Roleplay

4152

August 19, 2023 22:18:40

Every rumour in Sornieth passes through the Windswept Plateau at least once, so it is said. Amid the chaos that inevitably results while endeavoring to organize a newly re/formed group of dragons, it was realised with surprise that the Plateau was among those regions lacking a dedicated branch from Veiled Phoenix to mind its phantasmal activity.

As a result, active branches with members who were available and willing, set out travelling. Following up on rumours of restless dead to pacify, and keeping an eye out for potential new members to aid in their endeavours.

And that, dear readers, is how our story begins...

Story Written by Stanzascale and Azurenight.

Table of Contents

Stanzascale's Posts

Azurenight's Posts

News & Reminders

Azurenight wrote:

Heya, I thought it might be helpful to have a quick reference area. Also, would you like to have any extra reserved posts before we start? Also also, the title card is tentative. And subbed

Reminder! wrote:

You are awesome!

Remember to hydrate!

Mistakes don't matter so long as everyone's having fun.

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Tropical post card that says, Hello from The Explorer's Club. Wish you were here

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Last edited on Dec 30, 2023 13:37:56 by Azurenight

On Safety Tools: [i]The TTRPG Safety Toolkit is a resource co-curated by Kienna Shaw and Lauren Bryant-Monk. The TTRPG Safety Toolkit is a compilation of safety tools that have been designed by members of the tabletop roleplaying games community for use by players and GMs at the table. You can find it at [url=ttrpgsafetytoolkit.com]ttrpgsafetytoolkit.com[/url].[/i] [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2210659][img]https://i.imgur.com/4DfRBUJ.png[/img][/url][/center] Reminder of suggested collaboration guidance: A- One of us has an idea for an event or change in the story (suddenly ghosts!) and can post about it and go ahead with the idea if we agree on it. B - A player can incorporate such developments into our post when it seems appropriate and amend if one's partner feels it doesn't fit. (Like hypothetically if I had ghosts show up and you pointed out that that area of the cairn was warded such that it either couldn't occur or would manifest differently.) These are suggested approaches and we should not feel restricted to one, the other, or only these two. [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2210659][img]https://i.imgur.com/4DfRBUJ.png[/img][/url][/center] Stanza's cast: [columns][color=transparent]sjfdaoasodif[nextcol][center][size=4][color=#3e315f]Qhaway[/size] Cygnus, Allergic-Seer Benighted Bailiwick Bureau Veiled Phoenix [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63905482][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/639055/63905482p.png[/img][/url] [nextcol][color=transparent]dfhadahsdf[/color][nextcol][center][size=4][color=#5A4534]Nem[/size] Strig, Hearer-Seer Benighted Bailiwick Bureau Veiled Phoenix [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/51055239][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/510553/51055239p.png[/img][/url] [nextcol][color=transparent]sadzsdsdsdcsd[/color][/columns] [columns][color=transparent]sjfdaooodsdasodif[nextcol][center][size=4][color=#444F69]Kalitka[/size] Cornix, Striker Necromancer Veiled Phoenix [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63788157][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/637882/63788157p.png[/img][/url] [nextcol][color=transparent]dfhadahdsddsdjsdssdf[/color][nextcol][center][size=4]Ylrin[/size] [Anomalous] Fulnimount [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/87615315][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/876154/87615315p.png[/img][/url] [nextcol][color=transparent]sadzcsd[/color][/columns]

Stanzascale

4055

August 20, 2023 03:19:03

On Safety Tools:

The TTRPG Safety Toolkit is a resource co-curated by Kienna Shaw and Lauren Bryant-Monk. The TTRPG Safety Toolkit is a compilation of safety tools that have been designed by members of the tabletop roleplaying games community for use by players and GMs at the table. You can find it at ttrpgsafetytoolkit.com.

Reminder of suggested collaboration guidance:

A- One of us has an idea for an event or change in the story (suddenly ghosts!) and can post about it and go ahead with the idea if we agree on it.

B - A player can incorporate such developments into our post when it seems appropriate and amend if one's partner feels it doesn't fit.
(Like hypothetically if I had ghosts show up and you pointed out that that area of the cairn was warded such that it either couldn't occur or would manifest differently.)

These are suggested approaches and we should not feel restricted to one, the other, or only these two.

Stanza's cast:

