>>5653209
Your most pressing objective for the time being is to convince the Council of Elders to allow your people entry into the city, and to provide them with the succor that they require. This is easier said than done, given that it seems over half of its members are hellbent on denying them any aid whatsoever, each for their own reasons. You will need at least two of the four hostile ones to come around to your way of thinking, although you have the liberty of choice in deciding which of them you intend to sway.

On the more optimistic side of this situation, you did purchase one lead. Emitia Rouzet, chief investor of Everlund's Textiles Guild and an enigmatic lady of wealth and power, is said to be privy to the most valuable secret of Rupert Tenpenny, Master of Guilds. Whether said secret can be leveraged to your advantage is unknown, though would first need to convince her to divulge this information before you can evaluate its worth. Easier said than done, given that she seldom appears in public and refuses to interact with the common folk.

Where to begin...
>A visit to the market could not hurt. My purse may be light, but I may overhear something of use by gossiping with its denizens.
>I should find that half-breed, Lael. His knowledge of the city and the council could be of great use to me, if I can cajole him into doing my bidding.
>Against my better judgement, I will seek out Dulnur Darkshadow. The old dwarf will have to be persuaded some way or another.
>Greycastle has refused to aid the Ilythiiri, but he still owes me. I might be able to exact something useful from him.
>The All-Faiths Hall is my first destination. Mayhaps I could bargain for some advisement in the form of divine inspiration.

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>>5653215
Previous Adventures:
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=Forgotten+Realms+Adventures

The Rules™:
https://pastebin.com/VRQHDHSr

Jezyrene's Abilities:
https://pastebin.com/0kjsLuHW

The character sheet will be updated when I can get around to it.

>>5653215
>The All-Faiths Hall is my first destination. Mayhaps I could bargain for some advisement in the form of divine inspiration.

>>5653215
>>I should find that half-breed, Lael. His knowledge of the city and the council could be of great use to me, if I can cajole him into doing my bidding.

>>5653215
>I should find that half-breed, Lael. His knowledge of the city and the council could be of great use to me, if I can cajole him into doing my bidding.

>>5653215
>The All-Faiths Hall is my first destination. Mayhaps I could bargain for some advisement in the form of divine inspiration.
I don’t know if there’s a representative for the Dwarf pantheon at the hall, but it might be a good idea to ask a priest about how Moradin typically manifests, and if earthquakes are seen as one of them.

>>5653215
hell yeah, jez is back
que the MGS music
>The All-Faiths Hall is my first destination. Mayhaps I could bargain for some advisement in the form of divine inspiration.
I have yet to be convinced that Lael knows anything about anything. Anyway, Willow might be near the All-faiths hall, seems like a good person to talk to on advice for our quest. Evergreen hall might be near it?

>>5653215
>>5653255
Switching to
>Greycastle has refused to aid the Ilythiiri, but he still owes me. I might be able to exact something useful from him.

Might be able to get something about Emitia Rouzet from Greycastle

>>5653215
>>Greycastle has refused to aid the Ilythiiri, but he still owes me. I might be able to exact something useful from him.

Vote closed.

>>5653271
She's out of town right now.

>>5653936
oh that's right, she's in the silverwood. Thanks!

>>5653219
>>5653252
>>5653255
>>5653258
>>5653271
>>5653277
>>5653705
The assistance of a deity is never received without caveats, though you will nevertheless petition for aid. Inscrutable as they are, the surface gods may be coaxed into providing you with guidance - or more - assuming you can win their favor. Departing from the Phantom Knight Inn, you will brave the sun's tyranny to reach the All-Faiths Hall, readjusting your cloak whenever the daylight sees fit to assault your eyes.

Everlund is as lively as ever. Trade from distant lands continues unabated as goods both common and strange find their way to the market, only to change hands as eager buyers snatch them up. Pedestrians go about their day without a care, their concerns domestic and philistine. You still catch strangers staring at you, and hear the hushed discussions taking place as you traverse the streets - though there are fewer people who feel inclined to avoid you. Mayhaps they are steadily growing accustomed to seeing an Ilythiiri woman in their city? Or is it your new status as a minor celebrity that has caused them to review their opinions?

Your senses are stimulated by the scent of burning incense and singsong praises of the divine as you near your destination. The hexagonal All-Faiths Hall is busy with worshipers who come to lay their problems at the gods' feet. As before, there is a shrine in each of the six corners dedicated to a different human power, all differing in appearance and popularity.

Whose shrine shall you visit on this fine day?
>Lathander, the Morninglord - God of the Renewal, Athleticism, Creativity, and Birth
>Sune, Lady Firehair - Goddess of Passion and Beauty
>Tymora, Our Smiling Lady - Goddess of Victory and Good Fortune
>Oghma, the Patron of Bards - God of Knowledge and Inspiration
>Selûne, the Moondmaiden - Goddess of the Moon, Stars, and Travelers
>Liira, the Joybringer - Goddess of Happiness, Liberty, and Dance

>>5654818
>Oghma, the Patron of Bards - God of Knowledge and Inspiration

Lathander already gave us a hand, and while being known is nice, what Jez needs right now is inspiration regarding Emitia.

>>5654818
>>Sune, Lady Firehair - Goddess of Passion and Beauty

>>5654818
>Oghma, the Patron of Bards - God of Knowledge and Inspiration
Being persuasive to get knowledge is very much what we need most just now.

Honestly I'd really rather ask Eilistraee considering we're trying to look after her followers and all. If there was any god that I'd imagine that would give immediate pertinent info, it would be her. Also, did not know about Liira, that's interesting.

>>5654818
>>Tymora, Our Smiling Lady - Goddess of Victory and Good Fortune

>>5654818
>Sune, Lady Firehair - Goddess of Passion and Beauty
>Also, after we finish our business, we should ask where we could find a relatively non-judgemental dwarven priest or cleric to talk to.

>>5654818
>Sune, Lady Firehair - Goddess of Passion and Beauty

>>5654848
I may have mentioned this before, but the gods are finite, and this is twice as true for a comparatively weak goddess like Eilistraee, whose awareness is mostly restricted to her followers and certain holy objects. She wouldn't be able to tell Jez anything about the council's politics, or how to get to Emitia.

Some of the options here know a lot more than others. But all of them have some spicy divine gossip about the city's denizens that they might be convinced to share. Of course, if anons aren't happy with that, they can try their luck trying to reason with Corellon and his priestess.

>>5654818
>Lathander, the Morninglord - God of the Renewal, Athleticism, Creativity, and Birth

>>5654818
>Oghma, the Patron of Bards - God of Knowledge and Inspiration

>>5654860
Changing to
>Sune, Lady Firehair - Goddess of Passion and Beauty

Vote closed.

You guys think Rouzet's from the Textiles Guild like we think she is, or more akin to the Seamstresses Guild of Ankh-Morpork?

>>5655708
Eh, if the blackmail Jez is receiving has to do with prostitutes, it's pretty poor blackmail imo. Hell, the guy gets ragged on by other members of the council for getting an std.

>>5655712
True, that. Don't forget though, lots of books and movies have brothel madams moonlight as spymasters by relaying pillow talk from unsuspecting Johns.

>>5655708
What if she is a red herring

>>5657396
>Sam just robbed Jez of 200 gold
As hilarious as that sounds, it would be pretty screwed up to just pretend to throw a plot point, and then punish the players for grabbing the hook, especially if there was no means of detecting if it was a trap at all.

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>>5657475
>no means of detecting if it was a trap at all
You mean besides Sam literally being a known thief?

Anyways, update soon.

>>5657506
>You mean besides Sam literally being a known thief?
Got us, there.

>>5657506
Oh sure, him being a thief is well known, it's more of a meta means of knowing of something is a trap on the basis of plot points. If it were a matter of only considering in universe stuff, then I would've voted to not bother with Sam in the first place. As this is a quest, I try to interact with plot hooks instead.

>>5657521
Just means the plot now includes hunting down Sam and taking back our coin.

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>>5654832
>>5654835
>>5654837
>>5654887
>>5654906
>>5655179
>>5655371
>>5655637
Sune is a surfacer deity that you've yet to have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with, although her followers seem the sort to make an impression. What you have observed during your time here in the world of light is that the many gods each attract a different demographic. The Malarites are a savage sort who revel in wanton violence and abhor civilization, the Mielikkians are rustic folk of primarily low birth, and the Selûnites are travelers from all walks of life.

