nearly five meters from the ground, but the pack had no intention of trying to take down that giant hulk of muscle, bone and stone; their target was the two female calves grazing at the center of a circle formed by the matriarch and the other five adults. One calf in particular looked like she was only a few days old and barely had any rocks imbedded in her hide. She would be soft and slow. An easy kill, if they could manage to separate her from the herd.

The matriarch reared its head and dropped its giant tusk on a boulder, splitting it and sending painful vibrations up Six’s spinal column. It was unnerving, being this close to the matriarch, but Six knew she was only exposing a colony of crawling insects and hadn’t detected the pack. Six was perfectly downwind and crushers had a poor vibration sense. The breeze softened and stilled. Six could see his own sent slowly waft into the clearing, but it was still a long way from the nostrils of the herd. He whistled his quarry to the pack and they whistled back with their positions. Four and Five were nearing their mark and One was already in position.

Six tensed, his lean powerful muscles bunching and rippling visibly beneath his smooth translucent black skin. He didn’t have to wait long. The moment Four and Five whistled that they were in position, Six felt One’s clear ultrasonic attack tone tremble up his spine.

Six bounded into the clearing with blinding speed. The herd didn’t have time to react before Six leapt up the hindquarters of a smaller adult and sliced through her leathery flesh between two large flat stones, jarring one of them loose. The flat stone fell to the ground with a loud crack. He scrambled over her back, trying to do more damage with his claws, but only managed to scrape them against her imbedded stony armor, narrowly avoiding her sharp jutting shoulder blade as he cleared her head and hit the ground running. The crusher reared up on her four hind legs and slammed her tusk down, but Six was already beyond her reach and pouncing on the smallest calf, raking his razor sharp claws across the calf’s eyes. Even though the calf was less than a week out of the womb, she was already twice the size of One, but she was still too dumb and slow to defend herself from Six’s rapid hit and run attack.

One burst into the clearing and charged the Matriarch while Four and Five dashed in from the opposite side, running parallel and swiping simultaneously at both flanks of another adult. Four’s claws drew blood, but Five’s flank got skewered by the crusher’s tail spike. It was a lucky shot, but not lucky for Five. She thrashed her tail outward and flung Five through the air. Five hit a tree with a sickening vibration and slid down, twitching and bleeding out on the tangled tree roots. Four was enraged and went for the adult’s eyes instead of charging ahead like he should have. He clawed one of them out, but the half-blinded crusher reared up and her huge tusk hammered down at Four as he hit the ground at an awkward angle and had to scramble out from underneath her attack. The tusk grazed Four’s hind leg, wounding him, but he got away.

One leapt straight into the matriarch’s face and gouged an eye out before scrambling up and over her back, right between her shoulder blades. The matriarch’s tail slashed upward, trying to pin One against her back, but One was too fast and her bony spikes just cracked against her own imbedded stones.

As planned, the herd panicked and began to run. Although Five was dead and Four was limping, they still stood a chance to separate the smallest calf from the herd. This hunt was too costly, though, and Six wondered if he would be blamed as he ducked below the deadly thrashing tail of the adult male.

Then the hunt went from bad to worse.

A freak clap of thunder exploded in the clear blue sky, momentarily stunning the pack with its monstrous vibration. Six was outside of the herd and running around to make another pass when it happened, so he only rolled into a tree, even further from harm’s way. One and Four were not so lucky. Four rolled to a stop beneath the head of one of the other adults, who were unaffected by the thunder, and was cleanly cloven by the crusher’s sharply beveled tree-sized ivory pillar of a tusk. One met an even worse fate as the matriarch’s tail slammed down behind her and sent the long boney spike straight through his hindquarters and pinned him to the ground. One’s legs were instantly paralyzed and he knew he would bleed out as soon as she lifted her tail, so he ruptured his venom gland and swallowed, dying instantly.

Six turned and ran back into the trees.

Another clap of thunder exploded from the sky and sent Six tumbling head over heels. He recovered and resumed his flight from the enraged herd of crushers. He couldn’t make any sense of what was happening. He glowed a deep heart-broken violet as he looked up through the treetops into the clear sky. There were no clouds, but he could see the movement of something else.

