Female Grey Star adventures

[Texan Kai]

I have invited another of my friends to RP in Magnamund! I gave her the options of playing Grey Star or the New Order Grand Master. After being advised of the difficulty, she selected a female Grey Star. I think a female wizard may introduce some interesting story dynamics to this series. So… I present the first female Grey Star!

Game mechanics
This game will use the "standard" game books combat system instead of Zipp's legendary battles system. This is for two reasons. The first is that unlike Lone Wolf and the Kai Lords, Grey Star's primary training is in the magical rather than martial arts. It is therefore not particularly reasonable for her to be able to adapt her combat techniques to fit the fluidity of her battles as a trained warrior could. I believe that Grey Star's use of Willpower to increase her damage in battle more than compensates for this. Second, Grey Star generally does not have near as many unbalanced fights comparable to Kimah or the Chaos-Master, so a standard system is perfect adequate for the fights in the books.

Grey Star's starting Endurance, Combat Skill, and Willpower will be randomly rolled when we begin the game. Grey Star's permanent Endurance and Combat Skill may suffer should she sustain major wounds during the course of her adventure.

I may reward our player's creative role-playing and good writing with bonuses to her rolls at times during the game. In that vein, as the Grey Star books are infamous for cheap deaths (especially in the first book), I will give Grey Star opportunities to avoid these or largely mitigate the consequences of bad luck should she role-play well.

Storyline changes
I do not anticipate modifying the story overmuch, save for changes revolving around Grey Star being female. My player is aware of Tanith's role in the books with respect to her relationship with Grey Star, and she is content with Tanith remaining a female.

In-game commentary
Unlike our Lone Wolf, our Grey Star lurks here on the forums, so to avoid spoilers for her I will refrain from commentary on the story in between sessions.



I expect to have the first session up in the next day or two. Hope to have y'all with us!

[Texan Kai]

I. Prologue and Character Creation


Here, we rolled Grey Star and went over the backstory and the rules. 


***


Grey Star:
hey



Texan Kai:
Ah there you are!



Grey Star:




Texan Kai:
Ok first off, you will need a d10 and a paper and pencil. I'll make a spreadsheet for you for next time.



Grey Star:
okay, just a sec

ok!



Texan Kai:
Ok great. First I'll give you the rather long backstory. It will give you some context of the world in which you will adventure.

Ancient days they were when first the Shianti set foot upon the land that men call Magnamund. Long had they journeyed through the void, homeless wanderers in search of a place to call their own. And so it was that when the Shianti first looked upon the face of the land, their hearts were raised in wonder. They saw a world of nameless mountains, untamed forests, and lands both wild and free. Here they chose to cease their wanderings and to devote themselves to the study and appreciation of this newfound land.

To the delight of the Shianti, the race of man first emerged at this time and they watched his early struggle towards civilization with eager concern. Like gods the Shianti seemed to the minds of primitive men. Tall and proud, shining with a radiance that spoke of magic and arcane mystery, the Shianti moved among them and with their powers of wizardry, aided man in his development.

As the centuries passed, man fell to worship of the magical Shianti and the power of these wizards grew even stronger. With hungry hearts they sought to unlock the mysteries of knowledge, sending their minds into other planes of existence and strange worlds beyond the sphere of the material plane. Their foresight was now unmatched and the power of their thought was mighty indeed. It was at this time that they created the Moonstone. Woven of the very fabric of the astral plane of Daziarn, this translucent gem was the greatest achievement of Shianti wisdom. It was the binding force of all Shianti magic, containing the combined might of all their wizardry, the sum of all their knowledge. The Golden Age of the Shianti had come and the Moonstone was the instrument of their dominion throughout all Magnamund. Man stood as little more than a shadow, blinded by the shining white light of Shianti glory. But, in creating the Moonstone, the unwritten laws of nature had been transgressed. For the Moonstone, like the Shianti themselves, was something outside of man’s own world; it defied the natural order laid down by the creators of Magnamund and disrupted the balance that the gods had designed.

The Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon and mother of all men, showed herself to the Shianti and spoke to them of the destiny of man: ‘The children of this world must claim their inheritance. Their time has come and they must learn to stand alone. They are lost in their worship of you and the day draws ever nearer when they will covet the power of the Moonstone.’

And the Shianti said: ‘Forgive us, Great Goddess, for we intended no harm. We love mankind even as you do. We have sought to do good and protect your children from harm.’

But Ishir replied, ‘Of this there can be no doubt, but this world is not your realm. Man must be free to pursue his destiny alone, and you must leave, for you trespass on his domain.’

The Shianti were filled with sorrow. They feared a return to the void and to their lonely wandering, and pleaded with Ishir that she might allow them to remain. Ishir was filled with pity for them. She spoke again, saying, ‘If you are to remain, you must obey my command. You must take a vow never to interfere with mankind’s fate. As a token of good faith you must lay aside the Moonstone, and return it to the plane where it belongs.’

Solemnly, the Shianti agreed. The vow was sworn before Ishir, and the Moonstone was returned to the Daziarn. The Shianti then moved south to the Isle of Lorn. They encircled their new home with a web of enchantments, magical mists, and mage winds to prevent man from ever finding their place of refuge in the Sea of Dreams. Knowledge of the Shianti faded with time, save in southern Magnamund where it became enshrined in legend, and the worship of them endured. Priests of the Shianti religion preserved their teachings and patiently awaited the day when the ‘ancient ones’ would return, bringing with them lasting peace and the blessing of a new golden age.

Two thousand years strode by and man advanced as Ishir had foretold. He built great cities and cultivated the land; his kingdoms rose and fell; he made war and loved and laughed and became master of his fate. But a new power was emerging in the province of Shadaki. There Shasarak the evil Wytch-king ruled. The black necromancer commanded an army of brutal soldiers and had a devoted following of men who upheld his religion of demonic worship and sacrificial rites. Devotees of the Shianti and other religious cults were persecuted in a merciless purge. Ruthlessly, the Wytch-king destroyed all his opponents and began a terrible war with the peoples of the neighbouring provinces. From the ruins of war Shasarak shaped the Shadakine Empire, subjugating whole nations to his evil rule. As the provinces fell to his might, the Shianti looked on helplessly, bound by their vow to the Goddess Ishir never to interfere in the affairs of man.

On the night of the crowning of Shasarak as Overlord of the Shadakine Empire, a great storm broke upon the Sea of Dreams, a storm that raged with unnatural intensity. Lashed by wind and rain, illuminated by wild lightning, the waters heaved and danced in fury to the thundering music of the storm, unchecked by even the enchantments of the Shianti. When finally the tempest died, the Shianti looked out in amazement on the shattered hull of a ship drifting towards their shore. Never before had this occurred, for the enchantments and mage winds had kept them secure from the curiosity of man by forcing him to sail close to his own land.

The Shianti went quickly to the ruined ship where they found only one survivor—a baby girl. They perceived the sudden arrival of this human child as a sign of great portent, and they conceived a plan by which they might lawfully aid mankind. They named the orphan child Grey Star, because a star is the symbol of hope in the Shianti faith, and because of the silver streak in the child’s jet-black hair. In the shadow of the wrath of the Goddess Ishir, they raised the child as one of their own and taught her their secrets. Diligently they set about their instruction, for their aim was to provide a savior for mankind. Armed with the might of Shianti wizardry and wisdom, their hope was to create an adversary equal in power to the evil Wytch-king of Shadaki, for they realized that only with the death of Shasarak would man once more be free to determine his destiny.

Let me know when you are ready.



Grey Star:
Okay, just a sec. I desperately need something that uses the facebook chat api, I HATE this tiny window lol

(Sorry I'm being very picky lol)



Texan Kai:
(Oh no worries. We aren't in any hurry. Just let me know when you are ready.)



Grey Star:
hey   I think this is working?



Texan Kai:
Great! Moving on then.



Grey Star:
yay



Texan Kai:
You are Grey Star, a young girl trained in the secret and arcane arts of a Shianti wizard. You have never known the land of your birth or your real parents. Or any other human, for the matter. For sixteen years since you arrived on the Isle of Lorn, the hidden realm of the Shianti race, you have trained as a wizard under the kindly tutelage of the Shianti. They have cared for you as parents and have raised you as best as they could. One day, shortly after your sixteenth birthday, you are called to a meeting of your Shianti masters.

'Grey Star,' says Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti, ‘you have been summoned to this meeting so that we may lay before you a quest of great importance. Your people, the race of man, are slaves of an evil tyrant, Shasarak the Wytch-king of Shadaki. He has made pacts with demons and has captured the spirits of the dead who do his bidding as undead slaves. He has the power to control the minds of men; none can resist him and the land of your birth cries out in fear of the cruel hand that crushes its heart. No power remains intact to challenge the might of the Wytch-king. Our ancient vow to the Goddess Ishir forbids us from intervening in the fate of man, and the Moonstone now lies hidden on another plane. We have taught you the ways of Shianti magic in the hope that one day you would take up this quest—to recover the Moonstone and use its power to destroy the Wytch-king. You are human. No vow prohibits you from leaving the Isle of Lorn, nor are you forbidden to aid mankind in any way you choose. No charge is laid upon you to accept the quest, yet if you refuse, your people will be doomed to a choice between slavery and destruction at the hands of the Wytch-king of Shadaki.’