sjfdaoasodif

Qhaway
Cygnus, Allergic-Seer
Benighted Bailiwick Bureau
Veiled Phoenix

dfhadahsdf

Nem
Strig, Hearer-Seer
Benighted Bailiwick Bureau
Veiled Phoenix

sadzsdsdsdcsd

sjfdaooodsdasodif

Kalitka
Cornix, Striker
Necromancer
Veiled Phoenix

dfhadahdsddsdjsdssdf

Ylrin
[Anomalous]
Fulnimount

sadzcsd

Last edited on Aug 29, 2023 08:44:21 by Stanzascale

[size=6][font=Courier New]Information[/font][/size] ------ [size=5][font=Courier New]Characters[/font][/size] [columns][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/59205184][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/592052/59205184p.png[/img][/url][nextcol][size=6][font=Courier New]Alona[/font][/size] Alona is a fairly down-to-Sornieth dragoness and when it comes to business she's all business. Though, that does not mean she can't be light-hearted. Exceptionally loving, witty, protective, and personable. She enjoys meeting new dragons and beasts and absolutely loves discussing the nature of her work with anyone who will listen. [i]Skills: Buteo, Hearer, Seer[/i] [/columns] [columns][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/35448447][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/354485/35448447p.png[/img][/url][nextcol][size=6][font=Courier New]Ruu[/font][/size] Ruu is a professor at the scholar's college in Whisperwind. He is also a partner at the Whisperwind Museum where many of his finds are displayed. His field of study is archeology, specifically the second lifetime. He originally came to the territory to study the many ruins scattered about the area. [i]Skills: Archeologist[/i] [/columns] [columns][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/75139755][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/751398/75139755p.png[/img][/url][nextcol][size=6][font=Courier New]Frith[/font][/size] Soft-spoken and curious to a fault. That pretty much sums up Frith. She very rarely goes out on hunts, especially if it involves one of the dangerous ghosts. The reason for this is simple, there isn't a violent bone in her body. She possesses absolutely no fighting skill and to be frank the Fae is a bit of a coward when it comes to a fight. [i]Skills: Tyto & Strig, Cyanocitta, Allergic[/i]. [/columns] [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922#post_2257922] [img]https://i.postimg.cc/xCqYdxPt/Divider-640x50-3.png[/img][/url] [/center] [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/iF6BJtP.jpg[/img][/center] [center][b]Winston Von Ludhimen III[/b][/center] [spoiler]A second-lifetime noble who was obsessed with power and wealth. He had the Tomb of his sister and father built only so he could build a secret hideaway in the back of it. In that back area, he plotted to overthrow nations, destroyed lives simply to see if he could, and created toxins so potent that one sniff would end a soul. To add insult to injury, Winston played with necromancy in his search for power over the living as well as the departed. He was on the brink of discovering a form of immortality when the cataclysm came to his lifetime. He is not a good... anything! Winston was far away from home when things ended suddenly and unexpectedly and has been searching for a way back home since the downfall of his kind. When his hideout was uncovered by Ruu and his team he sensed it and started on his journey towards the territory.[/spoiler] Specter abilities: Extremely violent. Has excellent control over the physical world. For a limited amount of time, he can be corporal and interact with the living. Is able to cause physical harm to the living. Can absorb energy from other ghosts and magic users to bolster his own abilities. Can use magic, though it is very difficult for him to maintain for any duration. [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922#post_2257922] [img]https://i.postimg.cc/xCqYdxPt/Divider-640x50-3.png[/img][/url] [/center] [size=5][font=Courier New]Maps[/font][/size] [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/3230837#post_3230837]Territory Maps[/url] [b]|[/b] [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/3230837/2#post_54961934]Etesian[/url] [b]|[/b] [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/3230837/2#post_55856374]The Tomb of the Unknown Warriors[/url] [b]|[/b]

Azurenight

4152

August 20, 2023 16:15:30

Information

Characters

Alona
Alona is a fairly down-to-Sornieth dragoness and when it comes to business she's all business. Though, that does not mean she can't be light-hearted. Exceptionally loving, witty, protective, and personable. She enjoys meeting new dragons and beasts and absolutely loves discussing the nature of her work with anyone who will listen.
Skills: Buteo, Hearer, Seer

Ruu
Ruu is a professor at the scholar's college in Whisperwind. He is also a partner at the Whisperwind Museum where many of his finds are displayed.
His field of study is archeology, specifically the second lifetime. He originally came to the territory to study the many ruins scattered about the area.
Skills: Archeologist

Frith
Soft-spoken and curious to a fault. That pretty much sums up Frith. She very rarely goes out on hunts, especially if it involves one of the dangerous ghosts. The reason for this is simple, there isn't a violent bone in her body. She possesses absolutely no fighting skill and to be frank the Fae is a bit of a coward when it comes to a fight.
Skills: Tyto & Strig, Cyanocitta, Allergic.

Winston Von Ludhimen III

A second-lifetime noble who was obsessed with power and wealth. He had the Tomb of his sister and father built only so he could build a secret hideaway in the back of it. In that back area, he plotted to overthrow nations, destroyed lives simply to see if he could, and created toxins so potent that one sniff would end a soul. To add insult to injury, Winston played with necromancy in his search for power over the living as well as the departed. He was on the brink of discovering a form of immortality when the cataclysm came to his lifetime. He is not a good... anything!

Winston was far away from home when things ended suddenly and unexpectedly and has been searching for a way back home since the downfall of his kind. When his hideout was uncovered by Ruu and his team he sensed it and started on his journey towards the territory.

Specter abilities: Extremely violent. Has excellent control over the physical world. For a limited amount of time, he can be corporal and interact with the living. Is able to cause physical harm to the living. Can absorb energy from other ghosts and magic users to bolster his own abilities. Can use magic, though it is very difficult for him to maintain for any duration.

