1504 replies to this topic

[Usurper]

I may not become Worgas, but Worgas and I may become best buds forever!

[Usurper]

Here is the key for the image. I guess nobody wanted to guess?

Spoiler

1. Thorfinn Hauskluniff
2. Bjornin
3. Will Scarlet O'Hara
4. Rose
5. Finch
6. Gavin
7. Bub Snikt
8. Kivan
9. Mur'neth
10. Branwen
11. Syvishtara
12. Imoen
13. Xan
14. Garrick
15. Edwin
16. Kagain
17. Shar-Teel
18. Viconia
19. Jaheira
20. Khalid
21. Tiax
22. Eldoth
23. Montaron
24. Xzar
25. Minsc
26. Dynaheir

I'll be posting another update here pretty soon.

I've also revised my personal biography, if you're interested:

Syvishtara: It's me! A young, impetuous level 4 elf Wild Mage who knows quite a few level 1 and level 2 spells. The Monk is always out to keep me down, but he can't handle the wild magic. In fact, the only monk whose words I ever listened to was Gorion. I would describe myself as being all about freedom, art, and the whims of the voices in my head [that's you!]. The mages at Candlekeep told me that magic was a precise discipline needing an iron will and complete dominance, but I know that they're wrong. Spellcasting is actually a partnership. Together the Magic and I do a little dance, make a little love, and really, you know, weave, man! I have a cat familiar. I made a promise to myself long ago that I would never pass up a chance to sleep with anything female. Now that I'm a woman myself, not only will I keep that promise, but I will also be open to a little sweet romance from a man or two. I have learned much about myself through conversations with my fellow adventurers. I have confessed to liking heroic ballads and funny, easy to remember tunes. I also cannot whistle, something which Imoen has always made fun of. I have discovered that the voices in my head have little patience for long, drawn-out emotional dialogues, even with fellow elves. I realized that I never had time for a hobby growing up - my studies were my life in Candlekeep. I mostly studied histories. When I wasn't studying, I was touring the taverns with Imoen. I have confessed to not really caring much about religion, although after a bad experience with Ajantis I have a bit of an aversion to paladins in general, and Helmites in particuar. Gavin is a pretty great guy, though, and he is a cleric of Lathander. I would like to make the world work together in harmony, but I don't know how to do that. I am attracted to the idea of big cities and exciting times, but I do not know when I will get to see them. I have developed an obsession with Rhialto's spellbook, for it gives me hidden, and forbidden knowledge about the weave. I have realized that I am always questioning myself about every decision that I make - I'm almost needlessly paranoid. Finally, I pay very close attention to the effects of wild magic, because that's how the magic speaks to me. I have learned many lessons from the wisdom of the weave. I originally thought that the weave never wanted me to cast crowd control spells - it wanted me to just go straight for the kill. But now, I think it only wants me to not abuse them by casting them on non-crowds. The magic has also taught me that I should never cast at frightened, panicked opponents; I should only attack those attacking me. I'm starting to suspect that the weave thinks I should not cast Burning Hands, ever; it has never worked correctly. Finally, the magic seems to not like me using a bow, and prefers me to use my staff in melee. I gave my bow to Edwin, and have been using the Serpent Shaft in melee to the best of my ability. I haven't died yet! Lately, I've started calling out to Rhialto in times of need. His spellbook always saves me, and his spells always shield me. Praise him! Even though he attacked me in order to extract my spleen in what would have been an undoubtedly painful few hours of surgery, now that he is defeated he is taking an almost divine place within my mind. He was mad, of course, but he was also an absolute genius, and knew the Weave better than anyone else I've ever met. He left me his holy book and I shall study it forever and ever, amen. While in the Nashkel mines, I experienced terrifying visions of paths not taken connected by a great and ancient tree. Even more people tried to kill me in these visions, and I saw my life's past going by with strange and unusual turns. Now I seem to have two memories of what has come before, and do not know which one to believe. I am also completely golden, head to toe, clothes included. I am losing faith in this tenuous illusion of reality we see around us, which is a totally unrelated and unexpected development. With Voices, the Weave, alternate realities, and the guilt of fallen comrades all weighing heavily in my mind, its a wonder I am still sane pane blane! Losing absolutely all of my companions in a several-day-long battle against amazonian mercenary bounty hunters has deeply shocked and humbled me. I now wonder if I can survive at all. I switched our focus to hunting bandits in Larswood. After a few missteps and one more party member dead to poison, I found myself fighting Osmadi the druid, who had just poisoned Kagain. I, Tiax, and Gavin all moved to heal him at the same time. My Healing Touch twisted in my hand, though, and the magic turned upon me, changing the most fundamental aspects of my being. I am... I am now a woman. This is going to take some getting used to. After about a week of rest and adjustment to my new form, I feel much more confident. It is as if the cares and worries of my male self have washed away, and been replaced with more important things. I am currently on a rampage of vengeance against all mine enemies!

Edited by Usurper, 21 January 2012 - 07:47 AM.