(How do you reply? This is all prologue, btw. We will roll your character shortly after this.)



Grey Star:
How can I help them if they cannot help themselves? If I am one of them, can I really make a difference? I want to help, I am just unsure



Texan Kai:
(One sec, phone call)



Grey Star:
(np!)



Texan Kai:
(Sorry. Parents, lol)



Grey Star:
(I know how it is, haha)



Texan Kai:
Acarya smiles at you patiently. "We are bound by our oath to the goddess Ishir to not interfere in the affairs of man, my child. But you have learned from us the secrets of Shianti magic and our wisdom. No other human in Magnamund can truthfully say that."

He pauses briefly, as if recalling something from years ago. He often acted such when lecturing you of Shianti history.

"You are born a human, and thus free of our vow to the Goddess Ishir. If anyone can help your people, it is you."



Grey Star:
"You taught me very much, and if you think that I have the power to change their fate, I am confident that I can."



Texan Kai:
There are sighs of relief all round. "You have made us proud this day, my child," says Acarya, smiling. "The Moonstone lies hidden in the Daziarn plane, which can only be entered by locating its portal. We know this can be found in the lands of men: it is called the 'Shadow Gate.' However, it rarely remains in any one location for more than a day and is invisible to human sight.

"For this reason you must seek out the Lost Tribe of Lara, a race of primitive but magical creatures called the Kundi. They possess the gift of astral vision, which enables them to see the Shadow Gate. Once, long ago, the Kundi inhabited the forests and mountains of Lara. Before the Shadakine army invaded the free provinces of the south, they passed through the mountains of Lara, using the Morn Pass. There the Shadakine army were frequently ambushed and delayed by the Kundi, who always disappeared into the safety of the forests before the Shadakine could retaliate. Finally, in desperation, the Wytch-king burnt the forests, and the Kundi were forced to flee. To this day, no one is sure where the Kundi went, and consequently men refer to them as the Lost Tribe of Lara. Your first task is to find the lost tribe and persuade them to guide you to the Shadow Gate.

"Your training is incomplete but you must begin without delay. The Shadakine Empire now stretches to the very shores of the Sea of Dreams, and the power of the Wytch-king grows with each passing day. Our presence is known to him and his attention is often turned towards us, probing our defences and testing the measure of our powers. He is hungry for new conquest, and though he fears us, the day is sure to come when he will cross the Sea of Dreams to challenge the Shianti."

Acarya places his hands upon your shoulders and looks deeply into your eyes. "The fate of humanity and of the Shianti depends on the success of your quest. Find the Moonstone, Grey Star…You are our only hope; if you fail then all is lost."

(And with that we can roll your character! Get that pencil and d10 ready!)



Grey Star:
Feeling the weight of it all, I start to feel doubt creep up. "I will do everything I can."

(Okay! got it)

(zz I accidently had a d12 lmao. got my d10 now)



Texan Kai:
(Ok there are three sets of numbers of which you need to keep track. The first is your Endurance Points (EP). These are your "hit points." If this number ever gets to zero, you are dead or incapacitated, depending on the situation. EP can never rise above your maximum. It can be decreased (but eventually healed) through injuries sustained in battle, through hunger, or other fatigues on your body. Particularly severe injuries will permanently reduce your EP.

(Give me a roll and tell me what you got.)



Grey Star:
(9)



Texan Kai:
(Nice. You have 29 EP. Record that on your paper.)



Grey Star:
(okay  done)



Texan Kai:
(The second number is your Combat Skill (CS). This number represents your skill in melee combat. Entering combat unarmed will drop this number, as will certain special conditions (such as certain injuries, being subjected to a mental attack, being poisoned, etc). Your CS will be pitted against the enemy's to form a Combat Ratio. When you roll the dice in combat, I will match your number to the matrix on this ratio to adjudicate damage. So, a high number for Combat Skill is very desirable.

(Give me a roll and tell me what you got.)



Grey Star:
(7. I was sure I used my luck on the first roll lol, i guess not today )



Texan Kai:
(Hey a 7 is still very good! Your Combat Skill is 17. Generally this number does not permanently increase or decrease except in special conditions - such a major wounds, magical enhancements, etc.)



Grey Star:
(I'll be back in ~5minutes, sorry! )



Texan Kai:
(The third number is your Willpower. This number is basically "mana." The usage of your Wizard's Staff in combat and your magical spells costs Willpower. If at any time your Willpower falls to zero or below, you may not use any of your spells or your Wizard’s Staff, though you may choose to use your staff as a blunt weapon if you choose. You may also choose to sacrifice 2 EP to restore 1 Willpower. As this is a very draining act, it should be used only sparingly.)

(No worries. I'll continue to type while you are gone so you can read when you return.)

(There is no ceiling for your Willpower- your starting number may increase over the course of your adventure. Generally Willpower gets restored through rest, foods, and certain potions.

When you return, give me another roll.)



Grey Star:
(okay! sorry just came back to say it'll be more like 15, my mom needs my help. after this I'll be free! Wow, I rolled a 9. I promise I'm not cheating!)

(so brb now 



Texan Kai:
(No worries! Hey some people have luck with the dice! You have 29 starting Willpower.)



Grey Star:
(okay I'm back!)



Texan Kai:
(I threw together a VERY basic spreadsheet for you while you were away. I'll send it to you when we are done. Please feel free to improve on it. I just need some basic info about your character. Height, weight, eyes, and skin color. Grey Star is of Tianese background. They are generally pale (though not as much as humans from Northern Magnamund), tanned, olive, or swarthy (uncommon, generally means there is Vassa or Shadakine heritage in the person). and welcome back!)


Grey Star:
(5'1", 110lbs, green eyes, red hair, pale skin)



Texan Kai:
(Gotcha.)



Grey Star:
(I can be more detailed later



Texan Kai:
(Sure if you like!)

(Ok, now for your magics. This is the fun part.)



Grey Star:
(woot



Texan Kai:
(Now, your education in the ways of wizardry is incomplete. You have mastered only five of the seven Magical Powers that the Shianti call the Lesser Magicks. The choice of which five Powers these are is up to you. All of the Lesser Magicks may be of use to you at some point on your quest, so choose them with care. Your survival may depend on the correct use of a Magical Power at the right time.)

(I will describe them one at a time for you. Consider carefully the ones you would like. Remember, you may only take five.)

(SORCERY- This power allows you to transform your thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects, to give only a few examples. Sorcery drains more Willpower points than any other Magical Power, and is most effective when your Willpower points are high.)

(ENCHANTMENT- The Power of Enchantment enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. You will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another’s mind, or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment.)

(ELEMENTALSIM- The Power of elemental magic allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth, and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.)

(ALCHEMY- A wizard who possesses the Power of Alchemy is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e. Endurance points, Willpower), or temporarily improve various abilities (e.g. Combat Skill). The use of Alchemy may also allow a wizard create other solutions (acids, smoke gases, poison antidotes, etc) or to alter the nature of substances (e.g. change lead into gold), but the necessary ingredients and the correct equipment (e.g. a pestle and mortar) must be at hand. The use of the Power of Alchemy drains no Willpower.)

(PROPHECY- The Power of Prophecy allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person you have once met, or an object you have once seen. It may also allow you to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the Power of Prophecy.)

(PSYCHOMANCY - This Power bestows upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a you may lay your hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.)

(EVOCATION - Mastery of this Power permits contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life. Evocation may also allow you to create wards of protection against the undead.)

(Ok that's it. Let me know when you have selected your five.)



Grey Star:
(okies, just a moment while I consider it all



Texan Kai:
(Ok, take your time! All of the powers are useful at certain points in the game. Some more than others.)



Grey Star:
(Okay, so I don't want elementalism or prophecy



Texan Kai:
(Okie dokie. So which ones are you selecting?)



Grey Star:
(Sorcery, enchantment, alchemy, psychomancy, and evocation)



Texan Kai:
(Ok, moving on!)

(Next up is your Wizard's Staff. Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the power of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive power to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this power you must deduct 1 Willpower point.

In the event that your enemy survives such an attack or should you fall victim to a surprise attack, you will be forced to engage in melee combat and must attempt to strike your enemy with the Staff. If your attack is successful, a bolt of energy will be released from the Staff that is capable of inflicting great physical harm. If you wish to increase the amount of damage that you inflict in this way, you must use more Willpower points and multiply the number of endurance points lost by the enemy, accordingly. For example, if you chose to expend 3 Willpower points on your attack, all enemy Endurance point losses would be multiplied by three.

