Heroica RPG - Quest #159: An Unexpected Return - Sewers

[Waterbrick Down]

16 hours ago, Asphalt said:

It is decided then, the temple will be out next destination.

Vindsval moves over to speak more closely with the Fox.

Master Fox, I fear I truly do not know which Path would best serve my companions and my adopted city.  The Protection of the Paladin would aid us greatly, but our resources are low.  The power of the Vindicator could tip the balance in a battle, but would leave us broken and bleeding.  Tell me, you must have once battled without the magical protections of the hall.  Which Path would you walk this day?

"The path you walk diverges down many trails. If you follow the path of sword, you must act quickly and find the source of the issue. The shield will buy you time, but it may prove difficult when you should isolate the problem."

[Kintobor]

Karie questioned her previous statement. Was going to the temple the best idea?

"Ulric, what is your next move? I'd like to have an idea of what you intend to do next so that our group can plan accordingly.

As for my crew, where is it that everyone wants to go. The more I think about it, the more I'd like to know before we potentially run into anything dangerous. Perhaps seeking out the Zeigfrieds might not be a bad idea."

[Palathadric]

"I was an employee of the Guild once upon a time...but in these times, I'm sure the Zeigfrieds wouldn't be opposed to working with just about anyone. One can't really be picky in times of crisis, can they?"

[Duvors]

(OOC: Okay, I really should've posted by now. Also, I find it ridiculous that it took me two days to write this.)

On 1/25/2018 at 2:43 AM, Waterbrick Down said:

"Jacq, Copper Fox, whatever works for you. What's up?"

Throlar sighed, "A lot, I'll try to cut it down to the bare minimum but be advised it'll take a while."

"Recently I've had cause to think about the first few quests I undertook as a member of Heroica. On my first quest, the one in R'kilf, I killed three people, one in a fight I was responsible for starting and two more who were drunk at the time in self defense. In addition to that I also lead several fighters into battle against the Pongcanis bandits that had taken over the town, a task I was not prepared for and my choices lead to several of them being killed. These are actions for which I felt the need to punish myself somehow. I was given a task to complete by lady Calaryl of R'kilf as some sort of penance for my actions but until recently I have not been able to complete it, and to be honest it didn't seem like enough. A later quest brought me to Babeleth, that one was also a complete failure, as you know already know considering that you and the other veterans were the ones who sent us on it. And you also no doubt had a hand in it's failure." here he stopped to briefly glare at the man in front of him.

"I suppose you know that I had a hand in the deaths of Orokai, someone who I rather liked, and Detraehd Loc, who I didn't like at all. Do you know that I had someone else traveling with me at the time of that fateful encounter? She was a zombie named Nazgulie who was acting as my guide at the time. She died in the battle and I wasn't able to prevent it. And after that was another quest where we had to transport several unpleasant artifacts to be destroyed by the paladin order. That one was weird and nightmarish in the extreme, and the paladin accompanying, a man named Rollinger, was killed in his sleep, within a very short distance from my own sleeping form, in mysterious circumstances that I've been unable to learn anything about since. Now isn't that a charming cavalcade of misery?"

"As you can probably tell these things were weighing rather heavily on my mind when I chose to become a Warden. I chose that particular path because I felt that it's protective abilities gave me a chance redeem myself for my... actions, and for my failures, while also giving me a way to, well, punish myself by putting myself on the receiving end of attacks meant for others. And because I'd recently met a druid and I was interested in the ability to talk to animals, but that's not important currently. Anyway, I've recently begun to feel that my choice was a mistake. I often find myself unconscious and unable to help, and I feel that my ability to aid my allies is hampered by a lack of choices available. But at the same time most of the quests I've been on recently have been left unmarred by any further events of the kind I've just described to you. It's given me some time to come to terms with my past. I still want to redeem myself but I recognize that there are better and less self-destructive ways of doing so. I've actually been thinking of becoming a paladin, especially after seeing you help Petaldan become one. Though I don't know who I'd be a paladin of as of yet. Do you think that would be possible?"

