The Broken Goblet

[selhan]

Wheel of Deception



“Just because something isn't a lie does not mean that it isn't deceptive.
A liar knows that he is a liar,
but one who speaks mere portions of truth in order to deceive is a craftsman of destruction.”





The wheel..It was a cruel invention -- this wheel…A wheel that forced submission from those beneath it.It continued to roll, as many people feared its power...and few challenged it...but when too many are crushed, at some point that wheel will break. What if, instead of fear, we used the power of loyalty?
Inspire others to follow by benevolence, grace, compassion, and morality. Or even malevolence, greed, deception?

The Wheel of Deception is round in circumference, like the wheel of a wagon. No matter which direction it rolls, it always comes in full circle. There's no end to the wheel. Break it, disrupt it's cycle, and another will replace it, and it continues its cycle. Only a professional would understand such a wheel and know how to apply it.





Someplace, that very wheel rolled and left destruction in its wake. Even amongst a crowd. Confusion, deception are mere tools. Many things can be considered dangerous and destructive. But a craftsman of destruction is one that stands next to you in battle, stands next to you when your at a market, stands next to you, when your advocating a cause. He's right there, in the middle of everyone, almost as if he's becoming one with you. And the moment you blink, the moment you foolishly glance away, its already too late. The Wheel of deception has already won.

Professionals are not professionals because they choose to act like one. They are trained to be one. And damn, I thought they only took horns.

"They took the whole bloody head.."

DM Goat

[selhan]

Something Was Wrong





“Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel,
in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.
When angry, count four. When very angry, swear.”





That's a rat? WOW....That's a huge rat!

"You calling me a Rat boy?"

he isnt but i will Big ugly rat

*The anger on his face surely shows he really wasnt in the mood* "Mitheera, you got one chance to take this scallywag and your self out of the fok'n tavern or we gonna carry the both of you out. One warning and only one.

you'll get over it.

Woah woah , temper man... ! The moon elf is callin ya the rat over here... I notice yer a rum drinker over here... gooood on ya dude!

'You fok'n chimney elf..you think I'm playing right now?" *He gets up slamming his bottle on the table*

I'm a paying customer

Ohh, this guy gunna cut your ear off, moony. I was wonderin when that was goin down!

"Then be a customer and shut your fok'n mouth. I am in no mood this night. *He looks to Koolah* "Better go sit with your friend at the bar"

Just a lil ol crush from this 'ere mooner elf..*he slumps back on to a stool and leans against the bar*

*Oi man-thing.. shut the-the hell up.... *

you are not one to get angry

Rat would recommend you-you leave him-him alone....


A man can only tolerate ignorance for so long before setting off like an alchemist bomb. When life pushes a man to his limits, it leaves him but one choice, to cut right through what's a head of him. When someone is not in the mood, only an idiot would push him. Patrons in Broken Goblet clearly saw just that. When the playful, scoundrel bartender who normally has a lot of patience suddenly seems to have little to no tolerance, it was learned, don't push him. It's seems Roaringshore, has surely rubbed off on the man. If patrons in the Broken Goblet, asked the bartender what seems to have given him the sour mood, he would tell them..


"Best yer mind yer business and dont be stupid to ask that question again."


"When I am torn in between saving the little of those I considered close, to killing a mass many I could care less about, I struggle to find the answer that will make my decision. I don't like the situation I am in, nor like the decisions I will have to make. But I will make a decision nevertheless, I have too, for I am left with no other choice."

[selhan]

Voices In the Mist







Before the darkness of the night was able to shroud the world, I seen wild animals fleeing off away as if avoiding some danger that was nearby. It has been said, that animals tend to see or smell things the average human could not. They were right.


I found myself surrounded by a eerie mist, thick and blinding. Given where I was at, I knew that was surely out of place and likely it was someone's design. My instincts didn't fail me for just after I placed my hand upon the hilt of my sword, I heard a voice...





I must say, it was surely and interesting encounter and conversation. It was surely looking for someone, I may even know whom it was looking for. But I surely wasn't going to give up information that easy. Strange time appears to be upon the coast again. I guess I will subject myself to play along with it all, but this time, I will have far less patience.


I guess Half Elves will be surely tested...


DM Verjigorm

[selhan]

Bite More Than You Can Chew



“If you bite off more than you can chew,
then for your sake you better chew like hell.”



One of the biggest mistake a person can make is to bite off more than they can chew. So it was often said. And if they do, a supporting theory is that they better chew like hell and hope their mistakes wont be a regrettable one. But I tell you, some people always make the bigger mistake , and learn the hard way.

I heard a rumor of how an undead army grows. Even some Flaming Fist mercenaries became victims of a horrid death only to be later raised in becoming a ghastly animated dead thing. Pitiful indeed. I wonder who's responsible? I heard another man recklessly played hero once again, only to make a certain matter worse. Why is it, that some people always have to learn the hard way. Why cant some just see that what they are up against is just far too much for them to handle. Why must a person try to prove themselves brave and heroic when the obvious is only that they will show themselves foolish and stupid. History is taught for a reason, so that one doesnt make the same repeated mistakes as someone else had in the past. Yet fools seem blinded, lack of any wit and like any insane person, continues to repeat other peoples mistake. Yet later whine of the conclusion.



Take the rising horde for an example. One undead became two then three then more. Another person missing, lost, another family morns, another love one cries. Stupidity is contagious I say. I've heard it with my own ears, seen it with my own eyes. How many times does it take for a person to be hurt, beaten, nearly slain in order for them to understand that what they are doing they simply shouldn't. How much further does a person needs to see that their actions have consequences in order to start thinking with their brains and not their bravery.