Maps

Territory Maps | Etesian | The Tomb of the Unknown Warriors |

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Last edited on Jan 07, 2024 11:47:47 by Azurenight

You talk about feeling inexperienced, but reference posts and a contents post feels super well-organised and well-thought-out. [center][emoji=tundra star size=2][/center] [quote=Reminder!]You are awesome! [emoji=heart size=1] Remember to hydrate! [emoji=cloud size=1] Mistakes don't matter so long as everyone's having fun. [emoji=blue vial size=1][/quote] Would you like to post a couple of your maps in one of your reference posts? Perhaps the overall region map and the mausoleum? Revisiting your maps, I kinda wanna start near the stairs to Nowhere? Though if you'd rather pin going there for later that's cool too. Wanderers' Plain feels a good direction to have come from prior to where the roleplay starts...though starting in the forest around Dragon's Rest to speed up the meeting works too. [emoji=bogsneak happy size=1] Do you have preferred season or weather? If not, whoever starts can just describe what they want. [emoji=spiral laughing size=1] If I'm overthinking things and overloading you with stuff to worry about then we can just roll with whatever. [emoji=aether happy size=1]

Stanzascale

4055

August 21, 2023 07:01:49

You talk about feeling inexperienced, but reference posts and a contents post feels super well-organised and well-thought-out.

Reminder! wrote:

You are awesome!

Remember to hydrate!

Mistakes don't matter so long as everyone's having fun.

Would you like to post a couple of your maps in one of your reference posts? Perhaps the overall region map and the mausoleum?
Revisiting your maps, I kinda wanna start near the stairs to Nowhere? Though if you'd rather pin going there for later that's cool too.
Wanderers' Plain feels a good direction to have come from prior to where the roleplay starts...though starting in the forest around Dragon's Rest to speed up the meeting works too.

Do you have preferred season or weather? If not, whoever starts can just describe what they want.

If I'm overthinking things and overloading you with stuff to worry about then we can just roll with whatever.

Last edited on Aug 21, 2023 07:24:47 by Stanzascale

Well, thank you [emoji=guardian star size=1]! To be honest, I need to keep it organized, otherwise I will be all over the place. You are absolutely not overthinking things. The detail helps keep me on track, so I appreciate all of it [emoji=guardian happy size=1]. That and I just really enjoy the detail, it makes the scene complete. I am alright using summer for the season and how about light rain to thunderstorm? To add to the spooky vibes we might get. Yes, I'll be posting the maps [emoji=coatl happy size=1]. Many of them have to be touched up to include new details that had been added to the region since making them. I should have all that up and running before Saturday. The region is wide open we can start anywhere you'd like. I know in your note that you suggested jumping to a room in the cairn, that would be good as well. I should have the maps for the cairn finished tonight and tomorrow morning, or at least most of it. I had to scrap the first build... twelve floors were way too much. I'll also touch up the Haunted Woods to reflect the town and the circus and get that posted sometime tomorrow. I'll also get a description up for the Stairs and Wanderers Plain. Jumping to the catalyst for this story, what are your thoughts on our ghost friend? I'm pulling a blank on how they would know or want to be there, but I can suggest many of the artifacts the cairn holds as being the reason. Not only does it contain enchanted possessions that once belonged to the ancestors of the region ([i]beast and dragon alike[/i]), but it is built over a second-lifetime ruin and they are constantly expanding into new underground ruins. There is also a stationary portal at the very bottom of the mausoleum. I was originally going to make it something new, but I rather prefer the idea that it was a stumbled upon second-lifetime artifact.

Azurenight

4152

August 21, 2023 13:07:28

Well, thank you

! To be honest, I need to keep it organized, otherwise I will be all over the place.

You are absolutely not overthinking things. The detail helps keep me on track, so I appreciate all of it

. That and I just really enjoy the detail, it makes the scene complete.

I am alright using summer for the season and how about light rain to thunderstorm? To add to the spooky vibes we might get.

Yes, I'll be posting the maps

. Many of them have to be touched up to include new details that had been added to the region since making them. I should have all that up and running before Saturday.

The region is wide open we can start anywhere you'd like. I know in your note that you suggested jumping to a room in the cairn, that would be good as well. I should have the maps for the cairn finished tonight and tomorrow morning, or at least most of it. I had to scrap the first build... twelve floors were way too much. I'll also touch up the Haunted Woods to reflect the town and the circus and get that posted sometime tomorrow. I'll also get a description up for the Stairs and Wanderers Plain.

Jumping to the catalyst for this story, what are your thoughts on our ghost friend? I'm pulling a blank on how they would know or want to be there, but I can suggest many of the artifacts the cairn holds as being the reason. Not only does it contain enchanted possessions that once belonged to the ancestors of the region (beast and dragon alike), but it is built over a second-lifetime ruin and they are constantly expanding into new underground ruins. There is also a stationary portal at the very bottom of the mausoleum. I was originally going to make it something new, but I rather prefer the idea that it was a stumbled upon second-lifetime artifact.

