From d447c02f72248d5d98f5547c46916e74bda6a651 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: "Christopher P. Brown" Date: Wed, 5 Oct 2022 12:39:46 -0600 Subject: [PATCH] 21 --- basement.order | 1 + src/characters/corraidhin.md | 1 + src/characters/inky.md | 2 + src/characters/jarrod.md | 6 +- src/cosmology.md | 22 +- src/epistolary/00021.md | 74 ++ src/meta.md | 5 +- www/index.html | 187 ++++- www/rss.xml | 1353 +++++++++++++++++++--------------- www/spoilers.html | 188 ++++- 10 files changed, 1224 insertions(+), 615 deletions(-) create mode 100644 src/epistolary/00021.md diff --git a/basement.order b/basement.order index 9210f81..ee3b154 100644 --- a/basement.order +++ b/basement.order @@ -29,6 +29,7 @@ src/epistolary/00017.md src/epistolary/00018.md src/epistolary/00019.md src/epistolary/00020.md +src/epistolary/00021.md src/bestiary/index.md src/bestiary/aur.md src/bestiary/blahoblin.md diff --git a/src/characters/corraidhin.md b/src/characters/corraidhin.md index 5925748..f6cff83 100644 --- a/src/characters/corraidhin.md +++ b/src/characters/corraidhin.md @@ -18,6 +18,7 @@ I think with my share of the reward I'll buy more books. Lots and lots of books, - Player: sinatra - XP: 0 - Skills: Do Anything 1, Arcane Lore 2, Sneak 2 +- Equipment: Sword of Yam'L, Ginnarak Crystal Paths: diff --git a/src/characters/inky.md b/src/characters/inky.md index 3c34e72..bc21b00 100644 --- a/src/characters/inky.md +++ b/src/characters/inky.md @@ -18,8 +18,10 @@ What do you plan to do with your cut of the money? Buy lots of ink ingredients, - Player: mio - XP: 1 - Skills: Do Anything 1, Persuasive 2, Plantomancy 2 +- Equipment: Fine Feathered Quills, Jade Tea Set, Mountain Range Glyph Ink, Bead of the Werehare Paths: - Retriever: Contractual Obligation, An Auspicious Start - Were-Hare: Lepusthropy +- Tasseomancer: Reading diff --git a/src/characters/jarrod.md b/src/characters/jarrod.md index a8fdc67..36d3380 100644 --- a/src/characters/jarrod.md +++ b/src/characters/jarrod.md @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ --- title: jarrod created: Tue, 26 Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 -updated: Wed, 21 Sep 2022 21:06:22 -0400 +updated: Wed, 05 Oct 2022 12:18:01 -0600 public: yes --- ### Jarrod @@ -20,4 +20,8 @@ He leans over and places his elbows on the table, tenting his fingers and leanin - Player: marc - XP: 0 - Skills: Do Anything 1, Oratory 2 +- Equipment: Fascinating Bangle +Paths: + +- Retriever: Contractual Obligation, An Auspicious Start diff --git a/src/cosmology.md b/src/cosmology.md index 2b16aab..6c25d2c 100644 --- a/src/cosmology.md +++ b/src/cosmology.md @@ -2,14 +2,26 @@ title: cosmology created: Tue, 26 Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 updated: Tue, 26 Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 +public: yes --- ## Cosmology -trine: +In a fantasy setting where there objectively are deities who walk the earth and interact with humans, "atheism" is sometimes erroneously used to signify an indifference to the gods. This is more accurately called "transtheism": -- Neddas -- the god of sages and starlight -- Nullar -- the god of time and tides -- Liandt -- the goddess of war and flame +> Transtheism refers to a system of thought or religious philosophy that is neither theistic nor atheistic, but is beyond them. ... [A system] is theistic in the limited sense that gods exist but are irrelevant as they are transcended by ... a system that is not non-theistic, but in which the gods are not the highest spiritual instance. +> +> -Fourth god = ???? +That is, gods are sufficiently powerful enough to mold the earth and shape the destiny of man, but are no different from man in that they are fallible, flawed, and able to die. +They may be greatest power, but are not necessarily the highest spiritual or moral authority. Nor are they endlessly enduring or lasting. + +THE TRINE: + +- **Neddas** -- Wise god of sages and starlight. Androgynous, clad in purple robes, depicted with a golden third eye in the middle of their forehead. They are often shown stoically bestowing gifts upon the inhabitants of Basmentaria [1]. + +- **Nullar** -- God of time and tides. A bespectacled male figure with a golden third eye on his forehead. He is dressed in a dapper vest and bow tie, and is adorned with small cogs and gears. He is depicted looking up at the stars from a mechanical contraption he is working on [1]. + +- **Liandt** -- Goddess of war and flame. A primal, elemental deity, she is depicted as a fiery warrior with a golden third eye. The relief shows her on the battlefield during the Artifice wars. The wars which reduced Ginnarak to the wastes of cinder and ash that they are today. The wars which drained Liandt's divine energies so thoroughly that she fell into a deep sleep and has been absent from the mortal realms ever since [1]. + +[1] [episode 00010](#section-9) diff --git a/src/epistolary/00021.md b/src/epistolary/00021.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b2ef09f --- /dev/null +++ b/src/epistolary/00021.md @@ -0,0 +1,74 @@ +--- +title: 00021 +created: Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:21:55 -0600 +updated: Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:21:55 -0600 +public: yes +syndicated: yes +--- +### 00021 + +INTERLUDE + +> A glorious victory! +> +> In the interim time Corraidhin studies the sword of Y'aml, and correctly deduces that he needs to remove the sticky bit to be able to sheath the thing. +> +> sudo chmod -t sword_of_y\'aml + +Corraidhin prepares the incantation and, after removing the sticky bit, is able pry his stiff fingers from the grip. + +You sheathe the blade, but its voice continues to ring clearly in your head as it prattles on, seeing evil and villainy everywhere and encouraging you to stab, stab, stab. + +Your sysorcerous studies, confirmed by the eager and forthright sword, suggest that the blade will be able to rest for a while once it tastes blood. + +Your former mentor and rival sysorceror Eccentric Kevin calls on you one day under the pretense of showing you the latest draft of KDL (pronounced "cuddle"), their own "Kevin's Document Language", an alternative syntax for incantations and personal pet project of theirs that has thus far failed, much to their perpetual consternation, to gain any traction or adoption in the wider magic community. They are insufferably polite and sinisterly supportive. They complain about how the obstinant gnus keep standing in the middle of the road trying to block traffic, and they demand to know all about your recent exploits and adventures. + +> The rest of the interim is spent studying arcane lore surrounding the Ginnarak Crystals and their purpose. He also strongly urges the party that we should consider very carefuly how we need to proceed with the crystal. It's obvious people don't want these things getting out, so we should ensure that Blavin has good intentions, or at least leaves us out of whatever potential evil could occur. +> +> Once back in town, Inky had the small glass shard in their palm removed by a harried-looking healer, who merely shrugged at Inky's account of the disappearing ink and advised them to return if they experienced adverse effects before hurrying off to the next patient. A visit to the local stationery shop did not yield any answers; the stocky human at the counter shook their head apologetically when shown the broken ink bottle. However, they did suggest asking at one of the larger shops in the city. +> +> To celebrate their first successful quest, Inky made torties[1] for their party with flour ground from some of the large corn kernels at the dig site, topped with a sweet nutty squash spread. Babbleberry tea was served from their newly acquired jade tea set, now patched with what Inky had been assured was an unbreakable seal[2] by a merchant with a toothy grin in one of Vay'Nullar's notorious back alleys. +> +> Master Corraidhín's cautionary words of wisdom still echo in Inky's head, though they were secretly tickled by the idea of the crystal being actually a rare and previously unknown species of melon with very potent magical properties. The very thought of melons was making Inky a bit thirsty. Let the warrior and wizard worry about all the potential evils of the world — it's time for a dash to the market for some beatfruit juice! +> +> --- +> +> [1] Also known as torte-teas, as in "Torte-tea, yas?", which was how their previous ink maestro used to greet customers entering the brewery. Flat little tea cakes with sugar or spice (or both, which vary by region) and sometimes eaten in a loose wrap. Some humans called them "crabs" for some reason which baffled Inky, since the torties had no pincers … at least none that they could see anyway. +> +> [2] The seal attached to the bottom of the teapot and each cup had a glyph of an unknown object between two hands. + +The healer removes a small glass bead from Inky's palm. It is worn smooth and round like a marble. If you look closely, you can see a small blemish in the center that somewhat resembles either a duck or a rabbit depending on how you orient it. + +It is captivating to look at and comforting to hold in your hand. You fidget with it often. Now and then you suddenly notice you have been gazing at it for some minutes without realizing it. + +You make your party a delightful meal of torties, serving tea from the magically reinforced jade set. + +Cleaning up afterwards, you can't help but notice the patterns of the tea leaves in the bottoms of the jade cups. + +YOU FORESEE AN OMEN FOR THE PARTY. WHAT IS IT? + +You dash to the market for beatfruit juice, which you easily find. And you find yourself irrationally drawn to the produce. The kale, dandelion greens, and beans all look especially scrumptious and ... plump and juicy? + +An old toothy market attendant sits on a stool by the vegetable stand reading the Farmers Almanac. Unsolicited, they mention to you that it is only three days until the next full moon. + +> Jarrod has two things in particular he wants to do when back in town, with whatever his cut of the gold is. First, he wants to go looking for a cheap, run-down building somewhere in town and buy the property if he has enough money (perhaps negotiating a bit where necessary). +> +> Second, he wishes to seek arcane counsel from Corraidhín, perhaps getting a small invocation applied to one of the charms on his arm band. Something in the realm of a fascination spell (with an activation word) that can be used on occasion to draw attention. +> +> Jarrod agrees that we should not invite trouble. We shall tread cautiously with regards to the crystals. +> +> Yum, torties! + +After successfully negotiating the price down a little bit, you are able to purchase a run-down building. You are now the proud owner and proprietor of the Milk Market building in the Wandering Bazzar district of downtown Vay'Nullar. + +The ground level is occupied by longtime district staple Enrique's Empanada Emporium, famous for its signature stuffed pastries and its Terrapin Ale, brewed on site by Enrique himself, who happens to be a very large humanoid turtle. + +It's a little seedy and a little divey, but still draws a fair amount of foot traffic from shoppers waiting for the eponymous, ambulatory bazaar of debatable sentience to wander by. Reliably, a small gang of breadpunks can be found loitering here and espousing the virtues of social anarchy. Enrique allows their presence and on occasion even buys them a round of ale. + +The top two levels are unoccupied. Years upon years ago, this space once held large vats for storing and preserving multibeast milk prior to being distributed. Some enterprising individual converted and updated the space some time ago, but was never able to find a tenant. In any case, the space is yours now to do with what you will. + +With Corraidhin's assistance, you are able to enchant your armband by inscribing it with a cross-like glyph with a teardrop-shaped loop in place of the vertical upper bar. You now have a FASCINATING BANGLE that can, upon activation, compel attention and even potentially inspire people to dance about. + +WHAT DO YOU DO + +[www](https://framalistes.org/sympa/arc/tildepals/2022-10/msg00001.html) diff --git a/src/meta.md b/src/meta.md index a123d03..77652f3 100644 --- a/src/meta.md +++ b/src/meta.md @@ -88,7 +88,7 @@ You have a unique bond with a sentient sword - 0. **Bloodlust** (Discover and obtain a sentient, magical sword): Your sword has a lust for stabbing that can only be satisfied with blood. Your sword counts as a 3 dice skill when attacking, but you must also roll to resist being overcome by a mindless bloodlust, striking out at whoever happens to be nearby. -- 1. **Spell Sword** (Cast a spell on your sword after satisfying its bloodlust): You can cast a spell on your sword to store it for quick casting later. +- 1. **Spell Sword** (Cast a spell on your sword after satisfying its bloodlust): You can cast a spell on your sword to store it for quick casting later: on your turn, if you hit with your sword, you can automatically cast the stored spell in addition to doing damage with the sword. #### Path of the Were-Hare @@ -118,3 +118,6 @@ The Perks of the Job - 5. **HOT TUB PARTY** (Retrieve 5 crystals): You win a visit to the Benefactor's mansion, including dinner and a dip in the hot tub! +#### Path of the Tasseomancer + +- 0. **Reading** (Obtain a magical tea set): You can see omens in the tea leaves left after drinking tea from your magic tea set. diff --git a/www/index.html b/www/index.html index 13b04d4..f48703d 100644 --- a/www/index.html +++ b/www/index.html @@ -236,8 +236,10 @@ and Templates
  • 00018
  • 00019
  • 00020
    • +
  • 00021
  • Bestiary
    • +
  • Cosmology

    • About

    @@ -278,6 +280,7 @@ story entirely.