How many times must they play a game with death? It's only a matter of time that their card will be pulled. Pirates have a saying, "A dead man tales no lies". Quite true, with the right magic, a dead person will always tell the truth.



However....



There are many ways to ensure they never talk again....

[selhan]

A Broken Goblet Moment




“Tears from the old me,
trickle into a clear cup of truth for the new.”





I had the opportunity to meet a new rising Dreadmaster of Darkhold. Interesting development in the North I must say. Surely nothing I had expected. The grey crimson eye tiefling was surely a figure in that shitehold Soubar. The man that was trying to carry on in Kargas footsteps. Big shoes those were. Wasnt easy but I give the man his respect for he stuck through for a long time. And now well, a rising prince he be. Dread Lord..now thats a title.




Hmm, I will admit the Bone Lady had a particular flare about her. She surely was more diplomatic, that one surely had wits. Zerros on the other hand, well..the Sword Coast will feel his Tyranny soon enough. At least the man finally got out of those blimey forsaken man robes of his. I was almost impressed even..almost.. But the real question is, will he really be a Tyrant? He came to the Broken Goblet with a particular pet I would say. I'd call her a pet. Surely a submissive woman like that would indeed be a mans pet. At least the man reduced the amount of blimey spies around him.

The visit wasn't of business however. He wanted his pet to explore the world more, to experience the grand wonders that the world has to offer. And she surely did so in the Broken Goblet. By a goblet..aye one of our most elegant pretty goblets..but it was filled with that bloody Grog. Fok'n Rat just had to have her fun...





*He ponders* "First I hear'n ol it. So then whos the new Dread Master then?"

.... the Lord's Alliance without the permission of the High Lord. The Pereghost is in charge, though he has given I the title of Lord Regent, until I can prove myself. So in coming, I suppose I.

*He raises a brow* "Oh blimey " *He chuckles* "So thats why I nae see ya in that shithole Soubar anymore eh? ..But wow! The Lords Alliance?.."Well..get a workin Tavern going " *He lifts a bottle of rum and shakes it slightly with as he smiled* "And make sure it has rum, and I'll surely pay it a visit."

The darkhold and the Vale. They are our people, our family. You take care of your family. The rest . . Are worthless. They will come to fear us or bend the knee. . . But you treat the ones who you can trust, the loyal, the ones who you depend on, the same as you would family, hm?

"Oh family is a very important thing..a man with no family is not a man at all. Loyalty..wont find much of that now a days. New generation has no bloody dignity. So when you find loyalty, best yer hold on to it like a good drink or a woman." *he grins*

Like a good drink, *His crimson eyes turned towards Flora.* or a good woman. Hm? *He glanced at Flora with a soft exhale. His hand that had been resting on her leg moved upwards to sort her hood slightly, at least, to the point of her face being visible again.* Oh yes, try the challenge.

*Pale face deep in her mug, the half-elf's features were flush with a shade of pink. Whether it was for the drink or the comment as another matter.* "As you wish, My Lord."

"Dont go given them any ol that Orc Grog! Bloody nasty stuff!"

*she tries to quickly punch Sel, then goes back to giving her ear to ear smile, she giggles a bit softly as she steps down the box, she grabs a mug and puts it under the faucet, a green sludge comes from the faucet of the barrel, once filled she goes back to the box and stands on top of it and places it in front of Florence*

*He looked at her with a simple smirk, his hand patting her leg again and resting there., then he looked to Sel.* Mm. She needs to witness the world a bit....


It wasn't long that a woman in the Broken Goblet was nearly sick to death with her drink of Orc Grog. There might even be some spillage of puke on the floor. One thing for sure was that the man known as Zerros had to carry the delicate woman out of the Tavern all the while the little woman known as Rat laid sprawled on the floor behind the bar, sleeping drunk from her own share of the nasty green thick fluid known as Orc Grog. But not before ...another figure had arrived in the Broken Goblet.

"Ahoy there lovely..come to quench the thirst?" *He leans over on his elbows*

*She leans her elbow on the counter and leans rather close to Sel, grinning* Of course... what else would bring me here? *she bites on her lower lip to not chuckle before she looks to Zerros*

I had to ask..maybe yer was lookin fer something tall savvy and handsome? *winks*

Maybe.. I'm a good hunter

"Well I hope the hunt is profitable and pleasurable and not hurtful. " *He reached under the bar after breaking from the kiss knowing just where to grab a bottle of Spiced Wine. A elegant goblet was being filled before carefully sliding forth*

. . Pretty thirsty. Uh-huh. Uh-huh. It seems you two have gotten fairly close.

*He side glances to Zerros* "I am a bartender after all" *He winks at the Tiefling*

As I later headed down to the dock to take a boat right, I couldn't but say to myself with a devilish smile..

There are always two reasons someone comes to the Broken Goblet. Either fer me..or for one of the lovely goblets...

[selhan]

The Deeper Truth In a Whisper







“The man who passes the sentence should swing the sword.
If you would take a man's life,
you owe it to him to look into his eyes and hear his final words.
And if you cannot bear to do that,
then perhaps the man does not deserve to die.”





"Most people do not really want freedom, because freedom involves responsibility, and most people are frightened of responsibility. But I am a man that cherishes my freedom and I bare many responsibilities and endure each of them well. Truth is a small word with a big description and even harder to fully comprehend. Most fools only think they know the truth in things. More foolish so when they believe their suspicions are factual realities. Dreamers and idiots I call them. An idiot will suspect all they want, but the truth is, they haven't even scratched the surface to what the real truth is."





