Strange Stars IC

[Someone]

Al´Gera, peace be with them. Boad-elih Ha-Rashnid, the grandfather, ended the disputes between the members of his tribe; the father, Maal Ha-Rashnid, expanded the kingdom´s rule over the mighty river Nalai, up to and limited only by the impenetrable jungles, mountains and desert. And the son, Alik Ha-Rashnid, Caliph and Keeper of the Book, is decided to use the river of riches that pass through Al´Gera to transform the kingdom from the dominion of seminomadic raiders and huts made of mud, in a wonder that will make travellers dream with heaven.

Al´Gera holds a special place in the Infinite Sea. It´s easier to travel fom one land to another if you stop in Al´Gera first; thus, the huge city´s port teems with merchants and adventurers –frequently there´s no distinction between them- since the Ha-Rashnids ended the endemic fights and expanded the port; the commerce, and the exports of rare woods and food, made the city and kingdom flourish like no one thought possible a couple decades ago. The Caliph also finances hospitals, schools and a great university, and makes efforts to bring the best thinkers from all the lands bathed by the Sea.

And the Caliph, the ruler chosen by God, loved by his people, has urgently summoned you to his presence. However, the messenger (a young halfling caller Jalok) looked around and whispered: ”Better if you carry your, ahem, most prized posessions with you”

 

[DM_Matt]

Al´Gera, peace be with them. Boad-elih Ha-Rashnid, the grandfather, ended the disputes between the members of his tribe; the father, Maal Ha-Rashnid, expanded the kingdom´s rule over the mighty river Nalai, up to and limited only by the impenetrable jungles, mountains and desert. And the son, Alik Ha-Rashnid, Caliph and Keeper of the Book, is decided to use the river of riches that pass through Al´Gera to transform the kingdom from the dominion of seminomadic raiders and huts made of mud, in a wonder that will make travellers dream with heaven.

Al´Gera holds a special place in the Infinite Sea. It´s easier to travel fom one land to another if you stop in Al´Gera first; thus, the huge city´s port teems with merchants and adventurers –frequently there´s no distinction between them- since the Ha-Rashnids ended the endemic fights and expanded the port; the commerce, and the exports of rare woods and food, made the city and kingdom flourish like no one thought possible a couple decades ago. The Caliph also finances hospitals, schools and a great university, and makes efforts to bring the best thinkers from all the lands bathed by the Sea.

And the Caliph, the ruler chosen by God, loved by his people, has urgently summoned you to his presence. However, the messenger (a young halfling caller Jalok) looked around and whispered: ”Better if you carry your, ahem, most prized posessions with you”

[OOC: This seems closely patterned after the history of the origional Muslim empire. I will assume for now, however, that unlike in said empire, alcohol is legal. This post will make a few more assumptions, beucase I don't know much about the setting. Just correct me where I'm wrong]

Rana, in a far worse mood than usual, sits alone at the bar looking down into her drink and thinking. This place sucks. I understand why the Thulkar sent me here. The Caliph is a powerful friend to have, and this city a vital one for continued sucess in trade, but on the other hand... Rana downs her drink and orders another. The theocracy of the place really creeps me out. Divine right, my @$$. Thats what they all say. From Kinnelkuk, King of Kobolds to Gargamel, Godspeaker of the Grigolian Giants, every warlord and their mother claims to be the The One. No, the Caliph is no more chosen than any of the others. He and his line are simply opportunists who play on the ignorance of the masses to increase and consolidate power. Not that they are not good rulers. They certainly are, and good for their people as well. But still, what a farce, what a charade... Rana downs yet another.

[The halfling appears, and gives his message]

Rana stiffens to a military posture.

"Very well, then. I will perform my duties at once!"

When the halfling leaves, she rests her head in her hands, trying to shake away the wooziness. "Barkeep! Coffee. Black. Lots of it."

 

[Someone]

Re: Re: Strange Stars IC

[OOC: This seems closely patterned after the history of the origional Muslim empire. I will assume for now, however, that unlike in said empire, alcohol is legal. This post will make a few more assumptions, beucase I don't know much about the setting. Just correct me where I'm wrong]

[You gessed it. Al´Gera it´s modeled after Baghdad in the times of Harun al Rashid, you know; Aladdin, Simbad, tales of genies and the like; but don´t worry too much about the details, no more than studying French history to play in Forgotten Realms. And it´s the first time I try this setting, and it´s not very detailed, so if you want can add some stuff if you want.

Only that I was thinking n replace alcohol with a herb that´s burned in braziers.]

 

[nameless]

In a moment of respite, Qalare relaxes in a hookah bar, perusing an recently acquired arcane tome. He desires no attention today, and has adopted an illusionary guise for his public outing.