Yet what truly intrigues you are the faithful congregating around Lady Firehair's shrine. Nearly all female, their method of 'worship' seems to involve primping, decorating craftwork, and chatting about the latest dramas playing out in their lives. They clothe themselves in fine silks or revealing dresses - even the most impoverished of their number seem to be making the attempt at appearing attractive with the modest means at their disposal. Merely being near them is enough to make you feel that you are underdressed.

Much to your horror, the Sunites are not content to stare at you from afar like other surface scum. Enthusiastically they encircle you, bombarding you with questions about how you maintain your figure, requesting the chance to touch your hair, and demanding that you allow them to do... something to your face. It is only after you stamp your foot and assert that you are on a quest that they disperse into their cliques.

Sune's shrine is a sizeable portrait of an alluring woman clad in diaphanous silk. True to her moniker, her most defining trait is her full head of blazing red hair that extends past her waist unrestrained. Surrounded offerings of smaller paintings, crafts of gold and silk, flowers, perfumes, and bottles of wine, it seems to you that Sune is something of an appetitive goddess, appreciating objects for their sensual appeal and unashamed of her splendor. Being of an artful inclination yourself, it is something of a relief to know that at least one surfacer deity shares in your refined tastes - and, evidently, as do many members of the superior sex.

What now?
>As intended, I only wish to consult the goddess for advice on my quest.
>I request more than advice; I will swallow my pride and beseech the goddess for assistance.
>The goddess may have something valuable to share, but what could her followers tell me about Emitia?
>Fine. I shall allow these Sunites to do whatever terrible thing it is that they intend to do to me.
>[Offer Berduskan Dark Wine to Sune.]

>>5657583
>I request more than advice; I will swallow my pride and beseech the goddess for assistance.
>Fine. I shall allow these Sunites to do whatever terrible thing it is that they intend to do to me.
>[Offer Berduskan Dark Wine to Sune.]

>>5657583
>The goddess may have something valuable to share, but what could her followers tell me about Emitia?
>Fine. I shall allow these Sunites to do whatever terrible thing it is that they intend to do to me.
Our prayers will perhaps be better-heeded if we follow their rituals, and we can ply these chatty surface-women for information while we're at it. They like clothes and gossip, we need intel on a seamstress...

>>5657583
>I request more than advice; I will swallow my pride and beseech the goddess for assistance.
>[Offer Berduskan Dark Wine to Sune.]
>Fine. I shall allow these Sunites to do whatever terrible thing it is that they intend to do to me.
MAKEOVER TIME, BITCHES

>>5657583
>I request more than advice; I will swallow my pride and beseech the goddess for assistance.
>The goddess may have something valuable to share, but what could her followers tell me about Emitia?
>Fine. I shall allow these Sunites to do whatever terrible thing it is that they intend to do to me.
>[Offer Berduskan Dark Wine to Sune.]

>>5657583
>>I request more than advice; I will swallow my pride and beseech the goddess for assistance.
>>[Offer Berduskan Dark Wine to Sune.]
>>Fine. I shall allow these Sunites to do whatever terrible thing it is that they intend to do to me.

>>5657583
>The goddess may have something valuable to share, but what could her followers tell me about Emitia?
>Fine. I shall allow these Sunites to do whatever terrible thing it is that they intend to do to me.

Time for a glow up

Vote closed.

>>5657589
>>5657594
>>5657710
>>5657851
>>5658141
>>5658204
You retrieve the dark wine from your pack, giving it a once-over. It is a shame that you have been too busy as of late to get around to enjoying it, but you are confident that you will be able to drink to your victories once you are through with this ordeal. Circumspect, you set the bottle next to a racy painting of Lady Firehair's unclad figure splayed out over a bed covered in silken sheets and step away.

Pleading with the gods has never been a talent of yours, but you are willing to cast aside your pride for the sake of your adventure. Humility is an important virtue to all Ilythiiri who value their lives, and those who cannot master it quickly are soon taught the dangers of dignity - usually by the priestesses. You incline your body toward the shrine and mutter under your breath, telling of the plight of your people and the obstacles that stand in the way of your objective.

A female's voice, deep and luscious in quality, whispers lasciviously into your left ear. "The Princess of Passion welcomes you, dark elf. You are so brave to finally give love a chance. And now, love will give you a chance; the Realms have hardened the heart of my darling child Emitia, just as they have hardened yours. Remind her of my affection to soften her heart, that she might learn compassion for your people. And, have you any desire to soften your own heart as well, return to me again..."

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>>5659705
Surveying your surroundings reveals nothing out of the ordinary. None but you have heard the cryptic counsel goddess, so it seems. Yet, you soon recognize that you hold an object in your hand which was not there moments earlier. Raising it such that it is level with your face, you inspect the curious thing - some sort of surface plant with vivid red petals. Far from mundane, it is supernaturally warm to the touch, an indication that there is some magical property to it.

Carefully tucking it away in your pack such that it will not be crushed, an odd whim strikes you. You face the gathered Sunites, engrossed with their conversations, and clear your throat. "Go ahead," you announce vaguely, gesturing at your face. Bracing yourself for the worst, you shut your eyes and hope that you will not regret this.

Like swarming bats descending from a cavern ceiling to feast, they assail you with a multitude of hands. Strange substances that reek like the byproducts of industry are painted over your face as they debate amongst themselves. Violet or maroon? Which eyeliner best suits you? What about that blemish?

>>5659707
After thoroughly violating you, they at last see fit to withdraw, allowing you to open your eyes. A blonde human girl, younger than Ilanis, eagerly holds a mirror to your face. It is... not bad? The imperfections of your visage are subtly diminished by the cosmetics. Muted shades make your eyes more pronounced, bringing the scarlet of your eyes into prominence, while your lips have taken on a distinct burgundy that juxtaposes well against your skin. All in all, a satisfactory result.

Politely excusing yourself, you proceed on your way. You must still secure an audience with the elusive Mistress Rouzet, but with Sune's token it may be possible to sway her to your cause. There are, of course, the other members sitting on the Council of Elders to consider as well. Your first thought is to ask around about a priest the dwarven gods or an expert in the stout folk's lore, though such inquiries minimal gains. The dwarven population and their clergy are more concentrated in regions further north, and the expert you are referred to again and again is Dulnur Darkshadow, retired adventurer and hero of Everlund. Truly vexing.

Where to next?
>The Bell Market.
>Finding Lael.
>A meeting with Dulnur.
>Questions for Greycastle.
>I still have business with one of the gods. [Whom?]

>>5659712
>The Bell Market.

>>5659712
>The Bell Market.
Let’s look for any books that might go into dwarven fortresses and history in the Silver Marches, as well as a children’s book for young dwarves to practice with.

>>5659712
>>I still have business with one of the gods. [Whom?]
Oghma

>>5659878
Why so interested in dwarves anon?

>>5659712
>The Bell Market.
Try and get some goss on Eimitia as well as peruse the wares.

>>5659712
>>Finding Lael.
Hope we remember their make up techniques.

>>5660074
>Why so interested in dwarves anon?
I’d like to figure out the name and history of that dwarven ruin we found the Eilistraeans at. The bit on the obelisk about that demon thing the dwarves made has me worried.

>>5659712
>>Questions for Greycastle.
We don't really have money to spend

>>5660276
Honestly you're probably better off just going back to Amaranth to figure stuff out on the subject considering his library and all.

Vote closed.

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>>5659780
>>5659878
>>5659943
>>5660138
>>5660183
>>5660464
Conventional wisdom dictates that your next destination is to be the Bell Market. Located just outside of the All-Faiths Hall, the large bell situated at Everlund's heart and the market surrounding it is certain to be a hub of unconstrained conversation. You are sure to pick up on something that could lead to an audience with Emitia, so long as you are willing to listen.

The sights and smells of commerce tempt your senses, but you have come here with a different purpose in mind, at least for the moment. Set to your purpose, you scan the faces in the crowds, some familiar, some not. At least one individual here might have something intriguing to share. Perchance one of them is even on a social footing with her.