"Half the times, most push for the fast conclusion and long forgotten the reason of how they even got there. Men and women laid in pools of blood, a culprit found, a culprit hung and adventurers strut off to drink and celebrate. But little how little they know, they are doing what someone plotted for them to do. Like pieces on a game board, something or rather someone is always looking from elsewhere, sheepherding those very same people into their own designs."


"And it all starts with a whisper."


"But while people gather and rumor and gossip about the oh so dreadful events of people laying in a pool of blood, or chaos forming in their lives, or whether the birds are singing the lovely tunes in the trees...somewhere, elsewhere..evidence is being erased, bodies are missing, blame written off calculating. Somewhere out here is a person with their hand an influence in nearly everything interesting to them. Others just dont see it, they just cant feel it, they are oblivious. Why so? Because that someone crafted it so."


"And it all starts with a whisper."


"Men cry giving advice to the youth for the errors of their own experience in hopes to save the new. They think those tears came from that very moment, from their very own emotions. But little do they know, someone had already foreseen such tears, plotted for its arrival. When a woman lost in the blissful moment as music flows over a crowd, her desire to remove her clothing was calculated and foreknown. When demons reach within the walls of the city, one person wont be puzzled. When cultist and mad zealots make attempts to gain ground to establish a life they feel worthy of them to even breath feels sudden, a man would had long ago whispered, how that would be tailored so. "







"When you lose someone, know this, no accident is ever truly an accident. Men dont "just" die in prison, someone wished it so. A persons reputation isn't lost by negligent and misdeeds, it was a calculated end game conjured by intelligent minds. Some people live for what they believe in. Others live by making that very same belief. In the coming year, more people will die by the Demon Horde, more throats will get cut, current organizations will expand, more drow sightings will be upon the surface, more nobles will show face, more corrupt nobles will gain power while weaker ones fall from the eyes of the public. The city will question their hero's, a returning darkness will plague the coast, tieflings will be on the brink of extermination, more conflicts will arise, even the elves will lose their peace and declare for change, pirates will clash against each other, more friendships will be severed, a child will seek revenge, a devil will have lost patience, and evil will be the face of Hero's. New guilds will form, but will be short lived. Thayans will finally find an opportunity they have sought. And the Upper city of Baldur's will gain more attention. And the Zhents will make more noise gaining more attention. Many new faces will arrive, some old ones will be no more."







"I'm not much, but I'm all I have....
And I have far more than anyone can truly imagine.
Because I wasn't just a step a head of you,
I was ahead of the thought.
Responsibility to yourself means refusing to let others do your thinking,
talking, and naming for you,
it means learning to respect and use your own brains and instincts,
hence, grappling with hard work."

[selhan]

Dark Business





"Your eyes see what I want them to see,
I am the creator of your desires,
I weave the course of direction,
and the funny part of it all,
I am just a man."





"Who was that Captain and what did he want?"

"Ther's only three things anyone wants when they come in here me friend, a drink, a word, or business. He came fer business."


Over four years...thats how long I been working in the seedy tavern in Roaringshore known as the Broken Goblet. Four years and my services are still requested. Dedication is no small thing. It takes a particular gut to stick through the hard times just as much as the good ones. I had always admire those that I've know that show relentless dedication in what they do, or what they commit themselves to do. I respect such people. They dont seem to make people like that anymore. It's become more rare in my opinion. The thing about those people, is that their mere persistent presence tend to gain a bit ol influence for it. No documents are needed, no declaration need be shown. A person that sticks around through and through long enough, soon becomes part of its environment. Their existence becomes natural.





"My people sent me to contact you for business."

*He lifts a finger* "Best keep it in mind, I nae making any promises, I just a bartender. I need the bless'n from a High Captain, if I be wanting to keep my own neck. Lucky fer yer, I know just the rite one to go ta. Gimmie the details, and I be sure to ensure, yer proposal be given. Sounds like money to be made here."


The admirable thing is that some people have good wit's about them. They know how to make an approach, they know respect can get them further than fear or threats. Coins has their own reach, but its always how the approach is. Walk to someones home making demands, and your likely to go missing. Walk to someones home with an offer, you may get a sit down with a drink and meal. Force your doctrine on a man , and be met with resentment, entice the doctrine to the man and you may not even need to manipulate him.





"I knew this moment was coming. I saw this years ago. If everyone has their act right notes, everyone will be with smiles and a fat coin purse with an elegant goblet."


((OOC Reminder: If your character wasnt present they dont know what transpired unless a present character informed you so, the post is for DM's and Entertainment read, Metagaming is against the server rules.))

[selhan]

Reflecting Moment, Reflecting Time

“Life can only be understood backwards;
but it must be lived forwards.”

Perhaps the winter is far colder this season that normal, or maybe this human body is finally feeling the curse of age. I feel more tired, I've noticed my lack of patience. There is no misery that I find myself in, yet the elements of misery I feel within my pumping blood. It has been a long while since I felt the vigor of excitement, the emotions of being anxious. What is this depression feeling that I feel within myself for I know it not. Even at the interrogation ,I found no excitement. Many times before I had fond of the feeling of interest when making one bleed until they spill what my ears want to hear. Gone are those times surely. When a routine has gone beyond its flavor and torture has the same reflection as pissing in a pot in the morning, one must ask themselves, "Is it time to move on?" Or "Is it time to find other things of interests?"