[Waterbrick Down]

9 hours ago, Kintobor said:

Karie questioned her previous statement. Was going to the temple the best idea?

"Ulric, what is your next move? I'd like to have an idea of what you intend to do next so that our group can plan accordingly.

As for my crew, where is it that everyone wants to go. The more I think about it, the more I'd like to know before we potentially run into anything dangerous. Perhaps seeking out the Zeigfrieds might not be a bad idea."

"At this point we're in a holding pattern, my informant network is still looking for inconsistencies with these "founders" and we're still doing our best to support the hovels. if we can get our hands on some of the explosives the Bonapartes are sitting on top of in the bay we may be able to deal with that wall as well."

6 hours ago, Lord Duvors said:

(OOC: Okay, I really should've posted by now. Also, I find it ridiculous that it took me two days to write this.)

Throlar sighed, "A lot, I'll try to cut it down to the bare minimum but be advised it'll take a while."

"Recently I've had cause to think about the first few quests I undertook as a member of Heroica. On my first quest, the one in R'kilf, I killed three people, one in a fight I was responsible for starting and two more who were drunk at the time in self defense. In addition to that I also lead several fighters into battle against the Pongcanis bandits that had taken over the town, a task I was not prepared for and my choices lead to several of them being killed. These are actions for which I felt the need to punish myself somehow. I was given a task to complete by lady Calaryl of R'kilf as some sort of penance for my actions but until recently I have not been able to complete it, and to be honest it didn't seem like enough. A later quest brought me to Babeleth, that one was also a complete failure, as you know already know considering that you and the other veterans were the ones who sent us on it. And you also no doubt had a hand in it's failure." here he stopped to briefly glare at the man in front of him.

"I suppose you know that I had a hand in the deaths of Orokai, someone who I rather liked, and Detraehd Loc, who I didn't like at all. Do you know that I had someone else traveling with me at the time of that fateful encounter? She was a zombie named Nazgulie who was acting as my guide at the time. She died in the battle and I wasn't able to prevent it. And after that was another quest where we had to transport several unpleasant artifacts to be destroyed by the paladin order. That one was weird and nightmarish in the extreme, and the paladin accompanying, a man named Rollinger, was killed in his sleep, within a very short distance from my own sleeping form, in mysterious circumstances that I've been unable to learn anything about since. Now isn't that a charming cavalcade of misery?"

"As you can probably tell these things were weighing rather heavily on my mind when I chose to become a Warden. I chose that particular path because I felt that it's protective abilities gave me a chance redeem myself for my... actions, and for my failures, while also giving me a way to, well, punish myself by putting myself on the receiving end of attacks meant for others. And because I'd recently met a druid and I was interested in the ability to talk to animals, but that's not important currently. Anyway, I've recently begun to feel that my choice was a mistake. I often find myself unconscious and unable to help, and I feel that my ability to aid my allies is hampered by a lack of choices available. But at the same time most of the quests I've been on recently have been left unmarred by any further events of the kind I've just described to you. It's given me some time to come to terms with my past. I still want to redeem myself but I recognize that there are better and less self-destructive ways of doing so. I've actually been thinking of becoming a paladin, especially after seeing you help Petaldan become one. Though I don't know who I'd be a paladin of as of yet. Do you think that would be possible?"

"Paladins are not only symbols of hope, but of stability, consistency, and surety. If you can provide that to those around you, whether you are struck down or the one doing the striking you shall sure inspire them to greatness."

[Kintobor]

On February 8, 2018 at 2:53 AM, Waterbrick Down said:

"At this point we're in a holding pattern, my informant network is still looking for inconsistencies with these "founders" and we're still doing our best to support the hovels. if we can get our hands on some of the explosives the Bonapartes are sitting on top of in the bay we may be able to deal with that wall as well."

Karie raises a questioning eyebrow.

"Explosives? Mind filling me in on what your plan is to do with explosives and the wall?"