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[columns][color=transparent]sedsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsd[nextcol][center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/DwVpKxcL/Hor-divider-200.png[/img] [columns][center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/Bncr7WGX/Vert-divider-100.png[/img][nextcol][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63905482][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/639055/63905482p.png[/img][/url][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/51055239][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/510553/51055239p.png[/img][/url][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63788157][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/637882/63788157p.png[/img][/url][nextcol][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/Bncr7WGX/Vert-divider-100.png[/img][/columns][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/XuWeVPV.png[/img][/columns][/center] Every rumour in Sornieth passes through the Windswept Plateau at least once, so it is said. Amid the chaos that inevitably results while endeavouring to organise a newly re/formed group of dragons, it was realised with surprise that the Plateau was among those regions lacking a dedicated branch from Veiled Phoenix to mind its phantasmal activity. As a result, active branches with members who were available and willing, set out travelling. Following up on rumours of restless dead to pacify, and keeping an eye out for potential new members to aid in their endeavours. [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/tYcShZS.png[/img][/url][/center] Qhaway sniffed as the group considered the stone ruins around them. "The soul hasn't gone far." The heather tundra's tea-set barely rattled in its swaddling of a bright orchid tent on Qhaway's back. The three dragons had been following the wanderings of a wayward soul. Enough time had passed since her last dreaming that the Tundra's sight was that of an unmarked dragon, but Qhaway still had her allergies to signal proximity to an area of spectral activity. Nem climbed a nearby fallen pillar with goggles over his eyes and surveyed the landscape. Nearby three rivers met to fall into a lake as one. The far side of the lake was cloaked in woods, which were divided by a city Nem glimpsed nestled between two swathes of trees. The younger Tundra was inevitably diverted by the immediate surroundings their journey had led them to. "What is this place?" Nem inquired excitedly of his companions. The Wind dragon had naturally been eager to join the expedition. It was turning out to be the perfect blend of the familiarity of a nomadic youth with the endless discovery of travel. Of the group, Kalitka took greatest care with her steps. The Pearlcatcher enjoyed the breeze rustling her striped wings. She reached down to pick up a clawful of dirt, rubbing it as she examined it. The topic of who would form the expedition had been much debated. While this wasn't Nem and Qhaway's first expedition, this was considered a more risky one. The pair were capable at placating melancholic spirits, but avoided hostile choleric spirits. Kalitka was the only one who could be guaranteed not to have duties tying her to stay at the Perch and got along with Nem and Qhaway, who had long advocated their fellow members to be stringent with the Pearlcatcher. Kalitka was permitted to join the expedition on the condition that she allow a [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/64808530]Witchborne[/url] to place a charm on her that would make her easy for them to find if she attempted to flee. Kalitka privately bridled at the humiliation, but resigned herself to it as the price for earning [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63742486][color=#1F483A]Njira[/url]'s trust. The Pearlcatcher reckoned the ruins were very old, a great stairway stretched down the cliff to connect to another set of ruins, which had clearly been abandoned long enough for a small forest to reclaim. Just as ghosts eluded the senses, so too did they elude claw and cast. Except when designed specifically to tackle the ethereal. While Nem was currently the only one who'd be able to see their quarry, Kalitka was able to make physical and magical contact. Just as Kalitka enchanted weapons for those who'd fight cholerics, so were there ways to detect spirits. Pearlcatcher took out a candle and prepared to light it. [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/tYcShZS.png[/img][/url][/center] Oh! I admit I hadn't thought much about the ghost's motivations. ^^; Those sound like really good ideas though!

Stanzascale

4055

August 29, 2023 10:47:17

sedsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsd

Every rumour in Sornieth passes through the Windswept Plateau at least once, so it is said. Amid the chaos that inevitably results while endeavouring to organise a newly re/formed group of dragons, it was realised with surprise that the Plateau was among those regions lacking a dedicated branch from Veiled Phoenix to mind its phantasmal activity.
As a result, active branches with members who were available and willing, set out travelling. Following up on rumours of restless dead to pacify, and keeping an eye out for potential new members to aid in their endeavours.

Qhaway sniffed as the group considered the stone ruins around them. "The soul hasn't gone far." The heather tundra's tea-set barely rattled in its swaddling of a bright orchid tent on Qhaway's back.
The three dragons had been following the wanderings of a wayward soul. Enough time had passed since her last dreaming that the Tundra's sight was that of an unmarked dragon, but Qhaway still had her allergies to signal proximity to an area of spectral activity.

Nem climbed a nearby fallen pillar with goggles over his eyes and surveyed the landscape. Nearby three rivers met to fall into a lake as one. The far side of the lake was cloaked in woods, which were divided by a city Nem glimpsed nestled between two swathes of trees. The younger Tundra was inevitably diverted by the immediate surroundings their journey had led them to.
"What is this place?" Nem inquired excitedly of his companions. The Wind dragon had naturally been eager to join the expedition. It was turning out to be the perfect blend of the familiarity of a nomadic youth with the endless discovery of travel.

Of the group, Kalitka took greatest care with her steps. The Pearlcatcher enjoyed the breeze rustling her striped wings. She reached down to pick up a clawful of dirt, rubbing it as she examined it.

The topic of who would form the expedition had been much debated. While this wasn't Nem and Qhaway's first expedition, this was considered a more risky one. The pair were capable at placating melancholic spirits, but avoided hostile choleric spirits. Kalitka was the only one who could be guaranteed not to have duties tying her to stay at the Perch and got along with Nem and Qhaway, who had long advocated their fellow members to be stringent with the Pearlcatcher.
Kalitka was permitted to join the expedition on the condition that she allow a Witchborne to place a charm on her that would make her easy for them to find if she attempted to flee.
Kalitka privately bridled at the humiliation, but resigned herself to it as the price for earning Njira's trust.

The Pearlcatcher reckoned the ruins were very old, a great stairway stretched down the cliff to connect to another set of ruins, which had clearly been abandoned long enough for a small forest to reclaim.

Just as ghosts eluded the senses, so too did they elude claw and cast. Except when designed specifically to tackle the ethereal. While Nem was currently the only one who'd be able to see their quarry, Kalitka was able to make physical and magical contact. Just as Kalitka enchanted weapons for those who'd fight cholerics, so were there ways to detect spirits. Pearlcatcher took out a candle and prepared to light it.