If you enter combat without your Staff (or are out of Willpower, or if you do not have your Staff but any other weapon), deduct 6 points from your Combat Skill. If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points from your Combat Skill and fight bare-handed.)

(Is Grey Star left or right handed?)



Grey Star:
(left handed!)



Texan Kai:
(Gotcha. I'll assume that you are therefore carrying your Staff in your left hand unless you say otherwise.)



Grey Star:
(okay)



Texan Kai:
(Ok, clothing and equipment!)

(The clothes and footgear you are wearing are up to you- feel free to describe them. However over them you will wear the grey robe and hooded cloak of a Shianti Wizard.)



Grey Star:
(So, where the Shianti live, is it hot? Would I be wearing shorts underneath?)



Texan Kai:
(It's like a Mediterranean climate. There are a few warmer places in Magnimund, like in the Vassagonian Empire (think of Iraq, the Gulf Emirates, etc) and the Sadi Desert, but most countries have cooler climates. Sommerlund, for example, generally has a climate similar to that of Britain or northern France.)



Grey Star:
(Hm okay, I was wanting to wear shorts under my robe since it could get pretty warm lol)



Texan Kai:
(Gotcha. Anything else?)



Grey Star:
(Basically what ms. jepsen is wearing underneath her denim jacket www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=H7HmzwI67ec#t=75)



Texan Kai:
(yay 30 second ad…. Youtube fail)



Grey Star:
(oh sorry you could use adblock to stop the ads!)



Texan Kai:
(Ok that would be fine.)



Grey Star:
(i watch that video cause of her lol)



Texan Kai:
(Yeah she is cute!)

(Ok in addition to clothes, you have a few other possessions.)

(You have a leather backpack. There are eight spaces in it. Unless specifically stated, all items you may acquire go in your backpack. The Shianti have provided you with four Meals (cheese, bread, dried meat, and dried fruits), which go in your backpack.



Grey Star:
(woot!)



Texan Kai:
(Mark those on your paper!)


Grey Star:
(done!)



Texan Kai:
(They also gave you this…)

www.projectaon.org/en/xhtml-less-simple/gs/01gstw/map.png

(Did you get the map?)



Grey Star:
(yup!)



Texan Kai:
(Great! This is a Map of the Shadakine Empire. This is a Special Item. Special Items do NOT go in your backpack, but elsewhere on your body. In this case, the map is stored in the pockets of your robe.)

(Since you chose Alchemy as one of your powers, you also have a leather Herb Pouch hanging from your belt where you may store components.)



Grey Star:
(nice



Texan Kai:
(Your Herb Pouch currently contains some items!)

(2 empty Vials for carrying potions, 1 Vial containing Saltpetre, 1 Vial containing Sulphur)

(Your Herb Pouch may contain a maximum of eight items. Backpack items may not be stored in your Herb Pouch.)



Grey Star:
(noted on my paper!)



Texan Kai:
(Great! And before you depart for the mainland, the Shianti have a selection of gifts for you. According to Shianti custom, you may choose one of them. One sec and I'll type them for you.)

(There is a Jewelled Dagger. It is a masterwork short blade made of Bronin, a rare metal prized by smiths and engineers for its hardness and durability. Several precious gemstones adorn the hilt. If you enter combat with the Jeweled Dagger, you may add +1 to your Combat Skill. Though bear in mind your Wizard's Staff requires two hands to use properly. Still, there may be some circumstances where a dagger may be very useful.)

(The second option is a Magic Talisman of the Shianti. This is a thin golden disc engraved with Shianti runes. A light leather thong will allow you to wear this talisman around your neck. The Magic Talisman of the Shianti has some minor protective wards blessed on it, and will add +2 to your Willpower total.)

(The final option is a Potion of Laumspur. This bittersweet crimson liquid, made from the plant of the same name, is a common healing potion in Magnamund and is often used to treat wounds and some illnesses. If consumed outside of combat, it will restore four lost Endurance points.)

(The dagger and the talisman are both special items- the potion of laumspur is a backpack item. Let me know which one you choose.)



Grey Star:
I am immediately entranced by the dagger and it's beautiful craftsmanship. "The dagger is lovely. I'd like to have it very much!" A smile lights my face up as I speak



Texan Kai:
The Shianti appear gratified by your words. One of them, presumably the smith who crafted the dagger, softly thanks you for your praise and hands you a fine leather sheath for the dagger. You may loop the sheath in your belt to safely store the dagger. Alternatively, you may secrete it on your person, such as in your sleeve or in your boots (you ARE wearing boots, yes? Or sandals? I don't think sneakers like in the video you sent have been invented in Magnamund yet)



Grey Star:
(haha no, no sneakers! I was thinking sandals, i forgot to mention! haha. but boots would be really sweet to hide my dagger. I'll take boots!)



Texan Kai:
(Gotcha. So you are taking boots and hiding the dagger in one of them, yes? Or will the dagger be strapped to the outside? It will be easier to find if strapped to the outside, but at the same time it will also be easier for you to reach.)



Grey Star:
(I'll be hiding it inside, I don't want to lose it or have it be stolen!)



Texan Kai:
(Ok, you are hiding it in your left boot I am assuming.)



Grey Star:
(yup!)



Texan Kai:
(Next up is… money!)

(The system of money is alien to the Shianti. For this reason you start with no money. The standard currency of the Shadakine Empire is the Noble, a small jade stone. Other countries in Magnamund use different currencies with a variety of exchange rates. Should you acquire any money, you may store it in the pockets of your robe, unless you find a Belt Pouch.)



Grey Star:
(okay 



Texan Kai:
(Next is weapons. You may carry a maximum of TWO weapons and ONE extra dagger slot. Your Wizard's Staff counts as one weapon. Swords (typically falchions and scimitars), daggers, pikes, spears, and crossbows are common weapons in the Shadakine Empire. You may find more exotic weapons in the emporiums in major trading cities. You may use any weapon you find, but remember what I said about using weapons other than your Wizard's Staff.)

(So right now, you have one weapon slot filled by your Wizard's Staff. Your Jeweled Dagger takes up your dagger slot.)

(You are not trained in the use of shields or armor.)



Grey Star:
(okay)



Texan Kai:
(Ok, last is a note on food. You will need to eat periodically during your adventure. If you do not eat when I instruct you, you will suffer -3 EP. This damage can NOT be healed through rest or magical means until you consume a meal to satiate your hunger. It is possible to starve to death, so make sure you have some meals with you. Some meals like fresh game or fish will need to be prepared so they do not rot.)



Grey Star:
(Okay! Easy enough ha)



Texan Kai:
(Yup. Any questions so far?)



Grey Star:
(I think I'm good, seems pretty straightforward



Texan Kai:
(Yeah it's easy. Next up are the combat rules!)

(Combat is very straight-forward. I pit your CS against the enemy's. You then tell me how much Willpower you are expending for your attacks (minimum of one, no max limit) and then you give me a roll. I find your number on the Combat Ratio matrix to determine the base damage, then multiply the enemy's damage by the number of Willpower points you expended. It is possible to one-shot enemies, even when using only one Willpower. You may elect to flee from combat unless I specify otherwise, though you may still take damage.)



Grey Star:
(okay, pretty straightforward



Texan Kai:
(Yup! It's very easy. And unless you have any questions or would like to stop, we can start your quest! We can also take a short break if you are tired.)



Grey Star:
(hmm... I think I want to take a 10 min break then we start!)



Texan Kai:
(sure thing. I'll go grab a burger at Sonic then. I'll be back!)



Grey Star:
(haha okay!)



Texan Kai:
(I'll be back in a few minutes. I'm looking forward to this!)


***

So ends character creation. I noticed as we were posting this that she elected to have Grey Star's hair instead of black. That won't change the main story at all (although it makes her stand out even more in that part of the world), but we can run with it. We also played a bit through the first book- I'll have that part posted in a few hours.

[Texan Kai]

II. Grey Star the Wizard, Part I.

***

Texan Kai:
(Ready?)



Grey Star:
(yup!)



Texan Kai:
It is a grim and chilly morning, your last on the Isle of Lorn. With quaking heart, you enter the sacred temple of Amida to receive the silent blessing of your Shianti masters. They stand around you, heads bowed in meditation. At length, the ceremony ends and Maiteya, your old friend and teacher, steps forward, and grasps you firmly by the shoulders. You look into his glittering eyes and see yourself reflected there, for the eyes of the Shianti race are not coloured like man’s but have pupils that cast reflections like mirrored glass.

‘Grey Star,’ he says, a warm smile lighting his serene face, ‘the time has come for you to leave. Far will you travel and perilous is your course. Be not afraid, yet do not fear caution. Though you go with the teaching and blessing of the Shianti and carry the might of the Wizard’s Staff, stealth and secrecy will be your allies. Let not courage defeat wisdom. Go now and seek the Kundi race that is called the Lost Tribe of Lara. You are the instrument of our will, bearer of our hope. Ever will your quest be in our minds and hearts.’