  • Player: sinatra
  • XP: 0
  • Skills: Do Anything 1, Arcane Lore 2, Sneak 2
    • +
  • Equipment: Sword of Yam’L, Ginnarak Crystal

    • Paths:

    Paths:

    Jarrod

    @@ -361,6 +367,11 @@ opening my own tavern when I retire.”

  • Player: marc
  • XP: 0
  • Skills: Do Anything 1, Oratory 2
    • +
  • Equipment: Fascinating Bangle
    • + +

    Paths:

    +
      +
    • Retriever: Contractual Obligation, An Auspicious Start

    Sneaky Willows

    @@ -499,7 +510,9 @@ striking out at whoever happens to be nearby.
    1. Spell Sword (Cast a spell on your sword after satisfying its bloodlust): You can cast a spell on your sword to store -it for quick casting later.
      2. +it for quick casting later: on your turn, if you hit with your sword, +you can automatically cast the stored spell in addition to doing damage +with the sword.

    • Path of the Were-Hare

    @@ -556,6 +569,14 @@ visit to the Benefactor’s mansion, including dinner and a dip in the hot tub! +

    Path of the Tasseomancer

    +
      +
      • +
      1. Reading (Obtain a magical tea set): You can see +omens in the tea leaves left after drinking tea from your magic tea +set.
        2. +
      • +

    Epistolary

    These are all the letters I send to the email list.

    You can subscribe to these updates with the rss feed.

    @@ -1805,6 +1826,130 @@ on the way home? Or, what are you doing to rest, relax, and recover once safely back in town before reporting back to Blavin?

    www

    +

    00021

    +

    INTERLUDE

    +
    +

    A glorious victory!

    +

    In the interim time Corraidhin studies the sword of Y’aml, and +correctly deduces that he needs to remove the sticky bit to be able to +sheath the thing.

    +

    sudo chmod -t sword_of_y'aml

    +
    +

    Corraidhin prepares the incantation and, after removing the sticky +bit, is able pry his stiff fingers from the grip.

    +

    You sheathe the blade, but its voice continues to ring clearly in +your head as it prattles on, seeing evil and villainy everywhere and +encouraging you to stab, stab, stab.

    +

    Your sysorcerous studies, confirmed by the eager and forthright +sword, suggest that the blade will be able to rest for a while once it +tastes blood.

    +

    Your former mentor and rival sysorceror Eccentric Kevin calls on you +one day under the pretense of showing you the latest draft of KDL +(pronounced “cuddle”), their own “Kevin’s Document Language”, an +alternative syntax for incantations and personal pet project of theirs +that has thus far failed, much to their perpetual consternation, to gain +any traction or adoption in the wider magic community. They are +insufferably polite and sinisterly supportive. They complain about how +the obstinant gnus keep standing in the middle of the road trying to +block traffic, and they demand to know all about your recent exploits +and adventures.

    +
    +

    The rest of the interim is spent studying arcane lore surrounding the +Ginnarak Crystals and their purpose. He also strongly urges the party +that we should consider very carefuly how we need to proceed with the +crystal. It’s obvious people don’t want these things getting out, so we +should ensure that Blavin has good intentions, or at least leaves us out +of whatever potential evil could occur.

    +

    Once back in town, Inky had the small glass shard in their palm +removed by a harried-looking healer, who merely shrugged at Inky’s +account of the disappearing ink and advised them to return if they +experienced adverse effects before hurrying off to the next patient. A +visit to the local stationery shop did not yield any answers; the stocky +human at the counter shook their head apologetically when shown the +broken ink bottle. However, they did suggest asking at one of the larger +shops in the city.

    +

    To celebrate their first successful quest, Inky made torties[1] for +their party with flour ground from some of the large corn kernels at the +dig site, topped with a sweet nutty squash spread. Babbleberry tea was +served from their newly acquired jade tea set, now patched with what +Inky had been assured was an unbreakable seal[2] by a merchant with a +toothy grin in one of Vay’Nullar’s notorious back alleys.

    +

    Master Corraidhín’s cautionary words of wisdom still echo in Inky’s +head, though they were secretly tickled by the idea of the crystal being +actually a rare and previously unknown species of melon with very potent +magical properties. The very thought of melons was making Inky a bit +thirsty. Let the warrior and wizard worry about all the potential evils +of the world — it’s time for a dash to the market for some beatfruit +juice!

    +
    +

    [1] Also known as torte-teas, as in “Torte-tea, yas?”, which was how +their previous ink maestro used to greet customers entering the brewery. +Flat little tea cakes with sugar or spice (or both, which vary by +region) and sometimes eaten in a loose wrap. Some humans called them +“crabs” for some reason which baffled Inky, since the torties had no +pincers … at least none that they could see anyway.

    +

    [2] The seal attached to the bottom of the teapot and each cup had a +glyph of an unknown object between two hands.

    +
    +

    The healer removes a small glass bead from Inky’s palm. It is worn +smooth and round like a marble. If you look closely, you can see a small +blemish in the center that somewhat resembles either a duck or a rabbit +depending on how you orient it.

    +

    It is captivating to look at and comforting to hold in your hand. You +fidget with it often. Now and then you suddenly notice you have been +gazing at it for some minutes without realizing it.

    +

    You make your party a delightful meal of torties, serving tea from +the magically reinforced jade set.

    +

    Cleaning up afterwards, you can’t help but notice the patterns of the +tea leaves in the bottoms of the jade cups.

    +

    YOU FORESEE AN OMEN FOR THE PARTY. WHAT IS IT?

    +

    You dash to the market for beatfruit juice, which you easily find. +And you find yourself irrationally drawn to the produce. The kale, +dandelion greens, and beans all look especially scrumptious and … plump +and juicy?

    +

    An old toothy market attendant sits on a stool by the vegetable stand +reading the Farmers Almanac. Unsolicited, they mention to you that it is +only three days until the next full moon.

    +
    +

    Jarrod has two things in particular he wants to do when back in town, +with whatever his cut of the gold is. First, he wants to go looking for +a cheap, run-down building somewhere in town and buy the property if he +has enough money (perhaps negotiating a bit where necessary).

    +

    Second, he wishes to seek arcane counsel from Corraidhín, perhaps +getting a small invocation applied to one of the charms on his arm band. +Something in the realm of a fascination spell (with an activation word) +that can be used on occasion to draw attention.

    +

    Jarrod agrees that we should not invite trouble. We shall tread +cautiously with regards to the crystals.

    +

    Yum, torties!

    +
    +

    After successfully negotiating the price down a little bit, you are +able to purchase a run-down building. You are now the proud owner and +proprietor of the Milk Market building in the Wandering Bazzar district +of downtown Vay’Nullar.

    +

    The ground level is occupied by longtime district staple Enrique’s +Empanada Emporium, famous for its signature stuffed pastries and its +Terrapin Ale, brewed on site by Enrique himself, who happens to be a +very large humanoid turtle.

    +

    It’s a little seedy and a little divey, but still draws a fair amount +of foot traffic from shoppers waiting for the eponymous, ambulatory +bazaar of debatable sentience to wander by. Reliably, a small gang of +breadpunks can be found loitering here and espousing the virtues of +social anarchy. Enrique allows their presence and on occasion even buys +them a round of ale.

    +

    The top two levels are unoccupied. Years upon years ago, this space +once held large vats for storing and preserving multibeast milk prior to +being distributed. Some enterprising individual converted and updated +the space some time ago, but was never able to find a tenant. In any +case, the space is yours now to do with what you will.

    +

    With Corraidhin’s assistance, you are able to enchant your armband by +inscribing it with a cross-like glyph with a teardrop-shaped loop in +place of the vertical upper bar. You now have a FASCINATING BANGLE that +can, upon activation, compel attention and even potentially inspire +people to dance about.

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    +

    www

    Bestiary

    Some of the creatures who inhabit the world of Basmentaria

    @@ -1961,5 +2106,45 @@ wear chef’s hats. But no, that’s just what their heads look like.
    +

    Cosmology

    +

    In a fantasy setting where there objectively are deities who walk the +earth and interact with humans, “atheism” is sometimes erroneously used +to signify an indifference to the gods. This is more accurately called +“transtheism”:

    +
    +

    Transtheism refers to a system of thought or religious philosophy +that is neither theistic nor atheistic, but is beyond them. … [A system] +is theistic in the limited sense that gods exist but are irrelevant as +they are transcended by … a system that is not non-theistic, but in +which the gods are not the highest spiritual instance.

    +

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transtheism

    +
    +

    That is, gods are sufficiently powerful enough to mold the earth and +shape the destiny of man, but are no different from man in that they are +fallible, flawed, and able to die.

    +

    They may be greatest power, but are not necessarily the highest +spiritual or moral authority. Nor are they endlessly enduring or +lasting.

    +

    THE TRINE:

    +
      +

    • Neddas – Wise god of sages and starlight. +Androgynous, clad in purple robes, depicted with a golden third eye in +the middle of their forehead. They are often shown stoically bestowing +gifts upon the inhabitants of Basmentaria [1].

      • +

    • Nullar – God of time and tides. A bespectacled +male figure with a golden third eye on his forehead. He is dressed in a +dapper vest and bow tie, and is adorned with small cogs and gears. He is +depicted looking up at the stars from a mechanical contraption he is +working on [1].

      • +

    • Liandt – Goddess of war and flame. A primal, +elemental deity, she is depicted as a fiery warrior with a golden third +eye. The relief shows her on the battlefield during the Artifice wars. +The wars which reduced Ginnarak to the wastes of cinder and ash that +they are today. The wars which drained Liandt’s divine energies so +thoroughly that she fell into a deep sleep and has been absent from the +mortal realms ever since [1].

