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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 22 Nov 2020 : 01:11:23
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Maraleth Naleira Althorn Ulbrinter A noble of House Ulbrinter (second-eldest daughter of Nomus and Karya). Raven-black hair, crystal blue eyes. Slender and graceful, with a long, narrow face whose advancing wrinkles and drooping lines makes her look far older than her actual years. In her younger days she was grandly titled "The Brightest Rose of Kythorn" by the master bard Ammathan Var, and has taken every opportunity since to remind those around her of it (and of the off-the-cuff lyrics he composed for her at the same time). Suffers greatly under perceived slights, and makes sure that everyone takes notice through exaggerated sighs and wounded suffering. Plays the Moonshae harp very well, her only true passion aside from red wines and pointless social one-upmanship. Wife of Cadast Helmsfar. Has a son, Harlhawk, and a daughter, Ulaerha.
Cadast Helmsfar (CAY-dast) Husband of Maraleth Ulbrinter. Father of Harlhawk and Ulaerha. Scion of the once-promising merchant house of Helmsfar (of Tethyr, since laid low and bankrupted in mercantile dispute with the ruthless coin-king Colnd Hurthblaer of Amn). A great schemer, manipulator, and opportunist whose blessing is a quick mind for business opportunities, and whose curse is a terrible mind for money, and the ruinous lack of ability to sense windfall from swindle. Exiled (in the discreet noble sense, along with wife and children and an appropriate level of household staff) to the Ulbrinter country estate of Alder Hawk (in the Nalshpar Vale, outside Crimmor) after one too many failed ventures leveraged with Ulbrinter coin (the last being a financed scheme to buy up as much treeless, hewn-down rocky slope and windblown moor on the island of Orlumbor as he could get his hands on, with the intent to introduce vast herds of goat and rothé on this new acreage, to provide meat and wool to the populace of Waterdeep and the other northern cities. Would probably have succeeded, if not for the great wyrm that swept down and ate all the newly-purchased livestock, same as the last three ventures to try the exact same undertaking). Proud, overbearing, and completely sure of his own convictions. Does have quite the silvered sales pitch, though. Currently looking for that 'one true venture' that will tear open the heavens and rain down coin, and show those Ulbrinters up Waterdeep-way the error of their judgement. This may or may not involve adventurers and the lair of a certain long-slumbering deepspawn, legendary for disgorging legions of battle-ready warriors fit for mercenary work, that an acquaintance of his just so happens to know the location of.
Harlhawk Irlevvur "Fisher" Ulbrinter A young noble of House Ulbrinter. Proud, introverted, sullen; his face always hot and red from slights real and (mostly) imagined. Has two names and hates both of them, and a small-name (Fisher, same as Harlhawk, the grandsire whose first name he bears) he detests as well. Would very much like to be called "Roldrake," after his favorite chapbook ne'er-do-well, but still bears the stinging laughter from the last time he broached the subject to his family. Greatly desires the power to put those who he imagines to have wronged him "in their place." Probably for the best that he has not demonstrated any aptitude for The Art. Thus far.
Ulaerha Mardra Aoghna Ulbrinter (ull-AIR-hah, as she is called in Waterdeep, not oo-LAIR-hey, the traditional Moonshaen pronunciation) A young noble of House Ulbrinter. Has the same crystal-blue eyes and raven-black hair as her mother. Impulsive, dreamy, and full of fierce childlike loyalty to her immediate family and most especially her older brother. Saw a picture of The Red Knight in one of her brother's illustrated books, all arrayed in crimson and atop a magnificent shining warhorse and thought it the most wonderful thing. Currently desiring to learn to ride and leap and adventure on a steed of her own. Of Ulaerha's other names, Mardra was the dowager aunt who shocked all of Waterdhavian society by taking up with a dwarf – a dwarf! – and absconding to Sundabar before being memory-holed by the Ulbrinters. But she was always close to Maraleth and always made sure to send her a little packet of her favorite rubies every Dumathoin's Day. Aoghna was, for a brief period of about 1359 and 1360DR, perhaps the most common primary or second name for little girl babes of the nobility. It started with the new mother and social trend-setter Luthendra Stormweather, who claimed it to mean "Glory of Ao," in veneration of the great inescapable voice booming out over Mount Waterdeep, which caused her to give birth at that very moment, an eponym which signalled an auspicious future that neither men nor gods could deny. These days it has fallen hard out of favor and is considered an embarrassing reminder of a moment in popular culture (the Realms-equivalent of naming your kid Khaleesi, say).
Emfaunra Native of Tethyr. Prissy, thrifty. Believes herself apace with high fashions, but discreetly mocked for constantly sporting garments and ornamentations at least two seasons out-of-style. Currently Grandess (governess and Master of Keys) of Alder Hawk, the Ulbrinter estate in the Nalshpar Vale, outside Crimmor, Amn. Precise, demanding (of both her staff, down to the lowliest muck-boy and of her young 'noble' charges), unyielding. Most at the 'Hawk believe her to have extra straps of Loviatar's Reminders tightly-wound about her concealed flesh, but in truth she prefers Ilmater and Siamorphe and is simply exacting at her position. Once held the office of Calinticer (KAL-en-TICER; 'The Summoner of Cakes and Custards' in the common tongue) at the court of Maresknurl, Supreme Demander of Grandakh (the garrison-town overlooking Valshada, in the Marching Mountains foothills), before losing favor (the burl-lemon custard in a cascade of colorful parfaits caused great distress to the Demander and six of his seven mistresses), losing her position, and very nearly losing her life to an ensuing sentence of drowning in the white swirls of the River of Ice (fortunately for her she is Sollarsfair, 'for a child born on St. Sollars' Day can neither be hanged nor drowned'). Emfaunra sees Mistress Maraleth as her best chance of leaving the rotten plowfields of the Vale (and the South in general) and arriving at the golden doorstep of the legendary City of Splendors, and so makes her Lady the sole exception to her strict measures, pampering and flattering her as much as humanly possible. She also recognizes quite clearly that her main obstacle in this endeavor is the continued flailing schemes and spectacular failures of the Lady's lord, Cadast. Indeed, something simply must be done about him.
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AJA YAFRP
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Edited by - AJA on 29 Nov 2020 00:16:12 |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 29 Nov 2020 : 00:14:23
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Sereven Falconhollow Son of Dursus Falconhollow. A knight of the Lathanderite Castellan Order. Dark, oval-faced. Keen, shrewd eyes. Closely trimmed hair, small dark moustache. Bears his father's shortsword (Talbran) and shield (Bright Bezear), both of ancient Dardathan make (and both of +1 enchantment; the latter of which also provides a +3 on save vs. poison while grasped).
Shalmeira Thelthryn Priestess of Umberlee. A native of Ruathym. Officiated the Fleetswake Festival of 1370DR after her master, the Dread Wavelord Hazenlyn, was slain on Fleetswake eve. Soon after, she was deemed lacking by the Storm Prelate, a roving "holy inquisitor" of Umberlee, and returned to Ruathym, leaving her fellow junior Umberlant Meritid Archneie as the ranking priest of the Bitch Queen in the city.
Shaltana Blackdolphin The Bloody Black Lady of the Waves. The last self-appointed queen of the southern Sea Reavers. Her depredations reached their height in the summer of 1324DR, when the ships under her command encircled and attacked the floating realm-ship of Thardargha, slaughtering its' Eldathyn inhabitants and burning the waterborne abbey to the waterline. It is widely believed that The Blackdolphin still rides the sea waves to this day, as the Master of a ghost ship full of spectral wights sponsored by the Bitch-Queen Umberlee.
Tulkantar of the Stag Horns Long-ago ranger-lord of the High Forest, perished defending his hold and the numerous small elven settlements of the woods from an advancing goblin horde. The Harpstone of Heroes' Garden (a weathered hardstone menhir roughly the size of a small man or large dwarf, the only distinguishing mark of which is a simple crescent moon and harp carved into its' northern side. If the stone is struck with a pebble, stick, or other small object, it audibly twangs like a plucked chord from a harp) is believed to mark his gravesite. If so, it may also hide the location of the Suulblade and the Starshield of Tuerth, the enchanted relics that Tulkantar was known to have borne. Potential treasure-seekers take heed; the Watch, local Harper operatives, and the faithful of Mielikki and Silvanus all take a dim view of anyone attempting to despoil either the area around the Harpstone or the rest of the Gardens.