[Usurper]

14 Eleint, 1369

I've been reading through my old journal entries. Kinda silly to keep a journal if you don't go back and read them, right? And yet, it's been 4 months since I left Candlekeep and this is the first time I've read the whole thing cover to cover. The thought that came to me the most when reading the entries was that I was a naive little boy. What the hell was I thinking, casting Color Spray at my friends during parties? That shit is dangerous! And I felt like I knew so much about everything back in Candlekeep. I come across as pretty much the master of my domain - tricking monks, talking down to Imoen, mouthing off to injured knights - I could have just slapped myself. I used to be so insufferably happy. I had no idea that real life would involve so much death, so much killing spilling grilling of mine enemies. But there's no getting around it, I must become better at killing if I'm ever able to get anywhere in this life. I must become immune to death, to not miss a breath when my companions spill their blood in the mud with a thud. I am reminded of Xzar's playing, when he fez "I am become death, destroyer of worlds!" He has the right idea, if not the power to back it up. I must also become another death, the foyer of twirls. I must pirouette mine enemies and leave none to stand in one place. They will all dance before me!

We spend the night at Thalantyr's place. He doesn't seem to mind. I guess in this place of relative safety, under the protection of the mage Kivan knows well and where we first met him, Kivan finally feels safe enough to unload a little of what has been on his mind these many months.



Hearing that touches my womanly heart.

You miss her so much, Kivan. I wish there could be something...

My gentle friend... you have done so much for me and so subtly already. Your friendship is the finest thing that happened to me since I was separated from Deheriana.

*blush* I am only doing what I would have done for *any* friend...

I know, arwen en amin... my lady. You honor me with your friendship.

Xan doesn't seem to feel so safe here, though.




I think that we are relatively safe and guarded here. But you can spend the night awake, if you want.

Then I will not be able to recite my spells, and doom will befall us in the morning. Guards or not, our lives are forfeit. We cannot deceive the Fates.

It is the truth. We are most open to injury and death when we enter the reverie and reflect on the past. I often think how ironic it is, that I am most insecure while lingering on the moments spent in Evereska, my city and my home.

Ah, the chance you will see it in the waking world is vanishingly small. But would you like ot share my memories of it?

What do you mean?

So, Gorion did not tell you. A sharing of minds is natural among our kin. Your mother communed with you before you were even born. Words cannot describe it; that is something you have to experience for yourself.

Take my hand, and we shall walk among the ever-shifting sands of Anauroch and arched bridges of Evereskan Vale. You will see a majestic place, where the forest becomes one with the sky. My home... Sometimes I wish it were in my power to remain within the memory for good.

Gameplay note: Ok, what are we Vulcans now?

It is my first time to try reverie, what I heard Kivan describe and what I have seen Xan do. It is eye-opening. Now I know why I have been so restless laying down in a bed all these many years! Xan and I kneel by the fire, and stay there all night. He shows me wonders beyond my wildest dreams.



And here I thought you would cheer up after seeing your homeland in your reverie.

Evereska will fall. All the might and magic I see every night will be for naught. The city is an island among the gathering armies, and eventually the darkness will flood it. I cherish the thought of returning home, but here, in the waking world, I know I will find only ruins and desolation. The puny mission I am striving to complete is a drop in the ocean compared to the perils my city will soon face. Over the years, I have seen the pressure increase, and now I am waiting for the blow to fall.

Why are you here, then? You should return to Evereska and defend your home.

I do not have a choice in the matter. I must proceed with my task, instead.

I got used to the fact that nothing could help my city, but every morning the terror comes anew. And it is not alone: it now comes together with the thought of dying. Before meeting you, I was aware that one of my missions would become the last. Today, I know this one is. Sooner or later, my magic will fail, and the bounty hunters will wipe us out. We're all doomed.

I leave to go freshen up then, and run into Kivan. He also has a troubled look on his face, as normal. But this time he wants to talk about it.




It might be because of that look on your face, Kivan. You... do not seem alive.

Syvishtara, I can never forget one thing. When the orcs had surrounded us, I had my dagger pressed against Deheriana's neck. But I hesitated, and I lost my chance to save her.

Kivan! Listen to me. What if you had killed her, and then there was a chance for both of you to escape? Kivan, death is irreversible. You did the right thing by staying your hand!

Syvishtara, if I had another moment, she would have died by my hand, and I would have followed her. You know what happened, instead? She begged the beasts for mercy... to spare me.

Tazok found it comical and ordered me beaten in front of Deheriana, and pretended that her pleas might touch his heart. If only she tried a little harder...

But I was weak; at length I fainted. When I came back... When I came back...

She was lying on the ground, or at least what once was her was lying there - a misshapen piece of flesh, torn, cut, burned... Tazok was wearing a fresh pair of elven ears on his necklace - he told me that it was a trophy for the one who takes the first turn...

Gameplay note: I think I need to show you what options I have for dialogue here. #5 WTF?



Kivan, please, stop it! STOP IT!