      • +
    +

    [1] episode 00010

    diff --git a/www/rss.xml b/www/rss.xml index 0551916..708d6e2 100644 --- a/www/rss.xml +++ b/www/rss.xml @@ -242,6 +242,197 @@ ]]> + + 19 + dozens@tilde.team (dozens) + 19 - Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:43:10 +-0600 + Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:43:10 -0600 + + 00019 +
    +

    Why Stabby, it looks like we won’t need to stab Horse at + all, but are you any good at stabbing armor?

    +

    Corraidhin stuffs the melon shaped gem into his knapsack + and rushes towards Inky and Jarrod. Best to get this party + started in style Corraidhin says as he casts a fireball at the + suit of armor, followed closely by a second, and a third.

    +

    As corraidhin reaches Inky and Jarrod he raises the Sword + of Y’aml ready to fight. Stand and deliver you curr!

    +
    +

    The trigger happy mage rushes toward the vault exit, + flinging a couple of fireballs over his shoulder as he + goes.

    +

    Stabby is delighted at the carnage as the suit of armor is + blown to bits, but also disappointed at the general lack of + stabbing.

    +

    The Aurs, deep in meditation nearby, get caught in the + conflagration. Their kernels swell and pop explosively. Though + not as explosively as the fireballs.

    +

    The whole Retrieval Team 43 pours into the cavern outside + the vault as it turns into an inferno, and they are swept up + and away in a throng of kobits evacuating the tunnels.

    +

    You are deposited, like silt after a flood, outside the + caves back at the bottom of the gnome hole, where the kobits + and the lone egre are frantically climbing up the scaffolding, + which bends dangerously under their combined weight. The + gnomes up above are running around in an agitated state at the + sudden commotion, and a few of them explode in the + excitement.

    +

    The ground rumbles again, and the entrance to the kobit + caves, and several feet of the surrounding area, is swallowed + up by a sinkhole that spreads across half of the bottom of the + gnome hole. From the hole emerges a gigantic moth-like + creature made of a hundred ears of corn and a hundred wings. + It is bigger than the very largest horse.

    +

    You hear a single word repeated fearfully over and over + again by the crowd of kobits. “Centaur! Centaur!”

    +

    It crawls up out of the pit, and tastes the vibrations in + the air with its feelers. It flies clumsily up into the air, + flutters, and then crashes back into the ground.

    +

    It looks like one of its wings has been singed by fire.

    +

    Undaunted, it crawls across what is left of the bottom of + the gnome hole toward you, beating its wings as though to bash + you with them. Which would hurt a lot.

    +

    Yam’l whispers in Corraidhin’s mind.

    + 
    Now *that* thing is *definitely* evil!
    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    +

    www

    + ]]> +     +     + + 7 + dozens@tilde.team (dozens) + 7 - Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:21:21 +-0600 + Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:21:21 -0600 + + 00007 +
    +

    Inky peers down at the hole, and after some time, turns to + the party. “Do you think they’ve cleared most of the gnomes by + now, or should we wait until they emerge and grab the crystal + then?” Gazing at some invisible spot farther among the trees, + Inky continued, “One of the old miners back at the tavern said + there used to be a natural maw on the southwestern side, but + it was blocked when the tunnel caved in many years ago. The + gnomes don’t waste their efforts on blowing up things knowing + someone’s already been through them. Chances are there’s only + one exit, unless this mine is a decoy.”

    +
    +

    Inky peers down the hole and watches Retrieval Team 70 + approach the kobit caves.

    +

    The maw on the southwestern side did indeed collapse + several seasons ago. If you know anything about the industrial + and intrepid kobits however, it is that they have probably dug + several alternative, secret entrances since then.

    +

    Just as the gophers reach the cave entrance, a large erge, + muscles rippling beneath its white feathers, emerges from + behind a boulder and blocks their way forward.

    +

    It raises the feathery crest on the crown of its head, and + fluffs up its plumage in a dramatic display. It appears to be + arguing with the gophers. All three gophers appear to be + arguing back.

    +

    The egre gestures angrily at the gophers’ feet, shakes its + head, and crosses its arms defiantly. The gophers look down at + their own feet and shuffle about as though embarrassed.

    +

    They all exchange a few more words and then the gophers + retreat away from the egre and the cave entrance. They huddle + together briefly and then start slowly climbing the + scaffolding back up to the top of the hole.

    +

    “Oh yeah,” the foreman remarks absentmindedly. “There’s an + egre guarding the kobit caves.”

    +

    The egre below preens and struts about proudly having + chased off the gophers.

    +

    “Stubborn things,” the foreman continues. “Easily provoked + to violence. Impeccable fashion sense though.”

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    +

    www

    + ]]> +     +     + + 9 + dozens@tilde.team (dozens) + 9 - Fri, 19 Aug 2022 07:16:14 +-0600 + Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:24:41 -0600 + + 00009 +
    +

    Inky smiles at Corey. “Hullo! We’re the waterworks crew + from the neaby town, here to check the outhouse tunnels, + inspect all the pipes and so on. We received reports of a + blockage somewhere inside the networks. Have the tunnels been + flushing well lately?” While speaking, Inky flashes a + waterworker’s ID briefly at the kobit before pocketing it and + pulling out a pressure gauge, giving the little handle on one + side of the device a few cranks, and looking back at Corey + expectantly.

    +
    +

    Corey slowly blinks its eyes. “Inspektor?”

    +

    ASIDE: I rolled for Inky and rolled a six, which according + to the rules means GREAT SUCCESS, and also Inky gets to Level + Up: they gain the skill Persuasive 2.

    +

    “Of course! Inspektors! Yes, yes, right this way! A + surprise inspection, how exciting!”

    +

    Corey continues to chatter excitedly as it leads you + further into the branching, winding tunnels, pointing out + particular bits of stonework and engineering, and also baubles + and trinkets and fossils and artifacts that the kobits + uncovered in the process of digging their tunnels.

    +

    Your tour eventually brings you into a large cavern with + tunnels exactly like the one from which you just entered + branching off in all directions. It makes you dizzy to think + of finding your way through this labyrinth without a + guide.

    +

    In the middle of the cavern is a deep pool with a fountain. + At the bottom of the pool, a SWORD is thrust into the ground + almost up to its hilt. A large jewel set deep in the pommel + rolls around like an eye in a socket and tracks your movement + around cavern. A few bubbles float up to the surface of the + pool.

    +

    And set into the wall on the far side of the room is a + massive stone door reinforced with thick iron bands. There is + a keypad and a small printer on the wall next to it.

    +

    “….and so our tour concludes here in the central atrium!” + Corey concludes excitedly. “Behind this door is the VAULT, + where we keep all the valuables. Gemstones, gold, crystals, et + cetera.”

    +

    “Top notch security!” Corey exclaims tapping the keypad. + The printer spits out a square of paper. It reads

    + 
    ed v1.16
+*
+?
+*
+?
+*e door
+19
+*,n
+1    the door is Locked
+*wq
    +

    “Ha ha!” Corey shakes its head in amazement. “I have no + idea how this thing works!”

    +

    The eye in the sword watches as Corey clips the small + printout to its clipboard.

    +

    “Now, I trust you’ll find that everything was in tip-top + order! Yes, indeed!” Corey wriggles its mustache proudly. “Now + if you’ll excuse me,” it flips through the pages on its + clipboard, “I am late for my next appointment. Good day!” + Corey turns and walks toward one of the twisty little + passageways, all alike.

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO?

    +

    www

    + ]]> +     +     12 dozens@tilde.team (dozens) @@ -335,55 +526,148 @@ - 7 + 16 dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 7 - Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:21:21 --0600 - Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:21:21 -0600 + 16 - Sat, 24 Sep 2022 07:43:23 +-0400 + Sat, 24 Sep 2022 07:43:23 -0400 00007 +

    00016

    +

    RETCON!

    +

    Before Corraidhín ascended to the surface of the pool….

    -

    Inky peers down at the hole, and after some time, turns to - the party. “Do you think they’ve cleared most of the gnomes by - now, or should we wait until they emerge and grab the crystal - then?” Gazing at some invisible spot farther among the trees, - Inky continued, “One of the old miners back at the tavern said - there used to be a natural maw on the southwestern side, but - it was blocked when the tunnel caved in many years ago. The - gnomes don’t waste their efforts on blowing up things knowing - someone’s already been through them. Chances are there’s only - one exit, unless this mine is a decoy.”

    +

    As Corraidhin finishes his incantation a small porro drifts + down bonking him on the head. Startled corraidhin begins to + move around in the pool trying to find his assailant.

    +

    “By the gods what in the world is in this pool with me!” he + tugs frantically on the sword, and as he does so the porro + drifts into view. “Oh wait, that..” his eyes follow the rubber + hose attached to it up to the top of the pool. “Ah ha!” he + exclaims immediately inhaling a mouth full of water and + frantically pulling the porro from the hose with his spare + hand and teeth. Corraidhin sucks greedily at the air the hose + provides as he becomes acutely aware of the burning sensation + in his lungs.

    +

    The porro drifts wistfully to the bottom of the pool, just + out of reach. A dark liquid rises from it as it comes to rest + on the bottom of the pool.

    -

    Inky peers down the hole and watches Retrieval Team 70 - approach the kobit caves.

    -

    The maw on the southwestern side did indeed collapse - several seasons ago. If you know anything about the industrial - and intrepid kobits however, it is that they have probably dug - several alternative, secret entrances since then.

    -

    Just as the gophers reach the cave entrance, a large erge, - muscles rippling beneath its white feathers, emerges from - behind a boulder and blocks their way forward.

    -

    It raises the feathery crest on the crown of its head, and - fluffs up its plumage in a dramatic display. It appears to be - arguing with the gophers. All three gophers appear to be - arguing back.

    -

    The egre gestures angrily at the gophers’ feet, shakes its - head, and crosses its arms defiantly. The gophers look down at - their own feet and shuffle about as though embarrassed.

    -

    They all exchange a few more words and then the gophers - retreat away from the egre and the cave entrance. They huddle - together briefly and then start slowly climbing the - scaffolding back up to the top of the hole.

    -

    “Oh yeah,” the foreman remarks absentmindedly. “There’s an - egre guarding the kobit caves.”

    -

    The egre below preens and struts about proudly having - chased off the gophers.

    -

    “Stubborn things,” the foreman continues. “Easily provoked - to violence. Impeccable fashion sense though.”

    +

    And now back to our show!

    +
    +

    After heartily congratulating Master Corraidhín on his + successful sword acquisition in hushed whispers and finishing + off a cup of blackcurrant tea, Inky retrieves the porro from + the bottom of the pool with a fishing pole and a few recasts. + (Calling that gnarly stick with a line, bottle and hook + slightly bent out of shape on one end a fishing pole would be + an affont to any self-respecting fisherfolk though.) Inky + rinses the pitcher and hose before stowing them away again in + the bag along with the pole and other ink brewing + paraphernalia.

    +

    Refreshed, Inky slips noiselessly inside the vault, edging + along the wall on the farther side from the crowd now wholly + enraptured by Jarrod’s grand recital. Seeing the crowd + pacified and giving Jarrod a thumbs-up, Inky unfurls a long + and dusty bolt of dark cloth with the words “UNDER MAINTENANCE + — NO UNAUTHORISED ENTRY [by order of the Basmentaria Bureau of + Sanitation]” in roughly-scrawled letters tacked onto it, and + hung the ends of the cloth so it spanned and completely + obscured one side of the vault.