Seeing Jalok enter the bar, Qalare slithers down into his chair. Not today... I've been away for weeks. I deserve a day off every now and then. How did that runt find me, anyway? Uncannily, the halfling makes a beeline to Qalare's small table to address the wizard. Great. He knew exactly where I was and what I'd look like. Alik must have been watching me today. I wonder what I've done this time? Without looking up from his book or his pipe, Qalare addresses the messenger. "Hello, Jalok. What's on your mind?" Yes, pretend that you don't know why he's here, Qalare. Denial always pulls you through....

[Jalok delivers his message]

Detecting urgency in the message, Qalare lifts his head with a serious expression. Aparrently I was wrong. This time, the Caliph is not just harassing me for amusement. Dismissing the illusion with a gesture, Qalare stands. Some in the bar recognize Qalare and are surprised by his appearance, but the regulars just crack a knowing smile. At their master's command, Siva and Devi (The golems) emerge from behind the voluminous curtains they are concealed by. Turning to the proprietor, "thank you for your hospitality, Wahid." Qalare walks to Wahid and hands him the tome, along with two pieces of gold. "Can you do me a favor and have this returned to my study?" A second realization passes over Qalare, and he offers another hundred gold pieces to Wahid. "I will be away for a while, as well. Additionally, could you see to it that my home is taken care of while I am away? This should cover the cost of finding someone to look after it, and some extra for your trouble."

Wahid nods and accepts the money and the task, and, gathering his effects, Qalare follows the halfling back to the palace.

 

[RedStar]

The monstrous Torvak strode through the crowded marketplace, the sea of people opening in front of him to let him pass. Some knew him as the Caliph's man and respectfully allowed him passage, but the majority saw only a hulking brute of the most outlandish appearance and gave way so as not to rouse his anger. Vainly he traveled from stall to stall seeking but one thing.

"No I don't want your herbs little man. Mead. Beer. Whisky. These are what I want. Do not look at me as if I had demanded your daughters hand. Bah, what must a man do for a drink in this place?

Turning to leave the stall he bumped into what seemed like a child. He grasped it by the scruff of the neck and lifted it up to eye level.

"Now what's this? A pickpocket? Oh, it's you." The halfling thrust out a piece of parchment in front of him. "Hrmph, what's this?" Torvak grasped the paper in his clawed hand and dropped the halfling to the ground. "Strange, what could he want? Run along Jalok, I shall make my own way to his highness." With that he lept into the air unfurling his large golden wings and flew off to the Caliph's palace.

 

[DM_Matt]

Rana finishes her coffee, puts down some coins, walks a bit unsteadily out of the bar, and makes her way to the palace.

 

[Fanog]

Limar Al-Doneh was walking along the harbor, marvelling at the activity of merchants, sailors and officials as he always did. He was dressed in the simple gard of the sailor, easy-fitting pants in bright blue and a loose white shirt. His skin was darkened from the many hours outside, and his hands calloused from the hard work he did. The only thing distinguishing him from those working the sail were the necklaces he wore. One of them contained a hanger depicting a ship on the waves, the other many beads of shell and coral.

The sailor priest walked along the harbor, hearing new of the Sea and the islands, sharing stories with those who had a few hours leave on shore. He would listens to their stories, ease their worries and ailments, and speaks highly of their profession, may they be thankful to the sea for allowing them.

As he saw the small messenger of the Caliph approach him, Limar halted and sat down on a nearby barrel. His bones cracked a bit, one more sign that the years were starting to grow on him. "Old, but not too old", he thought with a smile to himself. He greeted Jalok with a warm smile and listened to the message from the Caliph.

"It seems there is something I must do, and with haste as well. Let us hope that I can go out again, I have been away from the water for too long." He spoke to the messanger, a deep and pleasant voice. "Thank you, Jalok. Please inform him that I will present myself shortly. I will make my way over to my house first to pack, that should only take a moment."

Limar hoisted himself up, leaning on his quarterstaf. Without further delay, he walked along the dock to his house by the shore. Quickly, he picked up the things he would need for an assignment and possible a voyage, pouring it all into his ensorcelled sack. In good time and with a smile on his face, Limar presented himself at the Palace, eager to find out what it was that was needed of him

 

[Someone]

The group at the caravasar (something that only can be described as a huge inn, constructed around a ample inner coutyard, and able to host entire caravans) leave drinks, herbs and cushions and makes his way to the river while Wahid tries to find someone to guide the golem monstrosities. Not far from there, a boat rests under the bright sun, where the rest of the group waits.

The boat goes up the slow but mighty river Nalai, heading for the palace; countless other ships and boats small and large make their way too in the dirty waters. In the middle of the river, a crenellated wall, 40 feet high, surrounds an island. The wall glistens with marble and reliefs.