Perhaps it is age that talks and so much as my inner desires. Or perhaps the world and realm I live in, hasn't changed to be worthy of continuance. When a person reaches a point they no longer do things or obtain things for themselves, it is a sign they already have all they had desired. But what if they reached a point beyond even that? What possible purpose is even left for them to continue waking up in the morning for? Must one simply wait for something of interest to appear before them? Or is it that which I linger in a place I no longer need to be?





Even the rum is beginning to taste flat to my lips. Aye, I've accomplish many things, reached every goal. Expansion I was told, expansion is but another thing to acquire but after thus what next? I've had my many grand adventures even when I had thought myself retired of adventures. As I travel the Trade Way, I feel as I am reading but a book repeatedly. There is nothing that my eyes see that I have naught seen once already. Nothing no longer surprises me, all seems ..predictable. Aye perhaps it is the curse of age that begins to wrap her grasp over me. Finding the means of longevity seems to be a lost cause, for what and why are questions I cant even fill in this point in time. I will conclude some unfinished business, but afterwards, I will not take up anymore. It surely has been a grand journey, with many adventures told and untold. Perhaps it's time to finish my books, and leave them for the wondering minds to stumble upon the life and walk of the bartender. Reflect upon your present blessings of which every man has many, not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.

[selhan]

Those that Endure

“You never really know what's coming.
A small wave, or maybe a big one.
All you can really do is hope that when it comes,
you can surf over it,
instead of drown in its monstrosity.”

By looking for the unexpected and discerning the surreptitious features in the scenery within us, we apprehend our personality, find out our identity and learn how to cultivate it. Taking care of our fingerprints will be an enduring endeavor. "Looking for the unexpected". When relationships lose their pitch through lack of interest and become stale or unbearable through enduring stealthy backbiting, the emotional house of cards is under attack. A painstaking reshuffle, however, may brand a new choice of life and create energy for positive thinking, whereas remaining bogged down in dispiriting situations and staying clogged up with immaterial hassle may only spawn forlorn deadlocks.

Let us not be our own worst enemy by enduringly looking on the dark side of things. No one wants to suffer. But that is the fate of each. And some suffer more. Not necessarily of their own volition. It's not about to enduring the suffering. It's about how you endure it. Really, there was only one sensible thing to do. Stay the course. Pray it through, day by day, minute by minute.





Even a man like myself, gives acknowledgement to those that sternly stay the course and endure the unexpecting things of life that was set upon them. The unfortunate betrayals, the out of nowhere circumstances, the suddenness of being deprived of freedom and liberty, the breaking of the agreement that leaves one force to endure the immense hardship. We didnt not wake up intending to be responsible of a choice that was not made by ourselves. Nor were we born into it. Some may say we are, that it was destiny. But I ask this, why put upon me a destiny I never asked for? By whom's authority must I subject myself to things unpleasing or things I didnt ask for? When is it then that I may bring forth my merits and complain properly of what cards was dealt in my hands when I never asked for such cards to begin with?





Fine then, if life wishes to play such a thing, I will play my own game. Firstly I will endure the unfair hand you've given me. But mark my words..once after I have endure complete these unfortunate circumstances, I will return with my list of wants, my list of wishes, and by your sake, you better come with my reward or I will be the soul cause of every disruption within your plots of ways and paths. What you had intended for someone else, I will rob them of their glory, cut short the victory and become the one thing that you never had expected.





For those that lose sleep by the hands of life, for those that must break away from their daily routines in their lives by force to be responsible of elements they did not want, let me clasp your shoulder with a firm hold and give you my gaze of encouragement, I will be one to praise you for your endurance. Because I know very well, many that dont understand, could never comprehend the level of sacrifice you had to make in order to remain humane.

[selhan]

"Chaos"



“There are only patterns, patterns on top of patterns,
patterns that affect other patterns.
Patterns hidden by patterns.
Patterns within patterns.
If you watch close, history does nothing but repeat itself.
What we call chaos is just patterns we haven't recognized.
What we call random is just patterns we can't decipher.
What we can't understand we call nonsense.
What we can't read we call gibberish.
There is no free will.
There are no variables.”





I have an idea that the only thing which makes it possible to regard this world we live in without disgust is the beauty which now and then men create out of the chaos. The pictures they paint, the music they compose, the books they write, and the lives they lead. Of all these the richest in beauty is the beautiful life. That is the perfect work of art.

All the most powerful emotions come from chaos fear, anger, love, especially love. Love is chaos itself. Think about it! Love makes no sense. It shakes you up and spins you around. And then, eventually, it falls apart. Although there has been cases where love is truly conquered. Aye conquered, controlled, grasped. Some make a mess of love like blindly butchering a slab of meat and severing a finger.





But those that didn't make a chaotic mess of it, knows nothing but bliss. A feeling so powerful many would think them insane or loss of wit. Yet they are in complete control, and every move, every touch, every promise, every quality time spent, is calculating and even rewarding. But some people..pervert everything they touch, make a messy outcome, even cause..chaos. Time and time again, some people just fail to think before they thought. All actions have consequences. Don't just believe what the eyes might see. For not everything appears as they seem.





When you butcher a slab of meat, its more than just a clever and flesh on a counter. Cut wrong, and your bites will be complicated, cut too thick, and you increase the cooking time, cut blindly and you might hurt yourself. I've heard and read about the Pale Night in length. Woe to those that are responsible for unleashing it upon our world, but woe to those that only play the blame game when they don't even know what truly transpired.