What, are you not entertained by listening to my past any longer?

How can you say that! I just... I cannot see you reliving this nightmare all over again. Please, Kivan, why are you doing this to yourself?

I do not seek absolution. I would like to know what another living being thought about my doom. That day... once I saw that Deheriana was left untouched while they concentrated their efforts on me, it became my only goal to keep awake and be entertaining enough as a victim.

The world became a blur, but I was forcing myself on my feet after each hit, I was yelling until my lips would not move. When Tazok was finally bored by the spectacle, he ordered Deheriana killed. As soon as her lifeless body hit the ground, my spirit left me too. They left both of us for dead. But I did not die. Why?

Gameplay note: Again I think I need to show the available options. You can tell him that he deserves his suffering, and you can also tell him that he is still Tazok's plaything. Damn those are harsh.



Maybe you are wrong? Maybe it was Deheriana's love that returned you to life, not the will of Shevarash? You have done what you could to protect her, ranger. Have your revenge, if you must, but I think that was not what Deheriana meant for you.

Why would Deheriana want me to walk Toril without her by my side? Thank you, Syvishtara, for the sweet words, but if Deheriana forgave me my weakness, she would be waiting for me in Arvanaith even now, hoping, like me, that my duty to Shevarash will not take much longer. Shevarash will not let me depart until I redeem myself by avenging my wife.

I am surrounded by pain and misery, my elven brethen talking of doom and pain and loss; vengeance and downfall. What a world I live in? What can I do in this valley of the shadow of death?



*Xan looks over your garments, covered with blood and grime after the last battle, and his lips go white.* Syvishtara, may I ask you not to risk yourself needlessly?

Xan, I am trying my best as it is.

You are? Ah, but of course. That was a naive question of me to ask. It was absurd even to suggest you have any influence on the matter. But how I wish you had...

We pack up and leave.

[Usurper]

When we step outside, it is still the darkness of the early morning.



I thought you were from Evereska! Where are these Greycloak Hills?

Greycloak Hills were once called Tomb Hills. They are located north of Evereskan Mountains, and were settled by the elves of Evereska to protect the borders from many banshees who lurked there.

I remember hearing about it now. But rumors said that was not banshees, but the treasures of the Fallen Kingdom hidden in the tombs in those Hills that made the elves make the move.

This, Syvishtara, I cannot discuss with you.

*sigh* What about these Walkers? Are they some sort of a secret, as well?

They are golems conjured from the magic mists surrounding the Hills, and each of them can crush our group effortlessly. Fortunately, they serve with the Greycloak's patrols, not fight against us.

Magic mist? What for? I understand a mage or a priest conjuring rain during drought, or a wizard who breaks up the clouds when he does not want his robes soaked... but a mist?

The magical mist in the Greycloak Hills wards off the intruders and blocks certain enchantments. The mist here does naught but hide our foes... Be wary, Syvishtara, our doom is near.

Sometimes, Xan is a drag. I just have to admit that to myself now. I lead my party back to Beregost, and we wander around for a bit. I contemplate attacking those mercenaries sieging the Song of the Morning Temple, but I'd like to get some more practice together as a group first. There should be another place that we can go to get some fighting experience...



We travel to the Red Canyons without incident. When we get there, Trungle greets us. Was he expecting us?



He is selling some pretty cheap Antidotes at 300 gold each, so we buy two. We will probably run into a lot more spiders here soon. Then we make camp and sleep without incident. In the morning...



*His cool fingers briefly touch your neck, brushing away something you cannot see. It flashes past, and as you glance down, you see a twig lying on the ground. While you stare at it, Xan carefully rearranges your hair back in place and resumes walking.*

Hmm, I wonder where that came from? Oh well. The plan is to keep going west, and head for the coast. I heard there were sirens and other wonders out there. But as we begin to make our way west, Branwen spots some orc archers!



I don't wanna mess around with these guys this time. I summon the Wild Horde while Branwen buffs up Xan.



The bunnies give us the cover and confusion we need to be most effective. Xan shows just what he's made of by getting the first kill.



Branwen is able to take the second one out with a bullet. The third is focusing on hitting a random bunny.



The bunnies are unsummoned as we all close in on the third archer, but it's ok. Their work is done here.



The third one is taken out by Kivan. We are doing well together today!



They had some Arrows of Ice and Arrows +2 on them. Both go to Kivan.



About halfway across the area we encounter more orcs. This time, an orc priest accompanies them.



Branwen thinks it's a good time to give us Aid. She gives it to Xan, myself, and her.



Then we move in. I note that the orc goes into a barbarian rage, which sounds pretty dangerous. I tell everybody to target him first.



Our first attacks go pretty well, although Branwen eats an arrow as well.



The orc, in his rage and fury, rushes at Xan. Xan, with his Moonblade and the Shield of the Falling Stars, meets him. I get flashbacks to the last time Xan faced down a raging orc - he died. It is probably on his mind too. Why then does he not look scared?