Who shall you speak with first?
>That gnome who always deceives me into buying his ridiculous surface-wear, he should be able to assist me. Preferably without parting me from my money.
>The inconspicuous half-woman selling produce over there is seems to know every one of her customers personally. Surely she has learned something of import.
>[Agility] Ilanis is over there, speaking with... Arara? I could approach them undetected and eavesdrop on them. It is not often that one has an opportunity like this.
>I see an incredibly suspicious male human wearing an eyepatch who peddles expensive-looking curios. He gives off the impression of being 'in the know.'
>The remarkably unremarkable book merchant is standing there, selling his books in a fashion most unremarkable. I could listen to what he has to say, and purchase some new literature in the meanwhile.

>>5662212
>That gnome who always deceives me into buying his ridiculous surface-wear, he should be able to assist me. Preferably without parting me from my money.

As much as I want to eavesdrop on Arara, she's a retired adventurer and absolutely hates Jez's guts to the point that I wouldn't be surprised if she's actively on the lookout for Jez.

>>5662212
>>I see an incredibly suspicious male human wearing an eyepatch who peddles expensive-looking curios. He gives off the impression of being 'in the know.'

>>5662212
>That gnome who always deceives me into buying his ridiculous surface-wear, he should be able to assist me. Preferably without parting me from my money.

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>>5662212
>That gnome who always deceives me into buying his ridiculous surface-wear, he should be able to assist me. Preferably without parting me from my money.
…let’s be honest, we’re totally going to buy some stuff. Perhaps he’ll elaborate more if we buy things that relate to Rouzet or Sembia? Maybe some other things, too?

Also, get pic related.

And a kimono.

It's painful to only have 412 gold, I want Jez to get actual armor.

>>5662559
What are you talking about? Our Bustenhalt very clearly protects our soft important bits, otherwise we would be dead. Although maybe we could ask Amaranth or pay a mage to enchant it…

>>5662576
Admittedly it's absolutely wild that the bustenhalt has better defensive capabilities than the actual breastplate that Jez has, but I want to see what else there is. Not that the bustenhalt is bad or anything, I actually like it a lot as you can just wear the bustenhalt under anything an get inconspicuous armor.

>>5662212
>>The remarkably unremarkable book merchant is standing there, selling his books in a fashion most unremarkable. I could listen to what he has to say, and purchase some new literature in the meanwhile.

>>5662559
If you recall the old shopping prices from previous threads, items are much, much cheaper than in the rulebook. I mean the Bustenhalt cost a mere 45 GP. I assume it's intentional by Ed to avoid inflationary prices, thus the rewards we've been getting are actually great pay
>>5662212
>I see an incredibly suspicious male human wearing an eyepatch who peddles expensive-looking curios. He gives off the impression of being 'in the know.'
I'd like two lightsabers/sunblades please, fellow surface worlder who also enjoy the sun

>>5662212
>>The remarkably unremarkable book merchant is standing there, selling his books in a fashion most unremarkable. I could listen to what he has to say, and purchase some new literature in the meanwhile.
We must read the sequel

>>5662710
Yeah, but remember how Jez had to pay a ridiculous amount of gold for travel costs? Literally over 1500% increase in price to get to Silverymoon. Free us from unfair drow taxation!

Vote closed.

>>5663023
It just cost 25 gold for a ride on a decent caravan, anon, it's overpriced, sure, but not ruinous. Plus, we still had the option to ride with the nomad caravan, and there was only a moderate chance that we would have been transported into the foggy wooded domain of an evil immortal vampire mage with no way to escape back to our own world unless we managed to defeat him if we did that.

>>5663212
I don't know how I'm supposed to respond here, a 1500% increase is absolutely insane. Plus, getting sent to the Strahd zone would never happen! Right?

>>5660276
Patience, anon. The dwarvish language in its pure form has been falling into disuse for a long time, and the dwarves tend to avoid writing on paper. Those hoping to unearth the deepest lore are unlikely to find them in a book.

>>5663212
>>5663252
Who knows? We may see them again.

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>>5663286
>Those hoping to unearth the deepest lore are unlikely to find them in a book.
That's not what my dwarven tapestry collection tells me!

Seriously, though, I guess we'll have to bite the bullet sooner or later about Dulnur...

>Who knows? We may see them again.
No offense to them, but I'd rather take my chances with the untrained dire wolf that was for sale. At least it could have made for a bitchin' metal album cover for the ten seconds we would have had riding it rather than deal with a bunch of no maiden not-drow, another group of furries, and Lord High Fang Face.

>>5662311
>>5662323
>>5662478
>>5662550
>>5662664
>>5662710
>>5662720
"Well, well, well, if it isn't Lady Sindiira Torani! My best - and now, most famous - customer is here to peruse my wares. As before, I offer only the finest garments and personal equipment from the city of Westgate, guaranteed to keep you both safe and fashionable," states the gnome, already advertising to you the very moment that he is aware of your presence. He hefts a hunk of steel painstakingly shaped to resemble a bustier above his head exuberantly. "I have just the thing-"

"I need to meet Emitia Rouzet," you snap, interrupting him before he can sell you on some horrible product. Setting down the armored undergarment with care, he clicks his tongue and winks at you. "Ready to rub shoulders with the upper class, hmm? Not to worry, milady, I have plenty of outfits to help you break into high society. Would you prefer-"

You stamp your foot and scowl, silencing him. "Find a way for me to meet with her," you demand. "It is very important. I need to see her - can you do this for me or not?" Taken aback by your assertiveness, he adjusts his fancy doublet and strokes his chin thoughtfully while observing you. You watch as his obnoxiously jovial demeanor falters, until his expression is hard and stoic.

>>5663660
"Milady, I can tell that your reasons for wanting to meet with the venerable Lady Rouzet are of the greatest import. Humble and generous retailer though I am, I do have certain connections with Everlund's large guilds. All merchants must be evaluated and approved for a permit to do business, a process overseen by the consortium to which the Master of Guilds is beholden. Over the last several years, Master Tenpenny has... relaxed such restrictions for entrepreneurs such as myself."

You take this to mean that the institution has become increasingly corrupt under the bloated half-man's management. "Continue," you say.

"I do believe that I can obtain one such permit for you, as a favor to my favorite blademistress. In exchange for a pittance of coin to cover the standard guild dues, that is. Being a top member of the consortium, Lady Rouzet would then be obliged to meet with you to discuss commerce as a matter of course."

Despite repeatedly rebuffing him, the cretin has again devised a scheme to relieve you of your wealth. "Fine. How much?" You query, grinding your teeth all the while. "All I require," he clears his throat, "is a small investment of three-hundred fifty gold pieces."

Well?
>[Pay 350 GP] Aaah! The audacity of this greedy dastard! Just get me the damned permit!
>[Will] It is imperative that I see Emitia for the sake of my people, and I will make him to understand this.
>Unbelievable. Outrageous! I would have better luck searching elsewhere for a solution to this problem.

>>5663662
>[Will] It is imperative that I see Emitia for the sake of my people, and I will make him to understand this.

>>5663662
>[Will] It is imperative that I see Emitia for the sake of my people, and I will make him to understand this.
>(while looking through the Sembian section, perhaps a fancy hand fan, hair curlers, whalebone corset) You are a well-traveled and presumably knowledgeable man… what assumed reason would a well off daughter of an even more well off Sembian family be relocated to the Marches rather than remain in Sembia?

>>5663662
>[Pay 350 GP] Aaah! The audacity of this greedy dastard! Just get me the damned permit!
>BUT try to haggle a free outfit for the meeting as part of the deal

Eyes on the target everyone, Jez only has 412 gold and will likely have to use more when getting in contact with Emitia, never mind what may be used to deal with the other council members. Can't exactly afford to buy creature comforts at the moment.

>>5663852
Why do you think I wrote in a different option? Buying some of the gnome's products for information on Emitia would cost less than 350 gold, and would satisfy the gnome's money boner enough to help inform us on what her deal is.

>>5663662
>>[Will] It is imperative that I see Emitia for the sake of my people, and I will make him to understand this.
Yeah no way fag, 350 gold is daylight robbery

What if we purchased 350 GP worth of goods from him?

Maybe try and haggle it down to 300 or 250.

Rolled 9 (1d20)

(Will 13) Success on 13 or lower.

Let's see if Jez can talk her way through this one.

My, the good luck streak is still going. Hopefully we don't use all of it up - depending on what choices are made, Jez may end up needing it. Vote closed.

>>5664182
He is asking to cover the money that he would have spent "acquiring" credentials for Jez. So this wouldn't have really circumvented it.