    +

    Standing behind the makeshift inspection site, Inky + proceeds to fill several sacks with gold and gems using a + small shovel, before putting one of the sacks into their Hacky + Duffer Discette (its capacity for large storage and small + weight is a blessing in disguise for both aspiring and + afflicted collectors alike).

    +
    +

    You successfully cordon off a corner of the vault and set + up a very convincing UNDER CONSTRUCTION banner. It looks + straight up like a 90’s website.

    +

    You start shoving bags of treasure into your HD Discette, + but it only accepts 1.44 bags before running out of space. You + you leave the remaining bags for the others.

    +

    During your excavation, you find a complete set of + magnificent, ornate, gold-nibbed quills, and also a small + wooden rack of bottled ink.

    +

    There are a dozen small bottles all arranged in a row, each + one with a different mysterious glyph, the contents all a + slightly different shade. As you handle the rack, the ink + sloshes around inside. It could still be good!

    +

    The fine wooden rack encloses them all and holds them in + place by means of the lid, which closes securely around the + bottle necks. Once you open the lid, you can easily retrieve + and stow the bottles.

    +

    You also spot a fine jade teapot. A matching set of small + cups—no handles, no saucers—cluster around the pot like + nursing pups.

    +
    +

    Corraidhin clambors out of the pool, magical pokey stick in + hand.

    +

    Good show! He exclaims to himself and the sword. Now I can + finally get a good look at this sword, though for some reason + I can’t seem to let go, I guess for now I won’t lose it.

    +

    You said you wanted to do some stabbin right? Of evil + things? What constitutes evil my pointy new friend?

    +
    +

    The sword does indeed remain steadfastly glued to your + hand. As you swish it around you discover that it seems to get + lighter when you hold it aloft, and that it trembles and grows + increasingly heavy as it descends. The sensation is almost as + though it has a hollow core in which some kind of heavy liquid + sloshes around. And as though its blow would be + devastating.

    +

    The sword relishes being wielded and swung, and grows more + and more ecstatic. Its eye darts menacingly back and forth, + vanquishing imaginary enemies with each jab.

    + 
    Yes! Yes, I am made for a singular purpose. To RID EVIL. To root out evil, spill its blood, and then do it again! So let's go find some evil, Bear! And then you can just stab it with me.
+
+Oh, what constitutes evil, you ask? In my experience, evil can't help but make itself known. You'll know it when you see it.
+
+For example, see there? That little inky fellow sneaking into that treasure room? Probably super evil. We should go investigate.
    +
    +

    As corraidhin questions the sword he wanders towards the + vault peering in to inspect Jarrod’s performance. He’s really + good at that, what do you think? Actually what do I even call + you? Do you like nicknames? I was thinking pointy, or stabby, + but I’m open to suggestions, respect and all that.

    +

    Oh hey, the crystal! It looks like it’s unguarded! + Corraidhin slinks towards the crystal muttering to his magical + sword as he does.

    +
    +

    The sword is momentarily distracted by the Aurs and Kobits. + Its eye widens. It almost seems to shudder with + anticipation.

    + 
    EEEEEVIL! Rid. Evil. Spill. Repeat.
    +

    You are thankful that the voice seems only to be heard + inside your own head.

    + 
    Oh, my name? I'm sure I had one at some point. Long forgotten by now. No matter, I'm not sad about it. One has no use for a name when instead they have a singular, all-consuming purpose!
+
+But, my last Bear called me her Bee. I quite liked that. The bee in her bonnet! Ha! Evil, fear my sting!
    +

    The sword prattles on in your head as you sneak past + Jarrod’s monstrous storytime and approach the pedestal. Or is + it a lectern?

    +

    You arrive unseen. The crystal is a dazzling deep blue, + with pulsing gold veins. It is oddly shaped, somewhat like an + egg. And it floats, rotating slowly, suspended in air beneath + the glass dome that encloses it.

    +

    Drawing on your knowledge of Arcane Lore, you remember that + the five Ginnarak Crystals played a key role in the Artifice + Wars that once rampaged across all of Basmentaria. They are + sources of tremendous power. Some say that, the five of them + together, they could kill a god. You’re not sure you believe + that. But they did definitely reduce the once lush and verdant + island nation of Ginnarak to cinder wastes and deserts of ash. + A cataclysmic event that put a resolute end to the Artifice + Wars.

    +

    You look around the vault. Jarrod is reciting epic poetry + and mesmerizing the monsters. Inky is pillaging and looting. + You have a bloodthirsty, sentient sword in one hand; and a + large arcane battery of a crystal within reach of the + other.

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    www

    + href="https://framalistes.org/sympa/arc/tildepals/2022-09/msg00023.html">www

    ]]>     @@ -536,290 +820,6 @@ ]]> - - 19 - dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 19 - Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:43:10 --0600 - Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:43:10 -0600 - - 00019 -
    -

    Why Stabby, it looks like we won’t need to stab Horse at - all, but are you any good at stabbing armor?

    -

    Corraidhin stuffs the melon shaped gem into his knapsack - and rushes towards Inky and Jarrod. Best to get this party - started in style Corraidhin says as he casts a fireball at the - suit of armor, followed closely by a second, and a third.

    -

    As corraidhin reaches Inky and Jarrod he raises the Sword - of Y’aml ready to fight. Stand and deliver you curr!

    -
    -

    The trigger happy mage rushes toward the vault exit, - flinging a couple of fireballs over his shoulder as he - goes.

    -

    Stabby is delighted at the carnage as the suit of armor is - blown to bits, but also disappointed at the general lack of - stabbing.

    -

    The Aurs, deep in meditation nearby, get caught in the - conflagration. Their kernels swell and pop explosively. Though - not as explosively as the fireballs.

    -

    The whole Retrieval Team 43 pours into the cavern outside - the vault as it turns into an inferno, and they are swept up - and away in a throng of kobits evacuating the tunnels.

    -

    You are deposited, like silt after a flood, outside the - caves back at the bottom of the gnome hole, where the kobits - and the lone egre are frantically climbing up the scaffolding, - which bends dangerously under their combined weight. The - gnomes up above are running around in an agitated state at the - sudden commotion, and a few of them explode in the - excitement.

    -

    The ground rumbles again, and the entrance to the kobit - caves, and several feet of the surrounding area, is swallowed - up by a sinkhole that spreads across half of the bottom of the - gnome hole. From the hole emerges a gigantic moth-like - creature made of a hundred ears of corn and a hundred wings. - It is bigger than the very largest horse.

    -

    You hear a single word repeated fearfully over and over - again by the crowd of kobits. “Centaur! Centaur!”

    -

    It crawls up out of the pit, and tastes the vibrations in - the air with its feelers. It flies clumsily up into the air, - flutters, and then crashes back into the ground.

    -

    It looks like one of its wings has been singed by fire.

    -

    Undaunted, it crawls across what is left of the bottom of - the gnome hole toward you, beating its wings as though to bash - you with them. Which would hurt a lot.

    -

    Yam’l whispers in Corraidhin’s mind.

    - 
    Now *that* thing is *definitely* evil!
    -

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    -

    www

    - ]]> -     -     - - 9 - dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 9 - Fri, 19 Aug 2022 07:16:14 --0600 - Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:24:41 -0600 - - 00009 -
    -

    Inky smiles at Corey. “Hullo! We’re the waterworks crew - from the neaby town, here to check the outhouse tunnels, - inspect all the pipes and so on. We received reports of a - blockage somewhere inside the networks. Have the tunnels been - flushing well lately?” While speaking, Inky flashes a - waterworker’s ID briefly at the kobit before pocketing it and - pulling out a pressure gauge, giving the little handle on one - side of the device a few cranks, and looking back at Corey - expectantly.

    -
    -

    Corey slowly blinks its eyes. “Inspektor?”

    -

    ASIDE: I rolled for Inky and rolled a six, which according - to the rules means GREAT SUCCESS, and also Inky gets to Level - Up: they gain the skill Persuasive 2.

    -

    “Of course! Inspektors! Yes, yes, right this way! A - surprise inspection, how exciting!”

    -

    Corey continues to chatter excitedly as it leads you - further into the branching, winding tunnels, pointing out - particular bits of stonework and engineering, and also baubles - and trinkets and fossils and artifacts that the kobits - uncovered in the process of digging their tunnels.

    -

    Your tour eventually brings you into a large cavern with - tunnels exactly like the one from which you just entered - branching off in all directions. It makes you dizzy to think - of finding your way through this labyrinth without a - guide.

    -

    In the middle of the cavern is a deep pool with a fountain. - At the bottom of the pool, a SWORD is thrust into the ground - almost up to its hilt. A large jewel set deep in the pommel - rolls around like an eye in a socket and tracks your movement - around cavern. A few bubbles float up to the surface of the - pool.

    -

    And set into the wall on the far side of the room is a - massive stone door reinforced with thick iron bands. There is - a keypad and a small printer on the wall next to it.

    -

    “….and so our tour concludes here in the central atrium!” - Corey concludes excitedly. “Behind this door is the VAULT, - where we keep all the valuables. Gemstones, gold, crystals, et - cetera.”

    -

    “Top notch security!” Corey exclaims tapping the keypad. - The printer spits out a square of paper. It reads

    - 
    ed v1.16
-*
-?
-*
-?
-*e door
-19
-*,n
-1    the door is Locked
-*wq
    -

    “Ha ha!” Corey shakes its head in amazement. “I have no - idea how this thing works!”

    -

    The eye in the sword watches as Corey clips the small - printout to its clipboard.

    -

    “Now, I trust you’ll find that everything was in tip-top - order! Yes, indeed!” Corey wriggles its mustache proudly. “Now - if you’ll excuse me,” it flips through the pages on its - clipboard, “I am late for my next appointment. Good day!” - Corey turns and walks toward one of the twisty little - passageways, all alike.

    -

    WHAT DO YOU DO?

    -

    www

    - ]]> -     -     - - 16 - dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 16 - Sat, 24 Sep 2022 07:43:23 --0400 - Sat, 24 Sep 2022 07:43:23 -0400 - - 00016 -

    RETCON!

    -

    Before Corraidhín ascended to the surface of the pool….

    -
    -

    As Corraidhin finishes his incantation a small porro drifts - down bonking him on the head. Startled corraidhin begins to - move around in the pool trying to find his assailant.

    -

    “By the gods what in the world is in this pool with me!” he - tugs frantically on the sword, and as he does so the porro - drifts into view. “Oh wait, that..” his eyes follow the rubber - hose attached to it up to the top of the pool. “Ah ha!” he - exclaims immediately inhaling a mouth full of water and - frantically pulling the porro from the hose with his spare - hand and teeth. Corraidhin sucks greedily at the air the hose - provides as he becomes acutely aware of the burning sensation - in his lungs.

    -

    The porro drifts wistfully to the bottom of the pool, just - out of reach. A dark liquid rises from it as it comes to rest - on the bottom of the pool.

    -
    -

    And now back to our show!

    -
    -

    After heartily congratulating Master Corraidhín on his - successful sword acquisition in hushed whispers and finishing - off a cup of blackcurrant tea, Inky retrieves the porro from - the bottom of the pool with a fishing pole and a few recasts. - (Calling that gnarly stick with a line, bottle and hook - slightly bent out of shape on one end a fishing pole would be - an affont to any self-respecting fisherfolk though.) Inky - rinses the pitcher and hose before stowing them away again in - the bag along with the pole and other ink brewing - paraphernalia.