I decide to borrow a page out of Narcillicus Harwilliger Neen's playbook and reach through Nahal's for Blindness. I throw it at him.



The Weave surges through me and pours out of my fingertips, much stronger than a simple Blindness spell would warrant. As Kivan kills the berserker, the orc priest gets off his last spell and then... simply stops moving. But so does Xan.



I almost shout in jubilation, but a second later the Orc priest begins to cast another spell. I guess it didn't stick? A ninja-to suddenly appears sticking out of the orc priest's back, and then Imoen appears holding it. I guess she didn't want to take any chances with him? Despite that, he manages to get another spell off, and I am Held.



Kivan makes sure to negate whatever advantage the orcs had by straight up killing the priest in one hit.



And also, the very next round, he murderizes the orc archer too.



Imoen finds a magical cloak on the orc priest, but we cannot identify it right now. We'll have to wait until tomorrow. Despite our definite victory, Xan doesn't seem happy with the way things went.



I have yet to see any more efficient solutions to life's problems, oh depressive elf. Mayhap 'tis possible for you to charm all those who would wish us harm into being our friends, instead? Corpses can't be dispelled.

When one is in acquaintance to this party, one does not need enemies. *sighs* Their chances of survival *against* us is much better than with us.

Branwen doesn't really have time to ponder this, however, because she is distracted by something with her armor.



We manage to make it the rest of the way through the Red Canyons without any more orcs stopping us, and prepare for the longer journey ahead of us. When I lived in Candlekeep they often spoke of the lighthouse to the south of the castle, and I've always wanted to see it. Now, we will!



We arrive without incident. And, of course, we have to make camp first. It definitely was a long journey.



After sleeping, we begin to make our way to the lighthouse in the distance. We can see it towering over the trees. But partway there we run into a nice old lady.



Poor lad. I think we should go help him. It reminds me of when we were kids in Candlekeep, and you'd run away scared of the dogs, when they'd bark.

Honestly, cannot you people take care of yourselves? Has the brat not been taught to hold a sword, at least? This display of abject cowardice against mere worgs is pathetic.

On my honor as a ranger I swear that we will do our best to draw away the worgs, my good woman.

Oh, please help him!

Before we can go to the worgs' location, however, Xan turns to me.



Well, you were not far from truth in your suggestions. I doubt my mysterious opponent will spare the lives of my companions.

Yes, as I said before. Nevertheless, it is no excuse.

I think you do not fully understand the danger you are in. Gorion has been sheltering you for as long as you remember, and now, after several lucky encounters, you probably think it will last. But believe me, you are not invincible.

I am aware of the danger. But will musing on it bring a new perspective?

We are all doomed, but you can delay the hour of your death by foreseeing the danger, and predicting your enemies' actions. If you do not rush into the fray, you will live a moment longer. Do not throw the opportunity away. Burying you in the wilderness is not something I look forward to.

Neither do I look forward to dying before my time. I am careful, Xan. Very careful.

Then, perhaps, we shall live to see another day. A year ago, I would have said "we shall survive to the end of your quest," but now, alas, I know better.

How can I convince this elf that I'm not going to die in the next fight? We approach the lighthouse and see the worgs.

[Usurper]

I very carefully stay back as Kivan rushes in to try to tame one of them.



It doesn't work. So he just rushes away and murders it instead.



I very carefully only enter melee after Xan engages the worgs. Kivan very carefully destroys a second worg just like the first.



And finally Kivan very carefully kills the third worg. Why are the rest of us here again?



Now wasn't there supposed to be a kid around here somewhere?



Eh? What is this? We heard the sounds of fighting, and here I see three dead wolves and... what? What is your purpose here, stranger?

I would ask the same of you. I was told a boy had been trapped here by these creatures.

Ah, so that would explain this little lad's abrupt entry into our home, here. It's a good thing you arrived when you did.

What did you say your name was again? Brandon?

Brennan, sir. I... I... I just... I want my mum!

I will take you to your mother, child. Come along.

Then you'll be off, will you? Take care. We'll get back to our business.

Mind you don't get cornered by sirines, either. Worthless wretches make my life out here a living hell.

Sirines? So the stories are true!



*Xan is drawing something on a page torn out of his spellbook. Judging by the wayward glances he throws at you now and then, you can easily guess the nature of this sketch.*

We immediately return the boy to his mother.



O, sorry for scarin' your son an' all, ma'am. Hope he's alright! Ya tell him that some adventurers do good things, like helpin' other folk in need.

My friend, it was a noble deed. I wish that more people were as ready as you to lend a helping hand to the small folk.

Take this, and thank you!

Most of my companions seem to approve of what we have accomplished here today.



I'm kinda intrigued about what that guy said about sirines, so I go back to ask him some more questions.



You mentioned sirines. Why should I be so wary of them?

As you've no doubt found in these untamed lands, each valley, forest, mountain, or plain has its own set of beasties. Around here, that monster is the sirine.

