Ending the Springlight Festival

The grand melee which ends the tournament provides as much entertainment as can be, from the three-way duel between the Dhakaani warriors from Darguun, the Valenar riders and the Aundairan knights; to the temporary alliance between Khatovar, Drelev and Breland taking on Pitax and Karrnath; to the sudden shift by Drelev and Breland with the remaining Karrn warrior to take on the two from Khatovar; to the unexpected climax.

The audience evidently loves it, cheering at the sight of Grabthar absorbing incredible amounts of damage and personally taking down two enemies before he goes down; shouting for Kara when she is left alone facing four enemies; roaring in surprised pleasure when the Valenar rider Navaratna and Lady Brianne Palon of Aundair, both bloodied by their personal duel, rush to aid Kara; jeering Hannis Drelev as his allies go down before the three women and he retreats--unsuccessfully-- from them.

The cheers increase in volume as Kara, Brianne and Navaratna then fight each other, reaching a crescendo when Kara is left standing, giving Khatovar an overwhelming victory in the tournament.

Some among the audience, however, have other things to worry about. Ever since they noticed the absence of Villamor Koth, champion of the Tiger Lord barbarians, the rulers of Khatovar have been suspicious about what it means. During the melee, Leonis and Rowan notice Imeckus clapping his hands to his ears and his face taking on a look of intense concentration, as if trying to listen to something within the hubbub. He frowns deeply and then his lips move slightly, as if speaking. It's fairly clear clear that he just received a sending. He then straightens, looking furious, and whispers something to Quintessa. She looks surprised, but seems to recover quickly and whispers something in return, before leaving their box hurriedly. Imeckus spends the remainder of the fight darting glances at Irovetti and scowling. Irovetti seems to have noticed what's going on and is studiously looking at the battle but with a faint smirk on his face.

Once the grand melee is over, Irovetti rises from his throne and says loudly, “Competitors, stand forth!” Everyone who competed in the games is asked to gather in the arena. Once they have, when Imeckus (Quintessa doesn't return) joins Hannis and Terrion, he calls the two aside and whispers hurriedly to them. Then he casts a teleport and they all disappear. Those nearby look startled, but Irovetti utterly ignores it. Instead, he says, “Warriors and champions of Khorvaire, I applaud your valor and the deeds you have done in these games. All of you are worthy representatives of your nations. But there can be only one winner. I call forth the champions of Khatovar!”

When the representatives of Khatovar step forward, Irovetti gestures forward Nunzia Arpaia, who advances bearing the prize coffer, carrying it so that all can see the rod of splendor and gemstones within. Irovetti says, “In the name of Dol Arrah, to whom this day is holy, and as ruler of these lands, I declare you champions of the Springlight Festival.” Nunzia hands over the prize coffer. And the crowd once more goes wild.

After giving the crowd some time to cheer, Irovetti says, “I now pronounce this festival ended!” As he says this, musicians begin to play and fireworks go off over the arena. He returns to his throne and the Pitax heralds begin indicating to the crowd that they should depart. Others prepare to escort the competitors to their pavilions. Nunzia, however, steps over to the rulers of Khatovar and says quietly, “The baron would like to speak with you.”


OOC: I'm going to say that Message requires willing recipients who know when you're casting it, so Rowan can't just cast it at Quintessa and Imeckus. Though we were talking about Rowan teleporting off, I didn't know exactly when she'd do it and if she'd pop back, so let me know if/when she does. She can't actually teleport away from the arena without causing a furore, but can leave and do so without trouble if she wants. Leonis, I believe, is going after Quintessa to talk to her, but you can change that if you want as well.

Isn't message a short range spell? If Rowan teleported away to Khatovar how would she use it? Wouldn't sending be appropriate?

When Leonis get's rebuffed by Quintessa he walks back to the group, "Something has happened, not sure what it is, but it can't be good for Hannis Drelev if his contingent is making haste. I am going to quickly contact our kingdom to make sure they we are OK" - Unless the group objects Leonis will use the communication stone they have to see if everything is OK in Khatovar and the neighboring towns.

Assuming the return message is one that says Khatovar is safe, Leonis will follow Nunzia (assuming with the group) to speak with Irovetti.

OOC: Are the gems in the rod of splendor, or is it a rod and gems. I am sure Rowan would love to have the rod as it would help her immensely.

Rowan would have used the communication stone when she first noticed the possible problem. Whether she teleports depends on what kind of response she gets.

The rod of splendor does sound very tasty. But Leonis will need to cast identify like he has never cast identify before, to make sure it doesn't have any hidden surprises or back doors built into it. Would carrying the item make it easier for Irovetti to scry on Rowan?