Oh! I admit I hadn't thought much about the ghost's motivations. ^^;
Those sound like really good ideas though!

Last edited on Aug 29, 2023 10:51:04 by Stanzascale

[center] [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/46726679][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/350/467267/46726679_350.png[/img][/url][/center] [center][img]https://i.postimg.cc/xCqYdxPt/Divider-640x50-3.png[/img][/center] “Captain, what are you expecting?” The Captain turned towards the Corporal flying at her side. One of her newer rangers, he was a young Coatl with bright yellow plumage. [i]You couldn’t miss him if you wanted to[/i], she thought quickly. “I’m not sure, Corporal. I’m hoping it’s just another group of travelers that have missed the markers— “Those directional markers are not working as well as the mages thought they would,” the Sergeant to her other side complained. She twisted to face the Mirror and turned just in time to catch his disgusted snort. “If this is indeed another group of travelers, that will be seven, [i]just this week[/i], that have missed the signs to go to the Waystation.” The captain sighed. That was the truth of it. “Well,” the Corporal drew their attention back, “at least the warning wards are still working.” They had to agree to that. Without those wards they wouldn’t get the warnings when travelers were about to enter the Wanderers’ Plane, or in this case leave it. “We’ve reached the Northern Ruins at the Stairs,” the Sergeant said. Riana flashed him a quick look before settling her attention on the architecture rushing up on them. The group of outsiders was easy to spot. Much like her young corporal, their bright colors stood out among the simple greens of the grasses and the dark browns of the ruins. Two Tundras and a Pearlcatcher and that appeared to be it. They had no caravan and no beasts of burden and aside from the Tundra with what was possibly a pack on their back, they didn’t seem to be carrying anything extra with them. [i]They do not look like merchants or traders[/i], she thought. She directed her rangers to take positions around the three and started her descent. A short moment later, she would land gently beside the Pearlcatcher with a friendly greeting at the ready. “Greetings travelers, I’m Ranger Captain Riana, let me welcome you to the Azurenight Clan.” She waved one arm out over the cliff to indicate the sprawling territory beneath them. “What brings you to our territory?” [center][img]https://i.postimg.cc/xCqYdxPt/Divider-640x50-3.png[/img][/center] Hrm? Perhaps they could be after a relic that's buried in the crypts... oh, this could lead to wonderful mayhem. Muahahaahah! [i]Ahem[/i]...

Azurenight

4152

August 30, 2023 21:49:43

“Captain, what are you expecting?”

The Captain turned towards the Corporal flying at her side. One of her newer rangers, he was a young Coatl with bright yellow plumage. You couldn’t miss him if you wanted to, she thought quickly. “I’m not sure, Corporal. I’m hoping it’s just another group of travelers that have missed the markers—

“Those directional markers are not working as well as the mages thought they would,” the Sergeant to her other side complained. She twisted to face the Mirror and turned just in time to catch his disgusted snort. “If this is indeed another group of travelers, that will be seven, just this week, that have missed the signs to go to the Waystation.”

The captain sighed. That was the truth of it.

“Well,” the Corporal drew their attention back, “at least the warning wards are still working.” They had to agree to that. Without those wards they wouldn’t get the warnings when travelers were about to enter the Wanderers’ Plane, or in this case leave it.

“We’ve reached the Northern Ruins at the Stairs,” the Sergeant said.

Riana flashed him a quick look before settling her attention on the architecture rushing up on them. The group of outsiders was easy to spot. Much like her young corporal, their bright colors stood out among the simple greens of the grasses and the dark browns of the ruins. Two Tundras and a Pearlcatcher and that appeared to be it. They had no caravan and no beasts of burden and aside from the Tundra with what was possibly a pack on their back, they didn’t seem to be carrying anything extra with them. They do not look like merchants or traders, she thought.

She directed her rangers to take positions around the three and started her descent. A short moment later, she would land gently beside the Pearlcatcher with a friendly greeting at the ready. “Greetings travelers, I’m Ranger Captain Riana, let me welcome you to the Azurenight Clan.” She waved one arm out over the cliff to indicate the sprawling territory beneath them. “What brings you to our territory?”

Hrm? Perhaps they could be after a relic that's buried in the crypts... oh, this could lead to wonderful mayhem. Muahahaahah! Ahem...