They don't listen to reason, and they attack without hesitation. It's hard to make a living when their sort are around, but what can one do but keep fighting the good fight?

I thought this place was abandoned. What exactly are you doing here?

I work for a shipping company that trades along the Sword Coast and further south. The tariffs in Baldur's Gate are too high for them, though, so they anchor their ships out to sea here and I and my crew row out to refit and resupply them.

It is a meager living, but an honest one.

As interesting as this is, I have no more time for it. Farewell.

As I'm talking with this guy, Imoen seems to fade from view and finds a room in the back. It has nothing but food, though. Boring.



She does snag something good on the way out, though, a +1 sling.



We check out the lighthouse, but it is bare.



But the building to the left is much more intriguing.



There is nothing but an old chainmail in the corner, but there is a stairway leading down... it takes us to a basement.



We find a few gold and some throwing axes down there. Imoen decides that now is a good time to identify that orc cloak we got off the healer.



It is almost completely disgusting, and I don't think anybody here wants to wear it. We stick it on the mule. With nothing else to do, we go searching through the rest of the immediate area.



*Branwen reaches out her hand and strokes your forearm, feeling your biceps.* You are a strong warrior. I respect that.

*She winks and presses close to you for a moment, before walking away.*

That woman does strange things to me. And immediately after that, all hot and bothered, I run into Safana.



Maybe if you told us your name and problem we could help you.

My name is Safana and I can make all of you richer than any of you could imagine. I know where the pirate Black Alaric dumped his greatest trove of treasure. Looking at the dynamic and intelligent men before me, I know you'd want to join me in a venture to get this treasure.

What am I, chopped liver?

A lost treasure, huh? We're interested.

The reason I need so many heroic men is that the caverns where I wish to go are guarded by some sort of creature; which kind I couldn't tell you. If you help me, I'll let you share in the treasure. I may be grateful in other ways, as well.

We agree.

Ohh, thank you, you won't regret your decision. I know that powerful heroes like you will easily push through any obstacles in our path. Well, we should be foff then. From what my map showed, the pirate cove is located somewhere along the coast, just south of Candlekeep.

Gameplay note: And with that, she offers to join our party. Let's take a look at her. She is, of course, a Treasure Hunter, which is a thief kit!





She also has a Charm Person spell called Flirt. It works exactly the same as Imoen's Charm Person. All in all a solid thief.

What should we do with this oversexed thief?

1. We should send her back to the Jovial Juggler for later.
2. We should take her on temporarily and do her treasure hunt, then send her away.
3. We should take her on as a permanent member of the party.

If you answered 2 or 3, who should she replace?
A. Replace Xan. He's not nearly as sexy.
B. Replace Branwen. She's not nearly as sexy.
C. Replace Imoen. Imoen is charming, yes, but she doesn't hunt treasure professionally.
D. Replace Kivan. Killshots aside, the guy is suicidal. It's such a drag.
E. Replace Mur'neth. He's kindof a lump in the party right now.

[hook71]

I vote:

3. We should take her on as a permanent member of the party.

E. Replace Mur'neth. He's kindof a lump in the party right now.

[Miloch]

I'm confused, because it looks like you're playing as Faldorn and Branwen is hitting on you .

But I would probably replace Mur'neth with Safana too. Or maybe Xan but I dunno if you have a mage apart from him.

[Argumentative]

Hey Usurper/Vorgen, very nice LP

I vote:

2. We should take her on temporarily and do her treasure hunt, then send her away.
E. Replace Mur'neth. He's kindof a lump in the party right now.

It makes more sense to drop Imoen to pick up Safana.
But a) I like Imoen
b) Mur'neth has been awfully quiet and
c) I am loving the whole "Club for chronically depressed elves" you got going there, so the rest stay.

Edited by Argumentative, 21 January 2012 - 08:06 PM.

[Quiet]

Yeah, kick out this disgusting slime and take Safana.

2. E.

[Usurper]

I'm confused, because it looks like you're playing as Faldorn and Branwen is hitting on you .

But I would probably replace Mur'neth with Safana too. Or maybe Xan but I dunno if you have a mage apart from him.

Well there was this thing with a wild surge and I turned into a woman, but before then Branwen liked me and I guess she doesn't mind my current body? And I used to look a lot like Xan but then when I changed I ended up looking Faldornish.

[Miloch]

Well there was this thing with a wild surge and I turned into a woman, but before then Branwen liked me and I guess she doesn't mind my current body? And I used to look a lot like Xan but then when I changed I ended up looking Faldornish.

Oh ok, that makes sense. Hmm, I suppose Branwen probably wouldn't mind, though the whole thing about squeezing biceps and talking about manliness is kinda odd in that case - if that's from BG1NPC someone should probably look into the potential for sexchange heh.

This is a very entertaining thread btw - haven't had time to read all of it but I do look at it from time to time - kudos on all the detail, graphics and whatnot, must be a lot of work.