Tuthglas "Mallowsides" Proprietor of Rorgell's Roost, a South Ward tankard house (west-side Slop Street, south of Fillet Lane). He also offers beds in a second-floor flophouse, which serve mostly drovers and caravan hands, as well as a few long-term, down-on-their-luck locals (technically, "Rorgell's" is the tankard house, and "The Roost" is the flop, but no one cares enough to make the distinction). Rotund, with great fleshy jowls, fingers, and belly, source of his nickname. Balding, combed-over hair, warm brown eyes. Secretly serves as a contact for the Black Network, passing along coded messages and arranging for the safekeeping of minor coin and items. Has a wife, Arskla (short, plump; black hair, round face scarred and pocked by illness) who earns small side coin brewing and selling love-potions and herbal ointments that aid in the "lover's arts" (lubricants and stiffeners, to put it less delicately) at the Market.
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The Seven Shattered Swords of Waterdeep [ Source: Forging The Realms: The Four Quests of Radiance <dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/four-quests-radiance>. Name/Description given ]
Turnvar "Turnstone" Noathe [ Source: Waterdeep News: Body Found in Chimney <wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/wdn/20061025a>. Name/Description given ]
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AJA YAFRP
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 29 Nov 2020 : 01:39:35
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quote: Originally posted by AJA Shaltana Blackdolphin The Bloody Black Lady of the Waves. The last self-appointed queen of the southern Sea Reavers. Her depredations reached their height in the summer of 1324DR, when the ships under her command encircled and attacked the floating realm-ship of Thardargha, slaughtering its' Eldathyn inhabitants and burning the waterborne abbey to the waterline. It is widely believed that The Blackdolphin still rides the sea waves to this day, as the Master of a ghost ship full of spectral wights sponsored by the Bitch-Queen Umberlee.
So, are you essentially saying some kind of flaoting city of Thardargha? If so, what are you picturing? |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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Kentinal
Great Reader
4687 Posts |
Posted - 29 Nov 2020 : 02:19:48
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quote: Originally posted by sleyvas
quote: Originally posted by AJA Shaltana Blackdolphin The Bloody Black Lady of the Waves. The last self-appointed queen of the southern Sea Reavers. Her depredations reached their height in the summer of 1324DR, when the ships under her command encircled and attacked the floating realm-ship of Thardargha, slaughtering its' Eldathyn inhabitants and burning the waterborne abbey to the waterline. It is widely believed that The Blackdolphin still rides the sea waves to this day, as the Master of a ghost ship full of spectral wights sponsored by the Bitch-Queen Umberlee.
So, are you essentially saying some kind of flaoting city of Thardargha? If so, what are you picturing?
Well now burned to water level so not much to see.
As to what AJA did say was a ship of the realm, an abby ship was attacked. |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 29 Nov 2020 : 04:22:34
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quote: Originally posted by sleyvas So, are you essentially saying some kind of flaoting city of Thardargha? If so, what are you picturing?
Kentinal has it correct as a floating temple or abbey. A number of concentric "rings," linked by arched bridges; one of fruit trees, one of small food-and-herb gardens, and the innermost section a tiered circle of cells and vaults and libraries, and up through them all a great tree whose canopy towers over, providing shade. Two great scalene triangle "sails" curving up on either side of the outer ring, providing movement (powered by wind and devotion and hymn, "steered" by the roots of the great tree, which extend below the water like a series of rudders).
This tree, called Naedauthra by the Eldathyn, drew salt out of the seawater which is why it's leaves were white. And why its sap tasted like (and, after a little massaging by the clerics, had the consistency of) saltwater taffy. Naedauthra was said to have been a sapling of Druskhath the Steadfast Spire, one of The Four Splinders, the four surviving branches of Nelebrimmaur, the First Ent, sundered and quartered by Bahgtru during the War of Elf and Orc. Rumor has it that a similar seedling of Naedauthra was spirited off the doomed abbey (by priest or reaver changes with the telling); such a lesser essence would be too weak to work such floating wonders as its parent, but would still be of great sorcerous value nonetheless.
quote: Originally posted by Kentinal Well now burned to water level so not much to see.
Well, yes, but, that's not entirely true;
The "hull" of the abbey was formed of spell-toughened and element-resistant woods and, while it did indeed sink under the waves, it now forms the basis of quite the lovely coral-and-kelp garden on the seabed below (E'ean Andeledreth, "where the waters flame with glimmering golden light, and all of Trishina's mirthful children dance and sing"). The local sea elves maintain it in honor of the goddess and keep it as a safe refuge for a multitude of schools of flashing iridescent fish native to the Shining Sea, and as a safe-meeting place for the less vicious underwater races. The long, purple-green seaweed harvested here by the sea elves is also one of the primary sources of the ardth-weed of Tharsult, from which blows smoke green and pungent, brought to shore in trade and sun-dried in lattices and roof canopies across the city and farmsteads of Nlintar, on the south-western shore of that island.
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AJA YAFRP
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Edited by - AJA on 29 Nov 2020 05:25:46 |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 05 Dec 2020 : 00:19:28
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Toal Assumblade Master (captain) of the Waterdhavian naval raker Umbersails. Wild-bearded, fair-skinned. Ruddy cheeks and broad shoulders. Short-tempered, restless.
Torst the Black-Booted Former Ward Civilar of Dock Ward (1352 - 1358DR). Refused to be challenged or gainsaid. Encouraged his men (who came to be called "Ready-Clubs" and "Nogg-Crackers") to be aggressive and overbearing when dealing with all Ward denizens. Slain by Myrkul's Minions during the Time of Troubles.
Torst Halthast A senior member of the Watchful Order (holds the office of Accomplished Master of Evocations). Tall, dark-eyed, sallow-skinned. Calm and unflappable, marvelous skills of persuasion. Owns successful businesses in Red Larch (wagonwheels, axles, harness and repairs) and Rassalantar (rental landlord and farm investor, investing in land and crops sewn and reaped by others). These concerns are overseen by factors hired by Torst, but he ceaselessly checks and re-checks all of their ledgers and reports. He also owns a hunting lodge north of Red Larch and is famed for the raucous, debauched parties he throws there.
Torst Rulthaero (NG HM B2/P7 of Valkur) Captain of the Wynd Fiddler, a freebooter which plys the sealanes between Waterdeep and the Moonshaes. Of average height, with a strong build and bronzed skin. Thin lips and sharp grey eyes. Has a quick wit and an excellent sense of humor. Married to the "water-witch" Yajelene of the Blue Winds (CN water genasiF T1/Sor8). A friend of the Red Sashes, ferries persons and items of interest to contacts in the court of Pwylloch Greatheart, on Snowdown Isle.
Tulg "Tree-Roarer" Hill giant. Famed for his thunderous yell, which was said to bend the tops of even the mightiest old oaks. Boasted a wicked chain of twenty spiked, metal-encased dwarf skulls. Slain by the adventurer Faen Farrior. His lesser brothers Tolg and Glun still menace travellers on the Tanthiron Trace (Old Helmo's Walk) southwest of Triboar, allied with a settled warband of bugbears.
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AJA YAFRP
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 09 Dec 2020 : 00:32:50
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The Society of Stags Private upper-room club and secret infernal cult in the service of the deposed arch-fiend Zar-Yarr of the Clenching Eyes (whose sigil is the many-pointed antlers of the stag, and whose visage sports multiple eyes, across face, palms, and upper chest, the orbs within the lids all replaced with hungry, sharp-toothed maws). It is whispered in the most heretical circles that Zar-Yarr was some sort of fallen servitor or corrupted aspect of the god Oghma, who delved too deeply into knowledge forbidden by the gods, and in doing so gained the secrets of deceit and treachery, before being cast down into the Hells. Society members are lured in with the promise of ways to advance themselves and to hurt their enemies, through the dark spreading of poisoned whispers or the revelation of deep-hidden secrets, or the forbidden teachings of wretched Words of Power. The Stags were never that numerous, but in recent times their number has shrunk even smaller due to vicious fighting with faithful of the Binder and attempts at domination by other cultists of Gargauth and Cyric. In Waterdeep itself they now number some dozen members, including their leader, the festhall performer, high-coin escort, and dark seductress Rorastra "Ruby-Red."
Sungulf Half frost-giant warrior and woodsman, of the Hold of Nimoar. A seer and prophet who recieved visions of the same religious potency as Augathra and Alaundo, though his were concerned less with men and the matters of wars and kingdoms and more with nature and the unceasing tide of seasons and cycles. After his death he was deemed by the clergy of Chauntea to be a holy servant of the Harvest-Mother, sent to Faerûn to speak her truths. His bones are long lost to the glacial heights of the North, but there is a grove consecrated to his memory that now falls within the walled boundaries of the Goldenfields (a stand of close-grown poplar and alder, named in elvish Ierilentanthriel [EER-el-ENN TANN-thriel], "Where Fall the Coldest Rays of the Sun," where the phantoms of the faraway roar of gales through the pines and the strange, sonorous trilling of unknown birds echo faintly in the dappled light). His 'holiest' utterances were later compiled in what is called Sungulf's Book of Dreams, most notably "The Visions of Rivers" ('steel rains move upwards as the waters of memory flow ever down and on towards the golden immutable light of the sun' in particular, a passage long coopted by expansionists like Raurlor to justify their dreams of empire) and a lesser series, "Rhymes of the Waterfalls," which some say predicted the regrowth of the High Forest and also of upcoming, far-ranging, perhaps cataclysmic, changes to weather patterns and seasonal cycles across the North.