(You may reply to the Shianti if you like, or depart without a word.)



Grey Star:
I smile, but with sadness in my eyes. "Thank you, everyone, I will not fail you. I appreciate your wisdom, Maiteya, I wont forget what you taught me."



Texan Kai:
The Shianti, your masters as well as your teachers and family for these past sixteen years, each give you a fond embrace and offer you their prayers. They see you off to your craft, a small dhow. With a gentle sigh, you bid farewell to the Shianti and the island of your youth and push the little craft into the cold waters of the Sea of Dreams. You jump into the boat and set sail, making a westward course for the distant mainland of the Shadakine Empire. You see the Shianti solemnly wave to you as the island disappears from your view.



Grey Star:
I look back with a smile as the island fades away



Texan Kai:
The sail lifts and you head out into the ever deepening blue waters. The Shadakine coast lies far to the west, and you prepare for a long voyage. Two monotonous days and a night pass. During this time you must consume 2 Meals (cross these off your list of Backpack Items) and lose 1 Endurance point due to fatigue, since you have had very little sleep, constantly ensuring that the ship maintains a steady course westward.



Grey Star:
(okay, noted



Texan Kai:
The sun has begun to set. Far ahead of you, heading west, you sight a small group of fishing boats. You see growing numbers of these craft as you continue on your way, occasionally spotting larger seagoing vessels. Then your heart gives a leap of joy. You can make out the distant shape of a coastline and a harbour full of hundreds of fishing boats and dhows. In the orange glow of the setting sun, the domes and spires of a city point challengingly towards the sky. This is the Port of Suhn, the first city you have ever seen.

You may choose to enter the city harbor now (at sunset), or wait an hour for darkness to descend.



Grey Star:
I sleepily head out, hoping to find somewhere to get a good nights sleep before it gets dark.



Texan Kai:
You steer for the harbour and, as you near the stone quayside, you stand to furl the sail. You cut a dramatic figure: hair flowing in the wind; the reddening glow of the setting sun at your back, casting your shadow upon the shallow waters of the Sea of Dreams.

The harbour is very busy; crowds of people rush to and fro. Sailors and fishermen line the harbour wall, busily unloading their crafts in an effort to finish before nightfall. You notice a flurry of activity further along the quayside; by the time you reach it, a small crowd has gathered, and you can hear the murmur of excited conversation. You throw up a rope and eager hands reach out to clutch the line, mooring the boat for you.

The crowd quickly grows and it is now obvious that you are the focus of their attention. You hear snatches of conversation: ‘An Ancient One, an Ancient One from beyond the Sea of Dreams…’; ‘See you there? Surely a Shianti walks amongst us?’; ‘Saw her myself. Came right out of the east, calm as you please!’; ‘Goddess of legend, saviour of our people, hail, hail!’

Hands stretch out in greeting while others try desperately to touch your robe, pushing and pulling, as more and more people struggle for a glimpse of your face. ‘Who but a god could cross the Sea of Dreams. Save us, Lady!’ the crowd begins to shout. ‘Destroy the evil Shadakine. Throw down the Wytch-king!’

You can feel the growing hysteria, and to your dismay, you are lifted up on the shoulders of some of the crowd and carried in the direction of two armed soldiers, who are rushing towards you with their curved swords drawn.

‘Destroy the Shadakine warriors, Lady!’ someone shouts.

(Here, you have a few options. You may engage the Shadakine soldiers, or try to escape. If you choose to escape, you may use one of your magical powers, such as Enchantment, to aid you. Alternatively, you may conduct other courses of action that I do not specify.)



Grey Star:
I engage the soldiers



Texan Kai:
In desperation, you raise your Wizard’s Staff and unleash a crackling charge of energy that arcs above the heads of the crowd, and into the heart of the nearest Shadakine warrior. Your mind is in turmoil and you exert 3 Willpower points on the attack due to its undisciplined state and your efforts to avoid striking any civilians. The Shadakine warrior screams in pain and falls to the ground; blue smoke coils from the blackened wound in his chest.

With howls of delight, the crowd surges forward and falls upon the remaining Shadakine warrior as he lashes out desperately all around him with his scimitar.

(You may try to lose yourself in the crowd and escape deeper into the city, or aid the crowd and finish off the remaining Shadakine soldier.)



Grey Star:
I move to fight the next soldier,"Leave him to me, no one else needs to be harmed but him"



Texan Kai:
With a triumphant cry, the crowd deposits you on the ground and then withdraws to form a circle around you and the warrior. The Shadakine stands sweating and panting before you; his eyes dart wildly in every direction but he sees no escape. As the jeering crowd hurls insults and taunts at the trapped soldier, you notice that the shaven-headed warrior’s eyes are totally white, completely lacking pupils. Resolutely, he steps forward, sword and teeth bared, snarling his defiance. ‘To the death then, girl,’ he spits as he assumes a defensive stance.

You cannot avoid the combat owing to the circle of people around you and must fight the Shadakine to the death.

Shadakine Warrior: COMBAT SKILL 13 ENDURANCE 20

(Ok, we are now in combat! Do you need me to review the rules?)



Grey Star:
(I think I have it, so we compare my cs vs his and then I roll?)



Texan Kai:
(That's right! you tell me how many Willpower points you are expending first, then roll. Got it?)



Grey Star:
(yeah, I'll try to remember!)



Texan Kai:
(I'll do all of the calculations, so just give me your numbers of willpower and your d10 roll.)



Grey Star:
(1 willpower, 4)



Texan Kai:
(k, one sec- typing Lone Wolf stuff for Sarah too, haha)



Grey Star:
(it's okay!)



Texan Kai:
Your attack sears the soldier badly on his chest (-10 EP). You parry his swing with your Staff, but the shock of the blow aches your arms and reverberates in your body (-2 EP)

GS: 26/29 EP, 25 W
Shadakine Warrior: 10/20 EP



Grey Star:
(1 willpower, 2, lmao)



Texan Kai:
Your bolt of blue energy strikes the Shadakine soldier in a less vital area this time (-6 EP). He is looking badly wounded now and his attack becomes more desperate as the crowd bays for his blood (-3 EP).

GS: 23/29 EP, 24 W
Shadakine Warrior: 4/20 EP

(Round three! Fight!)



Grey Star:
(alright, hopefully I roll well. 1 wp)
(5)



Texan Kai:
You suffer another sword wound to your side (-2 EP) but your last strike finishes the enemy and steals the life from his eyes. The crowd cries triumphantly as the enemy falls dead at your feet.

CS: 21/29 EP, 23 W
Shadakine Warrior: DEAD

The mob hail you as a hero and crowd around you cheering. A new sound floats on the harbour wind and the uproar subsides. You can hear the clatter of pounding hooves and the rumble of thundering wheels. A wave of panic ripples through the crowd. ‘The Wheels of Death!’ someone shouts.

Three war chariots, driven by whip-wielding Shadakine, hurtle into the harbor. They are responding to the disturbances that you and the mob have created. The chariot wheels have blades protruding from their hubs, and as the Shadakine plough into the crowd, the blades scythe down anyone in their path.

In the confused panic, you see a chance to escape into a dark, narrow street. Another path is open to you: the main harbor gate.



Grey Star:
I run through the dark narrow street



Texan Kai:
Your heart pounding in your chest as the adrenaline in your blood thins, out, you dash away from the harbor and along the narrow street, darting like a hunted beast among the doorways and shadows. Tall warehouse buildings rise up on either side of the street, and the only sound you can hear is that of your own footsteps.

You have run only a short way when you reach a crossroads. The right and left turnings lead into alleyways, while the narrow street continues ahead.



Grey Star:
(so I pick between the three?)



Texan Kai:
(Yes. If you had Prophecy you could have used it here )



Grey Star:
(haha oh drat ) I look around, still feeling shocked. I decide to turn right into the alley



Texan Kai:
As you turn into the alley, suddenly a knife flashes at your throat. You act on raw instinct, a testament to your training back on the Isle of Lorn. Raising your Staff, you unleash a blast of energy (costing you 1 Willpower point) that narrowly misses the murderous cut-throat.

With a yelp of shocked surprise, the cut-throat turns tail and rushes back down the alley. You realize that while you remain here you are in danger. Retracing your steps, you watch him run into the narrow street and turn a corner. You follow the sound of his footsteps for a while, but soon you can hear nothing.

The narrow street widens and grows lighter. The source of the light is the window of a grim, stone building at the end of the street which opens on to the market square. Above the doorway of the building hangs a sign which reads:

INN OF THE LAUGHING MOON

Perhaps you can pick up some clues about the whereabouts of the Lost Tribe of Lara here, either at the market, or at the inn.



Grey Star:
I go to the inn, looking for a place to sit and inquire about the Lost Tribe of Lara.