>>5664302
This isn’t going to lock us out from accessing his inventory, is it? I still want to get a kimono to dress up in…

>>5663662
>[Will] It is imperative that I see Emitia for the sake of my people, and I will make him to understand this.

What if we also threw in a small favor?

>>5664890
You're a day too late

>>5663663
>>5663801
>>5663808
>>5664056
>>5664890
"This is not for me," you clarify. "It is for the Ilythiiri. Emitia knows something that my people need," you state, opting to leave out the finer details of your scheme. "You must do this, yingil. Now." The gnome shifts his weight and tugs at his collar, gulping audibly as you glare menacingly at him. You suppose that the sight of an Ilythiiri warrior is particularly frightening for a being of his diminutive stature.

"Respectfully, milday, I do what must be done to earn my daily bread... as well as my daily cheese and wine. Every one of us must pay our guild dues to Rupert and the consortium, and I am merely asking you to do the same. My pockets are not so deep that I can afford to indulge in charity. Speaking of charity, evidence indicates..."

You need not pay heed to this. The longer you entertain his words, the more likely it is that you will end this conversation with lighter pockets. "Vernorsh, yingil! Inbalus ol naut tlus whol kult d'lil thac'zil, usstan orn'la katrillen dos!" You shout, bearing down on the gnome, causing him to stumble back. Without mercy, you lay into the dastard, verbally eviscerating him. You are fairly certain that he cannot comprehend a single word of the litany of obscenities that you are hurling his way, but it feels like the appropriate thing to do - a sure sign that this is the correct course of action.

"All right, all right! J- just- just stop!" He stammers, raising his hands above his head. "I- I- I can do this as a small favor for my favorite customer! Please, don't hurt me!" Haphazardly, he begins stuffing the goods he set out on display into a leather portmanteau that does not fill, regardless of how many armor sets or undergarments he forces into it.

"Right this way, milady. We should be able to obtain your permit within the hour."

>>5666097
"Why would Emitia leave Sembia?" You ask, as the gnome guides you to the nearby Hall of the Elders. "A question that we small folk may never know the answer to, dear blademistress. Sembia is a land of fashion and revelry that puts humble life in the Silver Marches to shame, but wealth glamor are not everything. The North is the frontier, a good place to leave one's past behind, or to lose something that one would prefer to forget."

You lean yourself against the limestone structure and wait as the merchant enters, informing you that he will be paying visit to the Hall of Redress. True to his word, he emerges minutes later, passing you an unblemished sheet of rolled parchment meant to guarantee your audience with Emitia. Allegedly, this permits you to trade in silk, cotton, linen and wool unrestricted. "I- If that will be all, I really must be getting back to business," he squeaks. "And, if you could, say, use your fame to endorse my wares, I would be most grateful."

What now?
>I will return to the market. There is more yet for me to discover.
>The half-breed mage could serve me well. It is only a matter of finding him first.
>I should at least attempt to persuade that hateful little man known as 'Dulnur.'
>Greycastle must know something that can be of use to me.
>There is not a second to waste. I go to meet with Emitia now.

And while you hold this merchant hostage, a small purchase is not out of the question...
>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP
>Lamellar, Steel (14 + 1/2 Agility Defense) - 150 GP
>Splint, Steel (20 Defense) - 200 GP
>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP
>Patterned Scarf, Silk - 10 GP
>[Buy nothing.]

>>5666102
>>I will return to the market. There is more yet for me to discover.

>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP
>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP

>>5666102
>There is not a second to waste. I go to meet with Emitia now.
>Patterned Scarf, Silk - 10 GP
We'll meet her, and meet her while stylin'.

>>5666102
>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP
>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP

>>5666102
>The half-breed mage could serve me well. It is only a matter of finding him first.

>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP
>Patterned Scarf, Silk - 10 GP

>>5666102
>I will return to the market. There is more yet for me to discover.
>Patterned Scarf, Silk - 10 GP
>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP

>>5666102
>>I will return to the market. There is more yet for me to discover.


Heeled shoe, does that mean it's good for climbing and doing heists or more like making us look like a sexy wench?
>>Lamellar, Steel (14 + 1/2 Agility Defense) - 150 GP

Seems very beneficial, 14 plus half of our agility = 14 + 7 = 21
More than having the splint steel with a flat 20 defense, if I understand the "defense" rules right?

>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP
It's cheap, and winter is coming

>I suppose I could mention the goods you have made me purchase, to people I meet
more like TRICKED into buying

>>5666102
>I will return to the market. There is more yet for me to discover.
>Patterned Scarf, Silk - 10 GP
>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP
>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP

>>5666102
>There is not a second to waste. I go to meet with Emitia now.
>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP
>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP

For all that I said about saving money earlier, I can't resist the catsuit. As for the cloak, that's just a good thing to have in general, especially for a drow.

As for the armor choices, probably better to just save up for later, the best option only provides 1 more defense than Jez already has, and assuming that it's 1/2 agility defense rounded down, it scales worse than the bustenhalt. Gotta go to an armor shop later when Jez has more gold.

>>5666233
>>5666102
Y'know what, probably should get the cloak as well.

Updated cart:
>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP
>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP
>Patterned Scarf, Silk - 10 GP

Oh, and...
>Ask him about stocking some clothes from Kara-Tur if he can get some.

>>5666102
>I will return to the market. There is more yet for me to discover.

>Catsuit (Includes Heeled Shoes) - 12 GP
>Cloak, Cold Weather - 2 GP

Went and looked up what Jez said, roughly translated it to
>Silence gnome! Had it not been for the laws of this land, I would have slaughtered you!

Vote closed.

>>5666418
>>5666472
Yes, the defense value is static, though there are merits to this.

>>5666591
I'm glad at least one person is committed to turning Jez into a weeaboo.

>>5666796
No problem. Any chance to increase Jez's wardrobe.
Next up: cheongsams.

Disgusting Kara-Tur enthusiasts belong in their L5R quarantine zone.

>>5666829
I'd be there if it still existed.

Course, I'd still be in here too, regardless.

>He hefts a hunk of steel painstakingly shaped to resemble a bustier above his head exuberantly. "I have just the thing-"

You know, what would the stats for this even be?

>>5666921
I assume that the bustenhalt is enchanted to provide such a hefty defensive bonus despite not providing any real physical armor, like a shield from star wars. Presumably this bustier would work the same. Enchanted to make all strikes go for the heavy bustier, like a magnet, for example

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>>5666118
>>5666122
>>5666173
>>5666195
>>5666233
>>5666418
>>5666421
>>5666472
>>5666714
Ultimately, your labors are all for naught. You walk away from your conversation with the gnome with fewer coins and more clothing. A length of cloth that could be wrapped around your shoulders, a second cloak better suited for colder temperatures, and an exotic garment made from a sleek black material that fits over nearly the entire body, along with a pair of heeled shoes. How a cloddish surface-dweller is meant to run in such footwear without injuring themselves is a mystery, although an Ilythiiri warrior like yourself should experience no impediment to your mobility whilst wearing them.

The Bell Market seems much the same as you left it, but there is something missing from this scene that you are at first unable to place. Examining the area, you come to realize that Ilanis and the annoying traitor are gone, together with your chance to listen in on them. Yet, the passing of opportunities is sometimes followed by the appearance of new ones - a head of distinctive red hair betrays Amaranth's presence in the crowd. You suppose that even a recluse would have things that they would need to purchase now and again, especially a magician. How much he knows about Emitia is uncertain, though you reason that he would be willing to speak candidly about the subject.

Who will you speak with next?
>The lively half-woman.
>The human male with an eyepatch.
>The forgettable book peddler.
>Amaranth, obviously.

>>5667778
>Amaranth, obviously.

>>5667778
>Amaranth, obviously.

>>5667778
>Amaranth, obviously.
But discreetly.... and away from the peddler.

>>5667778
>Amaranth, obviously.
Agreed with discreetly if possible. Maybe ask Amaranth if he can throw up a spell to prevent us from being overheard before asking about Emitia?

>>5667778
>Amaranth, obviously.
Maybe see if he’d like to buy some books from the peddler with us. Perhaps he has some recommendations?

>>5667778
>>The forgettable book peddler.

I hope Amaranth notices the followers of Sune's handiwork.

>>5667778
>>Amaranth, obviously.