Six finally reached the top of a hill and scrambled up a tall tree. Panting with exhaustion as he looked out at the unobstructed sky, he saw a sight that made even less sense than the thunder he had felt. It looked like two oddly-shaped black floating mountains were descending slowly to the ground. There were four giant bright plumes of fire beneath each of them, as well as many tiny lights that flashed like crystals catching the daylight. They seemed to settle gently on the flat northern plains below like a flying insect settling onto a leaf. The plumes of fire kicked up so much dust that both mountains were momentarily obscured, but after the ground and sky shook so hard that Six's vibration sense was blinded and he was nearly thrown from the tree, the dust settled and the black mountains looked like they were now part of the landscape.

Six just trembled and stared. He should have swallowed his own venom by now. His pack was dead and he wouldn’t survive long by himself, but two black mountains falling from the sky was too strange of an event, and his curiosity overcame his sorrow.

He might swallow his venom soon enough, but first, Six needed to get a closer look…


“Daddy!” Luna peeped excitedly between yawns as he lifted her from her cryo pod.

“Hi pumpkin, did you sleep well?”

“Yes, and I had lots and lots of really interesting dreams!”

“I’ll bet you did. We’ve been sleeping for over a hundred and fifty Earth years!” He chuckled, setting her tentatively on the cold floor to make sure she could stand up on her own. She had no trouble.

“The last dream I had was the best! I dreamed that I found a dog here and he was my pet and he protected me!”

“That sounds like a nice dream, sweetheart, but I’m pretty sure they don’t have dogs on Tanis Prime - and we didn’t take any with us.”

“But the dream seemed so real, Daddy!”

“I know, but prolonged cryo sleep tends to make your dreams very vivid and...”

“Oooh, but he was so neat, Daddy! He was long and black and see-through and he changed colors and he didn’t have ears and he whistled instead of barking and I named him Six!”

“Six, huh? Well that sounds like a very odd name for a very odd dog,” he laughed and ruffled his daughter’s matted hair.

Luna continued to chat about her imaginary pet while crewman John Banks tried to focus on the preparations for their first survey. This wasn’t the friendliest world to colonize, but he felt optimistic about their chances.

“Can I see, Daddy?” Luna hopped frantically, trying to see out of the viewport that she was too short to reach.

“Alright, but then you need to go eat and I need to get to work!” Banks lifted his daughter up and they both stared out at the dusty plains and the dark jungle beyond and the deep blue sky above.

“Look, Daddy!” Luna shrieked, “There he is! It’s the dog from my dream!”

Banks squinted and followed her finger until he spotted an indigenous animal crawling slowly toward the colony ship from the distant edge of the jungle.

“Huh!” He exclaimed in mild surprise.

The animal was too far away to see much detail, but it did look long and black and almost dog-like, just as Luna had described.

“See, Daddy? He’s real!”

“We’ll have plenty of time to study the local fauna, pumpkin, but promise me that you won’t get your hopes up! I’m sure your dream was just a coincidence and that thing out there is just as likely to try and eat us as it is to be domesticated.”

“But Daddy!”

“No buts! We talked about this, Luna! Tanis is a dangerous place and we have to be very very careful if we want to survive here, understood?”

“Yes Daddy,” Luna pouted, steeling one last glimpse of the curious animal and waiving at it before her daddy set her back down, “Bye Six.”]]>
At just over a meter from muzzle to hock, Six was only half the size of One. But what he lacked in size, he made up for in speed, cunning and sheer tenacity. One was still treating him like a lame cub, but after the deaths of Two and Three, the pack needed him. Four and Five often tried to re-establish their dominance over him, but Six fought like a ravenous tunnel viper, so Four and Five wore scars for every attempt.

This particular moment, however, was not the time for squabbling. One had caught the scent of a heard of crushers and the pack had not eaten meat for nine days. Six was ordered to take point while Four and Five circled around the right flank and One circled around the left. Five glowed a deep crimson, since the weakest was never sent on point and this meant that One had finally acknowledged the prowess of Six, but Five’s hunger was more urgent than his pride and he didn’t dare question One during a hunt. Six remained cold and calm as he moved silently through the dense foliage. He should have been glowing blue with joy at One’s decision, but he needed to blend and he needed to focus. He could feel the crushers grazing ahead and slowly crept to the edge of a clearing. He peered through the undergrowth and spotted the herd.