[Duvors]

On 2/8/2018 at 2:53 AM, Waterbrick Down said:

 

"Paladins are not only symbols of hope, but of stability, consistency, and surety. If you can provide that to those around you, whether you are struck down or the one doing the striking you shall sure inspire them to greatness."

"I... I don't know if I can. But I intend to try. I think I will be a paladin, if you can show me how."

[Asphalt]

On 2/10/2018 at 1:00 AM, Lord Duvors said:

"I... I don't know if I can. But I intend to try. I think I will be a paladin, if you can show me how."

Vindsval lays a hand lightly on his companions shoulder.

It is a righteous Path you plan to walk my friend, and you make my decision easier.  If you will lend us your shield, I will lend you my blade.  I will continue the Path of the Vindicator.  I only pray that I hold the beast in check.

[Waterbrick Down]

On 2/9/2018 at 10:03 PM, Kintobor said:

Karie raises a questioning eyebrow.

"Explosives? Mind filling me in on what your plan is to do with explosives and the wall?"

"The wall for a long time has served as the dividin' barrier between the oppressed of the hovels and the rest of the city. It's a symbol of that oppression, takin' it down will not only serve to show those in the hovels that the Wolfgang stand with them, but also that such oppression will no longer be tolerated. We've already ensured the area will be cleared and there won't be collateral damage, we just need the firepower. Unless of course you've got a better use for 'em."

On 2/10/2018 at 12:00 AM, Lord Duvors said:

"I... I don't know if I can. But I intend to try. I think I will be a paladin, if you can show me how."

"Come with me." The Copper Fox pulls Throlar aside. "Lay down your weapon and take up your shield." The ex-veteran quickly turns on the dwarf, sword upraised and brings the blade down on Throlar nearly decapitating him. What follows is a tremendous storm of blows and strikes each nearly maiming the dwarf. Slowly Jacq begins to deconstruct Throlar's defenses and at the last moment breaks through the dwarf's guard. The Fox's blade whistles through the air straight for Throlar's heart when a blinding light illuminates the room and a celestial hand reaches out to catch the blade bare handed, the paladin's guardian angel at long last taking form.

[Kintobor]

1 hour ago, Waterbrick Down said:

"The wall for a long time has served as the dividin' barrier between the oppressed of the hovels and the rest of the city. It's a symbol of that oppression, takin' it down will not only serve to show those in the hovels that the Wolfgang stand with them, but also that such oppression will no longer be tolerated. We've already ensured the area will be cleared and there won't be collateral damage, we just need the firepower. Unless of course you've got a better use for 'em."

"Blowing up that wall would be a hell of a way to kick off whatever inevitable assault we decide to go with." Karie remarks. "We could easily cause enough of a distraction with the wall's destruction to cut our way to Heroica Hall and cut the head off of this serpent, so to speak."

"I know I said I wanted to check out the Temple of Zoot, but I'm torn between going there or seeing if we can get the assistance of the Ziegfrieds and finding out what happened to the Faerie. The stone's our best clue so far, and having someone who could give us some insight into it might be helpful."

[Waterbrick Down]

6 hours ago, Kintobor said:

"Blowing up that wall would be a hell of a way to kick off whatever inevitable assault we decide to go with." Karie remarks. "We could easily cause enough of a distraction with the wall's destruction to cut our way to Heroica Hall and cut the head off of this serpent, so to speak."

"You're gonna have to prove that serpent is one if you don't want the rest of the citizenry coming for your heads afterwards. We'll have the poor on our side, but there's a whole lot of folks on the other side of that wall who believe those Founders are the city's saviors right now."

[Palathadric]

"From what I've seen, almost everyone seems to be in favour of the founders taking over, but, to be honest, since its happened, I've been lying low more than anything. Do you think the poor would still rally to our cause? Or have they also turned their attention to these 'new saviours'?"

[Kintobor]

2 hours ago, Waterbrick Down said:

"You're gonna have to prove that serpent is one if you don't want the rest of the citizenry coming for your heads afterwards. We'll have the poor on our side, but there's a whole lot of folks on the other side of that wall who believe those Founders are the city's saviors right now."