Sweep (CN HM War2) Large, uncouth former chimney sweep (hence his name). Leader of the Wineheads, a minor South Ward street gang. Fat face and jowls, dark, staring eyes. Lips constantly pulled back in ready sneer or swear. The right side of his head and ruinous right ear are given over to angry, purple scars. Seconded by his lieutenant, the vicious and sadistic hin, "Mighty Thwack."
Swords of the Lucky Lady An adventuring band recently returned to the city after a forth-faring to ruined Ascore (they sought to find there the caged prison of The Rooster That No Storm Can Tame, the legendary welcomed awakener of Hlaungadath, "whose comb was of sun-rays and flame," but they recieved only death and regret instead). Led by the warrior Eleskar Longhelder (CN HM F6). Other surviving members include the sorceress Raesalra "Hurlstars," the half-elven ranger Taeladar Raungrim, and the Tymorite priest Dulncathus (CG HM P4 of Tymora).
Sydar (NG HM F3) An armar (sergeant) of the Watch. A bit dull, but possessed of a dogged, unswerving loyalty. [ Source: Marco Volo: Departure, p.11. Name/Occupation/Stats given. Additional detail by me. ]
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Sydon [ Source: "Fire is Fire," Elaine Cunningham, Realms of the Deep. Name/Description given ]
Sylull Cassalanter [ Source: The novel Silverfall: Stories of the Seven Sisters. Name/Description given ]
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AJA YAFRP
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 14 Dec 2020 : 00:31:35
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Five Random Passages Found Among the Books of The Librarium, Room #28 of The Undermountain ('ware the [REDACTED]!) "Here is the beginning of a celebrated novel: 'Comedy is a game played to throw reflections upon social life, and it deals with human nature in the drawing-rooms of civilised men and women.' You do not want to read any more of that novel. It is not at all like a good old romance of knights and dragons and enchanted princesses and strong wars. The knights and ladies would not have looked at such a book, all about drawing-rooms." Preface, The Red Romance Book, Edited by Andrew Lang, 1921
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"Come not with careless feet To tread my dungeons unfrequented ways" "Halaster the Mad" opening monologue of the popular Waterdhavian play, The Unwelcome Barghest
"Or, as they say in hobgoblin, 'Nos shrin zadu, da kidäzu nakh quo'ho kakth'" [1] A Look Into The Mind of The Organized Orc [2] Emmelgond of Mrinshander, the Shivering Sage of Impiltur Year of the Wistful Nymph, 1028DR [1] Can be used two ways; in the older, more solemn sense of "never promise anything to anyone you cannot kill," and in the more modern, casual "you were never promised a rose garden, you maggot" [2] "the organized orc" has long been a common sage-name for hobgoblins, in reference to their unusual discipline, central planning, and advanced military tactics
"In truth, I have no use for Elminster – just as I am sure that he has no use for me." The stones of the lintel and spandrels behind his chair shimmered and perceptibly shifted and a sudden, dry voice asked, "Are ye so sure, to be sure?" Elminster In the Autumn-Tide Volothamp Geddarm unpublished short novel last seen, or heard excerpt of, 1355DR
"Some men call me 'meddler'; some men call me 'mage.' In the course of my long service to the Goddess, I have never discerned a difference." Khelben "Blackstaff" Conversations In the Lair of the Great Wyrm Authundaskra as overheard and later scribed by his apprentice, Irrym Sulanheer Year of the Snow Winds, 1335DR
"Where sunless rivers weep And carry the dead, below the 'Deep" closing stanza of the poem, Muraea's Lament dedicated to the folly of youth and of adventurers, both lost in number to the depths of the Undermountain Maxeene "the Flute" Rhiosann, Lady Voice of The Council of Musicians, Instrument-Makers, and Choristers Year of the Helm, 1362DR
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AJA YAFRP
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 19 Dec 2020 : 00:19:44
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Jaster Winterwink (LG HaM Adp2 of Arvoreen) The youngest son of the Hin merchant Bendym Winterswink and an aspiring adherent of Arvoreen. Reserved, reliable, and incredibly insecure of himself, except when in defense or encouragement of his friends. Bond-brother of the rogue Halvas "Halfhand." Jaster dreams of joining the Watch and defending the growing Hin community around Snail Street, either as a local patrolman or as an orsar (an envoy to guilds, citizen groups and noble families, a prisoner escort, or an honor guard).
Jastra Blynthard Proprietor of Jastra's Flame of Hope (small ground-floor chandlery, Tulmaster's Street, South Ward. In addition to the usual plain white tallows of all size and shape it also offers a variety of carved, colored, and scented candles, scented incense in block and stick, and the rare Charlatan's Sticks, favored by sleight-of-hand artists and tricksters for the clouds of colored smoke and sparks they produce when lit). A tiny woman of good humor, dancing green eyes, and a slowly fading fey beauty. Jastra has never been married, although not for lack of suitors. She is sometimes said to be a witch or feyspell, and her enemies often spread rumors that the candles she sells are enchanted to curse or enspell their owners. Nonetheless, she is well liked in the bazaars and back-alley markets of South and Trades Wards, which she visits daily. Any news or gossip she hears on her rounds is soon passed on to Jurisk Ulhammond, her contact with the Red Sashes. [ Source: City of Splendors - Who's Who In Waterdeep, p.92. Name/Occupation given. Additional detail by me. ]
Jesshyra of Daggerford (CG HF Exp3/Sor4) (Jess-HEER-ah) A vendor of perfumes and "crushscent" (aromatic) sachets, well-known in the back-alley bazaars and street markets of the city. A short, round-faced, and rosy-cheeked woman with curly auburn hair and keen blue eyes. Jesshyra habitually dresses in colorful, many-pocketed robes, and a multitude of silver jewelry. A lover of music and collector of plant lore. She is very civic-minded and is quick to offer aid or advice to the citizens of Trades and Castle Wards, as well as helping other merchants and street-vendors in matters large or small.
The Jester's Ghost of Gaustus Street An apparition of a small, shabbily-dressed child of unnaturally long, gaunt limbs. Those viewing the malevolent spirit have been known to suffer an effect remarkably similar to the mage spell Tasha's Uncontrollable Hideous Laughter, rather than the normal fear/aging affects of such ghosts and spectres.
Jhaelen Redfletching A native of Red Larch, and one of Tcharess Brandeth's "Merry Bold Maidens." Black-haired and black-eyed. Has a rather deep, raspy voice. Gained both her bow Felolos (a longbow of accuracy +1) and her companion, the opalescent clockwork dragonet Durros, from a trip through The Place Between Places, a legendary Netherese extradimensional safehold. Now a neophyte member of Force Grey, active in the Waterdhavian Guard "gauntlets" that roam the Dessarin valley.
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Janessra Haeleeyaro [ Source: A 04/08/20 Twitter reply to @TheEdVerse by Ed Greenwood. Name/Description given ]
Jaszmaeril Sultlue [ Source: Ed Greenwood Presents: Elminster's Forgotten Realms, p.130. Name/Description given ]
Jessra Belabranta [ Source: City of Splendors: A Waterdeep Novel. Name/Description given ]
Jhaax Dolbruin (NG HM Ra7) [ Source: "The Reports From Undermountain," Steven Schend, Dragon Magazine #227, p.15. Name/Description/Stats given ]
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AJA YAFRP
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 23 Dec 2020 : 00:42:06
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MISC'LLANEA May or may not have anything to do with Waterdeep or NPCs. Probably don't. ( Merry Christmas, one and all. 'Ware any goblins coming down your chimney in the next few days, Santa hat or no....)
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Ulsketh Aulantar, The Night of Clear Starlight (ULL-sketh Awl-ANN-tar) When The Great Silver Lamp of the Heavens (Selûne) and The Calm and Cloudless Eye (Coliar) draw into perfect celestial alignment and the ineffable boundaries are marked, of Faerûn and The Void Beyond, in clear geometric lines from the stars to the land, closing the ways to the Negative Planes and weakening the power of the restless dead. The Planes of Law shine forth this night, bright and invisible, while Chaos and its agents draw themselves down deeper into the Hidden Places of the world until the next day resumes and all confluences diverge and draw apart again.