[Leokosta]

3 and E. Also, put Coran in Kivans place and change his portrait ( Coran ).
Did u change her with SK or was it a Divine Remix thing ? On my playthrough, I installed spell rvisions instead DR, and they are incompatible. Begining to regreat

[Usurper]

We haven't met Coran yet. And I changed Safana with SK.

Also, the wild surge sex change actually wore off after 24 hours or so, but I also made that permanent with Shadowkeeper (Shhh, don't tell the main thread!). It is the best way I could think of to show off the most mod content, which is the most important purpose of the Let's Play. There's no way I was going to try to fiddle with all the variables to turn Xan's (or Coran's!) romances homosexual. Too risky. I'll keep being female until another wild surge turns me back to male, if that ever happens... But until then, Branwen and perhaps Shar-Teel will be flirting and romancing a woman.

[SapphireIce101]

Ahh, Coran, too bad that Sylvishtara hasn't found him yet. Hes one of my favorite characters in BGI, other than Kivan and Imoen. Also, I've never played with Safana in the party. I might have to try that.

Alright, I vote:

3. Take her on as a permanent party member, and E. Replace Mur'neth with her because Mur'neth has been really quiet.

[Crazee]

3E. Slime boy's too quiet for my liking.

[Usurper]

Ok, here are the final votes:

What should we do with this oversexed thief?

1. Back to the Jovial Juggler 
2. Do her treasure hunt only .................
3. Taker her on permanently ....................

A. Replace Xan ....
B. Replace Branwen 
C. Replace Imoen 
D. Replace Kivan 
E. Replace Mur'neth .................................

I'll start working on the next update now.

[Beleg33]

I see you haven't met any sirine yet, I hope you have aTweaks installed for them ^^ Makes for some interesting fights while running away (possibly several runs around the map for me when I got 3, then a 4th of them on me)

[Usurper]

Sorry to disappoint you, but I didn't fight the sirines!

[Usurper]

17 Eleint, 1369

Gameplay note: :siren: :siren: This update is rated PG-13 by the Action Text Rating Board. *Action Text Rating Board scrutinizes you* If you find Action Text descriptions of almost-kissing to be disconcerting, please be prepared to skip some paragraphs. :siren: :siren:

I feel a little dubious about this obviously over-sexed woman standing in front of us, but she did mention treasure. I've never found myself to be someone who passes up treasure. So, with some relief, I turn to Mur'neth and ask him to take a break back at the Jovial Juggler for a while longer. I remind him to not eat anyone while he's there. Then I welcome Safana into the party with a warm smile.

She said the treasure was just south of Candlekeep. That means we should head north. I hope this doesn't get us into trouble. We follow the path to the north. We are met with a woman in a gray robe.



Pardon me, but if you do not trouble yourself with the events of the day, what purpose do your star-gazings serve?

What purpose? The Sword Coast is by no means the center of the universe. Lives and dramas are lived out across the Realms. There are lands closer than you would think that neither know nor care about our little problems.

Why, of course the Sword Coast is the centre of the universe. At least for now - because that's where I am. You see, darling, I met this absolutely dashing philospher once, who tried to seduce me with learning. Much of it were silly things, like giving up material wealth for... something; but one was useful. He taught that the only part of the world that exists is the one that rotates around us. I knew it all along, but it was pleasant to see that the sages are finally catching up with me...

I am more interested in what this sage says, though. I kinda miss talking to smart people.

And what of these lands? What intrigues lay beyond our borders?

Well, just across the southern mountains there are troubles brewing in great Amn that will make our current concerns seem small by comparison. To the far north there is a city where winter never rears its ugly head; a city that has not been seen nor heard from for many a year, but will soon welcome the return of a multitude of citizens. Both of these events will unfold regardless of our current troubles. Great may be our concerns, but much more is on the horizon. Leave me be, I have much to think upon.

You don't really believe that, do ya, Syvishtara?

I can say things like that, link it to some mumbo-jumbo about star alignments and other stuff too, you know, and make it sound just vague enough to cover almost any circumstance.

Wait a second here... hmm...

So you see.

Gameplay note: Ladies and gentlemen, Baldur's Gate II and Icewind Dale II references, here for your amusement. I'm pretty sure Icewind Dale I happened hundreds of years ago right?




I am scared to death, Xan. But I march on, because I must.

That is close to what I feel about the endless chain of our battles. It can break any man, given enough time. Were I alone, I would probably consider closing my eyes and waiting for death to come. But I have a mission, and companions I have sworn to protect.

I fear that soon the unceasing chase we have to endure would get to you, as well. You cannot yet imagine the years upon years of facing deadly perils, of narrowly escaping death at every turn. Eventually, you will be forced either to become a merciless killing machine, or to lose your will to live.

It will not last forever. Once I deal with the Iron Throne, I shall be free to settle down, if I choose to do so.

Perhaps... perhaps, in the future, you indeed may forsake this self-destructive course, and live a long, happy life, as you should.

That sounds strange, given that you've been adventuring... for how long? And you do not intend to settle down anytime soon, do you?