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The thirst is real. Vote closed.

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>>5667799
>>5667806
>>5667856
>>5667865
>>5667939
>>5667943
>>5668117
You straighten your hair and adjust your toga. It simply would not do to appear disheveled before your ally in public. Wading through the midday traffic, you hone in on your red-headed target, hoping to confer with him regarding matters of the greatest significance. A member of the Council of Elders such as Amaranth must definitely know something about Everlund's most influential figures that you can put to use.

Approaching from behind, you mean to greet him at once, before noticing that he is currently conversing with someone else. Dressed up in ornate fabrics and ostentatious cosmetics, this slender woman's bone-white skin and sable hair remind you of that loathsome girl you met in the mountain tea shop however long ago, albeit greatly matured. "I would love to spend the day talking your ear off, my darling treasure, but I really must be going. I will contact you again the moment my research is concluded," she assures, her inflection soprano and provocative.

"I will be looking forward to it, Auntie," he remarks, chuckling to himself. "Do take care of yourself." Before your eyes, the woman transmogrifies into a cloud of smoke that disperses with the breeze. As though this were the most normal occurrence in the world, Amaranth pivots in place and begins to make his way through the city, coming to a stop as he takes notice of you.

"Ah, Sindiira." With his discerning gaze, he studies you, quickly realizing that there is something different about your appearance. "Going somewhere special today?" He inquires. Lady Firehair's devotees, you suppose, have done you a service today. "Maybe," you suggest noncommittally. Seeking out a more secluded location as to not be overheard, you beckon at him, directing him to follow you toward a sunny square situated away from the market that sees less activity. "I have to talk to you."

You may choose no more than three.
>Who is that woman that he was speaking to? I have a bad feeling about her.
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>Enough about Emitia. I need to know more about Rupert Tenpenny if I am to get the better of him.
>I would very much like to continue our discussion of the dwarven ruin and the mythal therein.
>Being a council member himself, perchance he can share his perspective on the others, and how I might convince them?
>Talk about...[Write-in.]

>>5669488
>Who is that woman that he was speaking to? I have a bad feeling about her.
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>Does he, uh, like the look? Will it make me more impressive to other surface-folk? (praise me more)

>>5669488
>I would very much like to continue our discussion of the dwarven ruin and the mythal therein.
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>I saw Ilanis talking with... your coworker today, though I avoided them so she couldn't instigate anything. Ilanis had asked me to teach her the arts of swordplay, and while I'm willing and able to teach, I do wonder why she hasn't come to either of you for aid in finding an elven swordmaster to teach her.

>>5669488
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>Being a council member himself, perchance he can share his perspective on the others, and how I might convince them?
>I saw Ilanis talking with... your coworker today, though I avoided them so she couldn't instigate anything. Ilanis had asked me to teach her the arts of swordplay, and while I'm willing and able to teach, I do wonder why she hasn't come to either of you for aid in finding an elven swordmaster to teach her.

>>5669488
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>Enough about Emitia. I need to know more about Rupert Tenpenny if I am to get the better of him.
>Being a council member himself, perchance he can share his perspective on the others, and how I might convince them?
Eyes on the prize gentlebeings, only questions related to our current conundrum
Obviously it's a free country and anons can do whatever, that's just the motivation for these there. We can ask about Smoke monster woman from Lost later

>>5669488
>Who is that woman that he was speaking to? I have a bad feeling about her.
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>Being a council member himself, perchance he can share his perspective on the others, and how I might convince them?
>Does he, uh, like the look? Will it make me more impressive to other surface-folk? (praise me more)

>>5669488
>>Who is that woman that he was speaking to? I have a bad feeling about her.
>>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>>Being a council member himself, perchance he can share his perspective on the others, and how I might convince them?
>>Does he, uh, like the look? Will it make me more impressive to other surface-folk? (praise me more)

>>5669657
>>5669703
>You may choose no more than three.

>>5669818
Woops
>Who is that woman that he was speaking to? I have a bad feeling about her.
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>Does he, uh, like the look? Will it make me more impressive to other surface-folk? (praise me more)

>>5669488
>Lady Rouzet has done a fine job of concealing herself from the public. But what does the High Sorcerer know about her?
>Being a council member himself, perchance he can share his perspective on the others, and how I might convince them?
>Does he, uh, like the look? Will it make me more impressive to other surface-folk? (praise me more)

Vote closed.

>>5669493
>>5669502
>>5669543
>>5669618
>>5669703
>>5669842
>>5670042
Locking eyes with the High Sorcerer, you arch your back and raise your chin as to make your features clearly visible from beneath the hood of your cloak. "So?" You place one hand on your hip, breathing deeply whilst trying to balance showcasing your beautified visage with shielding your eyes from the solar radiance. "My face. My... clothes. I want to know if you like them," you inquire, inexplicably feeling somewhat feverish.

Tilting his head back, he appraises you from head to toe, looking over you not with lust, but admiration. "I think you look lovely, Sindiira. Although, I'm not quite certain what the occasion is," he comments perplexedly. "I want you to like me. All of the council to like me," you clarify, brushing a stray strand of hair away from your face. "They will help my people, even if I must to make them." Shifting your weight awkwardly, you attempt to change the subject. "Tell me how I can make the other elders do this."

Amaranth blinks several times in bewilderment. It seems to you that there is something that he would like to ask you, yet he ultimately decides against this. Folding his arms, he shuts his eyes and spends a full minute considering his reply. "To pass a measure that would provide assistance for the Eilistraeans, at least four of the six members of the council would need to approve of it," he explains.

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>>5672899
"Brandt will never change his vote. Once he has made his mind up about an issue, no argument or plea is going to change that - he is very insistent about getting his way. Considering that he made the effort to turn away the Eilistraeans, I would not count on him having empathy for their plight. Then, there is Rupert; between us, we have long suspected that he and Greycastle have a special agreement between themselves. The two will always agree on an issue, even when the consequences are severely detrimental to Tenpenny."

"The next person that comes to mind is Dulnur Darkshadow. I have witnessed firsthand the enmity he holds toward you, and I will not make excuses for it. Yet for all his faults, he truly does care about about the common folk and earned their adoration by his deeds. He is too obstinate to entertain my counsel, but I know he would make the right decision if he came to saw your kin as people instead of monsters."

"Sten is a very conservative man, and I know that he will not like having an entire community from a culture he does not understand in Everlund, much less one that is treated with suspicion in the Realms," he continues, running his hand through his hair. "Still, he is a paladin pledged to Helm, and a good man. If it means helping the innocent, he would definitely offer his aid. As for myself, I will gladly use my position as High Sorcerer to be your advocate," he adds.

>>5672904
"And the darthiir priestess," you hiss, refusing to even speak the traitor's name, "she hates the Ilythiiri. You know she will not accept us." Amaranth's shoulders slump as he looks toward the ground, crestfallen. "Arara has led a difficult life," he sighs out, shaking his head. "I am not sure that there is anything that could be done to convince her to change her stance."

The two of you remain still as Everlund's colorful surfacers pass you by, paying no heed to you while doing so. You are unable to place the exact cause, though the mood of this conversation has adopted an intense quality which leaves you feeling most uneasy. "Another person that I need to know about. Tell me everything about Emitia Rouzet," you remark, hoping to hastily move on from this.

The malaise hanging ominously above the both of you endures for what seems to be an eternity. Sighing deeply, the High Sorcerer composes himself. "Forgive me, but I know precious little about her. Lady Rouzet seems to be incredibly successful for a woman her age. Though I have never spoken to her personally, I can tell at a glance that she is a fervent Sunite. She sits in on council meetings now and again." Resting one hand on his chin, he raises an eyebrow and scrutinizes you.

"If I may have the pleasure of knowing, why the sudden interest in a woman who does not make public appearances?"

Well?
>Amaranth is a good abban to me. I should inform him of my intention to learn of Tenpenny's secret from Emitia.
>No particular reason. I am merely 'shooting at the breeze,' as the surfacers say, ho ho.
>I go to see her at Sune's behest. Who am I to defy a goddess such as Lady Firehair?
>This is a part of my quest, and I will divulge no more on the matter.

>>5672906
>Amaranth is a good abban to me. I should inform him of my intention to learn of Tenpenny's secret from Emitia.
>I should mention, your suspicions do seem to be echoed regarding an alliance between Tenpenny and Greycastle, at least according to one sakphul I met.
>Besides that, I go to see her at Sune's behest. Who am I to defy a goddess such as Lady Firehair?