But I question to the world, just what is really important? Who's at fault? Or stopping the chaos unleashed? I mean, what if it was a situation where an accident went wrong? Or something went right, but influence set a different course? Or if it was intent to be as it is?

"But thats the thing about Chaos. It's not suppose to make sense."

[selhan]

When it Connects





“Do stuff. be clenched, curious.
Not waiting for inspiration's shove or society's kiss on your forehead.
Pay attention. It's all about paying attention. attention is vitality.
It connects you with others. It makes you eager. stay eager.”


The Mother of Demons has taken the form of a known elven adventurer...

...Saryx, I believe.

"Why that name sounds familiar...."

...Saryx was killed by a Vampire few months ago..


Sometime in the last year...
"You look like a man that knows much..know any half elves?"
"Oh I know plenty ol them. " *Points towards the Sharptooth* "Sure yer find plenty ol different sorts it yer head that direction.."


We killed a Lich and another demon, how were we supposed to know it would let someone lose we don't know is?

...the Harvester was not exactly a demon, it was a project of the Mother of Demons apparently, who harvested souls and flesh for who knows what reason. It created flesh creatures.

"Why kill the Lich and demon anyways?"

The Demon thing was harvesting souls, and working with the Succubus Valyxia, I'm sure you've heard of.

Valyxia

Sometime in the last year...

*Suddenly a voice spoke out, soft, seductive, and not supprised.*



"It works every single time."
"It binds you all. Enchants your attention."
"A single felled drop and you all come looking."
"You just can't help yourselves."

"Wait..so um the Harvester was Valyxia's ...master?"

The Mother of Demons is Valyxia's master.

"Ooh? ..I see..." *He looks around and the look on his face showed clearly he was actually now worried*

Shite...

Sometime in the last year...

"Valyxia? You know this person?"

You should listen more closely?

"I know you both."

"The bushes. The boulders. The trees. They are coming. Dance nicely for me."

Wait!

"Shite their com'n, the whole place is gett'n dark!"

*Gangly figures drop down from the trees, slip out from behind nearby boulders and bushes.*

"You...Roaringshore!..I never thought I would be able to repay you for the inconvenience."

*He leans over to his partner lowering his voice* "Wasnt that Miss Colds that attacked it?" *He turns to the creature and raises his voice* "Lets have a talk ..clear up some um..misunderstanding?" *He looked hopeful*

"That is not what I refer to. But I will teach you. Limb by limb will draw your memory closer to it all!"

"Oh come on mate..why ..so ..serious? I'm sure..we can ..um..talk about it?"

"Your disgusting skins are vile enough to warrant your deaths even outside of the troubles wrought." *It rears back and lets out a piercing shrill howl. The fog blurs with motion.*

When puzzles connects, you begin to see the image in whole. You begin to understand, you begin to comprehend. Sometimes the revelation is overwhelming. I mean, for an example, what does a person say when they realize their actions had helped create bigger problems? You think yourself innocent because to your knowledge you didn't harm a child. But when you realize that somewhere in your past, something you had done was a reason for the child harmed. I've heard many talks, read many documents in regards of this Mother of Demons. Originally I barely thought anything of it. I kept from being involved, yet as time goes on and more things had transpired, the talks change, puzzles are no longer confusing, and the connection shows itself.

Was it my fault a Vampire killed someone? I surely didn't think so. Did Valyxia's ability to go so long unchecked my doing? I surely didn't know it had served the Pale Night. And those flesh creatures...I killed many , even had one examined by a group of Necromancers, the results were interesting but I passed on the knowledge. Did I error? Could some of this had been prevented months ago I wonder. I remember that strange doppelganger that was very angry at me. I swore I didn't even know it, but it was very pissed off in something I had done, or it assumed I was the one. But what did I do? So many things had happened since the last year, I can barely keep track of it all. I know I overlooked something, somewhere. I just hope I'm nae responsible or that surely will piss many off and that can be troublesome.

How does one defeat such a thing like the Pale Night? I know it was imprisoned by a Lich or so I'm told. I know one being that could then surely defeat this Mother of Demons, but the price would be steep, and what do I have to offer? And if I did have something to offer...what will happen to me? I would be exposed, who and what I serve would likely be revealed and that surely would cause me far more problems than a simple death. I would lose everything, and I would then have nothing, and I doubt I would even be lucky enough to save my life....

"There might be a way to fix this.."

"Theres always a means to fix things"

"The Floating Castle"

*He soon walked away gripping the hilt of his sword firmly and glancing down at it to remember the origins of the sword and thought..*

I hope their right..I risk far too much if we did it my way.

[selhan]

Bartender's Woe's

Pale Night- was an obyrith demon lord of unimaginable age, often referred to as the Mother of Demons, to whom the tanar'ri appeared as mere children. An unknowable enigma shrouded in mystery, to peer beyond her veil was to witness an indescribable horror so great that it was rejected by reality itself. Pale Night appeared in a shimmer of strange light, as a diaphanous, white sheet that billowed in a non-existent wind, yet never enough to reveal what lurked beneath it. On closer inspection, the contours of the robe suggested a comely, feminine form, like that of a lithe elf or human. The phantasmal figure glided through the air, hazy and terrifying yet seductive in shape.

"Seductive in shape?" - A bartender wondering question...