The boat stops in front of the gates, where lies a small port made of beautifully worked stone. The gaes open for you and you enter the palace, not for the first time.

It is not a single, huge building, but could be better described as a garden where low walls, hedges, and rows of trees hide luxurious chambers and goups of rooms. Small ponds and fountains are everywhere and refresh the air. Same as the reception chamber, where the Caliph waits for you. The chamber is a impressive room, made of white marble, with a long nd shallow pond in the centre, with a playful fountain. The Caliph´s elite guard forms at the sides while you advance; and when you reach the caliph´s throne, you notice that all is not going as it should be.

The Caliph seems worried, so much that is as if ten years suddendly fell upon him. He´s not alone; the royal family (queen and three sons, two of them young enough to be barely able to walk) are also with him, and that´s strange. At their left (so it´s your right) a young robed man stands and frown hen he sees you.

[More to come when I have all the character sheets]

 

[DM_Matt]

Before arriving, Rana "changes" into attire more appropriate for seeing the Caliph using her Hat of Disguise: She makes it appear that she is wearing a fancy evening gown and a good bit more jewelry than usual, and she uses the illusion to cover her weapons. The hat itself becomes a ribbon which she uses to pull back her hair into a short pony tail.

 

[Jade Solstar]

just a quick note

[OOC-as soon as i get the go ahead i'll post my response thanks...jade}

 

[RedStar]

Torvak looks over those asembled by the Caliph and nods to them each in turn.

"All is not well here. Something is gravely wrong," whispers the heavily muscled Torvak to his new companions.

Clad in hides and a shirt of silver chain Torvak looks out of place amongst such finery. For a moment he takes time to study the Caliph's family before his gaze is drawn to the young man stood by the royal family, noticing his frown he stares intently at him for a few seconds before turning back to the Caliph.

"Your Highness, you have called us here and we have come. What is it that troubles you?"

 

[Someone]

Milar and Qalare, now nearer the unknow man, spots some similarities between the Caliph and him, despite the difference of age. Alik´s face shares some, not much, but some of the features of the man at your right.

The Caliph hesitates to speak. Seconds pass before he inclines in his throne and says with some difficulty: ”You are accused of high treason. I require you to surrender your arms. Guards” continues, ”Disarm and jail those men”

When you manage to articulate your dropped jaw, the unknow man interrupts you before you have a chance to speak: ”Silence! The Caliph´s order are to be obeyed without discussion. Guards! Now!”

The guards gulp down. They are the best in the army: agile, skilled, strong, brave and disciplined, armed with the finest steel and the best crafted armor. Though the know that any of you could wade through an army of them without breaking much of a sweat. However, they start drawing the scimitars while the children of the royal family gasp with fear.

[Though I attach a picture detailing the situation, do not automatically assume you are in combat. It´s included only to make clear where are you, not to say what you should do. The big blue thing is a shallow pond; the small circles are pillars and the stars are only decoration.

Also, post your character in the rogue´s gallery (strange stars character thread) before continuing posting here]

 

[Someone]

Here´s the map (hope this time the size is right)

 

[nameless]

Overcoming his initial reaction, Qalare makes no initial violent action. He merely holds up a hand to indicate that he wishes to speak. "Guards," he says, addressing the guards, but obviously speaking to the mysterious advisor. "This new vizier is correct. But if we are in fact, enemies of the Caliphate, would it not occur to us to resist his orders?"

I hope this man is not as powerful a wizard as he appears. The Royal Family is in grave danger, moreso if a battle erupts here. As if answering a question nobody asked, Qalare's train of thought leaps between causes and effects. Of course, it seems so easy, controlling an empire by these means. Remove the only opposition and even those who question can do nothing to stop you. This may be our best and only chance to save the Caliph.

Letting his previous statement sink in for a moment, hoping that it falls on listening ears, Qalare adds, "So perhaps an explanation is deserved, for the better of all present." I only hope we can stall long enough to see what's really happening.

[My action for this round/interval of time is to make a Lore check on the topic of who this mysterious man might be, knowing the lineage and such of the royal family.]

 

[RedStar]

Quickly Torvak glances at those accused of treason along side him. "Jalok must have known something was wrong, his warning to bring weapons is clear to me now," whispers Torvak.

Looking round to the guards he bellows at them. "Would you needlesly spill blood in front of the Caliph's family? Sheathe your swords while we listen to this weasel's accusations." Torvak jabs a clawed finger towards the vizier as he says the last words. "Well then, speak."