>>5672906
>Amaranth is a good abban to me. I should inform him of my intention to learn of Tenpenny's secret from Emitia.
>I go to see her at Sune's behest. Who am I to defy a goddess such as Lady Firehair?

>>5672906
>Amaranth is a good abban to me. I should inform him of my intention to learn of Tenpenny's secret from Emitia.
>I go to see her at Sune's behest. Who am I to defy a goddess such as Lady Firehair?

>"My face. My... clothes. I want to know if you like them," you inquire, inexplicably feeling somewhat feverish.
WOOO

>>5672906
>Amaranth is a good abban to me. I should inform him of my intention to learn of Tenpenny's secret from Emitia.
>I should mention, your suspicions do seem to be echoed regarding an alliance between Tenpenny and Greycastle, at least according to one sakphul I met.
>Besides that, I go to see her at Sune's behest. Who am I to defy a goddess such as Lady Firehair?

>>5672922
All good points.

>>5672906
>Amaranth is a good abban to me. I should inform him of my intention to learn of Tenpenny's secret from Emitia.
>I should mention, your suspicions do seem to be echoed regarding an alliance between Tenpenny and Greycastle, at least according to one sakphul I met.

We can drag the vote out of the darthiir priestess by gaining favor with her patron or goddess. Just make sure to ask her goddess first or be open about it perhaps by praying at her church?

Must learn about her god/goddess.

>>5673149
Yeah... so trying to do that with Corellon is really not going to work. To say the relationship between Corellon and the drow is poor would be an understatement, especially considering that Corellon is one of the main actors that caused the dark elves to turn into the drow in the first place. Hell, Eilistraee had to move her divine realm to Ysgard from Arvandor due to Corellon, despite him knowing full well that Eilistraee was innocent, etc. Now admittedly by the 1370s Corellon has perhaps started to reconcile with Eilistraee and thus the drow that fall under her banner, but it's very important to recognize the 11,000+ years of Corellon absolutely hating the drow. Hell, only some drow that got turned back into dark elves were allowed into Arvandor, the rest that could very well be perfect examples of good aligned drow just got shafted because demon influence that they straight up have no control over from millennia ago.

Also, why even suggest this type of thing if you don't even know who Corellon is?

>>5673161
Eilistraee willingly chose to exile herself to serve as a counterbalance to the other drow gods for the sake of their mortal followers despite being cleared of guilt, and the relationship between Corellon and the drow is not all bad. They are even permitted to become members of his clergy.

>>5672922
Supporting

>>5672922
I will support this. Just make sure we won't be overheard
>. "My face. My... clothes. I want to know if you like them," you inquire, inexplicably feeling somewhat feverish.
You know, I suddenly pictured Jez as the titular leader in Mean girls

Vote closed.

>>5673161
I ain't a DnD nerd that knows all the fucking lore in all the however many versions of the tabletop rpg game that exists.

Like how many people do you expect to know so much about 40K backstory and lore? Even most fans don't know everything

>>5673510
Uh, QM?

>>5676088
It's been 3 days. There are times when the wait was longer.

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>>5676088
>>5676110
The update should be here in a few hours. I was just binge playing Victoria II in my spare time.

>>5672922
>>5672945
>>5672964
>>5672993
>>5673149
>>5673347
>>5673490
Against your better judgement, you decide to confide in Amaranth your designs, looking over your shoulder now and again to ensure that you are not overheard. Having known him for over a month now, it is a sure thing that he has been a better companion to you than most. Indeed, you can scant recall the the faces of those perfidious multitudes who alleged to be your ally before committing some treachery against you, however small. Your only console is that you had the satisfaction of killing most of them.

The High Sorcerer listens attentively as you detail the events which led you to this point, and the divine mission given to you by Lady Firehair. What you tell him does not seem to alarm him, though his expression suggests that he does not like what you have to share. "Nobody could question your strength after you defeated a werebear singlehandedly, Sindiira, though I will still ask that you do not put yourself in danger if it can be helped," he huffs. "While I could not in good conscience endorse coercion, whatever evidence you might produce may merit an investigation should it prove sufficiently damning."

"I will be fine," you boast. It is that humanoid-shaped lard elemental who has somehow become Everlund's Master of Guilds who must be afraid. "I only worry for you," he offers, shaking his head. "My sense leaves me with an ominous feeling about all of this. Please, avoid doing anything reckless - at least as a favor to me." Readjusting his posture, he bows politely toward you. "That said, this will have to be a conversation that we resume some other time. I simply came here to purchase some reagents for an experiment that requires my immediate attention."

Parting ways with Amaranth, you are no closer to your objective, although you are now assured of his support and better equipped to engage with the rest of the council. What do you intend to do next?
>Finding Lael.
>A pleasant chat with Dulnur.
>Questioning Brandt Greycastle.
>A talk with Arara.
>Meeting with Emitia.

>>5676289
>Meeting with Emitia.

>>5676289
>Meeting with Emitia.

>>5676289
>>Meeting with Emitia.

>>5676289
>>A talk with Arara.

>>5676289
>A talk with Arara.
Gotta figure out what her and Ilanis were talking about, and also to ask that she keep an eye on her in case Amaranth's gut feeling was accurate. She may hate our guts, but I have a feeling she'll take that gut feeling seriously.

Still a bitch, though.

>>5676289
Here are some of the nice things Arara has called us before

>"Guardian Silvershard," sings the priestess in a melodic voice, "long have I considered you an ally to... no, a friend of my people. I beg that just this once, you heed my warning, and have the Concubine of Lolth expelled from Everlund." "The Protector parted the mists of time and unveiled the future to me in a dream! As sure as the sun sets, the darkness of the Dhaerow will descend upon our city, and it will be this one who leads them to our gates!" She points at you in an accusatory fashion.
We have done absolutely NOTHING to change her mind so far. I see no point in approaching here at this point just to be lambasted by her seething rage. Especially since we're our dressed up like a Sune thot

But you know what, just because the results will be so interestingly stupid and I like hopeful anon here >>5676626, I'll go against my gut and vote for the bitch priest

>>A talk with Arara.

I am making an executive decision. Vote closed.

>>5677185
Hmmmmm?

>>5676292
>>5676334
>>5676402
>>5676603
>>5676626
>>5676632
Armed with what you believe to be sufficient information, you decide that the time has come to visit with Emitia, or at least attempt as much. Though you have obtained credentials which should entitle you to a meeting, you get the distinct impression that doing so was merely the first of the complications which await you. Waylaying a passerby, you manage to exact from them the location of the lady's manor, and are on your way at once. There will be Hells to pay if the permit which that disreputable gnome procured for you proves useless.

From the moment you first set foot within its walls, Everlund was unlike anything you had ever looked upon in your life prior. Yet again, you are amazed - your surroundings transition from the now-familiar city into a world of grand estates and walled gardens as you pass into what you reckon must be the most wealthy district. The sunlit squares prominently feature outdoor statue fountains constructed in the likeness of surfacer gods, with many paths leading into spaces flush with flora the likes of which you have never seen. Those who walk these roads in their best finery are accompanied by entourages of servants, who follow them as they go about their days. It is sufficient to make you feel as though you do not belong here.

Alas, no amount of aesthetic beauty can deflect the base unpleasantness of reality. As you wander in awe of your surroundings, you are unfortunate enough to collide with another pedestrian by pure coincidence. Worse, it is the one individual whom you wish to see least at this very moment. The sylvan belle, proudly clad in the armor of her people, straightens her posture as she collects her wits, sneering the moment that she comes to recognize who it is that she has crossed paths with.

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>>5678039
"Dhaerow," she spits.

"Darthiir," you retort.

"Dhaerow," she says again.

"Darthiir," you hiss.

"Dhaerow," she scoffs.

"Darthiir," you bark.

"A wicked pall has fallen over Everlund." Forming a fist, she raises it to her face and speaks with conviction. "The others may have been taken in by your treachery, but not I. I know that you cannot hide your nature forever. And, when the moment comes that the truth is brought to light, I will do what must be done." She shakes her head.