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Soon

Last edited on Aug 30, 2023 21:54:20 by Azurenight

[columns][color=transparent]sedsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsd[nextcol][center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/DwVpKxcL/Hor-divider-200.png[/img] [columns][center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/Bncr7WGX/Vert-divider-100.png[/img][nextcol][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63905482][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/639055/63905482p.png[/img][/url][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/51055239][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/510553/51055239p.png[/img][/url][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63788157][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/637882/63788157p.png[/img][/url][nextcol][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/Bncr7WGX/Vert-divider-100.png[/img][/columns][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/XuWeVPV.png[/img][/columns][/center] The wind changed direction and Qhaway caught the scent of approaching dragons. "Oh! It looks like some of the locals are popping by for a hello." Kalitka hastily put her black-wax candle back among her scant belongings. "Great! We can ask them about rumours ourselves!" Nem practically chirruped. The Tundra waved at the rangers and started clambering down the toppled pillar he'd been scouting from. Kalitka took a step back as the rangers landed, and quickly noted their positions surrounding the group. Well, the travellers knew little about the situation in the area. Perhaps there had been troubles with unexpected guests in the past. The cordial greeting alleviated initial concerns. "Hi, I'm Nem-" The Tundra hesitated, having not thought ahead to the obvious question. He was used to the guild's work being kept discreet. "We heard some curious rumours about this region and came to investigate." Qhaway informed the rangers with sincerity, having never understood the secrecy of the old society. Nem had an idea. "Because we're archeologists!" He laid a paw on the pillar he'd just clambered down from, and Kalitka winced at the irony. "We heard about these interesting ruins and we're here to find out more. Can you tell us anything about them?" It was not entirely untrue. A significant amount of Veiled Phoenix's work involved seeking lost knowledge pertaining to the restless dead, and Nem's enthusiasm for learning about whatever he came across was genuine. But as Nem was speaking, Kalitka looked down at her garbs. While the Pearlcatcher had the sense to bring sturdy coat and footwear for a long journey, her mystical ritual-wear wasn't hard to spot. Elaborate jewellery clinked softly yet audibly as Kalitka moved. A hatchling could tell Kalitka wasn't an archeologist. "Uhhh, Nem?" Kalitka felt obliged to say something, but was unsure precisely what. Qhaway shook her head and laughed. The Arcane Tundra fished a biscuit-tin from her things. "Sorry about him, dear. Got some funny ideas about keeping spirit-finding a secret from the old society, biscuit?" [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/tYcShZS.png[/img][/url][/center] Thank you for your patience. [emoji=heart size=1] I realise that anything a group of two Tundras and a Pearlcatcher have on them will probably be plant-based and not necessarily to the appetite of a Wildclaw and a Coatl but Qhaway is gonna offer biscuits anyway. [emoji=wildclaw laughing size=1] Heh, please feel free to treat the ghost as one of your characters. In theory we can share them, but you have a lot of fun ideas so I'd encourage you to take the lead with the ghost. [emoji=snapper happy size=1] Also, to make my intentions here clear, I did genuinely have my own 'oh yeah how would they answer that' moment and decided this was the funniest answer. I figured that since S.H.I. (Veiled Phoenix's predecessor) was a secret society, that at the very least Nem would try keep their activity secret. But between the fact Nem isn't a practiced liar and the fact that Qhaway does not understand why their work is kept secret and doesn't try to lie, it'll be easy (and hopefully funny) to see through. Heh. The remark about the markers and the wards makes me wonder if [i]something wicked[/i] has been sabotaging them. >:) I imagine the possible appearance of [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/84607645]Vanth[/url] and [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/77321417]Despoina[/url]. It would depend on the scope of the roleplay though, as I've been taking this as daytime and Vanth operates nocturnally. Though that could work with the optional rule I've mentioned on discord where daytime is good for preparation and staking out, but night is when ghosts tend to be most active and therefore easiest to interact with. I'll reiterate that that is an entirely optional formula though. Exceptions always exist. I would have to check how you feel about body-horror however. Vanth can get icky. ^^; I also may be overcomplicating things by considering yet more characters to potentially bring in. [emoji=aether laughing size=1]

Stanzascale

4055

September 06, 2023 11:33:09

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The wind changed direction and Qhaway caught the scent of approaching dragons.
"Oh! It looks like some of the locals are popping by for a hello."
Kalitka hastily put her black-wax candle back among her scant belongings.
"Great! We can ask them about rumours ourselves!" Nem practically chirruped. The Tundra waved at the rangers and started clambering down the toppled pillar he'd been scouting from.

Kalitka took a step back as the rangers landed, and quickly noted their positions surrounding the group. Well, the travellers knew little about the situation in the area. Perhaps there had been troubles with unexpected guests in the past. The cordial greeting alleviated initial concerns.

"Hi, I'm Nem-" The Tundra hesitated, having not thought ahead to the obvious question. He was used to the guild's work being kept discreet.
"We heard some curious rumours about this region and came to investigate." Qhaway informed the rangers with sincerity, having never understood the secrecy of the old society.
Nem had an idea. "Because we're archeologists!" He laid a paw on the pillar he'd just clambered down from, and Kalitka winced at the irony.
"We heard about these interesting ruins and we're here to find out more. Can you tell us anything about them?"

It was not entirely untrue. A significant amount of Veiled Phoenix's work involved seeking lost knowledge pertaining to the restless dead, and Nem's enthusiasm for learning about whatever he came across was genuine.
But as Nem was speaking, Kalitka looked down at her garbs. While the Pearlcatcher had the sense to bring sturdy coat and footwear for a long journey, her mystical ritual-wear wasn't hard to spot. Elaborate jewellery clinked softly yet audibly as Kalitka moved. A hatchling could tell Kalitka wasn't an archeologist.
"Uhhh, Nem?" Kalitka felt obliged to say something, but was unsure precisely what.

Qhaway shook her head and laughed. The Arcane Tundra fished a biscuit-tin from her things.
"Sorry about him, dear. Got some funny ideas about keeping spirit-finding a secret from the old society, biscuit?"

Thank you for your patience.

I realise that anything a group of two Tundras and a Pearlcatcher have on them will probably be plant-based and not necessarily to the appetite of a Wildclaw and a Coatl but Qhaway is gonna offer biscuits anyway.