The rickety roof boards of the Broken Goblet creaked under the weight of another tempest, rattling the goblets lined up on the bar and nearby walls. The flickering lanterns cast wavering shadows, giving life to the grimy walls adorned with outdated maps and faded pirate flags. Behind the bar stood Sel the "Slippery Bastard", a pirate bartender whose beard was neatly trimmed for even as a life of a pirate, he had a habit of always wanting to keep fashionable. Despite his jovial exterior and the raucous laughter that often filled the tavern, a heaviness weighed on his heart—the ominous specter of the Pale Night.

As the storm howled outside, Sel poured another round of rum for a group of drunken sailors, his weathered hands deftly mixing the potent brew. Yet, his thoughts drifted elsewhere, to tales whispered in dark corners and the uneasy expressions of patrons who’d heard the latest rumors. The Pale Night, they said, was stirring once more, a creature of such monstrous power that even the bravest of the braves felt a chill in their bones at the mention of its name.

"My friends," Sel called out, his voice booming over the clamor, "let’s raise a toast! To the storms that strengthen our sails, and the seas that know no bounds!" The sailors cheered, their gaudy laughter ringing hollow in Sel's ears. He could see in their eyes that the liquid courage they sought was no match for the terror that slumbered beyond the horizon.

The Pale Night, an obyrith demon lord, was said to be the progenitor of nightmares, a grotesque figure that whispered madness into the hearts of mortals. Legends spoke of how it had birthed an entire lineage of fiendish beasts, twisting them into aberrations of their former selves, and its insatiable appetite for chaos and destruction was only matched by its cunning intellect. And to think, in the previous year, he had some of those aberrations examined by a group of necromancers.

"Listen up, me hearties! Rum and courage ain't all we need. We need to prepare! The Pale Night is a force beyond reckonin', but we will not cower in fear. We shall forge alliances, strengthen our banners, and call upon the old magics of the sea! " He made sure to spread the word of the threat that was heading for the coast, he passed on as much knowledge he had heard from other sharing lips or whispers. If it was one thing he was going to do, that would be to make sure Roaringshore knew what was coming. "Pay yer tribute to the Bitch Queen and make sure you seek her wrath as the safe haven from the dangers ol the Mother ol Demons! Raid and plunder and spill the shares to the Queen of the Depths! Let us find protection from the dangers of the high seas pray to be one of the Undrowned and be kept safe from peril! Huzzah!" He ranted on his cheer while thrusting a bottle of rum high in the air in hopes to bring out the fire of spirits amongst the many patrons.

For indeed one would surely need the fortitude to withstand the evil presence of the Mother ol Demons, or die within it. He often glanced down at his sword, wondering, debating if he should call upon the one being he knew was powerful enough to end such a threat. And if so, what would be the cost? For everything in life that he knew had a cost. Nothing came free, only fools would think anything came without a price. He brought his bottle to his lips and took a deep swig and silently voiced .." I hope the would be hero's got something up their sleeve"

[selhan]

A Goblet Night

As the soft glow of candle's flickered around him, casting shadows that danced on the walls of the Broken Goblet, Sel's voice echoed through the tavern, filled with the warmth of rum and nostalgia. He swayed a bit in his chair, remembering the sea tales his other pirates and Captain's had told him—of brave warriors, fierce storms, and the call of the ocean.



"My mother told me, someday I would buy," he sang, leaning back as the familiar melody washed over him. Patrons listened, some joining in with drunken harmony, others clapping in time with the rhythm. On the walls of the tavern, the intricate designs of the mermaid and sailor seemed to come alive with the tales being shared on this boisterous night. He raised his goblet high, the glass reflecting the light of the flickering candles above, as he remembered the days of adventure and mischief on the open waves. The tavern was filled with the smell of salt, sweat, and spilt ale, a testament to the lives of those who wandered in and out, seeking either a safe harbor or a wild night. After finishing the verse, he paused to let the laughter and chatter around him fill the air again. He looked towards the bar, where a few regulars were engaged in a lively discussion about the latest treasure map rumored to be hidden in the caverns beyond Roaringshore.

"Ah, you hear that?" Sel called out, grinning as he leaned forward, eager to engage. "A treasure map has come into play! You know what they say—fortune favors the bold!"

The patrons around him cheered, raising their goblets in mock salute to the idea of daring adventures. The drinking songs resumed, tales of sea monsters and cursed gold mingling with their laughter, creating a symphony of reckless joy. As the night carried on and the rum flowed freely, Sel felt a deep sense of belonging among the wildly animated crowd. Here, in the Broken Goblet, even the darkest tales were met with laughter, and every night held the promise of new stories waiting to unfold.

With that thought warming his heart like the liquor coursing through his veins, Sel continued to sing, letting the spirit of the tavern and the essence of his pirate life wash over him, finding solace in the company of kindred souls who shared dreams of adventure, love, and laughter under the stars.

[selhan]

Darkness vs. Darkness






In the heart of the sinister temple, the air was thick with malevolence. Shadows twisted and warped around the flickering torchlight, casting grotesque silhouettes on the ancient stone walls. The incessant whispers of the shadows echoed in a language long forgotten, as if the very temple itself was alive and watching. One looked up noticing movement on the ceiling, a greater shadow eyeing a target, focusing on its prey, on his companion...Quick with lighting reflexes he dashed forth, signaling to the others to look up at the ceiling. It was just in time. The Greater shadow dropped from the ceiling and landed just before his companion and reached back to rake at her with its talons.

However the Greater Shadow made it's first mistake. It targeted the strongest one first. Everyone sprung into action, one keeping watch of the many other shadows down the corridor, and many they surely were. The other two closed in on their companion, like a single unit they quickly engaged. The Shadows intended target was unscathed, she evaded every striking claw, and before the shadow had a chance to turn to see its attacked, it was already slain.