There were two males, one adult and one calf. They would be off limits, since males were rare and the pack wouldn’t want to remove this herd from the menu. The herd was led by a particularly large matriarch. Her broad shoulder blades stood nearly five meters from the ground, but the pack had no intention of trying to take down that giant hulk of muscle, bone and stone; their target was the two female calves grazing at the center of a circle formed by the matriarch and the other five adults. One calf in particular looked like she was only a few days old and barely had any rocks imbedded in her hide. She would be soft and slow. An easy kill, if they could manage to separate her from the herd.

The matriarch reared its head and dropped its giant tusk on a boulder, splitting it and sending painful vibrations up Six’s spinal column. It was unnerving, being this close to the matriarch, but Six knew she was only exposing a colony of crawling insects and hadn’t detected the pack. Six was perfectly downwind and crushers had a poor vibration sense. The breeze softened and stilled. Six could see his own sent slowly waft into the clearing, but it was still a long way from the nostrils of the herd. He whistled his quarry to the pack and they whistled back with their positions. Four and Five were nearing their mark and One was already in position.

Six tensed, his lean powerful muscles bunching and rippling visibly beneath his smooth translucent black skin. He didn’t have to wait long. The moment Four and Five whistled that they were in position, Six felt One’s clear ultrasonic attack tone tremble up his spine.

Six bounded into the clearing with blinding speed. The herd didn’t have time to react before Six leapt up the hindquarters of a smaller adult and sliced through her leathery flesh between two large flat stones, jarring one of them loose. The flat stone fell to the ground with a loud crack. He scrambled over her back, trying to do more damage with his claws, but only managed to scrape them against her imbedded stony armor, narrowly avoiding her sharp jutting shoulder blade as he cleared her head and hit the ground running. The crusher reared up on her four hind legs and slammed her tusk down, but Six was already beyond her reach and pouncing on the smallest calf, raking his razor sharp claws across the calf’s eyes. Even though the calf was less than a week out of the womb, she was already twice the size of One, but she was still too dumb and slow to defend herself from Six’s rapid hit and run attack.

One burst into the clearing and charged the Matriarch while Four and Five dashed in from the opposite side, running parallel and swiping simultaneously at both flanks of another adult. Four’s claws drew blood, but Five’s flank got skewered by the crusher’s tail spike. It was a lucky shot, but not lucky for Five. She thrashed her tail outward and flung Five through the air. Five hit a tree with a sickening vibration and slid down, twitching and bleeding out on the tangled tree roots. Four was enraged and went for the adult’s eyes instead of charging ahead like he should have. He clawed one of them out, but the half-blinded crusher reared up and her huge tusk hammered down at Four as he hit the ground at an awkward angle and had to scramble out from underneath her attack. The tusk grazed Four’s hind leg, wounding him, but he got away.

One leapt straight into the matriarch’s face and gouged an eye out before scrambling up and over her back, right between her shoulder blades. The matriarch’s tail slashed upward, trying to pin One against her back, but One was too fast and her bony spikes just cracked against her own imbedded stones.

As planned, the herd panicked and began to run. Although Five was dead and Four was limping, they still stood a chance to separate the smallest calf from the herd. This hunt was too costly, though, and Six wondered if he would be blamed as he ducked below the deadly thrashing tail of the adult male.

Then the hunt went from bad to worse.

A freak clap of thunder exploded in the clear blue sky, momentarily stunning the pack with its monstrous vibration. Six was outside of the herd and running around to make another pass when it happened, so he only rolled into a tree, even further from harm’s way. One and Four were not so lucky. Four rolled to a stop beneath the head of one of the other adults, who were unaffected by the thunder, and was cleanly cloven by the crusher’s sharply beveled tree-sized ivory pillar of a tusk. One met an even worse fate as the matriarch’s tail slammed down behind her and sent the long boney spike straight through his hindquarters and pinned him to the ground. One’s legs were instantly paralyzed and he knew he would bleed out as soon as she lifted her tail, so he ruptured his venom gland and swallowed, dying instantly.

Six turned and ran back into the trees.

Another clap of thunder exploded from the sky and sent Six tumbling head over heels. He recovered and resumed his flight from the enraged herd of crushers. He couldn’t make any sense of what was happening. He glowed a deep heart-broken violet as he looked up through the treetops into the clear sky. There were no clouds, but he could see the movement of something else.