Texan Kai:
Tentatively you push open the wooden door and enter a smoky room. The inn is filled with the sounds of contending voices, shouting drunkards, and the laughter of serving girls. The customers are many and varied: merchants, seamen, fishermen, and all sorts of travellers rub shoulders here.

You notice a spare seat and sit down. Also seated at the table are three others, one of whom may be able to help you locate the Lost Tribe of Lara. You try to decide with whom to attempt a conversation.

There is a drunken sailor snoring next to you, a merchant clad in gaudy furs and laughing drunkenly to himself, and a hooded character cloaked in black sitting quietly in the corner.



Grey Star:
I turn to the merchant, thinking he would know best about the subject. "Excuse me, but do you know anything about the Lost Tribe of Lara?



Texan Kai:
The merchant smiles at you. "Lost Tribe? Ah now," begins the drunken merchant with some relish, "the legend, eh? Well, there are many stories, and in my travels I have heard most of them. Yes, little lady, Shan Li - that is I - has traveled across all of this land and then some. Sometimes in search of goods to trade, other times in search for ales to drink! What was it you asked? Oh yes. the Lost Tribe of Lara. No word of the Laranese have I ever heard in the far north, the free kingdoms of the Lastlands, nor here in the Shadakine Empire. No indeed, the only story I ever heard that seemed authentic came to me in the city of Elzian in Dessi where I was trading there. Have you seen Elzian, little lady? Such a magnificent city built by Old Kingdom Magic! But I digress again…"

He takes a large swig of his greenish ale and continues: "There I heard a story of the exile of the Lost Tribe to the cloud forests of the far south, that perilous place named the Azanam. Others, though, speak of the forested Shuri Mountains.’

In a very loud voice, the merchant begins relating one of the many stories he has heard about the Laranese. You notice that many people are turning to stare, muttering and whispering. Before you can attempt to quieten him, a hand grabs your shoulder. You and the merchant have been arrested by four burly Shadakine guards.

(You can surrender to them or attempt to fight them. The Shadakine guards have scimitars - like the guard at the dock had - but they are also in chain armor and have crossbows. Two of the crossbows are aimed at you and Shan.)



Grey Star:
I raise my hands,"Now boys, no need for violence. All I wanted was a drink, nothing more." I smile nervously at the guards. "Could I at least have my drink?" (can I use enchantment?)



Texan Kai:
(If you want to use Enchantment you have to go into a brief trance. But before you can do that…)

"That's up to Mother Magril, girl," the guard closest to you replies gruffly. Your arms are bound tightly behind your back and you are immediately seized. Your Wizard’s Staff and Backpack are taken from you.

(do not erase them, but do mark them on your sheet that you no longer have them in your possession. And give me a roll for your Dagger to see if they found it.)



Grey Star:
(FML! 1)



Texan Kai:
(oh no! 1 is almost always a critical failure in cases like this)



Grey Star:
(my luck ran out haha)



Texan Kai:
As you are being patted down, you are quietly thankful that the guard did not take undue liberties while searching you. What you are not thankful for is his professionalism- he found your dagger hidden in your boot. He holds it in front of your face with an askance look, as if saying 'really? a boot?' He then confiscates the Dagger along with the rest of your belongings.



Grey Star:
(Nooo )



Texan Kai:
You and Shan are frog-marched through the city, the sullen gazes of the townspeople providing you with no comfort. You and Shan are taken to a large, black stone citadel, called the Hall of Correction where, despite your pleas of innocence, you are unceremoniously dumped. ‘You can tell your story to Mother Magri now, stranger,’ growls one of the Shadakine. ‘The Test of Truth will sort you out soon enough.’
Shan is taken away and you are roughly pushed up a long flight of stone stairs and into a small, bare antechamber. An old woman sits at a wooden table. In front of her is a crystal ball, glowing with a dim, yellow light.

‘Sit, child,’ says the old woman, gesturing to the chair opposite. ‘I am Mother Magri, seer of the Kazim Stone, Law Giver to the city of Suhn, Truthsayer of Shadaki in the service of the Wytch-king, Shasarak.’ The old crone peers at you with hypnotic eyes. ‘Look into the Kazim Stone, girl,’ she commands, ‘that the truth may be revealed.’

Unable to resist, your eyes are drawn by the power of the Stone as it shines brightly, filling the chamber with a lurid yellow glow. With a gasp of horror, you feel fiery fingers reach into your mind and clutch at your will. Your mind is being read by a potent magical force.

‘You have power, young stranger,’ murmurs Mother Magri. ‘I sense some wizardry in you. How came this to be I wonder? Whom do you serve?’

If you do not resist the power of the Kazim Stone, your quest and its origin will be revealed to this servant of the Wytch-king.

(Here is where Sorcery may be useful. You may try to destroy the Kasim Stone - though you are unaware of its attributes, or you may erect a barrier to shield your mind from this unwelcome intrusion. Or you may choose to not use Sorcery and simply use raw Willpower to resist to Kazim Stone.)



Grey Star:
I use sorcery to shield my mind from the stone



Texan Kai:
You gather up the power of your thought, forming a mental shield against the groping fingers of the Kazim Stone. A cloud of black displeasure passes across Mother Magri’s face. The magic of the Stone hovers at the edge of your senses; the explorative fingers probe your defence, searching for a weakness, a breach in the psychic wall. Your flesh prickles and creeps as the power of the Stone pries and pulls at your will, yet still you keep it at bay (at the cost of 1 Willpower point). The old woman scowls, intent upon the glowing Stone.

The intensity of the stone increases and you must use another Willpower point to match its strength. Mother Magri glares at you, her face twisted with frustration. She doubles the force of the Stone’s power, her eyes straining and her breathing beginning to quicken.

(I have you at 21 Willpower now. You may strengthen your shield, or exert the influence of your will from behind your shield of Sorcery to attack Mother Magri in the hope of snuffing out the power of the Kazim Stone.)



Grey Star:
(hmm.. tough!)



Texan Kai:
(It is! Again, Prophecy would be useful here in making a choice )

(It's like Sixth Sense and Divination in Lone Wolf- it is a skill that helps to lead you in the safest direction.)



Grey Star:
(haha, dang. oh well! magri isn't human right?)



Texan Kai:
(She is a Shadakine female, so yes.)



Grey Star:
I strengthen my shield, I'm worried about the consequences of attacking Mother Magri



Texan Kai:
(Uh oh…)

()



Grey Star:
(lol I was like noo)



Texan Kai:
You strengthen your shield with 2 more Willpower (taking you to 19) The power of the Kazim Stone is overwhelming; it undermines your resistance, and pries into the corners of your mind; it disturbs the dust of your memories and trespasses upon the hidden chambers of your dreams.

Mother Magri’s eyes widen with spiteful pleasure. You are powerless to prevent her intrusion into your mind. You try to blank your thoughts, searching for the safety of the Shianti way, the solace of meditation, but it is useless. The Kazim Stone is too strong.

‘There now—I see it,’ rasps Mother Magri, scrutinizing the vague shapes and shadows of the Stone. ‘Something’s there, some hidden purpose or grand design. Agh! It is protected. Some power hides it. More wizard’s sorcery no doubt. Will this mist never part?’

The hours of your ordeal pass slowly. Mother Magri chants and intones every charm and spell in every language that she knows, but she cannot penetrate the curtain that enfolds your memory, shrouding that part of your mind that bears your quest. It must be Shianti enchantment bestowed, without your knowing, by the masters of the Isle of Lorn. However, Mother Magri does not relent, and you lose 4 Willpower points and 2 Endurance points. You feel the growing pull of insanity and a raging madness clamouring in your ears.

(I have you now at 15 Willpower and 19/29 Endurance.)



Grey Star:
Starting to worry, I decide to use my power to attack Mother Magri.



Texan Kai:
You are on the verge of passing out after hours of grueling mental torture at the hands of Mother Magri. As the Kazim Stone has now broken through your shield, she instantly is able to read your thoughts that you are about to unleash a mental assault upon her.

"Young fool," She rasps. "Your resistance is futile," says Mother Magri. Her words spur you on and fuel your efforts despite your frayed nerves and weary body.

You lose 2 Endurance points as you struggle, and still the Stone drains your will away. You begin to feel the cornerstones of your mind begin to crumble. If this continues, your mind may break and you will become a hollow shell of a girl and end your days as a madwoman or a mindless slave of the Wytch-king.

(I now have you at 17 EP. Are you ready for what happens now?)



Grey Star:
(haha yeah, pretty much )



Texan Kai:
(Ok. Well… here's what happens…)

Fortunately, it is your body that fails you first, and you slump forwards onto the floor. But the purpose of your mission is safe, for the moment. But your body and mind are wracked from your terrible ordeal. Your breathing is labored, but you are still awake, alive, and sane.

"Such is the fate of all who defy the truthsay of Mother Magri," she sneers. "Guards! Throw this one into the dungeon. It seems the girl desires to hide something of importance." She then turns towards you, her sinister voice just penetrating your ravaged mind. "There are other ways of extracting the truth from you."