The Storm-Glades Amid the dim labyrinth of elms and bird-haunted beech-woods that comprise the east-middle Reaching Woods are a close series of clearings held holy to Talos that have long drawn the ire and fiercest energies of any passing thunderstorms. The vegetation here, burned and bowed and blackened, is constantly lashed during these times by rolling lightning strikes and the strongest roiling storm-blows. This is said to be the place where the storm-god long ago made camp and rested, gathering his strength after The Long Frost, when the goddess Auril first challenged her bonds of servitude and turned the stormclouds of Talos to her own icy purpose. While the local wildlife and any weatherwise druids and rangers take pain to avoid these clearings, wizards come here on occasion to work enchantments and bindings that deal with lightning and force and fury, and the cruel glitterings of magical destruction. Only the most powerful of such mages find success though, as they often find themselves in conflict with faithful of the Storm-Lord, who make pilgrimage here to worship and revel in the deific powers of their god.
Araskanthûr, Where The Trees Glow Bright In The Gloaming (Aras-KAAN-thoor) A little open space or glade with elder trees all around it, alit with the dappled warmth of the sun at noon and with soft, silvery light at dusk. These trees are very old and moss-bearded and grown quite bent, with long, twisted boughs hung down almost to the ground. They rustle softly and very quietly these elder trees, whispering secrets of the moon and the origins of the forest animals, and of Midsummer Eve and the faerie neem and the Hundred Important Stars. But nobody has been along with the Talent to listen to these trees for two whole Ages of Man, not since the elf Emfaunaril made habit of camping here and conversing long through the changing seasons. But he was a Grand Druid and was challenged for his office and died from the wounds he received there, refusing all offer of magical healing, and so there has been no one come along to listen to the words of the elder trees since.
"Sweetwind" The western tanager familiar of Bagras the Mage (or Bagras Starnspells, one of the seven apprentices who took their surnames from the ruined-in-spellflame Starnspells mage academy of Elturel, now resident in Scornubel). The "author" of The Things I Am Accustomed To (1366DR, as told to and transcribed by Davvar Thundbuck, Recorder First Rank of Deneir).
His mother was awakened by a druid of her acquaintance that was quite fond of her; she did not join him as bonded companion, but his arcane generosity certainly enabled her to put her flock into proper order – the fierce battle cry of pit-er-ill! still strikes fear into even the greatest hunting hawk who dared wander into her demense! Going further, his great-great-great grandfather (matrilineal), colloquially known as Bright Balo, made habit of drinking from a deep well in an elven temple-ruin lost in the southern Wood of Sharp Teeth, whose waters were once widely-reputed to be of magical clarity and good cheer and his wings beat faster and his facial plumage was brighter than any other as a result. Finally, not one but two of his many-times great-grandsires on his father's side were chosen by the goddess Mielikki, tasked with delivering her divine will, if not her actual words, to those faithful who needed a moment of guidance. Such a lineage would serve to puff out any tanager's chest-feathers, and his is storied enough to rank him foremost among even those rare creatures who would call themselves familiar – but, as Sweetwind is quick to inform any other bonded companion he encounters, this is truly an alliance of like-minded equals, and not simply a matter of some two-leg playing with his magical pet.
The Green-Shadowed Firs That series of elder woods in the High Forest, hard to the south-east of Lothen, the lost City of Silvered Spires,where the red-throated thrush are well-known to be in the service (if not the thrall) of the Maiden of Eldritch Melodies (whose terrible enchantments come couched in the sweet tones of the swallow's titter, the robin's whistle, the wood-dove's coo, the thrush's song, and many other a familiar pleasant note). The Maiden was once the elven wizardess Narethnae, a defender of Eaerlann and Lothen, but now only exists as a vengeful and terrible remnant, a spellshade or dark shee who appears sweet and of Lawful quality to tresspassers in her shadowed bowers, before she overwhelms them and drags them down to her awful, frightful charnel pit where only a grisly death awaits. The orcs that lair in the region learned long ago to avoid these terrible eaves, where the boughs and the bird nests alike are strung through with enough ivoried shards of bone to enable the Maid to see and hear even the very thoughts of those who enter un-warded, though there are still foolish treasure-seekers, human and elf and dwarf alike, who come hunting the powerful relics of Siluvanede she is rumored to have gathered to her, in the green shadows.
Farathae Fire-Winged The Flower That Blooms (Of Pearl and Gold). High priestess of Sune (House of the Sunset Gates, at the former Tethan royal palace of Summersails). Celadrin (planetouched union of elf and eladrin). Flame-red hair, bronze skin, golden eyes (both iris and pupil). A fervid devotee of other-planar fashions; currently sporting a bristling "moustache" of silver, razor-edged knife blades, and geometric spirals of tiny garnet chips glued under both eyes, and cloaks herself with a musk of oxsblood and strong tidal breezes. Unlike many of her celadrin kin, Farathae felt herself called to the faith of Sune over Hanali Celanil [ Note: For info on celadrin, see "Legacies of Ancient Empires: Planetouched of Faerûn," Eric L. Boyd, Dragon Magazine #350 ]. Bears the ancient device known as The Coil of Unthreaded Colors, though its Chaotic energies wear on her considerably, and contribute to her mood swings and erratic behavior.
The House of the Sunset Gates Temple and grounds dedicated to Sune at the former Tethan royal palace of Summersails, just south of the White Crests of Azstaran, the massive chalky sea-cliffs that guard the approach to the Ithalmouth and the city of Zazesspur (Azstarann was an independent realm formed after the retreat of the Calishites and later conquered [razed & salted] by the Tethyrian legions around -250DR). Long-abandoned and war-torn and only inhabited now by the temple priestesses, arrayed in great magnificence, who wear flowing, black-hooded garments of shimmering silver and large pink-slashed sleeves, bound tightly by upper armbands and halter of beaten bronze, and beaded pearl stomacher; and their temple guardians, adorned with black-braided epaulets and ceremonial gauze muzzles, green tunics and hose, and their huge gold-latticed shields and gold-headed staves; those dedicated faithful whose lives are utterly bound to the unfolding canvas and complicated oaths of their orders.
Summersails itself was ordered built by the princess Roumrada, a permanent celebration of her victory over her four brothers, and dedicated to both the Royal House and to the goddess Sune from the beginning. Construction was ordered under the aegis of the master elven builder Aehaerla, and featured his trademark hooked sweeping roof-lines, balconies and balustrades and great scalloped roof-tiles, and was landscaped in endless pink-and-white rose-mallows by the soon-to-be-ennobled Brantharn Hunabar. There are altars here, numerous in number throughout the grounds, to which the priestesses make offerings of shorn hair and sunflower oil and tender sweetbreads all of which, when burnt, produce thick clouds that smell sweet and milky. Some are of stone spherical in shape, in echo of the curves of the goddess, and some fashioned of great bronze wall-hanging wheels from which dangle many-colored threads and cordage, beaded and knotted.
The grounds that lead gently down to the sea, once great confusing mazes of rose-mallow and morendil, are now cultivated groves given over to the thorny aerask, the white mantis tree, said to have been delivered to the priests long ago by the goddess herself in her great swan-headed barge Ralausk from lands far across the waves, which yields wonderful aromatic wood for smoking meats and fish; broad, thick leaves which produce oils used in skin creams, perfumes and soaps, and potions said to relieve persistent coughs, stiff muscle and aching joints and general age-related issues; and great drooping purple-tinged flowers from whose white pollen the nearby apiaries craft a nectar used to ferment a heady mead rivalled only by the most masterful Hin brewers of Swan Eroth or Surlond in the Purple Hills.
The long, languid sea-approach to Summersails is guarded from pirates and reavers by giant mantis-wyrms (mantis shrimp), who love the bark of the aerask and give it its Common-name. They congregate here in the warmth of the Sunset Bay, Sune's Shallows, where they migrate up from the Shining Sea, after their mating seasons are over.
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AJA YAFRP
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 03 Jan 2021 : 00:27:41
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The Wonder Whistlers All-hin troupe of whistle and hand-clap musicians. Not a popular form of entertainment in human-dominated Waterdeep but well-received in the Hin and smallfolk community centered around Snail Street, the northernmost stop on their circuit of the Western Heartlands. Their Speaker (contact) is Arrenby Briarbelt "The Hin of a Hundred Whistles," a spry old halfling of still-youthful face, long balding grey hair pulled back into a waist-length braid, and an endless thirst for spirits and ale that will most likely spell his end far sooner than the weight of his passing years.
The Wondrous Wyrms Also known as the Thundrous Thrasters, the Magnificent Manyscales, and The Wyrms Delight. A well-known troupe of entertainers specializing in costumed beast-mimicry. They work several men together in unison, wearing enormous glittering dragon costumes whose luminous wings wave at every swaying motion and whose glaring eyes roll from side to side. The wealthier clients pay copper-casters to illuminate the eyes, or to bring forth wisps of variously colored smoke from the mouth. They are most often hired for private parties, special festhall events, or for the occasional "historical re-engagement" of some legendary battle at the Field of Triumph. The Speaker (contact) for the Wyrms is the garrulous, merry Brazarim the Magniloquent, although the one responsible managing their finances and for the upkeep and repair of their dress is the venerable, energetic, shrewd-eyed elf Pharlartha and her coterie of bustling, gossiping helpers.