Six finally reached the top of a hill and scrambled up a tall tree. Panting with exhaustion as he looked out at the unobstructed sky, he saw a sight that made even less sense than the thunder he had felt. It looked like two oddly-shaped black floating mountains were descending slowly to the ground. There were four giant bright plumes of fire beneath each of them, as well as many tiny lights that flashed like crystals catching the daylight. They seemed to settle gently on the flat northern plains below like a flying insect settling onto a leaf. The plumes of fire kicked up so much dust that both mountains were momentarily obscured, but after the ground and sky shook so hard that Six's vibration sense was blinded and he was nearly thrown from the tree, the dust settled and the black mountains looked like they were now part of the landscape.

Six just trembled and stared. He should have swallowed his own venom by now. His pack was dead and he wouldn’t survive long by himself, but two black mountains falling from the sky was too strange of an event, and his curiosity overcame his sorrow.

He might swallow his venom soon enough, but first, Six needed to get a closer look…


“Daddy!” Luna peeped excitedly between yawns as he lifted her from her cryo pod.

“Hi pumpkin, did you sleep well?”

“Yes, and I had lots and lots of really interesting dreams!”

“I’ll bet you did. We’ve been sleeping for over a hundred and fifty Earth years!” He chuckled, setting her tentatively on the cold floor to make sure she could stand up on her own. She had no trouble.

“The last dream I had was the best! I dreamed that I found a dog here and he was my pet and he protected me!”

“That sounds like a nice dream, sweetheart, but I’m pretty sure they don’t have dogs on Tanis Prime - and we didn’t take any with us.”

“But the dream seemed so real, Daddy!”

“I know, but prolonged cryo sleep tends to make your dreams very vivid and...”

“Oooh, but he was so neat, Daddy! He was long and black and see-through and he changed colors and he didn’t have ears and he whistled instead of barking and I named him Six!”

“Six, huh? Well that sounds like a very odd name for a very odd dog,” he laughed and ruffled his daughter’s matted hair.

Luna continued to chat about her imaginary pet while crewman John Banks tried to focus on the preparations for their first survey. This wasn’t the friendliest world to colonize, but he felt optimistic about their chances.

“Can I see, Daddy?” Luna hopped frantically, trying to see out of the viewport that she was too short to reach.

“Alright, but then you need to go eat and I need to get to work!” Banks lifted his daughter up and they both stared out at the dusty plains and the dark jungle beyond and the deep blue sky above.

“Look, Daddy!” Luna shrieked, “There he is! It’s the dog from my dream!”

Banks squinted and followed her finger until he spotted an indigenous animal crawling slowly toward the colony ship from the distant edge of the jungle.

“Huh!” He exclaimed in mild surprise.

The animal was too far away to see much detail, but it did look long and black and almost dog-like, just as Luna had described.

“See, Daddy? He’s real!”

“We’ll have plenty of time to study the local fauna, pumpkin, but promise me that you won’t get your hopes up! I’m sure your dream was just a coincidence and that thing out there is just as likely to try and eat us as it is to be domesticated.”

“But Daddy!”

“No buts! We talked about this, Luna! Tanis is a dangerous place and we have to be very very careful if we want to survive here, understood?”

“Yes Daddy,” Luna pouted, steeling one last glimpse of the curious animal and waiving at it before her daddy set her back down, “Bye Six.”]]> <![CDATA[Star Wars: The Fate of Urweck Laar]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Star-Wars-The-Fate-of-Urweck-Laar Wed, 26 Mar 2014 23:26:44 +0000 Mypetdalek]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-Star-Wars-The-Fate-of-Urweck-Laar
Star Wars: The Fate of Urweck Laar

The Sith Code Wrote:Peace is a lie, there is only passion.
Through passion, I gain strength.
Through strength, I gain power.
Through power, I gain victory.
Through victory, my chains are broken.
The Force shall free me.

The Jedi were fools to put me in chains. The Jedi were fools to the very last. While the tides of darkness sweeping the galaxy left even the great councils of the Jedi blinded, they only opened my eyes. My cell, buried deep in the blackness of the earth, became my sanctum of the Dark Side, barred to the waning light above, immersed in shadow amid convicts and madmen. Now, the time has come for me to leave my shackles. To instruct what remains of the Jedi on the error of their ways.