    -

    Refreshed, Inky slips noiselessly inside the vault, edging - along the wall on the farther side from the crowd now wholly - enraptured by Jarrod’s grand recital. Seeing the crowd - pacified and giving Jarrod a thumbs-up, Inky unfurls a long - and dusty bolt of dark cloth with the words “UNDER MAINTENANCE - — NO UNAUTHORISED ENTRY [by order of the Basmentaria Bureau of - Sanitation]” in roughly-scrawled letters tacked onto it, and - hung the ends of the cloth so it spanned and completely - obscured one side of the vault.

    -

    Standing behind the makeshift inspection site, Inky - proceeds to fill several sacks with gold and gems using a - small shovel, before putting one of the sacks into their Hacky - Duffer Discette (its capacity for large storage and small - weight is a blessing in disguise for both aspiring and - afflicted collectors alike).

    -
    -

    You successfully cordon off a corner of the vault and set - up a very convincing UNDER CONSTRUCTION banner. It looks - straight up like a 90’s website.

    -

    You start shoving bags of treasure into your HD Discette, - but it only accepts 1.44 bags before running out of space. You - you leave the remaining bags for the others.

    -

    During your excavation, you find a complete set of - magnificent, ornate, gold-nibbed quills, and also a small - wooden rack of bottled ink.

    -

    There are a dozen small bottles all arranged in a row, each - one with a different mysterious glyph, the contents all a - slightly different shade. As you handle the rack, the ink - sloshes around inside. It could still be good!

    -

    The fine wooden rack encloses them all and holds them in - place by means of the lid, which closes securely around the - bottle necks. Once you open the lid, you can easily retrieve - and stow the bottles.

    -

    You also spot a fine jade teapot. A matching set of small - cups—no handles, no saucers—cluster around the pot like - nursing pups.

    -
    -

    Corraidhin clambors out of the pool, magical pokey stick in - hand.

    -

    Good show! He exclaims to himself and the sword. Now I can - finally get a good look at this sword, though for some reason - I can’t seem to let go, I guess for now I won’t lose it.

    -

    You said you wanted to do some stabbin right? Of evil - things? What constitutes evil my pointy new friend?

    -
    -

    The sword does indeed remain steadfastly glued to your - hand. As you swish it around you discover that it seems to get - lighter when you hold it aloft, and that it trembles and grows - increasingly heavy as it descends. The sensation is almost as - though it has a hollow core in which some kind of heavy liquid - sloshes around. And as though its blow would be - devastating.

    -

    The sword relishes being wielded and swung, and grows more - and more ecstatic. Its eye darts menacingly back and forth, - vanquishing imaginary enemies with each jab.

    - 
    Yes! Yes, I am made for a singular purpose. To RID EVIL. To root out evil, spill its blood, and then do it again! So let's go find some evil, Bear! And then you can just stab it with me.
-
-Oh, what constitutes evil, you ask? In my experience, evil can't help but make itself known. You'll know it when you see it.
-
-For example, see there? That little inky fellow sneaking into that treasure room? Probably super evil. We should go investigate.
    -
    -

    As corraidhin questions the sword he wanders towards the - vault peering in to inspect Jarrod’s performance. He’s really - good at that, what do you think? Actually what do I even call - you? Do you like nicknames? I was thinking pointy, or stabby, - but I’m open to suggestions, respect and all that.

    -

    Oh hey, the crystal! It looks like it’s unguarded! - Corraidhin slinks towards the crystal muttering to his magical - sword as he does.

    -
    -

    The sword is momentarily distracted by the Aurs and Kobits. - Its eye widens. It almost seems to shudder with - anticipation.

    - 
    EEEEEVIL! Rid. Evil. Spill. Repeat.
    -

    You are thankful that the voice seems only to be heard - inside your own head.

    - 
    Oh, my name? I'm sure I had one at some point. Long forgotten by now. No matter, I'm not sad about it. One has no use for a name when instead they have a singular, all-consuming purpose!
-
-But, my last Bear called me her Bee. I quite liked that. The bee in her bonnet! Ha! Evil, fear my sting!
    -

    The sword prattles on in your head as you sneak past - Jarrod’s monstrous storytime and approach the pedestal. Or is - it a lectern?

    -

    You arrive unseen. The crystal is a dazzling deep blue, - with pulsing gold veins. It is oddly shaped, somewhat like an - egg. And it floats, rotating slowly, suspended in air beneath - the glass dome that encloses it.

    -

    Drawing on your knowledge of Arcane Lore, you remember that - the five Ginnarak Crystals played a key role in the Artifice - Wars that once rampaged across all of Basmentaria. They are - sources of tremendous power. Some say that, the five of them - together, they could kill a god. You’re not sure you believe - that. But they did definitely reduce the once lush and verdant - island nation of Ginnarak to cinder wastes and deserts of ash. - A cataclysmic event that put a resolute end to the Artifice - Wars.

    -

    You look around the vault. Jarrod is reciting epic poetry - and mesmerizing the monsters. Inky is pillaging and looting. - You have a bloodthirsty, sentient sword in one hand; and a - large arcane battery of a crystal within reach of the - other.

    -

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    -

    www

    - ]]> -     -     18 dozens@tilde.team (dozens) @@ -860,46 +860,6 @@ But, my last Bear called me her Bee. I quite liked that. The bee in her bonnet! ]]> - - 00001 - we meet in a tavern - dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 00001 - we meet in a tavern - Tue, 20 -Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 - Tue, 20 Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 - - 00001 -

    “Congratulations!” The slightly tipsy hobbit grins and - salutes you with his martini. “On Retrieval Team 43’s - inaugural mission! I’m so excited for you, I’m sure you’ll do - fantastic!”

    -

    You are all seated around a table in the corner at Lucy’s - Basement. It is dimly lit and fairly noisy. The walls are - covered in red velvet curtains, and the tablecloths have - little gold tassels. A cloud of purple smoke from candles, - cigars, and pipes hangs in the air. Waiters bustle between - tables refilling drinks.

    -

    “So to recap, the Benefactor has tasked you with retrieving - the five fabled Ginnarak Crystals. I, Blavin Blandfoot, will - be your case manager. You will be paid handsomely for each - crystal you retrieve. And if you retrieve all 5, you’ll get to - meet the Benefactor at be their guest at their glorious - mansion!”

    -

    “The first crystal has been spotted near a Gnomish dig site - in the Tammineaux Forest, just east of here.”

    -

    “I recommend getting started right away!” He polishes off - his drink and squints at his empty glass. “Well, maybe first - thing in the morning. Waiter!”

    -
      -
    • Who are you?
      • -
    • What role do you think you will fill on the team?
      • -
    • What do you plan to do with your cut of the money?
      • -
    -

    www

    - ]]> -     -     meta dozens@tilde.team (dozens) @@ -1045,124 +1005,42 @@ Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 - 10 + 00001 - we meet in a tavern dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 10 - Sun, 28 Aug 2022 10:06:07 --0600 - Sun, 28 Aug 2022 10:06:07 -0600 + 00001 - we meet in a tavern - Tue, 20 +Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 + Tue, 20 Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 00010 -

    Once Corey the Kobit exits the antechamber, you are free to - look around a little bit.

    -

    The eyesword continues to watch from the bottom of the - pool, and the Kobit Ed terminal continues to await you by the - vault door.

    -

    But also you notice a couple of alcoves along the walls - between the twisty little passages. Each of them holds a - relief sculpture depicting one of the three deities of - Basmentaria.

    -

    There is Neddas, the wise god of sages and starlight. - Androgynous, clad in purple robes, depicted with a golden - third eye in the middle of their forehead. They are shown here - stoically bestowing gifts upon the inhabitants of - Basmentaria.

    -

    And here is Nullar, god of time and tides. A bespectacled - male figure with a golden third eye on his forehead. He is - dressed in a dapper vest and bow tie, and is adorned with - small cogs and gears. He is depicted here looking up at the - stars from a mechanical contraption he is working on.

    -

    Finally, there is Liandt, goddess of war and flame. A - primal, elemental deity, she is depicted as a fiery warrior - with a golden third eye. The relief shows her on the - battlefield during the Artifice wars. The wars which reduced - Ginnarak to the wastes of cinder and ash that they are today. - The wars which drained Liandt’s divine energies so thoroughly - that she fell into a deep sleep and has been absent from the - mortal realms ever since.

    -

    But enough of this lore dump! There is something important - happening!

    -

    You hear a shuffling and a mumbling approaching from one of - the twisty little passages.

    -

    You’re already in one of the alcoves studying the relief, - so your press yourself flat into the recess.

    -

    Three gophers with smoked glass goggles spill out from one - of the passages. Retrieval team 70! They made it past the egre - after all!

    -

    They don’t see you, but head straight to the keypad by the - vault. They crowd around it and start pressing buttons, - arguing and bickering with one another.

    -

    The sword at the bottom of the pool seems to roll its eye - in exasperation.

    -

    WHAT DO YOU DO?

    +

    00001

    +

    “Congratulations!” The slightly tipsy hobbit grins and + salutes you with his martini. “On Retrieval Team 43’s + inaugural mission! I’m so excited for you, I’m sure you’ll do + fantastic!”

    +

    You are all seated around a table in the corner at Lucy’s + Basement. It is dimly lit and fairly noisy. The walls are + covered in red velvet curtains, and the tablecloths have + little gold tassels. A cloud of purple smoke from candles, + cigars, and pipes hangs in the air. Waiters bustle between + tables refilling drinks.

    +

    “So to recap, the Benefactor has tasked you with retrieving + the five fabled Ginnarak Crystals. I, Blavin Blandfoot, will + be your case manager. You will be paid handsomely for each + crystal you retrieve. And if you retrieve all 5, you’ll get to + meet the Benefactor at be their guest at their glorious + mansion!”

    +

    “The first crystal has been spotted near a Gnomish dig site + in the Tammineaux Forest, just east of here.”

    +

    “I recommend getting started right away!” He polishes off + his drink and squints at his empty glass. “Well, maybe first + thing in the morning. Waiter!”

    +
      +
    • Who are you?
      • +
    • What role do you think you will fill on the team?
      • +
    • What do you plan to do with your cut of the money?
      • +

    www

    - ]]> -     -     - - 00005 - gnomes - dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 00005 - gnomes - Tue, 25 Jul 2022 -20:32:23 -0600 - Tue, 25 Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 - - 00005 -
    -

    As the blahoblins were packing up, Inky persuades Waistcoat - to sell a few small bottles of shoe polish, a roughly round - piece of broken glass and scraps of cheesecloth from the - mountain of debris previously on the ground. Inky rolls Do - Anything 1 and rolls a 4.

    -
    -

    Inky successfully persuades Waistcoat to sell a few baubles - and trinkets with the first roll of the game!

    -

    They haggle back and forth a little bit, and Inky ends up - paying a little more than they wanted to, but they get all the - stuff they wanted. Yay commerce!

    -

    Having concluded business, the blahoblins pack up and - disappear into the bushes toting their chair, cheese, and vat - of polish.

    -

    The sound of mechanical droning and periodic explosions - compel you forward to the dig site.

    -

    It is easy to find.

    -

    It is a large hole blasted deep into the ground. There are - drills, and conveyor belts, earth moving machines, and all - kinds of gadgets and gizmos, the purpose of which is not - always readily apparent. And there is a zip line that seems to - be the only way down to the bottom.