The Woundworker A name only heard in deepest confidence or darkest tavern corner. Said to lair deep in the bleak, black palace of the Xanathar (where ill-gotten coin flows like water and whispers of every shame and secret in the city above rustle like leaves in the forest). Rumored to be a surgeon of such skill and dark power that he can even excise mortal flaws or bolster the physical frame. It is also whispered that every one of his meticulous additions comes with a removal of something even more precious.
Wulbogh Wonderkettle (WULL-Boh) Frequent sight at the House of Inspired Hands. Rumored to have been driven out of Scornubel due to unseemly business dealings. Continually tinkering with and seeking investors for his Illuminating Gas (produced from the ground glands of fire beetles and extracted essences of will-o-wisps. Unfortunately such devices, while bright and long-lasting, not only withdraw a considerable amount of breathable air from a dwelling, but fill them with the noxious products of combustion).
Wylynd Moonstar (CG HF [Illuskan] Aris7) Matriarch of House Moonstar (wife of Helve Moonstar). Sister to Naneatha Suaril, high priestess of Selûne. A quiet, dark-eyed woman. Wylynd is cautious and suspicious in her dealings with others. Her habit of planning and preparing for any contingency has allowed her husband to embark on several risky business ventures that have paid off handsomly, although made her few friends in the process. Widely – and correctly – percieved as the true force behind the Moonstar fortunes. [ Note: An abbreviated version (and the Stats above) can be found in City of Splendors: Waterdeep, p.62. ]
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The Wondrous Wazarra [ Source: Broadcryers of Waterdeep III: Know Thy Sources <archive.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/rl/20031001a>. Name/Description given ]
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AJA YAFRP
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Edited by - AJA on 03 Jan 2021 00:54:32 |
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 03 Jan 2021 : 17:34:20
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quote: Originally posted by AJA
The Wonder Whistlers All-hin troupe of whistle and hand-clap musicians. Not a popular form of entertainment in human-dominated Waterdeep but well-received in the Hin and smallfolk community centered around Snail Street, the northernmost stop on their circuit of the Western Heartlands. Their Speaker (contact) is Arrenby Briarbelt "The Hin of a Hundred Whistles," a spry old halfling of still-youthful face, long balding grey hair pulled back into a waist-length braid, and an endless thirst for spirits and ale that will most likely spell his end far sooner than the weight of his passing years.
Didn't one of these guys specialize in playing the spoons until one day there was some kind of happenstance with a murlynd's spoon that got everyone's knickes in a twist? |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 03 Jan 2021 : 21:52:19
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quote: Originally posted by sleyvas Didn't one of these guys specialize in playing the spoons until one day there was some kind of happenstance with a murlynd's spoon that got everyone's knickes in a twist?
Hey, the Big Folk may not properly appreciate it but porridge wrestling is a sport with a long and storied tradition among the Hin, going all the way back to the gods themselves. Arvoreen doesn't like to talk about it, but all elder Hin scholars know that Sheela Peryroyl won her godhood in fair competition by making him submit in a three-falls bout.
Besides, 'tis better to have a mishap with a Murlynd's Spoon than a Bohemian ear-spoon. That's what my grandpappy always said.
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AJA YAFRP
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 04 Jan 2021 : 14:30:19
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quote: Originally posted by AJA
quote: Originally posted by sleyvas Didn't one of these guys specialize in playing the spoons until one day there was some kind of happenstance with a murlynd's spoon that got everyone's knickes in a twist?
Hey, the Big Folk may not properly appreciate it but porridge wrestling is a sport with a long and storied tradition among the Hin, going all the way back to the gods themselves. Arvoreen doesn't like to talk about it, but all elder Hin scholars know that Sheela Peryroyl won her godhood in fair competition by making him submit in a three-falls bout.
Besides, 'tis better to have a mishap with a Murlynd's Spoon than a Bohemian ear-spoon. That's what my grandpappy always said.
Arvoreen still says she cheated by wearing a white robe. |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 06 Jan 2021 : 04:48:04
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quote: Originally posted by Halfling Nonsense: Their Songs, Folk-Lore, and Other Divers Merriments (Agathorn of Elversult, 1011DR)
Long ago, in The Before Times, when Silvanus Oak-Father and Chauntea Wild-Mother were All of Faerûn and Sister Shar and Sister Selûne fought endlessly and noisily in the Heavens Above and the sparks from the clashes of their blades came hurtling down to Faerûn Below in the form of great mountains of rubble and fiery balls of molten ore and magical chaos beyond compare, the Great Mother Yondalla roused herself from her far-away roaring hearth that Men now foolishly call The Red Star or The Red Hole In The Heavens and she took up with her left hand the young hinling master Arvoreen and with her right she gathered to her the young hinling mistress Cyrrollalee, and she made the long trek to the wild lands of Faerûn with an intent to bring order and peace to those tumultuous lands below. And so the Great Mother Yondalla sat the quarreling sisters Shar and Selûne down at her table and chartered an orderly division of the heavens where Light and Dark would both coexist, and so the Great Mother spoke the truths of Farm and Field to the Wild-Mother who already yearned for them, and took her by the hand and led her out of the Wilds of Silvanus, and urged her to cast her blanket down upon the fields and furrows of civilization.
And thus Faerûn was brought to order, and the farms and the fields were opened for those of the Hin race, and the Great Mother Yondalla made ready to return to her neglected far-away hearth. To her daughter and right hand Cyrrollalee she gave her greatest trust and duty, that of guardianship of the home and the hearth of every Hin from that day forward; and to her unruly son Arvoreen she entrusted her sword and shield and bade him to watch over and protect his sister and all those who made their home under his sisters' watchful eye.
And endless years passed as such and the Hinfolk grew fat and prosperous under the honest guidance of Cyrrollalee and the watchful sword of Arvoreen. But in time the unruly son of Yondalla grew bored and his sword thirsted more for adventure than guard duty, and Arvoreen began to cast longing gazes towards the dark eaves of the Forest of Silvanus, and his imagination grew large with the thoughts of what adventure might be found there; things more exciting than the old tricks of Reynard the Fox or the prowlings of Farkus the Wolf, to be sure! And so one fated day the younger child of Yondalla waited until his sister was busy with her teachings of the little hinlings and he gathered up the sword and the shield of his mother, and his silver helmet which the goddess Selûne had made for him, and he snuck off towards the Forest of Silvanus and the thrills that were surely awaiting his swordarm within.
But the Forest was not like the orderly fields that he knew, and was full of tangled roots to climb under and jagged rocks to scramble over, and nasty scratchy brambles that ripped and tore with every movement, and so before long Arvoreen grew tired and hot from his exertions, and he sat down beside a forest stream and took off the silver helmet that he had been given by Selûne, to cool himself off. And once his silver helmet was off he heard the most irritating spritely laughter jeering at him for being so clumsy and slow, and this mocking voice caused him to anger and show his blade, and demand that his enemy show themself unto him! And in response to his challenge the rocks moved under his feet, causing him to stumble, and the roots wrapped themselves around him grasping him tightly, and the thorn-brambles whipped him about the face, leaving nasty red welts. And just when he thought his humiliation was most complete there stepped from the trees a little lightfooted Hin miss, clad only in forest leaves and ivy, and her laughter was the same as that of his unseen tormentor! Well, at this Arvoreen's rage grew great and he struggled mightily against his bonds, but to no avail. And his struggle and his rage grew and his temperment was dark indeed, so much so that Loathsome Shar and Atrocious Garagos began to whisper dark thoughts into his ears from their far-away lairs.
But before their words could cause him to fall from the path his mother Yondalla had set him on, the forest lightened and his bonds loosened, and the cool breezes of the wind through the leaves soothed him, for there before him stood the great eminence of Silvanus Oak-Father, and from under his royal cloak and verdant beard peeked the little Hin who had driven him to such distraction. The great Oak-Father then explained to Arvoreen that when Yondalla had come to the Forest to take Chauntea to the Fields of Men and Hin she left in her place a Hin child to learn of the ways of the Forest and of the Wilds, and that now it was time for this Hin child, this Sheela Peryroyal, to reunite with her kin and take her place among them.