A moonblade wielder cannot escape into quiet and solitude, however they might wish it. Even as I hold the sword in my hand, it judges each and every of my deeds, demanding that I continue to protect my land and my people. I am the champion of the lost cause, summoned forth to fight hopeless battles, left without a choice, and, indeed, without a future. *sigh* I am so tired of facing this side of life, and it alone...

But enough of this. Come, Syvishtara, let us continue on our path of misery.

But even though he acts like he doesn't want to talk about it, not five minutes later Xan speaks up again.



So, what has happened to him?

Cousin Erevain intended to see the world, before joining his family in Retreat. Evidently he traveled as far as Icewind Dale. *sighs*

Retreat?

Your ignorance is disconcerting, but then again, what is not? If you do not learn of Retreat, you are doomed to be the last elf left on Faerun, Syvishtara. Our people are leaving this sorrowful land, and move to the island of Evermeet.

Oh, *that* Retreat! Gorion used to call it Exodus... Never mind that, tell me what happened to Erevain.

*sighs* Elvendom should learn a lesson from Erevain's fate. A group of ragged mercenaries came to the Halfway Inn about fifty years ago. They brought back Erevain's sword and diary. His... his body was found near Kuldahar path...

He has departed for Arvanaith, then...

Do you know naught? An elf who died so far from home, and in a violent way, may never enter the afterlife in Arvanaith. Only a fool can forsake the elven immortality for an adventure.

Which, coincidentally, makes us both into fools, friend Xan. Admit it, mellonamin, you do like the life of an adventure, despite your gloomy demeanor.

*Xan looks at you worriedly and walks away, fumbling a healing potion, for some reason.*

But he comes back a few minutes later. :siren: :siren:



*Xan approaches you, twirling a brush in his hands and looking strangely hesitant.* Syvishtara, do you have anything against extra magical protection? I have some experience with magical wards, and I do believe they will help against your enemies, if applied on your skin properly.

Interesting. Let's try it.

*For a second, the color drains off Xan's face, but then he composes himself. You allow him to steer you away from the group, where you settle down, with him sitting in front of you. Xan frowns, looking at the brush, and under his gaze, it flashes blue, yellow, and finally, pitch black. He shakes away the clinging drops and slowly draws his hand towards your collarbone.*

*The touch of the brush is light and soft, though it stings your skin, ever so slightly, with whatever magical components are added to the paint. It glides along your collarbone in slow, delicate and rhythmical strokes, following some mysterious pattern. You cannot see what it is, but Xan obviously does, for his eyes are transfixed on the image, his lips are slightly parted, and you have not heard his breathing for quite some time, which might be only partially due to his artistic inspiration.*

*The tip of the brush moves down again, tracing a line to your cleavage, and you feel Xan's fingers burning hot through the brush. The movements of his hand become slower and gentler, until they resemble caresses, not brush strokes, and your own breathing suddenly seems heavier.*

*Whether your reaction is too much for him, or he is truly done with the patterns around your neckline, but Xan withdraws the brush, and the next moment, his other hand gently tilts your head upwards, as he starts to work on your neck once again. However, he only makes the situation worse, as his left arm now lies on the nape of your neck, supporting you, and his face is bent over yours.*

Gameplay note: I think it's important to show which choices I'm presented with here, and to remind you that the thread voted to have Syvishtar(a), as chaotic neutral, try to screw everything that moves.



*You wrap your hands around his shoulders and kiss him on the lips.*

*Before you are able to say or do anything, Xan sharply shakes his head.* Do not move. The wards are not yet complete; it can be dangerous.

Gameplay note: I guess... we didn't kiss him then? Retroactive action text gets really confusing really fast.

*Xan quickly picks the brush from his lap and resumes his work. However, this time his movements are swift and sharp, and his face betrays nothing but calm concentration. The wonderful feeling of being the center of his universe is gone; he is pensive and gloomy, his fingers are cold, and his lips are tightly closed.*

*Soon, his work is complete. He sighs, helping you up.* Syvishtara, I was a fool to have suggested it in the first place. When magic and emotions collide, it is a disaster waiting to happen, and we have taken enough risks already. My... loss of concentration could cost you your life, were the circumstances different. I shall not endeavour it again.

Gameplay note: There is also no change to my stats. I think this qualifies Xan as a ward-tease.

We pull ourselves together, go back to the group, and we are patrolling in short order again. I hear some dogs through the forest, and Kivan rushes out to tame one.



Kivan takes out one worg, and Xan takes out the other.



The two dogs are done in by Imoen. Hardly a fight at all. We get back to work.



*An almost empty water-skin hangs on her side. Branwen shakes it energetically, and topples it over her generously open mouth. The contents pour between her eager lips, but a single drop traces a line down her jaw and stops, sparkling tantalizingly, at the nape of her neck.*

I'm still a little hot and bothered because of Xan, and kinda mad too. I want to make him jealous.

*lick it off*

*laughs* By Tempus, you are thirsty!