2 hours ago, Palathadric said:

"From what I've seen, almost everyone seems to be in favour of the founders taking over, but, to be honest, since its happened, I've been lying low more than anything. Do you think the poor would still rally to our cause? Or have they also turned their attention to these 'new saviours'?"

Karie pondered on what Pretzel and Ulric stated. Perhaps she'd been looking at this from the wrong angle.

"I'll give Ulric enough praise: the poor'd support him through hell and high water. I doubt the Founders are going to be doing anything to change their lot in life, so they'll still support Ulric.

Our first move should be to get our voices heard, and remind the people that what's being given to them by the Founders is nothing short of garbage. I say we bust into the Eubric Herald and figure out who this Frustrated Flying Filly is, contact them, and get them to a place of safety. That way we can get our message out there and let people know our opinion on this mess through the use of the Herald."

 

[Waterbrick Down]

10 hours ago, Palathadric said:

"From what I've seen, almost everyone seems to be in favour of the founders taking over, but, to be honest, since its happened, I've been lying low more than anything. Do you think the poor would still rally to our cause? Or have they also turned their attention to these 'new saviours'?"

"The poor are not so easily swayed, they can see truth better than most. Scarcity breeds intuition and the folks of the hovels have it in spades. We blow up that wall and we won't have just sympathizers we'll have an army."

8 hours ago, Kintobor said:

Our first move should be to get our voices heard, and remind the people that what's being given to them by the Founders is nothing short of garbage. I say we bust into the Eubric Herald and figure out who this Frustrated Flying Filly is, contact them, and get them to a place of safety. That way we can get our message out there and let people know our opinion on this mess through the use of the Herald."

"That ain't the worst idea, I've heard. That soddin' paper has seemed to have its nose in everythin' now a days. Would be good to have some more details on where they're gettin' their info and bias. Plus this Filly person ain't sound too bad herself, though if she's an opinion writer she may not be directly employed by the Herald."

[Palathadric]

I apply my 4 Bright Polishes I had bought to the Cloak of the Grand Vizier

2 hours ago, Waterbrick Down said:

"That soddin' paper has seemed to have its nose in everythin' now a days. Would be good to have some more details on where they're gettin' their info and bias."

I chuckle at the comment.

"Do we really think that is the best place to head?"

[Waterbrick Down]

21 minutes ago, Palathadric said:

I apply my 4 Bright Polishes I had bought to the Cloak of the Grand Vizier

I chuckle at the comment.

"Do we really think that is the best place to head?"

"It's an option. The way I sees it, we're headin' either to the Ziegfrieds to figure out what's goin' on with the Fae, to the tunnels to pin-point out where this bauble from Biblos originated, or the Herald to track down this Filly. Course we could all split up, if'n ya wanted to."

[Palathadric]

"Where do you all want to head? Perhaps it's my ego talking, but I do kind of feel inclined to figure out this Filly mystery. I don't think splitting up is a good option."

[KotZ]

"There's too few of us to split and cover all three. Even two groups is pushing it. I think going to the Ziegfried's is a more pressing matter than the Herald, for what it's worth."

[Kintobor]

9 hours ago, Palathadric said:

"Where do you all want to head? Perhaps it's my ego talking, but I do kind of feel inclined to figure out this Filly mystery. I don't think splitting up is a good option."

"I'd have to agree with going to the Herald. If we go to there we can get some information out of Filly and ensure her safety. If she's an editor and paid for each piece she writes as opposed to actually working at the Herald it's possible she may know others who sympathize with us." She turns to Ulric.

"I heard your members had access to various goods accessible only through you, namely a Scroll of Magical Disguise. Any possibility I could buy one off of you, seeing as how I'm here? I know I'm not with your organization, but I feel owning one might assist us if we're going to be going topside." Karie asks, hoping Ulric will allow her to snag one. 

[Palathadric]

"I could buy one for you," I offer, "But I understand if you want the okay to come from the Wolfkin himself."