Well, make no mistake Arvoreen was stil quite hot under the collar and in no mood to hear of this 'third child' of Yondalla, and so he stepped forth and proclaimed that he would not accept this Sheela Peryroyal as kin unless she proved herself to him in fair challenge and fair combat, and in proper Hin fashion! And to this both Sheela and Silvanus agreed, for such is the way of things in the Forest as well. And so brash Arvoreen eagerly put forth a challenge that he knew he would win, that of the ancient Hin rite of porridge-wrestling, descended long-ago from the challenge of Master Brandobaris against the Great Ogre Vaprak, a competition in which he had never before been defeated. And to this Sheela also approved, for she knew that Hin porridge was no comparison to the muck and swamps of the Forest, and she was certain that even the greatest Hin defender could not be as wild or as vicious as the beasts that laired under the dark eaves of the Forest, all of which she had bested before.
And so Arvoreen and Sheela returned to the fields and folds of the halflings, and though his sister Cyrrollalee was quite mad at him for abandoning his duties to go off adventuring in the Forest she understood the nature of his challenge, and welcomed Sheela to her home, and busied herself in making the preparations for their bout. And soon the day of competition dawned, and the two combatants entered into the porridge-pool, and with all of Halfling-dom watching, Sheela skipped over the porridge as lightly as she did the muck and swamps of the Forest, and she fought as cleverly as she did against the beasts that laired under the dark eaves therein, and she pinned Arvoreen and made him submit in both bouts, and then she did the same a third time upon his request, and no more need be said about that, except that at the conclusion of the third bout Arvoreen stepped forward and accepted his defeat and took his opponent by the hand and welcomed her as a member of the Hin clan, just as his mother Yondalla had requested.
And that is how Sheela Peryroyl was accepted into the Hin pantheon, and that is how Arvoreen learned to take his duties of guardianship and protection seriously, and to never grow bored or wander, and that is why to this day all Hin cast a wary eye towards the Forest from the comfort of their homes and hearths, for one never knows what dangerous things are out there, lying await under those darksome eaves.
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AJA YAFRP
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Edited by - AJA on 21 Feb 2022 03:53:07 |
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 06 Jan 2021 : 20:41:50
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That is a WONDERFUL story goodsir. I thoroughly enjoyed it. That being said, I'm reporting Silvanus to the authorities for keeping a halfling child under his beard. Fortunately for him, I don't think the authorities have a chance of ever catching him. |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 10 Jan 2021 : 01:33:54
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quote: Originally posted by sleyvas
That is a WONDERFUL story goodsir. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
quote: Originally posted by sleyvas
That being said, I'm reporting Silvanus to the authorities for keeping a halfling child under his beard. Fortunately for him, I don't think the authorities have a chance of ever catching him.
"That's not Old Man Silvanus! That's a half dozen gnomes kobolds halflings piled up under those robes!" "And we would have gotten away with it if it weren't for you meddling adventurers!" "Jinkies!" "Come on, Scooberminster, let's get some Luiren Spring Cheese snacks!" [ canned laughter, cut to credits ]
quote: Originally posted by IMDB (Cast overview, first billed only:)
Fred: Laeral Silverhand Daphne: Dove Silverhand Velma: Khelben "Blackstaff" Shaggy: Volothamp Geddarm Scooby-Doo: Elminster Old Man Silvanus: Casey Kasem
Scrappy-Doo: Vangerdahast
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AJA YAFRP
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Edited by - AJA on 10 Jan 2021 06:18:47 |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 10 Jan 2021 : 01:36:44
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Whillan "Tallfellow" Sweet Whil. Called so for his genial disposition. Dubbed "Tallfellow" not because he comes from that statuesque Hin clan, but because his father was human, and he looms larger than his fellows as a result (full dwarf height, 'e is!). His surname is Dapplebrown, but he usually defaults to one or both of his epithets. Stands slightly hunched, the result of long years of trying to fit in better with his normal-sized kin. Has a large wingspan and large hands, which are surprisingly delicate when crafting lavish cakes stuffed full of apple and plum and flamefruit. Confections are his true passion and he apprentices under Gilded Garshnee, the famous "hearthmaster" (hire-chef), but every wild-moon ('blue moon') he feels the overwhelming itch for adventure and stonedelve, and can be found lurking at the Dripping Dagger or the Yawning Portal, available for hire. He is skilled with sling and club and has killed before, both human and goblinkin, and has some talent at spotting hidden crevice and device.
The Whistling Ghosts Phantasmal haunting or spectral apparition, Dock Ward. Relatively common spirits found along the lengths of the city docks. Formerly known as Howling Ghosts, Sea Screamers and Voices of the Drowned. Commonly believed to be the spirits of sailors battered and drowned in terrible sea squalls, who found their way back to port with the fury of the storms still a-howling through them. Ever since the invasion of sea creatures in 1369DR their groans have been noticeably quieted and, while their sea-smell remains strong as ever they now barely register noise louder than the creak of caravel timbers or the drumming of driving rain on sailcloth. Nobody seems to know why this is, but the sailhands trying to sleep in their dockside berths certainly appreciate it.
Wimeg Former envoy (ambassador) of Mirabar to the Lord's Alliance. Died of sleeping sickness in 1364DR, and replaced in office by the dwarf Mithril "Ebonhand" Deepshield. [ Source: SSI Official AD&D Computer Product Treasures of the Savage Frontier. Name/Occupation given. Additional detail by me. ]
Wincling the Fighter (WIN-sling) Local strongarm (hiresword). Willing to stonedelve. Average height, average build. Dark of hair and facial scruff. Insists that he be referred to by his name and his (self-given) title at all times. Becomes argumentative and combative if called "man-at-arms," "henchman," or "hireling." Carries lantern, shortsword, polearm (bec-de-corbin), 20' of coiled rope and a 10' pole.
Winewise Cutpurse, leg-breaker and information broker. Haunts the tankard houses and alleys of Trades and Dock Wards. Variously described as "wretch," "brute," and "swindling blackguard." An agent of the High Captains of Luskan.
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Widow Silvermane [ Source: The novel Tymora's Luck. Name/Description given ]
The Widow Trees [ A 05/26/04 posting to the Candlekeep.com message boards by Steven Schend. Name/Description given ]
Wildflowers [ Source: Ed Greenwood's Spin-a-Yarn 2009: Night of the Dread Pudding. Name/Description given ]
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AJA YAFRP
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 10 Jan 2021 : 14:43:09
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quote: Originally posted by AJA
quote: Originally posted by sleyvas
That is a WONDERFUL story goodsir. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
quote: Originally posted by sleyvas
That being said, I'm reporting Silvanus to the authorities for keeping a halfling child under his beard. Fortunately for him, I don't think the authorities have a chance of ever catching him.
"That's not Old Man Silvanus! That's a half dozen gnomes kobolds halflings piled up under those robes!" "And we would have gotten away with it if it weren't for you meddling adventurers!" "Jinkies!" "Come on, Scooberminster, let's get some Luiren Spring Cheese snacks!" [ canned laughter, cut to credits ]
quote: Originally posted by IMDB (Cast overview, first billed only:)
Fred: Laeral Silverhand Daphne: Dove Silverhand Velma: Khelben "Blackstaff" Shaggy: Volothamp Geddarm Scooby-Doo: Elminster Old Man Silvanus: Casey Kasem
Scrappy-Doo: Vangerdahast
I was so overjoyed to hear that they honored Casey Kasem by allowing him to do a new role in this Eternal Epic Drama. Also, the change of having Fred and Velma both in transition (especially with Fred still wearing the ascot scarf) was definitely a modern day twist. The casting director is to be commended.
That being said, they need to quit feeding "Scooby" so many Luiren Spring Cheese snacks, because when Elminster accidentally "let one loose" in the first act, the whole first row had to clear out. He did however play his role perfectly like any dog and absolutely acted as if he hadn't even noticed that he did it. |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
Edited by - sleyvas on 10 Jan 2021 14:51:05 |
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 10 Jan 2021 : 15:42:00
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quote: Originally posted by AJA
The Whistling Ghosts Phantasmal haunting or spectral apparition, Dock Ward. Relatively common spirits found along the lengths of the city docks. Formerly known as Howling Ghosts, Sea Screamers and Voices of the Drowned. Commonly believed to be the spirits of sailors battered and drowned in terrible sea squalls, who found their way back to port with the fury of the storms still a-howling through them. Ever since the invasion of sea creatures in 1369DR their groans have been noticeably quieted and, while their sea-smell remains strong as ever they now barely register noise louder than the creak of caravel timbers or the drumming of driving rain on sailcloth. Nobody seems to know why this is, but the sailhands trying to sleep in their dockside berths certainly appreciate it.