    -

    The site is absolutely teeming with gnomes. Diminutive - humanoids with bright red noses and long, long ears, and long, - nimble fingers. All gnomes are compulsive tinkerers and - mechanics, and build fantastic contraptions. All gnomes are - women, and are all highly explosive. Which makes their - combustion powered machines extremely dangerous, both for - themselves and for any unfortunate bystanders close enough to - get caught in the blast.

    -

    A gnome in a white hat comes running up to you. “You there! - Hey! Yes, you!”

    -

    “Are you the retrieval team? We’ve been expecting you! The - whole dig is halted because we accidentally blasted into a - whole nest of Kobits, and they won’t let us get near to keep - digging! They keep sabotaging our machines when we try!”

    -

    “They also stole the Ginnarak Crystal that we found! That - thing could have powered such glorious new machines!” She - pouts.

    -

    In the background, a gnome who had crawled half way into a - coal bin in the side of some kind of excavator suddenly - scrambles quickly out, smoking, and runs around in circles in - a panic. Nearby gnomes dive out of the way as she erupts in a - small ball of fire. The gnomes wait for the smoke to clear and - then immediately return to working on the contraption.

    -

    The foreman continues talking to you as though nothing - happened. She leads you over to the edge of the hole and - points to the bottom.

    -

    “The entrance to their cave is right down there! The zip - line is the second fastest way down.”

    -

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    -

    www

    + href="https://framalistes.org/sympa/arc/tildepals/2022-07/msg00015.html">www

    ]]>     @@ -1386,6 +1264,400 @@ sudo chown corraidhin:party sword_of_yam\'l ]]> + + 00005 - gnomes + dozens@tilde.team (dozens) + 00005 - gnomes - Tue, 25 Jul 2022 +20:32:23 -0600 + Tue, 25 Jul 2022 20:32:23 -0600 + + 00005 +
    +

    As the blahoblins were packing up, Inky persuades Waistcoat + to sell a few small bottles of shoe polish, a roughly round + piece of broken glass and scraps of cheesecloth from the + mountain of debris previously on the ground. Inky rolls Do + Anything 1 and rolls a 4.

    +
    +

    Inky successfully persuades Waistcoat to sell a few baubles + and trinkets with the first roll of the game!

    +

    They haggle back and forth a little bit, and Inky ends up + paying a little more than they wanted to, but they get all the + stuff they wanted. Yay commerce!

    +

    Having concluded business, the blahoblins pack up and + disappear into the bushes toting their chair, cheese, and vat + of polish.

    +

    The sound of mechanical droning and periodic explosions + compel you forward to the dig site.

    +

    It is easy to find.

    +

    It is a large hole blasted deep into the ground. There are + drills, and conveyor belts, earth moving machines, and all + kinds of gadgets and gizmos, the purpose of which is not + always readily apparent. And there is a zip line that seems to + be the only way down to the bottom.

    +

    The site is absolutely teeming with gnomes. Diminutive + humanoids with bright red noses and long, long ears, and long, + nimble fingers. All gnomes are compulsive tinkerers and + mechanics, and build fantastic contraptions. All gnomes are + women, and are all highly explosive. Which makes their + combustion powered machines extremely dangerous, both for + themselves and for any unfortunate bystanders close enough to + get caught in the blast.

    +

    A gnome in a white hat comes running up to you. “You there! + Hey! Yes, you!”

    +

    “Are you the retrieval team? We’ve been expecting you! The + whole dig is halted because we accidentally blasted into a + whole nest of Kobits, and they won’t let us get near to keep + digging! They keep sabotaging our machines when we try!”

    +

    “They also stole the Ginnarak Crystal that we found! That + thing could have powered such glorious new machines!” She + pouts.

    +

    In the background, a gnome who had crawled half way into a + coal bin in the side of some kind of excavator suddenly + scrambles quickly out, smoking, and runs around in circles in + a panic. Nearby gnomes dive out of the way as she erupts in a + small ball of fire. The gnomes wait for the smoke to clear and + then immediately return to working on the contraption.

    +

    The foreman continues talking to you as though nothing + happened. She leads you over to the edge of the hole and + points to the bottom.

    +

    “The entrance to their cave is right down there! The zip + line is the second fastest way down.”

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    +

    www

    + ]]> +     +     + + 10 + dozens@tilde.team (dozens) + 10 - Sun, 28 Aug 2022 10:06:07 +-0600 + Sun, 28 Aug 2022 10:06:07 -0600 + + 00010 +

    Once Corey the Kobit exits the antechamber, you are free to + look around a little bit.

    +

    The eyesword continues to watch from the bottom of the + pool, and the Kobit Ed terminal continues to await you by the + vault door.

    +

    But also you notice a couple of alcoves along the walls + between the twisty little passages. Each of them holds a + relief sculpture depicting one of the three deities of + Basmentaria.

    +

    There is Neddas, the wise god of sages and starlight. + Androgynous, clad in purple robes, depicted with a golden + third eye in the middle of their forehead. They are shown here + stoically bestowing gifts upon the inhabitants of + Basmentaria.

    +

    And here is Nullar, god of time and tides. A bespectacled + male figure with a golden third eye on his forehead. He is + dressed in a dapper vest and bow tie, and is adorned with + small cogs and gears. He is depicted here looking up at the + stars from a mechanical contraption he is working on.

    +

    Finally, there is Liandt, goddess of war and flame. A + primal, elemental deity, she is depicted as a fiery warrior + with a golden third eye. The relief shows her on the + battlefield during the Artifice wars. The wars which reduced + Ginnarak to the wastes of cinder and ash that they are today. + The wars which drained Liandt’s divine energies so thoroughly + that she fell into a deep sleep and has been absent from the + mortal realms ever since.

    +

    But enough of this lore dump! There is something important + happening!

    +

    You hear a shuffling and a mumbling approaching from one of + the twisty little passages.

    +

    You’re already in one of the alcoves studying the relief, + so your press yourself flat into the recess.

    +

    Three gophers with smoked glass goggles spill out from one + of the passages. Retrieval team 70! They made it past the egre + after all!

    +

    They don’t see you, but head straight to the keypad by the + vault. They crowd around it and start pressing buttons, + arguing and bickering with one another.

    +

    The sword at the bottom of the pool seems to roll its eye + in exasperation.

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO?

    +

    www

    + ]]> +     +     + + 21 + dozens@tilde.team (dozens) + 21 - Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:21:55 +-0600 + Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:21:55 -0600 + + 00021 +

    INTERLUDE

    +
    +

    A glorious victory!

    +

    In the interim time Corraidhin studies the sword of Y’aml, + and correctly deduces that he needs to remove the sticky bit + to be able to sheath the thing.

    +

    sudo chmod -t sword_of_y'aml

    +
    +

    Corraidhin prepares the incantation and, after removing the + sticky bit, is able pry his stiff fingers from the grip.

    +

    You sheathe the blade, but its voice continues to ring + clearly in your head as it prattles on, seeing evil and + villainy everywhere and encouraging you to stab, stab, + stab.

    +

    Your sysorcerous studies, confirmed by the eager and + forthright sword, suggest that the blade will be able to rest + for a while once it tastes blood.

    +

    Your former mentor and rival sysorceror Eccentric Kevin + calls on you one day under the pretense of showing you the + latest draft of KDL (pronounced “cuddle”), their own “Kevin’s + Document Language”, an alternative syntax for incantations and + personal pet project of theirs that has thus far failed, much + to their perpetual consternation, to gain any traction or + adoption in the wider magic community. They are insufferably + polite and sinisterly supportive. They complain about how the + obstinant gnus keep standing in the middle of the road trying + to block traffic, and they demand to know all about your + recent exploits and adventures.

    +
    +

    The rest of the interim is spent studying arcane lore + surrounding the Ginnarak Crystals and their purpose. He also + strongly urges the party that we should consider very carefuly + how we need to proceed with the crystal. It’s obvious people + don’t want these things getting out, so we should ensure that + Blavin has good intentions, or at least leaves us out of + whatever potential evil could occur.

    +

    Once back in town, Inky had the small glass shard in their + palm removed by a harried-looking healer, who merely shrugged + at Inky’s account of the disappearing ink and advised them to + return if they experienced adverse effects before hurrying off + to the next patient. A visit to the local stationery shop did + not yield any answers; the stocky human at the counter shook + their head apologetically when shown the broken ink bottle. + However, they did suggest asking at one of the larger shops in + the city.

    +

    To celebrate their first successful quest, Inky made + torties[1] for their party with flour ground from some of the + large corn kernels at the dig site, topped with a sweet nutty + squash spread. Babbleberry tea was served from their newly + acquired jade tea set, now patched with what Inky had been + assured was an unbreakable seal[2] by a merchant with a toothy + grin in one of Vay’Nullar’s notorious back alleys.

    +

    Master Corraidhín’s cautionary words of wisdom still echo + in Inky’s head, though they were secretly tickled by the idea + of the crystal being actually a rare and previously unknown + species of melon with very potent magical properties. The very + thought of melons was making Inky a bit thirsty. Let the + warrior and wizard worry about all the potential evils of the + world — it’s time for a dash to the market for some beatfruit + juice!

    +
    +

    [1] Also known as torte-teas, as in “Torte-tea, yas?”, + which was how their previous ink maestro used to greet + customers entering the brewery. Flat little tea cakes with + sugar or spice (or both, which vary by region) and sometimes + eaten in a loose wrap. Some humans called them “crabs” for + some reason which baffled Inky, since the torties had no + pincers … at least none that they could see anyway.

    +

    [2] The seal attached to the bottom of the teapot and each + cup had a glyph of an unknown object between two hands.

    +
    +

    The healer removes a small glass bead from Inky’s palm. It + is worn smooth and round like a marble. If you look closely, + you can see a small blemish in the center that somewhat + resembles either a duck or a rabbit depending on how you + orient it.

    +

    It is captivating to look at and comforting to hold in your + hand. You fidget with it often. Now and then you suddenly + notice you have been gazing at it for some minutes without + realizing it.

    +

    You make your party a delightful meal of torties, serving + tea from the magically reinforced jade set.

    +

    Cleaning up afterwards, you can’t help but notice the + patterns of the tea leaves in the bottoms of the jade + cups.

    +

    YOU FORESEE AN OMEN FOR THE PARTY. WHAT IS IT?

    +

    You dash to the market for beatfruit juice, which you + easily find. And you find yourself irrationally drawn to the + produce. The kale, dandelion greens, and beans all look + especially scrumptious and … plump and juicy?

    +

    An old toothy market attendant sits on a stool by the + vegetable stand reading the Farmers Almanac. Unsolicited, they + mention to you that it is only three days until the next full + moon.

    +
    +

    Jarrod has two things in particular he wants to do when + back in town, with whatever his cut of the gold is. First, he + wants to go looking for a cheap, run-down building somewhere + in town and buy the property if he has enough money (perhaps + negotiating a bit where necessary).

    +

    Second, he wishes to seek arcane counsel from Corraidhín, + perhaps getting a small invocation applied to one of the + charms on his arm band. Something in the realm of a + fascination spell (with an activation word) that can be used + on occasion to draw attention.

    +

    Jarrod agrees that we should not invite trouble. We shall + tread cautiously with regards to the crystals.

    +

    Yum, torties!