Senseless with exhaustion, you are dragged forcibly from the chamber, down long flights of stairs and into the darkness of the dungeons of the Hall of Correction. Your senses rail against the ominous and overpowering feeling of oppression that seems imbued into the walls of the place. A tortured scream fills the air, followed by the sound of brutal laughter.

"Gaoler! Lock this one up!" the guard says. A tattered cripple lurches towards you, a large bunch of keys rattling at his side.

"Here, Master Turnkey. Lock her up nice and safe now."

The gaoler limps forwards, a mad and joyous expression on his face. ‘Marvellous, simply marvellous,’ he giggles. "Another guest. How wonderful to meet you."

An iron-shod door is unlocked and you are thrown into a dark and foul-smelling pit. You fall headlong down a flight of steps and lose consciousness before coming to rest on the straw-covered floor.

(And that is where we will stop for tonight!)


Grey Star:
(haha okay, I suck! )



Texan Kai:
(No you are doing well! You are still alive! Oftentimes in the past people have died under Mother Magri's brutal tortures. And there were points where you could have died in the city.)



Grey Star:
(i thought i was gonna die lol)

(I've never actually had much experience with rp before, hopefully I'm not doing terribly haha)



Texan Kai:
(Oh you are doing great. I like how you incorporated emotion and thoughts where you were back with the Shianti. GMs typically that sort of thing.)



Grey Star:
(Okay, cool, I'm trying! haha)



Texan Kai:
(RPing gets easier the more you do it. I'm trying not to "lead" you in one direction or the other so you can have the freedom to make up your own mind and be creative.)



Grey Star:
(I'm doing my best haha, it's fun 


***

At this point the conversation turned into other topics. Hope y'all are enjoying Grey Star. Next time: the prison and the introduction of Tanith!

[Texan Kai]

III. Grey Star the Wizard, Part II


***

Texan Kai:
When you waken, your head aches and your vision is blurred. Realization of your terrible plight comes flooding back, and you lift your head to look around. In the far corner sits the now sober and miserable figure of Shan Li, the merchant from the Inn of the Laughing Moon.

"We meet again, friend," says Shan Li, wryly.

The only other occupant of the cell is a sick old man who lies, barely moving, upon a wooden pallet.



Grey Star:
I sigh, then smirk. "Did you sleep well, friend?"



Texan Kai:
Shan laughs. "Those Shadakine interrupted a perfectly good drink back at the inn. They told me to sleep it off before I get a little visit with the Truthsayer." He looks you over. "I'm guessing you just had the pleasure of meeting Mother Magri?"



Grey Star:
I stretch and take a deep breath and exhale. "Oh yes, what a pleasure. Nothing I can't handle, though."



Texan Kai:
Your words seem to amuse Shan. His expression then becomes more grave. "While you were taking a well-earned nap, the guards were chuckling at where we are to be sent after this. Are you ready? Do you want to hear of the fun place we are to be sent?" His voice is dripping with sarcasm.



Grey Star:
"Are we getting an upgrade to the master jail cell? I'm not sure things can get a whole lot worse." I realize my hair is a mess and do my best to fix it.



Texan Kai:
"You can say that," he replies, feigning excitement. "We are to get rooms at the Wytch-king's summer palace in Shadaki! Yes, all expenses paid, the finest food, serving girls, and wine that flows like the Tentarias."

He pauses briefly for effect then continues, his expression now worried. "Actually we are going off to the Hall of Correction here in this prison. It is said that those who enter the Hall of Correction are never seen again. Surely, they will not leave us to rot in this hell-hole. What ever am I to do? I'm only guilty of a loud voice and the consumption of too much ale. And," he adds, looking at you with a wry grin, "association with a known domestic terrorist. I didn't know you were accused of murder of a Shadakine soldier, inciting a riot, and fleeing a crime scene!"

"If we get out of here, I'll buy you a drink or three. What was your name again?"



Grey Star:
"I'm Grey Star. Be careful, I'll hold you to that." I smile



Texan Kai:
"Well met, Grey Star," Shan says, shaking your hand. "Now, I recall you saying you wanted to know about the Lost Tribe of Lara? I can probably tell you more now. It seems we have all the time in the world."



Grey Star:
"That would be amazing! Would you?" (I'll be right back... like 10 minutes top)

(sorry, i was delegated the task of cooking tonight out of nowhere)



Texan Kai:
(No worries, I'll have Shan tell you the story while you are gone.)

"Well I don't know if this is all true. But if it isn't it ought to be. The story goes that long ago race of folks called the Kundi lived in the forests and mountains of Lara in the southern part of this realm. Of course back then all of this wasn't part of the Shadakine Empire. Folks actually didn't have to worry about being arrested for no good reason or vanishing whenever the Wytch-king or his pet Wytches needed playthings for one reason or another. Anyway, before the Shadakine army conquered Suhn and the other formerly free city-states here, the Kundi passed through the mountains of Lara, using the Morn Pass. After the Shadakine finished off resistance around here, they moved on to where the Kundi lived. War machines need wood and iron, and the Wytch-king and his minions always have need of rare components for their magics. Well as you can imagine, the Kundi didn't quite care for the Shadakine. Strip mining the land and slaughtering folks tends to make bad neighbors, to say the least. Well, the Shadakine Empire might have the finest army outside of Sommerlund or Lencia, but the Kundi gave them fits. Those bald queue-wearing rats were frequently ambushed and delayed by the Kundi, who always disappeared into the safety of the forests before the Shadakine could retaliate." 

"Now, the Wytch-king was less than pleased with the repeated failures of his army to crush these so-called 'primitives.' I'm pretty sure his ambassadors in Barrakesh and Helgedad had more than a few jokes thrown their way. Finally, in desperation, the Wytch-king's armies torched the forests, and the Kundi were forced to flee. To this day, no one is sure where the Kundi went, and consequently we refer to them as the Lost Tribe of Lara."

"Anyway, that's the story. I’ll guide you anywhere you want to go, if you can get us out of here," he says, half joking; but he can see by the look in your eyes that you take his offer seriously, and that to you escape is not an impossible dream. After all, you are a wizard.

(Did you want to respond to Shan? If not we can move on.)



Grey Star:
"I'll get us out of here, don't worry. Did you see anything of interest as you were brought in?"



Texan Kai:
Shan chortles. "Right. I'm sure the guards here will listen to the stern words of a young girl. But the only thing I saw as I was unceremoniously dropped in here were rats, guards - not that the two things are different when it comes to the Shadakine - and of course our belongings as they were taken somewhere. I'd kill for a drink right now."

As Shan is talking, you hear the sound of heels clacking outside on the stone floor beyond your cell. Momentarily the iron grille of the door opens and a wooden serving tray is slid through. On top of the tray are three bowls of steamed brown rice and a small earthen jug of water. A pair of wild green eyes stare at you from behind the door. You see this out of the corner of your vision and see that the emerald eyes belong to a girl about your age. You cannot make out more details than that. Her gaze linger at you from behind the door.



Grey Star:
(she's a human, right?)



Texan Kai:
(Yes- nearly all sentient beings in Magnamund are human. There are exceptions, like the Kloon, Dwarves, Giaks, and Darklords, but nearly everyone is human of some ethnicity or another.)



Grey Star:
(okay, just making sure)



Texan Kai:
(I'll specify if someone is not human.)



Grey Star:
I perk up and whisper to her, "Hey you! Can you talk for a minute?"



Texan Kai:
The young girl is started that you spoke to her and disappears. But she has left behind the tray of food and water. Shan takes one of the bowls for himself. There are two remaining. You realize that the old man, who is obviously dying, is too weak to walk over to the tray of rice.



Grey Star:
I bring a bowl over to the old man, "Are you hungry? I can feed you if you need me to."



Texan Kai:
The emaciated man, with much difficulty, chokes down some of the rice and water that you offer him. He wheezes as he breathes. Gently you do what you can for him. "Twenty years," he rants, weakly gripping your arm. "Twenty years I’ve been here, for no crime at all, save for keeping faith with the Ancients, the Shianti, and keeping their memory alive among the poor people here."



Grey Star:
My eyes widen as I whisper, "You know of the Shianti? I was raised by the Shianti! I came here to help!"



Texan Kai:
The old man's rheumy eyes widen in shock. His hands caress the grey cotton of your robe, as if he is remembering something from long ago. "So young. Could it be… could it be…" He begins coughing violently.

After he composes himself enough, he continues: "I was a priest of the Shianti for years, until the coming of Shasarak." He coughs some more. "The Wytch-king outlawed our religion and tortured anyone who kept faith with the Shianti. Soon, I will join them."



Grey Star:
"Maybe I can get you out of here, too. Can you walk by yourself? We are going to try to escape."