"I AM WHAT SHELTERS, NOT YOU - NOR THAT FOOL FROM WATERDEEP.
THROUGH ME, THERE IS PARADISE IN THE DARKNESS."

"Well now..Does that sound like something of your church?"

"This hardly seems like paradise. . ."

I don't think there is any merit in talking.

"I WILL BRING US MORE IN TUNE WITH THE SHADOW.
I HAVE TURNED THIS PLACE INTO A TRUE SANCTUARY.
OUR MANDATED PLACE IN THE DARK.
I WILL MAKE THE CREATURES UNDERSTAND TOO."

Something seems to.. corrupt you

"I AM CAST OUT. BUT I REFUSE TO GO. HERETIC, THEY DARED CALL ME."

"You sound so confident..if that is so..Who are you really?"

*looked back at the matron, then towards the direction where the crystals were.* "How, exactly, are you turning this into a true sanctuary? What has turned your faithful into the mindless dead?"

"I SPEAK UNWELCOME TRUTH.
I PULL AT THE ANCHORS OF LIMITATION.
EVEN OUR LORD WILL WELCOME ME BACK ONCE HE SEES.
THAT DARKNESS HUNGERS. WITNESS THE SHADOWS BEYOND THIS PLANE.
ALL OF OUR FORMS ARE FUEL.
LAY DOWN YOUR ARMS AND GAIN TRUE UNDERSTANDING."

*The giant spectral entity twitched through the air towards them slowly.*

"I was curious as too what Would happen if one of those crystals was damaged...?

"No time for it now. Lets cause a distraction, so our sister might escape."

We should all escape..

*It's deafening shriek threatened to rupture eardrums even with it's mere echo through the temple.*

"Gods. . ." *thrust up the scroll of Bigbys grasping hand at the creature.* "This might keep it busy."

.."Door it is!"

*Much like before, the maddened heretic warped through shadow towards the group -
though once the spell was cast, it still intercepted. It held the spirit for but a few precious moments.*

*Nine figures sprung into action, making for the entrance while the large maddening specter was entangled by a spell. The gap was close, the specter tried to lash out trying to at least use its large figure to block the path. But everyone was nimble, and athletic to their core. Some half leaped in the air landing after a twist, others dive rolled out of harms way, others simply took advantage of a clear narrow path due to distractions and others well, they moved like serpents with limbs in a low crawl and scurried forth with haste.*

That was a time I witness shadows against shadows. And we were just a third party...





*The Priest walks out of the front gates as he was being escorted. The moment he manage to get close enough to see through the dense fog and darkness, his reaction was something to take in.*

"As I live and breathe...." *He exclaimed jubilantly as he feasted his shadow covered eyes upon the creature and the hatchlings cowering behind it. *

DM Verjigorm

[selhan]

The Blame, The Fault

“Perfectionism is a self destructive and addictive belief system that fuels this primary thought:
If I look perfect,
and do everything perfectly,
I can avoid or minimize the painful feelings of shame,
judgment,
and blame.”

*After returning to Roaringshore, he sits in one of the many tables, and randomly grabs opened bottles of rum firstly given the vessels a shake to see if there was any rum that remains. After a sniff to make sure the bottle didn't smell like bad breath, he took a deep swig thinking about his most recent encounter with an elf in the Glimmerwoods.*

*He flips a coin with a thumb, catching it as it falls, while pondering a thought. * "Well by the bless'n ol lady luck, I found an Elf. " *He grumbled and lets out a sigh* "For a while there, I thought I wouldn't come across one until my arse becomes wrinkled and the hair on my head turns grey." *He sucks in air through his teeth in a tsk before lifting his hands innocently* "Nae worry lass, I nae come fer any trouble. But a man got an inquiry , yer know.. question without an answer, and I be told, I needed ta find the right elf fer the answer." *He grins devilishly * "Perhaps yer got the answer ?"

I greet you, under the light of the stars. I do not know, depending on the question, it may be, or not. *Sel is pretty sure he met the elf before. A couple of moons ago.*

*He adjusts his hat then glances around* "Well, I been need'n to talk to an elf, I was told either you or some Naer or Yer one. " *He shrugs* "Guess'n yer do since yer the Sol. " *He twitches his nose* "Anyways, reason why I waited out here is well.. *He points in the direction of the Elven Village* "Nae think I be greeted warmly with open arms and hugs." *He chuckles* "So on to me question.." *His expression now turned serious and slightly grim* "It's in regards to the Mother of Demons, I'm sure you heard ol it? I mean who hasn't right?"

We have heard of it. *A simple statement, as she waits, her longbow held in one hand, relaxed*

"Well " *He lifts a finger in the air twirling it slowly* "Spun tales, broken whispers say , the ones that were banished from the City ol Baldurs' for being responsible for releas'n the Mother ol Demons, may not even be the ones who Really released it. In fact, some say..." *He peers at her* "It may had truly been the elves. Not by purpose ol course. So the question is..how true is that?"

We did not. *She seems angry be the accusation* How would one come to this ridiculous idea.