Unhurriedly, she examines your from top to bottom, making a mental note of your much augmented appearance. "Until then, do as you will. Wear our clothes. Eat our meals. Walk our roads and use our money. The day will come that you choose to work your evil - as all your kind does - and our wrath, both the Protector's and my own, will come down upon you," she remarks coldly.

You may choose no more than three.
>What will it take to convince her to help the Eilistraeans? Most of their pitiful ilk do not even speak proper Ilythiirra.
>Ugly surface rat! Stupid traitor whore! She is the worst of the darthiir, and...
>Ilanis asked me to instruct her in the Ilythiiri way of war. What does she think about that, hmm?
>She needs to listen to me. I was speaking with Amaranth, and he said that he sensed a bad omen in the future...
>[Intellect] Mayhaps I could provoke her into explaining why it is that she hates me so.
>[Write-in.]

>>5678041
>Ilanis asked me to instruct her in the Ilythiiri way of war. What does she think about that, hmm?
>Actually, how do you feel that the main reason why I'm still here is because of Ilanis being one of the few people treating me nicely, and that it's probably because it's what you've taught her on treating people?
>She needs to listen to me. I was speaking with Amaranth, and he said that he sensed a bad omen in the future...

I know this probably counts as four choices, but I just gotta put this down as a final word
Darthiir, one last thing. Do you know just how lucky you are to be able to choose who you worship? I'm only just beginning to realize what I've missed. We don't get to choose, because there is no other choice. Just Lolth, and only Lolth.

>>5678041
>Ilanis asked me to instruct her in the Ilythiiri way of war. What does she think about that, hmm?
>Actually, how do you feel that the main reason why I'm still here is because of Ilanis being one of the few people treating me nicely, and that it's probably because it's what you've taught her on treating people?
>[Intellect] Mayhaps I could provoke her into explaining why it is that she hates me so.

>>5678041
>>Ugly surface rat! Stupid traitor whore! She is the worst of the darthiir, and...
>>[Intellect] Mayhaps I could provoke her into explaining why it is that she hates me so.

>>5678041
>Ilanis asked me to instruct her in the Ilythiiri way of war. What does she think about that, hmm?
>Actually, how do you feel that the main reason why I'm still here is because of Ilanis being one of the few people treating me nicely, and that it's probably because it's what you've taught her on treating people?
>[Intellect] Mayhaps I could provoke her into explaining why it is that she hates me so.

>>5678041
>Ilanis asked me to instruct her in the Ilythiiri way of war. What does she think about that, hmm?
>[Intellect] Mayhaps I could provoke her into explaining why it is that she hates me so.
>What will it take to convince her to help the Eilistraeans? Most of their pitiful ilk do not even speak proper Ilythiirra.

>>5678041
>Ilanis asked me to instruct her in the Ilythiiri way of war. What does she think about that, hmm?
>[Intellect] Mayhaps I could provoke her into explaining why it is that she hates me so.
>What will it take to convince her to help the Eilistraeans? Most of their pitiful ilk do not even speak proper Ilythiirra.

Vote closed.

Rolled 6 (1d20)

(Intellect 14) Success on 14 or lower.

Let's see if the good luck streak can continue.

>>5680144
It's gonna end in the most unfortunate moment isn't it

>>5680223
It will be quite dramatic.

>>5678049
>>5678073
>>5678259
>>5678368
>>5678395
>>5678568
"My people need Everlund's protection. But the council has to vote for this," you elaborate. Crossing your arms, you draw a heavy sigh and make your case. "They are Eilistraeans. After many years on the surface, they do not remember what it is to be Ilythiiri. They speak your language, and are weak - like surfacers. You will help them," you dictate, staring her down.

The Corellite stamps her foot onto the brick street and grimaces. Nary a word is spoken between the two of you for several difficult minutes. And yet, defying your every expectation, the traitor does not rebuff you. "You will have my vote when Eilistraee herself requests it from me," she seethes, visibly strained by what you assume to be a feat of self-control on her part.

Although an outrageous demand, it is not an impossible one. The gods are wont to appear before mortals when it suits them. You yourself have had the privilege - if such a thing could be called 'privilege' - of trading words with Malar, the Beastlord. Were there ever an occasion for Lady Silverhair to show herself, it would be to aid her faithful. For the moment, however, it is not Arara's vote which you intend to secure.

>>5681076
Still, you will not suffer the indignity of being insulted by her without insulting her in turn, even if it will ultimately harm your chances of success in the long-term. "Ilanis asked me to teach her how to fight. I will make her as strong as any Ilythiiri warrior," you gloat, cracking a slight smirk. "She is the one who wants me to be here, in this city. So I will."

"You will not harm a single hair on her precious head, Dhaerow," warns Arara, who is incensed by this development. "When Korfel left her-" she cringes. "When her father vanished, we - Amaranth and I - gave our everything to see her blossom. Were it not forbidden, I would strike you down where you stand, as I should have-"

Throwing her hands into the air, she huffs. "Never you mind. There is no point in making the attempt at explaining devotion to a traitor. We are finished here." Wrong. There must be more that you can pry from her. It is only a matter of selecting the right words. Inhaling deeply, you straighten your back and speak at her. "You are the traitor. I have never done any wrong."

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>>5681078
"Never done any-" she cuts herself off, now so livid that her complexion has adopted a scarlet tone. "Biir Dhaerow! Your kind down to the very last are naught but demons clad in mortal flesh! Against my will, I witnessed firsthand the cruelty of your abominable race, and so long as I draw breath, I will oppose you!"

"Amaranth, our fellows and I... when we still relished the thrill of adventure, found ourselves captured as we fought to drive Lolth's spawn from these lands. For months, they inflicted every horror upon us that they could dream up. They..." she seizes up, fighting back tears. "They pinned my eyelids open and forced me to watch helplessly as they carved up my sister, tearing her still-beating heart from her chest to serve as an offering to their goddess."

Smiling defiantly, she goes on. "Yet we were not defeated. Amaranth, Protector bless him, somehow managed to free us with his magics soon after. Our vengeance was righteous that day, as we butchered traitors dozen after dozen. At the end of our ordeal, only the two of us remained alive, but the Realms were better for our deeds."

...
>I have lived through worse. She should get over it.
>I, too, have suffered greatly at the hands of the priestesses, for what it is worth.
>[Remain silent.]

>>5681083
>I, too, have suffered greatly at the hands of the priestesses, for what it is worth.
Swallow our pride a little. No apology obviously, because we did nothing wrong, but we can at leas commiserate briefly. This may be our best shot to build a rapport. Also:
>Do not worry - Amaranth is a useful ally and a good male, and no harm will come to him on my watch
No reason we can't work in a humorous misunderstanding.

>>5681083
>>I have lived through worse. She should get over it.

>>5681083
>I, too, have suffered greatly at the hands of the priestesses, for what it is worth.

It's important that she understands that the entire reason the Eilistraean's are a thing is because they're trying to get away from all that. I was hoping that she would've mellowed out just a little from the earlier vote, but she hasn't been told that there's children with the Eilistraean's, Drow that have likely been born on the surface at that, entirely disconnected with Lolthite culture.

>>5681083
>I, too, have suffered greatly at the hands of the priestesses, for what it is worth.
>”Both my eldest sister and my mother were priestesses. Only the fact that we were related and that I was useful for their plots and secrets stayed their hands from plunging a dagger into my midsection on the family altar.”
>”I will assure you, I do not plan to bring any harm to Amaranth. He is a good abban, a far better one than I had thought a darthiir could be to me.”

>>5681083
>>I have lived through worse. She should get over it.

>>5681083
>I, too, have suffered greatly at the hands of the priestesses, for what it is worth.
>...At least you managed to free yoursel, unlike all Ilythirrii who remain in their grasp

I realize I am late to the party, but hey. Maybe the implication that all drow suffer from Loth will get some sympath.
Happy national day from the Moonshae Isles, I mean Sweden.

>>5681083
>I, too, have suffered greatly at the hands of the priestesses, for what it is worth.
>Do not worry - Amaranth is a useful ally and a good male, and no harm will come to him on my watch

Vote closed.

>>5681182
Here is some food for thought. All gods have their preferences, and Lolth knows what she likes to eat. When it comes to sacrifices, drow are better than non-drow, adults are better than children, the healthy and physically fit are better than the frail and sickly, and the more talented and powerful an individual is, the better. Keeping in mind that drow women are generally more robust and muscular than their male counterparts, a twisted logic emerges from Lolth's preferences. High-ranking priestesses at the apex of their ability are the best sacrifice that the clergy can drag to the altar.