There are rumors that Delvar Roaringhorn, an elderly bard and member of the order of the Knights of the Unicorn, was traversing the docks with his equally elderly sweet love, Barbara Washington, on the first night of the invasion by sahuagin. Delvar gave his all that night so that his wife could escape with her life. It is rumored that his oddly named lover and Delvar had been a part of the original founding members of the Knights of the Unicorn, and that the touch of Lurue's horn had returned them to their youth and even slowed their aging. Still, despite decades, the two never fell out of love with one another. Its said that Barbara, a cocoa complexioned woman who claimed to have come from another world stricken by fights over race, worries of "the Commies", and gripped in the midst of a losing war known as "Vietnam", had somehow dreamed herself into the realms using the "voodoo" magics of her grandmother from a place known as N'Awlins. Its also said that she is the secret behind many of Delvar's strange songs, and she is known to be one of the strangest necromancers in Waterdeep for her disgust in the abusing of the dead (there are those who call her a spirit shaman rather than necromancer).
On the anniversary of the invasion every year, the entire Roaringhorn family is known to make a "second line" progression from the City of the Dead after the hours of midnight which makes its way down to the docks. Those who have seen this strange progression note it to seemingly contain numerous ghostly spirits of musicians who follow Barbara, who leads the march while carrying a silken rainshade decorated with gaudy trinkets. Once they make it to the docks, its said that her dead husband and the Whistling Ghosts appear, whereupon he and they serenade her with a song from her home world called "Under the Boardwalk". On more than one occasion, a hippocampus with a twisted unicorn like horn has been seen to appear in the waters of the docks, whereupon as she passes the many merfolk that come to listen to the music are seen to gain human legs, and many humans that go to the water's edge and reach out are seen to gain a fish's tail. Though these effects are said to wear off, there are rumors that some individuals have gained these effects permanently, so that the two worlds might meet and understand each other better.
But then, I did hear this story from Volo, and we all know how he is. |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
Edited by - sleyvas on 10 Jan 2021 15:43:13 |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 16 Jan 2021 : 00:56:08
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Thellae "Little Mouse" Diminutive sneak-thief. Non-descript appearance, extremely agile and acrobatic. Has a particular talent for gaining access to the upper-floor windows of tallhouses. A member of the Headsmen street gang.
Theréndriel Elven cavalier. Broad shoulders, slender, athletic frame. Long straight silver hair. High cheekbones, full lips, strong chin. Favors longsword and lance, rides Eskeliel, a large dapple-gray charger. Leader of The Moon-Bright Company, a small mercenary force of moon-elves and half-elves faithful to the Bright Lady, Sehanine Moonbow. The Company is most active in escorting bands of elves on Retreat to the Sword Coast ports that will take them to the Evermeet, but they also occasionally hire themselves out to human realms that seek to keep the trade routes clear of monsters or brigands or overambitious rivals (as they did for Waterdeep, in the war against the devils of Dragonspear). In true elven fashion they are equally proficient with bladed weapons and bows, and they count a handful of mid-level spellcasters among their ranks.
Theryn Goodstaff A native of Alaron in the Moonshaes. An outgoing, affable man with wild reddish hair and moustache. Proprietor of Theryn's Tankard, an alehouse popular with the Moonshaen community in South Ward (Olaim's Cut, South Ward. Sign of the Bear-and-Tankard – not the Two Black Tankards of Tömaunt's Merry-House, further down the street. Good variety of Moonshaen brews, small foodlist offering only salted silverfin, Snowdown beef roundels [beef olives], skewers of seared scallops and bread-trenchers of mutton stew). Theryn is a talented herbalist but a staunch opponent of the Guild of Apothecaries and Physicians, and as a result has had to pay more than one street urchin to keep watch on the rough plot he maintains on the lower slopes of Mount Waterdeep, where he grows feverfew (headaches), blue-weed (chicory; gallstones and sinus), and sweet-horn (the 'old charm' of many a halfling drinking song), whose tinctures and remedies he also eagerly offers to customers).
Tychander (NG HM F9) Ward Civilar, Dock Ward (1369DR - present). A native of Turmish. Promoted after the previous Ward Civilar, Mane Avarast, died during the Battle of Waterdeep Harbor. After an unfullfilling stint as a caravan guard, the down-on-his-luck Turmite joined the Watch as a means of paying the rent on his lodgings. He soon found that he enjoyed the responsibilities given to him and the comradeship of his fellow guardsmen, and rose swiftly through the ranks. As an armar (sergeant), his rallying actions during the invasion of sea creatures served to prevent a total rout and contained much of the fighting to the lower reaches of the Ward. They also resulted in his elevation as the youngest officer to ever hold the position of Ward Civilar. Wears The Coquelicot Mail of Phalorm and carries The Forceful Horn of Akadi, the traditional symbols of the office.
Tymaera Thaeve (CN HF F/T) Master (captain) of the Brazen Maiden, a freebooter that plys the Sea of Swords from Waterdeep to Baldur's Gate. Much like her half-sister, the deceased adventuress Tcharess Brandeth, Tymaea is a free-spirited, hard-drinking, impulsive woman who finds inspiration in two things; the freedom of the open sea and the exhilaration of one-on-one combat. She will often challenge opponents to high-stakes "honor duels." It is rumored that her defeat of the feared minotaur pirate "Black" Blaen-Tauros in just such a contest led to her gaining control of not only the Maiden, but its' entire crew and cargo of valuable southern spices.
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AJA YAFRP
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 22 Jan 2021 : 01:15:26
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The Ride Forth Dragons Local adventuring fellowship. Do not hail from, nor take their name in tribute to, The Rideforth, the popular name for the Mornbryn's Shield region (where heroes like Tulkantar and Mornbryn sallied out to do battle with the trolls of the Evermoors), and find themselves quite irritated to have to keep explaining this fact. The 'Forth Dragons (also not named for or inspired by The Forthright Dragons, one of the most decorated and historied companies of Cormyrian calvalry; nor for that matter The Forthward Dragons, the great stone bulwarks that now lie crumbling along much of the middle Tethyr-Calimshan borderlands). Honestly, they spend more time explaining and arguing their title, and should probably just change it at this point. Captained by the lesser noble son Remloronard 'Remlo' Elgalish Hoelsk Stormweather, who fancies himself a cavalier but is far more of a fop. Quite deadly with a blade, though. Their roster also includes the halfling "Blinko" Braveleg (called so for both his magic ring [of blinking] and his nervous eye tick, though his mother named him Myrnd. Once a member of the Shields of Snail Street adventuring fellowship) and Selskra of the Rippling Flames, a competent, yet underspelled and overly reliant on a singular handful of spells, evoker.
Sammail of the Rocks Lone hermit, born into, and cast out of, the noble House Phylund of Waterdeep. Spent fifty-some years painting the tidal rocks at the Witherwash, north of the Trollbark Forest; just the groupings of rocks, all time of day, the swash of the surf, a seabird lone or in pairs. Re-used many of the same canvasses, painting over and over, whole or in part. Was eaten one winter by an owlbear that found its way down into the cleft where his hut stood. Most of his paintings were burned later, by wet sailors wrecked on the rocks or by passing goblin bands. Dauravyn Redbeard of the Way Inn has two up on the walls of his rentable rooms there. They say if you engage in commune with the silver-spotted azure borders of the darkened Telmardreth (the Tenfold Ocean Shoals) mural at the Gallery Majesta in Calimport, some of his burnt and lost works come up there in the cycling visions.
Clarinda Thann "Three is the number, and the number is three," the infamous dictate laid down as high law by Clarinda Thann, the foremost matron mother of her day, in The Proper Preferences of the Subtle and Well-Heeled Noble (regarding the socially-correct number of names any respectable Waterdhavian noble should be given at birth; this obviously accounts for proper names only, and does not include any small-names, epithets, or aliases – Clarinda herself considered such things common and vulgar, and not affectations that any self-respecting highborn would sully themselves with). Before this, nobles of the City of Splendors vied to outdo themselves by saddling their offspring with longer and longer name-counts, in grand imitation of both the dwarven clans of the North, with their interminable family rolls, each name precisely and proudly shouted out as the steady blows of hammer on anvil; and the grasping and gilded noble satraps of Calimshan, each more eager than the next to imp their lineages back to marid and djinn and The Age Before the Elves. In recent days Clarinda has noteriety of a much different sort, thanks to her great-nephew, the impudent bardling Danilo Thann, who is known tell "the most amusingly ribald story" about her. While that tale (and half-a-hundred more of her wild youth) may be true, what is also true is that no one alive during her dowager days would have ever dared to even whisper such effrontery within the city walls while she still lived, for fear of her deadly societal wrath. [ Source: The novel Elfsong. Name/(Danilo Thann's) Description given. Additional detail by me. ]
Helm of the Five Eyes An obscure aspect of the God of Guardians said to deal not with physical matters of protection and sentry-duty, but instead with warding against those evils outside the boundaries of physical Faerûn. Traditionally called upon to guard against malign divination, beast-curse (lycanthropism), ill-humors, solipsism, and birth-ware (those fleeting but all-important moments before a newborn is bound to their truename, when they lay wholly unprotected from demonic possession and damnation). Believed by some scholars to originate as a more ancient deity, a fallen lesser god of the Talfir pantheon, slaughtered by Malar for daring to work against the beast-curse and only later absorbed by popular folklore into the expanding portfolio of the interloper Helm. Sigil is a warrior's fullhelm with a closed human eye over the forehead. The only known faithful of Helm Five-Eyes in the city is the hin Rosewise Mallowgarn, a midwife and herbalist resident in South Ward.