Texan Kai:
The old priest smiles warmly at you, as if you have given him hope that he has not known for years. Your kind attention to him, some food, and the knowledge that the Shianti faith still lives has restored a little color to the old man's cheeks. The coughing ceases. "The bravery of youth," he rasps. "I must first sleep… sleep."

Soon he is fast asleep, leaving you and Shan to your rice and water.

You also realize that you are very tired. If you wish to rest after your meal, you may.



Grey Star:
I eat, then turn to Shan. "I'm going to get some rest, don't worry, we'll be out of here soon enough."



Texan Kai:
"That would be a pleasant change," he quips. He devours his meager bowl of rice and settles in to rest.

Your own sleep proves both rewarding and refreshing. You have a strange dream in which Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti, appears before you. He raises his hands in blessing and chants gently in the tongue of his people. Briefly, you catch a glimpse of the Temple of Amida and a circle of Shianti wizards standing with their hands raised to the sky.

They have sent the power of their thoughts to aid you. Their blessing strengthens your Willpower, increasing it by 10 points!

(I have you at 25 Willpower now.)




Grey Star:
(noted!)



Texan Kai:
A piercing cry wakes you with a start. The sickly, old Shianti priest is sitting bolt upright in bed, silhouetted by the pale rays of the moon that shine through the high window of your cell.

"A vision, a vision," he cries, "sent from my masters." He turns and points a gnarled finger towards you. "You…" he shouts, "you must be helped…Come closer, young one." He rises to his feet, stumbles towards you and whispers in your ear. "I would repay your kindness," he says, leaning forward. "You say that you and your friend wish to escape from this place?" he asks. Quickly you nod your assent; pressing the old man to continue. "In my time here, I have learned the safest route of escape. Other prisoners have told me of it." His strained, bloodshot eyes pierce yours with a mad ferocity. "I know no way of passing through the door of this cell, but the way beyond the dungeon door is—"

Suddenly he gives a great sigh and falls to the floor. The old man is dead, gone to rest with his brethren in the afterlife. With tears in your eyes, you turn to Shan, who looks anxiously at you.



Grey Star:
I use evocation to speak to him!



Texan Kai:
(Nice! We will come back to that.)

You find a chunk of rock to scratch a pentacle on the cold stone floor when you hear a knock on the door. Again you see the girl who brought you food. She has returned with your breakfast. She notices that the old man does not stir.

"Has he finally died?" she asks nonchalantly, sliding the tray of rice through the grille towards you.



Grey Star:
"Sadly, yes. Did you know him?"



Texan Kai:
You can see her shrug her shoulders. "I brought him his meals every day," she answers.

The girl glances towards the old man's body. "I will tell Mother Magri about this. Perhaps she will want to steal his soul while it still lingers here," she says, matter-of-factly. "Perhaps my mistress can put him to some useful task."

You and Shan stare at her, stunned at the coolness of her tone and the casual way in which she dismisses the torment of a man’s soul. She stares back, unconcerned; her face is a picture of childish innocence, and she seems unaware that she has said anything shocking.



Grey Star:
"Why? Can't you see he's suffered enough? When your life ends, don't you think you'd want to rest peacefully?"



Texan Kai:
"He's not suffering now," she states simply. "Mother Magri always said that people should be useful, even after they are dead." She rolls her eyes. "Of course she says many things."

Shan interrupts. "Yes, like 'take innocent people to prison and torture them!'"

The girl glares at the fat merchant with dismissal. "You are boring." Her emerald eyes then return to you with a curious glint. "You are not."



Grey Star:
"Would you like to get to know me? I have some time to talk. You seem pretty interesting to me, you know."



Texan Kai:
She smiles at you from behind the grille. You take this time to get a better look at her. She has unkempt black hair, a delicate elfin chin, and piercing green eyes. Her skin is pale like yours.

"I'm Tanith," the girl says. "Who are you?"



Grey Star:
I smile at her, then say, "I'm Grey Star, it's a pleasure to meet you, Tanith. Why are you here?"



Texan Kai:
Tanith smirks. "I knew you are Grey Star. The guards speak of no one else. Except me of course, and for different reasons, because they are men." She rolls her eyes and laughs.

"I study witchcraft here in Suhn. My parents died years ago, so Mother Magri took me in. I work in here when I am not studying. Or when I am being yelled at. It was either work here and study witchcraft or run off," she says wistfully. "Perhaps I should have found a boat to sail across the sea. Though I can't imagine anyone being so silly as to do that. It could be worse though. I could be in prison here with him," she grins, gesturing at Shan. The merchant returns her gaze with a glare dripping with impotent venom.



Grey Star:
"Maybe I could teach you a thing or two if I ever get out of here." I wink at her as I speak.



Texan Kai:
She raises an ebon eyebrow in amusement. "Oh, you want to teach me, hm?" Her lips curl in a devious smile. "I could probably teach you a thing or two as well," she adds, her eyes dancing with mischief.

"But first you will have to get out of the Darkling Room," she says, all delight gone from her eyes. "That is where Mother Magri is having you taken in a few hours."



Grey Star:
"Can you help us? I will repay you, even if you only do this small favor... I'd like for you to not tell Mother Magri about the old man."



Texan Kai:
She nervously glances at the old man, then back to you. It is clear that she is struggling between helping you and obeying Mother Magri's orders.

After a few moments, she takes a dried flower from the folds of her dress, and sprinkles its powdered petals into your food.

"This will help fortify you before your ordeal," she explains, her voice trembling. "I will be quiet about the old priest. But she will find out soon enough. There is nothing else I can do right now. I'm sorry." She takes a last glance at you, then disappears down the hallway, her heels clacking loudly on the stone floor as she departs.



Grey Star:
"Okay, let's make this quick." I continue with the ritual



Texan Kai:
(Are you going to eat the food she left?)



Grey Star:
(After I finish the ritual, Grey Star wants to talk to the old man, to make sure he can rest in peace and to get the information.)



Texan Kai:
Since the corpse of the Shianti priest is still in the dungeon with you, you decide to summon his departed spirit and ask for its aid. With a wedge of rock, you finish scratching out a ragged pentacle in the dirt of the dungeon floor. Taking a deep breath, you slowly and carefully fall into a trance state. You focus on the body of the dead priest, sending out an echoing call to the spiritual plane. Your mind fills with the groaning cries of disembodied spirits and visions of phantoms with strange, pale faces.

Shan the merchant backs away in terror as the translucent Shade of the old priest materializes above its discarded, earthly body, shimmering with a silvery light that illuminates the darkness of the cell. "I have come, Grey Star," the Shade says in a hollow voice. "My aid I give thee, but you must pay the price of the dead if I am to free you. Wilt thou pay this price?"

Your heart is full of fear as you realize that you must agree to the dead man’s price without knowing what it will be.



Grey Star:
"I will pay the price, we need to know."



Texan Kai:
"So be it," drones the Shade. ‘For my part, I will give you the help you seek, since you are a servant of the great Shianti race, as once was I. You must turn right beyond the door of this cell and, when you reach the end of the corridor, take the left stairway. Thereafter always turn left and always ascend, until you reach the surface. In this way you will come to the inner courtyard where the gate to freedom stands. Take no other route, for death awaits you any other way."

"For your part, you must free the dead of this place. Step outside the pentacle and speak the forbidden tome that will release the wronged souls that have died here. The dead desire their revenge on those who cruelly murdered them. Deny them not, for your soul will be forfeit if you do."

You are filled with dread. It is forbidden by Shianti law to free the dead upon the Earth, for once freed by the ‘forbidden tome’, they can never be controlled. They will roam the Earth eternally, able to act in any way they choose, whether for good or ill.

However, the priest has already fulfilled his side of the bargain. To deny speaking the tome may put your soul in eternal peril.



Grey Star:
(wow that sucks  but hey, I have to if I am going to save everyone)



Texan Kai:
(Yes, it's quite a choice to make!)



Grey Star:
I get up to perform the ritual. "I must do whatever it takes to save everyone."



Texan Kai:
With a shudder, you step outside the pentacle and speak the sibilant words of the ‘forbidden tome’ known as the Song of the Dead.

As you finish, the ghost of the priest sighs and says, ‘It is done. Take the Amulet from the body of my former life. It will serve as a charm against the evil dead.’ You take the Amulet, which hangs by a silver chain around the dead priest’s neck, and place it around your own.

(Mark the Amulet of the Shianti Priest as a Special Item, which you wear around your neck.)

All is silent. Slowly, the cell grows colder. The sound of distant moaning fills your ears, followed by a mournful wailing that chills the soul, which gradually rises in pitch and volume. The dead have come to claim their vengeance. The use of the Power of Evocation has cost you 2 Willpower points. A howling wind sweeps through the cell and the door bursts open. You turn and grab Shan’s arm. He has stood, pale and rigid with fear, throughout your exchange with the dead.

(I have you now at 23 Willpower.)