The prison magistrate now stands before me, half-hidden behind his pompous desk and pathetic guards.
"Urweck Laar. Has it really been two years?" he drones with a sneer of delight.
I permit myself a smile, for I know that nothing the snivelling bureaucrat can say now will change the inevitable.
"It appears" he continues, with an unnerving smile "that there has been a change in legislation regarding your imprisonment."
I have sensed this already. The war is ended. The Jedi are dead. The dark side rules the galaxy again and my freedom awaits.
"Under the Emperor's new decree..."
My heart pounds in my chest, straining against my force-dampening bonds, just waiting for them to be removed...
"All formerly imprisoned force users..."
Visions of my future self flash before my eyes, free to carry out my every desire. I see myself, finally revenged on Eistop Xing. I see the last of the Jedi, exterminated by my hand. I see my kingdom, a system, no, a sector assigned to my iron grip by the Emperor, as befits a fellow master of the Dark Side.
"...are to be executed."

The Jedi were not the only fools.

The Emperor is not interested in assistance in ruling the galaxy. He does not desire another Dark Sider with whom to share his power. It appears, even after the prophesied Revenge of the Sith, the rule of two will not be broken. I am taken straight to the courtyard, a cavern lit by a trickle of sunlight, leaking from the Utapaun sinkhole above. The magistrate watches intently from a balcony set into the rock, flanked by his equally cowardly guards. The trooper at my back shoves me to my knees as a black-robed figure enters, with an axe looming over his shoulder. The magistrate spits a few last words from on high as my neck meets the block. The trooper withdraws and the robed figure pulls the axe from his back, resting the cold tip against my neck before making his swing. I stare at the rocky floor, but I can feel the anticipation of the Magistrate from the balcony above, his eyes fixed upon the back of my neck. The axe is raised high into the murky light. I hear the swing from the executioner's deathly grasp and, finally, the thud of a head on the rocky floor.

A voice pierces the silence like a knife.
"The Magistrate is dead. Long live the Inquisitor."
My neck cranes to see the magistrate's head on the floor before me, and the executioner's axe protruding from the mass of blood dripping from the balcony above. I rise, turning to see the executioner revealed, hood lowered, holding aloft a warrant of execution. The name at the top is not mine, it is the Magistrate's, his named successor: "Inquisitor Yndur Knightstalker", at the foot, signed: "Palpatine".
"Kneel" commands the executioner and fear overtakes me again. The chance of life I so suddenly gained is to be removed from me just as quickly. However, the man gestures for me to remain standing. It is instead the guards that kneel before him, swearing fealty to their new master.
"Leave us" utters the master and we are standing alone in the cavern.

"I would question you" intones the Inquisitor, holding his axe to one side, but not sheathing the blade.
"But I already know what you desire"
He continues before I can speak...
"The death of your betrayer"
"The death of your captors"
"The death of your judge"
"The death of your weakness"

"The first three have already come to pass. My research tells me the foolish Eistop Xing was killed in the crossfire at the Battle of Alzoc III when a Trade Federation MTT bulldozed through his house. The Jedi were your captors, they are all but destroyed by the legions of the New Order. Your judge lies decapitated before you. All that remains is the fourth desire, the most important desire... power."

"Become my apprentice and together we shall hunt down the last of the Jedi in the name of the Emperor. Their power over the galaxy is now ours."
A pause...
"I pledge my self to your teachings... master." I say, kneeling like the troopers before me.
The Inquisitor raises his axe and touches each shoulder.
"Rise, Squire Laar. We have work to do."]]>
Star Wars: The Fate of Urweck Laar

The Sith Code Wrote:Peace is a lie, there is only passion.
Through passion, I gain strength.
Through strength, I gain power.
Through power, I gain victory.
Through victory, my chains are broken.
The Force shall free me.

The Jedi were fools to put me in chains. The Jedi were fools to the very last. While the tides of darkness sweeping the galaxy left even the great councils of the Jedi blinded, they only opened my eyes. My cell, buried deep in the blackness of the earth, became my sanctum of the Dark Side, barred to the waning light above, immersed in shadow amid convicts and madmen. Now, the time has come for me to leave my shackles. To instruct what remains of the Jedi on the error of their ways.