I think it may be prudent for Rowan to learn Nondetection next level.

Leonis will spend plenty of time researching the rod. He will also use the hags skills, and rowans to help.

Leonis will also be working on setting up a "secure" room inside his mages tower. I am talking wards, protection spells, anti-teleport, anti-scrying, etc.

We are talking the works.

Mages private sanctum crazyiness

Admin wrote:

The grand melee which ends the tournament provides as much entertainment as can be, from the three-way duel between the Dhakaani warriors from Darguun, the Valenar riders and the Aundairan knights; to the temporary alliance between Khatovar, Drelev and Breland taking on Pitax and Karrnath; to the sudden shift by Drelev and Breland with the remaining Karrn warrior to take on the two from Khatovar; to the unexpected climax.

The audience evidently loves it, cheering at the sight of Grabthar absorbing incredible amounts of damage and personally taking down two enemies before he goes down; shouting for Kara when she is left alone facing four enemies; roaring in surprised pleasure when the Valenar rider Navaratna and Lady Brianne Palon of Aundair, both bloodied by their personal duel, rush to aid Kara; jeering Hannis Drelev as his allies go down before the three women and he retreats--unsuccessfully-- from them.

The cheers increase in volume as Kara, Brianne and Navaratna then fight each other, reaching a crescendo when Kara is left standing, giving Khatovar an overwhelming victory in the tournament.

That sounds awesome! This was a great opportunity for Kara to shine, with her ludicrous AC and lots of people to flank with.

How late did you end up playing until?

Rowan wrote:

That sounds awesome! This was a great opportunity for Kara to shine, with her ludicrous AC and lots of people to flank with.

How late did you end up playing until?

Past midnight.

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Rowan would have used the communication stone when she first noticed the possible problem. Whether she teleports depends on what kind of response she gets.

When Rowan contacts the councilors back in Khatovar (specifically Lakeshore, Olegton and Varnhold city), there are no signs of trouble there, but they say they'll keep an eye out for anything problematic.

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The rod of splendor does sound very tasty. But Leonis will need to cast identify like he has never cast identify before, to make sure it doesn't have any hidden surprises or back doors built into it. Would carrying the item make it easier for Irovetti to scry on Rowan?

Only if it has been doctored in some way.

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I think it may be prudent for Rowan to learn Nondetection next level.

Aww - what would be the fun in that?

Leonis wrote:

Leonis will spend plenty of time researching the rod. He will also use the hags skills, and rowans to help.

Leonis will also be working on setting up a "secure" room inside his mages tower. I am talking wards, protection spells, anti-teleport, anti-scrying, etc.

We are talking the works.

Mages private sanctum crazyiness

I figured as much. I'll give you the relevant info once you're back.

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OOC: Are the gems in the rod of splendor, or is it a rod and gems.

Rod and gems. 20,000 gp worth of gems, to be precise.

* * * * *

When the four of you join Irovetti, who has remained on his throne in his royal box with attendants and guards, he smiles and says, “Congratulations on your victory! It was a true pleasure to meet you all. Unfortunately, affairs of state make it impossible for me to extend you an invitation to stay longer this time, but I hope that you will accept my hospitality again sometime in the future – or perhaps I can avail of yours. But, before we say goodbye for the moment, is there anything I can do for you?”

Admin wrote:

Rod and gems. 20,000 gp worth of gems, to be precise.

Nice we could use some cash, and 20,000GP sounds very tasty

* * * * *

Admin wrote:

When the four of you join Irovetti, who has remained on his throne in his royal box with attendants and guards, he smiles and says, “Congratulations on your victory! It was a true pleasure to meet you all. Unfortunately, affairs of state make it impossible for me to extend you an invitation to stay longer this time, but I hope that you will accept my hospitality again sometime in the future – or perhaps I can avail of yours. But, before we say goodbye for the moment, is there anything I can do for you?”

"Thank you for the compliments, and the events were fun. What can you tell us about your end goal for invading Hannis' place? Please, mind you, I am quite happy that you are hitting him, but what is your long-term goal after that? Drelev's borders touch our borders and I would want to make sure the war doesn't spill over and frighten our people. Also, what kind of participation would you expect from us?"

Leonis wrote:

"Thank you for the compliments, and the events were fun. What can you tell us about your end goal for invading Hannis' place? Please, mind you, I am quite happy that you are hitting him, but what is your long-term goal after that? Drelev's borders touch our borders and I would want to make sure the war doesn't spill over and frighten our people. Also, what kind of participation would you expect from us?"