Rosewise Mallowgarn A midwife and herb-healer of South Ward. Cheerful, good-natured. Loves to tell Hin tall-tales like The Golden Bed of Peryroyl, Tom-Pip and the Potato Patch, The Twice-Bewitched Cattle of Old Moss, and Marradan and the Basket of Ginger-Cakes. Also quite learned and fearless in the presence of ghosts and other malign spirits. Adherent of the lesser aspect, Helm of the Five Eyes. Often keeps company with Taloc Sailson, the "Ghost-Seeker" of Waterdeep.
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AJA YAFRP
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 22 Jan 2021 : 14:36:01
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Wasn't Helm of the Five Eyes rumored to have nine mothers? |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 23 Jan 2021 : 01:21:08
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quote: Originally posted by sleyvas Wasn't Helm of the Five Eyes rumored to have nine mothers?
I don't get the reference? I can tell you that I kept trying to parse mothers as (gibbering) mouthers, so I'm not sure what that says about me .
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AJA YAFRP
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 29 Jan 2021 : 00:23:39
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Mimberthorn Northern bard, wrote Still Is The House of Song ("Cold are the stars of night / And dark the Hearth of Learning / Where once kindled the lustre of Man / Now is left only yearning") and Deep Lies the Snow ("Hope arises with the Spring / Auril will toss and rage at / The gladsome notes of / The Lark's sweet returning"). Spent a year in the charmed thrall of the nixie S'oquar Sekhorae, of the lake Oolboloné "Clothed-In-Mists" of the Laughing Hollow, and was then summarily released from his servitude. According to those who knew him best, he returned to Waterdeep long enough to set his affairs in order and then set out to return to Oolboloné, in attempt to rejoin his aquatic 'friends' and lover. His fate thereafter is unrecorded.
The Mingle-Mangle of Dock Street Phantasmal apparition or undead spectre, Dock Ward. Nightmarish hodgepodge of seawrack, chains, claws, glowing eyes, mouths (agape, moaning, screaming). Victims either rent asunder or filled to bursting with seawater and flotsam. First physical encounters began shortly after the sahuagin invasion, although the name and legend date to the time of Raulor.
Minzapur of Volothamp An importer of rare blacksmoke obsidan from the Tashalar and Chult. Unmasked in 1368DR as a member of an illicit slaving ring by the Hin adventurer Dimvel Stoutkeg and the Tymorite priest Jorynn Halstaff. Struck down in Lord's Court after attempting to attack the pair with the aid of magically animated flying daggers and heretofore unknown spellcasting powers.
Miritai Aeouna Nemmerlae Lathkule (LN HF Aris1) The dowager matron of House Lathkule. Mother of Nimoar Lathkule. Granddaughter of Ultath Lathkule, one of the most feared fighting men of his day. The color schemes of her clothing and makeup and private chambers 'scream to the heavens' (as described by the master tailor Welauskras of Silverymoon – with the unspoken addendum; "and the Gods scream back"). As soon as she learns of a new hair color, clothing dye, or shade of gemstone from some far realm she demands its acquisition. Her factors are kept busy (and well-paid) intently roaming everywhere from the lip of the Yawning Portal (waiting to see what relics of the Underdark have been unearthed) to the docks of Lantan and Lapaliiya, where the many bounties of Unknown Chult come for sale. It is said that a social rival once hired a hex-mage to curse her with color-blindness, a condition which lasted for the better part of a ten-day and nearly caused her to suffer from heartstop. It is also said that no one around her could tell the difference from her clothing choices.
Mithril "Ebonhand" Deepshield The former Mirabaran envoy (ambassador) to Waterdeep and the Lord's Alliance. Deepshield, a long-time explorer and adventurer, was famed in the North as the only surviving member of the Company of the Gryphon, delvers of long-lost Gauntylgrym. It was in that expedition that he lost his right hand to a thessalhydra (which, after having been replaced with an enchanted appendage fashioned of ebon stone, became the source of his nickname). Killed by a vampiric crimson mist during the events of Halaster's Harvestide in 1370DR. Replaced in his duties as envoy by Shalaea Zendross.
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Miri Amcathra [ A 07/29/12 posting to the Candlekeep.com message boards by The Hooded One. Name/Description given ]
Mistram Flavauro [ Source: Waterdeep News: Confession in Flavauro Slaying <wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/wdn/20060315a>. Name/Description given ]
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AJA YAFRP
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Edited by - AJA on 29 Jan 2021 05:39:42 |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 29 Jan 2021 : 00:27:46
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The Five Books That Arrive On Your Doorstep After A Wild-Surge Glances Off The Sorting-Gate at Aurora's Emporium, Sea Ward (....okay, but then where did my order of flash-frozen mutton, lammasu-fur parlor slippers and fancy-basket of Tashlutan citrus fruits go?)
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The Garden of Strange Shapes; or, The Visions of a Master Form-Impeller (Gamelgask the Thundrous, Androsphinx of Unther, 508DR)
A Much Pleasanter Road: Why I Chose the Art of Enchanting Over Envoking (Haemaskar the Dwelf, Seventh Nodical of The Irithlium, 265DR)
Far and Winding: A Treatise on The Devious Paths and Mazy Involutions of Wizard-Holes and Other Arcane Pathways (Nashkurl the Pallid, 217DR, translated from the original Alzhedo by Robryn Uldask, Maiden-Sage of Elversult, 1249DR)
A Full Accounting In History, Legend, and Verse of The Celestial Light Nandaskar (Known Alternately and Correctly as Nandaskalar, Nandaskaul, Neirith, Algairtha, The Northernmost Star, The Bright Star of Mystra, The Woadstar, and The Last Lonely Lamp, Among Others) (Laeral Silverhand, Lady Mage of Waterdeep, 1368DR)
The Complete Collected Pages of the Journal of the Conjurer Tanstorl, As Salvaged From Abandonment and Wizard-Flame By His Foremost Apprentice, Sarlk of Immerance (Tanstorl Ten-Staves, collated and edited by Sarlk of Immerance, 1266DR)
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AJA YAFRP
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 29 Jan 2021 : 12:17:08
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quote: Originally posted by sleyvas
Wasn't Helm of the Five Eyes rumored to have nine mothers?
Oh, sorry, it was just a play oh "Helm is Heimdall" with his "five eyes" being his "five senses" that were all supposed to be acute. Heimdall supposedly had nine mothers. |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 29 Jan 2021 : 12:40:58
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quote: Originally posted by AJA
The Five Books That Arrive On Your Doorstep After A Wild-Surge Glances Off The Sorting-Gate at Aurora's Emporium, Sea Ward (....okay, but then where did my order of flash-frozen mutton, lammasu-fur parlor slippers and fancy-basket of Tashlutan citrus fruits go?)
The flying monkey familiar of Dirovar the Disgraced settled to the ground on the rooftop of the abandoned storefront of Whisperspring Locks & Security. It dropped the basket of fruit at Dirovar's feet, allowing a pair of golden-furred slippers to slide out into Dirovar's lap. He handed the slippers back to the monkey as he grabbed the cool piece of lamb meat. The young wizard's stomach rumbled in anticipation even as he sent the familiar off in an entirely opposite direction without landing, so as to lead any who might be seeking to track the winged thief astray. Telepathically he ordered him to drop the slippers in an alley and fade away, meanwhile peeling a red orange and relishing the smell of fresh fruit. |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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AJA
Senior Scribe
USA
768 Posts |
Posted - 01 Feb 2021 : 02:03:49
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quote: Originally posted by sleyvas Oh, sorry, it was just a play oh "Helm is Heimdall"
Oh! I see, very nice.
....but what about the gibbering mouthers?
quote: Originally posted by sleyvas The flying monkey familiar of Dirovar the Disgraced....
Freakin' wizards, man. They're just the worst.
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AJA YAFRP
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11815 Posts |
Posted - 01 Feb 2021 : 15:57:54
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quote: Originally posted by AJA
quote: Originally posted by sleyvas Oh, sorry, it was just a play oh "Helm is Heimdall"
Oh! I see, very nice.
....but what about the gibbering mouthers?
Didn't that particular gibbering mouther have nine mouths? Yep, Heimdall's mother must have been a gibbering mouther So that's how he got so good at being able to follow multiple conversations at one time! At least we know know exactly what kind of fetishist his dad was... kinky damn giants. |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
Edited by - sleyvas on 01 Feb 2021 15:59:21 |
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