The prison magistrate now stands before me, half-hidden behind his pompous desk and pathetic guards.
"Urweck Laar. Has it really been two years?" he drones with a sneer of delight.
I permit myself a smile, for I know that nothing the snivelling bureaucrat can say now will change the inevitable.
"It appears" he continues, with an unnerving smile "that there has been a change in legislation regarding your imprisonment."
I have sensed this already. The war is ended. The Jedi are dead. The dark side rules the galaxy again and my freedom awaits.
"Under the Emperor's new decree..."
My heart pounds in my chest, straining against my force-dampening bonds, just waiting for them to be removed...
"All formerly imprisoned force users..."
Visions of my future self flash before my eyes, free to carry out my every desire. I see myself, finally revenged on Eistop Xing. I see the last of the Jedi, exterminated by my hand. I see my kingdom, a system, no, a sector assigned to my iron grip by the Emperor, as befits a fellow master of the Dark Side.
"...are to be executed."

The Jedi were not the only fools.

The Emperor is not interested in assistance in ruling the galaxy. He does not desire another Dark Sider with whom to share his power. It appears, even after the prophesied Revenge of the Sith, the rule of two will not be broken. I am taken straight to the courtyard, a cavern lit by a trickle of sunlight, leaking from the Utapaun sinkhole above. The magistrate watches intently from a balcony set into the rock, flanked by his equally cowardly guards. The trooper at my back shoves me to my knees as a black-robed figure enters, with an axe looming over his shoulder. The magistrate spits a few last words from on high as my neck meets the block. The trooper withdraws and the robed figure pulls the axe from his back, resting the cold tip against my neck before making his swing. I stare at the rocky floor, but I can feel the anticipation of the Magistrate from the balcony above, his eyes fixed upon the back of my neck. The axe is raised high into the murky light. I hear the swing from the executioner's deathly grasp and, finally, the thud of a head on the rocky floor.

A voice pierces the silence like a knife.
"The Magistrate is dead. Long live the Inquisitor."
My neck cranes to see the magistrate's head on the floor before me, and the executioner's axe protruding from the mass of blood dripping from the balcony above. I rise, turning to see the executioner revealed, hood lowered, holding aloft a warrant of execution. The name at the top is not mine, it is the Magistrate's, his named successor: "Inquisitor Yndur Knightstalker", at the foot, signed: "Palpatine".
"Kneel" commands the executioner and fear overtakes me again. The chance of life I so suddenly gained is to be removed from me just as quickly. However, the man gestures for me to remain standing. It is instead the guards that kneel before him, swearing fealty to their new master.
"Leave us" utters the master and we are standing alone in the cavern.

"I would question you" intones the Inquisitor, holding his axe to one side, but not sheathing the blade.
"But I already know what you desire"
He continues before I can speak...
"The death of your betrayer"
"The death of your captors"
"The death of your judge"
"The death of your weakness"

"The first three have already come to pass. My research tells me the foolish Eistop Xing was killed in the crossfire at the Battle of Alzoc III when a Trade Federation MTT bulldozed through his house. The Jedi were your captors, they are all but destroyed by the legions of the New Order. Your judge lies decapitated before you. All that remains is the fourth desire, the most important desire... power."

"Become my apprentice and together we shall hunt down the last of the Jedi in the name of the Emperor. Their power over the galaxy is now ours."
A pause...
"I pledge my self to your teachings... master." I say, kneeling like the troopers before me.
The Inquisitor raises his axe and touches each shoulder.
"Rise, Squire Laar. We have work to do."]]> <![CDATA[[PG-13] The View]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-PG-13-The-View Wed, 26 Mar 2014 20:18:46 +0000 Taskmaster]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-PG-13-The-View
“I just love the view from here” she sighed deeply as she surveyed the moonlight muted landscape from high atop the lighthouse apex. The sky flashed brightly for a second then faded as the beam of light rotated past them bathing them briefly in its brilliance. Their dark silhouettes would have been visible for miles had anyone been looking just as the wide beam swept across the sleepy ocean.

The new moon sat low on the horizon nestled amidst the tiny, white pinpoints of light twinkling against the inky blackness, reflecting like some giant light bulb on the nearly placid water below. The moon seemed to be watching them with its unblinking stare as it rose imperceptible higher and higher into the cloudless night sky.