At the point when the PCs meet Irovetti, you have no information whatsoever about an invasion. What I told you at the end of the session about a message from Linora d'Phiarlan about an attack comes a bit later, so you'll have to separate IC & OOC info here.

Admin wrote:

Leonis wrote:

"Thank you for the compliments, and the events were fun. What can you tell us about your end goal for invading Hannis' place? Please, mind you, I am quite happy that you are hitting him, but what is your long-term goal after that? Drelev's borders touch our borders and I would want to make sure the war doesn't spill over and frighten our people. Also, what kind of participation would you expect from us?"

At the point when the PCs meet Irovetti, you have no information whatsoever about an invasion. What I told you at the end of the session about a message from Linora d'Phiarlan about an attack comes a bit later, so you'll have to separate IC & OOC info here.

Ohhh, thought we got the Rowan notification. OK so revising:

"Thank you for the compliments, and the events were fun." Leonis completes some small talk about the events, "Do you know why Drelev and his group teleported away so quickly? I don't think they were embarrassed that much, though I was hoping to fix it over the planned closing festivities," Leonis grins, "Especially since he tried to have me assassinated the other night." Listening to Irovetti about his offer, "I am a bit surprised, what did you have in mind or was this just a general question? We would certainly welcome a visit from you to our lands sometime. While we do not have a festival like yours, and would not attempt to make one to compete, we would definitely provide you with a warm reception worthy of this friendship I hope we have formed."

Leonis wrote:

"Thank you for the compliments, and the events were fun." Leonis completes some small talk about the events, "Do you know why Drelev and his group teleported away so quickly? I don't think they were embarrassed that much, though I was hoping to fix it over the planned closing festivities," Leonis grins, "Especially since he tried to have me assassinated the other night."

Irovetti frowns, though seemingly more in curiosity than because he's displeased. "Really? How? I can see that you're fine, but you should have brought it to our attention." He pauses and then grins broadly, "On the other hand, then we'd have had to disqualify the Drelev team as a whole, and today wouldn't have been as ... entertaining."

He continues to grin, leaning back in his throne and playing idly with his braids, "As for Hannis' departure, I'm sure you all know about the weaknesses in his kingdom. They're probably having some emergency with their infrastructure now."

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Listening to Irovetti about his offer, "I am a bit surprised, what did you have in mind or was this just a general question? We would certainly welcome a visit from you to our lands sometime. While we do not have a festival like yours, and would not attempt to make one to compete, we would definitely provide you with a warm reception worthy of this friendship I hope we have formed."

"Oh, I didn't mean anything specific, but I do think that is something we should do. You all and I--and Hannis Drelev, of course--are the rulers of the Stolen Lands, the newest kingdoms in Khorvaire. And I believe that you and I, unlike Drelev, share a common interest in not wanting to become vassals of Aundair. That is something which I believe we should certainly discuss in more detail than we have here. If I had more leisure, I would invite you to stay so we could, but--as I said earlier--I am unfortunately going to be busy in the immediate future. But perhaps when I am more free we can make the arrangements for such a meeting. And I appreciate your offer of hospitality. I look forward to seeing your land - hopefully someday soon."

He looks around at those around him, clearly waiting to see if they have anything more to add to the discussion before he ends it.

OOC: Rowan would have been more active in this, but I've been out and away from Internet access all day. She is quite happy to have Leonis blurt out blunt impolite questions though, in this circumstance. It let's her see the reaction, to judge the person we're speaking to, and often she'd like to know the answer too. Its like playing "good diplomat, bad diplomat."

Rowan will add, "I'm sure we'll have a lot to talk about. We may have a lot in common; more than just geography." She smiles sweetly, a completely (and intentionally) transparent smile, indicating that she knows more than she is letting on and is amused by it.

OOC: I'm surprised and even a bit disappointed that Irovetti didn't hit on Rowan, or even flirt with her. It has occurred to Rowan that her marrying Irovetti would be a peaceful way of joining our kingdoms, provided that she retains equal political power afterward. Mind you, Rowan also HATED herself for thinking that, as it (and Irovetti) go against everything she has ever thought about love and marriage. She needed some serious brain bleach afterward. (Which is to say, she teleported back to the comfort of Lakeshore, got seriously drunk, grabbed her beau, and f**ked the hell out of him.

Rowan might even flirt a little with Irovetti, as long as there aren't onlookers from other kingdoms in the room. Subtly and tastefully, of course.

I just realized that I've been neglecting Vulpingetorix during the festival. How has he been enjoying it? Has he been taking advantage of his new ability to turn into a halfling? Is there any way he can take any clothing with him, so he doesn't appear naked every time he uses that ability?