    +
    +

    After successfully negotiating the price down a little bit, + you are able to purchase a run-down building. You are now the + proud owner and proprietor of the Milk Market building in the + Wandering Bazzar district of downtown Vay’Nullar.

    +

    The ground level is occupied by longtime district staple + Enrique’s Empanada Emporium, famous for its signature stuffed + pastries and its Terrapin Ale, brewed on site by Enrique + himself, who happens to be a very large humanoid turtle.

    +

    It’s a little seedy and a little divey, but still draws a + fair amount of foot traffic from shoppers waiting for the + eponymous, ambulatory bazaar of debatable sentience to wander + by. Reliably, a small gang of breadpunks can be found + loitering here and espousing the virtues of social anarchy. + Enrique allows their presence and on occasion even buys them a + round of ale.

    +

    The top two levels are unoccupied. Years upon years ago, + this space once held large vats for storing and preserving + multibeast milk prior to being distributed. Some enterprising + individual converted and updated the space some time ago, but + was never able to find a tenant. In any case, the space is + yours now to do with what you will.

    +

    With Corraidhin’s assistance, you are able to enchant your + armband by inscribing it with a cross-like glyph with a + teardrop-shaped loop in place of the vertical upper bar. You + now have a FASCINATING BANGLE that can, upon activation, + compel attention and even potentially inspire people to dance + about.

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    +

    www

    + ]]> +     +     + + 14 + dozens@tilde.team (dozens) + 14 - Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:37:41 +-0600 + Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:37:41 -0600 + + 00014 +
    +

    Jarrod wanders into the vault. Spotting the Aurs and the + Kobits, a slow grin starts to spread on his face. Taking a + deep breath in, he gestures grandiosely around him and booms: + “Ah! Come gather round! Hear a tale of Triumph! Of Heart! … + Maybe even a bit of Nirvana!”

    +

    He saunters over to the giant open clam and poses grandly + nearby. His eyes sweep across the Kobits, attempting to catch + the eyes of each one, as he begins to tap the fingers of his + left hand rhythmically against his thigh, mimicking a + heartbeat.

    + 
    "Our tale begins with a hero, though one not oft recognized,
+ Weaving bureaucratic mysteries across parchment with zeal,
+ Though held to account, and by all accounts terrorized,
+ By small minded yes-men with power and zeal!
+
+ Yes, our hero of sorts did not act and avail,
+ He gave others their tasks to be done.
+ No pleasure he gleaned from the mop or the pail,
+ And yet here we begin with the fun!"
    +

    Thus has the epic begun, and Jarrod is pushing the rhythm + of the words hard, attempting to draw all eyes and ears to + himself.

    +
    +

    Broad-chested, olive-skinned Jarrod launches into the epic, + flanked on one side by a giant clam and on the other side by a + suit of armor.

    +

    The aurs, enraptured, immediately flutter down to rest at + his feet to listen to the poem.

    +

    The one Kobit that tripped over its own feet rolls over + where it lays on the ground and listens with naked + admiration.

    +

    The naked, winged Kobit rouses from its sleep at the noise + with a groan. It grouchily rises to its feet, flaps its wings + a few times, and soars up into the air.

    +

    “My name,” it cries out, “is HORSE! BhrruUHRHUuHRRh! Behold + my majesty! BrUHrhHHHURHuRu! You shall not steal my blue and + gold, melon-sized gem! BhrruUHRHUuHRRh! I have such beautiful + WINGS!”

    +

    The aurs and the clumsy Kobit all start to fidget as + Horse’s outburst threatens to break the spell of Jarrod’s + captivating oration.

    +
    +

    “Excellent!” Corradihin whispers to Inky nudging her gently + as he does. “It looks like Jarrod has the Kobits covered, I’m + gonna make a break for the sword, I’m decently, somewhat, sort + of positive that it’s the legendary sword of Jason. But if I’m + wrong and it’s cursed watch my back. I might need a quick + save.”

    +

    Corraidhin makes a step forward, “Oh and Inky, if Jarrod’s + distraction goes awry, shout, I’ll come in fireballs blazing. + I highly suggest a rapid retreat if it comes to thay.”

    +

    Corraidhin darts towards the sword scrambling over the + terrain while the actions on the vault. As he approaches the + sword he asks the sword if it wouldn’t mind coming along for a + bit of adventure, and he grabs it by the hilt.

    +
    +

    Corraidhín wades resolutely into the pool. The water rises + up to his knees, his hips, his shoulders, and finally he dives + under about 10 feet to the bottom of the pool. The eye of the + sword stares at him with great intensity as he descends.

    +

    The mage reaches out and firmly grasps the hilt.

    +

    You feel a jolt, and the eye rolls back in its socket.

    +

    You yank on the sword and it budges not one bit. Not one + iota!

    +

    You go to adjust your grip. But your hand is stuck fast! + Glued to the hilt of the sword!

    +

    You look up at the surface of the water, some 10 feet + above.

    +

    You look down at the sword that refuses to release you.

    +

    You look more closely at the pattern on the hilt. Egads! + Why did you not see it before? The pattern is neither whirly + nor swirly at all! It is in fact kind of spacey and + indented.

    +

    This is not the legendary Sword of J’son! It’s so obvious! + How could you have been so mistaken! This is none other than + the infamous Sword of Yam’l. Yam’l is of course a superset of + J’son, so it is an easy enough error to make. And perfectly + harmless in an academic setting. It is however a costly + miscalculation to make while glued to a sword at the bottom of + a fountain.

    +

    You lungs start to burn a little bit, and you hear a + spectral, burbling, significant whitespace voice in your head + as the sword makes intense eye contact with you:

    + 
    ---
+name: Yam'l
+conditions: {"stuck": "true", "sticky": "true"}
+greatest desire: stabbing
+...
    +

    And then an expectant pause, as though the sword eagerly + awaits your reply.

    +
    +

    Inky watches Master Corraidhín make his way towards the + creepy sword with two drams of admiration and a tiny dose of + apprehension. Taking out a small wrench, a pouch of nuts and + bolts, along with some gum twine, Inky crouches near the vault + archway, listening in a little on Jarrod’s epic tale about the + unsung hero of sanitation while occasionally looking into the + pool.

    +
    +

    Inky, from the best seat in the house, hears Jarrod launch + into an epic poem, and also the beating of leathery wings and + a mighty whinny and a neigh.

    +

    They also watch Corraidhín dive to the bottom of the + fountain, and then thrash about a bit with one hand on the + hilt of the eye sword.

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    +

    www

    + ]]> +     +     00004 - pockets picked dozens@tilde.team (dozens) @@ -1514,126 +1786,5 @@ sudo chown corraidhin:party sword_of_yam\'l ]]> - - 14 - dozens@tilde.team (dozens) - 14 - Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:37:41 --0600 - Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:37:41 -0600 - - 00014 -
    -

    Jarrod wanders into the vault. Spotting the Aurs and the - Kobits, a slow grin starts to spread on his face. Taking a - deep breath in, he gestures grandiosely around him and booms: - “Ah! Come gather round! Hear a tale of Triumph! Of Heart! … - Maybe even a bit of Nirvana!”

    -

    He saunters over to the giant open clam and poses grandly - nearby. His eyes sweep across the Kobits, attempting to catch - the eyes of each one, as he begins to tap the fingers of his - left hand rhythmically against his thigh, mimicking a - heartbeat.

    - 
    "Our tale begins with a hero, though one not oft recognized,
- Weaving bureaucratic mysteries across parchment with zeal,
- Though held to account, and by all accounts terrorized,
- By small minded yes-men with power and zeal!
-
- Yes, our hero of sorts did not act and avail,
- He gave others their tasks to be done.
- No pleasure he gleaned from the mop or the pail,
- And yet here we begin with the fun!"
    -

    Thus has the epic begun, and Jarrod is pushing the rhythm - of the words hard, attempting to draw all eyes and ears to - himself.

    -
    -

    Broad-chested, olive-skinned Jarrod launches into the epic, - flanked on one side by a giant clam and on the other side by a - suit of armor.

    -

    The aurs, enraptured, immediately flutter down to rest at - his feet to listen to the poem.

    -

    The one Kobit that tripped over its own feet rolls over - where it lays on the ground and listens with naked - admiration.

    -

    The naked, winged Kobit rouses from its sleep at the noise - with a groan. It grouchily rises to its feet, flaps its wings - a few times, and soars up into the air.

    -

    “My name,” it cries out, “is HORSE! BhrruUHRHUuHRRh! Behold - my majesty! BrUHrhHHHURHuRu! You shall not steal my blue and - gold, melon-sized gem! BhrruUHRHUuHRRh! I have such beautiful - WINGS!”

    -

    The aurs and the clumsy Kobit all start to fidget as - Horse’s outburst threatens to break the spell of Jarrod’s - captivating oration.

    -
    -

    “Excellent!” Corradihin whispers to Inky nudging her gently - as he does. “It looks like Jarrod has the Kobits covered, I’m - gonna make a break for the sword, I’m decently, somewhat, sort - of positive that it’s the legendary sword of Jason. But if I’m - wrong and it’s cursed watch my back. I might need a quick - save.”

    -

    Corraidhin makes a step forward, “Oh and Inky, if Jarrod’s - distraction goes awry, shout, I’ll come in fireballs blazing. - I highly suggest a rapid retreat if it comes to thay.”

    -

    Corraidhin darts towards the sword scrambling over the - terrain while the actions on the vault. As he approaches the - sword he asks the sword if it wouldn’t mind coming along for a - bit of adventure, and he grabs it by the hilt.

    -
    -

    Corraidhín wades resolutely into the pool. The water rises - up to his knees, his hips, his shoulders, and finally he dives - under about 10 feet to the bottom of the pool. The eye of the - sword stares at him with great intensity as he descends.

    -

    The mage reaches out and firmly grasps the hilt.

    -

    You feel a jolt, and the eye rolls back in its socket.

    -

    You yank on the sword and it budges not one bit. Not one - iota!

    -

    You go to adjust your grip. But your hand is stuck fast! - Glued to the hilt of the sword!

    -

    You look up at the surface of the water, some 10 feet - above.

    -

    You look down at the sword that refuses to release you.

    -

    You look more closely at the pattern on the hilt. Egads! - Why did you not see it before? The pattern is neither whirly - nor swirly at all! It is in fact kind of spacey and - indented.

    -

    This is not the legendary Sword of J’son! It’s so obvious! - How could you have been so mistaken! This is none other than - the infamous Sword of Yam’l. Yam’l is of course a superset of - J’son, so it is an easy enough error to make. And perfectly - harmless in an academic setting. It is however a costly - miscalculation to make while glued to a sword at the bottom of - a fountain.

    -

    You lungs start to burn a little bit, and you hear a - spectral, burbling, significant whitespace voice in your head - as the sword makes intense eye contact with you:

    - 
    ---
-name: Yam'l
-conditions: {"stuck": "true", "sticky": "true"}
-greatest desire: stabbing
-...
    -

    And then an expectant pause, as though the sword eagerly - awaits your reply.

    -
    -

    Inky watches Master Corraidhín make his way towards the - creepy sword with two drams of admiration and a tiny dose of - apprehension. Taking out a small wrench, a pouch of nuts and - bolts, along with some gum twine, Inky crouches near the vault - archway, listening in a little on Jarrod’s epic tale about the - unsung hero of sanitation while occasionally looking into the - pool.