Heh, please feel free to treat the ghost as one of your characters. In theory we can share them, but you have a lot of fun ideas so I'd encourage you to take the lead with the ghost.

Also, to make my intentions here clear, I did genuinely have my own 'oh yeah how would they answer that' moment and decided this was the funniest answer.
I figured that since S.H.I. (Veiled Phoenix's predecessor) was a secret society, that at the very least Nem would try keep their activity secret. But between the fact Nem isn't a practiced liar and the fact that Qhaway does not understand why their work is kept secret and doesn't try to lie, it'll be easy (and hopefully funny) to see through.

Heh. The remark about the markers and the wards makes me wonder if something wicked has been sabotaging them. >:)
I imagine the possible appearance of Vanth and Despoina. It would depend on the scope of the roleplay though, as I've been taking this as daytime and Vanth operates nocturnally.
Though that could work with the optional rule I've mentioned on discord where daytime is good for preparation and staking out, but night is when ghosts tend to be most active and therefore easiest to interact with. I'll reiterate that that is an entirely optional formula though. Exceptions always exist.
I would have to check how you feel about body-horror however. Vanth can get icky. ^^;
I also may be overcomplicating things by considering yet more characters to potentially bring in.

[center] [url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/46726679][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/350/467267/46726679_350.png[/img][/url][/center] [center][img]https://i.postimg.cc/xCqYdxPt/Divider-640x50-3.png[/img][/center] The good captain stood there looking over the trio with a brow raised, where she remained until one of their guests offered treats. Naturally, her attention turned to the sweets. "Thank yo-- "SWEETS!" The sergeant rushed over, knocking Riana out of the way, so he could get to the tin. Riana stumbled a few steps to her right while her sergeant and corporal pounced the poor tin and the Tundra holding it. A deep sigh rushed through her nose. "Will you two behave!" Riana pulled both rangers away from the biscuit tin by the collar. Once they were clear she turned to the purple Tundra. "I cannot apologize enough for the behavior of my, greedy," she hissed towards the two, "rangers." She set a strong glower on the two, where it sat until she felt them suitably chastised. "Now," she continued with a new smile and her focus on the child of arcane, "you mentioned spirit finding. I'm not sure why you'd wish to keep such activities quiet, honestly. Our own spirit-finders-- "We call them ghost hunters," the corporal proudly announced. "Yes, thank you, corporal." Riana cleared her throat and returned to her guests. "As I was saying, our ghost hunters are actually at the base of the stairs helping Ruu on his dig. Alona is usually very eager to discuss their field of study with others-- "They won't shut up about it," the mirror mumbled. Riana cleared her throat again. "I'm sure they would enjoy your company if you'd like to join them. It would allow you to pursue your archeological interests as well. Professor Ruu is conducting an archeological dig on the Tomb of the Unknown Solider." Riana waved an arm down towards the activity at the base of the stairs. Lazy archeologists were just now dragging themselves into the work site. "Captain Lycima should be down there overseeing the activity. You should check in with her and she can tell you where our local ghost hunters are." [center][img]https://i.postimg.cc/xCqYdxPt/Divider-640x50-3.png[/img][/center] [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/26037435] [img]https://www1.flightrising.com/dgen/dressing-room/scry?sdid=3809506&skin=0&apparel=18825,18817,18785,9221,9820&xt=dressing.png[/img][/url][/center] [center][url=https://i.imgur.com/C9X1m5v.jpg][img]https://i.imgur.com/C9X1m5v.jpg[/img][/url][/center] [center][img]https://i.postimg.cc/xCqYdxPt/Divider-640x50-3.png[/img][/center] Of course, no rush [emoji=coatl happy size=1] Riana will eat anything that's sweet [emoji=coatl laughing size=1]. It might not agree with her later, but she does enjoy treats. She's still upset that her subordinates hogged the biscuits. Haha, that was a funny response [emoji=guardian laughing size=1]. Nem's bid for secrecy was delightfully cute and it inspired a meeting with Ruu. I think this is going to be fun, I like where this is going. I haven't added any locations on the new maps yet, so if you have any questions just let me know. Concerning the markers, that could be a possibility. My original intention was a simple enchantment error, but I could see those two being imps with it. They would bring out more rangers and mages, especially if something would start happening with the way stones. I'm sure we could work through it, if you are comfortable with keeping up with that many characters. I've added a background on our ghost friend. I put it in my resource post if you'd like to see it. There is a spoiler over his background, but I left his abilities visible. [emoji=guardian happy size=1]

Azurenight

4152

September 08, 2023 17:50:10

The good captain stood there looking over the trio with a brow raised, where she remained until one of their guests offered treats. Naturally, her attention turned to the sweets. "Thank yo--

"SWEETS!" The sergeant rushed over, knocking Riana out of the way, so he could get to the tin. Riana stumbled a few steps to her right while her sergeant and corporal pounced the poor tin and the Tundra holding it. A deep sigh rushed through her nose.

"Will you two behave!" Riana pulled both rangers away from the biscuit tin by the collar. Once they were clear she turned to the purple Tundra. "I cannot apologize enough for the behavior of my, greedy," she hissed towards the two, "rangers." She set a strong glower on the two, where it sat until she felt them suitably chastised.