Rowan also has been using her disguise glamor to take in the festival free from the responsibilities of being a respectable ruler.

Maybe we should create a new thread for these sorts of things, so we can keep the timeline straight.

Admin wrote:

Irovetti frowns, though seemingly more in curiosity than because he's displeased. "Really? How? I can see that you're fine, but you should have brought it to our attention." He pauses and then grins broadly, "On the other hand, then we'd have had to disqualify the Drelev team as a whole, and today wouldn't have been as ... entertaining."

Grinning from ear to ear, "He sent his assassin Quintessa after me, but she wasn't quite able to complete the task," Leonis remembers, with a shudder, the night with Quintessa, "As for not mentioning it, well, if you would have disqualified them how were we supposed to show our superiority over Drelev...and his 'tactical retreat' was quite amusing"

Admin wrote:

He continues to grin, leaning back in his throne and playing idly with his braids, "As for Hannis' departure, I'm sure you all know about the weaknesses in his kingdom. They're probably having some emergency with their infrastructure now."

Being puzzled, as he doesn't know, "I am not quite familiar with their weaknesses. Would you have a report you would be willing to provide us?"

Admin wrote:

"Oh, I didn't mean anything specific, but I do think that is something we should do. You all and I--and Hannis Drelev, of course--are the rulers of the Stolen Lands, the newest kingdoms in Khorvaire. And I believe that you and I, unlike Drelev, share a common interest in not wanting to become vassals of Aundair. That is something which I believe we should certainly discuss in more detail than we have here. If I had more leisure, I would invite you to stay so we could, but--as I said earlier--I am unfortunately going to be busy in the immediate future. But perhaps when I am more free we can make the arrangements for such a meeting. And I appreciate your offer of hospitality. I look forward to seeing your land - hopefully someday soon."

He looks around at those around him, clearly waiting to see if they have anything more to add to the discussion before he ends it.

Smiling at the pause when Irovetti mentions Drelev, "I agree, we should definitely discuss the situation. Maybe when things have settled down you can pay us a visit and we can discuss how to proceed with the Stolen Lands".

Rowan wrote:

Its like playing "good diplomat, bad diplomat."

Mike, you shouldn't think that way, Rowan is really a good diplomat!

Rowan wrote:

OOC: Rowan would have been more active in this, but I've been out and away from Internet access all day.

I'd have responded before this too, but stopped getting notifications of posts suddenly, so I didn't realize you guys had posted till this morning (when I checked, just in case).

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OOC: I'm surprised and even a bit disappointed that Irovetti didn't hit on Rowan, or even flirt with her.

That actually has a lot to do with you being away and us only having you at the game on Skype, which made more detailed RP a little difficult.

I'll put up another thread later today, so we can handle some retroactive RP and anything else Rowan might have done.

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It has occurred to Rowan that her marrying Irovetti would be a peaceful way of joining our kingdoms, provided that she retains equal political power afterward. Mind you, Rowan also HATED herself for thinking that, as it (and Irovetti) go against everything she has ever thought about love and marriage. She needed some serious brain bleach afterward. (Which is to say, she teleported back to the comfort of Lakeshore, got seriously drunk, grabbed her beau, and f**ked the hell out of him.

Guilt is a beautiful thing.

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I just realized that I've been neglecting Vulpingetorix during the festival. How has he been enjoying it? Has he been taking advantage of his new ability to turn into a halfling? Is there any way he can take any clothing with him, so he doesn't appear naked every time he uses that ability?

Rowan also has been using her disguise glamor to take in the festival free from the responsibilities of being a respectable ruler.

Maybe we should create a new thread for these sorts of things, so we can keep the timeline straight.

Yup, I'll have another thread for that up later today. Quick version on the Vulpingetorix thing is that he's enjoyed it but definitely not doing the halfling angle. He's not quite comfortable with that aspect, plus it only changes him physically, so he can't speak any language besides, well, fox. And he's really not capable of dragging clothing around with him.

Leonis wrote:

Grinning from ear to ear, "He sent his assassin Quintessa after me, but she wasn't quite able to complete the task," Leonis remembers, with a shudder, the night with Quintessa, "As for not mentioning it, well, if you would have disqualified them how were we supposed to show our superiority over Drelev...and his 'tactical retreat' was quite amusing"

"True," says Irovetti. "I'd heard that he was forming alliances and was curious to see how it would work out. You did admirably."

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Being puzzled, as he doesn't know, "I am not quite familiar with their weaknesses. Would you have a report you would be willing to provide us?"