Jez is no priestess. But, she is prime sacrifice material - given the opportunity, only a fool would refuse the chance to offer her heart to the Spider Queen when doing so would yield incredible benefits.

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>>5681086
>>5681102
>>5681181
>>5681182
>>5681384
>>5681414
>>5681589
"All Ilythiiri are tortured. Even the priestesses. I know what it is like," you offer equivocally. You believe that you can overlook her hysterics, given that it is plainly obvious that she is so much weaker than you. "Maybe not Eilistraeans," you tack on awkwardly. Their witless and irrational surfacer-esque ways are still impenetrable to you.

"The goddess Eilistraee chose to exile herself because she knew that her people would be held to account for what they had done, but they have chosen to squander their millennia inflicting misery upon themselves and those around them. I have spent nearly two centuries battling your evils, just as the proud Tel'Quessir before me, yet I am meant to have a care for your plight the moment misfortune befalls you? Such insolence," she declares.

Is this how you sound? No, that would be ridiculous. "Amaranth does. He is a good ally to me, and I will be a good ally to him," you argue. "You will keep that name out of your mouth if you know what is good for you, Dhaerow. I am done with you," she fumes. Unwilling to entertain any further discussion, the Corellite storms off.

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>>5682678
Emitia Rouzet's estate is so magnificent that it rivals even the descriptions of Thiala Summerbreeze's castle. It is an immaculate structure of stonework painted with alabaster and cerulean stacked several stories high, surrounded by a courtyard of garish greenery and gaudy statues, all enclosed in an impassable fence of wrought iron. Two winged statues resembling grotesque winged humanoids flank either side of the gate, in front of which vegetates a figure clad in plate armor, their face obscured by a helmet.

"I have business with Emitia," you tell them, shutting your eyes and steadying your breathing as you try in futility to put the unpleasant conversation with the traitor Arara behind you. "Is the Lady expecting you?" He inquires, remaining dead-still. "I have a permit," you state, holding it to his face. Mustering the minimum effort required to skim the document, he responds. "Huh. Sin-dee-ruh? Weren't you in the news?"

"That was me," you affirm, leaning towards him. "Now let me in." Grumbling under his breath, the gatekeeper ushers you into the courtyard, directing you to the estate's entrance. "Just continue down this path, and someone else will help you. If you're thinking about starting trouble, don't." You shrug. His threats are naught but idle bluster.

Of course, you needn't necessarily heed his instructions...
>My goal is within reach. I shall head directly for the entrance.
>A walk around the area would be pleasant. I may chance upon something pertinent to my quest.
>[Perception] There is something most unnatural about these statues which I cannot quite place...
>I will chat with the gatekeeper for a moment. There must be something he can tell me about Emitia, being her servant.

>>5682680
>[Perception] There is something most unnatural about these statues which I cannot quite place...
>A walk around the area would be pleasant. I may chance upon something pertinent to my quest.

>>5682680
>[Perception] There is something most unnatural about these statues which I cannot quite place...

>>5682680
>>A walk around the area would be pleasant. I may chance upon something pertinent to my quest.
>>[Perception] There is something most unnatural about these statues which I cannot quite place...

>>5682680
>>[Perception] There is something most unnatural about these statues which I cannot quite place...
>>I will chat with the gatekeeper for a moment. There must be something he can tell me about Emitia, being her servant.

>>5682680
>A walk around the area would be pleasant. I may chance upon something pertinent to my quest.
>[Perception] There is something most unnatural about these statues which I cannot quite place...

>>5682680
>>[Perception] There is something most unnatural about these statues which I cannot quite place...
>My goal is within reach. I shall head directly for the entrance.
Just take a look before proceeding, no touching. I bet this lady can afford some top tier enchantments.

Vote closed.

Just noticed this quest and went through the archive to catch up. Was a little turned off at first since I thought it was just going to be girl Drizzt, but I've come around to sort of liking Jez as a character.

Rolled 5 (1d20)

(Perception 14, -3 Statues) Success on 11 or lower.

What does Jezyrene see with her special eyes?

>>5683268
You WILL become a pretty princess.

>>5683353
Jez is unstoppable

>>5683353
>You WILL become a pretty princess.
Not if I turn her into a weeb first.

>>5683409
Weeaboo princess is an option.

>>5683268
If this quest is anything, it definitely is not Drizzt. Coming in as a newcomwer to forgotten realms (but aware of Drizzt) it's been fun. Especially seeing some small stuff being incorporated and expanded.
Also, my focus on the archive date of the first thread (sixteenth of june) made me realize we already passed the one year anniversary of this quest in may. So, kudos to that, Ed. It's been fun.

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>>5682681
>>5682694
>>5682732
>>5682963
>>5683011
>>5683144
>>5683268
The sky begins to darken as you deviate from the intended path. Looking upwards, you are witness to a curious phenomenon. Clouds - larger by several magnitudes than any you have ever seen in the Underdark - sail with the breeze, obscuring the sun and steadily squelching its light. Weather is no anomaly where you are from, yet the surface world continues to surprise you with its curiosities.

The courtyard's splendor is not to be understated. A limestone path guides you through a concentric garden showcasing layers of lovingly-maintained trees, bushes, and flower patches. Yet all pale before the centerpiece; a gilded statue fountain in the likeness of Lady Firehair standing at three times your height, portrayed as emptying a pot of water at her feet, all encircled by a flawless garden of red, red roses.

Letting your guard down momentarily, you allow your senses to indulge in the resplendence of your surroundings. The measured flow of fountain waters, the dizzying array of colors that do not exist in your homeland, the intoxicating aroma of exotic plant life... you are left feeling lightheaded and weakened by the stimulation. Your mind must be overwhelmed by your surroundings - surely, this is no cause for concern.

>>5685931
Steadying yourself, you examine the statue of Sune once more, this time with greater scrutiny. There is an unnatural quality to this work and the others in the garden which you find yourself unable to place. Squinting, you search it up and down for your answer, finding it in the form of subtle inscriptions in some arcane script running across its limbs. Phaere showed you something similar once, when she tried with little success to converse with you about the creation and maintenance of golems.

Immune to magic and resistant against conventional weapons, a well-made golem is inanimate matter shaped into a vaguely humanoid form and granted a curious sort of artificial life. Constructing one demands both a deep understanding of strange magics and a hefty sum of currency, though they serve as formidable combatants with no true will of their own. The gatekeeper's warning, then, was more credible than you had initially believed. Your best weapon, the Dark Fantasy, would fare poorly in a struggle against such a creature, never mind that there seem to be dozens of them about. It would be wise to avoid aggravating your host, then.

Content with what you have seen, you circle around the fountain and continue down the path, growing more and more sluggish with every step. What was less than a minute's walk to the entrance of Lady Rouzet's home now feels like an impossible struggle to your destination. Your world darkens, and you slip into a rose-scented reverie...

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This concludes the 10th volume of Forgotten Realms Adventures. I have been mentally preparing myself for the difficult ordeal that will be the next few threads. Like usual, the next thread will be here soon.

As always, this is the time for questions, comments, et cetera. What do YOU think is the secret that Emitia is keeping?

>>5685938
Thanks for running.

She's a crime boss with blackmail on everyone?

>>5685938
Solid threat!

I think Emitia is secretly the real power-broker of all business in and around the area, perhaps, and is steering the council in the direction she wants via Tenpenny. Just spitballing.

>>5685938
Thanks for the thread, GW.

I’ll do two secrets, one for Tenpenny, one for Rouzet.

Tenpenny’s secret is that he’s having multiple affairs, which wouldn’t be so bad if his wife didn’t have a kill count, which she does, through poisoning the family’s rivals.

Lady Rouzet’s secret is that she had managed an “escort” service for wealthy individuals back in Sembia, and has done so herself before being forced into exile due to an extortion attempt that led into an assassination attempt against her.

Either that, or she also likes “The Pretty Princess of Myth Drannor”. Possibly both.

>>5686212
*thread, but ALSO Emitia and her sleepytime garden full of goddess golems is a pretty solid threat

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>>5685938
>the difficult ordeal that will be the next few threads
sounds vaguely threatening

The adventure continues. >>5688657

>>5686304
Things will be a bit different than the usual fare.