    -
    -

    Inky, from the best seat in the house, hears Jarrod launch - into an epic poem, and also the beating of leathery wings and - a mighty whinny and a neigh.

    -

    They also watch Corraidhín dive to the bottom of the - fountain, and then thrash about a bit with one hand on the - hilt of the eye sword.

    -

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    -

    www

    - ]]> -     -     diff --git a/www/spoilers.html b/www/spoilers.html index 5af4536..0c2befb 100644 --- a/www/spoilers.html +++ b/www/spoilers.html @@ -236,6 +236,7 @@ and Templates
  • 00018
  • 00019
  • 00020
    • +
  • 00021
  • Bestiary
  • Geography
    • @@ -287,6 +288,7 @@ story entirely.

  • Player: sinatra
  • XP: 0
  • Skills: Do Anything 1, Arcane Lore 2, Sneak 2
    • +
  • Equipment: Sword of Yam’L, Ginnarak Crystal

    • Paths:

      @@ -336,11 +338,14 @@ very soon!

    • Player: mio
    • XP: 1
    • Skills: Do Anything 1, Persuasive 2, Plantomancy 2
      • +
    • Equipment: Fine Feathered Quills, Jade Tea Set, Mountain Range Glyph +Ink, Bead of the Werehare

    Paths:

    • Retriever: Contractual Obligation, An Auspicious Start
    • Were-Hare: Lepusthropy
      • +
    • Tasseomancer: Reading

    Jarrod

    @@ -370,6 +375,11 @@ opening my own tavern when I retire.”

  • Player: marc
  • XP: 0
  • Skills: Do Anything 1, Oratory 2
    • +
  • Equipment: Fascinating Bangle
    • + +

    Paths:

    +
      +
    • Retriever: Contractual Obligation, An Auspicious Start

    Sneaky Willows

    @@ -508,7 +518,9 @@ striking out at whoever happens to be nearby.
    1. Spell Sword (Cast a spell on your sword after satisfying its bloodlust): You can cast a spell on your sword to store -it for quick casting later.
      2. +it for quick casting later: on your turn, if you hit with your sword, +you can automatically cast the stored spell in addition to doing damage +with the sword.

    • Path of the Were-Hare

    @@ -565,6 +577,14 @@ visit to the Benefactor’s mansion, including dinner and a dip in the hot tub! +

    Path of the Tasseomancer

    +
      +
      • +
      1. Reading (Obtain a magical tea set): You can see +omens in the tea leaves left after drinking tea from your magic tea +set.
        2. +
      • +

    Epistolary

    These are all the letters I send to the email list.

    You can subscribe to these updates with the rss feed.

    @@ -1814,6 +1834,130 @@ on the way home? Or, what are you doing to rest, relax, and recover once safely back in town before reporting back to Blavin?

    www

    +

    00021

    +

    INTERLUDE

    +
    +

    A glorious victory!

    +

    In the interim time Corraidhin studies the sword of Y’aml, and +correctly deduces that he needs to remove the sticky bit to be able to +sheath the thing.

    +

    sudo chmod -t sword_of_y'aml

    +
    +

    Corraidhin prepares the incantation and, after removing the sticky +bit, is able pry his stiff fingers from the grip.

    +

    You sheathe the blade, but its voice continues to ring clearly in +your head as it prattles on, seeing evil and villainy everywhere and +encouraging you to stab, stab, stab.

    +

    Your sysorcerous studies, confirmed by the eager and forthright +sword, suggest that the blade will be able to rest for a while once it +tastes blood.

    +

    Your former mentor and rival sysorceror Eccentric Kevin calls on you +one day under the pretense of showing you the latest draft of KDL +(pronounced “cuddle”), their own “Kevin’s Document Language”, an +alternative syntax for incantations and personal pet project of theirs +that has thus far failed, much to their perpetual consternation, to gain +any traction or adoption in the wider magic community. They are +insufferably polite and sinisterly supportive. They complain about how +the obstinant gnus keep standing in the middle of the road trying to +block traffic, and they demand to know all about your recent exploits +and adventures.

    +
    +

    The rest of the interim is spent studying arcane lore surrounding the +Ginnarak Crystals and their purpose. He also strongly urges the party +that we should consider very carefuly how we need to proceed with the +crystal. It’s obvious people don’t want these things getting out, so we +should ensure that Blavin has good intentions, or at least leaves us out +of whatever potential evil could occur.

    +

    Once back in town, Inky had the small glass shard in their palm +removed by a harried-looking healer, who merely shrugged at Inky’s +account of the disappearing ink and advised them to return if they +experienced adverse effects before hurrying off to the next patient. A +visit to the local stationery shop did not yield any answers; the stocky +human at the counter shook their head apologetically when shown the +broken ink bottle. However, they did suggest asking at one of the larger +shops in the city.

    +

    To celebrate their first successful quest, Inky made torties[1] for +their party with flour ground from some of the large corn kernels at the +dig site, topped with a sweet nutty squash spread. Babbleberry tea was +served from their newly acquired jade tea set, now patched with what +Inky had been assured was an unbreakable seal[2] by a merchant with a +toothy grin in one of Vay’Nullar’s notorious back alleys.

    +

    Master Corraidhín’s cautionary words of wisdom still echo in Inky’s +head, though they were secretly tickled by the idea of the crystal being +actually a rare and previously unknown species of melon with very potent +magical properties. The very thought of melons was making Inky a bit +thirsty. Let the warrior and wizard worry about all the potential evils +of the world — it’s time for a dash to the market for some beatfruit +juice!

    +
    +

    [1] Also known as torte-teas, as in “Torte-tea, yas?”, which was how +their previous ink maestro used to greet customers entering the brewery. +Flat little tea cakes with sugar or spice (or both, which vary by +region) and sometimes eaten in a loose wrap. Some humans called them +“crabs” for some reason which baffled Inky, since the torties had no +pincers … at least none that they could see anyway.

    +

    [2] The seal attached to the bottom of the teapot and each cup had a +glyph of an unknown object between two hands.

    +
    +

    The healer removes a small glass bead from Inky’s palm. It is worn +smooth and round like a marble. If you look closely, you can see a small +blemish in the center that somewhat resembles either a duck or a rabbit +depending on how you orient it.

    +

    It is captivating to look at and comforting to hold in your hand. You +fidget with it often. Now and then you suddenly notice you have been +gazing at it for some minutes without realizing it.

    +

    You make your party a delightful meal of torties, serving tea from +the magically reinforced jade set.

    +

    Cleaning up afterwards, you can’t help but notice the patterns of the +tea leaves in the bottoms of the jade cups.

    +

    YOU FORESEE AN OMEN FOR THE PARTY. WHAT IS IT?

    +

    You dash to the market for beatfruit juice, which you easily find. +And you find yourself irrationally drawn to the produce. The kale, +dandelion greens, and beans all look especially scrumptious and … plump +and juicy?

    +

    An old toothy market attendant sits on a stool by the vegetable stand +reading the Farmers Almanac. Unsolicited, they mention to you that it is +only three days until the next full moon.

    +
    +

    Jarrod has two things in particular he wants to do when back in town, +with whatever his cut of the gold is. First, he wants to go looking for +a cheap, run-down building somewhere in town and buy the property if he +has enough money (perhaps negotiating a bit where necessary).

    +

    Second, he wishes to seek arcane counsel from Corraidhín, perhaps +getting a small invocation applied to one of the charms on his arm band. +Something in the realm of a fascination spell (with an activation word) +that can be used on occasion to draw attention.

    +

    Jarrod agrees that we should not invite trouble. We shall tread +cautiously with regards to the crystals.

    +

    Yum, torties!

    +
    +

    After successfully negotiating the price down a little bit, you are +able to purchase a run-down building. You are now the proud owner and +proprietor of the Milk Market building in the Wandering Bazzar district +of downtown Vay’Nullar.

    +

    The ground level is occupied by longtime district staple Enrique’s +Empanada Emporium, famous for its signature stuffed pastries and its +Terrapin Ale, brewed on site by Enrique himself, who happens to be a +very large humanoid turtle.

    +

    It’s a little seedy and a little divey, but still draws a fair amount +of foot traffic from shoppers waiting for the eponymous, ambulatory +bazaar of debatable sentience to wander by. Reliably, a small gang of +breadpunks can be found loitering here and espousing the virtues of +social anarchy. Enrique allows their presence and on occasion even buys +them a round of ale.

    +

    The top two levels are unoccupied. Years upon years ago, this space +once held large vats for storing and preserving multibeast milk prior to +being distributed. Some enterprising individual converted and updated +the space some time ago, but was never able to find a tenant. In any +case, the space is yours now to do with what you will.

    +

    With Corraidhin’s assistance, you are able to enchant your armband by +inscribing it with a cross-like glyph with a teardrop-shaped loop in +place of the vertical upper bar. You now have a FASCINATING BANGLE that +can, upon activation, compel attention and even potentially inspire +people to dance about.

    +

    WHAT DO YOU DO

    +

    www

    Bestiary

    Some of the creatures who inhabit the world of Basmentaria

    @@ -1986,13 +2130,45 @@ wear chef’s hats. But no, that’s just what their heads look like.

    names to integrate: tildetown, commonhealth of casakhstan, federation

    Cosmology

    -

    trine:

    +

    In a fantasy setting where there objectively are deities who walk the +earth and interact with humans, “atheism” is sometimes erroneously used +to signify an indifference to the gods. This is more accurately called +“transtheism”:

    +
    +

    Transtheism refers to a system of thought or religious philosophy +that is neither theistic nor atheistic, but is beyond them. … [A system] +is theistic in the limited sense that gods exist but are irrelevant as +they are transcended by … a system that is not non-theistic, but in +which the gods are not the highest spiritual instance.

    +

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transtheism

    +
    +

    That is, gods are sufficiently powerful enough to mold the earth and +shape the destiny of man, but are no different from man in that they are +fallible, flawed, and able to die.

    +

    They may be greatest power, but are not necessarily the highest +spiritual or moral authority. Nor are they endlessly enduring or +lasting.

    +

    THE TRINE:

      -
    • Neddas – the god of sages and starlight
      • -
    • Nullar – the god of time and tides
      • -
    • Liandt – the goddess of war and flame
      • +

    • Neddas – Wise god of sages and starlight. +Androgynous, clad in purple robes, depicted with a golden third eye in +the middle of their forehead. They are often shown stoically bestowing +gifts upon the inhabitants of Basmentaria [1].

      • +

    • Nullar – God of time and tides. A bespectacled +male figure with a golden third eye on his forehead. He is dressed in a +dapper vest and bow tie, and is adorned with small cogs and gears. He is +depicted looking up at the stars from a mechanical contraption he is +working on [1].

      • +

    • Liandt – Goddess of war and flame. A primal, +elemental deity, she is depicted as a fiery warrior with a golden third +eye. The relief shows her on the battlefield during the Artifice wars. +The wars which reduced Ginnarak to the wastes of cinder and ash that +they are today. The wars which drained Liandt’s divine energies so +thoroughly that she fell into a deep sleep and has been absent from the +mortal realms ever since [1].

    -

    Fourth god = ????

    +

    [1] episode 00010

    History

    Long ago, the Artifice Wars ravaged the lands of Basmentaria.

    They reduced the once fertile lands of Ginnarak to ash and