OOC: Actually, Leonis does know that Drelev is supposed to have a poor infrastructure and overall development in his kingdom, having focused too much on just his capital and poor spending choices.

IC: Irovetti's smile slips for a moment and he says, his tone a little flatter, "I'm quite sure you have other people in your employ who can provide ... reports to you about your neighboring kingdoms." It's fairly clear that he doesn't appreciate Leonis' phrasing of things, however inadvertent.

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Smiling at the pause when Irovetti mentions Drelev, "I agree, we should definitely discuss the situation. Maybe when things have settled down you can pay us a visit and we can discuss how to proceed with the Stolen Lands".

"Yes," Irovetti responds, the smile broadening again. "When things have ... settled down, as you say."

Rowan wrote:

Rowan will add, "I'm sure we'll have a lot to talk about. We may have a lot in common; more than just geography." She smiles sweetly, a completely (and intentionally) transparent smile, indicating that she knows more than she is letting on and is amused by it.

Irovetti flashes a matching smile back at her. "Yes, I'm sure we will. And I sincerely hope--and expect--that we shall find ourselves sharing many things, if we do not already." For a moment, it seems that he might add something more, but he then seems to change his mind. "Now, however, I must say goodbye. As I mentioned, it has been a great pleasure, one I hope to repeat again soon. Until then - champions, I bid you adieu!"

He glances at Nunzia Arpaia, who steps forward and gestures respectfully for the visitors to follow her.

OOC: Since Leonis had this information, and knew what Irovetti was talking about, he would not have asked.

Leonis wrote:

OOC: Since Leonis had this information, and knew what Irovetti was talking about, he would not have asked.

Okay.

I posted the other thread: During the Springlight Festival (retroactive)

I'll keep advancing things in this thread. Anyone saying anything else to Irovetti before you leave?

I have nothing else to add.

Leonis wrote:

I have nothing else to add.

OOC: Even if anyone else adds something, you'll eventually be leaving Irovetti, so ...

IC: Once you are all ready to go, Nunzia leads you away from the arena and back towards your pavilion to collect your things and meet up with those who came with you from Khatovar. You can see that most of the representatives of the other kingdoms are also at their pavilions, preparing to leave (except for the Drelev contingent, of course, who are gone).

Just after Nunzia leaves you at your pavilion, Kara receives a sending. She recognizes the speaker as Linora d'Phiarlan, the Phiarlan representative who you contracted with to spy on Drelev. The message says: “Kingdom of Drelev under attack by Pitax armies. Limited information but believe Drelev forces surprised and badly damaged. Fort Drelev may be under siege already.”

OOC: What is your reply (25 words, as usual)? Also, how are you heading back to Khatovar? With the presence of the portable hole, between Leonis and Rowan you could teleport everyone to Khatovar, the only downside being that you have to leave all your horses behind.

Admin wrote:

Just after Nunzia leaves you at your pavilion, Kara receives a sending. She recognizes the speaker as Linora d'Phiarlan, the Phiarlan representative who you contracted with to spy on Drelev. The message says: “Kingdom of Drelev under attack by Pitax armies. Limited information but believe Drelev forces surprised and badly damaged. Fort Drelev may be under siege already.”

OOC: What is your reply (25 words, as usual)? Also, how are you heading back to Khatovar? With the presence of the portable hole, between Leonis and Rowan you could teleport everyone to Khatovar, the only downside being that you have to leave all your horses behind.

OOC: Assuming nobody has issues:

"When did the attacks start? Do you have rough size estimates? Do they look like they are only focusing on Drelev or are they passing to us?"

Looking towards the group, "Do we want to speak with Irovetti before we leave?"

OOC: Can I use mass reduce person to shrink our team members so we can also take the horses? If we have to give up our horses then fine, but it would be nice not to lose them.

Leonis wrote:

OOC: Assuming nobody has issues:

"When did the attacks start? Do you have rough size estimates? Do they look like they are only focusing on Drelev or are they passing to us?"

There's no response at this point, but that might have to do with the fact that a sending takes ten minutes to cast.

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Looking towards the group, "Do we want to speak with Irovetti before we leave?"

If you do go looking for him, it appears he's already left (magically) for his capital, which is a dozen miles west of the town where the tournament occurred. You could travel there if you want to meet him, but it'll take 3 hrs of riding to get there, and you don't know whether he'll actually meet you now or not.

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OOC: Can I use mass reduce person to shrink our team members so we can also take the horses? If we have to give up our horses then fine, but it would be nice not to lose them.

Nope. Rowan and Leonis can only transport 3 medium creatures with them with each use of teleport, and a single horse counts as two medium creatures.