[Duvors]

On 2/11/2018 at 3:17 PM, Asphalt said:

Vindsval lays a hand lightly on his companions shoulder.

It is a righteous Path you plan to walk my friend, and you make my decision easier.  If you will lend us your shield, I will lend you my blade.  I will continue the Path of the Vindicator.  I only pray that I hold the beast in check.

"Thank you, I'll remember that."

On 2/11/2018 at 4:31 PM, Waterbrick Down said:

"Come with me." The Copper Fox pulls Throlar aside. "Lay down your weapon and take up your shield." The ex-veteran quickly turns on the dwarf, sword upraised and brings the blade down on Throlar nearly decapitating him. What follows is a tremendous storm of blows and strikes each nearly maiming the dwarf. Slowly Jacq begins to deconstruct Throlar's defenses and at the last moment breaks through the dwarf's guard. The Fox's blade whistles through the air straight for Throlar's heart when a blinding light illuminates the room and a celestial hand reaches out to catch the blade bare handed, the paladin's guardian angel at long last taking form.

Throlar gazed up in awe at the glowing celestial figure. "And thank you too." he said as it faded from sight.

Hardly had the etherial vision faded when Throlar set about altering his equipment, removing his Robes of the Kappa Master and equipping the Infernal Armor and the Gloves of the Hypocritical/Hippocratic Oath in it's place. He then used his grating stone on the Unicorn's Horn, unceasing it's WP to 10, and his bright polish on his Weathered Shield, increasing it's SP to 16.

Throlar Wineghilm

138 year old Dwarf Paladin.

Health, 49/49.

Ether 20/20.

(OOC: I'm fairly certain that this is correct, feel free to point out anything I got wrong here and anything else I should've added.)

[Asphalt]

We have tarried here long while our other friends travel to the gods only know where.  We must decide and do so quickly.  I can support a decision to protect this writer, but will that truly aid us in our quest or bring us more blood upon our hands.  We killed many who were simply doing their jobs in order to bring these two from danger.  If we are to do it again, all must agree to strike down any who stand against us.  There can be no question of morality.

[KotZ]

Kiray purchases a Bright polish from the Wolf King's store (-250 gold). As she applies it to NEVER BLESSED ARMOR (now SP:11), she says, "It's not what I think is the best, but if everyone wants to go to the Herald, let's do it. This situation is growing bleaker by the moment, and we should link up with the other Heroes soon."

[Kintobor]

2 minutes ago, KotZ said:

Kiray purchases a Bright polish from the Wolf King's store (-250 gold). As she applies it to NEVER BLESSED ARMOR (now SP:11), she says, "It's not what I think is the best, but if everyone wants to go to the Herald, let's do it. This situation is growing bleaker by the moment, and we should link up with the other Heroes soon."

"We can still go to the Ziegfrieds, I'm just saying it's best for us to get some influence within the city before we go and do anything more drastic than what's already transpired. The last thing we need to happen is us retaking Heroica Hall only to find out that the citizens outside of the Hovels want us dead. We need to ensure we have our bases covered before we confront the Founders, otherwise we might as well pack our bags and flee for the countryside before we have the angry mobs on us." Karie remarks. "I'll be ready to head out once I get confirmation from Ulric about this Scroll of Magical Disguise I wish to purchase from his group."

[Waterbrick Down]

On 2/13/2018 at 1:16 AM, Kintobor said:

"I'd have to agree with going to the Herald. If we go to there we can get some information out of Filly and ensure her safety. If she's an editor and paid for each piece she writes as opposed to actually working at the Herald it's possible she may know others who sympathize with us." She turns to Ulric.

"I heard your members had access to various goods accessible only through you, namely a Scroll of Magical Disguise. Any possibility I could buy one off of you, seeing as how I'm here? I know I'm not with your organization, but I feel owning one might assist us if we're going to be going topside." Karie asks, hoping Ulric will allow her to snag one. 

"Sure, I'll sell you as many as you need."

QM Note: Apologies, I thought I had posted this earlier.