"Now," she continued with a new smile and her focus on the child of arcane, "you mentioned spirit finding. I'm not sure why you'd wish to keep such activities quiet, honestly. Our own spirit-finders--

"We call them ghost hunters," the corporal proudly announced.

"Yes, thank you, corporal." Riana cleared her throat and returned to her guests. "As I was saying, our ghost hunters are actually at the base of the stairs helping Ruu on his dig. Alona is usually very eager to discuss their field of study with others--

"They won't shut up about it," the mirror mumbled.

Riana cleared her throat again. "I'm sure they would enjoy your company if you'd like to join them. It would allow you to pursue your archeological interests as well. Professor Ruu is conducting an archeological dig on the Tomb of the Unknown Solider." Riana waved an arm down towards the activity at the base of the stairs. Lazy archeologists were just now dragging themselves into the work site. "Captain Lycima should be down there overseeing the activity. You should check in with her and she can tell you where our local ghost hunters are."

scry?sdid=3809506&skin=0&apparel=18825,18817,18785,9221,9820&xt=dressing.png

Of course, no rush

Riana will eat anything that's sweet

. It might not agree with her later, but she does enjoy treats. She's still upset that her subordinates hogged the biscuits.

Haha, that was a funny response

. Nem's bid for secrecy was delightfully cute and it inspired a meeting with Ruu. I think this is going to be fun, I like where this is going. I haven't added any locations on the new maps yet, so if you have any questions just let me know.

Concerning the markers, that could be a possibility. My original intention was a simple enchantment error, but I could see those two being imps with it. They would bring out more rangers and mages, especially if something would start happening with the way stones.

I'm sure we could work through it, if you are comfortable with keeping up with that many characters.

I've added a background on our ghost friend. I put it in my resource post if you'd like to see it. There is a spoiler over his background, but I left his abilities visible.

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Coming
Soon

Last edited on Sep 08, 2023 17:56:39 by Azurenight

[columns][color=transparent]sedsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsdsd[nextcol][center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/DwVpKxcL/Hor-divider-200.png[/img] [columns][center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/Bncr7WGX/Vert-divider-100.png[/img][nextcol][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63905482][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/639055/63905482p.png[/img][/url][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/51055239][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/510553/51055239p.png[/img][/url][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/dragon/63788157][img]https://www1.flightrising.com/rendern/portraits/637882/63788157p.png[/img][/url][nextcol][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.postimg.cc/Bncr7WGX/Vert-divider-100.png[/img][/columns][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/XuWeVPV.png[/img][/columns][/center] Qhaway gave an "oh!" of surprise that quickly became a chuckle at the vigorous reaction to the biscuits. Nem smiled at how candid the rangers were and tried to shake off the feelings that accompanied realising his earlier misstep. Kalitka jumped a little. This was not what she'd expected in the slightest. But the fact that neither Tundra seemed worried persuaded the Pearlcatcher that all was well. Kalitka took a deep breath. If an intense sweet-tooth was all they had to fear from the locals then it was smooth-flying. "Settle down, settle down. There's enough to share." Qhaway attempted to tell the two rangers. When Riana collared her two over-eager subordinates, the Tundra's fur was messily puffed from being at the centre of a biscuit-rush. Qhaway gave herself a little shake but otherwise was fairly unconcerned. "I'm sure you've earned the snack-break. Nothing I haven't seen before." She chuckled as she picked the tin where it had dropped from her grasp. Qhaway dusted it off as she checked the now notably depleted contents before replacing it among her belongings. Kalitka noticed Nem had lost a bit of his bounce and went to speak with him. She had an idea what might be on his mind. "It's okay to not announce all your business, I know. I believe we can reasonably infer they are allies to our endeavours, however." Nem nodded and Kalitka continued. "Perhaps the old society was trying to limit the risk of Devourers by concealing knowledge that could be used to that end. But a healthy practice is one that evolves." The Pearlcatcher drew from her studies in the Sunbeam Ruins. Nem smiled, reassured. The Wildclaw started explaining about their own ghost-hunters at the base of the stairs, and Nem tuned back in in time to hear about an eager scholar they could go meet. "Oooh a mysterious tomb? Brilliant!" "Yes, thank you very much." Qhaway smiled. [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/tYcShZS.png[/img][/url][/center] Having bid thanks and farewell to the rangers, the trio glided down to the ruins they had been directed to. Nem chattered about the questions he already had, with Kalitka quietly suggesting a possible answer. "So how do they not know whose tomb it is?" "Perhaps the inscriptions are in a pre-draconic language, if not worn away." They headed for the tomb, keeping an eye out for the captain on duty. [center][url=https://www1.flightrising.com/forums/cc/2257922][img]https://i.imgur.com/tYcShZS.png[/img][/url][/center] Thanks again for your patience. ^^;;;;;; Sounds like messing with the wards would bring in a small army. There's a big difference between picking off loners in a city and dealing with an army investigating for trouble. So perhaps the dastardly duo decide they'd better not! [emoji=spiral laughing size=1] The rangers' reaction to the biscuits was super cute too! I remembered about a previous conversation about necromancy and how it's perceived and thought you'd be interested in [url=https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/allthewitches/all-the-witches/description]this project[/url]. It's a little down the page but the art for the 'necromancer' is super cute! Noting another alternative term I thought of: soul-seeker. Impressive work with the ghost. I'll allow myself to be surprised, heh.

Stanzascale