Xan doesn't react.

Edited by Usurper, 12 February 2012 - 05:21 PM.

[Usurper]

We head north and eventully come to some cliffs overlooking the sea.



I think I can see Candlekeep far to the north! I gaze at it for a while, then turn away wistfully. I can never go home. I lead my companions across the cliffs, where we eventually find... hobgoblins?



Kivan takes one out even before I cast my first spell.



I feel pretty proud of myself when I'm able to take out the second one just after I finish casting.



The elite hobgoblin never even had a chance.



And neither did the other one.



The rest of the battle is a slaughter barely worth mentioning. The gulls cry out their glee at our victory. When it is over, and Kivan has cleaned up the mess, Imoen pipes up. I turn to her out of habit but she isn't speaking to me.



I suppose. The lady whom I had an appointment with is fashionably late. I wonder what keeps her?

Erm? Anyone I know?

We all will be introduced to her very soon. The name is Death.

None of us should be seeing her for a while, hopefully. Yea, I know you're a big grump and all, but I got the perfect thing to cure you of your continuous depressive mood.

*sighs*

That's what you think. Anyway, wanna hear 'bout my idea?

I have seen your like before. If I say: "No", which is my uttermost desire, you shall ask: "Why?", and you shall continue pestering me until my very end. I would love to spend my last moments in peace, so spit it out and remember that brevity is-

Great! Now listen, cuz I know you'll be glad when this works, and you can let everyone know it was Imoen who cured you.

Here it is: I'm going to dress you in all bright colors, especially in a lot of pink. We can even dye your hair pink if that'll help, paint your fingernails pink, anything to get you over this "life's not worth living" attitude!

*looks at Imoen's bright cheerful smile dubiously* I doubt that will work. All it will do is waste your time, money and effort you could better spend preparing for our eventual demise.

That's what you think! Just you wait. I know it'll make you all perky and cheerful, just like me!

*aside* Pesky and earful, more like...

I hope he lets her do it. Xan could use some cheering up. I decide to lead us back down the cliff face, and at the bottom is a pack of worgs. We attack. They attack. Everybody attack-tacks.



Kivan kills 1 and Xan kills 3. The battle is nothing to write home about.

Branwen says she sees something dangerous on the beach - many women standing about with bows. I'm a little leery of that kind of situation, so I send Kivan in to investigate.



He sees that the beach is full of sirines. Don't they charm people? It seems quite dangerous to go down there. Kivan continues up the coast, though, and I don't stop him. I can't even see him to talk to him anyways.



Wait! I seek no battle. What do you mean 'murder and trespass'?

You lie and feign ignorance. My sisters have seen you with the murderers from the ship and the tower.

They came here looking for treasures and worthless baubles. I have told them and I tell you now; there is no treasure here but the wind, sand, and sea. Begone from our home!

If you want, I can pass on your warning. They are more kin to me than to you, and may heed my words when they scorn yours.

Many are the lies your kind spins, but this one last time I will believe. Make the land-thieves leave, and you will have pleased I, Sil, the Queen of these beaches and surf.

To please me is to please my sisters. Our wrath will be stayed for the meantime. Go.

On the way back, Kivan checks to make sure the sirines on the beach are no longer angry. They seem to be fine. He comes back and tells us everything. We decide that Sil must be talking about the guy in the lighthouse, so we go back to give him her message.



I met a sirine named Sil, and she told me all about you.

You spoke with Sil, did you? Ha. She's been a thorn in my side ever since we set up our operation here.

And what, pray tell, did she have to say? As if the word of an evil monster could be trusted. Ha!

She told me you're looking for treasure, and that you've killed a number of her kin. Explain that away.

If you're trying to outsmart me into giving a confession, you've failed. Innocent men tell no lies, and when I say my business here is legitimate, I speak the truth. Now, if you don't mind, I have better things to do than speak with people who accuse me of being a criminal.

There's the door. See yourself to it.

But I don't want to give up this easily. I open my mouth to say more.



TO ME! WE ARE ATTACKED!

Kind of nasty of him to say he is being attacked before he attacks us, but his comrades appear from behind the screen nevertheless.



I have no patience for this, so I cast Rhialto's Holy Missiles at the one that looks like a mage. He drops.



Kivan is the one to kill that stupid old man.



One of the now-obviously-pirates jumps out of the shadows to stab Xan in the back, but she fails. I suck the life out of her in retaliation.



Branwen takes out the next one with her hammer.



The close quarters have caused Kivan to switch to his spear. I can tell because I see little flashes of flame when he hits someone. Right next to him, Xan cuts down the assassin-pirate that attacked him.



Kivan manages to burn the next one to death with his Spear of Fire.



And Imoen brings her own share of the pain by taking out the last one. The room is ours.



There is a lot of junk on the bodies, and also a Studded Leather Armor +1. I give it to Safana.



We leave to go tell Sil that the pirates are dead. But when we arrive it is night, and she is not there. We decide to camp out on the beach to wait for her to return.