“Come on” he gently coaxed as he withdrew his arms from around her slender form. He slapped her firmly on the ass and added “I think I can muster the troops for one more attack.”

“Whoa…” she called snapping the waistband of his briefs as he started walking to the stairs. “If you want to bring your sword out again and attack, the castle gate is going to be right here.” She teasingly leaned back against the glass enclosure of the lighthouse’s dome letting her robe strategically fall open exposing her bare flesh to the cool night air.

“Charge!” he laughed as he cradled his arms around her and lowered her lovely curves to the deck.

The lighthouse blinked its fiery eye again and again bathing them over and over in light and in dark as the battle raged. Even the moon, perched high in the night sky, seemed to blush at the view.]]>
“I just love the view from here” she sighed deeply as she surveyed the moonlight muted landscape from high atop the lighthouse apex. The sky flashed brightly for a second then faded as the beam of light rotated past them bathing them briefly in its brilliance. Their dark silhouettes would have been visible for miles had anyone been looking just as the wide beam swept across the sleepy ocean.

The new moon sat low on the horizon nestled amidst the tiny, white pinpoints of light twinkling against the inky blackness, reflecting like some giant light bulb on the nearly placid water below. The moon seemed to be watching them with its unblinking stare as it rose imperceptible higher and higher into the cloudless night sky.

“Come on” he gently coaxed as he withdrew his arms from around her slender form. He slapped her firmly on the ass and added “I think I can muster the troops for one more attack.”

“Whoa…” she called snapping the waistband of his briefs as he started walking to the stairs. “If you want to bring your sword out again and attack, the castle gate is going to be right here.” She teasingly leaned back against the glass enclosure of the lighthouse’s dome letting her robe strategically fall open exposing her bare flesh to the cool night air.

“Charge!” he laughed as he cradled his arms around her and lowered her lovely curves to the deck.

The lighthouse blinked its fiery eye again and again bathing them over and over in light and in dark as the battle raged. Even the moon, perched high in the night sky, seemed to blush at the view.]]> <![CDATA[It's Only Cold When the Wind Blows]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-It-s-Only-Cold-When-the-Wind-Blows Wed, 26 Mar 2014 15:15:05 +0000 Taskmaster]]> https://www.rpgsolo.com/forum/Thread-It-s-Only-Cold-When-the-Wind-Blows
"It's not that bad you big baby!" she retorted shaking her head.

"Well the wind is always blowing it seems." he muttered under his breath.

She smiled to herself but said nothing. They walked casually through the snow-covered Spruce trees; the new fallen snow crunching under their feet.

She motioned for him to stop. She pointed to the east, where two Snow Wolves were digging furiously under a tree, attempting to make a meal of a jack rabbit burrowed beneath.

He blew his breath out just to watch the white wisps swirl into nothingness. He tried unsuccessfully to make shapes with his breath. The rays of the rising morning sun sparkled on the wet snow, like silver glitter, dancing over the ground as the Spruce leaves swayed filtering the light in the chilly wind.

"Look!" he whispered excitedly pointing to a large white heap by some trees. "A polar bear!"

She laughed at him so hard that she couldn't speak. Finally she was able to catch her breath long enough to say "Snowdrift silly."

He rolled his eyes at her and stuck his tongue out at her behind her back as she continued walking. He hurried to catch up to her.
"Man, it's still cold" he thought to himself, but being near her made him warm inside. Of course, it had to stay inside, and never escape, just because that is how it had to be.

It was a long walk and had it been anyone else he would have complained but today he didn't mind.

"What? Did the ice breaker sink?" he asked as they strolled past a frozen pond, the thinning ice shimmered on top as the sun's warmth thawed the top layers of the exposed ice.

"And where are the penguins?" he chided. He knew he was being silly and rambling but he would say anything just to hear her voice.

The birds sang to each other from their perches high above, or alighting on the ground seeking an early morning worm or slug. He pulled his hands from his pockets long enough to pluck some lovely wild flowers from the side of the path and slip them unseen into his jacket pocket.

"Almost there" she announced. "Think you can make it, tough guy?"

As they rounded the bend in the trail he saw a warm, inviting log cabin nestled amidst the Spruce trees. “It was now or never” he decided.