 

[DM_Matt]

Rana looks on somewhat shocked, and tried to remember what she knows about palace security procedures and defenses. "The royals and this new guy are clustered together. Hmmm, I know that always kept an eye out for magical defenses...what did he have? Few force fields can stop my magics for long, but blocking one shot is enough." [OOC: Do I know if there are magical protections on that area? Can I see any with Spellcraft?] Rana tenses her mind and body, ready to strike with her blade or her most powerful killing spell if attacked. Meanwhile, Rana speaks up "Your highness, with greatest respect I believe that a legal point of order is necessary here. I am a citizen of Thran, sent by the Thulkarr to aid you. As such, I assume you mean to accuse me of espionage, not treason. I believe that I can speak for the Thulkarr in saying that we value both our honor and the continued cooperation between our two nations far too much to sqander so irresponsably. But if you persist in these charges, I demand that I speak to the ambassador at once and that the Thulkarr be alerted to the situation so that this misunderstanding can be corrected. I do not believe that anyone here desires so sticky an international incident. I hope that this unfortunate incident can be resolved as quickly as possible so that I can return to the work of safeguarding your kingdom."

 

[Fanog]

As he had walked into the reception chamber, some thought had been bugging Milar. He had recked his thoughts, but couldn't place it. Only after he sees the royal family and the stranger, and hears what they had come for, do things slide into place. "Would visitors normally be allowed to bring weapons before his Highness? Jalok must have known, but from whom did he receive his instructions? From the Caliph himself maybe? He seemed exceptionally hesitent to accuse us, like he was forced to."

Milar listens to the others as he tries to make sense of it all, all the while making sure that he does not make any sudden movements.
He makes a small nod at the winged one's comment, indicating that he had noticed as well. There must be another reason why we're here, maybe the Caliph has sought our help after all", Milar thinks. "He might be able to tell us something, if we just had some time. buy time..."

"Your Highness, please. I can assure you that there is nothing that I have done against you, your family, or these lands." he begins to speak, his calm voice trying to smoothe sentiments. "Family... Is the vizier also one of the royal family? It almost seems like it." Not losing pace, Milar continues. "If you could please tell us what it is that would cause you to make these charges, perhaps we can understand what is happening..."

 

[Someone]

Rana is not aware of magical protections, though is rumored that the Caliph is usually protected by talismans of great power. However, you don´t know what are these.

The unknow man frowns at Torvak while the guards slowly close your flanks, keeping two of them back let some of you try to flee through the pond. The Caliph lowers his head and says nothing, clutching the throne in a tight graps while the queen tries to keep the children out of danger.

"Be reasonable" says the captain "Let´s not spill blood in this place"

"Shut up and do what the Caliph says!" replies young at your right.

It´s obvious that the guards will attack in a couple of seconds...

[DM-Matt, I´ll need your definitive character. Take your time if you need]

 

[Jade Solstar]

The mysterious half-elven man robed in flowing white and purple slowly pulls back his hood and very quickly strings an arrow and aims it at the new Caliphs vizier. His facial expression would seem to belay the situation as he merely smiles softly with a serene look saying "I am Rashid Swiftstrike and the Calpih has been like a father to me for over 20 years... I will not allow an ursurper to slither his way into power here while my hand can yet string an arrow. If I am to perish in defense of Al'Gera then you to shall die with me foul tounged servant of lies." "What evil magics are at work here for the Caliph to betray me such ? I will do as commanded as he is my liege but this new vizier does not seem right to me, for I can not recall in forty years
ever seeing him here...Never have I seen the Caliph so distressed and his son almost seems to be staring at me as though I should know what is happenning...It appears a mighty web of deciet is being woven here."

Surely Jalok must have been forewarned as to the situation or else he was warning us of the impending danger and rightfully so.

With a firm nod and a knowning smile to his other compatriots accussed of treason Rashid intently focuses his attention at the new vizier as though by looking at him enough he may see the truth. "Though I hope that I am wrong I may very well be committing treason if I slay one of the royal family but this man seems to be surrounded by an aura of deciet and fear..."

[I will ready an action and if we are attacked I will take a full attack action at the vizier firing 4 arrows using rapid shot. But each arrow I fire will be a sleep arrow as to only cause subdual damage and hopefully put him to sleep so we can figure this out.
Attack: +28/+28/+23/+18 Non-Lethal Dmg: 1d8+12 19-20/x3 Will DC11 to avoid sleep effect]

[OOC- as this is my first PbP game I hope I am writing my actions/thought correctly and combat actions...if anyone had suggestions please let me know thanks...]

 

[RedStar]

Seeing his fellow accused level a weapon at the Vizier, Torvak turns towards the guards and steps forward towards them drawing his broad bladed sword. "Stay out of this or you will die like dogs upon my blade." Torvak calls upon the power that runs in his blood and starts casting a spell. As he finishes the short incantation he begins to grow.

[ooc: Drawing sword, 5' step back towards the pond, casting Enlarge Person. Str 32, Dex 10, AC 28. Space 10', Reach 10'. Base sword damage 2d6, base bite damage 1d8, base claw damage 1d6]