Grey Star:
I grab the food and eat some of it quickly before we leave



Texan Kai:
Hastily, you finish your bowl of rice containing the powdered petals (restore 1 Willpower point and 3 Endurance points.

(This brings you to 20/29 EP and 24 Willpower.)

"Really, Grey Star? You are going to eat at a time like this?" Shan complains as the dead wail around you.



Grey Star:
"I'm hungry!" I frown at Shan. "You have to eat whenever you can! Let's get out of here."



Texan Kai:
"Women," he sighs as you take his arm and dash out of your prison. You run through the door and into the corridor outside. Shadow forms are flowing out of the walls and floor, and everywhere spirit shapes fly in all directions. You turn to your right and see the horribly mutilated corpse of the gaoler. Still clenched in his mortifying fist is a small Dagger. You may take this item if you wish. Also on his body are the keys to the locked cells in this hallway. The prisoners - the living ones, that is - are screaming and begging for you to release them from the undead summation that you have brought into the world.

In addition to the jail cells, there are two stairwells, one to your left, and one to your right.



Grey Star:
I take the dagger, and free the prisoners. Afterwards I go up the left stairways



Texan Kai:
You snatch up the dead gaoler’s keys and run along the corridor, unlocking each door as fast as you can. One by one, the doors are thrown open, and prisoners pour into the corridor, rushing in all directions.

(If you wish to keep the Jailer's Keys mark them as a special item that you keep in your pocket.)

With Shan the merchant hot on your heels, you dash up the stairs which lead to a small landing. There are two exits. The left exit is blocked by a heavy wooden door. To the right is an open archway leading into a narrow corridor. In the distance, you can hear the sound of screams and falling masonry. The ground below your feet trembles.

‘Which way?’ asks Shan.



Grey Star:
I go left, using the key on the door



Texan Kai:
With sweating hands, you fumble with the large bunch of Keys, trying to find one that matches the shape of the lock.

(You may use Psychomancy to help you, or you can give me a roll!)



Grey Star:
I use psychomancy



Texan Kai:
You press your fingertips against each of the keys, maintaining a vision of the door lock in your mind. One key feels right; you insert it into the lock and turn. The cost of this spell is 1 Willpower point.

(you are now at 23.)

The lock clicks open.

"Remind me to thank the jailer," Shan quips, wiping the sweat from his brow. You throw open the door and discover another landing. There are two stairways, one leading to the left and the other to the right.



Grey Star:
"Always with the stairs!" We go to the left up the stairs



Texan Kai:
Panting for breath, your heart pounding against your ribs, you step onto the landing.

(you may lock the door behind you, or continue on without delay)



Grey Star:
I lock the door before we go up the left stairs



Texan Kai:
As you close the door you hear the sound of running feet. Four Shadakine warriors are approaching. You turn the key in the lock. ‘Hurry, Grey Star,’ Shan calls. ‘There is no time to lose.’

The Shadakine are beating at the door, shouting furiously for you to open it. Next, you hear the sound of heavy thumping as they try to force the door open.

(You may use Sorcery to magically bar the door if you like.)



Grey Star:
I also use sorcery to make sure we escape our pursuers



Texan Kai:
"For pity’s sake, what on Magnamund are you doing now?" questions Shan in a complaining tone.

You ignore him and close your eyes to concentrate on preparing a holding spell to bar the door. At the cost of 1 Willpower point, you create a magical barrier to bar the door. It will take the Shadakine guards some time before they will be able to break it open.

(You are now at 22.)

There are two stairs: one left, and one right.



Grey Star:
"Come Shan, up the stairs to the left, that will hold them for now."



Texan Kai:
With Shan at your side, you run to the top of the stairs. Above your head is a trap door. You throw it open and step into a circular room. There are two exits. Through the crack around the door opposite, you can see a faint, yellow glow. This glow seems familiar to you. You may open this door, or take the other exit.



Grey Star:
(i really wish I would have taken prophecy lol.) "Let's open the door, it looks like it may lead outside."



Texan Kai:
(Yeah I always take that when I play Grey Star. Same with Sixth Sense on Lone Wolf.)

You recognize the small antechamber wight the glow. It was here that Mother Magri subjected you to the test of truth, using the Kazim Stone. The terrible, glowing sphere stands in the centre of the empty room on a small table; it is giving off a faint light. It is that light which you recognized.

(You may take the Kazim Stone if you wish, or leave the antechamber.)



Grey Star:
(lmao I totally knew this is what this would be. i just had a feeling )



Texan Kai:
(Hee hee.)



Grey Star:
"Let's take the stone so no one else can feel its evil effect again."



Texan Kai:
You grab the Kazim Stone and throw open the door of the antechamber. Standing in the circular room beyond you see Tanith, the girl you met when you were imprisoned. Her brow is covered with a light sheen of sweat and she is huffing, as if she has been running for several minutes.

"At last I've found you, Grey Star!" she says. "Come with me, quickly."

"Beware," warns Shan. "She is a Shadakine slave; she cannot be trusted!"

Tanith glares at Shan and looks back at you, waiting for your answer.



Grey Star:
"Tanith, do you know where my staff is? I desperately need it."



Texan Kai:
"I know where your Staff is hidden," she replies. "I can take you to it and help you to escape if you will take me with you. Decide quickly. There is great danger here and we have little time."

You hear the running feet of the Shadakine guards coming from the stairs below and the voice of Mother Magri, barking orders and cursing the Shadakine in an angry tone.



Grey Star:
"Let's hurry, then, Tanith."



Texan Kai:
Tanith heaves a sigh of relief and points towards the antechamber of Mother Magri. "This way," she says, running into the room. With Shan muttering about death and destruction, betrayal and butchery, you follow her.

"Casas Indu," she calls, and a hidden door slides open, revealing a dark space behind. "It’s a secret passage," she explains. "Here is your Staff and Backpack." She takes a torch from the wall, and its light reveals a small compartment roughly hewn from stone and a sloping passage heading downwards. You take the Backpack and Staff from their hiding place and turn to Tanith.

(Restore your lost Staff, backpack, and all items that you had. You may also put the Kazim Stone in your backpack for safekeeping.)

"Down the passage—hurry!" she says. You and Shan run down the passage. Tanith follows swiftly. "Casas Sendra," she intones, and the secret door slides shut.

(I'm assuming you are putting the Jeweled Dagger back in your boot, and the Steel Shadakine Dagger in your belt?)



Grey Star:
(yup!)



Texan Kai:
The dark passage seems interminably long, and the three of you are panting for breath before you reach its end. The winding tunnel opens into a large, natural cavern. You rush through the cave mouth and down the steep slope of a hill, stopping only when you reach the bottom. You gasp for breath, your chest heaving and your limbs aching.

As you and your companions stop to catch your breath, you turn and look behind. The citadel looms high above you, its bleak stone walls crumbling to the ground. It is enveloped by a strange mist, and the shadowy forms of the dead dance around it. Stone by stone they raze the prison to the ground. The shrieks and howls of the Shadakine echo beneath the starlit sky as they meet a grisly death at the hands of their past victims.

"Was it you who called the dead?" asks Tanith, her eyes wide. You cannot tell if she is impressed or fearful.



Grey Star:
"Yes, it was me. I did what I had to to escape." I look at her, slightly worried.



Texan Kai:
"A horrible death for those people," she remarks coolly. "Shasarak would have approved." She seems unaware of the ironic nature of her statement.

As you make distance from the prison, you and your companions find yourselves standing in a small dell. Ahead lies the Suhni River and beyond the river, a forest. "Come," says Tanith, "there is a bridge nearby. We must cross the bridge to gain the safety of the forest before we can rest."

"The witch speaks the truth," comments Shan, returning the girl’s icy glare contemptuously. Though you have barely rested, you continue onwards, coming at last to a wide road that crosses the Suhni River by means of a large, ornate bridge.

"It will not be long before the Shadakine come searching for us," says Tanith. "Have you a spell that would destroy this bridge and hinder their pursuit?"



Grey Star:
"Of course." I use sorcery to destroy the bridge



Texan Kai:
You are very tired. Wearily, you close your eyes and summon your reserves of energy to destroy the bridge. You overcharge your Staff and release a crackling bolt of energy at the bridge. the blast detonates, showering all of you with river water and small pebbles from the bridge. When you open you eyes you see a smoldering glowing ruin where the bridge once stood.

The extreme mental exertion has cost you dearly (-3 Willpower). Your legs buckle under and you fall to the ground, barely conscious. Tanith and Shan pull you to your feet and half carry you into the shelter of the forest.

"Such power," she whispers in admiration in your ear.

(And with that we are at a stopping point!)


***

Hope y'all enjoyed! Next time… [SPOILERS!] 

[Texan Kai]

Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your point of view), our Grey Star player recently got a new job! Consequently her time will be dedicated to wages, customer support, and irritable managers rather than the overthrow of Shasarak for the time being. Hopefully we can still get some updates in now and then.