"Oh I wouldn't think the Elves purposely did so. However.." *He ponders* "Think back sometime last year..Did the elves ever have trouble with um..Vampires? Elven ones? Or one looking for elves? Half elves that is? Or something to that effect"

In an extroverted society, the difference between an introvert and an extrovert is that an introvert is often unconsciously deemed guilty until proven innocent. Its so common in the world of men when something terrible happens, when a dire threat threatens all existing. Who's at fault? Whos to blame? . In my opinion the rightful question should be, how to be rid of such a threat, who could be useful in the doing so. People will always be people, asking the wrong questions, focusing on the wrong points. It's not surprising that even up til now, such a looming threat still persists, in route, getting closer and closer...

We fought and annihilated them. They kidnapped many people, Tel'Quessir. We found their hideout and annihilated them. However, for many taken, it had been too late.


Ah..now it coming together

*He slowly pushed the brim of his hat up* "Could there had been something that happen during that which might have been ..overlooked?"

Such as?

*He again lifts both his hands up innocently* "Nae mistaken me , I nae accusing the elves ol anything." *He taps a finger at his ear* "Just a bartender that heard a strange rumor. Such a rumor says. It might had been the elves that were the cause of the releasing of the Pale.." *He paused remembering not to say the name* "Mother of Demons." I really wouldn't know, and that's why I came treading in all this.. " *He flaps a hand at the bushes feeling uncomfortable* "bush and wot not, look'n fer an elf that might know the truth "

There was nothing. While it seems to be true that the Mother of demons now wears the face of Saryx, she had been taken and was long sacrificed to, what we now know, the Mother of demons, before we were able to strike them down.

There's that name again..

*He tilts his head* "Saryx? Now thats the second time I heard that name mentioned in regards. Didnt know the mother thingy was wearing another persons face."

The demon wears her face. For the reason, I do not know. Or I doubt anyone really does. We did not see her, during our fight into the depths of the vampires. But we know that the influence of the mother of demons was there, we do now.

*He ponders* "The elves knew of the influence of the mother of demons? " *He paused* Then that must be why some rumors are going about."

We do now know that it was the influence of the mother of demons. At that time, we did not. As we now know that she was worshipped by the vampires. If someone released her, it was her servants.

So they were there first..

"Well, I guess the only ones that may know the how, are those that were there slaying the vampires. Something might had been missed or something accidently done. In any case, I just wanted to let the People know..thats the rumor on the winds. And someone is hiding something, I dont know exactly what or whom..but someones trying very very hard to hide something with the Dukes of Baldur's."

Tell more?

"I wish I could lass, Thats why I asking you. You see, three people were banished from the City. Because they were said to be the ones that released the Mother ol Demons. However ..whats being said is that..It was already released . Because.." *He points at her* "Something that the Elves had done. Just picking up pieces here and there and verifying things. Mind you no one thinks the elves purposely did it. HOWEVER..*He lifts a finger someone is going through great lengths to hide themselves in who spoke to the Dukes . Because..the riots in the city...its almost as if..someone purposely trying to distract or cause confusion."

I can assure you, the Tel'Quessir are not of this. And if she, somehow, had been freed, it would have been slaying her servant vampires. Does it sound believable?

*He lifts his hands up in an innocent gesture* "I could believe anything luv, Personally, I nae involved, nor trying to be. I was just asked if I can try to speak with the Elves and see if someone knows something that might reveal something."

If there is fault to seek, it is the ancient vampires clan, before it was destroyed.

"Where was this group of Vampires location? "

There were ancient gateways. However, they are inactive now. I do not know where they led. Perhaps to Mintarn even?

Again Mintarn..wait a moment..could the vampire be from that day?...

The place where the mother was released by the three. But, I do not know where their lair was.

"Only ...Three? " *He half smiled* "Oh I think there were more than that luv." *He tips his hat* "Well then, I much appreciate yer time lass, and sorry if I delayed you in anything..*He paused* "Ah one thing..are the elves going to try to do anything to stop this Mother of Demons ?"

The Tel'Quessir will move against her. However, information is sparse on how to do it. First, her servants should fall, neh?

"Sounds risky...reason I ask is because everyone I do ask about it, either dont know what ta do, or feel like they its beyond them." *He lifts a finger* "Except the Temple ol Imater. And..well..there is one other possible means..but it might come at a Cost..."

I am sure the council of Doron Amar will select the best path forward. *she smiled briefly*

"Well..if all else fails... and when things feel like there is absolutely no hope...let a bartenda know, and well..I will seek a means in another way. " *He smiled then tipped his hat giving a courting bow* "Farewell Sol..or shall I say...Sweet Water, Light Laughter..Until next"

May the light shine down on you and disperse any shadows.

We habitually erect a barrier called blame that keeps us from communicating genuinely with others, and we fortify it with our concepts of who's right and who's wrong. We do that with the people who are closest to us and we do it with political systems, with all kinds of things that we don't like about our associates or our society. It is a very common, ancient, well-perfected device for trying to feel better. Blame others....Blaming is a way to protect your heart, trying to protect what is soft and open and tender in yourself. Rather than own that pain, we scramble to find some comfortable ground. But somewhere out there, a truth needs to be uncovered, and when it happens, this part of the coast will surely flip upside down. And I will be able to tell the tale. After all, there's no good tale that comes without a goblet.

*The pirate bartender smiles just before taking another deep swig of his rum.*
Apologies I knew not thy actions would cause such troublesome inconvenience
*After the swallow of the delectable drink, the smile thinned to a devilish grin*

DM Verjigorm

((OOC Reminder: Do Not Meta the Post. Unless your character was there or either one of the Characters in the post IC informs / Mentions of the encounter, your character knows nothing, this is for Entertainment read and DM's Acknowledgement of the Rp as well as showing the Role Play of others for inspiration/motivation ))