He ignored the cold, wet snow on his bare hands as he scooped a handful together into a rough ball. He threw it lightly, hitting her square in the back, sending small chunks of cold snow splattering on her neck.

"Oh..." she screamed from the unexpected shock of wet snow sliding down her neck and back.

Her voice echoed through the trees. She determinedly gathered a snow ball of her own and hauled her arm back to throw it.

"Truce!" he called playfully, pulling out the wild flowers and holding them out to her with a confident smile that suggested he was sure she would back down.

The packed cold ball of snow hit him square, bursting into an explosion of wet bits. She snatched the flowers from his hands and ran off toward the cabin laughing like a school girl. He gave chase, but he was not used to the lack of traction caused by the ice.

By the time he shed his boots at the front door and went inside, a fire was already roaring in the fireplace and she was sitting on a cozy blanket in front of it.

She looked askance at him as he approached, the crackling fire reflecting fiery in her eyes. She patted the blanket next to herself indicating he should sit.

"Cold now?" she coyly asked as he situated himself next to her before the flickering flames, the heat emanating from the fireplace caressed over him.

"No!" he conceded with a grin. "No I am not!"]]>
"It's not that bad you big baby!" she retorted shaking her head.

"Well the wind is always blowing it seems." he muttered under his breath.

She smiled to herself but said nothing. They walked casually through the snow-covered Spruce trees; the new fallen snow crunching under their feet.

She motioned for him to stop. She pointed to the east, where two Snow Wolves were digging furiously under a tree, attempting to make a meal of a jack rabbit burrowed beneath.

He blew his breath out just to watch the white wisps swirl into nothingness. He tried unsuccessfully to make shapes with his breath. The rays of the rising morning sun sparkled on the wet snow, like silver glitter, dancing over the ground as the Spruce leaves swayed filtering the light in the chilly wind.

"Look!" he whispered excitedly pointing to a large white heap by some trees. "A polar bear!"

She laughed at him so hard that she couldn't speak. Finally she was able to catch her breath long enough to say "Snowdrift silly."

He rolled his eyes at her and stuck his tongue out at her behind her back as she continued walking. He hurried to catch up to her.
"Man, it's still cold" he thought to himself, but being near her made him warm inside. Of course, it had to stay inside, and never escape, just because that is how it had to be.

It was a long walk and had it been anyone else he would have complained but today he didn't mind.

"What? Did the ice breaker sink?" he asked as they strolled past a frozen pond, the thinning ice shimmered on top as the sun's warmth thawed the top layers of the exposed ice.

"And where are the penguins?" he chided. He knew he was being silly and rambling but he would say anything just to hear her voice.

The birds sang to each other from their perches high above, or alighting on the ground seeking an early morning worm or slug. He pulled his hands from his pockets long enough to pluck some lovely wild flowers from the side of the path and slip them unseen into his jacket pocket.

"Almost there" she announced. "Think you can make it, tough guy?"

As they rounded the bend in the trail he saw a warm, inviting log cabin nestled amidst the Spruce trees. “It was now or never” he decided.

He ignored the cold, wet snow on his bare hands as he scooped a handful together into a rough ball. He threw it lightly, hitting her square in the back, sending small chunks of cold snow splattering on her neck.

"Oh..." she screamed from the unexpected shock of wet snow sliding down her neck and back.

Her voice echoed through the trees. She determinedly gathered a snow ball of her own and hauled her arm back to throw it.

"Truce!" he called playfully, pulling out the wild flowers and holding them out to her with a confident smile that suggested he was sure she would back down.

The packed cold ball of snow hit him square, bursting into an explosion of wet bits. She snatched the flowers from his hands and ran off toward the cabin laughing like a school girl. He gave chase, but he was not used to the lack of traction caused by the ice.

By the time he shed his boots at the front door and went inside, a fire was already roaring in the fireplace and she was sitting on a cozy blanket in front of it.

She looked askance at him as he approached, the crackling fire reflecting fiery in her eyes. She patted the blanket next to herself indicating he should sit.

"Cold now?" she coyly asked as he situated himself next to her before the flickering flames, the heat emanating from the fireplace caressed over him.

"No!" he conceded with a grin. "No I am not!"]]>